Chapter 93: Jinzha's Clever Capture of Youhun Pass

诗曰： 斗柄看看又向东，窦荣枉自逞英风。金吒设智开周业，彻地多谋弄女红。 总为浮云遮晓日，故教杀气锁崆峒。须知王霸终归主，枉使生灵泣路穷。

The poem says: The Dipper's handle now turns eastward once more, Dou Rong in vain displays his martial might. Jinzha devised wisdom to establish the Zhou dynasty, Chedidi was full of strategies and skillfully managed needlework. Always because floating clouds obscure the morning sun, thus causing violent qi to be locked in Kōngdòng. One must know that kings and warlords ultimately return to their sovereign, all in vain causing the people to weep at the end of the road.

话说袁洪上了“山河社稷图”，如四象变化有无穷之妙，思山即山，思水即水，想前即前，想后即后，袁洪不觉现了原身。忽然见一阵香风扑鼻，异样甜美，这猴儿爬上树去一望，见一株桃树，绿叶森森，两边摇荡，下坠一枝红滴滴的仙桃，颜色鲜润，娇嫩可爱。白猿看见，不觉忻羡，遂攀枝穿叶，摘取仙桃下来，闻一闻，扑鼻馨香，心中大喜，一口吞而食之。方才倚松靠石而坐，未及片时，忽然见杨戬仗剑而来。白猿欲待起身，竟不能起。不知食了此桃，将腰坠下，早被杨戬一把抓住头皮，用缚妖索困住，收了“山河社稷图”，望正南谢了女娲娘娘，将白猿拎著，迳回周营而来。有诗单赞女娲娘娘授杨戬秘法，伏梅山七怪，诗曰： 悟道投师在玉泉，秘传九转妙中玄。离龙坎虎分南北，地户天门列后先。 变化无端还变化，乾坤颠倒合乾坤。女娲秘授真奇异，任你精灵骨已穿。

The story goes that Yuan Hong ascended the "Map of Mountains, Rivers, Earth and State," where transformations occurred like those of the Four Symbols, endlessly wondrous. Thinking of a mountain became a mountain; thinking of water became water. Thinking forward brought forth the front; thinking backward summoned the rear. Unaware, Yuan Hong reverted to his original form. Suddenly, a fragrant breeze struck his nose, sweet and unusual. The monkey climbed up the tree to look around and saw a peach tree with lush green leaves swaying on both sides, from which hung a branch of bright red immortal peaches, fresh in color, tender and lovely. The white gibbon saw this and could not help but feel admiration. He climbed the branches, wove through the leaves, plucked down an immortal peach, smelled it, and was delighted by its fragrant aroma. With great joy, he swallowed it whole in one bite. No sooner had he leaned against a pine tree and sat by the rock than, before even a moment had passed, Yang Jia suddenly appeared with his sword drawn. The white gibbon wanted to rise but found himself unable to do so. Unaware that eating this peach had caused his waist to sag, he was suddenly seized by Yang Jia, who grabbed him by the scalp and bound him with a demon-binding rope. Yang retrieved the "Map of Mountains, Rivers, Earth, and State," faced due south in thanks to Nüwa Niangniang, carried the white gibbon off, and directly returned to the Zhou camp. There is a poem specially praising how Nüwa Niangniang bestowed secret methods upon Yang Jia to subdue the seven monsters of Meishan. The poem says: Awakening to the Dao, he sought his master at Yuquan; Secretly transmitted was the wondrous mystery of the Nine Transformations. Separating dragon from tiger in south and north, Earth Gate and Heaven Gate arranged before and after. Transformations without end continue to transform; the reversal of heaven and earth unites with heaven and earth once more. Nüwa's secret teachings are truly wondrous and strange, no matter how you twist, the spirits' bones will be pierced through.

话说杨戬擒白猿至辕门，军政官报入中军：“启元帅：杨戬等令。”子牙命：“令来。”杨戬来至中军，见子牙，曰：“弟子追赶白猿至梅山，仰仗女娲娘娘秘授一术，已将白猿擒至辕门，请元帅发落。”子牙大喜，命：“将白猿拿来见我。”少时，杨戬将白猿拥至中军帐。子牙观之，见是一个白猿，乃曰：“似此恶怪，害人无厌，情殊痛恨！”令：“推出斩之！”众将把白猿拥至辕门，杨戬将白猿一刀，只见猴头落下地来，他颈上无血，有一道青气冲出，颈子里长出一朵白莲花来；只见花一放一收，又是一个猴头。杨戬连诛数刀，一样如此，忙来报与子牙。子牙急出营来看，果然如此。子牙曰：“这猿猴既能采天地之灵气，便会炼日月之精华，故有此变化耳。这也无难……”忙令左右排香案于中，子牙取出一个红葫芦，放在香几之上，方揭开葫芦盖，只见里面升出一道白线，光高三丈有馀。子牙打一躬：“请宝贝现身！”须臾间，有一物现于其上，长七寸五分，有眉，有眼，眼中射出两道白光，将白猿钉住身形。子牙又打一躬：“请法宝转身！”那宝物在空中，将身转有两三转，只见白猿头已落地，鲜血满流。众皆骇然。有诗赞之，诗曰： 此宝昆仑陆压传，秘藏玄理合先天。诛妖杀怪无穷妙，一助周朝八百年。

The story continues: Yang Jia captured the white gibbon and brought him to the 辕门 (yuanmen, a military gate). A military official reported into the central camp: "Your Excellency Commander-in-Chief: Yang Jia is here for orders." Zi Ya commanded: "Bring him in." Yang Jia arrived at the central camp, saw Zi Ya, and said: "Disciple pursued the white gibbon to Meishan. Relying on a secret technique bestowed by Nüwa Niangniang I have already captured the white gibbon at the 辕门 (yuan men). Please Commander-in-Chief give orders for his disposition." Zi Ya was greatly pleased and commanded: "Bring the white gibbon before me." Shortly afterward, Yang Jia brought the white gibbon into the central command tent. Zi Ya observed it and saw that it was a white gibbon, then said: "Such an evil monster, harming people without end—this is truly heart-rending resentment!" He commanded: "Drag him out and behead him!" The officers carried the white gibbon to the 辕门 (Yuanmen). Yang Jia beheaded him with a single stroke. As soon as the monkey's head fell to the ground, there was no blood from his neck but instead a streak of green qi surged upward, and from within his neck sprouted a white lotus flower; One could see the flower open and close again, and there appeared another monkey's head. Yang Jia continued to strike with several blades in succession, but each time the result was the same; he hurriedly reported this back to Zi Ya. Zi Ya rushed out of camp to see for himself and indeed found it so. Zi Ya said: "This gibbon, capable of drawing on the spiritual qi of heaven and earth, can also refine the essence of sun and moon; thus it is able to transform in this way. "This is no great difficulty..." Zi Ya quickly ordered his attendants to set up an incense table in the center. Zi Ya took out a red gourd, placed it on the incense stand, and just as he opened the lid of the gourd, one could see a white thread rising from within, shining more than three zhang high. Zi Ya bowed once: "Please, treasure, reveal yourself!" In a moment, an object appeared above it, seven cun and five fen in length, with eyebrows and eyes. From its eyes shot two beams of white light that pinned the white gibbon's form in place. Zi Ya bowed again: "Please, sacred treasure, turn around!" The artifact in the air turned its body two or three times. One could see that the white gibbon's head had already fallen to the ground, fresh blood flowing everywhere. Everyone was greatly startled. There is a poem praising this, the poem says: This treasure was passed down by Lu Ya of Kunlun; its secret contains profound principles aligned with the primordial Dao. Its wondrous power to destroy demons and monsters is boundless, aiding the Zhou dynasty for eight hundred years.

话说子牙斩了白猿，收了法宝，众门人问曰：“如何此宝能治此巨怪也？”子牙对众人曰：“此宝乃在破万仙阵时，蒙陆压老师传授与我，言后有用他处，今日果然。大抵此宝乃用宾铁修炼，采日月精华，夺天地秀气，颠倒五行，至工夫圆满，如黄芽白雪，结成此宝，名曰‘飞刀’。此物有眉，有眼，眼里有两道白光，能钉人仙妖魅泥丸宫的元神，纵有变化，不能逃走。那白光顶上如风轮转一般，只一二转，其头自然落地。前次斩余元即此宝也。”众人无不惊叹：“乃武王之洪福，故有此宝来克治之耳。”不言子牙斩了白猿，且说殷破败、雷开败回朝歌，面见纣王，备言：“梅山七怪化成人形，与周兵屡战，俱被陆续诛灭，复现原形，大失朝廷体面，全军覆没；臣等只得逃回。今天下诸侯齐集孟津，旌旗蔽日，杀气笼罩数百里。望陛下早安社稷为重，不可令诸侯一至城下，那时救解迟矣。”纣王著忙，急急设朝，问两班文武曰：“今周兵猖獗，如何救解？”众官钳口不言。有中大夫飞廉出班奏曰：“今陛下速行旨意，张挂朝歌四门：如能破得周兵，能斩将夺旗者，官居一品。古云：‘重赏之下，必有勇夫。’况鲁仁杰才兼文武，令彼调围营人马，训练精锐，以待敌军，严备守城之具，坚守勿战，以老其师。今诸侯远来，利在速战。一不与战，以待彼粮尽，彼不战自走；乘其乱以破之，天下诸侯虽众，未有不败者也，此为上策。”纣王曰：“卿言甚善。”随传旨忘，张挂各门，一面令鲁仁杰操练士卒，修理攻守之具。不表。

The story continues: After Zi Ya beheaded the white gibbon and retrieved the artifact, his disciples asked: "How is it that this treasure can subdue such a great monster?" Zi Ya said to the crowd: "This treasure was given to me by Master Lu Ya during the breaking of the Ten Thousand Immortals Formation. He told me it would be useful in the future, and indeed today proves so." Generally, this treasure was refined from bin tie (a type of iron), drawing on the essence of sun and moon, seizing the beauty of heaven and earth's qi, reversing the Five Elements. When its cultivation reached perfection, like yellow sprout and white snow, it formed into this treasure, named "Feidao" (Flying Blade). ල This object has eyebrows and eyes, from which two beams of white light emanate. It can pin the original spirit (yuanshen) in the niman gong of humans, immortals, or demons; no matter how they transform, they cannot escape. Those white beams above it turn like a wind wheel. With just one or two rotations, the head naturally falls to the ground. "The previous time I beheaded Yu Yuan was with this very treasure." Everyone could not help but marvel: "It is the great fortune of King Wu that such a treasure has come to subdue it." Without further mention of Zi Ya beheading the white gibbon, let us now speak of Yin Pobai and Lei Kai retreating back to Chaoguo. They presented themselves before King Zhou and reported: "The seven monsters from Meishan have transformed into human forms and repeatedly engaged in battle with the Zhou forces. Though they were successively eliminated, they kept reverting to their original shapes, greatly damaging the dignity of the court; our entire army was wiped out; We had no choice but to flee back." Today, all the feudal lords of the realm have gathered at Mengjin; their banners and flags block out the sun, and killing qi shrouds hundreds of li. We implore Your Majesty to prioritize the safety of the state and people, for you must not allow the feudal lords to reach beneath the city walls. By that time, it will be too late to save or resolve the situation." King Zhou was greatly alarmed and hastily convened a court session, asking his civil and military officials on both sides: "Now the Zhou forces are rampant; how can we save or resolve this situation?" The officials remained silent, their mouths sealed. A central grandee named Feilian stepped forward and presented a report: "Your Majesty, you should immediately issue an order. Hang proclamations at the four gates of Chaoguo: whoever can defeat the Zhou forces, behead their generals, and seize their banners shall be granted the rank of first class official." Ancient saying goes: "Under generous rewards, there must be brave men." Moreover, Lu Renjie is a man of both literary and martial talent. Command him to mobilize the troops from the surrounding camps, train elite forces, prepare for the enemy's arrival, strictly equip defenses for city defense, and hold fast without engaging in battle, thereby wearing down their army. Now the feudal lords have come from afar; they seek a swift victory. ල One, do not engage in battle and wait for their supplies to run out; then they will flee on their own without fighting; Seize the opportunity of their disorder to crush them. Though numerous, none among the feudal lords will be undefeated—this is the best strategy." King Zhou said: "Your words are most wise." He immediately issued the decree, posting proclamations at each gate. At the same time, he ordered Lu Renjie to train the soldiers and repair weapons for both attack and defense. No further mention is made of this.

且说金吒、木吒别了子牙，兄弟二人在路商议。金吒曰：“我二人奉姜元帅将令来救东伯侯姜文焕进关，若与窦荣大战，恐不利也。我和你且假扮道者，诈进游魂关反去协助窦荣，于中用事，使彼不疑；然后里应外合，一阵成功，何为不美。”木吒曰：“长兄言得甚善。”二人分付使命：“领人马先去报知姜文焕，我弟兄二人随后就来。”使命领人马去讫。金、木二吒随借土遁，落在关内，迳至帅府前，金吒曰：“门上的，传与你元帅得知，海外有炼气士求见。”门官不敢隐讳，急至殿前启曰：“府外有二道者，口称海外之士，要见老爷。”窦荣听说，传令：“请来。”二人迳至檐前，打稽首曰：“老将军，贫道稽首了。”窦荣曰：“道者请了。今道者此来，有何见谕？”金吒曰：“贫道二人乃东海蓬莱岛炼气散人孙德、徐仁是也。方才我兄弟偶尔闲游湖海，从此经过，因见姜文焕欲进此关，往孟津会合天下诸侯，以伐当今天子；此是姜尚大逆不道，以惶惑之言挑衅天下诸侯，致生民涂炭，海宇腾沸。此天下之叛臣，人人得而诛之者也。我弟兄昨观乾象，汤气正旺，姜尚等徒苦生灵耳。吾弟兄愿出一臂之力，助将军先擒姜文焕，解往朝歌；然后以得胜之兵，掩诸侯之后，出其不意，彼前后受敌，一战乃成擒耳。正所谓‘迅雷不及掩耳’，此诚不世之功也。但贫道出家之人，本不当以兵戈为事，因偶然不平，故向将军道之，幸毋以方外术士之言见诮可也。乞将军思之。”窦荣听罢，沉吟不语。傍有副将姚忠厉声大呼曰：“主将切不可信此术士之言！姜尚门下方士甚多，是非何足以辨？前日闻报，孟津有六百诸侯协助姬发。今见主将阻住来兵，不能会合孟津，姜尚故将此二人假作云游之士，诈投麾下，为里应外合之计。主将不可不察，毋得轻信，以堕其计。”金吒听罢，大笑不止，回首谓木吒曰：“道友，不出你之所料。”金吒复向窦荣曰：“此位将军之言甚是。此时龙蛇混杂，是非莫辨，安知我辈不是姜尚之所使耳？在将军不得不疑。但不知贫道此来，虽是云游，其中尚有原故。吾师叔在万仙阵死于姜尚之手，屡欲思报此恨，为独木难支，不能向前；今此来特假将军之兵，上为朝廷立功，下以报天伦私怨，中为将军效一臂之劳，岂有他心。既将军有猜疑之念，贫道又何必在此琐琐也！但剖明我等一点血诚，自当告退。”道罢，抽身就走，抚掌大笑而出。窦荣听罢金吒之言，见如此光景，乃沉思曰：“天下该多少道者伐西岐，姜尚门下虽多，海外高人不少，岂得恰好这两个就是姜尚门人？况我关内之兵将甚多，若只是这两个，也做不得甚么事，如何反疑惑他？据吾看他意思，是个有道之士，况且来意至诚，不可错过。”忙令军政官赶去，“速请道者回来！””正是： 武王洪福摧无道，故令金吒建大功。

Let us now speak about Jinzha and Muzha, who had parted from Zi Ya; the two brothers discussed matters along their journey. Jinzha said: "The two of us have been ordered by General Jiang to come and rescue Dongbo Hou Jiang Wenhuan into the pass. If we engage in a major battle with Dou Rong, it may be disadvantageous." You and I should first disguise ourselves as Daoist practitioners, pretend to enter Youhun Pass, then secretly assist Dou Rong from within. By acting in this way, they will not suspect us; then coordinate inside and outside the pass to achieve success in one campaign—what could be more perfect?" Muzha said: "Elder brother, your words are most wise." The two brothers arranged their mission: "Lead the troops first to inform Jiang Wenhuan, and my brother and I will follow shortly." The messenger led the troops away. Jinzha and Muzha then borrowed the earth tunnel technique, landed inside the pass, and went directly to the front of the general's residence. Jinzha said: "To those at the gate, please inform your commander that a cultivator from overseas wishes an audience." The gate official dared not conceal this and hurried to the hall, reporting: "Outside the residence are two Daoist practitioners who claim to be cultivators from overseas. They wish to see you, my lord." Dou Rong heard this and gave orders: "Please bring them in." The two went directly to the eaves, performed a respectful bow, and said: "General, your humble Daoist disciple bows deeply." Dou Rong said: "Daoist practitioners, please sit." "What is it that the Daoist practitioners wish to advise me?" Jinzha said: "We two humble Daoists are Sun De and Xu Ren, cultivators from the Penglai Island of the Eastern Sea." Just now, my brother and I were idly traveling by lake and sea when we passed through here. We saw that Jiang Wenhuan wished to enter this pass and proceed to Mengjin to join the feudal lords of all under heaven in their campaign against today's Son of Heaven; this is a great act of rebellion by Jiang Shang, who speaks deceitful words to provoke the feudal lords across the realm, causing the common people to suffer and the world to be in turmoil. This is a traitorous minister of all under heaven; anyone may kill him. My brother and I observed the celestial omens yesterday, and the vapor of King Tang's mandate is at its height; Jiang Shang and others are only toiling in vain for the people. My brother and I are willing to lend our strength, assisting General in capturing Jiang Wenhuan first and delivering him to Chaoguo; then, with the victorious troops, we can strike from behind the feudal lords unexpectedly. When they are attacked both front and back, a single battle will be enough to capture them. This is what is said: "A sudden thunderclap cannot be covered by one's ear"—this would truly be an unparalleled feat. But as humble Daoist monks, we should not normally concern ourselves with weapons and warfare. However, due to an unexpected injustice, we have shared this with General; please do not mock us for the words of outsiders beyond worldly affairs. We humbly request that General consider our advice." After hearing this, Dou Rong fell into deep thought and said nothing. A side general named Yao Zhong shouted angrily: "Commander, you must not believe the words of these Daoist practitioners! There are many Daoists in Jiang Shang's camp; how can one possibly discern truth from falsehood? The day before, I heard a report that Mengjin had six hundred feudal lords assisting Ji Fa. Now, seeing that the commander has blocked the advancing troops and prevented their meeting at Mengjin, Jiang Shang must have sent these two men to pretend as wandering cultivators, feigning allegiance to our side, in order to carry out an inside-outside coordinated attack. Commander must not fail to investigate and must not lightly believe them, lest you fall into their trap." After hearing this, Jinzha laughed heartily and turned to Muzha, saying: "Daoist friend, it is just as you predicted." Jinzha then addressed Dou Rong again and said: "This general's words are very wise. At this time, dragons and snakes are mixed together; truth and falsehood cannot be distinguished. How can you know that we are not sent by Jiang Shang?" It is only natural for General to have suspicions. But perhaps you do not know, humble Daoist though we are and traveling as wandering cultivators, there is still an underlying reason for our coming. My uncle was killed by Jiang Shang in the Ten Thousand Immortals Array. I have long wished to avenge this grievance, but as one lone tree cannot support a building, I could not advance; Now, I have come especially to borrow General's troops: above, to establish merit for the court; below, to repay a personal grievance of kinship; and in between, to offer General my strength. How could there be any other intention? If General has suspicions, then why should I bother lingering here with such trivialities! I have only sought to clarify our sincere intentions. If that is not enough, we shall take our leave." After saying this, he turned his back and was about to leave, clapping his hands in laughter as he exited. After hearing Jinzha's words, Dou Rong observed the situation and fell into deep thought, saying: "How many Daoist practitioners from all over must be attacking Xi Qi? Though Jiang Shang has many disciples, there are also not a few high cultivators overseas. Could it just happen that these two are exactly his disciples? Moreover, there are many troops and generals within my pass. If it is only these two, they could not possibly accomplish anything significant—why then should I doubt them? Judging from his demeanor, he is a man of Dao. Moreover, his intentions are sincere; we must not miss this opportunity." He quickly ordered the military official to go immediately: "Hasten and bring back the Daoist practitioner!" Indeed: King Wu's great fortune crushes tyranny, hence Jinzha is destined to achieve great merit.

话说军政官赶上金、木二吒，大呼曰：“二位师父，我老爷有请！”金吒回头，看见有人来请，对使者正色言曰：“皇天后土，实鉴我心。我将天下诸侯之首送与你家老爷，你老爷反辞而不受，却信偏将之疑，使我蒙不智之耻，如今我断不回去！”军政官苦苦坚执不放，言曰：“师父若不回去，我也不敢去见老爷。”木吒曰：“道兄，窦将军既来请俺回去，看他怎样待我们。若重我等，我们就替他行事；如不重我等，我们再来不迟。”金吒方勉强应允。二人回至府前，军政官先进府通报。窦荣命：“快请来！”二人进府，复见窦荣，窦荣忙降阶迎接，慰之曰：“不才与师父素无一面，况兵戈在境，关防难稽，在不才副将不得不疑。只不才见识浅薄，不能立决，多有得罪于长者，幸毋过责，不胜顶戴！今姜尚聚兵孟津，人心摇撼；姜文焕在城下，日夜攻打，不识将何计可解天下之倒悬，擒其渠魁，殄其党羽，令万姓安堵，望老师明以教我，不才无不听命。”金吒曰：“据贫道愚见：今姜尚拒敌孟津，虽有诸候数百，不过乌合之众，人各一心，久自离散；只姜文焕兵临城下，不可以力战，当以计擒之。其协从诸侯，不战而自走也。然后以得胜之师，掩孟津之后，姜尚虽能，安得豫为之计哉。彼所恃者天下诸侯，而众诸侯一闻姜文焕东路被擒，挫其锋锐，彼众人自然解体；乘其离而战之，此万全之功也。”窦荣闻言大喜，慌忙请坐，命左右排酒上来。金、木二吒曰：“贫道持斋，并不用酒食。”随在殿前蒲团而坐。窦荣亦不敢强。一夕晚景已过。次日，窦荣升殿，聚众将议事，忽报：“东伯侯遣将搦战。”窦荣对金、木二吒曰：“今日东伯侯在城下搦战，不识二位师父作何计以破之？”金吒曰：“贫道既来，今日先出去见一阵，看其何如，然后以计擒之。”道罢，忙起身提剑在手，对窦荣曰：“借老将军困绑手随吾压阵，好去拿人。”窦荣听罢大喜，忙传令：“摆队伍，吾自去压阵。”关内炮声响亮，三军呐喊，开放关门，一对旗摇，金吒提剑而来。怎见得，正是： 窦荣错认三山客，咫尺游魂关属周。

Now the military official caught up with Jin Zha and Mu Zha, shouting loudly: "Masters Jin and Mu! My master requests your presence!" Jinzha turned around, saw someone coming to invite them, and spoke solemnly to the messenger: "Heaven above and Earth below shall bear witness to my sincerity. I have delivered the leader of all the feudal lords to your master, yet he refuses and declines it. Instead, he believes in the doubts of a subordinate general, causing me to suffer disgrace for my supposed lack of wisdom. Now I will not return!" The military official pleaded earnestly and refused to let them go, saying: "If my master does not return, I dare not go back to see my lord." Muzha said: "Dao elder brother, since General Dou has come to invite us back, let us see how he treats us." If he respects us, we will act on his behalf; if he does not respect us, then we can come back later." Jinzha reluctantly agreed. The two returned to the front of the mansion, and the military official entered first to report their arrival. Dou Rong ordered: "Hasten to bring them in!" The two entered the mansion and saw Dou Rong again. Dou Rong hurriedly descended the steps to greet them, saying: "I am unworthy and have never met my master before. Moreover, with weapons at our borders and difficult defenses to manage, my deputy general had no choice but to be suspicious." My shallow understanding prevented me from making a prompt decision, and I have offended the venerable sages. I hope you will not hold it against me; your kindness is truly appreciated! Now Jiang Shang has gathered troops at Mengjin, and people's hearts are unsettled; Jiang Wenhuan is attacking the city day and night below. I do not know what strategy can relieve this dire situation, capture their ringleader, destroy his followers, and bring peace to the people. Please enlighten me, revered teacher; I shall follow your orders without hesitation." Jinzha said: "In my humble opinion, although Jiang Shang is resisting the enemy at Mengjin and has hundreds of feudal lords with him, they are nothing more than a ragtag assembly. Each man has his own mind; in time, they will naturally disband; Jiang Wenhuan's troops are at the city gates. We cannot defeat them through direct combat; we must capture him by strategy instead. As for his allied feudal lords, they will flee without a fight. Then, with our victorious army, we can strike from behind Mengjin. Even if Jiang Shang is capable, how could he prepare for such a move? What he relies on is the support of the feudal lords. Once these lords hear that Jiang Wenhuan has been captured in the east, their morale will be crushed and his momentum broken; naturally, they will disband. Strike while they are scattered—this is a strategy of absolute security." Dou Rong was greatly pleased upon hearing this and hurriedly invited them to sit, ordering the attendants to bring wine. Jin Zha and Mu Zha said: "We Daoists observe vegetarian vows and do not partake in alcohol or food." They then sat on a mat before the hall. Dou Rong dared not insist. One evening passed. The next day, Dou Rong ascended the hall and gathered his generals to discuss matters when a report suddenly came: "General from Dongbo Hou has sent forces to challenge us." Dou Rong asked Jin Zha and Mu Zha: "Today, Dongbo Hou is challenging us at the city gates. May I ask what strategy you two masters would employ to defeat him?" Jinzha said: "Since I have come, today I shall first go out to meet them and see what they are like. Then I will capture them by strategy." After saying this, he quickly rose to his feet, took up a sword in hand, and said to Dou Rong: "Borrow General's binding ropes for me to use as I lead the formation; it will help me capture them." Dou Rong was overjoyed upon hearing this and immediately gave orders: "Form up the ranks—I shall personally lead the formation." The cannons within the pass roared loudly, the three armies shouted in unison, and as the gates opened, two banners waved. Jinzha came forward with his sword drawn. How was this scene described? Indeed: Dou Rong mistakenly identified the Three Mountains' guest; a soul roamed freely, and the pass soon belonged to Zhou.

话说金吒出关，见东伯侯“旗门”脚下一员大将，金甲，红袍，走马军前，大呼曰：“来此道者，先试吾利刃也！”金吒曰：“尔是何人？早通名来。”来将答曰：“吾乃东伯侯麾下总兵官马兆是也。道者何人？”金吒曰：“贫道是东海散人孙德。因见成汤旺气正盛，天下诸侯无故造反，吾偶闲游东土，见姜文焕屡战多年，众生涂炭，吾心不忍，特发慈悲，擒拿渠魁，殄灭群虏，以救众生。汝等知命，可倒戈纳降，尚能待尔等以不死；如若半字含糊，叫你立成虀粉！”言罢，纵步绰剑来取马兆。马兆手中刀急架来迎。怎见金吒与马兆一场大战，有诗为证，诗曰： 纷纷戈甲向金城，文焕专征正未平。不是金吒施妙策，游魂安得渡东兵。

Now, as Jinzha left the pass, he saw a general under the "Qi Men" banner of Dongbo Hou. Clad in golden armor and red robes, this general rode to the front lines and shouted: "You Daoist who has come here—first try my sharp blade!" Jinzha asked: "Who are you?" Speak your name at once." The approaching general replied: "I am Ma Zhao, the chief military officer under the command of Dongbo Hou. Who are you, Daoist?" Jinzha said: "I am Sun De, a recluse of the East Sea. I have seen the prosperity of King Cheng Tang at its height, yet the feudal lords have rebelled without cause. I was idly traveling in the East when I saw that Jiang Wenhuan had been waging war for many years and causing great suffering to the people. Unable to bear this, I especially acted out of compassion to capture their ringleaders and destroy their followers, so as to save all living beings. If you know your fate, lay down your arms and surrender; I may yet spare your lives. Should you hesitate for a single word, I shall reduce you to pulp on the spot!" After saying this, Jinzha took a step forward and brandished his sword toward Ma Zhao. Ma Zhao quickly raised his blade to meet the attack. How was the great battle between Jinzha and Ma Zhao? A poem testifies to this, saying: Clashing armor and weapons head for the golden city; Wenhuan's campaign rages on without end. Were it not for Jinzha employing a brilliant strategy, how could these wandering souls have crossed the eastern forces?

话说金吒大战马兆，步马相交，有三二十合，金吒祭起遁龙桩，一声响，将马兆遁住。窦荣挥动戈，一齐冲杀。东兵力战不住，大败而走。金吒命左右将马兆拿下，与窦荣掌得胜鼓进关。窦荣升殿坐下，金吒坐在一傍。窦荣令左右：“将马兆推来。”众军士把马兆拥至殿前，马兆立而不跪。窦荣喝曰：“匹夫！既被吾擒，如何尚自抗礼？”马兆大怒，骂曰：“吾被妖道邪术遭擒，岂肯屈膝于你无名鼠辈耶！一死何足惜，当速正典刑，不必多说。”窦荣喝令：“推出斩之！”金吒曰：“不可。待吾擒了姜文焕，一齐解送朝歌，以法归朝廷，足见老将军不世之功，非虚冒之绩，岂不美哉！”窦荣见金吒如此手段，说话有理，便倚为心腹，随传令：“将马兆囚在府内。”不表。且说东伯侯姜文焕闻报，金吒将马兆拿去，姜文焕大喜：“进关只在咫尺耳！”次日，姜文焕布开大队，摆列三军，鼓声大振，杀气迷空，来关下搦战。哨马报入关中，窦荣忙问金、本二吒曰：“二位老师，姜文焕亲自临阵，将何计以擒之，则功劳不小。”金、木二吒慨然应曰：“贫道此来，单为将军早定东兵，不负俺弟兄下山一场。”随即提剑在手，出关来迎敌。只见东伯侯姜文焕一马当先，左右分大小众将。怎生打扮，有赞为证，赞曰： 顶上盔，攒六瓣；黄金甲，锁子绊；大红袍，团龙贯；护心镜，精光焕；白玉带，玲花献；勒甲绦，飘红焰；虎眼鞭，龙尾半；方楞鐧，宾铁煅；胭脂马，毛如彪；斩将刀，如飞电。千战千蠃东伯侯，文焕姓姜千古赞。

Now, Jinzha engaged Ma Zhao in fierce combat. On horseback and on foot, they exchanged blows for more than twenty rounds. Suddenly, Jinzha summoned the Dunlong Zhu (Dragon-escaping Stake), and with a loud sound, trapped Ma Zhao within it. Dou Rong raised his halberd and led the charge as all the troops surged forward in attack. The eastern forces could not withstand the assault and suffered a crushing defeat, fleeing in disarray. Jinzha ordered his attendants to seize Ma Zhao and, together with Dou Rong, marched into the pass while beating the drums of victory. Dou Rong ascended the dais and took his seat, while Jinzha sat beside him. Dou Rong ordered the attendants: "Bring Ma Zhao forward." The soldiers pushed Ma Zhao to the front of the hall, where he stood upright and refused to kneel. Dou Rong shouted: "You wretch! Now that you have been captured by me, how dare you still stand defiantly?" Ma Zhao became furious and shouted: "I was captured by the sorcery of a demonic Daoist. How could I ever kneel before you, an obscure rat like yourself!" What is death to me? Execute me quickly according to the law—there's no need for further words." Dou Rong shouted: "Drag him out and behead him!" Jinzha said: "No. Let me first capture Jiang Wenhuan, and then we shall deliver both of them to Chaoguo together. This will demonstrate General's extraordinary merit before the court, a true achievement rather than an empty claim—would that not be admirable!" Dou Rong, seeing Jinzha's skill and hearing his reasonable words, began to trust him as a close confidant. He immediately gave orders: "Imprison Ma Zhao within the mansion." No further details are given. Meanwhile, Dongbo Hou Jiang Wenhuan received word that Jinzha had captured Ma Zhao. He was greatly pleased and said: "Entering the pass is now within reach!" The next day, Jiang Wenhuan deployed his main forces and arranged the three armies. Drums thundered, and a killing aura darkened the sky as he marched to the gates of the pass to issue a challenge. A scout horse reported the news to the pass. Dou Rong quickly asked Jin Zha and Ben Zha: "Masters, since Jiang Wenhuan himself has come to the battlefield, what strategy will you employ to capture him? The merit would be great." Jin Zha and Mu Zhai responded with determination: "We came here solely to help General quickly subdue the eastern forces, so as not to have wasted our journey from the mountain." They immediately took up their swords and exited the pass to meet the enemy. Jiang Wenhuan of Dongbo Hou rode at the forefront, with his large and small generals arrayed on either side. How was he dressed? A eulogy testifies, saying: On his head a helmet with six petals; Golden armor, linked by chains; A crimson robe with embroidered dragons; The chest mirror gleamed brilliantly; A white jade belt adorned with delicate floral patterns; The armor straps fluttered like red flames; A tiger-eyed whip, half as long as a dragon's tail; A square-shaped mace forged from refined iron; His vermilion horse had a coat like that of a tiger; The sword for slaying generals flashed like lightning. A thousand battles, a thousand victories—Dongbo Hou Wenhuan of the Jiang lineage has been praised through the ages.

话说金、木二吒大呼曰：“反臣慢来！”姜文焕曰：“妖道通名！”金吒答曰：“吾乃东海散人孙德、徐仁是也。尔等不守臣节，妄生事端，欺君反叛，戕害生灵，是自取覆宗灭嗣之祸；可速倒戈，免使后悔。”姜文焕大骂曰：“泼道无知，仗妖术擒吾大将，今又巧言惑众，这番拿你，定碎尸以泄马兆之恨！”催开马，使手中刀，飞来直取。金吒手中剑劈面交还。步马相交，有七八回合，姜文焕拨马便走。金、木二吒随后赶来。约有一射之地，金吒对东伯侯曰：“今夜二更，贤侯可引兵杀至关下，吾等乘机献关便了。”姜文焕谢毕，挂下钢刀，回马一箭射来。金、木二吒把手中剑望上一挑，将箭拨落在地。金吒大骂曰：“奸贼！敢暗射吾一箭也！吾且暂回，明日定拿你以报一箭之恨！”金、木二吒回关，来见窦荣。窦荣问曰：“老师为何不用宝贝伏之？”金吒答曰：“贫道方欲祭此宝，不意那匹夫拨马就走；贫道赶去擒之，反被他射了一箭。待贫道明日以法擒之。”三人正在殿上讲议，忽后边报：“夫人上殿。”金、木二吒见一女将上殿，忙向前打稽首。夫人问窦荣曰：“此二位道者何来？”窦荣曰：“此二位道长乃东海散人孙德、徐仁是也；今特来助吾共破姜文焕。前日临阵，擒获马兆；待明日用法宝擒获姜文焕等，以得胜之师，掩袭姜尚之后，此长驱莫御之策，成不世之功也。”夫人笑曰：“老将军，事不可不虑，谋不可不周，不可以一朝之言倾心相信。倘事生不测，急切难防，其祸不小。望将军当慎重其事。古云：‘将欲取之，必固与之。’愿将军详察。”金、木二吒曰：“窦将军在上：夫人之疑，大似有理。我二人又何必在此多生此一番枝节耶，即此告辞。”金、木二吒言毕，转身就走。窦荣扯住金、木二吒曰：“老师休怪。我夫人虽系女流，亦善能用兵，颇知兵法。他不知老师实心为纣，乃以方士目之，恐其中有诈耳。老师幸毋嗔怪，容不才陪罪。俟破敌之日，不才自有重报。”金吒正色言曰：“贫道一点为纣真心，惟天地可表。今夫人相疑，吾弟兄若飘然而去，又难禁老将军一段热心相待，只等明日擒了姜文焕，方知吾等一段血诚。──只恐夫人难与贫道相见耳。”夫人不觉惭谢而退。窦荣与金吒议曰：“不知明日老师将何法擒此反臣，以释群疑，以畅众怀？”金吒曰：“明日会兵，当祭吾法宝，自然立擒姜文焕耳。文焕被擒，馀党必然瓦解。然后往孟津会兵，以擒姜子牙，可解诸侯之兵也。”窦荣听说大喜，回内室安息。金、木二吒静坐殿上。将至二更，只听得关外炮声大振，喊杀连天，金鼓大作，杀至关下，架炮攻打。有中军官入府，击云板，急报窦荣。窦荣忙出殿，聚众将上关，有夫人彻地娘子披挂提刀而出。金吒对窦荣曰：“今姜文焕恃勇，乘夜提兵攻城，出我等之不意。我等不若将计就计，齐出掩杀，待贫道用法宝擒之，可以一阵成功，早早奏捷。夫人可与吾道弟谨守城池，毋使他虞。”夫人听罢，满口应允：“道者之言，甚是有理。我与此位守关；你与此位出敌。我自料理城上，乘此夤夜，可以成功也。”正是： 文焕攻关归吕望，金吒设计灭成汤。

Now Jin Zha and Mu Zhi shouted: "Traitor, come no further!" Jiang Wenhuan said: "Demon Daoist, state your name!" Jinzha replied: "I am Sun De and Xu Ren, recluses of the East Sea. You have failed to uphold your loyalty as a subject, stirred up trouble without cause, betrayed the sovereign and rebelled, and harmed innocent lives. This is self-inflicted disaster—ruin for your family line and extinction of your descendants; Surrender now to avoid regret later." Jiang Wenhuan cursed loudly: "You ignorant Daoist! You used sorcery to capture my general, and now you dare use flattery to mislead the people. This time I shall seize you and surely dismember your body to avenge Ma Zhao!" He spurred his horse forward, brandished his blade, and charged straight at them. Jinzha raised his sword to meet the attack head-on. They clashed on horseback for seven or eight rounds, and then Jiang Wenhuan turned his horse and fled. Jin Zha and Mu Zhá pursued in hot pursuit. After about the distance of an arrow's flight, Jinzha said to Dongbo Hou: "Tonight at the second watch, you may lead your troops and attack beneath the pass. We shall seize the opportunity to surrender it." After Jiang Wenhuan finished his thanks, he lowered his steel sword and turned back on his horse, shooting an arrow at them. Jin Zhá and Mu Zhá raised their swords upward to deflect the arrow, sending it clattering to the ground. Jinzha cursed loudly: "Traitorous villain! How dare you shoot at me from behind!" I shall return for now, and tomorrow I will surely capture you to avenge this arrow wound!" Jin Zhá and Mu Zha returned to the pass and went to see Dou Rong. Dou Rong asked: "Master, why did you not use your treasure to subdue them?" Jinzha replied: "I was just about to invoke this treasure when unexpectedly that ruffian turned his horse and fled; I hurried after him to capture him, but he shot me with an arrow instead." "I shall subdue them by magic tomorrow." While the three were discussing in the hall, suddenly a report came from behind: "Madam is coming to the hall." Jin Zhá and Mu Zhuá saw a female general entering the hall and hurriedly stepped forward to bow respectfully. Madam asked Dou Rong: "Who are these two Daoists?" Dou Rong said: "These two sages are Sun De and Xu Ren, the recluses of the East Sea; they have specially come to assist me in defeating Jiang Wenhuan." The day before yesterday on the battlefield, they captured Ma Zhao; tomorrow they will use their treasures to capture Jiang Wenhuan and others. With a victorious army, we can then launch a surprise attack on Jiang Shang's forces. This is the strategy for an unstoppable advance and will achieve unparalleled glory." Madam smiled and said: "Old general, you must not act without careful consideration. Your plans must be thorough; you cannot place full trust in a single day's words." If unexpected events arise, it will be difficult to respond quickly and the consequences could be serious. I hope you will treat this matter with caution." Ancient words say: "If one wishes to take something, one must first give it." I hope you will carefully consider this." Jin Zhá and Mu Zuò said: "General Dou, above: Madam's doubts seem quite reasonable. Why should we two cause such unnecessary complications here? We shall take our leave now." After Jin Zhá and Mu Zuò finished speaking, they turned around and left. Dou Rong grabbed hold of Jin Zhá and Mu Zhuó and said: "Masters, please do not be offended. My wife is a woman, but she is also skilled in military strategy and well-versed in the art of war. She does not know that you are sincerely serving Zhou, but regards you as a Daoist sorcerer and fears deception. Please do not be angry with me, masters; allow this unworthy one to apologize. On the day we defeat the enemy, I shall certainly repay you handsomely." Jinzha spoke solemnly: "My sincere devotion to Zhou is known only to Heaven and Earth. Now that Madam suspects us, if my brother and I were to leave lightly, it would be difficult for the old general's warm-heartedness toward us. We shall wait until tomorrow when we capture Jiang Wenhuan; only then will you know our sincere devotion." --I fear, however, that Madam may not live to see this day." Madam could not help but feel ashamed and retreated. Dou Rong discussed with Jinzha: "I wonder, Master, what method you will use tomorrow to capture this rebellious minister so as to dispel doubts and satisfy the people's hearts?" Jinzha said: "Tomorrow, when we meet in battle, I shall invoke my treasure; naturally, Jiang Wenhuan will be captured at once. Once Wenhuan is captured, the rest of his followers will surely disintegrate. Then we shall proceed to Mengjin to join forces and capture Jiang Ziya, which would resolve the armies of the feudal lords." Dou Rong was greatly pleased upon hearing this and returned to his private quarters for rest. Jin Zhá and Mu Zhuā sat in meditation on the hall. Just before the second watch, they heard a great commotion of cannon fire outside the pass, shouts and cries echoing through the sky. The sound of drums and gongs filled the air as troops attacked beneath the gate, setting up cannons to launch assaults. A central army officer entered the mansion, struck a wooden clapper, and urgently reported to Dou Rong. Dou Rong hurriedly left the hall, gathered his generals on the pass, and Madam Chedi Niangzi came out fully armed with a sword in hand. Jinzha said to Dou Rong: "Now Jiang Wenhuan, relying on his bravery, has led troops at night to attack the city, catching us by surprise. We should take advantage of this situation and go out together to ambush them. Let me use my treasure to capture him; with one battle, we can achieve victory and report success early." Madam, you should stay in the city with my Daoist brother and carefully defend it, so that no unexpected events occur." After hearing this, Madam readily agreed: "The sage's words are very reasonable. I shall stay here with this one to guard the pass; you and this one go out to fight the enemy." I shall personally manage affairs on the city walls. With such a dark night, we can surely achieve success." Indeed: Wenhuan attacks the pass and returns to Yuwang; Jinzha devises a plan to destroy Chengtang.

话说窦荣听金吒之言，整点众将士，方欲出关，有夫人又言曰：“夤夜交兵，须要谨慎，毋得贪战，务要见机，不得落他圈套。将军谨记，谨记！”──看官：这是彻地夫人留心防关，恐二位道者有变，故此叮咛嘱付耳。──金吒见夫人言语真切，乃以目送情与木吒。木吒已解其意，只在临机应变而已，亦以目两相关会，随同彻地夫人在关上驻札防卫。只见窦荣开关，把人马冲出，窦荣在旗门脚下见姜文焕滚至军前，窦荣大喝曰：“反臣！今日合该休矣！”姜文焕也不答话，仗手中刀直取窦荣。窦荣以手中刀赴面交还。二马相交，双刀并举。怎见得，有诗赞之，诗曰： 杀气腾腾烛九天，将军血战苦相煎。扶王碧血垂千古，为国丹心勒万年。文焕归周扶帝业，窦荣尽节丧黄泉。谁知运际风云会，八百昌期兆已先。

Now, when Dou Rong heard Jinzha's words, he gathered his troops and was about to leave the pass. Madam spoke again: "Fighting in the dead of night must be done with caution; do not become greedy for battle. Always observe the situation carefully and avoid falling into their trap. General, remember this well!" --Reader: This was Madam Chedi's careful attention to guarding the pass, for she feared that the two Daoists might change their intentions; thus, she gave these detailed instructions. --Jinzha saw how sincere Madam's words were and exchanged a meaningful glance with Muzha. Mu Zhá understood the implication and was prepared to act accordingly. He also exchanged a glance with Jinzha, then joined Madam Chedi on the pass to take up defensive positions. Dou Rong opened the gate and led his troops out. As he stood beneath the banner, he saw Jiang Wenhuan rushing forward to the front of the army. Dou Rong shouted angrily: "Traitor! Today is your day of reckoning!" Jiang Wenhuan did not reply and charged straight at Dou Rong with his sword. Dou Rong met the attack head-on with his own blade. Their horses clashed, and both raised their swords in fierce combat. How was the battle? A poem praises it, saying: The killing aura rises to illuminate nine heavens; the general fights with blood and bitter struggle. The loyal king's crimson blood will be remembered for a thousand years, his red heart of devotion etched in history for ten thousand years. Wenhuan returns to Zhou and supports the imperial cause; Dou Rong gives his life with loyalty, perishing in the netherworld. Who could have known that fate would bring together this meeting of wind and clouds, heralding the eight hundred years of prosperity to come?

话说窦荣挥动众将，两军混战，只杀得天愁地暗，鬼哭神嚎，刀枪响亮，斧剑齐鸣，喊杀之声振地，灯笼火把如同白昼，人马凶勇似海沸江翻。且言金吒纵步，在军中混战，观见东伯侯带领二百镇诸侯围将上来，金吒急祭起遁龙桩，一声响，先将窦荣遁住。不知老将军性命若何，且听下回分解。

Now, Dou Rong led his generals into battle and the two armies clashed in fierce combat. The battlefield was so intense that it darkened the heavens and made ghosts weep and gods wail. Clashing swords and spears rang out, axes and blades sang together; cries of war shook the earth. Lanterns and torches illuminated the night like daylight, while men and horses fought with ferocity as if the sea boiled and rivers overturned. Meanwhile, Jinzha moved swiftly through the battlefield. Amidst the chaos of battle, he spotted Dongbo Hou leading two hundred feudal lords closing in on them. Jinzha quickly invoked the Dunlong Zhuang (Dragon-escaping Stake), and with a loud sound, first trapped Dou Rong within its power. What happened to the old general's life? Stay tuned for the next episode.