Chapter 84: Ji Ya's Troops Capture Lin Tong Pass

诗曰： 幽魂旛下夜猿啼，壮士纷纷急鼓鼙。黑雾弥漫人魄散，妖氛笼罩将星低。只知战胜歌刁斗，不认奸邪悔噬脐。屈死英雄遭血刃，至今城下草萋萋。

The poem says: In the stillness of night beneath the banner of a lonely spirit, the howl of gibbons echoes; valiant warriors drum urgently in haste. Black mist spreads everywhere, scattering human souls; demonic haze envelops the generals' stars, causing them to sink low. They only know of singing songs of victory by the side of their battle drums, never recognizing treachery until it is too late and they regret biting their navels in despair. Wrongfully slain heroes fall to bloodied blades; even now, beneath the city walls, grass grows lush and thick.

话说通天教主率领众仙至阵前，老子曰：“今日与你决定雌雄，万仙遭难。正应你反覆不定之罪。”通天教主怒曰：“你四人看我今番怎生作用！”遂催开奎牛，执剑砍来。老子笑曰：“料你今日作用也只如此！只你难免此厄也！”催开青牛，举起扁拐，急架忙迎。元始天尊对左右门人曰：“今日你等俱满此戒，须当齐入阵中，以会截教万仙，不得错过。”众门人听此言，不觉欢笑，呐一声喊，齐杀入万仙阵中。正是： 万仙阵上施玄妙，都向其中了劫麈。

It is said that Tongtian Jiaozhu led a host of immortals to the front of the formation. Laozi said, "Today I shall determine with you who is superior or inferior; countless immortals will suffer hardship. This is precisely the punishment for your indecisiveness and wavering." Tongtian Jiaozhu angrily said, "You four watch how I act this time!" He then spurred on Kuiniu and brandished his sword to strike. Laozi laughed and said, "I knew your actions today would amount to nothing more than this! You yourself cannot escape this calamity!" He spurred on the green ox, raised his flat staff, and hurriedly blocked and met the attack. Yuanshi Tiandi said to his disciples on either side, "Today you all must fulfill this command. You should enter the formation together to confront the ten thousand immortals of the Jie Sect; do not miss this opportunity." The disciples, upon hearing these words, could not help but laugh joyfully. With a single shout, they all charged into the Ten Thousand Immortals Formation together. It is said: On the Ten Thousand Immortals Array, profound mysteries are displayed; all within it will be freed from calamity and dust.

文殊广法天尊骑狮子，普贤真人骑白象，慈航道人骑金毛犼：三位大士各现出化身，冲将进去。灵宝大法师仗剑而来，太乙真人持宝锉进阵，惧留孙、黄龙真人、云中子、燃灯道人齐往万仙阵来。后面又有姜子牙同哪吒等众门人亦大呼曰：“吾等今日破万仙阵，以见真伪也！”话未了时，只见陆压道人从空飞来，撞入万仙阵内，也来助战。看这场大战，正是万劫总归此地，神仙杀运方完。只见： 老子坐青牛，往来跳跃；通天教主纵奎牛，猛勇来攻。三大士催开了青狮、象、犼；金灵圣母使宝剑飞腾。灵宝大法师面如火热；无当圣母怒气冲空。太乙真人动了心中三昧；毗芦仙亦显神通。道德真君来完杀戒；云中子宝剑如虹。惧留孙把困仙绳祭起；金箍仙用飞剑来攻。阵中玉磬铮铮响，台下金钟朗朗鸣。四处起团团烟雾，八方长飒飒狂风。人人会三除五遁，个个晓倒海移峰。剑对剑，红光灿灿；兵迎宝，瑞气溶溶。平地下鸣雷震动，半空中霹雳交轰。这壁厢三教圣人行正道；那璧厢通天教主涉邪宗。这四位教主也动了嗔痴烦恼；那通天教主竟犯了反覆无终。正克邪，始终还正；邪逆正，到底成凶。急嚷嚷天翻地覆，闹炒炒华岳山崩。姜子牙奉天征讨，众门人各要立功。杨戬刀犹如闪电；李靖戟一似飞龙；金吒跃开脚步；木吒宝剑齐冲；韦护祭起降魔宝杵；哪吒登开风火轮，各自称雄；雷震子二翅半空施勇；杨任手持五火扇扇风。又来了四仙家，祭起那“诛”、“戮”、“陷”、“绝”四口宝剑，这般兵器难当其锋，咫尺间斩了二十八宿，顷刻时九曜俱空。通天教主精神减半；金灵圣母口内喁喁；毗卢仙已无主意；无当圣母战战兢兢。一时间又来了西方教主，把乾坤袋举在空中，有缘的须当早进，无缘的任你纵横。霎时间云愁雾惨，一会家地暗难穷。从今惊破通天胆，一事无成有愧容。

Wenshu Guangfa Tiandi rode a lion, Puxian Zhenren rode a white elephant, and Cihai Daoren rode a golden-haired hǔ: the three great Bodhisattvas each manifested their transformations and charged forward. Lingbao Dafashi came wielding a sword, Taiyi Zhenren advanced into the formation holding a precious chisel, and Jvlvsun, Huanglong Zhenren, Yunzhongzi, and Randeng Daoren all proceeded together toward the Ten Thousand Immortals Formation. Behind them, Jiang Ziya and his disciples Nezha and others also shouted loudly, "Today we shall break through the Ten Thousand Immortals Formation to reveal truth from falsehood!" Before the words had finished, suddenly Luya Daoren flew down from the sky and crashed into the Ten Thousand Immortals formation to join the battle. Behold this great battle: it is indeed where all calamities converge, and only here will the fated destruction of immortals be fulfilled. One could see: Laozi riding his green ox, leaping to and fro; Tongtian Jiaozu urged on Kuiniu, charging forward with fierce valor. The Three Great Bodhisattvas spurred their green lion, elephant, and hǔ forward; Jinling Shengmu wielded her treasure sword into the air. Lingbao Dafashi's face burned like fire; Wudang Shengmu's anger surged into the sky. Taiyi Zhenren stirred up the inner trinity fire within his heart; Pilu Xian also displayed supernatural powers. Daode Zhenjun came to complete the killing precept; Yunzhongzi's treasure sword shone like a rainbow. Jvlvsun raised the Immortal-Binding Rope; Jingu Xian attacked with a flying sword. Within the formation, jade chimes rang clearly; beneath the platform, golden bells resounded loudly. Smoke and mist gathered in all directions; fierce winds howled from every quarter. Everyone mastered the Three Eliminations and Five Evasions, each one well-versed in moving mountains and seas. Sword against sword, red light blazing; Weapons met treasures, auspicious qi flowing abundantly. Thunder rumbled beneath the flat earth; lightning cracked and clashed in midair. On this side, the Three Teachings' Sages walked the righteous path; On that side, Tongtian Jiaozu delved into heretical teachings. These four Patriarchs also gave in to anger, ignorance, and vexation; Tongtian Jiaozuo was even guilty of inconsistency and lack of resolution. Righteousness overcoming evil, always returning to the righteous; Evil opposing righteousness, in the end becoming disastrous. łoż The heavens and earth trembled violently; Mount Hua collapsed in chaos and uproar. Jiang Ziya, commissioned by Heaven to wage war, urged his disciples to each establish merit. Yang Jian's blade was like a flash of lightning; Li Jing's halberd was as swift as a flying dragon; Jinzha leapt forward with nimble steps; Muzha charged forth with his treasure sword. Weihu raised the Treasure Pestle for Subduing Demons; Nezha activated his Wind and Fire Wheels, each vying to be the strongest. Leizhenzi spread his wings in midair, displaying valor; Yang Ren held the Five Flame Fan and fanned the wind. Four immortal experts then arrived, raising the four treasure swords "Zhu," "Lu," "Xian," and "Jue." These weapons were formidable; in an instant they beheaded the Twenty-Eight Constellations, and within moments all Nine Luminaries had perished. Tongtian Jiaoshu's spirit was reduced by half; Jinling Shengmu murmured incoherently from her mouth; Pilu Xian had no plan left; Wudang Shengmu trembled with fear. At this moment, the Patriarch of the Western Sect arrived, holding up a Bagua Satchel in midair. Those with karmic connections would enter early; those without could roam freely as they wished. In an instant, clouds darkened and mist turned gloomy; in a moment the earth grew dim beyond comprehension. From now on, Tongtian's courage was shattered; he would achieve nothing and bear a face of shame.

话说老子与元始冲入万仙阵内，将通天教主裹住。金灵圣母被三大士围在当中，只见三大士面分蓝、红、白，或现三首六臂，或现八首六臂，或现三首八臂，浑身上下俱有金灯、白莲、宝珠、璎珞、华光护持，金灵圣母用玉如意招架三大士多时，不觉把顶上金冠落在尘埃，将头发散了，这圣母披发大战，正战之间，遇著燃灯道人祭起定海珠打来，正中顶门。可怜！正是： 封神正位为星首，北阙香湮万载存。

It is said that Laozi and Yuanshi charged into the Ten Thousand Immortal Formation, surrounding Tongtian Jiaoshu. Jinling Shengmu was surrounded in the center by the Three Great Bodhisattvas. One could see their faces displaying blue, red, and white hues; some manifested three heads with six arms, others eight heads with six arms or three heads with eight arms. Their entire bodies were protected by golden lamps, white lotuses, treasure pearls,璎珞 (jade ornaments), and radiant light. Jinling Shengmu used a jade 如意 (precious scepter) to parry the Three Great Bodhisattvas for a long time, until she inadvertently dropped her golden crown from atop her head into the dust and let down her hair. This saintly mother, with loose hair, engaged in fierce battle. Just as the fight raged on, she encountered Randeng Daoren who raised the Dinghai Zhu (Sea-Calming Pearl) to strike her, hitting precisely at the top of her head. Pitiful! Indeed: To be enshrined as a star in the Celestial Rankings is an honor that lingers for ten thousand years, with incense drifting eternally at the Northern Gate.

燃灯将定海珠把金灵圣母打死。广成子祭起诛仙剑，赤精子祭起戮仙剑，道行天尊祭起陷仙剑，玉鼎真人祭起绝仙剑，数道黑气冲空，将万仙阵罩住，凡封神台上有名者，就如砍瓜切菜一般，但遭杀戮。子牙祭打神鞭，任意施为。万仙阵中又被杨任用五火扇扇起烈火，千丈黑烟迷空，可怜万仙遭难，其实难堪。哪吒现三首八臂，往来冲突。玉虚一干门下，如狮子摇头，狻猊舞势，只杀得山崩地塌。通天教主见万仙受此屠戮，心中大怒，急呼曰：“长耳定光仙快取六魂旛来！”定光仙因见接引道人白莲裹体，舍利现光，又见十二代弟子玄都门人俱有璎珞、金灯、光华罩体，知道他们出身清正，截教毕竟差讹，他将六魂旛收起，轻轻的走出万仙阵，迳往芦篷下隐匿。正是： 根深原是西方客，躲在芦篷献宝旛。

Randeng used the Dinghai Zhu to kill Jinling Shengmu. Guangchengzi raised the Zhu Xian Jian (Slay Immortal Sword), Chizigen raised the Lu Xian Jian (Annihilate Immortal Sword), Daoheng Tiandi raised the Xian Xian Jian (Trap Immortal Sword), and Yuding Zhenren raised the Jue Xian Jian (Sever Immortal Sword). Several dark beams surged into the sky, covering the Ten Thousand Immortals' Formation. All those with names on the Fengshen Terrace were cut down like slicing melons and vegetables, falling to slaughter one after another. Jiang Ziya raised his God-Beating Whip and acted at will. Within the Ten Thousand Immortals' Formation, Yang Ren once again used his Five Flame Fan to ignite fierce flames. Thousands of feet high, black smoke obscured the sky; pitiful were the ten thousand immortals who suffered hardship, truly a wretched sight. Nezha manifested three heads and eight arms, charging back and forth in fierce conflict. All the disciples of Yuxu moved like lions shaking their heads and suan ni (mythical beasts) dancing in formation, killing so fiercely that mountains crumbled and the earth collapsed. Tongtian Jiaoshi, seeing his ten thousand immortals suffer such slaughter, was furious and cried out in haste, "Chang'er Dingguang Xian, quickly fetch the Liu Hun Fan (Six Souls Banner)!" Dingguang Xian, upon seeing the white lotus wrapped around Randeng Daoren's body and the bright relics glowing, and also observing that the twelve generations of disciples from Xuandu's lineage were all adorned with 璎珞 (jade pendants), golden lamps, and radiant light covering their bodies, realized they came from a pure and upright tradition. He understood that the Jie Sect was ultimately flawed and erroneous. Thus, he rolled up the Liu Hun Fan and quietly left the Ten Thousand Immortals array, retreating directly beneath the reed shelter to hide himself. Indeed: Deep roots reveal him as a native of the Western Sect, hiding beneath the reed shelter with his banner of treasures.

话说通天教主大呼：“定光仙快取旛来！”连叫数声，连定光仙也不见了。教主已知他去了，大怒，欲待无心恋战，又见万仙受此等狼狈；欲待上前，又有四位教主阻住；欲要退后，又恐教下门人笑话；只得勉强相持，又被老子打了一拐。通天教主著了急，祭起紫电锤来打老子；老子笑曰：“此物怎能近我！”只见顶上现出玲珑宝塔，此锤焉能下来。通天教主正出神，不妨元始天尊又一如意，打中通天教主肩窝，几乎落下奎牛。通天教主大怒，奋勇争战。只见二十八宿星官已杀得看看殆尽，止丘引见势不好了，借土遁就走，被陆压看见，惟恐追不及，急纵至空中，将葫芦揭开，放出一道白光，上有一物飞出，陆压打一躬，命：“宝贝转身。”可怜丘引头已落地。陆压收了宝贝，复至阵中助战。且说接引道人在万仙阵内将乾坤袋打开，尽收那三千红气之客，──有缘往极乐之乡者，俱收入此袋内。准提同孔雀明王在阵中现出三十四头，十八只手，执定璎珞、伞盖、花贯、鱼肠、金弓、银戟、白钺、旛幢、加持神杵、宝锉、银瓶等物来战通天教主。通天教主看见准提，顿起三昧真火，大骂曰：“好泼道！焉敢欺吾太甚，又来搅吾此阵也！”纵奎牛冲来，仗剑直取。准提将七宝妙树架开。正是： 西方极乐无穷法，俱是莲花一化身。

It is said that Tongtian jiaoshi shouted loudly: "Dingguang Xian! Quickly bring the banner!" He called out several times, but Dingguang Xian was nowhere to be seen. The Patriarch realized he had gone and became furious, wanting no longer to continue the battle. Yet seeing his ten thousand immortals in such a wretched state; he wanted to advance but was blocked by the four Patriarchs. He wished to retreat, yet feared his disciples would mock him; Thus he could only struggle on, and was once again struck by Laozi's staff. Tongtian Jiaosu grew desperate and raised the Purple Lightning Hammer to strike Laozi; Laozi laughed and said, "How could this thing even approach me!" One could see a translucent treasure pagoda appear above his head; how could the hammer possibly reach him. While Tongtian Jiaoshi was lost in thought, Yuanshi Tiandi suddenly struck with a jade 如意 (treasure scepter), hitting the Patriarch's shoulder socket and nearly causing him to fall from Kuiniu. Tongtian Jiaosi was furious, and fought on with fierce determination. One could see the Twenty-Eight Constellation Star Officials had been nearly completely wiped out. Only Qiu Yin remained; seeing that the situation was hopeless, he used a soil 遁 (earth escape technique) to flee. Luya saw this and, fearing he would not catch up in time, quickly leaped into the air, opened his gourd, released a beam of white light from which an object flew out. Luya bowed once and commanded, "Precious treasure, turn around." Pitifully, Qiu Yin's head had already fallen to the ground. Luya retrieved his treasure and returned to the formation to assist in battle. Meanwhile, Randeng Daoren opened the Bagua Satchel within the Ten Thousand Immortals Formations and captured all three thousand guests of red qi (vital energy). Those with karmic ties to the Blissful Land of Ultimate Joy were all taken into this satchel. Zhunti, together with Kongque Mingwang, manifested thirty-four heads and eighteen arms within the formation, holding 璎珞 (jade pendants)、 umbrellas 、 flower garlands 、 fish intestines 、 golden bows 、 silver halberds 、 white axes 、 banners 、加持神杵 (empowered divine pestles)、 treasure chisels 、 and silver vials to fight Tongtian Jiaoshi. Tongtian jiaoshu, upon seeing Zhunti, was instantly filled with the trinity fire of rage and loudly cursed, "You wretched Daoist! How dare you insult me so greatly? You come again to disrupt my formation!" He urged Kuiniu forward, brandished his sword, and charged straight in. Zhunti raised the Seven Treasures Marvelous Tree to block it. Indeed: The endless methods of the Western Blissful Land are all but one transformation of a lotus flower.

且说通天教主用剑砍来，准提将七宝妙树一刷，把通天教主手中剑打得粉碎。通天教主把奎牛一拎，跳出阵去了；准提道人收了法身，老子与元始也不赶他。群仙共破了万仙阵，鸣动金钟，击响玉磬，俱回芦篷上来。老子与元始看见定光仙，问曰：“你是截教门人定光仙，为何躲在此处也？”定光仙拜伏在地曰：“师伯在上：弟子有罪，敢禀明师伯。吾师炼有六魂旛，欲害二位师伯并西方教主、武王、子牙，使弟子执定听用。弟子因见师伯道正理明，吾师未免偏听逆理，造此业障，弟子不忍使用，故收匿藏身于此处。今师伯下问，弟子不得不以实告。”元始曰：“奇哉！你身居截教，心向正宗，自是有根器之人。”随命跟上芦篷。四位教主坐下，共论今日邪正方分。老子问定光仙曰：“你可取六魂旛来。”定光仙将旛呈上。西方教主曰：“此旛可摘去周武、姜尚名讳，将旛展开，以见我等根行如何。”准提随将六魂旛摘去“武王”、“姜尚”名讳，命定光仙展布。定光仙依命，将旛连展数展。只见四位教主顶上各现奇珍：元始现庆云，老子现塔，西方二位教主现舍利子，保护其身。定光仙见了，弃旛倒身下拜，言曰：“似此吾师妄动嗔念，陷无万生灵也！”西方教主曰：“吾有一偈，你且听著： 极乐之乡客，西方妙术神。莲花为父母，九品立吾身。池边分八德，常临七宝园。波罗花开后，遍地长金珍。谈讲三乘法，舍利腹中存。有缘生此地，久后幸沙门。”西方教主曰：“定光仙与吾教有缘。”元始曰：“他今日至此，也是弃邪归正念头，理当皈依道兄。”定光仙遂拜了接引、准提二位教主。子牙在篷下与哪吒等曰：“今日万仙阵中许多道者遭殃，无辜受戮，其实痛心。”门人之内，个个欢喜。不表。

Meanwhile, Tongtian Jiaoshi struck with his sword; Zhunti merely swept the Seven Treasures Marvelous Tree once, shattering the sword in Tongtian's hand into pieces. Tongtian Jiaoyu lifted Kuiniu and leaped out of the formation; Zhunti Daoren retracted his manifestation, and Laozi and Yuanshitiandi did not pursue him. The host of immortals together broke the Ten Thousand Immortal Array, ringing golden bells and striking jade chimes before returning to the reed pavilion. Laozi and Yuanshi saw Dingguang Xian and asked, "You are Dingguang Xian of the Jie Sect. Why have you hidden yourself here?" Dingguang Xian knelt on the ground and said, "Elder Master above: your disciple has committed a crime. I dare to report it to you, my honored elder master." My teacher forged the Six Souls Banner to harm you two elder masters, as well as the Western Sect Master, King Wu, and Ziya. He ordered me to hold it in readiness for use. Your disciple, upon seeing that my elder masters uphold righteous principles and sound reasoning, realized that our teacher was unduly biased and acted against reason. This act of creating the banner has brought karmic obstacles. Unable to bear using it, I have thus hidden myself here. Now that my elder master inquires, your disciple dares not withhold the truth." Yuanshi said, "How extraordinary!" Though you reside in the Jie Sect, your heart is devoted to the orthodox path. Clearly, you are a person of true potential." He then ordered him to follow up to the reed pavilion immediately. The four Sect Masters took their seats and jointly discussed how right and wrong had finally been distinguished today. Laozi asked Dingguang Xian, "Will you bring the Six Souls Banner here?" Dingguang Xian presented the banner. The Western Sect Master said, "This banner may remove the names of King Wu and Jiang Shang. Unfold it to see how our roots and cultivation measure up." Zhunti then had the names "King Wu" and "Jiang Shang" removed from the Six Souls Banner, and ordered Dingguang Xian to unfurl it. Dingguang Xian followed orders and repeatedly unfolded the banner several times. Only then did they see that each of the four Sect Masters had a wondrous treasure appear above their heads: Yuanshi manifested auspicious clouds, Laozi manifested a pagoda, and the two Western Sect Masters manifested sacred relics to protect themselves. Dingguang Xian saw this and discarded the banner, bowing in reverence as he said, "How my teacher has recklessly acted on anger, endangering countless lives!" The Western Sect Master said, "I have a verse for you. Listen carefully: A guest of the Blissful Land, the wondrous arts of the West shine bright. Lotus flowers are my parents; in nine ranks I establish myself." By the pond, eight virtues divide; always present is the Seven Treasures Garden. After the Bodhi flower blooms, golden treasures sprout across the land." Discussing the Three Vehicles' teachings, sacred relics dwell within. Those with karmic ties are born here; in time, they become fortunate disciples of the Sangha." The Western Sect Master said, "Dingguang Xian has karmic ties with our sect." Yuanshi said, "His arrival here today is a sign of abandoning heresy and returning to the righteous path. He should naturally be inducted as your disciple." Dingguang Xian then paid homage to Jieyin and Zhunti, the two Sect Masters. Ziya, while under the pavilion with Nezha and others, said, "Today in the Ten Thousand Immortal Formation, many Daoists have suffered misfortune and been unjustly slain. It truly breaks my heart." Among his disciples, each one was overjoyed. No further details are given.

且说通天教主被四位教主破了万仙阵，内中有成神者，有归西方教主者，有逃去者，有无辜受戮者。彼时无当圣母见阵势难支，先自去了；申公豹也走了；毗卢仙已归西方教主，后成为毗卢佛，此是千年后才见佛光。当日通天教主领著二三百名散仙，走在一座山下，少憩片时，自思：“定光仙可恨将六魂旛窃去，使吾大功不能成！今番失利，再有何颜掌碧游宫大教。左右是一不做，二不休，如今回宫，再立‘地水火风’，换个世界罢！”左右众仙俱各赞襄。通天教主见左右四个切己门徒俱丧，切齿深恨：“不若往紫霄宫见吾老师，先禀过了他，然后再行此事。”正与众散仙商议，忽见正南上祥云万道，瑞气千条，异香袭袭，见一道者，手执竹杖而来。作偈曰： “高卧九重云，蒲团了道真。天地玄黄外，吾当掌教尊。盘古生太极，两仪四象循。一道传三友，二教阐截分。玄门都领秀，一气化鸿钧。”

Meanwhile, Tongtian Jiaozi had his Ten Thousand Immortal Formation broken by the four Sect Masters. Among those within it, some became gods, others joined the Western Sect Master, some fled, and many were unjustly slain. At that time, Wudang Shengmu, seeing the formation could no longer hold, left first; Shen Gongbao also fled; Pilu Xian had already joined the Western Sect Master and later became Pilu Buddha, a title only revealed with the Buddha's radiance after a thousand years. On that day, Tongtian Jiaoshu led two or three hundred wandering immortals and stopped beneath a mountain for a brief rest. He pondered to himself, "How hateful it is that Dingguang Xian stole the Six Souls Banner away from me, preventing my great achievement from being realized! With this defeat, how can I face the grand sect of Biyou Palace again?" "Better to do it completely or not at all. Now that I return to the palace, I shall once again establish 'Earth, Water, Fire, and Wind' and create a new world altogether!" The surrounding immortals all supported him. Tongtian Jiaozi, seeing that his four most trusted disciples had perished, clenched his teeth in deep resentment and said, "I might as well go to Zixiao Palace to see my master first. I should report this matter to him before proceeding further." While discussing with the wandering immortals, he suddenly saw from the exact south a myriad of auspicious clouds and thousands of radiant vapors, fragrant breezes wafting through the air. A Daoist figure appeared, holding a bamboo staff in hand. He recited a verse: "Reclining high among nine layers of clouds, the Dao's truth is realized on a mat." Beyond the heavens and earth, black and yellow, I shall hold the position of revered Sect Master." Pan Gu gave birth to Taiji; Yin-Yang and Four Symbols follow in order. One Dao gives rise to the Three Friends, dividing into two sects: Chan and Jie. The gate of mystery shines with excellence; a single breath transforms Hongjun."

话说鸿钧道人来至，通天教主知是师尊来了，慌忙上前迎接，倒身下拜曰：“弟子愿老师圣寿无疆！不知老师驾临，未曾远接，望乞恕罪。”鸿钧道人曰：“你为何设此一阵，涂炭无限生灵，这是何说！”通天教主曰：“启老师：二位师兄欺灭吾教，纵门人毁骂弟子，又杀戮弟子门下，全不念同堂手足，一味欺凌，分明是欺老师一般。望老师慈悲！”鸿钧道人曰：“你这等欺心！分明是你自已作业，致生杀伐，该这些生灵遭此劫运；你不自责，尚去责人，情殊可恨！当日三教共佥‘封神榜’，你何得尽忘之也！名利乃凡夫俗子之所争，嗔怒乃儿女子之所事，纵是未斩三尸之仙，未赴蟠桃之客，也要脱此苦恼；岂意你三人乃是混元大罗金仙，历万劫不磨之体，为三教元首，为因小事，生此嗔痴，作此邪欲。他二人原无此意，都是你作此过恶，他不得不应耳。虽是劫数使然，也都是你约束不严，你的门徒生事，你的不是居多。我若不来，彼此报复，何日是了？我特来大发慈悲，与你等解释冤愆，各掌教宗，毋得生事。”随分付左右散仙：“你等各归洞府，自养天真，以俟超脱。”众仙叩首而散。鸿钧道人命通天教主先至芦篷通报。通天教主不敢有违师命，只得先至芦篷下来，心中自思：“如何好见他们？”不得已，靦面而行。话说哪吒同韦护等俱在芦篷下，议论万仙阵中那些光景，忽见通天教主先行，后面跟著一个老道人扶笻而行，只见祥云缭绕，瑞气盘旋，冉冉而来，将至篷下。众门人与哪吒等各各惊疑未定。只见通天教主将近篷下，大呼曰：“哪吒可报与老子、元始，快来接老爷圣驾！”哪吒忙上篷来报。话说老子在篷上与西方教主正讲众弟子劫数之厄，今已圆满，猛抬头见祥光瑞霭，腾跃而来，老子已知老师来至，忙起身谓元始曰：“师尊来至！”急率众弟子下篷。只见哪吒来报：“通天教主跟一老道人而来，呼老爷接驾，不知何故。”老子曰：“吾已知之。此是我等老师，想是来此与我等解释冤愆耳。”遂相率下篷迎接，在道傍俯伏曰：“不知老师大驾下临，弟子有失远接，望乞恕罪。”鸿钧道人曰：“只因十二代弟子运逢杀劫，致你两教参商。吾特来与你等解释愆尤，各安宗教，毋得自相背逆。”老子与元始声诺曰：“愿闻师命。”遂至篷上，与西方教主相见。鸿钧道人称赞：“西方极乐世界真是福地。”西方教主应曰：“不敢！”教主请鸿钧道人拜见。鸿钧曰：“吾与道友无有拘束。这三个是吾门下，当得如此。”接引道人与准提道人打稽首坐下。后面就是老子、元始过来拜见毕，又是十二代弟子并众门人俱来拜见毕，

As Hongjun Daoren arrived, Tongtian Jiaozhu knew at once that his master had come. Hurriedly he stepped forward to greet him and fell on his knees in reverence, saying, "Disciple wishes my honored teacher an endless life of sagehood! I did not know you were coming and failed to welcome you from afar. I beg your forgiveness for this offense." Hongjun Daoren said, "Why did you set up such an array and cause endless suffering to countless lives? What explanation do you have for this!" Tongtian Jiaoshu said, "Respectful teacher: my two elder brothers have oppressed and nearly destroyed our sect. They allowed their disciples to insult me, even killing many of my followers, showing no regard for the bonds of shared study and kinship. Their actions are nothing less than an affront to you as well." I beg you, teacher, to show compassion!" Hongjun Daoren said, "How arrogant and deceitful of you! It was clearly your own karmic actions that led to this conflict, causing these lives to suffer such a calamity; You do not take responsibility for yourself yet blame others—this is most despicable! On that day, the Three Sects jointly signed the 'Fengshen Bang'; how could you possibly forget it!" Fame and profit are what ordinary men and women strive for; anger is the affair of petty people. Even those who have not yet severed their three corpses or attended the Peach Banquet must still escape such suffering; How could I have expected that the three of you, as Huan Yuan Da Luo Jin Xian, possess bodies unshaken through ten thousand kalpas and serve as leaders of the Three Sects, would allow such trivial matters to provoke anger and delusion, giving rise to such evil desires. The other two originally had no such intent; it was you who committed these grave wrongs, forcing them into action. Though the calamity is partly due to fate, it was largely because you failed to discipline your disciples strictly. The disturbances were caused by them, and thus most of the blame lies with you. If I had not come, retaliation would have continued endlessly—when would it ever end? I have specially come to show great compassion and resolve your grievances. Each of you shall preside over your sect, and must not provoke further conflicts." He then ordered the wandering immortals on hand: "You shall all return to your grottoes, cultivate your innate nature, and await transcendence." The host of immortals bowed deeply and dispersed. Hongjun Daoren ordered Tongtian Jiaoshu to go first to the reed pavilion to report his arrival. Tongtian Jiaojun, unwilling to disobey his master's command, had no choice but to descend first to the reed pavilion, pondering in his heart, "How can I possibly face them?" With no alternative, he went forward with a blushing face. Meanwhile, Nezha and Wei Hu were discussing the events of the Ten Thousand Immortal Formation beneath the reed pavilion when suddenly they saw Tongtian Jiaoshou leading the way, followed by an old Daoist walking with a staff. Auspicious clouds surrounded him, radiant vapors swirled above, and he approached slowly until nearly at the pavilion's entrance. The disciples and Nezha were all filled with astonishment and uncertainty. As Tongtian Jiaosu approached the pavilion, he shouted loudly, "Nezha! Go and inform Laozi and Yuanshi. Hurry to receive my master's arrival!" Nezha hurriedly climbed up the pavilion to report. Meanwhile, Laozi was on the pavilion discussing with the Western Sect Master about the karmic trials of their disciples and how they had now been fulfilled. Suddenly raising his head, he saw auspicious light and radiant mist approaching swiftly. Recognizing at once that it was his master arriving, Laozi quickly rose and said to Yuanshi, "Our honored elder teacher has arrived!" He hurriedly led the disciples down from the pavilion. They saw Nezha reporting, "Tongtian Jiaoshi has arrived with an old Daoist. He called for you to receive his master's arrival, but the reason is unknown." Laozi said, "I already know. This is our master; he must have come here to resolve the grievances between us." They then hurriedly went down from the pavilion to greet him, bowing deeply by the roadside and saying, "We did not know our honored teacher had descended upon us. Your disciples failed to welcome you in time; we beg your forgiveness." Hongjun Daoren said, "It was because the twelve generations of disciples encountered a calamitous fate that caused discord between your two sects. I have specially come to resolve these grievances and wrongdoings, so that each of you may return to peace within your sects and must not turn against one another." Laozi and Yuanshi responded in unison, "We humbly await our master's command." They then ascended to the pavilion and met with the Western Sect Master. Hongjun Daoren praised, "The Western Blissful World is indeed a land of great fortune." The Western Sect Master replied, "How dare I!" The Sect Master invited Hongjun Daoren to pay respects. Hongjun said, "I and my Daoist friends are free from constraints. These three are my disciples; they deserve such treatment." Jieyin Daoren and Zhunti Daoren bowed deeply before taking their seats. Afterward, Laozi and Yuanshi came forward to pay homage, followed by the twelve generations of disciples and all their followers who also paid respects.

俱分两边侍立。通天教主也在一傍站立。鸿钧道人曰：“你三个过来。”老子、元始、通天三个走近前面。道人问曰：“当时只因周家国运将兴，汤数当尽，神仙逢此杀运，故命你三个共立‘封神榜’，以观众仙根行浅深，或仙，或神，各成其品。不意通天弟子轻信门徒，致生事端，虽是劫数难逃，终是你不守清净，自背盟言，不能善为众仙解脱，以致俱遭屠戮，罪诚在你，非是我为师的有偏向，这是公论。”接引与准提齐曰：“老师之言不差。”鸿钧曰：“今日我与你讲明，从此解释。大徒弟，你须让过他罢。俱各归山阙，毋得戕害生灵。况众弟子厄满，姜尚大功垂成，再毋多言。从此各修宗教。”鸿钧分付：“三人过来跪下。”三位教主齐至面前，双膝跪下。道人袖内取出一个葫芦，倒出三粒丹来，每一位赐他一粒：“你们吞入腹中，吾自有话说。”三位教主俱皆依师命，各吞一粒。鸿钧道人曰：“此丹非是却病长生之物，你听我道来： 此丹炼就有玄功，因你三人各自攻。若是先将念头改，腹中丹发即时薨！”

They all stood on either side in attendance. Tongtian Jiaoju also stood by the side. Hongjun Daoren said, "The three of you come forward." Laozi, Yuanshi, and Tongtian stepped forward. The Daoist asked, "At that time, it was because the Zhou family's national fortune was about to rise and the Shang dynasty's fate would end. Immortals encountered this calamitous era, so I ordered you three to jointly establish the 'Fengshen Ban' in order to observe the depth of cultivation among immortals—whether they were suited for immortality or divinity—and assign them accordingly. Unforeseen was the fact that Tongtian's disciples placed blind trust in their followers, leading to conflict. Though this calamity was inevitable by fate, ultimately it was your failure to uphold purity and your betrayal of our oath that prevented you from properly guiding the immortals toward liberation, resulting in their slaughter. The blame truly lies with you; it is not I, as your teacher, who have shown partiality—this is a matter of public judgment." Jieyin and Zhunti both said in unison, "The Master's words are indeed correct." Hongjun said, "Today I will explain clearly to you all, and from now on, the matter is resolved. "Eldest disciple, you must let him go." All of you should return to your mountain retreats and must not harm living beings. Moreover, the disciples' trials have been fulfilled, and Jiang Shang's great merit is nearly complete; there should be no more words said. From now on, each of you shall cultivate your own religious teachings." Hongjun gave orders: "The three of you come over and kneel down." The three religious leaders arrived before him, both knees on the ground in kneeling position. The Daoist took out a gourd from his sleeve, poured out three pills, and gave one to each of them: "Swallow this pill into your stomachs; I have something to say." The three religious leaders all obeyed their master's command and each swallowed a pill. Hongjun Daoren said, "This pill is not a substance to ward off illness or grant immortality. Listen carefully as I explain: This pill was refined with profound Daoist power; it was forged because of the efforts of you three. If any of you fail to change your thoughts, the pill in your stomach will immediately cause death!"

鸿钧道人作罢诗，三位教主叩首：“拜谢老师慈悲！”鸿钧道人起身，作辞西方教主，命通天三弟子：“你随我去。”通天教主不敢违命。只见接引道人与准提俱起身，同老子、元始率众门人同送至篷下。鸿钧别过西方二位教主，老子与众门人等又拜伏道傍，俟鸿钧发驾。鸿钧分付：“你等去罢。”众人起立拱候。只见鸿钧与通天教主驾祥云冉冉而去。西方教主也作辞回西方去了。老子、元始与子牙曰：“今日来，我等与十二代弟子俱回洞府，候你封过神，从新再修身命，方是真仙。”正是： 从修顶上三花现，返本还云又是仙。

After finishing his poem, Hongjun Daoren, the three religious leaders kowtowed and said, "We thank you for your compassion, Master!" Hongjun Daoren stood up, took his leave from the Western Religious Leader, and ordered Tongtian's three disciples: "You come with me." Tongtian Jiaozu dared not disobey the command. One could see Jieyin Daoren and Zhunti both stood up, together with Laozi and Yuanshǐ leading all their disciples to accompany him down to the pavilion. Hongjun bid farewell to the two Western religious leaders, and Laozi along with his disciples once again knelt on the roadside in reverence, waiting for Hongjun to depart. Hongjun gave instructions: "All of you may go now." The crowd stood up and bowed respectfully. One could see Hongjun and Tongtian Jiaozhu ride on auspicious clouds, slowly ascending into the sky. The Western Religious Leader also took his leave and returned to the West. Laozi, Yuanshi and Jiang Ziya said: "Today we are leaving. I and the twelve generations of disciples will return to our cave dwellings, waiting until you have completed the gods' enshrinement. Only then can we cultivate anew and attain true immortality." Indeed: Through cultivation, the Three Flowers appear atop one's head; returning to one's original nature and ascending into clouds once again makes one an immortal.

子牙与元始众仙下得芦篷，姜子牙伏于道傍，拜求掌教师尊曰：“弟子姜尚蒙师尊指示，得进于此地，不知后会诸侯一事如何？”老子曰：“我有一诗，你谨记有验。诗曰： 险处又逢险处过，前程不必问如何。诸侯八百看看会，只待封神奏凯歌。”

Zi Ya and Yuanshi's followers descended from the reed pavilion. Jiang Ziya knelt by the roadside, bowing respectfully to his master and saying, "Disciple Jiang Shang has been guided here by my Master's instruction; I do not know how the matter of meeting with the feudal lords will proceed?" Laozi said, "I have a poem for you. You must remember it carefully; it shall prove effective. The poem says: Peril follows peril, yet through peril you pass; there is no need to ask how your future will be. Eight hundred feudal lords shall gather in due time, awaiting the enshrinement of gods and a triumphant song."

老子道罢，与元始各回玉京去了。广成子与十二代仙人，俱来作别曰：“子牙，吾等与你此一别，再不能会面也！”子牙心下甚是不忍分离，在篷下恋恋不舍。子牙作诗以送之，诗曰： “东进临潼会万仙，依依回首甚相怜。从今别后何年会？安得相逢诉旧缘。”

After finishing his words, Laozi departed with Yuanshi back to Yujing. Guangchengzi and the twelve generations of immortals all came to bid farewell, saying, "Zi Ya, since this parting with you, we shall never meet again!" Ziya's heart was filled with deep reluctance to part and he lingered at the pavilion, unwilling to leave. Ziya composed a poem as a farewell offering. The poem says: "Advancing eastward to Lin Tong, I meet ten thousand immortals; looking back with deep affection, how dearly they are cherished." From now on, when shall we reunite in the future? When can we meet again to speak of our old bond?"

话说群仙作别而去，惟有陆压握子牙之手曰：“我等此去，会面已难，前途虽有凶险之处，俱有解释之人，只还有几件难处之事，非此宝不可，我将此葫芦之宝送你，以为后用。”子牙感谢不已。陆压随将飞刀付与，也自作别而去。

As the group of immortals bid farewell and departed, only Lu Ya clasped Zi Ya's hand and said, "Now that we are parting ways, it will be difficult for us to meet again. Though there may still be dangerous situations ahead, they can all be resolved by others. However, there remain a few particularly difficult matters which cannot be handled without this treasure. I shall give you this gourd-shaped treasure as a future aid." Ziya was deeply grateful and could not express his thanks enough. Lu Ya then handed over the flying blade to Zi Ya before taking his leave and departing as well.

话分两头，单表元始驾回玉虚。申公豹只因破了万仙阵，希图逃窜他山，岂知他恶贯满盈，跨虎而遁；只见白鹤童子看见申公豹在前面，似飞云掣电一般奔走，白鹤童子忙启元始天尊曰：“前面是申公豹逃窜。”元始曰：“他曾发一誓，命黄巾力士将我的三宝玉如意把他拏在麒麟崖伺候。”童子接了如意，递与力士。力士赶上前大呼曰：“申公豹不要走！奉天尊法旨拏你去麒鳞崖听候！”祭起如意，平空把申公豹拏了往麒麟崖来。且说元始天尊驾至崖前，落下九龙沉香辇，只见黄巾力士将申公豹拏来，放在天尊面前。元始曰：“你曾发下誓盟，去塞北海眼，今日你也无辞。”申公豹低首无话。元始命黄巾力士：“将我的蒲团卷起他来，拏去塞了北海眼！”力士领命，将申公豹塞在北海眼里。有诗为证： 堪笑阐教申公豹，要保成汤灭武王。今日谁知身塞海，不知红日几沧桑。

The story now splits into two parts; we shall focus on Yuanshi returning to Yuxu Palace. Shen Gongbao, having failed in breaking the Ten Thousand Immortals Formation, had hoped to escape by fleeing into other mountains. Little did he know that his evil deeds had reached their peak; riding a tiger, he fled away. Just then, Bahe Tongzi saw Shen Gongbao ahead, fleeing as swiftly as a bolt of lightning through the clouds. White Crane Boy hurriedly reported to Yuanshi Tiandun, saying, "The one ahead is Shen Gongbao escaping." Yuanshi said, "He once made an oath. I have ordered the Huangjin Lishi to seize him with my Sanbao Yu Ru Yi and hold him at Qilin Cliff in readiness." The boy received the 如意 (ruyi) scepter and passed it on to the laborers. The laborers hurried forward, shouting loudly, "Shen Gongbao, don't run away! We have orders from Tiandun to take you to Qilin Cliff for detention!" They invoked the Ruyi scepter, and in midair, they seized Shen Gongbao and brought him to Qilin Cliff. Meanwhile, Yuanshi Tiandun arrived before the cliff. His nine-dragon incense 辇 (nian) descended, and there he saw Huangjin Lishi dragging Shen Gongbao forward and placing him in front of Tiandun. Yuanshi said, "You once took an oath to block the North Sea's spring; today you cannot escape your fate." Shen Gongbao lowered his head in silence. Yuanshi ordered the Huangjin Lishi, "Roll up my rush mat and take him to block the North Sea spring!" The laborers accepted the order and stuffed Shen Gongbao into the opening of the North Sea. There is a poem to attest: It's pitiable and laughable, Chanjiao Shen Gongbao, who wished to protect Chengtang and destroy King Wu. Today, who knows his body is sealed in the sea? No one can count how many cycles of time have passed under the red sun."

话说黄巾力士将申公豹塞了北海，回元始法旨，不表。

It goes without saying that after Huangjin Lishi stuffed Shen Gongbao into the North Sea, they returned to report to Yuanshi's decree. We shall not elaborate further.

且说子牙领众门徒回潼关来见武王，武王曰：“相父今日回来，兵士俱齐，可速进兵，早会诸侯，孤之幸也。”子牙传令，起兵往临潼关来。只八十里，早已来至关下，安下行营。且说临潼关守将欧阳淳闻报，与副将卞金龙、桂天禄、公孙铎共议曰：“今姜尚兵来，止得一关，焉能阻当周兵？”众将言曰：“主将明日与周兵见一阵，如胜则以胜而退周兵，如不胜，然后坚守，修表往朝歌去告急，俟援兵协守，此为上策。”欧阳淳曰：“将军之言是也。”次日，子牙升帐，传下令去：“谁去取临潼关走一遭？”傍有黄飞虎曰：“末将愿往。”子牙许之。飞虎领本部人马，一声炮响，至关下搦战。报马报入帅府：“启主帅：有周将搦战。”欧阳淳曰：“谁去走一遭？”只见先行官卞金龙领命，出关来见黄飞虎，大呼曰：“来将何名？”飞虎曰：“吾乃武成王黄飞虎是也。”卞金龙大骂：“反贼不思报国，反助叛逆！吾乃临潼关先行卞金龙是也。”黄飞虎大怒，纵马摇枪，飞来直取。卞金龙手中斧急架忙迎。牛马相交，枪斧并举。战未三十回，黄飞虎卖个破绽，吼一声，将卞金龙刺下马来，枭了首级，掌鼓回营，来见姜元帅。子牙大喜，上了黄将军功绩。不表。且说报马报入帅府，欧阳淳大惊，只见卞金龙家将报入本府，卞金龙妻子胥氏听说，放声大哭，惊动后园长子卞吉。卞吉问左右：“太太为何啼哭？”左右把家主阵亡事说了一遍。卞吉怒发冲冠，随换了披挂，来见母亲曰：“母亲不须啼哭，俟儿为父亲报仇。”胥氏只是啼哭，也不管卞吉的事。卞吉上马，至帅府前。左右报入殿庭：“启元帅：卞先行长子听令。”欧阳淳命：“令来。”卞吉上殿，行礼毕，含泪启曰：“末将父死何人之手？”欧阳淳曰：“尊翁不幸，被反贼黄飞虎枪挑下马，丧了性命。”卞吉曰：“今日天晚，明日拏仇人为父泄恨。”卞吉回至家中，令家将扛抬一个红柜，随领军出关。卞吉率领军士至关外，竖立一根大旛杆，将红柜打开，拎出一首旛，挂将起来，悬于空中，有四五丈高。好利害旛！怎见得，有诗为证： 万骨攒成世罕知，开天辟地最为奇。周王不是多洪福，百万雄师此处危。

Meanwhile, Zi Ya led his disciples back to Tongguan and met with King Wu. King Wu said, "Father-in-law, you have returned today; the soldiers are all assembled. Please proceed quickly with your troops so we may meet the feudal lords sooner—it would be my great fortune." Ziya gave orders, and the army set out toward Lintong Pass. Covering only eighty li, they had already arrived at the pass below and established a temporary camp. Meanwhile, the commander of Lintong Pass, Ouyang Chun, upon receiving the report, discussed with his deputy generals Bian Jinlong, Gui Tianlu, and Gongsun Duo, saying, "Now that Jiang Shang's army has arrived, we have only one pass; how can it possibly stop the Zhou forces?" The generals said, "Commander, tomorrow you should meet the Zhou army in battle. If we win, we can drive them back with our victory; if not, then we shall hold fast to the pass and send a report to Chaoguo for urgent reinforcements. Waiting for relief troops to assist us will be the best strategy." Ouyang Chun said, "The general's words are correct." The next day, Zi Ya ascended his tent and issued an order: "Who will go to Lintong Pass for a trial?" Beside him, Huang Feihu said, "I shall volunteer to go." Ziya agreed. Feihu led his troops, and with a single cannon shot, arrived at the gate of the pass to challenge for battle. A scout galloped into the command headquarters and reported: "Reporting to Commander-in-Chief, a Zhou general is challenging us for battle." Ouyang Chun asked, "Who will go out to meet him?" Just then, the vanguard officer Bian Jinlong accepted the order and went out of the pass to confront Huang Feihu. He shouted loudly, "What is your name?" Feihu said, "I am General Huang Feihu, the Wu Chengwang." Bian Jinlong shouted in anger, "Traitor! You do not think of serving your country but instead aid the rebels! I am Bian Jinlong, vanguard officer of Lintong Pass." Huang Feihu was furious and spurred his horse forward, raising his spear to charge directly at him. Bian Jinlong quickly raised his axe in hand to block and meet the attack. Horses clashed, spears and axes were brandished together. After no more than thirty exchanges, Huang Feihu feigned a weakness in his defense. With a roar, he pierced Bian Jinlong from horseback, beheaded him, and returned to camp with the head held high while drums were beaten. He then came before General Jiang. Ziya was greatly pleased and recorded Huang's general's feat as a meritorious achievement. We shall not elaborate further. Meanwhile, a scout galloped into the headquarters and reported. Ouyang Chun was greatly shocked. Just then, Bian Jinlong's household guards rushed in to report at their estate. Upon hearing of this, Bian Jinlong's wife Xu Shi let out a loud wail that startled their eldest son, Bian Ji, who lived in the back garden. Bian Ji asked those around him, "Why is my mother crying?" Those present recounted the story of their master's death in battle. Bian Ji, his hair standing on end with rage, immediately changed into battle armor and went to see his mother, saying, "Mother, do not weep. Wait for me to avenge my father." Xu Shi continued to cry bitterly, paying no attention to Bian Ji's words. Bian Ji mounted his horse and rode up to the headquarters. The attendants reported into the hall: "Reporting to General, Bian Jinlong's eldest son is here for orders." Ouyang Chun ordered, "Bring him in." Bian Ji ascended the hall, paid his respects, and with tears in his eyes, said, "My father was killed by whom?" Ouyang Chun replied, "Your late father met an unfortunate fate; he was pierced from his horse by the rebel Huang Feihu and lost his life." Bian Ji said, "It is late today; I shall seize my enemy tomorrow to avenge my father's death." Bian Ji returned home and ordered his household guards to carry out a red chest. He then led the troops out of the pass. Bian Ji led his soldiers outside the pass, erected a tall flagpole, opened the red chest, took out a large banner, and raised it high into the air. The banner hung about four or five zhang above the ground. What an impressive and formidable banner! How so? A poem attests: Formed from countless bones, this is a rarity in the world; it's most wondrous since the opening of heaven and earth. If King Zhou did not possess great fortune, a million strong troops would be in peril here.

话说当日卞吉将旛杆竖起，一马竟至周营辕门前搦战。哨马报人中军：“启元帅：关内有将请战。”子牙问：“谁人出马？”只见南宫适领命出营。见一员小将，生的面貌凶恶，手持方天画戟，大呼曰：“来者何人？”南宫适笑曰：“似你这等黄口孺子，定然不认得，吾是西岐大将南宫适。”卞吉曰：“且饶你一死回去，只叫黄飞虎出来！他杀我父，吾与他有不共戴天之仇。我不拏你这将生替死之辈。”南宫适听罢大怒，纵马舞刀，直取卞吉。卞吉手中戟急架忙迎。二马相交，刀戟并举。二将大战，正是棋逢对手，将遇作家。卞吉与南宫适战有二三十合，卞吉拨马便走。南宫适随后赶来。卞吉先往旛下过去，南宫适不知详细，也往旛下来，只见马到旛前，早已连人带马跌倒，南宫适不省人事，被左右守旛军士将南宫适绳缠索绑，拏出旛来。南宫适方睁开二目，乃知堕入他左道之术。卞吉进关来见欧阳淳，把拏了南宫适的话说了一遍。欧阳淳命左右：“推来。”至殿前，南宫适站立不跪。欧阳淳骂曰：“反国逆贼！今已被擒，尚敢抗礼！”命：“速斩首号令！”傍有公孙铎曰：“主将在上：目今奸佞当道，言我等守关将士俱是架言征战，冒破钱粮，贿买功绩，凡有边报，一概不准，尚将赍本人役斩了。依末将愚见，不若将南宫适监候，俟捉获渠魁，解往朝歌，以塞奸佞之口，庶知边关非冒破之名。不知主将意下若何？”欧阳淳曰：“将军之言正合吾意。”遂将南宫适送在监中。不表。且说子牙闻报，南宫适被擒，心中大惊，闷坐军中。次日，卞吉又来搦战，坐名要黄飞虎。飞虎带黄明、周纪出营来。见卞吉飞马过来，大呼曰：“来将何人？”黄飞虎曰：“吾乃武成王黄飞虎是也。”卞吉闻言大怒，骂曰：“反国逆贼，擅杀吾父，不共戴天之仇。今日拿你碎尸万段，以泄吾恨！”展戟来刺。黄飞虎急拨枪来迎。战有三十回合，卞吉诈败，竟往旛下去了。黄飞虎不知，也赶至旛下，亦如南宫适一样被擒。黄明大怒，摇斧赶来，欲救黄飞虎，不知至旛下，也跌翻在地，也被擒了。卞吉连擒二将，进关来报功，欲将黄飞虎斩首，以报父仇。欧阳淳曰：“小将军虽要报父之仇，理宜斩首，只他是起祸渠魁，正当献上朝廷正法，一则以泄尊翁之恨，一则以显小将军之功，恩怨两伸，岂不为美？且将他监侯。”卞吉不得已，只得含泪而退。

Now returning to the day when Bian Ji had erected the banner pole, he rode alone all the way to the gate of King Zhou's camp and challenged for battle. The scout horseman reported into the central command: "Reporting to General, a general from within the pass is requesting a duel." Zi Ya asked, "Who will ride out?" At that moment, Nan Gongzhi accepted the order and rode out of camp. He saw a young general, whose appearance was fierce and ugly, holding a square-tipped halberd. He shouted loudly, "Who dares to come here?" Nan Gongzhi laughed and said, "A brat like you must not recognize me. I am Nan Gongzhi, a great general of Xi Qi." Bian Ji said, "I'll spare your life this time and send you back. Just bring Huang Feihu out!" He killed my father; I have an irreconcilable grudge with him. I will not fight you, a mere substitute for the real enemy." Upon hearing this, Nan Gongzhi became furious. He spurred his horse forward, brandished his sword, and charged straight at Bian Ji. Bian Ji quickly raised his halberd to meet the attack. The two horses clashed, and swords and halberds were brandished in fierce combat. The two generals engaged in a great battle; it was truly a meeting of worthy opponents. Bian Ji and Nan Gongzhi fought for about twenty to thirty exchanges, after which Bian Ji turned his horse and fled. Nan Gongzhi pursued him closely. Bian Ji first rode past the banner. Nan Gongzhi, unaware of the details, also approached the banner. As he reached it on horseback, he suddenly fell from his horse along with his steed. Losing consciousness, Nan Gongzhi was bound by ropes and taken out of the banner area by the soldiers guarding the banner. As Nan Gongzhi slowly opened his eyes, he realized that he had fallen into their underhanded trickery. Bian Ji returned to the pass and went to see Ouyang Chun, recounting in detail how he had captured Nan Gongzhi. Ouyang Chun ordered his attendants: "Bring him forward." Before the hall, Nan Gongzhi stood upright and refused to kneel. Ouyang Chun scolded, "Traitor of a rebel state!" Now that you have been captured, how dare you still show defiance!" He ordered, "Quickly behead him and display his head as a warning!" Gongsun Duo, standing nearby, said: "My lord above: nowadays, corrupt officials hold power. They claim that we, the soldiers guarding this pass, are merely making up stories about battles, falsely claiming rations and money, and buying merit through bribes. Any reports of border threats are entirely disallowed, and even those who bring news are beheaded." In my humble opinion, we should not execute Nan Gongzhi immediately but instead keep him in custody. Once the ringleader is captured and brought to Chao Ge, it will silence these corrupt officials and prove that our border defense is not falsely claimed." I wonder what your lord's opinion may be?" Ouyang Chun said, "General, your words align perfectly with my thoughts." He then sent Nan Gongzhi to be imprisoned. No further details are given. Meanwhile, Zi Ya, upon hearing the report that Nan Gongzhi had been captured, was greatly alarmed and sat in gloom within his camp. The next day, Bian Ji came again to challenge for battle, specifically demanding Huang Feihu by name. Fei Hu led Huang Ming and Zhou Ji out of the camp. Seeing Bian Ji galloping toward them, they shouted, "Who dares to come forth?" Huang Feihu said, "I am General Huang Feihu, the Wu Cheng Wang." Bian Ji, upon hearing this, became furious and scolded, "Traitor of a rebel state! You dared to kill my father. We are enemies who cannot share the same sky." Today I shall tear you apart into ten thousand pieces to vent my hatred!" He brandished his halberd and charged forward. Huang Feihu quickly turned his spear to meet the attack. They fought for about thirty exchanges, when Bian Ji pretended to retreat and rode toward the banner. Huang Feihu was unaware of this ploy and also galloped down to the banner, where he too was captured in the same way as Nan Gongzhi. Huang Ming became furious, brandished his axe and rushed forward to rescue Huang Feihu. However, without realizing it, he reached the banner area as well, fell from his horse just like Nan Gongzhi and was captured too. Bian Ji had captured two generals in succession, returned to the pass to report his success, and intended to behead Huang Feihu as revenge for his father's death. Ouyang Chun said, "Although the young general wishes to avenge his father by beheading him, it is only right. However, since he is the ringleader of this trouble, you should present him to the imperial court for proper punishment. This will both satisfy your late father's grudge and demonstrate the young general's merit. Thus, justice and personal vengeance are both fulfilled—would that not be ideal?" "For now, keep him in custody." Bian Ji had no choice but to withdraw with tears.

话说周纪见黄明又失利，不敢向前，只得败进营来见子牙。子牙闻黄飞虎被擒，大惊，问周纪曰：“他如何擒去？”周纪曰：“他于关外立有一旛，俱是人骨头穿成，高有数丈。他先自败走，竟从旛下过去；若是赶他的，只至旛下，便连带马倒了。黄明去救武成王，也被擒去。”子牙大惊：“此又是左道之术！待吾明日亲自临阵，便知端的。”次日，子牙与众将门人出营来，看见此旛，悬于空中，有千条黑气，万道寒烟。哪吒等仔细定睛，看那白骨上俱有朱砂符印，对子牙曰：“师叔可曾见上面符印么？”子牙曰：“吾已见了。此正是左道之术。你等今后交战，只不往他旛下过便了。”只见报马报入关内，欧阳淳也亲自出关，来会子牙。欧阳淳不往旛下过，往傍边走来。子牙看见欧阳淳转将出来，对门人曰：“你看主将也不从此处过。”众将皆点头会意。子牙迎上前来，问曰：“来将莫非守关主将么？”欧阳淳曰：“然也。”子牙曰：“将军何不知天命耶？五关止此一城，尚欲抗拒天兵哉。”欧阳淳大怒：“匹夫敢出此言！”回顾卞吉曰：“与吾拿此叛贼！”卞吉催开马，摇手中戟飞奔过来。傍有雷震子大呼曰：“贼将慢来，有吾在此！”展开二翅，举棍打来。卞吉见雷震子凶悍，知是异人，未及数合，就往旛下败走。雷震子自忖：“此旛既是妖术，不若先打碎此旛，再杀卞吉未迟。”雷震子把二翅飞起，望旛上一棍打来。不知此旛周园有一股妖气迷住，撞著他就自昏迷，雷震子一棍打来，竟被妖气冲著，便翻下地来，不醒人事。两边守旛家将，把雷震子困绑起来。这壁厢韦护大怒，急祭起降魔杵来打此旛。此杵虽能压镇邪魔外道之人，不知打不得此旛。只见那杵竟落旛下。正是： 休言韦护降魔杵。怎敌幽魂百骨旛。

Meanwhile, Zhou Ji, seeing that Huang Ming had suffered another defeat, dared not advance further and returned to the camp in retreat to report to Zi Ya. Zi Ya was greatly shocked upon hearing that Huang Feihu had been captured and asked Zhou Ji, "How did they capture him?" Zhou Ji replied, "Outside the pass, they have erected a banner made by stringing together human bones, towering several zhang high. He first pretended to retreat and passed right under the banner; anyone chasing him would, upon reaching the banner, suddenly fall from their horse along with their steed. Huang Ming went to rescue General Wu Cheng Wang and was captured as well." Zi Ya was greatly alarmed: "This is yet another underhanded trick!" Tomorrow I shall personally go to the battlefield, and then we will know for sure." The next day, Zi Ya and his generals and disciples went out of the camp. Seeing this banner hanging in the air with thousands of black vapors and myriad strands of cold mist, they were filled with awe. Ne Zha and others looked closely, noticing that red cinnabar talismans were inscribed on the white bones. Turning to Zi Ya, they asked, "Uncle Master, have you seen those talismans above?" Zi Ya said, "I have already seen them." This is indeed an underhanded and evil technique. "Just make sure that in future battles, none of you ride beneath this banner." Just then a scout horseman galloped into the pass and reported that Ouyang Chun had personally left the pass to meet Zi Ya. Ouyang Chun avoided passing beneath the banner and approached from the side instead. Zi Ya saw Ouyang Chun emerge and said to his disciples, "Look how the general also avoids passing through this area." The generals all nodded in understanding. Zi Ya stepped forward to greet him and asked, "Are you not the commander guarding this pass?" Ouyang Chun replied, "Indeed I am." Zi Ya said, "General, how can you be unaware of Heaven's will?" "With only this one city left among the Five Passes, do you still dare to resist the heavenly troops?" Ouyang Chun became furious: "You impudent fool! How dare you say such things!" He turned to Bian Ji and said, "Take this rebel for me!" Bian Ji spurred his horse forward and charged toward them with his halberd in hand. Standing nearby, Lei Zhenzi shouted loudly, "Evil general, hold on! I am here!" He spread his two wings and swung a staff toward Bian Ji. Bian Ji saw that Lei Zhenzi was fierce and realized he was no ordinary man. Before they could exchange more than a few blows, Bian Ji retreated toward the banner in defeat. Lei Zhenzi thought to himself, "Since this banner is clearly a demonic technique, I might as well destroy it first before killing Bian Ji later." Lei Zhenzi flapped his wings and flew up, swinging his staff toward the banner. Unbeknownst to him, the banner was surrounded by a demonic aura that could bewitch anyone who approached. As soon as he struck it with his staff, the demon energy surged up and knocked him unconscious, causing him to fall from the sky and lose awareness. The guards stationed by the banner quickly bound Lei Zhenzi up. On this side, Wei Hu became furious and hastily summoned his Demonic Subjugation Mallet to strike the banner. Although this mallet could suppress demons and outsiders, it turned out that it was powerless against the banner itself. Just then, the mallet fell right beneath the banner. Indeed: Do not speak of Wei Hu's Demonic Subjugation Mallet. How can it rival the hundred-bone banner of ghostly spirits?

话说韦护见此杵竟落于旛下，不觉大惊。众门人俱彼此看住。只见卞吉复至军前，大呼曰：“姜尚可早早下骑归降，免你一死！”哪吒听得大怒，登开风火轮，现出三首八臂，大喝曰：“匹夫慢来！”摇火尖枪飞来直取。卞吉见哪吒如此形状，先自吃了一惊。未及数合，被哪吒一乾坤圈把卞吉几乎打下马来，回身败进关去了。子牙后有李靖催马摇戟来战。欧阳淳傍有桂天禄舞手中刀抵住了李靖，未及数合，被李靖一戟刺于马下。欧阳淳大怒，摇手中斧来战李靖。子牙命左右擂鼓助战。只见阵后冲出辛甲、辛免四贤，毛公遂、周公旦、召公奭无数周将，把欧阳淳围在当中，又有周纪、龙环、吴谦三将也来助战，把欧阳淳杀得只有招架之功，更无还兵之力。不知后事如何，且听下回分解。

Now returning to Wei Hu, who was greatly startled upon seeing his mallet fall beneath the banner. The disciples looked at each other in alarm. Just then, Bian Ji returned to the front of the army and shouted loudly, "Jiang Shang, surrender quickly on horseback or you will surely die!" Ne Zha heard this and became furious. He stepped onto his Wind-Fire Wheels, revealed his three heads and eight arms, and roared, "You impudent fool, hold on!" He brandished the Fire-Tip Spear and charged forward in a flash. Bian Ji, seeing Ne Zha's terrifying form, was startled himself. Before they could exchange more than a handful of blows, Ne Zha nearly knocked Bian Ji off his horse with a Heaven-Earth Ring. Turning around in defeat, Bian Ji retreated back into the pass. Ji Ya was later joined by Li Jing, who urged his horse forward and brandished a halberd to engage in battle. Ouyang Chun, with Gui Tianlu beside him wielding a saber to counter Li Jing, had not exchanged more than a few blows when he was pierced from his horse by Li Jing's halberd. Ouyang Chun became furious and brandished the axe in his hand to fight Li Jing. Ji Ya ordered those on either side to beat the drums to support the battle. Just then, from behind the formation burst forth four virtuous men: Xin Jia and Xin Mian. Countless Zhou generals also appeared, including Mao Gong Sui, Zhou Gong Dan, and Zhao Gong Shi, surrounding Ouyang Chun in the center. Additionally, three more generals—Zhou Ji, Long Huan, and Wu Qian—came to assist in battle, attacking so fiercely that Ouyang Chun could barely defend himself and had no strength left for counterattacks. What will happen next? Stay tuned for the following chapter.