Chapter 56: Jiang Ziya's Scheme to Win Over Jiugong

诗曰： 姻缘前定果天然，须信红丝足下牵。敌国不妨成好合，仇雠应自得翩联。 子牙妙计真难及，鸾使奇谋枉用偏。总是天机离预料，纣王无福镇乾坤。

The poem says: Fate binds love from before, a natural result; one must believe that crimson threads beneath the feet draw them together. Hostile nations may still become good allies; enemies should naturally find themselves united gracefully. Zi Ya's brilliant strategy is truly hard to match; the 鸾 messenger's strange plan was in vain and biased. It is always beyond prediction by heavenly wisdom; King Zhou, lacking fortune, could not stabilize heaven and earth.

话说散宜生出城，来至汤营，对旗门官曰：“辕门将校，报与你邓元帅得知：岐周差上大夫散宜生有事求见。”军政官报进中军：“启元帅：岐周差上大夫有事求见。”邓九公曰：“吾与他为敌国，为何差人来见我！必定来下说词，岂可容他进营，惑乱军心。你与他说：‘两国正当争战之秋，相见不便。’”军政官出营，回覆散宜生。宜生曰：“‘两国相争，不阻来使。’相见何妨？吾此来奉姜丞相命，有事面决，非可传闻。再烦通报。”军政官只得又进营来，把散宜生言语对九公诉说一遍。九公沈吟。傍有正印先行官太鸾上前言曰：“元帅乘此机会放他进来，随机应变，看他如何说，亦可就中取事，有何不可？”九公曰：“此说亦自有理。”命左右：“请他进来。”旗门官出辕门，对散宜生曰：“元帅有请。”散大夫下马，走进辕门，进了三层鹿角，行至滴水檐前。邓九公迎下来。散宜生鞠躬，口称：“元帅！”九公曰：“大夫降临，有失迎侯。”彼此逊让行礼。后人有诗单赞子牙妙计，诗曰： 子牙妙算世无伦，学贯天人泣鬼神。纵使九公称敌国，蓝桥也自结姻亲。

The story goes that Sanye Sheng left the city and arrived at Tang's camp. He said to the officer in charge of the flag gate: "Gate officers, report to your Commander Deng: The State of Qi Zhou has dispatched Grand Minister Sanye Sheng with a matter to request an audience." The military official reported into the central camp: "Your Excellency Commander, Grand Minister of Qi Zhou has come with a matter to request an audience." Commander Deng Jiugong said: "I am at war with their country; why have they sent someone to see me!" They must be here to deliver words of persuasion. How can we allow him into the camp and let him confuse and disrupt our military morale? Tell him: 'Now is the season of war between two states; it would be inconvenient to meet.'" The military official went out of camp and returned the message to Sanye Sheng. Sanye Sheng said: "Even when two states are at war, they should not block their envoys." What harm is there in meeting? I have come here on the orders of Chancellor Jiang, with a matter to be resolved face-to-face; it cannot be conveyed through rumors. Please trouble you again to report this." The military official had no choice but to go back into the camp and relay Sanye Sheng's words to Commander Deng Jiugong once again. Commander Deng Jiugong fell into deep thought. Standing nearby, the official Tai Luan, who held the seal of authority as a leading officer, stepped forward and said: "Commander, take this opportunity to let him in. Respond flexibly according to circumstances; see what he has to say, and you may also find an opportunity within it. What is there not to agree with?" Commander Deng Jiugong replied: "This argument does have its own logic." He ordered those around him: "Please invite him in." The flag gate officer went out through the 辕门 and said to Sanye Sheng: "Commander has requested your presence." Grand Minister Sanye dismounted his horse, walked into the 辕门, passed through three layers of deer horns, and arrived in front of the eaves where water dripped. Commander Deng Jiugong came down to greet him. Sanye Sheng bowed deeply and said: "Your Excellency Commander!" Commander Deng Jiugong responded: "Minister, your arrival is an honor; we have failed to welcome you properly." They exchanged polite bows and courteous gestures. Later generations composed a poem to specially praise the brilliant strategy of Zi Ya. The poem says: Zi Ya's masterful calculations are unparalleled in the world; his learning spans heaven and humanity, moving gods and ghosts to tears. Even if Commander Deng Jiugong regarded them as enemy states, a bond of marriage would still form at Lanqiao naturally.

话说二人逊至中军，分宾主坐下。邓九公曰：“大夫，你与我今为敌国，未决雌雄，彼此各为其主，岂得徇私妄议。大夫今日见谕，公则公言之，私则私言之，不必效舌剑唇枪，徒劳往返耳。予心如铁石，有死而已，断不为浮言所摇。”散宜生笑曰：“吾与公既为敌国，安敢造次请见。只有一件大事，特来请一明示，无他耳。昨因拿有一将，系是元帅门婿；于盘问中，道及斯意。吾丞相不忍骤加极刑，以割人间恩爱，故命宜生亲至辕门，特请尊裁。”邓九公听说，不觉大惊曰：“谁为吾婿，为姜丞相所擒？”散宜生说：“元帅不必故推，令婿乃土行孙也。”邓九公听说，不觉面皮通红，心中大怒，厉声言曰：“大夫在上：吾只有一女，乳名婵玉，幼而丧母。吾爱惜不啻掌上之珠，岂得轻易许人。今虽及笄，所求者固众，吾自视皆非佳婿。而土行孙何人，妄有此说也！”散宜生曰：“元帅暂行息怒，听不才拜禀：古人相女配夫，原不专在门第。今土行孙亦不是无名小辈，彼原是夹龙山飞龙洞惧留孙门下高弟；因申公豹与姜子牙有隙，故说土行孙下山，来助元帅征伐西岐。昨日他师父下山，捉获行孙在城，因穷其所事。彼言所以，虽为申公豹所惑，次为元帅以令爱相许，有此一段姻缘，彼因倾心为元帅而暗进岐城行刺，欲速成功，良有以也。昨已被擒，伏辜不枉。但彼再三哀求姜丞相、彼之师尊惧留孙曰：‘为此一段姻缘，死不瞑目。’之语。即姜丞相与他师尊俱不肯赦，只予在傍劝慰：岂得以彼一时之过，而断送人间好事哉！因劝姜丞相暂且留人。宜生不辞劳顿，特谒元帅，恳求俯赐人间好事，曲成儿女恩情，此亦元帅天地父母之心。故宜生不避斧钺，特见尊颜，以求裁示。倘元帅果有此事，姜丞相仍将土行孙送还元帅，以遂姻亲，再决雌雄耳。并无他说。”邓九公曰：“大夫不知，此土行孙妄语耳。行孙乃申公豹所荐，为吾先行，不过一牙门裨将；吾何得骤以一女许之哉。彼不过借此为偷生之计，以辱吾女耳。大夫不可轻信。”宜生曰：“元帅也不必固却。此事必有他故。难道土行孙平白兴此一番言语，其中定有委曲。想是元帅或于酒后赏功之际，怜才惜技之时，或以一言安慰其心，彼便妄认为实，作此痴想耳。”九公被散宜生此一句话，买出九公一腔心事。九公不觉答道：“大夫斯言，大是明见！当时土行孙被申公豹荐在吾麾下，吾亦不甚重彼；初为副先行督粮使者，后因太鸾失利，彼恃其能，改为正先行官。首阵擒了哪吒，次擒黄天化，三次擒了姜子牙，被岐周众将抢回。土行孙进营，吾见彼累次出军获胜，治酒与彼贺功，以尽朝廷奖赏功臣至意。及至饮酒中间，彼曰：“元帅在上：若是早用末将为先行，吾取西岐多时矣。”那时吾酒后失口，许之曰：‘你若取了西岐，吾将婵玉赘你为婿。’一来是奖励彼竭力为公，早完王事；今彼既已被擒，安得又妄以此言为口实，令大夫往返哉？”散宜生笑曰：“元帅此言差矣。大丈夫一言既出，驷马难追。况且婚姻之事，人之大伦，如何作为儿戏之谈？前日元帅言之，土行孙信之；土行孙又言之，天下共信之；传与中外，人人共信，正所谓‘路上行人口似碑’。将以为元帅相女配夫，谁信元帅权宜之术，为国家行此不得已之深衷也。徒使令爱千金之躯作为话柄，闺中美秀竟作口谈。万一不曲全此事，徒使令爱有白头之叹。吾窃为元帅惜之！今元帅为汤之大臣，天下三尺之童无不奉命；若一旦而如此，吾不知所税驾矣。乞元帅裁之。”邓九公被散宜生一番言语说得默默沉思，无言可答。只见太鸾上前，附耳说：“……如此如此，亦是第一妙计。”邓九公听太鸾之言，回嗔作喜曰：“大夫之言深属有理，末将无不应命。只小女因先妻早丧，幼而失教，予虽一时承命，未知小女肯听此言。俟予将此意与小女商确，再令人至城中回覆。”散宜生只得告辞。邓九公送至营门而别。散宜生进城，将邓九公言语从头至尾说了一遍。子牙大笑曰：“邓九公此计，怎么瞒得我过！”惧留孙亦笑曰：“且看如何来说。”子牙曰：“动劳散大夫，俟九公人来，再为商议。”宜生退去。不表。

The story continues: the two men continued their courteous exchanges and entered the central camp, where they sat down according to the guest-host protocol. Commander Deng Jiugong said: "Minister, you and I are now from opposing states, with the outcome yet undecided. Each of us serves his own lord; how could we then act out of private interest or make reckless suggestions?" "If you have something to say today, Minister, speak openly if it is public business and privately if it concerns private matters. There is no need for sharp-tongued oratory and verbal swordplay, which would only be a fruitless waste of time." "My heart is as firm as iron and stone; I am prepared to die. I will certainly not be swayed by empty words." Sanye Sheng smiled and said: "Since you and I are from opposing states, how dare I be so bold as to request an audience rashly. There is only one major matter; I have specially come to seek a clear explanation from you, nothing else." Yesterday, we captured a general who happens to be the son-in-law of your Excellency. During interrogation, he mentioned this matter. Our chancellor cannot bear to immediately impose the harshest punishment, for it would sever affection and bonds among people. Therefore, he has ordered me, Sanye Sheng, to personally come to your 辕门 to specially seek your esteemed decision." Upon hearing this, Commander Deng Jiugong was greatly startled and said: "Who is my son-in-law who has been captured by Chancellor Jiang?" Sanye Sheng replied: "Commander, there is no need to feign ignorance. Your son-in-law is Tuxingsun." Upon hearing this, Commander Deng Jiuyong could not help but flush red in the face. Angered inside, he spoke sharply and said: "Minister above me: I have only one daughter, whose childhood name is Chanyu; she lost her mother at an early age." I cherish her no less than a pearl in the palm of my hand. How could I possibly give her away so easily to another? Now that she has reached marriageable age, many have sought her in marriage, but none of them I consider a suitable son-in-law. "And who is this Tuxingsun to make such an outlandish claim!" Sanye Sheng said: "Commander, please calm down for a moment and allow this humble one to explain: In ancient times, when choosing a daughter's husband, it was not solely based on family status. Tuxingsun is no obscure nobody; he was originally a top disciple of Ju Liusun, who resides at Feilong Dong on Jialong Mountain. Because Shen Gongbao and Jiang Ziya had a conflict, he persuaded Tuxingsun to descend the mountain and come to assist Commander Deng in his campaign against Xiqi. Yesterday, his master descended the mountain and captured Tuxingsun in the city, where he was interrogated to uncover the truth of his actions. He claimed that although he was misled by Shen Gongbao, it was also because Commander Deng had promised him your beloved daughter in marriage. Thus, there is a bond of love between them; moved by affection for you, he secretly entered Qi City to carry out an assassination, hoping to achieve success quickly—there are indeed good reasons behind this. He was captured yesterday and has confessed without being wronged. But he repeatedly pleaded with Chancellor Jiang and his revered teacher Ju Liusun: 'For this bond of marriage, I would not close my eyes in death.' Such were his words. Even though Chancellor Jiang and his teacher refused to pardon him, I urged them both: How could we destroy a good match in the world because of one man's momentary mistake! Therefore, I advised Chancellor Jiang to temporarily spare his life. I, Sanye Sheng, have not hesitated to endure the fatigue and specially visited your Excellency, humbly requesting you to grant this good match between people and kindly fulfill the affection of these young lovers. This is also a reflection of your Excellency's compassionate heart as a father and mother to all under heaven and earth. Therefore, I, Sanye Sheng, fearlessly face the threat of punishment and have specially come before your noble presence to seek your decision. If, indeed, Commander you have such an arrangement, Chancellor Jiang will still return Tuxingsun to your Excellency so that the marital bond may be fulfilled, and then we can proceed to determine who is superior. And there are no other requests." Commander Deng Jiugong said: "Minister, you do not know—this Tuxingsun's words were mere fabrications. Tuxingsun was recommended by Shen Gongbao to serve as my vanguard; he is merely a minor officer at the 辕门. How could I possibly suddenly give away my only daughter to him? He merely used this as a ploy to save his life and disgrace my daughter. "Minister, you must not believe him lightly." Sanye Sheng said: "Commander, you need not refuse so firmly. There must be some other reason behind this matter. Could Tuxingsun have made up such a story for no reason? There is surely an underlying cause to it. It is likely that, at some moment when Commander you were rewarding merit after a banquet or expressing appreciation for his talent and skills, you made an offhand remark to comfort him. He then mistakenly took it as genuine and developed this foolish fantasy." Commander Deng Jiugong, upon hearing Sanye Sheng's remark, was prompted to reveal his innermost thoughts. Commander Deng Jiuyong could not help replying: "Minister, your words are most insightful! At that time, Tuxingsun was recommended to my command by Shen Gongbao; I did not place much importance on him. Initially, he was appointed as a deputy vanguard in charge of grain supplies; later, after Tai Luan suffered a defeat, he relied on his abilities and was promoted to the position of chief vanguard officer. He first captured Nezha, then Huang Tianhua, and on the third occasion captured Jiang Ziya, who was later rescued by the generals of Qi Zhou. When Tuxingsun entered camp, I saw that he had achieved repeated military successes. I hosted a banquet to celebrate his achievements and fully expressed the court's intention to reward meritorious subjects. During the banquet, he said: "Your Excellency above me: If you had used this lowly general as vanguard earlier, I would have captured Xiqi long ago." At that time, in my drunken state I spoke carelessly and promised him: 'If you capture Xiqi for me, I will have Chanyu marry into your family as a daughter-in-law.' Firstly, it was to reward his tireless efforts in serving the public and completing royal duties early; Now that he has already been captured, how can he dare to use these words as an excuse, causing you, Minister, to make this round trip?" Sanye Sheng smiled and said: "Commander, your statement is mistaken. A man of virtue cannot retract a word once it has been spoken; not even four horses can catch up to undo it. Moreover, marriage is a matter of great human ethics—how could one treat it as a trivial or childish joke? Previously, when Commander you made that statement, Tuxingsun believed it; Tuxingsun repeated it, and the whole world came to believe it; The news spread both within and beyond our borders, and everyone believed it. This is what is known as "the words of travelers on the road are like stone tablets." Everyone would believe that Commander you have promised your daughter in marriage, who could possibly think it was merely a temporary expedient on your part, an unavoidable measure taken for the sake of the state? This would only cause your beloved daughter's noble body to become a topic of gossip, and a beautiful and virtuous maiden in her boudoir reduced to mere conversation. If this matter is not handled with kindness and consideration, it will only cause your daughter to sigh at the thought of growing old alone. I secretly feel sorry for Commander you! Now, as a great minister of Tang, your Excellency commands the obedience of even three-year-old children across the land; If one day you were to fall into such a situation, I do not know where I would turn for shelter. I humbly request your Excellency to make the decision." Commander Deng Jiugong was so moved by Sanye Sheng's words that he fell into deep, silent thought, unable to respond. Just then Tai Luan stepped forward and whispered in his ear: "...... If you do this and that, it would also be the best strategy." Commander Deng Jiugong listened to Tai Luan's words and, turning anger into joy, said: "Minister, your reasoning is indeed sound. I shall not fail to follow orders. However, my daughter lost her mother at a young age and was deprived of proper upbringing. Although I have given this promise on the spur of the moment, I do not yet know whether she would agree to it. I shall first discuss and confirm this matter with my daughter before sending someone into the city to reply." Sanye Sheng had no choice but to take his leave. Commander Deng Jiugong saw him off at the camp gate and they parted ways. Sanye Sheng returned to the city and recounted Commander Deng Jiugong's words from beginning to end. Jiang Ziya laughed heartily and said: "Commander Deng Jiugong's plan—how could it possibly deceive me!" Ju Liusun also smiled and said: "Let us see how he will try to argue his case." Jiang Ziya said: "I thank you for the trouble, Grand Minister Sanye. Wait until Commander Deng Jiugong sends someone over before we discuss it further." Sanye Sheng withdrew. No more is said about this.

且说邓九公与太鸾曰：“适才虽是暂允，此事毕竟当如何处置？”太鸾曰：“元帅明日可差一能言之士，说，‘昨日元帅至后营，与小姐商议，小姐已自听允；只是两边敌国，恐无足取信，是必姜丞相亲自至汤营纳聘，小姐方肯听信。’子牙如不来便罢，再为之计；若是他肯亲自来纳聘，彼必无带重兵自卫之理，如此，只一匹夫可擒耳。若是他带有将佐，元帅可出辕门迎接，至中军用酒筵赚开他手下众将，预先埋伏下骁勇将士，俟酒席中击杯为号，擒之如囊中之物。西岐若无子牙，则不攻自破矣。”九公闻说大喜：“先行之言，真神出鬼没之机！只是能言快语之人，随机应变之士，吾知非先行不可。乞烦先行明日亲往，则大事可成。”太鸾曰：“若元帅不以末将为不才，鸾愿往周营叫子牙亲至中军，不劳苦争恶战，早早奏凯回军。”九公大喜。一宿晚景不题。次日，邓九公升帐，命太鸾进西岐说亲。太鸾辞别九公出营，至西岐城下，对守门官将曰：“吾是先行官太鸾；奉邓元帅命，欲见姜丞相。烦为通报。”守城官至相府，报与姜丞相曰：“城下有汤营先行官太鸾求见，请令定夺。”子牙听罢，对惧留孙曰：“大事成矣。”惧留孙亦自暗喜。子牙对左右曰：“速与我请来。”守门官同军校至城下，开了城门，对太鸾曰：“丞相有请。”太鸾忙忙进城，行至相府下马。左右通报：“太鸾进府。”子牙与惧留孙降阶而接。太鸾控背躬身言曰：“丞相在上：末将不过马前一卒，礼当叩见；岂敢当丞相如此过爱？”子牙曰：“彼此二国，俱系宾主，将军不必过谦。”太鸾再四逊谢，方敢就坐。彼此温慰毕。子牙以言挑之曰：“前者因惧道兄将土行孙擒获，当欲斩首；彼因再四哀求，言邓元帅曾有牵红之约，乞我少缓须臾之死，故此著散大夫至邓元帅中军，问其的确。倘元帅果有此言，自当以土行孙放回，以遂彼儿女之情，人间恩爱耳。幸蒙元帅见诺，俟议定回我。今将军赐顾，元帅必有教我。”太鸾欠身答曰：“蒙丞相下问，末将敢不上陈。今特奉主帅之命，多拜上丞相，不及写书；但主帅乃一时酒后所许，不意土行孙被获，竟以此事倡明，主帅亦不敢辞。但主帅此女，自幼失母，主帅爱惜如珠。况此事须要成礼；后日乃吉日良辰，意欲散大夫同丞相亲率土行孙入赘，以珍重其事，主帅方有体面，然后再面议军国之事。不识丞相允否？”子牙曰：“我知邓元帅乃忠信之士，但几次天子有征伐之师至此，皆不由分诉，俱以强力相加；只我周这一段忠君爱国之心，并无背逆之意，不能见谅于天子之前，言之欲涕。今天假其便，有此姻缘，庶几将我等一腔心事可以上达天子，表白于天下也。我等后日，亲送土行孙至邓元帅行营，吃贺喜筵席。乞将军善言道达，姜尚感激不尽！”太鸾逊谢。子牙遂厚款太鸾而别。太鸾出得城来，至营门前等令。左右报入营中：“有先行官等令。”邓九公命：“令来。”太鸾至中军。九公问曰：“其事如何？”太鸾将姜子牙应允后日亲来言语，诉说一遍。邓九公以手加额曰：“天子洪福，彼自来送死！”太鸾曰：“虽然大事已成，但防备不可不谨。”邓九公分付：“选有力量军士三百人，各藏短刀利刃，埋伏帐外，听击杯为号，左右齐出；不论子牙众将，一顿刀剁为肉酱！”众将士得令而退。命赵升领一枝人马，埋伏营左；侯中军炮响，杀出接应。又命孙焰红领一枝人马，埋伏营右；侯中军炮响，杀出接应。又命太鸾与子邓秀在辕门赚住众将。又分付后营小姐邓婵玉领一枝人马，为三路救应使。邓九公分付停当，专候后日行事。左右将佐俱去安排。不表。

Meanwhile, Commander Deng Jiugong asked Tai Luan: "Although I have temporarily agreed just now, how should we ultimately deal with this matter?" Tai Luan said: "Tomorrow, Commander-in-Chief may send a eloquent man to say, 'Yesterday the commander arrived at the rear camp and discussed it with the lady; she has already agreed on her own. However, since both sides are enemy states, we fear there is little to be trusted. It must be Chancellor Jiang himself who personally goes to the Tang camp to present betrothal gifts; only then will the lady agree and believe.'" If Chancellor Jiang does not come, we shall think of another plan. But if he is willing to personally come and present the betrothal gifts, there would be no reason for him to bring a large armed escort. In that case, we can capture him easily as an ordinary man. If he brings his generals and attendants, Commander-in-Chief can personally go out of the gate to welcome him. Upon reaching the central camp, you may host a banquet to lure his subordinates into drinking with you. Have brave warriors lie in ambush beforehand; when the signal is given by clinking cups during the feast, capturing them will be as easy as taking objects from a bag. "If Xiqi loses Chancellor Jiang, it would collapse on its own without any attack." Commander Deng Jiugong was greatly pleased upon hearing this: "The words of the vanguard are truly a strategy as elusive as gods and ghosts! But for an eloquent and quick-witted person, one who can adapt to circumstances on the spot, I know of no one but you, vanguard. I humbly request that you trouble yourself to go in person tomorrow; then our great undertaking will succeed." Tai Luan said: "If Commander-in-Chief does not consider me unworthy, I am willing to go to the Zhou camp and call Chancellor Jiang personally to the central command. We need not trouble ourselves with fierce battles; we can return victorious early." Commander Deng Jiugong rejoiced greatly. No mention is made of the evening and night that followed. The next day, Commander Deng Jiugong ascended his tent and ordered Tai Luan to go into Xiqi to arrange the marriage. Tai Luan bid farewell to Commander Deng Jiugong and left the camp. Upon arriving at the gates of Xiqi city, he said to the gate guards: "I am Tai Luan, vanguard officer; I have been sent by Commander Deng Jiugong to request an audience with Chancellor Jiang. Kindly inform him for me." The city guards went to the chancellor's residence and reported to Chancellor Jiang: "There is Tai Luan, vanguard of the Tang army, requesting an audience at the gate. Please decide whether he should be admitted." After hearing this, Jiang Ziya said to Ju Liusun: "Our great undertaking is now accomplished." Ju Liusun was also secretly pleased. Jiang Ziya said to those around him: "Quickly, bring him in for me." The gate guards and officers went down to the city gates, opened them, and said to Tai Luan: "Chancellor Jiang requests your presence." Tai Luan hurried into the city and dismounted at the chancellor's residence. The attendants announced: "Tai Luan has arrived." Jiang Ziya and Ju Liusun descended the steps to greet him. Tai Luan bowed deeply, saying: "Chancellor, I am but a lowly soldier at the front of your horse; it is only proper for me to pay my respects. How could I possibly deserve such great courtesy from you?" Jiang Ziya said: "Since we are both host and guest of two states, General need not be so modest." Tai Luan repeatedly declined with humility before finally daring to sit down. After exchanging polite greetings and expressions of courtesy, they began their conversation. Jiang Ziya probed by saying: "Previously, when Ju Daixiong captured Tu Xingsun and wanted to behead him, he repeatedly pleaded for mercy, saying that Commander Deng Jiugong had once made a betrothal arrangement. He begged me to delay his execution for a moment, so I sent Grand Minister Sanye to the central camp of Commander Deng Jiugong to confirm its truth. If indeed the commander made such a statement, we would naturally release Tu Xingsun to fulfill their romantic feelings and human affection. Fortunately, Commander Deng Jiugong honored his promise and sent word back after the matter was settled. Now that General has come to visit me, I presume Commander Deng must have something to instruct me." Tai Luan bowed slightly and replied: "I am honored by Chancellor's inquiry. How could I, a lowly officer, dare to withhold my report? Today, I have been specially sent by the commander with his personal instructions for Chancellor. We did not write a letter; but the commander's promise was made on impulse after drinking. Unexpectedly, Tu Xingsun, upon being captured, openly brought up this matter, and so the commander could not refuse it either. However, the commander's daughter has lost her mother since childhood, and he treasures her as a pearl. Moreover, this matter must be formalized with proper rites; the day after tomorrow is a propitious and auspicious time. The commander wishes for Grand Minister Sanye, together with Chancellor, to personally lead Tu Xingsun into the Tang camp as a son-in-law, so that this matter may be treated with due respect. Only then will the commander feel properly honored, and afterward we can formally discuss military and state affairs." I wonder if Chancellor would agree?" Jiang Ziya said: "I know Commander Deng Jiugong is a loyal and trustworthy man. However, on several occasions when the Son of Heaven sent armies to attack this place, they did not listen to any explanations but imposed their power forcefully; although our Zhou people have always been loyal to the king and patriotic, with no intention of rebellion, we could not gain understanding from the Son of Heaven. I speak of this with tears in my eyes. Now, through this opportunity for a marriage alliance, perhaps we can finally convey our loyal intentions to the Son of Heaven and express them before all under heaven. Therefore, we shall personally escort Tu Xingsun to Commander Deng Jiugong's camp the day after tomorrow and attend a celebratory banquet. I beg you, General, to kindly convey this message. Chancellor Jiang is deeply grateful!" Tai Luan humbly declined the thanks. Jiang Ziya then entertained Tai Luan with generous hospitality before they parted ways. Tai Luan left the city and waited at the camp gate for orders. The attendants reported into the camp: "There is a vanguard officer waiting for instructions." Commander Deng Jiugong ordered: "Bring him in." Tai Luan arrived at the central command. Commander Deng Jiugong asked: "How did it go?" Tai Luan recounted the words of Jiang Ziya, who had agreed to personally come on the day after tomorrow. Commander Deng Jiugong clasped his hands in joy and said: "The Son of Heaven's great fortune! He has come to deliver himself into our hands!" Tai Luan said: "Although the great undertaking is already accomplished, we must still be cautious and not neglect our precautions." Commander Deng Jiugong gave orders: "Select 300 strong soldiers, each to hide a short sword or sharp blade, and have them lie in ambush outside the tent. Upon hearing the signal of clinking cups, they shall emerge from both sides simultaneously; regardless of whether it is Jiang Ziya or his generals, we will cut them all into minced meat!" The soldiers and officers received the order and withdrew. He ordered Zhao Sheng to lead a contingent of troops to lie in ambush on the left side of the camp; when the cannon at the central command fires, they are to charge out and provide support. He also ordered Sun Yanhong to lead another contingent of troops to lie in wait on the right side of the camp; when the cannon at the central command sounds, they are to rush out and provide support. He also ordered Tai Luan and Deng Xiu to remain at the gate entrance to lure in the enemy generals. He also instructed Lady Deng Chanyu, the young lady of the rear camp, to lead a contingent as commander for the third route of reinforcements. Commander Deng Jiugong made all arrangements and waited specifically for the events of the day after tomorrow. The officers and attendants on both sides went to make their preparations. No further details are given about this.

且说子牙送太鸾出府归，与惧留孙商议曰：“必须……如此如此，大事可成。”光阴迅速，不觉就是第三日。先一日，子牙命：“杨戬变化，暗随吾身。”杨戬得令。子牙命选精力壮卒五十名，装作抬礼脚夫；辛甲、辛免、太颠、闳夭、四贤、八俊等充作左右应接之人，俱各藏暗兵利刃。又命雷震子领一枝人马，抢他左哨，杀入中军接应。再命南宫适领一枝人马，抢彼右哨，杀入中军接应。金吒、木吒、龙须虎统领大队人马，救应抢亲。子牙俱分付暗暗出营埋伏。不表。怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰： 汤营此日瑞筵开，专等鹰扬大将来。孰意子牙筹画定，中军炮响抢乔才。

Meanwhile, after seeing Tai Luan off from the residence, Jiang Ziya discussed with Ju Liusun: "We must... do this and that. Only then will our great undertaking succeed." Time passed quickly, and before they knew it, the third day had arrived. The day before, Jiang Ziya ordered: "Yang Jian, transform yourself and secretly follow me." Yang Jian received the order. Jiang Ziya ordered to select fifty strong and energetic soldiers, dressed as bearers of wedding gifts; Xin Jia, Xin Mian, Tai Dian, Hong Yao, Sihuan, and Bajun were assigned to serve as attendants on both sides, each concealing concealed weapons and sharp blades. He also ordered Leizhenzi to lead a contingent of troops, charge the left vanguard, and break into the central command for support. He also ordered Nangong Shi to lead another contingent of troops, attack their right vanguard, and charge into the central command for reinforcement. Jin Zha, Mu Zha, and Longxuhu were to lead the main force of troops for reinforcements in rescuing Tu Xingsun. Jiang Ziya made all these arrangements secretly and had them lie in ambush beyond the camp. No further details are mentioned about this. How can we know? A poem serves as evidence: Today, the Tang camp spreads a grand feast, specially awaiting the arrival of the valiant general. Little did they know that Jiang Ziya had already made his plans; when the cannon at the central camp sounded, he seized the opportunity to rescue the talented man.

且说邓九公其日与女婵玉商议曰：“今日子牙送土行孙入赘，原是赚子牙出城，擒彼成功。吾与诸将分剖已定；你可将掩心甲紧束，以备抢将接应。”其女应允。邓九公升帐，分付铺毡搭彩，俟候子牙。不题。且说子牙其日使诸将装扮停当。乃命土行孙至前听令。子牙曰：“你同至汤营，看吾号炮一响，你便进后营抢邓小姐，要紧！”土行孙得令。子牙等至午时，命散宜生先行，子牙方出了城，望汤营进发。宜生先至辕门。太鸾接著，报于九公。九公降阶，至辕门迎接散大夫。宜生曰：“前蒙金诺，今姜丞相已亲自压礼，同令婿至此；故特令下官先来通报。”邓九公曰：“动烦大夫往返，尚容申谢。我等在此立等，如何？”宜生曰：“恐惊动元帅不便。”邓九公曰：“不妨。”彼此等候良久，邓九公远远望见子牙乘四不相，带领脚夫一行不上五六十人，并无甲胄兵刃。九公看罢，不觉暗喜。只见子牙同众人行至辕门。子牙见邓九公同太鸾、散宜生俱立侯，子牙慌忙下骑。邓九公迎上前来，打躬曰：“丞相大驾降临，不才未得远接，望乞恕罪。”子牙忙答礼曰：“元帅盛德，姜尚久仰芳誉，无缘末得执鞭；今幸天缘，得罄委曲，姜尚不胜幸甚！”只见惧留孙同土行孙上前行礼。九公问子牙曰：“此位是谁？”子牙曰：“此是土行孙师父惧留孙也。”邓九公忙致款曲曰：“久仰仙名，未曾拜识；今幸降临，足慰夙昔。”惧留孙亦称谢毕。彼此逊让，进得辕门。子牙睁眼观看，只见肆筵设席，结彩悬花，极其华美。怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰： 结彩悬花气象新，麝兰香霭衬重茵。屏开孔雀千年瑞，色映芙容万谷春。金鼓两傍藏杀气，笙箫一派郁荆榛。孰知天意归周主，十万貔貅化鬼磷。

Meanwhile, on that day Commander Deng Jiugong discussed with his daughter Chanyu: "Today, Jiang Ziya is sending Tu Xingsun as a son-in-law. Originally, this was to lure Jiang Ziya out of the city and capture him successfully. I have already made arrangements with my generals; you must fasten your breastplate tightly and be ready to assist in capturing the enemy general." His daughter agreed. Commander Deng Jiugong ascended to his tent, ordered the laying of carpets and decoration with colorful banners, and waited for Jiang Ziya. No further mention is made about this. Meanwhile, on that day Jiang Ziya ordered his generals to dress and prepare properly. He then summoned Tu Xingsun forward to receive orders. Jiang Ziya said, "You are to go with me to the Tang camp. When you hear my signal cannon fire, you must immediately enter the rear camp and rescue Lady Deng; this is crucial!" Tu Xingsun received his orders. Jiang Ziya waited until midday, then ordered Sanyisheng to go ahead first. Only after that did Jiang Ziya leave the city and head toward the Tang camp. Sanyisheng arrived at the main gate of the camp first. Tai Luan received him and reported to Commander Deng Jiugong. Commander Deng Jiugong descended the steps and went to the main gate in person to welcome Master Sanyi. Sanyisheng said, "Previously you gave your golden promise; now Chancellor Jiang has personally brought the wedding gifts and accompanied his son-in-law here; thus I have specially sent me to come first and report." Commander Deng Jiugong said, "It is troublesome for you, Master, to make this round trip; I shall find time to express my gratitude. We will wait here for them, how about that?" Sanyisheng said, "I am afraid it would be inconvenient to disturb the general." Commander Deng Jiugong replied, "It is fine." After waiting for a long time, Commander Deng Jiugong saw from afar Jiang Ziya riding on the four-footed beast Sibuxiang, accompanied by no more than fifty or sixty attendants and laborers, none of whom were armed or wearing armor. After observing this, Commander Deng Jiugong could not help but secretly rejoice. Just then, Jiang Ziya and his entourage arrived at the main gate. Jiang Ziya saw Commander Deng Jiugong, along with Tai Luan and Sanyisheng, all standing there to greet him. He hurriedly dismounted from his horse. Commander Deng Jiugong stepped forward to greet him, bowed deeply and said, "Chancellor, your esteemed arrival has not been met by me at a distance; I beg you to forgive my fault." Jiang Ziya hurriedly returned the courtesy and said, "General, your great virtue has long been admired by Jiang Shang; I have regretted not having had the opportunity to serve you. Today, it is fortunate that fate has brought us together, allowing me to express my sincerity; I am truly honored!" At this moment, Ju Liusun and Tu Xingsun stepped forward and paid their respects. Commander Deng Jiugong asked Jiang Ziya, "Who is this gentleman?" Jiang Ziya replied, "This is Ju Liusun, the master of Tu Xingsun." Commander Deng Jiugong hurriedly expressed his admiration and said, "I have long heard of your divine reputation but have never had the honor of meeting you in person; today's visit is a great comfort to my long-held aspirations." Ju Liusun also expressed his thanks. They exchanged polite courtesies and entered the main gate together. Jiang Ziya opened his eyes to look around, and saw that a grand banquet had been prepared with colorful decorations and hanging flowers; it was extremely magnificent. How can we know this? A poem serves as proof: Colorful banners and hanging flowers bring a fresh atmosphere; the scent of musk and orchid mingles with thick carpets. The screen reveals peacocks, symbols of millennia's good fortune; their colors reflect the springtime bloom of countless lotus flowers. On both sides of the gongs and drums, killing intent is hidden; a single melody from flutes and sheng pipes lingers among thorny thickets. Little did they know the will of Heaven favored King Zhou; ten thousand fierce tigers and xiu beasts would be transformed into ghostly phosphorescence.

话说子牙正看筵席，猛见两边杀气上冲，子牙已知就里，便与土行孙众将丢个眼色；众人已解其意，俱衬上帐来。邓九公与子牙诸人行礼毕。子牙命左右：“抬上礼来。”邓九公方才接礼单看玩，只见辛甲暗将信香取出，忙将抬盒内大炮燃著。一声炮响，恍若地塌山崩。邓九公吃了一惊，及至看时，只见脚夫一拥而前，各取出暗藏兵器，杀上帐来。邓九公措手不及，只得望后就跑。太鸾与邓秀见势不谐，也往后逃走。只见四下伏兵尽起，喊声振天。土行孙绰了兵器，望后营来抢邓婵玉小姐。子牙与众人俱各抢上马骑，各执兵刃厮杀。那三百名刀斧手如何抵当得住。及至邓九公等上得马出来迎战时，营已乱了。赵升闻炮，自左营杀来接应，孙焰红听得炮响，从右营杀来接应；俱被辛甲、辛免等分投截杀。邓婵玉方欲前来接应，又被土行孙敌住，彼此混战。不意雷震子、南宫适两枝人马从左右两边杀过来。成汤人马反在居中，首尾受敌，如何抵得住；后面金吒、木吒等大队人马掩杀上来。邓九公见势不好，败阵而走；军卒自相践踏，死者不计其数。邓婵玉见父亲与众将败下阵来，也虚闪一刀，往正南上逃走。土行孙知婵玉善于发石伤人，遂用困仙绳祭起；将婵玉困了，跌下马来，被土行孙上前绰住，先擒进西岐城去了。子牙与众将追杀邓九公有五十馀里，方鸣金收军进城。邓九公与子邓秀并太鸾、赵升等直至岐山下方才收集败残人马，查点军卒，见没了小姐，不觉伤感。指望擒拿子牙，孰知反中奸计，追悔无及。只得暂扎住营寨。不表。

As Jiang Ziya was admiring the banquet, he suddenly noticed killing intent rising from both sides. Realizing what was about to happen, he gave a subtle glance to Tu Xingsun and his generals; the others understood his meaning and all moved toward the tent. After Commander Deng Jiugong and Jiang Ziya's entourage had completed their formalities of courtesy, Jiang Ziya ordered those around him: "Bring forth the gifts." Commander Deng Jiugong had just begun to examine the gift list when suddenly Xin Jia secretly took out a signal incense stick and quickly lit the large cannon inside the gift box. With one thunderous explosion, it was as if the earth collapsed and mountains crumbled. Commander Deng Jiugong was greatly startled, and when he looked up, he saw the laborers rushing forward in a crowd, each drawing concealed weapons to charge into the tent. Commander Deng Jiugong caught off guard had no choice but to run backward as quickly as he could. Tai Luan and Lady Deng Xiu, seeing the situation was hopeless, also fled toward the rear. At this moment, hidden troops from all directions rose up at once, their shouts shaking the heavens. Tu Xingsun grabbed a weapon and rushed toward the rear camp to rescue Lady Deng Chanyu. Jiang Ziya and his men all quickly mounted their horses, each wielding weapons as they engaged in fierce combat. How could those three hundred axemen possibly withstand the attack? By the time Commander Deng Jiugong and others managed to mount their horses and come out to fight back, the camp had already fallen into chaos. Zhao Sheng heard the cannon and charged in from the left camp to provide support, while Sun Yanhong, upon hearing the explosion, also rushed in from the right camp. They were both intercepted and cut down by Xin Jia, Xin Mian, and others who struck from different directions. Just as Lady Deng Chanyu was about to come forward to provide support, she was blocked by Tu Xingsun. The two sides clashed in a chaotic melee. Unbeknownst to them, Lei Zhenzi and Nangong Ti led their troops from the left and right flanks and charged in. The forces of King Tang found themselves surrounded on both sides, attacked at front and rear; how could they possibly withstand such pressure? Behind them, Jin Zha, Mu Zha, and their large forces launched a fierce counterattack. Seeing the situation was dire, Commander Deng Jiugong retreated in defeat; soldiers trampled each other in their panic, and countless lives were lost. Lady Deng Chanyu saw her father and the generals retreating from the battlefield, so she feigned a strike with her sword and fled toward the southeast. Tu Xingsun knew that Lady Chanyu was skilled at throwing stones to injure people, so he raised a magical binding rope; he used it to bind Lady Chanyu, who fell from her horse. Tu Xingsun rushed forward and captured her, taking her directly into the city of Xi Qi. Jiang Ziya led his generals in pursuit of Deng Jiugong for more than fifty li before finally sounding the retreat and leading the troops back into the city. Commander Deng Jiugong, together with his son Deng Xiu and Tai Luan, Zhao Sheng, and others, did not regroup their scattered forces until they reached the foot of Qi Mountain. When he counted the remaining soldiers, he found that Lady Deng was missing and could not help but feel sorrowful. They had hoped to capture Jiang Ziya; little did they know they had instead fallen into a treacherous trap, and now it was too late for regret. With no other choice, they temporarily set up camp. No further details are given about this.

且说子牙与惧留孙大获全胜，进城，升银安殿坐下。诸将报功毕。子牙对惧留孙曰：“命土行孙乘今日吉日良时，与邓小姐成亲，何如？”惧留孙曰：“贫道亦是此意，时不宜迟。”子牙命土行孙：“你将邓婵玉带至后房，乘今日好日子，成就你夫妇美事。明日我另有说话。”土行孙领命。子牙又命侍儿。“搀邓小姐到后面，安置新房内去，好生伏侍。”邓小姐娇羞无那，含泪不语；被左右侍儿挟持往后房去了。子牙命诸将吃贺喜酒席。不题。且说邓小姐搀至香房，土行孙上前迎接。婵玉一见土行孙笑容可掬，便自措身无地，泪雨如倾，默默不语。土行孙又百般安慰。婵玉不觉怒起，骂曰：“无知匹夫，卖主求荣！你是何等之人，敢妄自如此？”土行孙陪著笑脸答曰：“小姐虽千金之躯，不才亦非无名之辈，也不辱没了你。况小姐曾受我疗疾之恩，又是你尊翁泰山亲许与我，俟行刺武王回兵，将小姐入赘。人所共知。且前日散大夫先进营与尊翁面订，今日行聘入赘，丞相犹恐尊翁推托，故略施小计，成此姻缘。小姐何苦固执？”婵玉曰：“我父亲许散宜生之言，原是赚姜丞相之计，不意误中奸谋，落在彀中，有死而已。”土行孙曰：“小姐差矣！别的好做口头话，夫妻可是暂许得的？古人一言为定，岂可失信。况我等俱是阐教门人，只因误听申公豹唆使，故投尊翁帐下以图报效；昨被吾师下山，擒进西岐，责吾暗进西城行刺武王、姜丞相，有辱阐教，背本忘师，逆天助恶，欲斩吾首，以正军法，吾哀告师尊，姜丞相定欲行刑；吾只得把初次擒哪吒、黄天化，尊翁泰山晚间饮酒将小姐许我，俟旋师命吾入赘，我只因欲就亲事之心急，不得已方暗进西岐。吾师与姜丞相听得斯言，搯指一算，乃曰：‘此子该与邓小姐有红丝系足之缘，后来俱是周朝一殿之臣。’因此赦吾之罪，命散大夫作伐。小姐，你想：若非天缘，尊翁怎么肯？小姐焉能到此？况今纣王无道，天下叛离，累伐西岐，不过魔家四将、闻太师、十洲三岛仙众皆自取灭亡，不能得志，天意可知，顺逆已见。又何况尊翁区区一旅之师哉！古云：‘良禽相木而栖，贤臣择主而仕。’小姐今日固执，三军已知土行孙成亲。小姐纵冰清玉洁，谁人信哉。小姐请自三思！”邓婵玉被土行孙一席话说得低头不语。土行孙见小姐略有回心之意，又近前促之曰：“小姐自思，你是香闺艳质，天上奇葩；不才乃夹龙山门徒，相隔不啻天渊。今日何得与小姐觌体相亲，情同夙觏？”便欲上前，强牵其衣。小姐见此光景，不觉粉面通红，以手拒之曰：“事虽如此，岂得用强！候我明日请命与父亲，再成亲不迟。”土行孙此时情兴已迫，按纳不住，上前一把搂定；小姐抵死拒住。土行孙曰：“良时吉日，何必苦推，有误佳期。”竟将一手去解其衣。小姐双手推托，彼此扭作一堆。小姐终是女流，如何敌得土行孙过。不一时，满面流汗，喘吁气急，手已酸软。土行孙乘隙将右手插入里衣。婵玉及至以手挡抵，不觉其带已断。及将双手揝住里衣，其力愈怯。土行孙得空，以手一抱，暖玉温香，已贴满胸怀。檀口香腮，轻轻紧搵。小姐娇羞无主，将脸左右闪赚不得，流泪满面曰：“如是恃强，定死不从！”土行孙那里肯放，死死压住。彼此推扭，又有一个时辰。土行孙见小姐终是不肯顺从，乃绐之曰：“小姐既是如此，我也不敢用强，只恐小姐明日见了尊翁变卦，无以为信耳。”小姐忙曰：“我此身已属将军，安有变卦之理。只将军肯怜我，容见过父亲，庶成我之节；若我是有负初心，定不逢好死。”土行孙曰：“既然如此，贤妻请起。”土行孙将一手搂抱其颈，轻轻扶起。邓婵玉以为真心放他起来，不曾提防，将身起时，使用一手推开土行孙之手。土行孙乘机将双手插入小姐腰里，抱紧了一拎，腰已松了，里衣迳往下一卸。邓婵玉被土行孙所算，及落手相持时，已被双肩隔住手，如何得下来！小姐展挣不住，不得已言曰：“将军薄幸！既是夫妻，如何哄我？”土行孙曰：“若不如此，贤妻又要千推万阻。”小姐惟闭目不言，娇羞满面，任土行孙解带脱衣。二人扶入锦被，婵玉对土行孙曰：“贱妾系香闺幼稚，不识云雨，乞将军怜护。”土行孙曰：“小姐娇香艳质，不才饮德久矣，安敢狂逞。”正是：翡翠衾中，初试海棠新血；鸳鸯枕上，漫飘桂蕊奇香。彼此温存，交相慕恋，极人间之乐，无过此时矣。后人有诗单道子牙妙计，成就二人美满前程。诗曰： 妙算神机说子牙，运筹帏幄更无差。百年好事今朝合，其把红丝孟浪夸。

Meanwhile, Jiang Ziya and Ju Liusun returned to the city in great triumph. They entered the city and ascended the Yin'an Hall to take their seats. After all the generals had reported on their merits, Jiang Ziya addressed Ju Liusun and said, "I shall order Tu Xingsun to marry Lady Deng today on this auspicious day and favorable hour. What do you think?" Ju Liusun replied, "This is also my thought; the time should not be delayed." Jiang Ziya ordered Tu Xingsun, "You must take Lady Deng Chanyu to the back chamber. On this auspicious day, complete your wedding and make it a happy union for you two. Tomorrow I have other matters to attend to." Tu Xingsun accepted the order. Jiang Ziya then ordered his attendants. "Lead Lady Deng to the back, and place her in the newlywed chamber; see that she is well taken care of." Lady Deng was shy and embarrassed, weeping silently without a word; she was led by the attendants to the back chamber. Jiang Ziya ordered a celebratory banquet for his generals. No further details are provided about this. Meanwhile, Lady Deng was led to the bridal chamber, where Tu Xingsun stepped forward to greet her. Chanyu saw Tu Xingsun smiling warmly and felt utterly embarrassed, shedding tears like rain as she remained silent. Tu Xingsun comforted her in every possible way. Chanyu could not help but become angry and scolded, "You ignorant fool! You betrayed your master for personal glory! What kind of person are you to act so recklessly?" Tu Xingsun, with a smiling face, replied, "Though you are a lady of noble birth, I am not an unknown nobody; our union would not be beneath your dignity. Moreover, you once received the kindness of my healing your illness. Furthermore, it was personally arranged by your esteemed father and grandfather to give you in marriage to me after I returned from assassinating King Wu. This is well known to all. Moreover, the day before yesterday Master Sanyi had already entered your father's camp and personally confirmed this arrangement with him. Today, Chancellor Jiang arranged for the wedding gifts to be presented and the marriage to take place. Fearing that your esteemed father might refuse, he devised a small plan just to make this union possible. Why must you insist on being so stubborn, my lady?" Chanyu said, "My father's agreement with Master Sanyi was originally a scheme to lure Chancellor Jiang. I did not expect to fall into this treacherous plot and be caught in their trap; there is nothing left for me but death." Tu Xingsun said, "My lady, you are mistaken! Other things may be spoken of in passing, but can a marriage be so easily and temporarily arranged? In ancient times, one word was as binding as an agreement; how could trust be broken? Moreover, we are all disciples of the Chan Sect. We only mistakenly heeded Shen Gongbao's instigation and thus joined your father's camp to seek a chance to show our loyalty; Yesterday, after my master descended the mountain and captured us in Xiqi, he reprimanded me for secretly entering the western city to assassinate King Wu and Chancellor Jiang. This brought disgrace upon the Chan Sect; I betrayed my roots and forgot my teacher, defying heaven by aiding evil. He wanted to behead me to uphold military law. I pleaded with my master, but Chancellor Jiang insisted on carrying out the punishment; I had no choice but to recount how I first captured Nezha and Huang Tianhua, and how your father and grandfather promised you in marriage to me during a drinking session. They ordered that after my return from battle, I should be given the honor of marrying into their family. Because I was so eager to finalize our wedding arrangements, I had no choice but secretly enter Xiqi. My master and Chancellor Jiang, upon hearing these words, calculated with their fingers and said, "This youth is fated to be bound by crimson threads of destiny to Lady Deng; in the future, they will both serve as ministers under one court in the Zhou dynasty." Therefore, my master pardoned me and ordered Master Sanyi to act as matchmaker. My lady, think about it: if not for heavenly fate, how would your father have agreed? How could you possibly be here otherwise?" Moreover, now King Zhou is tyrannical and the world has rebelled. Repeated attacks on Xiqi have only led to the downfall of the Four Generals Mo, Lord Wen, and the immortal hosts from the Ten Continents and Three Islands; they brought their own destruction and failed in their ambitions. Heaven's will is clear, and the distinction between right and wrong has already been revealed. How much less so for your father with his mere handful of troops!" As the old saying goes: "A fine bird chooses its tree to perch on, and a virtuous minister selects his lord before serving." If you insist today, the entire army already knows that Tu Xingsun is marrying. Even if you are as pure and chaste as jade and ice, who would believe it?" My lady, please think carefully!" Deng Chanyu was so moved by Tu Xingsun's words that she lowered her head and said nothing. Seeing that Lady Deng showed a slight change of heart, Tu Xingsun stepped closer and urged her again, saying, "My lady, consider this: you are a fair maiden of rare beauty, an extraordinary flower in the heavens; I am merely a disciple of Jialong Mountain, and we differ as vastly as heaven from earth. How is it that today I may be so intimately close to you, my lady, with feelings akin to those of old friends?" He was about to step forward and forcefully pull her by the sleeve. Seeing this, Lady Deng could not help but blush and used her hand to push him away, saying, "Though the matter is as you say, can force be used!" "Wait until tomorrow when I ask my father for permission; there will be time enough to marry then." At this moment, Tu Xingsun could no longer restrain his passion and stepped forward to embrace her tightly; Lady Deng resisted with all her might. Tu Xingsun said, "This is a propitious time and auspicious day; why insist on delaying it? It would be a pity to miss the opportunity." He even reached out with one hand to undo her clothes. Lady Deng pushed him away with both hands, and the two struggled together in a tangle. In the end, Lady Deng was but a woman and could not match Tu Xingsun's strength. Before long, she was drenched in sweat, gasping for breath, her hands already numb and weak. Taking advantage of the moment, Tu Xingsun inserted his right hand into her inner garment. By the time Lady Chanyu tried to push him away with her hands, she found that her sash had already been torn. When she used both hands to hold onto her inner garment, her strength grew weaker. Taking the opportunity, Tu Xingsun embraced her tightly; warm flesh and sweet fragrance were already pressed against his chest. Her fragrant lips and soft cheeks lightly pressed close. Lady Deng, overwhelmed with embarrassment and unable to move her face from side to side, wept bitterly and said, "If you rely on force like this, I would rather die than comply!" Tu Xingsun had no intention of letting go and pressed her down firmly. The two struggled back and forth for another full hour. Seeing that Lady Deng still refused to comply, Tu Xingsun lied and said, "My lady, if you are truly like this, I dare not use force. However, I fear that tomorrow when you see your father, he may change his mind, leaving no proof for me." Lady Deng hurriedly said, "My body is already yours, General. How could there be any change of heart?" If only you would show me mercy and allow me to see my father first, I may preserve my virtue; "If I betray my original intentions, may I never meet a good death." Tu Xingsun said, "If that is the case, dear wife, please rise." Tu Xingsun used one hand to embrace her neck and gently helped her up. Deng Chanyu, thinking he was genuinely letting her go, did not guard against it. As she rose to stand up, she used one hand to push away Tu Xingsun's arm. Taking the opportunity, Tu Xingshun inserted both hands into Lady Deng's waistband and pulled her tightly. Her sash loosened instantly, and her inner garment slipped down below. Deng Chanyu had been outwitted by Tu Xingsun; when their hands locked in struggle, her arms were already pinned at the shoulders. How could she possibly escape! Unable to resist any longer, Lady Deng reluctantly said, "General, you are cruel and unfaithful! If we are already husband and wife, why do you deceive me?" Tu Xingsun replied, "If I had not done it this way, my dear wife would have resisted a thousand times and blocked me ten thousand times." Lady Deng could only close her eyes in silence, her face flushed with embarrassment, allowing Tu Xingsun to undo her sash and remove her clothes. The two lay together beneath the brocade quilt. Lady Chanyu said to Tu Xingsun, "I am but a naive maiden from a noble family, inexperienced in love and intimacy; I beg you, General, to show me compassion and care." Tu Xingsun said, "My lady's beauty and fragrance have long been admired by me; how dare I act recklessly." Indeed: within the jade-green quilt, a maiden's first blood is shed like fresh hibiscus petals; On the mandarin duck pillow, the strange fragrance of osmanthus petals drifts gently. They cherished each other tenderly, mutually longing and loving; this was the greatest joy in human life, unmatched at any time. Later generations composed a poem especially to praise Chancellor Jiang's clever plan that secured a happy future for the two lovers. The poem says: Chancellor Jiang's divine strategy and wisdom are unmatched; his careful planning from behind the curtain is flawless. A hundred-year match has come together today, its crimson threads boldly proclaimed in haste.

话说土行孙与邓婵玉成就夫妇。一夜晚景已过。次日，夫妻二人起来，梳洗已毕。土行孙曰：“我二人可至前殿，叩谢姜丞相与我师尊抚育成就之恩。”婵玉曰：“此事固当要谢，但我父亲昨日不知败于何地，岂有父子事两国之理！乞将军以此意道达于姜丞相得知，作何区处，方保两全。”土行孙曰：“贤妻之言是也。伺上殿时，就讲此事。”话犹未了，只见子牙升殿，众将上殿参谒毕。土行孙与邓婵玉夫妻二人上前叩谢。子牙曰：“邓婵玉今属周臣，尔父尚抗拒不服。我欲发兵前去擒剿，但你系他骨肉至亲，当如何区处？”土行孙上前曰：“婵玉适才正为此事与弟子商议，恳求师叔开恻隐之心，设一计策，两全其美。此师叔莫大之恩也。”子牙曰：“此事也不难。若婵玉果有真心为国，只消得亲自去说他父亲归周，有何难处。但不知婵玉可肯去否？”邓婵玉上前跪而言曰：“丞相在上：贱妾既已归周，岂敢又蓄两意。早晨婵玉已欲自往说父亲降周，惟恐丞相不肯信妾真情，致生疑虑，若丞相肯命妾说父归降，自不劳张弓设箭，妾父自为周臣耳。”子牙曰：“我断不疑小姐反复。只恐汝父不肯归周，又生事端耳。今小姐既欲亲往，吾拨军校随去。”婵玉拜谢子牙，领兵卒出城，望岐山前来。不表。

Now the story turns to Tu Xingsun and Deng Chanyu becoming husband and wife. One night had passed. The next day, the newlyweds rose and finished washing and dressing. Tu Xingsun said, "The two of us should go to the front hall and bow in gratitude to Chancellor Jiang and my master for their nurturing and assistance." Chanyu said, "This matter certainly deserves gratitude, but my father's whereabouts after his defeat yesterday are unknown. How can a son serve two different states?" I beg you, General, please convey this sentiment to Chancellor Jiang so he may decide what course of action will preserve both our positions." Tu Xingsun said, "My dear wife's words are wise. When we ascend the hall, I will mention this matter." The words were not yet finished when suddenly Chancellor Jiang ascended the hall and all the generals paid their respects. Tu Xingsun and Deng Chany, as newlyweds, stepped forward to bow in gratitude. Chancellor Jiang said, "Lady Deng Chanyu now belongs to the Zhou court; your father still resists and refuses submission. I wish to send troops ahead to capture him, but you are his closest blood relative; how should this matter be handled?" Tu Xingsun stepped forward and said, "Chanyu just now was discussing this very matter with me. I humbly request Uncle Master to show compassion and devise a plan that would benefit both sides." This would be an immense kindness from you, Uncle Master." Chancellor Jiang said, "This matter is not difficult. If Lady Chanyu truly has a loyal heart for the state, she only needs to personally persuade her father to submit to Zhou. What is there that cannot be done?" But I wonder if Lady Chanyu would be willing to go?" Deng Chanyu stepped forward, knelt down, and said, "Respectfully to Chancellor Jiang: I am now a subject of Zhou; how could I dare harbor divided loyalties. This morning, I was already determined to go and persuade my father to surrender to Zhou. However, I feared that Chancellor Jiang might not believe in my sincerity, leading to doubts. If the Chancellor would allow me to convince my father to submit, there will be no need for archers or soldiers; my father will become a subject of Zhou on his own." Chancellor Jiang said, "I would never doubt Lady Deng's loyalty. I only fear that your father may refuse to submit to Zhou and cause further trouble." Now that you, my lady, wish to go in person, I will assign soldiers to accompany you." Lady Chanyu bowed in gratitude to Chancellor Jiang, took the soldiers with her, and left the city heading toward Qishan. Details of this journey are omitted here.

且说邓九公收集残兵，驻札一夜；至次日升帐，其子邓秀、太鸾、赵升、孙焰红侍立。九公曰：“吾自行兵以来，未尝遭此大辱；今又失吾爱女，不知死生，正是羊触藩篱，进退两离，奈何，奈何！”太鸾曰：“元帅可差官赍表进朝告急，一面探听小姐下落。”正迟疑间，左右报曰：“小姐领一枝人马，打西周旗号，至辕门等令。”太鸾等惊愕不定。邓九公曰：“令来。”左右开了辕门，婵玉下马，进辕门来，至中军，双膝跪下。邓九公看见如此行迳，慌立起问曰：“我儿这是如何说？”婵玉不觉流泪言曰：“孩儿不敢说。”邓九公曰：“你有甚么冤屈？站起来说无妨。”婵玉曰：“孩儿系深闺幼女，此事俱是父亲失言，弄巧成拙。父亲平空将我许了土行孙，勾引姜子牙做出这番事来，将我擒入西岐，强逼为婚。如今追悔何及！”邓九公听得此言，諕得魂飞天外，半晌无言。婵玉又进言曰：“孩儿今已失身为土行孙妻子，欲保全爹爹一身之祸，不得不来说明。今纣王无道，天下分崩。三分天下，有二归周。其天意人心，不卜可知。纵有闻太师、魔家四将与十洲三岛真仙，俱皆灭亡。顺逆之道明甚。今孩儿不孝，归顺西岐，不得不以利害与父亲言之。父亲今以爱女轻许敌国，姜子牙亲进汤营行礼，父亲虽是赚辞，谁肯信之！父亲况且失师辱国，归商自有显戮。孩儿乃奉父命归适良人，自非私奔桑濮之地，父亲亦无罪孩儿之处。父亲若肯依孩儿之见，归顺西周，改邪归正，择主而仕；不但骨肉可以保全，实是弃暗投明，从顺弃逆，天下无不忻悦。”九公被女儿一番言语说得大是有理，自己沉思：“欲奋勇行师，众寡莫敌；欲收军还国，事属嫌疑……”沈吟半晌，对婵玉曰：“我儿，你是我爱女，我怎的舍得你！只是天意如此。但我羞入西岐，屈膝与子牙耳。如之奈何？”婵玉曰：“这有何难！姜丞相虚心下士，并无骄矜。父亲果真降周，孩儿愿先去说明，令子牙迎接。”九公见婵玉如此说，命婵玉先行，邓九公领众军归顺西岐。不题。且说邓婵玉先至西岐城，入相府，对子牙将上项事诉说一遍。子牙大喜，命左右：“排队伍出城，迎接邓元帅。”左右闻命，俱披执迎接里馀之地，已见邓九公军卒来至。子牙曰：“元帅请了！”九公连在马上欠背躬身曰：“末将才疏智浅，致蒙谴责，理之当然。今已纳降，望丞相恕罪。”子牙忙勒骑向前，携九公手，并辔而言曰：“今将军既知顺逆，弃暗投明，俱是一殿之臣，何得又分彼此。况令爱又归吾门下师侄，吾又何敢赚将军哉。”九公不胜感激。二人叙至相府下马，进银安殿，重整筵席，同诸将饮庆贺酒一宿。不题。次日，见武王，朝贺毕。

Meanwhile, Deng Jiugong gathered his remaining troops and encamped for the night; On the next day when he ascended to his tent, his son Deng Xiu, Tailuan, Zhao Sheng, and Sun Yanhong stood in attendance. Jiugong said, "Since I first took command of troops, I have never suffered such a great humiliation; Now my beloved daughter has been lost to me, and I do not know if she is alive or dead. It's like a sheep caught in a fence—trapped between advancing and retreating, what can be done? What can be done!" Tailuan said, "Commander, you should send an official to deliver a petition to the court for urgent aid while also sending someone to investigate my lady's whereabouts." Just as they were hesitating, a soldier on the side reported, "My lady has led a contingent of troops flying the flag of Western Zhou and is waiting at the 辕门 (yuanmen) for orders." Tailuan and others were greatly startled. Deng Jiugong said, "Bring her in." The soldiers on the side opened the 辕门 (yuanmen), and Chanyu dismounted, entering through the 辕门 to the central camp, where she knelt with both knees. Deng Jiugong saw her behavior and hurriedly stood up to ask, "My daughter, what is the meaning of this?" Chanyu could not help but weep as she said, "Your child dares not speak." Deng Jiugong asked, "What injustice have you suffered?" "Feel free to stand up and speak." Chanyu said, "I am but a young girl from the inner chambers. All this is due to my father's careless words, which have led to an awkward situation." Father arbitrarily betrothed me to Tuxingsun, who incited Jiang Ziya into doing these things and captured me in Xiqi, forcing me into marriage. Now it is too late to regret!" Upon hearing these words, Deng Jiugong was so startled that his soul seemed to fly out of his body; he remained speechless for a long while. Chanyu continued, "Now that I have lost my virtue and become the wife of Tuxingsun, I must come forward to explain in order to protect Father from disaster. Now King Zhou is tyrannical, and the realm has fallen into chaos. Two-thirds of the world already belong to Zhou. The will of Heaven and the hearts of people are clear without divination. Even if Lord Wenti, the Four Generals Mo, and the true immortals of the Ten Continents and Three Islands were to resist, they would all perish. The principle of loyalty versus rebellion is very clear. Now, your child has been unfilial and surrendered to Xiqi; I must speak plainly of the dangers and benefits to you, my father. Father has lightly betrothed your beloved daughter to an enemy state; Jiang Ziya personally entered the Tang camp to perform a marriage ceremony. Even if Father's words were deceptive, who would believe it! Moreover, you have lost your army and brought disgrace upon the state; returning to Shang will surely bring severe punishment. Your child followed your command in marrying a worthy man, and this is not an act of fleeing to the land of Sangpu; therefore, Father has no grounds to punish me. If Father would heed my advice and surrender to Western Zhou, abandon evil for righteousness, and choose a worthy ruler to serve; Not only will our family be preserved intact, but this is truly abandoning darkness for light and choosing loyalty over rebellion—surely a cause for joy throughout the land." Jiugong was convinced by his daughter's words, which seemed entirely reasonable. He pondered to himself: "If I wish to lead my troops bravely into battle, we are outnumbered and cannot match the enemy; If I wish to withdraw my troops and return home, it would raise suspicion..." After hesitating for a while, he said to Chanyu, "My daughter, you are my beloved child. How could I possibly bear to part with you! But this is the will of Heaven. However, I am ashamed to enter Xiqi and kneel before Jiang Ziya. What can be done?" Chanyu said, "What is there to find difficult! Prime Minister Jiang is humble and respects scholars; he shows no arrogance. If Father truly wishes to surrender to Zhou, your child will go first to explain the situation and have Jiang Ziya welcome you." Jiugong, seeing Chanyu speak in this way, ordered her to go ahead and led his troops to surrender to Xiqi. Details of this are omitted here. Meanwhile, Deng Chanyu arrived at Xiqi city first and entered the prime minister's residence, where she recounted all the events to Jiang Ziya. Jiang Ziya was greatly pleased and ordered his attendants: "Line up the troops outside the city to welcome General Deng." The attendants, upon receiving the order, all took their positions and went out for more than a mile to greet them. Soon they saw General Deng Jiugong's soldiers arriving. Jiang Ziya said, "Commander, please honor me with your presence!" Jiugong bowed repeatedly from his horse and said, "I am a lowly general with limited talent and shallow wisdom. To be punished is only just. Now that I have surrendered, I hope the Prime Minister will forgive my sins." Jiang Ziya quickly reined in his horse to move forward, took Jiugong by the hand, and rode side by side with him while saying, "Now that General understands loyalty from rebellion and has abandoned darkness for light, we are all ministers of one court. How can there still be distinctions between us? Moreover, your beloved daughter has become my disciple's niece under my tutelage; how could I dare to deceive you, General?" Jiugong was deeply moved. The two rode together to the prime minister's residence where they dismounted, entered Yin'an Hall, and reorganized a banquet. They drank wine with all the generals in celebration for the night. The next day, they met King Wu and completed the ceremony of paying homage.

且不言邓九公归周，只见探马报入汜水关，韩荣听得邓九公纳降，将女私配敌国，韩荣飞报至朝歌。有上大夫张谦看本，见此报大惊，忙进内打听，皇上在摘星楼，只得上楼启奏。左右见上大夫进疏，慌忙奏曰：“启陛下：今有上大夫张谦候旨。”纣王听说，命：“宣上楼来。”张谦闻命上楼，至滴水檐前拜毕。纣王曰：“朕无旨宜卿，卿有何奏章？就此批宣。”张谦俯伏奏曰：“今有汜水关韩荣进有奏章，臣不敢隐匿；虽触龙怒，臣就死无辞。”纣王听说，命当驾官：“即将韩荣本拿来朕看。”张谦忙将韩荣本展于纣王龙案之上。纣王看未完，不觉大怒曰：“邓九公受朕大恩，今一旦归降叛贼，情殊可恨！待朕升殿，与臣共议，定拿此一班叛臣，明正伊罪，方泄朕恨！”张谦只得退下楼来，候天子临轩。只见九间殿上，钟鼓齐鸣，众官闻知，忙至朝房伺候。须臾，孔雀屏开，纣王驾临，登宝座传旨：“命众卿相议。”众文武齐至御前，俯伏候旨。纣王曰：“今邓九公奉诏征西，不但不能伐叛奏捷，反将己女私婚敌国，归降逆贼，罪在不赦；除擒拿逆臣家属外，必将逆臣拏获，以正国法。卿等有何良策，以彰国之常刑？”纣王言未毕，有中谏大夫飞廉出班奏曰：“臣观西岐抗礼拒敌，罪在不赦。然征伐大将，得胜者或有捷报御前，失利者惧罪即归伏西土，何日能奏捷音也。依臣愚见，必用至亲骨肉之臣征伐，庶无二者之虞；且与国同为休戚，自无不奏捷者。”纣王曰：“君臣父子，总系至戚，又何分彼此哉？”飞廉曰：“臣保一人，征伐西岐，姜尚可擒，大功可奏。”纣王曰：“卿保何人？”飞廉奏曰：“要克西岐，非冀州侯苏护不可。一为陛下国戚；二为诸侯之长，凡事无有不用力者。”纣王闻言大悦：“卿言甚善。”即令军政官：“速发黄旄、白钺。”使命赍诏前往冀州。不知胜负如何，且听下回分解。

Details of Deng Jiugong's surrender to Zhou are omitted for now. Meanwhile, a scout galloped into Sishui Pass and reported to Han Rong that General Deng had surrendered and secretly married his daughter to the enemy state. Hearing this, Han Rong immediately sent word to Chaoguo. The senior minister Zhang Qian, upon reading the report, was greatly shocked. He hurriedly went inside to inquire and found that the emperor was at Zhaixing Tower, so he had no choice but to go up the tower to present his report. The attendants on duty, seeing Minister Zhang Qian entering with a memorial, hurriedly reported, "Your Majesty: the senior minister Zhang Qian is waiting for an audience." King Zhou heard this and ordered, "Summon him up to the tower." Zhang Qian received the order and ascended the tower, bowing before the eaves of the dripping water. King Zhou said, "I have not summoned you, Minister Zhang. What memorial do you have to present?" "Proceed and speak." Zhang Qian knelt and presented his report, saying, "There is a memorial from Han Rong of Sishui Pass. I dare not conceal it; Though this may anger the dragon, I accept death without complaint." King Zhou, upon hearing this, ordered the attendant in charge: "Bring me Han Rong's memorial immediately for my review." Zhang Qian hurriedly spread Han Rong's memorial before King Zhou's dragon table (longan). King Zhou had not yet finished reading when he suddenly became furious and said, "Deng Jiugong has received great favors from me. Now that he has surrendered to the rebel bandits in a single day, this is especially despicable! When I ascend to the throne and discuss with my ministers, we shall surely capture this group of traitors, publicly punish them for their crimes, and only then will my anger be satisfied!" Zhang Qian had no choice but to descend from the tower and wait for the emperor's audience. Meanwhile, on the nine-bay hall, bells and drums rang in unison; upon hearing this, all officials hurried to their court chambers to await orders. In a moment, the peacock screen was drawn open and King Zhou arrived in state, ascending his throne to issue an edict: "Order all ministers to deliberate." All civil and military officials gathered before the throne, kneeling in anticipation of imperial orders. King Zhou said, "Now Deng Jiugong was ordered to campaign westward. Not only has he failed to quell rebellion and report a victory, but he secretly married his daughter to an enemy state and surrendered to the rebels—his crime is unforgivable; In addition to capturing the families of these traitors, we must seize the traitors themselves and uphold national law. What good strategies do you ministers have to demonstrate the state's due punishment?" Before King Zhou could finish speaking, Zhongjian Dafu Feilian stepped forward and presented a report: "I observe that Xiqi resists with defiance and refuses to submit; their crime is unforgivable. Yet, regarding the great generals leading campaigns, those who win may report victories to the throne, while those who suffer defeat fear punishment and immediately surrender to the western lands—when can we ever hear of a victory? In my humble opinion, we must send generals who are closely related to the royal family on these campaigns; only then can we avoid such dilemmas. Moreover, they share in the state's joys and sorrows equally, so naturally there will be no failure to report victories." King Zhou said, "Sovereigns, ministers, fathers, and sons are all closely related; how can there be distinctions between them?" Feilian said, "I recommend one person to campaign against Xiqi; Jiang Shang can be captured and a great achievement reported." King Zhou asked, "Whom do you recommend?" Feilian presented his report: "To conquer Xiqi, none but Jizhou Hou Su Hu is capable. Firstly, he is a relative of the imperial family; secondly, as the eldest among the feudal lords, he will exert every effort in all matters." King Zhou was greatly pleased upon hearing this and said, "Your words are most wise." He immediately ordered the military officials: "Quickly prepare the yellow banner and white halberd." A messenger was sent with an imperial decree to proceed to Jizhou. Whether victory or defeat will follow remains to be seen in the next chapter.