Chapter 83: Three Great Masters Subdue Shi Xiang Hou

诗曰： 一钩明月半轮秋，三点如星仔细求。狮象有名缘相立，慈航无著借形修。朝元最忌贪嗔败，脱骨须知罣碍雠。总为诸仙逢杀劫，披毛带角尽皆休。

The poem says: A crescent moon and half a wheel of autumn, three points like stars to be carefully sought. Lions and elephants have names because they stand in contrast; Ci Hang is formless but borrows forms for cultivation. When seeking the Dao, one must most avoid greed and anger leading to failure; to shed the physical form, one must know that attachments and hindrances are enemies. Alas, all immortals encounter calamities; those with fur and horns will all come to an end.

话说准提道人命水火童子：“将六根清静竹，来钓金鳌。”童子向空中将竹枝垂下，那竹枝就有无限光华异彩，裹住了乌云仙；乌云仙此时难逃现身之厄。准提叫曰：“乌云仙，你此时不现原形，更待何时！”只见乌云仙把头摇了一摇，化作一个金须鳌鱼，剪尾摇头，上了钓竿。童子上前，按住了乌云仙的头，将身骑上鳌鱼背上，迳往西方八德池中受享极乐之福去了。正是： 八德池中闲戏耍，金莲为伴任逍遥。

It is said that Zhunti Dao Ren ordered the Water and Fire Attendants: "Bring forth the six roots of pure bamboo to fish for the golden keratin." The attendants lowered the bamboo branch into the air; that bamboo branch then emitted boundless radiant brilliance, enveloping Wu Yun Xian. At this moment, Wu Yun Xian could not escape the calamity of being revealed in his true form. Zhunti called out: "Wu Yun Xian, if not now you reveal your original form, when else will it be?" One could see Wu Yun Xian shaking his head, transforming into a golden-bearded keratin fish, flicking its tail and nodding its head, onto the fishing rod. The attendants stepped forward, grasped Wu Yun Xian's head, rode upon the keratin fish's back, and directly went to the West toward the Badi Pool to enjoy the utmost bliss. Indeed: In the Badi Pool, idly playing and frolicking, golden lotuses as companions, one may wander in carefree ease.

话说准提道人收了金鳌，赶至万仙阵前。通天教主看见准提，怒冲面上，眼角俱红，大呼曰：“准提道人，你今日又来会吾此阵，吾决不与你干休！”准提道人曰：“乌云仙与吾有缘，被吾用六根清净竹钓去西方八德池边，自在逍遥，无罣无碍，真强如你在此红尘扰攘也。”通天教主听罢大怒，正欲与准提厮杀，只听得太极阵中一人作歌而出，歌曰： “大道非凡道，玄中玄更玄。谁能参悟透，咫尺见先天。”

It is said that Zhunti Daoren had captured the golden keratin and hurried to the front of the Ten Thousand Immortals Formation. Tongtian Jiaozhu saw Zhunti and anger surged onto his face, his eyes turning red. He shouted loudly: "Zhunti Daoren, you have come again today to challenge my formation; I shall by no means let this go!" Zhunti Daoren said: "Wu Yun Xian and I share a karmic bond. He was fished away by me with the Six Roots Pure Bamboo to the western Badi Pool, where he now enjoys freedom and ease without hindrance or attachment. Indeed, this is far better than your being entangled in worldly turmoil here." らい Tongtian Jiaozu, upon hearing this, became furious and was about to fight Zhunti when suddenly a person from the Taiji Formation sang out a song. The song said: "The Great Dao is not an ordinary Dao; mysterious within mystery, even more profound." "Who can comprehend it fully? In the span of a zhi and chi, one glimpses the Original Heaven."

话说太极阵中虬首仙提剑而出：“谁人敢进吾阵中来，共决雌雄？”准提道人曰：“文殊广法天尊，借你去会此位有缘之客。”准提道人把文殊广法天尊顶上一指，泥丸复开，三光迸出，瑞气盘旋，元始天尊递一旛与文殊，名曰盘古旛，“可破此太极阵。”文殊广法天尊接旛作偈而出，偈曰： “混元一气此为先，万劫修持合太玄。莫道此中多变化，汞铅消尽福无边。”

It is said that Qiu Shou Xian from the Taiji Formation drew his sword and stepped forward, asking: "Who dares to enter my formation to decide our superiority or inferiority?" Zhunti Daoren said: "Wenshu Guangfa Tiandun, lend you to meet this karmically connected guest." Zhunti Daoren pointed at the top of Wenshu Guangfa Tiandu's head. The Niwan opened again, and three lights burst forth, auspicious qi swirling around. Yuanshi Tiandun handed a banner to Wenshu, named the Pangu Banner, saying: "This can break through this Taiji Formation." Wenshu Guangfa Tianduo took the banner and recited a verse as he stepped forward. The verse said: "The Primordial Unity of Qi comes first; through ten thousand kalpas of cultivation, one unites with Tai Xuan." "Do not say there are many transformations within this; when cinnabar and lead dissolve completely, blessings become boundless."

文殊广法天尊歌罢，虬首仙大呼曰：“今日之功，各显其教，不必多言！”仗手中剑砍来。文殊广法天尊手中剑急架相还。未及数合，虬首仙便往阵中而去。文殊广法天尊纵步赶来。虬首仙进阵，便祭起符印，只见阵中如铁壁铜墙一般，兵刃加山。文殊广法天尊将盘古旛展动，镇住了太极阵，广法天尊现出一法身来。怎见得，有囋为证： 面如蓝靛，赤发红髯。浑身上五彩呈祥，遍体内金光拥护。降魔杵滚滚红焰飞来；金莲边腾腾霞光乱舞。正是：太极阵中皈依大法现威光，朵朵祥云笼八面。

After Wenshu Guangfa Tianduan finished singing, Qiu Shou Xian shouted: "Today's feat shall demonstrate the power of each sect; no need for further words!" He brandished his sword and swung it down. Wenshu Guangfa Tiandao quickly raised the sword in his hand to parry and counterattack. Before a few exchanges, Qiu Shou Xian had already retreated into the formation. Wenshu Guangfa Tiangao took bold steps to pursue. Qiu Shou Xian entered the formation and immediately invoked a talisman and seal. One could see that within the formation, it was as solid as an iron wall or copper fortress, with weapons piled up like mountains. Wenshu Guangfa Tiangu spread out the Pangu Banner, stabilizing the Taiji Formation. Guangfa Tianduo manifested a Dharma body. How was this seen? Evidence is given below: His face was as blue-black as indigo, with red hair and a crimson beard. The entire body displayed auspicious five-colored radiance; golden light surrounded his whole being from within. The Demonic Subjugation Mallet rolled with surging red flames flying toward him; Golden lotuses radiated swirling, dazzling rosy light. Indeed: In the Taiji Formation, the great Dharma of devotion manifested its mighty radiance; clouds of auspiciousness surrounded all eight directions.

虬首仙见广法天尊现出一位化身，甚是奇异，只见香风缥缈，璎珞缠身，莲花托足。虬首仙无法可治，正欲回避；文殊忙将困妖绳祭起，命黄巾力士：“拿去芦篷下，听候发落。”广法天尊收了法像，徐徐出阵，上篷来见元始，曰：“弟子已破太极阵矣。”元始命南极仙翁：“去芦篷下，将虬首仙打出原身。”仙翁领命至篷下，见虬首仙缚住一团。南极仙翁对虬首仙口中念念有词，道声：“疾！还不速现原形，更待何时！”只见虬首仙把头摇了两摇，就地一滚，乃是一个青毛狮子，剪尾摇头，甚是雄伟。南极仙翁回复元始天尊命令。元始分付：“就命广法天尊坐骑，仍于项下挂一牌，上书虬首仙名讳。”次日，老子与元始亲临阵前，问：“通天教主何在？”左右报与通天教主，迳出阵前。老子命文殊骑了青狮至前面，老子指与通天教主看，曰：“你的门下，长有此等之物，你还要自逞道德清高，真是可笑！”就把个通天教主羞红满面，大怒曰：“你再敢破吾两仪阵么？”老手尚未及回言，只见两仪阵内灵牙仙大呼而出曰：“谁敢来破吾两仪阵么？”正是： 袖里乾坤翻上下，两仪阵内定高低。

Qiu Shou Xian saw Guangfa Tianduo manifest a single embodiment, which was most wondrous. One could see fragrant winds drifting ethereally, with jingluo ornaments entwining his body and lotuses supporting his feet. Qiu Shou Xian found no way to counter this and was just about to retreat; Wenshu quickly invoked the Demon-Binding Rope and ordered the Huangjin Lushi: "Take him to under the reed canopy and await further judgment." Guangfa Tianduo withdrew his Dharma manifestation, slowly exited the formation, climbed onto the canopy to meet Yuanshi, and said: "Disciple has already broken through the Taiji Formation." Yuanshi ordered Nanji Xianweng: "Go to under the reed canopy, and force Qiu Shou Xian back into his original form." Xianweng accepted the order and went to under the canopy, where he saw Qiu Shou Xian bound in a mass. Nanji Xianweng recited incantations toward Qiu Shou Xian, and shouted: "Quickly!" "Why not quickly reveal your original form? When else will it be?" One could see Qiu Shou Xian shaking his head twice, rolling on the ground, and transforming into a green-haired lion, flicking its tail, nodding its head—most majestic indeed. Nanji Xianwong returned to report the completion of Yuanshi Tiandu's command. Yuanshi instructed: "Order Guangfa Tianduo to ride it, and hang a plaque around its neck with the name Qiu Shou Xian written on it." The next day, Laozi and Yuanshi personally arrived at the front of the formation and asked: "Where is Tongtian Jiaozhu?" The attendants on either side informed Tongtian Jiaozu. He came directly to the front of the formation. Laozi ordered Wenshu to ride the green lion forward. Laozi pointed it out for Tongtian Jiaozuo and said: "Your disciple is always such a creature; yet you still pretend to be morally lofty, how laughable!" This made Tongtian Jiaozhong's face flush with shame and anger, who shouted: "Do you dare to break my Two Instruments Formation again?" Before Laozi could reply, suddenly Lingya Xian from within the Two Instruments Formation shouted out: "Who dares to break my Two Instruments Formation?" Indeed: "The universe in one's sleeve turns upside down; within the Two Instruments Formation, ranks are decided."

灵牙仙迳出阵来，问：“谁敢来见吾此阵？”元始命普贤真人曰：“你去破此阵走一遭。”遂将太极符印付与普贤真人。真人至阵前曰：“灵牙仙，你苦行成形，为何不守本分，又来多此一番事也。只怕你咫尺间现了原形，当时悔之晚矣。”灵牙仙大怒，仗二剑飞来直取。普贤真人仗手中剑火速忙迎。未及数合，灵牙仙便往两仪阵中而去；普贤真人赶入阵内。灵牙仙祭动两仪妙用，逞截教玄功，发动雷声，来困普贤真人。只见普贤真人泥丸宫现出化身，甚是凶恶。怎见得，有赞为证： 面如紫枣，巨口獠牙。霎时间红云笼顶上，一会家瑞彩罩金身。璎珞垂珠挂遍体，莲花托足起祥云。三首六臂持利器，手内降魔杵一根。正是：有福西方成正果，真人今日已完成。

Lingya Xian came directly out of the formation and asked: "Who dares to challenge my array?" Yuanshi commanded Puxian Zhenren, saying: "You go forth and break through this formation." He then handed the Taiji talisman and seal to Puxian Zhenran. Zhenren arrived at the formation's front and said: "Lingya Xian, you attained form through hardship; why do you not remain in your proper place but instead cause yet another disturbance?" "I fear that within a zhi and chi's time, you will reveal your original form; then it shall be too late to regret." Lingya Xian became furious, brandished two swords and flew straight toward him. Puxian Zhenren quickly raised the sword in hand to meet it head-on. Before a few exchanges, Lingya Xian had already retreated back into the Two Instruments Formation; Puxian Zhenren rushed into the formation. Lingya Xian invoked the wondrous applications of the Two Instruments, displayed the esoteric skills of the Jie Sect, summoned thunder to trap Puxian Zhenren. One could see Puxian Zhenren manifesting a Dharma body from his Niwan Palace, which appeared extremely fierce and ferocious. How was this seen? A verse testifies: His face resembled a purplish jujube, with huge mouth and fangs. In an instant, red clouds enveloped his head; in a moment, auspicious colors shrouded his golden body. Jingluo ornaments with hanging pearls adorned his entire form, and lotuses supported his feet as auspicious clouds arose. Three heads and six arms held sharp weapons; in hand was a single Demonic Subjugation Mallet. Indeed: To attain true fruition in the West is blessed fortune; today, Zhenren has completed his cultivation.

话说普贤真人现出法身，镇住灵牙仙，仍用长虹索，命黄巾力士：“将灵牙仙拿去芦篷下，听候指挥。”普贤真人破了两仪阵，迳至芦篷上，参见老子。老子命南极仙翁：“速现灵牙仙原身。”南极仙翁领令，将三宝玉如意把灵牙仙连击数下。灵牙仙就地一滚，现出原形，乃是一只白象。老子分付：“将白象颈上也挂一牌，上书灵牙仙名讳，与普贤真人为坐骑。”复至阵前。通天教主见青狮在左，白象在右，不觉大怒，正欲上前，只见四象阵上金光仙大呼曰：“阐教门人不要逞强，吾来也！”乃作歌而出，歌曰： “妙法广无边，身心合汞铅。今领四象阵，道术岂多言。二指降龙虎，双眸运太玄。谁人来会我，方是大罗仙。”

It is said that Puxian Zhenren manifested his Dharma body, subduing Lingya Xian. He still used the Longhong Rope and ordered Huangjin Lushi: "Take Lingya Xian to under the reed canopy for further instructions." Puxian Zhenren had broken through the Two Instruments Formation and directly went to under the reed canopy to pay respects to Laozi. Laozi ordered Nanji Xianwong: "Quickly reveal Lingya Xian's original form." Nanji Xianwou accepted the command and struck Lingya Xian several times with the Three Treasures Jade 如意. Lingya Xian rolled on the ground, revealing his original form: a white elephant. Laozi instructed: "Hang a plaque on the white elephant's neck as well, inscribed with Lingya Xian's name, to serve as Puxian Zhenren's mount." They returned once more to the front of the array. Tongtian Jiaoshou saw the green lion on his left and the white elephant on his right, and could not help but become furious. Just as he was about to step forward, suddenly Jin Guang Xian from the Four Symbols Formation shouted: "Disciples of the Chan Sect, do not try to be strong; I am coming!" He sang as he stepped forward. The song said: "Wondrous Dharma is vast without bounds; body and mind unite with cinnabar and lead." "Now I command the Four Symbols Formation; Dao techniques need no many words." "Two fingers subdue dragon and tiger, both eyes channel Tai Xuan." "Who dares to meet me? Only then shall he be a Great Luo Immortal."

元始见金光仙出得四象阵来，勇猛莫敌，忙分付慈航道人曰：“你将如意执定，进四象阵去，直须……如此如此，就变化无穷，何愁此阵不破也；此是你有缘之骑。”慈航道人作歌而出，歌曰： “普陀崖下有名声，了劫归根返玉京。今日已完收四象，梦魂犹自怕临兵。”

Yuanshi saw Jin Guang Xian emerging from the Four Symbols Formation, his bravery unmatched. He quickly instructed Cihang Dao Ren: "You must firmly grasp the Ru Yi, enter the Four Symbols Formation and proceed thus... so that infinite transformations may arise; how could this formation not be broken?" "This shall become your karmically connected mount." Cihang Dao Ren sang as he stepped forward, the song said: "At Putuo Cliff below, fame is known; completing kalpas and returning to Yu Jing." "Today I have completed subduing the Four Symbols; even in dreams my soul still fears approaching soldiers."

慈航歌罢，金光仙跃身而出，大呼曰：“慈航道人，你口出大言，肆行无忌，好个‘今日已完收四象’，只怕你死于目前！不要走，正要拿你！”仗手中剑飞来直取。慈航道人手中剑急架忙迎。未及三合，金光仙便入四象阵去了。慈航赶入阵中。金光仙将四象阵符印发开，内有无穷法宝，来治慈航道人。正是： 四象阵遇金毛犼，潮音洞里听谈经。

After Cihang finished singing, Jin Guang Xian leaped forward and shouted: "Cihang Dao Ren, you speak with great boldness, acting without restraint. What a fine thing to say 'today I have completed subduing the four symbols'—I fear you will die right before your eyes!" "Do not run; it is precisely time to seize you!" He brandished the sword in his hand and flew straight toward him for attack. Cihang Dao Ren quickly raised his sword to parry and meet it head-on. Before three exchanges, Jin Guang Xian had already retreated into the Four Symbols Formation. Cihang rushed into the formation. Jin Guang Xian activated the talisman and seal of the Four Symbols Formation, unleashing infinite treasures to subdue Cihang Dao Ren. Indeed: "Encountering the golden-haired hou in the Four Symbols Formation, listening to scriptures recited within Chao Yin Cave."

话说慈航道人见四象阵中变化无穷，忙将头上一拍，有一朵庆云笼罩，盖住顶上，听得一声雷响，现出一位化身，怎见得： 面如傅粉，三首六臂。二目中火光焰里见金龙；两耳内朵朵金莲生瑞彩。足踏金鳌，霭霭祥云千万道；手中托杵，巍巍紫气彻青霄。三宝如意擎在手，长毫光灿灿；杨柳在肘后，有瑞气腾腾。正是：普陀妙法甚庄严，方显慈航道行。

It is said that Cihang Dao Ren, seeing the endless transformations within the Four Symbols Formation, quickly struck his head. A cloud of celebration appeared, covering his head. With a thunderous sound, he manifested an embodiment. How was this seen: His face resembled powdered white paint; three heads and six arms. From the firelight in his two eyes, a golden dragon could be seen; Golden lotuses bloomed with auspicious colors from both ears. Feet treading a golden keratin, countless clouds of auspiciousness swirling around; In hand was the mallet, with towering purple qi reaching into the azure sky. The Three Treasures 如意 was held in his hand, long rays of brilliant light shining; A willow branch hung behind his elbow, with auspicious qi rising. Indeed: The wondrous Dharma of Putuo is most solemn; only then does the cultivation and virtue of Cihang Dao become evident.

且说金光仙看见阐教内门人这等化身，自叹曰：“真好一个玉虚门下，果然气宇不同！”欲待逃回，早已被慈航道人祭起三宝玉如意，命黄巾力士：“把此物拿去篷下，听候发落。”少时，力士平空把金光仙拿至芦篷下。南极仙翁在篷下等候，忽见空中丢下金光仙来，南极仙翁见金光仙跌下篷来，遵老子命令，将金光仙颈上连拍几下：“这业障还不速现原形，更待何时！”金光仙情知不能脱逃，就地一滚，现出原形，乃是一只金毛犼。仙翁至芦篷回覆法旨。元始分付：“也与他颈上挂一牌，书金光仙名讳，就与慈航为坐骑。”仙翁一一如命施为。慈舫骑了，复出阵前。──此乃是三大师收伏狮、象、犼；后兴释门，成于佛教，为文殊、普贤、观音，是三位大士；此是后话，表过不提。──且说通天教主见如此光景，心中大怒，方欲仗剑前来，以决雌雄，忽听得后面一门人大呼曰：“老师不要动怒，吾来也！”通天教主观之，是龟灵圣母，身穿大红八卦衣，仗手中宝剑，作歌而来，歌曰： “炎帝修成大道通，胸藏万象妙无穷。碧游宫内传真诀，特向红尘西破戎。”

Let us speak of Jin Guang Xian, who upon seeing the embodiment of this disciple from Chan Sect's inner ranks, sighed and said: "Truly a fine disciple of Yu Xu Gate; indeed, his bearing is extraordinary!" Intending to flee back, Jin Guang Xian was already captured by Cihang Dao Ren who invoked the Three Treasures Jade 如意 and ordered Huangjin Lushi: "Take this creature to under the canopy and await judgment." In a short while, the strongman seized Jin Guang Xian from midair and brought him beneath the reed canopy. Nanjing Xianweng was waiting beneath the canopy. Suddenly, he saw Jin Guang Xian being dropped from the sky. Upon seeing Jin Guang Xian fall into the canopy, Nanjing Xianweng followed Laozi's command and struck his neck several times: "This wretched creature, why delay any longer in revealing your original form!" Jin Guang Xian realized he could not escape and rolled on the ground, revealing his original form. It was a golden-haired hou. Xianweng returned to the reed canopy to report back on the decree. Yuanshi instructed: "Also hang a plaque around his neck, inscribed with Jin Guang Xian's name and title; assign him as Cihang Dao Ren's steed." Xianweng carried out the instructions exactly as commanded. Cihang Dao mounted it and returned to the front of the formation. ——This was how the Three Elders subdued the lion, elephant, and hou; Later, when Buddhism arose, they became part of Buddhist tradition as Manjushri, Samantabhadra, and Guanyin, the three great Bodhisattvas; This is a later story, mentioned here but not to be discussed further. ——Let us now speak of Tongtian Jiaozhu, who upon witnessing such a scene, was greatly enraged. Just as he was about to draw his sword and come forward to decide the outcome between them, he suddenly heard one of his disciples shouting from behind: "Master, do not be angry; I am coming!" Tongtian Jiaozhu looked and saw it was Guiling Shengmu, who wore a large red Eight Trigrams robe, held her treasure sword in hand, and came singing. The song went: "The Yan Emperor cultivated the great Dao to perfection; his chest holds myriad phenomena, wondrous without end." "True teachings were transmitted within Biyou Palace; especially to break the enemy in the west of mortal world."

只见龟灵圣母欲来拿广成子报仇，这壁厢有惧留孙迎上前来曰：“那业障慢来！”老子、元始、准提道人三位教主是慧眼，看见龟灵圣母行相，元始笑曰：“二位道兄，似这样东西，如何也要成正果，真个好笑！”──你道他知何出身，有赞为证： 根源出处号帮泥，水底增光独显威。世隐能知天地性，灵惺偏晓鬼神机。藏身一缩无头尾，展足能行即自飞。苍颉造字须成体，卜筮先知伴伏羲。穿萍透荇千般俏，戏水翻波把浪吹。条条金线穿成甲，点点装成玳瑁齐，九宫八卦生成定，散碎铺遮缘羽衣。生来好勇龙王幸，死后还驼三教碑。要知此物名何姓，炎帝得道母乌龟。

Just as Guiling Shengmu was about to come forward to seize Guangchengzi for revenge, from this side Ju Liusun stepped forward and said: "You wretched creature, hold on!" Laozi, Yuanshi, and Zhunti Dao Ren, the three Patriarchs with enlightened eyes, observed Guiling Shengmu's demeanor. Yuanshi laughed and said: "My two Daoist brothers, how is it that a creature like this also seeks to attain true fruit? It is truly laughable!" ——You may wonder about her origins; a verse serves as evidence: Her roots trace back to Bangni, where she alone displayed power and brilliance beneath the water. In this world of concealment, she understood the nature of heaven and earth; her spirit was keen to discern the secrets of gods and ghosts. When hiding, she could shrink until head and tail vanished; with a single step, she could fly freely. Cangjie created characters that formed their own system; divination foreknowledge accompanied Fu Xi. She gracefully wove through lotus leaves and waterweeds, playfully stirring waves and blowing ripples as she swam. Thread after thread of golden lines wove into armor, each piece meticulously arranged like tortoiseshell. The Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams formed a fixed pattern, scattered fragments covering her feathered robe. Born brave and favored by the Dragon King, after death she still bore the Tripitaka stele on her back. To know this creature's name and lineage: She is the mother turtle who attained Dao with Yan Di.

且说龟灵圣母仗剑出来，与惧留孙大战，未及三五合，急祭起日月珠打来。惧留孙不识此宝，不敢招架，转身往西败走。通天教主大呼曰：“速将惧留孙拿来！”龟灵圣母飞赶前来。惧留孙──乃是西方有缘之客，久后入于释教，大阐佛法，兴于西汉。──正往西上逃走，只见迎头来了一人，头挽双髻，身穿水合道服，徐徐而来，让过惧留孙，阻住龟灵圣母，大呼曰：“不要赶吾道友。你既修成人体，理当守分安居，如何肆志乱行，作此业障。若不听吾之言，那时追悔何及！你可速回，吾乃西方教主，大展沙门，今来特遇有缘，非是无端惹事。正是： 若是有缘当早会，同上西方极乐天。”

Let us now speak of Guiling Shengmu drawing her sword and coming out to fight Ju Liusun. Before three or five exchanges, she quickly invoked the Sun and Moon Pearls to strike him. Ju Liusun did not recognize this treasure, dared not block or parry it, and turned around to flee westward in defeat. Tongtian Jiaozu shouted loudly: "Quickly seize Ju Liusun!" Guiling Shengmu flew forward in pursuit. Ju Liusun——was a fortunate guest from the West; later, he entered into Buddhism, greatly expounded Buddhist teachings, and flourished during the Western Han dynasty. ——He was fleeing westward when suddenly a person came from ahead. This one had two buns on his head, wore a blue Daoist robe, and approached calmly. He let Ju Liusun pass but blocked Guiling Shengmu's path, shouting: "Do not chase my Daoist friend." You have already cultivated into a human form; it is only right that you remain in your proper place and dwell peacefully. Why then do you act recklessly, creating such karmic obstacles? If you do not heed my words now, it will be too late to regret it later! You should return at once. I am the Patriarch of the Western Sect, a great master of the monastic order. Today's encounter is due to karmic connection; it is not without reason that I have come here. Indeed: "If there is karmic bond, we shall meet early; together ascend to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss."

龟灵圣母大呼曰：“你是西方客，当守你巢穴，如何敢在此妖言乱语，惑吾清听！”也不及交手，急祭日月珠劈面打来。接引道人指上放一白毫光，光上生一朵青莲，托住此珠。西方教主曰：“青莲托此物，众生那得知。”龟灵圣母原非根深行满之辈，不知进退，依旧用此珠打来。接引道人曰：“既到此间，也免不得行此红尘之事；非是我不慈悲，乃是气数使然，我也难为自主。我且将此宝祭起，看他如何。”西方教主将念珠祭起，龟灵圣母一见，躲身不及，那念珠落下，正打在龟灵圣母背上，压倒在地，现出原身，乃是一个大龟，只见压得头足齐出。惧留孙方欲仗剑斩之，西方教主急止之曰：“道友不可杀他，若动此念，转劫难完，相报不已。”教主呼：“童子在那里？”西方教主言未毕，只见一童走至面前，西方教主曰：“我同此位道友去会有缘之客；你可将此畜收之。”接引道人同惧留孙赴芦篷来。不表。

Guiling Shengmu shouted: "You are a Western guest; you should remain in your own domain. How dare you speak such false words here and confuse my ears!" Before any hand-to-hand combat could occur, she hastily invoked the Sun and Moon Pearls and hurled them directly at his face. Jieying Dao Ren pointed upward, emitting a white ray of light from which an azure lotus bloomed to catch the pearl. The Patriarch of the Western Sect said: "With this object supported by a blue lotus, how could sentient beings ever know." Guiling Shengmu was not one of deep cultivation and full virtue; unaware of when to advance or retreat, she continued using the pearl to strike. Jieying Dao Ren said: "Having come here, one cannot escape worldly affairs; It is not that I lack compassion, but the will of fate compels it. Even I find it hard to act freely." I shall now invoke this treasure and see how he responds." The Patriarch of the Western Sect invoked his rosary. Guiling Shengmu saw it and failed to dodge in time. The rosary fell directly onto her back, knocking her down to the ground where she revealed her original form: a giant turtle. One could see its head and feet pushed out from under the weight. Ju Liusun was just about to draw his sword to slay her when the Patriarch of the Western Sect hurriedly stopped him, saying: "Daoist friend, you must not kill her. If such a thought is acted upon, it will lead to endless cycles of retribution and retaliation." The Patriarch called out: "Where are the young attendants?" Before the Patriarch of the Western Sect could finish speaking, a young attendant came forward. The Patriarch said: "I shall accompany this Daoist friend to meet with our karmically connected guest; you may take charge of this beast." Jieying Dao Ren and Ju Liusun went together to the reed canopy. No further details are given.

且说西方白莲童子将一小小包儿打开，欲收龟灵圣母，不意走出一件好东西，甚是利害，声音细细，映日飞来。怎见得，有诗为证： 声若轰雷嘴若针，穿衾度幔更难禁。贪餐血食侵人体，畏避烟熏集茂林。炎热愈威偏聒噪，寒风才动便无情。龟灵圣母因逢劫，难免群锋若聚簪。

Let us now speak of the White Lotus Youth from the Western Sect, who opened a small package to capture Guiling Shengmu. Unexpectedly, something extraordinary emerged from it—extremely formidable, with a faint sound and shimmering in the sunlight as it flew forward. How was this seen? A poem serves as evidence: Its voice like thunder, its beak sharp as a needle; it pierced through quilts and curtains, impossible to restrain. It greedily devoured blood and flesh, invading the human body; it feared smoke 熏 and gathered in dense forests for shelter. The hotter the climate, the more fierce and noisy it became; at the first breath of cold wind, it turned ruthless without hesitation. Guiling Shengmu encountered calamity and could not avoid being surrounded by sharp attacks like a gathering of hairpins.

话说白莲童子打开包裹，放出蚊虫，那蚊虫闻得血腥气，俱来叮在龟灵圣母头足之上，及至赶打，如何赶得彻，未曾赶得这里，那里又宿满了。不一时，把龟灵圣母吸成空壳。白莲童子急至收时，他也自四散飞去，一翅飞往西方，把十二品莲台食了三品。──后来西方教主破了万仙阵回来，方能收住，已是少了三品莲台，追悔无及。正是： 九品莲台登彼岸，千年之后有沙门。

The story continues: the White Lotus Youth opened his bundle and released mosquitoes. The mosquitoes, sensing blood and scent, all flew to bite Guiling Shengmu on her head and feet. By the time she tried to drive them away, how could they be completely chased off? No sooner had some been driven from one spot than others gathered in another place. In no time at all, the mosquitoes drained Guiling Shengmu dry, leaving her an empty shell. The White Lotus Youth hurried to contain them, but the mosquitoes had already scattered and flown away. With one flap of their wings, they flew westward and devoured three tiers of the Twelve-Tiered Lotus Platform. ——Later, after the Patriarch of the Western Sect broke through the Ten Thousand Immortals Formation and returned, he was finally able to contain them. But by then, three tiers of the Lotus Platform were already gone; it was too late for regret. Indeed: "The Nine-Tiered Lotus Platform ascends to the other shore; after a thousand years, there will be monks."

不表蚊虫之事，且说西方教主同惧留孙来至万仙阵前，见了紫雾红云，黄光缭绕，有准提道人见师兄来至，老子与元始忙迎上前，打稽首曰：“道友请了！”对面通天教主看见，大呼曰：“接引道人，你前番可恶，破吾诛仙阵；今又来此！吾与你见个高下！”道罢，把奎牛催开，用剑来取。西方教主也不动手，只见泥丸宫舍利子升起三颗，或上或下，反覆翻腾，遍地俱是金光。通天教主宝剑架隔，不能近身。通天教主大怒，复用渔鼓打来。准提用手一指，一朵金莲架住，亦不能近身。老子与元始请曰：“二位道兄暂回，今日且不要与他较量。”赤精子听罢，忙鸣金钟；广成子又击玉磬。四位教主皆回。通天教主又不能阻拦，心中大怒，曰：“今日且让他暂回，明日决要会你等，以见高下！”老子曰：“你且回去，不要性急。”

No further mention is made of the mosquitoes. Let us now speak of the Patriarch of the Western Sect and Ju Liusun arriving at the front of the Ten Thousand Immortals Array. Seeing the purple mist, red clouds, and yellow light swirling around, Zhunti Dao Ren noticed his elder brother arrive. Laozi and Yuanshi hurried forward to greet him, bowing deeply and saying: "Greeting you, Daoist friend!" Facing them, Tongtian Jiaozu saw this and shouted: "Jieying Dao Ren! You were most wicked before when you destroyed my 诛仙 Array; now you come here again!" I shall settle with you who is superior and inferior!" No sooner had he finished speaking than he spurred his qinian cow forward and attacked with his sword. The Patriarch of the Western Sect did not move to fight. Instead, three cinnabar pills rose from his Tienmen Palace (Tian Tu Gong), moving up and down repeatedly, flipping about wildly; golden light filled the ground everywhere. Tongtian Jiaozhi raised his treasure sword to block, but could not get close enough. Tongtian Jiaojuz was greatly enraged and used the fishing drum to strike again. Zhunti pointed a finger, and a golden lotus blocked it; still, it could not get close. Laozi and Yuanshi pleaded: "My two Daoist elder brothers, please return for now; do not engage in a contest with him today." After hearing this, Chizigen quickly rang the golden bell; Guangchengzi struck the jade chime. The four Patriarchs all returned. Tongtian Jiaozhuz could not stop them and was greatly enraged, saying: "Today I shall let you return for now, but tomorrow we will surely meet again to see who is superior!" Laozi said: "Return first; do not act in haste."

只见四位教主回至芦篷上坐下，元始曰：“二位道兄此来共佐周室，若明日破阵，必尽除此教，以绝彼之虚妄。只是难为后来访道修真之人，绝此一种耳。”接引道人曰：“贫道此来，单只为渡有缘之客。据吾观，万仙阵中邪者多而正者少，没奈何，只得随缘相得，不敢勉强耳。”老子曰：“吾等门人今已满戒，明日速破此阵，让他早早返本还元，以全此辈根行，也不失我等解脱一场。”元始随命姜尚过来，问曰：“前日破诛仙阵，那四口宝剑在否？”子牙曰：“此剑俱在弟子处。”元始曰：“取来。”子牙随取出四口剑献上元始，乃“诛”、“戮”、“陷”、“绝”之剑。元始乃命广成子、赤精子、玉鼎真人、道行天尊四位过来，分付曰：“你四人但看明日吾等进阵之时，阵里面八卦台前有一座宝塔升起，你四个先冲进重围之中，祭起此剑。原是他的宝剑，还绝他的门人，非吾等故作此恶业也。”又谓子牙曰：“明日会阵之际，但凡吾门下见者，皆可进阵，以完劫数。”子牙领了法旨，来至芦篷下，分付众门人曰：“明日共破万仙阵，尔等俱入阵中，各见雌雄，以完劫数。”众门人听说，喜不自胜。不表。

The four Patriarchs returned to the reed canopy and sat down. Yuanshi said: "My two Daoist brothers have come here together to assist the Zhou dynasty. If we break through the array tomorrow, we must completely eliminate this sect in order to eradicate their false teachings." It is only difficult for those who later seek Dao and cultivate truthfulness; this one path will be cut off." Jieying Dao Ren said: "This humble Daoist has come here solely to ferry those with karmic connections. From my observation, in the Ten Thousand Immortals array there are many evil ones and few righteous ones. There is nothing to be done but follow karmic connections as they arise; I dare not force anything." Laozi said: "Our disciples have now completed their vows. Tomorrow, quickly break through this array and allow them to return to their original nature as soon as possible. This will preserve the cultivation of these individuals; it shall not be in vain for us to achieve liberation." Yuanshi then summoned Jiang Shang and asked: "The day before yesterday, when the 诛仙 array was broken, are those four treasure swords still available?" Zi Ya said: "These swords are all in my possession." Yuanshi said: "Bring them here." Zi Ya immediately retrieved the four swords and presented them to Yuanshi. They were the "Zhu" (Slay), "Lu" (Slay), "Xian" (Trap), and "Jue" (Annihilate) swords. Yuanshi then called over Guangchengzi, Chizigen, Yuding Zhenren, and Daoheng Tianzun, and instructed them: "The four of you must watch closely when we enter the array tomorrow. When a treasure pagoda rises before the Eight Trigrams Platform inside the array, the four of you shall first rush into the thick of the encirclement and invoke these swords." These are originally his treasure swords, used to cut off his disciples; it is not that we intentionally commit such evil karma." Yuanshi also said to Zi Ya: "On the day of tomorrow's array confrontation, any disciple from my sect who sees it may enter the array to complete their karmic cycle." Zi Ya received the decree and went to beneath the reed canopy, instructing his disciples: "Tomorrow we shall jointly break through the Ten Thousand Immortal Array. All of you will enter the array and each demonstrate your strength to complete your karmic cycle." The disciples, upon hearing this, were overjoyed beyond measure. No further details are given.

且说潼关众将听得破万仙阵，俱在关内，一个个心痒难抓，恨不得也来看看。内有洪锦与龙吉公主曰：“我也是截教，况你又是瑶池仙子，理合去会万仙阵，如何在此不行？”龙吉公主曰：“我们明日早去无妨。”夫妻计议停当。次日，来见武王曰：“臣辞大王，要去会万仙阵，以完劫数，特听姜元帅调遣。”武王曰：“卿去固好，当佐相父破敌也。”武王大喜，奉酒饯行。洪锦夫妇告别起行。──也是合该如此。正是： 万仙阵内夫妻绝，天数安排不得差。

Let us now speak of the generals at Tongguan who heard about breaking through the Ten Thousand Immortals' Array. They were all within the pass, each one itching with excitement and wishing they could also come to witness it. Among them, Hong Jin and Longji Gongzhu said: "I am also from the Jie Sect. Moreover, you are a fairy of 瑶池 (Yaochi), so it is only right for us to go and meet at the Ten Thousand Immortals' Array. Why are we not going there?" Princess Longji said: "We can leave early tomorrow without any problem." The couple discussed and finalized their plan. The next day, they came to see King Wu and said: "Minister respectfully bids farewell to Your Majesty. I am going to meet at the Ten Thousand Immortal Array to complete my karmic cycle. I have come especially to await General Jiang's command." King Wu said: "It is good that you go, and you should assist my father-in-law in defeating the enemy." King Wu was greatly pleased and offered wine to see them off. Hong Jin and his wife bid farewell and set out on their journey. ──It was also destined to be so. Indeed: Within the Ten Thousand Immortal Array, husband and wife are severed; Heaven's decree cannot be altered.

且说元始次日下篷，分付众门人，鸣动金钟、玉磬。三教圣人率诸门人共破万仙阵。只见通天教主分付长耳定光仙曰：“但吾与你师伯共西方二位道人会战，吾叫你将六魂旛磨动，你可将旛磨动，不得有误！”长耳定光仙曰：“弟子知道。”通天教主打点会战。且说长耳定仙自思：“我前只见师伯左右门人，总共十二代弟子，俱是道德之士；昨日又见西方教主，三颗舍利子顶上光华，真是道法无边。”先自行有三分退诿。正是： 从来心上修仙道，邪正方知成大宗。

Let us now return to Yuanshi the next day, who descended from his tent and instructed his disciples to ring the golden bell and jade chime. The Three Teachings' Sages led their respective disciples together to break through the Ten Thousand Immortals Array. They saw Tongtian Jiao zhu giving orders to Chang'er Dingguang Xian, saying: "When I and my senior master from the West meet in battle with two Daoists of the West, I will call you to stir up the Six Souls Banner. You must stir it up as instructed without any mistake!" Chang'er Dingguang Xian said: "Disciple understands." Tongtian Jiao zhu made preparations for the battle. Let us now speak of Chang'er Ding Xian, who thought to himself: "Earlier I saw my senior master's disciples on both sides; altogether twelve generations of disciples, all were men of virtue and morality; Yesterday I also saw the Western Sect's leader, with three cored pearls emitting radiant light above his head—truly a boundless Dao and law." He already felt some hesitation in his own mind. Indeed: From the beginning, cultivating the Dao of immortality begins with the heart; only then can one discern between righteousness and evil to become a great sect.

话说通天教主至阵前，见老子、元始四人一至，大呼曰：“今日定要与你等见个高低，断不草率干休！”话犹未了，只见洪锦走马至阵前，与龙吉公主也不听约束，举刀刃直冲杀过去。子牙拦阻不住。──看官：此正是这二位星官该绝于此，天数使然，故不由分说，直杀过去耳。──洪锦把刀一摆，两骑马冲进阵中。万仙阵不曾堤防有此冲突之患，被龙吉公主祭起瑶池内白光剑，伤了数位仙家。夫妻二人正冲杀间，只见乱腾腾杀气迷空，黑霭霭阴风晦昼，正遇金灵圣母在七香车上布阵，忽报：“龙吉公主冲进阵来。”金灵圣母急下车看时，公主已杀至面前。圣母绰步，提飞金剑抵敌。未及数合，圣母祭起四象塔打来。公主不知此宝，躲不及，一塔正打中顶上，跌下马来，被众仙杀之。洪锦见公主已绝，大叫一声：“休伤吾公主！”把刀来取圣母。圣母又祭起龙虎如意，正中洪锦顶上。可怜！自归周土，屡得奇功，今日夫妻阵亡，以报武王。──二位清魂俱往封神台去了。元始正欲与通天教主答话，只见洪锦夫妻已亡，元始叹谓西方教主曰：“方才绝者乃是瑶池金母之女。天数合该如此，可见非人力所为。”只听得万仙阵门里有一竿翠蓝旗摇，隐隐调出一位道者，乃是按二十八宿之星，正应万仙阵而出。元始见翠蓝旗摇动，来了四位道人，俱穿青色衣。怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰： 一字青纱脑后飘，道袍水合束丝绦。元神一现群龟灭，斩将封为角木蛟。九扬纱巾头上盖，腹内玄机无比赛。降龙伏虎似平常，斩将封为斗木豸。三柳髭须一尺长，炼就三花不老方。篷莱海岛无心恋，斩将封为奎木狼。修成道气精光焕，巨口獠牙红发乱。碧游宫内有声名，斩将封为井木犴。元始又见一声钟响，一杆大红旗摇，又来了四位道人，俱穿大红绛绡衣，好凶恶！怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰：

It is said that when Tongtian Jiao zhu arrived at the array, he saw Laozi and Yuanshi along with two others. He shouted loudly: "Today I must definitely see who among you is superior or inferior; there will be no hasty resolution!" The words were not yet finished when Hong Jin suddenly rode up to the front of the array. Neither he nor Princess Longji paid any heed to the constraints, raising their blades and charging straight into battle. Zi Ya could not stop them. ──Dear reader: this is precisely the fate of these two star officials, destined to perish here. It was decreed by Heaven's will; thus, without hesitation or explanation, they rushed into battle and were killed. ──Hong Jin waved his sword, and the two riders charged straight into the array. The Ten Thousand Immortal Array had not anticipated such a sudden breach. Princess Longji invoked the White Radiance Sword from Yaochi, injuring several immortals. While the couple was in the midst of their charge, they saw a chaotic surge of killing energy darkening the sky and thick black mists swirling with cold winds that obscured day from night. Just then, Jinling Shengmu, who was arranging the array on her Seven Fragrance Chariot, suddenly received word: "Princess Longji is charging into the array!" Jinling Shengmu quickly stepped down from her chariot to look, but Princess Longji had already charged right up to her face. The venerable mother took a swift step forward and brandished the Feijin Sword to resist. Before several exchanges could take place, Venerable Mother invoked the Four Symbols Pagoda to strike down. Princess Longji was unaware of this treasure and could not evade it in time; the pagoda struck her directly on the head, knocking her off her horse. She was then killed by the gathered immortals. Hong Jin saw that the princess had perished and shouted in anguish: "Do not harm my princess!" He raised his sword to attack Venerable Mother. The venerable mother once again invoked the Dragon and Tiger Ruyi, which struck Hong Jin directly on his head. Pitiful! Since joining the Zhou forces, they had repeatedly achieved remarkable feats. Today, both husband and wife perished in battle to repay King Wu. ──The pure souls of these two departed for the Fengshen Pavilion. Yuanshi was just about to speak with Tongtian Jiao Zhu when he saw that Hong Jin and his wife had already perished. Yuanshi sighed and said to the Western Sect Leader: "The one who has just died is the daughter of the Queen Mother of Heaven from Yaochi. It was decreed by Heaven's will to be so; it can be seen that this was not something human effort could change." Just then, from within the gate of the Ten Thousand Immortal Array came a bamboo-blue flag swaying gently; it quietly summoned forth a Daoist practitioner. He was in accordance with the twenty-eight constellations and corresponded precisely to the emergence of the Ten Thousand Immortals array. Yuanshi saw the bamboo-blue flag waving, and four Daoists arrived, all wearing green robes. How can this be described? A poem serves as evidence: The poem says: A single stroke of green gauze drifting behind the head, Daoist robes paired with a silk sash. The manifestation of original spirit causes all turtles to vanish; slaying generals and being enfeoffed as Jiaomu Jiao. Nine Yang gauze headscarf covering the head, profound mysteries within the abdomen without equal. Taming dragons and tigers as if ordinary; slaying generals and enfeoffed as Doumu Zhi. Three willow-style beard, a foot in length; refined into the Three Flowers elixir for immortality. No longer attached to the Penglai Isles; slaying generals and enfeoffee as Kuimu Lang. Cultivated Dao energy radiates brilliance, wide mouth with fangs and wild red hair. Famous within Biyou Palace; slaying generals and enfeofed as Jingmu An. Yuanshi then heard a bell chime and saw a large red flag waving; four more Daoists arrived, all dressed in deep red robes. How fierce they looked! How can this be described? There is a poem to serve as evidence: The poem says:

碧玉霞冠形容古，双手善把天地补。无心访道学长生，斩将封为尾火虎。截教传来炼玉枢，玄机两济用工大。丹砂鼎内龙降虎，斩将封为室火猪。秘授口诀仗妖邪，顶上灵云天地遮。三花聚顶难成就，斩将封为翼火蛇。不变荣华止自修，降龙伏虎任悠游。空为数载丹砂力，斩将封为觜火猴。

A jade-like xia crown, an ancient appearance; with both hands skillfully mending heaven and earth. No intention of seeking the Dao to learn immortality; slaying generals, enfeoffed as Weihuo Hu. The Jie Sect's teachings passed down the refining of jade pines; profound mysteries and great effort in cultivation. Cinnabar in the cinnabar cauldron, taming dragons and subduing tigers; slaying generals, enfeofed as Shihuo Zhu. Secretly taught oral formulas to combat demons and evil spirits; spiritual clouds above the head covering heaven and earth. The gathering of Three Flowers at the crown is hard to achieve; slaying generals, eneofed as Yihuo She. Unmoved by glory and wealth, cultivating oneself alone; taming dragons and subduing lions at will, drifting freely. In vain for many years of cinnabar effort; slaying generals, en eofed as Zuihuo Hou.

老子见万仙阵中一枰白旗摇动，又言四位道人出来，身穿大白衣，体态凶顽，各有妖氛气概，因谓元始曰：“似这等业障都来枉送性命，你看出来的都是如此之类。”怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰： 五岳三山任意游，访玄参道守心修。空劳炉内金丹汞，斩将封为牛金牛。腹内珠玑贯八方，包罗万象道汪洋。只因杀戒难逃躲，斩将封为鬼金羊。离龙坎虎相匹遇，炼就神丹成不朽。无缘顶上现三花，斩将封为娄金狗。金丹炼就脱樊笼，五遁三除大道通。未灭三尸吞六气，斩将封为亢金龙。

Laozi saw a white flag waving in the Ten Thousand Immortal array and observed four Daoists emerging, all dressed in white robes. They had fierce appearances and each exuded an aura of demonic energy. He said to Yuanshi: "It seems these beings with karmic obstacles have come only to waste their lives; you can see that those who emerge are all of this sort." How can this be described? Here is a poem as evidence: The poem says: Wandering freely among the Five Mountains and Three Hills, seeking the Dao and guarding one's mind in cultivation. In vain laboring over golden elixirs in the furnace; slaying generals, en.eofed as Niujin Niu. Jade treasures within reaching out to all directions, encompassing myriad phenomena in an ocean of Dao. Because the killing precept is hard to escape; slaying generals and en.eofed as Guijin Yang. Meeting together, the dragon of Li and tiger of Kan; refining divine pills for immortality. No karmic connection to manifest the Three Flowers above the head; slaying generals and en eofed as Loujin Gou. Golden pills refined, escaping from the cage of samsara; Five Evasions and Three Eliminations leading to the great Dao. The three corpses not yet destroyed, swallowing six energies; slaying generals and eneofed as Kangjin Long.

四位教主又见通天教主把手中剑望东、西、南、北指画，前后又是钟鸣，阵门开处，又有四位道人出来，真好稀奇！有诗为证，诗曰： 自从修炼玄中妙，不恋金章共紫诰。通天教主是吾帅，斩将封为箕水豹。出世虔诚悟道言，勤修苦行反离魂。移山倒海随吾意，斩将封为参水猿。箬冠道服性聪敏，炼就白气心无损。只因无福了长生，斩将封为轸水蚓。五行妙术体全殊，合就玄中自丈夫。悟道成仙无造化，斩将封为壁水。

The four sect leaders then saw Tongtian Jiao ZHU pointing his sword in the directions of east, west, south, and north. As bells rang again from front and back, the array gates opened, and another four Daoists emerged—truly extraordinary! There is a poem to confirm this: The poem says: Since cultivating the mysteries of the Dao, no longer attached to golden seals or purple edicts. Tongtian Jiao ZHU is my commander; slaying generals and en_eofed as Jishui Bao. Born with sincerity, understanding the Dao's teachings; diligent cultivation and hardship leading to separation of soul. Moving mountains and reversing seas at my will; slaying generals and en_EOFed as Canshui Yuan. A bamboo hat and Daoist robe, naturally intelligent; cultivating pure energy without harming the heart. Because of lacking the fortune for eternal life; slaying generals and eneOFed as Zhenshui Yin. Mystic arts of the Five Elements, each body unique; uniting in the Dao to become a true man. Understanding the Dao and becoming an immortal without transformation; slaying generals and en.EOFed as Bishui.

元始曰：“此俱是截教门中，并无一人有根行之士，俱是无福修为，该受此劫数也，深为可悲！”又见皂盖旛摇，出来四位道人。怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰： 跨虎登山观鹤鹿，驱邪捉怪神鬼哭。只因无福了仙家，斩将封为女土蝠。顶上祥光五彩气，包含万象多伶俐。无分无缘成正果，斩将封为胃上雉。采炼阴阳有异方，五行攒簇配中黄。不归阐教归截教，斩将封为柳土獐。赤发红须情性恶，游尽三山并五岳，包罗万象枉徒劳，斩将封为氏土貉。

Yuanshi said: "These are all from the Jie Sect, and not a single one among them is a person of deep cultivation or virtue. They were all without the fortune to cultivate and thus deserve this karmic retribution; it is truly heartbreaking!" He then saw a black canopy banner waving, from which four Daoists emerged. How can this be described? The following poem serves as evidence: The poem says: Riding a tiger up the mountain to observe cranes and deer, driving away demons and capturing monsters—gods and ghosts weep. Because of lacking the fortune to become an immortal; slaying generals and en EOFed as Nütu Fu. Beneath a head of auspicious light with five-colored qi, encompassing myriad phenomena and full of cleverness. No karmic connections or merits to achieve the true fruit; slaying generals and en EOFed as Weishang Zhi. Cultivating yin and yang with unique methods, gathering the Five Elements to harmonize with Zhonghuang (Central Yellow). Not belonging to the Chan Sect but to the Jie Sect; slaying generals and en EOfed as Liutu Zhang. Red hair and red beard, with evil disposition; having wandered all three mountains and five peaks, encompassing myriad phenomena yet in vain effort; slaying generals and en eofed as Shitu He.

元始与老子同西方教主共言曰：“你看这些人，有仙之名，无仙之骨，那里做得修行办道之品！”四位教主正谈论之间，只见旗门开处，又来了四位道人。怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰： 修成大道真潇洒，妙法玄机有真假。不能成道却凡尘，斩将封为星日马。铁树开花怎得齐，阴神行乐跨红霓。只因无福为仙侣，斩将封为昴日鸡。面加蓝靛多威武，赤发金睛恶似虎。呼风唤雨不寻常，斩将封为虚日鼠。三昧真火空中露，霞光前后生百步。万仙阵内逞英雄，斩将封为房日兔。

Yuanshi, together with Laozi and the Western Sect Leader, said: "Look at these people; they have the name of immortals but not the bones of one. How could they possibly qualify as cultivators on the Dao path!" While the four sect leaders were discussing, suddenly from an open banner gate came another four Daoists. How can this be described? Let a poem serve as evidence: The poem says: Cultivating the great Dao, truly carefree; wondrous methods and mysteries have their truths and falsehoods. Unable to attain the Dao yet still bound by mundane dust; slaying generals, en eofed as Xingri Ma. How can an iron tree bloom in unison? The yin spirit enjoys itself riding the crimson rainbow. Only because of lacking merit to be a companion of immortals; slaying generals and en Ofed as Maori Ji. With blue indigo on the face, full of might and valor; red hair and golden eyes, evil like a tiger. Summoning wind and rain in an extraordinary way; slaying generals and enofed as Xuri Shu. The Threefold True Fire revealed in the air, rosy light appearing a hundred paces before and after. Displaying heroism within the Ten Thousand Immortals Formation; slaying generals and enoOfed as Fangri Tu.

话说通天教主在阵中调出第七对来，展一杆素白旛，旛下有四位道者，凶凶恶恶，凛凛赳赳，手提方楞鐧出来。怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰： 道术精奇盖世无，修真炼性握兵符。长生妙诀贪尘劫，斩将封为毕月乌。发似朱砂面似靛，浑身上下金光现。天机玄妙总休言，斩将封为危月燕。面加赤枣落腮胡，撒豆成兵盖世无。两足登云如掣电，斩将封为心月狐。腹内玄机修二六，炼就阴阳超凡俗。谁知五气未朝元，斩将封为张月鹿。

It is said that the Lord Tongtian, within the formation, summoned out the seventh pair. He raised a white banner, beneath which stood four Daoists, fierce and evil in appearance, bold and imposing, each holding a square-shaped weapon as they emerged. How can this be described? A poem serves as evidence: The poem says: The Dao techniques are uniquely extraordinary, surpassing all others; cultivating the true and refining one's nature while holding a military token. Coveting worldly calamities despite the wondrous secrets of eternal life; slaying generals and being enoOfed as Biyue Wu. Hair like cinnabar, face like indigo, golden light shining all over the body. The mysteries of heaven are profound and best left unspoken; slaying generals and being eofed as Weiyue Yan. Face reddish like red dates, with a beard falling to the cheeks; scattering beans into soldiers, unparalleled in the world. Both feet ascending clouds as swift as lightning; slaying generals and eofed as Xin Yue Hu. Within the abdomen, the mysteries of Dao are cultivated in pairs and multiples; refining yin and yang to transcend the mundane. Who knew that the Five Qi had not yet returned to the origin? Slaying generals and eofed as Zhangyue Lu.

话说通天教主把九曜二十八宿调将出来，按定方位。只见四七二十八位道者，齐齐整整，左右盘旋，簇拥而出。但见了些飞霞红气，紫电青光，有多少者层层密密，凶凶顽顽，真个是杀气腾腾，愁云凄凄，好生利害！不知后事如何，且听下回分解。

It is said that Lord Tongtian summoned out the Nine Luminaries and Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions, positioning them according to their designated directions. One could see forty-seven—twenty-eight Daoists in total—neatly arranged, circling left and right as they emerged together. One could see flying red clouds and purple lightning, greenish light everywhere; countless layers of figures densely packed, fierce and stubborn. Truly, it was a scene filled with killing intent, sorrowful clouds hanging heavily in the air—how perilous! What will happen next remains to be seen in the following chapter.