Chapter 73: Blue Dragon Pass: Feihuo Suffers a Military Setback

诗曰： 流水滔滔日夜磨，不知乌兔若奔梭。才看苦海成平陆，又见苍桑化碧波。熊虎将军餐白刃，英雄俊杰饮干戈。迟蚤只因天数定，空教血泪滴婆娑。

The poem says: Flowing water surges day and night, grinding ceaselessly; One does not know how the black rabbit and white hare dart like a shuttle. Only just have I seen the bitter sea become level land, When again I witness the vicissitudes of time transform into emerald waves. Xionghu general feasts on white blades, Heroes and outstanding men drink from halberds and spears. Late or early is but determined by heavenly decree; In vain do blood tears fall in sorrowful profusion.

话说广成子三进碧游宫，又来见通天教主，双膝跪下。教主问曰：“广成子，你为何又进我宫来？全无规矩，任你胡行！”广成子曰：“蒙师叔分付，弟子去了；其如众门人不放弟子去，只要与弟子并力。弟子之来，无非敬上之道；若是如此，弟子是求荣反辱。望老师慈悲发付弟子，也不坏师叔昔日三教共立‘封神榜’的体面。”通天教主听说，怒曰：“水火童子快把这些无知畜生唤进宫来！”只见水火童子领法旨出宫来，见众门人，曰：“列位师兄，老爷发怒，唤你等进去。”众门人听师尊呼唤，大家没意思，只得进宫来见。通天教主喝曰：“你这些不守规矩的畜生！如何师命不遵，恃强生事？这是何说！广成子是我三教法旨扶助周武，这是应运而兴。他等逆天行事，理当如此。你等如何还是这等胡为？情实可恨！”直骂得众人们面面相觑，低头不语。通天教主分付广成子曰：“你只奉命而行，不要与这些人计较。你好生去罢！”广成子谢过恩，出了宫，迳回九仙山去了。后有诗叹曰： 广成奉旨涉先天，只为金霞冠欲还。不是天心原有意，界牌关下有“诛仙”。话说通天教主曰：“姜尚乃是奉吾三教法旨，扶佐应运帝王。这三教中都有在‘封神榜’上的。广成子也是犯教之仙。他就打死火灵圣母，非是他来寻事做；这是你去寻他。总是天意。尔等何苦与他做对？连我的训谕不依，成何体面！”众门人未及开言，只见多宝道人跪下禀曰：“老师圣谕，怎敢不依？只是广成子太欺吾教，妄自尊大他的玉虚教法，辱詈我等不堪，老师那里知道？到把他一面虚词当做真话，被他欺诳过了。”通天教主曰：“‘红花白藕青荷叶，三教原来总一般。’他岂不知，怎敢乱话欺弄。你等切不可自分彼此，致生事端。”多宝道人曰：“老师在上：弟子原不敢说，只今老师不知详细，事已至此，不得不以直告。他骂吾教是左道傍门，‘不分披毛带角之人，湿生卵化之辈，皆可同群共处。’他视我为无物，独称他玉虚道法为‘无上至尊’，所以弟子等不服也。”通天教主曰：“我看广成子亦是真实君子，断无是言。你们不要错听了。”多宝道人曰：“弟子怎敢欺诳老师！”众门人齐曰：“实有此语。这都可以面质。”通天教主笑曰：“我与羽毛相并，他师父却是何人？我成羽毛，他师父也是羽毛之类。这畜生这等轻薄！”分付金灵圣母：“往后边取那四口宝剑来。”少时，金灵圣母取一包袱，内有四口宝剑，放在案上。教主曰：“多宝道人过来，听我分付：他既笑我教不如，你可将此四口宝剑去界牌关摆一诛仙阵，看阐教门下那一个门人敢进吾阵！如有事时，我自来与他讲。”多宝道人请问老师：“此剑有何妙用？”通天教主曰：“此剑有四名：一曰‘诛仙剑’，二曰‘戮仙剑’，三曰‘陷仙剑’，四曰‘绝仙剑’。此剑倒悬门上，发雷震动，剑光一愰，任从他是万劫神仙，也难逃此难。昔曾有赞，赞此宝剑，赞曰： 非铜非铁又非钢，曾在须弥山下藏。不用阴阳颠倒炼，岂无水火淬锋芒？“诛仙”利，“戮仙”亡，“陷仙”到处起红光；“绝仙”变化无穷妙，大罗神仙血染裳。

It is said that Guangchengzi entered Biyou Palace three times and once again came to see Tongtian Jiaozhu, kneeling down on both knees. Jiaozhu asked, "Guangchengzi, why have you once again entered my palace?" "You show no decorum at all; you act recklessly as you please!" Guangchengzi said, "I have followed my uncle-teacher's instructions and left; " Yet the many disciples would not let me go, insisting only on uniting forces with me. My coming here is nothing but an expression of respect toward superiors; If it is to be like this, then by seeking honor I have instead brought disgrace upon myself. I beg my master for mercy and to assign me a fate, so as not to damage the dignity of Uncle-teacher's past establishment of the 'Fengshen Bang' together with the Three Teachings." Upon hearing this, Tongtian Jiaozhu angrily said, "Shuihuo Tongzi, quickly bring these ignorant brutes into the palace!" Just then, Shuihuo Tongzi came out of the palace with the decree and saw the many disciples. He said, "Brothers, our master is angry and has summoned you all in." Hearing their teacher's summons, the disciples had no choice but to enter the palace and appear before him. Tongtian Jiaozhu shouted, "You brutes who do not abide by rules! How could you disobey your master's command and provoke trouble through arrogance?" What kind of excuse is this!" Guangchengzi was appointed by the decree of my Three Teachings to assist King Wu of Zhou; this is a rise in accordance with destiny. They acted against heaven's will, and thus it is only fitting." "Why are you still acting so recklessly?" "It is truly despicable!" He scolded them so fiercely that the disciples looked at each other in embarrassment, heads bowed and silent. Tongtian Jiaozu instructed Guangchengzi, "You merely carry out your orders; do not quarrel with these people. Go on your way well and good!" Guangchengzi thanked for the favor, left the palace, and directly returned to Jiuxianshan. Later, a poem laments: Guangcheng received the decree and ventured into the primordial heavens; It was all because he wished to reclaim his golden mist crown. Were it not for heaven's will having a purpose, At Jiapaiguan there would be no "Zhu Xian." It is said that Tongtian Jiaozu remarked, "Jiang Shang was appointed by the decree of our Three Teachings to support and assist the emperor who rose in accordance with destiny. There are those from all three teachings on the 'Fengshen Bang.' Guangchengzi is also a deity who violated the teachings. He killed Huoling Shengmu, but it was not he who started trouble; It was you who went to provoke him. All is the will of heaven. Why do you persist in opposing him?" You even disregard my instructions—what kind of dignity does that leave!" Before the disciples could speak, Dao Ren Duobao knelt down and reported, "Master's holy decree—how dare we disobey? It is just that Guangchengzi has been too arrogant toward our teaching, recklessly elevating his Yuxu teachings and insulting us beyond endurance—Master does not yet know this?" He has taken one-sided flattery as truth, having been deceived by him." Tongtian Jiaozhǔ said, "Red flowers, white lotus roots, green lotus leaves—originally the Three Teachings are all one and the same. Does he not know this? How dare he speak recklessly to deceive others." "You must never divide yourselves into us and them, causing trouble." Duobao Dao Ren said, "Master above: I originally dared not speak, but now that Master does not know the details and matters have come to this point, I must tell you plainly. "He insulted our teaching as a left-hand path and side gate, saying 'regardless of whether they are people with fur or horns, or those born from dampness or eggs, all may associate together.' " "He treats us as nothing and alone calls his Yuxu Dao Fa 'the Supreme and Most Honored,' so we disciples cannot accept this." " Tongtian Jiaoshou said, "In my view, Guangchengzi is a truly virtuous gentleman; he would never say such things. "Do not misunderstand what you have heard." Duobao Dao Ren said, "How dare I deceive Master!" The disciples all said together, "These words were indeed spoken. This can be verified in person." Tongtian Jiaosou laughed and said, "I am on equal footing with feathers and down; who then is his master?" When I became a feather or down, his master was also of the same kind. "This brat is so disrespectful!" He ordered Jinling Shengmu, "Go to the back and fetch those four precious swords." After a short while, Jinling Shengmu brought forth a bundle containing four precious swords and placed them on the table. Jiaozhu said, "Duobao Dao Ren come forward and listen to my orders: since he has mocked our teaching as inferior, you may take these four precious swords and set up a Zhu Xian Formation at Jiapaiguan. See which disciple under the Chan Teaching dares enter my formation! "If anything happens, I will personally come to deal with him." Duobao Dao Ren asked his master, "What is the wondrous use of these swords?" Tongtian Jiaojun said, "These swords have four names: the first is 'Zhu Xian Jian,' the second is 'Lu Xian Jian,' the third is 'Xian Xian Jian,' and the fourth is 'Jue Xian Jian.' When this sword is hung upside down above the gate, it will emit thunderous vibrations. When its swordlight flashes even once, no matter how many calamities a deity may have survived, they cannot escape this fate. In the past there was a eulogy praising these precious swords, which said: Not copper, not iron, nor steel at all, they once lay hidden beneath Mount Sumeru. No need to refine them by reversing yin and yang— Could it be that water and fire lack the power to temper their sharpness? "The 'Zhu Xian' brings benefit, the 'Lu Xian' causes death; the 'Xian Xian' ignites crimson light everywhere; " "The 'Jue Xian' holds boundless wondrous transformations— Even a Da Luo deity's robes would be stained with blood."

话说通天教主将此剑付与多宝道人，又与一诛仙阵图，言曰：“你往界牌关去，阻住周兵，看他怎样对你。”多宝道人离了高山，迳往界牌关去。不表。

It is said that Tongtian jiaozhu gave these swords to Duobao Dao Ren, along with a map of the Zhu Xian Formation, and said, "Go to Jiapaiguan and block the Zhou army. See how they will deal with you." Duobao Dao Ren left Gao Shan and went directly to Jiapaiguan. No further details are given.

且说子牙自从遇申公豹得脱回佳梦关来。周营内差人四下里打探子牙消息。只见哪吒登风火轮，四下找寻。子牙正策四不相前行，恰好遇著韦护。韦护大喜，上前安慰子牙曰：“自火龙兵冲散人马，急切难以收聚；不意火灵圣母赶师叔去。那些兵原是左道邪术，见没有主将作法驱逐，一时火光灭了，并无有一些手段。被我等收回兵，复一阵杀的他乾净。只是不见师叔。如今哪吒等四路去打探，不期弟子在此得遇尊颜，我等不胜幸甚！”有探事官飞奔中军，来报于洪锦。洪锦远迎。子牙进辕门，众将欢喜。收点人马，计算又折了四五千军卒。子牙把火灵圣母、申公豹的事对众军将细说一遍。众人贺喜。子牙分付整顿人马，离佳梦关五十里。住了三日，子牙方整点士卒，一声炮响，复至关下安营。且说胡升在关内不知火灵圣母吉凶，又听得报马来报，子牙兵复至关下，胡升大惊：“姜尚兵又复至，火灵圣母休矣！”急与佐贰官商议：“前日已是降周，平空而来火灵圣母搅扰这场，使吾更变一番，虽然胜了姜子牙二阵，成得甚事！如今怎好相见？”傍有佐贰官王信曰：“如今元帅把罪名做在火灵圣母身上，彼自不罪元帅也。这也无妨。”胡升曰：“此言也有理。”就差王信具纳降文书，前往周营来见子牙。有军政官报入中军：“启元帅：关内差官下文书，请令定夺。”子牙传令：“令来。”王信来至中军，呈上文书。子牙展于案上观看，书曰： 　“纳降守关主将胡升暨大小将佐等，顿首上书于西周大元帅麾下：不职升谬承司阃，镇守边关，谨慎小心，希图少尽臣节以报主知；孰意皇天不眷，降灾于殷，天愁人叛，致动天下诸侯观政于商。日者元帅率兵抵关，升弟胡雷与火灵圣母不知天命，致逆王师，自罹于祸，悔亦无及。升罪固宜罔赦，但元帅汪洋之度，好生之人，无不覆载。今特遣裨将王信薰沐上书，乞元帅下鉴愚悃，容其纳降，以救此一方民，真时雨之师，万姓顶祝矣。胡升再顿首谨启。”子牙看书毕，问王信曰：“你主将既已纳款，吾亦不究往事。明日即行献关，毋得再有推阻。”洪锦在傍言曰：“胡升反覆不定，元帅不可轻信，恐其中有诈。”子牙曰：“前日乃是他兄弟违傲，与火灵圣母自恃左道之术故耳。以我观，胡升乃是真心纳降也。公无多言。”随令王信：“回覆主将，明日进关。”王信领令，进关来见胡升，将子牙言语尽说一遍。胡升大喜，随命关上军士立起周家旗号。次日，胡升同大小将领率百姓出关，手执降旗，焚香结彩，迎子牙大势人马进关。来至帅府堂上坐下，众将官侍立两傍。只见胡升来至堂前行礼毕，禀曰：“末将胡升一向有意归周，奈吾弟不识天时，以遭诛戮。末将先曾具纳降文表与洪将军，不意火灵圣母要阻天兵，末将再三阻挡不住，致有得罪于元帅麾下，望元帅恕末将之罪。”子牙曰：“听你之言，真是反覆不定；头一次纳降，非你本心。你见你关内无将，故尔偷生。及见火灵圣母来至，汝便欺心，又思故主。总是暮四朝三之小人，岂是一言以定之君子。此事虽是火灵圣母主意，也要你自己肯为，我也难以准信。留你久后必定为祸。”命左右：“推出斩之！”胡升无言抵塞，追悔无及。左右将胡升绑出帅府。少时，见左右将首级来献。子牙命拿出关前号令。子牙平定了佳梦关，令祁公镇守。子牙把户口查明，即日回兵至汜水关。李靖领众将辕门迎接。子牙至后营见武王，将取佳梦关一事奏知武王。武王置酒在中军与子牙贺功。不表。

Let us now speak of Ziya, who since encountering Shen Gongbao had escaped and returned to Jiamengguan. Within the Zhou camp, people were sent in all directions to scout for news of Ziya. Just then Nezha rode his Fenghuo Lun and searched in all directions. Ziya was just riding forward on Sibuxiang when he happened to meet Weihu. Weihu was greatly pleased and hurried forward to comfort Ziya, saying, "Since the Huolong forces scattered our troops, it is difficult at present to regroup them; I did not expect that Huoling Shengmu would chase after Uncle-teacher. Those soldiers were originally practitioners of left-hand path sorcery; when they saw that their commanding general was not there to perform spells and drive them, the firelight suddenly went out, and they had no real ability at all. We recovered our troops and wiped them out completely in one battle. "We just could not find Uncle-teacher." "Now Nezha and others have gone in four directions to scout, yet unexpectedly I met you here, Master. We are most fortunate!" A scout officer galloped to the central camp and reported to Hongjin. Hongjin hurriedly went out to greet him from afar. Ziya entered the 辕门 (yuanmen, a military gate), and the generals were delighted. They counted their troops and found that they had lost another four or five thousand soldiers. Ziya recounted in detail to the generals and soldiers the events involving Huoling Shengmu and Shen Gongbao. The people congratulated him joyfully. Ziya ordered the troops to be readied and moved fifty li away from Jiamengguan. After staying for three days, Ziya finally mustered his soldiers; with the sound of a cannon, he once again set up camp below the pass. Meanwhile, Hu Sheng inside the pass did not know whether Huoling Shengmu was safe or in danger. Upon hearing a scout horse report that Ziya's troops had once again arrived below the pass, Hu Sheng was greatly alarmed: "Jiang Shang's forces have returned—Huoling Shengmu is doomed!" He quickly conferred with his deputy officials: "The day before yesterday we had already surrendered to the Zhou, yet Huoling Shengmu suddenly arrived and caused this disturbance, forcing us into another change. Although we won two battles against Jiang Ziya, what has it achieved!" "How can we face them now?" A deputy official named Wang Xin said, "Now that the commander has placed the blame on Huoling Shengmu, they will not hold the commander responsible. "There is no problem with this." Hu Sheng said, "This remark also makes sense." He then sent Wang Xin to prepare a surrender document and go to the Zhou camp to meet Ziya. A military official reported into the central camp: "Reporting to Commander-in-Chief: officials from within the pass have sent a document requesting your decision." Ziya gave orders, "Bring him in." Wang Xin arrived at the central camp and presented the document. Ziya unfolded the document on his desk and read it. It said: "From the surrendering commander of the pass, Hu Sheng, along with all major and minor officers: we bow our heads in submission to your command under the Western Zhou's great general-in-chief: I, Sheng, unworthy as I am, have been entrusted with guarding this frontier post. I have carefully and cautiously fulfilled my duties, hoping to fulfill a small part of my loyalty in return for your trust; Who could have foreseen that Heaven, unkind to us, has brought calamity upon Yin. Heaven mourns and people rebel, causing the feudal lords of all under heaven to observe the governance of Shang." Recently, when the general led troops to the pass, my younger brother Hu Lei and Huoling Shengmu failed to recognize Heaven's will, thus defying Your Majesty's forces and bringing disaster upon themselves. Regret is now too late. My punishment is indeed deserved and should not be pardoned, but General's vast tolerance and benevolent nature embrace all things. Today, we have specially sent the assistant general Wang Xin, purified and respectful, to present this letter. We beg General's gracious consideration of our sincerity, allowing us to surrender so as to save these local people. You would truly be a timely rain for your troops, and all ten thousand subjects will offer their highest blessings." Hu Sheng again bows his head respectfully and submits this letter." After reading the document, Ziya asked Wang Xin, "Since your commander has already surrendered, I will not pursue past matters. You must surrender the pass tomorrow without any further delay or resistance." Hong Jin, standing nearby, said, "Hu Sheng is fickle and unreliable. General cannot afford to trust him lightly; there may be deception involved." Ziya said, "The previous day's resistance was due to his brother's arrogance and Huoling Shengmu's reliance on their left-handed arts. In my view, Hu Sheng is genuinely sincere in surrendering." "You have said enough." He then ordered Wang Xin, "Return to your commander and inform him that we will enter the pass tomorrow." Wang Xin accepted the order and returned to the pass to see Hu Sheng, conveying Ziya's words in full. Hu Sheng was greatly pleased and immediately ordered the soldiers on the gate to raise Zhou's banners. The next day, Hu Sheng along with all the major and minor officers led the civilians out of the pass. They held white surrender flags, burned incense, decorated with colorful ribbons, and welcomed Ziya's large force into the pass. They arrived at the general's hall, took their seats, while all the officers stood on either side. Hu Sheng then entered the hall, bowed deeply, and reported, "I, your subordinate general Hu Sheng, have long had the intention to submit to Zhou. Unfortunately, my younger brother failed to recognize the will of Heaven, thus suffering punishment. I previously submitted a surrender document to General Hong, but unexpectedly Huoling Shengmu opposed the heavenly troops. I repeatedly tried to stop her without success, which led to my offense against your command. I hope General will forgive my crime." Ziya said, "Hearing your words, you truly seem fickle; your first surrender was not from the heart. You saw that there were no more generals within your pass, so you tried to save yourself by pretending to surrender. When Huoling Shengmu arrived, you became deceitful again and longed for your former master. You are a petty person who shifts loyalties like the proverbial man who changes from three to four in the morning and evening; you are not a true gentleman whose loyalty can be secured with mere words. Although this matter was mainly Huoling Shengmu's idea, you yourself must have agreed to it; therefore, I find it hard to trust you. If I keep you around for long, you will surely bring disaster." He ordered the guards: "Drag him out and behead him!" Hu Sheng had no words to protest, regretting it too late. The guards bound Hu Sheng and dragged him out of the general's residence. After a short while, the guards returned with his severed head to present it. Ziya ordered that the head be displayed at the gate for public announcement. Ziya pacified Jiameng Pass and ordered Qi Gong to garrison it. Ziya registered the households, then immediately led his troops back to Sishui Pass on the same day. Li Jing led the officers at the 辕门 (yuanmen) to welcome them. After arriving, Ziya went to the rear camp to see King Wu and reported on the capture of Jiameng Pass. King Wu held a banquet in the central camp to celebrate Ziya's achievements. Details are omitted here.

且说黄飞虎领十万雄师往青龙关来，一路浩浩军威，纷纷杀气。一日哨马报入中军：“启总兵：人马已至青龙关，请令安营。”黄总兵传令：“安下行营。”放炮呐喊。话说这青龙关镇守大将乃是丘引，副将是马方、高贵、余成、孙宝等。闻周兵来至，丘引忙升厅坐下，与众将议曰：“今日周兵无故犯界，甚是狂悖，吾等正当效力之时，各宜尽心报国。”众将官齐曰：“愿效死力。”人人俱摩拳擦掌，个个勇往直前。且说黄总兵升帐曰：“今日已抵关隘，谁去见头一阵立功？”邓九公曰：“愿往。”飞虎曰：“将军一往，必建奇功。”邓九公上马出营，至关下搦战。哨探马报入帅府。丘引急令马方：“去见头阵，便知端的。”马方上马提刀，开放关门，两杆旗开，见邓九公红袍金甲，一骑马飞临阵前。马方大呼曰：“反贼慢来！”九公曰：“马方，你好不知天时！方今兵连祸结，眼见成汤亡于旦夕，尔尚敢来出关会战也！”马方大骂：“逆天泼贼，欺心匹夫，敢出妄言，惑吾清听！”纵马摇枪飞来直取。邓九公手中刀急架忙迎。二马盘旋，大战有三十回合。九公乃久经战场上将，马方那里是他的对手，正战间，被九公卖个破绽，大喝一声，将马方劈于马下。邓九公找了首级，掌得胜鼓回营，来见黄飞虎，将马方首级献上。黄总兵大喜，上九公首功，具酒相庆。

Meanwhile, Huang Feihu led an army of one hundred thousand strong men toward Qinglong Pass. Along the way, his troops displayed a grand and imposing military presence, filled with fierce killing intent. One day, a scout horseman reported into the central camp: "Reporting to General-in-Charge: our troops have arrived at Qinglong Pass. Please give orders for setting up camp." General Huang gave orders, "Set up the forward camp." Cannons were fired and shouts echoed. It happened that the commander defending Qinglong Pass was Qiu Yin, with deputy commanders Ma Fang, Gao Gui, Yu Cheng, Sun Bao, and others. Upon hearing that the Zhou forces had arrived, Qiu Yin quickly ascended to his hall and sat down. He discussed with the officers: "Today, the Zhou troops have come without cause to violate our territory; they are extremely arrogant and disrespectful. This is precisely when we should demonstrate our loyalty. Everyone must do their utmost to serve the country." The officers all replied in unison, "We are willing to lay down our lives for you!" Everyone rubbed their hands and clenched their fists; each officer was eager and ready to charge forward. Meanwhile, General Huang entered his tent and said, "We have now reached the pass. Who will volunteer to fight in the first battle and establish merit?" Deng Jiugong said, "I am willing to go." Feihu said, "General, with your departure, you will surely achieve extraordinary merit." Deng Jiugong mounted his horse and left the camp to challenge the enemy at the gate. A scout horseman reported into the general's headquarters. Qiu Yin quickly ordered Ma Fang, "Go to meet the first challenge and find out what it is all about." Ma Fang mounted his horse, raised his sword, and opened the gate. As the two banners were unfurled, he saw Deng Jiugong in a red robe and golden armor riding alone to the front of the battlefield. Ma Fang shouted loudly, "Rebel scoundrel, come no closer!" Jiugong said, "Ma Fang, you are truly ignorant of Heaven's will! Now the country is in chaos and disaster has befallen us. The Shang dynasty's downfall is imminent, yet you still dare to come out of the pass for battle!" Ma Fang cursed loudly, "You rebellious scoundrel who defies Heaven! You deceitful wretch! How dare you utter such nonsense to confuse my ears!" He urged his horse forward, raised his spear, and charged straight at Deng Jiugong. Deng Jiugong quickly raised his sword to meet the attack. The two horses circled each other as they fiercely engaged in battle for about thirty rounds. Jiugong was a seasoned general with long battlefield experience; Ma Fang could not possibly be his match. In the midst of their fight, Jiugong feigned an opening and roared loudly before slashing Ma Fang off his horse. Deng Jiugong took the severed head, beat the drum of victory, and returned to camp. He presented Ma Fang's head before Huang Feihu. General Huang was greatly pleased, awarded Jiugong the top merit for his achievement, and held a banquet to celebrate with him.

且说败兵报进关来：“禀元帅：马方失机，被邓九公枭了首级，号令周营。”丘引听报，只气得三尸神暴跳，七窍内生烟。次日，亲自提兵出关。黄飞虎正议取关一事，见哨马报入中军：“青龙关大队摆开，请总兵答话。”黄飞虎传令：“也把大队人马摆出。”炮声响处，大红旗展，好雄威人马出来！正是： 人似欢彪撺阔涧，马如大海老龙腾。

Meanwhile, the retreating soldiers reported into the pass: "Reporting to Commander-in-Chief: Ma Fang was careless and defeated. Deng Jiugong beheaded him and displayed his head at the Zhou camp." Upon hearing the report, Qiu Yin was so enraged that he felt as if his three soul deities were jumping in fury and smoke rose from all seven orifices of his body. The next day, Qiu Yin personally led troops out of the pass. Huang Feihu was just discussing plans to capture the pass when a scout horseman reported into camp: "The main force of Qinglong Pass has deployed, and they request General Huang's response." Huang Feihu gave orders, "Deploy our main forces as well." As the cannon roared and the large red banner unfurled, a mighty and imposing force emerged! Indeed: People are like tigers leaping across wide ravines; horses surge forth like ancient dragons rising from the sea.

话说丘引见黄飞虎，左右分开大小将官，一马当先，大叫：“黄飞虎负国忘恩，无父无君之贼！你反了五关，杀害朝廷命官，劫纣王府库，助姬发为恶，今日反来侵扰天子关隘，你真是恶贯满盈，必受天诛！”黄飞虎笑曰：“今天下会兵，纣王亡在旦夕，你等皆无死所！马前一卒，有多大本领，敢逆天兵耶！”飞虎回顾左右：“那一员战将与吾拏了丘引？”后有黄天祥应曰：“待我来擒此贼。”天祥年方十七岁，真所谓“初生之犊不惧虎”，催开战马，摇手中枪冲杀过来。这壁厢有高贵摇斧接住。两马相交，枪斧并举。黄天祥也是“封神榜”上之人，力大无穷。来来往往，未及十五合，一枪刺中高贵心窝，翻鞍下马。丘引大呼一声：“气死吾也！不要走，吾来也！”丘引银盔素铠，白马长枪，飞来直取天祥。黄天祥见丘引自至，心下暗喜：“此功该吾成也！摇手中枪劈面相还。好杀！怎见得，正是： 棋逢敌手难藏兴，将遇良才好奏功。

As Qiu Yin saw Huang Feihu, he rode ahead with his officers on either side and shouted loudly: "Huang Feihu has betrayed the country and forgotten kindness; you are a traitor without father or ruler! You have rebelled against five passes, killed officials appointed by the court, looted King Zhou's palace treasury, and aided Ji Fa in doing evil. Today you dare to invade the Son of Heaven's pass! You are truly a man whose sins have reached their peak; you will surely be punished by Heaven!" Huang Feihu laughed and said, "Now the armies of all under heaven have gathered; King Zhou's downfall is imminent. You will not find a place to escape death! What kind of skill does a mere soldier before my horse possess, daring to oppose the heavenly troops!" Feihu turned around and asked his officers, "Which general will go with me to capture Qiu Yin?" From behind came Huang Tianxiang who volunteered, saying, "Let me go and capture this scoundrel." Tianxiang was only seventeen years old, a true example of "a calf newly born does not fear the tiger." He spurred his horse forward and charged with his spear. On that side, Gao Gui raised an axe to meet him. The two horses clashed as spear and axe were raised in battle. Huang Tianxiang was also a name on the "Canon of Deities," possessing boundless strength. They exchanged blows back and forth, but before fifteen rounds had passed, Tianxiang pierced Gao Gui's chest with a spear thrust, sending him tumbling from his horse. Qiu Yin shouted in rage, "This is killing me! Do not run away; I am coming!" Qiu Yin, in silver helmet and plain armor, rode a white horse with a long spear, charging straight at Tianxiang. Huang Tianxiang saw Qiu Yin coming himself and secretly rejoiced: "This feat should be mine to accomplish! He raised his spear and struck back at him. What a fierce battle! How was it? It was indeed: When a chess player meets an equal opponent, skill cannot be hidden; when a general faces a capable rival, achievements are made.

黄天祥使发了这条枪，如风驰雨骤，势不可当。丘引自觉不能胜。天祥今会头阵，如此英勇，枪法更神。有赞为证，赞曰： 乾坤真个少，盖世果然稀。老君炉里炼，曾敲十万八千锤。磨塌太行山顶石，湛乾黄河九曲溪。上阵不沾尘世界，回来一阵血腥飞。

Huang Tianxiang wielded his spear with the speed of wind and rain, an unstoppable force. Qiu Yin realized he could not win. Tianxiang, who had just taken the first challenge, was so valiant and his spear techniques were even more divine. There is a eulogy to attest: The eulogy says: Truly rare in the universe, indeed unparalleled in the world. Refined in Laojun's furnace, it was forged with ten thousand eight hundred hammers. Sharpened to the point of wearing down stones on Taihang Mountain and deep enough to dry up the winding Yellow River's nine bends. When going into battle, it does not touch the dust of this world; when returning, a storm of blood and gore follows.

话说黄天祥使开枪，把丘引杀得只有招架之功，更无还兵之力。傍有丘引副将孙宝、余成两骑马，两口刀，杀奔前来助战。邓九公见二将前来协助，邓九公奋勇走马，刀劈了余成，翻鞍落马。孙宝大怒，骂曰：“好匹夫！焉敢伤吾大将！”转回来力敌九公。话说丘引被黄天祥战住，不得闲空，纵有左道之术，不能使出来；又见邓九公走马刀劈了余成，心下急躁。黄天祥卖了个破绽，一枪正中丘引左腿。丘引大呼一声，拨转马就走。黄天祥挂下枪，取弓箭在手，拽开弓弦，往后心射来，正中丘引肩窝。孙宝见主将败走，心下著忙，又被邓九公一刀把孙宝挥于马下，枭了首级。黄飞虎掌鼓进营。正是： 只知得胜回营去，那晓儿男大难来。

Now speaking of Huang Tianxiang wielding his spear, he fought Qiu Yin so fiercely that the latter could only defend and had no strength to counterattack. Beside him, Qiu Yin's deputy generals Sun Bao and Yu Cheng rode forward on horseback with two swords to join the battle. Deng Jiugong, seeing the two generals coming to assist, bravely spurred his horse forward and slashed Yu Cheng with his sword, causing him to fall from his saddle. Sun Bao was furious and shouted, "You rascal! How dare you injure my general!" He turned back and fought fiercely against Jiugong. Now speaking of Qiu Yin, who was locked in battle with Huang Tianxiang and had no time to spare; even though he possessed dark arts, he could not use them. He also saw Deng Jiugong gallop forward and behead Yu Cheng with his saber, which greatly agitated him. Huang Tianxiang feigned a weakness and struck with his spear, hitting Qiu Yin right in the left leg. Qiu Yin let out a loud cry and turned his horse to flee. Huang Tianxiang lowered his spear, took up a bow and arrow, drew the string back, and shot from behind, striking Qiu Yin precisely in the armpit. Sun Bao, seeing his commander defeated and fleeing, became greatly alarmed. He was then struck from his horse by Deng Jiugong with a single sword stroke, and had his head severed. Huang Feihuo advanced into the camp while beating the drum. Indeed: They only knew of returning to the camp in victory, but did not foresee that great calamity would befall their sons and daughters.

话说丘引败进高关，不觉大怒：“四员副将尽被两阵杀绝，自己又被这黄天祥枪刺左腿，箭射肩窝，候明日出阵，拿住此贼，碎尸万段，以泄此恨！”──看官：丘引乃曲鳝得道，修成人体，也善左道之术。此人自用丹药敷搽，即时全愈。到三日后，上马提枪，至周营前，只叫：“黄天祥来见我！”哨马报入中军，黄天祥又出来会战。丘引见了仇人，不答话，摇枪直取天祥。黄天祥手中枪急架忙迎。二马交锋，来往战有三十回合。黄天祥见丘引顶上银盔露出发来，暗想：“此贼定有法术，恐遭毒害。”天祥心生一计，把枪丢了一空。丘引要报前日之仇，乘空一枪刺来，刺了个空，跌在黄天祥怀里来。黄天祥掣出银装鐧来──好鐧！怎见得，有赞为证，赞曰： 宝攒玉靶，金叶厢成，绿绒绳穿就护手，熟铜抹就光辉。打大将翻鞍落马，冲行营鬼哭神悲。斗断三环剑，磕折丈八枪。寒凛凛，有甚三冬雪；冷溲溲，赛过九秋霜。话说丘引被黄天祥一鐧，正中前面护心镜上，打得丘引口喷鲜血，几乎落下鞍鞽，败进关内，闭门不出。黄天祥得胜回营，来见父亲，说丘引闭门不出。黄飞虎与邓九公共议取关之策。不表。且说丘引被这一鐧，打得吐血不止，忙取丹药，一时不能全愈；切齿深恨黄天祥于骨髓，在关内保养伤痕。次日，周兵攻打青龙关，丘引鐧伤未愈，上城来亲自巡视，千方百计防设守关之法。大抵此关乃朝歌保障之地，西北藩屏，最是紧要。城高濠深，急切难以攻打。周兵一连攻打三日，不能得下。黄飞虎见此关急切难下，传令：“鸣金。”收回人马，再作良谋。丘引见周兵退去，也下城来，至帅府坐下，心中纳闷。忽报，“督粮官陈奇听令。”丘引令至殿前。陈奇打躬曰：“催粮应济军需，不曾违限，请令定夺。”丘引曰：“催粮有功，总为朝廷出力。”陈奇问：“周兵至此，元帅连日胜负如何？”丘引答曰：“姜尚分兵取关，惟恐吾断他粮道，连日与他会战，不意他将佐骁勇，邓九公杀吾佐贰官，黄天祥枪马强胜，吾被他中枪，刺箭，鐧打。若是拿住这逆贼，必分化其尸，方泄吾恨！”陈奇曰：“元帅只管放心，等末将拿来，报元帅之恨。”次日，陈奇领本部飞虎兵，坐火眼金睛兽，提手中荡魔杵，至周营搦战。哨马报入中军：“启元帅：关上有将搦战。”黄飞虎问曰：“谁将出马？”邓九公曰：“末将愿领人马。”邓九公绰兵刃在手，迳出营来；一见对阵鼓响，一将当先，提荡魔杵，坐金睛兽，邓九公问曰：“来者何人？”陈奇曰：“吾乃督粮官陈奇是也。你是何人？”邓九公答曰：“吾乃西周东征副将邓九公是也。日者丘引失机，闭门不出，你想是先来替死，然而也做不得他的名下！”陈奇大笑曰：“看你这匹夫如婴儿草莽，你有何能！”便催开金睛兽，使开荡魔杵，劈胸就打。邓九公大杆刀赴面交还。兽马交锋，刀杵并举。两家大战三十回合，邓九公刀法如神，陈奇用的是短兵器，如何抵挡得住。陈奇把荡魔杵一举，他有三千飞虎兵，手执挠钩套索，如长蛇阵一般，飞奔前来，有拿人之状。邓九公不知缘故。──陈奇原是左道，有异人秘传，养成腹内一道黄气，喷出口来，凡是精血成胎者，必定有三魂七魄，见此黄气，则魂魄自散。──九公见此黄气，坐不住鞍鞽，翻身落马，邓九公被飞虎兵一拥上前，生擒活捉，拿进高关，三军呐喊。丘引正

Now speaking of Qiu Yin retreating into Gaoguan, he could not help but become furious: "All four of my deputy generals have been completely wiped out in two battles. I myself was pierced in the left leg by this Huang Tianxiang with his spear and shot in the armpit by an arrow. Tomorrow when I go out to battle again, I will capture this villain, cut him into ten thousand pieces, and thus vent my anger!" ── Reader: Qiu Yin was a qushuan who attained the Dao, transformed into a human body, and also skilled in dark arts. This person used medicinal pills to treat his wounds, and was immediately healed. Three days later, he mounted his horse with spear in hand and went to the front of the Zhou camp, shouting only: "Huang Tianxiang come out to see me!" The scout horse reported into the central command, and Huang Tianxiang once again came out for battle. Qiu Yin saw his enemy, said nothing in reply, and brandished his spear straight at Tianxiang. Huang Tianxiang quickly raised his spear to meet it. The two horses clashed, and they exchanged blows for about thirty rounds. Huang Tianxiang noticed that Qiu Yin's silver helmet had hair sticking out from the top, and secretly thought: "This villain must have some kind of magic; I fear he may try to harm me." Tianxiang came up with a plan, and suddenly let his spear drop from his hand. Qiu Yin wanted to avenge the previous day's defeat, and took advantage of the moment to thrust his spear forward. However, he missed entirely and fell into Huang Tianxiang's arms. Huang Tianxiang drew out a silver-tipped staff──what an excellent staff! How excellent was it? A eulogy attests to this, the eulogy says: Precious jade pommel, golden leaves forming the shaft; green velvet rope threaded for hand protection, polished with refined copper. It could knock down generals and send them tumbling from their horses; it would charge into camps and cause ghosts to weep and gods to mourn. It could snap three-ring swords in battle, and shatter ten-foot spears with a single strike. Cold and chilling, like the snow of three winters; Chillingly cold, surpassing the frost of autumn. Now speaking of Qiu Yin being struck by Huang Tianxiang's staff, which hit precisely on the mirror protecting his chest. The blow caused Qiu Yin to spit blood from his mouth and nearly fall off his saddle before retreating into the pass, where he shut himself inside and did not come out. Huang Tianxiang returned to camp victorious and went to see his father, reporting that Qiu Yin had shut himself in the pass and would not come out. Huang Feihuo and Deng Jiugong discussed strategies together to capture the pass. No further details are given. Meanwhile, Qiu Yin was still bleeding from the blow of that staff and hurriedly took medicinal pills, but could not recover completely at once; He bore a deep hatred for Huang Tianxiang in his very bones and remained within the pass to nurse his wounds. The next day, Zhou's troops attacked Qinglong Pass. Qiu Yin, still recovering from his staff wound, personally went up to the city wall to inspect and devised countless strategies to defend the pass. Generally speaking, this pass was a crucial stronghold for Chao Ge, serving as its western and northern defense; it was of the utmost importance. The city walls were high and the moats deep, making it difficult to attack in a hurry. Zhou's troops attacked for three consecutive days but could not capture it. Huang Feihuo, seeing that the pass was difficult to take quickly, gave orders: "Sound the gong." Withdraw the troops and devise a better plan. Qiu Yin, seeing Zhou's forces retreat, also came down from the city wall and sat in his headquarters, feeling troubled in mind. Suddenly a report came: "The grain supervisor Chen Qi reports for orders." Qiu Yin summoned him to the hall. Chen Qi bowed and said, "I have delivered grain supplies on time without delay; please give orders as you see fit." Qiu Yin said, "You have done well in delivering the grain. You are always working for the court." Chen Qi asked, "The Zhou troops have come here; General, what has been the outcome of these consecutive days of battle?" Qiu Yin replied, "Jiang Shang has divided his forces to capture the pass. He fears I might cut off their supply lines, so he has been engaging me in battle for several days. Unexpectedly, his subordinates are valiant; Deng Jiugong killed my deputy officer, and Huang Tianxiang is superior with spear and horse. I was struck by his spear, shot by an arrow, and hit by a staff." "If I can capture this traitor, I will surely dismember his corpse to vent my anger!" Chen Qi said, "General, please rest assured. Let me subdue him and avenge your grudge." The next day, Chen Qi led his own elite Fuhu troops, riding the Fire-Eye Golden-Eyed Beast, wielding a magic staff in hand, and went to Zhou's camp to challenge for battle. The scout horse reported into the middle command: "Your Excellency, a general from the pass is challenging us to battle." Huang Feihuo asked, "Who will go out to fight?" Deng Jiugong said, "I am willing to lead the troops." Deng Jiugong took up his weapon and went straight out of camp; As soon as the battle drums sounded, a general rode forward at the head of his troops, wielding a staff and riding a golden-eyed beast. Deng Jiugong asked, "Who dares to come forth?" Chen Qi said, "I am Chen Qi, the grain supervisor." "Who are you?" Deng Jiugong replied, "I am Deng Jiugong, the deputy general of the Eastern Expedition under Western Zhou." Previously, Qiu Yin lost his chance and stayed inside the pass without coming out. You must be here to die in his place; however, you cannot take his name! Chen Qi laughed and said, "I regard you as a mere infant among the grass, what ability do you have!" He then spurred his golden-eyed beast forward and brandished his staff to strike straight at Deng Jiugong's chest. Deng Jiugong met the attack head-on with his large poleaxe. The beasts clashed, and swords and staffs were raised together in fierce combat. After a fierce battle of thirty rounds, Deng Jiugong's sword techniques were divine. Chen Qi used short weapons and could not withstand the attack. Chen Qi raised his staff, and with his 3,000 Fuhu soldiers holding grappling hooks and ropes, they rushed forward like a long snake formation, appearing ready to capture people. Deng Jiugong did not know the reason behind it. ──Chen Qi originally practiced dark arts and had been secretly taught by a mysterious figure. He cultivated a yellow vapor within his abdomen, which he could expel from his mouth. For any being formed with essence and blood in the womb, they must have three souls and seven spirits; upon encountering this yellow vapor, their souls and spirits would naturally disperse. ──Seeing this yellow vapor, Jiugong could not remain on his horse and fell off. The Fuhu soldiers rushed forward, seized Deng Jiugong alive, and took him into Gaoguan; the three armies shouted in unison. Qiu Yin was just

坐，左右报入府来：“禀元帅：陈奇捉了邓九公听令。”丘引大悦，令左右：“推来！”邓九公及至醒来，身上已是绳索绑缚，莫能转挫；左右推至丘引面前，九公大骂曰：“匹夫以左道之术擒吾，我就死也不服！今既失机，有死而已。吾生不能啖汝血肉，死后必为厉鬼以杀叛贼！”丘引大怒，令：“推出斩之！”可怜邓九公归周，不能会诸侯于孟津，今日全忠于周主。正是： 功名未遂扶王志，今日逢厄已尽忠。

seated when attendants reported into the headquarters: "Your Excellency, Chen Qi has captured Deng Jiugong and is awaiting orders." Qiu Yin was greatly pleased and ordered his attendants: "Bring him forward!" When Deng Jiugong came to, he found himself already bound with ropes and could not move. He was pushed before Qiu Yin, where Jiugong loudly cursed: "You rascal captured me with dark arts; even if I die, I will never submit!" Now that I have lost this opportunity, there is nothing left but death. While alive, I cannot devour your flesh and blood; after my death, I shall surely become a vengeful ghost to kill the traitor!" Qiu Yin became furious and ordered: "Drag him out and behead him!" Alas, Deng Jiugong had joined Zhou but could not join the feudal lords at Mengjin; today he remained loyal to King Zhou until his death. Indeed: His ambition to support the king and achieve fame was unfulfilled, but today he met misfortune and fulfilled his loyalty.

话说丘引发出行刑牌出府，将邓九公首级号令于关上。有哨探马报入中军：“启老爷：邓九公被陈奇口吐黄气，拏了进关，将首级号令城上。”黄飞虎大惊曰：“邓九公乃大将之才，不幸而丧于左道之术。”心中甚是伤感。

Now speaking of Qiu Yin issuing the execution order from the headquarters, he displayed Deng Jiugong's severed head on the pass as a warning. A scout horse reported into the central camp: "Your Excellency, Deng Jiugong was captured by Chen Qi who expelled yellow vapor and taken into the pass; his head has been displayed on the city walls." Huang Feihuo was greatly shocked and said, "Deng Jiugong was a general of great talent, but unfortunately perished by dark arts." He felt deeply sorrowful in his heart.

话说丘引治酒与陈奇贺功。次日，陈奇又领兵至周营搦战。报马报入中军。傍有九公佐贰官太鸾大怒曰：“末将不才，愿与主将报仇。”黄飞虎许之。太鸾上马出营，与陈奇相对，也不答话，大战二十回合。陈奇把杵一举，后面飞虎兵拥来。陈奇把嘴一张，太鸾依旧落马，被众人擒拿进关见丘引。丘引曰：“此乃从贼，且不必斩他，暂送下囹圄，俟拿了主将，一齐上囚车解往朝歌，以尽国法，又不负汝之功耳。”陈奇大喜。且说黄总兵见又折了太鸾，心下甚是不乐。只见次日来报：“陈奇搦战。”黄将军问左右：“谁去走一遭？”话未了，只见傍边走过三子黄天禄、黄天爵、黄天祥应曰：“不肖三人愿往。”黄飞虎分付：“须要仔细！”三人同应声曰：“知道。”弟兄三人上马，迳出营来。陈奇问曰：“来者何人？”黄天禄答曰：“吾乃开国武成王三位殿下：黄天禄、天爵、天祥是也。”陈奇暗喜，正要拿这业畜，他恰自来送死！催开金睛兽，也不答话，使开荡魔杵，飞来直取天禄兄弟。三人三条枪，急架忙迎，四马交锋。怎见得一场好杀： 四将阵前发怒，颠开兽马相持。长枪愰愰闪虹霓，荡魔杵发来峻利。这一个拚命舍死定输蠃；那三个为国忘家分轩轾。些儿失手命难存，留取清名传万世。三匹马裹住了陈奇一匹金睛兽，大战在龙潭虎穴。不知吉凶如何，且听下回分解。

Now speaking of Qiu Yin preparing wine to celebrate Chen Qi's success and reward him for his achievements. The next day, Chen Qi once again led troops to Zhou's camp to issue a challenge for battle. A scout horse reported into the main command. Beside him, Tai Luan, a deputy officer of Jiugong's, became furious and said: "Though I am not talented enough, I wish to fight alongside my commander for revenge." Huang Feihuo agreed. Tai Luan mounted his horse and left the camp, facing Chen Qi directly; without exchanging words, they engaged in fierce battle for twenty rounds. Chen Qi raised his pestle, and immediately troops from Feihuo's side surged forward. Chen Qi opened his mouth, and Tai Luan fell from his horse as before, captured by the crowd and taken into the pass to be presented to Qiu Yin. Qiu Yin said, "This is merely a follower of the rebels; there is no need to execute him immediately. Temporarily send him to prison. Once we capture the main commander, we will place them all in prisoner carts and escort them to Chaoguo together, thus fulfilling national law and also not diminishing your merit." Chen Qi was greatly pleased. Meanwhile, General Huang, upon losing Tai Luan once again, felt deeply displeased in his heart. Just then the next day a report came: "Chen Qi has issued a challenge for battle." General Huang asked those around him, "Who will go and face him?" Before the words were finished, three sons—Huang Tianlu, Huang Tianjue, and Huang Tianxiang—passed by nearby and volunteered, saying, "We three unworthy ones are willing to go." Huang Feihuo instructed them: "You must be careful!" The three responded in unison, saying, "We understand." The three brothers mounted their horses and directly rode out of the camp. Chen Qi asked, "Who comes here?" Huang Tianlu replied, "We are the three princes of Kai Guo Wucheng Wang: Huang Tianlu, Tianjue, and Tianxiang." Chen Qi secretly rejoiced. Just as he was about to capture this wretched beast, they had come of their own accord to die! He urged the Golden-Eyed Beast forward. Without exchanging words, he brandished his Demonic-Subduing Pestle and charged straight at Tianlu's brothers. The three men each wielded their spears, hastily raising them to meet the attack as four horses clashed in battle. How fierce was this battle: Four generals, filled with rage on the battlefield, fiercely struggled while their beasts and horses clashed. Long spears flashed like rainbows; the Demonic-Subduing pestle struck with sharp intensity. One side fought desperately, risking death to determine victory or defeat; The other three forgot their families for the sake of the nation and vied for superiority. A slight misstep could cost one's life; better to preserve a clear name passed down through countless generations. Three horses surrounded Chen Qi and his single Golden-Eyed Beast, fiercely battling in a place as perilous as a dragon's pool or tiger's den. Whether fortune or misfortune awaits them remains to be seen; stay tuned for the next episode.