Chapter 94: Jiang Wenhua's Anger Leads to Yin Pobai's Execution

诗曰： 兵马临城却讲和，诸侯岂肯罢干戈。殷汤德业八荒尽；周武仁风四海歌。 大厦将倾谁可负，溃痈已破孰能荷！荒淫到底成何事，尽付东流入海波。

The poem says: When troops and horses approach the city yet peace is discussed, would feudal lords really be willing to cease hostilities? Yin Tang's virtue and achievements extend throughout all directions; The benevolence of King Wu of Zhou is sung across the four seas. When a great hall is about to collapse, who can bear its weight? When an abscess has already burst, who can support it! Excessive indulgence and debauchery in the end accomplish nothing; all is left to flow eastward into the sea's waves.

话说金吒祭起遁龙桩，将窦荣遁住，早被姜文焕一刀挥为两段。可怜守关二十年，身经数百战，善守关防，不曾失利，今日被金吒智取杀身！正是： 争名树业随流水，为国孤忠若浪萍。

It was said that Jinzha raised up the Dunlong Zhuang, trapping Dou Rong with it. Early on, Jiang Wenhuan cut him in two with a single stroke of his sword. Pitifully, he had guarded the pass for twenty years, enduring hundreds of battles. Skilled in defending the pass, he had never suffered a defeat. Today, however, he was killed by Jinzha's stratagem! Indeed: Striving for fame and building achievements follow the flowing water; serving the nation with lonely loyalty is like a drifting duckweed.

话说姜文焕斩了窦荣，三军呐喊。只见木吒在关上见东伯侯率领诸侯鏖战，声势大振，在城敌楼上暗暗祭起吴钩剑去，此剑升于空中，木吒暗曰：“请宝贝转身！”那剑在空中如风轮一般，连转二转，可怜彻地夫人，正是： 油头粉面成虚话，广智多谋一旦休。

It was said that after Jiang Wenhuan beheaded Dou Rong, the three armies shouted in unison. They saw Muzha on the pass, observing as Dongbo Hou led the feudal lords in fierce battle, greatly boosting their momentum. From a watchtower at the city wall, Muzha secretly raised up the Wugou sword; this sword rose into the air, and Muzha whispered softly, "Please turn around, precious treasure!" That sword in the air spun like a wheel of wind, turning twice. Poor Chedi Fu Ren; indeed: Her powdered face and oiled hair turned out to be empty words; her extensive wisdom and strategies came to an end in an instant.

话说木吒暗祭吴钩剑，斩了彻地夫人，在关上大呼曰：“吾是木吒在此；奉姜元帅将令，来取此关。今主将皆已伏诛，降者免死，逆者无生！”众皆拜伏于地。金吒已知兄弟献关，同东伯侯姜文焕杀至关下。木吒令左右开关迎接。人马进了关，姜文焕查盘府库，安抚百姓，放了被禁马兆，感谢金、木二吒。金吒曰：“贤侯速行；吾等先往孟津，报与姜元帅。贤侯不可迟误戊午之辰，以应上天垂象之兆。”姜文焕曰：“谨如二位师父大教。”金、木二吒辞了姜文焕，驾土遁往孟津前来。且说子牙在孟津大营，与二路大诸侯共议：“三月初九日乃是戊午之辰，看看至近，如何东伯侯尚未见来？奈何！奈何！”正商议间，忽报：“金、木二吒在辕门等令。”子牙传令：“令来。”金、木二吒来至中军行礼毕，乃曰：“奉元帅将令，往游魂关，诈为云游之士，乘机取关。”把前事如此如彼尽说了一遍，“今弟子先来报与元帅，东伯侯大兵随后至矣。”子牙闻说大喜，深羡二人用计，乃曰：“天意响应，不到戊午日，天下诸侯不能齐集。”

It was said that Muzha secretly invoked the Wugou sword, beheading Chedi Fu Ren. From atop the pass he loudly called out, "I am Muzha here; I have come under orders from General Jiang to capture this pass." Now the main commanders have all been executed. Those who surrender will be spared death, but those who resist shall perish!" The crowd prostrated themselves on the ground in submission. Jinzha, having learned that his brother had surrendered the pass, joined Dongbo Hou Jiang Wenhuan and attacked down to the base of the pass. Muzha ordered those on either side to open the gate for their reception. The troops and horses entered the pass, and Jiang Wenhuan inspected the treasury, pacified the people, released Ma Zhao who had been detained, and expressed gratitude to Jinzha and Muzha. Jinzha said, "My lord, please proceed quickly; we shall go first to Mengjin and report to General Jiang. My lord must not delay the hour of Wuwu, so as to correspond with the omen shown by Heaven's signs." Jiang Wenhuan said, "I shall follow your two masters' great instructions carefully." Jinzha and Muzha bid farewell to Jiang Wenhuan, mounted the earth 遁 (earth 遁 is a type of magical technique), and headed toward Mengjin. Meanwhile, Ziya at the Mengjin headquarters, together with the two major feudal lords, discussed: "The third day of the ninth month is the hour of Wuwu. It has already arrived so soon; how come Dongbo Hou still hasn't appeared? What can be done! What can be done!" While they were still discussing, a sudden report came: "Jinzha and Muzha are waiting for orders at the 辕门 (yuanmen)." Ziya gave an order: "Summon them in." Jinzha and Muzha arrived at the central command, completed their bows, and said: "Under orders from General Ziya, we went to Youhun Pass, pretending to be wandering monks, and seized the pass by taking advantage of an opportunity." They recounted in detail how everything had transpired, "Now the disciples have come first to report to General Ziya; Dongbo Hou's main force will arrive shortly." Ziya, upon hearing this, was greatly pleased and deeply admired the two for their strategy. He said, "Heaven's will is responding; until the hour of Wuwu arrives, all the feudal lords cannot gather together."

话说东伯侯大兵那一日来至孟津。哨马报入中军：“启元帅：东伯侯至辕门等令。”子牙传令：“请来。”姜文焕率领二百镇诸侯进中军，参谒子牙。子牙忙迎下座来。彼此温慰一番。姜文焕又曰：“烦元帅引见武王一面。”子牙同姜文焕进后营，拜见武王。不表。此时天下诸侯共有八百，各处小诸侯不计，共合人马一百六十万。子牙在孟津祭了宝纛旗旛，一声炮响，整人马望朝歌而来。怎见得，有诗为证，诗曰： 征云迷远谷，杀气振遐方。刀枪如积雪，剑戟似堆霜。旌旗遮绿野，金鼓震空桑。刁斗传新令，时雨庆壶浆。军行如骤雨，马走似奔狼。 正是： 吊民伐罪兵戈胜，压碎群凶福祚长。

It was said that on that day, Dongbo Hou's large army arrived at Mengjin. A scout horseman reported into the central command: "Reporting to General Ziya: Dongbo Hou is waiting for orders at yuanmen." Ziya gave an order: "Please bring him in." Jiang Wenhuan led the two hundred feudal lords into the central command and paid respects to Ziya. Ziya hurriedly rose from his seat to welcome him. They exchanged warm words of comfort and reassurance for a while. Jiang Wenhuan added, "I trouble General Ziya to introduce me to King Wu." Ziya and Jiang Wenhuan entered the rear camp together and paid homage to King Wu. No further details are given. At this time, there were a total of eight hundred feudal lords from across the land; not counting the minor feudal lords in various regions, their combined forces totaled one million and sixty thousand troops. Ziya at Mengjin offered sacrifices to the sacred banners, a cannon roared out, and he organized his troops to march toward Chaoguo. How was this? A poem serves as evidence; the poem says: War clouds obscure distant valleys, and killing intent shakes faraway lands. Swords and spears are like accumulated snow, halberds and ji weapons resemble piled frost. Banners and flags obscure the green fields; gongs and drums shake the empty mulberry trees in the sky. Drums and cymbals transmit new orders, while timely rain rejoices over the pot of wine. The army moves like a sudden downpour; horses gallop as if fleeing wolves. Indeed: Lifting up the people and punishing the guilty, arms prevail; crushing all villains brings long-lasting blessings.

话说天下诸侯领人马正行，只见哨马报入中军曰：“启元帅：人马已至朝歌，请元帅军令定夺。”子牙传令：“安下大营。”三军呐喊，放定营大炮。

It was said that as the feudal lords from across the land were leading their troops forward, a scout horseman suddenly reported into the central command: "Reporting to General Ziya: The forces have arrived at Chaoguo. Please give orders, General." Ziya gave an order: "Set up the main camp." The three armies shouted in unison, and the great cannons for setting up the camp were fired.

只见守城军士报入午门，当驾官启奏曰：“今天下诸侯兵至城下，扎下行营，人马共有一百六十万，其锋不可当，请陛下定夺。”纣王听罢大惊，随命众官保驾上城，看天下诸侯人马。怎见得，有赞为证，赞曰： 行营方正，遍地兵山。刁斗传呼，威严整肃。长枪列千条柳叶：短剑排万斤冰鱼。瑞彩飘颻，旗旛色映似朝霞；寒光闪灼，刀斧影射如飞电。竹节鞭悬豹尾，方楞鐧挂龙梢。弓弩排两行秋月；抓锤列数队寒星。鼓进金退，交锋士卒若神威；癸呼庚应，递传粮饷如鬼运。画角幽幽，人声寂寂。真是：堂堂正正之师，吊民伐罪之旅。

They saw the city guards reporting into Wumen, and an attendant to the throne presented a report: "Today, feudal lords from across the land have arrived beneath the city walls, set up their encampments, with troops totaling one million and sixty thousand. Their momentum is unstoppable; please let Your Majesty decide." King Zhou, after hearing this, was greatly shocked. He immediately ordered the officials to escort him onto the city wall to view the feudal lords' troops from across the land. How was this? An ode serves as evidence; it says: The encampment is orderly and square, with mountains of soldiers covering the land. Drums and cymbals echo commands, and authority stands firm and solemn. Long spears line up like thousands of willow leaves; short swords are arranged as if they were ten-thousand-pound ice fish. Radiant colors flutter, and the banners shine like morning clouds at dawn; Cold light flashes, and the shadows of axes and swords flicker like lightning. Bamboo-section whips hang with leopard tails; square-edged gongs are hung with dragon tassels. Crossbows and bows line up like two rows of autumn moons; Spear hammers are arranged in several ranks, shining like cold stars. Drums signal advance and gongs signal retreat; soldiers clashing on the battlefield display divine might; When Gui calls, Geng responds; supplies are relayed like ghostly transport. The painted horn sounds softly, and human voices fall silent. Indeed: a righteous army of upright conduct, an expedition to uplift the people and punish the guilty.

话说纣王看罢子牙行营，忙下城登殿，坐问两班文武，言曰：“方今天下诸侯会兵于此，众卿有何良策以解此危？”鲁仁杰出班奏曰：“臣闻：‘大厦将倾，一木难扶。’目今库藏空虚，民日生怨，军心俱离，总有良将，其如人心未顺何！虽与之战，臣知具不胜也。不若遣一能言之士，陈说君臣大义，顺逆之理，令其罢兵，庶几可解此危。”纣王听罢，沉吟半晌。只见中大夫飞廉出班奏曰：“臣闻：‘重赏之下，必有勇夫。’况都城之内，环堵百里，其中岂无豪杰之士隐踪避迹于其间者，愿陛下急急求之，加以重爵崇禄而显荣之，彼必出死力以解此危。况城中尚有甲兵十数万，粮饷颇足。即不然，令鲁将军督其师，背城一战，雌雄尚在未定之天。岂得骤以讲和示弱耶！”纣王曰：“此言甚是有理。”一面将圣谕张挂榜篷；一面整顿军马。不表。

It was said that after King Zhou had viewed Ziya's encampment, he hurriedly descended from the city wall and ascended to the throne hall. Sitting there, he asked both ranks of civil and military officials: "Now that feudal lords from across the land are gathering their forces here, what good strategies do you ministers have to resolve this crisis?" Lu Renjie stepped forward and presented a report: "Your Majesty, I have heard that 'When a great hall is about to fall, one tree cannot support it.' At present, the treasury is empty and the people are growing resentful day by day; the soldiers' hearts have all turned away. Even if we had capable generals, what can be done when the people's will has not yet aligned with us! Even if we were to fight them, I know for certain that we would not prevail. It is better to send a capable orator who can explain the great principles of ruler and minister, as well as the reasons for submission and resistance, so that they will cease hostilities. Perhaps this might resolve the crisis." King Zhou, after hearing these words, fell into deep thought for a moment. Just then, Zhong Dafu Feilian stepped forward and presented his report: "Your Majesty, I have heard: 'Under generous rewards, there must be brave men.' Moreover, within the capital city's walls, there are hundreds of miles of encircling defenses. Surely among them there must be outstanding heroes hiding their tracks and avoiding attention; I humbly request that Your Majesty urgently seek out such individuals, bestow upon them high ranks and generous salaries to honor them, and they will surely exert themselves to the death in order to resolve this crisis. Moreover, there are still hundreds of thousands of armored troops within the city, and provisions and rations are quite sufficient. Even if not, let General Lu supervise his forces and fight one decisive battle with our backs to the city; whether we win or lose is still uncertain. How can we suddenly show weakness by proposing peace!" King Zhou said, "These words are indeed very reasonable." On one hand, he ordered the imperial decree to be posted on banners and canopies; on the other hand, he prepared his troops. No further details are given.

且说朝歌城外离三十里地方，有一人，姓丁，名策，乃是高明隐士。正在家中闲坐，忽听得周兵来至，围了朝歌，丁策叹曰：“纣王失德，荒淫无道，杀忠听佞，残害生灵，天愁人怨，故贤者退位，奸佞盈廷。今天下诸侯会兵至此，眼见灭国，无人替天子出力，束手待毙而已。平日所以食君之禄，分君之忧者安在！想吾丁策，昔日曾访高贤，传吾兵法，深明战守，意欲出去舒展生平所负，以报君父之恩；其如天命不眷，万姓离心，大厦将倾，一木如何支撑？可怜成汤当日如何德业，拜伊尹，放桀于南巢，相传六百馀年，贤圣之君六七作，今一旦至纣而丧亡，令人目极时艰，不胜嗟叹！”丁策乃作一诗以叹之，诗曰： “伊尹成汤德业优，南巢放桀冠诸侯。谁知三九逢辛纣，一统华夷尽属周。”

Meanwhile, thirty li outside the city of Chaoguo, there was a man surnamed Ding, named Ce; he was a reclusive scholar of high wisdom. While sitting idly at home, he suddenly heard that the Zhou forces had arrived and surrounded Chaoguo. Ding Ce sighed and said: "King Zhou has lost virtue; he is indulgent and lawless, killing loyal ministers while listening to flatterers, harming innocent lives. Heaven mourns and people resent it, so virtuous men have stepped down from office, and villains fill the court. Now feudal lords from across the land gather their forces here; the kingdom is clearly doomed to destruction. No one dares to act on behalf of the Son of Heaven, and we can only wait for death with folded hands. Where are those who in ordinary times accepted the king's salary and shared his burdens! Thinking of myself, Ding Ce: in the past I once visited a great scholar who taught me military strategy. I deeply understand both attack and defense; my intention is to go out now and demonstrate what I have learned all these years, so as to repay the kindness of my sovereign and father. But how can Heaven's will not favor us when all the people have turned away? When a great hall is about to topple, how can one tree alone support it? Pitifully, how great was King Chengtang's virtue and achievement in his day! He honored Yi Yin and exiled Jie to Nanchao. The dynasty passed down for more than six hundred years; there were six or seven virtuous and sage kings. Now it has suddenly perished with the arrival of King Zhou—this is a time of great hardship, truly heartbreaking!" Ding Ce then composed a poem to express his lamentation. The poem says: "Yi Yin's virtue and achievements for King Chengtang were outstanding; exiling Jie to Nanchao, he crowned the feudal lords. Who could have known that in the third year of the ninth cycle we would encounter King Zhou, and all of China and its surrounding peoples would become united under Zhou."

话说丁策作诗方毕，只见大门外有人进来，却是结盟弟兄郭宸。二人相见，施礼坐下。丁策问曰：“贤弟何来？”郭宸答曰：“小弟有一事特来与长兄商议。”丁策曰：“有何事？请贤弟见教。”郭宸曰：“方今天下诸侯都已会集于此，将朝歌围困，天子出有招贤榜文。小弟特请长兄出来，共辅王室。况长兄抱经济之才，知战守之术，一出仕于朝，上可以报效于朝廷，显亲扬名，下不负胸中所学。”丁策笑曰：“贤弟之言虽则有理，但纣王失政，荒淫不道，天下离心，诸侯叛乱，已非一日；如大痈既溃，命亦随之，虽有善者，亦末如之何矣。你我多大学识，敢以一杯之水救车薪之火哉。况姜子牙乃昆仑道德之士，又有这三山五岳门人，徒送了性命，不为可惜耶。”郭宸曰：“兄言差矣！吾辈乃纣王之子民，食其土而践其茅，谁不沐其恩泽，国存与存，国亡与亡，此正当报效之时，便一死何惜，为何说此不智之言。况吾辈堂堂丈夫，一腔热血，不向此处一洒，更何待也。若论俺弟兄胸中所学，讲甚么昆仑之士，理当出去解天子之忧耳。”丁策曰：“贤弟，事关利害，非同小可，岂得造次，再容商量。”二人正辩论间，忽门外马响，有一大汉进来。此人姓董，名忠，慌忙而入。丁策看董忠入来，问曰：“贤弟何来？”董忠曰：“小弟特来请兄同佐纣王，以退周兵。昨日小弟在朝歌城见招贤榜文，小弟大胆将兄名讳连郭兄、小弟，共是三人，齐投入飞廉府内。飞廉且奏纣王，令明早朝见。今特来约兄等明早朝见。古云：‘学成文武艺，货与帝王家。’况君父有难，为臣子者忍坐视之耶？”丁策曰：“贤弟也不问我一声，就将我名字投出去，此事干系重大，岂得草率如此？”董忠曰：“吾料兄必定出身报国，岂是守株待兔之辈！”郭宸欢然大笑曰：“董贤弟所举不差，我正在此劝丁兄，不意你先报了名。”丁策只得治酒管待。三人饮了一宵，次早往朝歌来。正是： 痴心要想成梁栋，天意扶周怎奈何！

It was said that just as Ding Ce had finished composing his poem, someone entered from the front gate. It turned out to be Guo Chen, a sworn brother of his. The two met and bowed to each other before sitting down. Ding Ce asked, "Brother, where have you come from?" Guo Chen replied, "My younger brother has a matter I came especially to discuss with my elder brother." Ding Ce said, "What is the matter? Please enlighten me, my younger brother." Guo Chen said: "Now the feudal lords from across the country have already gathered here and surrounded Chaoguo; the Son of Heaven has issued a notice seeking talented people. My younger brother specially invited my elder brother to come out and assist together in supporting the royal house. Moreover, my elder brother possesses the talent to manage state affairs and knows the art of war and defense. If you were to serve in court, above all it would allow you to contribute to the imperial court, honor your family, and achieve fame; below, it would not be a waste of what you have learned within your heart." Ding Ce smiled and said, "Although your words are reasonable, King Zhou has lost his governance; he is indulgent in vice and lawless. The people have long been disaffected, the feudal lords rebellious—this situation has not developed overnight; It is like a large abscess that has already burst—the life force follows it. Even if there are virtuous people, they can do nothing about it. With how much learning you and I possess, would we dare to try to put out a fire under a cartload of kindling with just one cup of water? Moreover, Jiang Ziya was a moral gentleman from Kunlun and had disciples from the Three Mountains and Five Great Mountains. To send one's life in vain is not worth regretting?" Guo Chen said, "Brother, you are mistaken! We are subjects of King Zhou. We eat from his land and tread upon its soil; who has not been blessed by his grace? When the state exists, we exist with it; when the state perishes, we perish with it. This is precisely the time to offer our service. Even if one must die, what is there to regret? Why say such unwise words? Moreover, we are upright men of integrity with a heart full of passion. If not here, where else should our blood be shed? What more can we wait for? If it comes to what my brother and I have learned in our hearts, who cares about the sages of Kunlun? We should go out and relieve the Son of Heaven's worries." Ding Ce said, "Brother, this matter involves great gains and losses; it is no small affair. How can we be hasty? Let us discuss it further." While the two were debating, suddenly there was a sound of horses outside the door, and a tall man entered. This man's surname was Dong, given name Zhong, who hurriedly came in. Ding Ce saw Dong Zhong enter and asked, "Brother, where are you coming from?" Dong Zhong said: "My younger brother specially came to invite my elder brother to assist King Zhou and repel the troops of Zhou. Yesterday, my younger brother saw the notice seeking talented people in Chaoguo city. My younger brother boldly submitted my elder brother's name along with Brother Guo and myself—three of us altogether—and we all entered together into Feilian's office. Feilian then reported to King Zhou, ordering a court audience the next morning. Now I have specially come to invite you and others for an audience at court tomorrow morning. Ancient saying goes: "After mastering literary and martial skills, sell them to the royal family." Moreover, when a sovereign or father is in trouble, how can subjects or children stand by idly and watch?" Ding Ce said, "Brother didn't even ask me first before submitting my name. This matter is of great importance; how could you be so careless?" Dong Zhong said, "I know my elder brother would certainly leave home to serve the country; you are not one who waits idly for opportunity like a man waiting by a tree stump!" Guo Chen laughed joyfully and said, "Brother Dong's action is not wrong. I was just here persuading Brother Ding; I didn't expect you had already registered first." Ding Ce had no choice but to prepare wine and entertain them. The three of them drank through the night, and early the next morning they went to Chaoguo. It was precisely: With a foolish heart wanting to become beams and pillars, how can one resist Heaven's will in aiding Zhou!

话说丁策三人，次日来至午门候旨。午门官至殿上奏曰：“今有三贤士在午门候旨。”纣王命：“宣三人进殿。”午门官至外面传旨，三人闻命进殿，望驾进礼称“臣”。王曰：“昨飞廉荐卿等高才，三卿必有良策可退周兵，辅朕之社稷，以分朕忧。朕自当分茅列土，以爵卿等。朕决不食言。”丁策奏曰：“臣闻：‘战危事也。圣王不得已而用。’今周兵至此，社稷有累卵之危，我等虽幼习兵书，固知战守之宜，臣等不过尽此心报效于陛下，其成败利钝，非臣等所逆料也。愿陛下敕所司，以供臣等取用，毋令有掣肘之虞。臣等不胜幸甚！”纣王大喜，封丁策为神策上将军；郭宸、董忠为威武上将军，随赐袍带，当殿腰金衣紫，赐宴偏殿。三人谢恩。次早参见鲁仁杰，鲁仁杰调人马出朝歌城来。有词为证，词曰： 御林军卒出朝歌，壮士纷纷击鼓鼍。千里愁云遮日色，数重杀气障山窝。被铠甲，荷干戈，人人踊跃似奔波。诸侯八百皆离纣，枉使儿郎陷网罗。

Now speaking of Ding Ce and the three men, on the next day they arrived at Wumen Gate to await an imperial decree. The official at Wumen Gate went into the hall and reported, "Now there are three talented men waiting for an imperial edict at Wumen Gate." King Zhou ordered: "Summon the three men into the hall." The official at Wumen Gate announced the decree outside. Hearing this, the three men entered the hall and performed court rituals, addressing themselves as "Minister." The king said: "Yesterday Feilian recommended your high talents. Surely the three of you must have good strategies to repel Zhou's troops, assist my state, and share in my burdens. I shall certainly grant you fiefs and titles accordingly." "I will never break my word," said the king. Ding Ce presented his response: "Minister has heard that 'war is a dangerous matter.' It is used only when there is no alternative by a sage king." Now that Zhou's troops have arrived here, the state is in a precarious situation like an egg about to fall. Although we were young and studied military books, and certainly know how to wage war or defend, all we can do is offer our utmost loyalty to Your Majesty. Whether it succeeds or fails, whether it brings profit or loss, is not something we can predict. We humbly request that Your Majesty order the relevant officials to provide whatever resources we need, so as not to leave us in a situation of being hindered. Your ministers would be most grateful!" King Zhou was greatly pleased and appointed Ding Ce as the Shence Shangjiangjun (General of Divine Strategy); Guo Chen and Dong Zhong as Weiwu Shangjiangjun (Generals of Martial Valor), and immediately bestowed robes, sashes, and on the spot they wore golden waistbands and purple robes, being granted a banquet in a side hall. The three men expressed their gratitude. Early the next morning, they paid a visit to Lu Renjie, who then mobilized troops and marched out of Chaoguo city. There is a verse to attest this, which says: Imperial guards march out of Chaoguo, brave warriors strike drums and toads in unison. A thousand miles of sorrowful clouds obscure the sunlight; layers of killing intent block mountain hollows. Armored and armed, each man bears weapons; all rush forward eagerly as if in a race. The eight hundred feudal lords have all abandoned King Zhou, leaving the young men trapped in a web of futility.

话说鲁仁杰调人马出城安营。只见探马报入中军：“启元帅：成汤遣大兵在城外，立下营寨，请令施行。”子牙传令：“命众将出营，至成汤营前搦战。”只见探马报入中军：“有周营大队人马讨战。”鲁仁杰闻报，亲自领众将出辕门，见子牙乘异兽，两边摆列三山五岳门人。只见哪吒登风火轮，提火尖枪，立于左手；杨戬仗三尖刀，淡黄袍，骑白马，立于右手；雷震子、韦护、金吒、木吒、李靖、南宫适、武吉等一班排立；众诸侯济济师师，大是不同。正是： 扶周灭纣姜元帅，五岳三山得道人。

Now speaking of Lu Renjie mobilizing troops and marching out of the city to set up camp. A scout suddenly reported into the central command: "Your Excellency, King Chengtang has sent a large army outside the city and set up camps. Please issue orders for action." Jiang Ziya issued an order: "Command all generals to leave camp and challenge the army of Chengtang before their encampment." A scout suddenly reported into central command: "The Zhou forces have sent a large contingent to challenge us." Upon hearing the report, Lu Renjie personally led his generals out of the 辕门 (yuanmen, gate of a military camp) and saw Jiang Ziya riding an extraordinary beast, with disciples from the Three Mountains and Five Peaks arrayed on both sides. On his left stood Nezha, who rode a Wind-Fire Wheel, held the Fire-Tip Spear in hand, and stood ready. On his right was Yang Jian, wielding a three-pointed knife, wearing a pale yellow robe, riding a white horse, and standing ready; Lei Zhensi, Wei Hu, Jinzha, Muzha, Li Jing, Nangong Shi, Wu Ji and a group of others stood in formation; The feudal lords were gathered together in great numbers, forming an imposing force indeed. It was precisely: Jiang Yushuai supports Zhou and overthrows King Zhou; sages from the Five Great Mountains and Three Sacred Peaks unite.

话说鲁仁杰一马当先，大呼曰：“姜子牙请了！”子牙在四不相上欠背打躬，问曰：“来者是谁？”鲁仁杰道：“吾乃纣王驾下总督兵马大将军鲁仁杰是也。姜子牙，你既是昆仑道德之士，如何不遵王化，构合诸侯，肆行猖獗，以臣伐君，屠城陷邑，诛君杀将，进逼都城，意欲何为？千古之下，安能逃叛逆之名，欺君之罪也！今天子已赦尔往愆，不行深究。尔等速速倒戈，撤回戈马，各安疆土，另行修贡。天子亦以礼相看。如若执迷，那时天子震怒，必亲率六师，定捣其穴，立成虀粉，悔之何及！”子牙笑曰：“你为纣王重臣，为何不察时务，不知兴亡？今纣王罪恶贯盈，人神共怒，天下诸侯会兵驻此，亡在旦夕，子尚欲强言以惑众也。昔日成汤德日隆盛，夏桀暴虐，成汤放于南巢，伐夏而有天下，至今六百馀年。至纣之恶，过于夏桀，吾今奉天征讨而诛独夫，公何得尚执迷如此，以逆天命哉！今天下诸侯会兵在此，止弹丸一城，势如累卵，犹欲以言词相尚，公何不智如此！”鲁仁杰大怒曰：“利口匹夫！吾以你为老成有德之人，故以理相谕，汝犹特强妄谈彼长哉！独不思以臣伐君，遣讥万世耶！”回顾左右曰：“谁为吾擒此逆贼？”后有一将大呼曰：“吾来也！”纵马舞刀，飞来直取子牙。子牙傍有南宫适冲将过来，与郭宸截住厮杀。二马相交，双刀并举。两下擂鼓，杀声大振。丁策在马上也摇枪冲杀过来助战。这壁厢武吉走马抵住交锋。战未有二十馀合，有南伯侯鄂顺飞马直冲过来截杀。那边有董忠敌住。子牙营左边恼了一路诸侯，乃是东伯侯姜文焕，磕开紫骅骝，走马刀劈了董忠，使发钢锋，好凶恶！怎见得好刀，有诗为证，诗曰： 怒发冲冠射碧空，钢刀闪灼快如风。旗开得胜姜文焕，一怒横行劈董忠。

Now speaking of Lu Renjie, he rode ahead first and shouted loudly: "Jiang Ziya, greetings!" From atop his four-legged beast, Jiang Ziya bowed slightly and asked, "Who dares to come?" Lu Renjie said: "I am Lu Renjie, the Grand General in charge of troops under King Zhou's command. Jiang Ziya, since you are a moral gentleman of Kunlun, how could you defy the king's rule, conspire with feudal lords, act recklessly and violently, rebel as a subject against your sovereign, destroy cities and occupy towns, kill kings and generals, and advance toward the capital? What is it that you intend to do?" For all time to come, how could one escape the name of a traitor and the crime of deceiving the sovereign! Now the Son of Heaven has already forgiven your past offenses and will not pursue them further. You must immediately switch sides, withdraw your troops, return to your territories in peace, and resume tribute payments. The Son of Heaven will also treat you with courtesy. If you persist in your delusion, then when the Son of Heaven becomes enraged, he will personally lead his six armies to destroy their lair and reduce them to powder; it will be too late for regret!" Jiang Ziya laughed and said, "You are a high-ranking minister of King Zhou. Why do you not understand the times or know when to rise or fall? Now King Zhou's sins have reached their peak, and both men and gods are enraged. The feudal lords from across the land have gathered troops here; his downfall is imminent. You still dare to speak forcefully in an attempt to mislead the people. In ancient times, King Chengtang's virtue flourished while Xia Jie was cruel and tyrannical. King Chengtang exiled him to Nanchao, overthrew the Xia dynasty, and gained control of the world—a legacy that has lasted for more than six hundred years now. Now King Zhou's wickedness surpasses that of Xia Jie. I now act in accordance with Heaven's will to punish and eliminate this tyrant. How can you still be so stubborn, going against the mandate of Heaven!" Now the feudal lords have gathered their troops here. This is but a small city, and its fate is as fragile as an egg about to fall; yet you still attempt to argue with words. How unwise of you!" Lu Renjie became furious and said, "A shameless man with a silver tongue! I thought you to be an experienced and virtuous person, so I tried to reason with you. Yet you still dare to boast about others' virtues recklessly!" Do you not think that as a subject rebelling against your sovereign, you will be condemned by the world for all time!" Looking around at his men, he said: "Who among you shall capture this traitor for me?" A general from the rear shouted loudly, "I will do it!" He spurred his horse forward, brandished his sword, and charged straight at Jiang Ziya. Beside Jiang Ziya, Nan Gong Shi rushed over to intercept, engaging Guo Chen in fierce combat. The two horses clashed, and the pair of swords were raised together for battle. Drums beat on both sides, and shouts of battle rang out loudly. Ding Ce also charged forward from his horse, wielding a spear to join the fight. On this side, Wu Ji rode up and met him in battle. Before twenty rounds of combat had passed, Duke Nabe Hou E Shun galloped forward to intercept and attack. On the other side, Dong Zhong met him head-on in battle. On the left side of Jiang Ziya's camp, a group of feudal lords became enraged. They were led by Dongbo Hou Jiang Wenhuan, who spurred his purple horse forward and slashed at Dong Zhong with his sword, wielding sharp steel in fierce ferocity! How formidable the blade was—there is a poem to attest, which says: Fury raises hair to pierce the blue sky; the steel sword flashes and cuts as swift as wind. Jiang Wenhuan wins victory at the first flag's raising, in a rage he charges forward to slash Dong Zhong.

话说东伯侯走马刀劈董忠，在成汤阵前，凶如猛虎，恶似豺狼。子牙左右有哪吒大叫曰：“吾等进五关不曾见大功，今日至都城大战，难道束手坐观成败耶！”言罢，随登开风火轮，摇火尖枪，冲杀过来。杨戬也纵马摇刀，直杀过阵内。这壁厢鲁仁杰纵马摇枪敌住。两家混战，只杀得天愁地暗，鬼哭神嚎。哪吒大战丁策，郭宸也来助战。只听得鼓振乾坤，旗遮旭日。哪吒祭起乾坤圈，正中丁策。可怜！正是： 明知昏主倾邦国，冥下含冤怨董忠。

Now speaking of Dongbo Hou, who rode his horse and slashed at Dong Zhong—on the battlefield of Chengtang, he was as fierce as a tiger and as cruel as a wolf. On Jiang Ziya's left and right, Nezha shouted loudly: "We have passed through five gates without achieving great feats. Now we are at the capital for a major battle—how can we sit idly by and watch the outcome!" After saying this, he immediately climbed onto his Wind-Fire Wheel, brandished the Fire-Tip Spear, and charged forward. Yang Jian also spurred his horse forward with sword in hand, charging straight into the enemy ranks. On this side, Lu Renjie rode up and took on the challenge with spear in hand. The two sides engaged in fierce battle, killing so fiercely that it darkened the heavens and earth, causing ghosts to weep and gods to wail. Nezha fought a great battle with Ding Ce, while Guo Chen also came to assist in the fight. One could hear the drums shaking heaven and earth, and banners blocking the rising sun. Nezha summoned up the Qiankun Ring, which struck Ding Ce directly in the center. Pitiful! Indeed: Fully aware that the tyrant ruler has brought ruin to the nation, in the netherworld he bears a grievance and resents Dong Zhong.

话说哪吒打死了丁策，郭宸落荒，被杨戬一刀劈于马下。鲁仁杰料不能取胜，随败进行营。子牙鸣金收军。

Now speaking of Nezha, who killed Ding Ce, Guo Chen fled in disarray and was beheaded by Yang Jian on horseback. Realizing he could not win, Lu Renjie retreated into his camp. Jiang Ziya sounded the gong to recall the troops.

却说鲁仁杰报入城中，连折三将，大败一阵。纣王闻报，心中甚闷，与众臣共议曰：“今周兵驻师城外，兵败将亡，不能取胜，国内无人，为之奈何？”傍有殷破败奏曰：“今社稷有累卵之危，万姓有倒悬之急，朝野无人，旦夕莫待，臣与姜子牙有半面之识，舍死至周营，晓以君臣大义，劝其罢兵，令天下诸侯解释，各安本土，或未可知。如其不然，臣愿骂贼而死。”纣王从其言，使殷破败往周营说之。殷破败领旨出城，来至周营，命左右通报。只见中军官进营，来见子牙，启曰：“成汤差官至营门，请令定夺。”子牙传令：“令来。”殷破败随令而入，进了大营。好齐整！只见两边列坐天下诸侯，中军帐上坐姜子牙。殷破败上帐曰：“姜元帅，末将殷破败甲胄在身，不能全体。”子牙忙欠身言曰：“殷老将军此来有何见谕？”殷破败曰：“末将别元帅已久，不意元帅总六师之长，为诸侯之表率，真荣宠崇耀，令人惊羡！今特来参谒，有一言奉告，但不知元帅肯容纳否？”子牙曰：“老将军有何事见教？但有可听者，无不如命；如不可行者，亦不必言，幸老将军谅之。”子牙命赐坐，殷破败逊谢，坐而言曰：“末将尝闻，天子之尊，上等于天，天可灭乎？又法典所载：‘有违天子之制而擅专征伐者，是为乱臣。乱臣者，杀无赦。有构会群党谋为不轨，犯上无君者，此为逆臣。逆臣者，则族诛。天下人人得而讨之。’昔成汤以至德，沐风栉雨，伐夏以有天下，相传至今，六百馀年，则天下之诸侯、百姓，皆世受国恩，何人不非纣之臣民哉！今不思报本，反倡为乱首，率天下诸侯相为叛乱，残贼生灵，侵王之疆土，覆军杀将，逼王之都城，为乱臣逆臣之尤，罪在不赦。千古之下，欲逃篡弑之名，岂可得乎？末将深为元帅不取也！以末将愚见：元帅当屏退诸侯，各还本国，自修德业，毋令生民涂炭，天子亦不加尔等之罪，惟厥修政事，以乐天年，则天下受无疆之福矣。不识元帅意下如何？”子牙笑曰：“老将军之言差矣！尚闻：‘天下者非一人之天下，乃天下人之天下也。’故天命无常，惟眷有德。昔尧帝有天下而让于舜；虞帝复让于禹；禹相传至桀而荒怠朝政，不修德业，遂坠夏统。成汤以大德得承天命，于是放桀而有天下，传于至今。岂意纣王罪甚于桀，荒淫不道，杀妻诛子，剖贤人之心，炮烙谏官，虿盆宫女，囚奴正士，醢戮大臣，斮朝涉之胫，刳剔孕妇，三纲尽绝，五伦有乖，天怒民怨，自古及今，罪恶昭著未有若此之甚者。语云：‘贼仁者，谓之贼；贼义者，谓之残。残贼之人，谓之一夫。’乃天下所共弃者，又安得谓之君哉！今天下诸侯共伐无道，正为天下洗此凶残，救民于水火耳，实有光于成汤。故奉天之罚者，谓之天吏，岂得尚拘之以臣伐君之名耶？”殷破败见子牙一番言词，凿凿有理，知不可解，自思：“不若明目张胆，慷慨痛言一番，以尽臣节而已。”乃大言曰：“元帅所说，乃一偏之言，岂至公之语！吾闻：君父有过，为臣子者必委曲周旋谏诤之，务引其君于当道；如甚不得已，亦尽心苦谏，虽触君父之怒，或死，或辱，或缄默以去，总不失忠臣孝子之令名。未闻暴君之过，扬父之恶，尚称为臣子者也。元帅以至德称周，以至恶归君，而尚谓之至德者乎？昔汝先王被囚羑里七年，蒙赦归国，愈自修德，以达君父知遇之恩，未闻有一怨言及君。至今天下共以大德称之。不意传之汝君臣，构合天下诸侯，妄称君父之过，大肆猖獗，屠城陷邑，覆军杀将，白骨盈野，碧血成流；致民不聊生，四民废业，天下荒荒，父子不保，夫妻离散；此皆汝等造这等恶业，遗羞先王，得罪于天下后世，虽有孝子慈孙，焉能盖其篡弑之名哉。况我都城，尚有甲兵十馀万，将不下数百员，倘背城一战，胜负尚未可知；汝等岂就藐视天子，妄恃己能耶？”左右诸侯听殷破败之言，俱各大怒。子牙未及回言，只见东伯侯姜文焕带剑上帐，指殷破败大言曰：“汝为国家大臣，不能匡正其君，引之于当道；今已陷之于丧亡，尚不知耻，犹敢鼓唇弄舌于众诸侯之前耶？真狗彘不若，死有馀辜！还不速退，免尔一死！”子牙急止之曰：“两国相争，不禁来使。况为其主，何得与之相争耶？”姜文焕尚有怒色。殷破败被姜文焕数语，骂得勃然大怒，立起骂曰：“汝父构通皇后，谋逆天子，诛之宜也。汝尚不克修德业，以盖父愆，反逞强恃众，肆行叛乱，真逆子有种。吾虽不能为君讨贼，即死为厉鬼，定杀汝等耳！”姜文焕被殷破败之骂，一腔火起，满面烟生，执剑大骂曰：“老匹夫！我思吾父被醢，国母遭害，俱是你这一班贼子播弄国政，欺君罔上，造此祸端！不杀你这老贼，吾父何日得泄此沉冤于地下也！”骂罢，手起一刀，挥为两段。及至子牙止之 已无济矣。众诸侯齐曰：“东伯姜君侯斩此利口匹夫，大快人意！”子牙曰：“不然。殷破败乃天子大臣，彼以礼来讲好，岂得擅行杀戮，反成彼之名也。”姜文焕曰：“这匹夫敢于众诸侯之前鼓唇摇舌，说短论长，又叱辱不才，情殊可恨。若不杀之，心下郁闷。”子牙曰：“事已至此，悔之无及。”命左右将破败之尸抬出，以礼厚葬，打点进兵。不知后事如何，下回分解。

Meanwhile, Lu Renjie reported into the city, having lost three generals and suffered a major defeat in battle. King Zhou, upon hearing the report, was deeply troubled. He gathered with his ministers and said: "Now the troops of Zhou are stationed outside the city; our forces have been defeated and generals lost, we cannot win. There is no one left in the kingdom—what can be done?" Beside him, Yin Pobai presented a report: "Now the state is in imminent danger like eggs stacked precariously, and the people are in desperate straits as if hanging upside down. There is no one capable in court or countryside; we cannot wait even until tomorrow. I once had a brief acquaintance with Jiang Ziya. I am willing to risk my life to go to Zhou's camp, explain the great principle of loyalty between ruler and minister, persuade them to cease hostilities, and advise all feudal lords to reconcile and return peace to their native lands—perhaps there is still hope." If that fails, I am willing to die cursing the traitors." King Zhou followed his suggestion and sent Yin Pobai to Zhou's camp to plead with them. Yin Pobai accepted the imperial order, left the city, and arrived at Zhou's camp, where he ordered his attendants to announce his arrival. Soon a central army officer entered the camp and reported to Jiang Ziya: "An official from Chengtang has arrived at the gate, requesting your decision." Jiang Ziya gave orders: "Bring him in." Yin Pobai entered accordingly and proceeded into the main tent. How orderly! One could see feudal lords from all over the land seated on both sides, while Jiang Ziya sat atop the central tent. Yin Pobai approached the tent and said: "General Jiang, I am Yin Pobai. Clad in armor, I cannot bow fully." Jiang Ziya quickly leaned forward and said: "General Yin, what message do you bring?" Yin Pobai said: "It has been a long time since I last met you, General. I did not expect that you would now lead the six armies and serve as an example to all feudal lords—truly honored and illustrious, it is amazing and enviable!" "I have come especially to pay my respects. I have one word of advice to offer, but I wonder if General would be willing to accept it?" Jiang Ziya said: "General Yin, what is the matter you wish to advise me on?" "If there is anything worth listening to, I shall follow your words without hesitation;" "if it proves unfeasible, you need not say more. I hope General will understand." Jiang Ziya ordered a seat to be given. Yin Pobai modestly declined at first, then sat and said: "I have often heard that the Son of Heaven holds supreme authority, equaling heaven itself—can heaven be destroyed?" "Moreover, according to the law: 'Those who defy the Son of Heaven's decrees and 擅自 wage war are traitorous ministers." "Treasonous ministers must be executed without pardon." "Those who conspire with factions to plot rebellion and defy their sovereign are called rebellious ministers." "As for rebellious ministers, their entire clans shall be executed." "They are to be hunted down and punished by all under heaven.'" "In the past, King Chengtang, with his utmost virtue, braved wind and rain to overthrow Xia and gained dominion over all under heaven. This legacy has been passed down for more than six hundred years. Thus, all feudal lords and common people throughout the land have long benefited from the nation's grace—what person is not a subject of King Zhou?" "Now, without thinking of repaying this origin, you instead lead as the ringleader of rebellion, rallying feudal lords across the land to rise in revolt. You destroy lives and invade the king's territory, defeat armies and kill generals, and threaten the royal capital—this is the height of treachery, a crime that cannot be pardoned." "For all time to come, can you escape the name of usurper and regicide? Is it possible?" "I deeply regret this for General!" "In my humble opinion, General should dismiss the feudal lords and send them back to their own states. Each should cultivate virtue and improve governance, so as not to let the people suffer. The Son of Heaven will then not hold you accountable. If you focus on governing well and enjoy a peaceful life, all under heaven shall receive boundless blessings." "I wonder what General's thoughts are?" Jiang Ziya smiled and said: "General Yin, your words are mistaken!" "I have heard it said: 'The world is not the possession of one person alone; it belongs to all under heaven.'" "Therefore, heavenly mandate is ever-changing and only favors those with virtue." "In the past, Emperor Yao gave up his dominion to Shun;" "Emperor Yu in turn passed it on to Yu;" "the line was passed down until Jie, who neglected court affairs and failed to cultivate virtue. Thus the Xia dynasty fell." "King Chengtang, through great virtue, received the heavenly mandate and overthrew Jie to gain dominion over all under heaven, a legacy passed down until today." "Who could have expected that King Zhou's crimes would surpass even those of Jie? He indulged in debauchery, acted without morality, killed his wife and executed his son, ripped out the hearts of virtuous men, roasted officials who advised him with fire, placed palace ladies into scorpion pots, imprisoned righteous scholars as slaves, minced high-ranking ministers, cut off the legs of travelers crossing fields at dawn, and flayed pregnant women. He utterly destroyed the Three Bonds and violated the Five Relationships. Heaven was enraged and the people were resentful. From ancient times to today, no one has committed such glaring evils as this." "As the saying goes: 'He who steals benevolence is called a thief;" "He who steals righteousness is called cruel.'" "Those who are thieves and cruel are known as a 'despised tyrant.'" Such a person is despised by all under heaven—how can he still be called a ruler!" "Now, the feudal lords of all under heaven jointly rise against tyranny and injustice. This is to cleanse this cruelty from the world and rescue the people from water and fire—it truly honors King Chengtang." "Therefore, those who carry out heavenly punishment are called 'heavenly officials.' How can they still be bound by the name of a minister waging war against his sovereign?" Yin Pobai, upon hearing Jiang Ziya's well-reasoned words, realized he could not dissuade him. Thinking to himself: "I might as well speak boldly and passionately, expressing my loyalty as a minister." He then spoke loudly: "General's words are one-sided; they cannot be called impartial!" "I have heard: when a sovereign or father is in error, as a subject or child one must advise and remonstrate with tact and patience, striving to guide the ruler back onto the right path;" "if absolutely unavoidable, one must still advise with utmost sincerity. Even if it provokes the ruler or father's anger, resulting in death, disgrace, or silence and departure, one will not lose the noble name of a loyal minister or filial son." "I have never heard that exposing a tyrant's faults and publicizing a father's evils can still be considered the conduct of a subject or child." "General praises Zhou with utmost virtue and attributes ultimate wickedness to the sovereign. Can this still be called 'utmost virtue'?" "In the past, your ancestor was imprisoned in Youli for seven years. After being pardoned and returning to his state, he cultivated virtue even more diligently, fulfilling the kindness of his sovereign and father—never uttering a single word of complaint against him." "Thus today, all under heaven praise him for great virtue." "I did not expect that this virtue would be passed down to you, General and your ministers. You have conspired with feudal lords across the land, falsely accusing your sovereign and father of faults, acting recklessly in open rebellion, sacking cities and capturing towns, defeating armies and killing generals—white bones litter the fields, and rivers run red with blood;" "causing people to lose all hope of survival. Farmers, artisans, merchants, and scholars abandon their trades; the land lies desolate. Fathers cannot protect sons, and husbands and wives are separated;" "this is all due to the evil deeds you have committed, bringing shame upon your ancestors and offending people of today and future generations. Even if there are filial sons or kind descendants, how could they ever cover up the name of usurpation and regicide?" "Moreover, our capital still has over 100,000 troops and hundreds of generals. If we fight a decisive battle behind the city walls, victory or defeat is yet uncertain;" "how can you dare to look down upon the Son of Heaven and recklessly rely on your own abilities?" The feudal lords present all became greatly enraged upon hearing Yin Pobai's words. Jiang Ziya had not yet replied when suddenly Dongbo Hou Jiang Wenhua, sword in hand, ascended the tent and pointed at Yin Pobai, loudly declaring: "You are a high-ranking minister of the state. You failed to correct your sovereign or guide him onto the right path;" "now you have led the nation to ruin, yet you do not know shame. How dare you still twist your words and speak falsely before all these feudal lords?" "You are worse than a dog or pig—your death would be insufficient to atone for your crimes!" "Leave immediately, or I will not spare you from death!" Jiang Ziya hurriedly stopped him and said: "In a conflict between two states, envoys must be allowed to pass unimpeded." "Moreover, he is here for his sovereign. How can we quarrel with him?" Jiang Wenhua still wore an angry expression. Yin Pobai, after being scolded by Jiang Wenhua's words, became furious and immediately stood up to curse: "Your father conspired with the empress dowager to plot against the Son of Heaven. His execution was just." "You have not yet cultivated virtue or improved governance to atone for your father's sins, but instead rely on strength and numbers to openly rebel—truly a rebellious son of a rebellious line." "Even if I cannot serve the sovereign in life, as a vengeful ghost after death, I will surely kill you all!" Jiang Wenhua, upon hearing Yin Pobai's curses, was filled with rage and fury. Clutching his sword, he shouted: "Old rascal!" "I think of my father minced to death, and our queen mother murdered—this is all because of you villains who meddled in state affairs, deceived the sovereign, and caused this disaster!" "If I do not kill you old traitor, when will my father ever have his deep injustice avenged in the netherworld!" After cursing, he raised his sword and cut Yin Pobai into two halves with one stroke. By the time Jiang Ziya tried to stop him, it was already too late. The feudal lords all exclaimed: "Lord Dongbo Jiang has beheaded this eloquent rascal—this is most satisfying!" Jiang Ziya said: "Not so." "Yin Pobai was a high minister of the Son of Heaven. He came here with courtesy to seek peace—how could we take it upon ourselves to kill him? This only strengthens their cause." Jiang Wenhua said: "This rascal dared to speak eloquently and criticize freely before all the feudal lords, and even insulted me. His actions are deeply hateful." "If I do not kill him, my heart will remain troubled." Jiang Ziya said: "Matters have reached this point; regret is now too late." He ordered his attendants to carry Yin Pobai's body out and give him a respectful burial, then made preparations to advance the troops. What will happen next? Stay tuned for the following chapter.