Chapter 57

诗曰： 苏侯有意欲归周，纣主江山似浪浮。红日已随山后卸，落花空逐水东流。 人情久欲投明圣，世局翻为急浪舟。贵戚亲臣皆已散，独夫犹自卧红楼。

The poem says: Sū Hóu had a will to return to Zhōu, while King Zhòu's rivers and mountains floated like waves. The red sun has already set behind the mountain, and fallen flowers in vain follow the water flowing eastward. For a long time, human sentiments have desired to turn toward the enlightened sage, yet worldly affairs have turned into swift waves tossing boats. Noble relatives and close ministers have all dispersed, while the lone tyrant still lies in a red tower.

话说天使离了朝歌，前往冀州，一路无词，翌日来至冀州馆驿安下。次日，报至苏侯府内。苏侯即至馆驿接旨。焚香拜毕，展诏开读，诏曰： “朕闻征讨之命，皆出于天子；阃外之寄，实出于元戎。建立功勋，威镇海内，皆臣子分内事也。兹西岐姬发肆行不道，抗拒王师，情殊可恨。特敕尔冀州侯苏护，总督六师，前往征伐；必擒获渠魁，殄灭祸乱。俟旋师奏捷，朕不惜茅土以待有功。尔其勖哉！特诏。”

The story goes that after leaving Chaogē, the heavenly messenger headed toward Jizhou. Along the way there was no incident; on the following day he arrived at a relay station in Jizhou and took up residence there. The next day, word reached the Sū Hóu mansion. Sū Hóu immediately went to the relay station to receive the imperial decree. After burning incense and bowing, he unfolded the edict to read it aloud. The decree said: "I have heard that commands for military expeditions all come from the Son of Heaven; the trust placed beyond the gate, indeed comes from the Grand General." Establishing meritorious service and establishing authority to pacify within the seas are all matters that lie within a subject's duty. Now, Xī Qí Jī Fā has acted in defiance of morality and resisted the royal army; this is a most regrettable situation. Therefore, I specially command you, Jizhou Hou Sū Hù, to serve as the overall commander of six armies and proceed to launch a campaign; you must capture the ringleader and eradicate this calamity. Once your victorious army returns with good news, I will not hesitate to bestow fiefs upon those who have rendered service. You must strive diligently! "Special decree."

话说苏侯开读旨意毕，心中大喜；管待天使，赍送程费，打发天使起程。苏侯暗谢天地曰：“今日吾方得洗一身之冤，以谢天下。”忙令后厅治酒，与子全忠、夫人杨氏共饮，曰：“我不幸生女妲己，进上朝歌。谁想这贱人尽违父母之训，无端作孽，迷惑纣王，无所不为；使天下诸侯衔恨于我。今武王仁德播于天下，三分有二尽归于西周。不意昏君反命吾征伐。吾得遂生平之愿。我明日意欲将满门良眷带在行营，至西岐归降周王，共享太平；然后会合诸侯，共伐无道，使我苏护不得遗笑于诸侯，受议于后世，亦不失丈夫之所为耳。”夫人大喜：“将军之言甚善；正是我母子之心。”且说次日殿上鼓响，众将军参见。苏护曰：“天子敕下，命吾西征。众将整备起行。”众将得令，整点十万人马，即日祭宝纛旗，收拾起兵；同先行官赵丙、孙子羽、陈光、五军救应使郑伦，即日离了冀州，军威甚是雄伟。怎见得，有赞为证，赞曰： 杀气征云起，金锣鼓又鸣。旛幢遮瑞日，剑戟鬼神惊。平空生雾彩，遍地长愁云。闪翻银叶甲，拨转皂雕弓。人似离山虎，马如出水龙。头盔生灿烂，铠甲砌龙鳞。离了冀州界，西土去安营。

The story goes that after Sū Hóu finished reading the imperial decree, he was greatly pleased; he entertained the heavenly messenger, provided travel expenses, and sent off the messenger on his journey. Sū Hóu secretly thanked heaven and earth, saying, "Today I finally have a chance to clear my lifelong injustice and thus repay the world." He quickly ordered a banquet to be prepared in the back hall and drank with his son Quanzhong and his wife Yang Shi, saying, "I was unfortunate enough to give birth to my daughter Daji, who was presented to Chaogē. Who could have thought this lowly woman would completely defy her parents' teachings, recklessly commit evil deeds, and bewitch King Zhòu to do nothing but wickedness; thus causing all the feudal lords of the world to bear hatred toward me. Now King Wǔ's benevolence and virtue have spread throughout the land, and two-thirds of the realm has fallen under Xī Zhōu. Unbeknownst to me, this foolish king has instead ordered me to launch a campaign against them. I am now able to fulfill my lifelong wish. Tomorrow, I intend to bring all my family members with me on the campaign and go to Xī Qí to surrender to King Zhōu so that we may share in peace together; then I will unite with the feudal lords to jointly attack the tyrant, so that Sū Hù may not be ridiculed by the feudal lords or criticized in later generations. This would still be a proper action for a man." His wife was greatly pleased, saying, "General's words are most appropriate; this is exactly the wish of my mother and son." Meanwhile, on the next day in the hall, drums sounded as the generals assembled to pay their respects. Sū Hù said, "An imperial decree has been issued ordering me to campaign westward. All the generals should prepare and set out." The generals received the order, mustered one hundred thousand troops, held a ceremony to worship the sacred banner on that day, and prepared for departure; along with the vanguard officer Zhào Bǐng, Sunziyu, Chén Guāng, and Wǔjūn Jiuying Shi Zheng Lun, they departed from Jizhou on that day. The military might was most impressive. How can this be described? A eulogy serves as evidence, which says: Murderous qi rises with the war clouds; bronze gongs and drums sound once more. Banners and pennants obscure the auspicious sun, while swords and halberds startle gods and spirits. Misty colors arise from empty space; sorrowful clouds spread across the land. Shiny silver-leafed armor flashes, and black eagle bows are drawn. Men resemble tigers leaving the mountain; horses appear like dragons emerging from water. Helmets gleam brilliantly, and armor is patterned with dragon scales. Leaving the borders of Jizhou, they head west to set up camp in the western lands.

苏侯行兵，非止一日。有探马报入中军：“前是西岐城下。”苏侯传令：“安营结寨。”升帐坐下。众将参谒，立起帅旗。

Sū Hù's march did not last only a single day. A scout reported to the central camp: "Ahead lies Xī Qí city." Sū Hù gave orders, "Set up camps and fortifications." He ascended the tent and took his seat. The generals paid their respects, and the general's banner was raised.

且说子牙在相府，收四万诸侯本，请武王伐纣。忽报马入府：“启老爷：冀州侯苏护来伐西岐。”子牙问黄飞虎曰：“久闻此人善能用兵，黄将军必知其人，请言其概。”黄飞虎曰：“苏护秉性刚直，不似谄媚无骨之夫；名为国戚，与纣王有隙；一向要归周，时常有书至末将处。此人若来，必定归周，再无疑惑。”子牙闻言大悦。且说苏侯三日未来请战。黄飞虎上殿见子牙，曰：“苏侯按兵不动，待末将探他一阵，便知端的。”子牙许之。飞虎领令，上了五色神牛，出得城来，一声炮响，立于辕门，大呼曰：“请苏侯答话！”探马报入中军。苏侯令先行官见阵。赵丙领令，上马提方天戟，迳出辕门；认得是武成王黄飞虎。赵丙曰：“黄飞虎，你身为国戚，不思报本，无故造反，致起祸端，使生民涂炭，屡年征讨不息。今奉旨特来擒你；尚不下马受縳，犹自支吾！”摇戟刺来。黄飞虎将枪架住，对赵丙曰：“你好好回去，请你主将出来答话，吾自有道理。你何必自逞其强也！”赵丙大怒：“既奉命来擒你报功，岂得犹以语言支吾！”又一戟刺将来。黄飞虎大怒：“好大胆匹夫！焉敢连刺吾两戟！”催开神牛，手中枪赴面交还。牛马相交，枪戟并举。怎见得： 二将阵前势无比，拨开牛马定生死。这一个钢枪摇动鬼神愁；那一个画戟展开分彼此。一来一往势无休，你生我死谁能已。从来恶战不寻常，搅海翻江无底止。

Meanwhile, Zǐ Yá in the prime minister's mansion received petitions from forty thousand feudal lords and requested King Wǔ to launch a campaign against Zhòu. Suddenly, a scout entered the mansion and reported: "Your honor, Jizhou Hou Sū Hu is attacking Xī Qí." Zǐ Yá asked Huáng Fēihǔ, "I have long heard that this man is skilled in military strategy. General Huáng must know of him; please speak about his general character." Huáng Fēihǔ said, "Sū Hù is a man of firm and upright character; he is unlike those fawning men without backbone; though nominally a relative by marriage to the state, he has had conflicts with King Zhòu; he has long desired to return to Zhōu and often sent letters to this subordinate general. If this man comes, he will certainly submit to Zhōu without any doubt." Zǐ Yá was greatly pleased upon hearing these words. Meanwhile, Sū Hù had not come to request battle for three days. Huáng Fēihǔ went to the hall to see Zǐ Yá and said, "Sū Hù has not moved his troops. Let this subordinate general inspect their camp; then we will know for certain." Zǐ Yá agreed. Fēihǔ accepted the order, mounted his five-colored divine ox, left the city. A cannon sounded; he stood at the gate and shouted loudly, "Sū Hù! Come out to speak!" A scout reported into the central camp. Sū Hù ordered his vanguard officer to inspect the formation. Zhào Bǐng accepted the order, mounted a horse, raised a Fangtian halberd, and directly rode out through the gate; He recognized this to be General Wǔchéngwáng Huáng Fēihǔ. Zhào Bǐng said, "Huáng Fēihǔ! You are a relative of the state. Not only do you fail to think of repaying your roots, but without cause you have rebelled, causing calamity and suffering for the people, leading to ceaseless campaigns over many years. Now I come especially by imperial decree to capture you; why do you still not dismount and submit, but instead continue to evade!" He swung his halberd toward Huáng Fēihǔ in attack. Huáng Fēihǔ blocked the strike with his spear and said to Zhào Bǐng, "Return and tell your commander to come out himself. I have my own reasons." Why must you show off your strength!" Zhào Bǐng became greatly enraged, saying, "Since I have come by order to capture you and claim credit for the feat, how can you still evade with mere words!" He struck again with his halberd. Huáng Fēihǔ became furious, saying, "How bold you are, you wretch! How dare you strike me twice with your halberd!" He urged his divine ox forward and met the attack head-on with his spear. Oxen and horses clashed, while spears and halberds were brandished together. How can this be described: The two generals on the battlefield are evenly matched; they part oxen and horses to decide life or death. One wields a steel spear that makes gods and spirits weep; the other brandishes an ornate halberd to distinguish friend from foe. They strike back and forth without pause; your life or my death—how can this end? Never before have fierce battles been ordinary, stirring up the sea and overturning rivers without an end.

话说黄飞虎大战赵丙，二十回合，被飞虎生擒活捉，拿解相府，来见子牙。报入府中。子牙令飞虎进见：“将军出阵，胜负若何？”飞虎曰：“生擒赵丙，听令定夺。”子牙命：“推来。”士卒将赵丙拥至殿前，赵丙立而不跪。子牙曰：“既已被擒，尚何得抗礼？”赵丙曰：“奉命征讨，指望成功；不幸被擒，唯死而已，何必多言！”子牙传令：“暂且囚于禁中。”

The story goes that as Huáng Fēihǔ fought Zhào Bǐng fiercely, after twenty rounds of combat, Fēihǔ captured and subdued Bǐng alive, taking him to the prime minister's mansion to present him before Zǐ Yá. Word was brought into the mansion. Zǐ Yá ordered Fēihǔ to enter and said, "General, after going out onto the battlefield, what was the outcome of your victory or defeat?" Fēihǔ replied, "I captured Zhào Bǐng alive. I leave it to you to decide his fate." Zǐ Yá commanded, "Bring him forward." The soldiers brought Zhào Bǐng to the hall. Zhào Bǐng stood upright and did not kneel. Zǐ Yá said, "Now that you have already been captured, how dare you still resist with arrogance?" Zhào Bǐng replied, "I was ordered to launch a campaign and hoped for success; unfortunately I have been captured. Now death is all that awaits me—why speak further!" Zǐ Yá gave orders, "Temporarily imprison him within the inner prison."

且说苏侯闻报，赵丙被擒，低首不语。只见郑伦在傍曰：“君侯在上：黄飞虎自恃强暴，待明日拿来，解往朝歌，免致生灵涂炭。”次日，郑伦上了火眼金睛兽，提了降魔杵，往城下请战。左右报入相府。子牙令：“黄将军出阵走一遭。”飞虎领令出城，见一员战将，面如紫枣，十分枭恶；骑著火眼金睛兽。怎见得，有诗为证。诗曰： 道术精奇别样妆，降魔宝杵世无双。忠肝义胆堪称诵，无奈昏君酒色荒。

Meanwhile, upon hearing that Zhào Bǐng had been captured, Sū Hù lowered his head and said nothing. Just then, Zhèng Lún spoke from the side, saying, "My lord: Huáng Fēihǔ relies on his own strength and violence. Let us seize him tomorrow and send him to Chaogē; this will prevent further suffering for the people." The next day, Zhèng Lún mounted a beast with fiery eyes and golden vision, held up the Demonic Subjugation Mace, and went to the city gate to challenge for battle. The guards reported into the prime minister's mansion. Zǐ Yá gave an order, "General Huáng, go out onto the battlefield for a round." Fēihǔ accepted the command and left the city. He saw a general whose face was as dark red as a jujube, appearing extremely fierce; riding a beast with fiery eyes and golden sight. How can this be described? There is a poem to serve as evidence: The poem says: His Daoist arts and skills are uniquely adorned; the Demonic Subjugation Cudgel is without equal in the world. Loyal heart and righteous courage deserve praise, yet how can one help but lament the foolish king's indulgence in wine and lust?

话说飞虎大呼曰：“来者何人？”郑伦曰：“吾乃苏侯麾下郑伦是也。黄飞虎，你这叛贼！为你屡年征伐，百姓遭殃。今天兵到日，尚不免戈伏诛，意欲何为？”飞虎曰：“郑伦，你且回去；请你主将出来，吾自有说话。你若是不知机变，如赵丙自投陷身之祸！”郑伦大怒，抡杵就打。黄飞虎手中枪急架相还。二兽相交，枪杵并举，两家大战三十回合，郑伦把杵一摆，他有三千乌鸦兵走动，行如长蛇之势。郑伦窍中两道白光往鼻子里出来。“”的一声响，黄将军正是： 见白光三魂即散，听声响撞下鞍鞽。

The story goes that Fēihǔ shouted loudly, "Who dares come forth?" Zhèng Lún said, "I am Zhèng Lun, subordinate to Sū Hóu. Huáng Fēihǔ, you traitor!" For years I have fought for you, and the people have suffered. Today that our troops have arrived, you still refuse to lay down your weapons and accept punishment—what do you intend to accomplish?" Fēihǔ said, "Zhèng Lún, return for now; ask your commander to come out. I have something to say." If you do not know the situation and change accordingly, you will suffer the same fate as Zhào Bǐng, who doomed himself by recklessly charging in!" Zhèng Lún became furious and raised his mace to strike. Huáng Fēihǔ quickly raised his spear in defense with a swift counterattack. The two beasts clashed, spears and mace raised high; the two sides fiercely fought for thirty rounds. Zhèng Lún swung his mace aside, and at once his three thousand crow soldiers moved forward in a formation like a long snake. From the nostrils of Zhèng Lún came two beams of white light. With a loud "Boom," General Huáng was exactly as follows: At the sight of white light, his three souls scattered instantly; at the sound, he fell from his horse.

乌鸦兵用挠钩搭住，一踊上前，拿翻，剥了衣甲，绳缠索绑。飞虎上了绳子，二目方睁。飞虎点首曰：“今日之擒，如同做梦一般，真是心中不服！”郑伦掌得胜鼓回营，来见苏侯，入帐报功：“今日生擒反叛黄飞虎至辕门，请令发落。”苏侯令：“推来。”小校将飞虎推至帐前。飞虎曰：“今被邪术受擒，愿请一死，以报国恩。”苏侯曰：“本当斩首，且监候，留解朝歌，请天子定罪。”左右将黄飞虎送下后营。

The crow soldiers used hooks to grab him, surged forward in one movement, overpowered and subdued him, stripped off his armor and clothes, and bound him tightly with ropes. Fēihǔ was tied up with ropes, and only then did he open his eyes. Fēihǔ nodded and said, "My capture today feels like a dream; truly, I am not convinced in my heart!" Zhèng Lún marched back to the camp, beating the drum of victory, and came to see Sū Hóu, entering the tent to report his achievement: "Today I have captured in person the rebel Huáng Fēihǔ at the 辕门 (Yuanmen), please give orders for what should be done with him." Sū Hóu gave an order: "Bring him forward." The junior officer pushed Fēihǔ to the front of the tent. Fēihǔ said, "Now captured by evil sorcery, I wish to request death, so as to repay the grace of my country." Sū Hóu said, "I should have you beheaded, but for now I will put you in prison and await execution. You will be sent to Chaogē later, where the Son of Heaven shall decide your punishment." The guards led Huáng Fēihǔ away to a rear camp.

且说报马报入相府，言黄飞虎被擒。子牙大惊曰：“如何擒去？”掠阵官启曰：“苏侯麾下有一郑伦，与武成王正战之间，只见他鼻子里放出一道白光，黄将军便坠骑被他拿去。”子牙心下十分不乐：“又是左道之术！”只见黄天化在傍，听见父亲被擒，恨不得平吞了郑伦。当日晚间不题。次日，天化上帐，请令出阵，以探父亲消息。子牙许之。天化领令，上了玉麒麟，出城请战。探马报人营中：“有将请战。”苏护曰：“谁去见阵走一遭？”郑伦答曰：“愿往。”上了金睛兽，炮声响处，来至阵前。黄天化曰：“尔乃是郑伦？擒武成王者是你？不要走，吃吾一锤！”一似流星闪灼光辉，呼呼风响。郑伦忙将杵劈面相还。二将交兵，未及十合。郑伦见天化腰束著丝绦，是个道家之士，──“若不先下手，恐反遭其害。”把杵望空中一摆，乌鸦兵齐至，如长蛇一般。郑伦鼻窍中一道白光吐出，如钟鸣一样。天化看见白光出窍，耳听其声，坐不住玉麒麟，翻身落骑。乌鸦兵依旧把天化绑缚起来。急自睁开眼，不知其身已受绑缚。郑伦又擒黄天化进营来见。郑伦曰：“末将擒黄天化已至辕门等令。”苏侯令：“推至中军。”见天化眼光暴露，威风凛凛，一表非俗，立而不跪。苏侯也命监在后营。黄天化入后营，看见父亲监禁在此，大呼曰：“爹爹！我父子遭妖术成擒，心中甚是不服！”飞虎曰：“虽是如此，当思报国。”按下黄家父子，且说探马报入相府：“黄天化又被擒去。”子牙大惊：“黄将军说苏侯有意归周，不料擒他父子！”子牙心中纳闷。且说郑伦捉了二将，军威甚盛。次日又来请战。探马报入相府。子牙急令：“何人走遭？”言未毕，土行孙答曰：“弟子归周，寸功未立，愿去走一遭，探其虚实，何如？”子牙许之。土行孙方领令出府；傍有邓蝉玉上前告曰：“末将父子蒙恩，当得掠阵。”子牙并许之。郑伦听得城内炮响，见两扇门开，旗旛磨动，见一女将飞来。怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰： 此女生来锦织成，腰肢一搦体轻盈。西岐山下归明主，留得芳名照汗青。

Meanwhile, the scout galloped into the prime minister's residence and reported that Huáng Fēihǔ had been captured. Zǐ Yá was greatly shocked and said, "How could he be captured?" The scout officer replied, "A subordinate of Sū Hóu named Zhèng Lún was fighting against the Duke of Wucheng. Just then he released a beam of white light from his nose, and General Huáng fell off his horse and was captured by him." Zǐ Yá felt deeply displeased: "It is again the sorcery of left-hand ways!" Just then Huáng Tiānhuà, standing nearby, heard that his father had been captured and could not help but feel an intense desire to devour Zhèng Lún. Details of the evening are omitted for now. The next day, Tiānhuà went to the tent and requested permission to go out onto the battlefield in order to inquire about his father's condition. Zǐ Yá granted him permission. Tiānhuà accepted the order, mounted his Jade Qilin, and left the city to challenge for battle. A scout galloped into camp and reported: "An officer requests a duel." Sū Hù said, "Who will go out to meet the challenge for a round?" Zhèng Lún replied, "I am willing to go." He mounted the Golden-Eyed Beast. As cannons roared, he arrived at the front of the battlefield. Huáng Tiānhuā said, "Are you indeed Zhèng Lún?" You are the one who captured the Duke of Wucheng? "Do not run! Taste my mace!" Like a meteor streaking with brilliant light, it whistled through the air with the sound of wind. Zhèng Lún hurriedly swung his mace to counterattack directly in response. The two generals engaged in battle, but before ten rounds had passed, Zhèng Lún noticed that Tiānhuà had a silk sash around his waist, indicating he was a Daoist practitioner. ——"If I do not strike first, I fear I may suffer harm in return." He swung his mace toward the sky, and at once all the crow soldiers arrived, forming a line like a long snake. From Zhèng Lún's nostrils came a beam of white light, echoing like the ringing of a bell. Tiānhuà saw the white light emerging from the nostrils and heard its sound; he could not remain on his Jade Qilin and fell off his steed. The crow soldiers once again bound Tiānhuà tightly. He quickly opened his eyes, only to find that he had already been bound and captured without realizing it. Zhèng Lún took Huáng Tiānhuá back into the camp for an audience. Zhèng Lún said: "I, your humble officer, have captured Huáng Tiānhuá and brought him to the 辕门 (Yuan Men), awaiting orders." Sū Hóu ordered: "Bring him before the central army." They saw that Tiānhuá's eyes were fierce and piercing, his bearing imposing and dignified; he stood upright without kneeling. Sū Hóu also ordered him to be detained in the rear camp. Huáng Tiānhua entered the rear camp and saw his father imprisoned there, crying out, "Father!" We father and son have been captured by demonic sorcery; I am deeply resentful in my heart!" Fēihǔ said, "Although this is the case, we should still think of how to repay our country." Putting aside the Huáng family father and son for now, let us return to the scout who galloped into the prime minister's residence and reported: "Huáng Tiānhuá has been captured again." Zǐ Yá was greatly surprised, saying, "General Huáng said that Sū Hóu intended to return to Zhōu. I did not expect him to capture his father and son!" Zǐ Yá was deeply puzzled in his mind. Meanwhile, Zhèng Lún had captured the two generals, and the army's morale became extremely strong. The next day he came again to challenge for battle. A scout galloped into the Prime Minister's residence to report. Zǐ Yá quickly gave an order: "Who will go out for a round?" Before the words were finished, Tǔ Xíngsūn replied, "As a disciple who has returned to Zhōu and yet accomplished no merit, I would like to go out for a round and investigate their strength. What do you think?" Zǐ Yá agreed. Tǔ Xíngsūn then accepted the order and left the residence; Beside him, Dèng Chányù stepped forward to report, saying, "Your humble officer and my father have been favored by your grace; we should be allowed to scout the battlefield." Zǐ Yá also granted permission. Zhèng Lún heard the cannon fire from within the city, saw both gates open and banners fluttering, and beheld a female general flying toward him. How can this be described? A poem serves as evidence: The poem says: From birth, her beauty is woven like brocade; with a slight grasp of her waist, her body appears light and graceful. Under Mount Xiqi she returns to the enlightened ruler, leaving behind a fragrant name that shines in history.

话说郑伦见城内女将飞马而来，不曾看见土行孙出来。──土行孙生得矮小，郑伦只看了前面，未曾照看面前。──土行孙大呼曰：“那匹夫！你看那里？”郑伦往下一看，见是个矮子，郑伦笑曰：“你那矮子，来此做甚么？”土行孙曰：“吾奉姜丞相将令，特来擒尔！”郑伦复大笑曰：“看你这厮，形似婴孩，乳毛未退；敢出大言，自来送死！”土行孙听见骂他甚是卑微，大叫：“好匹夫！焉敢辱我！”使开铁棍，一滚而来，就打金睛兽的蹄子。郑伦急用杵来迎架，只是捞不著。──大抵郑伦坐的高，土行孙身子矮小，故此往下打费力。──几个回合，把郑伦挣了一身汗，反不好用力，心里焦躁起来，把杵一愰，那乌鸦兵飞走而来。土行孙不知那里帐，郑伦把鼻子里白光喷出，然有声。土行孙眼看耳听，魂魄尽散，一交跌在地下。乌鸦兵把土行孙拿了，绑将起来。土行孙睁开眼，见浑身上了绳子，道声：“噫！到有趣！”土行孙绑著，看著邓蝉玉走马大呼曰：“匹夫不必逞凶擒将！”把刀飞来直取。郑伦手中杵劈面打来。蝉玉未及数合，拨马就走。郑伦不赶。佳人挂下刀，取五光石，侧坐鞍鞽，回手一石，正是： 从来暗器最伤人，自古妇人为更毒。

The story continues: Zhèng Lún saw from within the city a female general galloping out, but did not see Tǔ Xíngsūn emerging. ——Tǔ Xíngsún was short in stature, and Zhèng Lún only looked ahead, not paying attention to what was right before him. ——Suddenly, Tǔ Xíngsún shouted loudly, "You wretch! Look there!" Zhèng Lún looked down and saw a short man. He laughed and said, "You little midget, what are you doing here?" Tǔ Xíngsún replied, "I have been specially sent by the order of Chancellor Jiāng to capture you!" Zhèng Lún laughed again and said, "Look at you, scoundrel. You look like an infant, with baby hairs still on your face; you dare to speak so boldly? Come here to die!" Tǔ Xíngsún, hearing the insult and feeling deeply belittled, shouted angrily, "You good-for-nothing!" How dare you insult me!" He brandished his iron staff, rolled forward, and struck at the hooves of the Golden-Eyed Beast. Zhèng Lún hastily used his mace to block and parry, but could not reach it in time. ——Generally speaking, Zhèng Lún sat high up on his mount while Tǔ Xíngsún was short and small in stature; thus, it was difficult for him to strike downward. ——After several rounds, Zhèng Lún broke into a sweat from the struggle and found it difficult to exert force. Growing impatient in his heart, he waved his mace, and at once the crow soldiers flew toward him. Tǔ Xíngsúndid not know where to look, and Zhèng L ún expelled a beam of white light fromhis nostrils, making a loud noise. Tǔ Xíngsün saw the light and heard its sound with his own eyes and ears; his soul and spirit scattered completely, and he fell to the ground in one motion. The crow soldiers seized Tǔ Xíngsун and bound him up. Tǔ Xíngsǔn opened his eyes, saw that he was already tied up with ropes all over his body, and exclaimed, "Oh!" This is quite amusing!" While bound, Tǔ Xíngsünsaw Dèng Chányǔ galloping forward and shouting, "You wretch, do not boast of capturing generals so boldly!" He hurled his sword straight toward him. Zhèng L ún struck at him directly with the mace in his hand. Chányǔ had not yet exchanged several blows when he turned his horse and fled immediately. Zhèng L ún did not pursue him. The fair lady lowered her sword, took up a Five-Light Stone, sat sideways on the saddle, and with one backward throw of the stone, it was just as the saying goes: "From ancient times, hidden weapons have been most harmful; since olden days, women are even more venomous."

郑伦“哎呀！”的一声，面上著伤，败回营中来见苏侯。苏侯曰：“郑伦，你失机了？”郑伦答曰：“拿了一个矮子，才待回营；不意有一员女将来战，夫及数合，回马就走，末将不曾赶他，他便回手一石，急自躲时，面上已著了伤。如今那个矮子拿在辕门听令。”苏候传令：“推将进来。”众将卒将土行孙簇拥推至帐下。苏侯曰：“这样将官，拿他何用！推出去斩了！”土行孙曰：“且不要斩，我回去说个信来。”苏侯笑曰：“这是个呆子！推出斩了！”土行孙曰：“你不肯，我就跑了。”众人大笑。正是： 仙家秘授真奇妙，迎风一愰影无踪。

Zhèng L ún exclaimed, "Ah!" With a cry of pain from the wound on his face, he retreated back to camp and went to see Sū Hóu. Sū Hóu said, "Zhèng L ún, you missed your chance?" Zhèng L ún replied, "I had captured a short man and was just about to return to camp; " unexpectedly, a female general came to fight. Before I could exchange several blows with her, she turned her horse and fled. Your subordinate did not pursue her, but then she threw a stone from behind, and just as I tried to dodge quickly, the stone already struck me in the face." "Now that short man is being held at the gate for your orders." Sū Hóu gave an order: "Bring him in." The soldiers and officers crowded around and pushed Tǔ Xíngsūn down to the tent. Sū Hóu said: "A general like this, what good is capturing him!" "Push him out and behead him!" Tǔ Xíngsún said, "Don't kill me yet. Let me go back and bring a message." Sū Hóu laughed and said, "This is a fool!" "Push him out and behead him!" Tǔ Xíngsún replied, "If you won't let me go, I'll just run away." The crowd burst into laughter. It was just as the saying went: "The secret teachings of the immortals are truly wondrous and marvelous; a mere flick in the wind leaves no trace."

众人一见大惊，忙至帐前来，禀启元帅：“方才将矮子推出辕门，他把身子一扭就不见了。”苏侯叹曰：“西岐异人甚多，无怪屡次征伐，俱是片甲不回，无能取胜。”嗟叹不已。郑伦在傍只是切齿；自己用丹药敷贴，欲报一石之恨。次日，郑伦又来请战，坐名要女将。邓婵玉就要出马。子牙曰：“不可。他此来必有深意。”哪吒应曰：“弟子愿往。”子牙许之。哪吒上了风火轮，出城大呼曰：“来者可是郑伦？”郑伦答曰：“然也。”哪吒不答话，登轮就杀。郑伦急用杵相还。轮兽交兵。怎见得，有赞为证，赞曰： 哪吒怒发气吞牛；郑伦恶性展双眸。火尖枪摆喷云雾；宝杵施开转捷稠。这一个倾心辅佐周王驾；那一个有意分纣王忧。二将大战西岐地，海沸江翻神鬼愁。

When everyone saw this, they were greatly startled and hurried to the tent, reporting to the general: "Just now we pushed out that short man through the gate, but he twisted his body once and vanished." Sū Hóu sighed and said, "There are many extraordinary people in Xī Qí. No wonder repeated campaigns have ended with not a single soldier returning and no victory achieved." He continued to sigh and lament. Zhèng L ún by his side could only grind his teeth in frustration; he applied medicinal pills to treat his wound, determined to avenge the injury from that stone. The next day, Zhèng L ún came again to request battle and specifically demanded the female general by name. Dèng Chányǔ was about to mount her horse. Zǐ Yá said, "No." "He must have a deeper intention for coming this time." Nǎ Zhā responded, "Disciple is willing to go." Zǐ Yá gave his approval. Nǎ Zhā mounted the Wind-Fire Wheels and, exiting the city, shouted loudly, "Are you Vizier Zhèng L ún?" Zhèng L ún answered, "That is correct." Nǎ Zhā did not reply and immediately leaped onto the wheel to attack. Zhèng L ún hurriedly used his mace in response. The wheel and beast clashed in battle. How was this? A eulogy serves as evidence, which says: Nǎ Zhā's anger surged like a bull 吞噬; Zhèng L ún's evil nature flared with fierce eyes. The Flame-Tip Spear waved, spewing clouds and mist; the treasure mace was wielded skillfully in rapid succession. One of them devotedly assisted the Zhou King's reign; the other sought to relieve King Zhòu of his burdens. The two generals fiercely battled on the land of Xī Qí, causing rivers and seas to boil and gods and ghosts to mourn.

话说郑伦大战哪吒，恐哪吒先下手，把杵一摆，乌鸦兵如长蛇阵一般，都拿著挠钩套索前来等著。哪吒看见，心下著忙。只见郑伦对著哪吒一声“哼！”哪吒无魂魄，怎能跌得下轮来。郑伦见用此术不能响应，大惊曰：“吾师秘授，随时响应，今日如何不验？”又将白光吐出鼻子窍中。哪吒见头一次不验，第二次就不理他。郑伦著忙，连哼第三次。哪吒笑曰：“你这匹夫害的是甚么病？只管哼！”郑伦大怒，把杵劈头乱打。又战三十回合，哪吒把乾坤圈祭在空中，一圈打将下来。郑伦难逃此厄，正中其背；只打得筋断骨折，几乎坠骑，败回行营。哪吒得胜，回来见子牙，将“郑伦……如此如彼被乾坤圈打伤，败回去……”说了一遍。子牙大喜，上了哪吒功。不表。

Now, as Zhèng L ún fought fiercely with Nǎ Zhā, fearing that Nǎ Zhā would strike first, he waved his mace. The crow soldiers came forward in a formation like a long snake, all holding grappling hooks and ropes, waiting for the opportunity. Nǎ Zhā saw this and became anxious. Just then, Zhèng L ún faced Nǎ Zhā and let out a loud "Hmph!" Nǎ Zhā lost his soul and spirit, unable to descend from the wheel. Zhèng L ún was greatly surprised when this technique failed to take effect, and exclaimed, "My master secretly taught me this method, which should respond instantly at any time. Why does it not work today?" He once again expelled a beam of white light through his nostrils. Nǎ Zhā, seeing that the first attempt had failed, ignored it completely on the second try. Zhèng L ún became flustered and let out a third "Hmph!" in succession. Nǎ Zhā laughed and said, "What kind of illness are you suffering from, you wretch?" "Just keep 'Hmph'ing!" Zhèng L ún grew furious and swung his mace wildly at Nǎ Zhā's head. After another thirty rounds of battle, Nǎ Zhā summoned the Qīankūn Ring into the air and hurled it downward in a circle. Zhèng L ún could not escape this calamity, as the ring struck him squarely on his back; it struck so hard that it broke his tendons and bones, nearly causing him to fall from his horse. He retreated in defeat back to the camp. Nǎ Zhā returned victorious and went to see Zǐ Yá, recounting how "Zhèng L ún... was injured by the Qīankūn Ring in such and such a way, and retreated in defeat..." Zǐ Yá was greatly pleased and credited Nǎ Zhā with a meritorious achievement. No further details are given.

且说苏侯在中军，闲郑伦失机来见；苏侯见郑伦著伤，站立不住，其实离当。苏侯借此要说郑伦，乃慰之曰：“郑伦，观此天命有在，何必强为！前闻天下诸侯归周，俱欲共伐无道，只闻太师屡欲扭转天心，故此俱遭屠戮，实生民之难。我今奉敕征讨，你得功莫非暂时侥幸耳。吾见你著此重伤，心下甚是不忍。我与你名为主副之将，实有手足之情。今见天下纷纷，刀兵未息，此乃国家不祥，人心、天命可知。昔尧帝之子丹朱不肖，尧崩，天下不归朱而归于舜。舜之子商均亦不肖，舜崩，天下不归商均而归于禹。方今世乱如麻，真假可见，从来天运循环，无往不复。今主上失德，暴虐乱常，天下分崩，黯然气象，莫非天意也。我观你遭此重伤，是上天警醒你我耳。我思：‘顺天者昌，逆天者亡。’不若归周，共享安康，以伐无道。此正天心人意，不卜可知。你意下如何？”郑伦闻言，正色大呼曰：“君侯此言差矣！天下诸侯归周，君侯不比诸侯，乃是国戚；国亡与亡，国存与存。今君侯受纣王莫大之恩，娘娘享宫闱之宠，今一旦负国，为之不义。今国事艰难，不思报效，而欲归反叛，为之不仁。郑伦切为君侯不取也！若为国捐生，舍身报主，不惜血肉之躯以死自誓，乃郑伦忠君之愿，其他非知也。”苏护曰：“将军之言虽是，古云：‘良禽择木而栖，贤臣择主而事。’古人有行之不损令名者，伊尹是也。黄飞虎官居王位，今主上失德，有乖天意，人心思乱，故舍纣而归周。邓九公见武王、子牙以德行仁，知其必昌，纣王无道，知其必亡，亦舍纣而从周。所以人要见机，顺时行事，不失为智。你不可执迷，恐后悔无及。”郑伦曰：“君侯既有归周之心，我决然不顺从于反贼。待我早间死后，君侯早上归周；我午后死，君侯午后归周。我忠心不改，此颈可断，心不可污！”转身回帐，调养伤痕。不题。

Let us now return to Sū Hóu in the central camp, where he received Zhèng L ún who had returned in failure; Sū Hóu saw that Zhèng L ún was wounded and could barely stand, so he actually stepped back to avoid him. Taking this opportunity to criticize Zhèng L ún, Sū Hóu consoled him and said, "Zhèng L ún, seeing the will of Heaven is already decided, why insist on struggling needlessly!" Previously, I heard that the feudal lords throughout the land had submitted to Zhōu and all wished to jointly attack the tyrant. Yet it was said repeatedly that you, Grand Master, desired to change Heaven's will, which is why they were all slaughtered—this has truly become a calamity for the people. Now I have been commissioned to lead this campaign, and any success you achieve is merely temporary good fortune. Seeing that you have suffered such a serious injury, my heart feels deeply reluctant. Though we are nominally commander and subordinate, in truth we share the bond of brothers. Now I see that turmoil spreads across the land and warfare has not ceased; this is an ill omen for the state, and it shows clearly what people's hearts and Heaven's will are. In ancient times, Dān Zhū, the son of Emperor Yáo, was unworthy; after Yáo's death, the realm did not belong to Zhū but passed to Shùn. Shùn's son Shāng Jūn was also unworthy; after Shùn's death, the realm did not go to Shāng Jūn but passed on to Yǔ. Nowadays, the world is in chaos like tangled hemp; truth and falsehood are clearly visible. From ancient times, Heaven's mandate has been cyclical, always returning after departure. Now the current ruler has lost virtue and is cruelly tyrannical, disrupting normal order; as a result, the realm is disintegrating and its atmosphere darkens—this can only be Heaven's will. I see that you have suffered this serious injury; it is a warning from Heaven to both of us. I think: "Those who follow Heaven's will flourish, while those who oppose it perish." It would be better to return to Zhōu and share in peace and safety together, to attack the tyrant. This is precisely Heaven's will and people's desire; it needs no divination to know. What do you think?" Zhèng L ún heard this and, with a serious expression, shouted, "Your Lordship's words are wrong!" The feudal lords of the realm have submitted to Zhōu. You, my Lord, are not like those lords; you are a member of the royal family. When the state falls, we fall with it; when the state survives, we survive with it. Now you, my Lord, have received the greatest of favors from King Zhòu, and Lady Nángniáng enjoys royal favor in the palace. If now you betray the state at once, it would be unjust. Now that the nation is in hardship, instead of thinking about serving and repaying your debt, you wish to return and join the rebels—this would be unkind. Zhèng L ún sincerely hopes that my Lord will not take this path! "If sacrificing one's life for the country and giving up one's body to serve the sovereign, sparing no flesh or blood in a vow of death—that is my Zhèng L ún's wish to be loyal to you. As for anything else, I do not know." Sū Hù said, "Though the general's words are correct, as an old saying goes: 'A good bird chooses its tree to perch on; a virtuous minister selects his lord to serve.'" There were ancient people who did this without damaging their reputation, such as Yī Yǐn. Huang Feihǔ held the rank of king, but now that the current ruler has lost his virtue and gone against Heaven's will, with people's hearts longing for change, he abandoned Zhòu and submitted to Zhōu. Dèng Jiǔgōng saw that King Wǔ and Zǐ Yá governed with virtue and benevolence, knowing they would surely flourish; he also recognized the tyranny of King Zhòu and knew his downfall was inevitable. Thus, Dèng Jiǔgōnghimself abandoned Zhòu to follow Zhōu. Therefore, a person must recognize the signs of the times and act accordingly; this is not lacking in wisdom. "You must not remain stubbornly mistaken, or you will regret it too late." Zhèng L ún said, "Since my Lord has already resolved to submit to Zhōu, I will certainly not obey the rebels." "After I die in the morning, my Lord may go to Zhōu early that day; if I die after noon, then you may submit to Zhōu after noon. "My loyalty will never change; this neck can be severed, but my heart cannot be sullied!" He turned around and returned to his tent to recover from his wounds. No further mention is made of it.

且说苏侯退帐，沉思良久，命苏全忠后帐治酒。一鼓时分，命全忠往后营，把黄飞虎父子放了，请到帐前。苏护下拜请罪，言曰：“末将有意归周久矣。”黄飞虎忙答拜曰：“今蒙盛德，感赐再生。前闻君侯意欲归周，使我心怀渴想，喜如雀跃，故末将才至营前，欲会君侯，问其虚实耳。不期被郑伦所擒，有辱君命。今蒙开其生路，有何分付，愚父子惟命是从。”苏护曰：“不才久欲归周，不能得便。今奉敕西征，实欲乘机归顺。怎奈偏将郑伦坚执不允。我将言语开说上古顺逆有归之语，他只是不从。今特设此酒，请大王、公子少叙心曲，以赎不才冒渎之罪。”飞虎曰：“君侯既肯归顺，宜当速行。虽然郑伦执拗，只可用计除之。大丈夫先立功业，共扶明主，垂名竹帛，岂得区区效匹夫匹妇之小忠小谅哉！”酒至三更，苏护起身言曰：“大王、贤公子，出后粮门，回见姜丞相，把不才心事呈与丞相，以知吾之心腹也。”遂送黄飞虎父子回城。飞虎至城下叫门，城上听得是武成王，不敢夤夜开门，来报子牙。子牙听得是三更天气，报：“黄飞虎回来。”忙传令：“开城门。”少时，飞虎至相府，来见子牙。子牙曰：“黄将军被奸恶所获，为何夤夜而归？”黄飞虎把苏护心欲归周所以，一一说了一遍，“……只是郑伦把持，不得遂其初心。再等一两日，他自有处治。”不表飞虎回城，且说苏侯父子不得归周，作何商议。苏全忠曰：“不若乘郑伦身著重伤，修书一封，打入城中，知会子牙前来劫营，将郑伦生擒进城，看他归顺不归顺，任姜丞相处治。孩儿与爹爹早得归周，恐后致生疑惑。”苏护曰：“此计虽好，只是郑伦也是个好人，必须周全得他方好。”全忠曰：“只是不好伤他性命便了。”苏护大喜：“明日准行。”父子计较停当，来日行事。有诗为证，诗曰： 苏护有意欲归周，怎奈门官不肯投。只是子牙该有厄，西岐传染病无休。

Meanwhile, Sū Hóureturned to his tent and pondered for a long time before ordering Sū Quánzhōng to prepare wine in the rear tent. At the first drum of the hour, he ordered Quánzhōng to go to the rear camp and release HUANG FEIHU AND HIS SON, bringing them to before his tent. Sū Hù knelt down in reverence and pleaded for forgiveness, saying, "Your subordinate general has long had the intention to submit to Zhōu." Huang Feihǔ hurriedly returned his bow and said, "Today I am honored by your great virtue; I feel reborn through your kindness. Earlier, I heard that my Lord had the intention to submit to Zhou, and this filled me with eager longing, joy as if a sparrow were leaping. Hence, your subordinate general arrived at the camp just now, wishing to meet you, My Lord, to inquire about the truth of it." Unluckily, I was captured by Zhèng L ún and thus dishonored your command. Now that you have granted us a path to life, what orders do you give? Your humble servant and my son will obey without question." Sū Hù said, "Though I have long desired to submit to Zhōu for some time now, I could not find an opportunity. Now that I am ordered on a western expedition, I truly wish to take this chance to submit. Unfortunately, my subordinate general Zhèng L ún firmly refused to allow it. I tried to persuade him with words about the ancient examples of loyalty and rebellion, but he still would not listen. Today I have specially prepared this wine to invite King Dà and your son to share a few heartfelt words, so as to atone for my humble servant's impertinence." Feihǔ said, "Since you, My Lord, are willing to submit, it is best to act quickly. Although Zhèng L ún is stubborn, he can only be dealt with by using a strategy to eliminate him. "A true man should first establish achievements and merits, jointly support a wise ruler, and leave his name recorded in history. How could he be so petty as to emulate the small loyalty and narrow-mindedness of an ordinary man or woman!" The wine continued until the third watch of the night, when Sū Hù rose and said, "Great King, noble young master, go out through the rear gate for provisions, return to see Chancellor Jiāng, and present my humble servant's intentions to the chancellor so that he may know what is in my heart." He then sent HUANG FEIHŪ AND HIS SON back into the city. Feihǔ arrived at the gate of the city and called out, but those on the walls, hearing it was King Wuchéng, dared not open the gates in the dead of night. They came to report to Zǐ Yá instead. Zǐ Yá heard it was the third watch and was told, "HUANG FEIHŪ has returned." He quickly gave orders: "Open the city gate!" After a short while, Feihǔ arrived at the chancellor's residence and came to see Zǐ Yá. Zǐ Yá said, "General Huang was captured by evildoers—why have you returned in the dead of night?" HUANG FEIHŪ explained step by step Sū Hù's desire to submit to Zhōu and the reasons behind it, "......but only because of Zhèng L ún's obstruction could he not fulfill his original intention. Wait another one or two days, and there will naturally be a way to deal with him." Without further mention of Feihǔ's return to the city, let us now speak of what Sū Hóu and his son discussed after they were unable to submit to Zhōu. Sū Quánzhōng said, "Why not take advantage of the fact that Zhèng L ún is seriously wounded? Let us write a letter and send it into the city to inform Chancellor Jiāng to come and attack our camp. We can capture Zhèng L ún alive and bring him into the city; whether he submits or not will be left for Chancellor Jiāng to deal with." This way, my son and I can submit to Zhōu at an early date, avoiding any future doubts or suspicions." Sū Hù said, "This plan is good, but Zhèng L ún was also a good man. We must ensure his well-being before proceeding." Quánzhōng replied, "We just need to make sure we do not take his life." Sū Hù was greatly pleased: "Then it will be carried out tomorrow." Father and son finalized their plan, to be executed the next day. There is a poem as evidence; the poem says: Sū Hù had an intention to return to Zhōu, but how could he do so when his subordinate officials refused to submit? It was only because Chancellor Zǐ Yá was destined for hardship, and the city of Xī Qí continued to suffer from an unending outbreak of disease.

话说郑伦被哪吒打伤肩背，虽有丹药，只是不好；一夜声唤，睡卧不宁，又思：“主将心意归周，恨不能即报国恩，以遂其忠悃。其如凡事不能就绪，如之奈何！”且说苏护次日升帐，打点行计，忽听得把辕门官旗报入中军：“有一道人，三只眼，穿大红袍，要见老爷。”苏护不是道家出身，不知道门尊大，便叫：“令来。”左右出辕门，执与道人。道人听得叫“令来”，不曾说个“请”字，心下郁郁不乐；欲待不进营去，恐辜负了申公豹之命。道人自思：“且进营去，看他如何。”只得忍气吞声进营，来至中军。苏侯见道人来，不知何事。道人见苏侯曰：“贫道稽首了！”苏侯亦还礼毕，问曰：“道者今到此间，有何见谕？”道者曰：“贫道特来相助老将军，共破西岐，擒反贼，以解天子。”苏侯曰：“道者住居那里？从何处而来？”道人答曰：“吾从海岛而来。有诗为证，诗曰： 弱水行来不用船，周游天下妙无端。阳神出窍人难见，水虎牵来事更玄。九龙岛内经修炼，截教门中我最先。若问衲子名何姓？吕岳声名四海传。”

Now speaking of Zhèng L ún, who had been struck on the shoulder and back by Nézhā; although he took medicinal pills, his condition did not improve. All night long he cried out in pain, unable to sleep peacefully. He also thought: "My commander wishes to submit to Zhōu; I regret that I cannot immediately repay the country's kindness and fulfill my loyal intentions. Yet, how can I manage all matters properly? What am I to do!" Meanwhile, the next day Sū Hù ascended his tent and was preparing to carry out their plan when suddenly a flag officer at the 辕门 (yuanmen) gate reported into the central camp: "There is a Taoist priest with three eyes wearing a bright red robe who wishes to see you, my lord." Sū Hù was not of Daoist origin and did not know the proper etiquette for receiving a Taoist master, so he simply said, "Bring him in." The attendants went out through the 辕门 (yuanmen), and escorted the Daoist priest. The Taoist priest, hearing only "Bring him in" without a word of invitation such as "please," felt a sense of unease and unhappiness. He wanted to refuse entry into the camp, but feared he would be letting down Shēng Gōngbào's orders. The Taoist priest thought to himself: "I will enter the camp and see what they do." With a heavy heart, he entered the camp in silence and arrived at the central command. Sū Hóu saw that the Taoist priest had come but did not know what business it was. The Taoist priest said to Sū Hòu, "Your humble servant bows respectfully!" After Sū Hòu returned the courtesy, he asked, "Master Taoist, why have you come here today? What message do you bring?" The Taoist said, "Your humble servant has specially come to assist the general in breaking through Xī Qí and capturing the rebel, so as to relieve His Majesty." Sū Hòu asked, "Where does the Taoist reside?" "And from where have you come?" The Taoist replied, "I came from an island in the sea. There is a poem to attest; it says: Across weak waters I came without a boat, traveling the world with wondrous ease. My yang spirit leaves my body unseen by men; water tigers drawn forth—mysteries even deeper still. Within the Nine Dragon Island I have cultivated and refined myself, and among the disciples of the Qie Jiao Sect, I am foremost. If you ask what my name or surname is? My name is Lǚ Yuè, and my reputation spreads across the four seas."

话说道人作罢诗，对苏护曰：“衲子乃九龙岛声名山炼气士是也，姓吕，名岳；乃申公豹请我来助老将军。将军何必见疑乎？”苏侯欠身请坐。吕道人也不谦让，就上坐了。只听得郑伦声唤曰：“痛杀吾也！”吕道人问：“是何人叫苦？”苏侯暗想：“把郑伦扶出来，諕他一諕。”苏侯答曰：“是五军大将郑伦，被西岐将官打伤了，故此叫苦。”吕道人曰：“且扶他出来，待吾看看何如？”左右把郑伦扶将出来。吕道人一看，笑曰：“此是乾坤圈打的，不妨，待吾救你。”豹皮囊中取出一个葫芦，倒出一粒丹药，用水研开，敷于上面，如甘露沁心一般，即时全愈。郑伦今得重伤全愈，正是： 猛虎又生双胁趐，蛟龙依旧海中来。

Now speaking of the Taoist priest, after reciting his poem, he said to Sū Hù: "Your humble servant is a cultivated immortal from Mount Shengming on the Nine Dragon Island. My surname is Lǚ and my name is Yuè; I was invited by Shēng Gōng Bào to assist you, General." Why should the general doubt me?" Sū Hòu bowed slightly and invited him to sit. Lǚ the Taoist did not refuse modestly, but took the upper seat at once. Just then they heard Zhèng L ún crying out in pain and saying, "This pain is killing me!" Lǚ the Taoist asked, "Who is calling out in agony?" Sū Hòu privately thought: "Bring Zhèng L ún out and support him, then scare him a bit." Sū Hòu replied, "This is General Zhèng L ún of the five armies; he was injured by an officer from Xī Qí, hence his cries of pain." Lǚ the Taoist said, "Bring him out; let me see what condition he is in." The attendants brought Zhèng L ún outside and supported him. Lǚ the Taoist took a look and laughed, saying, "This was caused by the Kunlun Circle; it is nothing to worry about. Let me heal you." He took out a gourd from his leopard-skin bag, poured out a pill, crushed it with water, and applied it to the wound. It felt like sweet dew seeping into one's heart, and immediately he was fully healed. Now that Zhèng L ún had his serious wound completely healed, it was indeed: A fierce tiger once again grows wings on both flanks; a coiled dragon still returns from the sea.

郑伦伤痕全愈，遂拜吕岳为师。吕道人曰：“你既拜吾为师，助你成功便了。”帐中静坐，不语三日。苏侯叹曰：“正要行计，又被道人所阻，深为可恨！”且说郑伦见吕岳不出去见阵，上帐启曰：“老师既为成汤，弟子听候老师法旨，可见阵会会姜子牙。”吕岳曰：“吾有四位门人未曾来至，但他们一来，管取你克了西岐，助你成功。”又过数日，来了四位道人，至辕门，问左右曰：“里边可有一吕道长么？烦为通报：有四门人来见。”军政官报入中军：“启老爷：有四位道人要见老爷。”吕岳曰：“是吾门人来也。”著郑伦出辕门来请。郑伦至辕门，见四道者脸分青、黄、赤、黑，或挽抓髻，或戴道巾，或似陀头，穿青、红、黄、皂，身俱长一丈六七尺，行如虎狼，眼露睛光，甚是凶恶。郑伦欠背躬身曰：“老师有请。”四位道人也不谦让，迳至帐前，见吕道人行礼毕，口称：“老师。”两边站立。吕岳问曰：“为何来迟？”内有一穿青者答曰：“因攻伐之物未曾制完，故此来迟。”吕岳谓四门人曰：“这郑伦乃新拜吾为师的，亦是你等兄弟。”郑伦从新又与四人见礼毕。郑伦欠身请问曰：“四位师兄高姓大名？”吕岳用手指著一位曰：“此位姓周，名信；此位姓李，名奇；此位姓朱，名天麟；此位姓杨，名文辉。”郑伦也通了名姓，遂治酒管待，饮至二鼓方散。次日，苏侯升帐，又见来了四位道者，心下十分不悦，懊恼在心。吕岳曰：“今日你四人谁往西岐走一遭？”内有一道者曰：“弟子愿往。”吕岳许之。那道人抖搜精神，自恃胸中道术，出营步行，来会西岐。不知凶吉如何，且听下回分解。

Zhèng L ún, now fully healed of his wounds, immediately kowtowed and took Lǚ Yuè as his master. Lǚ the Taoist said: "Since you have taken me as your teacher, I shall help you achieve success." He sat in silence within the tent and did not speak for three days. Sū Hòu sighed, saying: "Just as I was about to carry out my plan, it has now been blocked by the Taoist. How regrettable!" Meanwhile, Zhèng L ún saw that Master Lǚ Yuè did not go out to face the enemy formation. He went into the tent and respectfully said: "Master, since you are here for Chengtāng, your disciple awaits your command; please lead me to confront Chancellor Jiāng Zǐyá in battle." Lǚ Yuè said, "Four of my disciples have not yet arrived. Once they come, I guarantee that you will conquer Xī Qí and achieve success." Several more days passed, when four Taoist priests arrived at the 辕门 (Yuanmen) and asked the attendants: "Is there a Taoist Master Lǚ inside?" "Please inform him that four of his disciples have come to see him." The military official reported into the central command: "My lord, there are four Taoist priests who wish to see you." Lǚ Yuè said: "These are my disciples coming here." He ordered Zhèng L ún to go out through the 辕门 and invite them in. Zhèng L ún went to the 辕门 and saw that the four Taoists had faces of blue, yellow, red, and black. Some wore braided topknots, some Daoist head coverings, others looked like monks with shaved heads. They were dressed in blue, red, yellow, and dark colors, each over five or six feet tall, walking like tigers and wolves, their eyes gleaming fiercely—truly fearsome in appearance. Zhèng L ún bowed respectfully with a bent back and said: "Master has requested your presence." The four Taoist priests did not hesitate or show courtesy, but went directly to the tent. After bowing before Master Lǚ and completing their salute, they addressed him as: "Master." They stood on either side. Lǚ Yuè asked, "Why have you arrived so late?" Among them, the one dressed in blue replied: "Because we had not yet finished preparing our weapons for battle, so we arrived late." Lǚ Yuè said to his four disciples: "This Zhèng L ún is a new disciple who has just taken me as his master; he is also your younger brother." Zhèng L ún once again paid respects to the four men. Zhèng L ún respectfully asked: "What are your esteemed surnames and names, my four senior brothers?" Lǚ Yuè pointed to one of them and said: "This one is surnamed Zhōu and named Xìn; this one is surnamed Lǐ and named Qí; this one is surnamed Zhū and named Tiānlín; and this one is surnamed Yáng and named Wénhuī." Zhèng L ún also introduced his own name, and then wine was prepared to entertain them. They drank until the second drum of the night before parting. The next day, Sū Hòu went to the tent and saw four more Taoist priests arrive. He was very displeased and became deeply annoyed in his heart. Lǚ Yuè said: "Today, which of you four will go to Xī Qí for a while?" Among them, one Taoist priest said: "Your disciple is willing to go." Lǚ Yuè gave his approval. That Taoist priest gathered his spirit and, confident in the Daoist arts within him, left the camp on foot to confront Xī Qí. Whether it will bring fortune or misfortune remains unknown; we shall hear of it in the next chapter.