Chapter 107

The Ruler of Wei Yields Power to the Sima Clan; Jiang Wei Is Defeated at Oxhead Mountain

Now Sima Yi, hearing that Cao Shuang, together with his brothers Cao Xi, Cao Xun, and Cao Yan, his confidants He Yan, Deng Yang, Ding Mi, Bi Fan, Li Sheng, and others, and the Imperial Guard, had accompanied the Wei ruler Cao Fang out of the city to pay homage at Emperor Ming’s tomb and then go hunting, was overjoyed. He went at once to the palace offices and ordered Minister over the Masses Gao Rou to assume the emblems of authority and act in the capacity of General-in-Chief, first taking possession of Cao Shuang’s camp. He also ordered Grand Coachman Wang Guan to act as Commander of the Central Army and occupy Cao Xi’s camp. Sima Yi then led the former officials into the inner palace and submitted a memorial to Empress Dowager Guo, declaring that Cao Shuang had betrayed the trust placed in him by the late emperor as guardian of the orphaned sovereign, and that, as a wicked traitor who had thrown the state into disorder, he deserved to be removed. Empress Dowager Guo was greatly alarmed. “The Son of Heaven is outside the city,” she said. “What is to be done?” Sima Yi replied, “Your servant has a memorial for the Son of Heaven and a plan to destroy the treacherous ministers. Your Majesty need not be concerned.” The empress dowager, frightened, had no choice but to consent. Sima Yi swiftly ordered Grand Commandant Jiang Ji and Director of the Imperial Secretariat Sima Fu to compose the memorial with him, then dispatched a palace eunuch to carry it beyond the city walls and present it directly before the emperor. Sima Yi himself led a great army to occupy the arsenal. Before long, someone carried word to Cao Shuang’s household. His wife, Lady Liu, hurried into the front hall and summoned the officers guarding the residence. “Our lord is now outside the city,” she said. “What does Zhongda intend by raising troops?” Pan Ju, commander of the gate, replied, “Do not be alarmed, my lady. I shall go and inquire.” He then led several dozen crossbowmen up into the gate tower to look out. Just then Sima Yi was leading his troops past the front of the residence. Pan Ju ordered his men to shoot down a storm of arrows, preventing Sima Yi from passing. From behind, Deputy General Sun Qian called for him to stop: “The Grand Tutor is acting on a great matter of state! You must not shoot!” Three times he ordered him to desist before Pan Ju finally ceased loosing arrows. Sima Zhao guarded his father Sima Yi as they passed; then they led the troops out of the city, encamped beside the Luo River, and secured the pontoon bridge.

Meanwhile, Lu Zhi, a major under Cao Shuang, saw that upheaval had broken out in the city and came to consult Staff Officer Xin Chang. “Now that Zhongda has caused such a disturbance,” he said, “what are we to do?” Xin Chang replied, “We should lead our own troops out of the city to the Son of Heaven.” Lu Zhi approved his counsel. Xin Chang hurried into the rear hall, where his elder sister Xin Xianying saw him and asked, “What has happened to make you hurry so?” Xin Chang told her, “The Son of Heaven is outside, and the Grand Tutor has closed the city gates. He must be plotting rebellion.” Xin Xianying said, “Duke Sima may not be plotting rebellion. He merely intends to kill General Cao.” Xin Chang was startled. “It is not yet known how this affair will end,” he said. Xin Xianying replied, “General Cao is no match for Duke Sima. He will certainly be defeated.” Xin Chang said, “The other day my superior ordered me to accompany him. I do not know whether I ought to go.” Xin Xianying replied, “To remain faithful to one’s duty is a person’s highest obligation. Even when an ordinary man falls into peril, one may still show him compassion. To hold another’s whip and then abandon one’s charge—no ill omen could be greater.” Xin Chang followed her counsel. He and Lu Zhi led several dozen horsemen forth, cut through the barrier, seized the gate, and escaped from the city.

When this was reported to Sima Yi, he feared that Huan Fan might also escape and hastily sent men to summon him. Huan Fan consulted with his son, who said, “The imperial carriage is outside the city. We had better leave by the southern gate.” Huan Fan followed his advice, mounted his horse, and rode to the Pingchang Gate, but it had already been closed. The officer guarding it was Si Fan, a former subordinate of Huan Fan. Huan Fan drew a bamboo tablet from his sleeve and said, “The empress dowager has issued an edict. Open the gate at once.” Si Fan said, “I ask to examine the edict.” Huan Fan rebuked him: “You are my former subordinate! How dare you behave so?” Si Fan had no choice but to open the gate and let him out. Once beyond the walls, Huan Fan called back to him, “The Grand Tutor has rebelled! Quickly follow me!” Si Fan was greatly alarmed, but could not overtake him. When the matter was reported to Sima Yi, he exclaimed in dismay, “The brain trust has escaped! What are we to do?” Jiang Ji said, “A worn-out horse clings to the beans in its manger. Cao Shuang will surely be unable to make use of him.” Sima Yi then summoned Xu Yun and Chen Tai. “Go and see Cao Shuang,” he said. “Tell him that the Grand Tutor has no other purpose than to strip him and his brothers of their military authority.” Xu Yun and Chen Tai departed. Sima Yi next summoned Yin Damu, Commandant of the Palace Guard, and ordered Jiang Ji to write a letter for him to carry to Cao Shuang. Sima Yi instructed him, “You and Cao Shuang are close, so you may undertake this mission. When you see him, tell him that Jiang Ji and I swear by the Luo River that this concerns military authority alone and that we harbor no other intention.” Yin Damu departed in obedience to the order.

Now Cao Shuang was in the midst of flying hawks and coursing hounds when a sudden report arrived that a disturbance had broken out within the city and that the Grand Tutor had submitted a memorial. Cao Shuang was so appalled that he nearly fell from his horse. A palace eunuch held the memorial aloft and knelt before the Son of Heaven. Cao Shuang took it, broke the seal, and ordered an attendant to read it aloud. The memorial stated in substance:

Your servant Sima Yi, Grand Commander for the Conquest of the West and Grand Tutor, in deepest fear and trembling, knocks his head upon the ground and respectfully submits this memorial: When your servant returned from Liaodong, the late emperor summoned Your Majesty, the Prince of Qin, and your servants to ascend the imperial couch. He grasped your servant by the arm and showed the deepest concern for the affairs that were to follow his death. But now General-in-Chief Cao Shuang has betrayed the charge entrusted to him and brought the institutions of the state into ruin and disorder. Within the court he arrogates honors equal to the sovereign’s; beyond it he monopolizes authority and power. He has made the palace eunuch Zhang Dang Chief Inspector, and the two act together in secret collusion. They keep watch upon the Supreme One and await their chance to seize the sacred throne. They have sown discord between the two palaces and injured those bound by ties of flesh and blood. All beneath Heaven seethes with unrest, and every heart is filled with fear and dread. This is not what the late emperor intended when he charged Your Majesty and entrusted his commands to your servant.

Though your servant is aged and failing, how could he dare forget those former words? Your servants Jiang Ji, Grand Commandant, Sima Fu, Director of the Imperial Secretariat, and the others all believe that Cao Shuang harbors the intention of denying his sovereign, and that he and his brothers should not command the troops guarding the palace. We have now reported this to the empress dowager in Yongning Palace, and she has commanded your servant to submit this memorial and put these measures into effect. Your servant has therefore ordered the proper officials and the Director of Palace Eunuchs to dismiss the civil and military subordinates of Cao Shuang, Cao Xi, and Cao Xun, and has commanded those three to retire to their residences with the rank of marquis. They are not to linger and thereby delay the imperial carriage. Should any dare cause delay, they shall at once be dealt with under military law. Though beset by illness, your servant has led troops in person and stationed them at the pontoon bridge over the Luo River to guard against any unforeseen disturbance. This is respectfully submitted for Your Majesty’s hearing, though your servant trembles at intruding upon the sacred attention.

When the Wei ruler Cao Fang had heard the memorial, he summoned Cao Shuang and said, “Such are the Grand Tutor’s words. How do you propose to resolve the matter?” Cao Shuang was at a complete loss. Turning to his two younger brothers, he said, “What are we to do?” Cao Xi replied, “Your unworthy younger brother once tried to remonstrate with you, but you clung blindly to your course and would not listen, and thus matters have come to this. Sima Yi is peerless in guile and cunning. Even Kongming could not defeat him—how much less can we brothers? We had better bind ourselves and go before him, in hopes of escaping death.” Before he had finished speaking, Staff Officer Xin Chang and Major Lu Zhi arrived. Cao Shuang questioned them, and the two replied, “The city is sealed as tightly as an iron barrel, and the Grand Tutor has led troops to encamp at the pontoon bridge over the Luo River. It appears impossible to return. You must decide upon a great plan without delay.” While they were still speaking, Minister of Agriculture Huan Fan galloped up and said to Cao Shuang, “The Grand Tutor has launched a coup. Why does the general not ask the Son of Heaven to proceed to Xudu, summon the armies from beyond the capital, and chastise Sima Yi?” Cao Shuang said, “Our entire families are within the city. How can we flee elsewhere to seek aid?” Huan Fan replied, “Even a common fellow in peril still hopes to live! Now, my lord, you have the Son of Heaven at your side and may issue commands to all beneath Heaven. Who would dare refuse to answer? How can you cast yourself into the jaws of death?”

Cao Shuang heard him but could not decide; he merely wept. Huan Fan continued, “Xudu is no more than half a night’s journey from here. The grain and fodder within the city are sufficient for several years. My lord’s troops from the separate camp are close by, south of the palace; summon them and they will arrive at once. I have brought the seal of the Grand Marshal with me. My lord must depart swiftly. If you delay, all is lost!” Cao Shuang said, “Gentlemen, do not press me too hard. Allow me to consider the matter carefully.” After a short while, Palace Attendant Xu Yun and Director of the Imperial Secretariat Chen Tai arrived. The two told him, “The Grand Tutor acts only because the general’s authority has become too great. He intends no more than to remove your military command and has no other purpose. The general should return to the city without delay.” Cao Shuang remained silent. Then Commandant of the Palace Guard Yin Damu arrived. “The Grand Tutor has sworn by the Luo River that he harbors no other intention,” Yin Damu said. “Here is a letter from Grand Commandant Jiang. The general may relinquish his military authority and return promptly to his ministerial residence.” Cao Shuang believed these to be trustworthy words. Huan Fan again warned him, “The matter is desperate! Do not heed outsiders’ words and walk into the jaws of death!”

That night Cao Shuang remained unable to decide. He drew his sword and held it in his hand, sighing and pondering. From dusk until dawn he wept continuously, yet in the end he still wavered in irresolution. Huan Fan entered his tent and urged him on. “My lord has considered this for a full day and night,” he said. “Why can you still not decide?” Cao Shuang flung down his sword and sighed. “I will not raise troops,” he said. “I am willing to abandon office. It will be enough for me to live as a wealthy gentleman!” Huan Fan burst into tears, left the tent, and cried, “Cao Zidan prided himself upon his wisdom and strategy, yet now his three sons are nothing but piglets and calves!” He wept bitterly without cease. Xu Yun and Chen Tai told Cao Shuang first to surrender his seals and ribbons of office to Sima Yi. Cao Shuang ordered that the seals be sent. Registrar Yang Zong seized the seals and ribbons and cried, “Today my lord casts away his military authority, binds himself, and goes to surrender. You cannot escape execution in the eastern marketplace!” Cao Shuang said, “The Grand Tutor will surely not break faith with me.” He therefore handed the seals and ribbons to Xu Yun and Chen Tai, who carried them ahead to Sima Yi. When the troops saw that their commander no longer held his seal, they all scattered. Cao Shuang was left with only a few mounted officials in attendance. When he reached the pontoon bridge, Sima Yi issued an order directing Cao Shuang and his two brothers to return for the present to their private residences; all the others were to be placed under guard and await an imperial decree. When Cao Shuang and his brothers entered the city, not a single attendant accompanied them. Huan Fan reached the pontoon bridge, where Sima Yi, seated on horseback, pointed at him with his whip and said, “Master Huan, why have you acted in this fashion?” Huan Fan bowed his head and said nothing, then entered the city and departed.

Sima Yi then requested that the imperial carriage strike camp and return to Luoyang. After Cao Shuang and his two brothers had gone home, Sima Yi fastened their gate with a great lock and ordered eight hundred local residents to surround and guard the residence. Cao Shuang was troubled and despondent. Cao Xi said to him, “Our household now lacks grain. You should write to the Grand Tutor and ask to borrow some. If he is willing to lend us grain, he surely has no intention of harming us.” Cao Shuang accordingly wrote a letter and sent a man to deliver it. After reading the letter, Sima Yi dispatched men with one hundred hu of grain, which they transported into Cao Shuang’s residence. Cao Shuang was overjoyed. “Duke Sima truly has no intention of harming me!” he said, and ceased to worry.

It turned out that Sima Yi had first arrested the palace eunuch Zhang Dang and cast him into prison for interrogation. Zhang Dang said, “I was not alone. He Yan, Deng Yang, Li Sheng, Bi Fan, and Ding Mi also conspired with me to usurp the throne and rebel.” Sima Yi took Zhang Dang’s confession, then arrested He Yan and the others and examined them thoroughly. All confessed that they had intended to rebel in the third month. Sima Yi had them locked into long wooden cangues and nailed fast. Si Fan, the officer who had guarded the city gate, reported that Huan Fan had forged an edict to leave the city and had declared aloud that the Grand Tutor was rebelling. Sima Yi said, “Whoever falsely accuses another of rebellion shall be judged by the law of reciprocal punishment.” Huan Fan and the others were also cast into prison. Thereafter Cao Shuang and his two brothers, together with all the other offenders, were escorted to the public execution ground and beheaded, and their clans were exterminated to the third degree. All the property and valuables of their households were confiscated into the treasury. At that time the wife of Cao Shuang’s cousin Wenshu was a daughter of Xiahou Ling. Widowed young and childless, she was pressed by her father to marry again, but she cut off her ears to swear that she would not. After Cao Shuang was executed, her father again intended to remarry her, whereupon she cut off her nose. Her family was shocked and dismayed. They said to her, “Human life in this world is like a mote of dust resting upon a frail blade of grass. Why torment yourself so grievously? Moreover, your husband’s family has been utterly destroyed by the Sima clan. For whom do you mean to preserve your fidelity?” Weeping, she replied, “I have heard it said: ‘The humane do not alter their constancy with rise or decline; the righteous do not change their hearts for survival or destruction.’ Even when the Cao clan flourished, I wished to preserve my fidelity to the end. Now that it has perished, how could I bear to forsake it? That would be the conduct of beasts. How could I do such a thing?” When Sima Yi heard of this, he esteemed her virtue and permitted her to adopt a son and rear him as heir to the Cao clan. A later poet wrote:

Frail grass and drifting dust she calmly scanned;Xiahou’s daughter stood in faith like a mountain.Men fall beneath the virtue women show—They stroke their beards and blush to know their shame.

Now after Sima Yi had executed Cao Shuang, Grand Commandant Jiang Ji said, “Lu Zhi and Xin Chang cut through the barrier and seized the gate to escape, while Yang Zong snatched away the seal and refused to surrender it. None of them should be spared.” Sima Yi replied, “Each acted for his own master. They are righteous men.” He therefore restored them all to their former offices. Xin Chang sighed and said, “Had I not sought my sister’s counsel, I would have failed in the highest duty!” A later poet praised Xin Xianying:

A minister who takes his lord’s rewardMust ponder recompense and serve through peril.Xianying of Xin once urged her brother on;A thousand ages praise her noble conduct.

After sparing Xin Chang and the others, Sima Yi issued a proclamation making known that all persons formerly in Cao Shuang’s service, without exception, were pardoned from death; those who held office were restored to their former posts, while soldiers and commoners were to attend to their own livelihoods. Within and without the capital, all was peaceful. He Yan and Deng Yang had met untimely deaths, exactly fulfilling Guan Lu’s prediction. A later poet praised Guan Lu:

The sages’ wondrous secrets he received;Guan Lu of Pingyuan read the spirit world.He marked He’s brooding ghost and Deng’s wild shade:Before their deaths, he knew they were dead men.

Now the Wei ruler Cao Fang enfeoffed Sima Yi as Imperial Chancellor and bestowed upon him the Nine Dignities. Sima Yi firmly declined and would not accept them. Cao Fang refused to permit this and commanded Sima Yi and his two sons to direct the affairs of state together. Suddenly Sima Yi thought, “Though Cao Shuang’s entire family has been executed, his kinsman Xiahou Ba still guards Yongzhou and the surrounding regions. If he should suddenly rebel, how could we defend against him? I must deal with this.” He immediately issued an edict to Yongzhou summoning Xiahou Ba, General Who Conquers the West, to Luoyang to deliberate upon state affairs. When Xiahou Ba heard of it, he was greatly alarmed and promptly led his own three thousand troops in revolt. Guo Huai, Inspector of Yongzhou, hearing that Xiahou Ba had rebelled, immediately led his troops against him and joined battle. Guo Huai rode out and reviled him: “You are a kinsman of the imperial house of Great Wei, and the Son of Heaven has never wronged you. Why have you turned traitor?” Xiahou Ba cursed him in return: “My forefathers rendered the state many meritorious services. Now what sort of man is Sima Yi? He has exterminated the Cao clan and has now sent to seize me. Sooner or later he will surely seek to usurp the throne. I have taken up arms in righteousness to chastise a traitor. How can this be called rebellion?” Guo Huai flew into a rage, leveled his spear, spurred his horse, and charged straight at Xiahou Ba. Xiahou Ba brandished his sword and galloped forward to meet him. Before ten bouts had passed, Guo Huai turned and fled, with Xiahou Ba in pursuit. Suddenly shouts arose from his rear. Xiahou Ba hastily wheeled his horse and saw Chen Tai leading troops against him. Guo Huai also turned back. Attacked from two directions, Xiahou Ba suffered a crushing defeat and fled, having lost more than half his troops. Unable to devise any other plan, he made for Hanzhong and surrendered to the Latter Ruler.

Someone reported the matter to Jiang Wei, but Jiang Wei did not believe it. Only after sending men to investigate and learning that it was true did he order Xiahou Ba admitted into the city. When Xiahou Ba had paid his respects, he tearfully recounted all that had happened. Jiang Wei said, “In former times, when Weizi departed from Zhou, he won a name everlasting through the ages. If you, sir, can uphold the house of Han, you will have no cause to feel ashamed before the men of old.” He then arranged a banquet to receive him. Once they were seated, Jiang Wei asked, “Now that Sima Yi and his sons wield supreme power, do they harbor designs upon our realm?” Xiahou Ba replied, “The old traitor is presently plotting rebellion and has no leisure to concern himself with affairs beyond his borders. But two new men have arisen in Wei, both still in the flower of youth. If they are given command of armies, they will prove a grave menace to both Wu and Shu.” Jiang Wei asked, “Who are these two?” Xiahou Ba replied, “One is presently a Gentleman of the Imperial Library. He is a native of Changshe in Yingchuan; his surname is Zhong, his given name Hui, and his style Shiji. He is the son of Grand Tutor Zhong Yao and possessed courage and intelligence from childhood. Zhong Yao once brought his two sons to see Emperor Wen. Zhong Hui was then seven years old, and his elder brother Zhong Yu was eight. When Zhong Yu saw the emperor, he was so terrified that sweat streamed over his face. The emperor asked him, ‘Why are you sweating?’ Zhong Yu replied, ‘Trembling and quaking with dread, my sweat pours forth like broth.’ The emperor then asked Zhong Hui, ‘Why are you not sweating?’ Zhong Hui replied, ‘Trembling and shuddering with fear, my sweat dares not come forth.’ The emperor regarded him alone as remarkable. As he grew older, he delighted in reading military works and gained a profound command of strategy. Both Sima Yi and Jiang Ji have praised his abilities. The other man is presently a subordinate clerk and a native of Yiyang. His surname is Deng, his given name Ai, and his style Shizai. He lost his father in childhood and always cherished lofty ambitions. Whenever he saw high mountains or great marshes, he would survey and measure the terrain, pointing out where troops might be stationed, where grain might be stored, and where ambushes might be laid. Everyone laughed at him, but Sima Yi alone recognized his talent and appointed him to assist in planning military affairs. Deng Ai stammers; whenever he reports on business, he always begins, ‘Ai, Ai.’ Sima Yi once teased him, saying, ‘You say “Ai, Ai”; how many Ai are there?’ Deng Ai instantly replied, ‘“Phoenix, O phoenix”—yet there is only one phoenix.’ Such, in general, is the quickness of his native wit. These two men are greatly to be feared.” Jiang Wei laughed. “Why trouble ourselves over such children?” he said.

Jiang Wei then escorted Xiahou Ba to Chengdu and entered the palace to see the Latter Ruler. Jiang Wei memorialized: “Sima Yi plotted the murder of Cao Shuang, then sought to lure Xiahou Ba into his grasp. For that reason, Xiahou Ba has surrendered to us. At present Sima Yi and his sons monopolize power, while Cao Fang is weak and ineffectual. Wei will soon fall into danger. Your servant has remained in Hanzhong for many years; the troops are seasoned and our grain stores ample. I desire to lead the royal army, appoint Xiahou Ba as guide, advance against the Central Plain, and restore the house of Han, thereby repaying Your Majesty’s grace and fulfilling the late Imperial Chancellor’s purpose.” Director of the Imperial Secretariat Fei Yi remonstrated: “Recently Jiang Wan and Dong Yun have died one after the other, leaving no one to administer our domestic affairs. Boyue should await the proper time and must not move rashly.” Jiang Wei replied, “Not so. A man’s life passes like a white colt glimpsed through a crack. If we continue to let the years slip away like this, on what day shall we recover the Central Plain?” Fei Yi said further, “Master Sun says, ‘Know the enemy and know yourself, and you will win every battle.’ All of us fall far short of the Imperial Chancellor. Even he could not recover the Central Plain—how much less can we?” Jiang Wei replied, “I dwelt long in the Longxi region and know the hearts of the Qiang people well. If we now ally ourselves with the Qiang as auxiliaries, then even if we cannot recover the Central Plain, we can sever and possess all the country west of Long.” The Latter Ruler said, “Since you desire to attack Wei, devote your utmost loyalty and strength to the task. Do not let your keen spirit falter and thereby fail the charge I entrust to you.” Jiang Wei accordingly received the edict, took leave of the court, and went directly to Hanzhong with Xiahou Ba to plan the raising of troops. Jiang Wei said, “First we should send envoys to the Qiang to conclude an alliance. Then we shall march through Xiping toward Yongzhou. We must first construct two forts below Qushan and station troops in them so that they may support each other like the horns of an ox. We shall bring all our grain and fodder to the mouth of the river valley and, following the late Imperial Chancellor’s established system, advance our troops in successive stages.” In the eighth month, in the autumn of that year, he first dispatched the Shu generals Gou An and Li Xin with fifteen thousand troops to construct two adjoining forts before Qushan. Gou An defended the eastern fort, and Li Xin the western.

Spies soon reported this to Guo Huai, Inspector of Yongzhou. Guo Huai sent a report to Luoyang while ordering his deputy general Chen Tai to lead fifty thousand troops to Qushan and engage the Shu army. Gou An and Li Xin each led out a force to meet him, but because they had too few soldiers to resist, they withdrew into their forts. Chen Tai ordered his troops to surround and assault them from all four sides, while another force cut their supply route to Hanzhong. Grain soon ran short within the forts of Gou An and Li Xin. Guo Huai then arrived in person with his troops. After inspecting the terrain, he rejoiced, and upon returning to camp he consulted with Chen Tai. “These forts stand on high, steep ground,” he said. “They must be short of water, and their men must leave the walls to fetch it. If we dam the stream above them, the Shu troops will all die of thirst.” He therefore ordered his soldiers to dig earthworks and dam the upper reaches. As expected, the forts were left without water. Li Xin led troops out to fetch it, but the soldiers of Yongzhou pressed their encirclement fiercely. Li Xin fought desperately but could not break through and had no choice but to retreat into the fort. Gou An’s fort was likewise without water. He therefore joined forces with Li Xin and led his troops out of the fort, uniting the two armies in one place. After a long and bitter battle, they were again defeated and driven back behind the walls. The soldiers were parched with thirst. Gou An said to Li Xin, “Commander Jiang’s army has still not arrived. I cannot tell why.” Li Xin replied, “I shall risk my life and fight my way out to seek aid.” He led several dozen horsemen, opened the fort gate, and charged forth. The Yongzhou troops closed around them from every side. Li Xin fought with reckless courage and at last broke free, but he alone escaped, grievously wounded; all the others were lost amid the melee. That night a strong north wind arose, dark clouds covered the sky, and heavy snow fell. The Shu soldiers within the forts therefore rationed their grain and melted snow for sustenance.

Now Li Xin, having fought his way through the encirclement, traveled for two days along a narrow path through the western hills and there encountered Jiang Wei’s army. Li Xin dismounted, prostrated himself, and reported, “Both forts at Qushan are surrounded by the Wei army, which has cut off their water. Fortunately, heavy snow fell from the heavens, and the men have survived by melting it. Their peril is extreme.” Jiang Wei said, “It is not that I was slow to bring aid. The Qiang troops we were mustering have not yet arrived, and this delayed me.” He ordered men to escort Li Xin into Shu to recover from his wounds. Jiang Wei then asked Xiahou Ba, “The Qiang troops have not arrived, and the Wei army is pressing Qushan desperately. What wise counsel can the general offer?” Xiahou Ba replied, “If we wait for the Qiang troops before going to Qushan, both forts will already have fallen. I judge that the troops of Yongzhou must all have gone to attack Qushan, leaving the city of Yongzhou itself empty. The general should lead his army directly to Mount Niutou and strike behind Yongzhou. Guo Huai and Chen Tai will certainly turn back to rescue it, and the siege of Qushan will then be lifted of itself.” Jiang Wei was delighted. “This plan is excellent!” he said. Jiang Wei therefore led his troops toward Mount Niutou.

Now when Chen Tai saw that Li Xin had fought his way out of the fort, he said to Guo Huai, “If Li Xin carries an urgent appeal to Jiang Wei, Jiang Wei will reckon that our main army is entirely at Qushan and will surely make a detour by Mount Niutou to strike our rear. General, lead one force to seize the Tao River and cut the Shu army’s supply route. I shall divide off half my troops and go directly to Mount Niutou to attack him. When he learns that his supply route has been severed, he will certainly withdraw of his own accord.” Guo Huai followed his counsel and led a force secretly toward the Tao River. Chen Tai led another force directly toward Mount Niutou.

Now when Jiang Wei’s army reached Mount Niutou, shouts suddenly arose from the vanguard, and a report came that Wei troops had blocked the road ahead. Jiang Wei hurried to the front to see for himself. Chen Tai shouted, “You meant to launch a surprise attack upon Yongzhou! I have been waiting here for you a long time!” Enraged, Jiang Wei leveled his spear, spurred his horse, and charged straight at Chen Tai. Chen Tai brandished his sword and met him. Before three bouts had passed, Chen Tai turned and fled. Jiang Wei waved his troops forward in pursuit, and the soldiers of Yongzhou fell back and occupied the hilltop. Jiang Wei recalled his troops and established camp below Mount Niutou. Each day he sent soldiers to challenge the enemy, but neither side gained the victory. Xiahou Ba said to Jiang Wei, “This is no place to remain for long. We have fought for several days without a decision. This is merely a scheme to lure our troops, and there must be some hidden design behind it. We had better withdraw for the present and devise a sounder plan.” While he was still speaking, a sudden report arrived that Guo Huai had led a force to seize the Tao River and had severed their supply route. Jiang Wei was greatly alarmed and hurriedly ordered Xiahou Ba to withdraw first while he himself covered the rear. Chen Tai divided his troops into five columns and came in pursuit. Jiang Wei alone held the point where all five roads converged and checked the Wei troops in battle. Chen Tai drew up his forces upon the heights, and arrows and stones fell like rain. Jiang Wei hastily retreated toward the Tao River, but when he reached it, Guo Huai led his troops against him. Jiang Wei drove his soldiers back and forth in repeated charges, but the Wei army blocked his way as tightly as an iron barrel. Fighting with desperate courage, Jiang Wei at last broke free, though he lost more than half his troops, and raced toward Yangping Pass. Another army suddenly came against him from ahead. At its head rode a great commander, who galloped forth with his sword held crosswise. The man had a round face, large ears, a square mouth, and thick lips. Beneath his left eye grew a black mole, from which sprouted several dozen black hairs. It was Sima Yi’s eldest son, Sima Shi, General of Agile Cavalry. Jiang Wei cried angrily, “How dare a mere boy block my road of retreat!” Clapping spurs to his horse and leveling his spear, he charged straight at Sima Shi. Sima Shi brandished his sword to meet him. In only three bouts Jiang Wei defeated Sima Shi, broke away, and raced directly toward Yangping Pass. The men upon the walls opened the gate and admitted Jiang Wei. Sima Shi also pressed forward to seize the pass, but concealed crossbows on both sides discharged together, each crossbow loosing ten bolts. This was the method of the “repeating crossbow” bequeathed by the Martial Marquis at the hour of his death. Truly:

The three armies could not withstand this day’s defeat;They relied alone on the ten bolts passed down long ago.

What became of Sima Shi’s life will be revealed in the chapter that follows.

The Ruler of Wei Yields Power to the Sima Clan; Jiang Wei Is Defeated at Oxhead Mountain

Now Sima Yi heard that Cao Shuang, together with his brothers Cao Xi, Cao Xun, and Cao Yan, his trusted confidants He Yan, Deng Yang, Ding Mi, Bi Fan, Li Sheng, and others, as well as the Imperial Guard, had accompanied the Wei emperor Cao Fang out of the city to pay respects at Emperor Ming’s tomb and then go hunting. Sima Yi was delighted. He immediately went to the government offices and ordered Minister over the Masses Gao Rou to assume the imperial emblems of authority and act in the capacity of General-in-Chief, first seizing Cao Shuang’s camp. He also ordered Minister of the Imperial Stud Wang Guan to act in the capacity of Central Army Commander and occupy Cao Xi’s camp. Sima Yi led his former officials into the inner palace and reported to Empress Dowager Guo that Cao Shuang had betrayed the late emperor’s trust in entrusting him with the orphaned sovereign, and that as a wicked traitor who had thrown the state into disorder, he deserved to be removed. Empress Dowager Guo was greatly alarmed and said, “The Son of Heaven is outside the city. What are we to do?” Sima Yi said, “I have a memorial to present to the Son of Heaven and a plan for destroying the treacherous ministers. Your Majesty need not worry.” The empress dowager was frightened and had no choice but to comply. Sima Yi urgently ordered Grand Commandant Jiang Ji and Director of the Imperial Secretariat Sima Fu to draft a memorial together, then sent a palace attendant to carry it outside the city and present it directly to the emperor. Sima Yi himself led a large army to seize the arsenal. Before long, someone reported the news to Cao Shuang’s household. His wife, Lady Liu, hurried into the front hall and summoned the officers guarding the residence. “Our lord is now outside the city,” she asked. “Why has Zhongda raised troops?” The gate commander, Pan Ju, said, “Do not be alarmed, my lady. I will go and find out.” He led several dozen crossbowmen up into the gate tower to look. Just then they saw Sima Yi leading troops past the residence. Pan Ju ordered his men to shoot down a volley of arrows, preventing Sima Yi from passing. From behind, Deputy General Sun Qian stopped him, saying, “The Grand Tutor is acting on a great matter of state! Do not shoot!” Only after Sun Qian stopped him three times did Pan Ju cease firing. Sima Zhao guarded his father, Sima Yi, as he passed. They led the troops out of the city, encamped by the Luo River, and secured the pontoon bridge.

Now Lu Zhi, an army administrator under Cao Shuang, saw that upheaval had broken out in the city. He went to consult Staff Officer Xin Chang and said, “Zhongda has created such disorder. What are we to do?” Xin Chang said, “We should lead our own troops out of the city to see the Son of Heaven.” Lu Zhi agreed. Xin Chang hurried into the rear hall. His elder sister, Xin Xianying, saw him and asked, “What has happened to make you hurry like this?” Xin Chang told her, “The Son of Heaven is outside the city, and the Grand Tutor has closed the city gates. He must be plotting rebellion.” Xin Xianying said, “Lord Sima may not be plotting rebellion. He merely intends to kill General Cao.” Startled, Xin Chang said, “It is still unclear how this matter will turn out.” Xin Xianying said, “General Cao is no match for Lord Sima. He is certain to be defeated.” Xin Chang said, “The army administrator asked me to go with him today, but I do not know whether I should.” Xin Xianying said, “To remain faithful to one’s duty is a person’s highest obligation. When ordinary people fall into danger, one should still show them compassion. For someone who holds office to abandon his duty is the most inauspicious thing of all.” Xin Chang followed her advice. He and Lu Zhi led several dozen horsemen out by cutting through the barrier and forcing open the gate.

Someone reported this to Sima Yi. Fearing that Huan Fan might also escape, Sima Yi urgently sent someone to summon him. Huan Fan consulted with his son. His son said, “The imperial carriage is outside the city. We had better leave through the south.” Huan Fan followed his advice, mounted his horse, and rode to Pingchang Gate, but the gate was already closed. The commander guarding it was Si Fan, a former subordinate of Huan Fan. Huan Fan took a bamboo tablet from his sleeve and said, “The empress dowager has issued an edict. Open the gate at once.” Si Fan said, “Please let me inspect the edict.” Huan Fan shouted, “You are my former subordinate! How dare you behave like this?” Si Fan had no choice but to open the gate and let him out. Once outside the city, Huan Fan called back to Si Fan, “The Grand Tutor has rebelled! You must follow me at once.” Si Fan was greatly alarmed and pursued him, but could not catch up. Someone reported the matter to Sima Yi. Sima Yi exclaimed in alarm, “The mastermind has escaped! What are we to do?” Jiang Ji said, “A worn-out horse longs for the beans in its stall. Cao Shuang will certainly be unable to make use of him.” Sima Yi then summoned Xu Yun and Chen Tai and said, “Go see Cao Shuang and tell him that the Grand Tutor has no other purpose. He merely intends to strip him and his brothers of military authority.” Xu Yun and Chen Tai departed. Sima Yi then summoned Yin Damu, Commandant of the Palace Guard, and ordered Jiang Ji to write a letter for Yin Damu to take to Cao Shuang. Sima Yi instructed him, “You are close to Cao Shuang and can undertake this mission. When you see him, tell him that Jiang Ji and I swear by the Luo River that this concerns military authority alone and that we have no other intention.” Yin Damu obeyed and departed.

Now Cao Shuang was in the midst of flying hawks and coursing hounds when word suddenly came that an upheaval had occurred inside the city and that the Grand Tutor had submitted a memorial. Cao Shuang was so alarmed that he nearly fell from his horse. A palace attendant held up the memorial and knelt before the Son of Heaven. Cao Shuang took it, broke the seal, and ordered a close attendant to read it aloud. The memorial read in substance:

Your subject Sima Yi, Commander-in-Chief for the Conquest of the West and Grand Tutor, trembling with fear, bows his head and respectfully submits this memorial: When your subject returned from Liaodong, the late emperor summoned Your Majesty, the Prince of Qin, and your subjects to ascend to the imperial couch. He took your subject by the arm and, with profound concern, entrusted future affairs to us. Now General-in-Chief Cao Shuang has betrayed that dying charge and corrupted the laws of the state. Within the court he arrogates privileges equal to the sovereign’s, and outside it he monopolizes power and authority. He appointed the palace attendant Zhang Dang as chief supervisor so the two could privately collude. He keeps watch over the Supreme One and waits for an opportunity to seize the imperial throne. He has sown discord between the two palaces and injured members of the imperial family. All under Heaven is in turmoil, and everyone is filled with peril and fear. This was not the intention of the late emperor when he instructed Your Majesty and entrusted matters to your subject.

Though your subject is old and infirm, how could he dare forget those former words? Your subjects Jiang Ji, Grand Commandant, Sima Fu, Director of the Imperial Secretariat, and the others all believe that Cao Shuang harbors intentions that deny the sovereign, and that he and his brothers should not command the troops or guard the palace. We have now reported this to the empress dowager at Yongning Palace, and she has ordered your subject to submit this memorial and carry out these measures. Your subject has therefore instructed the appropriate officials and the Director of Palace Attendants to dismiss Cao Shuang, Cao Xi, and Cao Xun from their offices and military commands. They are to retain their marquisates and return to their residences without delay, so as not to hold up the imperial carriage. Anyone who dares cause delay shall immediately be dealt with under military law. Though ill, your subject has personally led troops to encamp at the pontoon bridge over the Luo River, where he is watching for any extraordinary development. I respectfully report this matter and humbly submit it to Your Majesty’s sacred attention.

When the Wei emperor Cao Fang had heard the memorial, he summoned Cao Shuang and said, “The Grand Tutor speaks this way. How do you intend to handle the matter?” Cao Shuang was at a complete loss. Turning to his two brothers, he asked, “What are we to do?” Cao Xi said, “Your unworthy younger brother once advised you, but you stubbornly refused to listen, and that has brought us to this day. Sima Yi’s cunning and deceit are beyond compare. Even Kongming could not overcome him, much less the two of us. We had better bind ourselves and go before him, in hopes of escaping death.” Before he had finished speaking, Staff Officer Xin Chang and Army Administrator Lu Zhi arrived. Cao Shuang questioned them. The two said, “The city is sealed as tightly as an iron drum, and the Grand Tutor has led troops to encamp at the pontoon bridge over the Luo River. Under these circumstances, you cannot return. You must quickly decide on a great plan.” While they were speaking, Minister of Agriculture Huan Fan galloped up and said to Cao Shuang, “The Grand Tutor has launched a coup. Why do you not ask the Son of Heaven to proceed to Xudu, then summon troops from outside the capital to punish Sima Yi?” Cao Shuang said, “Our entire families are inside the city. How can we go elsewhere to seek aid?” Huan Fan said, “Even an ordinary man facing disaster still hopes to live! My lord, you now have the Son of Heaven at your side and can issue commands to all under Heaven. Who would dare refuse to answer? How can you willingly cast yourself into a place of death?”

Cao Shuang heard him but could not decide. He only wept. Huan Fan continued, “From here to Xudu is no more than half a night’s journey. The grain and fodder there are enough to last several years. My lord’s separate camp lies nearby, south of the palace gates. Its troops will come the moment they are summoned. I have brought the seal of the Grand Marshal with me. My lord must leave quickly. If you delay, all is lost!” Cao Shuang said, “Gentlemen, do not press me so hard. Let me think it through carefully.” A short while later, Palace Attendant Xu Yun and Director of the Imperial Secretariat Chen Tai arrived. They told him, “The Grand Tutor is only concerned that the general’s power is too great. He intends merely to strip you of military authority and has no other purpose. General, you should return to the city without delay.” Cao Shuang remained silent. Then they saw Yin Damu, Commandant of the Palace Guard, arrive. Yin Damu said, “The Grand Tutor has sworn by the Luo River that he has no other intention. I have a letter here from Grand Commandant Jiang. General, you may relinquish your military authority and return to your residence at once.” Cao Shuang believed this to be sound advice. Huan Fan warned him again, “The situation is urgent! Do not listen to outsiders and walk into a place of death!”

That night Cao Shuang remained unable to decide. He drew his sword and held it in his hand, sighing and deliberating. From dusk until dawn he did nothing but weep, still wavering in doubt. Huan Fan entered his tent and urged him, “My lord, you have considered this for a full day and night. Why can you still not decide?” Cao Shuang threw down his sword and sighed. “I will not raise troops. I am willing to give up my office. It will be enough for me to live as a wealthy gentleman!” Huan Fan burst into tears and left the tent, crying, “Cao Zidan prided himself on his intelligence and strategy, yet his three sons are nothing but piglets and calves!” He wept without end. Xu Yun and Chen Tai instructed Cao Shuang first to surrender his seals and ribbons of office to Sima Yi. Cao Shuang ordered that the seals be sent away. Registrar Yang Zong seized the seals and ribbons and wept, saying, “My lord, if you surrender your military authority today, bind yourself, and submit, you will not escape execution in the eastern marketplace.” Cao Shuang said, “The Grand Tutor will certainly not break faith with me.” Cao Shuang then gave the seals and ribbons to Xu Yun and Chen Tai, who carried them ahead to Sima Yi. When the soldiers saw that their commander no longer had his seals, they all scattered. Cao Shuang was left with only a few mounted officials. When they reached the pontoon bridge, Sima Yi issued an order that Cao Shuang and his two brothers were to return to their private residences for the time being, while all the others were to be imprisoned pending an imperial decree. When Cao Shuang and the others entered the city, not a single attendant accompanied them. When Huan Fan reached the pontoon bridge, Sima Yi pointed his riding whip at him from horseback and said, “Grandee Huan, why have you acted like this?” Huan Fan lowered his head without speaking, then entered the city.

Sima Yi then requested that the imperial carriage break camp and enter Luoyang. After Cao Shuang and his two brothers returned home, Sima Yi fastened the gates with a great lock and ordered eight hundred local residents to surround and guard their residence. Cao Shuang was troubled and depressed. Cao Xi said to him, “There is not enough grain in the house. You should write to the Grand Tutor and ask to borrow some. If he is willing to lend us grain, he certainly has no intention of harming us.” Cao Shuang wrote a letter and sent someone to deliver it. After reading the letter, Sima Yi sent one hundred hu of grain to Cao Shuang’s residence. Cao Shuang was delighted. “Lord Sima never had any intention of harming me!” From then on, he ceased to worry.

As it happened, Sima Yi had first arrested the palace attendant Zhang Dang and imprisoned him for questioning. Zhang Dang said, “I was not alone. He Yan, Deng Yang, Li Sheng, Bi Fan, and Ding Mi also conspired with me to usurp the throne and rebel.” Sima Yi obtained Zhang Dang’s confession, then arrested He Yan and the others and interrogated them thoroughly. They all confessed that they had planned to rebel in the third month. Sima Yi had them locked in long cangues and nailed shut. Si Fan, the commander of the city gate, reported that Huan Fan had forged an edict to leave the city and had openly declared that the Grand Tutor was rebelling. Sima Yi said, “One who falsely accuses another of rebellion shall suffer the penalty for rebellion himself.” Huan Fan and the others were also imprisoned. Then Cao Shuang, his two brothers, and all the other offenders were escorted to the execution ground and beheaded, and their three clans were exterminated. All their property and wealth were confiscated and placed in the treasury. At that time the wife of Cao Shuang’s cousin Wenshu was a daughter of the Xiahou family named Lingnü. She had been widowed young and had no son. Her father wanted her to remarry, but she cut off her ears as a pledge that she would not. After Cao Shuang was executed, her father again attempted to marry her to another man, so she cut off her nose as well. Her family was shocked and distressed, and said to her, “Human life in this world is like a speck of light dust resting on fragile grass. Why torment yourself like this? Moreover, your husband’s entire family has been slaughtered by the Sima clan. For whom do you intend to preserve your fidelity?” Weeping, she replied, “I have heard it said: ‘The benevolent do not alter their principles because of prosperity or decline, and the righteous do not change their hearts because of survival or destruction.’ When the Cao family was flourishing, I still intended to remain faithful to the end. Now that it has been destroyed, how could I bear to abandon it? That would be the conduct of a beast. How could I do such a thing?” When Sima Yi heard of this, he admired her virtue and allowed her to adopt a son and raise him as an heir to the Cao family. A later poet wrote:

Fragile grass and drifting dust reveal how life must end,Yet Xiahou’s daughter stood in righteousness like a mountain.Men could not match the honor of this woman’s constancy;They looked upon their beards and blushed for shame.

Now after Sima Yi had executed Cao Shuang, Grand Commandant Jiang Ji said, “Lu Zhi and Xin Chang cut through the barrier and forced their way out of the gate, while Yang Zong seized the seals and refused to surrender them. None of them should be spared.” Sima Yi said, “Each of them acted for his own lord. They are righteous men.” He therefore restored them all to their former offices. Xin Chang sighed, “Had I not asked my sister, I would have failed in my highest duty!” A later poet praised Xin Xianying:

A minister who takes his stipend should remember to repay it;When his lord faces danger, he must be loyal to the end.Xin Xianying once urged her brother to uphold his duty;For a thousand years, both past and present praise her noble conduct.

After pardoning Xin Chang and the others, Sima Yi posted a proclamation announcing that all those who had served under Cao Shuang would be spared from death. Those who had held office were restored to their former posts, while soldiers and civilians were ordered to attend to their own livelihoods. Peace was restored both inside and outside the capital. He Yan and Deng Yang had met unnatural deaths, just as Guan Lu had predicted. A later poet praised Guan Lu:

He learned the sages’ true and wondrous secret arts;Guan Lu of Pingyuan read men’s faces like a god.He marked He as a dark ghost and Deng a restless one;Before they died, he knew that they were dead men.

Now the Wei emperor Cao Fang appointed Sima Yi chancellor and granted him the Nine Bestowments. Sima Yi firmly declined and refused to accept them. Cao Fang would not permit his refusal and ordered Sima Yi and his two sons to administer the affairs of state together. Sima Yi suddenly thought, “Although Cao Shuang’s entire family has been executed, Xiahou Ba, who is related to Cao Shuang, still guards Yongzhou and the surrounding regions. If he suddenly rebels, how can we guard against him? He must be dealt with.” He immediately issued an edict to Yongzhou summoning Xiahou Ba, General Who Conquers the West, to Luoyang to discuss military affairs. When Xiahou Ba heard of it, he was greatly alarmed and led the three thousand troops under his command in rebellion. Guo Huai, the inspector charged with guarding Yongzhou, heard that Xiahou Ba had rebelled and immediately led his own troops to engage him. Riding out before his lines, Guo Huai cursed him loudly: “You are a member of the imperial house of Great Wei, and the Son of Heaven has never treated you unjustly. Why have you turned traitor?” Xiahou Ba cursed him in return: “My grandfather and father rendered many distinguished services to the state. What sort of man is Sima Yi, that he should exterminate my Cao clan and now send for me as well? Sooner or later he is certain to attempt to usurp the throne. I have risen in righteousness to punish a traitor. How can this be called rebellion?” Guo Huai was enraged. Leveling his spear and spurring his horse, he charged straight at Xiahou Ba. Xiahou Ba brandished his sword and galloped forward to meet him. Before ten bouts had passed, Guo Huai turned and fled, with Xiahou Ba pursuing close behind. Suddenly shouts rose from the rear of Xiahou Ba’s army. When he hastily wheeled his horse around, he saw Chen Tai leading troops against him. Guo Huai also turned back. Attacked from two directions, Xiahou Ba suffered a crushing defeat and fled, losing more than half his troops. Unable to devise another plan, he made his way to Hanzhong and surrendered to the Latter Sovereign.

Someone reported this to Jiang Wei, but Jiang Wei did not believe it. Only after sending men to investigate and verify the facts did he order Xiahou Ba admitted into the city. After paying his respects, Xiahou Ba tearfully related all that had happened. Jiang Wei said, “In former times, Weizi left the Zhou and won a name that has endured through all the ages. If you can uphold and support the house of Han, you will be no less worthy than the men of antiquity.” He then held a banquet for Xiahou Ba. During the feast, Jiang Wei asked, “Now that Sima Yi and his sons hold great power, do they have designs on our state?” Xiahou Ba said, “The old traitor is now plotting rebellion and has no time to concern himself with affairs outside Wei. But two new men have arisen in Wei, both still in the prime of youth. If they are given command of troops, they will truly become a grave danger to Wu and Shu.” Jiang Wei asked, “Who are these two?” Xiahou Ba replied, “One currently serves as a Gentleman of the Imperial Library. He is from Changshe in Yingchuan. His surname is Zhong, his given name is Hui, and his courtesy name is Shiji. He is the son of Grand Tutor Zhong Yao. Even as a child, he possessed courage and intelligence. Zhong Yao once took his two sons to see Emperor Wen. Zhong Hui was then seven years old, while his elder brother Zhong Yu was eight. Zhong Yu was frightened in the emperor’s presence, and sweat streamed down his face. The emperor asked him, ‘Why are you sweating?’ Zhong Yu replied, ‘I tremble with fear and dread, and my sweat pours out like broth.’ The emperor then asked Zhong Hui, ‘Why are you not sweating?’ Zhong Hui replied, ‘I tremble and shudder, but my sweat does not dare come out.’ The emperor was especially impressed by him. As he grew older, he delighted in reading military works and gained a profound understanding of strategy. Both Sima Yi and Jiang Ji have praised his abilities. The other now serves as a staff officer and is a native of Yiyang. His surname is Deng, his given name is Ai, and his courtesy name is Shizai. He lost his father when he was young and always possessed great ambitions. Whenever he saw lofty mountains or broad marshes, he would study and measure the terrain, pointing out where troops might be stationed, where grain might be stored, and where ambushes might be laid. Everyone laughed at him, but Sima Yi alone recognized his talent and appointed him to assist in military planning. Deng Ai stutters, and whenever he reports on affairs, he always begins, ‘Ai... Ai...’ Sima Yi once teased him, saying, ‘You keep saying “Ai, Ai.” Just how many Ais are there?’ Deng Ai immediately replied, ‘“O phoenix, phoenix!” Yet there is only one phoenix.’ Such was the quickness of his natural wit. These two men are greatly to be feared.” Jiang Wei laughed and said, “They are mere boys. Why are they even worth mentioning?”

Jiang Wei then escorted Xiahou Ba to Chengdu and entered the palace to see the Latter Sovereign. Jiang Wei reported, “Sima Yi plotted and killed Cao Shuang, then tried to lure Xiahou Ba to his destruction. For that reason, Xiahou Ba has surrendered to us. At present Sima Yi and his sons monopolize power, while Cao Fang is weak and ineffectual. The state of Wei is approaching a crisis. Your subject has spent many years in Hanzhong, where the troops are well trained and the grain supplies abundant. I wish to lead the royal army, with Xiahou Ba serving as guide, advance into the Central Plains, restore the house of Han, repay Your Majesty’s favor, and fulfill the late chancellor’s ambition.” Director of the Imperial Secretariat Fei Yi remonstrated, “Recently Jiang Wan and Dong Yun have both died in succession, leaving no one to manage the internal government. Boyue should wait for the proper time and must not act rashly.” Jiang Wei said, “That is not so. Human life passes like a white colt glimpsed through a crack. If we go on letting the years slip by like this, when will we ever recover the Central Plains?” Fei Yi replied, “Master Sun says, ‘Know the enemy and know yourself, and you will win every battle.’ All of us fall far short of the late chancellor. Even he could not recover the Central Plains, so how can we?” Jiang Wei said, “I have long lived in the Longxi region and understand the hearts of the Qiang people well. If we now ally ourselves with the Qiang, then even if we cannot recover the Central Plains, we can at least seize and hold all the land west of Long.” The Latter Sovereign said, “Since you wish to attack Wei, devote all your loyalty and strength to it. Do not let your fighting spirit falter and thereby fail the charge I entrust to you.” Jiang Wei received the imperial command, took leave of the court, and went directly to Hanzhong with Xiahou Ba to plan the campaign. Jiang Wei said, “First we should send an envoy to the Qiang to form an alliance, then advance through Xiping, near Yongzhou. We will first build two forts below Mount Qu and station troops in them so that they support each other like horns. We will move all our grain and fodder to the mouth of the river valley and, following the late chancellor’s old system, advance the army in stages.” In the eighth month of autumn that year, Jiang Wei first dispatched the Shu generals Gou An and Li Xin with fifteen thousand troops to build two adjoining forts before Mount Qu. Gou An guarded the eastern fort, while Li Xin guarded the western fort.

Spies soon reported this to Guo Huai, inspector of Yongzhou. Guo Huai sent a report to Luoyang while ordering his deputy general Chen Tai to lead fifty thousand troops to Mount Qu and engage the Shu army. Gou An and Li Xin each led a force out to meet him, but because they had too few troops to resist the enemy, they withdrew into the forts. Chen Tai ordered his troops to surround and attack them from all four sides, while another force cut their supply route to Hanzhong. The grain within the forts of Gou An and Li Xin began to run short. Guo Huai then arrived in person with his troops. After studying the terrain, he was delighted. Returning to camp, he conferred with Chen Tai and said, “These forts stand on high ground, so their water supply must be limited and the defenders must leave the forts to fetch water. If we dam the stream above them, the Shu troops will all die of thirst.” He therefore ordered his soldiers to dig up earth and build a dam across the upstream flow. As expected, the forts were left without water. Li Xin led troops out of his fort to fetch water, but the Yongzhou soldiers surrounded them very tightly. Li Xin fought desperately but could not break through and had no choice but to retreat into the fort. Gou An’s fort also had no water, so he joined forces with Li Xin and led his troops out. The two forces united and fought a long battle, but were defeated and driven back into the forts. The soldiers were parched with thirst. Gou An said to Li Xin, “Commander Jiang’s army has still not arrived. I do not know why.” Li Xin said, “I will risk my life to break out and seek help.” He led several dozen horsemen, opened the fort gate, and charged out. The Yongzhou troops closed in from every direction. Li Xin fought with utter desperation and at last broke free, but he escaped alone and badly wounded. All the others were lost amid the fighting. That night a strong north wind arose, dark clouds gathered, and heavy snow fell from the sky. Because of this, the Shu troops inside the forts rationed their grain and melted snow for water.

Now after Li Xin broke out of the encirclement, he traveled for two days along a narrow path through the western mountains and met Jiang Wei’s army coming toward him. Li Xin dismounted, prostrated himself, and reported, “Both forts at Mount Qu are surrounded by the Wei army, which has cut off the water supply. Fortunately, heavy snow fell from the sky, and we have survived by melting it. The situation is extremely critical.” Jiang Wei said, “It is not that I deliberately delayed rescuing you. The Qiang troops I was gathering have not yet arrived, and that caused the delay.” He then ordered men to escort Li Xin into Shu to recover from his wounds. Jiang Wei asked Xiahou Ba, “The Qiang troops have not arrived, and the Wei army is pressing the siege of Mount Qu very hard. General, what is your wise counsel?” Xiahou Ba said, “If we wait for the Qiang troops before going to Mount Qu, both forts will already have fallen. I expect that all the troops of Yongzhou have gone to attack Mount Qu. The city of Yongzhou must therefore be empty. General, you can lead the army directly to Mount Niutou and circle around behind Yongzhou. Guo Huai and Chen Tai will certainly return to rescue the city, and the siege of Mount Qu will then be lifted by itself.” Jiang Wei was delighted. “This is the best plan!” Jiang Wei therefore led his army toward Mount Niutou.

Now when Chen Tai saw that Li Xin had fought his way out of the fort, he said to Guo Huai, “If Li Xin reports the emergency to Jiang Wei, Jiang Wei will assume that all our main forces are at Mount Qu and will certainly circle around Mount Niutou to strike our rear. General, you can lead one force to seize the Tao River and cut the Shu army’s supply route. I will divide off half our troops and go directly to Mount Niutou to attack him. Once he learns that his supply route has been cut, he will certainly withdraw on his own.” Guo Huai followed his advice and led a force in secret to seize the Tao River. Chen Tai led another force directly toward Mount Niutou.

Now when Jiang Wei’s army reached Mount Niutou, he suddenly heard shouts rising from the vanguard, and a report came that Wei troops had blocked the road ahead. Jiang Wei hurried to the front to see for himself. Chen Tai shouted, “You intended to launch a surprise attack on Yongzhou! I have been waiting here for you a long time!” Enraged, Jiang Wei leveled his spear, spurred his horse, and charged straight at Chen Tai. Chen Tai brandished his sword and met him. Before three bouts had passed, Chen Tai turned and fled. Jiang Wei waved his troops forward in pursuit. The Yongzhou troops withdrew and occupied the mountaintop. Jiang Wei recalled his troops and established camp below Mount Niutou. Each day he sent soldiers out to challenge the enemy, but neither side gained the advantage. Xiahou Ba said to Jiang Wei, “This is not a place where we can remain for long. We have fought for several days without a decisive outcome. This must be a plan to lure our army, and the enemy certainly has some hidden scheme. We should withdraw for the time being and devise a sound plan later.” While they were speaking, a sudden report came that Guo Huai had led a force to seize the Tao River and cut their supply route. Jiang Wei was greatly alarmed and urgently ordered Xiahou Ba to withdraw first while he personally guarded the rear. Chen Tai divided his troops into five columns and pursued them. Jiang Wei alone defended the point where all five routes converged and held off the Wei troops. Chen Tai drew up his forces on the mountain, from which arrows and stones fell like rain. Jiang Wei hurriedly withdrew toward the Tao River, but Guo Huai led troops against him. Jiang Wei led his men in repeated charges back and forth. The Wei troops blocked his escape route, packed as tightly as an iron drum. Fighting desperately, Jiang Wei broke through, but lost more than half his troops. He raced toward Yangping Pass, only for another army to charge at him from ahead. At its head rode a great general, who came forward on horseback with his sword held crosswise. He had a round face, large ears, a square mouth, thick lips, and beneath his left eye a black growth from which sprouted several dozen black hairs. This was Sima Yi’s eldest son, Sima Shi, General of Agile Cavalry. Jiang Wei angrily shouted, “How dare a mere boy block my road home!” He urged his horse forward, leveled his spear, and thrust straight at Sima Shi. Sima Shi brandished his sword and met him. In only three bouts, Jiang Wei defeated Sima Shi, broke free, and raced directly toward Yangping Pass. The men on the walls opened the gate and admitted Jiang Wei. Sima Shi also advanced to seize the pass, but concealed crossbows on both sides fired at once. Each crossbow discharged ten bolts, using the method of the “repeating crossbow” that the Martial Marquis had left behind at his death. Indeed:

This day the army’s ruin could no longer be withstood;They relied alone upon the ten-bolt art transmitted years ago.

How Sima Shi fared will be revealed in the next chapter.