Chapter 76: Wu Jialiang Deploys the Four-Dou and Five-Color Flags; Song Jiang Arranges the Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams Formation
Chapter 76: Wu Jialiang Deploys the Four Dippers and Five Directional Banners; Song Gongming Arranges the Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams Formation
It is said that Grand Marshal Tong Guan, having received the position of Commander-in-Chief of the Imperial Armies from the Son of Heaven, went directly to the Bureau of Military Affairs. There he issued the tally and credentials for troop mobilization, ordering the eight prefectural armies under the jurisdiction of the Eastern Capital to each raise ten thousand troops, to be commanded by their respective local Military Commanders. He also selected twenty thousand from the Imperial Guard within the capital to protect the central army. All affairs under the Bureau of Military Affairs were entrusted entirely to the Vice Grand Marshal. Two capable generals were chosen from the Imperial Camp to serve as the Left Wing and Right Wing. With the orders already set, within less than ten days, everything was fully prepared. All subsequent military provisions were expedited by Grand Marshal Gao, who sent men to hasten their transport. The eight prefectural armies were:
Duan Pengju, Military Commander of Suizhou
Chen Zhu, Military Commander of Zhengzhou
Wu Bingyi, Military Commander of Chenzhou
Han Tianlin, Military Commander of Tangzhou
Li Ming, Military Commander of Dengzhou
Wang Yi, Military Commander of Dengzhou
Ma Wanli, Military Commander of Ruzhou
Zhou Xin, Military Commander of Songzhou
The two capable generals selected from the Imperial Camp to serve as the Left Wing and Right Wing for the central army were:
Feng Mei, Flying Dragon General of the Imperial Presence
Bi Sheng, Flying Tiger General of the Imperial Presence
Tong Guan commanded the central army as the supreme commander, issuing orders for all ranks of the three armies to be fully prepared. Weapons were distributed from the armory, and an auspicious day was chosen for the march. Grand Marshals Gao and Yang held a farewell banquet, and the imperial court ordered the Secretariat to reward the troops. Now, Tong Guan, having led the generals, drove the army out of the city the next day. Then he took leave of the Son of Heaven, mounted his horse, and rode out through the New Cao Gate. Arriving at the Five Li Pavilion, he saw Grand Marshals Gao and Yang, along with a host of officials, already waiting there. Tong Guan dismounted. Grand Marshal Gao, holding a cup and a wine vessel, said to Tong Guan: "Lord Grand Marshal, on this journey, you will surely render great merit for the court and soon sound the triumphant return. These bandits lurk in the watery marshes; you need only first cut off their supply routes on all sides, strengthen your stockades and barriers, lure these bandits down the mountain, and then advance your troops. Then you can capture them alive one by one, thus not betraying the court’s trust and important commission." Tong Guan replied: "I have received your instruction and dare not forget it." After each had drunk their wine, Grand Marshal Yang also came with a cup and said to Tong Guan: "Lord Grand Marshal has long been versed in military texts and deeply understands strategy. Exterminating and capturing these bandits will be as easy as turning over one’s hand. But these bandits lurk in the watery marshes, and the terrain is disadvantageous. When you arrive there, you will surely have a good plan." Tong Guan said: "When I get there, I will act according to circumstances and have my own methods." Grand Marshals Gao and Yang together offered wine in congratulations, saying: "Outside the capital gates, we await your triumphant return." After taking their leave, each mounted his horse. There were countless officials from various departments who saw them off. Some escorted them a short distance, others a long way, and then returned to the capital in turn—these details need not be elaborated. The three armies, large and small, all advanced together, each following their units in strict order. The front army had four divisions, led by the vanguard commander; the rear army had four divisions, supervised by the rearguard general; the left and right eight prefectural armies were urged on by the flank flag-bearers; Tong Guan sat in the central army, commanding a total of twenty thousand cavalry and infantry from the Imperial Guard, all selected men from the Imperial Camp. Tong Guan, holding his horsewhip, directed the troops forward. How could the army’s dignified and solemn appearance be described? It was seen thus:
The troops were divided into nine columns, the banners arrayed in five directions. Green-lacquered spears, pointed steel spears, and crow-beak spears filled the fields with their gleam; green-dragon sabers, crescent-moon sabers, and wild-goose-feather sabers emitted a sky-covering aura. Sparrow-pattern bows, iron-core bows, and jeweled-carved bows were thrust into flying-fish quivers; tiger-hunting arrows, wolf-fang arrows, and willow-leaf arrows were packed into lion-shaped arrow cases. Birchwood crossbows, lacquered crossbows, and foot-drawn crossbows were arrayed in the front army; mountain-cleaving axes, crescent-moon axes, and ornamental flower axes followed in the central column. Bamboo-joint whips, tiger-eye whips, and water-polished whips hung from elbows; meteor hammers, chicken-heart hammers, and flying-claw hammers were carried at their sides. Square-sky halberds with leopard tails fluttering; eight-foot spears with intertwined pearls. Dragon-pattern swords drawn like autumn water; tiger-head shields painted with a few strands of spring clouds. The vanguard was fierce, leading elite troops that could move mountains; the marshal was heroic, commanding stalwarts who could drink rivers dry and break bridges. The left commander and right commander had vast bold strategies; the distant scouts and close scouts galloped with majestic flair. The thunderous war drums shook the mountains; the sun-reflecting banners made ghosts and spirits flee.
On that day, Tong Guan left the Eastern Capital and advanced along winding roads. In less than a day or two, he had reached the territory of Jizhou. Prefect Zhang Shuye came out of the city to welcome him, and the army encamped outside the city. Tong Guan then led a few light horsemen into the city and dismounted before the prefectural office. Zhang Shuye invited him into the hall. After exchanging formal greetings and inquiries, Zhang stood respectfully before him. Grand Marshal Tong said: "These watery-grass bandits kill good people, rob merchants and travelers, and commit endless evils. In the past, efforts to suppress them often failed because the wrong people were used, allowing them to grow and spread. Today, I lead a great army of a hundred thousand with a hundred generals, and within a set time, I will sweep clean their mountain stronghold and capture all the bandits, to bring peace to the people." Zhang Shuye replied: "My Lord Grand Marshal, these bandits lurk in the watery marshes. Though they are mountain and forest outlaws, many among them possess wisdom and courage. My Lord should not let anger drive him to lead the army straight in; you must use good strategy to achieve success." Tong Guan, enraged, cursed: "All of you are like this cowardly wretch, afraid of swords and blades, greedy for life and fearful of death, delaying state affairs and fostering the bandits’ power. Now that I am here, what is there to fear!" Zhang Shuye dared not speak further and temporarily prepared food and drink for the army. Grand Marshal Tong then left the city, and the next day, led the great army to set up camp near Liangshan Marsh.
Now, Song Jiang and the others had already sent spies to gather information for many days. Song Jiang and Wu Yong had already laid out their plans as tightly as an iron bucket, awaiting the arrival of the great army. They issued notices to all generals, instructing each to follow orders strictly and without error.
Let us speak again of Grand Marshal Tong, who deployed his troops. He assigned Duan Pengju, Military Commander of Suizhou, as the main vanguard; Chen Zhu, Military Commander of Zhengzhou, as the deputy vanguard; Wu Bingyi, Military Commander of Chenzhou, as the main rearguard; Li Ming, Military Commander of Xuzhou, as the deputy rearguard; Han Tianlin, Military Commander of Tangzhou, and Wang Yi, Military Commander of Dengzhou, as the left flank; Ma Wanli, Military Commander of Ruzhou, and Zhou Xin, Military Commander of Songzhou, as the right flank; and the Dragon and Tiger generals, Feng Mei and Bi Sheng, as the wings of the central army. Tong Guan was the supreme commander, leading the great army in full armor, personally supervising. After the war drums were beaten three times, all units set out. After marching no more than ten li, dust rose in the distance, and enemy scouts appeared on the road, drawing nearer. With the jingling of bells, about thirty or more scout horsemen came into view. They wore green cloth headwraps and green battle tunics, with red tassels tied to their horses. Dozens of copper bells hung on each side, and a pheasant tail was stuck behind them. They carried fine silver-shafted long spears, light bows, and short arrows. Who was the leading general? How was he adorned? It was seen thus:
His spear was held horizontally like a crow’s beak; his saber was sheathed in snake skin. His gilded headwrap was Buddha-head blue; his embroidered battle robe was parrot green. Around his waist was a true purple silk sash; on his feet were soft leather breeches. On his carved saddle hung paired brocade bags, containing stones for striking generals. By his warhorse’s side hung copper bells tightly, and behind him stuck a pheasant tail to catch the wind. This galloping general was “Featherless Arrow” Zhang Qing, who scouted the road foremost.
The general coming on horseback had his banner clearly inscribed: “Scout Chief ‘Featherless Arrow’ Zhang Qing.” On his left was Gong Wang, on his right was Ding Desun. They scouted straight to the front of Tong Guan’s army, stopping when only a hundred or so paces away, then reined in and turned back. The two vanguard generals of the front army, without orders, dared not act rashly. They reported to the central army, and the supreme commander Tong Guan himself came to the front. Before he could finish observing, Zhang Qing scouted back again. Tong Guan wanted to send men to pursue and engage, but his attendants said: “This man’s rear brocade bags are full of stones; he never misses when he throws them. Do not give chase.” Zhang Qing scouted three times in succession, but seeing that Tong Guan did not advance, he returned. After going no more than five li, they heard the sound of gongs from behind a mountain, and soon five hundred infantry emerged. Leading them were four infantry chieftains: “Black Whirlwind” Li Kui, “Demon King of Chaos” Fan Rui, “Eight-Armed Nezha” Xiang Chong, and “Great Sage Flying Through the Sky” Li Gun. They charged straight forward. It was seen thus:
Every man had a tiger’s body; each was a burly figure. In front were two evil star spirits; behind them followed two true killing luminaries. Li Kui wielded a pair of axes; Fan Rui wore a Dragon Spring sword at his waist; Xiang Chong’s shield was painted with a jade-clawed lion; Li Gun’s shield was painted with a golden-horned beast. Five hundred men in crimson shirts and red tunics, all with red banners and red tassels. A crowd of demons emerged from the green mountains; three flames burst forth from the forest.
These five hundred infantry formed a line at the foot of the mountain slope, their round shields firmly planted. Tong Guan, leading his troops at the front, saw this and waved his jade fly-whisk. The great army charged forward. Li Kui and Fan Rui led the infantry in splitting into two groups, all carrying their barbarian shields upside down, and fled around the mountain foot.
Tong Guan's great army rushed out from the mountain pass, and there before them lay a vast expanse of open plain. They immediately drew up their troops in battle formation. From afar, they saw Li Kui and Fan Rui disappear over the hills and through the forest. Tong Guan's central army set up a wooden command tower, and he ordered two astrologers to ascend it. Gesturing left and right, rising and falling, they arranged the formation in the "Four Gates and Dipper Base" pattern. No sooner was the formation complete than they heard cannon fire from behind the mountains, and a band of cavalry burst forth from the rear hills.
Tong Guan reined in his warhorse and climbed the command tower to observe. He saw troops surging out from the eastern road: the first company carried red flags, the second variegated flags, the third green flags, and the fourth variegated flags again. He also saw a host emerging from the western road: the first company carried variegated flags, the second white flags, the third variegated flags again, and the fourth black flags, with yellow flags behind them all. The main force of officers and men rushed forward quickly, occupied the center, and arranged themselves into a formation within. Seen from a distance, it was unclear, but when they drew nearer, it became distinct.
The company due south was all blazing red flags, red armor, red robes, red tassels, and red horses. Before them was a red command flag embroidered with gold thread, bearing the Six Stars of the Southern Dipper above and the image of the Vermilion Bird below. As that flag fluttered, a great general emerged from among the red banners. What was his attire? Behold:
From his helmet crest flew a crimson tassel; a thousand flowers were embroidered on his-red robe. His lion-belt was clasped with purple jade; his suanni-armor revealed golden links. His wolf-tooth club was studded with iron spikes; his dragon steed was wrapped in rouge color. The red banners unfurled like half a sky of rosy clouds, rightly corresponding to the Southern Fire of Bing Ding.
The name banner read clearly: "Pioneer General, 'Thunderbolt' Qin Ming." To his left and right were two deputy generals: on the left, "Water General" Shan Tinggui, and on the right, "Fire General" Wei Dingguo. The three generals, holding their weapons, all mounted on red horses, stood before the formation.
The company due east was all green flags, green armor, green robes, green tassels, and green horses. Before them was a green command flag embroidered with gold thread, bearing the Four Stars of the Eastern Dipper above and the image of the Azure Dragon below. As that flag fluttered, a great general emerged from among the green banners. What was his appearance? Behold:
A blue indigo headwrap shone dazzlingly; his emerald battle robe was embroidered with clusters of flowers. His linked armor, rings interlocked, bore beast-head rings; his precious saber flashed with dragons swallowing jade. His piebald horse was covered with powder-white flowers; his battle jacket, body-protecting, was parrot-green. The jade-cloud flags fluttered, brightening the distant hills, rightly corresponding to the Eastern Wood of Jia Yi.
The name banner read clearly: "Left Army General, 'Great Blade' Guan Sheng." To his left and right were two deputy generals: on the left, "Ugly Consort" Xuan Zan, and on the right, "Well-Wood Dog" Hao Siwen. The three generals, holding their weapons, all mounted on green horses, stood before the formation.
The company due west was all white flags, white armor, white robes, white tassels, and white horses. Before them was a white command flag embroidered with gold thread, bearing the Five Stars of the Western Dipper above and the image of the White Tiger below. As that flag fluttered, a great general emerged from among the white banners. What was his attire? Behold:
Dim cold clouds guarded the Great Yin; ten thousand pear blossoms piled into layers of precious treasure. His plain white silk robe shimmered; his silver armor sent forth a chilling air. His frost-defying steed was mounted like a lion; his gleaming long spear challenged the green-shafted lance. A cluster of banners fluttered like snow-white silk, rightly corresponding to the Western Metal of Geng Xin.
The name banner read clearly: "Right Army General, 'Leopard Head' Lin Chong." To his left and right were two deputy generals: on the left, "Suppressor of Three Mountains" Huang Xin, and on the right, "Ailing Commandant" Sun Li. The three generals, holding their weapons, all mounted on white horses, stood before the formation. Behind them, a company of troops was all black flags, black armor, black robes, black tassels, and black horses. Before them was a black command flag embroidered with gold thread, bearing the Seven Stars of the Northern Dipper above and the image of the Black Tortoise below. As that flag fluttered, a great general emerged from among the black banners. What was his appearance? Behold:
Mighty clouds rolled up across the earth; armored cavalry with strong bows had unmatched prowess. His black silk robe was draped over a dragon-tiger body; his black oiled armor hung on a jackal-wolf frame. His whips, like black dragons, were grasped two in hand; his horse, like splashed ink, galloped a thousand li. The Seven Stars flag stirred, the Black Tortoise shook, rightly corresponding to the Northern Water of Ren Gui.
The name banner read clearly: "Rear Guard General, 'Double Whips' Huyan Zhuo." To his left and right were two deputy generals: on the left, "Hundred Victories General" Han Tao, and on the right, "Heavenly Eye General" Peng Qi. The three generals, holding their weapons, all mounted on black horses, stood before the formation.
Within the shadow of the southeastern gate flags, a company of troops with green flags and red armor. Before them was an embroidered command flag, with gold thread embroidering the Xun trigram above and a flying dragon below. As that flag fluttered, they brought forth a great general. What was his attire? Behold:
Donning armor and battle robe, he strode onto the field; in his hands he twisted two spears. Carved bow and phoenix quiver were thrust at his side; precious sword was hidden in a shark-skin scabbard. His mist-binding tunic fluttered with a yellow brocade belt; his sky-leaping horse tugged at purple silk reins. Green flags and red flames, dragons and snakes danced; he alone held the southeast, guarding the Xun direction.
The name banner read clearly: "Tiger Army General, 'Double Spears' Dong Ping." To his left and right were two deputy generals: on the left, "Cloud-Skimming Golden Wing" Ou Peng, and on the right, "Fiery-Eyed Suanni" Deng Fei. Holding their weapons, all mounted on warhorses, they stood before the formation.
Within the shadow of the southwestern gate flags, a company of troops with red flags and white armor. Before them was an embroidered command flag, with gold thread embroidering the Kun trigram above and a flying bear below. As that flag fluttered, they brought forth a great general. What was his appearance? Behold:
First surged forth a heroic general, his awe-inspiring presence adding grandeur. Fish-scale iron armor tightly covered his body; phoenix-wing golden helmet fastened around his neck. His wave-charging warhorse was like a dragon in form; his mountain-cleaving great axe was like a bow in shape. Red flags and white armor flew like fiery clouds, rightly positioned in the southwestern Kun direction.
The name banner read clearly: "Galloping General, 'Swift Vanguard' Suo Chao." To his left and right were two deputy generals: on the left, "Brocade-Fur Tiger" Yan Shun, and on the right, "Iron Flute Immortal" Ma Lin. The three generals, holding their weapons, all mounted on warhorses, stood before the formation.
Within the shadow of the northeastern gate flags, a company of troops with black flags and green armor. Before them was an embroidered command flag, with gold thread embroidering the Gen trigram above and a flying leopard below. As that flag fluttered, they brought forth a great general. What was his attire? Behold:
Tiger-like he sat in the carved saddle, his spirit soaring; his bent bow and quivered arrows startled ghosts and gods. Vermilion tassels and silver canopy shaded the blade's face; silk tassels and golden bells were attached to the horse's side. Helmet crest flowers, red and scattered, intermingled; willow-leaf armor, green and hidden, covered him. Black flags and green armor within dust and smoke, guarding the northeast celestial mountain in the Gen direction.
The name banner read clearly: "Galloping General, 'Nine-Banded Dragon' Shi Jin." To his left and right were two deputy generals: on the left, "Ravine-Leaping Tiger" Chen Da, and on the right, "White-Flowered Snake" Yang Chun. The three generals, holding their weapons, all mounted on warhorses, stood before the formation.
Within the shadow of the northwestern gate flags, a company of troops with white flags and black armor. Before them was a command flag, with gold thread embroidering the Qian trigram above and a flying tiger below. As that flag fluttered, they brought forth a great general. What was his appearance? Behold:
Carved saddle and jade bit, the horse neighed in the wind; layer upon layer of armor was like dense black mist. In the leopard-tail quiver were silver-tipped arrows; within the flying-fish bag was an iron-backed bow. At the armor's edge, green threads threaded through double phoenixes; on the blade's face, golden flowers inlaid small dragons. A cluster of white flags fluttered with black armor; the heavenly gate in the northwest was the Qian palace.
The name banner read clearly: "Galloping General, 'Green-Faced Beast' Yang Zhi." To his left and right were two deputy generals: on the left, "Brocade Leopard" Yang Lin, and on the right, "Little Overlord" Zhou Tong. The three generals, holding their weapons, all mounted on warhorses, stood before the formation.
The eight directions were arranged like an iron bucket. Within the formation gates, cavalry followed cavalry, and infantry followed infantry, each holding steel sabers and great axes, broadswords and long spears. Banners were neat, and the ranks were majestic. In the center of the eight formations, a circular area was entirely apricot-yellow flags, interspersed with sixty-four long-legged banners, on which were embroidered the sixty-four hexagrams with gold thread, also divided into four gates. The southern gate was all cavalry. Due south, within the shadow of the yellow flags, two high-ranking generals were brought forth, their attire identical. Behold:
Bronze gongs mingled with flowery drums; in clusters and groups they divided into ranks. Gilt-inlaid golden armor and ochre-yellow robes; shearling battle jackets with sunflower patterns danced. In the center, two horses were like dragons; within the formation, two men were like tigers. Surrounded and fixed by apricot-yellow flags, they rightly corresponded to the Central Earth of Wu Ji.
The two leading generals both rode yellow horses. The one on the left was "Beautiful Beard" Zhu Tong, and the one on the right was "Winged Tiger" Lei Heng. The entire contingent had yellow banners, yellow robes, bronze armor, yellow horses, and yellow tassels. The central formation had four gates: the east gate was "Golden-Eyed Tiger" Shi En, the west gate was "Fair-Faced Gentleman" Zheng Tianshou, the south gate was "Cloud-Riding Giant" Song Wan, and the north gate was "Sick Tiger" Xue Yong. Amidst the yellow banners stood the apricot-yellow banner inscribed "Act on Heaven's Behalf." The flagpole was tied with four woolen cords, held taut by four tall, sturdy soldiers. On the horse in the middle was the stalwart who guarded the banner. What was his appearance? Behold:
A cap with fish-tail ornament bound with gold thread, armor with dragon-scale pattern over a brocade robe. His imposing frame stood a full ten feet tall, guarding the apricot-yellow banner in the central army.
This banner-guarding stalwart was "Dangerous Road God" Yu Bao Si. Behind that cluster of yellow banners was a row of cannon mounts, with the cannoneer "Thunderer" Ling Zhen standing there, accompanied by over twenty assistants surrounding the cannon mounts. Behind the mounts were arranged grappling hooks and lassos, implements prepared for capturing enemy officers. Beyond the hook-men was another array of multi-colored banners, and in a circle were seven rings of bodyguards. On four sides stood twenty-eight embroidered banners, with the twenty-eight constellations embroidered in gold thread. In the center stood a banner with raised embroidery, bordered with pearls, with golden bells at the bottom and pheasant tails at the top, bearing the goose-yellow commander's character. What was the appearance of the stalwart guarding this banner? Behold:
Armor slung askew with sea-beast hide, a crimson silk turban adorned with flowers. A heaven-defying aura, fierce and unapproachable, guarding the commander's banner in the central army.
This banner-guarding stalwart was "Faceless" Jiao Ting. Beside the commander's banner were stationed two generals for its protection, both riding war horses, identically equipped, holding steel spears and with sharp swords at their waists. One was "Hairy Star" Kong Ming, the other was "Solitary Fire Star" Kong Liang. Before and behind their horses were arrayed twenty-four armored soldiers carrying wolf-tooth clubs. Behind them were two leading battle banners, and on either side were arranged twenty-four square-headed halberds. Amidst the twelve halberds on the left clustered a valiant general. What was his attire? Behold:
Mounted on a horse standing in the wind, his armor gleamed with radiant light. A kylin belt clasped his wolf-like waist, a xiezhi breastplate covered his tiger-like body. On his cap, bright pearls shone like morning stars; in its scabbard, a sword hid autumn waters. The square-headed halberd was cold as frost and snow, and the wind stirred the gold-coin leopard-tail tassel.
The embroidered banner clearly stated: "Little Marquis of Wen" Lü Fang. Amidst the twelve halberds on the right also clustered a valiant general. What was his attire? Behold:
A three-pronged jeweled cap with dazzling pearls, two pheasant tails of splendid brocade. A persimmon-red battle robe covered a silver mirror, and willow-green battle skirt pressed down on an embroidered saddle. A double belt hung with otter-tail ornaments, and a heart-protecting armor of small interlocking rings. In his hand he held a painted wooden square-headed halberd, fluttering with gold-coin five-colored pennants.
The embroidered banner clearly stated: "Surpassing Rengui" Guo Sheng. The two generals each held halberds, standing their horses on either side. Amidst the halberds was a cluster of steel tridents, with two foot-soldier valiant generals, identically attired. Behold:
Tiger-skin headgear and leopard-skin breeches, a lining armor woven with fine gold thread. In their hands, steel tridents gleamed brightly; at their waists, sharp swords were cold and fierce.
One was "Double-Headed Snake" Xie Zhen, the other was "Double-Tailed Scorpion" Xie Bao. The two brothers each held three-pronged lotus tridents, leading a group of foot soldiers, guarding the central army. Following behind, on two brocade-saddled horses, were two civilian scholars, in charge of rewarding merit and punishing offenses. On the left was one in a black gauze cap and white silk robe, with a mind full of literary talent and a brush that moved like dragons and serpents—this was the scribe of Liangshan Marsh, the scholar "Sacred Hand" Xiao Rang. On the right was one in a green gauze turban and black silk gown, with an aura piercing the rainbow and a mind as clear as autumn waters—this was the administrator of Liangshan Marsh, the hero "Iron-Faced Judge" Pei Xuan. Behind these two horses were arrayed men in purple robes holding ceremonial batons, twenty-four blocking the way, holding twenty-four hemp-bound swords. Amidst that forest of swords stood two executioners in brocade, wearing triple sashes. How were they attired? There is a lyric to the tune "Moon over the West River" as proof:
One wore a tight red leather waistcoat, the other a multi-colored silk belt. One's double-ring belt buckle gleamed with gold, the other's turban was adorned with flowers. One's white gauze shirt covered his brocade body, the other's black sleeve half-revealed raven-blue. One gripped a sword for executing ghosts and demons, the other held a water-and-fire club in his hand.
The one on the left was "Iron Arm" Cai Fu, the one on the right was "Single Flower" Cai Qing. The two brothers stood before the formation, with sword-bearers on left and right. Behind, on either side, were arrayed twenty-four gold spears and twenty-four silver spears, each side with a general leading the unit. Amidst the twelve gold spears on the left, a valiant general on horseback, holding a gold spear, sat sideways on his war horse. What was his attire? Behold:
A brocade saddle and a fine horse with a purple silk rein, golden and emerald flower ornaments pressing his temples. A sparrow-pattern bow hung like a crescent moon, a dragon-quan sword hung like autumn frost. His embroidered robe was cleverly made in parrot green, his battle garment lightly cut in willow-leaf yellow. The tassel on his cap was bright and red, and in his hand he twirled an iron-shafted gold-threaded spear.
This valiant general was "Gold Spear" Xu Ning of Liangshan Marsh. Amidst the twelve silver spears on the right, a valiant general on horseback, holding a silver spear, also sat sideways on a fine horse. What was his armor? Behold:
Shu brocade saddle with gleaming jeweled stirrups, a five-colored fine horse with jade jangling. A tiger-sinew bowstring pulled a carved bow taut, swallow-tail fletching made the arrows long. A green brocade robe bright with golden peacocks, a red leather belt bound with purple mandarin ducks. Partly revealed was a golden armor, and in his hand he held a silver-threaded iron-shafted spear.
This valiant general was "Little Li Guang" Hua Rong of Liangshan Marsh. On both sides were these two dashing and mighty generals. The gold-spear bearer and the silver-spear bearer each wore a black silk turban, with emerald leaves and golden flowers pinned at their temples. The twelve gold-spear bearers on the left wore green, the twelve silver-spear bearers on the right wore purple. Behind them were more pairs in brocade, caps in pairs, robes in clusters, and brocade jackets piled together. On both sides were blue canopies and emerald curtains, vermilion pennants and black covers, golden axes and white yak-tail banners, green swords and purple lightning. Two rows of twenty-four battle-axes, and twenty-four pairs of whips and maces. In the center, in a single line, were three gold-threaded umbrellas and three brocade-saddled fine horses. Before the central horse stood two heroes. The stalwart on the left was truly dignified in appearance, unmatched in the world. There is a lyric to the tune "Moon over the West River" as proof:
A pheasant tail at the side of his turban, four copper bells at his waistband. A yellow gauze robe shimmered with gold, matching the flowing sash and embroidered skirt. His cloth socks and hempen shoes were pure white, his leg bindings and knee guards were deep green. His banner bore the command character "Divine Travel," able to respond in a hundred li in an instant.
This was the swift-footed chieftain of Liangshan Marsh, "Divine Traveler" Dai Zong. In his hand he held a goose-yellow command embroidered banner, responsible for all matters of swiftly reporting military intelligence, deploying troops, and issuing orders within the great army. The stalwart opposite him on the right was dressed outstandingly, rarely seen among men. There is also a lyric to the tune "Moon over the West River" as proof:
A coarse monk's robe lined with brocade, a green headwrap adorned with gold. An emerald flower pinned at his temple, his jade rings shone brightly. A red embroidered sash wrapped his waist, white trousers and plain silk girded his middle. A crossbow was carried on his shoulder, and he was exceptionally dashing among a million troops.
This was the gallant and resourceful chieftain of Liangshan Marsh, "Prodigal" Yan Qing. He carried a strong bow on his back, sharp arrows at his side, and in his hand a staff level with his eyebrows, specially charged with protecting the central army. Gazing into the distance at the central army, under the gold-threaded blue silk umbrella on the right, on an embroidered saddle horse, sat that virtuous and lofty man, a famous Taoist priest. What was his attire? There is a lyric to the tune "Moon over the West River" as proof:
A Ruyi cap with a jade hairpin like an emerald brush, a crimson silk robe with cranes dancing in golden clouds. Fire-pattern pearl clogs reflected peach blossoms, with jade pendants tinkling askew. On his back, a pair of male and female swords; in their scabbards, a faint radiance sprayed forth. A blue silk umbrella shaded the lofty banner, and he straddled a purple-maned horse with a carved saddle.
This was the master of summoning wind and rain, commanding ghosts and spirits, the true Dharma master of Liangshan Marsh, "Cloud-Dragon" Gongsun Sheng. On his horse, he carried two swords on his back, and in his hand he held a purple silk rein. Under the gold-threaded blue silk umbrella on the left, on a brocade saddle horse, sat that resourceful strategist, the all-conquering military advisor Wu Yong. What was his attire? There is a lyric to the tune "Moon over the West River" as proof:
A white Taoist robe with black silk trim, a purple silk sash with jade hook and ring. In his hand, a feather fan moved the gates of heaven; on his head, a black silk cap was slightly tilted. Beneath, he secretly wore silver armor; in the center, he sat firmly on a carved saddle. A pair of copper chains hung at his waist, a master of both civil and military arts.
This was the scholar of strategy, skilled in military tactics, the enlightened military advisor "Wise Star" Wu Xuejiu. On his horse, he held a feather fan in his hand, and at his waist hung two copper chains. Under the gold-threaded crimson silk umbrella in the center, on the Night-Shining Jade Lion with its golden saddle, sat the benevolent and righteous commander-in-chief of the army. What was his attire? Behold:
A phoenix-winged helmet piled high with gold and jewels, all-gold armor densely inlaid with dragon scales. A brocade battle robe with flowers clustered like spring sunshine, a Kunwu sword at his waist shining with radiance. Embroidered leg bindings with emerald rings, a jade-linked belt clasped with a kylin. A pearl-studded umbrella canopy spread like red clouds, the first of the Heavenly Stars appearing on the battlefield.
This man was none other than the master of Liangshan Marsh, a native of Yuncheng County in Jizhou, Song Jiang, known in Shandong as the "Timely Rain" and "Protector of Righteousness." He was fully armed, bearing a Kunwu sword, riding a golden-saddled white horse, standing in the center of the formation to oversee the battle, commanding the central army. Behind his horse were large halberds and long spears, with finely saddled steeds, neatly arrayed, thirty to fifty subordinate generals, all mounted on warhorses, wielding long spears and fully equipped with bows and arrows. Behind the horses were placed twenty-four painted horns and a full complement of military drums and grand music. Behind the formation, two groups of roving troops were stationed, concealed on both flanks, to serve as protection. The wings of the central army were: on the left, "The Unstoppable" Mu Hong, leading his brother "The Lesser Unstoppable" Mu Chun, commanding 1,500 cavalry and infantry; on the right, "The Red-Haired Devil" Liu Tang, leading "The Nine-Tailed Turtle" Tao Zongwang, commanding 1,500 cavalry and infantry, concealed on both sides. Behind the rear formation was a troop of shadow soldiers, surrounding three female chieftains on horseback: in the center was "Ten Feet of Steel" Hu Sanniang, on the left was "The Tigress" Gu Dasao, on the right was "The Night Ogress" Sun Erniang. Behind them to guard the rear were their three husbands: in the center, "The Short-Legged Tiger" Wang Ying, on the left, "The Little Yuchi" Sun Xin, on the right, "The Gardener" Zhang Qing, in overall command of 3,000 cavalry and infantry. That formation was no ordinary affair; one could see:
Above, it openly displayed the Eight Trigrams; below, it secretly conformed to the Nine Palaces. It fully exploited the subtle mechanisms of heaven and earth, capturing the momentum of wind and clouds. Its front and rear were arrayed in the shape of a turtle and snake; its left and right were arranged in the form of a dragon and tiger. The fire position of Bing and Ding advanced forward, like ten thousand blazing flames scorching the mountains; the water position of Ren and Gui followed behind, like a dark cloud covering the earth. On the left side of the formation, a green aura coiled and swirled; on the right side, a white radiance pierced through. Golden clouds filled the center, and the Yellow Path relied entirely on the Earth position of Wu and Ji. The four corners were laid out according to the Twenty-Eight Mansions; the surroundings contained the transformations of the Sixty-Four Hexagrams. Twisting and turning, in chaos the troops formed the Long Snake formation; neat and orderly, in stillness their majesty was like a crouching tiger. The cavalry charged and withdrew in bursts; the infantry moved either behind or ahead. Do not boast of the success of the Eight Formation Diagram, nor speak idly of the victory from the Six Strategies. Kongming had deployed his subtle plans; Li Jing had broadcast his divine schemes.
Commissioner-in-Chief Tong Guan, standing on the command platform in the center of the formation, fixed his gaze on the troops of Liangshan Marsh. In no time at all, they had set up this Nine Palaces Eight Trigrams formation. The soldiers were heroic, the generals were valiant, and he was so terrified his soul fled and his spirit scattered, his heart and gall trembling. He kept saying, "No wonder every time the imperial army comes here to suppress them, they return in great defeat—so formidable is this!" After watching for a long while, he only heard the relentless beating of the urging drums from Song Jiang's army. Tong Guan then descended from the command platform, mounted his warhorse, and again advanced to the front army. Among the generals, he asked, "Who dares to go out and engage in battle, to parley?" From the vanguard unit, a fierce general turned out, straightened himself on his horse, and galloped forward. Bowing on his horse, he reported to Tong Guan: "I am willing to go, I request your esteemed orders." Looking closely, it was Chen Zhu, the Military Supervisor of Zhengzhou, clad in white robes and silver armor, riding a green horse with a red tassel, wielding a large-bladed saber, currently serving as Deputy Vanguard Commander. Tong Guan then ordered the army's golden drum and flag banners to sound three drumbeats, and on the command platform, the red flag was waved to direct the troops. Chen Zhu flew out from beneath the gate banner on his horse, and both armies shouted together. Chen Zhu reined in his horse, crossed his saber, and cried out sternly: "You lawless grass bandits, rebellious madmen! The imperial army has arrived, and you still do not surrender? When your bones and flesh are ground to dust, will it be too late for regrets?" From the southern formation of Song Jiang, the vanguard leader, the Tiger General Qin Ming, flew out on his horse. Without a word of parley, he brandished his wolf-tooth mace and charged straight at Chen Zhu. Their horses met, and their weapons clashed. One wielded a mace and struck at the head; the other used a saber and slashed at the face. The two generals came and went, back and forth, exchanging over twenty rounds. Qin Ming feigned a flaw, letting Chen Zhu charge in, but his saber strike hit only empty air. Taking advantage of the moment, Qin Ming raised his mace and brought it down, striking Chen Zhu square on the top of his head, helmet and all, and Chen Zhu fell dead from his horse. Qin Ming's two deputy generals, Shan Tinggui and Wei Dingguo, flew their horses straight out of the formation, first seized that fine horse, and then went to support Qin Ming.
From beneath the gate banner on the southeastern side, the Tiger General "Double Spear" Dong Ping saw Qin Ming achieve the first merit. On his horse, he thought: "The army has already stirred up its keen edge. If I don't seize this chance to charge over and capture Tong Guan, when will I ever!" He let out a great shout, like a thunderclap sounding before the formation, grasped both spears in his hands, spurred his horse, and charged straight across the formation. When Tong Guan saw this, he turned his horse and fled toward the central army. From beneath the gate banner on the southwestern side, the Swift Cavalry General "Impetuous Vanguard" Suo Chao also shouted: "If we don't seize this chance to capture Tong Guan, when will we ever!" Wielding his large axe, he charged across the formation. In the center, Qin Ming, seeing the charges from both sides, also signaled his own unit of red-flagged troops, and they all rushed together into the formation to capture Tong Guan. It was just like: a few black hawks chasing purple swallows, a pack of fierce tigers devouring lambs. In the end, what became of Commissioner-in-Chief Tong Guan's life? Listen to the next chapter for the explanation.