Chapter 49

Zhuge Liang Prays for Wind at Seven Stars Altar; Zhou Yu Unleashes Fire at Three Rivers

Now Zhou Yu stood on the mountaintop and watched for a long while. Suddenly he toppled backward, spitting blood from his mouth, and lost consciousness. His attendants carried him back to his tent. All the generals came to inquire after him and were utterly appalled. Looking at one another, they said, “North of the river stands an army a million strong, crouching like a tiger and devouring like a whale. Who could have expected the Commander-in-Chief to be stricken like this? If Cao Cao’s troops should arrive, what are we to do?” In great haste they sent a messenger to report to the Marquis of Wu, while physicians were summoned to treat him.

When Lu Su saw Zhou Yu laid low by illness, he was deeply troubled. He went to see Kongming and told him of Zhou Yu’s sudden malady. Kongming said, “What do you make of it, sir?” Lu Su replied, “It is Cao Cao’s good fortune and Jiangdong’s calamity.” Kongming smiled. “Gongjin’s illness is one that I too can cure.” “If that is truly so,” said Lu Su, “then it is the greatest blessing for the state!” He at once invited Kongming to accompany him and examine the patient. Lu Su entered first to see Zhou Yu, who lay with the quilt drawn over his head. “How fares your illness, Commander-in-Chief?” he asked. Zhou Yu replied, “My heart and belly are racked with pain, and from time to time I fall into a stupor.” Lu Su asked, “What medicines have you taken?” Zhou Yu said, “My stomach heaves with nausea, and I cannot keep any medicine down.” Lu Su said, “I have just been to see Kongming, who says he can cure your illness. He is now outside the tent. Shall I trouble him to come in and treat you?”

Zhou Yu ordered Kongming admitted and had his attendants help him sit up on the bed. Kongming said, “I have not seen your honored countenance for several days. Who would have thought that your noble person was unwell?” Zhou Yu replied, “‘Fortune and misfortune may come between dawn and dusk.’ How can any man preserve himself against them?” Kongming smiled and said, “‘Heaven has its unforeseen winds and clouds.’ How, then, can men predict what is to come?” At these words Zhou Yu’s color changed, and he began to groan. Kongming said, “Does the Commander-in-Chief feel as though some vexation lies pent up within him?” “Indeed,” said Zhou Yu. Kongming said, “A cooling medicine must be used to relieve it.” Zhou Yu replied, “I have already taken cooling medicines, but they have had no effect at all.” Kongming said, “First the flow of your vital breath must be set in order. Once the breath runs smoothly, you will naturally recover between one inhalation and the next.”

Zhou Yu guessed that Kongming must know what was in his mind, and so he probed him, saying, “What medicine should I take to make my breath run smoothly?” Kongming smiled. “I have a prescription that will set the Commander-in-Chief’s breath at ease.” Zhou Yu said, “I beg you, Master, to instruct me.” Kongming called for brush and paper, dismissed all attendants, and secretly wrote sixteen characters: “To defeat Lord Cao, fire is required. All is prepared but the east wind.” When he had finished, he handed the paper to Zhou Yu and said, “This is the source of the Commander-in-Chief’s illness.”

Zhou Yu was greatly startled when he saw it and thought to himself, “Kongming is truly a divine man! He knew my thoughts long ago. I can only tell him the truth.” Smiling, he said, “Since you already know the source of my illness, Master, what medicine will you use to cure it? The matter is urgent; I beg you to instruct me at once.” Kongming said, “Though I possess little talent, I once encountered an extraordinary man who transmitted to me the Celestial Book of the Wondrous Gates and Hidden Stems, by which I can summon the wind and call down the rain. If the Commander-in-Chief requires a southeast wind, a terrace may be built on Mount Nanping and named the Altar of the Seven Stars. It must be nine feet high and constructed in three tiers. One hundred and twenty men, bearing flags and streamers, are to stand around it. Upon the altar I shall perform the rites and borrow three days and three nights of a great southeast wind to aid the Commander-in-Chief in his operations. What do you say?” Zhou Yu replied, “Never mind three days and three nights. With only one night of strong wind, the great enterprise can be accomplished. But the matter is upon us and cannot be delayed.” Kongming said, “I shall sacrifice for the wind on the twentieth day of the eleventh month, the jiazi day. It will cease on the twenty-second, the bingyin day. Will that suffice?”

Zhou Yu was overjoyed to hear this and sprang briskly to his feet. He immediately issued orders for five hundred strong, able-bodied soldiers to go to Mount Nanping and build the altar, and assigned one hundred and twenty men to bear flags and guard it, awaiting commands.

Kongming took his leave and came out of the tent. He and Lu Su mounted their horses and went to Mount Nanping to survey the terrain, whereupon he ordered the soldiers to obtain red earth from the southeast and build the altar. It measured twenty-four fathoms around, with each tier three feet high, making nine feet in all. On the lowest tier were planted flags of the twenty-eight lunar mansions: seven blue flags in the east, corresponding to Jiao, Kang, Di, Fang, Xin, Wei, and Ji, arranged in the form of the Azure Dragon; seven black flags in the north, corresponding to Dou, Niu, Nü, Xu, Wei, Shi, and Bi, forming the posture of the Dark Warrior; seven white flags in the west, corresponding to Kui, Lou, Wei, Mao, Bi, Zi, and Shen, displaying the might of the White Tiger; and seven red flags in the south, corresponding to Jing, Gui, Liu, Xing, Zhang, Yi, and Zhen, making the shape of the Vermilion Bird. Around the second tier stood sixty-four yellow flags corresponding to the sixty-four hexagrams, divided among the eight directions. On the uppermost tier stood four men. Each wore a cap binding up his hair, a black silk robe, a broad sash over a phoenix-patterned vestment, red shoes, and a square-hemmed gown. At the front left stood a man holding a long pole tipped with a tuft of cock feathers to receive the first tidings of the wind. At the front right stood another holding a long pole from which hung a seven-star signal ribbon to show the wind’s direction. At the rear left stood a man bearing a precious sword; at the rear right, one bearing an incense burner. Below the altar stood twenty-four men, each holding such objects as banners, canopies, great halberds, long spears, yellow yak-tail standards, white battle-axes, vermilion streamers, and black pennants, encircling it on all four sides.

At the auspicious hour on the twentieth day of the eleventh month, the jiazi day, Kongming bathed, fasted, and purified himself. Clad in Daoist robes, barefoot and with his hair unbound, he came before the altar and instructed Lu Su, “Zijing, return to the army and assist Gongjin in deploying the troops. If my prayers should receive no response, you must not take offense.” Lu Su departed. Kongming then charged the officers and soldiers guarding the altar: “You are not to leave your assigned positions without permission. You are not to put your heads together and whisper. You are not to let careless or disorderly words escape your lips. You are not to start at strange sights or raise an alarm. Whoever disobeys will be beheaded!” All accepted the command. Kongming slowly ascended the altar, inspected the positions to ensure they were properly arranged, burned incense in the burner, poured water into the bowl, and raised his face to heaven in silent prayer. Then he descended and entered the tent to rest briefly, ordering the soldiers to take turns eating. Three times each day Kongming ascended the altar and three times descended, yet no southeast wind appeared.

Meanwhile, Zhou Yu summoned Cheng Pu, Lu Su, and the other officers to wait in his tent. The instant the southeast wind arose, he would deploy the troops. At the same time, he sent word to Sun Quan to provide support. Huang Gai had already prepared twenty fire ships. Large nails were thickly set in their prows, and their holds were loaded with reeds and dry firewood drenched in fish oil, with sulfur, saltpeter, and other combustibles spread over them. Each was covered with an oiled sheet of blue cloth. Green dragon-tooth flags were planted at their bows, and a swift skiff was fastened to each stern. They waited under orders, needing only Zhou Yu’s command. In the naval camp, Gan Ning and Kan Ze kept Cai He and Cai Zhong closely confined, drinking with them every day and allowing not a single soldier to go ashore. The whole area was surrounded by the troops of Eastern Wu and sealed so tightly that not even water could have leaked through. All awaited the command from headquarters.

As Zhou Yu sat deliberating in his tent, a scout came to report: “The Marquis of Wu’s ships have anchored eighty-five li from the camp and await only good news from the Commander-in-Chief.” Zhou Yu immediately sent Lu Su to notify all officers and soldiers in every command: “Put your ships, weapons, sails, oars, and all other equipment in readiness. Once the order is issued, do not delay for so much as an instant. Any error or disobedience will be punished under military law.” Having received the order, every officer and soldier rubbed his fists and palms, ready for battle.

That day drew on toward night. The sky was clear, and not the slightest breeze stirred. Zhou Yu said to Lu Su, “Kongming’s words were false. In the depths of winter, how can there be a southeast wind?” Lu Su replied, “I do not believe Kongming would speak falsely.” Near the third watch, they suddenly heard the wind begin to roar, and the flags and streamers turned and fluttered. Zhou Yu came out of the tent to look and saw the tails of the flags streaming toward the northwest. In an instant, a great southeast wind sprang up. Zhou Yu cried in astonishment, “This man possesses arts that wrest nature’s workings from heaven and earth, mysteries unfathomable even to ghosts and gods! If he is allowed to live, he will become the root of disaster for Eastern Wu. I must kill him at once and avert future trouble.” He hastily summoned Ding Feng and Xu Sheng, the two commandants of his guard, and ordered them: “Each of you is to take one hundred men. Xu Sheng will go by river, Ding Feng by land, and both will proceed to the Altar of the Seven Stars on Mount Nanping. Ask no questions. The moment you seize Zhuge Liang, behead him and bring me his head to claim your reward.” The two accepted the command. Xu Sheng boarded a vessel with one hundred swordsmen and axmen, who bent to the oars. Ding Feng mounted with one hundred bowmen and crossbowmen, each astride a warhorse, and rode toward Mount Nanping. Along the way, they met the southeast wind rising full in their faces. A later poet wrote:The Sleeping Dragon mounts the Seven-Star height;One night’s east wind sets river waves in flight.Had Kongming not devised his wondrous plan,How could young Zhou have shown his gifts in war?

Ding Feng’s cavalry arrived first. He saw the officers and soldiers holding their flags upon the altar, standing firm in the wind. Dismounting, he drew his sword and ascended the altar, but Kongming was nowhere to be seen. In alarm, he questioned the guards. They replied, “He left the altar only a moment ago.” Ding Feng hurried down to search, just as Xu Sheng’s vessel arrived. The two met at the riverbank. A soldier reported, “Last night a fast boat anchored at the mouth of the shoal ahead. A moment ago we saw Kongming, his hair unbound, board it. The boat has gone upstream.” Ding Feng and Xu Sheng at once set off in pursuit, one by land and the other by water. Xu Sheng ordered every sail hoisted and drove his vessel before the wind. When he saw the boat ahead was not far away, he stood in the bow and shouted, “Do not leave, Military Adviser! The Commander-in-Chief requests your presence!” Kongming stood in the stern and laughed aloud. “Report this to the Commander-in-Chief: conduct your operations well. Zhuge Liang is returning to Xiakou for the present. We shall meet again on another day.” Xu Sheng called, “Please halt a moment! I have urgent words for you.” Kongming replied, “I had already foreseen that the Commander-in-Chief could not tolerate me and would certainly send men to harm me. I therefore arranged beforehand for Zhao Zilong to come and receive me. There is no need for you to continue the pursuit, General.”

Xu Sheng saw that the boat ahead had no awning and pressed on in pursuit. As he drew near, Zhao Yun nocked an arrow, stood in the stern, and shouted, “I am Zhao Zilong of Changshan! I came here under orders expressly to receive the Military Adviser. Why do you pursue us? I ought to shoot you dead with a single arrow, but that would damage the amity between our two houses. Instead, I shall merely show you what I can do!” With that, he loosed his arrow and severed the line supporting Xu Sheng’s sail. The sail fell into the water, and the vessel swung broadside. Zhao Yun ordered every sail on his own boat hoisted, and they sped away before the favorable wind. Their boat flew like an arrow, and pursuit was impossible.

From the bank, Ding Feng called Xu Sheng’s vessel in to shore and said, “Zhuge Liang’s divine foresight and marvelous calculations are beyond the reach of mortal men. What is more, Zhao Yun possesses courage that ten thousand men could not withstand. Do you not know what he did at Changban in Dangyang? We can only return and report.” The two therefore went back to Zhou Yu and told him that Kongming had arranged in advance for Zhao Yun to meet him and had escaped. Zhou Yu was greatly alarmed. “With such depth of cunning in the world,” he said, “I shall know no peace by day or night!” Lu Su said, “Let us first defeat Cao Cao. Afterward, we may devise another plan against him.”

Zhou Yu followed his counsel and summoned all the generals to receive their orders. First he instructed Gan Ning: “Take Cai Zhong and the surrendered soldiers and march along the southern bank. Use only the banners and insignia of the northern army and advance straight into the region of Wulin, where Cao Cao’s grain is stored. Penetrate deep into his army and raise fires as your signal. Leave Cai He alone here at headquarters; I have a use for him.” Next he summoned Taishi Ci and ordered him: “Lead three thousand troops directly to the borders of Huangzhou and cut off the reinforcements coming to Cao Cao from Hefei. Then press close to Cao’s forces and light fires as your signal. When you see red flags, that will mean the Marquis of Wu’s supporting troops have arrived.” As these two detachments had farthest to go, they were sent out first. Third, he ordered Lü Meng to take three thousand troops to Wulin and support Gan Ning in burning Cao Cao’s camps and stockades. Fourth, he ordered Ling Tong to lead three thousand troops straight to the border of Yiling and, as soon as the fires rose at Wulin, bring his forces into action. Fifth, he ordered Dong Xi to lead three thousand troops directly against Hanyang, then advance from Hanchuan into Cao Cao’s camp and watch for white flags signaling support. Sixth, he ordered Pan Zhang to lead three thousand troops, all carrying white flags, to Hanyang to support Dong Xi.

The six divisions departed by their separate routes. Zhou Yu then ordered Huang Gai to make ready the fire ships and sent a soldier galloping off with a letter to Cao Cao, arranging for Huang Gai’s surrender that very night. At the same time, he assigned four warships to follow behind Huang Gai’s ships and support them. Han Dang commanded the first squadron, Zhou Tai the second, Jiang Qin the third, and Chen Wu the fourth. Each squadron had three hundred warships, with twenty fire ships arrayed before it. Zhou Yu and Cheng Pu personally supervised the battle from a great tower ship, with Xu Sheng and Ding Feng guarding them on the right and left. Only Lu Su, Kan Ze, and the other strategists remained behind to defend the camp. When Cheng Pu saw the method and discipline with which Zhou Yu deployed the army, he conceived the deepest respect for him.

Meanwhile, Sun Quan sent an envoy bearing the military tally, announcing that Lu Xun had been appointed vanguard and had advanced directly into the regions of Qichun and Huangzhou, while the Marquis of Wu himself would follow in support. Zhou Yu also sent men to fire signal cannon on the western hills and raise signal flags on Mount Nanping. Every preparation was completed, and all waited for nightfall to begin operations.

The tale now divides. At Xiakou, Liu Xuande was waiting intently for Kongming’s return when he suddenly saw a squadron of boats approaching. It was the young lord Liu Qi, who had come in person to learn the news. Xuande invited him up into the watchtower and, once they were seated, said, “The southeast wind has been blowing for some time. Zilong went to receive Kongming, but neither has yet returned. I am deeply worried.” A junior officer pointed into the distance toward the harbor at Fankou. “A single sail is bringing a light boat before the wind. It must be the Military Adviser.” Xuande and Liu Qi descended from the tower to welcome him. In a short while, the boat arrived, and Kongming and Zilong came ashore. Xuande was overjoyed. After greetings had been exchanged, Kongming said, “There is no leisure now to speak of anything else. Have all the troops and warships we arranged earlier been made ready?” Xuande replied, “They have long been prepared. We await only the Military Adviser’s orders.”

Kongming entered the command tent with Xuande and Liu Qi and seated himself. Then he said to Zhao Yun, “Zilong, take three thousand troops, cross the river, and proceed directly to the byroad at Wulin. Choose a place thick with trees and reeds and lie there in ambush. After the fourth watch tonight, Cao Cao will surely flee by that road. Wait until his troops have passed, then set fire to them from the middle. Though you may not annihilate them all, you will destroy half.” Zhao Yun said, “There are two roads from Wulin: one leads to Nanjun, the other to Jingzhou. By which road will he come?” Kongming replied, “Nanjun lies too close at hand; Cao Cao will not dare go there. He will certainly come toward Jingzhou and then lead his main army back to Xuchang.”

Zhao Yun departed with the plan. Kongming next summoned Zhang Fei and said, “Yide, take three thousand troops across the river, cut off the road to Yiling, and lie in ambush at the mouth of Gourd Valley. Cao Cao will not dare take the road through southern Yiling, but will certainly head toward northern Yiling. Tomorrow, after the rain has passed, his men will surely halt to set up their cooking pots and prepare food. As soon as you see smoke rise, set fire to the mountainside. Though you may not capture Cao Cao, the merit you win in this action will assuredly be great.”

Zhang Fei departed with the plan. Kongming next summoned Mi Zhu, Mi Fang, and Liu Feng and ordered each of them to take command of vessels, sweep along the river, capture the routed troops, and seize their weapons and equipment. The three departed with the plan. Kongming then rose and said to the young lord Liu Qi, “The approaches to Wuchang are of the utmost importance. You should return at once, lead your troops there, and array them at the landing. When Cao Cao is defeated, some of his fleeing men will surely come that way; seize them as they arrive, but do not lightly leave the city.” Liu Qi then took his leave of Xuande and Kongming and departed. Kongming said to Xuande, “My lord may station troops at Fankou and watch from the heights. There you may sit and behold young Zhou win great merit tonight.”

Guan Yu was standing nearby, but Kongming paid him no attention whatever. Unable to endure it any longer, Guan Yu raised his voice and said, “I have followed my elder brother on campaign for many years and have never once lagged behind. Today we confront a mighty foe, yet the Military Adviser gives me no assignment. What is the meaning of this?” Kongming smiled. “Do not take offense, Yunzhang. I had intended to trouble you with guarding the most vital pass of all, but unfortunately there is an obstacle, and I dare not send you.” Guan Yu said, “What obstacle is there? I beg you to tell me at once.” Kongming replied, “In former days Cao Cao treated you with great generosity, and you must feel bound to repay him. Today, when Cao Cao is defeated, he will surely flee by the Huarong Road. If I send you there, you will certainly let him pass. For that reason, I dare not give you the assignment.”

Guan Yu said, “The Military Adviser is overanxious! It is true that Cao Cao treated me generously in those days, but I repaid him by beheading Yan Liang, slaying Wen Chou, and lifting the siege of Baima. If I encounter him today, how could I lightly let him go?” Kongming said, “And if you do let him go, what then?” Guan Yu replied, “I willingly submit to military law.” Kongming said, “If so, give me a written pledge.” Guan Yu at once signed a warrant accepting punishment under military law. Then he asked, “What if Cao Cao does not come by that road?” Kongming replied, “I too will give you a written pledge under military law.” Guan Yu was overjoyed. Kongming said, “Yunzhang, go to a high place beside the narrow Huarong Road, pile up brushwood, and kindle a smoky fire to lure Cao Cao toward you.” Guan Yu said, “If Cao Cao sees smoke, he will know there is an ambush. Why would he come?” Kongming smiled. “Have you never heard the military maxim concerning the false within the false and the real within the real? Cao Cao may be skilled in war, but this alone will deceive him. When he sees smoke rising, he will suppose it is merely an empty show of force and will surely take that road. General, you must show no mercy.”

Guan Yu accepted the command and led Guan Ping, Zhou Cang, and five hundred saber-bearing troops away to lie in ambush on the Huarong Road. Xuande said, “My brother holds righteousness and loyalty in the deepest regard. If Cao Cao truly takes the Huarong Road, I fear he may indeed let him go.” Kongming replied, “Last night I observed the celestial signs and saw that the rebel Cao is not yet fated to die. It is fitting that Yunzhang should be allowed to perform this act of mercy.” Xuande said, “Your divine calculations, Master, are rarely equaled in this world!” Kongming then went with Xuande to Fankou to watch Zhou Yu direct the battle, leaving Sun Qian and Jian Yong to defend the city.

Meanwhile, Cao Cao sat in his main camp deliberating with his generals, awaiting news from Huang Gai. That day the southeast wind blew with great force. Cheng Yu entered and warned Cao Cao, “A southeast wind has risen today. We should take precautions.” Cao Cao laughed. “At the winter solstice, the single yang is born and the cycle begins anew. How could there fail to be a southeast wind? What is strange about that?” A soldier suddenly reported that a small boat had arrived from Jiangdong bearing a secret letter from Huang Gai. Cao Cao hastily ordered the messenger admitted, and the man presented the letter. It read: “Zhou Yu’s watch is strict, and thus I have found no means of escape. Grain has now arrived from Poyang Lake, and Zhou Yu has assigned me to patrol the waters, giving me my opportunity. By one means or another, I shall kill a renowned general of Jiangdong and bring his head with me when I surrender. At the third watch tonight, the ships flying green dragon-tooth flags will be the grain ships.” Cao Cao was delighted. He went with his generals to a great ship in the naval camp and watched for Huang Gai’s arrival.

In Jiangdong, as evening drew on, Zhou Yu had Cai He brought before him and ordered the soldiers to bind him and throw him down. Cai He cried, “I am innocent!” Zhou Yu said, “What sort of man are you, to dare come here feigning surrender? I lack an offering with which to sacrifice to the battle flag, so I wish to borrow your head.” Unable to deny it any longer, Cai He shouted, “Kan Ze and Gan Ning from your own side also joined in the plot!” Zhou Yu replied, “They acted at my command.” Cai He’s regret came too late. Zhou Yu had him dragged to the riverbank beneath the black commander’s standard, where wine was poured and sacrificial paper burned. Cai He was beheaded with a single stroke, and his blood was offered to the flag. Then Zhou Yu ordered the ships to put out. Huang Gai stood aboard the third fire ship, wearing only a breastplate and holding a keen blade in his hand. Upon his banner were written in large characters: “Vanguard Huang Gai.” With the full strength of the favorable wind, he advanced toward Red Cliffs.

By then the east wind was blowing hard, and the waves surged violently. From the central command, Cao Cao gazed across the river. The moon had risen, shining upon the water so that ten thousand golden serpents seemed to writhe and sport among the waves. Facing the wind, Cao Cao laughed aloud, believing his ambition on the verge of fulfillment. Suddenly a soldier pointed and said, “Far off to the south of the river, a cluster of sails is coming before the wind.” Cao Cao looked down from his elevated position. A report came: “They are all flying green dragon-tooth flags. Among them is a great banner bearing the name ‘Vanguard Huang Gai.’” Cao Cao laughed. “Gongfu comes to surrender. Heaven itself is aiding me!”

The approaching ships gradually drew nearer. Cheng Yu watched them for a long while, then said to Cao Cao, “Those ships must be part of a deception. Do not let them approach the camp.” Cao Cao asked, “How do you know?” Cheng Yu replied, “Ships carrying grain must sit low and steady in the water. But these ships are light and ride high. Moreover, the southeast wind is fierce tonight. If they have some treacherous design, how shall we withstand it?” Cao Cao suddenly understood and asked, “Who will go and stop them?” Wen Ping said, “I am well versed in fighting on the water. I ask leave to go.” With that, he leaped into a small boat and pointed with his hand. More than a dozen patrol boats followed him out. Standing in the bow, Wen Ping shouted, “By the Prime Minister’s command, the southern ships are not to approach the camp! Cast anchor in midstream!” His soldiers shouted in unison, “Lower your sails at once!”

Before the words had died away, a bowstring twanged. An arrow struck Wen Ping in the left arm, and he fell into the boat. His ships were thrown into confusion, and each fled back toward the camp. The southern ships were now only two li of open water from Cao Cao’s stockade. Huang Gai swept his blade forward, and all the leading ships burst into flame. The fire drew strength from the wind, and the wind fed the fury of the flames. The ships shot forward like arrows while smoke and fire blotted out the sky. Twenty fire ships crashed into the naval camp. In an instant, every ship in Cao Cao’s camp caught fire; and because they were locked together with iron chains, there was no way to escape. Signal cannon thundered across the river, and fire ships converged from every direction. Over the whole expanse of the three rivers, flames flew before the wind until all was one mass of crimson, filling heaven and earth.

Cao Cao looked back toward the camps on shore and saw smoke and fire rising in several places. Huang Gai leaped into a small boat, rowed by several men behind him, and plunged through smoke and flame in search of Cao Cao. Seeing the danger, Cao Cao was about to jump ashore when Zhang Liao came alongside in a small light boat and helped him down into it. By then, the great ship had already caught fire. Zhang Liao and a dozen men guarded Cao Cao as they sped toward the bank. Huang Gai saw a man in a dark crimson robe descend into a boat and guessed that it was Cao Cao. He urged his own craft swiftly forward, raised his keen blade, and shouted, “Cao Cao, traitor, do not flee! Huang Gai is here!” Cao Cao cried out again and again in dismay. Zhang Liao nocked an arrow and, when Huang Gai had drawn close enough, took aim and shot. The wind was roaring, and Huang Gai, surrounded by the glare of fire, never heard the bowstring sound. The arrow struck him squarely in the shoulder, and he toppled backward into the water. Truly:At the height of fiery doom, the flood assails;His cudgel wounds healed, now an arrow prevails.Whether Huang Gai lived or died will be revealed in the next chapter.

Zhuge Liang Prays for Wind at Seven Stars Altar; Zhou Yu Unleashes Fire at Three Rivers

Meanwhile, Zhou Yu stood on the mountaintop and observed for a long while. Suddenly he fell backward, vomited blood, and lost consciousness. His attendants carried him back to his tent. All the officers came to inquire after him. They were utterly alarmed and looked at one another, saying, “North of the river is an army of a million, crouching like a tiger and swallowing all before it like a whale. Who would have expected the Commander-in-Chief to be stricken like this? If Cao Cao’s troops arrive, what are we to do?” They hurriedly sent a report to the Marquis of Wu while summoning physicians to treat him.

When Lu Su saw that Zhou Yu had fallen ill, he was deeply worried. He went to see Kongming and told him about Zhou Yu’s sudden illness. Kongming said, “What do you make of it?” Lu Su replied, “It is a blessing for Cao Cao and a disaster for the Southland.” Kongming laughed. “I, too, can cure Gongjin’s illness.” Lu Su said, “If that is truly so, it would be a great blessing for the state!” He immediately invited Kongming to go with him to see the patient. Lu Su entered first to see Zhou Yu, who lay with the blanket pulled over his head. Lu Su asked, “How serious is your illness, Commander-in-Chief?” Zhou Yu replied, “I have a wrenching pain in my chest and abdomen, and from time to time I lose consciousness.” Lu Su asked, “What medicine have you taken?” Zhou Yu said, “My stomach keeps heaving, and I cannot keep any medicine down.” Lu Su said, “I just went to see Kongming, and he says he can cure your illness. He is outside the tent now. Shall I trouble him to come in and treat you?”

Zhou Yu ordered that Kongming be invited in, then had his attendants help him sit up on the bed. Kongming said, “I have not seen you for several days. Who could have expected you to fall ill?” Zhou Yu replied, “‘Fortune and disaster may come to a man at any moment.’ How can anyone protect himself against them?” Kongming smiled. “‘The winds and clouds of Heaven are unpredictable.’ How can any man foresee them?” At this Zhou Yu lost color and began to groan. Kongming said, “Does there seem to be some oppressive congestion in your heart, Commander-in-Chief?” Zhou Yu replied, “There is.” Kongming said, “You must take cooling medicine to relieve it.” Zhou Yu said, “I have already taken cooling medicine, but it has had no effect at all.” Kongming said, “First you must regulate your vital breath. Once your breath flows freely, you will naturally recover in the course of breathing in and out.”

Zhou Yu guessed that Kongming must know what was on his mind, so he tested him by asking, “What medicine should I take to make my breath flow freely?” Kongming smiled. “I have a prescription that will immediately restore your breath, Commander-in-Chief.” Zhou Yu said, “I would be grateful for your instruction, sir.” Kongming asked for paper and brush, dismissed everyone else, and secretly wrote sixteen characters: “To defeat Lord Cao, use an attack by fire. Everything is ready; only the east wind is lacking.” When he had finished, he handed it to Zhou Yu and said, “This is the source of your illness, Commander-in-Chief.”

Zhou Yu was greatly startled when he read it. Privately he thought, “Kongming is truly superhuman! He already knows what has been on my mind! I can only tell him the truth.” He smiled and said, “Since you already know the source of my illness, sir, what medicine will you use to cure it? The matter is urgent, so I hope you will instruct me at once.” Kongming said, “Though I possess little ability, I once met an extraordinary man who taught me the celestial arts of Qimen Dunjia, by which I can summon wind and call down rain. If you need a southeast wind, Commander-in-Chief, you may build an altar on South Screen Mountain called the Seven Stars Altar. It must be nine feet high and constructed in three tiers. One hundred twenty men holding flags and streamers must surround it. I will perform the rites on the altar and borrow a powerful southeast wind for three days and three nights to assist you in battle. What do you say?” Zhou Yu replied, “Never mind three days and three nights. A single night of strong wind would be enough to accomplish our great undertaking. But the matter is immediately before us and cannot be delayed.” Kongming said, “I will sacrifice for the wind on the twentieth day of the eleventh month, the cyclical day jiazi. The wind will cease on the twenty-second, the day bingyin. Will that do?”

Zhou Yu was overjoyed to hear this and sprang to his feet. He immediately issued orders for five hundred strong, able-bodied soldiers to build the altar on South Screen Mountain. He also assigned one hundred twenty men to hold flags and guard the altar, awaiting orders.

Kongming took his leave and came out of the tent. He and Lu Su mounted their horses and went to South Screen Mountain to survey the terrain. He ordered the soldiers to build the altar with red earth taken from the southeast. It was twenty-four zhang in circumference, with each tier three feet high, for a total height of nine feet. On the lowest tier they planted flags representing the Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions. In the east stood seven blue flags corresponding to Horn, Neck, Root, Room, Heart, Tail, and Winnowing Basket, arranged in the form of the Azure Dragon. In the north stood seven black flags corresponding to Dipper, Ox, Girl, Emptiness, Rooftop, Encampment, and Wall, arranged in the posture of the Black Tortoise. In the west stood seven white flags corresponding to Legs, Bond, Stomach, Hairy Head, Net, Turtle Beak, and Three Stars, displaying the might of the White Tiger. In the south stood seven red flags corresponding to Well, Ghost, Willow, Star, Extended Net, Wings, and Chariot, forming the figure of the Vermilion Bird. Around the second tier stood sixty-four yellow flags corresponding to the Sixty-Four Hexagrams and divided among the eight directions. On the top tier were four men, each wearing a bound-hair cap, a black gauze robe with broad phoenix-patterned sleeves and a wide sash, red shoes, and a square-cut lower robe. At the front left stood a man holding a long pole topped with a tuft of chicken feathers to catch the first sign of the wind. At the front right stood a man holding a long pole from which hung a seven-star signal ribbon to indicate the direction of the wind. At the rear left stood a man holding a precious sword, and at the rear right a man holding an incense burner. Below the altar stood twenty-four men, each holding a banner, ceremonial canopy, great halberd, long spear, yellow yak-tail standard, white battle-ax, red streamer, or black pennant, arrayed around all four sides.

At the auspicious hour on the twentieth day of the eleventh month, the cyclical day jiazi, Kongming bathed and fasted, put on Daoist robes, loosened his hair, and came barefoot to the altar. He instructed Lu Su, “Zijing, return to the army and help Gongjin deploy the troops. If my prayer receives no response, you must not blame me.” Lu Su departed. Kongming then commanded the officers and soldiers guarding the altar: “You are not permitted to leave your assigned positions. You are not permitted to whisper together. You are not permitted to speak carelessly or wildly. You are not permitted to show alarm or make an uproar. Anyone who disobeys will be executed!” They all accepted his command. Kongming slowly ascended the altar, inspected the positions and found them properly arranged, burned incense in the burner, poured water into a basin, raised his face to Heaven, and prayed silently. He then descended the altar and entered the tent to rest briefly, ordering the soldiers to take turns eating. Three times that day Kongming ascended the altar and three times he descended, but still no southeast wind appeared.

Meanwhile, Zhou Yu had summoned Cheng Pu, Lu Su, and the other officers to wait in his tent. As soon as the southeast wind began to blow, he would deploy the troops. At the same time, he sent word to Sun Quan to provide support. Huang Gai had already prepared twenty fire ships. Large nails were densely set into their bows, and their holds were filled with reeds and dry firewood soaked in fish oil. Sulfur, saltpeter, and other fire-starting materials were spread over them, and each was covered with a blue oiled cloth. Blue dragon-tooth flags were planted at the bows, and a fast boat was tied behind each stern. Huang Gai waited below the command tent for Zhou Yu’s order. Gan Ning and Kan Ze kept Cai He and Cai Zhong confined in the naval camp, drinking with them every day and not allowing a single soldier to go ashore. Eastern Wu troops surrounded the place so tightly that not even water could leak through. They merely awaited the order from the command tent.

As Zhou Yu sat deliberating in his tent, a scout came to report, “The Marquis of Wu’s ships are anchored eighty-five li from the camp, awaiting good news from you, Commander-in-Chief.” Zhou Yu immediately sent Lu Su to inform the officers and soldiers of every unit: “Prepare all ships, weapons, sails, oars, and other equipment. Once the order is given, do not delay for an instant. Anyone who causes delay or error will be punished according to military law.” The officers and soldiers received their orders, and every one of them rubbed his fists and palms, ready for battle.

That day gradually drew toward night. The sky was clear, and not the slightest breeze stirred. Zhou Yu said to Lu Su, “Kongming’s words were false. How could there be a southeast wind in the depths of winter?” Lu Su replied, “I do not believe Kongming would speak falsely.” Near the third watch, they suddenly heard the sound of wind, and the flags and streamers began to move. Zhou Yu came out of his tent to look and saw the ends of the flags streaming toward the northwest. In an instant, a strong southeast wind arose. Zhou Yu was horrified. “This man has arts that can wrest nature’s power from Heaven and Earth, and skills unfathomable even to ghosts and spirits! If he is allowed to live, he will become the root of disaster for Eastern Wu. I must kill him now and prevent future trouble.” He urgently summoned Ding Feng and Xu Sheng, two colonels of the guard stationed before his tent. “Each of you take one hundred men. Xu Sheng will go by river, and Ding Feng will go overland. Both of you are to reach the Seven Stars Altar on South Screen Mountain. Ask no questions. Seize Zhuge Liang, behead him at once, and bring me his head to claim your reward.” The two officers accepted the order. Xu Sheng boarded a ship with one hundred swordsmen and axemen, who drove it forward with oars and paddles. Ding Feng mounted his horse, and one hundred crossbowmen each mounted a warhorse and rode toward South Screen Mountain. On the way, they met the southeast wind head-on. A later poet wrote:The Sleeping Dragon mounted the Seven Stars Altar;One night’s east wind made the river waters surge.Had Kongming not employed his wondrous scheme,How could young Zhou have displayed his skill?

Ding Feng’s cavalry arrived first and saw the officers and soldiers holding flags atop the altar, standing in the wind. Ding Feng dismounted, drew his sword, and climbed the altar, but Kongming was nowhere to be seen. In alarm, he questioned the altar guards. They replied, “He just came down from the altar and left.” Ding Feng hurried back down to search for him, just as Xu Sheng’s ship arrived. The two met at the riverbank. A soldier reported, “Last night a fast boat anchored at the mouth of the shoal ahead. A moment ago we saw Kongming, with his hair loose, board it. The boat has gone upstream.” Ding Feng and Xu Sheng immediately gave chase by land and water. Xu Sheng ordered the full sail raised and sped forward with the wind. When he saw the boat ahead not far away, Xu Sheng stood in the bow and shouted, “Do not leave, Military Advisor! The Commander-in-Chief requests your presence!” Kongming stood in the stern of the other boat and laughed loudly. “Report to the Commander-in-Chief that he should conduct the battle well. Zhuge Liang is returning to Xiakou for the time being. We may meet again another day.” Xu Sheng said, “Please stop for just a moment. I have something urgent to say.” Kongming replied, “I already knew that the Commander-in-Chief would not tolerate me and would certainly try to kill me, so I arranged beforehand for Zhao Zilong to come and meet me. There is no need for you to continue the pursuit, General.”

Seeing that the boat ahead had no canopy, Xu Sheng continued the pursuit. When he had nearly caught up, Zhao Yun nocked an arrow, drew his bow, and stood in the stern shouting, “I am Zhao Zilong of Changshan! I came here under orders specifically to meet the Military Advisor. Why are you pursuing him? I ought to shoot you dead with a single arrow, but that would damage the friendship between our two houses. Instead, I will show you what I can do!” As soon as he finished speaking, his arrow flew and severed the sail rope on Xu Sheng’s ship. The sail fell into the water, and the ship swung broadside. Zhao Yun ordered his own boat’s full sail raised, and it sped away before the favorable wind. The boat flew as if on wings, and pursuit was impossible.

From the shore, Ding Feng called Xu Sheng’s ship close and said, “Zhuge Liang’s divine foresight and marvelous calculations are beyond the reach of ordinary men. In addition, Zhao Yun has the courage to withstand ten thousand men. Do you remember what he did at Changban in Dangyang? We can do nothing but return and report.” The two therefore returned to Zhou Yu and told him that Kongming had arranged beforehand for Zhao Yun to meet him and had escaped. Zhou Yu was greatly alarmed. “A man of such cunning will give me no peace by day or night!” Lu Su said, “Let us first defeat Cao Cao. We can make further plans against him afterward.”

Zhou Yu accepted his advice and summoned the generals to receive their orders. First he instructed Gan Ning: “Take Cai Zhong and the surrendered soldiers along the southern bank. Display only the northern army’s banners and proceed directly to Wulin, where Cao Cao’s grain stores are located. Penetrate deep into his army and set fires as the signal. Leave Cai He alone here at my tent. I have a use for him.” Next he summoned Taishi Ci and instructed him: “Lead three thousand troops straight toward the borders of Huangzhou. Cut off the troops Cao Cao expects as reinforcements from Hefei, then press close to Cao Cao’s army and set fires as the signal. Watch for red flags; they will indicate that the Marquis of Wu’s supporting troops have arrived.” Since these two forces had the farthest to travel, they departed first. Third, Zhou Yu ordered Lü Meng to lead three thousand troops to Wulin to support Gan Ning when he burned Cao Cao’s camps and stockades. Fourth, he ordered Ling Tong to lead three thousand troops directly to the border of Yiling and move in with his troops as soon as he saw fire rise at Wulin. Fifth, he ordered Dong Xi to lead three thousand troops directly to Hanyang, then advance from Hanchuan into Cao Cao’s camp and watch for white flags signaling support. Sixth, he ordered Pan Zhang to lead three thousand troops, all displaying white flags, to Hanyang to support Dong Xi.

The six forces departed by their separate routes. Zhou Yu then ordered Huang Gai to prepare the fire ships and send a soldier racing to deliver a letter arranging to surrender to Cao Cao that night. At the same time, he assigned four groups of warships to follow Huang Gai’s ships in support. Han Dang commanded the first group, Zhou Tai the second, Jiang Qin the third, and Chen Wu the fourth. Each group had three hundred warships, with twenty fire ships arrayed in front. Zhou Yu and Cheng Pu personally supervised the battle from a great armored warship, with Xu Sheng and Ding Feng guarding them on the left and right. Only Lu Su, Kan Ze, and the other advisers remained behind to defend the camp. When Cheng Pu saw how methodically Zhou Yu deployed the forces, he greatly admired and respected him.

Meanwhile, Sun Quan sent an envoy bearing a military tally with the message that he had appointed Lu Xun as vanguard and ordered him to advance directly into the regions of Qi and Huang, while the Marquis of Wu himself would follow in support. Zhou Yu also sent men to fire signal cannon on the western hills and raise signal flags on South Screen Mountain. When every preparation was complete, they waited only for dusk to begin their operation.

Now the story divides. At Xiakou, Liu Xuande was waiting especially for Kongming’s return when he suddenly saw a squadron of ships arrive. It was the young lord Liu Qi, who had come in person to learn the latest news. Xuande invited him to sit in the watchtower and said, “The southeast wind has been blowing for some time. Zilong went to meet Kongming, but they still have not arrived, and I am deeply worried.” A junior officer pointed into the distance toward the harbor at Fankou. “A single sail is bringing a small boat before the wind. It must be the Military Advisor.” Xuande and Liu Qi descended the tower to welcome him. A moment later the boat arrived, and Kongming and Zilong came ashore. Xuande was overjoyed. After they had exchanged greetings, Kongming said, “There is no time to tell you anything else. Have all the troops and warships we previously arranged been made ready?” Xuande replied, “They have been ready for a long time. We were only waiting for you to deploy them, Military Advisor.”

Kongming entered the command tent with Xuande and Liu Qi, and when they were seated, he said to Zhao Yun, “Zilong, take three thousand troops across the river and proceed directly to the minor road at Wulin. Choose a place thick with trees and reeds and lie in ambush. After the fourth watch tonight, Cao Cao is certain to flee along that road. Let his troops pass, then start fires in the middle of his column. Even if you do not kill them all, you will kill half of them.” Zhao Yun said, “There are two roads from Wulin. One leads to Nanjun, while the other goes toward Jingzhou. I do not know which road he will take.” Kongming replied, “The situation at Nanjun is too dangerous, and Cao Cao will not dare go there. He is certain to come toward Jingzhou, after which his main army will retreat to Xuchang.”

Zhao Yun accepted the plan and departed. Kongming then summoned Zhang Fei and said, “Yide, take three thousand troops across the river and block the road to Yiling. Go and lie in ambush at the mouth of Calabash Valley. Cao Cao will not dare take the road through southern Yiling, so he is certain to head toward northern Yiling. After tomorrow’s rain passes, his men will certainly stop there to set up their cooking pots and prepare a meal. As soon as you see smoke rising, set fires along the mountainside. Even if you do not capture Cao Cao, Yide, your achievement in this battle will certainly be considerable.”

Zhang Fei accepted the plan and departed. Kongming then summoned Mi Zhu, Mi Fang, and Liu Feng and ordered each to command a force of ships. They were to patrol along the river, capture the defeated troops, and seize their weapons and equipment. The three accepted the plan and departed. Kongming rose and said to Liu Qi, “Wuchang is a vital location commanding a wide area. Please return there at once, my lord. Lead your troops and array them at the riverbank. Once Cao Cao is defeated, some of his fleeing men are certain to come your way. Capture them when they do, but do not lightly leave the city.” Liu Qi then took his leave of Xuande and Kongming and departed. Kongming said to Xuande, “My lord, you may station troops at Fankou and watch from high ground. Sit back and observe young Zhou accomplish a great feat tonight.”

Guan Yu was standing nearby, but Kongming paid no attention to him at all. Unable to endure it any longer, Guan Yu said loudly, “I have followed my elder brother in battle for many years and have never been left behind. Today we face a formidable enemy, yet the Military Advisor gives me no assignment. What is the meaning of this?” Kongming smiled. “Do not blame me, Yunzhang. I originally intended to trouble you with guarding the most vital pass, but unfortunately there is an obstacle, and I do not dare send you.” Guan Yu asked, “What obstacle is there? Please tell me at once.” Kongming replied, “In the past, Cao Cao treated you with great generosity, and you must feel you owe him some repayment. Once Cao Cao is defeated today, he is certain to flee by the Huarong Road. If I send you there, you will certainly let him pass. That is why I dare not send you.”

Guan Yu said, “You worry too much, Military Advisor! Cao Cao did indeed treat me generously in those days, but I have already repaid him by beheading Yan Liang, killing Wen Chou, and lifting the siege of Baima. If I meet him today, how could I possibly let him go?” Kongming asked, “And what if you do let him go?” Guan Yu replied, “I am willing to submit to military law.” Kongming said, “In that case, sign a written pledge.” Guan Yu immediately gave him a military warrant. Guan Yu then asked, “What if Cao Cao does not come by that road?” Kongming replied, “Then I will give you a military warrant as well.” Guan Yu was delighted. Kongming said, “Go to a high place beside the minor Huarong Road, Yunzhang. Pile up firewood and dry grass and start a smoky fire to draw Cao Cao there.” Guan Yu said, “If Cao Cao sees the smoke, he will know there is an ambush. Why would he come?” Kongming laughed. “Have you never heard the military principle of making the false appear true and the true appear false? Cao Cao may know how to command troops, but this alone will deceive him. When he sees the smoke rise, he will think it is only an empty show meant to frighten him, and he will certainly take that road. General, you must show no mercy.”

Guan Yu accepted the order and led Guan Ping, Zhou Cang, and five hundred saber troops to lie in ambush along the Huarong Road. Xuande said, “My brother possesses a profound sense of honor and obligation. If Cao Cao truly takes the Huarong Road, I fear he may actually let him go.” Kongming replied, “Last night I observed the celestial signs, and the traitor Cao is not yet fated to die. It is also a fine thing to let Yunzhang bestow this favor upon him.” Xuande said, “Your divine calculations, sir, are rarely equaled in this world!” Kongming then went with Xuande to Fankou to observe Zhou Yu’s conduct of the battle, leaving Sun Qian and Jian Yong to defend the city.

Meanwhile, Cao Cao was in his main camp deliberating with his officers as they waited for news from Huang Gai. That day the southeast wind was blowing fiercely. Cheng Yu came in and warned Cao Cao, “A southeast wind has arisen today. We should take precautions.” Cao Cao laughed. “At the winter solstice, the single yang line is born and the cycle begins its return. How could there fail to be a southeast wind? What is there to wonder at?” A soldier suddenly reported that a small boat had arrived from the Southland carrying a secret letter from Huang Gai. Cao Cao urgently ordered the messenger brought in, and the man presented the letter. It said: “Zhou Yu’s precautions are extremely strict, so I have had no way to escape. A new shipment of grain has now arrived from Lake Poyang, and Zhou Yu has assigned me to patrol and guard it, giving me the opportunity I need. One way or another, I will kill a famous general of the Southland and bring his head with me when I surrender. At the third watch tonight, the ships displaying blue dragon-tooth flags will be the grain ships.” Cao Cao was overjoyed and went with his officers to a great ship in the naval camp to watch for Huang Gai’s arrival.

Meanwhile, in the Southland, evening was approaching. Zhou Yu summoned Cai He and ordered the soldiers to bind him and throw him down. Cai He cried, “I am innocent!” Zhou Yu said, “What sort of man are you, that you dare come here pretending to surrender? I presently lack a sacrificial offering for my standard, so I would like to borrow your head.” Unable to deny the truth any longer, Cai He shouted, “Your own Kan Ze and Gan Ning also took part in the plot!” Zhou Yu replied, “They were acting on my orders.” Cai He’s regret came too late. Zhou Yu ordered him taken to the riverbank beneath the black commander’s standard. There they poured a libation and burned sacrificial paper, then beheaded Cai He with a single stroke. When they had sacrificed to the standard with his blood, Zhou Yu ordered the ships to set out. Huang Gai stood aboard the third fire ship, wearing only a breastplate and carrying a sharp blade. His great banner bore the words “Vanguard Huang Gai.” With a whole sky full of favorable wind behind him, Huang Gai advanced toward Red Cliffs.

By then the east wind was blowing violently, and the waves surged high. From the central command ship, Cao Cao gazed across the river. The moon rose and shone upon the water, where ten thousand golden serpents seemed to twist among the rolling waves. Cao Cao faced the wind and laughed loudly, believing his ambition was about to be fulfilled. Suddenly a soldier pointed and said, “A cluster of sails can faintly be seen south of the river, coming this way before the wind.” Cao Cao looked down from his high position, and a report came: “They are all displaying blue dragon-tooth flags. Among them is a great banner bearing the name Vanguard Huang Gai.” Cao Cao laughed. “Gongfu is coming to surrender. Heaven itself is helping me!”

The approaching ships gradually drew nearer. Cheng Yu observed them for a long while and said to Cao Cao, “Those ships must be part of a deception. Do not allow them near the camp yet.” Cao Cao asked, “How do you know?” Cheng Yu replied, “Ships carrying grain must sit low and steady in the water. But the ships approaching us are light and ride high. Moreover, the southeast wind is extremely strong tonight. If this is a trick, how will we withstand it?” Cao Cao realized the danger and asked, “Who will go and stop them?” Wen Ping said, “I am quite familiar with fighting on the water. Allow me to go.” As soon as he finished speaking, he jumped into a small boat and pointed with his hand. More than ten patrol boats followed his vessel out. Wen Ping stood in the bow and shouted, “By the Prime Minister’s command, the southern ships are not to approach the camp! Drop anchor in the middle of the river!” His soldiers shouted together, “Lower your sails at once!”

Before the words had died away, a bowstring sounded, and an arrow struck Wen Ping in the left arm, knocking him down inside the boat. The boats fell into confusion and fled back separately. The southern ships were now only two li of open water from Cao Cao’s camp. Huang Gai signaled with his blade, and all the ships in front burst into flame at once. The fire exploited the power of the wind, and the wind increased the fury of the flames. The ships shot forward like arrows, while smoke and fire blotted out the sky. The twenty fire ships crashed into the naval camp. All the ships in Cao Cao’s camp caught fire at once, and because they were locked together by iron chains, there was nowhere for them to escape. Signal cannon thundered from across the river, and fire ships came in from every direction. Over the whole expanse where the three rivers met, fire flew before the wind, everything glowed red, and flames filled Heaven and Earth.

Cao Cao looked back toward the camps on shore and saw smoke and fire rising in several places. Huang Gai jumped into a small boat, with several men rowing behind him, and plunged through smoke and flame in search of Cao Cao. Seeing that the situation was desperate, Cao Cao was just about to leap ashore when Zhang Liao arrived in a small, shallow-draft boat and helped him aboard. By then, the great ship Cao Cao had left was already burning. Zhang Liao and a dozen men protected Cao Cao as they raced toward the shore. Huang Gai saw a man in a crimson robe leaving the ship and guessed that it was Cao Cao. He urged his boat forward, raised his sharp blade, and shouted, “Cao Cao, you traitor, do not run! Huang Gai is here!” Cao Cao cried out repeatedly in dismay. Zhang Liao nocked an arrow, drew his bow, waited until Huang Gai was close, and shot. The wind was roaring fiercely, and Huang Gai was surrounded by firelight. How could he hear the bowstring sound? The arrow struck him squarely in the shoulder, and he toppled into the water. Just as the verse says:At the height of fire’s peril, he met peril by water;His wounds from the rod now healed, he suffered a wound from steel.Whether Huang Gai lived or died will be revealed in the next chapter.