In summer, the sixth month of the second year of Manifest Might （AD 221） Lu Xun destroyed the army of Shu at Yiling. The First Ruler sought refuge in Baidicheng, of which Zhao Yun then undertook the defense. When Ma Liang returned only to find his lord defeated, he was more distressed than he could say. He announced what Zhuge Liang had said concerning the plans.
The First Ruler sighed, saying, “If I had listened to the Prime Minister's advice, the defeat would not have happened. Now how can I face the officials if I return to my capital？”
So he promulgated a command to change the guest-house into the Palace of Eternal Peace. He was deeply grieved when they told him Feng Xi, Cheng Jin, Fu Tong, Zhang Nan, King Shamo Ke, and many of his generals had died loyally in his cause.
Next he heard people say： “Huang Quan, who had been given command of the army on the north bank, had given in to Wei. Your Majesty should deliver his whole family to the authority and hold them responsible for the renegade.”
But the First Ruler only said, “The army was quite cut off by Wu from the south bank, and he had no alternative but to surrender. Really, I betrayed him, not he me. Why should I take vengeance on his family？”
So he continued the issue of the renegade's pay to his family.
When Huang Quan surrendered, he was led into the presence of the Ruler of Wei.
[e] Chen Ping and Han Xin had served under Xiang Yu first, before they defected to Liu Bang's camp.
Cao Pi said, “You have surrendered to me because you desired to imitate the admirable conduct of Chen Ping and Han Xin of old*.”
But Huang Quan replied, weeping, “The Ruler of Shu has been very kind to me, and he gave me the leadership of the army on the North of the GREat River. Lu Xun cut me off so that I could not return to Shu, and I would not surrender to Wu, wherefore I have yielded to Your Majesty. Defeated as I am, I should be only too happy if my life were spared, but I have no claim to the credit of the virtuous ones of old.”
The reply satisfied the Ruler of Wei, and he conferred on him the title General Who Guards the South. But Huang Quan, however, declined the offer.
Then one of the courtiers said, “A spy has reported that all of your family have been put to death by the Ruler of Shu.”
But the leader replied that he could not believe it.
“The Ruler of Shu and his officials trust each other. He knows my heart, and he would not injure my family.”
And the Ruler of Wei aGREed with his opinion.
A poem has been written upbraiding Huang Quan：
[hip, hip, hip] That was a pity that Huang Quan grudged to die；Though he yielded to Wei, not Wu, Yet he crooked the knee in an alien court. Which the loyal cannot do. [yip, yip, yip]
Cao Pi sought advice from Jia Xu concerning his design of bringing the whole country under his own rule.
“I wish to bring the whole empire under my rule. Which shall I first reduce, Shu or Wu？”
“Liu Bei is an able warrior, and Zhuge Liang is a most capable administrator. Sun Quan possesses discrimination, and his general, Lu Xun, occupies all the strategic positions of importance； the natural obstacles, the intervening rivers and spreading lakes, would be hard to overcome. I do not think you have any leader to match either of these two men. Even with the prestige of Your Majesty's own presence, no one could guarantee the result. The better course is to hold on and await the outcome of the struggle between those two.”
“I have already dispatched three armies against Wu. Can it be that they will fail？”
The Chair of the Secretariat, Liu Ye, held the same opinion as his colleague.
Said he, “Lu Xun has just won a GREat victory over the Shu force of seven hundred thousand, and all his army is full of confidence. Further, there are the lakes and the rivers, which are natural difficulties hard to cope with. And again, Lu Xun is resourceful and well prepared.”
The Ruler of Wei said, “Formerly, Sir, you urged me to attack Wu. Why do you now give contrary advice？”
“Because times have changed. When Wu was suffering defeat after defeat, the country was depressed and might be smitten. Now this GREat victory has changed all that, and their morale has increased a hundred times. I say now they may not be attacked.”
“Well, but I have decided to attack. So say no more,” said the Ruler of Wei.
He then led the Imperial Guards out to support his three armies.
But the scouts soon brought news justifying the opinion of his advisers： “A force of Wu has been sent to oppose each of our three armies. Lu Fan leads an army against Cao Xiu at Dongkou, Zhuge Jin against Cao Zhen at Nanjun, and Zhu Huan against Cao Ren at Ruxu.”
Liu Ye pointed this out and again said, “Wu has prepared, and no success can be expected.”
Still Cao Pi was obstinate, and marched.
The Wu leader, Zhu Huan, who had been sent against Cao Ren at Ruxu, was a young man of twenty-seven. He was bold and resourceful, and Sun Quan held him in GREat regard. Hearing that Cao Ren was going to attack Xianxi, Zhu Huan led the bulk of his troops to defend it, leaving only five thousand troops in Ruxu. Then he heard that the van of the enemy, fifty thousand under General Chang Diao, with the aid of Zhuge Qian and Wang Shuang, had made a dash for Ruxu, so he hastened back and found the officers were in great fear.
Drawing his sword, he made a speech, “Success depends upon the leader rather than on the number of soldiers. The Art of War says that the value of one soldier who inhabits the place equals that of two soldiers who come from afar； and those who are hosts, however in small number, can overcome those who are guests. Now the enemy is weary from a long march, and I and you, my men, can hold this place together. We have the GREat River to defend us on the south, and we are backed by the mountains on the north. Success should be ours easily, and we are as hosts at home awaiting the arrival of our weary visitors. This will give us victory in every fight. Even if Cao Pi comes, we need feel no anxiety. How much less care we for Cao Ren and his troops？”
Zhu Huan he issued orders to furl all the banners and to silence all the drums as if the city was empty of defenders.
In time, Chang Diao and his veterans of the van came to the city. Not a person was visible, and he hastened forward with all speed. But as he neared the city, suddenly a bomb went off. Immediately up rose a forest of flags, and out dashed Zhu Huan with his sword drawn. And he made for Chang Diao. In the third encounter Zhu Huan cut down Chang Diao, and the troops of Wu, rushing to the attack, thoroughly routed the invaders, slaying innumerable soldiers. Beside scoring a complete victory, Zhu Huan took much spoil of flags and weapons and horses.
Cao Ren himself, coming up later, was attacked by the troops from Xianxi and was also routed. He fled home to his master with the news of defeat and destruction.
And before the Ruler of Wei could decide what course to take in regard to this loss, the news came of the defeat of his another army： “Cao Zhen and Xiahou Shang were besieging Nanjun when Zhuge Jin from within and Lu Xun from without attacked in concert. The two generals suffered a GREat loss.”
Immediately, another report came： “Cao Xiu has been defeated by Lu Fan at Dongkou.”
So all three armies had failed and were lost.
Cao Pi sighed and said sadly, “This has come from my willfulness and neglect of the advice of Jia Xu and Liu Ye.”
The summer of that year was very unhealthy, and a pestilence swept away the soldiers more than half the number. So they were marched home to Capital Luoyang. The two countries were at enmity though they were not fighting.
Meanwhile the First Ruler was failing. He remained in his Palace of Eternal Peace at Baidicheng and presently was confined to his couch. Gradually he became worse, and in the fourth moon of the third year of Manifest Might （AD 222） his condition became serious. He himself felt the end was near, and he was depressed and wept for his two lost brothers till the sight of his eyes suffered. He was morose and ill-tempered： He could not bear any of his court near him, drove away his servants and lay upon his couch sad and solitary.
One evening as thus he lay, a sudden gust of wind came into the chamber, almost extinguishing the candles. As they burned bright again, he saw two men standing in the shade behind them.
“I told you I was worried,” said the First Ruler, “and bade you leave me. Why have you come back？ Go！”
But they remained and did not go. Wherefore the First Ruler rose and went over to look at them. As he drew near he saw one was Guan Yu and the other Zhang Fei.
“Are you still alive, then, brothers？” said he.
“We are not men； we are shades,” said Guan Yu. “The Supreme One has conferred spirithood upon us in consideration of our faithfulness throughout life, and ere long, brother, we three shall be together again.”
The First Ruler clutched at the figures and burst into tears； then he awoke. The two figures were no longer there. He called in his people and asked the hour. They told him the third watch.
“I am not much longer for this world,” said he with a sigh.
Messengers were sent to Capital Chengdu to summon the Prime Minister and other high officers of state to receive the Emperor's last instructions. They came, Zhuge Liang bringing the two younger sons, Prince of Lu Liu Yung and Prince of Liang Liu Li. The eldest, the heir-apparent, was left in charge of the capital.
Zhuge Liang saw at once that his master was very ill. He bowed to the ground at the foot of the Dragon Couch.
The dying Emperor bade him come near and sit beside him, and he patted his Minister on the back, saying, “The attainment of emperorship was your work. Little thought you that I should prove so stupid as not to follow your advice and so bring about the late disasters. But I am deeply sorry, and now I shall not live long. My heir is a degenerate, but I must leave him to do the best he can with the GREat inheritance.”
And the tears flowed in streams.
“I trust Your Majesty will fulfill the hopes of the people by a speedy recovery,” said Zhuge Liang, also in tears.
Turning his head, the First Ruler saw Ma Su, Ma Liang's brother, at the bedside. He bade him retire.
When Ma Su had left the chamber, the First Ruler said, “Do you think Ma Su is clever？”
“He is one of the ablest people in the empire,” said Zhuge Liang.
“I do not think so. I think his words exceed his deeds. Do not make much use of him. Watch him carefully.”
Having said this, he bade them summon the high officers of state to the chamber. Taking paper and pen, the First Ruler wrote his testament.
He handed it to the Prime Minister with a sigh and said, “I am no GREat scholar, and I only know the rough outlines of what should be known. But the Teacher has said： 'A bird's song is sad when death is near, and a dying person's words are good.' I was waiting that we might aid each other in the destruction of the Caos and the restoration of the Hans, but ere the work is complete I am called away, and this last command of mine I confide to you as Prime Minister to be handed to my son and heir, Liu Shan. My words are to be taken seriously. I trust that you will instruct and guide my son.”
Zhuge Liang and all those present wept and prostrated themselves, saying, “We pray Your Majesty repose yourself. We will do our utmost whereby to prove our gratitude for the kindness we have received.”
At the First Ruler's command the attendants raised Zhuge Liang from the earth. With one hand the dying man brushed away the falling tears, while with the other he grasped Zhuge Liang's hand.
And he said, “The end is near. I have something more to say as to a close general.”
“What holy command has Your Majesty to give？” said Zhuge Liang.
The First Ruler said, “You are many times more clever than Cao Pi, and you must safeguard the kingdom and complete the GREat work. If my son can be helped, help him. But if he proves a fool, then take the throne yourself and be a ruler.”
Such a speech almost startled Zhuge Liang out of his senses. A cold sweat broke out all over his body, and his limbs threatened to cease to support him.
He fell on his knees, saying, “I could never do otherwise than wear myself to the bone in the service of your son, whom I will serve till death.”
He knocked his head upon the ground till blood ran down.
The dying man called Zhuge Liang closer, and at the same time making his two sons come near, he said to them, “My sons, remember your father's words. After my death you are to treat the Prime Minister as you would your father and be not remiss, for thereby you will fulfill your father's hopes.”
He made the two Princes pay to Zhuge Liang the obeisance due to a father.
Said Zhuge Liang, “Were I destroyed and ground into the earth, I should be unable to repay the kindness I have experienced.”
Turning to the assembled officers, the First Ruler said, “As you have seen, I have confided my orphan son to the care of the Prime Minister and bidden my sons treat him as a father. You too, Sirs, are to treat him with deference. This is my dying request and charge to you.”
Turning to Zhao Yun, he said, “You and I have gone together through many dangers and difficulties. Now comes the parting of our ways. You will not forget our old friendship, and you must see to it that my sons follow my precepts.”
“I shall never dare to give other than my best,” said Zhao Yun. “The fidelity of the dog and horse is mine to give and shall be theirs.”
Then the First Ruler turned to the others, “Noble Sirs, I am unable to speak to you one by one and lay a charge upon each individual. But I say to you： Maintain your self-respect.”
These were his last words. He was sixty-three, and he died on the twenty-fourth day of the fourth month （AD 222）。 A poem was written by Du Fu on his death：
[hip, hip, hip] The Emperor set out to destroy the land that lay through the Three Gorges, Failed he and breathed his last in the Palace of Eternal Peace, The Palace fair of his thoughts lay not this side the highlands. Beautiful chambers are vainly sought in his rural temple, Now are the pines near his shrine nesting places for herons, Through the courts aged peasants saunter, enjoying their leisure, Nearby often is found a shrine to this famous strategist, Prince and minister's needs are now but offerings in season. [yip, yip, yip]
Thus died the First Ruler. All present lifted up their voices and wept.
The Prime Minister led the procession that escorted the coffin to the capital, and the heir, Liu Shan, came to the outskirts of the city, as a dutiful son should, to receive the remains with due respect. The coffin was laid in the GREat Hall of the Palace, wherein they lamented and performed the ceremonies appointed. At the end of these the testament was opened and read：
“I first fell ill from a simple ailment. Other disorders followed, and it became evident that I should not recover.
“They say that death at fifty cannot be called premature. As I have passed sixty, I may not resent the call. But when I think of you and your brothers, I reGREt. Now I say to you, strive and strive again. Do not do evil because it is a small evil； do not leave undone a small good because it is a small good. Only with wisdom and virtue people can be won. But your father's virtue was but slender, and do not imitate.
“After my death you are to conduct the affairs of the state with the Prime Minister. You are to treat him as a father and serve him without remissness. You and your brothers are to seek instructions. This is my final and simple command.”
When the officials had read this, Zhuge Liang said, “The state cannot go a single day without a ruler, wherefore I beg you to install the heir as successor to the GREat line of Han.”
Thereupon the ceremony was performed, and the new Emperor took his place. The style of the reign was changed to “Beginning Prosperity”。 Zhuge Liang was made Lord of Wuxiang and Imperial Protector of Yizhou.
Then they buried the late Emperor at Huiling with the posthumous style of Liu Bei the Glorious Emperor.
The Empress, of the Wu family, was formally created Empress Dowager. The late Consort Gan became the Glorious Empress, and the Lady Mi was granted similar, also posthumous, rank. There were promotions in rank and rewards for all, and a general amnesty was proclaimed.
Before long, knowledge of these things came to the Middle Land, and a report was sent to Capital Luoyang and made known to the Ruler of Wei.
Cao Pi felt relieved and was glad of the death of his rival, saying, “Liu Bei is dead： I am no longer worried. An attack during the critical moment can bring a victory over Shu.”
But Jia Xu dissuaded him, saying, “Liu Bei is gone, but surely he has confided the care of the state to Zhuge Liang, who is indebted to him so deeply. He will exhaust every effort to support his young lord. You may not hastily attack.”
As Jia Xu tendered this remonstrance, a man suddenly stepped out from the serried ranks of courtiers and said fiercely, “If you neglect this moment, can you expect a more favorable opportunity？”
All eyes turned to the speaker. It was Sima Yi.
The interruption GREatly pleased Cao Pi, who at once asked how it was to be done.
Sima Yi propounded his plan in the following speech： “It would be very difficult to obtain success with our own resources. Hence we must use five armies and attack all round at the same time, so as to divide Zhuge Liang.”
“Where are the five armies to come from？” said Cao Pi.
[e] Lu Wang was a master strategist, founding minister of Zhou Dynasty, counselor to King Wen. Before joining King Wen, Lu Wang had been a fisher, who mediated on the river bank on political events. ……
Sima Yi went on, “The first is to be got from Liaodong, from the Xianbi State. You must write to King Kebi Neng and send him presents of gold and silks so that he may send one hundred thousand Qiang troops from Liaoxi to attack Xiping Pass. Secondly, the king of the Mang Tribes, Meng Huo, must be persuaded to lead one hundred thousand troops to attack the south of Shu——Yizhou, Yongchang, Zangge, and Yuesui. Thirdly, you must send an ambassador to Wu with fair promises of an increase of territory, and so induce Sun Quan to march one hundred thousand troops to the attack of the Three Gorges, making Fucheng his objective. The fourth army can be got from General Meng Da in Shangyong, who can muster one hundred thousand troops to attack Hanzhong. Lastly, our own force of one hundred thousand troops may be placed under Cao Zhen, who will attack by way of Yangping Pass. With five hundred thousand troops making simultaneous attacks along five different directions, it would be hard for Zhuge Liang to hold his own, even if he had the talent of Lu Wang* himself.”
The scheme delighted Cao Pi, who at once cast about for four glib-tongued messengers. He also issued a commission to Cao Zhen as Commander-in-Chief with the order to take Yangping Pass.
At this time Zhang Liao and most others of the veterans who had served Cao Cao were keeping watch in various stations and passes and fords in Jizhou, Xuzhou, Qingzhou, and Hefei. They were not summoned for this expedition to the west.
After the accession of Liu Shan, the Latter Ruler, many of those who had served his father gradually died after the decease of their master. The work of the administration of the country, the choice of officials, law-making, taxation, decision of legal cases, was all done by the Prime Minister.
As the Latter Ruler had no consort, the courtiers, headed by Zhuge Liang, proposed, saying, “The daughter of the late General of the Flying Cavalry Zhang Fei is prudent, and she is now seventeen. Your Majesty should make her Empress.”
So Lady Zhang was married to the Emperor and became Empress Zhang.
It was in the autumn of the first year of Beginning Prosperity （AD 223） that the Latter Ruler heard of the plans and intentions of Wei against his state.
The persons who told him gave him full details said： “Wei has mustered five armies of one hundred thousand each to march against the River Lands. The first army led by Commander-in-Chief Cao Zhen is heading to Yangping Pass. The second army from Shangyong led by the rebel Meng Da is planning to attack Hanzhong. The third army from Wu is threatening the Three Gorges. The fourth army under King Kebi Neng of the Qiang tribes is marching to Xiping Pass. And the fifth army by Meng Huo of the Mang nations is approaching the southern border near Yizhou, Yongchang, Zangge, and Yuesui. The border stations have sent flying requests for help. We have informed the Prime Minister. But his conduct puzzles us. We do not know why he does not take some action instead of remaining shut up in his palace all the time.”
The Latter Ruler became really alarmed, and he sent one of his personal attendants to call the Prime Minister to court.
The servant was gone a long time, and then returned to say： “The servants in the residence said the Prime Minister was ill and not to be seen.”
The young Emperor's distress increased, and he sent two High Ministers——Dong Yun and Du Qiong——to Zhuge Liang, saying they were to see him even if he was on his couch and tell him the dreadful news of invasion. They went； but they got no farther than the gate. The keepers of the gate refused them admission.
But Du Qiong said, “The First Ruler had confided his son to the Prime Minister. It has not been long since His Majesty's accession to the Throne that Cao Pi threatens to invade our territories with five armies. This is urgent military matter. How can the Prime Minister make illness as an excuse not to appear？”
The wardens of the gate went inside with what was said.
After keeping them waiting a long time, the wardens returned, saying, “The Prime Minister is rather better and will be at court in the morning.”
The two ministers sighed deeply as they wended their way to the Emperor's palace.
Next morning a GREat crowd of officers assembled at the gate of the Prime Minister's residence to wait for him to appear. But he did not come out. It began to grow late, and many of them were tired of waiting, and the crowd dispersed.
Du Qiong went again to the Emperor and suggested, saying, “Your Majesty should go in person and try to get Zhuge Liang to say what should be done.”
The Latter Ruler then returned to his palace with the officials and told the Empress Dowager his trouble. She was also alarmed.
“What can he mean？” said she. “This does not look like acting in the spirit of the charge laid upon him by the late Emperor. Let me go myself.”
“Oh no,” said Dong Yun. “Your Majesty must not go. We think all is well, and the Prime Minister certainly understands and will do something. Beside, you must let His Majesty go first, and if the Prime Minister still shows remissness, then Your Majesty can summon him to the Temple of the Dynasty and ask him.”
So it was left at that. And the next day the Emperor rode in his chariot to the gate of his minister. When the doorkeepers saw the imperial chariot appear, they fell upon their knees to welcome the Emperor.
“Where is the Prime Minister？” asked he.
“We do not know. But we have orders not to let in the crowd of officers.”
The Emperor then descended and went on foot right in to the third gate. Then he saw Zhuge Liang leaning on a staff beside a fishpond looking at the fish. The Latter Ruler approached, and stood behind him for a long time.
Presently the Latter Ruler said slowly and with dignity, “Is the Prime Minister really enjoying himself？”
Zhuge Liang started and looked round. When he saw who the speaker was, he suddenly dropped his staff and prostrated himself.
“I ought to be put to death ten thousand times！” said Zhuge Liang.
But the Emperor put forth his hand and helped him to rise, saying, “Cao Pi threatens immediate invasion from five points. Why will you not come forth and attend to business？”
Zhuge Liang laughed. He conducted the Emperor into an inner room, and, when he was seated, Zhuge Liang addressed the Emperor, saying, “Could it be possible that I was ignorant of these five armies？ I was not looking at the fishes； I was thinking.”
“But, this being so, what shall we do？”
“I have already turned back that Kebi Neng of the Qiangs, and Meng Huo of the Mangs, and the rebel leader Meng Da, and the army from Wei. I have also thought out a plan to circumvent the army from Wu, but I need a special sort of person to carry it out. I want an envoy, an able talker, one capable of persuading other people. It was because I have not found such a person yet that I was so deeply in thought. But Your Majesty may set your mind at rest and not be anxious.”
The Latter Ruler heard this half terrified and half glad.
“Surely your superhuman devices are too deep for the mortal. But may I ask how these armies have been made to turn back？”
“Since His Late Majesty bade me take the best care of your welfare, I dare not be remiss for a single moment. Some officers in Chengdu are ignorant of that refinement of war which consists in not allowing the enemy to guess your plans. How could I let them know anything？ When I heard that Kebi Neng, the king of Qiangs, might invade, I remembered that Ma Chao's forefathers were friendly with those tribespeople and they had a high opinion of Ma Chao, calling him General Who Possesses Heavenly Prestige. So I sent orders by dispatch to Ma Chao to hold the Xiping Pass, and to prepare ambushes in certain places and change them daily so as to keep the Qiangs off. That settled them.
“I sent hastily to the south to order Wei Yan to move certain bodies of troops about through the southwest territories, to be seen and then to disappear, to go in and come out, and to march to and fro, so that the Mangs should be perplexed. The Mangs are brave, but prone to doubts and hesitations, and they would not advance in the face of the unknown. Hence there is nothing to fear in that quarter.
“I also knew that Meng Da and our Li Yan were sworn friends. I had left Li Yan in charge of the Palace of Eternal Peace. I sent Li Yan a letter and urged him to write to Meng Da, so that Meng Da would feign illness and not move his army.
“I sent Zhao Yun to occupy Yangping Pass and all the strategic positions on the way by which Cao Zhen would march, and bade him defend only and not go to the battle. If our troops refuse to come out, Cao Zhen will certainly have to retire. So all those four are settled. But for GREater security I have sent Zhang Bao and Guan Xing each with thirty thousand troops to camp at points whence they can quickly help any of the others who may need it. And none of these arrangements are known here.
“Now there is only Wu left to deal with. Had the other four armies succeeded and Shu been in danger, Sun Quan would have come to the attack. If the others fail, I know he will not budge, for he will remember that Cao Pi has just sent three armies to attack his country. And this being so, I want someone with a ready tongue and ingenious mind to go and talk plainly to Sun Quan. So far I have not found such a person, and I am perplexed. I reGREt that I have given Your Majesty occasion to make this journey.”
“The Empress Dowager also wanted to come,” said the Emperor. “But now you have spoken, O Minister Father, I am as one awakened from a dream. I shall grieve no more.”
They two drank a few cups of wine together, and the Prime Minister escorted his master to his chariot. A ring of courtiers were waiting, and they could not help remarking the happiness that shone in their master's face. The Latter Ruler took his leave and returned to his palace, but the courtiers did not know what to think.
[e] Deng Yu was commander-in-chief of Liu Xiu, the founder of Latter Han. ……
Now Zhuge Liang had noted a certain man among the crowd who smiled and looked quite happy. Zhuge Liang looked at him intently and then recollected his name, which was Deng Zhi of Xinye, a descendant of Commander Deng Yu of Han*. Deng Zhi was currently the Chair of the Census Board. Zhuge Liang sent a man privately to detain Deng Zhi, and when all the others had gone, Zhuge Liang led him into the library for a chat. Presently he came to the matter near his heart.
“The three states have become a fact,” said Zhuge Liang. “Now if our state wanted to absorb the other two and restore the condition of one rule, which country should it attack first？”
“Though Wei is the real rebel, yet Wei is strong and would be very difficult to overthrow. Any move against it would have to develop slowly. As our Emperor has but lately succeeded his father and the people are none too decided in his favor, I should propose a treaty of mutual defense with Wu. This would obliterate the enmity of His Late Majesty and would have important results. However, you, Sir, may have another opinion. What is it？”
“That is what I have been thinking of this long time, but I had not the person for the task. Now I have found him.”
“What do you want the person to do？” said Deng Zhi.
“I want him to go as envoy to Wu to negotiate such a treaty. As you understand the position so well, you will surely do honor to your prince's commission as envoy. There is no other who would succeed.”
“I fear I am not equal to such a task： I am not clever enough and too ignorant.”
“I will inform the Emperor tomorrow and beg him to appoint you. Of course you will accept.”
Deng Zhi consented and then took his leave. As promised, Zhuge Liang memorialized, and the Latter Ruler consented that the mission should be entrusted to Deng Zhi. And he started.
[hip, hip, hip] The din of war will cease in Wu, When Shu's desires are known. [yip, yip, yip]
For the success or failure of this mission read the next chapter.
After his recent exploits, Lu Xun became the one hero of Wu. He was given the title General Who Upholds the State, was ennobled as Lord of Jiangling, and received the Governorship of Jingzhou. He became Supreme Commander of all the military forces.
Zhang Zhao and Gu Yong, thinking the moment opportune for enhancing their lord's dignity, sent in a memorial proposing that his rule should be designated by a distinctive style, and Sun Quan assumed “Yellow Might Era” as his reign style （AD 222）。
Then arrived a messenger from Wei, and he was called in to an assembly and bidden to state his business.
The messenger said, “Recently Shu sent to Wei for help, and, the situation being misunderstood, the Ruler of Wei dispatched a force against Wu. Now this action is GREatly regretted. In Wei it is thought desirable to set four armies in motion against Shu to capture it. Now if Wu will assist, and success crowns these efforts, Wei and Wu will share the conquered territory.”
Sun Quan listened, but was not prepared to give a decided answer. He betook himself to his counselors, Zhang Zhao and Gu Yong.
They said, “Lu Xun is the man of profound knowledge. He should be consulted.”
So Lu Xun was called, and his speech ran thus： “Cao Pi is too firmly established in the Middle Land to be upset now； and if this offer of his be refused, we shall provoke his enmity. Neither Wei nor Wu, so far as I see, has anyone fit to oppose Zhuge Liang. We must perforce consent and put our army in order. But we can wait till we see how the four armies speed. If Shu seems likely to fall and Zhuge Liang is outmaneuvered, then our army can be dispatched and we will take Capital Chengdu. If the four armies fail, we shall have to consider.”
So Sun Quan said to the envoy of Wei, “We are not ready at the moment, so we will choose a day to start later.”
And with this answer the envoy left.
Next they made careful inquiries about the success or failure of the four armies against Shu.
The spies reported： “The western Qiangs under King Kebi Neng have turned back when they saw Ma Chao in command at Xiping Pass. The southern Mangs led by Meng Huo have been perplexed at the tactics of Wei Yan and have retreated to their territories. The Shangyong leader, Meng Da, have set out, but half way have fallen ill and gone back. And Cao Zhen's army, while marching toward Yangping Pass, have been brought to a halt by the defensive preparations of Zhao Yun, who has garrisoned every pass and occupied every point of vantage； they have eventually retreated, after being camped in the Xie Valley for some time.”
Knowing all this, Sun Quan said to his officials, “Lu Xun's words were indeed prophetic； he made most perfect deductions. Any rash action on my part would place me on bad terms with Shu.”
Just then the coming of an envoy from Shu was announced.
Said Zhang Zhao, “This mission is also part of Zhuge Liang's scheme to divert danger from Shu. Deng Zhi has come as envoy.”
“That being so, how should I reply？” asked Sun Quan.
[e] Li Yiji was diplomat and adviser of Liu Bang. Li Yiji went on mission to discuss peace between Liu Bang and King Tian Guang of Qi. Li Yiji demanded a ceasefire as condition for talk. Tian Guang complied. While the discussion was going on, Liu Bang attacked. Tian Guang enraged and threw Li Yiji into boiling oil. ……
“I will tell you. Set up a large cauldron and pour therein a quantity of oil. Light a fire beneath. When the oil is boiling, choose a goodly company of your tallest and brawniest fighting guards, arm them and draw them up in lines between the Palace gate and your throne room. Then summon Deng Zhi. But before he can say a word, forewarn him that he will have the same fate of being boiled in oil if being guilty of the same sort of treachery as Li Yiji* when he was a persuader to the state of Qi. Then see what Deng Zhi will say.”
Sun Quan followed this advice, and prepared the cauldron of oil and had the strong guards ready. Then he bade them introduce the envoy.
Deng Zhi came, his ceremonial dress in perfect order, and advanced as far as the gate. Seeing the grim array of fighting men armed, some with gleaming swords, some with GREat axes, some with long spears, and some with short knives, he understood at once what was meant, but he never blenched. He advanced quite steadily and bravely till he reached the door of the hall. Even when he saw the boiling cauldron of oil and the savage executioners glaring at him, he only smiled.
He was led to the front of the curtain behind which sat the Prince of Wu, and he made the ordinary salutation of raising his extended arms, but he did not bow in obeisance.
The Prince bade his attendants roll up the curtain, and called out, “Why do you not make an obeisance？”
Deng Zhi replied, “The envoy of the superior state does not make an obeisance to the ruler of a smaller country.”
“If you do not control that tongue of yours, but will let it wag, you will be like that fellow Li Yiji who went to talk to Qi. You will soon find yourself in the cauldron.”
Then Deng Zhi laughed aloud, saying, “People say there are many sages in Wu. No one would believe that they would be frightened of a simple scholar.”
This reply only increased Sun Quan's anger, and he said, “Who fears an unmerited fool like you？”
“If you fear not the envoy, why so anxious about what he may have to say？”
“Because you come here as spokesman of Zhuge Liang, and you want me to sever with Wei and turn to your country. Is not that your message？”
“I am a simple scholar of Shu, and I am come to explain matters to the state of Wu. But here I find armed guards and a boiling cauldron all prepared against an envoy. How can I form any other opinion than that you will not allow me to speak？”
As soon as Sun Quan heard these words, he bade the soldiers go, and called the envoy into the hall.
There he invited Deng Zhi to a seat and said, “What is the real matter between Wei and Wu？ I desire that you would inform me.”
Then Deng Zhi replied, “Do you, GREat Prince, desire to discuss peace with Wei or with Shu？”
“I really desire to discuss peace with the Ruler of Shu. But he is young and inexperienced and ignorant, and unable to carry a matter through.”
“Prince, you are a valiant warrior, just as Zhuge Liang is a GREat minister. Now Shu has the strength of its mountainous geography just as Wu has the protection of its three rivers. If these two countries are at peace, they are mutually protective. They may swallow up the rest of the empire, or they may stand secure alone. If you send tribute to Wei and acknowledge yourself one of its ministers, you will be expected to attend at court, and your heir-apparent will become a servant in that court； and if you disobey, an army of Wei will be sent to attack you. Shu also will come down the river and invade your country. Then the South Land will be yours no longer. And if you listen not to these words of mine, and refuse my offer, I shall commit suicide before your face and so justify the post I have as an envoy.”
As Deng Zhi spoke these last words, he gathered up his robes and marched down the hall as though he was just going to jump into the cauldron.
“Stop him！” cried Sun Quan, and they did so.
Then he requested Deng Zhi to go into an inner apartment, where he treated the envoy as a guest of the highest honor.
“O Master,” said Sun Quan, “your words exactly express my thoughts, and I desire to make a league of peace with your country. Are you willing to be the intermediary？”
“Just now it was you, O Prince, who wished to boil this poor servant. Now it is also you who wishes to use him. How can such a doubtful person be trusted？”
“My mind is made up,” replied Sun Quan. “Do not doubt me, Master.”
Deng Zhi was detained, and a conclave of officers gathered.
Said Sun Quan to the assembly, “Under my hand are all eighty-one counties of the southeast, and I have the lands of Jingzhou to boot, yet I am not so well off as that little country of Shu, for Shu has Deng Zhi for an envoy, and he glorifies his lord. I have no one to send to declare my wishes to Shu.”
Then one stepped forth and said he would go. The speaker was Zhang Wen of Wucheng, who held the office of Imperial Commander.
“Sir, I fear that when you reach Shu and are in the presence of Zhuge Liang, you will not explain my real sentiments,” said Sun Quan.
Zhang Wen replied, “Think you that I shall fear him？ He also is but a man.”
Sun Quan conferred GREat gifts on Zhang Wen, and sent him on the return mission to Shu to negotiate the league of peace.
While Deng Zhi was absent, Zhuge Liang said to his lord, “This mission to Wu will succeed, and of the many wise people in the east one will come as return envoy. Your Majesty should treat him with courtesy, and let him return to Wu to complete the league. For if we have an alliance with Wu, Wei will not dare to send an army against us. And if we are safe from those quarters, I will lead an expedition to subdue the Mangs in the south country. After that we can deal with Wei. If Wei is reduced, Wu will not last long, and the whole empire will again be under one ruler.”
Presently the report reached the capital that Deng Zhi and Zhang Wen, as envoy of Wu, would soon arrive. The Latter Ruler assembled the courtiers to receive them honorably. The envoy of Wu carried himself as one who had attained his desires, and advanced boldly. Having made his salute, the Latter Ruler gave him to sit on a brocaded stool on his left hand. A banquet followed at which Zhang Wen was treated with much honor. At the end of the banquet, the whole court escorted the envoy to the guest-house where he was to lodge.
On the second day there was a banquet at the Prime Minister's palace, and Zhuge Liang broached the real business.
He said, “Our First Ruler was not on friendly terms with Wu. But that is all changed, as is demonstrated by these banquets, and our present Emperor is disposed to be very friendly. It is hoped that the former enmity may be entirely forgotten and the two countries swear eternal friendship and alliance in their common end——the destruction of Wei. I look to you, Sir, to speak in favor of this league.”
Zhang Wen said that he would support the plan. The wine went merrily round, and as the envoy became mellow, he laughed freely and swaggered and put on a proud demeanor.
Next day the Latter Ruler gave Zhang Wen rich presents of gold and studs and prepared a parting banquet for him in the south guest-chamber, and all the court assembled to take leave of him. The Prime Minister paid him assiduous attention and pressed him to drink. While this banquet was in proGREss, a man suddenly came in as if he were already drunk, made a proud sort of salutation to the company and at once took a seat.
His conduct seemed strange to Zhang Wen, who asked, “Who is the new comer, Sir Prime Minister？”
“He is a man named Qin Mi, a Doctorate Academician of Yizhou,” replied Zhuge Liang.
“He may be that,” said Zhang Wen with a laugh, “but I wonder if he has any learning at all inside him.”
Qin Mi listened without changing countenance, and said, “Since our children are all learned, of course I am more so.”
“What may have been your special studies, Sir？” said Zhang Wen.
“Many things： Astronomy on one hand, geography on the other, the three teachings and the nine systems, many philosophers, history all through, and many sacred books and traditions.”
“Since you talk so big,” said Zhang Wen, “I should like to ask you a few questions on celestial matters. Now has the sky a head？”
“Yes, it has a head.”
“Where is it？”
“In the western quarter. The Odes say, 'God turns his head kindly toward the west,' and further it follows from this that the head is in the west.”
“Well, has the sky ears？”
“Oh, yes. The sky is above and listens to all things below. The Odes say, 'The crane calls from the midst of the marsh, its cry is heard by the sky.' How could the sky hear without ears？”
“Has the sky feet？”
“It has. The Odes say, 'Heaven treads down difficulties.' If there were no feet, how could it tread？”
“Has heaven a name？”
“Why not？”
“Then what is it？”
“Liu.”
“How do you know that？”
“Because the Emperor's family name is Liu, and he is the Son of Heaven. That is how I know.”
“Does the sun spring from the east？”
“Though it does, yet it sets in the west.”
All this time Qin Mi's repartees had FLASHed back clear and perfect. They came so naturally as to astonish all the guests. Zhang Wen had no word to reply to them.
Then it became Qin Mi's turn, “You are a famous scholar in your own land, Sir； and since you have asked so many questions about Heaven, I take it you are I well up in all celestial matters. When original chaos resolved into its two elements yin and yang, the lighter portion rose and became sky, and the grosser sank and solidified into earth. When Gong Gong's rebellion was crushed, his head struck the Imperfect Mountain, the pillar, which upholds heaven, was broken and the bonds of earth were destroyed. Heaven fell over to the northwest, and earth sank into the southeast. Since heaven was ethereal and had floated to the top, how could it fall over？ Another thing I do not know is what is beyond the ether. I should be glad if you would explain, Master.”
Zhang Wen had no reply ready, but he rose from his place and bowed his acknowledgment, saying, “I knew not that there was so much ability in this land. I am happy to have heard such a discourse. Now all obstructions have disappeared, and I see quite clearly.”
But Zhuge Liang, fearing lest the guest should feel mortified, soothed him with fair words, saying, “This is all play upon words, the sort of puzzles one propounds at a merry feast. You, honored Sir, know that the tranquillity and safety of states are no matters to joke with.”
The envoy bowed. Then Deng Zhi was ordered to return to Wu and thank its ruler for his courtesy, and he was to accompany Zhang Wen. So both, having taken leave of the Prime Minister, set out on their journey to the east.
In the meantime Sun Quan was beginning to feel perplexed at the long delay of his envoy. He had summoned a council to discuss this question, when the report came that his own envoy had returned, and Deng Zhi was with him. They were brought in forthwith. Zhang Wen, having made his obeisance, began to discourse upon the virtue of the Ruler of Shu and Zhuge Liang and to lay before his lord the proposal for a league of peace. Deng Zhi, the Chair of the Secretariat, was empowered to discuss this matter.
Turning to Deng Zhi, Sun Quan said, “Would it not be a happy result if tranquillity should be restored to the empire by the destruction of Wei, and Wu and Shu should share its administration？”
“The sky knows not two suns,” replied Deng Zhi, “nor can the people recognize two kings. If Wei be destroyed, no one can say upon whom the divine command will devolve. But one who becomes an overlord must perfect his virtue, and those who become ministers must be wholly loyal. In this way strife will cease.”
Sun Quan smiled, saying, “And your sincerity is beyond question.”
Deng Zhi was dismissed with rich gifts, and after this Wu and Shu were good friends.
The negotiations between his two rivals were reported in Capital Luoyang without loss of time, and Cao Pi was very angry.
“If they have made an alliance, it can only mean that they cherish the intention of swallowing the Middle Land. My best move is to strike first.”
He called a GREat council. This council lacked the presence of Regent Marshal Cao Ren and Grand Commander Jia Xu, who had both died.
In the council Counselor Xin Pi stepped forward and said, “The Middle Land is extensive, but the population so sparse that no successful army could be raised just now. My advice is to wait ten years, spending that period in forming an army and in cultivating the land till stores and weapons shall have been accumulated. Then both our rivals may be destroyed.”
“This is only the distorted opinion of a perverted pedant. Having made this league, Shu and Wu may fall upon us at any moment. This matter cannot be postponed for ten years,” said the Ruler of Wei.
An edict appeared commanding the enlistment of soldiers and the formation of an army to subdue Wu.
Sima Yi then said, “Battleships are necessary, as Wu is protected by the GREat River. Your Majesty must lead small and big vessels. The navy can advance by way of River Huai, taking Shouchun. When you reach Guangling, the river is to be crossed and Nanxu is to be captured. Then Wu will be subdued.”
This plan was accepted, and the construction of dragon ships was put in hand and went on day and night. Ten were built two hundred spans long to carry two thousand marines each. They also collected three thousand fighting ships.
In the autumn of the fifth year of Yellow Dawn （AD 224） the various generals assembled, and Cao Zhen was appointed leader of the first corps. Zhang Liao, Zhang He, Wen Ping, and Xu Huang were Chief Commanders； Xu Chu and Lu Qian were guards of the Center Army； and Cao Xiu commanded the rear guard； the strategists were Liu Ye and Jiang Ji. In all, land and marine forces numbered over three hundred thousand troops. When the starting day was decided upon, Sima Yi was made Chair of the Secretariat and left in the capital with the powers of Regent Marshal.
The spies told the Prince of Wu's attendants of the dangers, and the latter hastened to inform the Prince.
They said, “Cao Pi is leading the dragon fleet and commanding three hundred thousand marines and ground forces against the South Land, and the danger is very GREat.”
When Sun Quan met his council, Gu Yong said, “My lord, you can call upon Shu for help according to the treaty. Write to Zhuge Liang and get him to send out an army through Hanzhong so as to divert part of Wei's army. Also you send an army to Nanxu to oppose them there.”
“I shall have to recall Lu Xun,” said the Prince. “He is the only man to undertake this GREat task.”
“Do not move him if you can help it. He is necessary for the protection of Jingzhou.”
“Yes, I know. But there is no other strong enough to help me.”
At these words Xu Sheng advanced, saying, “I know I am not very able, but I desire to be given an army to meet this danger. If Cao Pi crosses the river in person, I will make him prisoner and present him at the gate of the Palace. If he does not come over here, I will slay so many of his soldiers that his army shall not dare even to look southward.”
Sun Quan was pleased to find a willing volunteer, and replied, “Noble Sir, what anxiety need I feel if I have your protection？”
Xu Sheng was given the title of General Who Protects the East and made Chief Commander of all the forces in Nanxu and Jianye. As soon as he had received his orders, he retired. He gave command to gather enormous quantities of weapons, and had many flags and banners made for the protection of the river banks.
But another impetuous young leader was anxious to take more vigorous measures, and he stood forth, saying, “My lord has laid upon you, O General, a heavy responsibility. But if you really desire to destroy the invading force and capture Cao Pi, you should send an army to meet him on the north side in the South of River Huai. I fear failure if you wait till the northern troops have come this far.”
The young man was Sun Shao, nephew of the Prince of Wu. Sun Shao was born to a Yu family, and he was adopted by Sun Ce and given the Sun family name. He had already the title of General Who Possesses Wide Prestige, and was in command at Guangling. Though young and impetuous, he was very valiant.
Said Xu Sheng, “Cao Pi's army is strong and its leaders famous. I hold that we may not cross the river to meet him, but wait the arrival of his ships on the other side. Then I shall carry out my plan.”
“I have three thousand troops of my own, and I know the country about Guangling thoroughly. Let me go across the river and fight a battle. I will willingly undergo the penalty if I fail,” said Sun Shao.
However, Xu Sheng refused, and all the pleadings of his impetuous general were vain.
And when Sun Shao still persisted, the Commander GREw angry and said, “What control shall I have if you are allowed to disobey orders？”
Xu Sheng ordered the lictors to take Sun Shao out and put him to death.
They led him away, and forthwith the black flag was hoisted. But one of Sun Shao's generals went off in hot haste to tell Sun Quan, who came immediately to try to save his favorite. Happily the execution had not been accomplished when the Prince appeared on the scene, and he bade the executioners disperse. The youth was saved.
Sun Shao began to press his claim to the Prince, saying, “I have been at Guangling, and if we do not attack the enemy there, but let him get down to the river, there will be an end of Wu.”
Sun Quan went into the camp, and Xu Sheng came to receive him.
When the Prince was seated in his tent, Xu Sheng said, “O Prince, you placed me in command of the force to repulse Wei. Now this general of mine, Sun Shao, is disobedient and should suffer death. I would ask why he should be pardoned.”
“He is naturally hot and impetuous. He has been guilty of disobedience, but I hope you will overlook his fault.”
“The law is none of my making, nor is it yours, O Prince. It is a state penalty, and if relationship is enough to evade it, where is discipline？”
“He has offended, and you have the right to judge and punish. But although his real name is Yu Shao, yet my brother Sun Ce loved him and gave him our family name. Further, Sun Shao has rendered me good service. If he should be put to death, I should fail in my fraternal duty.”
“Since you have intervened, O Prince, I remit the death penalty.”
Sun Quan bade his nephew thank his chief, but the youth would not make an obeisance. On the contrary, he loudly maintained the correctness of his view.
“Leading troops against Cao Pi is the only way,” cried Sun Shao. “I cannot consent to your other plan even under the penalty of death！”
Xu Sheng's countenance changed. The recalcitrant young man was ordered to leave the tent by Sun Quan.
“He will not be any loss to us,” said Sun Quan to Xu Sheng, “and I will not employ him again.”
Then the Prince left and returned to his own place.
That night they reported to Xu Sheng that Sun Shao had gone secretly over the river with his own three thousand troops. Xu Sheng did not wish him to come to harm, as evidently that would displease the Prince. So Xu Sheng sent a force to support him. Ding Feng was chosen to command this reinforcement, and he was told what to do.
The Ruler of Wei, in his dragon ships, reached Guangling, and the van got to the river bank. He came to survey the position.
“How many soldiers are on the other bank？” asked Cao Pi.
Cao Zhen replied, “I have not seen a single one. Nor are there any flags or encampments.”
“That is a ruse. I will go and find out.”
So Cao Pi set out to cross the river in one of the dragon ships. He anchored under the bank. On his boat were displayed the imperial emblems of dragon, phoenix, sun, moon, and they shone out bravely. Seated in the ship, the Emperor looked up and down the south bank, but not a man was visible.
“Do you think we should cross？” asked the Emperor of his strategists.
Liu Ye replied, “If the rules of war mean anything, they ought to be prepared. We think Your Majesty should exercise caution. Wait a few days and watch. Then perhaps the van might be sent to make a reconnaissance.”
“So I think,” said the Ruler of Wei. “But as it is now late, we will pass the night on the river.”
It was a dark night, and the ships was brilliantly lighted up； it seemed like day on board. But all along the south bank there appeared no glimmer of light.
“What do you think it means？” said Cao Pi.
The courtiers replied, “They heard that Your Majesty's heavenly army was coming, and ran away like so many rats.”
The Ruler of Wei laughed to himself. When daylight came there came with it a thick fog, so that nothing on the bank could be seen. After a time, a breeze blew off the fog, and then, to their immense surprise, they found that the whole length of the South of the GREat River as far as they could see was one battlement, with towers at intervals, while spears and swords glittered in the sun and flags and pennons fluttered in the breeze.
In just a short time several reports came： “A long wall by the GREat River has grown up in a night and stood there with carts and masts of ships lying along it, stretching some one hundred miles from Shidou to Nanxu.”
The fact was that the wall was an imitation, and the warriors that manned it were bundles of reeds dressed in soldiers' uniforms. And this was Xu Sheng's tactic. But the sight chilled the ardor of the invaders.
“My hosts of troops are no use against such warriors. We can do nothing against those talents of the South Land,” said Cao Pi.
He thought over this sadly enough. But now the wind had increased in force, and white combers began to heave up in the river, and waters broke over his boat, drenching the dragon robes. The ship seemed as if it would roll right over. So Cao Zhen sent out small boats to rescue his master and his people. But they were too affrighted to move. Wherefore Wen Ping, who was in charge, leaped on board and helped the Emperor down into one of the smaller craft, which then flew away before the wind and got safely into a creek.
Soon came a hasty messenger to report： “Zhao Yun is marching out through Yangping Pass and threatening Changan.”
This frightened Cao Pi so badly that he decided to retreat, and gave orders to retire. The whole army were in a mood to run away, and moved off toward the north, pursued by the troops of Wu. To hasten the march, the Ruler of Wei bade his soldiers abandon all the imperial paraphernalia and impediments. The dragon ships withdrew into River Huai one by one.
As they moved in disorder, suddenly arose the sounds of an enemy force, shouts and the rolling of drums and the blaring of trumpets, and a cohort marched down obliquely on to their line. And at the head was Sun Shao.
The troops of Wei could make no effective stand, and many were slain, while large numbers were driven into the river and drowned. By dint of GREat efforts, the Emperor was saved and got away up the river. But when they had sailed about ten miles, they saw ahead a tract of blazing reeds. The enemy had poured fish oil over the dry reeds and set them afire. The wind was spreading the flames down river toward the fleet of Wei, and the heat was intense. The dragon ships had to stop.
Cao Pi was put into a smaller craft and taken on shore. His larger ships were presently set on fire and destroyed. They mounted the Emperor on a horse and moved along the bank, but soon they fell in with another body of troops. This time it was the supports under Ding Feng.
Zhang Liao rode ahead to engage the leader, but was soon wounded by an arrow of Ding Feng in the loins. However, he was helped away by Xu Huang, and the Ruler of Wei was gotten safely out of the turmoil. The loss of soldiers was heavy, and a huge booty of horses, carts, ships, and weapons fell to the victors.
So the Wei armies went away north thoroughly beaten, while Xu Sheng had scored a GREat success. Sun Quan richly rewarded him.
Zhang Liao got to Xuchang, but only to die from the effects of his wound. He was honorably buried by the Ruler of Wei.
It has been said that Zhao Yun was threatening Changan. But soon after he went through Yangping Pass, the Prime Minister of Shu sent a dispatch to recall him because General Yong Kai in Yizhou had joined himself with the Mangs and invaded the four southern territories. So Zhao Yun returned. Meanwhile Ma Chao was ordered to take command of Yangping Pass. The Prime Minister was about to go to subdue the nations along the south border. He was then preparing at Chengdu for this expedition.
[hip, hip, hip] First Wu met Wei and drove them north, Then Shu against the Mangs went south. [yip, yip, yip]
The story of this campaign will follow in the next chapters.
