Chapter 82

Chapter 82

It so happened that Yan Qing met the Daojun Emperor at Li Shishi's residence and obtained a personal pardon decree. Afterwards, he met with Grand Marshal Su and, together with Dai Zong, devised a plan to lure Xiao Rang and Yue He out of the Grand Marshal Gao's mansion. The four men waited for the city gates to open, then departed immediately and made straight for Liangshan Marsh to report on these matters.

Meanwhile, Li Shishi noticed that Yan Qing did not return home that night and felt somewhat uneasy. As for the personal attendants in Grand Marshal Gao's household, the next morning when they delivered tea and meals to Xiao Rang and Yue He, they found the two men missing from their rooms and hurriedly reported this to the chief steward. The chief steward went to the garden to investigate and found only two coarse ropes tied to the willow tree. Realizing the two men had escaped, he had no choice but to report it to the Grand Marshal. Upon hearing this, Gao Qiu was greatly alarmed and grew even more troubled, confining himself to his residence on grounds of illness and refusing to leave.

The next day, at the fifth watch, the Daojun Emperor held court, taking his seat in the Civil Virtue Hall. When the civil and military officials had all assembled in ranks, the Son of Heaven ordered the drawing of the curtain and commanded his close attendants to summon Marshal of the Secretariat Tong Gu to step forward from the ranks. The Emperor asked, "Last year you led an army of one hundred thousand men, serving personally as the expeditionary commander to advance against Liangshan Marsh. What was the outcome?"

Tong Gu knelt and replied, "Your servant led the army in the advance last year and was by no means lacking in effort. However, because of the summer heat, the soldiers could not acclimate to the terrain and water, and many fell ill—two or three out of every ten died. Seeing the army's difficulties, your servant therefore temporarily called off the campaign and withdrew the troops to their respective camps to continue training. All the Imperial Forest troops suffered many losses and casualties from illness along the way. Later, an imperial edict was issued, but this band of rebels refused to accept amnesty. When then Grand Marshal Gao Qiu launched a naval expedition, he too fell ill midway and returned."

The Son of Heaven flew into a rage and thundered, "It is all because you are jealous of the worthy and capable—you treacherous and sycophantic ministers who act without Our knowledge! When you led the campaign against Liangshan Marsh last year, how was it that after only two engagements, the rebel forces routed your army so completely that not a single rider or piece of armor returned, bringing disgrace upon Our royal armies? Then that scoundrel Gao Qiu squandered countless funds and provisions from the prefectures and commanderies, destroyed many warships, lost untold numbers of men and horses, and was himself captured alive by the rebels and taken up the mountain. Song Jiang and the others did not kill him but released him to return. We have heard that this band of Song Jiang's does not invade prefectures or plunder good citizens—they only await amnesty so they may exert their strength in service to the state. It is all because you, with your incompetence and greedy sycophancy, have wrongly received titles and emoluments from the court and ruined the great affairs of the state! You who administer the Secretariat—are you not ashamed of yourself? You ought to be arrested and interrogated, but We will spare you this time. Offend again and you will not be pardoned!"

Tong Gu said nothing and withdrew to one side. The Son of Heaven then asked, "Among your ministers, who can be dispatched to extend amnesty to Song Jiang of Liangshan Marsh and his company?"

Before the imperial summons had even been fully spoken, Grand Marshal of the Palace Guard Su Yuanjing stepped forward from the ranks, knelt, and said, "Though your servant is lacking in ability, he is willing to undertake this mission."

The Son of Heaven was greatly pleased. "We shall personally write the cedar-red edict with Our own imperial brush." He ordered the imperial desk to be brought forward, spread open the edict paper, and personally wrote the cedar-red edict upon the imperial desk. His close attendants brought forward the imperial seal, and the Son of Heaven applied it himself. He then ordered the treasury official to produce thirty-six gold tablets, seventy-two silver tablets, thirty-six bolts of red brocade, seventy-two bolts of green brocade, one hundred and eighty bottles of yellow-sealed imperial wine, and entrusted all of these to Grand Marshal Su. He also bestowed twenty-four bolts of inner and outer garments for principal and attendants, and one gold-character imperial banner of amnesty, commanding him to depart the very next day.

Grand Marshal Su took his leave of the Son of Heaven in the Civil Virtue Hall. When the court audience ended, Marshal Tong of the Secretariat returned to his mansion in shame and distress, pleading illness and daring not attend court. When Grand Marshal Gao Qiu learned of this, he was filled with fear and helplessness and likewise dared not attend court. A poem attests to this:

A grace-laden edict issues from radiant light,

Soon Liangshan shall prepare to don their trappings bright.

Knowing that gentle rule surpasses force of war,

How we regret that common folk bore wounds and scar.

Now Su Taiwei packed up the imperial wine, the gold and silver plaques, the rolls of brocade and silk—both inner and outer garments—mounted his horse, and departed the city. He raised the yellow banner inscribed with the imperial golden characters, and the accompanying officials saw him off as far as Nanxun Gate. Then he set off for Jizhou, but no more of that.

Now Yan Qing, Dai Zong, Xiao Rang, and Yue He had arrived at the mountain stronghold overnight and related everything that had happened to Song Jiangong and the other chieftains. Yan Qing then produced the handwritten pardon, penned personally by the Daojun Emperor, and showed it to Song Jiang and the others. Wu Yong said, "This time there must be good news!" Song Jiang burned fine incense, took out the Ninth Heaven Mystic Maiden's divination, gazed heavenward in prayer and supplication, and drew an exceedingly auspicious omen—the very best of fortunes. Song Jiang was overjoyed. This matter was certain to succeed. He again sent Dai Zong and Yan Qing to investigate the true situation and report back with all haste, so that preparations could be made.

Dai Zong and Yan Qing were gone for several days, then returned and reported: "The court has dispatched Su Taiwei personally bearing the imperial vermilion edict, along with imperial wine, gold and silver plaques, and red and green brocades and silks, to offer amnesty and enlistment. They will arrive before long!" When Song Jiang heard this, he was greatly overjoyed. At the Hall of Loyalty and Righteousness, he hastily issued orders, deploying personnel from Liangshan Marsh straight to the outskirts of Jizhou, where twenty-four pavilions were erected. Above, they were all decorated with colored silk and hanging flowers; below, sheng pipes, xiao flutes, drums, and other music were arranged. From nearby prefectures and districts, musicians were hired and dispatched to each pavilion to welcome the imperial edict. A petty captain was assigned to oversee each pavilion. At the same time, people were sent in all directions to purchase fruits, seafood, banquet wines, dried provisions, and the like, preparing for the feasts, teas, and banquet spreads.

Now Su Taiwei had received his commission to go to Liangshan Marsh to offer amnesty. His entire party traveled by stages until they reached Jizhou. The prefect, Zhang Shuye, came out beyond the walls to welcome them into the city, and they were lodged in the official guesthouse. After the prefect had paid his respects and the welcoming wine had been served, Zhang Shuye said, "The court has issued edicts to offer amnesty twice before, but because the right person was not sent, the great affair of the state was bungled. This time, Your Excellency's mission will surely establish a great merit for the nation!"

Su Taiwei then said, "The Son of Heaven recently learned that the band at Liangshan Marsh takes righteousness as their guiding principle, does not invade prefectures or districts, and does not harm good people. They declare themselves to act on Heaven's behalf. The Emperor has dispatched me bearing his personally written vermilion edict, along with thirty-six gold plaques, seventy-two silver plaques, thirty-six bolts of red brocade, seventy-two bolts of green brocade, one hundred and eighty bottles of sealed imperial wine, and twenty-four sets of inner and outer silks, to offer them amnesty. Are these gifts too modest?"

Zhang Shuye replied, "For these men, the weight of the gifts is not what matters—they seek to serve with loyalty and righteousness and to win fame for posterity. Had Your Excellency come thus earlier, the state would not have lost soldiers and generals, nor wasted its money and grain. Once these righteous men have submitted, they will certainly help the court build great achievements."

Su Taiwei said, "I await them here. I would trouble Your Honor to go in person to the mountain stronghold and inform them, so that they may prepare to welcome us."

Zhang Shuye answered, "This humble official will go." He immediately mounted his horse, left the city, and with some ten attendants made straight for Liangshan Marsh.

When they arrived at the foot of the mountain, petty captains were already there to receive them and carried word up to the stronghold. Song Jiang, upon hearing the news, hastily came down the mountain to welcome Prefect Zhang up to the Hall of Loyalty and Righteousness. After they had exchanged greetings, Zhang Shuye said, "Congratulations, righteous men! The court has specially dispatched Su Taiwei of the Palace Directorate, bearing the vermilion edict personally written by the brush of the Emperor, to come and offer amnesty. The gold plaques, brocades, imperial wine, and silks are now in Jizhou city. You righteous men may prepare to welcome the imperial edict."

Song Jiang was overjoyed and raised his hand to his forehead, saying, "This is a second life for Song Jiang and the rest of us!" He then invited Prefect Zhang to stay for tea and a meal.

Zhang Shuye said, "It is not that this official is discourteous, but I fear the Taiwei will take offense at my delay."

Song Jiang said, "Just a single cup—we dare not presume it as proper ceremony."

Zhang Shuye firmly insisted on leaving. Song Jiang hastily had a tray of gold and silver brought out to present to him. When Prefect Zhang saw it, he said, "I absolutely cannot accept this."

Song Jiang said, "A trifling token, merely to express our hearts. When this matter is concluded, we will find a way to repay you further."

Zhang Shuye said, "I am deeply grateful for your generous intentions, but let these remain at the great stronghold. I can come to collect them later—it will not be too late." Truly, a prefect who governs himself with integrity! A poem bears witness:

The prefect of Jizhou has no peer in this world—

He loves not gold, but loves Song Jiang.

Truly, his incorruptible integrity wins the hearts of all,

Not fear of power that brings men to submission.

Song Jiang then dispatched the grand strategists Wu Yong and Zhu Wu, along with Xiao Rang and Yue He, to accompany Prefect Zhang down the mountain and go directly to Jizhou to pay their respects to Su Taiwei. It was arranged that on the following day, all the chieftains, great and small, would leave the stronghold and kneel along the road thirty li out to welcome the party. Wu Yong and the others followed Prefect Zhang Shuye down the mountain that very night and went straight to Jizhou. The next day, they went to the guesthouse and paid their respects to Su Taiwei, bowing and kneeling before him.

Su Taiwei told them to rise and had them all seated. The four men humbly deferred—how dared they sit? The Taiwei asked their names. Wu Yong answered, "This humble scholar Wu Yong, and here are Zhu Wu, Xiao Rang, and Yue He. We have been sent by our elder brother Song Jiangong to welcome Your Excellency. Elder brother and the rest of us will leave the stronghold thirty li out and kneel along the road to welcome you the day after tomorrow."

Su Taiwei was greatly pleased and said, "Master Jialiang, since we parted in Huazhou, several years have passed. Who would have thought we would meet again today! I have long known that your band of brothers has always harbored loyalty and righteousness. It was only because treacherous ministers blocked the way and slanderous flatterers monopolized power that your sentiments from below could not reach those above. Now the Son of Heaven is fully aware of this and has specially commanded me to bring the Emperor's personally written vermilion edict, gold and silver plaques, red and green brocades, and imperial silks and wine to offer amnesty. Have no doubts—accept with all your hearts."

Wu Yong and the others bowed again in thanks, saying, "Wild men of the countryside—that Your Excellency should deign to descend among us! We are moved by the Heaven's grace, all of it bestowed through you. Our brothers will engrave it upon our hearts and bones—it can never be repaid."

Zhang Shuye on his part laid out a feast to entertain them.

On the morning of the third day, Jizhou prepared three fragrant carriages, in which the imperial wine was carried in dragon-phoenix boxes; the gold and silver plaques and the red and green brocade were carried separately in another convoy; the imperial edict written in vermilion was placed within a dragon pavilion. Grand Marshal Su mounted his horse and rode eastward alongside the dragon pavilion, with Prefect Zhang Shuye following on horseback behind him; Wu Yong and the other three rode alongside; and all attendants, great and small, formed a swelling procession. Before them rode bearers carrying the imperial golden banner embroidered with gold thread, with drums, gongs, banners, and pennons clearing the way. They departed Jizhou and wound along the road. Before they had gone ten *li*, they encountered a decorated welcome pavilion. Grand Marshal Su, looking from horseback, saw it festooned with colored silks and hanging flowers above, with flutes, pipes, drums, and music below, pressing forward along the road to greet them. They proceeded no more than several tens of *li* when yet another decorated welcome pavilion appeared. Ahead, they saw a road wreathed in incense smoke; Song Jiang and Lu Junyi knelt before them, and behind them all the chieftains knelt as one upon the ground to receive the imperial decree. Grand Marshal Su said, "Let everyone mount their horses." Together they proceeded to the water's edge, where the hundreds upon hundreds of battle craft of Liangshan Ferry ferried them across in one crossing, landing at Golden Sands Beach. Above and below the Three Passes, drums and music filled the sky, soldiers formed the escort, the honor guard was unbroken, and exotic incense wafted all about, until they dismounted before the Hall of Loyalty and Righteousness. The fragrant carriages and dragon pavilion were carried up and placed within the Hall of Loyalty and Righteousness. Three tables were set up in the middle, each surrounded by yellow silk cloth embroidered with dragons and phoenixes. At the center was placed the tablet of "Ten Thousand Years," and the imperial edict in vermilion was set in the middle; the gold and silver plaques were placed on the left; the red and green brocade on the right; and the imperial wine, both inner and outer portions, was also placed before them. Fine incense burned within a golden censer. Song Jiang and Lu Junyi invited Grand Marshal Su and Prefect Zhang to ascend the hall and take their seats. On the left stood Xiao Rang and Yue He; on the right stood Pei Xuan and Yan Qing. Song Jiang, Lu Junyi, and the others all knelt before the hall. Pei Xuan called for the obeisance. After the bowing was completed, Xiao Rang opened and read the edict.

The edict said: "Since We ascended the throne, We have governed the realm with benevolence and righteousness, and settled matters of war with just rewards and punishments. We have never slackened in seeking the worthy, and We have loved the people as though fearing We could not reach them. From the farthest corners to the nearest, all children of the realm know Our heart. We have long reflected that Song Jiang, Lu Junyi, and the others have always cherished loyalty and righteousness, and have not inflicted cruelty or oppression. Their desire to submit has been long-standing, and their resolve to repay the state is solemn and clear. Although they have committed offenses, each had its cause; examining their true feelings, We find them deeply deserving of pity. We now specially dispatch the Grand Marshal of the Palace Guard, Su Yuanjing, to bear this imperial edict in person to the Liangshan marshes, granting full pardon to Song Jiang and all his followers, great and small, for all offenses they have committed. We bestow thirty-six gold plaques and thirty-six bolts of red brocade upon Song Jiang and his chief leaders; seventy-two silver plaques and seventy-two bolts of green brocade upon the officers under Song Jiang. When this amnesty edict arrives, do not betray Our heart; submit yourselves soon, and you will surely be employed in positions of importance. Thus do We issue this edict; let all concerned take heed."

Imperially issued in the second month of the fourth year of the Xuanhe reign.

When Xiao Rang had finished reading the vermilion edict, Song Jiang and the others called "Long live the Emperor!" three times, and bowed again to express their gratitude, the ceremony being complete. Grand Marshal Su brought forth the gold and silver plaques and the red and green brocade, and ordered Pei Xuan to distribute them in order according to name, which was done. He then ordered the imperial wine to be opened, took out a great silver wine vat, and poured it all into it. He then took up a ladle, drew wine from it, warmed it before the hall, and poured it into silver flasks. Grand Marshal Su raised a golden bell-cup, poured out a cup of wine, and addressed the assembled chieftains: "Though Su Yuanjing bears the Emperor's command and has come here bearing this imperial wine, specially commanded to bestow it upon the chieftains, I fear that you righteous men may harbor doubts. Yuanjing will drink this cup first, so that all may see, and you need not suspect." The chieftains expressed their thanks without end. When Grand Marshal Su had finished drinking, he poured wine again and first offered it to Song Jiang; Song Jiang raised the cup and knelt to drink it. Then Lu Junyi, Wu Yong, and Gongsun Sheng drank in turn, and he went around offering wine to all one hundred and eight chieftains, each of whom drank a cup.

Song Jiang gave orders to put away the imperial wine, and invited the Grand Marshal to sit in the center, while the chieftains bowed and paid their respects. Song Jiang stepped forward and expressed his thanks, saying: "Song Jiang had the honor of meeting Your Excellency's countenance at the Western Peak the other day. I am deeply grateful for the Grand Marshal's kindness in interceding on Song Jiang's behalf at the Son of Heaven's side, enabling us to see once more the light of heaven. I have engraved it upon my heart and carved it in my bones; I dare not forget." Grand Marshal Su said: "Though Yuanjing knew that you righteous men are loyal and righteous, acting on Heaven's behalf, I was ignorant of the details and circumstances of your situation. Therefore, I dared not petition the Son of Heaven's attendants, and as a result, much time was lost. When I later received the letter from Staff Officer Wen, and received your generous gifts, I then came to know of your true feelings. That day, the Son of Heaven was in the Fragrant Robes Hall, and His Majesty casually discussed with Yuanjing and inquired about the righteous men, whereupon Yuanjing reported the matter. Unexpectedly, the Son of Heaven already knew the particulars, and they matched exactly what I had reported. The next day, the Son of Heaven held court in the Hall of Literary Virtue and, before all the ministers, bitterly rebuked Grand Marshal Tong and sharply censured Grand Marshal Gao for their repeated failures. His Majesty personally ordered the four treasures of the study to be brought forth and wrote the vermilion edict in his own hand, specially dispatching Yuanjing to come in person to your great stronghold to invite all the chieftains. I hope that you righteous men will soon prepare to come to the capital, and do not betray the Holy Son of Heaven's intention to summon and pacify you." All were overjoyed and bowed with hands clasped to express their thanks. When the ceremony was concluded, Prefect Zhang, pleading that there were matters in his district to attend to, took leave of the Grand Marshal and returned to the city on his own.

Here it must be told that Song Jiang had Staff Officer Wen brought out to meet them. Grand Marshal Su was delighted to speak of old times, and joy filled the hall. He was invited to take the central seat of honor, with Staff Officer Wen sitting opposite as his guest. Above and below the hall, all took their proper places. A great banquet was laid, and cups were passed in turn. In the front hall, music was played loudly and triumphantly. Though there was no dragon roasted or phoenix stewed, it was truly a mountain of meat and a sea of wine. That day, all were thoroughly drunk and were helped back to their quarters to rest. The next day, another banquet was arranged, and each one opened their hearts and spoke freely of their life's aspirations. On the third day, yet another feast was laid, and Grand Marshal Su was invited to tour the mountain; it was not until evening, when all were thoroughly drunk, that the gathering dispersed.

Several days had already passed swiftly. Su Taiwei wished to return, and Song Jiang and the others pressed him earnestly to stay. Su Taiwei said: "You righteous men do not understand the situation. I was sent by the Emperor's decree and have already been here many days. I am grateful that you heroes have generously submitted to the court—your great righteousness is complete. If I do not return quickly, I fear the treacherous ministers will become jealous and raise objections." Song Jiang and the others said: "Since Your Excellency insists, we dare not press you to stay. Let us drink together this one last time, and tomorrow morning we will respectfully see Your Excellency off down the mountain." At once they gathered all the officers, great and small, for a banquet of fellowship. During the drinking, everyone expressed their gratitude. Su Taiwei again spoke soothingly to comfort them, and the gathering did not break up until evening.

The next morning, carriages and horses were prepared. Song Jiang personally carried a tray of gold and pearls to Su Taiwei's tent, bowed twice, and presented them. Su Taiwei would not accept them. Song Jiang pressed them on him again and again, and only then did he receive them. His clothes were packed, his luggage and saddle-horses secured, and preparations were made to depart. As for the other men who had accompanied him, Zhu Wu and Le He had been hosting them these past days, providing food and drink as regulations prescribed; and to all of them, regardless of rank, generous gifts of gold, silver, and silk had been given, so that everyone was delighted. Gold and treasure were also presented to Staff Officer Wen, who likewise refused to accept them. Song Jiang insisted respectfully, and only then did he consent to receive them. Song Jiang then invited Staff Officer Wen to accompany Su Taiwei back to the capital. The officers of Liangshan Marsh, great and small, with gongs, drums, and soft music, escorted Taiwei down the mountain. They crossed the Golden Sands Beach and accompanied him for thirty li beyond, where all dismounted and raised cups of farewell to Su Taiwei. Song Jiang stepped forward, holding up a cup, and said: "When Your Excellency returns to the imperial presence, speak kindly on our behalf and intercede for us." Su Taiwei replied: "Righteous men, set your minds at ease. Only prepare yourselves quickly and come to the capital as soon as possible. When your army reaches the capital, send someone to my residence first to inform me. I will memorialize the Emperor and have an envoy come with the imperial staff of authority to welcome you—that will show proper dignity." Song Jiang said: "Your Excellency, please convey this: this humble marshland, since Wang Lun first came to the mountain and founded it, then Chao Gai came, and now it has come to Song Jiang—it has been many years. The nearby residents have been harassed and harmed no small amount. It is my humble wish now to exhaust our wealth and hold a market for ten days. When all is gathered, we will proceed to the capital in full force—how dare we delay? I also hope Your Excellency will convey this humble intention to the Emperor's ear, to grant us more time." Su Taiwei promised, took leave of the assembled men, and with the retinue who had brought the imperial edict, set off for Jizhou.

Song Jiang and the others returned to the great stronghold. At the Hall of Loyalty and Righteousness, drums were beaten to assemble the crowd. The officers, great and small, took their seats, and the many soldiers all came before the hall. Song Jiang issued his command: "Brothers all, since Wang Lun founded this mountain stronghold, and later the Chao Heavenly King came and built our enterprise, it has flourished thus. Since I was rescued by you brothers in Jiangzhou and brought here, you have honored me as leader—it has been many years. Today we have the joy of receiving the court's amnesty and will once again see the light of day; sooner or later we must go to the capital and devote our strength to the nation. Now as for all of you, whatever is in the treasury shall be deposited in the storehouse for common use; all other gains shall be divided equally among us. We one hundred and eight men correspond to the stars of heaven—we live and die together. Now the Emperor in his great mercy has issued a decree pardoning our crimes and granting amnesty. All of us, great and small, are absolved of our offenses. We one hundred and eight men will go to the capital before the Emperor—let us not betray the Emperor's great grace. You soldiers, some of you came of your own accord to join the outlaws, some followed others up the mountain, some were officers who fell into our hands, some were captured. Now that we have accepted amnesty, all will go to the court. Those who wish to go, have your names registered in number for departure; those who do not wish to go, register your names here to take leave. I will provide you with money and goods and send you down the mountain to make your living as you please." When Song Jiang had finished his command, Pei Xuan and Xiao Rang were instructed to register the names in number. Once the order was issued, the soldiers of the three armies each went off to discuss among themselves. At that time, those who asked to leave numbered three to five thousand. Song Jiang rewarded them all with money and goods and sent them away. Those who wished to accompany the army had their names reported to the authorities. The next day, Song Jiang ordered Xiao Rang to write proclamations and sent men in all directions to post them, informing the nearby prefectures, counties, towns, and villages, and inviting all to come to the mountain for the ten-day market. The proclamation read:

"We, the righteous men of Liangshan Marsh, led by Song Jiang, respectfully proclaim to all directions in the name of great righteousness: Having gathered in the mountains and forests, we have frequently disturbed the people of the surrounding regions. Today, by the grace of the Emperor's broad benevolence and great virtue, a special edict has been issued pardoning our original crimes, granting amnesty, and calling us to submit. We shall soon attend court morning and evening. Unable to repay this kindness, we hereby hold a market for ten days from our own resources. If you will not spurn us, bring your goods and come—each shall be repaid, without any falsehood. We hereby give notice: let the people near and far not hesitate or avoid us, but graciously come. It would be our great fortune.

Third month, fourth year of the Xuanhe era — Respectfully posted by Song Jiang and the righteous men of Liangshan Marsh."

When Xiao Rang had finished writing the proclamations, men were sent to nearby prefectures, districts, and scattered villages to post them everywhere. From the treasury were distributed gold, pearls, treasures, colored silks, damasks, gauzes, and silks of every kind among the various chieftains and military officers. A separate portion was set aside as tribute for the sovereign. The remainder was heaped up in the mountain stronghold, and a market was announced for ten days, beginning on the third day of the third month and ending on the thirteenth. Cattle and sheep were slaughtered, and wine was brewed. All who came to the mountain stronghold to trade were entertained with food and drink, and the attendants were rewarded with gifts. When the time came, people from the four directions, carrying bags and packs, gathered like mist and assembled like clouds, all converging on the mountain stronghold. Song Jiang issued orders, and the people were overjoyed tenfold. They bowed in thanks and went down the mountain. For ten consecutive days, this continued daily. After the ten days, the market was closed. Orders were given to all, high and low, to prepare for the journey to the capital to pay court. Song Jiang then wanted to send the families of each household back to their home villages. Wu Yong remonstrated, saying, "Brother, this is not yet advisable. Let all the families remain here in the mountain stronghold. After we have gone to the capital and appeared before the Emperor, and the imperial favor has been confirmed, then it will not be too late to send the families back home." When Song Jiang heard this, he said, "The strategist's words are most fitting." He then issued further orders for the chieftains to make preparations and to marshal the troops. Song Jiang and his men set out at once with all haste, and soon arrived at Jizhou, where they thanked Prefect Zhang Shuye. The Prefect immediately arranged a banquet to entertain the many righteous men and to reward the three armies. Song Jiang and his men took leave of Prefect Zhang, left the city, and advanced, leading a great host of soldiers and horses straight toward the capital. They first sent Dai Zong and Yan Qing ahead to the residence of Grand Marshal Su in the capital to report. When the Grand Marshal received the news, he went at once into the palace to inform the Emperor that "Song Jiang and his host of soldiers and horses are coming to the capital to pay court." The Emperor was greatly pleased and dispatched the Grand Marshal together with one of the Imperial Escort Commanders, bearing banners and ceremonial axes, to go out of the city to welcome them. Thereupon Grand Marshal Su received the imperial edict and proceeded beyond the city walls.

Meanwhile, Song Jiang's army on the road was arranged with great precision. At the front were carried two red banners: on one was written the two characters "Obey Heaven," and on the other "Protect the Country." All the chieftains were in military attire, save only Wu Xuewu, who wore a silk scarf and feathered robes; Gongsun Sheng, who wore a Taoist cloak and priestly gown; Lu Zhishen, who wore his fiery monk's robes; and Wu the Pilgrim, who wore a black hempen robe. The rest wore battle robes and golden armor, in their native dress. After more than one day on the road, they arrived outside the capital, where they encountered the Imperial Escort Commander, who came bearing the imperial insignia to welcome the army. Song Jiang, having received word of this, led the chieftains forward to pay their respects to Grand Marshal Su. Then they encamped the army outside Xin Cao Men, pitched their camps, and awaited the imperial edict.

Now Grand Marshal Su and the Imperial Escort Commander returned to the city and reported to the Emperor, saying, "Song Jiang's army is encamped outside Xin Cao Men, awaiting the imperial edict." The Emperor then said, "We have long heard that Song Jiang and his one hundred and eight men on Liangshan Marsh are destined by the stars, and moreover are heroes of great courage and fierceness. They have now submitted and arrived in the capital. On the morrow, We shall lead the hundred officials to ascend the Xuan De Tower, and Song Jiang and his men shall be ordered to appear in their military dress as if going into battle, without bringing a large host—only three or five hundred cavalry and infantry shall enter the city, passing from east to west, and We shall observe them in person. This will also let the soldiers and people of the city know that these heroic men are loyal ministers of the state. Afterward, they shall remove their armor and lay aside their weapons, and all shall wear the brocade robes that have been bestowed upon them, entering through the Dong Hua Men and appearing at the Wen De Hall for audience." The Imperial Escort Commander went directly to the front of the encampment and orally delivered the imperial edict to Song Jiang and his men.

The next day, Song Jiang gave orders for "Iron Face" Pei Xuan to select several hundred burly soldiers of infantry. At the front were carried gongs, drums, flags, and banners; behind were arranged spears, swords, axes, and halberds; and in the center were raised the two red banners reading "Obey Heaven" and "Protect the Country." The soldiers all wore swords, bows, and arrows at their sides, and each man was dressed in his own military attire and armor. They formed ranks and entered through the Dong Guo Men. The people and soldiers of the capital, old and young, crowded along the road to gaze upon them, as if beholding celestial beings. At this time, the Emperor led the hundred officials to the Xuan De Tower and looked down from the balcony. He saw in the front ranks gongs, drums, flags, banners, spears, swords, axes, and halberds, all arranged in formation. In the center was a company of cavalry on white horses, carrying the two red banners reading "Obey Heaven" and "Protect the Country," with twenty or thirty mounted musicians playing drums and music. Behind them, the many heroes marched in clusters. How magnificent were these heroes entering the city to pay court! Behold:

The jade steps were swept by the clear wind,

The golden basins glistened with dew.

The eastern sun was just rising,

The pearl curtains of the northern palace were half drawn.

Beyond the Nan Xun Gate,

One hundred and eight loyal men gave their hearts;

Before the Xuan De Tower,

The Emperor of ten thousand years looked upon them with new eyes.

Solemn in dignity, they performed the court rites for the first time;

Displaying their spirit, they still maintained the bearing of soldiers.

Wind, rain, sun, and stars—all recognized the serenity of the Emperor's countenance;

Thunder and lightning—no longer needed the might of heavenly punishment.

Before the imperial palace, all spirits gathered:

Saints, immortals, Nezha, the Vajra guardians, Yama, the judges, the door gods, the Year Star—even yaksha demons and ghostly fiends—all looked up to the Emperor, Lord of the Way.

Beneath the phoenix tower, the hundred beasts came to court:

Tigers, leopards, qilin, suanni, the prison beast, the golden-winged bird, the eagle, the tortoise, the ape—even dogs, rats, snakes, and scorpions—all acknowledged the lordship of Song.

Five dragons flanked the sun:

The Dragon in the Clouds, the Dragon of the Rivers, the Dragon Emerging from the Forest, the Nine-scaled Dragon, the Single-horned Dragon, like the Cave-leaving Flood Dragon and the River-overturning She-dragon, all following the procession to pay court.

The multitude of tigers left the mountains:

The Winged Tiger, the Ravine-leaping Tiger, the Brocade Tiger, the Spotted-neck Tiger, the Blue-eyed Tiger, the Smiling Tiger, the Short-legged Tiger, the Arrow-struck Tiger, like the Sick Great Serpent and the Mother Great Serpent, all attending in their proper ranks.

Those who were once called dukes, earls, and barons were versed in court etiquette;

Who would have known that those who thrice bowed and shouted "Long live" would also include gardeners, physicians, diviners, craftsmen, and boatmen?

All those who grow hair and beard may deem themselves worthy of imperial favor; yet who would have thought that scarlet robes and purple sashes would also be bestowed upon the bodies of a woman, a wastrel, a monk, and a wandering ascetic. In titles alone, we see Grand Guardian, Military Counselor, Prince Consort, Legal Clerk, Commandant, and Vanguard General—their official ranks already listed. Compared to the ancients, they are the Overlord, Li Guangsuo, Guan Suo, the Marquis of Wen, Yuchi and Ren Gui—reborn in this age. Those who are handsome, like "White-Faced Youth" with a flower in his hand, holding flutes, fans, banners, and drums, ready to sing and dance; look at those who are ugly, like "Blue-Faced Beast" wearing a ghost mask, wielding spears, sabers, whips, and arrows, able to fight and campaign. The tall ones are like "God of the Treacherous Road," a full ten feet in height; the fierce ones are like the Stone General, whose strength holds down three mountains. Hair may be red, eyes may be green, yet all harbor a loyal heart within; they can touch the sky and leap the waves, but will never stray into crooked or flattering paths. They draw near to the sovereign, no longer faceless as in days past; mercy and leniency prevail in defense—truly, this day knows no obstruction. Behold the whole company of scholars who brandish spears and swing staves—they surpass the officials in the entire court who deceive the ruler and harm the people. The righteous men now rejoice in finding their lord; the royal house at last celebrates gaining worthy men!

Let us speak of the Emperor, the Son of Heaven, who together with his assembled officials stood upon the Propaganda of Virtue Tower and gazed upon Song Jiang and his retinue from Liangshan Marsh. The dragon countenance was moved with joy, and in his heart he was greatly pleased. He said to the officials: "These are true heroes, these men of valor!" He sighed with admiration without end. He then commanded the Palace Herald to convey his decree, ordering Song Jiang and the others to change into the imperial brocade robes bestowed by the Emperor before appearing at court. The Palace Herald received the command and relayed it to Song Jiang and the rest. Outside the East Glory Gate, they removed their armor and military accoutrements, and put on the red and green brocade robes granted by the Emperor. They hung gold and silver tablets at their waists, each donned the court headscarf facing heaven, and wore greengrease court boots. Only Gongsun Sheng cut the red brocade into a Daoist robe, Lu Zhishen sewed his into a monk's habit, and Wu the Pilgrim fashioned his into a monk's robe—each in this way not forgetting the imperial gift. Song Jiang and Lu Junyi led the way, with Wu Yong and Gongsun Sheng following, guiding the multitude through the East Glory Gate.

That day, court ceremony was strictly observed and the imperial carriage was arrayed. At the hour of the Dragon, the Son of Heaven ascended the Hall of Literary Virtue in his carriage. The Master of Ceremonies led Song Jiang and the others into the court in proper order, where they took their places and performed the ritual obeisance. The Palace Herald intoned the prescribed genuflections and courtesies, and after thrice crying "Ten thousand years!" the Son of Heaven, greatly pleased, commanded them to be brought forward into the Hall of Literary Virtue and seated according to rank. He ordered a royal banquet to be prepared: the Imperial Kitchens were instructed to lay the feast, the Fine Wines Office to present the liquors, the Delicacies Office to prepare the dishes, the Preserves Office to cook the rice, the Imperial Canteen to supply the meals, and the Music Bureau to perform music. The Son of Heaven himself sat upon his precious throne and joined the feast. And then it was seen:

The ninefold gates were opened, and the cry of phoenixes resounded; the heavenly gates of heaven swung wide, and the majestic dragon robes were beheld. The feast was spread upon tortoiseshell tables, inlaid with seven treasures and gold; censers were arranged in the shape of qilin unicorns, compounded of a hundred fragrances and borneol camphor. Between glass cups stood amber goblets; agate chalices were paired with coral wine vessels. On red jade plates were piled high the flesh of unicorns and phoenixes; on purple jade dishes were heaped the hooves of camels and the paws of bears. Peach-blossom broth was pure, stuffed with yellow sheep from the northern frontier; silver-threaded minced fish was fresh, carved from red carp of the southern Yangzi. Golden cups brimmed with fragrant wine; purple-cloud goblets overflowed with jade-like liquor. Five stands and eight tureens, a hundred flavors of delicacies. Sugar was molded into sweet lion-shaped immortals; flour was baked into fragrant crispy victors' cakes. Just as the wine had been poured five rounds, the soup was presented in three offerings. The Music Bureau performed the phoenix and lark dances of the court; the Ritual Music Office arrayed its ranks of actors. The ghost-gate entrance was clearly opened. First came the actor playing the outsider role: a black lacquer head-shine, bright as a mirror; embroidered robes with flowered borders, lifelike in their detail. Second came the one playing the colorful role: a waistband of rhinoceros horn, wrapped in a red-and-green flowered silk scarf; yellow robes long over short boots, with sleeves and lapels densely patterned with mountains and rivers. Third came the one playing the "end" role: a knotted ball-shaped hat, wearing layered embroidered robes; he came first to cue the performance with great clarity, reciting passages of miscellaneous verse truly rare. Fourth came the "pure" role actor: his speech moved the crowd, his expressions were manifold; he filled in melodies according to the script, and delivered comic banter following the proper form. Fifth came the "pasted-pure" actor: a busybody with wild eyes; a bright streak painted across his forehead, two colors of white powder smeared across his face. He wore an oily, greasy old headscarf and a ragged, slovenly theatrical coat. He could take six blows of the bamboo board without flinching and endure two strikes of the hempen whip as though it were play. These five led sixty-four rounds of troupe dancers and a hundred and twenty musicians, performing variety plays and comic interludes. Each wore a green scarf and bucket hat; each wore a red sash and red robe. They played dragon flutes and beat alligator drums, their sound shaking the clouds; they plucked brocade zithers and stroked silver psalteries, their music startling the fish and birds. A hundred entertainments raised a clamor of voices; witty banter drew shouts of praise from all. They enacted "Ten Thousand Nations Paying Court in a Year of Great Peace" and "The Eight Immortals Celebrating Longevity in an Age of Harmony"; they performed "Emperor Xuanzong Dreaming of a Visit to the Moon Palace" and "Di Qing Seizing the Kunlun Pass by Night." There were also immortals and Daoist companions, as well as filial sons and obedient grandsons. Those who watched found their resolve strengthened; those who listened found their temperaments nourished. In a moment, eight troupe leaders escorted four beauties, singing and dancing in pairs, blowing and plucking instruments together. They sang "Facing the Emperor," "Congratulating the Sacred Sovereign," "Grateful for Imperial Grace," and "Joy Before the Throne"—music of a well-governed age; they danced "Drunken Muslim," "Living Guanyin," "Willow Maiden," and "Old Bao"—the pure and upright manner. Indeed, a hundred treasures adorned their waistbands, and pearls draped their arms; when they smiled, flowers seemed near their eyes; when they finished dancing, brocade wound around their heads. The great feast was complete, and all music arose together. The sovereign reigns effortlessly for a thousand ages; the dragon countenance rejoices, and the ten thousand directions share in the gladness. A poem bears witness:

The ninefold phoenix towers newly opened the banquet;

The thousand-year-old dragon steps bestowed robes of old.

A matchless fame and merit established by themselves—

Could loyal hearts and righteous minds ever stray?

Now, the emperor had granted Song Jiang and his men a banquet, which lasted until dusk. Having expressed their thanks, Song Jiang and the others all came out wearing the flowers in their caps. Outside the Xihua Gate, they each mounted their horses and returned to their own camps. The next day, they entered the city, and the Master of Ceremonies led them to the Hall of Literary Virtue to express their gratitude. The emperor's countenance was pleased, and he wished to bestow official titles, commanding Song Jiang and his men to receive their appointments the following day. Song Jiang and his men thanked the emperor, left the court, and returned to camp—no more of this.

It is also related that an official of the Military Affairs Bureau submitted a memorial: "These newly surrendered men have rendered no service and should not be hastily granted titles. Let them wait for future campaigns, where if they establish merit, titles and rewards may be bestowed accordingly. At present, their tens of thousands of men are encamped pressing against the city walls—this is most improper. Your Majesty may return those soldiers under Song Jiang's command who were originally from the capital and were captured to their former posts, and send the troops from other circuits back to their original garrisons. The remainder may be divided into five columns and deployed separately to Shandong and Hebei. This is the best strategy." The next day, the emperor commanded the Imperial Guard Commander to go directly to Song Jiang's camp and orally convey the imperial edict, ordering Song Jiang and his men to divide their troops and return them to their original garrisons. When the chieftains heard this, their hearts were displeased, and they replied: "We surrendered to the court, yet not one of us has received any official rank, and now you wish to separate and disperse our brothers. We chieftains live and die together and vow never to part! If this is truly to be done, we shall have no choice but to return to Liangshan Marsh." Song Jiang quickly restrained them, then earnestly and loyally entreated the messenger, begging him to present their case favorably in his report. When the Guard Commander returned to the court, he dared not conceal anything and reported exactly what had been said to the emperor. The emperor was greatly alarmed and immediately summoned the Military Affairs Bureau officials to deliberate. The Military Commissioner Tong Gan submitted: "Although these fellows have surrendered, their hearts have not changed, and they will ultimately bring great calamity. In my humble opinion, Your Majesty should issue a deceitful edict to lure them into the capital, annihilate all one hundred and eight of them, and then disperse their troops, thus eliminating this menace to the state." When the emperor heard this, his imperial will hesitated and remained undecided. From behind the imperial screen stepped forth a great minister, wearing a purple robe and ivory tablet, who cried out in a loud voice: "The beacon fires on all four borders have not yet been extinguished, and now calamity arises in the midst—all because of you wretched and foolish ministers, who have ruined the sacred dynasty's realm!" It was by the mouth that establishes and secures the state that the souls who shook heaven and earth were to be saved. As for who was the minister who shouted from behind the imperial screen, let us listen to the next chapter for the answer.