Chapter 72: Guangchengzi's Three Visits to Biyou Gong

诗曰： 三叩玄关礼大仙，贝宫珠阙自天然：翔鸾对舞瑶阶下，驯鹿呦游碧槛前。无限干戈从此肇，若多诛戮自今先。周家旺气承新命，又有西方正觉缘。

The poem says: Three bows at the Xuan Guan to pay respects to the great immortal, pearl palaces and jade gates naturally formed; Cranes in pairs dance beneath the jadestone steps, while tamed deer low and wander before the emerald railings. Endless wars begin from this point; if many executions are to take place, they start from now. The Zhou family's flourishing vitality inherits a new mandate, and there is also the karmic connection of true enlightenment from the West.

话说龙吉公主被火灵圣母一剑砍伤胸膛，大叫一声，拨转马望西北逃走。火灵圣母追赶有六七十里方回。这一阵洪锦折兵一万有馀。胡升大喜，迎接火灵圣母进关。只见龙吉公主乃蕊宫仙子，今堕凡尘，也不免遭此一剑之厄。夫妻带伤而逃，至六七十里，方才收集败残人马，立住营寨。忙取丹药敷搽，一时即愈。忙作文书申姜元帅求援兵。且说差官非一日至子牙大营。子牙正坐，忽报：“洪锦遣官，辕门等令。”子牙命：“令来。”差官进营叩头，呈上文书。子牙展开，书曰： 　“奉命东征佳梦关副将洪锦顿首百拜，奉书谨启大元戎麾下：末将以樗栎之才，谬叨重任，日夜祗惧，恐有不克负荷，有伤元帅之明。自分兵抵关之日，屡获全胜，因获逆命守关裨将胡雷，擅用妖术，被末将妻用法斩之。岂意彼师火灵圣母欲图报仇，自恃道术。末将初会战时，不知深浅，误中他火龙兵冲来，势不可解，大折一阵。乞元帅速发援兵，以解倒悬。非比寻常可以缓视之也。谨此上书，不胜翘望之至！”话说子牙看罢大惊：“这事非我自去不可！”随分付李靖：“暂署大营事务，候我亲去走一遭。尔等不可违吾节制，亦不可与汜水关会兵；紧守营寨，毋得妄动，以挫军威。违者定按军法！等我回来，再取此关。”李靖领令。

It happened that Princess Longji was wounded in the chest by a single sword strike from Huo Ling Shengmu, let out a loud cry, and turned her horse toward the northwest to flee. Huo Ling Shengmu chased for about sixty or seventy li before returning. This battle resulted in the loss of over ten thousand troops from Hong Jin's army. Hu Sheng was greatly pleased and welcomed Huo Ling Shengmu into the pass. One could see that Princess Longji was a fairy from Rui Gong, who had now descended into the mortal world; thus, she could not escape this calamity of being wounded by one sword strike. The couple fled with injuries; after traveling about sixty or seventy li, they finally gathered their defeated and broken troops and set up a camp. They quickly took medicinal pills to apply on the wounds, and in no time at all, the injuries were healed. They hurriedly drafted a letter to request reinforcements from Commander Jiang Yuanshuai. Meanwhile, the envoy did not arrive at Ziya's main camp in one day. Ziya was seated when suddenly a report came: "An official sent by Hong Jin is waiting at the 辕门 for orders." Ziya gave an order: "Bring him in." The envoy entered the camp, kowtowed, and presented the document. Ziya unfolded the document, which read: "I, Hong Jin, vice general of Jiameng Guan, humbly and respectfully submit this letter to your illustrious command. I have been entrusted with a great responsibility despite my humble abilities like that of a 樗栎 tree; day and night I remain vigilant and fearful, dreading the possibility of failing in my duties and thereby damaging Commander's reputation." Since the day our forces arrived at the pass, we have achieved repeated complete victories. We captured Hu Lei, a subordinate general who defied orders and guarded the pass, for he dared to use demonic arts; my wife used her magical power to behead him. Little did we expect that their master Huo Ling Shengmu wished to take revenge and relied on her magical arts. At our initial engagement, my general did not know the depth of his strength and mistakenly fell victim to his Fire Dragon troops charging in; it was an overwhelming force that could not be resisted, resulting in a major defeat. I humbly request Commander to swiftly dispatch reinforcements to relieve us from this dire situation. This is no ordinary matter that can be treated with delay. I respectfully submit this letter, and I await your response with the utmost anticipation!" It happened that upon reading it, Ziya was greatly alarmed: "This matter can only be resolved if I go in person!" He immediately instructed Li Jing: "Temporarily oversee the affairs of the main camp while I personally go and take care of this matter." You must not disobey my orders, nor may you join forces with the troops at Sishui Guan; Hold fast to the camp and do not act recklessly, lest it undermine our military prestige. Those who disobey will surely be punished according to military law! "I shall return soon, and then I will personally take this pass." Li Jing accepted the order.

子牙随带韦护、哪吒，调三千人马，离了汜水关，一路上滚滚征尘，重重杀气。非止一日，来到佳梦关安营，不见洪锦的行营。子牙升帐坐下。半晌，洪锦打听子牙兵来，夫妻方移营至辕门听令。子牙把洪锦令入中军。夫妻上帐请罪，备言失机折军之事。子牙曰：“身为大将，受命远征，须当见机而作，如何造次进兵，致有此一场大败！”洪锦启曰：“起先俱得全功，不意一道姑名曰火灵圣母，有一块金霞，方圆有十馀丈罩住他；末将看他不见，他反看得见我。又有三千火龙兵，似一座火焰山一拥而来，势不可当；军士见者先走，故此失机。”子牙听罢，心下甚是疑惑：“此又是左道之术。”正思量破敌之计。且说火灵圣母在关内连日打探洪锦不见抵关。只见这一日报马报入城来，报：“姜子牙亲提兵至此。”火灵圣母曰：“今日姜尚自来，也不负我下山一场。我必亲会他，方才甘心。”别了胡升，忙上金眼驼，暗带火龙兵出关，至大营前，坐名要子牙答话。报马报入中军：“禀元帅：火灵圣母坐名请元帅答话。”子牙便带了众将佐，点炮出营。火灵圣母大呼曰：“来者可是姜子牙么？”子牙答曰：“道友，不才便是。道友，你既在道门，便知天命。今纣恶贯盈，天下共怒，天下诸侯，大会孟津，观政于商，你何得助纣为虐，逆天行事，独不思得罪于天耶！况吾非一己之私，奉玉虚符命，以恭行天之罚，道友又何必逆天强为之哉。不若听吾之言，倒戈纳降，吾亦体上天好生之仁，决不肯糜烂其民也。”火灵圣母笑曰：“你不过仗那一番惑世诬民之谈，愚昧下民。料你不过一钓叟，贪功网利，鼓弄愚民，以为己功，怎敢言应天顺人之举。且你有多大道行，自恃其能哉！”催开金眼驼，仗剑来取。子牙手中剑火速忙迎。左有哪吒，登开风火轮，使开火尖枪，劈胸就刺；韦护持降魔杵，掉步飞腾；三人战住圣母。正是： 大蟒逞威喷紫雾，蛟龙奋勇吐光辉。

Ziya immediately took Wei Hu and Nezha with him, mobilized three thousand troops, left Sishui Guan, and along the way, dust rose in thick clouds and a heavy atmosphere of battle filled the air. After more than one day's journey, they arrived at Jiameng Guan and set up camp, but could not find Hong Jin's mobile camp. Ziya ascended the command tent and took his seat. After a while, Hong Jin learned that Ziya's troops had arrived; the couple then moved their camp to the 辕门 to await orders. Ziya ordered Hong Jin to be brought into the central command. The couple entered the tent to plead guilty and explained in detail about their failure and the loss of troops. Ziya said, "As a great general, you have been entrusted with the mission of distant campaigns and must act according to circumstances. How could you recklessly advance your troops, leading to such a major defeat!" Hong Jin replied, "Initially we achieved complete success. Unexpectedly, there was a nun named Huo Ling Shengmu who possessed a golden radiance that covered an area of more than ten zhang around her; I could not see him, but he was able to see me. Moreover, there were three thousand Fire Dragon soldiers who surged forward like a mountain of flames, an unstoppable force; the soldiers saw them and fled first, which is why we lost the opportunity." After hearing this, Ziya felt greatly puzzled in his mind: "This is yet another form of left-hand path sorcery." He was just thinking about a strategy to defeat the enemy. Meanwhile, Huo Ling Shengmu had been inquiring for several days within the pass and found that Hong Jin did not come to oppose her. On this day, a scout galloped into the city and reported: "Jiang Ziya has personally led his troops here." Huo Ling Shengmu said, "Today, Jiang Shan has come in person; this visit to the mountain was not in vain. old I must personally meet him before I can be satisfied." After bidding farewell to Hu Sheng, she quickly mounted the golden-eyed camel and secretly led her Fire Dragon soldiers out of the pass. She arrived before the main camp and demanded that Ziya come forward for a confrontation. A scout galloped into headquarters and reported: "Reporting to Commander: Huo Ling Shengmu is demanding that you personally come forward for a conversation." Ziya immediately led his generals and attendants, set off the signal cannon, and marched out of camp. Huo Ling Shengmu shouted loudly: "Is the one coming forward Jiang Ziya?" Ziya replied, "Daoyou, it is I, a humble person. Daoyou, since you are in the Daoist path, you should know the will of Heaven." Now King Zhou's wickedness has reached its peak, and the whole world is enraged. All the feudal lords have gathered at Mengjin to observe the governance of Shang; how can you assist Zhou in his tyranny and act against Heaven? Do you not think about committing a sin against Heaven! Moreover, I do this not for my own selfish interests but in accordance with the decree of Yu Xu to carry out Heaven's punishment. Why must you go against Heaven and insist on acting defiantly, Daoyou? You would be better off heeding my words and surrendering by turning your weapons against Zhou. I, too, embody Heaven's benevolent wish to preserve life and will certainly not allow the people to suffer destruction." Huo Ling Shengmu laughed and said, "You rely nothing more than on a set of deceptive words that mislead the people and confuse the world, deceiving the common folk. I see you as nothing more than a scheming old fisherman, greedy for merit and profit, manipulating the ignorant masses to claim it as your own achievement. How dare you speak of acting in accordance with Heaven's will and the people's wishes? Moreover, how much Daoist cultivation do you truly possess to be so arrogant about your abilities!" She urged her golden-eyed camel forward and brandished her sword to attack. Ziya quickly raised his sword in response. To the left, Nezha climbed onto his Fenghuo Lun (wind and fire wheels), brandished his Huojian Qiang (fire spear), and thrust directly at her chest; Wei Hu held the Jiangmo Chu (magic pestle) and leaped forward with a swift step; The three of them engaged in battle against the nun. It was indeed: A great python displayed its might, exhaling purple mist; a coiled dragon bravely surged forward, radiating brilliance.

火灵圣母那里经得起三人恶战，枪杵环攻，抽身回走，用剑挑开淡黄袱，金霞冠放出金光，约有十馀丈远近。子牙看不见火灵圣母，圣母提剑把子牙前胸一剑。子牙又无铠甲抵挡，竟砍开皮肉，血溅衣襟，拨转四不相望西逃走。火灵圣母大呼曰：“姜子牙！今番难逃此厄也！”三千火龙兵一齐在火光中呐喊。只见大辕门金蛇乱搅，围子内个个遭殃，火焰冲于霄汉，赤光烧尽旌旗；一会家副将不能顾主将。正是：刀砍尸体满地，火烧人臭难闻。且言火灵圣母赶子牙，又赶至无躲无闪之处，前走的一似猛弩离弦；后赶的好似飞云掣电。子牙一来年纪高大，剑伤又疼，被火灵圣母把金眼驼赶到至紧至急之处，不得相离。子牙正在危迫之间，又被火灵圣母取出一个混元锤望子牙背上打来，正中子牙后心，翻筋斗，跌下四不相去了。火灵圣母下了金眼驼，来取子牙首级。只听得一人作歌而来： “一径松竹篱扉，两叶烟霞窗户。三卷‘黄庭’，四季花开处。新诗信手书，丹炉自己扶。垂纶菱浦，散步溪山处。坐向蒲团调动离龙虎。功夫，披尘远世途，狂呼，啸傲兔和乌。”

Huo Ling Shengmu could not withstand the fierce battle against three opponents; as spears and pestles attacked from all sides, she turned to flee. She drew her sword and opened a pale yellow cloth, releasing the golden radiance of her Jin Xia Guan (Golden Radiance Crown), which extended for about ten zhang in every direction. Ziya could not see Huo Ling Shengmu; the nun raised her sword and struck Ziya in the chest with a single blow. Ziya had no armor to protect himself, and the sword cut through his flesh, splattering blood onto his robe. He turned his Sibuxiang (Four Not Turning) steed toward the west and fled. Huo Ling Shengmu cried out, "Jiang Ziya! You cannot escape this calamity now!" Three thousand Fire Dragon soldiers all shouted in unison amid the flames. One could see golden serpents writhing in chaos at the great 辕门, and within the encampment, every soldier suffered. Flames surged into the sky, crimson light burning away all banners; In a short while, the subordinate generals could no longer protect their commander. Indeed: bodies lay scattered on the ground from sword strikes, and the stench of burning flesh was unbearable to smell. Meanwhile, Huo Ling Shengnu pursued Ziya relentlessly, chasing him to a place where there was nowhere to hide or evade. Ahead, he ran as if an arrow had just left the bowstring; and behind, she chased with speed like lightning through the clouds. Ziya, on one hand, was old and the sword wound in his chest hurt badly; as Huo Ling Shengmu drove her golden-eyed camel to chase him with utmost urgency, he could not escape. Just as Ziya was in a desperate situation, Huo Ling Shengmo took out a Hunyuan Chui (Primordial Mallet) and struck him on the back. The blow hit right at his back, causing him to somersault through the air and fall off Sibuxiang. Huo Ling Shengmo dismounted from her golden-eyed camel and came to behead Ziya. Just then, one could hear a person singing as he approached: "A path of pine and bamboo with latticed gates, two leaves of smoke and clouds at the window. Three scrolls of 'Huangting,' where flowers bloom in every season." New poems are written at will, and the cinnabar furnace is tended by oneself. Casting a fishing line in the lotus pond, strolling leisurely through hills and streams. Sitting on a rush mat to harmonize the fire dragon and tiger. With cultivation, one sheds worldly dust and distances oneself from the path of this world; wildly shouting, proudly defying hares and crows."

话说火灵圣母方去取子牙首级，只见广成子作歌而至。火灵圣母认得是广成子，大呼曰：“广成子！你不该来！”广成子曰：“吾奉玉虚符命，在此等你多时矣！”火灵圣母大怒，仗剑砍来。这一个轻移道步，那一个急转麻鞋，剑来剑架，剑锋斜刺一团花，剑去剑迎，脑后千团寒雾滚。火灵圣母把金霞冠现出金光来；他不知广成子内穿著扫霞衣，将金霞冠的金光一扫全无。火灵圣母大怒曰：“敢破吾法宝，怎肯干休！”气嘑嘑的仗剑来砍，恶恨恨的火焰飞腾，便来战广成子。广成子是犯戒之仙，他如今还存甚么念头？忙取番天印祭在空中。正是： 圣母若逢番天印，道行千年付水流。

It happened that just as Huo Ling Shengmo was about to behead Ziya, Guangchengzi arrived singing a song. Huo Ling Shengmu recognized him as Guangchengzi and shouted, "Guangchengzi! You should not have come!" Guangchengzi said, "I have been sent by the decree of Yu Xu and have waited for you here for a long time!" Huo Ling Shengmu became furious and brandished her sword toward Guangchengzi. One lightly shifted his Daoist steps, the other swiftly turned in his straw sandals; sword came, sword blocked—sword tips crossed in a flurry of blossoms. Sword went, sword met—behind the head rolled thousands of cold mists. Huo Ling Shengmu manifested golden radiance from her Jin Xia Guan; She did not know that Guangchengzi was wearing the Saoxia Yi (Dust-Brushing Robe), which completely dispelled the golden radiance of the Jin Xia Guan. Huo Ling Shengmu was furious and said, "Daring to destroy my magical treasure—how could I possibly let this go!" Furious and enraged, she brandished her sword to strike, with fierce flames surging upward as she attacked Guangchengzi. Guangchengzi was a fairy who had violated the precepts; what thoughts could he possibly still have in his mind? He quickly took out the Fantian Yin (Heaven-Turning Seal) and offered it into the air. Indeed: When the nun meets the Heaven-Turning Seal, a thousand years of cultivation flows down with the river.

话说广成子将番天印祭起在空中，落将下来，火灵圣母那里躲得及，正中顶门，可怜打的脑浆迸出，──一灵也往封神台去了。广成子收了番天印，将火灵圣母的金霞冠也收了，忙下山头，涧中取了水，葫芦中取了丹药，扶起子牙，把头放在膝上，把丹药灌入子牙口中，下了十二重楼。有一个时辰，子牙睁开二目，见广成子，子牙曰：“若非道兄相救，姜尚必无再生之理。”广成子曰：“吾奉师命，在此等候多时。你该有此厄。”把子牙扶上四不相，广成子曰：“子牙前途保重！”子牙深谢广成子：“难为道兄救吾残喘，铭刻难忘！”广成子曰：“我如今去碧游宫缴金霞冠去。”

It happened that Guangchengzi raised the Heaven-Turning Seal into the air and let it fall. Huo Ling Shengmu could not evade in time, and it struck her precisely on the crown of her head. Alas, it shattered her skull, splattering brain matter—her soul was sent to the Fengshen Tai (Platform of Enthroning Immortals). Guangchengzi retrieved the Heaven-Turning Seal and also took possession of Huo Ling Shengmu's Jin Xia Guan. He hurried down the mountain, drew water from a stream, took elixirs from his gourd, lifted Ziya up, placed his head on his knee, poured the medicinal pills into Ziya's mouth, and guided them through twelve levels of the throat to the stomach. After about two hours, Ziya opened his eyes and saw Guangchengzi. Ziya said, "Had it not been for my Daoist elder brother's rescue, Jiang Shan would surely have no chance of survival." Guangchengzi said, "I was sent by my master and have been waiting here for a long time. You were destined to encounter this calamity." He helped Ziya onto the Sibuxiang, and Guangchengzi said, "Ziya, take care on your journey ahead!" Ziya deeply thanked Guangchengzi: "It is a great trouble for my Dao elder brother to save my dying breath; I will never forget this!" Guangchengzi said, "I must now go to Biyou Gong (Jade-Wandering Palace) to return the Jin Xia Guan."

子牙别了广成子，回佳梦关来。正行之际，忽然一阵风来，甚是利害，只见摧林拔树，搅海翻江。子牙曰：“好怪！此风如同虎至一般！”话未了时，果然见申公豹跨虎而来。子牙曰：“狭路相逢这恶人，如何是好！也罢，我躲了他罢。”子牙把四不相一兜，欲隐于茂林之中，不意申公豹先看见了子牙，申公豹大呼曰：“姜子牙！你不必躲，我已看见你了！”子牙只得强打精神，上前稽首，子牙曰：“贤弟那里来？”申公豹笑曰：“特来会你。姜子牙，你今日也还同南极仙翁在一处不好，如今一般也有单自一个撞著我！料你今日不能脱吾之手！”子牙曰：“兄弟，我与你无仇，你何事这等恼我？”申公豹曰：“你不记得在昆仑，你倚南极仙翁之势，全无好眼相看。先叫你，你只是不倸；后又同南极仙翁辱我，又叫白鹤童儿衔我的头去，指望害我。这是杀人冤仇，还说没有！你今日金台拜将，要伐罪吊民，只怕你不能兵进五关，先当死于此地也！”把宝剑照子牙砍来。子牙手中剑架住，曰：“兄弟，你真乃薄恶之人。我与你同一师尊门下，抵足四十年，何无一点情意！及至我上昆仑，你将幻术愚我，那时南极仙翁叫白鹤童儿难你，是我再三解释，你倒不思量报本，反以为仇，你真是无情无义之人也。”申公豹大怒：“你二人商议害我，今又巧语花言，希图饶你。……”说未了，又是一剑。子牙大怒：“申公豹！吾让你，非是怕你，恐后人言我姜子牙不存仁义，也与你一般。你如何欺我太甚！”将手中剑来战申公豹。大抵子牙伤痕才愈，如何敌得过申公豹。只见子牙前心牵扯，后心疼痛，拨转四不相，望东就走。申公豹虎踏风云，赶来甚紧。正是子牙： 方才脱却天罗难，又撞冤家地网来。

Ziya bid farewell to Guangchengzi and returned to Jiameng Guan. Just as he was proceeding, suddenly a fierce wind arose; it was extremely violent, uprooting trees and toppling forests, stirring the seas and overturning rivers. Ziya said, "Strange!" "This wind is as fierce as a tiger approaching!" No sooner had the words left his mouth than indeed Shen Gongbao arrived, riding on a tiger. Ziya said, "Meeting this villain by chance—what should I do!" "Never mind. I will just avoid him." Ziya urged the Sibuxiang forward, intending to hide among the dense woods. Unexpectedly, Shen Gongbao had already spotted Ziya and shouted loudly, "Jiang Ziya!" "You need not hide—I have already seen you!" Ziya had no choice but to steel himself, stepped forward, and bowed. Ziya said, "Dear younger brother, where are you coming from?" Shen Gongbao smiled and said, "I have come especially to meet you. Jiang Ziya, today it was not good that you were with Nanji Xianweng; now, just like before, you have encountered me alone!" "I know for certain that today you cannot escape from my hands!" Ziya said, "Brother, I have no enmity with you. Why are you so angry at me?" Shen Gongbao said, "Do you not remember on Kunlun Mountain how you leaned upon the power of Nanji Xianweng and looked at me with no respect whatsoever." I called to you first, but you simply ignored me; Later, together with Nanji Xianwong, you humiliated me and had the White Crane Attendant peck at my head in an attempt to harm me. "This is a deadly grudge; how can you say there isn't one!" "Today, when you are ennobled as general on the golden platform and intend to punish the guilty and relieve the people, I fear that before your army can advance through five passes, you will first die here!" He swung his magical sword toward Ziya. Ziya raised his sword to block and said, "Brother, you are truly a cruel-hearted person. We were disciples of the same master for forty years, sleeping side by side—how could there be no trace of affection between us!" "When I went to Kunlun, you used illusions to deceive me. At that time, when Nanji Xianweng had the White Crane Attendant trouble you, it was I who repeatedly explained and defended for you. Yet instead of considering repayment, you turned against me as an enemy—truly, you are a heartless and ungrateful person." Shen Gongbao was furious: "The two of you conspired to harm me, and now you use flattery in an attempt to save yourself. "...," he said before finishing his words, and struck again with his sword. Ziya was furious: "Shen Gongbao! I have let you go, not because I fear you, but for fear that future generations might say Jiang Ziya lacks benevolence and righteousness, just like you." How could you be so disrespectful to me!" He brandished his sword and attacked Shen Gongbao. Ziya's wounds had only just begun to heal, so how could he possibly match Shen Gongbao in combat? Ziya felt pain pulling at his chest from the front and aching in his back, turned the Sibuxiang around, and fled eastward. Shen Gongbao rode on tiger-like clouds of wind and pursued with great urgency. Indeed, for Ziya: Just escaped from the heavenly net's trap, now colliding again with an enemy in a terrestrial snare.

话说申公豹赶上子牙，打一开天珠来，正中子牙后心。子牙坐不住四不相，滚下鞍鞽。申公豹方下虎来欲害子牙，不防山坡下坐著夹龙山飞龙洞惧留孙道人，──他也是奉玉虚之命在此等侯申公豹的，──乃大呼曰：“申公豹少得无礼！我在此！我在此！”连叫两声。申公豹回头看见惧留孙，吃了一惊。他知道惧留孙利害，自思：“不好！”便欲抽身上虎而走。惧留孙笑曰：“不要走！”手中急祭困仙绳，将申公豹困了。惧留孙分付黄巾力士曰：“与我拿至麒麟崖去，等吾来发落。”黄巾力士领法旨去讫。且说惧留孙下山，挽扶子牙，靠石倚松，少坐片时；又取粒丹药服之，方才复旧。子牙曰：“多感道兄救我！伤痕未好，又打了一珠，也是吾七死三灾之厄耳。”子牙辞了惧留孙，上了四不相，回佳梦关。不表。且说惧留孙纵金光法往玉虚宫来，行至麒麟崖，见黄巾力士等候。惧留孙行至宫门前，少时，见一对提旛，一对提炉，两行羽扇分开。怎见得元始天尊出玉虚宫光景，有诗为证： 鸿蒙初判有声名，炼得先天聚五行。顶上三花朝北阙，胸中五气透南溟。群仙队里称元始，玄妙门庭话未生。漫道香花随辇毂，沧桑万劫寿同庚。

It happened that Shen Gongbao caught up to Ziya and struck him with an Kai Tian Zhu (Heaven-Opening Pearl), which hit Ziya precisely in the back. Ziya could no longer remain on the Sibuxiang and tumbled off his saddle. Just as Shen Gongbao was about to dismount from his tiger and attack Ziya, unexpectedly, Ju Liusun Daoren of Feilong Dong (Flying Dragon Cave) on Jialong Shan (Clamp-Dragon Mountain), who had also been sent by Yu Xu to wait for Shen Gongbao there—shouted loudly, "Shen Gongbao, dare you behave so impolitely!" "I am here!" "I am here!" He called out twice. Shen Gongbao turned around and saw Ju Liusun, and was greatly startled. He knew how formidable Ju Liusun was, and thought to himself, "This is bad!" He immediately wanted to climb back onto his tiger and flee. Ju Liusun laughed and said, "Do not run!" Ju Liusun quickly offered the Xian Sheng Jin (Immortal-Binding Rope) from his hand, which bound Shen Gongbao tightly. Ju Liusun ordered the Huangjin Lishi (Yellow Turban Laborers) and said, "Take him to Qilin Ya for me, and wait while I decide his fate." The Yellow Turban Laborers accepted the decree and went off accordingly. Meanwhile, Ju Liusun descended the mountain, helped Ziya up, supported him against a rock and beside a pine tree, and they sat there for a while; He then took some pills of elixir to consume, and only after that did Ziya recover. Ziya said, "I am deeply grateful for my Dao elder brother's rescue! My wounds had not yet healed, and I was struck again by a pearl—this is but another of my seven deaths and three calamities." Ziya bid farewell to Ju Liusun, mounted the Sibuxiang again, and returned to Jiameng Pass. No further details are given. Meanwhile, Ju Liusun summoned a golden light and traveled toward Yu Xu Gong (Jade Virtual Palace). On his way to Qilin Ya, he saw the Yellow Turban Laborers waiting. Ju Liusun arrived at the palace gate, and after a short while, he saw two attendants holding banners, two others carrying incense burners, with rows of feather fans parting on either side. How did Yuanshi Tianzun appear as he emerged from Yu Xu Gong? A poem attests to this: From the primordial chaos, a name was first known; refining the innate elements into five gathered powers. Three flowers on his head face the northern palace gate; Five vital energies in his chest penetrate to the southern sea. Among the ranks of immortals, he is called Yuanshi; In the profound and mysterious gate, words have not yet been spoken. Let it be said that fragrant flowers follow his chariot's wheels; Through ten thousand calamities of time, he shares the same longevity.

话说惧留孙见掌教师尊出玉虚宫来，俯伏道傍，口称：“老师万寿！”元始天尊曰：“好了！你们也拨开云雾，不久返本还元。”惧留孙曰：“奉老师法旨，将申公豹拿至麒麟崖，听候发落。”元始听说，来至麒麟崖，见申公豹捉在那里。元始曰：“业障！姜尚与你何仇，你邀三山五岳人去伐西岐？今日天数皆完，你还在中途害他，若不是我预为之计，几乎被你害了。如今封神一切事体要他与我代理，应合佐周；你如今只要害他，使武王不能前进。”命黄巾力士：“揭起麒麟崖，将这业障压在此间，待姜尚封过神再放他！”──看官：元始天尊岂不知道要此人收聚“封神榜”上三百六十五位正神，故假此难他，恐他又起波澜耳。黄巾力士来拿申公豹要压在崖下。申公豹口称：“冤枉！”元始曰：“你明明的要害姜尚，何言冤枉？也罢，我如今把你压了，你说我偏向姜尚；你如再阻姜尚，你发一个誓来。”申公豹发一个誓愿，只当口头言语，不知出口有愿。公豹曰：“弟子如再要使仙家阻当姜尚，弟子将身子塞了北海眼！”元始曰：“是了。放他去罢。”申公豹脱了此厄而去，惧留孙也拜辞去了。

It happened that Ju Liusun saw the Head Teacher Yuanshi Tianzun emerging from Yu Xu Gong. He knelt on the roadside and respectfully said, "My master, ten thousand years of longevity!" Yuanshi Tianzun said, "Enough! "You have also dispelled the clouds and mists; it will not be long before you return to your original essence." Ju Liusun said, "As per my master's decree, I have captured Shen Gongbao and brought him to Qilin Ya to await judgment." Yuanshi Tianzun heard this and went to Qilin Ya. There, he saw Shen Gongbao captured there. Yuanshi said, "Karmic retribution! What enmity does Jiang Shang have with you that you invited people from the Three Mountains and Five Peaks to attack Xi Qi?" Today, the heavenly decree is already fulfilled. You still sought to harm him along the way. Had it not been for my prior arrangements, he would have nearly perished at your hands. Now, all matters concerning the Enthronement of Immortals must be handled by him and me; he should assist King Zhou accordingly; If you harm him now, it will prevent King Wu from advancing." He ordered the Yellow Turban Laborers: "Lift up Qilin Ya and press this karmic retribution here; do not release him until Jiang Shang has completed the Enthronement of the Immortals!" ——Reader: Was Yuanshi Tianzun not already aware that this person was needed to gather the 365 righteous immortals on the "Fengshen Bang" (List of Enthroned Immortals)? Thus, he fabricated this hardship for him, fearing further disturbances. The Yellow Turban Laborers came to seize Shen Gongbao and press him beneath the cliff. Shen Gongbao cried out, "It is unjust!" Yuanshi said, "You clearly intended to harm Jiang Shang. Why do you claim injustice?" "Very well, I now press you down; you will say I favor Jiang Shang; if you try to obstruct him again in the future, take an oath." Shen Gongbao made a vow, thinking it was just idle talk, unaware that spoken words carry karmic consequences. Gongbao said, "If I ever again attempt to have immortals obstruct Jiang Shang, may my body be used to plug the eye of the Northern Sea!" Yuanshi said, "So it is." "Release him then." Shen Gongbao escaped this calamity and left, while Ju Liusun also paid his respects and departed.

且说广成子打死了火灵圣母，迳往碧游宫来。这个原是截教教主所居之地。广成子来至宫前。好所在！怎见得，有赋为证： 烟霞凝瑞霭，日月吐祥光。老柏青青与山岚，似秋水长天一色；野卉绯绯回朝霞，如碧桃丹杏齐芳。彩色盘旋。尽是道德光华飞紫雾；香烟缥缈，皆从先天无极吐清芬。仙桃仙果，颗颗恍若金丹；绿杨绿柳，条条浑如玉线。时闻黄鹤鸣皋，每见青鸾翔舞。红尘绝迹，无非是仙子仙童来往；玉户常关，不许那凡夫俗女闲窥。正是：无上至尊行乐地，其中妙境少人知。

Meanwhile, Guangchengzi, having killed Huo Ling Shengmu, went directly to Biyou Gong. This was originally the place where the leader of the Jie Sect resided. Guangchengzi arrived at the front of the palace. What a magnificent place! How can this be described? A verse serves as evidence: Smoke and mist condense into auspicious clouds, while the sun and moon emit radiant light. Ancient cypresses stand green amidst mountain mists, resembling the endless blue of autumn waters meeting the sky; Wild flowers in crimson hues reflect morning glow, like blooming peaches and apricots exuding fragrance together. Colors swirl in spirals. All are filled with the radiance of virtue and morality, as purple mists drift upward; Incense smoke wavers delicately, all exuding a pure fragrance from the primordial Taiji. Immortal peaches and fruits, each resembling golden pills; Green willows and poplars, their branches like jade threads. At times one hears the yellow cranes cry from the hills; often one sees green 鸾 dancing and flying. Traces of worldly dust are absent, for only immortals and immortal children come and go; Jade doors remain perpetually closed, not allowing common men and women to peep in idly. Indeed: This is the abode of supreme majesty where the highest enjoyments reside, a wondrous realm known to few.

话说广成子来至碧游宫外，站立多时。里边开讲“道德玉文”。少时，有一童子出来。广成子曰：“那童子，烦你通报一声，宫外有广成子求见老爷。”童儿进宫，至九龙沉香辇下禀曰：“启老爷：外有广成子至宫外，不敢擅入，请法旨定夺。”通天教主曰：“著他进来。”广成子至里边，倒身下拜：“弟子愿师叔万寿无疆！”通天教主曰：“广成子，你今日至此，有何事见我？”广成子将金霞冠奉上：“弟子启师叔：今有姜尚东征，兵至佳梦关，此是武王应天顺人，吊民伐罪，纣恶贯盈，理当剿灭。不意师叔教下门人火灵圣母仗此金霞冠，前来阻逆大兵，擅行杀害生灵，糜烂士卒：头一阵剑伤洪锦并龙吉公主；第二阵又伤姜尚，几乎丧命。弟子奉师尊之命，下山再三劝慰。彼仍恃宝行凶，欲伤弟子。弟子不得已，用了番天印，不意打中顶门，以绝生命。弟子特将金霞冠缴上碧游宫，请师叔法旨。”通天教主曰：“吾三教共议封神，其中有忠臣义士上榜者；有不成仙道而成神道者；各有深浅厚薄，彼此缘分，故神有尊卑，死有先后。吾教下也有许多。此是天数，非同小可，况有弥封，只至死后方知端的。广成子，你与姜尚说，他有打神鞭，如有我教下门人阻他者，任凭他打。前日我有谕贴在宫外，诸弟子各宜紧守，他若不听教训的，是自取咎，与姜尚无干。广成子去罢！”广成子出了碧游宫，正行，只见诸大弟子在傍听见掌教师尊分付“凡吾教下弟子不遵训诲，任凭他打”，众弟子心下甚是不服，俱在宫外等他。傍边有最不忿的是金灵圣母、当时圣母，对众言曰：“火灵圣母是多宝道人门下，广成子打死了他，就是打我等一样。他还来缴金霞冠，明明是欺蔑吾教！我等师尊又不察其事，反分付任他打，是明明欺吾等无人物也！”此时恼了龟灵圣母，大呼曰：“岂有此理！他打死火灵圣母，还来缴金霞冠！待吾去拿了广成子，以泄吾等之恨！”龟灵圣母仗剑砍来，大呼：“广成子不要走！我来了！”广成子站住，见他来的势局不同，广成子陪笑迎来，问曰：“道兄有何分付？”龟灵圣母曰：“你把吾教门人打死，还到此处来卖精神，分明是欺蔑吾教，显你等豪强，情殊可恨！不要走！我与火灵圣母报仇！”仗剑砍来。广成子将手中剑架住，言曰：“道友差矣！你的师尊共立‘封神榜’，岂是我等欺他，是他自取。也是天数该然，与我何咎！道友言替他报仇，真是不谙事体！”龟灵圣母大怒曰：“还敢以言语支吾！”不由分说，又是一剑。广成子正色言曰：“我以礼谕你，你还是如此，终不然我怕你不成？纵是我师长，也只好让你两

Now returning to Guangchengzi: upon arriving outside Biyou Gong, he stood there for quite some time. Inside, a lecture on the "Dao De Yu Wen" was being held. After some time, a young boy came out. Guangchengzi said, "Boy, would you please inform the palace that Guangchengzi from outside wishes to see Master." The boy entered the palace and reported to beneath the nine-dragon incense palanquin, saying, "Your Lordship: Guangchengzi has arrived outside the palace but dares not enter without permission. Please issue an order." Tongtian Jiaozhu said, "Let him come in." Guangchengzi entered the inner hall and fell to his knees, bowing deeply: "Disciple wishes Uncle Master a life of endless longevity!" Tongtian Jiaozu said, "Guangchengzi, you have come here today. What business do you have with me?" Guangchengzi presented the Jinxia Guan and said, "Disciple respectfully informs Uncle Master: currently, Jiang Shang is marching eastward. His troops have reached Jiameng Guan. This is because King Wu of Zhou follows Heaven's will and the people's desire to punish the tyrant. The evils of Zhou are heaped high; it is only right that they be eradicated." Unbeknownst to me, Uncle Master's disciple Huo Ling Shengmu wielded this Jinxia Guan to come and oppose the army, recklessly killing lives and causing great destruction among the soldiers: in the first battle, she wounded Hong Jin and Princess Longji with her sword; In the second battle, she again injured Jiang Shang, nearly costing him his life. Disciple was sent by Master to descend the mountain repeatedly to advise and pacify her. Yet she still relied on her treasure to act violently, attempting to harm me. Disciple had no choice but to use the Fantian Yin, and unintentionally struck her at the crown of her head, ending her life. Disciple specially returns this Jinxia Guan here to Biyou Gong and awaits Uncle Master's decree." Tongtian Jiaoshu said, "We three sects jointly discussed the Investiture of Gods. Among them are loyal ministers and righteous men who were listed; there are those who did not become immortals but became gods; each has their own depth and strength, as well as karmic connections. Hence, the ranks of gods vary in status, and deaths occur at different times." There are also many among my sect. This is the will of Heaven, a matter not to be taken lightly. Moreover, there are seals in place; only after death does one truly know the details. Guangchengzi, tell Jiang Shang that he has the God-Beating Whip. If any of my sect's disciples obstruct him, let him beat them at will. The other day, I issued a decree outside the palace. All disciples should strictly abide by it. If any refuse to heed instruction, they bring blame upon themselves and have no connection with Jiang Shang. "Go now, Guangchengzi!" Guangchengzi left Biyou Gong and was walking when he saw many senior disciples nearby who had overheard the Grand Preceptor's decree: "Any of my sect's disciples who disobey instruction may be beaten by him." The disciples were greatly dissatisfied and waiting for him outside the palace. Among them, the most resentful was Jinling Shengmu. At that time, the Holy Mother addressed the crowd and said, "Huo Ling Shengmu was a disciple of Daobaodaren. Guangchengzi killed her; this is as if he had struck any one of us." He even returned the Jinxia Guan, clearly showing contempt for our sect! Our Grand Preceptor did not even investigate the matter and instead ordered us to let him beat us. This clearly shows he considers our sect as having no capable people!" At this, Guiling Shengmu became furious and shouted, "How can such a thing be allowed! He killed Huo Ling Sheng Mu and now dares to return the Jinxia Guan!" I shall go and seize Guangchengzi to vent our anger!" Guiling Shengmu brandished his sword and shouted, "Guangchengzi, do not run! I am coming!" Guangchengzi stopped and saw that the other's bearing was formidable. Guangchengzi smiled politely as he approached, asking, "Elder Brother Dao, what is your command?" Guiling Shengmu said, "You killed my sect's disciple and now come here to show off bravado. This is clearly an insult to our sect and a display of your arrogance. It is most despicable!" Do not run! I shall avenge Huo Ling Shengmu!" He brandished his sword and attacked. Guangchengzi raised the sword in his hand to block, saying, "My Dao friend is mistaken! Your Grand Preceptor jointly established the 'Investiture of Gods.' It was not that we wronged him, but he brought it upon himself. It is all according to Heaven's decree; what fault do I have!" To say you speak of avenging him, that is truly showing ignorance of the matter!" old Without further ado, he struck again with his sword. Guangchengzi spoke solemnly, "I have already explained to you with courtesy, yet you still act this way. Do you think I am afraid of you?" Even if it were my master or elder, he would only let you have the upper hand for a moment.

剑。”龟灵圣母又是一剑。广成子大怒，面皮通红，仗宝剑相还。两家未及数合，广成子祭番天印打来。龟灵圣母见此印打下来，招架不住，忙现原身，乃是个大乌龟。──昔苍颉造字而有龟文羽翼之形，就是那时节得道的；修成人形，原是一个母乌龟，故此称为“圣母”。──彼时金灵圣母、多宝道人见龟灵圣母现了原身，各人面上俱觉惭愧之极，甚是追悔。只见虬首仙、乌云仙、金光仙、金牙仙大呼：“广成子，你欺吾教，不是这等！”数人发怒，一齐仗剑赶来。广成子自思：吾在他家里，身入重地；自古道‘单丝不成线’，反为不美。”广成子又见他们重重围来，“不若还奔碧游宫，见他师尊，自然解释。乃不等通报，迳自投台下来。通天教主曰：“广成子，你又来有甚话说？”广成子跪而启曰：“师叔分付，弟子领命下山。不知师叔门人龟灵圣母同许多门人来为火灵圣母复仇。弟子无门可入，特来见师叔金容，求为开释！”通天教主命水火童儿：“把龟灵圣母叫来！”少时，龟灵圣母至法台下行礼，口称：“弟子在。”通天教主曰：“你为何去赶广成子？”龟灵圣母曰：“广成子将吾教下门人打死，反上宫来献金霞冠，分明是欺蔑吾教！”通天教主曰：“吾为掌教之主，反不如你等？此是你不守谕言，自取其祸，大抵俱是天数，我岂不知？广成子把金霞冠缴来，正是遵吾法旨，不敢擅用吾宝。尔等仍是狼心野性，不守我清规，大是可恶！将龟灵圣母革出宫外，不许入宫听讲！”遂将龟灵圣母革出。两傍恼了许多弟子，私相怨曰：“今为广成子，反把自家门弟子轻辱，师尊如何这样偏心？”大家俱是不忿，尽出门来。只见通天教主分付广成子：“你快去罢！”广成子拜谢了教主，方才出了碧游宫，只见后面一起截教门人赶来，只叫：“拿住了广成子以泄吾众人之恨！”广成子听得著慌：“这一番来得不善！欲迳往前行，不好；欲与他抵敌，寡不敌众；不若还进碧游宫，才免得此厄。”看官：广成子你原不该来！这正应了“三谒碧游宫”。正是： 沿潭撤下钓和线，从今钩出是非来。

"Blade." Guiling Shengmu struck again with his sword. Guangchengzi became furious, his face turning red as he brandished his treasure sword to counterattack. Before they could exchange more than a few strikes, Guangchengzi summoned the Fantian Yin and hurled it at him. Guiling Shengmu saw this seal coming down, could not block it, and hurriedly transformed into his original form—a giant tortoise. ——In ancient times, Cangjie created characters and observed the patterns of turtle shells and bird wings; it was then that he attained the Dao; he transformed into a human form, originally a female tortoise, hence the title "Holy Mother." ——At that time, Jinling Shengmu and Duobao Daoren saw Guiling Shengmu reveal his original form. Each of their faces showed extreme shame, filled with regret. Just then Qiu Shou Xian, Wuyun Xian, Jinguang Xian, and Jinyaxian shouted, "Guangchengzi, how can you insult our sect in such a way!" The several of them became angry and rushed forward together with their swords drawn. Guangchengzi thought to himself: I am within their territory, in a place of great importance for them; as the old saying goes, "A single thread cannot form a line"—to act alone would be unwise." Guangchengzi saw them closing in from all sides and thought, "It would be better to return to Biyou Gong and see their Grand Preceptor. That way, the matter can naturally be resolved." Without waiting for an announcement, he directly descended from the dais. Tongtian Jiaoshi said, "Guangchengzi, what is it that you have come to say again?" Kneeling down, Guangchengzi respectfully said, "Uncle Master gave orders. I followed your command and descended the mountain." I did not know that Uncle Master's disciple Guiling Shengmu, along with many others, came to avenge Huo Ling Shengmu. Disciple had nowhere else to go and thus specially came before Uncle Master's noble presence, begging for release!" Tongtian Jiaosu ordered the Water and Fire boys: "Bring Guiling Shengmu here!" After a short while, Guiling Shengmu arrived at the foot of the dais and bowed, saying, "Disciple is here." Tongtian Jiaosi said, "Why did you go after Guangchengzi?" Guiling Shengmu replied, "Guangchengzi killed my sect's disciple yet came to the palace with the Jinxia Guan as if it were a tribute. This is clearly an insult and mockery of our sect!" Tongtian Jiaoju said, "I am the head of this sect. Am I not superior to you?" This is because you did not follow my decree and brought this calamity upon yourself. It was largely determined by Heaven's will—could I possibly be unaware of that? Guangchengzi returned the Jinxia Guan because he was following my decree, not daring to misuse our treasures. You are still wild-hearted and unruly, failing to abide by our sect's rules—this is most despicable! Expel Guiling Shengmu from the palace and forbid him from entering to listen to lectures!" Thus, they expelled Guiling Shengmu. Many disciples on the sides became furious and privately grumbled, "Because of Guangchengzi, our own sect's disciple was humiliated. How can our Grand Preceptor be so biased?" Everyone was resentful and left the palace in anger. Just then, Tongtian Jiaoshi ordered Guangchengzi: "You had better leave quickly!" Guangchengzi bowed in thanks to the Grand Preceptor and was just leaving Biyou Gong when he saw a group of Jie Sect disciples rushing after him from behind, shouting, "Catch Guangchengzi so we may vent our collective anger!" Guangchengzi became alarmed upon hearing this: "This time it's not going to be easy!" He wanted to proceed directly forward, but that was not a good option; If he were to fight them, his numbers would be too few to match theirs; It was better to return into Biyou Gong and thus avoid this calamity." Reader: Guangchengzi, you should not have come in the first place! This was exactly what is meant by "Three Visits to Biyou Gong." Indeed: Along the pond, the fishing line is cast down; from now on, it will hook forth disputes and troubles.

话说广成子这一番慌慌张张跑至碧游宫台下，来见通天教主，不知吉凶如何？且听下回分解。

Now let us return to Guangchengzi, who in a state of panic and haste ran back down to the terrace of Biyou Gong to see Tongtian Jiaoshi. What fortune or misfortune awaited him? We shall hear more in the next chapter.