In the autumn of 362 BC, a rare and fierce battle took place in the Shao Liang Mountains on the west bank of the Yellow River.
公元前三百六十二年秋，黄河西岸的少梁山地，打了一场罕见的恶仗。
The war has ended. In the autumn twilight, the infantry and cavalry in red armor have retreated to the southern hills outside of the main battlefield. The character "Wei" on their large banner can still be faintly seen. On the northern hill of the main battlefield, it is dark and gloomy with troops in black armor standing in formation under a large banner with the character "Qin", staring angrily at the Wei army on the southern hill, ready to charge again at any moment. The Wei army on the southern hill has also regrouped into two formations of infantry and cavalry, equally angry as they stare at Qin's army on the northern hill, also prepared to charge at any time. As blood-red sunset fades away, both sides stand firmly facing each other without either side retreating or charging forward. There are piles of corpses and abandoned war vehicles left behind on this main battlefield valley that neither side is fighting for; it's like two fierce tigers staring each other down where no one can leave first.
战事已经结束。秋天的暮色中，红色衣甲的步兵骑兵已经退到主战场之外的南部山头，大纛旗上的“魏”字尚依稀可见。主战场北面的山头上黑蒙蒙一片，黑色旗甲的兵团整肃的排列在“秦”字大纛旗下严阵以待，愤怒的望着南面山头的魏军，随时准备再次冲杀。南面山头的魏军，也重新聚集成步骑两阵，同样愤怒的望着北面山头的秦军，同样准备随时冲杀。血红的晚霞在渐渐消退，双方就这样死死对峙着，既没有任何一方撤退，也没有任何一方冲杀，谷地主战场上的累累尸体和丢弃的战车辎重也没有任何一方争夺。就象两只猛虎的凝视对峙，谁也不能先行脱离战场。
This is a peculiar war, with no winner or loser, both sides are hurt.
这是一次奇特的战争，没有胜负，两败俱伤。
The Black Army was personally commanded by Qin Xiangong's general, Ying Shixi. In a half-day battle, they beheaded 50,000 Wei soldiers. His eldest son, Ying Quliang led 300 elite soldiers and charged straight into the center of the enemy formation, capturing Wei's commander Gongshu Tuo in one fell swoop. According to the military scale and evaluation standards of the early Warring States period, this was considered a great victory. Unexpectedly, after their commander was captured by Qin forces, instead of dispersing as expected, the Wei army fought back fiercely in an attempt to rescue him. Seeing his son's three hundred dead warriors trapped in a sea of red Wei troops and feeling anxious about it all; with his long sword waving high above his head he personally led five thousand elite cavalrymen charging into enemy lines to assist his son. The two armies joined together and morale soared. Ying Quliang took the lead on horseback and led his dead warriors out of danger while Qin Xiangong stayed behind to block any pursuit from Wei troops but unfortunately got hit by a cold arrow piercing through his back heart area causing him to almost fall off his horse with a low roar. At this point Ying Quliang had already handed over Gongshu Tuo to another general at the rear guard before leading his dead warriors back for revenge against their enemies once again. Under Ying Quliang’s leadership ,the Qin army launched an aggressive attack that drove away the retreating Wei army three miles away. When they returned to check on their leader however they found that an arrowhead had penetrated more than five inches deep into Qin Xiangong's back heart area leaving behind black bruises around it . The accompanying physician was sweating profusely but did not know how to proceed.
黑色军团由秦献公嬴师隰亲自统率，半日激战中斩首魏军五万。嫡子嬴渠梁率死士三百，直突敌阵中心，一举俘获了魏军统帅公叔痤按照战国初期的用兵规模和评价标准，这算是一场特大胜利了。出人意料的是，魏军在统帅被俘后非但没有溃散，反而拼命回卷，企图抢回统帅。秦献公眼见长子嬴渠梁的三百死士陷入红色魏军的汪洋大海，情急之下，长剑挥动，亲自率领五千精锐骑兵冲入敌阵接应儿子。两军会合，士气大盛。嬴渠梁一马当先，率死士冲出重围。秦献公断后阻击，眼见要脱离魏军，却被一支冷箭射中背心。秦献公通彻心肺，一声低吼，几乎跌落马下。此时嬴渠梁已经将公叔痤交于后军大将，率死士反身杀回。秦军在嬴渠梁率领下大举冲杀，一气将魏军杀退到三里之外。回来再看公父，秦献公背心的箭头竟深入五寸有余，周围已经渗出一圈黑晕。随军太医急得大汗淋漓，却不知如何下手
Qin Xiangong's face was wax yellow, and he lay on the military bed whispering, 'Withdraw troops from Liyang.' Then he passed out.
秦献公面色蜡黄，伏在军榻低声道：“渠梁，撤军栎阳。”便昏了过去。
Ying Quliang's eyes were full of tears, but he remained calm and asked, "Is it a poisoned arrow?
“是否毒箭”嬴渠梁满眼泪光，却没有慌乱。
The imperial physician hurriedly nodded and said, "This is the Wolf's Bane Arrow from the Wei Kingdom. It is difficult to cure for a while.
太医急忙点头：“这是魏国的狼毒箭，一时难解。”
Are you daring to remove it?
“敢拔除么”
The arrow flew swiftly and the iron spear penetrated more than five inches deep, it cannot be pulled out." The physician shook his head.
“近箭疾射，铁簇深入五寸有余，断不可拔。”太医摇头。
Ying Quliang looked around at the generals in his tent and gestured towards a powerful leader, saying respectfully: 'Brother, please break the arrow.'
嬴渠梁环视帐中大将，向一员威猛的将领拱手道：“大哥，断箭吧。”
Young General is the illegitimate son of Duke Xian of Qin, and the elder brother of Ying Quliang. His curved moon-shaped long sword in his hand is extremely unique and rare. Upon hearing Ying Quliang's call, he walked behind his father and drew out his long sword, trembling slightly with both hands. It should be noted that if an arrow penetrates deep into the flesh, the force on the arrow shaft will be at the back wound of a vest. If one is not careful enough to cause movement in the arrow shaft, there will immediately be a danger to life. Moreover, Wei's weapons are made very finely; their long arrows are made from good hardwoods and have been brushed several times with tung oil lacquer making them shiny and smooth - ordinary swords cannot even touch them properly. Even though this curved moon-shaped long sword is a divine weapon, it has never cut through such an arrow before; who knows what might happen? Young General Ying was nervous and sweating profusely inside while secretly praying: "Heavenly Moon Sword oh Heavenly Moon Sword! Please save my father's life." With focused attention and calmness, he raised up his Heavenly Moon Sword lightly once - just as a flash of light flickered by - without touching its blade yet already cutting off silently through the arrow shaft. Ying Quliang quickly reached out with his left hand to catch hold of it mid-air then looked back at his father only to find him completely unaware of what had happened. With a sighing breath he couldn't help but sit down heavily inside their tent.
青年将领是秦献公的庶出子，嬴渠梁的长兄，叫嬴虔。他手中那柄弯月形的长剑极为奇特罕见，听得嬴渠梁招呼，他走到公父身后，拔出长剑立定，双手不禁微微颤抖。要知道，箭簇深入肉体，箭杆的受力处便在背心伤口，稍不留神使箭杆晃动带动箭簇，公父立时便有性命之忧。况且魏国的兵器打造得极为精细，长箭杆用上好的硬木制作，又反复刷过几遍桐油大漆，锃亮光滑，寻常刀剑根本难以着力。纵然这柄弯月长剑是神兵利器，可也没斩削过此等箭杆，安知没有万一嬴虔紧张得头上冒汗，内心暗暗祷告：“天月剑哪天月剑，救公父一命吧。”凝神定力，扬起天月剑轻轻一挥，只见一道光芒闪烁剑刃尚未触及，箭杆已被剑气悄无声息的切断嬴虔左手疾伸，凌空抓住断开的箭杆，再看公父，竟是丝毫没有察觉。嬴虔长吁一声，不禁跌坐帐中。
The generals in the tent also let out a soft 'ah' at the same time.
帐中大将们也同时轻轻的“啊”了一声。
Ying Quliang remained calm and ordered, 'Immediately withdraw the troops. Who is willing to stay behind?'
嬴渠梁镇静如常，吩咐道：“立即班师。谁愿断后”
Ying Qian jumped up and said, 'I'll stay behind. If I don't kill the sneaky Wei dog, then Ying Qian will come back with his head held high.'
嬴虔一跃而起，“断后我来。不杀暗箭魏狗，嬴虔提头来见”
Big brother," Ying Quliang whispered, "our father is seriously injured. We must prioritize the overall situation and not engage in unnecessary battles. If the enemy does not pursue us, we will not move. Hold on for one night and withdraw immediately tomorrow without acting impulsively. I'll wait for you at Liyang.
“大哥，”嬴渠梁低声道，“公父重伤，目下当以大局为重，不能恋战。敌不追，我不动。坚守一夜，明日立即撤回，万莫意气用事。我在栎阳等你。”
Ying Qian suddenly woke up and said, 'Okay. Big brother understands. We will return to the army tomorrow.'
嬴虔猛然醒悟，“好。大哥明白了，明日回军。”
Ying Quliang immediately ordered the generals in the tent: "Zi'an of the front army will lead the way, Changshi Gongsun Jia will lead the middle army to protect the king, and all other generals will follow and protect the middle army. I myself will lead three thousand cavalry to guard at the rear. Immediately break camp and withdraw.
嬴渠梁立即吩咐帐中诸将：“前军子岸开路，长史公孙贾领中军护卫国君，其余诸将皆随中军护卫。我自率三千铁骑押后。立即拔营班师。”
All the generals answered with a loud voice, and strode out of the tent. The mountainous area to the north of Shao Liang immediately became tense and busy.
众将一声答应，大步出帐，少梁北面的山地顿时紧张忙碌起来。
The dark clouds cover the moon, and the autumn wind is bleak. The Qin army's camp is still illuminated by tall military lamps and filled with the sound of drums. On the opposite mountain, the Wei army also has their own campfires and military lamps, tightly guarded in preparation to recapture their commander-in-chief in tomorrow's fierce battle. According to Wei's military law: if a commander dies in battle, his soldiers are not guilty; if a commander is captured, all generals and personal guards will be executed. Now that General Gongshu Cuo has been captured alive by the Qin army, who dares to withdraw without retrieving our commander-in-chief? The Qin people are known for being warlike, and after their king was injured they will surely seek revenge in a major battle tomorrow - there is no reason for us to retreat now that we have won this victory. Tonight's top priority is to rest up and prepare ourselves for tomorrow's true life-and-death struggle. At that time people were not yet skilled at sneaking into enemy camps or raiding fortresses; instead they continued with traditional frontal battles under flags during times of peace while avoiding surprise attacks during nighttime ceasefires. Despite remaining vigilant as always within our encampment walls, soon enough even Wei’s vast armies were engulfed by endless snores.
乌云遮月，秋风萧瑟。秦军阵地依然是军灯高挑，刁斗声声。对面山头的魏军也是篝火军灯，一片严密戒备，等着在明日的激战中夺回主帅。魏国军法：主帅战死，将士无罪；主帅被俘，三军大将并护卫亲兵则一律死罪。如今丞相兼统帅的公叔痤被秦军生擒，不夺回主帅，谁敢撤军魏国将军们判断，秦人好战，国君受伤后定然是恼羞成怒，来日一定会进行复仇大战，绝没有乘胜撤军的道理。今夜第一等大事是养精蓄锐，明日大战，才是真正的你死我活。那时侯，人们还不大擅长偷营劫寨之类的雕虫小技，还延续着春秋车战时期堂堂之阵正正之旗的正面决战传统，休战就休战，绝少有一方会乘着黑夜休战之机偷袭对方营寨。戒备归戒备，那是大军驻扎的必然形式，魏国军营还是迅速淹没于无边无际的鼾声之中。
As the sun rose, the autumn frost glistened. After the Wei army buried their pots and cooked a meal to satiate themselves, the remaining 80,000 iron cavalry troops left camp and formed up in preparation for a deadly battle with the Qin army to seize their commander-in-chief. According to tradition and rules of engagement, the Qin army should also form up and advance towards each other in the central valley until they were within arrow range before stopping to set up their formations. The commanding generals would then come forward for dialogue before launching an attack and deciding victory on that spot. However, today's situation was quite unusual as smoke billowed from cooking fires in the Qin camp while flags fluttered but there was no sign of them forming up or leaving camp. The deputy commander of Wei forces who was acting as commander-in-chief due to being King Wei Hui's younger half-brother named Gongzi Yang (also known as Yang) sneered coldly at this sight from his horse while wearing a large red cloak: "Let those poor Qin wait another half hour so they can die full.
太阳初升，秋霜晶莹。魏军埋锅造饭饱餐一顿后，剩余的八万铁骑出营结阵，准备向秦军发起抢夺主帅的死战。按照规则和传统，秦军也应该结阵而出，双方同时向中央谷地开进，一箭之地时双方扎住阵脚，主将出马对话宣战，然后便发动冲锋，决胜当场。今日事却颇为蹊跷，秦军营寨炊烟袅袅，战旗猎猎，却迟迟不见出营结阵。魏军副将，目下的代理统帅，是魏惠王的庶出弟魏卬，人称公子卬，不到三十岁，虽是第一次带兵打仗，却自视极高。此刻他身披大红斗篷，在马上遥望秦军营寨，冷冷笑道：“再等半个时辰，让那些穷秦做一回饱死鬼”
Half an hour had passed, but there was still no movement in the Qin army camp. Gongziang raised his sword and shouted loudly: "The Wei army has already shown mercy and justice. Charge up the mountain, exterminate the Qin army, and kill them all!" The sound of a horn echoed mournfully as Gongziang led the charge with his horse at the forefront. The red iron cavalry surged like a tide towards the northern mountainous area, breaking through the deer-horn barrier of the Qin army's camp in just a moment.
半个时辰过去了，秦军营地还是没有动静。公子卬举剑大喝：“大魏军已经仁至义尽，冲上山去，诛灭秦军，杀”牛角号凄厉长鸣，公子卬一马当先，红色铁骑潮水般卷上北面山地，片刻间便踏破了秦军营寨的鹿角屏障。
However, all the Wei army knights were stunned, and the angry roars and killing sounds suddenly froze, creating a terrible silence.
可是，所有的魏军骑士都愣住了，怒吼和杀声骤然冻结，一片可怕的沉默。
The Qin army camp was empty with nothing left. The earthen stoves were buried, the tents were pulled out, only the dry yellow autumn grass and the empty flags swayed in the bleak autumn wind. The only thing abandoned by the Qin army was the banners on the edge of their camp and piles of wet firewood emitting thick smoke.
秦军营地空荡荡一无长物。土灶埋了，帐篷拔了，惟有枯黄的秋草和虚插的旗帜在萧瑟的秋风中摇曳。秦军唯一的弃物，便是营寨边缘的旌旗和一堆堆湿柴浓烟。
The angry roar of the young master Ying, known as the "cowardly ghost of Ying Shixi", echoed in the valley.
“嬴师隰胆小鬼”公子卬愤怒的吼声在山谷回荡。
The Wei army did not expect that the main force of the Qin army had already calmly retreated to Liyang during the night. Ying Qian's rear guard cavalry also quietly withdrew from the battlefield at dawn. When the sun rose, Ying Qian's 5,000 iron riders had crossed the Luo River and galloped southwest towards Liyang. Even if the Wei army wanted to pursue them, it was already too late.
魏军想不到的是，秦军主力早已经在入夜时分从容撤退，回到了栎阳。嬴虔的断后骑兵也在黎明时分悄无声息的退出了战场。太阳升起时，嬴虔的五千铁骑已渡过了洛水，向西南的栎阳纵马疾驰。魏军纵想追赶，也是为时已晚了。
Ying Qianxin was anxious and restless, constantly urging his horse forward, hoping to return to Liyang as soon as possible. According to his temperament, he must fight a tough battle and capture the Wei dog who shot the cold arrow before returning home to present the flag in front of his father. However, Ying Quliang's advice made him suddenly realize the danger of his actions. With careful consideration, he became even more afraid. His father was seriously injured and in critical condition, while Ying Quliang's position as crown prince was not yet clear. Who knows if there will be sudden changes happening at any moment? Without their brothers working together, history may repeat itself with chaos within Qin just like fifty-three years ago.
嬴虔心急如焚，不断猛抽坐下战马，只想早点儿赶回栎阳。按照他的心性，一定要打一场硬仗，抓住那个施射冷箭的魏狗回去在公父面前祭旗。然而嬴渠梁的一番叮嘱却使他悚然警悟，仔细一想，更是后怕。公父重伤，危在旦夕，嬴渠梁的太子地位又没有明确，安知不会在瞬息之间发生肘腋之变如果没有他们兄弟联手，说不定五十三年前的秦国内乱将会再度重演。
Since being appointed as one of the Western feudal lords by King Ping of Zhou over 300 years ago, Qin has rarely experienced internal turmoil. However, 53 years ago, when Duke Ling of Qin passed away, his legitimate son Ying Shixi was only five years old. Ling's uncle, Duke Daozi of Qin (later known as Duke Jian), took advantage of his military power and seized the throne under the pretext that the young heir was too young to rule. Ying Shixi should have inherited the throne but was exiled to Longxi River Valley instead. Duke Jian ruled for fifteen years before passing away. His son succeeded him and became known as Duke Hui of Qin. After ruling for thirteen years, he also passed away and was succeeded by his own son who became known as King Chu of Qin. In his second year on the throne, Left Chancellor Li Si launched a coup against King Chu with support from others in court and drowned both him and Queen Dowager in Wei River. They then welcomed back Ying Shixi who had been living in exile for thirty-five years to become king again at Yongcheng City which had weak foundations due to its remoteness from centers of power. However, during his long period away from central authority while living among border nomads, Ying Shixi honed a strong willpower and deep character while making many connections with generals within the army. Upon ascending to the throne once more he resolved to change Qin's weak national situation; three years later he moved their capital eastward to Liyang which caused great shock throughout all levels society: upper-class families felt that Ying Shixi intended to break free from their control while commoners feared they were now too close to Wei's powerful army. Despite this time of panic among officials and citizens alike however,Ying did not falter or retreat; instead he held a grand ceremony at ancestral temple where he made an impassioned vow: to move the capital eastward was to reclaim the land west of Yellow River that Qin had lost over thirty years ago, drive Wei back across the river and out of Hangu Pass. This ambitious plan for revenge inspired both soldiers and civilians alike; they rallied behind Ying Shixi with a united front while upper-class families remained silent. After Duke Wen of Wei implemented Li Kui's reforms, their national strength grew significantly. They also appointed Wu Qi as their top general in battles against other feudal lords. Over thirty years, Wu led Wei's cavalry to capture Hangu Pass after sixty-four battles which resulted in them taking more than 500 miles of land on the west bank of Yellow River from Qin and forcing them into a narrow strip between Huashan Mountains and western borders. If not for Wu Qi being framed by some officials within Wei who forced him to flee to Chu, it is possible that Qin would have been completely annexed by Wei. Despite this however,Wei continued its encroachment upon Qin without any resistance from them at all. As soon as King Chu ascended the throne he discussed abandoning Guanzhong region altogether and retreating back to Longxi where they could live as semi-agricultural semi-pastoral border tribes once again.
秦国从被周平王封为西部诸侯三百多年来，极少发生内乱。但是在五十三年前，秦灵公逝世，嫡子嬴师隰只有五岁。灵公的叔父嬴悼子倚仗兵权，借口国君嫡子年幼，便夺位自立为国君。本该继位的嬴师隰被放逐到陇西河谷去了。嬴悼子就是秦简公，他在位十五年就死去了。简公的儿子继承了国君，称为秦惠公。秦惠公做了十三年国君，又死了。他的儿子继位，就是秦出公。出公即位第二年左庶长嬴改发动政变，将出公和太后沉到渭水溺死，迎接被放逐的嬴师隰回国都雍城做了国君。嬴师隰这时已经三十五岁了，长期远离权力中枢，在雍城的根基已经很是薄弱。但嬴师隰却在边陲游牧的粗砺生活中磨练出坚韧的意志和深沉的性格，并结交了秦军中许多将领。他即位后决意改变秦国的贫弱国势，第三年便将国都东迁到栎阳，引起举国震惊。一则是世族上层觉得嬴师隰有意摆脱他们的控制，二则是国人觉得离魏国大军的锋芒太近。朝野惶惶的时刻，嬴师隰却没有丝毫退却。他祭奠宗庙，慷慨立誓：东迁栎阳，就是要夺回秦国在三十年中失去的河西之地，将魏国赶回黄河东岸，赶出函谷关嬴师隰的复仇壮志使秦国军民大为振作，国人同仇敌忾衷心拥戴，世族上层悻悻沉默。也是，世族能有何理由反对这种顺应民心的复仇壮举呢魏国从魏文侯任用李悝变法后，国力大增，又用吴起做了上将军对诸侯作战。三十年间，吴起率领魏国铁骑攻下函谷关，大小六十四战，夺取了秦国黄河西岸的五百多里土地，将秦国压缩到了华山以西的狭长地带。函谷关失守少梁山地的龙门渡口同样失守秦国的门户洞开若非吴起被魏国群小陷害而被迫逃到楚国，秦国真有可能被魏国吞灭。虽然如此，魏国仍然没有停止对秦国的蚕食。秦国面对魏国的攻势，竟然没有丝毫的还手之力。秦出公刚一继位，便商议放弃关中，退回陇西重新做半农半牧的边陲部族。
At this moment, Duke Xian of Qin, Ying Shi Xi, has revitalized the nation and dispelled the gloom, how could he not gain the support of the whole country?
当此之时，秦献公嬴师隰振聋发聩，一扫阴霾，岂能不获得举国拥戴
After moving to Liyang in the east, Ying Shi Xiayi worked hard day and night to govern his state. He personally led the Qin army and the Wei army into a long-term war. In twenty years, they fought more than thirty battles of all sizes without a single defeat. The biggest victory was two years ago at the Battle of Shimen on the west bank of the Yellow River, where they annihilated 60,000 Wei soldiers and drove them out of Hangu Pass, thus recovering Qin's eastern gateway. If Zhao had not sent troops to rescue Wei's army that time, Qin could have easily regained all its land west of the river. After this great victory at Shimen, Emperor Zhou Xianwang sent an envoy to congratulate and reward Duke Xian of Qin with a set of noble battle god ceremonial dress embroidered with blue axes and black-and-white mysterious patterns on top-quality silk as well as a set of armor. In this battle at Shaoliang (Lesser Yang), Duke Xian intended to recover Longmen Ferry completely from Wei so as to drive them out westward once for all. Had he not been suddenly shot by an arrow causing serious injury during this battle at Shaoliang (Lesser Yang), it would have been another great victory like that at Shimen; then Qin would have restored its status as a major power since Duke Mu.
东迁栎阳以后，嬴师隰宵衣旰食励精图治，亲自率领秦国军队和魏国大军展开了长期恶战。二十年中打了大大小小三十多仗，竟然没有一次败绩。最大的一次胜利是前年黄河西岸的石门之战，一战消灭魏军六万，将魏国人赶出了函谷关，收复了秦国东部门户。那次要不是赵国出兵救援魏军，秦军完全有可能一举收复河西全部土地。石门大捷，天子周显王派遣特使庆贺，赏赐给秦献公一套高贵的战神礼服黼黻，那是在最名贵的彩丝上绣出青色战斧和黑白神秘图案的统帅披风与一套盔甲。这次的少梁大战，秦献公的本意是收复龙门渡口，彻底将魏国人赶出河西。若非秦献公突然中箭重伤，少梁大战就是又一个石门大捷，秦国将一举恢复秦穆公时的大国地位。
Oh God, oh God, could it be that you intend to destroy Qin? The thought of lightning flashes through my mind. A chill runs down Ying Qian's spine.
上天啊上天，莫非你有意亡秦心念电闪，一阵冰凉渗进嬴虔的脊梁。
The cavalry of Ying Qian was a well-trained elite knight in the Qin Dynasty, and they were experts in long-distance raids. After crossing the Luo River, Ying Qian ordered a thousand-man team to ambush on the west bank of the river. If Wei's army chased after them, they would attack them halfway across and force them to retreat. He himself led four thousand iron riders to gallop non-stop towards Liyang.
嬴虔的马队是秦国久经锤炼的精锐骑士，长途奔袭是行家里手。渡过洛水后，嬴虔命令一个千人队在洛水西岸埋伏，若魏军万一追来，则半渡击之，迫使魏军撤退。他自己则率领四千铁骑马不停蹄的向栎阳奔驰。
Li Yang is a small castle on the north bank of Li River, only more than 200 miles away from Luo River in the northeast direction. Two hours later, the black arrow tower at the east gate of Li Yang was already visible from afar. After crossing a mountain ridge, you can enter Liyang City. At this time, Ying Qian stopped his cavalry and called his deputy and four thousand captains to him generously: "The king has been seriously injured by an arrow and his life or death is uncertain. There may be unforeseen circumstances in Liyang City. To be safe, I have decided to leave behind three thousand iron riders along with one thousand iron riders who retreated from Luo River to hide behind this mountain ridge. The remaining one thousand iron riders will follow me into the city. If smoke rises from inside the city at any time within three days, we will immediately rush into Liyang City. Do you all agree?
栎阳是栎水北岸的一座小城堡，距离东北方向的洛水只有二百余里。两个时辰后，栎阳东门的黑色箭楼已经遥遥可见，再翻过一道山梁，就可进入栎阳城了。这时，嬴虔扎住马队，将他的副将和四个千夫长招到马前慷慨道：“国君箭伤甚重，生死不明。栎阳城内难保不生变故。为防万一，我决意留下三千铁骑，连同洛水退回的一千铁骑，隐蔽驻扎在这道山梁之后。余下的一千铁骑随我入城。三日内的任何时候，但见城内升起狼烟，便立即杀入栎阳。诸君可有他意”
But upon hearing the general's command, the deputy general and four thousand captains responded in unison.
“但听将军号令”副将和四个千夫长齐声应命。
Good subordinate Jing Jianling order: From now on, you are the commander-in-chief of the garrison outside the city. If there is any change in Liyang, you can use this military token to mobilize any troops and horses outside Liyang, surround Liyang until the new lord Ying Quliang safely ascends to the throne.
“好副将景监听令：自即刻起，你便是城外驻军总领。若栎阳有变，你可持此兵符调集栎阳之外的任何兵马，包围栎阳，直至新君嬴渠梁平安即位”
The young and heroic deputy commander "Jing Jian Zun Ming" took the military order with both hands, and passionately exclaimed: "Let's go together to overcome national difficulties, for the glory of Qin!
“景监遵命”年轻英武的副将双手接过兵符，激昂高声道：“赳赳老秦，共赴国难”
"Valiant old Qin, let's unite to overcome the national crisis," the four thousand commanders unanimously said.
“赳赳老秦，共赴国难”四个千夫长异口同声。
Ying bowed generously and said, "I swear by the folk proverb of my old Qin people that I am deeply grateful for your efforts. If our country is safe and peaceful, it will be all thanks to you. Let's part ways here and meet again in the future." After speaking, he beckoned to a captain beside him and said, "Follow me into Liyang quickly." As soon as he finished speaking, his warhorse galloped out from under him. Behind him, the captain waved his long sword and led a thousand iron riders like a storm towards Liyang.
嬴虔慨然拱手，“诸君以我老秦民谚立誓，嬴虔感慰奋之至。若国中平安，诸君大功一件。就此别过，后会有期。”说完，向身边一个千夫长一招手：“随我进入栎阳，快”话音落点，胯下战马已经电驰而出。身后千夫长长剑一挥，一千铁骑暴风骤雨般卷向栎阳。
When he arrived at the east gate of Liyang, Ying Qian saw that the city gate was wide open, the drawbridge was down, and everything on top of the wall was calm as usual. He knew then that his father was still alive and couldn't help but let out a long sigh before slowly riding into the city. However, Ying Qian had an extra layer of thought in mind. He led his horse team directly to wait outside the national palace gates while he himself strode into it with his Tianyue sword in hand. Ying Qian was three years older than his younger brother Ying Quliang and was a famous fierce general in Qin's army. Although he had a personality like lightning and fire, he was an extremely insightful person with great ambition. Qin Xiangong only had these two sons - one legitimate and one illegitimate - both regarded as important figures for their country and equally valued by him. Qin Xiangong never explicitly stated who would be crown prince. However, people naturally assumed that because Ying Quliang came from a legitimate wife with stable temperament and both literary talent and military prowess, he should be considered as heir to the throne. Although Ying Qian already held some power over Qin's army, he greatly admired his younger brother Ying Quliang whom he believed to be crown prince; whenever their father wasn't present, he always pushed forward his younger brother to take charge of matters while also paying close attention to maintaining Ying Quiliang's authority. At this delicate moment when responsibility weighed heavily on him due to being older than his brother,Ying Qian felt compelled to bear much more responsibility so that many things which were difficult for Yin Quiliang could be handled by him alone; thus disregarding strict orders stating "no troops are allowed inside palace gates,"he left behind 1,000 brave knights stationed there while carrying only Tianyue sword into palace.
到得栎阳东门，嬴虔见城门大开，吊桥长铺，城头安静如常，便知公父尚在，不由长吁一声，缓辔入城。但是，嬴虔还是多了一层心思，将马队直接带到国府门外列队等候，他自己手持天月剑大步入宫。嬴虔比嬴渠梁大三岁，是秦军著名的猛将，虽然性格如霹雳烈火，但却是个极为内明的有心之人。秦献公只有这两个儿子，一嫡一庶，但都视为国家干城，同样器重。秦献公也从来没有明确谁是太子。只是在人们眼中，因为嬴渠梁是正妻嫡出，加之气度沉稳，文武兼备，所以自然的认为他是国君继承人。嬴虔虽然已经隐隐然是秦军统帅，但却对弟弟嬴渠梁钦佩有加，认定他是太子，任何时候只要公父不在场，一定推出弟弟嬴渠梁主事，而且非常注意维护嬴渠梁的威权。当此微妙之时，嬴虔自感比嬴渠梁年长，责任重大，许多事嬴渠梁不好出面，必须由他一力承当，所以才不顾“宫门不得驻军”的严令，将一千死战骑士留在宫门守望，自己独自携带天月剑入宫。
The palace in Liyang is very small and simple, just a six-courtyard compound. Not to mention that it cannot be compared with the palaces of the six kingdoms of Shandong, even compared to his own old capital Yongcheng, it is much rougher and smaller. The only advantage is its sturdiness. Ying Qian did not want to meet the ministers of the country in the second courtyard's political hall. He hoped that they would think he was not in Liyang at this moment. He bypassed the main gate and entered directly into the fourth courtyard bedroom from a side door. He knew that his seriously injured father must be healing in there now. Sure enough, as soon as he entered through the side door, he saw guards standing guard inside the courtyard with an unusual level of vigilance, obviously different from the relaxed atmosphere outside of both city gates and beyond.
栎阳的宫室很小，也很简陋，只是一座六进大庭院而已。且不说与山东六国的宫殿不能相比，就是和自己的老国都雍成相比，也是粗朴狭小了许多。唯一的长处，就是坚固。嬴虔不想在第二进的政事堂遇见国中大臣，他希望大臣们以为他此刻不在栎阳。他绕过正门，从偏门直接进入了第四进寝宫，他知道，重伤的公父此刻一定在寝宫疗伤。果然，刚进偏门，就见院内岗哨林立，戒备异常，显然与城门和宫外的松弛气氛迥然不同。
Ying Quliang paced in the courtyard with a long sword in hand. When he saw Ying Qian's figure striding in, he quickly went to meet him.
嬴渠梁手持长剑在院中踱步，看见嬴虔身影赳赳而入，连忙大步迎上。
Big brother, you came back just in time. Is Shao Liang okay?
“大哥，你回来得正好，少梁没事吧。”
No problem. The Wei dogs must be jumping and cursing. Hey, how's your father?
“没事。魏狗们一定在跳脚大骂了。哎，公父如何”
The spirit has improved a bit. The physician is trying to extract the arrowhead. You should go take a look.
“精神好了一些。太医正在设法挖出箭头。你快去看看吧。”
Let's go together.
“走，一起去。”
No. Father instructed that when Big Brother returns, he should immediately go see him alone.
“不。公父吩咐，大哥一回来，立即单独去见他。”
Ying Qian was surprised and asked, 'Why is this?'
嬴虔惊讶，“这却是为何”
Big brother, don't think about these things anymore. Father has his own reasons. Go.
“大哥，不要想这些了。公父自有道理。去吧。”
Okay, wait for me. If there's anything, I'll come out immediately," he said before striding through the doorway.
“好，你等着，有事我即刻出来。”说完大踏步走进门槛。
Half an hour later, Ying Qian walked out of the bedroom with his right hand wrapped in white cloth and a pale face covered in fine sweat. Ying Quliang greeted him in surprise, "Big brother, what happened?" Ying Qian smiled slightly and said, "It's nothing. I scraped off some skin when crossing the Luo River and the imperial physician bandaged it for me." Ying Quliang was taken aback and was about to speak when he saw the old eunuch Hei Bo with white hair hurriedly approaching them and whispering, "Second young master, His Majesty has summoned you to an immediate audience." Ying Qian waved his hand urging him to go quickly saying,"Go ahead. I'll take care of something first then come back." Then he walked away quickly. Without thinking too much about it, Ying Quliang followed Hei Bo into the palace.
半个时辰后，嬴虔走出寝室，右手用白布裹着，脸色苍白，额头上冒着津津细汗。嬴渠梁惊讶的迎上去，“大哥，怎么了”嬴虔微微一笑，“没事。洛水渡河时蹭掉了一块皮，太医顺便包扎了一翻。”嬴渠梁一怔，正要说话，却见白发苍苍的老内侍黑伯匆匆走来低声道：“二公子，君上宣你即刻进见。”嬴虔挥挥手催促道：“快去吧。我去办件事儿就来。”便疾步走了。嬴渠梁不及思索，便跟着黑伯走进寝宫。
The palace was empty, with no doctors or the queen and her sister in sight. Qin Xiangong lay on his bed, covered by a large white cloth on his bare back. His head rested on a pillow, and his face, usually darkened by battles, was now pale and flushed. Ying Quliang walked quickly to the bedside and asked in a low voice: "Father, do you need a doctor?" Qin Xiangong moved the big pillow under his chest and propped himself up with both elbows on the bed. He looked up and said: "Quliang, sit down here and listen to what your father has to say." Ying Quliang replied "Yes" and pulled over a wooden stool to sit in front of the bed: "Father, I am your son Quliang. Please give me some guidance.
寝宫里空荡荡的，太医们一个都不见，母后和妹妹也不在了。秦献公伏身榻上，赤裸的背上盖着一块大白布，头伏在枕上，素来黧黑的征战面孔此刻竟是苍白潮红。嬴渠梁疾步走到榻前低声问：“公父，要否太医”秦献公将大枕挪到胸下，双肘撑在榻上，抬头道：“渠梁，这厢坐下，听公父说话。”嬴渠梁答应一声“是”，便拉过一个木墩坐到榻前：“公父，儿臣渠梁，聆听教诲。”
Qu Liang, my son, your father's path has already been completed. Your father did not appoint you as the crown prince because he did not want you to attract enemies too early. Now that you have passed the age of coronation and are twenty-one years old, your father confirms you as the crown prince. Please do not speak and listen to me finish." Qin Xiangong breathed heavily for a while and stared at his son with bright eyes. "I want to remind you of three important things: first, do not rush for revenge. For twenty years, Qin State has been exhausted and left you with a mess. You need to endure hardships and build up wealth and military strength for our country. It is impossible to keep fighting like I did in the past. Second, treat your subordinates well, especially the elders of noble families; do not easily provoke them. Thirdly, which is also the most important one - unite with your brothers without making enemies among yourselves - this was sworn by Ying Qian when I made him king. If he betrays this oath, let everyone know about it so that they can all help punish him." As he spoke, Qin Xiangong opened a hidden drawer on his bedstead and took out a blood-stained white silk scroll.
“渠梁啊，公父的路，已经走完了。公父原未立你为太子，是想不让你过早招风树敌。目下，你已经过了加冠之年，二十一岁了。公父确认你为太子，即刻即国君之位不要说话，听公父说完。”秦献公粗重的喘息了一阵，晶亮的目光盯住儿子，“我要叮嘱你三件大事：其一，不要急于复仇。二十年来，秦国已经打穷了，留给你的，是一个烂摊子。要卧薪尝胆，富国强兵。象公父这样老打仗，不行。其二，要善待臣下。尤其是世族元老，不要轻易触动他们。其三，也是最要紧的一条，要兄弟同心，不得交恶。这是我让嬴虔立的血誓。他若有二心，你可将血誓公诸国人，使人人得而诛之。”说着，秦献公拉开榻头暗屉，拿出一卷血迹斑斑的白丝。
Ying Quliang took it and unfolded it with both hands. The blood-red eight characters were strikingly visible: 'If I betray my lord, let heaven and earth destroy me.'
嬴渠梁双手接过抖开，血红的八个大字赫然入目若负君弟，天诛地灭
Father, the Qu Liang brothers have always been of one mind and spirit. Why are they tormenting our eldest brother like this?
“公父，渠梁兄弟素来同心同德，何故如此折磨大哥”
Qin Xiangong shook his head and said, 'Qu Liang, remember this: it is easy to have the same virtue but difficult to have the same heart. Great virtues require great discipline, and seeking common ground is even harder. Throughout history, internal strife within noble families has often been caused by close relatives fighting each other. You should not rely too much on Ying Rong's loyalty. This blood oath is just a precaution.'
秦献公摇摇头，“渠梁谨记：同德易，同心难，大德大节，求同更难。历来公室内乱，几曾不是骨肉相残嬴虔内明之人，你要倚重他。这血誓，惟防万一也。”
Qu Liang always remembers the teachings of his father: enrich the country and strengthen the military, treat subordinates well, and unite with brothers. If I fail to live up to my father's expectations, I will be ashamed to face my ancestors.
“渠梁谨记公父教诲：富国强兵，善待臣下，兄弟同心。若有负公父苦心，儿臣无颜见列祖列宗。”
Duke Xian of Qin quietly observed his son, then suddenly burst into laughter: "Good, good, your grandfather is waiting for you in the afterlife." Before he could finish his words, he spat out a mouthful of blood. Duke Xian of Qin collapsed onto his pillow, passing away abruptly.
秦献公静静端详着儿子，突然嘶声大笑：“好好好公父在九泉等你”言犹未了，一口鲜血喷出，秦献公双手扑在大枕上，溘然逝去。
Ying Quliang, crying out with one voice, threw himself onto his father's body.
“公父”嬴渠梁一声哭喊，扑在公父身上。
The white-haired eunuch walked in quietly and supported Ying Quliang, whispering: "The Crown Prince should grieve but the important matter is to take care of.
白发苍苍的老内侍轻轻走进，扶住嬴渠梁低声道：“太子节哀，大事要紧。”
Ying Quliang stood up with a sob, wiped away his tears calmly, and after a moment of thought he said: 'Hei Bo, please quickly summon General Ying Qian.'
嬴渠梁呜咽起身，静神拭泪，思忖有顷道：“黑伯，速请嬴虔将军。”
When Qin Xiangong was arranging his affairs, not a single minister was by his side. As an experienced monarch, Qin Xiangong naturally knew that this was a major taboo when it came to arranging one's affairs and he certainly did not intend for it to be so. His original intention was to properly arrange the matters of his two sons, then summon several important ministers and elders to declare and assign assistance matters. However, he did not anticipate that his arrow wound would suddenly flare up, taking away his only opportunity to summon the ministers in his final moments.
秦献公安排后事的时候，一个大臣都不在身边。作为久经锤炼的国君，秦献公当然知道这是安排后事的大忌，自然不会有意如此。他的本意，是想将两个儿子的事安排妥贴，再召见几名重臣元老，申明并布置辅佐事宜。但是，他没有想到自己的箭伤骤然发作，夺去了他在最后时刻召见大臣的唯一机会。
Qin Xiangong suddenly died, and the news of the succession had not been announced to the clans and ministers. The originally simple and clear political situation became instantly complicated. If the supporters of Ying Qian took advantage of this opportunity to cause trouble, their first target would be Ying Qu Liang who was alone with the king. At the same time, none of the ministers accepted important positions which could make powerful officials suspicious and lead to many unexpected events. Ying Qu Liang thought calmly that although both he and his brother saw their father before he passed away, his elder brother saw him while he was still alive but when he himself was alone with his father, his father suddenly died which undoubtedly put him in a disadvantageous position. Moreover, their father only made an oral declaration without leaving any written will behind before passing away abruptly. If someone caused trouble at this moment, not only would they be suspected of regicide but also they could declare that their father's declaration was fabricated. The key figure at this moment is Ying Qian; if he has no problem then there will be no problem in the country; if he has a problem then internal strife is inevitable. However, Ying Qu Liang couldn't predict what exactly his elder brother would do even though they have always had a close relationship. But considering that his elder brother's decision at this moment concerns national security made him feel alert - did Father detect something?
秦献公骤然死去，国君继位的大事未及公诸世族大臣，原本简单明朗的朝局便顿时错综复杂起来。若拥戴嬴虔的势力借机发难，第一个疑团目标便是孤身伴君的嬴渠梁。同时，大臣们没有任何人接受辅佐重任，也会使权臣疑虑重重，有可能平空生出诸多变故。嬴渠梁冷静思索，虽则兄弟二人在最后时刻都见到了公父，且兄长嬴虔先见，但嬴虔见公父时公父尚在；嬴虔走后，自己独对公父时公父却骤然逝去，无疑对自己不利。况且，公父只是口诏申明，尚未给自己留下书写遗诏就猝然去了。若有人借机发难，非但自己有弑君之嫌，而且发难者可以宣布公父的口诏是编造。此刻的关键人物是嬴虔，只有他可以力排众议。嬴虔无事，则国中无事。嬴虔有事，则内乱必生。大哥嬴虔究竟会如何嬴渠梁竟然一下子拿不准了。虽说嬴渠梁素来与嬴虔兄弟情谊甚笃，但想到嬴虔此刻一念实系国家安危，便不禁闪过一丝警觉公父为何要大哥立下血誓莫非真有蛛丝马迹被公父察觉了
The spine of Ying Quliang shuddered and felt cold. If it is true, how will the situation be handled?
嬴渠梁脊梁骨悚然发凉，果真如此，局面将如何收拾
At this moment in the political hall, the ministers and elders of Qin are waiting anxiously. They do not know how severe the king's injury is or whether he has determined his successor. They must consider both strategies for when the king recovers and for when a new king ascends to the throne after the current one passes away. All of these issues are unclear due to uncertainty about the king's condition and who will be named as heir, making it impossible to discuss them. The ministers pace silently in the hall, unsure what they should be discussing. Despite this, no one leaves the political hall. Experienced ministers know that during a critically ill monarch's reign is when power struggles are most likely to occur; unexpected changes can happen at any time. In over 400 years since Spring and Autumn period, there have been too many stories of sudden upheavals like this one - even Qi Huan Gong with his great reputation was trapped by illness leading to usurpation by treacherous officials; similarly Qin Ling Gong (the father of King Xian) was deposed by his uncle during an illness as well. Therefore, whenever a monarch falls gravely ill, almost without exception all government affairs are put on hold while high-ranking officials remain close by their ruler’s side at all times – including generals commanding troops outside or local dignitaries who rush back from afar if possible just so they can stay near their sovereigns' side in case anything happens unexpectedly. The greater uncertainty surrounding palace politics becomes, more tightly wound become courtiers’ nerves until such time as things settle down once again.
此刻的政事堂中，秦国的大臣元老们更是等候的焦灼不安。既不知国君伤势如何又不知国君是否确定了继任人既要思谋国君伤愈无恙的对策，又要思谋国君崩逝新君即位后自己如何应对所有这些，都因为国君的伤势不明与储君的不确定而变得扑朔迷离，无从商讨。大臣们都在厅中默默踱步，谁也不知道该商议些什么。虽然如此，却也没有一个人离开政事堂。稍有阅历的大臣都知道，国君病危期间，是庙堂权力最容易发生倾覆的时刻，随时都有可能发生意料不到的巨大变化。春秋以来四百多年间，这种朝夕倾覆的故事太多太多了。且不说赫赫威名的齐桓公病危被困而导致奸佞夺权，就是目下国君秦献公的父亲秦灵公，也正是在病危期间被叔父夺位自立的。所以，大凡国君伤重病危，国中大臣几乎无一例外的推开一切国事，寸步不离的守在距离国君最近的位置。包括在外领兵的统帅与地方大员，只要有可能，同样都尽可能的赶回国都，守在中枢要地。庙堂权力的变数愈大，朝臣们的心弦绷的就愈紧。这种躁动与紧张，要一直延续到新君确立形势明朗，方有可能结束。
Currently, the ministers of the state of Qin are in a state of anxiousness and unease.
目下，秦国的大臣们正处在这种焦灼不安之中。
Changshi Gong Sun Jia intentionally or unintentionally walked up to the senior official Gan Long and bowed, asking: 'Does the senior official have any advice?'
长史公孙贾有意无意的踱到上大夫甘龙面前，拱手问：“上大夫可有见教”
The senior official Gan Long had white hair and a thin, sharp appearance. He was the chief minister relied upon by the ruler and his followers were spread throughout the court of Qin. However, at this critical juncture, he was not summoned to enter the palace but instead like all other ministers could only wait in the political affairs hall. This itself was an unsettling sign of change. The Grand Historian Gong Sun Jia sought advice from him, apparently wanting to probe Gan Long's reaction to this change. But Gan Long simply replied indifferently: "The Grand Historian always follows the ruler; what advice do you have?
上大夫甘龙白发苍苍，清瘦矍铄，是国君倚重的主政大臣，门人故吏遍于秦国朝野。可是在这最要紧的关头，竟未被招进寝宫，而是和所有大臣一样，只能在政事堂守侯，这本身就是一种令人不安的变化迹象。长史公孙贾请教，显然是想探听甘龙对这种变化的反应。甘龙却是淡淡回答：“长史常随国君，有何见教”
This is a subtle counterattack. The Chief Historian holds the secrets of the monarch and is a trusted confidant, but even he is present in the court at this critical moment, which is more unusual than if the Prime Minister were to leave the monarch during a crisis. Public Sun Jia's request for advice clearly shows that he cannot bear the inner tension. Gan Long's casual retort clearly implies an unspoken meaning: without probing, you are more guilty than I am. This made Public Sun Jia feel embarrassed and had no choice but to bow and laugh: "Public Sun Jia has little knowledge and dare not speak as an authority.
这是一个微妙的反击。长史执掌国君机密，是左右亲信，然此时也在政事堂，这比主政大臣在危机时离开国君更为异常。公孙贾请教，显然是受不了内心紧张的折磨。甘龙淡淡的反诘，却分明表示出一种言外之意，不用试探，你比我更心虚。这使公孙贾感到尴尬，只好拱手笑道：“公孙贾才疏学浅，何敢言教”
The ministers are nervous and anxious, all wanting to hear someone say something. When they saw the two important ministers, Gan Long and Gong Sun Jia, talking, they gathered around but didn't know what to ask. They couldn't ask questions like "How is the king's injury?" or "Which prince will be chosen?", because that would imply that the questioner had ulterior motives. So although the ministers gathered around, they just silently watched Gan Long.
大臣们正在紧张焦躁，都想听谁说点儿什么。见上大夫甘龙和长史公孙贾两位枢要大臣对话，便纷纷聚来，却又无从问起。此刻象“国君伤势如何”“储君会是哪一位”这样的问题绝然不能问，因为那意味着问话者有二心。所以大臣们虽然围拢了过来，却都只是是默默的看着甘龙而已。
Unexpectedly, Gan Long did not remain silent at this moment. He bowed to the ministers who had gathered around him and loudly declared: 'May heaven bless Qin country. The king's arrow wound has greatly improved. We, as ministers, should discuss our plans together and submit a letter to the king to launch a major revenge campaign against Wei country.'
不料甘龙此刻却没有沉默，他向围过来的大臣们拱拱手，高声道：“上天佑护秦国，国君箭伤已经大有好转。我等大臣当共商大计，上书国君，大举复仇，讨伐魏国”
Really clever and experienced. Not only did he avoid taboos, but also provided the ministers with the best topic to discuss in the political hall. The ministers were relieved and responded one after another: 'What you said is absolutely right, we should attack Wei and recover Shao Liang.' As soon as the topic of 'avenging our lord's arrow' was brought up, the ministers became active and started discussing the battle of Shao Liang in groups of three or five while testing each other's responses in various subtle ways.
真是高明老到。既避开了忌讳，又给了大臣们聚集政事堂一个最好的议题。大臣们如释重负，纷纷呼应：“上大夫所见极是，该当讨伐魏国，收复少梁”“对为国君报一箭之仇”话题一开，大臣们顿时活跃起来，三五成群的开始纷纷议论少梁之战，同时以各种巧妙的方式试探着其他人的回应。
At this bustling moment, a team of armored warriors marched with orderly and heavy steps to the outside of the political hall, standing in formation and guarding the courtyard outside the gate. Their armor was bright and their spears were shining. The leading general was actually Zi'an, a subordinate of Ying Qin.
正在这哄哄嗡嗡的时刻，一队铁甲武士踏着整齐沉重的步伐开到政事堂外，铿锵列队，守在门外庭院。盔甲鲜明，长矛闪亮。带队将军却正是嬴虔的部将子岸
The Political Affairs Hall suddenly fell silent. The ministers' foreheads were covered in glistening sweat, their mouths agape and tongues tied as they looked at each other for answers. Could it be that the monarch had suddenly passed away and Ying Qian was going to seize power? If so, there was probably no one who could stop him. Although Ying Qian was not the legitimate commander of the Qin army, the 50,000 iron cavalry he led were almost all of Qin's elite troops. In addition, Ying Qian cared for his soldiers and treated his generals well. He was also a fierce general who fought alongside his soldiers on the battlefield and had high prestige in the military. If he wanted to seize power, it would be difficult for anyone to resist him. In a power struggle like this, whoever controls heavy troops holds true power. Although Yu Quanliang is also a brave general with both wisdom and courage, he still lacks experience in military affairs and often assists the monarch with political matters. He cannot compare directly with Ying Qian who has direct control over elite cavalry forces. If these two brothers really go to war against each other, then Qin will face great danger.
政事堂骤然沉默。大臣们额头冒出了晶亮的汗珠，张口结舌，相互目询。莫非国君骤然崩逝了嬴虔要夺位自立果真如此，大约没有谁能够阻挡。嬴虔虽然不是名正言顺的秦军统帅，但他率领的五万铁骑几乎就是秦国的全部精锐。加之嬴虔体恤士卒，善待将领，又是身先士卒打恶仗的猛将，在军中威望极高。他要夺位，嬴渠梁还真难找出一支力量来抗衡。权力对抗，最见真章的就是看谁握有重兵。嬴渠梁虽说也是智勇兼备的骁将，但毕竟在军中资望尚浅且经常辅佐国君政务，与嬴虔直接掌握精锐骑兵是不能相比的。兄弟俩真要刀兵相见，秦国可就是大难临头了
At one point, the tense atmosphere in the government office reached its peak.
一时间，政事堂的紧张气氛达到了。
The soldiers lined up neatly, and then there was a heavy and urgent sound of footsteps. Ying Qian, holding the Tianyue sword, led two rows of sword-wielding generals into the government hall. With a wave of his hand, Ying Qian ordered the helmeted and armored generals to stand solemnly in two rows behind the government hall, each with their hands on their swords, standing silently like two rows of stone-carved warriors. Ying Qian stood at the entrance of the government hall and loudly declared: "Ministers take your seats according to rank and await orders from your sovereign.
甲士列队方完，又一阵沉重急促的脚步声，嬴虔手持天月剑率领两排带剑将领大步走进政事堂。嬴虔一摆手，顶盔贯甲的将领们在政事堂后边肃然站成两排，个个双手拄剑，沉默挺立，恰似两排石雕武士。嬴虔则往政事堂大门口一站，高声道：“朝臣列班就座，听候国君诏命。”
The ministers hesitated and slowly took their seats in their usual order in front of their desks. Just as they sat down, the old eunuch Hei Bo, accompanied by two young eunuchs, walked into the center of the political hall. Hei Bo took a scroll of parchment from a bronze plate held by a young eunuch and read aloud: 'To all citizens of Qin, in the Battle of Shao Liang, this official was severely injured by poisoned arrows and feels he has no hope for recovery. Therefore, I have appointed my eldest son Ying Qu Liang as crown prince to succeed me as ruler. All officials must do their utmost to assist him; anyone with ulterior motives will be punished accordingly. This is dated September 16th in the twenty-third year of Emperor Ying Shi.'
大臣们迟疑缓慢的按照往常排位序列，坐入自己的案几前。刚刚坐好，只见老内侍黑伯带着两名年轻内侍，走进政事堂前方正中央。黑伯从小内侍捧着的铜盘中拿过一卷羊皮纸展开，高声念道：“秦国臣民人等，少梁之战，本公箭毒重伤，自感无期，立嫡子嬴渠梁为太子，继任国君。国中臣等须竭力辅佐，有二心者，人人得而诛之。嬴师隰二十三年九月十六。”
As Black Bo recited, the ministers were filled with doubts and remained silent. Even their usual responses to orders were absent. From the edict, it was clear that the monarch had passed away. However, if the monarch was truly so clear-headed, why did no minister know about such an important matter as appointing a crown prince? Ying Qian also never made a direct statement. If there was deception involved and this was just a test by Ying Qian, actively responding to the edict would only invite disaster. Not speaking up at most would be considered disrespectful and result in demotion or exile. If one accidentally took on this order and angered Ying Qian, it could lead to calamity for nine generations; regret would come too late then. With everyone thinking alike on this matter, strange silence appeared in the political affairs hall after announcing the monarch's edict.
随着黑伯的念诵，大臣们又是疑云大起，竟然一片沉默，连惯常的领命呼应都没有人敢开口。从诏书看，国君已经崩逝无疑。然则国君若果真如此清醒，册立储君这等大事却为何没有一个大臣知晓再说，嬴虔也始终没有正面表态，万一其中有诈，是嬴虔的试探手段，积极呼应诏书岂不是立惹杀身大祸不呼应，不说话，至多是不敬之罪，且法不治众，至多贬黜左迁罢了。若不小心出头领命，惹恼嬴虔，那可是祸及九族的大事，后悔也来不及了。人同此心，心同此理，政事堂便出现了宣示国君诏书后从来没有过的奇怪沉默。
In silence, the sound of Ying Qian's rough sand echoed in the political hall: "Please invite the new emperor to ascend to the throne.
沉默中，政事堂响彻嬴虔粗沙的声音：“恭请新君即位”
With the shouting, two eunuchs led the way as Ying Quliang, dressed in plain clothes and wearing a black jade crown on his head, calmly entered the political hall.
随着喊声，两名内侍前导，嬴渠梁一身布衣，头戴黑玉冠，从容进入政事堂。
The ministers were both shocked and confused, with deep fear and doubt still lingering. They even forgot the important ceremony of enthroning a new emperor, stuttering in silence. The political affairs hall was plunged into a very embarrassing situation.
大臣们又是惊愕，又是迷惑，深深的恐惧和疑虑还在延续，竟然期期艾艾的忘记了拥立新君的大礼，还是一片沉默，政事堂陷入大为尴尬的局面。
Suddenly, Ying Qian's face turned pale and he shouted angrily: "As per the order of the late king, the new king has ascended to the throne. Whoever does not follow will face consequences like this." He turned around quickly with his Tianyue sword flashing a green light as it silently cut through a stone pillar in front of the government office. Ying Qian sneered and waved his left hand causing the top half of the pillar to crash down with a loud bang onto the steps while its smooth bottom half glimmered with an eerie green light that sent shivers down one's spine.
骤然间，嬴虔脸色变得铁青，高声怒喝：“国君遗命，新君即位，谁人不从有如此石”大步回身，天月剑青光闪烁，无声的拦腰掠过政事堂门前的一根石柱。嬴虔冷笑一声，左手一挥，石柱上半截“咚”的一声大响，摔在台阶上滚落院中石柱下半截平滑如镜的切口闪着青森森的光芒，令人不寒而栗。
The two rows of generals shouted in unison, 'Long live the new emperor!'
两排将领齐声高呼：“拥戴新君万岁”
The ministers of the Zhèngshìtáng (Imperial Grand Council) have just awakened from a nightmare of fear and suspicion, and are now kneeling on the ground shouting in unison: 'Long live the new emperor!'
政事堂大臣们这才从惊惧怀疑的噩梦中醒悟过来，参差不齐的伏地高呼：“恭迎新君即位”“新君万岁”
The physician Gan Long shouted loudly, 'General Ying Qian has made great contributions. Long live General Ying!' The ministers hurriedly followed suit and shouted, 'Long live General Ying!'
上大夫甘龙高呼：“嬴虔将军拥立有功，将军万岁”大臣们忙不迭跟着高呼：“嬴虔将军万岁”
Ying Qian shouted loudly: 'How can this be? How can Ying Qian be compared with the sovereign? If there is any more disrespect, Ying Qian will show no mercy.'
嬴虔大吼一声：“岂有此理嬴虔如何与国君并论若再非礼，嬴虔无情”
The Political Affairs Hall fell silent immediately. After several rounds of verification, the ministers had clearly understood that the overall situation would not be in turmoil and that Ying Qian was sincerely assisting his younger brother Ying Quliang to succeed as the new ruler. However, since the new ruler did not speak, the ministers remained silent. As a saying goes "As the emperor changes, so do his subjects", no one knew how the new ruler would act and it was better to wait than to rashly speak out with unpredictable consequences.
政事堂立时肃然沉默。经过这几番验证，大臣们已经明白无误的清楚了，大局不会动荡，嬴虔是真心实意的辅佐弟弟嬴渠梁继任国君。但是，新君没有说话，大臣们还是一片沉默。一朝天子一朝臣，新君将如何动作，谁也不摸底细，贸然开口，吉凶难料，还是等待为好。
Ying Qian walked to the front, bowed deeply, and loudly said: "Please announce the national policy, Your Majesty.
嬴虔走到前边，深深一躬，高声道：“请新君宣示国策。”
Ying Quliang stood in front of the central emperor's throne, calm and composed without any panic. At this moment, he calmly spoke: "Ministers, my father suddenly passed away and I have been appointed as the new emperor. In this time of crisis, I declare to the court that: firstly, all ministers shall continue to perform their duties and the state affairs will still be managed by Grand Tutor Gan Long. Secondly, General Ying Qian has made great contributions in the Battle of Shaoliang and has been promoted to Left Chamberlain with overall command over Qin's military forces. Thirdly, Grand Tutor Gan Long and Chief Clerk Gongsun Jia shall preside over my father's funeral ceremony.
嬴渠梁一直站在中央国君座前，坦然自若，丝毫没有局促慌乱。此刻，他平静清晰的开口道：“诸位大臣，公父骤然崩逝，嬴渠梁受命继任国君。当此危难之际，本公申明朝野：其一，国中大臣，各司其职，一律不动，国政仍由上大夫甘龙统摄。其二，嬴虔将军少梁之战有大功，升迁左庶长，总领秦国兵马。其三，由上大夫甘龙、长史公孙贾主持公父之国丧大礼。”
The ministers let out a long sigh and shouted in unison, 'We obey the orders.'
大臣们长长的吁了一口气，齐声高呼：“臣等遵命”
Ying Quliang walked up to Gan Long and bowed deeply, saying: "Master Gan is elderly and has also been appointed as a minister during the national mourning period. Ying Quliang feels deeply uneasy. If there are any troublemakers or agitators during this time of national mourning, please grant Master Gan the power to execute them.
嬴渠梁走到甘龙面前，深深一躬：“上大夫年迈苍苍，又做国丧大臣，嬴渠梁深感不安。国丧期间，若有滋事生乱者，上大夫请行生杀予夺之权。”
Gan Long was moved and inspired, bowing down with a trembling voice: "As an old servant who has received great kindness from the late emperor and now also the trust of Your Majesty, I dare not disobey.
甘龙感动振奋，躬身颤声：“老臣受先君大恩，又蒙君上重托，敢不从命”
Ying Quliang looked around the political hall and said loudly, 'As for other matters, handle them according to past practices. The court is dismissed.'
嬴渠梁环视政事堂高声道：“其余诸事，按既往成规办理。散朝。”
The ministers are constrained by the mourning rituals of the country, and at the same time excited about the new emperor's accession to the throne. They cannot show their joy or express their grief loudly at this time. Therefore, they gather together in groups of three or two within their respective areas of authority, solemnly discuss many things that must be done during the period of national mourning.
大臣们既有国丧哀礼的制约，又有对新君即位国策的兴奋激动。却既不能喜形于色，也不便于此时大放悲声。于是便以职权范围三三两两的聚在一起，肃然正色的商议起国丧期间必须做的诸多事情。
Ying Quliang had already left the political affairs hall and hurried to the Lishan military camp in the southwest of Liyang.
嬴渠梁却已经离开了政事堂，匆匆赶往栎阳西南的骊山军营。
He was about to do a great thing. In his view, this matter was even more important than stabilizing the courtiers and the people of the country. He only brought Black Boar and one hundred iron-armored knights who had fought alongside him for years, rushing non-stop to Li Mountain military camp. By then it was already dark outside. It was just when the former chief general Ziyi came out to greet him after returning to the military camp that he was surprised and puzzled: "Your Majesty has just ascended to the throne, why did you leave Luyang so soon?
他要办一件大事。在他看来，这件事甚至比安定朝臣国人还重要。他只带了黑伯和一百名与他经年并肩作战的铁甲骑士，马不停蹄的赶到骊山军营。这时天色已经暮黑。也是刚刚赶回军营的前军主将子岸出来迎接时，惊讶莫名：“君上刚刚即位，如何便离开栎阳”
Zian, how is Gongshu Cao doing?" Ying Quliang ignored Zian's surprise.
“子岸，公叔痤如何”嬴渠梁没有理会子岸的惊疑。
The old man snorted, didn't say a word, and didn't eat a bite of rice. He was very stubborn like a bull. He should be taken to the ancestral shrine to offer sacrifices in front of the late lord's spirit." reported Zi'an fiercely.
“老匹夫哼，一句话不说，一口饭不吃，牛顽得很。该拿他在先君灵前祭旗。”子岸气狠狠的报告。
Take me to see him," ordered Ying Quliang succinctly.
“带我去见他。”嬴渠梁简洁命令。
Gongshu Cao was imprisoned in a stone house at the foot of Li Mountain military camp. He had been the prime minister of Wei for more than 20 years, and since Wu Qi left Wei, he occasionally served as a commander to lead troops into battle. He defeated Han, Zhao, Chu and the coalition forces of Han and Zhao countries. He was considered a remarkable figure with both literary and martial skills in his time. However, he suffered two disastrous defeats in the war against Qin: one was three years ago at Shimen where he lost 60,000 soldiers and Hangu Pass; the other was this time at Shaoliang where he inexplicably became a captive of Qin's army. As an old man who is already sixty-one years old, Gongshu Cao felt ashamed that his reputation would be ruined by being captured during Shaoliang Battle. In anger and shame, he refused to speak or eat or drink water; instead choosing to starve himself to death or die from thirst as an act of redemption for his incompetence. After three days of self-torture, he lay pale and emaciated on a straw mat without any sign of life when the stone door of his cell opened with a loud noise.
公叔痤被囚禁在骊山军营的山根石屋里。他是魏国二十多年的丞相了，自吴起离开魏国，他便时不时兼做统帅领兵出征。他打败过韩国赵国楚国和韩赵联军，也算得当世文武兼备的赫赫人物。可就是在与秦国的大战中两次惨败，一次是三年前的石门之战，丧师六万，丢失函谷关。再就是这次少梁之战，竟然莫名其妙的做了秦军俘虏。他已经是六十一岁的老人了，自感少梁之战一世英名付之流水，羞愤交加，不说话，不吃饭，不喝水，他要饿死自己渴死自己，为自己的无能赎罪。连续三天的自我折磨，他已经苍白干枯得在草席上气息奄奄。当囚室的石门隆隆推开时，他眼睛也没有眨一下。
Gongshu, Prime Minister, Yinqu Liang has paid his respects." Yinqu Liang deeply bowed to Gongshu who was curled up in the corner of the wall.
“公叔丞相，嬴渠梁有礼了。”嬴渠梁向蜷卧在墙角的公叔痤深深一躬。
Gongshu Cao closed his eyes, neither sitting up nor answering. He admired the young general who had captured him, but did not want to talk to him in such a situation.
公叔痤闭上了眼睛，既没有坐起来，也没有开口应答。他钦佩这个生擒他的年轻将军，可是不愿意和他在这样的场合对话。
Zian angrily shouted, 'Uncle Lao Gong, this is the new king of Qin. How dare you act so stubborn!'
子岸气得大声吼道：“老公叔，这是秦国新君，你敢牛顽”
Gongshu Cuo moved slightly, but still did not open his eyes or speak.
公叔痤微微一动，依然没有睁眼，也没有开口。
Ying Quliang bowed and said, 'Prime Minister Gongshu, please do not feel ashamed of the Battle of Shaoliang. Neither side won this battle. Although the old prime minister was captured and my father was injured by a cold arrow from your army and died suddenly, if we speak seriously, Wei still has a slight advantage. What does the Prime Minister think?'
嬴渠梁拱手道：“公叔丞相，请勿为少梁之战羞愧。这一战，我们谁也没有赢。老丞相虽然被擒，我的公父也被你军冷箭所伤，卒然崩逝了。认真说起来，魏国还算是略胜一筹。丞相以为如何”
Gongshu Cao couldn't help but widen his eyes in surprise. Did the terrifying opponent Ying Shixi really die? If so, he didn't even have the possibility of committing suicide. According to Qin's customs, one must kill oneself before the spirit of Duke Xian of Qin as a sacrifice to the ruler. To be able to die in battle with such a formidable enemy as Ying Shixi is also considered an honor. What regrets could there be? Thinking this way, Gongshu Cao coldly smiled and said, "Since that's the case, my head is yours. When will you make your move?
公叔痤不禁惊讶得睁大了眼睛，嬴师隰这个令人生畏的劲敌死了真的么果真如此，自己连自杀的可能都没有了。依秦人习俗，一定要在秦献公灵前杀掉自己祭奠国君的。能与劲敌嬴师隰同战而死，也算得其所哉，又有何憾心念及此，公叔痤冷冷一笑，“既然如此，公叔痤的人头就是你的了。何时开刀”
The old prime minister is gone. Ying Quliang didn't kill you, he wants to send you back to Anyi.
“老丞相差矣。嬴渠梁不是杀你，是要放你回安邑。”
Gongshu Cong laughed heartily and said, "Ying Quliang, do not mock me. A man may be killed but not insulted.
公叔痤哈哈大笑，“嬴渠梁，休得嘲弄老夫。士可杀，不可辱也”
Ying Quliang said solemnly: 'How dare I disrespect my seniors and release the former Prime Minister back to Wei? It was all my hard work. Qin and Wei have been fighting for many years, causing great suffering to the people. When I became the ruler of this country, I wanted to ensure that the people of Qin could live in peace and farm their land. However, things turned sour between our two countries. I know that the former Prime Minister understands righteousness deeply, so I want to work with him to achieve a ceasefire between our nations. What do you think about this idea?'
嬴渠梁正色道：“嬴渠梁何敢轻侮前辈放老丞相回归魏国，乃嬴渠梁一片苦心。秦魏激战多年，生民涂炭，死伤无算。嬴渠梁继任国君，图谋秦国庶民安居耕牧，不想两国交恶。嬴渠梁素知老丞相深明大义，欲与老丞相共谋，两国休战歇兵，不知老丞相意下如何”
Qin Gong, you really haven't forgotten the grudge of killing your father," said Gongshu Cuo as his hazy old eyes gradually became clear.
“秦公，果然不记杀父之仇”公叔痤迷蒙混沌的老眼渐渐明亮起来。
Private revenge for my father, public war for justice. If Ying Quliang is not sincere, he will willingly accept punishment from heaven.
“父仇为私，和战为公。嬴渠梁若非真心，甘受上天惩罚。”
Gong Shu Cuo looked at the solemn young king in front of him and felt an admirable sincerity, openness, and confidence in him. With just a few words, he clearly distinguished between public and private matters and had a clear understanding of the overall situation. Gong Shu Cuo had long advocated for peace with Qin, but Duke Xian of Qin had been attacking Wei for years, vowing to take back the entire Hexi region, and Wei had no choice but to follow suit. In his view as the Prime Minister of Wei, Qin had already been pushed to the brink, and the real threats to Wei were the rising Qi in the east and Chu in the south. Constantly being entangled with Qin and unable to break free was a headache for Wei. Every time they fought against Qin, he disagreed with having General Pang Juan lead the troops, fearing that Pang Juan would intensify the blood feud with Qin. He understood the tenacity and resilience of the old Qin people and believed that the tribal lord who had fought in the midst of barbarian tribes for hundreds of years could not be easily eliminated. Keeping the Qin people confined to a desolate corner should be enough. Wei's goal was the fertile Central Plains, not the wild west. However, after the Battle of Shimen and the recent Battle of Shao Liang, he felt that the desire for peace seemed impossible, as Duke Xian of Qin hated Wei like a madman. As long as he was alive, Wei could not escape this entanglement. During his captivity, he had already devised a plan to commit suicide for his country, recommending General Pang Juan to fight a decisive battle with Duke Xian of Qin, thoroughly resolving the years of conflict with Qin. However, things took a sudden turn, with Duke Xian of Qin's death and the new Qin king actively proposing a ceasefire. Was this not fate?
公叔痤打量着面前这个神色肃然的青年君主，觉得他竟有一种令人折服的真诚坦然与自信，一句话便公私分明，将大局料理清白，不禁暗暗赞赏。与秦国罢兵是他多年的主张，无奈秦献公连年攻魏，发誓要夺回整个河西，不想打也得奉陪了。在他这个魏国丞相看来，秦国被压缩得已经可以了，魏国的真正劲敌是东方崛起的齐国与南方的楚国，老是被秦国缠住不能脱身，实在是魏国很头疼的一件事。每与秦国作战，他都不赞同上将军庞涓领兵，怕的就是庞涓对秦国赶尽杀绝，与秦国的血仇越结越深。他很了解老秦人的剽悍顽强，认定这个在戎狄部族包围中拼杀了几百年的部族诸侯绝非轻易能够消灭的，能够将秦人压缩到荒凉的一隅之地，应该就满足了。魏国的目标是中原沃土，而不是西陲蛮荒。但经过石门之战与这次少梁之战，他却觉得这种罢兵愿望似乎根本不可能，秦献公好象一个疯子一样仇恨魏国，有他在，魏国是无法摆脱这种纠缠的。被俘这几天他已经思谋妥当，自己自杀殉国，荐举上将军庞涓与秦献公决一死战，彻底解决与秦国的连年纠缠。然则骤然间竟是峰回路转，秦献公死了，秦国新君主动提出罢兵休战，岂非天意
Husband's uncle was suddenly moved and said, "I trust you. It's a deal. But I don't know how Qin plans to handle this border.
老公叔一时感慨中来，“好老夫信你，一言为定。只是这疆界，却不知秦公如何打算”
Before the Battle of Shimen, the boundary was set and Hexi belonged to Wei.
“以石门之战以前的疆界为定，河西之地还是魏国的。”
Oh, Lord Qin has suffered too much loss without realizing it." Gongshu Cuo was greatly surprised and couldn't help but sit up against the wall.
“噢秦公不觉吃亏太多”公叔痤大为惊讶，不禁靠墙坐起。
In twenty years, I will take it back," said Ying Quliang firmly.
“二十年后，我会夺回来的。”嬴渠梁一字一板。
"deal"
“一言为定”
"It's settled," said Ying Quliang with a smile. "Old Prime Minister, it's time to eat."
“一言为定。”嬴渠梁微笑，“老丞相，该进食了吧。”
Gongshu Cuo laughed heartily and said, 'Yes, now that we've eaten our fill, let's hit the road.'
公叔痤豪爽大笑“然也，吃饱了，好上路。”
Wait a moment," said Ying Quliang with a smile. "The old prime minister needs to rest for a while. Three days later, I will send someone to escort him back to Anyi without mentioning his capture, but instead as an envoy from the King of Wei.
“且慢。”嬴渠梁笑道：“老丞相徐徐将息，三日后嬴渠梁派人护送老丞相回安邑，不言俘获，而是魏王特使。”
Gongshu Cuo was once again surprised and couldn't help struggling to get up, laughing: "Qin Gong, Uncle has seen many people. With your tolerance and broad-mindedness, you will surely surpass the world in a few years.
公叔痤又一次惊讶，不禁挣扎起身笑道：“秦公，老公叔阅人多矣，以公之气量胸怀，数年之后，必大出于天下。”
Ying Quliang respectfully bowed and said, 'I am incompetent and have shallow knowledge. How can I dare to receive the praise from the former prime minister?'
嬴渠梁恭敬的拱手做礼，“渠梁才疏学浅，如何敢当老丞相嘉勉”
Gongshu Cuo looked up to the sky and sighed: "It's a pity that I don't have much time left. I cannot compete with heroes of this era." He clapped his hands and laughed loudly, then fainted on the ground.
公叔痤仰天叹息：“只可惜老夫来日无多，不能和英杰并世争雄了。”一阵拊掌长笑，竟昏倒在地。
Three days later in the morning, Ying Quliang personally led three hundred iron cavalry to escort a bronze carriage out of Hangu Pass.
三天后的清晨，嬴渠梁亲率三百铁骑，护送着一辆青铜轺车驶出函谷关。
The white-haired Uncle Cao bid a heartfelt farewell to Ying Quliang outside of the Hangu Pass, and hurriedly rode towards the capital city of Wei, Anyi.
白发苍苍的公叔痤在函谷关外和嬴渠梁殷殷道别，向魏国都城安邑急驰而去。
Autumn frost and white dew, the grass and trees wither. Ying Quliang stood on the city wall of Hangu Pass, gazing at the distant carriage. The bright red flag with the character "Wei" had already merged into the horizon, yet he still stood there, letting the cold autumn wind blow against him.
秋霜白露，草木枯黄。嬴渠梁站在函谷关城头凝望着远去的轺车，那面鲜红的“魏”字大旗已经与天边的原野溶在了一起，他依然伫立在那里，任凭寒凉的秋风吹拂着自己。
According to the rules of the Warring States period, it was difficult for a minister who had suffered two military defeats to continue to hold power. Even if Gongshu Cuo was an elder statesman of Wei for two generations and highly valued by King Hui of Wei, he might not be able to keep his position as prime minister. If this were true, then the peace treaty between Qin and Wei would be empty words. If Wei continued to wage war against Qin, how long could Qin sustain itself? Ying Quliang knew very well that Gongfu had been fighting fiercely against Wei for years with the intention of recapturing Hexi before blockading Hangu Pass and resting troops while cultivating land. However, as Qin fought on, it became poorer and poorer; even after five hundred miles of land in Hexi had been lost, how could they continue this war? For a powerful country like Wei, even if they failed several times in battle their vitality would remain unharmed. But for Qin it was different - another defeat would mean retreating back to Longxi River Valley and starting over as semi-agricultural semi-pastoral tribes again. At this point in time although Qin appeared victorious twice on the surface its national strength was at the brink of collapse; it had become like a paper kite unable to withstand one defeat in battle among all other Warring States powers which made this situation extremely dangerous. If there could be several years' cessation from hostilities allowing some respite then perhaps there may still have been hope for restoring its former glory but otherwise Qin will disappear from among these Warring States powers forevermore especially now during national mourning when court affairs are unsettled - should Wei take advantage of internal strife then wouldn't that spell disaster?
按照战国之世的规矩，一个两次兵败的大臣是很难继续掌权的。即或公叔痤是魏国两朝元老深得魏惠王倚重，这丞相之位也未必能保。果真如此，秦魏罢兵的和约岂非空言而如果魏国继续对秦国用兵，秦国能支撑多久嬴渠梁很清楚，公父连年对魏国激战，本意是想夺回河西后再封锁函谷关休兵养民。可是，秦国越打越穷，河西五百里土地还是没有夺回来，秦国如何再打得下去这种战争对于魏国这样的富强大国，纵然失败几次，也无伤元气。可是，秦国不行，秦国已经经不起再一次的失败了。辎重耗尽了，存粮吃光了，精壮男子死伤得几乎无人耕田了。再有一次失败，秦国就真得退回陇西河谷重做半农半牧的部族去了。当此之时，秦国虽然表面上打了两次大胜仗，但国力却到了崩溃的边缘，成了经不起一战之败的风中纸鹞。在刀兵连绵的战国，这是极为危险的最后境地。若能罢兵数年，缓得一缓，秦国也许还有重振雄风的希望，否则，秦国将从战国列强中消失。目下又是国丧，朝局未安，若魏国乘内乱而来，岂非灭顶之灾
Ying Quliang felt that the burden on his shoulders was as heavy as a mountain.
嬴渠梁觉得肩上担子如大山一般沉重。
If the disarmament is successful, within a month, Hangu Pass will be handed over to Wei again. Since the Qin tribe became a vassal state, Hangu Pass has been the gateway of Qin's fate for many years. With Hangu Pass in hand, the people of Qin can feel at ease. Losing Hangu Pass is like exposing their chests to enemy spears and swords, causing anxiety throughout the country. The vital pass of Hangu was won back by Gongfu and his father with bloodshed against the Qin army but then handed over to Wei. Can those aristocrats promise it? Can people understand it? Although Ying Quliang thought carefully about this decision and believed that only by doing so could Wei regain control of Hexi without using force and possibly let Qin off lightly; if they were to maintain status quo and disarmament, it would be almost impossible as Wei would not allow themselves to be blocked twice after two major defeats. Nevertheless, since Hangu Pass is too important for the people of Qin, can they accept this?
如果罢兵成功，函谷关月内就要重新交割给魏国了。自从秦部族立为诸侯国，多少年来，这函谷关就是秦国的国命之门。有函谷关在手，秦人就坦然自若。丢失函谷关，秦人就象袒露胸口迎着敌人的长矛利剑一般举国紧张不安。如此命脉一般的函谷关，公父与秦人浴血疆场夺了回来，自己却又交给了魏国，那些世族元老能答应么朝野国人能理解么虽然嬴渠梁是深思熟虑的，认为惟其如此，才能使魏国觉得不动刀兵而重占河西是一个巨大的利市，才有可能放秦国一马，如原地现状罢兵，那是几乎没有可能的，魏国绝不会在两次大败后让秦国封锁修养。虽然如此，但毕竟函谷关对秦人太重要了，国中臣民能接受么
Oh heavens, could it be that the Qin state will perish in my hands, Ying Qu Liang?
上天啊上天，莫非秦国要灭亡在我嬴渠梁手里