Chapter 87: Death of Tu Xingsun and His Wife on the Battlefield

诗曰： 地行妙术法应玄，谁识张奎更占先。猛兽崖前身已死，渑池城下妇归泉。许多功业成何用，几度勋名亦枉然。留得两行青史在，后来成败总由天。

The poem says: The earth-moving wondrous technique corresponds to the Dao; who recognizes Zhang Kui as taking precedence? A fierce beast's cliff, his former self already dead; beneath Mianchi city, a woman returns to the spring. Many meritorious deeds—what use are they? How many times were military achievements in vain? Leaving behind two lines of green history, later successes and failures all depend on Heaven.

话说子牙在中军正议进兵之策，忽报：“张奎搦战。”哪吒曰：“弟子愿往。”登风火轮而出，现出八臂三首，来战张奎，大呼曰：“张奎若不早降，悔之晚矣！”张奎大怒，催开马，仗手中刀来取。哪吒使手中枪劈面迎来。未及三五合，哪吒将九龙神火罩祭起去，把张奎连人带马罩住。用手一拍，只见九条火龙一齐吐出烟火，遍地烧来。──不知张奎会地行之术，如土行孙一般。──彼时张奎见罩落将下来，知道不好，他先滚下马，就地下去了。哪吒不曾留心看，几乎误了大事，只是烧死他一匹马。哪吒掌鼓回营，见子牙，说：“张奎已被烧死。”子牙大喜。不表。且说张奎进城，对妻子曰：“今日与哪吒接战，果然利害，被他提起火龙罩将我罩住，若不是我有地行之术，几乎被他烧死。”高兰英曰：“将军今夜何不地行进他营寨，刺杀武王君臣，不是一计成功，大事已定，又何必与他争能较胜耶！”张奎深悟曰：“夫人之言甚是有理。只因那杨戬可恶，暗害吾老母，惑乱吾心，连日神思不定，几乎忘了。今夜必定成功。”张奎打点收拾，暗带利刃进营。正是： 武王洪福过尧舜，自有高人守大营。

Now it happened that Ziya was in the central camp discussing strategies for advancing troops when suddenly a report came: "Zhang Kui challenges to battle." Nezha said, "I, your disciple, am willing to go." He stepped out on the Fenghuo Lun, revealing eight arms and three heads, to fight Zhang Kui, shouting loudly, "If Zhang Kui does not surrender early, it will be too late for regret!" Zhang Kui was greatly enraged and spurred his horse forward, wielding the sword in his hand to attack. Nezha used the spear in his hand to slash directly toward him. Before three or five exchanges, Nezha raised the Jiulong Shenhuo Zhao and cast it toward Zhang Kui, covering both him and his horse. With a single clap of his hand, nine fiery dragons simultaneously spewed smoke and fire, spreading flames across the ground. -- Unbeknownst to them, Zhang Kui had mastered earth-moving techniques, just like Tuxing Sun. -- At that time, when Zhang Kui saw the shroud descending, he realized it was bad news. He first rolled off his horse and immediately went underground. Nezha did not pay attention carefully enough, nearly causing a major mistake; he only ended up burning to death his horse. Nezha beat the drum and returned to camp, where he saw Ziya and said, "Zhang Kui has already been burned to death." Ziya was greatly pleased. No further details are given. Meanwhile, Zhang Kui entered the city and said to his wife, "Today I engaged in battle with Nezha. Indeed, he is formidable; he raised the Fire Dragon Shroud and covered me with it. If it were not for my earth-moving technique, I would have almost been burned to death by him." Gaolanying said, "General, why not use your earth-moving technique tonight to infiltrate their camp and assassinate King Wu and his ministers? This would be a successful strategy; the great matter will then be settled. Why bother with competing for superiority?" Zhang Kui deeply understood and said, "My wife's words are very reasonable." It is only because that Yang Jian is so despicable, secretly harming my old mother and confusing my mind, causing me to be unsettled in spirit for days, almost forgetting [this plan]." Tonight's mission will surely succeed." Zhang Kui made preparations and secretly carried a sharp blade into the camp. Indeed: King Wu's great fortune surpasses Yao and Shun; naturally, there are lofty sages guarding the main camp.

话说子牙在帐中，闻得张奎已死，议取城池。至晚，发令箭，点练士卒，至三更造饭，四更整饬，五更登城，一鼓成功。子牙分付已毕。这也是天意，恰好是杨任巡外营。那是将近二更时分，张奎把身子一扭，迳往周营而来，将至辕门，适遇杨任来至前营。不知杨任眼眶里长出来的两只手，手心里有两双眼，此眼上看天庭，下观地底，中看人间千里。彼时杨任忽见地下有张奎提一口刀迳进辕门，杨任曰：“地下是张奎，慢来！有吾在此！”张奎大惊：“周营中有此等异人，如何是好！”自思：“吾在地下行得快，待吾进中军杀了姜尚，他就来也是迟的。”张奎仗刀迳入，杨任一时著急，将云霞兽一磕，至三层圈子内，击云板，大呼曰：“有刺客进营！各哨仔细！”不一时，合营齐起。子牙急忙升帐，众将官弓上弦，刀出鞘，两边火把灯球，照耀如同白昼。子牙问曰：“刺客从那里来？”杨任进帐启曰：“张奎提刀在地下迳进辕门。弟子故敢击云板报知。”子牙大惊曰：“昨日哪吒已把张奎烧死，今夜如何又有个张奎？”杨任曰：“此人还在此听元帅讲话。”子牙惊疑未定，傍有杨戬曰：“候弟子天明再作道理。”就把周营里乱了半夜。张奎情知不得成功，只得回去。杨任一只眼只看得地下张奎走出辕门，杨任也出辕门，只送张奎至城下方回。当时张奎进城，来至府中，高兰英问曰：“功业如何？”张奎只是摇头道：“利害！利害！周营中有许多高人，所以五关势如破竹，不能阻挡。”遂将进营的事细细说了一遍。夫人曰：“既然如此，可急修本竟往朝歌，请兵协守；不然，孤城岂能阻挡周兵？”张奎从其言，忙修本差官往朝歌。不表。

Now it happened that Ziya, in his tent, heard that Zhang Kui had already died and began discussing how to capture the city. By evening, he issued a command arrow and ordered the soldiers to prepare. At the third watch, they cooked food; at the fourth watch, they made preparations; at the fifth watch, they climbed the city walls, achieving success with one drumbeat. Ziya had given all his orders. This was also the will of Heaven; it so happened that Yang Ren was on patrol outside the camp. It was nearly the second watch when Zhang Kui twisted his body and directly headed toward Zhou's camp. As he approached the wicket gate, he happened to meet Yang Ren arriving at the front camp. Unbeknownst to him, Yang Ren had two hands that grew out from the corners of his eyes; in the palms of these hands were two pairs of eyes. These eyes could look upward at Heaven's court, downward into the earth, and observe a thousand li across the human world. At that moment, Yang Ren suddenly saw Zhang Kui underground, holding a sword and directly advancing toward the wicket gate. Yang Ren said, "Zhang Kui is underground; come slowly!" I am here!" Zhang Kui was greatly startled, "There is such an extraordinary person in Zhou's camp; what should I do now!" He thought to himself, "I can move quickly underground. Let me enter the central camp and kill Jiang Shang; even if he comes, it will be too late." Zhang Kui wielded his sword and rushed in directly. Yang Ren, suddenly alarmed, struck the Yunxia Shou once, reaching within the third circle of defenses, hit the cloud board, and shouted loudly, "There is an assassin entering the camp!" All outposts be alert!" In no time, the entire camp rose to action. Ziya hurriedly ascended his tent, and the generals quickly strung their bows and drew their swords from scabbards. Lanterns and torches on both sides illuminated the area as if it were broad daylight. Ziya asked, "From where did the assassin come?" Yang Ren entered the tent and reported, "Zhang Kui, wielding a sword, advanced directly underground toward the wicket gate." "That is why I dared to strike the cloud board to report it." Ziya was greatly startled and said, "Yesterday Nezha had already burned Zhang Kui to death. How can there be another Zhang Kui tonight?" Yang Ren said, "This person is still here listening to the general speak." Ziya was still in a state of shock and doubt when Yang Jian, standing nearby, said, "Let me deal with it after daylight." Thus, chaos reigned in Zhou's camp for the entire night. Zhang Kui realized he could not succeed and had no choice but to return. With one eye, Yang Ren watched as Zhang Kui walked underground out of the wicket gate. He also exited through the wicket gate and only returned after seeing Zhang Kui reach the city walls. At that time, when Zhang Kui entered the city to his residence, Gaolanying asked, "How did your mission go?" Zhang Kui only shook his head and said, "Formidable!" Formidable! Formidable! "There are many extraordinary people in Zhou's camp, so the five passes fell like bamboo broken by the wind and could not be held back." He then gave a detailed account of his attempt to infiltrate the camp. His wife said, "If that is so, you should immediately write an urgent report and send it to Chao Ge to request reinforcements for joint defense; otherwise, how can a lone city possibly resist Zhou's troops?" Zhang Kui followed her advice and hurriedly wrote the report, sending an official to Chao Ge. No further details are given.

且说天明，杨戬往城下来，坐名叫：“张奎出来见我！”张奎闻报，上马提刀，开放城门，正是仇人见了仇人，大骂曰：“好匹夫！暗害吾母，与你不共戴天！”杨戬曰：“你这逆天之贼，若不杀你母，你也不知周营中利害。”张奎大叫：“我不杀杨戬，此恨怎休！”舞刀直取杨戬。杨戬手中刀赴面交还。两马相交，双刀并举。未及数合，杨戬祭起哮天犬来伤张奎。张奎见此犬奔来，忙下马，即时就不见了。杨戬观之，不觉咨嗟。正是： 张奎道术真伶俐，赛过周营土行孙。

Meanwhile, at dawn, Yang Jian came down to the city and stood on a seat, shouting, "Zhang Kui come out and see me!" Upon hearing the report, Zhang Kui mounted his horse, took up his sword, and opened the city gate. The two enemies met face to face like long-time foes; he loudly cursed, "You good-for-nothing!" "You secretly harmed my mother; we can never share the same sky!" Yang Jian said, "You traitorous bandit who defies Heaven. If I had not killed your mother, you would never have known the dangers in Zhou's camp." Zhang Kui shouted loudly, "If I do not kill Yang Jian, how can this hatred ever cease!" He brandished his sword and charged directly at Yang Jian. Yang Jian met him with the sword in his hand, clashing face to face. The two horses clashed and both swords were raised together. Before several exchanges, Yang Jian summoned Xiaotian Quan to attack Zhang Kui. Zhang Kui saw the dog rushing toward him and quickly dismounted, disappearing immediately from sight. Yang Jian observed this and could not help but sigh in admiration. Indeed: Zhang Kui's Dao techniques are truly skillful, surpassing even Tuxing Sun of Zhou's camp.

话说杨戬回营来见子牙，子牙问曰：“今日会张奎，如何？”杨戬把张奎会地行道术说了一遍，“真好似土行孙！夜来杨任之功莫大焉！”子牙大喜，传令：“以后只令杨任巡督内外，防守营门。”彼时张奎进城至府，见夫人高氏曰：“今会杨戬，料周营道术之士甚多，吾夫妻不能守此城也。依吾愚见，不若弃了渑池，且回朝歌，再作商议。你的意下如何？”夫人曰：“将军之言差矣！俺夫妻在此镇守多年，名扬四方，岂可一旦弃城而去。况此城关系非浅，乃朝歌屏障，今一弃此城，则黄河之险与周兵共之，这个断然不可！明日待我出去，自然成功。”次日，高兰英出城，至营前搦战。子牙正坐，忽报：“有一女将请战。”子牙问：“谁可出马？”有邓婵玉应声曰：“末将愿往。”子牙曰：“须要小心。”邓婵玉曰：“末将知道。”言罢上马，一声炮响，展两杆大红旗出营，大呼曰：“来将何人？快通名来！”高兰英观看，见是一员女将，心下疑惑，忙应曰：“吾非别人，乃镇守渑池张将军夫人高兰英是也。你是谁人？”邓婵玉曰：“吾乃是督运粮储土将军夫人邓婵玉是也。”高兰英听说，大骂：“贱人！你父子奉敕征讨，如何苟就成婚，今日有何面目归见故乡也！”邓婵玉大怒，舞双刀来取。高兰英一身缟素，将手中双刀急架来迎。二员女将，一红，一白，杀在城下。怎见得，有赞为证： 这一个顶上金盔耀日光；那一个束发银冠列凤凰。这一个黄金锁子连环铠；那一个千叶龙鳞甲更强。这一个猩猩血染红衲袄；那一个素白征袍似粉装。这一个是赤金映日红玛瑙；那一个是白雪初施玉琢娘。这一个似向阳红杏枝枝嫩；那一个似月下梨花露香。这一个似五月榴红似火；那一个似雪里梅花靠粉墙。这一个腰肢袅娜在鞍鞽上；那一个体态风流十指长。这一个双刀愰愰如闪电；那一个二刃如锋劈面扬。分明是：广寒仙子临凡世，月里嫦娥降下方。两员女将天下少，红似银朱白似霜。

Now it happened that Yang Jian returned to the camp and saw Ziya. Ziya asked, "How did your meeting with Zhang Kui go today?" Yang Jian recounted how Zhang Kui used the earth-moving Dao technique. "He is truly like Tuxing Sun!" "Last night, Yang Ren's contribution was invaluable!" Ziya was greatly pleased and issued an order: "From now on, only Yang Ren shall patrol and supervise the interior and exterior, guarding the camp gates." At that time, Zhang Kui returned to the city and went to his residence. He said to Lady Gao, "After meeting Yang Jian today, I realize there are many Dao practitioners in Zhou's camp. My wife and I cannot hold this city." In my humble opinion, it would be better to abandon Mianchi for now and return to Chao Ge for further discussion." What is your opinion?" Lady Gao said, "General, you are mistaken!" "For many years my husband and I have been stationed here to defend the city; our names are renowned in all directions. How can we abandon the city at once and leave?" Moreover, this city is of great strategic importance; it serves as a barrier for Chao Ge. If we now abandon the city, Zhou's troops will share in the advantage of the Yellow River's natural defenses. This must absolutely not be done! "Tomorrow I shall go out and deal with it myself; success is certain." The next day, Gaolanying left the city and challenged to battle in front of the camp. Ziya was seated when suddenly a report came: "A female general requests battle." Ziya asked, "Who can go out to meet her?" Deng Chanyu responded immediately and said, "I, the junior general, am willing to go." Ziya said, "You must be careful." Deng Chanyu said, "I understand, general." After saying this, he mounted his horse. A cannon roared, and Deng Chanyu brandished two large red flags as he rode out of the camp, shouting loudly, "Who dares to come forth?" Quickly state your name!" Gaolanying observed and saw that it was a female general. She became suspicious and quickly replied, "I am no one else; I am Gaolanying, the wife of General Zhang Kui who guards Mianchi." "And who are you?" Deng Chanyu replied, "I am Deng Chanyu, the wife of the earth general who oversees grain supplies." Upon hearing this, Gaolanying loudly cursed, "Lowly woman!" Your father and son were commissioned by the imperial decree to campaign; how could you shamefully marry? What face do you have today to return and see your hometown?" Deng Chanyu was greatly enraged, brandished her twin swords, and charged forward. Gaolanying, dressed in white mourning attire, quickly raised the twin swords in her hands to meet the attack. The two female generals, one red-clad and one white-clad, fought fiercely beneath the city walls. How was this? A verse testifies: One wears a golden helmet on her head, shining in the sunlight; the other has braided hair adorned with a silver crown shaped like a phoenix. One wears golden scale armor linked together; the other dons even stronger dragon-scale armor with a thousand overlapping plates. One wears a crimson robe dyed in the blood of apes; the other is clad in a pure white military robe, as if powdered and adorned. One's armor gleams like red carnelian reflecting golden sunlight; the other is as if freshly adorned with jade, pure white snow sculpting a maiden. One resembles tender apricot branches basking in the sun; the other is like pear blossoms at moonlight, fragrant with dew. One resembles the pomegranate flowers of May, red as fire; the other is like plum blossoms in snow leaning against a whitewashed wall. łoż One, with a graceful and slender waist, sits atop the saddle; the other has an elegant figure and long, graceful fingers. One's twin swords flash like lightning; the other wields two blades, sharp and fierce, slashing toward the face. Clearly: The Fairy of Broad Cold descends to the mortal world; Chang'e from the moon comes down below. These two female generals are rare in all the land, one as red as silver cinnabar and the other as white as frost.

话说邓婵玉大战高兰英有二十回合，拨马就走。高兰英不知邓婵玉诈败，便随后赶来。婵玉闻脑后鸾铃响处，忙取五光石回手一下，正中高兰英面上，只打得嘴唇青肿，掩面而回。邓婵玉得胜进营，来见姜元帅，说高兰英被五光石打败进城。子牙方上功劳簿，只见左右官报：“二运官土行孙辕门等令。”子牙传令：“来。”土行孙上帐参谒：“弟子运粮已完，缴督粮印，愿随军征伐。”子牙曰：“今进五关，军粮有天下诸侯应付，不消你等督运，俱随军征进罢了。”土行孙下帐，来见众将，独不见黄将军，忙问哪吒，哪吒曰：“今渑池不过一小县，反将黄将军、崇君侯五人一阵而亡。昨张奎善有地行之术，比你分外精奇。前日进营，欲来行刺，多亏杨任救之。故此阻住吾师，不能前进。”土行孙听罢：“有这样事！当时吾师传吾此术，可称盖世无双，岂有此处又有异人也？待吾明日会他。”至后帐来问邓婵玉：“此事可真？”邓婵玉曰：“果是不差。”土行孙踌躇一夜。次早，上帐来见姜元帅，“愿去会张奎。”子牙许之。傍有杨戬、哪吒、邓婵玉俱欲去掠阵。土行孙许之，来至城下搦战。哨马报与张奎，张奎出城，见一矮子，问曰：“你是何人？”土行孙曰：“吾乃土行孙是也。”道罢，举手中棍滚将来，劈头就打。张奎手中刀急架来迎。二人大战，往往来来，未及数合，哪吒、杨戬齐出来助战。哪吒忙提起乾坤圈来打张奎。张奎看见，滚下马就不见了。土行孙也把身子一扭来赶张奎。张奎一见大惊：“周营中也有此妙术之人！”随在地底下，二人又复大战。大抵张奎身子长大，不好转换；土行孙身子矮小，转换伶俐，故此或前或后，张奎反不济事，只得败去。土行孙赶了一程，赶不上，也自回来。那张奎地行术一日可行一千五百里，土行孙止行一千里，因此赶不上他，只得回营，来见子牙，言：“张奎果然好地行之术。此人若是阻住此间，深为不便。”子牙曰：“昔日你师父擒尔用指地成钢法，今欲治张奎，非此法不可。你如何学得此法以治之？”土行孙曰：“元帅可修书一封，待弟子去夹龙山，见吾师，取此符印来，破了渑池县，遂得早会诸侯。”子牙大喜，忙修书付与土行孙。土行孙别了妻子，往夹龙山来。可怜！正是： 丹心欲佐真明主，首级高悬在渑池。

Now it happened that Deng Chanyu fought Gaolanying for about twenty rounds, then wheeled her horse and fled. Gaolanying did not realize that Deng Chanyu was feigning defeat, so she pursued in haste. Chanyu, hearing the sound of a peacock bell from behind her head, quickly took out a Five-Light Stone and struck with her free hand. It hit Gaolanying right in the face, causing her lips to swell purple and blue; she covered her face and retreated. Deng Chanyu, having won the victory, entered the camp and reported to Jiang Yuanshuai that Gaolanying had been defeated by a Five-Light Stone and retreated into the city. Ziyi was just about to record the merit in the register when suddenly officials on both sides reported, "The second-ranking official Tuxing Sun is waiting at the 辕门 (yuanmen) for orders." Ziyi gave an order: "Come forward." Tuxing Sun entered the tent to pay respects and said, "Disciple has completed the transportation of provisions, hereby return the grain supervision seal. I wish to accompany the army in its campaigns." Ziyi said, "Now that we are advancing toward the Five Passes, the military provisions will be supplied by the feudal lords of all under heaven; there is no need for you to oversee their transport. All of you may accompany the army on its campaign." Tuxing Sun left the tent and came to see the generals, but he did not see General Huang. Hurriedly, he asked Nezha, who replied, "Now that Mianchi is merely a small county, yet it caused Generals Huang and Chong Junhou along with three others to perish in one battle. Yesterday Zhang Kui Shan possessed the earth-moving technique, which is even more extraordinary than yours." The day before yesterday, when he entered our camp, he intended to assassinate us. Fortunately, Yang Ren saved us. Therefore, my master was blocked and could not advance." Tuxing Sun, after hearing this, said, "Such a thing!" "At that time, my master taught me this technique, which can be called unparalleled in the world. How could there also be an extraordinary person here?" "I shall meet him tomorrow." He went to the rear tent and asked Deng Chanyu, "Is this matter true?" Deng Chanyu said, "Indeed it is correct." Tuxing Sun hesitated for an entire night. The next morning, he went to the tent and saw Jiang Yuanshuai, saying, "I wish to go meet Zhang Kui." Ziyi granted his request. Beside him, Yang Jian, Nezha, and Deng Chanyu all wished to go and assist in the battle. loth Tuxing Sun agreed, went down to the city walls, and issued a challenge for combat. The scout horse reported this to Zhang Kui, who came out of the city and saw a short man. He asked, "Who are you?" Tuxing Sun said, "I am Tuxing Sun." No sooner had he finished speaking than he raised the staff in his hand and rolled forward, striking straight at Zhang Kui's head. Zhang Kui quickly raised his sword to meet the attack with a clash. The two warriors engaged in fierce combat, coming and going back and forth. Before several rounds had passed, Nezha and Yang Jian both rushed out to join the battle. Nezha quickly raised up the Qiankun Ring to strike Zhang Kui. Zhang Kui saw this, rolled off his horse and vanished from sight. Tuxing Sun also twisted his body to chase after Zhang Kui. Zhang Kui was greatly startled upon seeing this: "There is also someone with such a wondrous technique in the Zhou camp!" He immediately went underground, and the two once again engaged in fierce battle. Generally speaking, Zhang Kui had a tall body, which was not easy to maneuver; Tuxing Sun's small stature allowed for nimble movement, so he darted forward and backward. Zhang Kui could not match him and was forced to retreat in defeat. Tuxing Sun chased for a while but could not catch up, so he returned as well. Zhang Kui's earth-moving technique allowed him to travel 1,500 li in a single day, while Tuxing Sun could only cover 1,000 li. Therefore, he could not catch up and had to return to the camp. He came before Ziyi and said, "Zhang Kui indeed has an excellent earth-moving technique." If this man were to block our path here, it would be very inconvenient." Ziyi said, "In the past, your master captured you using the 'Point Earth to Steel' technique. Now, if we wish to subdue Zhang Kui, there is no other way but this method." "How could you have learned this technique in order to deal with him?" Tuxing Sun said, "General may write a letter. I shall go to Jialong Mountain and see my master to obtain the talisman and seal needed for this method, so that we can break through Mianchi County and meet with the feudal lords sooner." Ziyi was greatly pleased and quickly wrote a letter to give to Tuxing Sun. Tuxing Sun bid farewell to his wife and went toward Jialong Mountain. How pitiful! Indeed: With a loyal heart, he wishes to assist the true enlightened ruler; his head is hung high in Mianchi.

土行孙迳往夹龙山去。且说张奎被土行孙战败回来，见高兰英，双眉紧皱，长吁曰：“周营中有许多异人，如何是好？”夫人曰：“谁为异人？”张奎曰：“有一土行孙，也有地行之术，如之奈何！”高兰英曰：“如今再修告急表章，速往朝歌取救，俺夫妻二人死守此县，不必交兵，只等救兵前来，再为商议破敌。”夫妻正议，忽然一阵怪风飘来，甚是奇异。怎见得好风，有诗为证： 走石飞砂势更凶，推云拥雾乱行踪。暗藏妖孽来窥户，又送孤帆过楚峰。

Tuxing Sun went directly toward Jialong Mountain. Meanwhile, Zhang Kui returned after being defeated by Tuxing Sun and saw Gaolanying. His brows were tightly furrowed as he sighed deeply and said, "There are many extraordinary people in the Zhou camp. What can we do?" Lady replied, "Who is this extraordinary person?" Zhang Kui said, "There is a Tuxing Sun who also possesses the earth-moving technique. What can we do about it!" Gaolanying said, "Now we should quickly prepare another urgent petition and send it to Chaoguo for reinforcements. My husband and I will die defending this county. There is no need to engage in battle; let us wait until the rescue forces arrive before discussing how to defeat the enemy." As the couple was still discussing, suddenly a strange wind blew in, very unusual. How fierce the wind was—here is a poem to testify: Rolling stones and flying sand, its force grows more violent; it pushes clouds and gathers mist, confusing all traces. In the shadows, demonic creatures come to spy on our door; another solitary sail passes over the peaks of Chu.

风过一阵，把府前宝纛旗一折两断。夫妻大惊曰：“此不祥之兆也。”高兰英随排香案，忙取金钱，排下一卦，已解其意。高兰英曰：“将军可速为之！土行孙往夹龙山取指地成钢之术，来破你也！不可迟误！”张奎大惊，忙忙收拾，结束停当，迳往夹龙山去了。土行孙一日止行千里；张奎一日行一千五百里；张奎先到夹龙山，到个崖畔，潜等土行孙。等了一日，土行孙来至猛兽崖，远远望见飞云洞，满心欢喜：“今日又至故土也！”不知张奎豫在崖傍，侧身躲匿，把刀拎起，只等他来。土行孙那里知道，只是往前走。也是数该如此，看看至面前，张奎大叫曰：“土行孙不要走！”土行孙及至抬头时，刀已落下，可怜砍了个连肩带背。张奎割了首级，迳回渑池县来号令。后人有诗叹土行孙归周未受茅土之封，可怜无辜死于此地，有诗为证： 忆昔西岐归顺时，辅君督运未愆期。进关盗宝功为首，劫寨偷营世所奇。名播诸侯空啧啧，声扬宇宙恨丝丝。夹龙山下亡身处，反本还元正在兹。

After a gust of wind passed, it snapped the precious standard flag in front of the mansion into two pieces. The couple was greatly startled and said, "This is an ill omen." Gaolanying immediately arranged a censer table, hurriedly took out some copper coins, cast a hexagram, and quickly understood its meaning. Gaolanying said, "General must act quickly!" Tuxing Sun is going to Jialong Mountain to obtain the 'Point Earth into Steel' technique, and will come to break through your defenses!" "Do not delay!" Zhang Kui was greatly alarmed, hurriedly prepared himself, got everything ready, and went directly to Jialong Mountain. Tuxing Sun could travel only 1,000 li in one day; Zhang Kui could cover 1,500 li a day; Zhang Kui arrived at Jialong Mountain first and reached the edge of a cliff, where he lay in hiding waiting for Tuxing Sun. After waiting a whole day, Tuxing Sun arrived at Mengshou Cliff. From afar he saw Feiyun Cave and was filled with joy: "Today I have returned to my homeland once again!" Unbeknownst to him, Zhang Kui was already hidden on the cliffside, crouching out of sight and holding his sword ready, waiting for him. Tuxing Sun had no idea and simply continued walking forward. It was also fated to be so; just as Tuxing Sun approached, Zhang Kui shouted loudly, "Tuxing Sun, do not run!" By the time Tuxing Sun looked up, the sword had already fallen—unfortunately, it cut off his shoulder and back. Zhang Kui beheaded him, took the head, and returned directly to Mianchi County for display as a warning. Later generations lamented Tuxing Sun in a poem, mourning how he had joined the Zhou but never received an official fief. How pitiful that he died here without cause—here is the verse as evidence: I recall the time when Xiqi submitted to the Zhou; assisting the ruler and overseeing transport, he never failed his term. He was first in stealing treasures upon entering the pass; raiding camps and sneaking into enemy encampments—unparalleled in the world. His name spread among feudal lords, yet only drew empty murmurs; his fame echoed through heaven and earth, but filled with endless regrets. At the place of his death beneath Jialong Mountain, the return to origin was realized just here.

话说张奎非止一日来至渑池县，夫妻相见，将杀死土行孙一事说了一遍，夫妻大喜，随把土行孙的首级号令在城上。只见周营中探马见渑池县城里号令出头来，近前看时，却是土行孙的首级，忙报入中军：“启元帅：渑池县城上号令了土行孙首级，不知何故，请令定夺。”子牙曰：“他往夹龙山去了，不在行营，又未出阵，如何被害？”子牙搯指一算，拍案大呼曰：“土行孙死于无辜，是吾之过也！”子牙甚是伤感。不意帐后惊动了邓婵玉，闻知丈夫已死，哭上帐来，“愿与夫主报仇！”子牙曰：“你还斟酌，不可造次。”邓婵玉那里肯住，啼泣上马，来至城下，只叫：“张奎出来见我！”哨马报入城中：“有女将搦战。”高兰英曰：“这贱人！我正欲报一石之恨，今日合该死于此地！”高兰英上马提刀，先将一红葫芦执在手中，放出四十九根太阳神针，先在城里提出。邓婵玉只听得马响，二目被神针射住，观看不明，早被高兰英手起一刀，挥于马下。可怜！正是： 孟津未会诸侯面，今日夫妻丧渑池。

Now it happened that Zhang Kui arrived at Mianchi County after more than one day. When the couple met, he recounted how he had killed Tuxing Sun. The couple was greatly delighted and immediately displayed Tuxing Sun's head on top of the city walls as a warning. Just then, a scout from the Zhou camp saw a head displayed on top of Mianchi County city walls. When he approached to look closely, it turned out to be Tuxing Sun's severed head. Hurriedly, the scout reported into the central command: "Your Excellency General: The head of Tuxing Sun has been displayed on the city wall of Mianchi County. We do not know why this is happening; please give orders for what should be done." Ziyi said, "He had gone to Jialong Mountain; he was not in the camp and did not go out into battle. How could he have been killed?" Ziyi calculated with his fingers and slammed the table, crying out in alarm: "Tuxing Sun was killed without cause—it is my fault!" Ziyi felt deeply sorrowful. Unbeknownst to them, the commotion behind the tent startled Deng Chanyu. Upon hearing that her husband had died, she rushed into the command tent weeping and cried out: "I wish to avenge my husband!" Ziyi said, "You should still consider carefully; do not act rashly." Deng Chanyu would not be stopped. Weeping, she mounted her horse and rode to the city walls below, shouting: "Zhang Kui, come out and see me!" A scout galloped into the city and reported: "There is a female general challenging for battle." Gao Lanying said, "This wretched woman!" I have long wanted to avenge the grudge of that stone. Today, it is only fitting for her to die here!" Gao Lanying mounted her horse, drew a sword, and first took a red gourd in hand. She released forty-nine Solar Divine Needles from it and deployed them within the city walls beforehand. Deng Chanyu only heard the sound of hooves, but her eyes were pierced by the divine needles and could not see clearly. Before she knew it, Gao Lanying raised her sword and struck her down from horseback. How pitiful! Indeed: Before the feudal lords had yet gathered at Mengjin, today husband and wife perished in Mianchi.

话说高兰英先祭太阳神针，射住婵玉二目，因此上斩了邓婵玉，进城号令了。哨马报入中军，备言前事。子牙著实伤悼，对众门人曰：“今高兰英有太阳神针，射入二目，非同小可，诸将俱要防备。”故此按兵不动，再设法以取此县。南宫适曰：“这一小县，今损无限大将，请元帅著人马四面攻打，此县可以屣为平地。”子牙传令，命：“三军四面攻打！”架起云梯火炮，三军呐喊，攻打甚急。张奎夫妻千方百计看守此城。一连攻打两昼夜，不能得下。子牙心中甚恼，且命：“暂退，再为设计；不然徒令军士劳苦无益耳。”众将鸣金收军，回营。

Now it happened that Gao Lanying first invoked the Solar Divine Needles, which pierced Deng Chanyu's eyes. Thus she was able to slay Deng Chanyu and entered the city for display as a warning. A scout galloped back into the central command and reported in detail what had happened before. Ziyi was indeed deeply grieved. Turning to his disciples, he said: "Now Gao Lanying has the Solar Divine Needles that pierced both eyes—this is no small matter; all generals must be on guard." Therefore, he ordered his troops to remain still and not advance, while devising further plans to capture the county. Nangong Shi said, "This small county has already cost us countless generals. Please, General, order the troops to attack from all sides; this county can be reduced to flat ground with ease." Ziyi issued orders and commanded: "All three armies, attack on four fronts!" Cloud ladders and fire cannons were raised; the three armies shouted in unison as they launched a fierce and urgent assault. Zhang Kui and his wife employed every possible strategy to defend the city with utmost effort. For two consecutive days and nights, they attacked fiercely but could not capture it. Ziyi was greatly annoyed in his heart and ordered: "Withdraw for now; we must devise another plan." Otherwise, it would only exhaust the soldiers without any benefit." The generals sounded their gongs and withdrew the troops back to camp.

且说张奎又修本往朝歌城来。差官渡了黄河，前至孟津，有四百镇诸侯驻札人马。差官潜踪隐迹，一路无词，至馆驿中，歇了一宵。次日，将本至文书房投递。那日看本乃是微子。微子接本看了，忙入内庭，只见纣王在鹿台上宴乐。微子至台下侯旨，纣王宣上鹿台，微子行礼称臣毕，王曰：“皇伯有何奏章？”微子曰：“武王兵进五关，已至渑池县，损兵折将，莫可支撑，危在旦夕。请陛下速发援兵，早来协守。不然，臣惟一死，以报君恩。何况此县离都城不过四五百里之远，陛下还在此台宴乐，全不以社稷为重，孟津现有南方、北方四百诸侯驻兵，侯西伯共至商郊，事有燃眉之急；今见此报，使臣身心加焚，莫知所措。愿陛下早求贤士，以治国事，拜大将以剿反叛，改过恶而训军民，修仁政以回天变，庶不失成汤之宗庙也。”纣王闻奏大惊曰：“姬发反叛，而今已侵陷孤之关隘，覆军杀将，兵至渑池，情殊可恨！孤当御驾亲征，以除大恶。”中大夫飞廉奏曰：“陛下不可！今孟津有四百诸侯驻兵，一闻陛下出军，他让过陛下，阻住后路，首尾受敌，非万全之道也。陛下可出榜招贤，大悬赏格，自有高名之士应求而至。古云：‘重赏之下，必有勇夫。’又何劳陛下亲御六师，与叛臣较胜于行伍哉？”纣王曰：“依卿所奏。速传旨，悬立赏格，张挂于朝歌四门，招选豪杰，才堪督府者，不次铨除。”──四方哄动，就把个朝歌城内万民日受数次惊慌。只见一日来了三个豪杰，来揭榜文。守榜军士随同三人先往飞廉府里来参谒。门官报入中堂，飞廉道：“有请。”三人进府，与飞廉见礼毕，言曰：“闻天子招募天下贤士，愚下三人自知非才，但君父有事，愿捐驱敢效犬马。”飞廉见三人气宇清奇，就命赐坐。三人曰：“吾等俱是闾阎子民。大夫在上，子民焉敢坐。”飞廉曰：“求贤定国，聘杰安邦，虽高爵重禄，直受不辞，又何妨于一坐耶。”三人告过，方才坐下。飞廉曰：“三位姓甚？名谁？住居何所？”三人将一手本呈上，飞廉观看，原来是梅山人氏，一名袁洪，一名吴龙，一名常昊。──此乃“梅山七圣”；先是三人投见，以下俱陆续而来。袁洪者乃白猿精也；吴龙者乃蜈蚣精也；常昊者乃长蛇精也；俱借“袁”、“吴”、“常”三字取之为姓也。──飞廉看了姓名，随带入朝门，来朝见纣王。飞廉入内庭，天子在显庆殿与恶来奕棋，当驾官启奏：“中大夫飞廉候旨。”王曰：“宣来。”飞廉见驾，奏曰：“臣启陛下：今有梅山三个杰士，应陛下求贤之诏，今在午门侯旨。”纣王大悦：“传旨宣来。”少时，三人来至殿下，山呼拜毕，纣王赐三人平身，三人谢恩毕，侍立两傍。王曰：“卿等此来，有何妙策可擒逆贼？”袁洪奏曰：“姜尚以虚言巧语，纠合天下诸侯，鼓惑黎庶作反；依臣愚见，先破西岐，拿了姜尚，则八百诸侯望陛下降诏招安，赦免前罪，天下不战而自平也。”纣王闻奏，龙心大悦，封袁洪为大将，吴龙、常昊为先行，命殷破败为参军，雷开为五军总督，使殷成秀、雷鵾、雷鹏、鲁仁杰等俱随军征伐。纣王传旨，嘉庆殿排宴，庆赏诸臣。内有鲁仁杰自幼多读，广识英雄，见袁洪行事不按礼节，暗思曰：“观此人行事不是大将之才，且看他操演人马，便知端的。”当日宴散，次日谢恩。三日后下教场，操演三军。鲁仁杰看袁洪举动措置，俱不如法，谅非姜子牙敌手，但此时是用人之际，鲁仁杰也只得将机就计而已。次日，袁洪朝见纣王，王曰：“元帅可先领一支人马，往渑池县佐张奎以阻西兵，元帅意下如何？”袁洪曰：“以臣观之，都中之兵不宜远出。”纣王曰：“如何不宜远出？”袁洪奏曰：“今孟津已有南北二路诸侯驻札，以窥其后，臣若往渑池，此二路诸侯拒守孟津，阻臣粮道，那时使臣前后受敌，此不战自败之道。况粮为三军生命，是军未行而先需者也。依臣之计，不若调二十万人马，阻住孟津之咽喉，使诸侯不能侵搅朝歌，一战成功，大事定矣。”纣王大悦：“卿言甚善，真乃社稷之臣！依卿所奏施行。”袁洪随调兵二十万，吴龙、常昊为先行，殷破败为参赞，雷开为五军都督，使殷成秀、雷鵾、雷鹏、鲁仁杰随军征伐，往孟津而来。不知胜负如何，且听下回分解。

Meanwhile, Zhang Kui prepared another memorial and proceeded toward Chaoguocheng City. He dispatched officials to cross the Yellow River, proceeding ahead to Mengjin, where four hundred feudal lords had stationed their troops. The envoys moved stealthily and inconspicuously, encountering no obstacles along the way, and arrived at a relay station where they rested for one night. The next day, they delivered the memorial to the Office of Documents. On that day, Wei Zi was in charge of reviewing memorials. Wei Zi received the memorial and read it, then hurried into the inner court. He saw King Zhou feasting and enjoying himself on Lutai Terrace. Wei Zi waited below the terrace for an audience. King Zhou summoned him to Lutai, and after Wei Zi performed his courtly bows and paid homage, the king asked: "Uncle, what memorial do you have to present?" Wei Zi said: "King Wu's troops have advanced through five passes and now reached Mianchi County, where they are suffering heavy losses in men and generals. They can no longer hold out; the situation is perilous by the day." I beg Your Majesty to quickly dispatch reinforcements and come swiftly to assist in its defense." Otherwise, I shall only die, thus repaying my sovereign's grace. Moreover, this county is no more than four or five hundred li from the capital. Your Majesty remains here feasting and enjoying yourself, showing absolutely no concern for the state's welfare. At Mengjin, there are already four hundred feudal lords from the south and north stationed with troops, waiting for King Xi Bo to arrive at the outskirts of Shang; the matter is most urgent! Now that I have received this report, my body and mind are consumed with anxiety, and I know not what to do. I beg Your Majesty to seek virtuous men at the earliest, govern the state affairs wisely, appoint great generals to quell rebellion, reform your vices and instruct soldiers and civilians, practice benevolent governance to avert heavenly calamities, so that perhaps we may not lose the ancestral temples of King Cheng Tang." King Zhou, upon hearing the report, was greatly alarmed and said: "Ji Fa has rebelled. Now he has already invaded my passes, destroyed my armies, killed my generals, and his troops have reached Mianchi County—this is most grievous!" I shall personally lead the imperial army to campaign against him and eradicate this great evil." Zhong Dafu Feilian presented a report, saying: "Your Majesty must not!" Now, at Mengjin there are four hundred feudal lords stationed with troops. If they hear that Your Majesty is marching out, they may let you pass and then block your rear route, trapping you between front and back enemies—this would not be a fully secure strategy. Your Majesty may issue an imperial edict to recruit virtuous men, offering generous rewards; naturally, there will be renowned scholars who respond and come forward. As the ancients said: "Under great rewards, brave men are sure to emerge." Why should Your Majesty personally command six armies and contend with a rebellious minister in the battlefield?" King Zhou said: "As you advise." Quickly issue an imperial decree, establish generous rewards, and hang them at the four gates of Chaoguo. Recruit heroes and capable men; those who are talented enough to serve as military commanders shall be appointed without regard for rank." ——The decree caused great commotion throughout the land, and the people of Chaoguo City were thrown into repeated panic day after day. One day, three heroes arrived to claim the posted decree. The guards responsible for the decree accompanied the three men and first went to Feilian's residence to pay their respects. A gate official reported into the main hall, and Feilian said: "Please them in." The three men entered the residence, paid their respects to Feilian, and said: "We have heard that His Majesty is recruiting virtuous men from all under heaven. Though we know ourselves to be unqualified, in times of crisis for our sovereign and father, we are willing to offer our lives as loyal servants." Feilian observed the three men's dignified and extraordinary bearing and immediately ordered them to be seated. The three said: "We are all common people from the villages." "Your Excellency, how dare we common subjects sit?" Feilian said: "To seek virtuous men to stabilize the state and recruit heroes to pacify the realm, even high ranks and generous rewards are accepted without hesitation. How could sitting be a matter of concern?" After the three bowed in acknowledgment, they finally sat down. Feilian asked: "What are your surnames?" And what are your names?" Where do you reside?" The three presented a written record. Feilian examined it and saw that they were native to Meishan, surnamed Mei, with the names Yuan Hong, Wu Long, and Chang Hao. ——These are the "Seven Sages of Meishan"; Initially, these three came forward; the rest would follow in succession. Yuan Hong was a white gibbon spirit; lington Wu Long was a centipede spirit; Chang Hao was a long snake spirit; They all adopted the surnames "Yuan," "Wu," and "Chang" respectively. ——After Feilian reviewed their names, he led them into the palace to pay an audience with King Zhou. Feilian entered the inner court, where King Zhou was playing chess with E Lai on Xianqing Hall. The official in attendance reported: "Minister Feilian awaits an audience." The king said: "Summon him forward." Feilian paid his respects and reported: "Your Majesty, there are three outstanding men from Meishan who have responded to Your Majesty's decree seeking virtuous talent. They now await an audience at Wumen Gate." King Zhou was greatly pleased and said: "Issue the imperial order to summon them forward." After a short while, the three men arrived at the hall below. They performed their courtly bows and kowtowed in unison. King Zhou granted them permission to rise. After they thanked him for his grace, they stood on either side as attendants. The king asked: "What brilliant strategies do you have to capture the rebel?" Yuan Hong presented a report, saying: "Jiang Shang has used deceptive words and clever rhetoric to unite feudal lords from all under heaven, inciting the common people into rebellion; In my humble opinion, we should first attack Xiqi and capture Jiang Shang. Once that is done, the eight hundred feudal lords will look to Your Majesty for an imperial decree offering amnesty and pardon for past crimes, and thus the realm will be pacified without further warfare." King Zhou, upon hearing this report, was greatly pleased. He appointed Yuan Hong as a general-in-chief, Wu Long and Chang Hao as vanguard commanders, named Yin Pobai as military advisor, Lei Kai as overall commander of the five armies, and ordered Yin Chengxiu, Lei Kun, Lei Peng, Lu Renjie, and others to accompany the expeditionary forces. King Zhou issued an imperial decree; a banquet was arranged in Jiaqing Hall to celebrate and reward his ministers. Among them, Lu Renjie had read extensively since childhood and was well-versed in heroes. Observing Yuan Hong's conduct, which disregarded proper etiquette, he secretly thought: "Judging by this man's behavior, he is not a true general of great talent. Let me watch how he commands his troops; then I shall know for certain." On that day the banquet ended, and on the next day they paid their thanks. Three days later, they went to the drill field to command and exercise the three armies. Lu Renjie observed Yuan Hong's actions and arrangements, which were all unorthodox. He realized that this man was certainly no match for Jiang Ziya. However, since it was a time of need for capable men, Lu Renjie could only go along with the plan as best he could. The next day, Yuan Hong paid an audience with King Zhou. The king said: "General-in-Chief, you may first lead a contingent of troops to Mianchi County to assist Zhang Kui in blocking the western forces. What is your opinion?" Yuan Hong said: "In my view, Your Majesty's troops should not go far from the capital." King Zhou asked: "Why is it unwise to march far?" Yuan Hong presented his report, saying: "Now Mengjin is already occupied by feudal lords from the north and south who are stationed there to watch our rear. If I go to Mianchi, these two groups of feudal lords will block Mengjin and cut off my supply lines. At that time, I would be attacked from both front and back—this is a path to certain defeat without even engaging in battle." Moreover, provisions are the lifeblood of an army; they must be secured before any march can begin. According to my plan, it would be better to mobilize twenty thousand troops to block the vital pass at Mengjin and prevent the feudal lords from disturbing Chaoguo. With one decisive battle, great success will be achieved." King Zhou was greatly pleased: "Your words are most wise; you are indeed a true pillar of the state! Act according to your proposal." Yuan Hong immediately mobilized twenty thousand troops, appointing Wu Long and Chang Hao as van commanders, Yin Pobai as assistant advisor, Lei Kai as commander of the five armies, ordering Yin Chengxiu, Lei Kun. Lei Peng, and Lu Renjie to accompany the expeditionary force, heading toward Mengjin. Whether they will win or lose remains unknown; we shall hear in the next chapter.