Chapter 74

诗曰： 二将相逢各有名，青龙关遇定输赢。五行道术皆堪并，万劫轮回共此生。黄气无声能覆将，白光有影更擒兵。须知妙法无先后，大难来时命自倾。

The poem says: When two generals meet, each has his name; At Qinglong Guan they decide their fate. Five elements and Daoist arts can all be compared; Through ten thousand cycles of reincarnation, we share this life together. Yellow qi, silent yet capable of covering generals; White light, with shadow, captures soldiers more effectively. One must know that the wondrous methods have no order of precedence; When great calamity comes, one's fate will inevitably collapse.

话说黄天禄弟兄三人裹住陈奇，忽一枪正中陈奇右腿。陈奇将坐骑跳出圈子外边。黄天禄随后赶来。陈奇虽然腿上有伤，他的道术自在；他把荡魔杵一举，只见飞虎兵蜂拥而来，将腹内炼成黄气喷出，黄天禄滚下鞍鞽，早被飞虎兵挠钩搭住，生擒活捉去了，进关来见丘引。丘引分付，也把黄天禄监禁了。话说黄天爵、黄天祥回营见父，言兄被擒。黄总兵十分不乐，遣官打听可曾号令。探事官回报：“启老爷：不曾号令。”话说陈奇腿上有伤，自用丹药敷搽。只见次日，丘引伤痕全愈，要来报仇，乃不戴头盔，顶上戴一金箍，似头陀样，贯甲披袍，上马拎枪，来奔至周营，坐名要黄天祥决战。报马报入营中，天祥便欲出战。飞虎阻挡不住。天祥上马提枪，出营来见丘引，大呼曰：“丘引，今日定要擒你见功！”催开马，摇手中枪，直刺丘引。丘引枪赴面交还。二马盘旋，双枪并举，大战在关下。黄天祥这根枪如风狂雨骤，势不可当。丘引招架不住，掩一枪，勒回马往关前就走。黄天祥不知好歹，随后赶来。只见丘引顶上长一道白光，光中分开，里面现出碗大一颗红珠，在空中滴溜溜只是转。丘引大呼：“黄天祥，你看吾此宝！”黄天祥不知所以，抬头看时，不觉神魂飘荡，一会儿辨不知南北西东，昏昏惨惨，被步下军卒生擒下马，绳缚二臂。及至醒时，已被捉住。丘引大喜，掌鼓进关。正是： 可惜年少英雄客，化作南柯梦里人。

The story goes that Huang Tianlu and his two brothers surrounded Chen Qi when suddenly a spear struck Chen Qi's right leg directly. Chen Qi leapt off his horse to the outside of the circle. Huang Tianlu hurried after him immediately. Although Chen Qi had an injury on his leg, his Daoist arts remained undiminished; He raised the Dangmo Chu, and at once a swarm of Feihu soldiers rushed forward. He expelled yellow qi cultivated within his body; Huang Tianlu rolled off his saddle and was quickly caught by the Feihu soldiers with grappling hooks, captured alive and taken into the pass to report to Qiu Yin. Qiu Yin ordered that Huang Tianlu be also imprisoned. The story continues with Huang Tianjue and Huang Tianxiang returning to the camp to see their father, reporting that their elder brother had been captured. General Huang was extremely displeased and sent officials to inquire whether any orders had been issued. The scout officer reported back: "Your Honor, no order has been given." Meanwhile, Chen Qi, with an injured leg, treated it himself using medicinal pills. The next day, Qiu Yin's injuries were completely healed. He came to take revenge, not wearing a helmet but instead donning a golden headband on his head like a head-dragoned monk (tuduo), clad in armor and robe, mounted his horse with spear in hand, rushed to the Zhou camp, and demanded Huang Tianxiang for a decisive battle by name. A scout galloped into the camp to report this news, and immediately Huang Tianxiang wanted to go out and fight. The Feihu soldiers could not stop him. Huang Tianxiang mounted his horse, took up his spear, and rode out of the camp to confront Qiu Yin, shouting loudly: "Qiu Yin! Today I shall surely capture you for my glory!" He spurred his horse forward and brandished the spear in his hand, charging straight at Qiu Yin. Qiu Yin met him head-on with his spear. The two horses circled each other, both holding their spears high as they fiercely engaged in battle beneath the pass. Huang Tianxiang's spear moved like a raging wind and sudden rain, its momentum unstoppable. Qiu Yin could not hold out against the assault; he parried a spear thrust and reined his horse back, fleeing toward the gate of the pass. Huang Tianxiang, unaware of the danger, hurried after him. Suddenly, Qiu Yin saw a beam of white light shoot up from his head. The light split open, revealing within it a red pearl the size of a bowl, spinning rapidly in midair. Qiu Yin shouted loudly: "Huang Tianxiang! Look at this treasure of mine!" Huang Tianxiang was puzzled and, looking up, could not help but feel his spirit drifting. In a moment he lost all sense of direction, confused and dazed, when suddenly he was captured by infantry soldiers on foot, pulled from his horse and bound with ropes across both arms. By the time he awoke, he had already been captured. Qiu Yin was greatly pleased and marched into the pass with drums beating in triumph. Indeed: Alas, a young hero of valor, Turned to a dreamer lost in Nanke's illusion.

且说丘引拏住黄天祥进关，升堂坐下，传令两边：“把黄天祥推来！”众人将黄天祥推至面前。黄天祥气冲斗牛，厉声大呼曰：“丘引，你这逆贼，敢以妖术成功，非大丈夫也！我死不足惜，当报国恩。若姜元帅兵临，你这匹夫有粉骨碎身之祸！既被你擒，快与我一死！吾定为厉鬼以杀贼！”丘引大怒曰：“你这叛贼，反出语伤人！你箭射、鐧打、枪刺，你心下便自爽然。今日被擒，不自求生，又以恶语狂言辱吾！”天祥睁目大骂：“逆贼！我恨不得枪穿你肺腑，鐧打碎你天灵，箭射透你心窝，方称我报国忠心！今不幸被擒，自分一死，何必多言，做出那等的模样！”丘引大怒，命左右：“先枭了首级，仍风化其尸，挂在城楼上！”少时，哨马报入周营：“启老爷：四公子被丘引拏了，枭了首级，把尸骸挂在城楼上，风化其尸，请军令定夺。”黄飞虎听报，大叫一声，跌倒在地。众将扶起。黄总兵放声大哭曰：“吾生四子，不能为武王至孟津大会诸侯以立功，今方头一座关隘，先丧吾三子！”黄飞虎思子，作诗一首以志感，诗曰： “为国捐躯赴战场，丹心可并日争光。几番未灭强梁寇，左术擒儿年少亡。”

Meanwhile, Qiu Yin had Huang Tianxiang brought into the pass and seated in court. He gave orders to both sides: "Bring forward Huang Tianxiang!" The crowd pushed Huang Tianxiang forward until he stood before him. Huang Tianxiang bristled with anger, his voice sharp and loud as he shouted: "Qiu Yin! You traitorous villain, how dare you achieve success through sorcery? That is not the act of a true man!" My death is nothing to regret; I should repay my country's grace. If General Jiang arrives with his troops, you wretch will suffer the calamity of being crushed to dust and broken into pieces! Since I have been captured by you, quickly grant me death! I shall surely become a vengeful ghost to kill the traitors!" Qiu Yin became furious and said, "You rebel! How dare you speak words that wound others?" I shall shoot you with arrows, strike you with maces, and pierce you with spears until your heart is filled with dread. You have been captured today yet refuse to seek life for yourself; instead, you insult me with foul words and wild talk!" Tianxiang opened his eyes wide and cursed loudly: "Traitorous villain! I wish I could pierce your lungs with a spear, shatter your head with a mace, and shoot through your heart with an arrow—only then would my loyal heart in serving the country be satisfied! Now that I have unfortunately been captured, I already expect death. Why speak so much and make such a show of yourself!" Qiu Yin was furious and ordered his attendants: "First, behead him! Then display his corpse publicly in the wind and hang it on the city tower!" After a short while, a scout galloped into Zhou's camp and reported: "Your Honor! The Fourth Prince has been captured by Qiu Yin. His head was severed and his corpse is now displayed on the city tower to be exposed to the elements. Please issue orders for what should be done." Huang Feihu, upon hearing the report, let out a loud cry and collapsed to the ground. The generals rushed forward to support him up. General Huang wept aloud and said: "I have four sons, yet none could serve King Wu to the great assembly of feudal lords at Mengjin in order to achieve glory. Now, before even reaching a single pass, I have already lost three of my sons!" Grieving for his son, Huang Feihu composed a poem to express his sorrow. The poem reads: "For the country I give my life on the battlefield; My loyal heart shines as brightly as the sun." "Though many times we failed to quell the ruthless bandits, my son was captured by sorcery and died young."

话说黄总兵见事机如此，忙修告急申文，连夜差使臣往汜水关老营中，见子牙求救。

Meanwhile, General Huang, seeing the situation had reached this point, quickly drafted an urgent petition and sent envoys overnight to his old camp at Sishui Guan to see Ziya for help.

使臣在路，也非一日，来至行营。旗门官报入中军：“启元帅：黄总兵遣官至辕门等令。”子牙传令：“令来。”使臣至帐前行礼，将申文呈上。子牙拆开看毕，大惊曰：“可惜邓九公、黄天祥俱死于非命！著实伤悼。”只见邓婵玉哭上帐来，“禀上元帅：末将愿去为父报仇。”子牙许之；又点先行官哪吒同往。哪吒大喜，领了将令，星夜往青龙关来。哪吒风火轮来的快，使先行；婵玉随营行走。只见哪吒霎时就到青龙关了。正是： 顷刻行千里，须臾至九州。

The envoy traveled on the road for more than one day and finally arrived at the field headquarters. A flag gate officer reported into the central command: "Your Honor, General Huang has sent an official to wait at the 辕门 (yuanmen) for your orders." Ziya gave orders: "Bring him in." The envoy entered the tent, paid his respects, and presented the petition. Ziya opened it, read through the document, and exclaimed in shock: "Alas! Duke Deng Jiugong and Huang Tianxiang have both died unnatural deaths!" It is truly a cause for grief." Just then, Deng Chanyu burst into the tent in tears and said: "Your Honor! I, your humble officer, volunteer to go and avenge my father." Ziya agreed; he also ordered Nezha, the vanguard officer, to go along with him. Nezha was overjoyed, accepted his orders, and set off at night toward Qinglong Guan without delay. Nezha traveled swiftly on his Wind-Fire Wheels as the vanguard; Chanyu followed in the main force. In no time at all, Nezha had arrived at Qinglong Guan. Indeed: A moment's journey spans a thousand li; In an instant, one reaches all nine provinces.

话说哪吒至营前。报入中军：“有先行官哪吒辕门听令。”黄总兵忙叫：“请来。”哪吒进中军行体毕，黄总兵曰：“吾奉令分兵至此，不幸子亡兵败，邓九公竟被左术丧身，吾在此待罪请援。今先行官至此，吾辈不胜幸甚！”哪吒曰：“小将军丹心忠义，为国捐躯，青史简篇，永垂不朽，亦不辜负将军教养之功。”次日，哪吒上风火轮，提火尖枪，往关下搦战。猛见黄天祥之尸，大怒曰：“吾拿住丘引，定以此为例！”大呼：“城上报事官！快传与丘引，早来洗颈受戮！”报马报入帅府：“有将请战。”丘引听报，自恃己能，依旧是陀头打扮，竟出关门。看见一人登风火轮而来，大呼曰：“来者莫非是哪吒么？”哪吒大骂曰：“你这匹夫！黄天祥与你不过敌国之仇，彼此为国，不过枭首；又有何罪，你竟欲风化其尸！我今拏住你，定碎醢汝尸，为天祥泄恨！”把火尖枪摆动，直取丘引。丘引以枪急架相还。二马相交，双枪并举。来往战二三十合，丘引就走。哪吒赶来，丘引依旧把头上白气升出，现那一颗红珠出来在空中旋转。丘引把哪吒当做凡胎肉体，不知他是莲花化身，便大叫曰：“哪吒！你看吾之宝！”哪吒接头看见，大笑曰：“无知匹夫！此不过是个红珠儿，你叫我看他怎我？”丘引大惊：吾得道修成此珠，捉将擒军，无不效验，今日哪吒看见，如何不昏于轮下！”心中已著忙，只得勒回马来又战；被哪吒用乾坤圈打来，正中丘引肩窝，打的筋断骨折，伏鞍而逃，败回关去。哪吒得胜回营，来见黄飞虎。不表。

The story continues with Nezha arriving before the camp. A scout reported into the central command: "There is a vanguard officer, Nezha, waiting at the 辕门 (yuan men) for orders." General Huang hurriedly called out: "Bring him in!" Nezha entered the central command, completed his formal salute, and General Huang said: "I was ordered to divide my troops and arrive here. Unfortunately, my son perished and our army suffered defeat; Duke Deng Jiugong was even killed by sorcery. I remain here awaiting punishment while requesting reinforcements." Now that the vanguard officer has arrived, we are most fortunate!" Nezha said: "The young general's loyal and righteous heart, sacrificing his life for the country, will be forever recorded in history and remain immortal. His sacrifice is not a waste of your training and upbringing." The next day, Nezha mounted his Wind-Fire Wheel, took up the Fire-Tip Spear, and went down to the pass to challenge for battle. He suddenly saw Huang Tianxiang's corpse hanging there and became furious, shouting: "I shall capture Qiu Yin and make an example of him!" He shouted loudly: "Officer on the city wall! Quickly summon Qiu Yin and tell him to come forth and prepare his neck for punishment!" A scout galloped into headquarters and reported: "There is a general requesting battle." Qiu Yin, upon hearing the report, relied on his own abilities and still dressed like a head-dragoned (tuduo) monk. He stepped out of the gate without hesitation. He saw someone approaching on a Wind-Fire Wheel and shouted: "Are you not Nezha?" Nezha cursed loudly, saying: "You wretch! Huang Tianxiang and you are but enemies of rival states. Each fought for his country, and the outcome was merely beheading; What crime did he commit that you would dare to expose his corpse to the wind?" I shall now capture you and surely mince your body into paste, avenging General Tianxiang!" Nezha brandished his Fire-Tip Spear and charged straight at Qiu Yin. Qiu Yin hastily raised his spear to parry the attack. The two horses clashed, and both wielded their spears in fierce combat. After clashing for twenty to thirty rounds, Qiu Yin turned and fled. Nezha pursued him, but Qiu Yin once again summoned the white qi from his head and revealed that red pearl in midair, spinning it around. Qiu Yin regarded Nezha as an ordinary mortal and did not know he was a lotus-blossom reincarnation. He shouted loudly: "Nezha! Look at my treasure!" Nezha saw it and burst into laughter, saying: "You ignorant wretch! This is merely a red pearl. What good will it do for you to show it to me?" Qiu Yin was greatly shocked: "I cultivated this pearl through Daoist practice, and it has always worked in capturing generals and soldiers. How come today Nezha sees it and is not dazed beneath my power!" Panicked inside, he had no choice but to rein in his horse and charge back into battle; Nezha struck with the Qiankun Ring, hitting directly into Qiu Yin's shoulder socket. The blow shattered his tendons and bones, causing him to collapse over his saddle in retreat and flee back through the pass in defeat. Nezha returned victorious to camp and went to see Huang Feihu. Details are omitted here.

且说土行孙催粮至子牙大营，见元帅回令毕，土行孙下殿，不见邓婵玉，问其故。武吉曰：“黄飞虎求救兵，申文言你岳翁阵亡，你夫人去了。”土行孙听得邓九公已死，著实伤悼，忙忙领子牙催粮箭，督二运迳往青龙关来；不一日至辕门。探马报入中军，黄飞虎令：“请来。”土行孙来至帐前行礼毕，黄飞虎曰：“邓九公为左术阵亡；吾子二人被擒，天祥被丘引逆贼风化其尸。今日先行哪吒打丘引一乾坤圈，逆贼未曾授首。”土行孙曰：“待末将今晚且将天祥尸首盗出，用棺木收殓，明日好擒丘引报此仇。”土行孙下帐来，与邓婵玉等相见。只至到晚，土行孙借地行术，迳进关来。先在里边走了一番。及行到囹圄之中，看见太鸾、黄天禄。时至二更，四下里人声寂静，土行孙钻上来，悄悄的叫：“黄天禄，我来了。你放心，不久就取关了。”黄天禄听的是土行孙声音，大喜曰：“速些才妙！”土行孙曰：“不必分付。”土行孙说了信，迳至城楼上，把绳子割断，天祥的尸首吊在关外。周纪收去尸首。黄飞虎看见子尸，放声大哭曰：“年少为国，致捐其躯，真为可惜！”即用棺木收尸。黄飞虎自思想：“吾生四子，今丧三子，今日不若命黄天爵送天祥尸首回西岐去，早晚亦可侍奉吾父，一则不失黄门之后，二则使我忠孝两全。”黄飞虎打发第三子黄天爵押送车回西岐去了。且说丘引被哪吒打伤，次日升厅纳闷。只见巡城军士来报：“黄天祥尸首，夜来不知被何人割断绳子，将尸首盗去。”丘引听报，愈加愁闷。陈奇大怒：“不才出关，拏来为主将报仇！”说罢，领本部飞虎兵至营前搦战。探马报入中军。黄总兵问：“谁人见阵？”土行孙愿往。邓婵玉欲为父亲报仇，愿随掠阵。夫妻二人出营，见陈奇坐金睛兽，提荡魔杵，滚至阵前。土行孙大骂陈奇曰：“匹夫用左道邪术，杀吾岳丈，不共戴天！今日特来擒你报仇！”陈奇大笑：“谅你这等人，真如朽腐之物，做得出甚么事来！杀你恐污吾手！”催开坐骑，拎杵就打。土行孙手中棍急架忙迎。杵棍并举，未及数合，陈奇见土行孙往来小巧便宜，急切不能取胜，陈奇忙把杵一摆，飞虎兵齐奔前来，陈奇对著土行孙把嘴一张，喷出一道黄气。土行孙站不住，一交跌倒在地。飞虎兵把土行孙拏去。陈奇不妨邓婵玉在对面，见拏了他丈夫，发出一块五光石来，正中陈奇嘴上，打得唇绽齿落，“哎哟”一声，掩面而走。婵玉又发一石，夹后心一下，把后心镜打得粉碎。陈奇只得伏鞍而逃。只见土行孙睁开眼，浑身上了绳子，笑曰：“倒有趣！”陈奇被邓婵玉打伤，逃回关内，来见丘引。

Meanwhile, Tu Xingsun arrived at Ziya's main camp with provisions. After reporting to the general and receiving his orders, he descended from the hall but did not see Deng Chanyu. He inquired about his whereabouts. Wu Ji said: "General Huang Feihu has requested reinforcements, and the petition mentioned that your father-in-law fell in battle. Your wife has gone." Tu Xingsun, upon hearing that Duke Deng Jiugong had died, was deeply grieved. He hurriedly accepted Ziya's order with the urgent supply arrow and oversaw two transport teams directly heading toward Qinglong Guan; He arrived at the 辕门 (yuan mén) in no time. A scout horseman reported into the central camp, and Huang Feihu ordered: "Please him in." Tu Xingsun came to the tent, paid his respects, and after the ceremony was completed, Huang Feihu said: "Duke Deng Jiugong fell in battle at Zuoshu; my two sons were captured, and Tian Xiang's body was desecrated by the traitor Qiu Yin." "Today, Nezha led the charge and struck Qiu Yin with a Qiankun Ring; the traitor has yet to be captured." Tu Xingsun said: "Let me, the junior general, secretly retrieve General Tianxiang's body tonight and place it in a coffin for burial. Tomorrow we can capture Qiu Yin to avenge this grievance." Tu Xingsun left the tent and met with Deng Chanyu and others. By nightfall, Tu Xingsun used his earth-walking technique to sneak directly into the pass. He first walked around inside for a while. When he arrived at the prison, he saw Tai Luan and Huang Tianlu. By the second watch of the night, all around was quiet. Tu Xingsun crawled up and quietly called: "Huang Tianlu, I have come." "Don't worry; the pass will soon be taken." Huang Tianlu, hearing Tu Xingsun's voice, was greatly pleased and said: "The sooner the better!" Tu Xingsun replied: "No need to give orders." After giving the signal, Tu Xingsun went directly to the city tower, cut the rope, and lowered General Tianxiang's corpse outside the pass. Zhou Ji retrieved the body. Huang Feihu, seeing his son's corpse, burst into loud weeping and said: "To die young for the country, sacrificing one's body—how truly regrettable!" He immediately placed the body in a coffin. Huang Feihu thought to himself: "I had four sons, and now three of them are lost. Today I would rather have Huang Tianjue send General Tianxiang's remains back to Xiqi so that he may serve my father day and night. This way, the Huang family line will not be lost, and I can fulfill both loyalty and filial piety." Huang Feihu sent his third son, Huang Tianjue, to escort the carriage back to Xiqi. Meanwhile, Qiu Yin, having been injured by Nezha, sat in his hall the next day, brooding over the matter. Just then, a city patrol soldier reported: "General Huang Tianxiang's corpse was cut down from the rope last night by someone unknown and stolen away." Upon hearing the report, Qiu Yin became even more anxious and dejected. Chen Qi was furious: "I am unworthy to leave the pass! I will seize him and avenge our general!" After saying this, he led his division of Feihu troops to the front of the camp to issue a challenge. A scout horseman reported into headquarters. General Huang asked: "Who will go to the battlefield?" Tu Xingsun volunteered. Deng Chanyu, wishing to avenge her father, also volunteered to accompany the attack. The couple left camp and saw Chen Qi riding on a golden-eyed beast, holding a Demonic-Subduing Mace, charging to the front of the battlefield. Tu Xingsun shouted curses at Chen Qi: "You wretch, you used dark sorcery to kill my father-in-law. We can never share the same sky!" I have come especially today to capture and avenge him on you!" Chen Qi laughed loudly: "You people are nothing but rotting debris; what can you possibly accomplish!" Killing you would soil my hands!" He urged his mount forward and raised the mace to strike. Tu Xingsun quickly raised his staff to block and meet the attack. With mace and staff raised, they clashed for only a few exchanges. Seeing that Tu Xingsun was nimble and difficult to defeat quickly, Chen Qi suddenly swung his mace, and the Feihu soldiers rushed forward together. Facing Tu Xingsun, Chen Qi opened his mouth wide and exhaled a stream of yellow vapor. Tu Xingsun could not stand against it and fell to the ground with one blow. The Feihu soldiers seized Tu Xingsun and took him away. Unaware that Deng Chanyu was on the opposite side, when she saw her husband captured, she hurled a five-colored stone at Chen Qi. It struck him directly in the mouth, splitting his lips and knocking out teeth. With an "Aiyao!" cry, he covered his face and fled. Chanyu hurled another stone from behind, striking Chen Qi in the back just below the heart, shattering his protective mirror to pieces. Chen Qi had no choice but to collapse over his horse and flee. Just then, Tu Xingsun opened his eyes, found ropes tied all over his body, and laughed: "How amusing!" Chen Qi, having been wounded by Deng Chanyu, fled back into the pass to report to Qiu Yin.

丘引看见陈奇鼻青嘴绽，袍带皆松，忙间其故。陈奇曰：“只因拏一不堪匹夫，不防对过有一贱人，用石打伤面门，复一石又打伤脊背，致失机而回。”丘引听说，忙令左右：“将周将拏来！”左右随将土行孙推至阶前，看见土行孙身不满三四尺，便问陈奇曰：“这样东西，拏他何用？”命左右：“推出去斩了号令！”土行孙也不慌不忙，来至关上。左右方欲动手，只见土行孙把身子一扭，杳无踪迹。正是： 地行道术原无迹，盗宝偷关盖世雄。

Qiu Yin saw Chen Qi with a bruised nose and split lips, his robe and sash all loose, and hurriedly asked what had happened. Chen Qi said: "I was trying to capture an unworthy ruffian, but I did not expect a contemptible woman on the other side to strike my face with a stone. Another stone hit my back, and so I returned in defeat." Qiu Yin, upon hearing this, quickly ordered his attendants: "Seize the Zhou general!" The attendants immediately pushed Tu Xingsun forward to the steps. Seeing that he was no taller than three or four chi, Qiu Yin asked Chen Qi: "What good is this thing? Why capture him?" He ordered his attendants: "Drag him out and behead him as a warning!" Tu Xingsun calmly made his way to the gate of the pass. Just as the guards were about to act, Tu Xingsun suddenly twisted his body and vanished without a trace. Indeed: The earth-walking Daoist art leaves no trace; Stealing treasures and infiltrating passes, a peerless hero of the age.

话说左右见土行孙不见了，只諕得目瞪口呆，慌忙报与丘引。丘引听报，大惊曰：“周营中有此异人，所以屡伐西岐俱皆失利。今日不见黄天祥尸首，就是此人盗去，也未可知。”速传令：“早晚各要防备关隘。”

As it happened, when the guards saw that Tu Xingsun had disappeared, they were so startled that they stood there with their eyes wide open and mouths agape. They hurriedly reported to Qiu Yin. Qiu Yin, upon receiving the report, was greatly shocked and said: "There is such an extraordinary person in the Zhou camp. That is why we have repeatedly suffered defeats when attacking Xiqi." "Today, if General Huang Tianxiang's body has disappeared, it might well be this man who stole it." He quickly ordered: "Day and night, the pass must be guarded carefully at all times."

且说土行孙回见黄总兵，共议取关。忽哨探马报入中军：“有三运督粮官郑伦来辕门等令。”黄总兵传令：“令来。”郑伦至帐前行体毕，言曰：“奉姜元帅将令，催粮应付，军前听用。”黄飞虎曰：“多蒙将军催粮有功，俟上功劳簿。”郑伦曰：“俱是为国效用。”郑伦偶见土行孙也在此，忙问土行孙曰：“足下系二运官，今到此何干？”土行孙曰：“青龙关中有一人名唤陈奇，也与你一样拏人，吾岳丈被他拏去，坏了性命，特奉元帅将令，来此救援。只他比你不同，他把嘴一张，口内喷出一道黄气来，其人自倒，比你那鼻中哼出白气来大不相同，觉他的便宜。昨日我被他拏去，走了一遭来。”郑伦曰：“岂有此理！当时吾师传我，曾言我之法盖世无双，难道此关又有此异人？我必定会他一会，看其真实。”且说陈奇恨邓婵玉打伤他的头面，自服了丹药，一夜全愈。次日出关，坐名只要邓婵玉出来定个雌雄。哨马报入中军：“启老爷：陈奇搦战。”郑伦出而言曰：“末将愿往。”黄飞虎曰：“你督粮亦是要紧的事，原非先行破敌之役，恐姜丞相见罪。”郑伦曰：“俱是朝廷功绩，何害于理？”黄飞虎只得应允。郑伦上了金睛兽，提降魔杵，领本部三千乌鸦兵出营来。见陈奇也是金睛兽，提荡魔杵，也有一队人马，俱穿黄号色，也拏著挠钩套索。郑伦心下疑惑，乃至军前大呼曰：“来者何人？”陈奇曰：“吾乃督粮上将军陈奇是也。你乃何人？”郑伦曰：“吾乃三运粮总督官郑伦是也。”郑伦问曰：“闻你有异术，今日特来会你。”郑伦催开金睛兽，摇手中降魔杵，劈头就打。陈奇手中荡魔杵赴面交还。二兽交加，一场大战。怎见得： 二将阵前寻斗赌，两下交锋谁敢阻。这一个似摇头狮子下山岗，那一个不亚摆尾狻猊寻猛虎。这一个兴心定要正乾坤；那一个赤胆要把江山辅。天生一对恶生辰，今朝相遇争旗鼓。

Meanwhile, Tu Xingsun returned to see General Huang Feihu, and they discussed plans for capturing the pass. Suddenly, a scout horseman reported to headquarters: "The third transport commander and grain officer Zheng Lun is waiting at the 辕门 for orders." General Huang gave an order: "Bring him in." Zheng Lun arrived at the tent, performed his respects, and said: "I have come by order of General Jiang to deliver provisions for immediate use on the battlefield." Huang Feihu said: "We are greatly indebted to you, General, for your timely delivery of provisions. Your contribution will be recorded in the merit register." Zheng Lun replied: "It is all for serving our country." Zheng Lun happened to see Tu Xingsun also present and hurriedly asked him: "You are the officer of the second transport team. What brings you here?" Tu Xingsun said: "There is a man named Chen Qi in Qinglong Guan. He, like you, captures people. My father-in-law was captured by him and killed. I have specially come here under the general's orders to rescue him." He is different from you. When he opens his mouth, a stream of yellow gas comes out, and the person falls down by themselves. This is quite unlike your white vapor exhaled through the nose; it's much more effective. "Yesterday I was captured by him, but I managed to escape after a brief encounter." Zheng Lun said: "How could such a thing happen!" "My master once taught me and told me that my method is unparalleled in the world. Could there really be such an extraordinary person at this pass?" "I must meet him to see if he's truly as formidable as you say." Meanwhile, Chen Qi, resentful of Deng Chanyu for wounding his face and head, took medicinal pills and was fully healed overnight. The next day he left the pass, demanding Deng Chanyu come out to settle their dispute once and for all. A scout horseman reported into camp: "Your Honor, Chen Qi has issued a challenge." Zheng Lun stepped forward and said: "I, the junior general, am willing to go." Huang Feihu said: "Your duty of overseeing provisions is also a matter of great importance, and you were not originally assigned to lead the vanguard in battle. I fear that Chancellor Jiang might hold it against you." Zheng Lun replied: "They are all contributions to the state; how could there be any harm in this?" Huang Feihu had no choice but to agree. Zheng Lun mounted the Golden-Eyed Beast, held up his Demonic-Subduing Staff, and led his 3,000 Crow Soldiers out of camp. He saw that Chen Qi also rode a Golden-Eyed Beast and wielded a Demonic-Subduing Stick, with an army of his own. They all wore yellow uniforms and carried grappling hooks and ropes. Zheng Lun was puzzled and shouted from the front line: "Who dares to come forth?" Chen Qi replied: "I am General Chen Qi, commander of provisions." "And who are you?" Zheng Lun said: "I am Zheng Lun, commander of the third transport team." Zheng Lun asked: "I have heard you possess an unusual technique. I come especially today to meet and test you." Zheng Lun urged his Golden-Eyed Beast forward, raised the Demonic-Subduing staff in hand, and struck down at Chen Qi's head. Chen Qi met the attack with his own Demonic-Subduing stick, clashing face to face. The two beasts clashed, and a fierce battle ensued. How was it: Two generals on the battlefield challenge each other; Their clash is fierce, and none dare to intervene. One was like a roaring lion descending from the mountain pass; the other no less fierce than a tail-swinging suanni searching for a tiger. One was determined to right the balance of heaven and earth; the other, with a loyal heart, sought to support the nation's fate. Born as a pair of ill-fated beings, today they meet and vie for dominance on the battlefield.

话说二将大战虎穴龙潭：这一个恶狠狠图睁二目；那一个格支支咬碎银牙。只见土行孙同哪吒出辕门来看二将交兵，连黄飞虎同众将也在旗门下，都来看厮杀。郑伦正战之间，自忖：“此人当真有此术法，打人不过先下手为妙。”把杵在空一摆，郑伦部下乌鸦兵行如长蛇阵一般而来。陈奇看郑伦摆杵，士卒把挠钩套索似有拿人之状，陈奇摇杵，他那里飞虎兵也有套索挠钩，飞奔前来。正是： 能人自有能人伏，今日哼哈相会时。

As the two generals fiercely battled in the tiger's den and dragon's pool: one glared with fierce eyes, determined to strike; the other gritted his teeth tightly, grinding them like silver. Just then, Tuxingsun and Nezha came out of the 辕门 (yuanmen) to watch the two generals fight. Huang Feihuo and his officers were also under the banner gate, all coming to observe the battle. While Zheng Lun was in the midst of the battle, he thought to himself: "This man truly possesses such techniques. To strike first is best if I cannot overpower him." He waved his staff in the air, and Zheng Lun's crows' army advanced like a long snake formation. Chen Qi saw Zheng Lun raise his staff, and noticed that the enemy soldiers were using grappling hooks and ropes as if to capture someone. Chen Qi raised his own staff in response; at that moment, Feihuo's troops also deployed grappling hooks and ropes, rushing forward quickly. Indeed: A capable person will always meet another who can match them; today is the time when Hengha and Ha meet.

郑伦鼻子里两道白光，出来有声；陈奇口中黄光也自迸出。陈奇跌了个金冠倒躅，郑伦跌了个铠甲离鞍。两边兵卒不敢拏人，只顾各人抢各人主将回营。郑伦被乌鸦兵抢回；陈奇被飞虎兵抢回；各自上了金睛兽回营。土行孙同众将笑得腰软骨折。郑伦自叹曰：“世间又有此异人，明日定要与他定个雌雄，方肯罢休。”不表。只说陈奇进关来见丘引，尽言前事。丘引又闻佳梦关失了，心下不安。次日，郑伦关下搦战。陈奇上骑出关，言曰：“郑伦，大丈夫一言已定，从今不必用术，各赌手上工夫，你我也难得会。”催开坐下骑，又杀一日，未见输赢。来见黄飞虎，众将俱在帐上，共议取关之策。哪吒曰：“如今土行孙也在此，不若今夜我先进关，斩关落锁，夜里乘其无备，取了关为上策。”黄飞虎曰：“全仗先行。”正是： 哪吒定计施威武，今夜青龙属武王。

From Zheng Lun's nostrils, two beams of white light shot out with a sound; Chen Qi also emitted a burst of yellow light from his mouth. Chen Qi fell with his golden crown overturned, while Zheng Lun tumbled off his horse, armor and saddle separating. The soldiers on both sides dared not seize anyone; they only hurried to rescue their respective commanders back to camp. Zheng Lun was carried back by his crows' soldiers; Chen Qi was taken back by Feihuo's troops; Each rode their Golden-Eyed Beasts and returned to camp. Tuxingsun and the other generals laughed so hard they bent over double, their waists aching. Zheng Lun sighed to himself: "There is another extraordinary person in this world. Tomorrow, I must definitely settle who is superior or inferior with him; otherwise, I will not rest." No further details are given. Only to say that Chen Qi entered the pass and came before Qiu Yin, fully recounting all previous events. Qiu Yin also heard of the loss at Ji Meng Guan (Jiameng Pass) and felt uneasy in his heart. The next day, Zheng Lun came to the gate below the pass to challenge for battle. Chen Qi rode out of the pass and said: "Zheng Lun, a true man has already made his word. From now on, there is no need to use techniques; let us test our skills with our own hands. It's rare for us to meet." They urged their steeds forward and fought again that day, but no victor was decided. Later they came to see Huang Feihuo; all the generals were in his tent, discussing strategies for capturing the pass together. Nezha said: "Now that Tuxingsun is also here, why not let me enter the pass tonight first? I will cut down the gate and unlock it. Taking advantage of their lack of preparedness at night would be the best strategy to capture the pass." Huang Feihuo said: "We will rely entirely on you as our vanguard." Indeed: Nezha devises a plan to display his might; tonight, Qinglong Guan belongs to King Wu.

话说丘引在关内，修表进朝歌，遣将来此协同守关，共阻周兵。不觉是一更时分，土行孙先进关里来，暗暗在囹圄中打点放黄天禄、太鸾。二更时分，哪吒登风火轮，飞进关来，当在城楼上祭起砖，把守门军将打散，随撞开拴锁。周兵呐一声喊，杀进城中来，金鼓大作，天翻地覆，城中大乱，百姓只顾逃生。土行孙在囹圄中，听得呐喊，随放了黄天禄、太鸾，杀出本府来。丘引还不曾睡，慌忙上马，拎枪出府，只见灯光影里，火把丛中，见金甲红袍，乃武成王黄飞虎。哪吒登风火轮使枪杀来。邓秀、赵升、孙焰红把丘引裹在当中。郑伦杀进城来，正遇陈奇，二将夜兵大战。黄天禄从后面杀出府来。土行孙倒拖宾铁棍，往丘引马下打来。上三路哪吒的枪；中三路黄明＼周纪的斧；下三路土行孙的棍；丘引不及堤防，被土行孙一棍，正打著他马七寸，那马打了个前失，把丘引跌下马来。黄飞虎看见，忙捻枪刺来。丘引已借土遁去了。正是：死生有定，不该绝于此关。且言众将裹住陈奇，被哪吒祭起乾坤圈打中，陈奇伤了臂膊，往左一闪，被黄飞虎一枪刺中胁下，死于非命。杀到天明，黄飞虎收兵查点，只走了丘引。飞虎升厅，出榜安民，查明户口册籍，留将守青龙关。黄总兵回师，先有哪吒报捷。土行孙仍催粮去了。

Meanwhile, Qiu Yin inside the pass drafted a report and sent it to Chaogē (the capital), dispatching generals here to assist in defending the pass together with the Zhou forces. Before long, it was the first watch of the night when Tuxingsun secretly entered the pass. He quietly prepared to release Huang Tianlu and Tailuan from their prison cells. At the second watch, Nezha mounted his Fenghuo Lun (wind and fire wheels) and flew into the pass. Standing on the city tower, he summoned bricks to scatter the gate guards, then smashed open the locks and chains. The Zhou troops let out a loud cry, charging into the city. The clang of gongs and drums echoed everywhere; it was as if heaven and earth had turned upside down. Chaos erupted in the city, and civilians scrambled to escape for their lives. Tuxingsun, inside the prison, heard the shouts and immediately released Huang Tianlu and Tailuan before leading them out to attack from their own residence. Qiu Yin had not yet gone to sleep when he hurriedly mounted his horse, grabbed his spear, and rushed out of the mansion. In the glow of lanterns and among torches, he saw a golden-armored figure in a red robe—none other than General Huang Feihuo, Duke Chengwang. Nezha rode his Fenghuo Lun and charged forward with spear in hand to attack. Deng Xiu, Zhao Sheng, Sun Yanhong, and others surrounded Qiu Yin in the middle of the fray. Zheng Lun charged into the city and encountered Chen Qi just as they were fighting at night; the two generals engaged in a fierce battle. Huang Tianlu emerged from behind, attacking out of their mansion. Tuxingsun dragged his Bin Tie Gun backward and struck at Qiu Yin's horse. Nezha's spear from above; From the middle, Huang Ming and Zhou Ji with their axes; From below, Tuxingsun's staff; Qiu Yin was caught off guard. Tuxingsun struck him with a staff blow that hit the horse's vital spot; the horse stumbled forward, throwing Qiu Yin from his saddle to the ground. Huang Feihuo saw this and quickly gripped his spear to strike. Qiu Yin had already escaped underground using earth 遁 (tun, a form of subterranean escape). Indeed: Life and death are predestined; he was not meant to perish at this pass. Meanwhile, the other generals surrounded Chen Qi. Nezha summoned his Qiankun Circle and struck him, wounding Chen's arm. Chen staggered to the left but was pierced in the side by Huang Feihuo's spear, dying a tragic death. They fought until dawn. When Huang Feihuo mustered his troops and took stock, he found that only Qiu Yin had escaped. Huang Feihuo ascended the hall, issued proclamations to pacify the people, verified household registers and records, and left troops to garrison Qinglong Guan. General Huang Feihuo returned with his army, having first received a report of victory from Nezha. Tuxingsun continued on his mission to oversee the transport of supplies.

且说子牙在中军与众将正议六韬三略，报事官报：“元帅：哪吒等令。”子牙命：“传进来。”哪吒至中军，备言取了青龙关事，说了一遍：“……弟子先来报捷。”子牙大悦，谓众将曰：“吾之先取此二关者，欲通吾之粮道；若不得此，倘纣兵断吾粮道，前不能进，后不能退，我先首尾受敌，此非全胜之道也，──故为将先要察此。今幸俱得，可以无忧。”众将曰：“元帅妙算，真无遣策！”正谈论间，左右报：“黄飞虎等令。”子牙曰：“令来。”飞虎至中军，打躬行礼。子牙贺过功，因不见邓九公、黄天祥在前、心中甚是凄楚，叹曰：“可惜忠勇之士，不得享武王之禄耳！”营中治酒欢饮。次日，子牙差辛甲先下一封战书。

Meanwhile, in the central camp, Ziya was discussing military strategies with his generals when a messenger reported: "Commander-in-Chief, Nezha and others are here to report." Ziya ordered: "Bring them in." Nezha arrived at the central camp and fully recounted how they had captured Qinglong Guan, saying: "...Disciple comes first to report this victory." Ziya was greatly pleased and said to the generals: "My decision to capture these two passes first was intended to secure our supply route; if we had not done so, should the troops of Zhouhou cut off our supply lines, we would be unable to advance forward or retreat backward. We would first face enemies from both front and rear; this is not a path to complete victory──thus, as generals, one must first understand this." Now that we have successfully captured them, we can proceed without worry." The generals said: "Commander-in-Chief's brilliant strategy is truly flawless!" While they were discussing, a messenger on the side reported: "General Huang Feihuo and others are here." Ziya said: "Bring them in." Huang Feihuo arrived at the central camp, bowed deeply, and paid his respects. After congratulating Huang Feihuo on his achievements, Ziya noticed the absence of Deng Jiugong and Huang Tianxiang among those present. Deeply moved by sorrow, he sighed: "What a pity for these loyal and brave men who will not be able to enjoy the rewards of King Wu!" A banquet was held in the camp, where they drank joyfully. The next day, Ziya dispatched Xin Jia to deliver a challenge letter first.

话说汜水关韩荣见子牙按兵不动，分兵取佳梦关、青龙二关，速速差人打探。回报：“二关已失。”韩荣对众将曰：“今西周已得此二关，军威正盛，我等正当中路，必须协力共守，毋得专恃力战也。”众将各有不忿之色，愿决一死战。正议间，报：“报姜元帅遣官下战书。”韩荣命：“令来。”辛甲至殿前，将书呈上。韩荣接书，展开观看，书曰： 　“西周奉天征讨天宝大元帅姜尚，致书于汜水关主将麾下：尝闻天命无常，惟有德者永获天眷。今商王纣淫酗肆虐，暴殄下民。天愁于上，民怨于下。海宇分崩，诸侯叛乱，生民涂炭。惟我周王特恭行天之罚，所在民心效顺，强梁授首；所有佳梦关、青龙二关逆命，俱已斩将搴旗，万民归顺。今大兵至此，特以尺一之书咸使闻知，或战，或降，早赐明决，毋得自误。不宣。”韩荣观看毕，即将原书批回：“来日会战。”辛甲领书回营，见子牙曰：“奉令下书，原书批回，明日会兵。”子牙整顿士卒，一夜无词。次日，子牙行营炮响，大队摆开出辕门，在关下搦战。有报马报入关来：“今有姜元帅关下请战。”韩荣忙整点人马，放炮呐喊出关，左右大小将官分开，韩荣在马上见子牙号令森严，一对对英雄威武。怎见得，有鹧鸪天一词为证，词曰： 杀气腾腾万里长，旌旗戈戟透寒光。雄师手仗三环剑，虎将鞍横丈八枪。军浩浩，士忙忙，锣鸣鼓响猛如狼。东征大战三十阵，汜水交兵第一场。

Meanwhile, Han Rong of Sishui Guan saw that Ziya had halted his troops and was dividing forces to capture Ji Meng Guan and Qinglong Guan. He quickly sent men out to investigate. The report came back: "Both passes have already been lost." Han Rong said to his generals: "Now that the Western Zhou has captured these two passes, their military strength is at its peak. We are right in the middle of their path; we must work together to defend and must not rely solely on brute force." The generals all showed expressions of resentment, eager for a decisive battle to the death. While they were still discussing, a messenger reported: "A letter of challenge has been sent by Commander-in-Chief Jiang." Han Rong ordered: "Bring him in." Xin Jia arrived before the hall and presented the letter. Han Rong took the letter, unfolded it and read: "From the Western Zhou, commissioned by Heaven to campaign under the command of Grand Marshal Jiang Shang. This letter is addressed to the commander-in-charge at Sishui Guan: I have often heard that Heaven's mandate is not constant; only those with virtue can forever receive Heaven's favor. Now King Zhou of Shang indulges in lust and drunkenness, commits cruelty without restraint, and brutally oppresses the people below." "Heaven laments above, while the people resent him below. "The realm is in chaos; feudal lords rebel and the common people suffer." Only our King of Zhou specially carries out Heaven's punishment with reverence. Wherever he goes, the hearts of the people follow willingly and the defiant surrender their heads; All those at Ji Meng Guan, Qinglong Guan who defied the mandate have been defeated—commanders slain and banners captured—and the people have submitted in droves. "Now our great army has arrived here, and I send this letter to inform you all: whether you choose to fight or surrender, make your decision clear at once. Do not bring disaster upon yourselves." No further explanation is given." After reading the letter, Han Rong returned it with a reply: "We shall meet in battle tomorrow." Xin Jia took the letter back to camp and reported to Ziya: "I delivered the challenge as ordered, and they returned the original with a reply. They will meet in battle tomorrow." Ziya prepared his troops and spent the night without rest. The next day, cannons roared from Ziya's camp as the main force marched out through the 辕门 (yuan men) and set up formation below the pass to issue a challenge for battle. A scout galloped into the pass, reporting: "Now there is Commander-in-Chief Jiang requesting battle below the gate." Han Rong quickly mustered his troops, fired cannons, and shouted as they marched out of the pass. The large and small officers on both flanks spread out in formation. From horseback, Han Rong saw Ziya's forces with strict discipline and pairs of heroic warriors displaying their might. How was this? The following verse from the poem "Zhegu Tian" serves as evidence: A killing aura stretches for ten thousand miles, Banners and weapons pierce through cold light. The mighty army wields the Three-Ring Sword; Tigers generals carry eight-zhang spears across their saddles. The troops march in great numbers, soldiers bustling about; drums and gongs sound like wolves on the prowl. Thirty battles in the eastern campaign— This is the first clash at Sishui Pass.

话说韩荣在马上见子牙，口称：“姜元帅请了！‘率土之滨，莫非王臣’，元帅何故动无名之师，以下凌上，甘心作商家叛臣，吾为元帅不取也！”子牙笑曰：“将军之言差矣。君正，则居其位；君不正，则求为匹夫不可得。是天命岂可常哉，惟有德者能君之。昔夏桀暴虐，成汤伐之，代夏而有天下。今纣王罪过于桀，天下诸侯叛之。我周特奉天之罚，以讨有罪，安敢有逆天命，厥罪惟钧哉。”韩荣大怒曰：“姜子牙，我以你为高明之士，你原来是妖言惑众之人！你有多大本领，敢出大言！那员将与吾拏了？”傍有先行王虎，走马摇刀，飞奔前来，直奔子牙。只见哪吒已登风火轮，举枪忙迎。轮马相交，刀枪并举。两下里喊声不息，鼓角齐鸣。战未数合，哪吒奋勇一枪，把王虎挑于马下。魏贲见哪吒得胜，把马一磕，摇枪前来，飞取韩荣。韩荣手中戟迎面交还。魏贲的枪势如猛虎。韩荣见先折了王虎，心下已自慌忙，无心恋战。只见子牙挥动兵将冲杀过来。韩荣抵敌不住，败进关中去了。子牙得胜回营。不表。且说韩荣兵败进关，一面具表往朝歌告急，一面设计守关。正在紧急之时，忽报：“七首将军余化等令。”韩荣听得余化来至，大喜，忙传令：“令来。”余化至殿上行礼，韩荣曰：“自从将军战败去后，此关反被黄飞虎走出去了，不觉数载；岂意他养成气力，今反夥同那姜尚，三路分兵，取了佳梦关、青龙关，尽为周有。昨日会兵，不能取胜，如之奈何？”余化曰：“末将被哪吒打伤，败回蓬莱山，见我师尊，烧炼一件宝物，可以复我前仇。纵周家有千万军将，只叫他片甲无存。”韩荣大喜，治酒管待。话说次日，余化至周营讨战。子牙问：“谁去出马？”哪吒应声而出：“弟子愿往。”哪吒道罢，登轮提枪，出得营来，一见余化，哪吒认得他，大叫曰：“余化慢来！”余化见了仇人，把脸红了半边，也不答话，催开金睛兽，摇戟直取哪吒。哪吒的枪赴面交还。轮兽相交，戟枪双举。来往冲杀有二三十合，哪吒的枪乃太乙真人传授，有许多机变，余化不是哪吒对手。余化把一口刀，名曰“化血神刀”，祭起如一道电光，中了刀痕，时刻即死。怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰： 丹炉曾锻炼，火里用功夫。灵气后先妙，阴阳表里扶。透甲元神丧，沾身性命无。哪吒逢此刀，眼下血为肤。

As Han Rong was on horseback and saw Ziya, he called out: "Commander-in-Chief Jiang, greetings!" "All within the borders of the land are subjects of the king. Why has Commander-in-Chief launched an unjust army, acting in defiance of superiors and subordinates? You have willingly become a traitor to Shang, and I do not recognize you as a commander!" Ziya smiled and said, "General, your words are mistaken." "If a ruler is just, he holds his position; if the ruler is unjust, even seeking to be an ordinary man becomes impossible." Heaven's mandate cannot remain unchanged; only those with virtue can become rulers. In the past, Xia Jie was cruel and tyrannical, so Cheng Tang attacked him and replaced the Xia to rule over all under heaven. Now King Zhou's crimes surpass those of Jie; feudal lords across the land have rebelled against him. "We of Zhou merely carry out Heaven's punishment to punish the guilty; how could we dare defy Heaven's mandate and bear such grave guilt?" Han Rong became furious and said, "Jiang Ziya, I thought you a wise man, but it turns out you are one who spreads false words to mislead the people!" "What great abilities do you have to dare speak such grandiose words?" "Which officer will go with me and seize him?" Wang Hu, the vanguard commander, rode forward brandishing his saber and galloped straight toward Ziya. Just then Nezha had already mounted the Fenghuo Lun (Wind-Fire Wheel) and raised his spear to meet him head-on. Wheel and horse clashed, swords and spears were brandished together. From both sides came unceasing shouts of war as drums and horns sounded in unison. After only a few exchanges, Nezha bravely struck with his spear and threw Wang Hu from his horse. Wei Bin saw that Nezha had won, spurred his horse forward with spear in hand, and rushed to attack Han Rong. Han Rong met him head-on with the halberd in his hand. Wei Bin's spear moved like a fierce tiger. Han Rong, having already lost Wang Hu, was already panicked in his heart and had no desire to continue the battle. Ziya's troops surged forward as he waved them into attack. Unable to withstand the assault, Han Rong retreated and fled back inside the pass. Ziya returned victorious to his camp. No further details are given. Meanwhile, after his defeat, Han Rong withdrew into the pass; he sent a report to Chaoguo for urgent reinforcements while devising plans to defend the pass. Just as things were in dire straits, a sudden report came: "Commander Yu Hua of the Seven-Headed Generals has arrived." Upon hearing that Yu Hua had arrived, Han Rong was greatly pleased and quickly gave orders: "Bring him in." Yu Hua bowed on the hall, and Han Rong said: "Since you were defeated in battle and left, this pass was taken by Huang Feihu, and it has been several years now; I did not expect that he would grow strong, and now he has allied with Jiang Shang to divide his forces into three routes, capturing Jiamei Guan and Qinglong Guan, which are all now under Zhou control. "Yesterday's battle could not secure a victory—what should we do?" Yu Hua said, "After I was wounded by Nezha and retreated to Penglai Mountain, I saw my master, who forged a treasure that can allow me to avenge my former grudge. Even if Zhou has ten thousand troops and commanders, I will make them not leave a single piece of armor." Han Rong was overjoyed and prepared wine to entertain him. The next day, Yu Hua went to Ziya's Zhou camp to issue a challenge for battle. Ziya asked, "Who will go out to meet him?" Nezha stepped forward and said, "Disciple is willing to go." After saying this, Nezha mounted the Wind-Fire Wheel and raised his spear before exiting the camp. Upon seeing Yu Hua, Nezha recognized him and shouted, "Yu Hua, hold on!" Yu Hua saw his enemy and turned half of his face red with anger. Without saying a word, he spurred on the Golden-Eyed Beast and charged at Nezha with halberd in hand. Nezha met him head-on with his spear. Wheel and beast clashed, halberd and spear raised in tandem. After clashing back and forth for some twenty to thirty exchanges, Nezha's spear techniques were taught by Taiyi Zhenren (the True Man Taiyi) and featured many variations. Yu Hua was no match for Nezha. Yu Hua summoned a sword called the "Huoxue Shen Dao" (Blood-Dissolving Divine Sword), raising it like a streak of lightning. A wound from this blade would kill instantly. How so? The following poem serves as evidence: In the red furnace it was forged, With effort refined in fire. Its spirit is subtle before and after; yin and yang support its essence from within and without. It pierces armor, shattering the soul; if it touches flesh, life is lost. Nezha encountered this sword and immediately bled from his face.

余化将化血刀祭起，那刀来得甚快，哪吒躲不及，中了一刀。大抵哪吒乃莲花化身，浑身俱是莲花瓣儿，纵伤了他，不比凡夫血肉之躯，登时即死，该有凶中得吉。哪吒著刀伤了，大叫一声，败回营中；走进辕门，跌下风火轮来。哪吒著了刀伤，只是颤，不能做声。旗门官报与子牙，子牙令扛抬至中军。子牙叫：“哪吒！”哪吒不答话。子牙心下郁郁不乐。不知哪吒性命如何，且听下回分解。

Yu Hua raised the Huoxue Dao, which came swiftly; Nezha could not dodge in time and was struck by it. Nezha, being a lotus-blossom reincarnation, had his entire body made of lotus petals. Even if injured, he was not like an ordinary man with flesh and blood who would die instantly; instead, there should be good fortune emerging from misfortune. Nezha was wounded by the blade, let out a loud cry, and retreated back to his camp; he rushed into the 辕门 (Yuan Men) and fell from the Fenghuo Lun. لون Nezha, wounded by the blade, trembled uncontrollably and could not utter a sound. The flag gate officer reported to Ziya, who ordered that Nezha be carried into the central command tent. Ziya called out, "Nezha!" Nezha did not respond. Ziya felt a deep sense of sorrow and unease in his heart. Whether Nezha would survive or not remains to be seen in the next chapter.