Chapter 68: Brothers Yi and Qi of Shouyang Mountain Halt the Troops
首阳山夷齐阻兵
诗曰： 首阳芳躅为纲常，欲树千秋叛逆防。数语唤回人世梦，一身表率死生光。 求仁自是求仁得，义士还从义士扬。读罢史文犹自泪，空留齿颊有馀香。
The poem says: The fragrant footsteps of Shouyang set an example for moral principles; one wishes to establish a defense against rebellion for a thousand autumns. A few words call back the dream of this mortal world, and with his life he sets an example that shines through life and death. To seek benevolence is indeed to attain it; righteous men are still extolled by other righteous men. After reading the historical records, I weep still, leaving only a lingering fragrance on my lips and cheeks.
话说清虚道德真君见黄天化来问前程归著，欲说出所以，恐他不服；欲不说明自，又恐他误遭陷害。真君没奈何，只得将前去机关作一偈，听凭天命。真君作偈曰： “逢高不可战，遇能即速回。金鸡头上看，蜂拥便知机。止得功为首，千载姓名题。若不知时务，防身有难危。”
It happened that Qingxu Daode Zhenjun, upon seeing Huang Tianhua come to inquire about his future and final destination, wanted to reveal the reasons but feared he would not accept them; if he did not explain it himself, he was afraid that Huang Tianhua might be wrongly harmed. The Zhenjun had no choice but to compose a verse about the future dangers and leave it to fate. Zhenjun composed the verse, saying: "When encountering height, do not fight; when meeting strength, return quickly." Look from atop the golden rooster's head; a swarm will reveal the opportunity. Only by taking initiative can one achieve first place, and have their name inscribed for thousands of years. "If you do not understand the times, your life will be in danger."
道人作罢偈，黄天化年少英堆，那里放在心上。只见土行孙也来问惧留孙。惧留孙也知土行孙不好，他还进得关，死于张奎之手，也只得作一偈与土行孙存验，偈曰： “地行道术既能通，莫为贪嗔错用功。撺出一獐咬一口，崖前猛兽带衣红。”
After composing the verse, the Daoist, Huang Tianhua was a young and talented man; he did not take it to heart. Just then, Tuxingsun also came to ask about Juliusun. Juliusun also knew that Tuxingsun was not good, and he had entered the pass and died at Zhang Kui's hands. He could do nothing but compose another verse for Tuxingsun to keep as a warning. The verse said: "Though your earth-traveling Dao techniques are already proficient, do not waste effort on greed and anger." "A deer will leap out to bite a mouthful; before the cliff, a fierce beast with red robes awaits."
惧留孙作罢偈，土行孙谢过师尊。且说众仙与子牙作别，各回山岳而去。子牙同武王、众将进西岐城。武王回宫；子牙回帅府；大小众将俟候三日后，下教场听点。子牙次日作本谢恩，上殿来见武王。姜子牙金幞头，大红袍，玉带，将本呈上。只见上大夫散宜生接本，展于御案上。子牙俯伏奏曰：“姜尚何幸，蒙先王顾聘，未效涓埃之报，又蒙大王拜尚为将，知遇之隆，古今罕及。尚敢不效犬马之力，以报深恩也！今特表请驾亲征，以顺天人之愿。”武王曰：“相父此举，正合天心。”忙览表： “大周十三年，孟春月，扫荡成汤天宝大元帅姜尚言：伏以观时应变，固天地之气运；杀伐用张，亦神圣之功化。今商王受不敬上天，荒淫不德，残虐无辜，肆行杀戮，逆天征伐，天愁民怨，致我西土十载不安；仰仗天威，自行殄灭。臣念此艰难之久，正值纣恶贯盈之时。天下诸侯，共会孟津。蒙准臣等之请，许以东征。万姓欢腾，将士踊跃。臣不胜感激，日夜祗惧：才疏德薄，恐无补报于涓埃；佩服王言，实有惭于节钺。特恳大王，大奋乾刚，恭行天讨，亲御行营，托天威于咫尺，措全胜于前筹，早进五关，速会诸侯，观政于商。庶几天厌其秽，独夫授首，不独泄天人之愤，实于汤为有光。臣不胜激切惓望之至！谨具表以闻。”武王览完表，问曰：“相父此兵何日起程？”子牙曰：“老臣操演停当，谨择吉日，再来请驾起程。”武王传左右：“治宴与相父贺喜。”君臣共饮。子牙谢恩出朝。次日，子牙下教场看操，过名点将。子牙五更时分至教军场，升了将台。军政司辛甲启元帅：“放炮竖旗，擂鼓点将。”子牙暗思：“今人马有六十万，须用四个先行方有协助。”子牙命军政司：“令南宫适、武吉、哪吒、黄天化上台来。”辛甲领令，令四将上台打躬。子牙曰：“吾兵有六十万，用你四将为先行，挂左、右、前、后印。你等各拈一阄，自任其事，毋得错乱。”四将声喏，子牙将四阄与四将各自拈认：黄天化拈著是头队先行；南宫适是左哨；武吉是右哨；哪吒是后哨。子牙大喜。令军政官簪花挂红，各领印信。四将饮过酒，谢了元帅。子牙又令杨戬、土行孙、郑伦各拈一阄，作三军督粮官。杨戬是头运；土行孙是二运；郑伦是三运。子牙令军政官取督粮印付与三将，俱簪花挂红，各饮三杯喜酒，三将下台。子牙令军政官取点将簿，先点： 黄飞虎 黄飞彪 黄飞豹 黄明 周纪 龙环 吴谦 黄天禄 黄天爵 黄天祥 辛免 太颠 闳夭 祁恭 尹勋周之四贤、八俊： 毛公遂 周公旦 召公奭 毕公高 伯达 伯适 仲突 仲忽 叔夜 叔夏 季随 季騧 姬叔乾 姬叔坤 姬叔康 姬叔正 姬叔启 姬叔伯 姬叔元 姬叔忠 姬叔廉 姬叔德 姬叔美 姬叔奇 姬叔顺 姬叔平 姬叔广 姬叔智 姬叔勇 姬叔敬 姬叔崇 姬叔安──文王有九十九子，雷震子乃燕山所得，共为百子。文王有四乳，二十四妃，生九十九子，有三十六殿下习武，因纣王屡征西岐，阵亡十六位。又有归将降佐： 邓九公 太鸾 邓秀 赵升 孙焰红 晁田 晁雷 洪锦 季康 苏护 苏全忠 赵丙 孙子羽女将二员： 龙吉公主 邓婵玉话说子牙点将已毕，传令：“令黄飞虎上台。子牙曰：“成汤虽是气数已尽，五关之内必有精奇之士，不可不防备。当战者战，当攻者攻，其间军士须要演习阵图，方知进退之法，然后可破敌人。”随令军政官抬十阵牌放在台上： 一字长蛇阵
After composing the verse, Juliusun, Tuxingsun thanked his master. Meanwhile, the various immortals bid farewell to Ziyi and returned to their respective mountains and regions. Ziyi, together with King Wu and his generals, entered the city of Xiqi. King Wu returned to the palace; Ziyi returned to his headquarters; the officers and soldiers waited for three days, after which they would gather at the drill ground for inspection. The next day, Ziyi prepared a memorial to express gratitude and went to the hall to see King Wu. Jiang Ziyi wore a golden headpiece, a bright red robe, and a jade sash, and presented the memorial. Just then, Shang Dafu Sanyisheng received the memorial and unfolded it on the imperial desk. Ziyi knelt and presented his report, saying: "How fortunate is Jiang Shang to have been personally invited by the late king. I had not yet repaid even a drop of dust for my debt, when His Majesty further appointed me as a general. This great favor and recognition are rare in both ancient and modern times." Shang dares not withhold the loyalty of a dog or horse to repay this deep kindness! Now I specially request that Your Majesty personally lead the campaign, in order to fulfill the wishes of Heaven and the people." King Wu said: "This action by my prime minister is exactly in harmony with Heaven's will." He quickly reviewed the memorial: "In the thirteenth year of Da Zhou, in the first spring month, Grand Marshal Jiang Shang, who is to sweep away Chengtang's treasures, respectfully states: Observing the times and adapting accordingly are indeed determined by Heaven's and Earth's vital energies; the use of war is also a transformation of divine and sacred power. Now King Shou of the Shang does not revere Heaven above, indulges in licentiousness without virtue, cruelly oppresses the innocent, and commits wanton slaughter. His rebellious wars against Heaven have caused Heaven to grieve and the people to resent, leading to ten years of unrest for our western lands; relying on Heaven's might, they will naturally be destroyed. I reflect upon this prolonged hardship and realize it is precisely the time when King Zhou's wickedness has reached its peak. The feudal lords of all under Heaven have gathered at Mengjin together. If Your Majesty grants our request, we may proceed with the eastern campaign. The ten thousand subjects rejoice and the soldiers are eager to fight. I am deeply moved but also constantly fearful: my talents are shallow, my virtue thin; I fear I can offer no repayment even as small as a drop of dust; I wear the king's words with reverence and feel truly ashamed before the standards of virtue and punishment. I humbly implore His Majesty to rise up with the firmness of Heaven, to carry out Heaven's punishment in a respectful manner, and personally lead the field headquarters. By relying on Heaven's might at close range and securing complete victory through careful planning beforehand, we may swiftly advance through five passes, quickly meet with the feudal lords, and establish governance over the Shang. This would surely satisfy Heaven's hatred of their filth, and the tyrant will be captured. This is not only to vent the anger of Heaven and humanity but also truly brings honor to Tang. I am most earnestly moved and eagerly await Your Majesty's decision! With utmost respect, I submit this memorial for your knowledge." After reading the memorial, King Wu asked: "Prime Minister, on which day shall we begin our military campaign?" Ziyi said: "The old minister has finished preparing the troops. I will carefully choose an auspicious day and then come again to request Your Majesty's presence for departure." King Wu ordered his attendants: "Prepare a banquet to celebrate my prime minister." The king and ministers drank together. Ziyi thanked for the favor and left court. The next day, Ziyi went to the drill ground to inspect military exercises and called out names to review the generals. At dawn, Ziyi arrived at the training field for troops and ascended the general's platform. The military affairs officer Xin Jia addressed Marshal Jiang: "Fire cannons, raise flags, beat drums to call the generals." lodash Ziyi thought to himself: "Now that we have 600,000 troops and horses, I will need four vanguard commanders to assist properly." Ziyi ordered the military affairs office: "Summon Nan Gongdi, Wu Ji, Nezha, and Huang Tianhua to come up onto the platform." Xin Jia carried out the order and summoned the four generals to bow on the platform. Ziyi said: "Our army has 600,00 thousand soldiers; I will appoint the four of you as vanguard commanders and bestow upon you the seals for left, right, front, and rear positions. Each of you will draw a lot to determine your post; do not confuse or disrupt the arrangement." The four generals responded with a respectful "Yes, my lord," and Ziyi gave the four lots to them for drawing. Huang Tianhua drew the lot for leading the first vanguard; Nan Gongdi was assigned as left flank commander; Wu Ji was the right flank commander; Nezha was the rear flank commander. Ziyi was greatly pleased. He ordered the military officials to pin flowers and hang red ribbons on them, each receiving their official seal. After drinking wine, the four generals thanked Marshal Ziyi. Ziyi then ordered Yang Jian, Tuxingsun, and Zheng Lun to each draw a lot for the position of grain supervisor over the three armies. Yang Jian was assigned as first in charge of transport; Tuxingsun was second in charge; Zheng Lun was third in charge. Ziyi ordered the military officials to present the grain supervision seals to the three generals, who were all adorned with flowers and red ribbons. Each drank three cups of celebratory wine before descending from the platform. Ziyi ordered the military official to retrieve the roster of generals and first called out: Huang Feihu, Huang Feibiao, Huang Feibao, Huang Ming, Zhou Ji, Long Huan, Wu Qian, Huang Tianlu, Huang Tianjue, Huang Tianxiang, Xin Mian, Tai Dian, Hong Yao, Qi Gong, Yin Xun. The four virtuous men and eight outstanding talents of the Zhou family: Mao Gong sui, Zhou Gong Dan, Zhao Gong Shi, Bi Gong Gao, Bo Da, Bo Di, Zhong Tu, Zhong Hu, Shu Ye, Shu Xia, Ji Shui, Ji Guo, Ji Shu Qian, Ji Shu Kun, Ji Shu Kang, Ji Shu Zheng, Ji Shu Qi, Ji Shu Bo, Ji Shu Yuan, Ji Shu Zhong, Ji Shu Lian, Ji Shu De, Ji Shu Mei, Ji Shu Qi, Ji Shi Shun, Ji Shi Ping, Ji Shi Guang, Ji Shi Zhi, Ji Shi Yong, Ji Shi Jing, Ji Shi Chong, Ji Shi An —— King Wen had ninety-nine sons. Leizhenzi was obtained by Yanshan; together they make a hundred sons. King Wen had four wet nurses, twenty-four consorts, and ninety-nine sons. Among them, thirty-six princes trained in martial arts; because King Zhou repeatedly waged war against Xiqi, sixteen of them died on the battlefield. There were also surrendered generals who pledged allegiance: Deng Jiugong, Tailuan, Deng Xiu, Zhao Sheng, Sun Yanhong, Chao Tian, Chao Lei, Hong Jin, Ji Kang, Su Hu, Su Quanzhong, Zhao Bing, Sunzi Yu. Two female generals: Longji Gongzhu, Dengchanyu. The story continues that after Ziyi had finished calling out the names of the generals, he gave orders: "Summon Huang Feihu to the platform." Ziyi said: "Although Chengtang's fate is already at an end, there must be extraordinary talents within the five passes; we cannot afford to be unprepared. Those who should fight must fight, and those who should attack must attack. In the meantime, soldiers must practice formation diagrams to understand how to advance and retreat; only then can we defeat our enemies." He immediately ordered the military officials to bring up ten formation boards onto the platform: The Single-File Serpent Formation
八卦阴阳子母阵
Two Dragons Emerging from Water Formation
包罗万象阵子牙曰：“此阵俱按六韬之内，精演停当，军士方知进退之方。黄将军与邓将军、洪将军，你三位走一字长蛇阵。听炮响变以下诸阵，毋得错乱。”三将领令下台走此阵。正行之际，子牙传令：“点炮，化六甲迷魂阵。”竟不能齐。子牙看见，把三将令上台来，教之曰：“今日东征，非同小可，乃是大敌；若士卒教演不精，此是主将之羞，如何征伐！三位须是日夜操练，毋得怠玩，有乖军政。”三将领令下台，用心教习。子牙传令：“散操。众将打点，收拾东征。”翌日，子牙朝贺武王毕，子牙奏曰：“人马军粮皆一应齐备，请大王东行。”武王问曰：“相父将内事托与何人？”子牙曰：“上大夫散宜生可任国事，似乎可托。”武王又曰：“外事托与何人？”子牙曰：“老将军黄滚历练老成，可任军国重务。”武王大喜：“相父措处得宜，使孤欢悦。”武王退朝，入内宫见太姬，曰：“上启母后知道：今相父姜尚会诸侯于孟津，孩儿一进五关，观政于商，即便回来，不敢有乖父训。”太姬曰：“姜丞相此行，决无差失。孩儿可一应俱依相父指挥。”分付宫中治酒，与武王饯行。
Three Mountains Moon Formation
翌日，子牙把六十万雄师竟出西岐。武王亲乘甲马，率御林军来至十里亭。只见众御弟排下九龙席，与武王、姜元帅饯行。众弟进酒武王与子牙用罢，乘吉日良辰起兵。此正是纣王三十年三月二十四日。起兵点起号炮，兵威甚是雄壮。怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰： 征云蔽日隐旌旗，战士横戈纵铁骑。飞剑有光来紫电，流星斜挂落金藜。将军猛烈堪图画，天子威仪异所施。漫道吊民来伐罪，方知天地果无私。
Four Gates Bottom-Fighting Formation
话说大势雄兵离了西岐，前往燕山，一路而来，三军欢悦，百倍精神。行过了燕山，正往首阳山来。大队人马正行，只见伯夷、叔齐二人，宽衫，博袖，麻履，丝绦，站立中途，阻住大兵；大呼曰：“你是那里去的人马？我欲见你主将答话。”有哨探马报入中军：“启元帅：有二位道者欲见千岁并元帅答话。”子牙听说，忙请武王并辔上前。只见伯夷、叔齐向前稽首曰：“千岁与子牙公，见礼了。”武王与子牙欠身曰：“甲胄在身，不能下骑。二位阻路，有何事见谕？”夷、齐曰：“今日主公与元帅起兵往何处去？”子牙曰：“纣王无道，逆命于天，残虐万姓，因奴正士，焚炙忠良，荒淫不道，无辜吁天，秽德彰闻。惟我先王，若日月之照临，光于四方，显于西土，命我先王肃将天威，大勋未集。惟我西周诞及多方，肆予小子，恭行天之罚。今天下诸侯一德一心，大会于孟津，我武维扬，侵于之疆，取彼凶残，杀伐用张，于汤有光。此予小子不得已之心也。”夷、齐曰：“臣闻‘子不言父过，臣不彰君恶’。故父有诤子，君有诤臣。只闻以德而感君，未闻以下而伐上者。今纣王，君也，虽有不德，何不倾城尽谏，以尽臣节，亦不失为忠耳。况先王以服事殷，未闻不足于汤也。臣又闻‘至德无不感通，至仁无不宾服’。苟至德至仁在我，何凶残不化为淳良乎！以臣愚见，当退守臣节，体先王服事之诚，守千古君臣之分，不亦善乎。”武王听罢，停骖不语。子牙曰：“二位之言虽善，予非不知；此是一得之见。今天下溺矣，百姓如坐水火，三纲已绝，四维已折，天怒于上，民怨于下，天翻地覆之时，四海鼎沸之际。惟天矜民，民之所欲，天必从之。况夫天已肃命于我周，若不顺天，厥罪惟均。且天视自我民视，天听自我民听。百姓有过，在予一人。今予必往。如逆天不顺，非予先王有罪，惟予小子无良。”子牙左右将士欲行，见伯夷、叔齐二人言之不巳，心上甚是不快。夷、齐见左右俱有不豫之色，众人挟武王、子牙欲行，二人知其必往，乃跪走于马前，揽其辔，谏曰：“臣受先王养老之恩，终守臣节之义，不得不尽今日之心耳。今大王虽以仁义服天下，岂有父死不葬，援及干戈，可谓孝乎？以臣伐君，可谓忠乎？臣恐天下后世必有为之口实者。”左右众将见夷、齐叩马而谏，军士不得前进，心中大怒，欲举兵杀之。子牙忙止之曰：“不可。此天下之义士也。”忙令左右扶之而去，众兵方得前进。──后伯夷、叔齐入道阳山，耻食周粟，采薇作歌，终至守节饿死。至今称之，犹有馀馨。此是后事。不表。
Five Tigers Bashan Formation
且说子牙大势雄师离了首阳山，往前正发。正是： 腾腾杀气冲霄汉，簇簇征云盖地来。
Six Jia Bewildering Soul Formation
子牙人马行至金鸡岭。岭上有一枝人马，打两杆大红旗，驻札岭上，阻住大兵。哨马报至军前：“启元帅：金鸡岭有一枝人马阻住，大军不能前进，请令定夺。”子牙传令：“安下行营。”升帐坐下，著探事军打探：“是那里人马在此处阻军？”话犹未了，只见左右来报：“有一将请战。”子牙不知是那里人马，忙传令问：“谁人见阵走一遭？”有左哨先行南宫适上帐应声曰：“末将愿往。”子牙曰：“首次出军，当宜小心。”南宫适领令上马，炮声大振，一马走出营前。见一将幞头铁甲，乌马长枪。怎见得，有赞为证，赞曰： 将军如猛虎，战骑可腾云。铁甲生光艳，皂服衬龙文。赤胆扶真主，忠肝保圣君。西岐来报效，赶驾立功勋。子牙逢此将，门徒是魏贲。
Seven Advances and Seven Captures Formation
南宫适问曰：“你是那里无名之兵，敢阻西岐大军？”魏贲曰：“你是何人？往那里去？”南宫适答曰：“俺元帅奉天征讨而伐成汤，你敢大胆粗心，阻吾大队人马！”大喝一声，舞刀直取。此将手中枪赴面交还。两马相交，刀枪并举，战有三十回合。南宫适被魏贲直杀得汗流脊背，心下暗思：“才出兵至此，今日遇这员大将，若败回大营，元帅必定见责。”南宫适心上出神，不堤防被魏贲大喝一声，抓住南宫适的袍带，生擒过马去。魏贲曰：“吾不伤你性命，快请姜元帅出来相见。”又把南宫适放回营来。军政官报入中军：“南宫适听令。”子牙传令：“令来。”南宫适上帐，将“被擒放回，请元帅定夺”说了一遍。子牙听得大怒曰：“六十万人马，你乃左哨首领官，今一旦先挫吾锋，你还来见我？”喝左右：“绑出辕门，斩讫报来！”左右随将南宫适推出辕门来。魏贲在马上，见要斩南宫适，在马上大叫曰：“刀下留人！只请姜元帅相见，吾自有机密相商！”军政官报入帐中：“启老爷：那人在辕门外，叫‘刀下留人，请元帅答话，自有机密相商。’”子牙大骂：“匹夫擒吾将而不杀，反放回来，如今又在辕门讨饶！速传令摆队伍出行营！”炮声响处，大红宝纛旗摇，只见辕门下一对对都是红袍金甲，英雄威猛，先行官骑的是玉麒麟，纠纠杀气；哪吒登风火轮，昂昂眉宇；雷震子蓝面红发，手执黄金棍；韦护手捧降魔杵，俱是片片云光。正是： 盔山甲海真威武，一派天神滚出来。
Eight Trigrams Yin-Yang Mother-Son Formation
话说子牙在四不相上问曰：“你是谁人，请吾相见？”魏贲见子牙威仪整饬，兵甲鲜明，知其兴隆之兆，乃滚鞍下马，拜伏道傍，言曰：“末将闻元帅天兵伐纣，特来麾下，欲效犬马微劳，附功名于竹帛耳。因未见元帅真实，末将不敢擅入。今见元帅士马之精，威令之严，仪节之盛，知不专在军威而在于仁德也。末将敢不随鞭坠镫，共伐此独夫，以泄人神之愤耶。”子牙随令进营。魏贲上帐，复拜在地曰：“末将幼习枪马，未得其主，今逢明君与元帅，乃魏贲不负数载功夫耳。”子牙大喜。魏贲复跪而言曰：“启元帅：虽然南将军一时失利，望元帅怜而赦之。”子牙曰：“南宫适虽则失利，然既得魏将军，反是吉兆。”传令：“放来。”左右将南宫适放上帐来。南宫适谢过子牙。子牙曰：“你乃周室元勋，身为首领，初阵失机，理当该斩；奈魏贲归周，乃先凶而后吉。虽然如此，你可将左哨先行印与魏贲，你自随营听用。”即时将魏贲挂补了左哨。彼时南宫适交代印绶毕。子牙传令起兵。不表。
Nine Palaces Eight Trigrams Formation
且说只因张山阵亡，飞报至汜水关，韩荣已知子牙三月十五日金台拜将，具本上朝歌。那日微子看本，知张山阵亡，洪锦归周，忙抱本入内庭，见纣王，具奏张山为国捐躯。纣王大骇：“不意姬发猖獗至此！”忙传旨意，鸣钟鼓临殿。百官朝贺。纣王曰：“今有姬发大肆猖獗，卿等有何良谋可除西土大患？”言未毕，班中闪出中大夫飞廉，俯伏奏曰：“姜尚乃昆仑左术之士，非堂堂之兵可以擒剿，陛下发诏，须用孔宣为将。他善能五行道术，庶几反叛可擒，西土可剿。”纣王准奏，遣使命持诏往三山关来，一路无词。正是： 使命马到传飞檄，九重丹诏凤衔来。
Ten Generations of Mingwang Formation
话说使命官至三山关传：“接旨意。”孔宣接至殿上。钦差官开读诏旨。孔宣跪听宣读： “诏曰：天子有征伐之权，将帅有阃外之寄。今西岐姬发大肆猖獗，屡挫王师，罪在不赦。兹尔孔宣，谋术两全，古今无两，允堪大将；特遣使赍尔斧、钺、旌旗，特专征伐。务擒首恶，剿灭妖人，永清西土，尔之功在社稷，朕亦与有荣焉。朕决不惜茅土之封，以赉有功。尔其钦哉！故兹尔诏。”孔宣拜罢旨意，打发天使回朝歌，连夜下营，整点人马，共有十万。即日拜宝纛旗，离了三山关，一路上晓行夜住，饥餐渴饮。在路行程，也非一日。那日探马报入中军：“有汜水关韩荣接元帅。”孔宣传令：“请来。”韩荣至中军打躬：“元帅此行来迟了。”孔宣曰：“为何迟了？”韩荣曰：“姜子牙三月十五日金台拜将，人马已出西岐了。”孔宣曰：“料姜尚有何能！我此行定拏姬发君臣解进朝歌。”分付：“可速开关。”把人马催动前往西岐大道而来。不一日，至金鸡岭。哨探马来报：“金鸡岭下周兵已至，请令定夺。”孔宣传令：“将大营驻札岭上阻住周兵。”不知胜负如何，且听下回分解。
Heaven and Earth Three Talents Formation
All-Encompassing Array Ziyi said: "These formations are all based on the Six Taos, carefully practiced and perfected; only then will soldiers know how to advance or retreat. General Huang, General Deng, and General Hong — the three of you shall form the Single-File Serpent Array. Listen for the cannon to change into the following formations; do not make any mistakes." The three generals accepted the order, descended from the platform, and formed this formation. Just as they were proceeding, Ziyi gave orders: "Fire cannons; transform into the Six Jia Bewildering Soul Array." They could not form it properly. Ziyi saw this and ordered the three generals back to the platform, instructing them: "Today's eastern campaign is no small matter; it will be against a major enemy; if soldiers are not trained and drilled thoroughly, this would be the shame of their commanding officers. How can we wage war!" The three of you must train day and night without idleness or playfulness, for that would be a violation of military discipline." The three generals accepted the orders, descended from the platform, and diligently trained their troops. Ziyi gave an order: "Disband for drills." The generals prepared and organized themselves for the eastern campaign." The next day, after Ziyi paid his respects to King Wu in court, he presented a report: "All troops and provisions are fully prepared. I respectfully request Your Majesty to proceed eastward." King Wu asked: "Prime Minister, who will you entrust with internal affairs?" Ziyi said: "Shang Dafu Sanyishen can handle state affairs; he seems trustworthy." King Wu then asked: "Who will you entrust with external matters?" Ziyi said: "Old General Huang Gun is experienced and mature; he can be entrusted with important military and state affairs." King Wu was greatly pleased: "Prime Minister, your arrangements are appropriate and have brought joy to me." King Wu left court and entered the inner palace to see Taiji, saying: "Your Majesty, I wish to inform my mother: today Prime Minister Jiang Shang will convene feudal lords at Mengjin. After passing through five passes, I shall observe the administration of the Shang dynasty and return immediately, daring not to disobey my father's teachings." Taiji said: "This journey by Chancellor Jiang will surely be without mishap. You should follow all of Prime Minister's instructions." Orders were given in the palace to prepare wine, and a farewell banquet was held for King Wu.
The next day, Ziyi led an army of sixty thousand strong men out from Xiqi. King Wu personally rode an armored horse and led his imperial guards to Shili Pavilion. They saw the royal brothers arranging a nine-dragon banquet, bidding farewell to King Wu and General Jiang. After the brothers presented wine for King Wu and Ziyi to drink, they departed on a propitious day and auspicious hour. This was exactly the twenty-fourth day of the third month in the thirtieth year of King Zhou's reign. The army departed with a signal cannon, and its military might was exceedingly formidable. How can this be described? A poem serves as evidence: The clouds of war obscure the sun, concealing banners and flags; warriors brandish halberds while galloping iron-clad cavalry. Flying swords gleam with purple lightning; falling stars hang obliquely, scattering golden torches. The general's fierce might is worthy of a painting; the Son of Heaven's majestic bearing differs from ordinary displays. Do not say that this campaign to relieve the people and punish tyranny is in vain; one can now know that heaven and earth are indeed impartial.
Now, the mighty army departed from Xiqi toward Yanshan. As they advanced along the way, all three divisions were joyous and full of twice their usual vigor. After passing through Yanshan, they proceeded directly toward Shouyang Mountain. As the main force was marching forward, they suddenly saw two men—Boyi and Shuqi—in loose robes with wide sleeves, wearing hemp sandals and silk sashes. They stood in the middle of the road, blocking the army's advance; they loudly called out: "To where are your troops marching?" "We wish to speak with your commander." A scout horseman reported into the central camp: "Your Majesty, two Daoist sages wish to speak with His Majesty and General." Upon hearing this, Ziyi hurriedly invited King Wu to ride forward alongside him. They saw Boyi and Shuqi bowing deeply in front of them, saying: "Your Majesty and General Ziyi, greetings are exchanged." King Wu and Ziyi bowed slightly, saying: "Clad in armor, we cannot dismount from our horses. Two gentlemen have blocked the road—what matter do you wish to address with us?" Boyi and Shuqi said: "Today, Your Majesty and General, where are your troops marching toward?" Ziyi said: "King Zhou is tyrannical, defying the Mandate of Heaven. He cruelly oppresses the people, enslaves upright men, burns and roasts loyal officials, indulges in debauchery without morality, and his heinous deeds are widely known." Our late king, like the sun and moon shining upon all, brought glory to the four directions and prominence to the western lands. He was commanded by Heaven to solemnly display its might, yet his great achievements remain unfinished. Now that our Western Zhou has united many regions, I, your humble servant, carry out Heaven's punishment with reverence. Today, the feudal lords of all under Heaven are united in purpose and heart, gathering at Mengjin. Our martial might is raised high; we shall invade their lands, punish the cruel and wicked, wage war openly, and bring glory to Tang." This is my humble self's unavoidable resolve." Boyi and Shuqi replied: "We have heard that 'a son does not speak of his father's faults, and a minister does not expose the ruler's evils.'" Therefore, when a father has an upright son, and a ruler has an upright minister. We have only heard of using virtue to move the ruler, never of subordinates waging war against their sovereign. Now King Zhou is the ruler; though he may lack virtue, why not exhaust all efforts to advise him within the city and fulfill your duty as a minister? That would still be considered loyalty. Moreover, our late king served Yin faithfully; there is no record of his failing to meet the standards set by Tang. We have also heard that 'the highest virtue can move all hearts, and the greatest benevolence ensures universal submission.' If the highest virtue and benevolence reside in us, how could cruelty not be transformed into sincerity and goodness! In our humble opinion, we should retreat to uphold the minister's integrity, embodying the sincerity of our late king in serving his ruler and preserving the eternal distinction between sovereign and subject. Would that not be virtuous?" After hearing this, King Wu halted his horse and remained silent. Ziyi said: "Though your words are well-intentioned, I am not unaware of them; this is but a one-sided view. Now, the world is drowning; the people suffer as if in water and fire. The Three Bonds have been severed, the Four Pillars broken. Heaven is angry above, and the people are resentful below—this is an era of upheaval, a time when all under heaven is in turmoil. Heaven pities the people; whatever the people desire, Heaven must follow. Moreover, Heaven has already solemnly decreed to our Zhou dynasty that if we do not obey Heaven's will, the guilt shall be equal. Furthermore, Heaven sees through the eyes of the people and hears through their ears. If the people have suffered, it is my fault alone. Now I must go forth. If we defy Heaven and act against its will, it is not our late king who has sinned, but my humble self who lacks virtue." Ziyi's officers and soldiers on both sides were eager to proceed, but upon seeing Boyi and Shuqi persistently speaking without ceasing, they felt greatly displeased. Boyi and Shuqi, noticing the displeased expressions on those around them, saw that the crowd was urging King Wu and Ziyi forward. Knowing they would inevitably proceed, the two knelt before the horses, grasped their reins, and advised: "We have received the late king's kindness in providing for our old age; we must uphold the righteousness of a loyal minister and could not help but express our hearts today. Though Your Majesty now subdues the world with benevolence and righteousness, how can one claim filial piety if a father's death is left unburied, yet weapons are raised in war? To attack the sovereign as a subject—can that be called loyalty?" We fear that future generations will surely have grounds to criticize this." The officers and soldiers on either side, seeing Boyi and Shuqi kneeling before the horses to advise and preventing the troops from advancing, became greatly enraged and wished to raise their weapons to kill them. Ziyi quickly stopped them, saying: "No." These are righteous men of the world. He quickly ordered his attendants to assist them away, and only then could the soldiers proceed forward. Later, Boyi and Shuqi went to Dao Yang Mountain, regarding it as a disgrace to eat Zhou grain. They gathered fava beans (wei) and composed songs, ultimately maintaining their integrity until starving to death. To this day, they are still remembered, with a lingering fragrance of virtue. This is what happened later. I will not elaborate further.
Let us return to Ziyi's mighty army, which had departed from Shouyang Mountain and was now advancing forward. Indeed: The surging aura of war pierces the heavens, while dense clouds of campaign blot out the earth from above.
Ziyi's troops marched to Jinji Ling. On the mountain, a contingent of troops raised two large red banners and was stationed on the ridge, blocking the main army's advance. A scout horseman reported to the front of the army: "Your Majesty, a contingent at Jinji Ling is blocking our advance; the main force cannot proceed. Please issue orders." Ziyi issued an order: "Set up camp below and prepare for encampment." He entered the tent, sat down, and ordered the reconnaissance troops to investigate: "Whose forces are these that have blocked our army here?" The words were not yet finished when suddenly someone from either side reported: "A general requests to fight." Ziyi did not know whose forces they were, and quickly issued an order asking: "Who will go out to scout the enemy formation?" From the left vanguard, Nan Gong Shi stepped forward and volunteered: "I shall go." Ziyi said: "This is your first time leading troops; you must proceed with caution." Nan Gong Shi accepted the order, mounted his horse. A cannon roared as he rode out alone from in front of the camp. He saw a general wearing a headpiece and iron armor, riding a black horse with a long spear. How can this be described? An ode serves as evidence: The general is like a fierce tiger; his battle steed soars through the clouds. His iron armor gleams brilliantly, and his dark robe features dragon patterns. With a crimson heart he supports the true ruler; with loyal courage he protects the holy sovereign. From Xiqi, he comes to serve and establish meritorious deeds by joining the campaign. Ziyi encountered this general—his disciple is Wei Bin.
Nan Gong Shi asked: "What nameless troops are you, daring to block the Western Zhou's army?" Wei Bin replied: "Who are you?" Where are you going?" Nan Gong Shi replied: "Our general has been commissioned by Heaven to campaign and punish the Shang dynasty. How dare you recklessly block our main force!" With a loud shout, he brandished his sword and charged directly at him. The general in question met the attack head-on with his spear. Their horses clashed, swords and spears raised together; they fought for thirty rounds. Nan Gong Shi, drenched in sweat on his back from the battle with Wei Bin, secretly thought: "I have just left camp and encountered this formidable general. If I return defeated to the main camp, General will surely reprimand me." Lost in thought, Nan Gong Shi did not notice Wei Bin's sudden shout. In an instant, Wei Bin seized his robe and belt, capturing him alive and dragging him over to his own horse. Wei Bin said: "I will not take your life, but quickly summon General Jiang to come out and meet me." He then sent Nan Gong Shi back to the camp. The military officer reported into the central command: "Nan Gong Shi, report for orders." Zi Ya gave an order: "Come forward." Nan Gong Shi entered the tent and recounted how he had been captured, then released, and requested that General Jiang make a decision. Zi Ya, upon hearing this, became greatly enraged and said: "With an army of six hundred thousand men, you are the leader of the left vanguard. Now that you have first struck a blow to my momentum, how dare you still come before me?" He shouted at those on the left and right: "Tie him up and drag him out of the 辕门 (Yuanmen), behead him, and report back!" The attendants immediately dragged Nan Gong Shi out through the 辕门 (Yuan Men). Wei Bin, on horseback, saw that Nan Gong Shi was about to be executed and shouted from his horse: "Stop the execution!" "I only wish to meet General Jiang. I have important matters to discuss with him personally!" The military officer reported inside the tent: "Your Honor, that man outside Yuan Men is shouting, 'Stop the execution! Please let General come out and speak with me. I have secret matters to discuss.'" Zi Ya shouted in anger: "You rascal, you captured my general but did not kill him and instead released him back. Now you dare to beg for mercy at Yuan Men!" "Quickly issue the order to form up the troops and march out of camp!" As the cannon roared, a crimson imperial banner waved. Looking down at Yuan Men, one could see pairs of soldiers in red robes and golden armor, heroic and fierce; the vanguard officer rode a jade qilin, exuding an imposing aura of battle. Ne Zha ascended his Fenghuo Lun (wind-fire wheel), his brows raised with confidence; Lei Zhensi, blue-faced and red-haired, held a golden staff in his hand; Wei Hu held the Xiangmo Chu (magic pestle), all of them surrounded by patches of cloud light. Indeed: The mountain of helmets and the sea of armor truly display might; a host of heavenly gods surges forth.
Now, Zi Ya asked from atop his Sibuxiang: "Who are you that you request an audience with me?" Wei Bin, seeing Zi Ya's imposing presence and the bright armor of his troops, realized it was a sign of prosperity. He dismounted from his horse, knelt by the roadside, and said: "Your humble servant has heard that General commands Heaven's army to campaign against Zhou, so I have specially come under your banner, wishing to offer my meager service like a dog or horse, and leave my name recorded in history." Because I had not yet seen the true might of General, your humble servant dared not enter 擅自 (shànzì). Now that I have seen General's elite troops, strict commands, and grand ceremonies, I know it is not merely the might of the army but also rooted in benevolence and virtue. Your humble servant dares not hesitate to follow the whip and bridle, joining together in the campaign against this tyrant, to relieve the anger of both humanity and heaven." Zi Ya immediately ordered him to enter camp. Wei Bin entered the tent and knelt on the ground again, saying: "Your humble servant was trained in spear and horse since childhood but had never found a true master. Now I have encountered an enlightened ruler and General, which is not in vain after years of effort." Zi Ya was greatly pleased. Wei Bin knelt again and said: "Your Honor, although General Nan suffered a temporary defeat, I hope you will show mercy and pardon him." Zi Ya said: "Although General Nan Gong Shi suffered a setback, the fact that we have gained General Wei is actually an auspicious omen." He gave orders: "Release him." The attendants brought Nan Gong Shi up to the tent. Nan Gong Shi thanked Zi Ya. Zi Ya said: "You are a distinguished general of the Zhou dynasty, and as a leader, you lost an opportunity in your first battle; by right, you should be executed;" "However, since General Wei Bin has defected to the Zhou, it is a case of initial misfortune followed by good fortune." "Although this is so, you may hand over the seal and authority of the left vanguard to General Wei Bin. You yourself will remain in camp under my command."" At once, Wei Bin was appointed as the leader of the left vanguard and given his official insignia. At that time, Nan Gong Shi completed the handover of the seal and sash. Zi Ya issued orders to mobilize the troops. No further details are given.
Meanwhile, due to Zhang Shan's death on the battlefield, a fast report was sent to Sishui Guan. Han Rong already knew that Zi Ya had been enfeoffed as general at Jintai on the fifteenth day of the third month and submitted an official memorial to Chaoguo. On that day, Wei Zi read the memorial and learned of Zhang Shan's death in battle and Hong Jin's defection to the Zhou. He quickly took the memorial into the inner court, presented it before King Zhou, and formally reported that Zhang Shan had given his life for the state. King Zhou was greatly alarmed: "I did not expect Ji Fa to have grown so bold and rampant!" He quickly issued an imperial decree, summoning the court with bells and drums. All officials paid homage. Before the emperor had finished speaking, Zhong Dafu Fei Lian stepped forward from among the officials and knelt to report: "Jiang Shang is a practitioner of esoteric arts from Kunlun's left sect; he cannot be captured or defeated by ordinary troops. Your Majesty must issue an imperial decree appointing Kong Xuan as general." "He is skilled in the five elements of Daoist magic, and only then can we capture the rebels and quell the western threat." King Zhou approved the suggestion and sent envoys with an imperial decree to Sanshan Guan. Along the way, there were no incidents. Indeed: The envoy's horse arrived swiftly with a flying edict; from the ninefold palace, the vermilion decree came borne by phoenix.
Now, when the imperial envoy reached Sanshan Guan and announced: "Receive the imperial decree." Kong Xuan received him on the palace dais. The imperial envoy read aloud the decree. Kong Xuan knelt and listened as it was read: "The decree says: The Son of Heaven holds the authority to campaign, and generals are entrusted with command beyond the palace gates. Now, Ji Fa of Western Zhou has grown bold and rampant, repeatedly defeating our imperial forces; his crimes are unforgivable." You Kong Xuan, you possess both strategy and skill unparalleled in ancient or modern times, and are indeed worthy of being a great general; Therefore, I specially dispatch an envoy to bestow upon you the axe, halberd, and banners, granting you full authority for campaign. You must capture the chief villain, eliminate the demon, and forever pacify the western lands. Your merit for the state will be great, and I shall share in your glory." I shall certainly not withhold fiefdoms as rewards for those who have rendered service. You must show reverence and carry this out!" Thus, this is my decree." After bowing to receive the imperial decree, Kong Xuan sent the envoy back to Chaoguo and set up camp that very night. He mustered his troops and counted a total of one hundred thousand soldiers. On the same day, he raised the imperial banner and departed from Sanshan Guan, traveling by day and resting at night along the way, eating when hungry and drinking when thirsty. The journey took many days. On that day, a scout reported into the central camp: "General Han Rong of Sishui Guan is waiting to meet the general." Kong Xuan gave orders: "Please him in." Han Rong arrived at the central camp and bowed, saying: "General's arrival is delayed." Kong Xuan asked: "Why have you been delayed?" Han Rong replied: "Jiang Zi Ya was enfeoffed as a general at Jintai on the 15th day of the third month, and his troops have already left Western Zhou." Kong Xuan said: "What ability can Jiang Shang possibly have!" "On this campaign, I will surely capture Ji Fa and his ministers and bring them to Chaoguo." He ordered: "Quickly open the gate!" They hurried their troops along the main road toward Western Zhou. In no time, they arrived at Jinji Ling. A scout horseman reported: "Zhou troops have already reached Jinji Ling; please give orders." Kong Xuan issued an order: "Set up the main camp on the mountain and block the Zhou troops." Whether they won or lost remains to be seen. Stay tuned for the next chapter.
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