Chapter 86: Mianchi Xian: The Five Peaks Return to Heaven

诗曰： 渑池小县亦屏商，主将英雄却异常。吐雾神驹真鲜得，地行妙术更难量。 二王年少因他死，五岳奇谋为尔亡。惟有智多杨督运，腾挪先杀老萱堂。

The poem says: Mianchi was a small county yet it became a battlefield, the commanding general was heroic and indeed extraordinary. The divine steed of Tuwu truly shines with brilliance, its wondrous skills on land are even more immeasurable. Two kings perished young because of him; the Five Sacred Mountains' ingenious strategies were lost for your sake. Only Zhiduo Yang, the military commissioner, was wise enough to maneuver first and kill Old Xuantang.

话说子牙将所用之符画完，分付军政官擂鼓，众将上帐参见。子牙曰：“你众将俱各领符一道，藏在盔内，或在发中亦可。明日会战，候他败走，众将先赶去，抢了他的白骨旛，然后攻他关隘。”众将听毕，领了符命，无不欢喜。次日，子牙大队而出，遥指关上搦战。探马报知，邓、芮二侯命卞吉出马。卞吉领令出关，可怜： 丹心枉作千年计，死到临头尚不知。

It is said that after Ziya had finished drawing the talismans he used, he ordered the military officials to beat the drum, and all the generals entered the tent for audience. Ziya said, "Each of you commanders shall receive a talisman; keep it inside your helmet, or in your hair if possible. Tomorrow during the battle, wait until he retreats in defeat; all of you commanders shall rush forward first, seize his white bone banner, and then attack his pass." After hearing this, the generals received their talismans and orders, and none of them failed to be delighted. The next day, Ziya led his main force out and pointed toward the pass from afar, challenging the enemy to battle. Scouts reported this news, and Dang and Rui's two marquises ordered Bian Ji to ride out. Bian Ji received the order and rode out of the pass, alas: In vain did his loyal heart devise plans for a thousand years; he still did not know that death was upon him.

卞吉上马出关，迳往旛下来，大呼曰：“今日定拿你成功也！”纵马摇戟，直奔子牙。只见子牙左右一干大小将官冲杀过来，把卞吉围在垓心，锣鼓齐鸣，喊声四起，只杀得烟雾迷空。怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰： 杀气漫漫锁太华，戈声响亮乱交加。五关今属西岐主，万载名垂赞子牙。

Bian Ji mounted his horse and rode straight out of the pass toward the banner, shouting loudly, "Today I shall surely capture you for success!" He urged his horse forward, brandishing his halberd, charging directly at Ziya. Suddenly, a group of Ziya's officers and generals on both sides rushed forward to attack, surrounding Bian Ji in the center. The gongs and drums sounded together, shouts rose from all directions, and the battle was so fierce that it filled the sky with smoke and mist. How intense was the battle? A poem testifies to this, which says: Murky killing aura spreads and locks Taohua Mountain; clashing weapons echo loudly in chaotic confusion. The five passes now belong to the ruler of Xi Qi, and Ziya's name will be praised for ten thousand years.

话说卞吉被众将困在垓心，不能得出，忽然一戟剌中赵丙肩窝，赵丙闪开，卞吉乘空跳出阵来，迳往旛下逃去。周营一干众将随后赶来。卞吉那知暗里已漏消息，尚自妄想拿人。卞吉复兜回马，伺候家将拿人，只见数将赶过旛下，迳杀奔前来。卞吉大惊曰：“此是天丧成汤社稷，如何此宝无灵也！”不敢复战，随败进关来，闭门不出。子牙也不赶他，命诸将先将此旛收了。韦护取了降魔杵，又将雷震子黄金棍取了，掌鼓回营。且说卞吉进关来，见邓、芮二侯。不知二侯早已自归周，就要寻事处治卞吉。忽报：“卞吉回见。”行至阶下，芮吉曰：“想今日卞将军擒有几个周将。”卞吉曰：“今日末将会战，周营有十数员大将围裹当中，末将刺中一将，乘空败走，引入旛下，以便擒拿他几员；不知何故，他众将一拥前来，俱往旛下过来。此乃天丧成汤，非末将战不胜之罪也。”芮吉笑曰：“前日擒三将，此旛就灵验；今日如何此旛就不准了？”邓昆曰：“此无他说，卞吉见关内兵微将寡，周兵势大，此关难以久守，故与周营私通，假输一阵，使众将一拥而入，以献此关耳。幸军士随即紧闭，未遂贼计，不然，吾等皆为掳矣。此等逆贼，留之终属后患。”喝令两边刀斧手：“拿下枭首示众！”可怜！正是： 一点丹心成画饼，怨魂空逐杜鹃啼。

It is said that Bian Ji was surrounded in the center by the generals and could not escape. Suddenly, a halberd struck Zhao Bing's armpit; Zhao Bing dodged just in time, allowing Bian Ji to seize the opportunity to leap out of formation and flee directly toward the banner. A group of Zhou's generals quickly pursued from behind. Bian Ji had no idea that the secret had already been leaked in secret, and he still foolishly dreamed of capturing someone. Bian Ji turned his horse around again, waiting for his men to capture the enemy. Just then, several generals rushed past the banner and charged straight toward him. Bian Ji was greatly alarmed and said, "This is heaven's way of destroying the Chengtang dynasty—how come this treasure has no power at all!" He dared not fight any longer and retreated into the pass in defeat, closing the gates and refusing to emerge. Ziya did not pursue him but ordered his generals first to seize this banner. Wei Hu took the Jiaomo Staff, and also retrieved Leizhenzi's golden staff; then he beat the drum and returned to camp. Meanwhile, Bian Ji entered the pass and saw Dang and Rui's two marquises. Unbeknownst to him, the two marquises had already secretly defected to Zhou and were about to find a pretext to punish Bian Ji. Suddenly a report came: "Bian Ji has returned for an audience." As he reached the steps below, Rui Ji said, "I suppose today General Bian captured several Zhou generals." Bian Ji said, "Today when I met in battle, more than ten major generals from the Zhou camp surrounded me. I wounded one general and took advantage of the opening to retreat, leading them toward the banner so that I could capture several of their commanders; I do not know why, but all his generals rushed forward together and came toward the banner. This is heaven's way of bringing about the downfall of Chengtang; it is not my fault for failing to win in battle." Rui Ji smiled and said, "The day before yesterday we captured three generals; then this banner was effective; why today is it not working anymore?" Dang Kun said, "There is no other explanation—Bian Ji saw that the troops within the pass were weak and few in number while Zhou's forces were strong. He realized this pass could not be held for long, so he secretly communicated with Zhou's camp, pretended to lose a battle, and caused all his generals to rush into the trap, intending to surrender the pass." Fortunately, the soldiers quickly closed the gates and foiled his treacherous plan. Otherwise, we would all have been captured. Traitors like this must not be left to become a future threat." He shouted orders to the executioners on both sides: "Seize him and decapitate him for public display!" Alas! Indeed: A loyal heart's aspirations turned to a painted cake; resentful spirits in vain follow the cuckoo's cry.

卞吉不及分辨，被左右拿下，推出帅府，即时斩了首级号令。欧阳淳不知其故，见斩了卞吉，目瞪口呆，心下茫然。邓、芮二侯谓欧阳淳曰：“卞吉不知天命，故意逗留军机，理宜斩首。我二人实对将军说：方今成汤气数将终，荒淫不道，人心已离，天命不保；天下诸侯久已归周，只有此关之隔耳。今关中又无大将，足抵周兵，终是不能拒守。不若我等与将军将此关献于周武，共伐无道。正所谓‘顺天者昌，逆天者亡’。且周营俱是道术之士，我等皆非他的对手。固然我与你俱当死君之难，但无道之君，天下共弃之，你我徒死无益耳。愿将军思之。”欧阳淳大怒，骂曰：“食君之禄，不思报本，反欲献关，甘心降贼，屈杀卞吉，此真狗彘之不若也！我欧阳淳其首可断，其身可碎，而此心决不负成汤之恩，甘效辜恩负义之贼也！”邓、芮二侯大喝曰：“今天下诸侯尽已归周，难道俱是负成汤之恩者；止不过为独夫残虐生民，万姓涂炭。周武兴吊民伐罪之师，汝安得以叛逆目之。真不识天时之匹夫！”欧阳淳大呼曰：“陛下误用奸邪，反卖国求荣，吾先杀此逆贼，以报君恩！”仗剑来杀邓、芮二侯。二侯亦仗剑来迎，杀在殿上，双战欧阳淳。欧阳淳如何战得过，被芮吉吼一声，一剑砍倒欧阳淳，枭了首级。正是： 为国亡身全大节，二侯察理顺天心。

Bian Ji did not have time to defend himself and was seized by those on both sides, dragged out of the headquarters, and immediately beheaded for public display. Ouyang Chun did not know what had happened; upon seeing Bian Ji executed, he was stunned into silence and lost in confusion. Dang and Rui's two Marquises said to Ouyang Chun, "Bian Ji ignored the will of heaven and deliberately delayed military operations; he should be executed. The two of us are being honest with you, General: at present, the Chengtang dynasty's mandate is coming to an end; its rulers indulge in decadence and immorality, have lost the people's hearts, and heaven no longer protects them. All the feudal lords under heaven have long submitted to Zhou; only this pass remains between us." Now, there are no great generals within the pass capable of resisting Zhou's forces. We can never hold out in defense. It is better for us and you, General, to surrender this pass to King Wu of Zhou and jointly campaign against the tyrant. This is exactly what it means: "He who follows heaven's will prospers; he who opposes it perishes." Moreover, the Zhou forces are all practitioners of Daoist arts and magic; we cannot possibly be their match. Indeed, you and I should die for our lord's cause, but an unjust ruler is abandoned by all under heaven. If we were to die in vain, it would be of no benefit at all. We hope you will think carefully about this." Ouyang Chun was furious and scolded, "You receive your lord's salary yet do not think of repaying him. Instead, you wish to surrender the pass, willingly submit to traitors, and unjustly kill Bian Ji—this is worse than dogs and pigs! My head may be cut off, my body shattered, but I Ouyang Chun will never betray the kindness of Chengtang. I would rather die than become a traitor who betrays loyalty and righteousness!" Dang and Rui's two Marquises shouted angrily, "Now all the feudal lords under heaven have already submitted to Zhou. Are they not also betraying Chengtang's kindness? It is merely because of a tyrant who cruelly oppresses the people and plunges ten thousand households into suffering. King Wu of Zhou has raised an army to relieve the oppressed and punish the guilty; how can you regard him as a rebel? You are truly an ignorant fool who does not recognize the will of heaven!" Ouyang Chun shouted, "Your Majesty has wrongly trusted villains and instead sold the country for personal glory. I shall kill this traitor first to repay my loyalty to you!" He drew his sword and rushed forward to attack Dang and Rui's two Marquis. The two marquises also took up their swords to meet him, fighting on the palace floor against Ouyang Chun in a three-way battle. Ouyang Chun could not hold his own against them and was suddenly shouted at by Rui Ji, who struck a single blow with his sword, cutting Ouyang Chun down and beheading him. Indeed: Losing one's life for the country preserves great virtue; the two marquises discerned righteousness and followed heaven's will.

话说二侯杀了欧阳淳，监中放出三将。黄飞虎上殿来，见是姨丈邓昆，二人相会大喜，各诉衷肠。芮吉传令：“速行开关。”先放三将来大营报信。三将至辕门，军政官报入中军，子牙大喜，忙令进帐来。三将至中军见礼毕，子牙问其详细，只见左右报：“邓昆、芮吉至辕门听令。”子牙传令：“令来。”二侯至中军，子牙迎下座来，二侯下拜，子牙搀住，安慰曰：“今日贤侯归周，真不失贤臣择主而仕之智！”二侯曰：“请元帅进关安民。”子牙传令，催人马进关。武王亦起驾随行。大军就地欢呼，人心大悦。武王来至帅府，查过户口册籍；关中人民父老，俱牵羊担酒，迎迓王师。武王命殿前治宴，管待东征大小众将，犒赏三军。住了数日，子牙传令：“起兵往渑池县。”好人马！一路上怎见得，有诗赞之，诗曰： 杀气迷空千里长，旌旗招展日无光。层层铁钺锋如雪，对对钢刀刃似霜。 人胜登山豺虎猛，马过出水蟒龙刚。渑池此际交兵日，“五岳”齐遭剑下亡。

It is said that after the two Marquises killed Ouyang Chun, they released three generals from prison. Huang Feihou ascended the hall and saw his aunt's husband, Dang Kun; the two met with great joy, each expressing their heartfelt feelings to one another. Rui Ji gave orders: "Quickly open the pass!" First, release the three generals to return to the main camp and deliver news. The three generals arrived at the 辕门 (yuanmen, gate of the camp), and a military official reported their arrival to the central command. Ziya was overjoyed and quickly ordered them to enter his tent. After the three generals paid their respects and concluded the ceremony, Ziya inquired about the details. Suddenly, those on his left and right reported: "Dang Kun and Rui Ji have arrived at the 辕门 to await orders." Ziya gave an order: "Bring them in." The two marquises arrived at the central command, and Ziya rose from his seat to greet them. The two marquises knelt in homage, but Ziya helped them up and comforted them, saying, "Today your noble lords have submitted to Zhou—this truly demonstrates the wisdom of a virtuous minister choosing the right ruler!" The two marquises said, "Please, General Yuan Shuai, enter the pass to pacify the people." Ziya gave orders and urged his troops forward into the pass. King Wu also set out in procession to accompany them. The main army cheered on the spot, and the people's hearts were greatly delighted. King Wu arrived at the headquarters and examined the household registers; The elders of the people in the pass all brought sheep, carried wine, and came out to welcome King Wu's army. King Wu ordered a banquet before the hall, entertaining all the officers of the eastern expedition, and rewarding the entire army with gifts and provisions. After staying for several days, Ziya gave orders: "March the troops toward Mianchi Xian." Fine soldiers and horses! How was the journey along the way? A poem praises it, which says: Murky killing aura fills the sky for a thousand miles; banners flutter and the sun is dimmed. Layer upon layer of iron halberds gleam like snow, pair after pair of steel swords shine as if frosted. The soldiers are as fierce as mountain jackals and tigers; the horses, like dragons emerging from water, display unmatched strength. On this day of battle at Mianchi, "the Five Sacred Mountains" all perished beneath the sword.

话说子牙人马在路前行，不一日，探马报曰：“启元帅：前至渑池县了，请令定夺。”子牙传令：“安营。”点炮呐喊。话说渑池县总兵官张奎听得周兵来至，忙升帅府坐下。左右有二位先行官，乃是王佐、郑桩，上厅来见张奎。奎曰：“今日周兵进了五关，与帝都止有一河之隔，幸赖吾在此，尚可支撑。”张奎打点御敌。且说姜元帅次日升帐，命将出军，忽报：“有东伯侯差官下书。”子牙传令：“令来。”差官至军前行礼毕，将书呈上。子牙拆书观看。子牙看书毕，问左右曰：“如今东伯侯姜文焕求借救兵，我这里必定发兵才是。”傍有黄飞虎答曰：“天下诸侯皆仰望我周，岂有坐视不救之理。元帅当得发兵救援，以安天下诸侯之心。”子牙传令，问：“谁去取游魂关走一遭？”傍有金、木二吒欠身曰：“弟子不才，愿去取游魂关。”子牙许之，分一枝人马与二人去了。不表。且说子牙分付：“谁去渑池县取头一功？”南宫适应声愿往，领令出营，至城下搦战。张奎闻报，问左右先行：“谁人出马？”有王佐愿往，领兵开放城门，来至军前。南宫适大呼曰：“五关皆为周有，止此弹丸之地，何不早献，以免诛身之祸。”王佐骂曰：“无知匹夫！你等叛逆不道，罪恶贯盈，今日自来送死也！”纵马舞刀来取。南宫适手中刀拍面交还。战有二三十回合，被南宫适手起刀落，早把王佐挥为两段。南宫适得胜回营报功，子牙大喜。只见报马报进城来。张奎闻报，王佐失机，心下十分不快。次日，又报：“周将黄飞虎搦战。”郑桩出马，与黄飞虎大战二十合，被黄飞虎一枪刺于马下，枭了首级回营。子牙大喜。话说张奎又见郑桩失利，著实烦恼。子牙见连日斩他二将，命左右军士一齐攻城。众将率领军士，放炮呐喊，前来攻城。城上士卒来报张奎，张奎在后厅闻报，与夫人高兰英商议：“如今孤城难守，连折二将，如之奈何？”高兰英曰：“将军有此道术，况且又有坐骑可以成功，何惧贼兵哉？”奎曰：“夫人不知，五关之内多少英雄，俱不能阻逆，一旦至此，天意可知。今主上犹荒淫如故，为臣岂能安于枕席。”夫妻正议，又报：“周兵攻城甚急。”张奎即时上马提刀，夫人掠阵；开放城门，一骑当先。只见子牙门下众将左右分开，张奎大呼曰：“姜元帅慢来！”子牙上前曰：“张将军，你可知天意？速速早降，不失封侯之位；若自执迷不悟，与五关为例。”张奎笑曰：“你逆天罔上，徼幸至此，量你今日死无葬身之地矣。”子牙笑曰：“天时人事，不问可知，只足下迷而不悟耳。此去朝歌不过数百里，一河之隔，四面八方，天

It is said that Ziya's troops were marching along the road. Not long after, a scout reported: "Your Majesty General Yuan Shuai: we have now arrived at Mianchi Xian; please give orders." Ziya gave an order: "Set up camp." Gunpowder was lit, and shouts of war echoed. It is said that Zhang Kui, the commander of Mianchi Xian, upon hearing that Zhou's forces had arrived, quickly ascended to his headquarters. On both sides were two advance officers: Wang Zuo and Zheng Zhuang, who came into the hall to see Zhang Kui. Kui said, "Today Zhou's forces have entered the five passes and are now separated from the imperial capital by only one river. Fortunately, I am here to hold out for a while longer." Zhang Kui made preparations to resist the enemy. Meanwhile, on the next day General Jiang ascended his tent and ordered troops to be dispatched when suddenly a report came: "An envoy from Dongbo Hou has delivered a letter." Ziya gave an order: "Bring him in." The envoy paid his respects before the army and presented the letter. Ziya opened the letter to read it. After reading the letter, Ziya asked those on his left and right, "Now that Dongbo Hou Jiang Wenhuan is requesting reinforcements, I must certainly send troops to assist him." Huang Feihhou on the side replied, "All the feudal lords under heaven look up to Zhou. How could we possibly sit idly by and not offer aid? General Yuan Shuai should definitely send troops to rescue them, so as to reassure the hearts of all the feudal lords under heaven." Ziya gave an order and asked, "Who will go to Youhun Pass for a mission?" On the side, Jin Zhazha and Mu Zhazha stood forward and said humbly, "Though we are not talented, we would be honored to go and capture Youhun Pass." Ziya agreed and assigned a detachment of troops for the two to take with them. Details are omitted here. Meanwhile, Ziya gave an order: "Who will go to Mianchi Xian for the first feat of merit?" Nangong Shiyi volunteered and accepted the order. He left the camp, went to the city walls, and challenged the enemy to battle. Zhang Kui was informed of this and asked his subordinates, "Who will ride out?" Wang Zuo volunteered to go. He led troops, opened the city gate, and came forward to the army. Nangong Shiyi shouted loudly, "All five passes have already been taken by Zhou. This is but a small piece of land; why not surrender early and avoid the calamity of death?" Wang Zuo scolded, "You ignorant fool! Your kind have rebelled and acted immorally; your sins are heaped up to the sky. You come here today only to commit suicide!" He urged his horse forward, brandished his saber, and charged at him. Nangong Shiyi parried with his sword in hand and struck back. After about twenty or thirty exchanges, Nangong Shiyi raised his saber and brought it down in one swift motion, cutting Wang Zuo into two halves. Nangong Shiyi returned to the camp victorious with a report of his feat; Ziya was greatly pleased. Just then, a scout galloped into the city and reported in. Zhang Kui, upon hearing the report that Wang Zuo had been defeated, felt very displeased. The next day, another report came in: "Zhou's general Huang Feihou is challenging us to battle." Zheng Zhuang rode out and engaged Huang Feihou in a fierce battle for twenty exchanges. Huang Feihhou pierced Zheng Zhuang off his horse with one spear thrust, beheaded him, and returned to camp with the head. Ziya was overjoyed. It happened that Zhang Kui, having seen Zheng Zhuang suffer a defeat, became very upset. Ziya, seeing that two of their generals had been beheaded in consecutive days, ordered the soldiers on both sides to attack the city together. The commanders led the troops, fired cannons, shouted loudly, and advanced toward the city for an assault. The city's soldiers on the wall reported to Zhang Kui. Hearing of this in the back hall, Zhang Kui discussed with his wife Gao Lanying: "Now that we are defending an isolated city and have already lost two generals, what should we do?" Gao Lanying said, "General, you have such magical arts; besides, you also have a mount that can ensure success. What should we fear from the bandit troops?" Zhang Kui said, "My lady does not know. Within these five passes are many heroes who could not resist the tide; now that we have reached this point, it is clear what Heaven's will is. Now His Majesty remains as debauched and indulgent as ever; how can a subject like me rest peacefully on my pillow?" The couple was still discussing when another report came in: "Zhou's troops are attacking the city urgently." Zhang Kui immediately mounted his horse, took up his saber, while his wife led the vanguard; they opened the city gate and rode out at the head of the charge. Just then, Ziya's subordinates on both sides parted to make way; Zhang Kui shouted loudly, "General Jiang, hold your horses!" Ziya stepped forward and said, "General Zhang, do you know Heaven's will? Surrender quickly, and you will not lose the position of a marquis; if you persist in your stubbornness and ignorance, you will share the same fate as the five passes." Zhang Kui laughed and said, "You have defied Heaven and betrayed your sovereign, relying on luck to reach this point. Today, you will surely die without a place for burial." Ziya smiled and said, "Heaven's timing and human affairs are obvious even without inquiry. It is only you who remain blinded and unenlightened." From here to Chaoguo, it's no more than hundreds of li away. A single river separates us; from all directions, the sky

下诸侯云集，谅你区区弹丸之地，投鞭可实，何敢抗吾师哉！此正所谓大厦将倾，一木安能支撑，徒自取灭亡耳！”张奎大怒，催开马，使手中刀，飞来直取子牙，后面姬叔明、姬叔升二殿下走马大呼：“少冲吾阵！”两条枪急架忙迎。好张奎！使开刀力战二将。有诗为证： 臂膊抡开好用兵，空中各自下无情。吹毛利刃分先后，刺骨尖锋定死生。 恶战止图麟阁姓，苦争只为史篇名。张奎刀法真无比，到处成功定太平。

is filled with feudal lords gathering in great numbers. Considering your tiny territory, which could be crossed by laying whips side by side, how dare you resist my army! This is exactly what they mean when they say that a great building on the verge of collapse cannot be supported by just one beam; it's only inviting your own destruction!" Zhang Kui became furious, urged his horse forward, and brandished the saber in his hand to charge straight at Ziya. Behind him, Prince Ji Shuming and Prince Ji Shusheng rode up shouting, "Don't break through our formation!" Two spears quickly raised in defense to meet the attack. How valiant was Zhang Kui! He brandished his saber and fiercely fought against the two generals. There is a poem to attest: With arms swinging wide, warfare proceeds with might; from the sky above, each side descends without mercy. Sharp blades cut through hair to determine who strikes first; piercing points decide life and death with bone-piercing precision. Fierce battles aim only for a name in the Hall of Valor; bitter struggles are but for fame in historical records. Zhang Kui's saber techniques were truly unparalleled, achieving success everywhere and bringing peace to the land.

话说姬叔明等二将见战张奎不下，二位殿下掩一枪，诈败而走，指望回马枪挑张奎；不知张奎的坐骑甚奇，名为“独角乌烟兽”，其快如神。张奎让二将去有三四射之地，他把马上角一拍，那马如一阵乌烟，似飞云掣电而来。姬叔明听得有人追赶，以为得计时，不意张奎已至后面，措手不及，被张奎一刀挥于马下。姬叔升见其兄落马，及至回马，又被张奎顺手一刀，也是两段。可怜金枝玉叶，一旦遭殃！子牙大惊，急鸣金收兵。张奎也掌鼓进城。子牙见折了二位殿下，收军回营 心下不乐。武王闻知丧了二弟，掩面而哭，进后营去了。张奎连斩二将，心中甚喜。夫妻二人商议，具表进朝歌。不题。

It happened that Princes Ji Shuming and the other general, unable to overcome Zhang Kui in battle, feigned retreat with a spear strike, hoping to turn back on horseback and stab Zhang Kui; they did not know that Zhang Kui's steed was extraordinary, named "Dujiao Wuyan Shou," and it moved as swiftly as a god. Zhang Kui let the two generals ride ahead for about three or four bow lengths, then struck his horse's horn once. The steed surged forward like a cloud of black smoke, as if flying through clouds and lightning. Ji Shuming, hearing someone chasing him, thought he had succeeded in his plan. Unexpectedly, Zhang Kui was already behind him and caught him off guard, cutting Ji Shuming from his horse with a single saber stroke. Ji Shusheng saw that his elder brother had fallen off his horse, and by the time he turned back on his horse, Zhang Kui struck him with a swift saber stroke as well, cutting him into two halves. How pitiable these noble scions of gold and jade, who met misfortune in an instant! Ziya was greatly shocked and quickly sounded the gong to withdraw his troops. Zhang Kui also beat the drum and rode into the city. Ziya, having lost two of his princes, withdrew his troops back to camp and felt unhappy in his heart. King Wu, upon learning that he had lost two brothers, covered his face and wept before retreating to the rear camp. Zhang Kui, having beheaded two generals in succession, was very pleased in his heart. The couple discussed and prepared a memorial to submit to Chaoguo. Details are omitted here.

且言子牙闷坐帐上，谓诸将曰：“料渑池不过一小县，反伤了二位殿下！”只见众将齐说：“张奎的马有些奇异，其快如风，故此二位殿下措手不及，以致丧身。”众将正猜疑时，忽报：“北伯侯崇黑虎至辕门求见。”子牙传令：“请来。”崇黑虎同文聘、崔英、蒋雄上帐来，参谒子牙。子牙忙下帐，迎接上帐，各叙礼毕，子牙曰：“君侯兵至孟津几时了？”黑虎曰：“不才自起兵取了陈塘关，人马已至孟津札营数月矣。今闻元帅大兵至此，特来大营奉谒，愿元帅早会诸侯，共伐无道。”子牙大喜。有武成王与崇黑虎相见，感谢黑虎曰：“昔日蒙君侯相助，擒斩高继能，此德尚未图报，时刻不敢有忘，铭刻五内。”彼此逊谢毕。子牙分付营中治酒，管待崇黑虎等。正是： 死生有数天生定，“五岳”相逢绝渑池。

Meanwhile, Ziya sat in gloom within his tent and said to the generals, "I had expected Mianchi to be no more than a small county, yet it has cost us two of our princes!" Just then the generals all said together, "Zhang Kui's horse is somewhat extraordinary; it moves as swiftly as the wind. That is why the two princes were caught off guard and lost their lives." While the generals were still speculating, a report suddenly came in: "Dongbo Hou Chong Heihu has arrived at the 辕门 and requests an audience." Ziya gave orders: "Please bring him in." Chong Heihu, together with Wen Pin, Cui Ying, and Jiang Xiong, entered the tent to pay respects to Ziya. Ziya hurriedly left his seat, welcomed them into the tent, and after exchanging courtesies, said, "My Lord, how long has your army been at Mengjin?" Heihu replied, "Since I set out with my troops and captured Chentang Pass, our forces have been encamped at Mengjin for several months now." Now that I've heard General Yuan Shuai's main force has arrived here, I have specially come to the headquarters for an audience. May General Yuan Shuai convene all the feudal lords soon and jointly attack this tyrant." Ziya was overjoyed. Wu Chengwang met with Chong Heihu and expressed gratitude to him, saying, "In the past you helped me capture and behead Gao Jining. I have yet to repay this kindness; I never forget it for a moment, and it is deeply etched in my heart." After exchanging humble thanks with each other. Ziya ordered the camp to prepare wine and entertain Chong Heihu and his party. Indeed: Life and death are predestined by Heaven; the "Five Peaks" meet at Mianchi, sealing their fate.

当日酒散。次日，子牙升帐，众将参谒。忽报：“张奎搦战。”哨马报入中军，子牙问：“今日谁人战张奎走一遭？”崇黑虎曰：“末将今日来至，当得效劳。”只见文聘、崔英、蒋雄三人也要同去。子牙大喜。四将同出大营，领本部人马摆开，崇黑虎催开了金睛兽，举双板斧，飞临阵前，大呼曰；“张奎！天兵已至，何不早降，尚敢逆天，自取灭亡哉！”张奎大怒，骂曰：“无义匹夫！你乃是弑兄图位，天下不仁之贼，焉敢口出大言！”催开马，使手中刀飞来直取。崇黑虎举双斧，急架忙迎。文聘大怒，发马摇叉，冲杀过来。崔英八楞锤一似流星；蒋雄的抓绒绳飞起；一齐上前，把张奎裹在当中。却说子牙在帐上见黄飞虎站立在傍，子牙曰：“黄将军，崇侯今日会战，你可去掠阵助他，也不负昔日崇侯曾为将军郎君报仇。”黄飞虎领令出营，见四将与张奎大战；黄飞虎自思：“吾在此掠阵，不见我之情分，不若走骑成功，何不为美。”黄飞虎将五色神牛催开，大呼曰：“崇君侯，吾来也！”此正是“五岳逢七杀”，大抵天数已定，毕竟难逃。只见五将裹住张奎，这场大战。怎见得，有赞为证： 只杀得愁云惨淡，旭日昏尘，征夫马上抖精神。号带飘扬，千条瑞彩满空飞；剑戟参差，三冬白雪漫阵舞。崇黑虎双板斧纷纭上下；文聘的托天叉左右交加；崔英的八楞锤如流星荡漾；蒋雄的五爪抓似蒺藜飞扬；黄飞虎长枪如大蟒出穴；好张奎，敌五将，似猛虎翻腾。刀架斧，斧劈刀，叮当响喨；叉迎刃，刀架叉，有叱吒之声；锤打刀，刀架锤，不离其身；抓分顶，刀掠处，全凭心力；枪刺来，刀隔架，纯是精神。五员将鞍鞽上各施巧妙，只杀得刮地寒风声拉杂，荡起征尘飞铠甲，渑池城下立功勋，数定“五岳”逢“七杀”。

That day, after the wine was finished. The next day, Ziya ascended to his tent and the generals paid their respects. Suddenly a report came in: "Zhang Kui is challenging us to battle." The scout galloped into the central camp, and Ziya asked, "Who will go out today to fight Zhang Kui for a while?" Chong Heihu said, "Since I have arrived here today, I should be honored to serve." Just then Wen Pin, Cui Ying and Jiang Xiong also wanted to go along. Ziya was overjoyed The four generals left the main camp together, leading their own troops and forming a formation. Chong Heihu urged his golden-eyed beast forward, raised his double broadswords, flew to the front of the battlefield, and shouted loudly: "Zhang Kui! The heavenly troops have arrived. Why not surrender early? How dare you defy Heaven and invite your own destruction!" Zhang Kui became extremely angry, scolded and said, "You base-hearted fool! You are a murderer who killed your elder brother to seize power; you are the most unrighteous bandit under heaven. How dare you speak such grandiose words!" He urged his horse forward and brandished his saber to charge straight at him. Chong Heihu raised his double axes, quickly blocked, and rushed in to meet the attack. Wen Pin became furious, spurred his horse forward with a fork in hand, and charged toward them. Cui Ying's Ba Leng hammer came down like a shooting star; Jiang Xiong's zhuarong rope flew up; All of them rushed forward together, surrounding Zhang Kui in the center. Meanwhile, Ziya saw Huang Feihou standing by in the tent and said, "General Huang, today Prince Chong is engaged in battle. You may go to support him from the rear; this will not be a betrayal of your past debt, for Prince Chong once avenged your son-in-law." Huang Feihou accepted the order and left the camp. He saw four generals fighting Zhang Kui fiercely; Huang Feihou thought to himself, "If I merely support the battle from here, my loyalty will not be recognized. It would be better if I could achieve success by riding in personally; that would surely be admirable." Huang Feihou urged his Five-Color Divine Ox forward and shouted loudly, "Prince Chong, here I come!" This was indeed the moment of "Five Peaks Encounter Seven Killings." Generally speaking, when heavenly fate is already determined, it is ultimately impossible to escape. At that moment, five generals surrounded Zhang Kui, and the great battle commenced. How was this battle? A verse testifies to it: The battle raged so fiercely that the clouds turned gloomy, the morning sun dimmed by dust, and soldiers on horseback braced themselves with determination. Flags fluttered in the wind; thousands of auspicious-colored banners filled the sky. Swords and halberds clashed unevenly, like snowflakes swirling across the battlefield in midwinter. Chong Heihu's double broad axes slashed up and down in a flurry; Wen Pin's Tiantuo fork struck from left to right in rapid succession; Cui Ying's Ba Leng mace dashed about like a meteor showering the sky; Jiang Xiong's five-clawed hook flew through the air like a caltrop. Huang Feihou's long spear surged forward like a giant python emerging from its den; Brave Zhang Kui, facing five generals, fought with the ferocity of a tiger leaping and rolling. Swords clashed against axes, axes split swords, ringing out in loud metallic echoes; Forks met blades, blades blocked forks, all accompanied by shouts and roars. Maces struck swords, swords parried maces—never leaving their bodies; Hooks split the air above, blades slashed below—all relying on sheer willpower. Spears pierced forward, swords blocked and deflected—purely a test of spirit. The five generals each displayed their skill from horseback, fighting so fiercely that the cold wind howled across the ground, raising clouds of dust and scattering armor. Beneath Mianchi city, they carved out feats of valor—fate had decreed this moment when "Five Peaks" met "Seven Killings."

话说五将把张奎围在垓心，战有三四十回合，未分胜负。崇黑虎暗思：“既来立功，又何必与他恋战。”把坐下金睛兽一兜，跳出圈子，诈败就走，好放神鹰。四将知机，也便拨马跟黑虎败走。他不知张奎坐骑其快如风，──也是“五岳”命该如此，──只见张奎等五将去有三二箭之地，把马顶上角一拍，一阵乌烟，即时在文聘背后，手起一刀，把文聘挥于马下。崇黑虎急用手去揭葫盖，已是不及，早被张奎一刀砍为两段。崔英勒回马来时，张奎使开刀又战三将。忽然桃花马走，一员女将将用两口日月刀，飞出阵来，乃是高兰英来助张奎。这妇人取出个红葫芦来，祭出四十九根太阳金针，射住三将眼目，观看不明，早被张奎连斩三将下马。可怜五将一阵而亡！有诗为证，诗曰： 五将东征会渑池，时逢“七杀”数应奇。忠肝化碧犹啼血，义胆成灰永不移。千古英风垂泰岳，万年禋祀祝嵩尸。五方帝位多隆宠，报国孤忠史册垂。

It was said that the five generals had surrounded Zhang Kui in their midst, and they fought for thirty to forty rounds without a clear victor. Chong Heihu thought secretly to himself, "Since I have come here to establish merit, why should I continue fighting him in a drawn-out battle?" He reined his golden-eyed beast and broke out of the circle, pretending to retreat in order to release his divine eagle. The four other generals caught on immediately and also turned their horses to follow Chong Heihu as they pretended to flee. They did not know that Zhang Kui's steed was as swift as the wind—this, too, was part of the fate of the "Five Peaks." Just as the five generals rode away a distance of two or three arrow shots, Zhang Kui suddenly struck his horse's horn once; in an instant, a cloud of black smoke rose. He appeared behind Wen Pin and with one stroke of his saber, sent Wen Pin crashing to the ground from his horse. Chong Heihu hurriedly reached out to lift the gourd cover, but it was too late; Zhang Kui had already cleaved him in two with a single stroke of his sword. When Cui Ying turned back on his horse, Zhang Kui brandished his saber and continued to fight the remaining three generals. Suddenly, a red horse galloped forward and a female general emerged from the formation wielding two sun-and-moon sabers. She was Gaolan Ying, who had come to aid Zhang Kui. This woman took out a red gourd and summoned forty-nine golden needles of the sun, shooting them at the eyes of the three generals. Blinded and unable to see clearly, they were swiftly cut down from their horses by Zhang Kui one after another. Alas! The five generals perished in a single battle! A poem testifies to this, the poem says: Five generals marched eastward and met at Mianchi; their fate coincided with "Seven Killings," a strange and fated hour. Their loyal hearts turned to jade still weeping blood, their righteous courage reduced to ashes yet never swayed. Through the ages, their heroic spirit will be remembered on Mount Tai; for ten thousand years, sacrifices and prayers shall honor their sacred remains. The Five Directions' imperial thrones bestow great honors; the loyal devotion of those who served their country alone will be recorded in history forever.

话说张奎连诛五将，哨马报与子牙，子牙大惊：“如何就诛了五将？”掠阵官备言张奎的马有些利害，故此五将俱措手不及，以致失利。子牙见折了黄飞虎，著实伤悼。正寻思之间，忽报：“杨戬催粮至辕门等令。”子牙传令：“令来。”至中军，参谒毕，禀曰：“弟子督粮已进五关，今愿缴督粮印，随军征伐立功。”子牙曰：“此时将会孟津，也要你等在中军协助。”杨戬立在一傍，听得武成王黄将军已死，杨戬叹曰：“黄氏一门忠烈，父子捐躯，以为王室，不过留清芬于简编耳！”又问：“张奎有何本领，先行为何不去会他？”哪吒曰：“崇君侯意欲见功，不才先要让他，岂好占越，不意俱遭其害。”正言间，只见左右来报：“张奎搦战。”有黄飞彪愿为长兄报仇，子牙许之，杨戬掠阵。黄飞彪出营，见张奎也不答话，挺枪直取。张奎的刀急架忙迎。两马相交，一场大战，约有二三十合。黄飞彪急于为兄报仇，其力量非张奎对手，枪法渐乱，被张奎一刀挥于马下。杨戬掠阵，见张奎把黄飞彪斩于马下，又见他的马顶上有角，就知此马有些原故，“待吾除之！”杨戬纵马摇刀，大呼曰：“张奎休走！吾来也！”张奎问曰：“你是何人，也自来取死？”杨戬答曰：“你这匹夫，屡以邪术坏吾诸将，吾特来拿你，碎尸万段，以泄众将之恨！”举三尖刀劈面砍来。张奎手中刀急架相还。二马相交，双刀并举。怎见得一场大战，有赞为证，赞曰： 二将棋逢敌手，阵前各逞豪强。翻来覆去岂寻常，真似一对虎狼形状。这一个会腾挪变化；那一个会搅海翻江。刀来刀架两无妨，两个将军一样。

It was said that Zhang Kui had slain five generals one after another, and a scout's horse reported the news to Ziya. Hearing this, Ziya was greatly shocked and exclaimed, "How could they have been killed so quickly?" The officer who had been supporting the battle reported that Zhang Kui's horse was particularly formidable, which is why all five generals were caught off guard and suffered defeat. Ziya, upon learning of Huang Feihou's death, felt deeply grieved. Just as he was pondering this, a messenger suddenly reported, "Yang Jian has arrived at the 辕门 with provisions and is waiting for orders." Ziya gave an order: "Bring him in." Upon arriving at the central command, after paying his respects, Yang Jian reported, "Disciple has already delivered provisions through five passes. Now I wish to return my logistics seal and join the army in battle to establish merit." Ziya said, "At this moment, as generals are gathering at Mengjin, we also need you to assist in the central command." Yang Jian stood by, and upon hearing that General Huang Feihou of the Wu Chengwang had died, he sighed and said, "The Huang family has been loyal and valiant. Father and son gave their lives for the royal house; they have only left behind a pure fragrance in historical records!" He then asked, "What abilities does Zhang Kui possess? Why didn't you go to confront him first?" Nezha replied, "Prince Chong wished to claim the merit. I was not so capable as to challenge him first; it would have been improper for me to overstep my station. Little did we expect that they were all slain by Zhang Kui." While this was being said, messengers suddenly arrived from both sides and reported, "Zhang Kui is challenging for battle!" Huang Feibiao volunteered to avenge his elder brother. Ziya agreed, and Yang Jian took up the role of supporting the battle from the rear. Huang Feibiao left camp and saw Zhang Kui, who did not speak but immediately charged forward with his spear. Zhang Kui quickly raised his saber to block and meet the attack head-on. The two horses clashed, and a fierce battle ensued, lasting about twenty or thirty rounds. Huang Feibiao was eager to avenge his brother, but his strength was no match for Zhang Kui. His spear techniques grew increasingly disorganized until Zhang Kui struck him down from his horse with one blow. Yang Jian, supporting the battle from behind, saw Zhang Kui cut Huang Feibiao down from his horse and noticed a horn on top of Zhang Kui's steed. He immediately realized there was something unusual about this horse and said to himself, "Let me deal with it!" Yang Jian spurred his horse forward, brandished his saber, and shouted loudly, "Zhang Kui, do not run away! Here I come!" Zhang Kui asked, "Who are you? Are you also here to seek death?" Yang Jian replied, "You ruffian! You have repeatedly used your dark arts to harm my generals. I have come especially to capture you and cut you into ten thousand pieces in order to relieve the anger of all my commanders!" He raised his three-pointed saber and slashed toward Zhang Kui's face. Zhang Kui hurriedly blocked with his saber in response. The two horses clashed as both men raised their sabers high, ready to strike. How fierce was this battle? A eulogy testifies to it, the eulogy says: Two generals met as equal foes; on the battlefield they each displayed their strength and valor. Their back-and-forth struggle was no ordinary affair, truly resembling a fierce contest between tiger and wolf. One of them skillfully dodged and shifted; The other was capable of stirring up the sea and turning rivers upside down. Swords clashed without either yielding; these two generals were evenly matched.

话说张奎与杨戬大战，有三四十回合，杨戬故意卖个破绽，被张奎撞个满怀，伸出手抓住杨戬腰带，拎过鞍鞽。正是： 张奎今日擒杨戬，眼见丧了黑烟驹。

It was said that Zhang Kui and Yang Jian fought fiercely for thirty to forty rounds. Intentionally, Yang Jian feigned a weakness, which Zhang Kui eagerly exploited by rushing in headlong. Seizing the opportunity, he reached out, grabbed Yang Jian's waistband, and yanked him over his horse's saddle. Indeed: Zhang Kui captured Yang Jian today, only to see the Black Smoke Horse lost in the process.

张奎活捉了杨戬，掌鼓进县，升厅坐下，令：“将周将推来！”左右将杨戬拥至厅前，杨戬站立。张奎大喝曰：“既被吾擒，为何不跪？”杨戬曰：“无知匹夫！我与你既为敌国，今日被擒，有死而已，何必多言！”张奎大怒，命左右：“推去斩首号令！”只见左右将杨戬斩讫，持首级号令。张奎方欲坐下，不一时，只见管马的来报：“启老爷得知：祸事不小！”张奎大惊：“甚么祸事？”管马的曰：“老爷的马好好的吊下头来。”张奎听得此言，不觉失色，顿足曰：“吾成大功，全仗此乌烟兽，岂知今日无故吊下头来！”正在厅上急得三尸神暴跳，七窍内烟生，忽报：“方才被擒的周将又来搦战。”张奎顿然醒悟：“吾中了此贼奸计！”随即换马，提刀在手，复出城来；一见杨戬，大骂：“逆贼擅坏吾龙驹，气杀我也！怎肯干休？”杨戬笑曰：“你仗此马伤吾周将，我先杀此马，然后再杀你的驴头！”张奎切齿大骂曰：“不要走！吃吾一刀！”使开手中刀来取。杨戬的刀急架相迎。又战二十合，杨戬又卖个破绽，被张奎又抓住腰内丝绦，轻轻拎将过去，二次擒来。张奎大怒曰：“这番看你怎能脱去！”正是： 张奎二次擒杨戬，只恐萱堂血染衣。

Zhang Kui had captured Yang Jian alive, beat the drums to enter the county, ascended his seat in the hall, and ordered, "Bring forth the Zhou general!" The attendants on both sides pushed Yang Jian forward to the front of the hall, where he stood upright. Zhang Kui roared angrily, "You have been captured by me—why do you not kneel?" Yang Jian replied, "Ignorant ruffian! Since we are enemies from rival states, if I am captured today, death is all that awaits me. Why speak further?" Zhang Kui was furious and ordered the attendants on both sides, "Take him away and behead him as a warning!" The attendants led Yang Jian out and beheaded him. They then displayed his severed head as an example. Just as Zhang Kui was about to sit down, a horse attendant suddenly rushed in and reported, "My lord, please be informed—there is great trouble!" Zhang Kui was greatly startled and asked, "What kind of disaster?" The horse attendant replied, "My lord's horse has suddenly dropped its head as if something is wrong." Upon hearing this, Zhang Kui turned pale and stamped his foot in alarm, saying, "I have achieved great success relying entirely on this Black Smoke Beast. How could it now suddenly lower its head without reason today!" While Zhang Kui was in the hall, so agitated that his three soul gods were leaping wildly and smoke seemed to rise from his seven orifices, a sudden report came: "The Zhou general captured earlier has returned to challenge for battle!" Zhang Kui suddenly realized in alarm, "I have fallen into this bandit's treacherous scheme!" He immediately changed horses, took up his saber, and rushed out of the city once more; As soon as he saw Yang Jian, Zhang Kui shouted in fury, "You traitorous bandit! You dared to harm my dragon steed—this is enough to kill me with rage!" How could I possibly let this go?" Yang Jian laughed and said, "You relied on this horse to injure my Zhou generals. I will first kill the horse, then your donkey head!" Zhang Kui gritted his teeth and shouted in rage, "Don't run away! Die by my saber!" He brandished his saber and charged forward. old Yang Jian quickly raised his saber to meet the attack head-on. They fought for another twenty rounds, and once again Yang Jian feigned a weakness. Zhang Kui seized the opportunity to grab him by his waist sash and effortlessly yanked him over, capturing him for the second time. Zhang Kui was enraged and said, "This time, see if you can escape!" Indeed: Zhang Kui captures Yang Jian for the second time; yet he fears that blood will stain his ancestral hall.

张奎捉了杨戬进城，坐在厅上。忽报，后边夫人高兰英来至面前，因问其故？张奎长吁叹曰：“夫人，我为官多年，得许大功劳，全仗此乌烟兽；今日周将杨戬用邪术坏吾龙驹，这次又被我擒来，还是将何法治之？”夫人曰：“推来我看。”传令：“将杨戬推来。”少时，推至厅前，高兰英一见，笑曰：“吾自有处治。将乌鸡黑犬血取来，再用尿粪和匀，先穿起他的琵琶骨，将血浇在他的头上，又用符印镇住，然后斩之。”张奎如法制度。夫妻二人齐出府前，看左右一一如此施行。高兰英用符印毕，先将血粪往杨戬头上浇，手起一刀，将首级砍落在地，夫妻大喜，方才进府来到厅前，忽听得后边丫环飞报出厅来，哭禀曰：“启老爷，夫人：不好了！老太太正在香房，不知那里秽污血粪把太太浇了一头，随即就吊下头来，真是异事惊人！”张奎大叫曰：“又中了杨戬妖术！”放声大哭，如醉如痴一般。自思：“老母养育之恩未报，今因为国，反将吾母丧命，真个痛杀我也！”忙取棺椁收殓。不表。且说杨戬迳进中军，来见子牙，备言：“……先斩其马，后杀其母，先惑乱其心，然后擒张奎不难矣。”子牙大喜曰：“此皆是你不世之功。”且说张奎思报母仇，上马提刀，来周营搦战。不知凶吉如何，且听下回分解。

Zhang Kui brought Yang Jian into the city, took a seat in the hall. Suddenly a report came that his wife Gao Lanying had arrived from behind and stood before him; he then asked her about the reason. Zhang Kui sighed deeply and said, "My dear wife, I have served as an official for many years and achieved such great merits, all thanks to this Wuyan beast; today the Zhou general Yang Jian used sorcery to harm my dragon foal, and now he has been captured by me again. What kind of punishment should I use on him?" The lady said, "Bring him here for me to see." An order was given: "Bring Yang Jian forward." After a short while, he was pushed to the front of the hall. Gao Lanying saw him and laughed, saying, "I have my own way to deal with him." "Bring me the blood of a black chicken and a black dog, mix it with urine and manure until smooth. First pierce his pipa bones (shoulder blades), pour the mixture over his head, then use talismans to subdue him before beheading him." Zhang Kui followed her instructions exactly. The couple both went out in front of the mansion and watched as they carried out each step precisely on either side. After Gao Lanying finished using the talismans, she first poured the blood and manure mixture over Yang Jian's head. With a single stroke of her saber, she severed his head from his body and dropped it to the ground. The couple was greatly pleased. Just as they were entering the mansion and arriving at the hall, suddenly they heard their maid running out of the hall from behind, weeping and reporting, "My lord and lady, something terrible has happened! Madam was in the incense room, and for some unknown reason, filth and blood mixed with manure suddenly poured over her head. Immediately after that, her head fell off—it is truly an astonishing event!" Zhang Kui shouted in alarm, "I've been tricked again by Yang Jian's sorcery!" He wailed loudly, as if drunk and dazed. He thought to himself, "I have not yet repaid my old mother for her nurturing kindness. Now, because of the country, I have instead caused my mother's death—this truly pains me to death!" He hurriedly fetched a coffin to place her body in for burial. No further details are given. Meanwhile, Yang Jian went straight to the central camp and reported to Jiang Ziya, saying in detail: "…First behead his horse, then kill his mother. First confuse his mind, and capturing Zhang Kui will not be difficult at all." Jiang Ziya was greatly pleased and said, "All of this is your extraordinary achievement." Meanwhile, Zhang Kui, determined to avenge his mother's death, mounted his horse with saber in hand and went to the Zhou camp to challenge for battle. Whether fortune or misfortune awaits him remains to be seen. Stay tuned for the next episode.