Chapter 7: Fei Zhong's Scheme to Depose Empress Jiang

诗曰： 纣王无道乐温柔，日夜宣淫兴未休。月光已西重进酒；清歌才罢奏箜篌。 养成暴虐三纲绝；酿就酗戕万姓愁。讽谏难回下流性，至今馀恨锁西楼。

The poem says: King Zhou was without virtue and enjoyed gentleness; day and night he indulged in lust, his passions never ceasing. The moonlight had already moved westward; the wine was poured again. Clear songs had just ended, and the konghou was played. Nurtured into cruelty, the Three Bonds were severed; Intoxicated and violent, he caused sorrow among ten thousand people. Satirical advice could not change his base nature; to this day, lingering regrets bind the western tower.

话言姜皇后听得音乐之声，问左右，知是纣王与妲己饮宴，不觉点头叹曰：“天子荒淫，万民失业，此取乱之道。昨外臣谏诤，竟遭惨死，此事如何是好！眼见得成汤天下变更，我身为皇后，岂有坐视之理！”姜皇后乘辇，两边排列宫人，红灯闪灼，簇拥而来，前至寿仙宫。侍驾官启奏：“姜娘娘已到宫门候旨。”纣王更深带酒，醉眼眸斜：“苏美人，你当去接梓童。”妲己领旨出宫迎接。苏氏见皇后行礼。皇后赐以平身。妲己引导姜皇后至殿前，行礼毕。纣王曰：“命左右设坐，请梓童坐。”姜皇后谢恩，坐于右首。──看官：那姜后乃纣王元配；妲己乃美人，坐不得，侍立一旁。纣王与正宫把盏。王曰：“梓童今到寿仙宫，乃朕喜幸。”命妲己：“美人著宫娥鲧捐轻敲檀板，美人自歌舞一回，与梓童赏玩。”其时鲧捐轻敲檀板，妲己歌舞起来。但见： 霓裳摆动，绣带飘扬，轻轻裙裷不沾尘，袅袅腰肢风折柳。歌喉嘹喨，犹如月里奏仙音； 一点朱唇，却似樱桃逢雨湿。尖纤十指，愰如春笋一般同；杏脸桃腮，好像牡丹初绽蕊。正是：琼瑶玉宇神仙降，不亚嫦娥下世间。

It is said that Empress Jiang, upon hearing the sound of music and dance, asked those around her. Learning it was King Zhou feasting with Daji, she could not help but nod and sigh, saying: "The Son of Heaven indulges in debauchery while the ten thousand people lose their livelihoods; this is how chaos is invited." Yesterday, an outer minister who gave remonstrance was brutally killed—how can such a matter be handled! I see how the world of Chengtang is changing; as empress, could I possibly stand by and do nothing!" Empress Jiang rode in a palanquin, with palace attendants lined up on both sides. Red lanterns flickered as they came together in a crowd to the Shouxian Palace. The attendant-in-attendance reported: "Empress Jiang has arrived at the palace gate and is waiting for an audience." King Zhou, drunk late into the night with slanted eyes, said: "Lady Su, you should go and receive Her Majesty." Daji received the order and left the palace to greet her. Lady Su bowed to the empress upon seeing her. The empress granted permission for Lady Su to rise. Daji led Empress Jiang to the front of the hall, and after completing the bowing ceremony. King Zhou said: "Order those on my left and right to set up seats; please have Her Majesty sit." Empress Jiang expressed her gratitude and sat at the seat on the right. ──Reader: Empress Jiang was King Zhou's first wife; Daji, being a concubine, could not sit and stood in attendance by the side. King Zhou and the empress clinked their cups together. The king said: "Her Majesty's arrival at Shouxian Palace today is a joy for me." King Zhou ordered Daji: "Fair lady, have the palace maid Guan Juanqing strike the tanban lightly; you yourself shall dance and sing a performance for Her Majesty's enjoyment." At that time, Guan Juanqing lightly struck the tanban, and Daji began to sing and dance. One could see: The flowing robes swayed, embroidered sashes fluttered in the air; her light skirt did not touch the dust, and her graceful waist bent like willow branches in the wind. Her singing voice was clear and resonant, as if divine music were played from within the moon; لوم A single touch of vermilion lips, yet like cherries met by a rain shower. Her slender fingers were as delicate as spring bamboo shoots; Her peach-blossom cheeks and apricot face resembled a peony just beginning to bloom. Indeed: A celestial being descended from jade halls, no less than Chang'e coming down to the mortal world.

妲己腰肢袅娜，歌韵轻柔，好似轻云岭上摇风，嫩柳池塘拂水。只见鲧捐与两边侍儿喝采，跪下齐称万岁。姜皇后正眼也不看，但以眼观鼻，鼻叩于心。

Daji's graceful waist and soft singing were like light clouds swaying in the wind on a mountain ridge, or tender willows brushing the water by a pond. One could see Guan Juan and the attendants on both sides applauding, kneeling down together to chant "Ten Thousand Years." Empress Jiang did not even glance at her, but kept her eyes fixed on her nose and her mind focused inward.

忽然纣王看见姜后如此，带笑问曰：“御妻，光阴瞬息，岁月如流，景致无多，正宜当此取乐。如妲己之歌舞，乃天上奇观，人间少有的，可谓真实。御妻何无喜悦之色，正颜不观，何也？”姜皇后就此出席，跪而奏曰：“如妲己歌舞，岂是稀奇，也不是真实。”纣王曰：“此乐非奇宝，何以为奇宝也？”姜后曰：“妾闻人君有道，贱货而贵德，去谗而远色，此人君自省之宝也。若所谓天有宝，日月星辰；地有宝，五谷园林；国有宝，忠臣良将；家有宝，孝子贤孙。此四者，乃天地国家所有之宝也。如陛下荒淫酒色，徵歌逐技，穷奢极欲，听谗信佞，残杀忠良，驱逐正士，播弃黎老，昵比匪人，惟以妇言是用，此‘牝鸡司晨，惟家之索’。以此为宝，乃倾家丧国之宝也。妾愿陛下改过弗吝，聿修厥德，亲师保，远女侍，立纲持纪，毋事宴游，毋沉酗于酒，毋怠荒于色；日勤政事，弗自满假，庶几天心可回，百姓可安，天下可望太平矣。妾乃女流，不识忌讳，妄干天听，愿陛下痛改前愆，力赐施行。妾不胜幸甚！天下幸甚！”姜皇后奏罢，辞谢毕，上辇远宫。

Suddenly, King Zhou saw Empress Jiang behave in this way and with a smile asked: "My empress, time passes swiftly like flowing water; there are not many sights to behold. This is precisely the moment for enjoyment." Daji's singing and dancing are a rare spectacle in heaven, seldom seen on earth; this can be said to be true. My empress, why do you show no joy? Why are you not looking at her with a pleasant expression?" Empress Jiang immediately rose from her seat, knelt down, and reported: "Daji's singing and dancing—how could they be considered rare or genuine?" King Zhou said: "If this music is not a rarity, then what can be called a rarity?" Empress Jiang said: "I have heard that when a ruler is virtuous, he values virtue over material goods and rejects flattery while keeping away from beauty—this self-reflection by the Son of Heaven is truly precious." If what is called heavenly treasure exists, it would be the sun, moon, and stars; earth's treasures are the five grains and gardens; a nation's treasures are loyal ministers and capable generals; and a family's treasures are filial sons and virtuous descendants. These four things are the true treasures of heaven, earth, the nation, and the home. If Your Majesty indulges in wine and beauty, seeks songs and arts, lives in extreme luxury and desire, listens to flattery and trusts villains, kills loyal ministers, drives away upright men, abandons the elderly people of the land, befriends wicked individuals, and only heeds a woman's words—this is what it means when they say 'a hen crows at dawn; this brings ruin to one's family.' To take such things as treasures is to possess the very treasures that bring ruin to a home and destruction to a nation. I wish Your Majesty would not hesitate to correct your faults, diligently cultivate virtue, be close to wise mentors and protectors, keep away from female attendants, uphold the principles of governance, refrain from feasting and idleness, avoid indulgence in wine, and not grow idle or debauched by beauty; diligently attend to state affairs, and not be arrogant or complacent. Only then may Heaven's will turn in your favor, the people find peace, and a tranquil world for all under heaven become possible. I am but a woman of low status, unaware of taboos, and have dared to speak out recklessly before Heaven. I pray Your Majesty will deeply repent your past faults and earnestly carry these words into action. I can only hope for this with great joy! The world will be most fortunate!" After Empress Jiang finished her remonstration and expressed her thanks, she boarded the palanquin and returned to her distant palace.

且言纣王已是酒醉，听妾皇后一番言语，十分怒色：“这贱人不识抬举！朕著美人歌舞一回，与他取乐玩赏，反被他言三语四，许多说话。若不是正宫，用金瓜击死，方消我恨。好懊恼人也！”此时三更已尽，纣王酒已醒了。叫：“美人，方才朕躬著恼，再舞一回，与朕解闷。”妲己跪下奏曰：“妾身从今不敢歌舞。”王曰：“为何？”妲己曰：“姜皇后深责妾身，此歌舞乃倾家丧国之物。况皇后所见甚正，妾身蒙圣恩宠眷，不敢暂离左右。倘娘娘传出宫闱，道贱妾蛊惑圣聪，引诱天子，不行仁政，使外庭诸臣持此督责，妾虽拔发，不足偿其罪矣。”言罢泪下如雨。纣王听罢，大怒曰：“美人只管侍朕，明日便废了贱人，立你为皇后。朕自做主，美人勿忧。”妲己谢恩，复传奏乐饮酒，不分昼夜。不表。

Meanwhile, King Zhou was already drunk; upon hearing Empress Jiang's words, he turned very angry: "This lowly woman does not know her place!" I had the beauty perform a song and dance for his amusement, yet he spoke at length with many words. If she were not the empress, I would have her struck down with a golden gourd to quell my anger. How annoying!" At this time, the third watch had ended and King Zhou's drunkenness had worn off. He called: "Fair lady, just now I was in a foul mood; dance once more for me to dispel my melancholy." Daji knelt and reported: "From now on, I dare not sing or dance again." The king asked: "Why?" Daji said: "Empress Jiang severely reprimanded me, saying that this singing and dancing are the very things that bring ruin to a family and destruction to a nation." Moreover, Her Majesty's words were most just. As I am favored by Your Majesty's grace, I dare not leave your side for a moment. If Her Majesty were to spread this within the palace, saying that I have bewitched Your Majesty's wisdom and led the Son of Heaven away from benevolent governance, causing ministers in court to hold me accountable—though I were to pluck out my hair, it would not be enough to atone for my crimes." After speaking these words, she wept as if rain poured from her eyes. King Zhou, upon hearing this, became furious and said: "Fair lady, you must serve me. Tomorrow I shall debase that lowly woman and make you empress. I will decide it myself; do not worry, fair lady." Daji expressed her gratitude and then resumed the music and drinking, without distinction between day and night. No further details are given.

一日，朔望之辰。姜皇后在中宫，各宫嫔妃朝贺皇后。西宫黄贵妃──乃黄飞虎之妹，──馨庆宫杨贵妃俱在正宫。又见宫人来报：“寿仙宫苏妲己候旨。”皇后传：“宣！”妲己进宫，见姜皇后升宝座，黄贵妃在左，杨贵妃在右，妲己进宫朝拜已毕。姜皇后特赐美人平身。妲己侍立一旁。二贵妃问曰：“这就是苏美人？”姜后曰：“正是。”因对苏氏责曰：“天子在寿仙宫，无分昼夜，宣淫作乐，不理朝政，法纪混淆；你并无一言规谏。迷惑天子，朝歌暮舞，沉湎酒色，拒谏杀忠，坏成汤之大典，国家之安危，是皆汝之作俑也。从今如不悛改，引君当道，仍前肆无忌惮，定以中宫之法处之！且退！”

One day, on the first or fifteenth of the lunar month. Empress Jiang was in the central palace, where concubines and ladies from other palaces came to pay homage and offer congratulations. Lady Huang Guifei of the Western Palace—sister of Huang Feihu—along with Lady Yang Guifei of Xinqing Palace were both present in the main palace. They also saw a palace attendant reporting: "From Shouxian Palace, Su Daji is waiting for an audience." The empress ordered: "Announce her!" Daji entered the palace and saw Empress Jiang seated on her throne, with Lady Huang Guifei to her left and Lady Yang Guifei to her right. After completing her courtly bow, Daji entered the hall. Empress Jiang specially granted permission for the beauty to rise. Daji stood in attendance on one side. The two concubines asked: "Is this the Lady Su?" Empress Jiang said: "Indeed it is." She then turned to Lady Su and scolded: "The Son of Heaven, in Shouxian Palace, indulges without distinction between day or night, spreads lustful pleasures, neglects court affairs, and causes law and discipline to become confused; you have not spoken a single word of remonstration. You have bewitched the Son of Heaven, dancing and singing from dawn to dusk, indulging in wine and beauty, rejecting remonstrance and killing loyal ministers. It is you who have corrupted the great traditions of Chengtang and endangered the nation's safety. All this originates with your actions. From now on, if you do not reform and continue to lead the king astray without restraint, I shall surely deal with you according to the laws of the central palace! Go away!"

妲己忍气吞声，拜谢出宫，满面羞愧，闷闷回宫。时有鲧捐接住妲己，口称“娘娘”。妲己进宫，坐在绣墩之上，长吁一声。鲧捐曰：“娘娘今日朝正宫而回，为何短叹长吁？”妲己切齿曰：“我乃天子之宠妃，姜后自恃元配，对黄、杨二贵妃耻辱我不堪，此恨如何不报！”鲧捐曰：“主公前日亲许娘娘为正宫，何愁不能报复？”妲己曰：“虽许，但姜后现在，如何做得？必得一奇计，害了姜后，方得妥贴；不然，百官也不服，依旧谏诤而不宁，怎得安然。你有何计可行？其福亦自不浅。”鲧捐对曰：“我等俱系女流，况奴婢不过一侍婢耳，有甚深谋远虑。依奴婢之意，不若召一外臣，计议方妥。”妲己沉吟半晌曰：“外官如何召得进来。况且耳目甚众，又非心腹之人，如何使得！”鲧捐曰：“明日天子幸御花园，娘娘暗传懿旨，宣召中谏大夫费仲到宫，待奴婢吩咐他，定一妙计，若害了姜皇后，许他官居显任，爵禄加增，他素有才名，自当用心，万无一失。”妲己曰：“此计虽妙，恐彼不肯，奈何？”鲧捐曰：“此人亦系主公宠臣，言听计从；况娘娘进宫，也是他举荐。奴婢知他必肯尽力。”妲己大喜。

Daji, suppressing her anger and swallowing her words, bowed in thanks and left the palace. Her face was full of shame as she returned to her quarters in a sullen mood. At that time, Guan Juan met Daji and addressed her with the title "Her Majesty." Daji entered her palace, sat on an embroidered cushion, and let out a long sigh. Guan Juan said: "My lady returned from the main palace today; why do you sigh so deeply?" Daji gritted her teeth and said: "I am the beloved concubine of the Son of Heaven. Empress Jiang, relying on being his first wife, has shamed me beyond endurance before Lady Huang and Lady Yang. How can I not seek revenge for this grievance!" Guan Juan said: "A few days ago, the king personally promised to make my lady empress. Why should you worry about being unable to take revenge?" Daji said: "Though he has made this promise, Empress Jiang is still in power now. How can we proceed?" We must devise a cunning plan to eliminate Empress Jiang before things will be settled properly; otherwise, the officials will not accept it and continue remonstrating, causing unrest. How can we achieve peace?" Do you have any plan that might work?" Their fortune will also be considerable." Guan Juan replied: "We are both women, and as for me, a mere servant girl, I have no great strategies or long-term plans. In my humble opinion, it would be better to summon an outer minister and discuss the matter thoroughly." Daji pondered for a while and said: "How can we possibly summon an outside official into the palace? Besides, there are many eyes and ears around, and such people are not trusted confidants. How could we possibly rely on them!" Guan Juan said: "Tomorrow, when the Son of Heaven visits the imperial garden, my lady may secretly issue an edict to summon Zhong Jian 大夫 Fei Zhong to the palace. Once I give him instructions, he will surely devise a brilliant plan. If he succeeds in harming Empress Jiang, you may promise him a prominent position and increased rank and rewards. He is known for his talent and will certainly act with care; there will be no room for failure." Daji said: "Though this plan is clever, I fear he may refuse. What then?" Guan Juan said: "This man is also a favorite minister of the king; he listens to and follows your words and plans. Moreover, it was he who recommended you when you entered the palace." I know for certain that he will be willing to exert every effort." Daji was greatly pleased.

那日纣王幸御花园，鲧捐暗传懿旨，把费仲宣至寿仙宫。费仲在宫门外，只见鲧捐出宫问曰：“费大夫，娘娘有密旨一封，你拿出去自拆，观其机密，不可漏泄。若事成之后，苏娘娘决不负大夫。宜速，不宜迟。”鲧捐道罢，进宫去了。费仲接书，急出午门，到于本宅，至密室开拆观看：“乃妲己教我设谋，害姜皇后的重情。”看罢，沉思忧惧：“我想起来，姜皇后乃主上元配；他的父亲乃东伯侯姜桓楚，镇于东鲁，雄兵百万，麾下大将千员；长子姜文焕又勇贯三军，力敌万夫，怎的惹得他！若有差讹，其害非小。若迟疑不行，他又是天子宠妃。那日他若雠恨，或枕边密语，或酒后谗言，吾死无葬身之地矣！”心下踌蹰，坐卧不安，如芒刺背。沉思终日，并无一筹可展，半策可施。厅前走到厅后，神魂颠倒，如醉如痴。坐在厅上，正纳闷间；只见一人，身长丈四，膀阔三停，壮而且勇，走将过去。费仲问曰：“是什么人？”那人忙向前叩头，曰：“小的是姜环。”费仲闻说，便问：“你在我府中几年了？”姜环曰：“小的来时，离东鲁到老爷台下五年了。蒙老爷一向抬举，恩德如山，无门可报。适才不知爷爷闷坐，有失回避，望老爷恕罪。”费仲一见此人，计上心来，便叫：“你且起来，我有事用你。不知你肯用心去做否？你的富贵亦自不小。”姜环曰：“若老爷吩咐，安敢不努力前去？况小的受老爷知遇之恩，便使不的赴汤蹈火，万死不辞。”费仲大喜，曰：“我终日沉思，无计可施，谁知却在你身上！若事成之后，不失金带垂腰，其福应自不浅。”姜环曰：“小的怎敢望此。求老爷吩咐，小人领命。”费仲附姜环耳上：“……这般这般，如此如此，若此计成，你我有无穷富贵。切莫漏泄，其祸非同小可！”姜环点头，领计去了。这正是：金风未动蝉先觉，暗送无常死不知。有诗为证。诗曰： 姜后忠贤报主难，孰知平地起波澜。可怜数载鸳鸯梦，取次凋残不忍看。

On that day, King Zhou visited the imperial garden; Guan Juan secretly issued an edict and summoned Fei Zhong to Shouxian Palace. Outside the palace gate, Fei Zhong saw Guan Juan come out and ask: "Minister Fei, my lady has a secret edict for you. Take it outside and open it yourself. Observe its contents carefully and do not let any information leak out. Once the matter is successfully completed, Lady Su will certainly not betray you." Act quickly; do not delay." After saying this, Guan Juan went back into the palace. Fei Zhong took the letter and hurried out of Wumen Gate to his residence, where he opened it in a private room. Inside was written: "It is Lady Daji who has instructed me to devise a plan to harm Empress Jiang with great urgency." After reading it, he pondered anxiously: "Thinking about this, Empress Jiang is the king's principal wife; her father is Dongbo Hou Jiang Huanchu, who governs the eastern Lu region and commands a hundred thousand troops with thousands of capable generals under his command; her eldest son, Jiang Wenhuan, is also a brave general who surpasses all troops and can match ten thousand men. How could I possibly provoke him!" If there is any mistake or error, the consequences will be grave." But if I hesitate and do not act, she is also a favored concubine of the Son of Heaven. On that day, if she bears a grudge against me, whether by whispering secretly in the emperor's ear or slandering me after drinking alcohol, I will surely die with no place to bury my body!" He was filled with hesitation and anxiety, unable to sit or lie down in peace, as if a thorn were pricking his back. After deep thought all day long, he had no plan to offer and no strategy that could be implemented. He walked from the front hall to the back hall in a daze, his spirit unsettled, as if drunk or delirious. While sitting in the hall and pondering this problem, he was lost in thought when; a man appeared. He stood over four chi tall, had broad shoulders three times the average width, and was both strong and brave as he strode forward. Fei Zhong asked: "Who is this man?" The man hurried forward and kowtowed, saying: "I am Jiang Huan." Fei Zhong heard this and asked: "How many years have you been in my household?" Jiang Huan said: "Since I came here, it has been five years since I left the eastern Lu region to serve under your lordship. Your continual kindness and support have been as great as a mountain, yet I have no way to repay you." I just did not realize that my lord was brooding in silence and failed to avoid the area. I beg your pardon, my lord." At the sight of this man, a plan immediately came to Fei Zhong's mind. He called out: "Rise up. I have something for you to do. I wonder if you are willing to put your heart into it?" Your wealth and honor will also be considerable." Jiang Huan said: "If my lord gives orders, how could I dare not strive to go forward with all my might? Moreover, having received your lord's kindness and favor, even if you were to send me into boiling water or over a fire, I would not hesitate for ten thousand deaths." Fei Zhong was greatly pleased and said: "I have been brooding all day, unable to devise any plan. Who would have thought the solution lies in you! Once this matter is successfully completed, you will surely not miss out on a golden sash around your waist. Your fortune shall certainly be considerable." Jiang Huan said: "How could I dare to hope for such things?" I beg my lord to give orders. I am ready to accept your command." Fei Zhong leaned close to Jiang Huan's ear and said: "......Do this, do that. If this plan succeeds, you and I will enjoy endless wealth and honor. Above all, keep it a secret; the consequences of any leak would be grave!" Jiang Huan nodded and left to carry out his mission. This is precisely: The golden wind has not yet stirred, but the cicada senses it first; death is silently sent without one's knowledge. There is a poem to attest to this. The poem says: Empress Jiang, loyal and virtuous, faced great difficulties in serving her lord; who could have known that waves would rise from still waters. Pitiful is the many years of a mandarin duck's dream, now withered and broken, unbearable to behold.

话说费仲密密将计策写明，暗付鲧捐。鲧捐得书，密奏与妲己。妲己大喜，正宫不久可居。

Now let us speak of Fei Zhong secretly writing out the plan in detail and passing it on to Guan Juan in secret. Guan Juan received the letter and secretly presented it to Daji. Daji was overjoyed; she would soon be able to reside in the main palace.

一日，纣王在寿仙宫闲居无事，妲己启奏曰：“陛下愿恋妾身，旬日未登金殿，望陛下明日临朝，不失文武仰望。”王曰：“美人所言，真是难得！虽古之贤妃圣后，岂是过哉。明日临朝，裁决机务，庶不失贤妃美意。”──看官：此是费仲、妲己之计，岂是好意？表过不题。

One day, when King Zhou was idly staying in Shouxian Palace without any business to attend to, Daji presented a report and said: "Your Majesty's affection for me is great; it has been ten days since you last ascended the golden throne. I hope Your Majesty will appear at court tomorrow so as not to disappoint the expectations of your civil and military officials." The king said: "What my beauty says is truly rare! Even the virtuous consorts and saintly empresses of ancient times would not surpass this. Tomorrow, I shall appear at court to deliberate on important affairs so as not to fail in honoring my virtuous concubine's kind intentions." ──Reader: This was the plan of Fei Zhong and Daji. Could it possibly be a good intention? We will not dwell on this further.

次日，天子设朝，但见左右奉御保驾，出寿仙宫，銮舆过龙德殿，至分宫楼，红灯簇簇，香气氤氲。正行之间，分宫楼门角旁一人，身高丈四，头带扎巾，手执宝剑，行如虎狼，大喝一声，言曰：“昏君无道，荒淫酒色，吾奉主母之命，刺杀昏君，庶成汤天下不失与他人，可保吾主为君也！”一剑劈来。两边该多少保驾官，此人未近前时，已被众官所获，绳缠索绑，拿近前来，跪在地下。纣王惊而且怒，驾至大殿升座，文武朝贺毕，百官不知其故。王曰：“宣武成王黄飞虎、亚相比干。”二臣随出班拜伏称臣。纣王曰：“二卿，今日升殿，异事非常。”比干曰：“有何异事？”王曰：“分宫楼有一刺客，执剑刺朕，不知何人所使？”黄飞虎听言大惊，忙问曰：“昨日是那一员官宿殿？”内有一人，乃是“封神榜”上有名，官拜总兵，姓鲁名雄，出班拜伏：“是臣宿殿，并无奸细。此人莫非五更随百官混入分宫楼内，故有此异变！”黄飞虎吩咐：“把刺客推来！”众官将刺客拖到滴水之前。天子传旨：“众卿，谁与朕勘问明白回旨？”班中闪出一人进礼称：“臣费仲不才，勘明回旨。”──看官，费仲原非问官，此乃做成圈套，陷害姜皇后的；恐怕别人审出真情，故此费仲讨去勘问。

The next day, the Son of Heaven held court. As he emerged from Shouxian Palace with attendants on either side to escort and protect him, his palanquin passed Longde Hall and arrived at Fengong Lou. Red lanterns clustered together, and incense filled the air in a fragrant haze. Just as he was proceeding, a man by the corner of Fengong Lou's gate, over four chi tall and wearing a headband, brandished a sword in his hand. Moving like a tiger or wolf, he shouted loudly: "You tyrant are without virtue, indulging in lust and wine! I have been ordered by my lady mother to assassinate you so that the Shang dynasty may not fall into others' hands and ensure our lord becomes emperor!" With a single stroke, he swung his sword. Numerous attendants and guards on both sides quickly moved in. Before the man could approach, he was already captured by the officials, bound with ropes and brought forward to kneel on the ground. King Zhou was both startled and furious. He proceeded to the main hall, ascended his throne, and after civil and military officials paid their respects, all the ministers were unaware of what had happened. The king said: "Summon Prince Wucheng Huang Feihu and Chancellor Bi Gan." The two ministers stepped forward, knelt, and paid homage. King Zhou said: "Ministers, today I ascended the throne to find an unusual event." Bi Gan asked: "What is this unusual matter?" The king said: "There was an assassin at Fengong Lou who brandished a sword to attack me. I do not know who sent him?" Huang Feihu was greatly startled upon hearing this and quickly asked: "Yesterday, which official was on duty in the palace?" Inside, there was a man whose name appeared on the "Fengshen Bang," holding the rank of general. His surname was Lu and his given name Xiong. He stepped forward to kneel and said: "It was I who guarded the palace last night, and no spies were present." This man must have sneaked into Fengong Lou with the officials at dawn, which is why this unusual event occurred!" Huang Feihu ordered: "Bring the assassin forward!" The officials dragged the assassin to the front of Dishi. The Son of Heaven issued an edict: "Ministers, who among you will investigate this matter for me and report back?" From the ranks stepped forward a man who bowed respectfully and said: "Minister Fei Zhong, though unworthy, is willing to investigate and report back." ──Reader, Minister Fei Zhong was originally not an official in charge of interrogations. This was a trap set up to frame Empress Jiang; he feared that others might uncover the truth, so Fei Zhong volunteered for the interrogation.

话说费仲拘出刺客，在午门外勘问，不用加刑，已是招成谋逆。费仲进大殿，见天子，俯伏回旨。百官不知原是设成计谋，静听回奏。王曰：“勘明何说？”费仲奏曰：“臣不敢奏闻。”王曰：“卿既勘问明白，为何不奏？”费仲曰：“赦臣罪，方可回旨。”王曰：“赦卿无罪。”费仲奏：“刺客姓姜名环，乃东伯侯姜桓楚家将，奉中宫姜皇后懿旨，行刺陛下，意在侵夺天位，与姜桓楚而为天子。幸宗社有灵，皇天后土庇佑，陛下洪福齐天，逆谋败露，随即就擒。请陛下下九卿文武，议贵议戚，定夺。”纣王听奏，拍案大怒曰：“姜后乃朕元配，辄敢无礼，谋逆不道，还有甚么议贵议戚？况宫弊难除，祸潜内禁，肘腋难以堤防，速著西宫黄贵妃勘问回旨！”纣王怒发如雷，驾回寿仙宫。不表。

Now let us speak of Minister Fei Zhong summoning out the assassin and interrogating him outside Wumen Gate. Without resorting to torture, the assassin had already confessed to plotting rebellion. Fei Zhong entered the main hall and knelt before the Son of Heaven to report back. The officials, unaware that this was a prearranged plot, listened quietly for his report. The king asked: "What did your investigation reveal?" Fei Zhong replied: "Minister dares not report." The king said: "Since you have investigated and clarified the matter, why do you not report it?" Fei Zhong said: "Forgive my crime before I may report." The king said: "I absolve you of all blame." Fei Zhong reported: "The assassin's surname is Jiang and his given name Huan. He was a general of Dongbo Hou Jiang Huanchu and carried out the assassination on behalf of an imperial edict from Empress Jiang in the central palace, with the intent to seize the throne for himself and make Jiang Huanchu emperor." Fortunately, the ancestral spirits have been merciful. Heaven and Earth have protected Your Majesty, whose great fortune is as vast as the sky itself. The plot was uncovered in time, and the conspirator was immediately captured. Minister respectfully requests Your Majesty to summon the nine ministers of state and military officials, as well as high-ranking nobles and relatives by marriage, to deliberate and decide on a course of action." King Zhou, upon hearing the report, slammed his hand on the table in great anger and said: "Empress Jiang is my principal wife. How dare she act so impudently and plot rebellion against me? What need is there to consult with high-ranking nobles or relatives by marriage?" Moreover, palace corruption is hard to eradicate; hidden dangers lurk within the inner court. Treachery may arise from close quarters and cannot be guarded against easily. Quickly summon Huang Guifei of Xigong to interrogate and report back!" King Zhou, furious as thunder, returned to Shouxian Palace in his carriage. We will not elaborate further.

且言诸大臣纷纷议论，难辨假真。内有上大夫杨任对武成王曰：“姜皇后贞静淑德，慈祥仁爱，治内有法。据下官所论，其中定有委曲不明之说，宫内定有私通。列位殿下，众位大夫，不可退朝，且听西宫黄娘娘消息，方存定论。”百官俱在九间殿未散。

Meanwhile, the various ministers were discussing heatedly, unable to distinguish truth from falsehood. Among them, Shang Daifu Yang Ren said to Prince Wucheng Wang: "Empress Jiang is virtuous and gentle in character, kind-hearted and benevolent, and has governed the palace with order. In my opinion, there must be some hidden injustice or misunderstanding in this matter; there is surely an illicit relationship within the palace." My lords, esteemed ministers, you must not dismiss court. Let us await news from Huang Niangniang of Xigong before we can reach a definite conclusion." All the officials remained in Jiujian Hall, none having dispersed.

话言奉御宫承旨至中官，姜皇后接旨，跪听宣读。奉御官宣读曰： 　“敕曰：皇后位正中宫，德配坤元，贵敌天子，不思日夜兢惕，敬修厥德，毋忝姆懿，克谐内助，乃敢肆行大逆，豢养武士姜环，于分宫楼前行刺，幸天地有灵，大奸随获，发赴午门勘问，招称：皇后与父姜桓楚同谋不道，侥幸天位。彝伦有乖，三纲尽绝。著奉御官拿送西宫，好生打著勘明，从重拟罪，毋得狥情故纵，罪有攸归。特敕。”

The message was delivered by a palace official carrying imperial orders to the eunuchs. Empress Jiang received the decree and knelt to listen as it was read aloud. The palace official read aloud: "Imperial decree says: The Empress holds the central position in the palace, her virtue matches that of the Earthly Mandate, and her status is second only to the Son of Heaven. Yet she has not reflected day and night with vigilance, cultivating virtue diligently so as not to disgrace the noble example set by former empresses, nor has she fulfilled her role as a worthy partner in assisting within the court. Instead, she has dared to commit great treason, harboring the warrior Jiang Huan, who attempted an assassination at Fen Gong Lou. Fortunately, Heaven and Earth have been merciful, and this great villain was swiftly captured and sent for interrogation at Wumen Gate. The confession states: Empress Jiang conspired with her father, Jiang Huanchu, to commit treasonous acts, seeking the imperial throne by chance." This is a violation of proper moral order and has completely severed the Three Bonds. Order the palace officials to take her to Xigong, and thoroughly interrogate her with due care. Propose a severe punishment accordingly; do not show favoritism or allow her to escape justice, for she must be held accountable for her crimes." This is the imperial decree."

姜皇后听罢，放声大哭道：“冤哉！冤哉！是那一个奸贼生事，做害我这个不赦的罪名！可怜数载宫闱，克勤克俭，夙兴夜寐，何敢轻为妄作，有忝姆训。今皇上不察来历，将我拿送西宫，存亡未保！”姜后悲悲泣泣，泪下沾襟。奉御官同姜后来至西宫。黄贵妃将旨意放在上首，尊其国法。姜皇后跪而言曰：“我姜氏素秉忠良，皇天后土，可鉴我心。今不幸遭人陷害，望乞贤妃鉴我平日所为，替奴作主，雪此冤枉！”黄妃曰：“圣旨道你命姜环弑君，献国与东伯侯姜桓楚，纂成汤之天下。事干重大，逆礼乱伦，失夫妻之大义，绝元配之恩情。若论情真，当夷九族！”姜后曰：“贤妃在上，我姜氏乃姜桓楚之女，父镇东鲁，乃二百镇诸侯之首，官居极品，位压三公，身为国戚，女为中宫，又在四大诸侯之上。况我生子殷郊，已正东宫，圣上万岁后，我子承嗣大位；身为太后，未闻父为天子，而能令女配享太庙者也。我虽系女流，未必痴愚至此。且天下诸侯，又不止我父亲一人，若天下齐兴问罪之师，如何保得永久！望贤妃详察，雪此奇冤，并无此事。恳乞回旨，转达愚衷，此恩非浅！”话言未了，圣旨来催。黄妃乘辇至寿仙宫候旨。纣王宣黄妃进宫，朝贺毕。纣王曰：“那贱人招了不曾？”黄妃奏曰：“奉旨严问姜后，并无半点之私，实有贞静贤能之德。后乃元配，侍君多年，蒙陛下恩宠，生殿下已正位东宫，陛下万岁后，彼身为太后，有何不足，尚敢欺心，造此灭族之祸！况姜桓楚官居东伯，位至皇亲，诸侯朝称千岁，乃人臣之极品，乃敢使人行刺，必无是理。姜后痛伤于骨髓之中，衔冤于覆盆之上。即姜后至愚，未有父为天子而女能为太后、甥能承祧者也。至若弃贵而投贱，远上而近下，愚者不为；况姜后正位数年，素明礼教者哉！妾愿陛下察冤雪枉，无令元配受诬，有乖圣德。再乞看太子生母，怜而赦之。妾身幸甚！姜后举室幸甚！”纣王听罢，自思曰：“黄妃之言甚是明白，果无此事，必有委曲。”正在迟疑未决之际，只见妲己在旁微微冷笑。纣王见妲己微笑，问曰：“美人微笑不言，何也？”妲己对曰：“黄娘娘被姜后惑了。从来做事的人，好的自己播扬，恶的推于别人。况谋逆不道，重大事情，他如何轻意便认。且姜环是他父亲所用之人，既供有主使，如何赖得过。且三宫后妃，何不攀扯别人，单指姜后，其中岂得无说。恐不加重刑，如何肯认！望陛下详察。”纣王曰：“美人言之有理。”黄妃在旁言曰：“苏妲己毋得如此！皇后乃天子之元配，天下之国母，贵敌至尊，虽自三皇治世，五帝为君，纵有大过，止有贬谪，并无诛斩正宫之法。”妲己曰：“法者乃为天下而立，天子代天宣化，亦不得以自私自便，况犯法无尊亲贵贱，其罪一也。陛下可传旨：如姜后不招，剜去他一目。眼乃心之苗，他惧剜目之苦，自然招认。使文武知之，此亦法之常，无甚苛求也。”纣王曰：“妲己之言是也。”

After hearing this, Empress Jiang burst into loud weeping and cried out: "Unjust! Unjust! Unjust!" Which of those treacherous villains has stirred up trouble and falsely accused me with this unforgivable crime?" Alas, for many years in the palace I have worked diligently and lived frugally, rising early and resting late. How could I dare to act recklessly or violate the teachings of my predecessors?" Now His Majesty has not investigated the facts, but orders me taken to Xigong. My fate is uncertain!" Empress Jiang wept bitterly, her tears soaking her robe. The palace officials escorted Empress Jiang to Xigong. Princess Huang Guifei placed the imperial decree at the head of the hall, respecting its authority as national law. Empress Jiang knelt and said: "My family of the surname Jiang has always been loyal and virtuous. Heaven and Earth can bear witness to my sincerity. Today, I have unfortunately been framed by others. I humbly beg you, noble princess, to examine my actions of the past and plead for me, so that this injustice may be cleared!" Princess Huang said: "The imperial decree accuses you of ordering Jiang Huan to assassinate the king and cede the kingdom to Dongbo Hou Jiang Huanchu, seeking to usurp the throne of Chengtang. This is a matter of great seriousness—treasonous and violating propriety, breaking the fundamental bond between husband and wife, severing the affection owed to your principal spouse. If this crime is proven true, you should be executed along with all nine of your clans!" Empress Jiang said: "Noble princess, I am the daughter of Jiang Huanchu. My father is Jiang Huanchu who governs Donglu; he ranks first among the two hundred feudal lords, holds the highest official rank, and his position surpasses that of the Three Dukes. As a member of the royal family, my father's status even exceeds that of the Four Great Feudal Lords, while I am the empress in the central palace. Moreover, I bore His Majesty a son, Yin Jiao, who is now the Crown Prince. After Your Majesty's reign, my son will inherit the throne; as a future Empress Dowager, I have never heard of a case where a father became emperor and allowed his daughter to be enshrined in the ancestral temple. Though I am but a woman, I could not possibly be so foolish as this. Moreover, there are many feudal lords in the land, not just my father alone. If all of them were to raise armies and demand punishment for this crime, how could we ensure lasting peace?" I beg you, noble princess, please investigate thoroughly. This is a most extraordinary injustice—there has been no such act." I earnestly request that you return with your report and convey my sincere plea to His Majesty. Your kindness would be most profound!" Before she could finish speaking, an imperial decree arrived in haste. Princess Huang rode in a palanquin to Shouxian Palace to await the imperial orders. King Zhou summoned Princess Huang into the palace, and after she paid her respects and offered congratulations, court was held. King Zhou asked: "Has that wretch confessed yet?" Princess Huang reported: "I interrogated Empress Jiang strictly as ordered, and she showed no trace of impropriety. She is indeed a woman of virtue, modesty, and ability. She is Your Majesty's principal wife, having served His Majesty for many years and received the royal favor. She bore a son who has already been established as Crown Prince. After Your Majesty's passing, she will become Empress Dowager. What could possibly be lacking in her position that would drive her to act with treachery and bring about such a catastrophe for her entire family?" Moreover, Jiang Huanchu holds the position of Dongbo Hou and is a member of the imperial family. The feudal lords address him as "Qiansui," which is the highest rank attainable by a subject. How could he possibly dare to send someone to assassinate? This must be entirely untrue." Empress Jiang's sorrow pierced her very bones, and she bore an unbearable injustice as if trapped beneath a heavy pot. Even if Empress Jiang were the most foolish woman, there is no precedent in history for a daughter to become empress dowager and her nephew to inherit the throne when her father already holds the rank of Son of Heaven." As for abandoning nobility for baseness, forsaking high status for lowly position—such actions even a foolish person would not take; especially since Empress Jiang has held her proper place in the palace for many years, and is well known as one who understands propriety and moral teachings!" I humbly request that Your Majesty investigate this injustice and clear her name, so as not to allow the principal wife of the Son of Heaven to be falsely accused, which would contradict Your Majesty's virtuous rule." I further beg that Your Majesty consider the mother of the Crown Prince and show mercy by pardoning her. This would be a great favor to me!" The entire household of the Jiang family would be most grateful!" After hearing this, King Zhou reflected and said to himself: "Princess Huang's words are very clear. If there truly is no such matter, then there must be some misunderstanding or hidden injustice." Just as he hesitated and had not yet decided, Lady Daji suddenly smiled coldly from the side. King Zhou saw Lady Daji's smile and asked: "Fair lady, you smile but say nothing—why is that?" Daji replied: "Princess Huang has been deceived by Empress Jiang. Those who act have always praised themselves for their good deeds and blamed others for the bad." Moreover, treason is a grave matter. How could she possibly admit to it so easily?" Furthermore, Jiang Huan was an agent employed by her father. If he has already confessed that she ordered the crime, how can she possibly deny it?" Also, why do none of the other consorts in the three palaces accuse others but single out Empress Jiang? There must be a reason for this." Unless severe punishment is applied, how would she admit to it!" I beg Your Majesty to investigate carefully." King Zhou said: "Fair lady, your words are well-reasoned. Princess Huang spoke from the side and said: "Su Daji, you must not speak in such a way! The empress is the principal wife of the Son of Heaven and the mother of the nation. Her status rivals that of the sovereign himself. Since the time of the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors, even if she committed grave offenses, she could only be demoted or exiled—there has never been a law to execute an empress from the main palace." Daji said: "Laws are established for the people of the realm. The Son of Heaven, acting as Heaven's representative to spread virtue and order, must not act out of selfishness or convenience. Laws apply equally—whether one is noble, close kin, or lowly, all who break them bear equal guilt. Your Majesty may issue an order: if Empress Jiang does not confess, gouge out one of her eyes." The eyes are the sprout of the heart. Fearing the pain of having an eye gouged, she will naturally confess." Let the civil and military officials know that this is a normal application of the law—there is no excessive demand here." King Zhou said: "Daji's words are correct.

黄贵妃听说欲剜姜后目，心甚著忙，只得上辇回西宫；下辇见姜后，垂泪顿足曰：“我的皇娘，妲己是你百世冤家！君前献妒忌之言，如你不认，即剜你一目。可依我，就认了罢！历代君王，并无将正宫加害之理，莫非贬至不游宫便了。”姜后泣而言曰：“贤妹言虽为我，但我生平颇知礼教，怎肯认此大逆之事，贻羞于父母，得罪于宗社。况妻刺其夫，有伤风化，败坏纲常，令我父亲作不忠不义之奸臣，我为辱门败户之贱辈，恶名千载，使后人言之切齿，又致太子不得安于储位，所关甚巨，岂可草率冒认。莫说剜我一目，便投之于鼎镬，万剐千锤，这是生前作孽今生报，岂可有乖大义。古云‘粉骨碎身俱不惧，只留清白在人间’，……”言未了，圣旨下：“如姜后不认，即去一目！”黄妃曰：“快认了罢！”姜后大哭曰：“纵死，岂有冒认之理？”奉御官百般逼迫，容留不得，将姜皇后剜去一目，血染衣襟，昏绝于地。黄妃忙教左右宫人扶救，急切未醒。可怜！有诗为证，诗曰： 剜目飞灾祸不禁，只因规谏语相侵。早知国破终无救，空向西宫血染襟。

Princess Huang Guifei, upon hearing that they intended to gouge out Empress Jiang's eye, was greatly distressed and had no choice but to return in her palanquin to Xigong; She stepped down from the palanquin and saw Empress Jiang, shedding tears and stamping her feet in despair: "My empress, Daji is your eternal enemy! She sows jealousy before the king. If you do not confess, they will gouge out one of your eyes. If you trust me, just confess!" Throughout history, no emperor has ever harmed the principal empress. At most, you would be demoted to a lesser palace and forbidden from visiting the main court." Empress Jiang wept and said: "Dear sister, though your words are for my sake, I have always known propriety and moral conduct in my life. How could I possibly admit to such a heinous crime, bringing shame upon my parents and offending the ancestral spirits?" Moreover, for a wife to assassinate her husband would damage social order and destroy the Three Bonds. It would make my father an unfaithful and unjust traitor, and me a disgraceful woman who has ruined our family's honor. Such a foul name would last through the ages, causing future generations to speak of us with hatred in their hearts. Furthermore, it would also cause Crown Prince Yin Jiao to lose his rightful position as heir apparent. This matter is of great consequence—how could I possibly confess carelessly?" Even if they were to gouge out my eye, or throw me into a cauldron and dismember me with axes and hammers, this is the karmic retribution for past misdeeds. I would not allow myself to betray justice." As the old saying goes, 'I fear not shattered bones or broken body; I only wish to leave my purity behind in this world.'..." Before she could finish her words, an imperial decree was issued: "If Empress Jiang refuses to confess, gouge out one eye immediately!" Princess Huang said: "Just confess quickly!" Empress Jiang wept loudly and said: "Even if I were to die, how could I possibly falsely admit to this?" The palace officials pressured her relentlessly, leaving no room for refusal. Empress Jiang was forced to have one of her eyes gouged out; blood stained her robe and she fainted to the ground. Princess Huang quickly ordered palace attendants to support and revive her, but for a while Empress Jiang remained unconscious. Pitiful! There is a poem to attest to this. The poem says: Gouging out an eye brings disaster beyond control, all because of advice and words that offended. Had I known the kingdom would fall with no hope of salvation, in vain did my blood stain the robe at Xigong."

黄贵妃见姜后遭此惨刑，泪流不止。奉御官将剜下来血滴滴一目盛贮盘内，同黄妃上辇来回纣王。黄妃下辇进宫。纣王忙问曰：“那贱人可曾招成？”黄妃奏曰：“姜后并无此情，严究不过，受剜目屈刑，怎肯失了大节？奉旨已取一目。”黄妃将姜后一目血淋淋的捧将上来。纣王观之，见姜后之睛，其心不忍；恩爱多年，自悔无及，低头不语，甚觉伤情。回首责妲己曰：“方才轻信你一言，将姜后剜去一目，又不曾招成，咎将谁委？这事俱系你轻率妄动。倘百官不服，奈何，奈何！”妲己曰：“姜后不招，百官自然有说，如何干休。况东伯侯坐镇一国，亦要为女洗冤。此事必欲姜后招成，方免百官万姓之口。”纣王沉吟不语，心下煎熬，似羝羊触藩，进退两难，良久，问妲己曰：“为今之计，何法处之方妥？”妲己曰：“事已到此，一不做，二不休，招成则安静无说，不招则议论风生，竟无宁宇。为今之计，只有严刑酷拷，不怕他不认。今传旨：令贵妃用铜斗一只，内放炭火烧红，如不肯招，炮烙姜后二手。十指连心，痛不可当，不愁他不承认！”纣王曰：“据黄妃所言，姜后全无此事；今又用此惨刑，屈勘中宫，恐百官他议。剜目己错，岂可再乎？”妲己曰：“陛下差矣！事到如此，势成骑虎，宁可屈勘姜后，陛下不可得罪于天下诸侯、合朝文武。”纣王出乎无奈，只得传旨：“如再不认，用炮烙二手，毋得衔情掩讳！”

Princess Huang Guifei saw Empress Jiang suffer this cruel punishment and wept uncontrollably. The palace officials placed the freshly gouged, blood-dripping eye into a tray and, together with Princess Huang, returned in their palanquins to King Zhou. Princess Huang stepped down from her palanquin and entered the palace. King Zhou hurriedly asked: "Has that wretch confessed?" Princess Huang reported: "Empress Jiang did not commit this crime. Despite being subjected to the cruel punishment of having her eye gouged out, how could she possibly lose her sense of honor and confess falsely? The imperial order has already taken one of her eyes." Princess Huang presented the blood-soaked eye to King Zhou. King Zhou looked at it and, seeing Empress Jiang's eyeball, felt a pang of pity in his heart; They had shared love for many years. Regret now was too late. He lowered his head and said nothing, deeply moved by sorrow. He turned to scold Daji and said: "Just now I lightly believed your words, causing Empress Jiang to lose one eye. Yet she still did not confess—on whom shall this blame fall?" This entire matter is due to your hasty and reckless actions. If the officials do not accept this, what then? What shall we do!" Daji said: "Empress Jiang has not confessed. Naturally, the officials will have their own opinions and will not let this rest. Moreover, Dongbo Hou, who governs a state from his seat of power, must also seek to clear the name of his daughter. This matter will certainly require Empress Jiang's confession in order to silence the mouths of the officials and the common people." King Zhou fell into a pensive silence, his heart tormented. He felt like a ram caught in a fence, unable to advance or retreat. After some time, he asked Daji: "What is the best way to deal with this situation now?" Daji said: "The matter has come to this. There is no turning back now; one must either do it completely or not at all. If Empress Jiang confesses, there will be peace and no further discussion. But if she does not, rumors and arguments will arise endlessly, leaving no place of tranquility. The plan now is to subject her to severe torture; we need not fear that she will refuse to confess. Now, the imperial order is given: Command Consort Guifei to prepare a copper basin filled with red-hot charcoal. If Empress Jiang still refuses to confess, she shall be subjected to the punishment of roasting her two hands over it. The pain from burning ten fingers is unbearable; there will be no doubt that she will confess!" King Zhou said: "According to what Princess Huang has said, Empress Jiang was entirely innocent of this matter; using such cruel punishment now and falsely accusing the empress consort may provoke discussion among the officials." Having already made a mistake by gouging out her eye, how can we do it again?" Daji said: "Your Majesty is mistaken! The matter has reached this point, and the situation is like riding a tiger—it must be seen through. It would be better to falsely accuse Empress Jiang than for Your Majesty to incur the wrath of all the feudal lords and the officials in court." King Zhou, with no other choice, could only issue the imperial order: "If she still refuses to confess again, subject her to roasting both hands; do not conceal or cover up anything!"

黄妃听得此言，魂不附体。上辇回宫，来看姜后──可怜身倒尘埃，血染衣襟，情景惨不忍见。放声大哭曰：“我的贤德娘娘！你前身作何恶孽，得罪于天地，遭此横刑！”乃扶姜后而慰曰：“贤后娘娘，你认了罢！昏君意呆心毒，听信贱人之言，必欲致你死地。如你再不招，用铜斗炮烙你二手。如此惨恶，我何忍见。”姜后血泪染面，大哭曰：“我生前罪深孽重，一死何辞！只是你替我作个证盟，就死瞑日！”言未了，只见奉御官将铜斗烧红，传旨曰：“如姜后不认，即烙其二手！”姜后心如铁石，意似坚钢，岂肯认此诬陷屈情。奉御官不由分说，将铜斗放在姜后两手，只烙的筋断皮焦，骨枯烟臭。十指连心，可怜昏死在地。后人观此，不胜伤感，有诗叹曰： 铜斗烧红烈焰生，宫人此际下无情。可怜一片忠贞意，化作空流日夜鸣！

Princess Huang, upon hearing these words, was so frightened that she lost all composure. She hurried back to the palace in a palanquin to see Empress Jiang—unfortunately, she found her lying on the ground covered in dust, blood staining her robe; the scene was so pitiful and unbearable to witness. She burst into loud weeping: "My virtuous Empress!" What evil deed did you commit in your past life to offend heaven and earth, suffering such cruel punishment!" She then supported Empress Jiang and comforted her: "Virtuous Consort, you must confess now! The foolish and cruel-minded king is deaf to reason and listens only to the words of this lowly woman, determined to see you dead. If you still do not confess, they will use a copper basin filled with hot coals to roast your two hands. Such cruelty is something I cannot bear to witness." Empress Jiang, her face stained with blood and tears, wept bitterly: "If my sins in this life are great and my karma heavy, then death is a fate I cannot avoid! But you must bear witness for me so that I may die with peace of mind!" Before she could finish speaking, the eunuch in charge brought forward a copper basin glowing red with heat and announced: "If Empress Jiang does not confess now, her two hands will be roasted immediately!" Empress Jiang's heart was as firm as iron and stone; her resolve was like tempered steel. How could she possibly confess to such a false accusation? Without further ado, the eunuch placed the red-hot copper basin on Empress Jiang's two hands. The torture was so severe that her tendons were torn and skin charred; her bones became dry and emitted a foul smell. The pain from the ten fingers reached her heart, and poor Empress Jiang fainted dead away on the ground. Later generations, upon hearing of this, could not help but feel deeply sorrowful. A poem laments: The copper basin glows with fierce flames; at this moment, the palace attendants show no mercy. Alas! A heart of loyal devotion is reduced to a futile lament that echoes day and night!

黄妃看见这等光景，兔死狐悲，心如刀绞，意似油煎，痛哭一场，上辇回宫，进宫见纣王。黄妃含泪奏曰：“惨刑酷法，严审数番，并无行刺真情。只怕奸臣内外相通，做害中宫，事机有变，其祸不小。”纣王听言，大惊曰：“此事皆美人教朕传旨勘问，事既如此，奈何奈何！”妲己跪而奏曰：“陛下不必忧虑。刺客姜环现在，传旨著威武大将军晁田、晁雷，押解姜环进西宫，二人对面执问，难道姜后还有推托？此回必定招认。”纣王曰：“此事甚善。”传旨：“宣押刺客对审。”黄妃回宫。不题。话言晁田、晁雷押刺客姜环进西宫对词。不知性命如何，且听下回分解。

Princess Huang, witnessing this scene, felt the sorrow of a fox mourning the death of a rabbit. Her heart was pierced by pain as if cut with a knife and tormented like oil boiling in her mind. She wept bitterly, then boarded her palanquin to return to the palace and entered to see King Zhou. With tears in her eyes, Princess Huang reported: "After several rounds of cruel and harsh interrogations, there was no evidence that Empress Jiang had actually committed the act of assassination. I fear that wicked ministers have conspired inside and outside the court to harm the empress consort; if this matter is not handled properly, it will bring great disaster." King Zhou, upon hearing this, was greatly shocked and said: "This matter was all instigated by the beautiful lady who advised me to issue the imperial order for interrogation. Now that things have come to this, what can be done? What shall we do!" Daji knelt and reported: "Your Majesty need not worry. The assassin Jiang Huan is still present. Issue the imperial order to General Chao Tian and General Chao Lei of Weiwu, commanding them to escort Jiang Huan into the West Palace for a face-to-face interrogation. How can Empress Jiang possibly deny it now?" This time, she will certainly confess." King Zhou said: "This plan is excellent." The imperial order was issued: "Summon and escort the assassin for interrogation." Princess Huang returned to her palace. No further mention is made of it. Meanwhile, Generals Chao Tian and Chao Lei escorted the assassin Jiang Huan into the West Palace to confront Empress Jiang in an interrogation. Whether her life would be spared or not remains to be seen in the next chapter.