Chapter 57: Xu Ning Teaches the Use of the Hook-Lance; Song Jiang Smashes the Chain-Linked Horse Formation

In the fifty-seventh chapter, Xu Ning teaches the use of the hook-and-sickle spear, and Song Jiang greatly defeats the linked cavalry.

It is said that Chao Gai, Song Jiang, Wu Yong, Gongsun Sheng, and the other chieftains were gathered in the Hall of Righteousness, inviting Xu Ning to teach the techniques of the "hook-and-sickle spear." When the crowd looked at Xu Ning, he was indeed a man of fine appearance, six feet five or six inches tall, with a round white face, three slender strands of black beard, a thick waist, and broad shoulders. There was once a poem to the tune of "Moon over the West River" that described Xu Ning's appearance:

Strong-armed, he draws his bow with accuracy; light and agile, he mounts his horse as if flying. Curved like two resting silkworms are his brows, like a phoenix dancing in flight. His battle armor is fine, pierced with willow-leaf patterns; his black headband is worn askew with a flower sprig. He often accompanies the emperor's carriage, serving in the palace; the spearman Xu Ning is unmatched by any.

At that moment, Xu Ning finished selecting the soldiers, then descended from the Hall of Righteousness, took up a hook-and-sickle spear, and demonstrated it himself once. The crowd saw it and cheered. Xu Ning then taught the assembled soldiers, saying, "Whenever this weapon is used on horseback, the power starts from the waist and hips. There are seven upper routes, three hooks and four parries, one thrust and one split, making nine variations in total. If used on foot with this hook-and-sickle spear, it is also most effective. First, use eight steps and four parries to open the gate; then one change at twelve steps, a great turn at sixteen steps. Separate the hook-sickle thrust and drive; at twenty-four steps, shift up and down, hook east and parry west; at thirty-six steps, cover and protect the whole body, overcoming the strong and tough. This is the true method of the hook-and-sickle spear. There is a verse as proof: 'Four parries and three hooks connect seven routes, divided into nine variations, fitting the divine plan. Twenty-four steps shift forward and back, and sixteen turns make a great encirclement.'" Xu Ning demonstrated the true method step by step, showing it to the chieftains for their viewing. The soldiers, seeing Xu Ning wield the hook-and-sickle spear, were all delighted. From that day on, they selected the most elite and robust men and trained day and night. He also taught the infantry to hide in the reeds and grass, using the secret method of hooking the horse's legs and pulling its fetlocks from the lower three routes. In less than half a month, he trained five to seven hundred men from the stronghold. Song Jiang and the chieftains saw this and were overjoyed, preparing to break the enemy.

Now, as for Huyan Zhuo, ever since he lost Peng Qi and Ling Zhen, he daily led his cavalry to the water's edge to challenge the enemy. The stronghold only ordered the water chieftains to firmly guard every beachhead, with underwater stakes driven deep. Although Huyan Zhuo went on patrols to the south and north of the mountain, he could never reach the edge of the stronghold. Liangshan Marsh then had Ling Zhen manufacture various types of cannons, setting a date and time to descend the mountain and face the enemy. The soldiers learning to use the hook-and-sickle spear had all completed their training. Song Jiang said, "I have a humble opinion, but I don't know if it agrees with your intentions." Wu Yong replied, "I would like to hear the general idea." Song Jiang said, "Tomorrow, we will not use a single cavalry horse; the chieftains will all fight on foot. According to Sunzi and Wu Qi's military methods, this is advantageous in forested and swampy terrain. Now we will send the infantry down the mountain, divided into ten squads to lure the enemy. As soon as you see the cavalry charge, all run wildly into the reeds and thorny thickets. First, have the hook-and-sickle spear soldiers ambush there, with every ten skilled in the hook-and-sickle spear interspersed with ten grappling-hook men. As soon as the horses arrive, stir them up and hook them over, then use the grappling hooks to seize and capture them. On level ground and narrow paths, also set such ambushes. How does this plan seem?" Wu the Strategist said, "This is precisely how to conceal troops and capture generals." Xu Ning said, "The hook-and-sickle spear and grappling hooks are exactly suited for this method."

That day, Song Jiang divided the infantry into ten squads: Liu Tang and Du Qian led one squad; Mu Hong and Mu Chun led one squad; Yang Xiong and Tao Zongwang led one squad; Zhu Tong and Deng Fei led one squad; Xie Zhen and Xie Bao led one squad; Zou Yuan and Zou Run led one squad; One-Length Green and Wang the Short Tiger led one squad; Xue Yong and Ma Lin led one squad; Yan Shun and Zheng Tianshou led one squad; Yang Lin and Li Yun led one squad. These ten squads of infantry were to descend the mountain first to lure the enemy. Then he dispatched Li Jun, Zhang Heng, Zhang Shun, the three Ruan brothers, Tong Wei, Tong Meng, and Meng Kang—nine water chieftains—to take war boats and provide support. He also ordered Hua Rong, Qin Ming, Li Ying, Chai Jin, Sun Li, and Ou Peng—six chieftains—to ride horses and lead troops, only challenging the enemy at the mountain's edge. Ling Zhen and Du Xing were specifically in charge of firing signal cannons. He set Xu Ning and Tang Long to direct and lead the hook-and-sickle spear soldiers. The central army was commanded by Song Jiang, Wu Yong, Gongsun Sheng, Dai Zong, Lü Fang, and Guo Sheng, controlling the troops and issuing orders. The remaining chieftains each guarded their own camps.

Once Song Jiang's deployments were settled, at the third watch that night, he first ferried the hook-and-sickle spear soldiers across the river, sending them to hide in ambush at various points. At the fourth watch, he ferried the ten squads of infantry across. Ling Zhen and Du Xing ferried the wind-and-fire cannons over, set them up on high ground, erected cannon platforms, and placed the cannons. Xu Ning and Tang Long each took signal banners and crossed the water. At daybreak, Song Jiang held the central army in position, beating drums, shouting, and waving flags across the water. Huyan Zhuo was in his central army tent when he heard the scouts report. He ordered the vanguard Han Tao to go out first on patrol. Then he immediately had the linked armor horses bridled. Huyan Zhuo fully armed himself, mounted his snow-kicking black steed, wielded his pair of steel rods, and drove his chariot and troops at full speed toward Liangshan Marsh. Looking across the water and seeing Song Jiang leading a large force, Huyan Zhuo ordered the cavalry to deploy. Vanguard Han Tao came to consult with Huyan Zhuo, saying, "To the due south, there is a squad of infantry. I wonder how many there are?" Huyan Zhuo replied, "Don't ask about the number; just charge through with the linked horses!" Han Tao led five hundred cavalry and sped out on patrol. Then he saw another squad of troops rise up to the southeast. Just as he was about to divide his forces to scout, he saw yet another squad with banners and flags to the southwest, shouting and waving. Han Tao led his troops back again and said to Huyan Zhuo, "To the south, there are three squads of bandits, all under the banner of Liangshan Marsh." Huyan Zhuo said, "These scoundrels haven't come out to fight for so long; they must have a plan." Before he finished speaking, a cannon sounded from the north. Huyan Zhuo cursed, "That cannon must be Ling Zhen, who has turned traitor and is letting them fire it." The crowd looked south, only to see three more squads with banners rise up to the north. Huyan Zhuo said to Han Tao, "This must be the bandits' trick. You and I will split our forces into two routes: I will attack the northern troops, and you will attack the southern troops." Just as they were about to divide their forces, they saw four more squads of troops rise up to the west. Huyan Zhuo's heart grew panicked. Then they heard a series of linked cannon blasts from due north, echoing all the way to the earthen slope. One mother cannon was surrounded by forty-nine child cannons, called "mother-and-child cannons." Where they sounded, the wind raged fiercely. Huyan Zhuo's troops, without even fighting, fell into chaos. He and Han Tao hastily each led their cavalry and infantry, charging in all directions. The ten squads of infantry chased east and fled east, chased west and fled west. Huyan Zhuo saw this and was enraged, leading his troops northward in a charge. Song Jiang's troops all fled wildly into the reeds. Huyan Zhuo drove the linked horses forward at full speed, rolling across the ground like a carpet. The armored horses all ran together, unable to be restrained, charging into the withered reeds, broken rushes, dry grass, and desolate woods. Suddenly, they heard a whistle sound from within, and the hook-and-sickle spears were raised all at once. First, they hooked the legs of the horses on both sides; the armored horses in the middle then began to rear and roar. The grappling-hook soldiers seized them all at once, binding people continuously in the reeds. Huyan Zhuo, seeing that he had fallen into the hook-and-sickle spear trap, reined his horse and turned south to catch up with Han Tao. Behind him, the wind-and-fire cannons rained down from above. On this side and that, over the hills and plains, the infantry were pursuing relentlessly. The linked armor horses led by Han Tao and Huyan Zhuo were all mired in the wild grass and reeds, completely captured. The two realized they had fallen into a trap. They spurred their horses to search in all directions for a way to break through and flee. But on several roads, the banners of Liangshan Marsh were lined up like a hemp forest, so they dared not take those paths. They headed straight northwest. After traveling less than five or six li, a squad of strong men emerged, blocking the way, led by two heroes: one was "The Unstoppable" Mu Hong, and the other was "The Lesser Unstoppable" Mu Chun. They brandished their two long swords and shouted, "Defeated general, don't run!" Huyan Zhuo, furious, twirled his pair of steel rods, spurred his horse, and charged straight at Mu Hong and Mu Chun. After a few exchanges of four or five moves, Mu Chun fled. Huyan Zhuo, fearing another trap, did not pursue but headed north on the main road. From under a hillside, another squad of strong men emerged, blocking the way, led by two heroes: one was "Double-Headed Snake" Xie Zhen, and the other was "Twin-Tailed Scorpion" Xie Bao. Each held a steel trident and charged forward. Huyan Zhuo twirled his rods to fight the two. After no more than five or seven exchanges, Xie Zhen and Xie Bao turned and fled. Huyan Zhuo pursued them less than half a li when twenty-four hook-and-sickle spears emerged from both sides, rolling in across the ground. Huyan Zhuo had no heart for battle. He turned his horse and fled northeast on the main road, only to run into Wang the Short Tiger and his wife One-Length Green, who blocked his path. Seeing the uneven terrain and the thorns and brambles all around, Huyan Zhuo spurred his horse and waved his rods, cutting a path through, charging straight ahead. Wang the Short Tiger and One-Length Green chased him for a while but could not catch up. Huyan Zhuo fled northeast on his own. The battle was a great defeat, scattered like rain and stars. There is a poem as proof:

Ten squads of troops shook the earth as they came;

The snow-kicking black steed fled before the wind.

The linked horses were all broken by the hook-and-sickle,

Leaving only the pair of rods to escape beyond the nine heavens.

So Song Jiang sounded the gong to recall the troops and returned to the stronghold, where each person claimed merit and received rewards. Of those three thousand linked-armor cavalry horses, half were knocked down by the hook-and-sickle spears, their hooves injured and armor stripped off, and they were taken as meat horses for consumption; the rest were mostly fine horses, led back to the mountain to be fed and used as mounts. The armored soldiers were all captured alive and brought up the mountain. The five thousand infantry, surrounded tightly on three sides, some fled toward the central army but were dragged down by the hook-and-sickle spears and captured; those who escaped toward the water were all surrounded by the water force leaders, taken onto boats, pulled across the shore, and detained on the mountain. The horses previously seized and the soldiers taken captive were all recaptured and brought back to the stockade. Huyan Zhuo’s camp barriers were entirely dismantled, and small stockades were built by the water’s edge at the lake, along with two more lookout taverns and houses for other purposes, and Sun Xin, Gu Dasao, Shi Yong, and Shi Qian were again sent to operate the two establishments. Liu Tang and Du Qian captured Han Tao, bound him, and brought him to the stronghold. When Song Jiang saw him, he personally untied his ropes, invited him up to the hall, treated him with courtesy in conversation, hosted a banquet, and had Peng Qi and Ling Zhen urge him to join their ranks. Han Tao was also among the number of the Seventy-Two Evil Stars, and naturally they were of like mind, so he became a chieftain on Mount Liang. Song Jiang then ordered a letter written and sent someone to Chenzhou to fetch Han Tao’s family to the stronghold for reunion. Overjoyed at breaking the linked-armor cavalry and gaining many horses, armor, helmets, and weapons, Song Jiang held feasts daily to celebrate. He also redeployed various outposts to guard against government troops, but let us set that aside for now.

As for Huyan Zhuo, having lost many government officers and men, he dared not return to the capital. Alone, riding his steed, the Black Snowflake, with his armor tied to the horse, he fled along the road, but had no traveling money. He unfastened his gold-inlaid belt, sold it for funds, and mused on the road: “Who would have thought I’d end up in such a state today? Where should I go to seek refuge?” Suddenly he recalled: “Prefect Murong of Qingzhou once had a passing acquaintance with me. Why not go there to seek his shelter, and through him work on Consort Murong’s connections? Then I can bring troops again to avenge this defeat without delay.”

After traveling for two days, he grew hungry and thirsty that evening. Seeing a village tavern by the roadside, Huyan Zhuo dismounted and tied his horse to a tree in front of the door. Entering the tavern, he placed his whip on the table, sat down, and called for the waiter to bring wine and meat to eat. The waiter said, “Sir, this humble place only sells wine. For meat, the village has just slaughtered a sheep; if you want some, I’ll go buy it for you.” Huyan Zhuo untied his waist pouch, took out some small silver pieces from the belt sale, and handed them to the waiter, saying, “You go buy me a leg of lamb to cook, and also prepare fodder to feed my horse. I’ll stay here tonight, and tomorrow I’ll head straight to Qingzhou Prefecture.” The waiter replied, “Sir, staying here is no problem, but we have no good bedding.” Huyan Zhuo said, “I’m a military man; as long as there’s a place to rest, that’s fine.” The waiter took the silver and went to buy the lamb. Huyan Zhuo took down the armor from the horse’s back, loosened the bellyband, and sat by the door. After a while, he saw the waiter return carrying a leg of lamb. Huyan Zhuo told him to cook it, bring three catties of flour to make flatbread, and pour two measures of wine. The waiter, while cooking the meat and making the bread, also heated water for Huyan Zhuo to wash his feet, then led the horse to a small shed behind the house. As the waiter chopped fodder and boiled feed, Huyan Zhuo first had some hot wine to drink. Soon the meat was cooked, and Huyan Zhuo called the waiter, giving him some wine and meat as well, and instructed him: “I am a government military officer. Because I failed in suppressing the bandits at Mount Liang, I’m going to Qingzhou to see Prefect Murong. Take good care of this horse for me—this is a gift from the current emperor, named the Black Snowflake. Tomorrow I’ll reward you handsomely.” The waiter said, “Thank you, sir. But there’s one thing I must tell you: not far from here is a mountain called Peach Blossom Mountain. On that mountain, there’s a band of outlaws, led by Li Zhong, the Tiger-Killing General, and the second-in-command is Zhou Tong, the Little Overlord. They have five to seven hundred underlings, robbing homes and plundering, often harassing the villages. The authorities have repeatedly sent troops to capture them but failed. Sir, you must be careful and stay alert tonight.” Huyan Zhuo said, “I have the strength to withstand ten thousand men. Even if that whole gang comes, what can they do! Just take good care of my horse.” After eating and drinking his fill of wine, meat, and bread, the waiter set up a sleeping place in the tavern and settled Huyan Zhuo for the night. Partly because he had been distressed for days, and partly because he had drunk a few extra cups of wine, Huyan Zhuo lay down fully clothed and slept. He did not wake until the third watch, when he heard the waiter in the back crying out in distress. Huyan Zhuo heard this, leaped up immediately, grabbed his pair of spears, and went to the back, asking, “Why are you crying out?” The waiter said, “I got up to add fodder and saw the fence had been pushed over. Someone has stolen your horse, sir. Far off, two or three li away, I can still see torches burning—it must have gone that way.” Huyan Zhuo asked, “Where is that place?” The waiter replied, “That road leads to Peach Blossom Mountain; the little outlaws must have stolen it.” Huyan Zhuo was startled and told the waiter to lead the way. They chased along the field paths for two or three li, but the torches gradually disappeared, and he had no idea where they had gone. Huyan Zhuo said, “If I lose the emperor’s gift horse, what am I to do!” The waiter said, “Sir, tomorrow you must report to the prefecture and have government troops sent to suppress them, then you can recover the horse.”

Deeply disheartened, Huyan Zhuo sat until dawn, then told the waiter to carry his armor and headed straight for Qingzhou. When he reached the city, it was already dark, so he stayed the night at an inn.

The next morning at daybreak, he went directly to the prefectural hall, descended the steps, and paid his respects to Prefect Murong. The prefect was greatly startled and asked, “I heard you were suppressing the bandits at Mount Liang, General. How is it you’ve come here?” Huyan Zhuo had to recount the entire situation as described above. Prefect Murong listened and said, “Even though you lost many men, that is not a crime of negligence. Falling victim to the villains’ tricks is unavoidable. The territory under my jurisdiction has been greatly harassed by bandits. Since you are here, you can first clear out Peach Blossom Mountain and recover that imperial horse. Then, when you have also wiped out the outlaws on Twin Dragon Mountain and White Tiger Mountain, I will do my utmost to recommend you, so you can lead troops again to take your revenge. What do you think?” Huyan Zhuo bowed again and said, “I am deeply grateful for your Excellency’s support. If it is as you say, I swear to serve you to the death!” Prefect Murong had Huyan Zhuo taken to a guest room to rest temporarily, and provided him with clothing, food, and lodging. The waiter who had carried the armor was sent back.

After staying for three days, Huyan Zhuo, eager to recover the imperial horse, reported to the prefect again and requested troops. Prefect Murong then mustered two thousand cavalry and infantry, lent them to Huyan Zhuo, and also gave him a green-maned horse. Huyan Zhuo thanked the prefect, donned his armor, mounted the horse, and led the troops to recover the horse, heading straight for Peach Blossom Mountain.

Meanwhile, on Peach Blossom Mountain, Li Zhong, the Tiger-Killing General, and Zhou Tong, the Little Overlord, had been celebrating daily with wine since acquiring the Black Snowflake steed. That day, a lookout outlaw reported: “Government troops from Qingzhou are coming!” The Little Overlord Zhou Tong stood up and said, “Brother, guard the stronghold. I’ll go repel the government troops.” He mustered a hundred outlaws, grasped his spear, mounted his horse, and descended the mountain to meet the enemy.

Now Huyan Zhuo led his two thousand troops to the foot of the mountain, deployed his formation, and rode forward, shouting sternly: “Vicious bandits, surrender quickly!” The Little Overlord Zhou Tong arrayed his outlaws in a line and rode out, leveling his spear. What was his appearance?

He wore a brocade jacket with round patterns,

Held a green-tasseled spear like flowing water.

His voice was strong, his face broad, his beard like a halberd—

All said Zhou Tong rivaled the Overlord.

When Huyan Zhuo saw Zhou Tong, he spurred his horse forward to fight. Zhou Tong also rode out to meet him. Their horses crossed, and after no more than six or seven exchanges, Zhou Tong’s strength failed him. He turned his horse’s head and fled up the mountain. Huyan Zhuo pursued for a while but, fearing a trap, quickly descended the mountain, set up camp, and waited for another battle.

Zhou Tong returned to the stronghold and, upon seeing Li Zhong, recounted: "Huyan Zhuo's martial skill is formidable; we could not withstand him and had to retreat temporarily back to the mountain. If he pursues us to the stronghold, what shall we do?" Li Zhong said: "I have heard that at the Two Dragon Mountain's Baozhu Temple there is a 'Flowery Monk' Lu Zhishen, with many men under him, and also one called the 'Blue-Faced Beast' Yang Zhi, and a newcomer, the pilgrim Wu Song, all of whom have valor unmatched by ten thousand men. Better to write a letter and send a small chieftain there to seek aid. If we can resolve this crisis, even if we risk our lives to join their great stronghold and pay monthly tribute, it would be fine." Zhou Tong replied: "I, your younger brother, also know there are many heroes there, but I fear that monk remembers the past incident and will not come to our rescue." Li Zhong laughed and said: "He beat you then and took much gold, silver, and wine vessels from us; why would he bear a grudge instead? He is a straightforward and good man. If we send someone to him, he will surely lead troops personally to rescue us." Zhou Tong said: "What you say, elder brother, is reasonable." So he wrote a letter and dispatched two capable small chieftains to go down from the rear mountain and take the road to Two Dragon Mountain.

After traveling two days, they arrived at the foot of the mountain, where the small chieftains there inquired about the details. Now, in the great hall of Baozhu Temple sat three chieftains: the first was the "Flowery Monk" Lu Zhishen, the second was the "Blue-Faced Beast" Yang Zhi, and the third was the pilgrim Wu Song, the Second Lord. Before the mountain gate sat four minor chieftains: one was Shi En, the Golden-Eyed Tiger, originally the son of Superintendent Shi of the Mengzhou prison camp. Because Wu Song had killed the entire family of Commander Zhang, the authorities traced the matter to his home to arrest the murderer, so he fled overnight with his family to the rivers and lakes. Later, both his parents died. Hearing that Wu Song was at Two Dragon Mountain, he fled overnight to join the band. One was Cao Zheng, the Dagger-Wielding Ghost, who had originally joined Lu Zhishen and Yang Zhi in seizing Baozhu Temple, killing Deng Long, and later entered the band. One was Zhang Qing, the "Vegetable Gardener," and one was Sun Erniang, the "Female Yaksha." These were a married couple, originally sellers of human-meat buns at the Crossroads of Mengzhou Road. Because Lu Zhishen and Wu Song had repeatedly sent letters summoning them, they too came to join the band. Cao Zheng, hearing that a letter had arrived from Peach Blossom Mountain, first inquired about the details and then went directly to the hall to report to the three great chieftains. Zhishen then said: "When I left Mount Wutai, I went to a Peach Blossom Village to seek lodging and gave that scoundrel Zhou Tong a sound beating. That fellow Li Zhong then recognized me and invited me up the mountain for a day of drinking, treating me as an elder brother and wanting me to be the stronghold's chief. I saw these wretches were stingy, so I rolled up much of their gold, silver, and wine vessels and left them. Now they come seeking aid; let's see what they have to say. Let that small chieftain come up to the pass."

Cao Zheng went out and soon returned, leading the small chieftain to the foot of the hall. The chieftain made a respectful bow and said: "The Prefect of Qingzhou, Murong, recently took in a defeated commander from the Liangshan Marsh campaign, Huyan Zhuo, who wields a pair of whips. Now Prefect Murong first ordered him to sweep away our strongholds here—Peach Blossom Mountain, Two Dragon Mountain, and White Tiger Mountain—and then lend troops to him to capture Liangshan Marsh in revenge. Our chieftain now wishes to invite the great chieftain, the general, to come down the mountain and rescue us. If all is well tomorrow, we will gladly come to pay tribute."

Yang Zhi said: "We each guard our own strongholds and protect our mountain tops; by rights we should not go to their aid. But I, for one, fear harming the heroes of the rivers and lakes; secondly, I worry that if that fellow takes Peach Blossom Mountain, he will think little of our place here. We can leave Zhang Qing, Sun Erniang, Shi En, and Cao Zheng to guard the stockade, while we three go personally." They immediately mustered five hundred small chieftains and over sixty cavalry horses, each bearing armor and weapons, and set out directly for Peach Blossom Mountain.

Meanwhile, Li Zhong, learning of the news from Two Dragon Mountain, personally led three hundred small chieftains down the mountain to respond. Huyan Zhuo, hearing of this, hastily led his troops to block the road, formed ranks, flourished his whips, and rode out to confront Li Zhong. What was Li Zhong like?

His head was sharp, his bones like a snake's form, in the forest of spears and clubs he alone was famed. The tiger-beating general's heart was bold; Li Zhong's ancestor was born at Baling.

Now, Li Zhong was originally from Dingyuan County in Haozhou; his family had made a living by wielding spears and clubs for generations. Because of his robust build, people called him the Tiger-Beater General. When he came down the mountain to fight Huyan Zhuo, how could Li Zhong match him? After more than ten exchanges, seeing the situation was unfavorable, he parted the weapons and fled. Huyan Zhuo saw his skill was meager, so he spurred his horse and pursued up the mountain. Zhou Tong, the "Little Overlord," was halfway up the mountain and saw this; he hurled down goose-egg-sized stones, and Huyan Zhuo hastily turned his horse and descended. Just then, the government troops shouted in waves, and Huyan Zhuo asked: "Why the shouting?" The rear troops replied: "From a distance, a band of cavalry is seen galloping this way." Hearing this, Huyan Zhuo went to the rear ranks and saw dust rising. At the head was a large, fat monk riding a white horse. Who was that person? Indeed:

Since shaving his head and dwelling in the monastery, he had traveled thousands of miles seeking bold men. His arms bore strength to lift a thousand-pound cauldron; heaven gave him a heart set on killing. He blasphemed the Buddha, shouted at Guan Yin; his monk's knife and staff were cold and grim. He did not read sutras—the "Flowery Monk," the wine-and-meat Buddhist, Lu Zhishen.

Lu Zhishen, on horseback, shouted loudly: "Which defeated scoundrel from Liangshan Marsh dares to come here and frighten people?" Huyan Zhuo said: "I'll kill this bald donkey first to vent my anger!" Lu Zhishen swung his iron staff, and Huyan Zhuo flourished his pair of whips. The two horses met, and both sides shouted. They fought forty or fifty rounds without either gaining the upper hand. Huyan Zhuo silently praised: "This monk is indeed formidable!" Both sides sounded the gongs to withdraw and rest temporarily.

After a short pause, Huyan Zhuo again spurred his horse into the field and shouted: "Come out again, thieving monk, and settle who wins and loses!" Lu Zhishen was about to ride out when, from the side, a hero was angered and called out: "Elder brother, rest a moment; let me go capture this wretch!" That man brandished his knife and rode out. Who was this coming to fight Huyan Zhuo? Indeed:

Once in the capital he was a Commissioner, burdened by the Flower and Stone Tributes. His rainbow-like spirit pressed the stars cold. His blade could pacify the universe, his bow could settle the world. With a tiger's body, wolf's waist, and sturdy ape-like arms, he rode a fine steed firmly in the carved saddle. His heroic fame filled Liangshan. He was called the Blue-Faced Beast; Yang Zhi was of the military class.

At that moment, Yang Zhi rode out to engage Huyan Zhuo. The two fought for over forty rounds without either gaining the upper hand. Huyan Zhuo saw that Yang Zhi's skill was superb and thought: "Where did these two come from? They are incredibly capable—not like the skills of the greenwood!" Yang Zhi also saw that Huyan Zhuo's martial skill was high; he feigned an opening, turned his horse, and galloped back to his own ranks. Huyan Zhuo also reined in his horse and did not pursue. Both sides withdrew their troops. Lu Zhishen then discussed with Yang Zhi, saying: "We have just arrived; it is not advisable to camp too close. Let us retreat twenty li and fight again tomorrow." Leading the small chieftains, they crossed a nearby ridge and set up camp.

Now, Huyan Zhuo, brooding in his tent, thought to himself: "I hoped to smash through here like splitting bamboo and capture these bandits, but who would have thought I'd meet such opponents! My fate is truly so adverse!" Just as he was at a loss, someone arrived from Prefect Murong, summoning him: "The general is ordered to lead the troops back to defend the city. Now, the bandits of White Tiger Mountain, Kong Ming and Kong Liang, are leading men to Qingzhou to seize grain. Fearing a loss to the treasury, I specially sent for the general to return and guard the city." Hearing this, Huyan Zhuo seized this opportunity, led his troops, and returned to Qingzhou overnight.

The next day, Lu Zhishen, Yang Zhi, and Wu Song again led the small chieftains, waving flags and shouting, until they reached the foot of the mountain. When they looked, there was not a single soldier, and they were startled. Li Zhong and Zhou Tong came down the mountain with their men, bowed, and invited the three chieftains up to the stronghold. They slaughtered cattle and horses, feasted them, and meanwhile sent men down the mountain to scout the road ahead for news.

Now let us speak of Huyan Zhuo leading his army back to the city wall, when he saw a troop of horsemen and foot soldiers just arriving at the city’s edge. At their head were Kong Ming, the “Mao Tou Xing” (Comet), and Kong Liang, the “Du Huo Xing” (Lone Spark), sons of Squire Kong from beneath White Tiger Mountain. These two had quarreled with a local rich man, and had killed his entire household, both bond and free. Gathering five to seven hundred men, they had occupied White Tiger Mountain, plundering homes and waylaying travelers. Because their uncle Kong Bin was in Qingzhou city, arrested by Prefect Murong and thrown into prison, Kong Ming and Kong Liang had specifically mustered their mountain’s petty brigands to attack Qingzhou and rescue their uncle Kong Bin. They now ran straight into Huyan Zhuo’s army. The two sides clashed and fought, and Huyan Zhuo rode out to the front of his lines. Prefect Murong watched from the city tower. He saw Kong Ming take the lead, level his spear, and ride straight for Huyan Zhuo. Their horses crossed, and they fought for over twenty rounds. Huyan Zhuo wanted to show off his skill before the prefect, and since Kong Ming’s martial arts were not refined—he could only parry and block—when the fight reached a critical point, Huyan Zhuo captured Kong Ming alive right on horseback. Kong Liang could only lead his brigands in flight. Prefect Murong, pointing from the tower, ordered Huyan Zhuo to pursue with his army. The government troops surged forward and captured over a hundred men alive. Kong Liang was utterly defeated, his men scattering in all directions. By evening, he found an old temple to rest.

Now Huyan Zhuo brought Kong Ming in chains into the city to see Prefect Murong. The prefect was overjoyed and ordered Kong Ming to be put in a heavy cangue and locked into prison, to be held together with Kong Bin. He rewarded the three armies and entertained Huyan Zhuo, asking in detail about the situation at Peach Blossom Mountain. Huyan Zhuo said, “I had thought to catch them like a turtle in a jar, but unexpectedly another band of outlaws came to their rescue. Among them were a monk and a big man with a dark blue face. In two encounters, neither side prevailed. Their martial skills are extraordinary, not the usual kind among outlaws, so I could not capture them.” Prefect Murong said, “That monk is Lu Da, formerly a major in the Yan’an command of the old General Zhong, now a shaven-headed monk called ‘Flowery Monk’ Lu Zhishen. That big man with the dark blue face is Yang Zhi, formerly a military instructor in the Eastern Capital’s Palace Command, called ‘Blue-Faced Beast.’ There is also a pilgrim named Wu Song, formerly Captain Wu who killed the tiger at Jingyang Ridge. These three occupy Two Dragons Mountain, plundering homes and resisting government troops. They have killed three or five arrest officers, and to this day have never been captured.” Huyan Zhuo said, “I saw that these men’s martial arts were superb. So they are Instructor Yang and Major Lu—their reputations are well deserved! Rest assured, Your Honor. Huyan Zhuo has now seen their abilities. Sooner or later, I will capture them one by one and deliver them to the authorities.” The prefect was delighted, and after feasting Huyan Zhuo, had him rest in a guest room. Of this, we say no more.

Now Kong Liang was leading his defeated remnant troops when suddenly a troop of horsemen burst out of the forest. At their head was a fine hero. How was he dressed? A lyric to the tune “West River Moon” attests:

A straight robe, cold as black mist;

a headband gleaming like autumn frost.

Hair cut short above the brow, long enough to brush the temples;

behind, it reaches the neck, neatly trimmed.

A rosary of white bone beads;

a sash of mixed wool, slightly yellow.

Twin steel blades flash with cold light—

the pilgrim Wu Song in form.

When Kong Liang saw it was Wu Song, he hastily dismounted, falling from his saddle, and knelt, saying, “Are you well, hero?” Wu Song quickly responded, helped him up, and asked, “I heard you brothers were holding White Tiger Mountain as a stronghold. I often wanted to visit, but first I could not leave the mountain, and second the road was not favorable, so we rarely met. What brings you here today?” Kong Liang told him from beginning to end the story of rescuing his uncle Kong Bin and his brother’s capture. Wu Song said, “Don’t panic. I have six or seven brothers now gathered at Two Dragons Mountain. Because Li Zhong and Zhou Tong of Peach Blossom Mountain were hard pressed by the Qingzhou army, they came to our stronghold for help. Chiefs Lu and Yang led the brothers to fight Huyan Zhuo. They fought all day, and Huyan Zhuo withdrew last night. The stronghold kept us three brothers for a feast, and gave us this imperial horse. Now I am leading the first group back to the mountain; the other two will follow soon. What do you think if I call them to attack Qingzhou, rescue your uncle and brother?”

Kong Liang thanked Wu Song and bowed. After waiting some time, they saw Lu Zhishen and Yang Zhi arriving side by side on horseback. Wu Song led Kong Liang to pay respects to them, and explained everything, saying, “At that time, I met Song Jiang at his estate and caused him much trouble. Now we should put righteousness first. Let us gather the troops of the three mountains, attack Qingzhou, kill Prefect Murong, capture Huyan Zhuo, and each take the grain and money from the treasury for our strongholds. What do you think?” Lu Zhishen said, “This is exactly what I was thinking. Send someone to Peach Blossom Mountain to inform Li Zhong and Zhou Tong to bring their brothers. The three of us will attack Qingzhou together.”

Yang Zhi then said, “Qingzhou’s city walls are strong, its troops and horses are numerous, and Huyan Zhuo is brave. I am not belittling myself, but to attack Qingzhou, unless we follow one plan of mine, success will come soon.” Wu Song said, “Brother, I would gladly hear your excellent advice.” Yang Zhi then spoke many words, and his words did not fall on deaf ears. As a result: The people of Qingzhou, every house shattered and scattered; the heroes of the Water Margin, all rubbed their fists and stamped their feet. After all, what plan did Yang Zhi propose to Wu Song for attacking Qingzhou? Listen to the next chapter for the explanation.