Chapter 61: Taijitu: Yin Hong's Final Fate

诗曰： 太极图中造化奇，仙凡迥隔少人知。移来幻化真玄妙，忏过前非亦浪思。 弟子悔盟师莫救，苍天留意地难私。当时纣恶彰弭极，一木安能挽阿谁。

The poem says: In the Taijitu diagram, strange transformations of nature arise; Between immortals and mortals there is a vast divide few know. Transferred here, the illusory becomes real—truly profound and mysterious; Repent past wrongs, for idle thoughts are also to be regretted. The disciple repents his broken oath, but the master cannot save him; Heaven takes notice, and Earth cannot keep it secret. At that time, King Zhou's evil was fully revealed; A single tree could not possibly save whomsoever.

话说马元追赶子牙，赶了多时，不能赶上。马元自思：“他骑四不相，我倒跟著他跑？今日不赶他，明日再做区处。”子牙见马元不赶，勒回坐骑，大呼曰：“马元！你敢来这平坦之地与我战三合，吾定擒尔！”马元笑曰：“料你有何力量，敢禁我来不赶？”随绰开大步来追。子牙又战三四合，拨骑又走。马元见如此光景，心下大怒，“你敢以诱敌之法惑我！”咬牙切齿赶来，“我今日拿不著你，誓不回军！便赶上玉虚宫，也擒了你来。”只管往下赶来。看看至晚，见前面一座山，转过山坡，就不见了子牙。马元见那山甚是险峻，怎见得，有赞为证： 那山真个好山，细看处色斑斑。顶上云飘荡，崖前树影寒。飞鸟睍睆，走兽凶顽。凛凛松千干，挺挺竹几竿。吼叫是苍狼夺食，咆嚎是饿虎争餐。野猿常啸寻鲜果，糜鹿攀花上翠岚。风洒洒，水潺潺，暗闻幽鸟语间关。几处藤萝牵又扯，满溪瑶草杂香兰。磷磷怪石，磊磊峰岩。狐狸成群走，猿猴作对顽。行客正愁多险峻，奈何古道又湾还。

The story goes that Ma Yuan chased Ziya, pursuing him for a long time but was unable to catch up. Ma Yuan thought to himself, "He rides the Sibuxiang; should I actually run after him?" "If I don't chase him today, I will deal with it another day." Ziya saw that Ma Yuan had stopped chasing and reined his mount back, shouting loudly, "Ma Yuan!" "If you dare come to this flat land and fight me for three rounds, I shall surely capture you!" Ma Yuan laughed and said, "I can guess what strength you have; how dare you stop me from not chasing?" He then took a big step forward to chase. Ziya fought for another three or four rounds, then wheeled his horse and fled again. Seeing this situation, Ma Yuan became greatly enraged and said, "How dare you use a feint to deceive me!" Grinding his teeth in anger, he rushed forward, saying, "If I cannot capture you today, I swear not to return with my troops!" "I will chase you all the way to Yuxu Palace and capture you there." He continued chasing downward without hesitation. As evening approached, Ma Yuan saw a mountain ahead. When he turned around the hillside, Ziya was nowhere to be seen. Ma Yuan saw that the mountain was extremely perilous and steep. How so? A verse testifies to this: That mountain is indeed a fine one; upon closer inspection, its colors are mottled. Clouds drift and sway at the summit; tree shadows cast coldness before the cliffs. Flying birds chirp melodiously, while running beasts are fierce and wild. Towering pines stand in thousands; upright bamboo stalks rise tall. Roaring are the gray wolves fighting for food, howling are the hungry tigers vying for a meal. Wild monkeys often cry out in search of fresh fruit; deer climb among flowers toward emerald mist. The wind blows gently, the water trickles softly; faintly heard are the murmurs of secluded birds in between. In several places, vines tangle and intertwine; throughout the stream, rare herbs mix with fragrant orchids. Strange stones glisten, rugged peaks and cliffs stand tall. Foxes move in groups; monkeys play in pairs. A traveler laments the many dangers and steepness, yet how can he avoid the ancient path winding back again?

话说马元赶子牙，来至一座高山，又不见了子牙，跑的力尽筋酥；天色又晚了，腿又酸了，马元只得倚松靠石，少憩片时，喘息静坐，存气定神，待明日回营，再做道理。不觉将至二更，只听得山顶炮响。正是： 喊声震地如雷吼，灯球火把满山排。

The story continues: Ma Yuan chased Ziya to a high mountain, but once again could not find him. He ran until his strength was exhausted and his limbs felt numb; the sky had turned dark and his legs ached. Ma Yuan could do nothing but lean against pines and rest by the rocks for a short while, catching his breath and sitting in stillness to restore his energy and calm his spirit, intending to return to camp the next day and make plans accordingly. Unaware that it was already approaching the second watch of the night, he suddenly heard cannon fire echoing from the mountain peak. Indeed: The shouts shook the earth like thunder roars, and lanterns and torches lined up across the mountain.

马元抬头观看，见山顶上姜子牙同著武王在马上传杯，两边将校一片大叫：“今夜马元已落圈套，死无葬身之地！”马元听得大怒，跃身而起，提剑赶上山来。及至山上来看，见火把一愰，不见了子牙。马元睁睛四下里看时，只见山下四面八方，围住山脚，只叫：“不要走了马元！”马元大怒，又赶下山来，又不见了。把马元往来，跑上跑下两头赶，直赶到天明。把马元跑了一夜，甚是艰难辛苦，肚中又饿了；深恨子牙，咬牙切齿，恨不能即时拿子牙方消其恨。自思：“且回营，破了西岐再处。”马元离了高山，往前才走，只听得山凹里有人声唤叫：“疼杀我了！”其声甚是凄楚。马元听得有人声叫喊，急转下山坡，见茂草中睡著一个女子。马元问曰：“你是甚人，在此叫喊？”那女子曰：“老师救命！”马元曰：“你是何人？叫我怎样救你？”妇人答曰：“我是民妇；因回家看亲，中途偶得心气疼，命在旦夕，望老师或在近村人家讨些热汤，搭救残喘，胜造七级浮屠。倘得重生，恩同再造。”马元曰：“小娘子，此处那里去寻热汤？你终是一死，不若我反化你一斋，实是一举两得。”女子曰：“若救我全生，理当一斋。”马元曰：“不是如此说。我因赶姜子牙，杀了一夜，肚中其实饿了。量你也难活，不若做个人情，化你与我贫道吃了罢。”女人曰：“老师不可说戏话。岂有吃人的理？”马元饿急了，那里由分说？赶上去一脚，踏住女人胸膛，一脚踏住女人大腿，把剑割开衣服，现出肚皮。马元忙将剑从肚脐内刺将进去。一腔热血滚将出来。马元用手抄著血，连吃了几口；在女人肚子里去摸心吃。左摸右摸捞不著，两只手在肚子里摸，只是一腔热血，并无五脏。马元看了，沉思疑惑。正在那里捞，只见正南上梅花鹿上坐一道人仗剑而来。怎见得，有赞为证，赞曰： 双抓髻，云分霭霭；水合袍，紧束丝绦。仙风道骨任逍遥，腹隐许多玄妙。玉虚宫元始门下，十仙首会赴蟠桃。乘鸾跨鹤在碧云霄，天皇氏修仙养道。

Ma Yuan looked up and saw that on the mountain peak, Jiang Ziya was riding with King Wu, passing a cup from horseback. On both sides, generals and officers shouted in unison: "Tonight Ma Yuan has fallen into the trap; he will die without a place to bury his body!" Hearing this, Ma Yuan was greatly enraged. He sprang up, drew his sword, and rushed toward the mountain. When he finally reached the mountain top to look around, a flicker of torchlight appeared, but Ziya was gone again. Ma Yuan opened his eyes wide and looked all around, only to see that from every direction at the foot of the mountain, troops had encircled it, shouting, "Don't let Ma Yuan escape!" Ma Yuan was furious once more and rushed down the mountain again, but Ziya had vanished yet again. Back and forth Ma Yuan ran, going up and down both ends of the mountain, chasing until dawn broke. Ma Yuan had run all night; it was extremely arduous and exhausting, and now his stomach was also hungry; He deeply resented Ziya, grinding his teeth in fury, wishing he could capture Ziya immediately to quell his hatred. Thinking to himself, "I should return to the camp first and deal with Xi Qi before taking further action." Ma Yuan left the high mountain and had just started walking forward when he heard voices calling out from a hollow in the hills: "It hurts me so much!" The voice was extremely pitiful. Hearing the cries, Ma Yuan quickly turned down the hillside and saw a woman lying asleep among the tall grass. Ma Yuan asked, "Who are you, calling out here?" The woman said, "Master, save my life!" Ma Yuan asked, "Who are you?" "How should I save you?" The woman replied, "I am a commoner's wife; on my way home to visit relatives, I suddenly fell ill with chest pain and am near death. I beg you, Master, if possible, obtain some hot soup from a nearby village household to save this wretched life; it would be as meritorious as building a seven-tiered pagoda." If I am given another chance at life, your kindness will be like granting me rebirth. Ma Yuan said, "Young lady, where can one find hot soup in this place?" "You are going to die anyway. Why not let me transform you into a vegetarian offering? It would be a win-win situation." The woman said, "If you save my life completely, I should indeed become one vegetarian offering." Ma Yuan replied, "It's not like that. I have chased Jiang Ziya all night and am actually very hungry." You are unlikely to survive anyway. I might as well do you a favor and transform you into food for me, a poor Daoist." The woman said, "Master, you cannot be joking." "How can there be a reason to eat people?" Ma Yuan, starving as he was, had no patience for arguments. He rushed forward and kicked the woman in the chest with one foot, pressing down on her thigh with the other. Drawing his sword, he cut open her clothes to expose her belly. Ma Yuan quickly drove his sword into her navel from within. A gush of hot blood poured out. Ma Yuan scooped up the blood with his hands and drank several mouthfuls; he reached into the woman's abdomen to pull out her heart to eat. He searched left and right but could not find it. With both hands inside her abdomen, he only felt a gush of hot blood—there were no internal organs at all. Ma Yuan looked on in confusion and deep thought. Just as he was searching, a Taoist suddenly arrived from the due south direction, riding on a spotted deer and holding a sword. How did this Taoist appear? A verse testifies, the verse says: Double braids in his hair, clouds parting around him; a flowing robe tied with a silk sash. With the demeanor of an immortal, he roams freely; within his belly lie many profound mysteries. A disciple from Yu Xu Palace under Yuanshi, among the ten immortals who gathered for the Peach Banquet. Riding phoenixes and taming cranes through emerald clouds, he is a Daoist cultivating immortality under the Heaven Huang dynasty.

话说马元见文殊广法天尊仗剑而来，忙将双手掣出肚皮，不意肚皮竟长完了，把手长在里面；欲待下女人身子，两只脚也长在女人身上。马元无法可施，莫能挣扎。马元蹲在一堆儿，只叫：“老师饶命！”文殊广法天尊举剑才待要斩马元，只听得脑后有人叫曰：“道兄剑下留人！”广法天尊回顾，认不得此人是谁：头挽双髻，身穿道服，面黄微须。道人曰：“稽首了！”广法天尊答礼，口称：“道友何处来？有甚事见谕？”道人曰：“元来道兄认不得我。吾有一律，说出便知端的。诗曰： 大觉金仙不二时，西方妙法祖菩提。不生不灭三三行，全气全神万万慈。 空寂自然随变化，真如本性任为之。与天同寿庄严体，历劫明心大法师。

The story continues: When Ma Yuan saw Lord Wenshu Guangfa Tianzun coming with a sword, he hurriedly pulled his hands out of the woman's belly. Unexpectedly, her abdomen had already healed completely, leaving his hands stuck inside; he tried to pull himself down from the woman's body, but both of his feet were also attached to her. Ma Yuan had no means to escape and could not struggle free. Ma Yuan crouched in a heap, shouting, "Master, spare my life!" As Lord Wenshu Guangfa Tianzhun raised his sword to behead Ma Yuan, he suddenly heard someone calling from behind him, "Immortal brother, spare the man beneath your sword!" Lord Guangfa Tianzun turned around and could not recognize who the person was: with two braids on his head, wearing Daoist robes, a sallow face with faint beard. The Taoist said, "I bow to you!" Lord Guangfa Tianzun returned the courtesy and said, "Immortal friend, from where do you come?" "What business brings you here?" The Taoist said, "It seems my immortal brother does not recognize me. I have a verse; once I recite it, you will know for certain." The poem says: The great enlightened Golden Immortal is one without duality; the Western wondrous Dharma originates from Bodhi. Neither born nor dying, in tripled triads they move; Complete energy and spirit, ten-thousandfold compassion. Empty stillness follows change naturally; true essence acts freely as it is. With a dignified body sharing the heavens' longevity, an enlightened mind through aeons—the great Dharma master.

贫道乃西方教下准提道人是也。‘封神榜’上无马元名讳；此人根行且重，与吾西方有缘，待贫道把他带上西方，成为正果，亦是道兄慈悲，贫道不二门中之幸也。”广法天尊闻言，满面欢喜，大笑曰：“久仰大法，行教西方，莲花现相，舍利元光，真乃高明之客。贫道谨领尊命。”准提道人向前，摩顶受记曰：“道友可惜五行修炼，枉费工夫！不如随我上西方：八德池边，谈讲三乘大法；七宝林下，任你自在逍遥。”马元连声喏喏。准提谢了广法天尊，又将打神鞭交与广法天尊带与子牙，准提同马元回西方。不表。

I am the Daoist Zhunti from the Western Teachings." "Ma Yuan's name does not appear on the 'Fengshen Bang'; his roots and cultivation are still substantial, and he has karmic ties with our Western Teachings. Let me take him to the West and make him attain true enlightenment. This would also be an act of compassion from my immortal brother and a blessing for my school of non-duality." Lord Guangfa Tianzun, upon hearing this, was overjoyed and laughed heartily, saying, "I have long admired your great Dharma. Practicing the teachings in the West, lotus flowers manifest forms, and relics emit primordial light—truly a distinguished guest of lofty wisdom. I humbly accept your command." Daoist Zhunti stepped forward, placed his hand on Ma Yuan's head to bestow a blessing and said, "Immortal friend, it is a pity you cultivated the Five Elements in vain, wasting your efforts! It would be better for you to follow me to the West: by the Eight Virtues Pond, we can discuss the Three Vehicles of Great Dharma; under the Seven Treasures Grove, where you may roam freely in blissful leisure." Ma Yuan kept bowing repeatedly. Daoist Zhunti thanked Lord Guangfa Tianzun and handed over the God-Beating Whip to him, entrusting it to be delivered to Ziya. Then Daoist Zhunti departed with Ma Yuan back to the West. No further details are given.

且说广法天尊回至相府，子牙接见，问处马元一事如何；广法天尊将准提道人的事详细说了一遍；又将打神鞭付与子牙。赤精子在傍，双眉紧皱，对文殊广法天尊曰：“如今殷洪阻挠逆法，恐误子牙拜将之期，如之奈何？”正话间，忽杨戬报曰：“有慈航师伯来见。”三人闻报，忙出府迎接。慈航道人一见，携手上殿。行礼已毕，子牙问曰：“道兄此来，有何见谕？”慈航曰：“专为殷洪而来。”赤精子闻言大喜，便曰：“道兄将何术治之？”慈航道人问子牙曰：“当时破十绝阵，太极图在么？”子牙答曰：“在此。”慈航曰：“若擒殷洪，须是赤精子道兄将太极图，须……如此如此，方能除得此患。”赤精子闻言，心中尚有不忍，因子牙拜将日已近，恐误限期，只得如此；乃对子牙曰：“须得公去，方可成功。”

Meanwhile, Lord Guangfa Tianzun returned to the prime minister's residence, where Ziya received him and inquired about how Ma Yuan had been dealt with; Lord Guangfa Tianzun gave a detailed account of the matter involving Daoist Zhunti; and also handed over the God-Beating whip to Ziya. Chi Zigen, standing nearby with his brows furrowed tightly, said to Lord Guangfa Tianzun of Wenshu, "Now that Yin Hong is obstructing and defying the Dharma, I fear this may delay Master Ziya's appointment of generals. What can we do about it?" While they were speaking, suddenly Yang Jian reported, "Master Cihang is here to see you." Upon hearing the report, the three of them hurried out of the residence to welcome him. Daoist Cihang, upon seeing them, took their hands and led them upstairs onto the hall. After they had finished bowing, Ziya asked, "Brother Daoist, what brings you here? What instructions do you have?" Cihang said, "I came specifically for Yin Hong." Chi Zigen, upon hearing this, rejoiced greatly and immediately asked, "Brother Daoist, by what method will you deal with him?" Daoist Cihang asked Ziya, "At that time when the Ten Absolute Arrays were broken, was the Taijitu present?" Ziya replied, "It is here." Cihang said, "If we are to capture Yin Hong, it must be Brother Chi Zigen who uses the Taijitu. He must do this and that in such a way; only then can we eliminate this problem." Chi Zigen, upon hearing these words, still felt reluctant in his heart, for the day of Ziya's general appointment was drawing near and he feared missing the deadline; thus, he had no choice but to proceed as such; He then said to Ziya, "You must go yourself for this to succeed."

且说殷洪见马元一去无音，心下不乐，对刘甫、苟章曰：“马道长一去，音信杳无，定非吉兆。明日且与姜尚会战，看是如何，再探马道长消息。”郑伦曰：“不得一场大战，决不能成得大功。”一宿晚景已过。次日早晨，汤营内大炮响亮，杀声大振，殷洪大队人马，出营至城下，大叫曰：“请子牙答话！”左右报入相府。三道者对子牙曰：“今日公出去，我等定助你成功。”子牙不带诸门人，领一枝人马，独自出城，将剑尖指殷洪，大喝曰：“殷洪！你师命不从，今日难免大厄，四肢定成灰飞，悔之晚矣！”殷洪大怒，纵马摇戟来取。子牙手中剑赴面相还。兽马争持，剑戟并举。未及数合，子牙便走，不进城，落荒而逃。殷洪见子牙落荒而走，急忙赶来，随后命刘甫、苟章率众而来。这一回正是： 前边布下天罗网，难免飞灰祸及身。

Meanwhile, Yin Hong, having heard no news of Ma Yuan's departure, felt uneasy. He said to Liu Fu and Gou Zhang, "Master Ma has gone away without a trace; there is certainly no good omen in this. Tomorrow we shall engage in battle with Jiang Shang and see what happens, then investigate the news of Master Ma." Zheng Lun said, "Without a great battle, we cannot achieve any significant merit." One night passed. The next morning, loud cannon fire echoed from within the Shang camp, and a great clamor of battle arose. Yin Hong's large force marched out of the camp to beneath the city walls and shouted loudly, "Call forth Ziya for a parley!" The guards inside the prime minister's residence reported this news. The three Daoists said to Ziya, "Today that you go out, we will certainly help you achieve success." Ziya did not bring any of his disciples, but led a small force and went out alone from the city. He pointed at Yin Hong with the tip of his sword and shouted fiercely, "Yin Hong!" You have disobeyed your master's command. Today you cannot escape great calamity; your four limbs will surely turn to ashes—it is too late to regret it!" Yin Hong became furious and spurred his horse forward, brandishing his halberd to attack. Ziya parried the strike with his sword in hand. The beast-horse-drawn forces clashed, swords and halberds raised together. After only a few exchanges of blows, Ziya turned to flee, not retreating into the city but escaping in disarray through the wilderness. Yin Hong saw Ziya fleeing in disorder and hurried to pursue him, then immediately ordered Liu Fu and Gou Zhang to lead the troops after him. This chapter is indeed: A heavenly net was laid ahead; No escape from disaster, ashes will befall the self.

话说子牙在前边，后随殷洪，过东南，看看到正南上，赤精子看见徒弟赶来，难免此厄，不觉眼中泪落，点头叹曰：“畜生！畜生！今日是你自取此苦。你死后休来怨我。”忙把太极图一抖放开。此图乃包罗万象之宝，化一座金桥。子牙把四不相一纵，上了金桥。殷洪马赶至桥边，见子牙在桥上指殷洪曰：“你赶上桥来，与我见三合否？”殷洪笑曰：“连吾师父在此，吾也不惧；又何怕你之幻术哉。我来了！”把马一拎，那马上了此图。有诗为证，诗曰： 混沌未分盘古出，太极传下两仪来。四象无穷真变化，殷洪此际丧飞灰。

Meanwhile, Ziya was ahead with Yin Hong in pursuit behind. They passed the southeast and soon arrived at the due south direction. Chi Zigen saw his disciple coming and realized he could not avoid this calamity. Tears welled up in his eyes as he nodded sorrowfully and sighed, "Beast!" Beast! Today this suffering is of your own making. After you die, do not come to blame me." He quickly shook the Taijitu open. This diagram was a treasure encompassing all phenomena, transforming into a golden bridge. Ziya urged his four-legged beast forward and rode onto the golden bridge. Yin Hong's horse galloped to the edge of the bridge, where he saw Ziya on the bridge pointing at him and saying, "If you can cross this bridge and reach me, will we have three exchanges of blows?" Yin Hong laughed and said, "Even with my master here, I am not afraid; how much less would I fear your illusionary arts. I am coming!" He urged his horse forward, and the horse stepped onto this diagram. There is a poem to attest to this; the poem says: Before chaos was divided, Pangu emerged; The Taiji was passed down, giving rise to the Two Instruments. Endless transformations arise from the Four Symbols' true changes; at this moment Yin Hong perishes in ashes.

话说殷洪上了此图，一时不觉杳杳冥冥，心无定见，百事攒来。心想何事，其事即至。殷洪如梦寐一般，心下想：“莫是有伏兵？”果见伏兵杀来，大杀一阵，就不见了。心下想拿姜子牙；霎时子牙来至，两家又杀一阵。忽然想起朝歌，与父王相会；随即到了朝歌，进了午门，至西宫，见黄娘娘站立，殷洪下拜；忽的又至馨庆宫，又见杨娘娘站立，殷洪口称：“姨母。”杨娘娘不答应。──此乃是太极四象，变化无穷之法；心想何物，何物便见；心虑百事，百事即至。──只见殷洪左舞右舞，在太极图中如梦如痴。赤精子看看他，师徒之情，数年殷勤，岂知有今日，不觉嗟叹。只见殷洪将到尽头路，又见他生身母亲姜娘娘大叫曰：“殷洪！你看我是谁？”殷洪抬头看时，“呀！元来是母亲姜娘娘！”殷洪不觉失声曰：“母亲！孩儿莫不是与你冥中相会？”姜娘娘曰：“冤家！你不尊师父之言，要保无道而伐有道，又发誓言，开口受刑，出口有愿，当日发誓说四肢成为飞灰，你今日上了太极图，眼下要成灰烬之苦！”殷洪听说，急叫：“母亲救我！”忽然不见了姜娘娘。殷洪慌在一堆。只见赤精子大叫曰：“殷洪！你看我是谁？”殷洪看见师父，泣而告曰：“老师，弟子愿保武王灭纣，望乞救命！”赤精子曰：“此时迟了！你已犯天条，不知见何人叫你改了前盟。”殷洪曰：“弟子因信申公豹之言，故此违了师父之语。望老师慈悲，借得一线之生，怎敢再灭前言！”赤精子尚有留恋之意，只见半空中慈航道人叫曰：“天命如此，岂敢有违。毋得误了他进封神台时辰！”赤精子含悲忍泪，只得将太极图一抖，卷在一处；拎著半晌，复一抖，太极图开了，一阵风，殷洪连人带马，化作飞灰去。──一道灵魂进封神台来了。有诗为证，诗曰： 殷洪任信申公豹，要伐西岐显大才。岂知数到皆如此，魂绕封神台畔哀。

Now, as for Yin Hong stepping onto the diagram, he suddenly found himself in a state of obscurity and confusion, his mind unsettled and overwhelmed by countless thoughts. Whatever thought crossed his mind, that very thing would immediately come to pass. Yin Hong felt as if in a dream; he thought to himself, "Could there be hidden troops?" Sure enough, he saw hidden soldiers charging at him. After a fierce battle, they suddenly vanished. He thought in his mind to capture Jiang Ziya; In an instant, Ziya appeared before him and the two sides clashed again in battle. Suddenly he thought of Chaoguo and reuniting with his father-king; he immediately arrived at Chaoguo, entered through the Wumen Gate, reached the West Palace, and saw Huang Niangniang standing there. Yin Hong knelt to pay his respects; suddenly he was at the Xinqing Palace, where he again saw Yang Niangniang standing. Yin Hong addressed her respectfully as "Aunt." Yang Niangniang did not respond. ——This was the power of the Taiji's Four Symbols, a method of endless transformation; whatever one thought of would immediately appear. Whatever anxieties one had, those hundred matters would arrive at once. ——Only then did it become clear that Yin Hong was dancing left and right within the Taijitu, as if in a dream or daze. Chi Zigen looked at him and, moved by the master-disciple bond that had endured for many years, could not help but sigh with sorrow. He never expected it would come to this day. Just then, as Yin Hong neared the end of his path, he suddenly saw his birth mother, Lady Jiang Niangniang, calling out to him in a loud voice: "Yin Hong!" Look at me—do you not know who I am?" Yin Hong looked up and exclaimed, "Ah! It is my mother, Lady Jiang Niangniag!" Yin Hong could not help but cry out in a trembling voice, "Mother!" Is this child perhaps meeting you by fate beyond the veil of life and death?" Lady Jiang Niangniang said, "Wretch! You did not heed your master's words, choosing to protect the tyrant and attack the righteous. You made oaths: for every word you spoke, a punishment was accepted; for every vow you uttered, a wish was fulfilled. On that day, you swore that your four limbs would become flying ashes—and now, as you step onto the Taijitu, this very torment of turning to ash is about to befall you!" Upon hearing these words, Yin Hong cried out in desperation, "Mother, save me!" Suddenly Lady Jiang Niangniang was gone. Yin Hong panicked and fell into a heap. Just then, Chi Zigen shouted loudly, "Yin Hong! Look at me—do you know who I am?" Yin Hong, seeing his master, wept and pleaded, "Master, your disciple wishes to support King Wu in overthrowing Zhou. I beg you for my life!" Chi Zigen said, "It is too late now! You have already violated the heavenly decrees. I do not know who you should appeal to in order to change your former oath." Yin Hong said, "Your disciple was misled by the words of Shen Gongbao and thus violated my master's instructions. I beg you, Master, to show mercy and grant me a thread of life; how could I dare to break my previous words again!" Chi Zigen still felt a lingering reluctance, but just then from the half-sky came Daoist Cihang's voice calling out, "Heaven's decree is thus; how dare we defy it. Do not delay his time for ascending the God of Immortals Altar!" With sorrow in his heart and tears held back, Chi Zigen had no choice but to shake the Taijitu once more and roll it up. He held it for a moment, then shook it again; the Taijitu opened and a gust of wind arose. Yin Hong, man and horse alike, turned into flying ashes and vanished. ——A soul passed through to ascend the God of Immortals' Altar. There is a poem as evidence; it says: Yin Hong trusted Shen Gongbao, Wished to attack Xi Qi and show great talent. How could he know fate would be thus? His soul now lingers by the God of Immortals' Altar in sorrow.

话说赤精子见殷洪成了灰烬，放声哭曰：“太华山再无人养道修真。见吾将门下这样如此，可为疼心！”慈航道人曰：“道兄差矣！马元‘封神榜’上无名，自然有救拨苦恼之人；殷洪事该如此，何必嗟叹。”三位道者复进相府。子牙感谢。三位道人作辞：“贫道只等子牙吉辰，再来饯东征。”三道人别子牙回去。不表。

Now, Chi Zigen saw Yin Hong reduced to ashes and wept aloud, "Mount Taihua will have no one left to cultivate the Dao and pursue truth. To see my disciple treated in such a way is truly heartbreaking!" Daoist Cihang said, "Brother Daoist, you are mistaken! Ma Yuan's name does not appear on the 'God of Immortals List,' so naturally there will be someone to relieve his suffering; Yin Hong was fated thus—why lament and sigh?" The three Daoists returned to the prime minister's residence. Ziya expressed his gratitude. The three Daoists took their leave, saying, "We poor Daoists have only been waiting for Master Ziya's auspicious day to come again and see you off on your eastern expedition." The three Daoists bid farewell to Ziya and returned. No further mention is made of this.

且说苏侯听得殷洪绝了，又有探马报入营中曰：“禀元帅：殷殿下赶姜子牙，只一道金光就不见了。”郑伦与刘甫、苟章打听，不知所往。且说苏侯暗与子苏全忠商议曰：“我如今暗修书一封，你射进城去，明日请姜丞相劫营，我和你将家眷先进西岐西门，吾等不管他是与非，将郑伦等一齐拿解见姜丞相，以赎前罪。此事不可迟误！”苏全忠曰：“若不是吕岳、殷洪，我等父子进西岐多时矣。”苏侯忙修书，命全忠夤夜将书穿在箭上，射入城中。那日是南宫适巡城，看见箭上有书，知是苏候的，忙下城，进相府来，将书呈与姜子牙。子牙拆开观看，书曰： “征西元戎、冀川侯苏护百叩顿首姜丞相麾下：护虽奉敕征讨，心已归周久矣。兵至西岐，急欲投戈麾下，执鞭役使。孰知天违人愿，致有殷洪、马元抗逆，今已授首；惟佐贰郑伦执迷不悟，尚自屡犯天条，获罪如山。护父子自思，非天兵压寨，不能剿强诛逆。今特敬修尺一，望丞相早发大兵，今夜劫营。护父子乘机可将巨恶擒解施行。但愿早归圣主，共伐独夫，洗苏门一身之冤，朏护虔诚至意，虽肝脑涂地，护之愿毕矣。谨此上启，苏护九顿。”

Meanwhile, Su Hou heard of Yin Hong's demise. A scout then reported into the camp, saying: "Your Excellency, Prince Yin pursued Jiang Ziya, but with a single golden light he vanished from sight." Zheng Lun and Liu Fu, Gou Zhang inquired anxiously, not knowing where he had gone. Meanwhile, Su Hou secretly discussed with his son Su Quanzhong, saying: "I will now write a secret letter; you shall shoot it into the city. Tomorrow, I request Chancellor Jiang to launch a surprise attack on our camp. You and I will first bring our families through the western gate of Xi Qi. No matter whether he is right or wrong, we will capture Zheng Lun and others together and deliver them to Chancellor Jiang in order to atone for our previous crimes." This matter must not be delayed!" Su Quanzhong said, "If it were not for Lu Yue and Yin Hong, my father and I would have entered Xi Qi long ago." Su Hou hurriedly wrote a letter and ordered Quanzhong to pierce it onto an arrow at night, shooting it into the city. That day, Nan Gong Shi was on patrol. He saw the arrow with a letter attached and recognized it as from Su Hou. Hurriedly descending from the city wall, he entered the prime minister's residence and presented the letter to Jiang Ziya. Ziya opened and read the letter, which said: "To the Commander-in-Chief of the Western Expedition, Marquis Jichuan Su Hu, who bows a hundred times with utmost respect to Chancellor Jiang Ziya under your command: Although I was commissioned by decree to campaign against you, my heart has long belonged to Zhou." When our troops arrived at Xi Qi, we eagerly wished to lay down arms and submit under your banner, ready to serve as a mere whip-bearer or servant. Alas, Heaven defied our wishes and led to Yin Hong and Ma Yuan's rebellion; they have now met their end. Only Deputy Zheng Lun remains stubbornly deluded, repeatedly violating heavenly decrees and accumulating sins as numerous as mountains. Su Hu's father and son have come to realize that without the Heavenly Army pressing upon our camp, we cannot suppress the strong or punish the rebellious. Therefore, I now humbly write this letter to respectfully request Chancellor Ziya to swiftly dispatch a large force and launch an attack on our camp tonight. My father and I will seize the opportunity to capture these great villains and deliver them for punishment. May we return to the holy sovereign as soon as possible, together attack the tyrant, clear my family's injustice, and fulfill my sincere wishes. Even if our livers and brains are smeared on the ground, Su Hu's wish will be fulfilled. With utmost respect, I submit this letter. Su Hu bows nine times."

话说子牙看书大喜，次日午时发令：“命黄飞虎父子五人作前队；邓九公冲左营；南宫适冲右营；令哪吒压阵。”且说郑伦与刘甫、苟章回见苏护，曰：“不幸殷殿下遭于恶手，如今须得本上朝歌，面君请援，方能成功。”苏护只是口应：“俟明日区处。”诸人散入各帐房去了。苏侯暗暗打点今夜进西岐。不提。──郑伦那里知道？正是： 挖下战坑擒虎豹，满天张网等蛟龙。

Now, upon reading the letter, Ziya was greatly pleased. The next day at noon he issued orders: "Command Huang Feihu and his five sons to serve as the vanguard; Deng Jiugong shall charge the left wing; Nan Gong Shi shall charge the right wing; and order Ne Zha to hold the rear." Meanwhile, Zheng Lun and Liu Fu, Gou Zhang returned to see Su Hu and said, "Unluckily, Prince Yin fell victim to evil hands. Now we must return to Chao'ge to personally request aid from the king in order to succeed." Su Hu merely nodded with his mouth, saying, "I will deal with it tomorrow." The others dispersed into their respective tents and left. Su Hou secretly made preparations to enter Xi Qi that very night. No further mention is given of this. ——Zheng Lun did not know about it? Indeed: Dug out a war pit to capture tiger and leopard, Spread a net across the sky to await the dragon.

话说西岐旁晚，将近黄昏时候，三路兵收拾出城埋伏。伺至二更时分，一声炮响，黄飞虎父子兵冲进营来，并无遮挡；左有邓九公，右有南宫适，三路齐进。郑伦急上火眼金睛兽，拎降魔杵往大辕门来，正遇黄家父子五骑，大战在一处，难解难分。邓九公冲左营；刘甫大呼曰：“贼将慢来！”南宫适进右营，正遇苟章，接住厮杀。西岐城开门，发大队人马来接应，只杀得地沸天翻。苏家父子已往西岐城西门进去了。邓九公与刘甫大战，刘甫非九公敌手，被九公一刀砍于马下。南宫适战苟章，展开刀法，苟章招架不住，拨马就走，正遇黄天祥，不及提防，被黄天祥刺斜里一枪挑于马下。──二将灵魂已往封神台去了。众将官把一个成汤大营杀的瓦解星散。单剩郑伦力抵众将。不防邓九公从旁边将刀一盖，降魔杵磕定不能起，被九公抓住袍带，拎过鞍鞽，往地上摔。两边士卒将郑伦绳缠索绑，困将起来。西岐城一夜闹嚷嚷的，直到天明。子牙升了银安殿，聚将鼓响，众将上殿参谒，然后黄飞虎父子回令。邓九公回令：斩刘甫，擒郑伦。南宫适回令：大战苟章败走，遇黄天祥枪刺而绝。又报：“苏护听令。”子牙传令：“请来”。苏家父子进见子牙，方欲行礼，子牙曰：“请起叙话。君侯大德，仁义素布海内，不是不忠小信之夫，识时务，弃暗投明，审祸福，择主而仕，宁弃椒房之宠，以洗万世污名，真英雄也！不才无不敬羡！”苏护父子答曰：“不才父子多有罪戾，蒙丞相曲赐生全，愧感无地！”彼此逊谢。言毕，子牙传令：“把郑伦推来。”众军校把郑伦蜂拥推至檐前。郑伦立而不跪，睁眼不语，有恨不能吞苏侯之意。子牙曰：“郑伦，谅你有多大本领，屡屡抗拒？今已被擒，何不屈膝求生，尚敢大廷抗礼！”郑伦大喝曰：“无知匹夫！吾与尔身为敌国，恨不得生擒尔等叛逆，解往朝歌，以正国法。今不幸，吾主帅同谋，误被尔擒，有死而已，何必多言！”子牙命左右：“推去斩讫号令！”众军校将郑伦推出相府，只等行刑牌出。只见苏侯向前跪而言曰：“启丞相：郑伦违抗天威，理宜正法；但此人实是忠义，似还是可用之人。况此人胸中奇术，一将难求，望丞相赦其小过，怜而用之，亦古人释怨用仇之意。乞丞相海涵！”子牙扶起苏侯，笑曰：“吾知郑将军忠义，乃可用之人，特激之，使将军说之耳，易于见听。今将军既肯如此，老夫敢不如命。”苏护闻言大喜，领令出府，至郑伦面前。郑伦见苏侯前来，低首不语。苏护曰：“郑将军，你为何迷而不悟？尝言，识时务者呼为俊杰。今国君无道，天愁民怨，四海分崩，生民涂炭，

Now, as dusk approached Xi Qi and twilight neared, troops from three routes prepared and left the city to lie in ambush. At around two hours after midnight, a cannon shot rang out and Huang Feihu's father-son forces charged into the camp with no resistance. To the left was Deng Jiugong, to the right Nan Gong Shi; troops from all three routes advanced together. Zheng Lun hurriedly mounted his Fire-Eye Golden-Vision Beast, wielding the Demonic Subjugation Mace toward the main gate. Just then he encountered Huang Feihu and his four sons on horseback, and a fierce battle erupted between them, neither side gaining the upper hand. Deng Jiugong charged into the left wing; Liu Fu shouted, "Rebel general, come no further!" Nan Gong Shi advanced into the right wing and encountered Gou Zhang just as he arrived, engaging in fierce combat. The gates of Xi Qi opened, sending a large force to provide support, and the battlefield became one of chaos, shaking heaven and earth. The Su family father and son had already entered through the western gate of Xi Qi city. Deng Jiugong fought fiercely with Liu Fu, who was no match for Jiugong and was cut down from his horse by a single strike. Nan Gong Shi fought Gou Zhang, deploying his sword techniques. Unable to withstand the assault, Gou Zhang turned his horse and fled. Just then he met Huang Tianxiang, who caught him unprepared and skewered him from the side with a spear, sending him tumbling from his horse. ——The souls of these two generals had already ascended to the God of Immortals Altar. The commanders and officers completely shattered Chengtang's large camp, scattering it like broken tiles and stars. Only Zheng Lun remained to resist the combined forces alone. Unaware, Deng Jiugong struck from the side with his sword, pinning Zheng Lun's Demonic Subjugation Mace and preventing him from rising. Jiugong seized Zheng by the robe sash, lifted him over the saddle, and hurled him to the ground. Soldiers from both sides bound Zheng Lun with ropes and shackles, tying him up tightly. Xi Qi city was in uproar all night until dawn. Ziya ascended the Yin'an Hall, summoned the commanders with a drumbeat, and all the generals entered to pay their respects. Afterward, Huang Feihu and his sons returned for orders. Deng Jiugong reported back: Liu Fu was beheaded and Zheng Lun captured. Nan Gong Shi reported back: Gou Zhang was defeated in battle and fled, but encountered Huang Tianxiang who pierced him with a spear and he perished. Another report came: "Su Hu is here to receive orders." Ziya gave the order: "Please bring him in." The Su family father and son entered to see Ziya. Just as they were about to bow, Ziya said, "Please rise and speak." Your Excellency's great virtue and benevolence have long been known throughout the land. We are not men of disloyalty or petty faith; we recognize the times, abandon darkness for enlightenment, weigh misfortune and fortune, choose a wise ruler to serve, and even forsake imperial favor in order to cleanse our family's disgraceful name through generations. Truly, you are a hero! We humble ourselves with utmost respect and admiration!" Su Hu's father and son replied, "Your unworthy servants have committed many crimes. To be granted mercy by Chancellor Ziya is a kindness we feel ashamed to receive; our gratitude has no bounds!" They exchanged humble bows of mutual courtesy and thanks. After the exchange, Ziya gave orders: "Bring Zheng Lun forward." The soldiers crowded around and pushed Zheng Lun to the eaves of the hall. Zheng Lun stood without kneeling, glaring silently with eyes full of hatred, as if he wished to swallow Su Hu whole. Ziya said, "Zheng Lun, how much ability could you possibly have to resist repeatedly?" Now that you are captured, why not kneel and beg for your life? Yet here you stand defiant in the court!" Zheng Lun roared, "Ignorant fool! Though we are enemies of different states, I wish to capture you rebels alive and deliver you to Chao'ge so that the state law may be upheld. Now, unfortunately, my commander conspired with you and I was mistakenly captured by you; if death is to come, so be it—why speak further!" Ziya ordered the guards: "Push him out and execute him immediately! Display his head as a warning!" The soldiers dragged Zheng Lun from the prime minister's residence, waiting only for the execution order to be given. Just then Su Hu stepped forward and knelt, saying, "Your Excellency Chancellor: Zheng Lun defied the heavenly authority; he should be executed according to law; yet this man is truly loyal and righteous. He still seems a person of use." Moreover, this man possesses rare skills in his heart; such a general is hard to find. I humbly request Chancellor Ziya forgive his minor offenses and show mercy by employing him—this would be following the example of ancient sages who forgave their enemies and put them to use. I beg you, Chancellor, for your great tolerance!" Ziya helped Su Hu to his feet and smiled, saying, "I know General Zheng is loyal and righteous; he is a man worth using. I merely provoked him so that you would speak on his behalf, making it easier for me to hear your words." Now that General Su is willing to do so, how could I, an old man, dare not follow orders?" Su Hu was greatly pleased upon hearing this and accepted the order. He left the residence and went to Zheng Lun's presence. Zheng Lun saw Su Hu approaching, lowered his head in silence. Su Hu said, "General Zheng, why have you remained deluded and unenlightened? The saying goes: those who recognize the times are called outstanding heroes. Now, our king is tyrannical; Heaven mourns and the people suffer. The four seas are in chaos, and the common folk endure hardship.

刀兵不歇，天下无不思叛，正天之欲绝殷商也。今周武以德行仁，推诚待士，泽及无告，民安物阜，三分有二归周，其天意可知。子牙不久东征，吊民伐罪，独夫授首，又谁能挽此愆尤也！将军可速早回头，我与你告过姜丞相，容你纳降，真不失君子见机而作；不然，徒死无益。”郑伦长吁不语。苏护复说曰：“郑将军，非我苦苦劝你，可惜你有大将之才，死非其所。你说‘忠臣不事二君’，今天下诸侯归周，难道都是不忠的？难道武成王黄飞虎、邓九公俱是不忠的？必是君失其道，便不可为民之父母，而残贼之人称为独夫。今天下叛乱，是纣王自绝于天。况古云：‘良禽择木，贤臣择主’，将军可自三思，毋徒伊戚。天子征伐西岐，其艺术高明之士，经天纬地之才者，至此皆化为乌有，此岂是力为之哉。况子牙门下，多少高明之士，道术精奇之人，岂是草草罢了。郑将军不可执迷，当听吾言，后面有无限受用，不可以小忠小谅而已。”郑伦被苏护一篇言语，说得如梦初觉，如醉方醒，长叹曰：“不才非君侯之言，几误用一番精神。只是吾屡有触犯，恐子牙门下诸将不能相容耳。”苏护曰：“姜丞相量如沧海，何细流之不纳。丞相门下，皆有道之士，何不见容。将军休得错用念头。待我禀过丞相就是。”苏护至殿前打躬曰：“郑伦被末将一番说肯归降，奈彼曾有小过，恐丞相门下诸人不能相容耳。”子牙笑曰：“当日是彼此敌国，各为其主；今肯归降，系是一家，何嫌隙之有。”忙令左右传令：“将郑伦放了，衣冠相见。”少时，郑伦整衣冠，至殿前下拜，曰：“末将逆天，不识时务，致劳丞相筹画；今既被擒，又蒙赦宥，此德此恩，没齿不忘矣！”子牙忙降阶扶起慰之曰：“将军忠心义胆，不佞识之久矣。但纣王无道，自绝于天，非臣子之不忠心于国也。吾主下贤礼士，将军当安心为国，毋得以嫌隙自疑耳。”郑伦再三拜谢。子牙遂引苏侯等至殿内，朝见武王。行礼称臣毕，王曰：“相父有何奏章？”子牙启曰：“冀州侯苏护今已归降，特来朝见。”武王宣苏护上殿，慰曰：“孤守西岐，克尽臣节，未敢逆天行事；不知何故，累辱王师。今卿等既舍纣归孤，暂住西土，孤与卿等当共修臣节，以俟天子修德，再为商议。相父与孤代劳，设宴待之。”子牙领旨。苏侯人马尽行入城，西岐云集群雄。不题。且言汜水关韩荣闻得此报大惊，忙差官修本赴朝歌城来。不知吉凶如何，且听下回分解。

War never ceases; no one under Heaven does not wish to rebel—this is precisely Heaven's will to end Yin Shang. Now, King Wu of Zhou governs with virtue and benevolence, treats scholars sincerely, extends kindness even to the helpless, brings peace to the people and abundance to goods. Two out of three regions have submitted to Zhou—this is Heaven's will made clear. Chancellor Ziya will soon launch an eastern expedition, to comfort the people and punish the guilty. The tyrant's head shall fall—who could possibly reverse this fate! General, you should quickly turn back. I have already pleaded with Chancellor Jiang on your behalf; he will allow you to surrender. This is truly the action of a gentleman who seizes opportunity wisely; otherwise, it would be in vain to die without purpose." Zheng Lun sighed deeply and said nothing. Su Hu continued, saying: "General Zheng, if I did not urge you earnestly, it would be a pity that your great general's talent should perish in vain. You say 'a loyal minister does not serve two sovereigns,' but now all the feudal lords have submitted to Zhou. Are they all disloyal?" Are General Huang Feihu, Duke Deng Jiugong also unfaithful? When a ruler loses the right path, he can no longer be considered the father and mother of his people; instead, such a tyrant is called a despot. Now that rebellion has spread across the land, it is King Zhou himself who has cut off his own connection to Heaven. Moreover, as the ancients said: 'A good bird chooses its tree; a virtuous minister chooses his lord.' General, you must think carefully and not bring sorrow upon yourself in vain. The Son of Heaven launched a campaign against Xiqi, yet all the highly skilled and talented individuals who could plan for the heavens and manage the earth have vanished without a trace. Could this possibly be achieved by force alone? Moreover, how many accomplished scholars and extraordinary individuals with refined arts and techniques are under Chancellor Ziya's command—could they possibly be so easily dismissed? General Zheng must not remain in delusion, but should listen to my words. There is boundless benefit ahead; one cannot be content with mere petty loyalty and righteousness." Zheng Lun, after hearing Su Hu's words, felt as if he had just awoken from a dream or emerged from a drunken stupor. He sighed deeply and said: "Had it not been for your noble words, I would have wasted my efforts in vain. It is just that I have repeatedly committed offenses; I fear the generals under Chancellor Ziya may not be able to tolerate me." Su Hu said: "Chancellor Jiang's breadth of mind is as vast as the East China Sea; what tiny stream could he possibly refuse to embrace? Those under Chancellor Jiang are all virtuous men—how could they fail to accept you?" General, do not misdirect your thoughts. I will go and report to the Chancellor immediately." Su Hu bowed before the hall and said: "General Zheng Lun has been persuaded by my words to surrender, but he once committed a minor offense. I fear that those under Chancellor Jiang may not be able to accept him." Ziya smiled and said: "At that time, we were opposing states; each of us served his own lord. Now he is willing to surrender—he has become one of our family. What room for suspicion or enmity could there be?" He quickly ordered the attendants: "Release General Zheng Lun, and let him meet in proper attire." After a short while, Zheng Lun adjusted his clothes and hat, went to the hall, knelt and bowed, saying: "Your subordinate general defied Heaven's will and failed to recognize the times; this has troubled Chancellor Jiang with much planning. Now that I have been captured, yet am further granted clemency—this virtue and grace shall never be forgotten for the rest of my life!" Ziya hurriedly descended the steps to help him up and comforted him, saying: "General, your loyal heart and righteous courage have long been known to me. But King Zhou is without virtue; he has cut himself off from Heaven, not because his subjects lack loyalty to the state. Our lord treats scholars with humility and courtesy; General should feel at ease in serving the country, and must not doubt yourself due to trivial suspicions." Zheng Lun bowed repeatedly in gratitude. Ziya then led Hou Su and others into the hall, where they paid homage to King Wu. After completing their bows and declarations of allegiance, King Wu asked: "Father-in-arms Ziya, do you have any memorials to present?" Ziya replied: "Jizhou Hou Su Hu has now surrendered and specially come to pay homage." King Wu summoned Su Hu onto the hall and comforted him, saying: "I have held Xiqi in loyalty to my sovereign, fulfilling a minister's duty completely; I dared not act against Heaven's will. I did not know the reason why, and repeatedly brought disgrace upon Your Majesty's army." Now that you have abandoned King Zhou and come to me, please temporarily reside in the western land. I and you shall together uphold our ministerial virtue, waiting for the Son of Heaven to cultivate virtue again, so we may deliberate further." "Father-in-arms and I will take the trouble on your behalf and prepare a banquet in your honor." Ziya accepted the imperial order. Hou Su's troops entered the city in full, and Xiqi was filled with a gathering of heroes from all quarters. No further mention is made. Meanwhile, Han Rong of Sishui Pass, upon hearing this news, was greatly alarmed and quickly dispatched an official to deliver a report to Chaogu City. Whether the outcome is auspicious or ominous remains to be seen in the next chapter.