Chapter 62

Yang Huai and Gao Pei Lose Their Heads at Fu Pass; Huang Zhong and Wei Yan Vie for Merit at Luo

Zhang Zhao then offered a plan: “For the present, we must not mobilize our troops. Once we raise an army, Cao Cao is certain to return. Better to write two letters: one to Liu Zhang, saying that Liu Bei has allied himself with Eastern Wu and that together they intend to seize the Western Riverlands, thereby making Liu Zhang suspicious enough to attack Liu Bei; the other to Zhang Lu, urging him to advance against Jingzhou, so that Liu Bei will be unable to support both front and rear. Then we may raise our army and seize Jingzhou, and the affair can be brought to success.” Sun Quan followed his advice and at once dispatched envoys to both places.

Meanwhile, Xuande had been at Jiameng Pass for a long while and had won the wholehearted support of the people. Suddenly he received a letter from Kongming and learned that Lady Sun had returned to Eastern Wu. He also heard that Cao Cao had raised an army to invade Ruxu, and so he consulted Pang Tong: “Cao Cao is attacking Sun Quan. If Cao Cao wins, he will certainly seize Jingzhou; if Sun Quan wins, he too will certainly seize Jingzhou. What are we to do?” Pang Tong replied, “My lord, do not be concerned. With Kongming there, Eastern Wu will not dare invade Jingzhou. You may send an urgent letter to Liu Zhang, saying: ‘Cao Cao is now attacking Sun Quan, and Sun Quan has appealed to Jingzhou for aid. We and Sun Quan are neighboring states as interdependent as lips and teeth, so we cannot refuse to assist him. Zhang Lu is no more than a bandit intent upon defending his own territory and will never dare violate your borders. I now wish to lead my army back to Jingzhou and join Sun Quan in defeating Cao Cao, but I lack both troops and grain. In consideration of the bond between members of the same clan, I ask that you swiftly send thirty or forty thousand picked troops and one hundred thousand hu of provisions to assist me. I beg you, do not delay.’ Once we have obtained the soldiers, horses, money, and grain, we can make further plans.”

Xuande followed his advice and sent a messenger to Chengdu. When the messenger reached the pass, Yang Huai and Gao Pei learned of the matter. Gao Pei remained to guard the pass, while Yang Huai accompanied the messenger to Chengdu, where they presented the letter to Liu Zhang. After reading it, Liu Zhang asked why Yang Huai had come as well. Yang Huai replied, “I came expressly because of this letter. Since Liu Bei entered the Riverlands, he has spread favors far and wide to win the people’s hearts. His intentions are deeply suspect. Now that he asks for troops, horses, money, and grain, you must on no account give them to him. To assist him would be to add fuel to the fire.” Liu Zhang said, “Xuande and I share the affection of brothers. How can I refuse to help him?” One man stepped forward and said, “Liu Bei is a ruthless hero. To keep him long in Shu without sending him away is to let a tiger into the house. Now, if you further assist him with troops, horses, money, and grain, how is that different from giving wings to a tiger?” All looked at the speaker. He was Liu Ba, styled Zichu, a native of Zhengyang in Lingling. Hearing Liu Ba’s words, Liu Zhang wavered and could not decide. Huang Quan also remonstrated with him earnestly. At last Liu Zhang allotted four thousand old and feeble soldiers and ten thousand hu of rice, then sent a letter by his envoy in reply to Xuande. He further ordered Yang Huai and Gao Pei to guard the pass closely. Liu Zhang’s envoy reached Jiameng Pass, presented himself to Xuande, and delivered the reply. Xuande was furious. “I defend you against your enemies, exhausting my strength and taxing my mind, yet now you begrudge wealth and stint rewards! How can you expect the soldiers to risk their lives for you?” He tore the letter to pieces, rose, and cursed Liu Zhang bitterly. The envoy fled back to Chengdu. Pang Tong said, “My lord has always placed humanity and righteousness foremost, but by tearing up the letter and giving way to anger today, you have cast aside all the goodwill of the past.” Xuande asked, “What, then, should be done?” Pang Tong replied, “I have three plans. I ask my lord to choose one and carry it out.”

Xuande asked what the three plans were. Pang Tong replied, “Choose picked troops this very moment, march day and night by forced stages, and make a direct surprise attack upon Chengdu. That is the best plan. Yang Huai and Gao Pei are renowned generals of Shu, each relying on strong forces to defend the strategic pass. If my lord pretends that he is returning to Jingzhou, the two generals will certainly come to see you off when they hear of it. At the farewell, seize and kill them, take the pass, first capture Fu, and then advance upon Chengdu. That is the middle plan. Withdraw to Baidi, return to Jingzhou by night marches, and afterward advance gradually when opportunity permits. That is the worst plan. If you hesitate and remain here, you will fall into such dire straits that nothing can save you.” Xuande said, “Your best plan is too hasty, Military Adviser, while your worst is too slow. The middle plan is neither too swift nor too tardy. We shall carry it out.”

Accordingly, Xuande sent Liu Zhang a letter saying only that Cao Cao had ordered his general Yue Jin to lead an army to Qingni, that his own commanders had been unable to withstand the attack, and that he must therefore go in person to oppose it. As there was no time for a face-to-face farewell, he was taking leave by letter. When the letter reached Chengdu, Zhang Song heard that Liu Xuande intended to return to Jingzhou. Believing the report sincere, he wrote a letter that he intended to have delivered to Xuande. Just then his elder brother, Zhang Su, the governor of Guanghan, arrived. Zhang Song hastily concealed the letter in his sleeve and sat talking with Zhang Su. Seeing Zhang Song distracted and uneasy, Zhang Su grew suspicious. Zhang Song brought wine, and the two drank together. During the exchange of cups, the letter suddenly fell to the floor and was picked up by one of Zhang Su’s attendants. After the banquet had ended, the attendant presented the letter to Zhang Su. Zhang Su opened and read it. It said, in substance: “What I formerly advised the Imperial Uncle contained neither falsehood nor error. Why, then, have you delayed so long without acting? To seize by force what is held contrary to justice, and thereafter preserve it through righteous rule, was esteemed by the men of old. Now that the great enterprise lies already within your grasp, why do you mean to abandon it and return to Jingzhou? When I heard of this, I felt as though I had lost everything. On the day this letter reaches you, advance with all speed. I shall respond from within. Above all, do not ruin yourself through hesitation!”

When Zhang Su saw the letter, he was horrified. “My brother is committing a crime that will destroy our entire clan. I cannot but denounce him.” That very night he took the letter to Liu Zhang and gave a full account of how his brother Zhang Song had conspired with Liu Bei to offer him the Western Riverlands. Liu Zhang was enraged. “I have never treated him ungenerously. Why, then, should he plot rebellion?” He immediately ordered the arrest of Zhang Song’s entire household, and all were beheaded in the marketplace. A later poet lamented:

Since ancient times, how rare the glance that leaves no secret hidden;Who knew a letter would disclose the mysteries of Heaven?Before he saw Xuande establish a sovereign’s enterprise,His robes were stained with blood within Chengdu.

After executing Zhang Song, Liu Zhang assembled his civil and military officers and said, “Liu Bei intends to seize my inheritance. What are we to do?” Huang Quan replied, “There must be no delay. Send messengers at once to warn every strategic pass. Reinforce their garrisons and forbid them to admit so much as one man or one horse from Jingzhou.” Liu Zhang accepted his advice, and dispatches sped by starlight to every pass.

Meanwhile, Xuande led his army back toward Fu. First he sent a messenger ahead to Fushui Pass, requesting Yang Huai and Gao Pei to come out and bid him farewell. When the two generals heard the message, they conferred. Yang Huai asked, “What are we to make of Xuande’s return?” Gao Pei replied, “Xuande is destined to die. Let each of us conceal a sharp blade upon his person and stab him while seeing him off. Thus we shall rid our lord of this danger.” Yang Huai said, “An excellent plan.” Taking only two hundred attendants, the two men left the remainder to guard the pass and went out to see Xuande off. Xuande’s entire army was already on the march. When they reached the banks of the Fu River, Pang Tong said to Xuande from horseback, “If Yang Huai and Gao Pei come gladly, be on your guard against them. If they do not come, raise the army at once and seize their pass directly. There must be no delay.”

As they were speaking, a sudden whirlwind arose and blew down the commander’s standard before Xuande’s horse. Xuande asked Pang Tong, “What omen is this?” Pang Tong replied, “It warns of sudden danger. Yang Huai and Gao Pei must intend assassination. We must take careful precautions.” Xuande thereupon put on heavy armor and wore his precious sword at his side. A scout reported that Generals Yang and Gao had come to see him off. Xuande ordered his forces to halt and settle down. Pang Tong instructed Wei Yan and Huang Zhong, “Whatever troops have come from the pass, whether many or few, horse or foot, do not let a single one return.” The two generals accepted their orders and departed.

Yang Huai and Gao Pei had each concealed a sharp blade upon his person. Leading two hundred soldiers and bringing sheep and jars of wine, they went straight to Xuande’s camp. Seeing no preparations against them, they rejoiced inwardly, believing Xuande had fallen into their trap. They entered the central tent and found Xuande seated there with Pang Tong. The two generals saluted and said, “Hearing that the Imperial Uncle was returning from afar, we have prepared these trifling gifts to bid you farewell.” They then offered wine and urged Xuande to drink. Xuande said, “It has not been easy for you two generals to guard the pass. You should drink this cup first.”

After the two generals had drunk, Xuande said, “I have a secret matter to discuss with you both. Let all others withdraw.” The two hundred men they had brought were therefore driven from the central encampment. Xuande suddenly shouted, “Guards, seize these two traitors!” Liu Feng and Guan Ping sprang out from behind the tent in answer to the command. Yang Huai and Gao Pei hastily tried to resist, but Liu Feng seized one and Guan Ping the other. Xuande cried, “Your lord and I are brothers of the same clan. Why have you two conspired to estrange us and sever the bonds of kinship?” Pang Tong ordered the guards to search them, and a sharp knife was indeed found upon each man. Pang Tong at once commanded that they be beheaded. Xuande hesitated, unable to decide. Pang Tong said, “These two intended to murder my lord. Death itself cannot requite their crime.” He then ordered the executioners to behead Yang Huai and Gao Pei before the tent. Huang Zhong and Wei Yan had already seized the two hundred attendants, not allowing one to escape. Xuande summoned them in and gave each wine to calm his fears. “Yang Huai and Gao Pei sought to estrange me from my brother, and they concealed sharp blades to assassinate me; therefore I had them executed. You are guiltless and need not be alarmed or suspicious.” All bowed and thanked him. Pang Tong said, “You will now serve as our guides and lead our army to seize the pass. Every man shall receive a rich reward.”

They all agreed. That night the two hundred men went ahead, with the main army following behind. When the vanguard reached the foot of the pass, they called out, “The two generals have returned on urgent business! Open the gates at once!” Hearing the voices of their own men, those upon the walls immediately opened the gates. The main army surged in and captured Fushui Pass without bloodshed. All the troops of Shu surrendered. Xuande bestowed generous rewards upon them and divided his forces to guard both approaches. The next day he feasted the army and held a banquet in the public hall. When he was flushed with wine, Xuande turned to Pang Tong and said, “May today’s gathering be called a joyous one?” Pang Tong replied, “To conquer another man’s state and rejoice in it is not the warfare of the humane.” Xuande said, “I have heard that when King Wu attacked Zhou in ancient times, music was composed to celebrate his achievement. Was that also not the warfare of the humane? Your words are contrary to reason. Withdraw at once!” Pang Tong laughed loudly and rose. Xuande’s attendants helped him into the rear hall, where he slept until midnight and awoke sober. His attendants then told him what Pang Tong had said, and Xuande bitterly regretted his conduct. Early the next morning he dressed, ascended the hall, and summoned Pang Tong to apologize. “Yesterday I was drunk, and my words offended you. I hope you will not take them to heart.” Pang Tong talked and laughed with his usual composure. Xuande said, “As for yesterday’s words, the fault was mine alone.” Pang Tong replied, “Both lord and minister were at fault. Why blame my lord alone?” Xuande too laughed heartily, and their former harmony was restored.

When Liu Zhang heard that Xuande had killed Yang Huai and Gao Pei and taken Fushui Pass by surprise, he was appalled. “I never imagined that such a thing would truly happen today!” He assembled his civil and military officers and asked for a plan to drive back the enemy. Huang Quan said, “Dispatch troops this very night to garrison Luo and block the road at its narrow throat. Though Liu Bei has picked troops and valiant generals, he will not be able to pass.” Liu Zhang therefore ordered Liu Gui, Leng Bao, Zhang Ren, and Deng Xian to muster fifty thousand troops and march by night to defend Luo against Liu Bei.

As the four generals marched, Liu Gui said, “I have heard that an extraordinary man dwells in Mount Jinping. He is known in the Way as the Master Zixu and knows the life and death, rank and fortune of every man. Today our march takes us directly past Mount Jinping. Why should we not go and ask him?” Zhang Ren replied, “When true men lead armies against the enemy, how can they consult some rustic recluse?” Liu Gui said, “That is not so. The sage said, ‘The way of perfect sincerity permits foreknowledge.’ If we consult a man of profound wisdom, we may seek good fortune and avoid calamity.”

Accordingly, the four men led fifty or sixty horsemen to the foot of the mountain and asked a woodcutter the way. The woodcutter pointed to the summit of the lofty mountain and said that the Master lived there. The four climbed the mountain and reached a hermitage, where a Daoist novice came out to welcome them. After asking their names, he led them inside. There they saw the Master Zixu seated upon a rush cushion. The four men bowed and asked him about what lay ahead. The Master Zixu said, “This poor Daoist is but a useless recluse of the mountains. How should I know good or ill fortune?” Liu Gui bowed repeatedly and continued to question him. At last Zixu ordered the novice to bring paper and brush. He wrote eight lines and handed them to Liu Gui. They read:

The dragon on the left, the phoenix on the right,Shall fly into the Western Riverlands.The fledgling phoenix shall fall to earth;The Sleeping Dragon shall ascend to Heaven.One shall be gained and one be lost:Thus has Heaven ordained the reckoning.Act when the moment comes,Lest you perish in the Nine Springs.

Liu Gui asked further, “What of the destinies of the four of us?” The Master Zixu replied, “What is ordained cannot be escaped. Why ask again?” When Liu Gui persisted, the Master lowered his brows and closed his eyes, appearing to have fallen asleep, and gave no answer. The four descended the mountain. Liu Gui said, “The words of an immortal cannot be disbelieved.” Zhang Ren replied, “He is a mad old man. What profit is there in listening to him?” They mounted and continued on their way. Upon reaching Luo, they assigned their troops to guard every strategic defile. Liu Gui said, “Luo is Chengdu’s bulwark. If Luo falls, Chengdu will be difficult to defend. Let the four of us agree that two shall guard the city, while the other two go forward from Luo and establish two camps against the mountains and amid the strong terrain, so the enemy cannot approach the walls.” Leng Bao and Deng Xian said, “We are willing to go and establish the camps.” Liu Gui was delighted and gave them twenty thousand troops. Leng Bao and Deng Xian marched sixty li from the city and encamped, while Liu Gui and Zhang Ren remained to defend Luo.

After taking Fushui Pass, Xuande consulted Pang Tong about advancing upon Luo. A messenger reported that Liu Zhang had sent four generals against them and that Leng Bao and Deng Xian had that very day led twenty thousand troops sixty li from the city and established two great camps. Xuande assembled his officers and asked, “Who dares win the first merit by going to seize the stockades of these two generals?” The veteran Huang Zhong stepped forward at once and said, “This old man is willing to go.” Xuande replied, “Lead your own troops toward Luo, old general. If you capture the camps of Leng Bao and Deng Xian, you shall certainly receive a rich reward.”

Huang Zhong was delighted. He accepted the order with thanks and was about to depart when a man stepped out from below the tent. “The old general is advanced in years. How can he undertake this? Though I am young and untalented, I am willing to go.” Xuande looked and saw that it was Wei Yan. Huang Zhong said, “I have already received the command. How dare you intrude and overstep your place?” Wei Yan replied, “An old general cannot rely upon the strength of his sinews and bones. I have heard that Leng Bao and Deng Xian are renowned generals of Shu, both in the vigorous prime of life. I fear the old general will be unable to capture them. Would that not imperil my lord’s great enterprise? Therefore I offered to take your place, and my intentions were good.” Huang Zhong was furious. “You call me old! Do you dare compete with me in arms?” Wei Yan replied, “Let us compete here, face-to-face before our lord. Whichever of us wins shall go. What do you say?”

Huang Zhong strode down the steps and called for an attendant to bring his saber. Xuande hastily stopped him. “You must not! Now that I am leading an army to seize the Riverlands, I depend entirely upon the strength of you two. If two tigers fight, one is certain to be wounded, and my great enterprise will thereby be ruined. I command you both to be reconciled. Quarrel no further.” Pang Tong said, “There is no need for you two to contend. Leng Bao and Deng Xian have now established two camps. Each of you shall lead his own troops and attack one camp. Whichever takes his first shall receive the foremost merit.” It was then decided that Huang Zhong would attack Leng Bao’s camp, while Wei Yan would attack Deng Xian’s. Each accepted his command and departed. Pang Tong said, “I fear these two may continue their rivalry along the way. My lord should personally lead an army behind them in support.” Xuande left Pang Tong to guard the city, while he himself led Liu Feng, Guan Ping, and five thousand troops after them.

Huang Zhong returned to his camp and issued orders that food was to be prepared at the fourth watch the following morning, that the troops were to form ranks at the fifth watch, and that they would advance at daybreak by the valley on the left. Wei Yan secretly sent a man to discover when Huang Zhong intended to march. The spy returned and reported, “Food will be prepared at the fourth watch tomorrow, and the troops will set out at the fifth.” Wei Yan rejoiced inwardly. He ordered his soldiers to prepare their food at the second watch and march at the third, so that they would reach Deng Xian’s camp by daybreak.

The soldiers obeyed and ate their fill. Bells were removed from the horses; the men held gags between their teeth; banners were furled and armor bound close. Under cover of darkness, they went to raid the camp. Around the third watch they advanced from their own encampment. Halfway there, Wei Yan reflected from horseback, “If I merely attack Deng Xian’s camp, I will show no special ability. Better to attack Leng Bao’s camp first, and then use my victorious troops against Deng Xian’s. The merit for both victories will then be mine.” Still on horseback, he passed down an order directing all his soldiers onto the mountain road to the left. As dawn began to glimmer and Leng Bao’s camp lay not far ahead, he ordered his men to rest briefly and arrange their gongs, drums, banners, pennons, spears, sabers, and other weapons.

Scouts posted along the road had already flown back to report to the camp, and Leng Bao was fully prepared. At the report of a cannon, the whole army mounted and charged out. Wei Yan spurred forward with saber raised and engaged Leng Bao. The two generals met horse to horse and fought for thirty bouts, whereupon the troops of the Riverlands divided into two wings and assailed the Han army. The Han troops had marched half the night; men and horses alike were exhausted. Unable to withstand the attack, they turned and fled. Hearing the disorder behind his battle line, Wei Yan broke away from Leng Bao, wheeled his horse, and retreated. The troops of the Riverlands pursued, and the Han army suffered a crushing defeat. They had fled less than five li when drums thundered from behind the mountain. Deng Xian led a fierce body of troops out of the valley to bar their way and shouted, “Wei Yan, dismount at once and surrender!”

Wei Yan urged his horse into a headlong gallop, but the animal suddenly stumbled, dropped to both knees, and hurled Wei Yan to the ground. Deng Xian came galloping up and thrust his spear at him. Before the spear could strike, a bowstring twanged, and Deng Xian pitched backward from his horse. Behind him, Leng Bao was just coming to the rescue when a great general galloped down the slope and shouted in a thunderous voice, “The veteran general Huang Zhong is here!” Brandishing his saber, he charged straight at Leng Bao. Unable to withstand him, Leng Bao turned and fled. Huang Zhong pressed the pursuit, and the troops of the Riverlands fell into confusion.

With his single force, Huang Zhong rescued Wei Yan, killed Deng Xian, and pursued the enemy all the way to their camp. Leng Bao turned his horse and again fought Huang Zhong. Before they had exchanged more than ten bouts, Huang Zhong’s troops surged forward from behind. Leng Bao had no choice but to abandon the left camp and lead his defeated soldiers toward the right. There, however, he saw that every banner in the camp had been changed. Leng Bao was appalled. Reining in his horse to look, he saw a great general directly before him, dressed in golden armor and a brocade robe. It was Liu Xuande, with Liu Feng on his left and Guan Ping on his right. Xuande shouted, “I have already taken this camp! Where do you think you are going?” Xuande, it turned out, had led his troops forward in support and had seized the opportunity to capture Deng Xian’s camp.

With both routes blocked, Leng Bao took a remote mountain track in an attempt to return to Luo. Before he had gone ten li, ambushing soldiers suddenly sprang up along the narrow road. Grappling hooks rose together, and Leng Bao was captured alive. Wei Yan, knowing that he had broken military law and had no excuse to offer, had rallied the rear troops, compelled soldiers of Shu to guide him, and lain in ambush there. Leng Bao came straight into his hands. Wei Yan had him bound with ropes and escorted him to Xuande’s camp.

Xuande raised a banner proclaiming immunity from death and ordered that no soldier of the Riverlands who reversed his weapon and cast off his armor was to be harmed. Anyone who injured such a man would pay with his own life. He further addressed the surrendered troops: “All you people of the Riverlands have parents, wives, and children. Those willing to submit may join my army; those unwilling shall be released to return home.” Cheers shook the earth. After securing his encampment, Huang Zhong went directly to Xuande and declared that Wei Yan had disobeyed military orders and ought to be beheaded. Xuande hastily summoned Wei Yan, who arrived escorting Leng Bao. Xuande said, “Though Wei Yan is guilty, this achievement may redeem his fault.” He ordered Wei Yan to thank Huang Zhong for saving his life and forbade the two men to contend again. Wei Yan knocked his head upon the ground and confessed his offense. Xuande richly rewarded Huang Zhong. He then had Leng Bao brought before the tent. Xuande removed his bonds, gave him wine to calm his fears, and asked, “Are you willing to surrender?” Leng Bao replied, “Since you have spared my life, how could I refuse? Liu Gui and Zhang Ren are bound to me in friendship unto death. If you will release me and let me return, I shall persuade them both to surrender and deliver Luo to you.” Xuande was delighted. He gave Leng Bao clothing, a saddle, and a horse, and allowed him to return to Luo. Wei Yan said, “This man must not be released. Once he escapes, he will never return.” Xuande replied, “I treat men with humanity and righteousness. They will not betray me.”

When Leng Bao returned to Luo and saw Liu Gui and Zhang Ren, he said nothing of having been captured and released. He claimed only that he had killed more than ten enemy soldiers, seized a horse, and escaped. Liu Gui hurriedly sent a man to Chengdu to request aid. When Liu Zhang heard that Deng Xian had been lost, he was horrified and hastily assembled his officers to deliberate. His eldest son, Liu Xun, stepped forward and said, “Your son is willing to lead troops to defend Luo.” Liu Zhang replied, “Since my son is willing to go, whom shall I send to assist you?” One man stepped forward and said, “I am willing to go.” Liu Zhang looked and saw that it was his maternal uncle, Wu Yi. “It would be best of all if my honored uncle went. But who can serve as deputy commander?”

Wu Yi recommended Wu Lan and Lei Tong as deputy commanders. Twenty thousand troops were mustered, and they marched to Luo. Liu Gui and Zhang Ren received them and gave a full account of all that had happened. Wu Yi said, “With the enemy already beneath the walls, it will be difficult to resist them. What wise plans do you have?” Leng Bao replied, “This whole region lies along the Fu River, whose current is extremely swift. The enemy’s forward camp stands at the foot of a mountain, on the lowest ground. Give me five thousand troops, each man carrying a spade or hoe, and I shall breach the banks of the Fu River. Liu Bei’s entire army can then be drowned.” Wu Yi accepted the plan and ordered Leng Bao to go and release the waters, while Wu Lan and Lei Tong led troops to support him. Leng Bao accepted the command and went to prepare the tools needed to breach the riverbank.

Meanwhile, Xuande ordered Huang Zhong and Wei Yan each to guard one camp, then returned to Fu to consult Military Adviser Pang Tong. A spy reported, “Sun Quan of Eastern Wu has sent men to establish friendly relations with Zhang Lu in the Eastern Riverlands and is preparing to attack Jiameng Pass.” Xuande was alarmed. “If Jiameng Pass is lost, our road of retreat will be cut. Then I shall be unable either to advance or withdraw. What are we to do?” Pang Tong said to Meng Da, “You are a man of Shu and know its terrain well. How would it be if you went to defend Jiameng Pass?” Meng Da replied, “Let me recommend one man to go with me and defend the pass. Then there will be no possibility of failure.” Xuande asked who the man was. Meng Da replied, “He formerly served under Liu Biao in Jingzhou as General of the Household. He is Huo Jun, styled Zhongmiao, a native of Zhijiang in Nan Commandery.” Xuande was delighted and immediately dispatched Meng Da and Huo Jun to guard Jiameng Pass.

Pang Tong withdrew to his quarters. Suddenly a doorkeeper reported, “A visitor has come expressly to see you.” Pang Tong went out to receive him and saw a man eight chi tall and imposing in appearance. His hair had been cut short and hung loose about his neck, while his garments were far from neat. Pang Tong asked, “Who are you, sir?” The man made no reply but went straight into the hall and lay on his back upon a couch. Pang Tong found this highly suspicious and questioned him repeatedly. The man said, “Wait a little. In due course I shall explain to you the great affairs of the realm.” Hearing this, Pang Tong grew still more suspicious and ordered his attendants to bring food and wine. The man rose and ate without the least show of ceremony. He consumed a great quantity of food and drink, and when he had finished, he went back to sleep. Pang Tong remained deeply suspicious and sent someone to summon Fa Zheng, fearing the man might be a spy. Fa Zheng came in haste. Pang Tong went out to meet him and described the stranger’s behavior in detail. Fa Zheng said, “Could it be Peng Yongyan?” He ascended the steps to look. The man leaped to his feet and cried, “Xiaozhi, have you been well since we parted?”

Thus it was:

Only because a man of the Riverlands met an old acquaintanceWere the Fu River’s surging waters made to cease.

Who this man was will be revealed in the chapter that follows.

Yang Huai and Gao Pei Lose Their Heads at Fu Pass; Huang Zhong and Wei Yan Vie for Merit at Luo

Zhang Zhao then offered a plan: “For now, do not mobilize the army. Once we launch a campaign, Cao Cao will certainly come again. Better to write two letters: one to Liu Zhang, saying that Liu Bei has allied with Eastern Wu to seize Western Sichuan together, so that Liu Zhang will become suspicious and attack Liu Bei; and one to Zhang Lu, instructing him to advance toward Jingzhou, leaving Liu Bei unable to respond at both ends. We can then raise our army and take it, and the affair will succeed.” Sun Quan followed his advice and immediately sent envoys to both places.

Meanwhile, Xuande had been at Jiameng Pass for a long time and had greatly won the people’s support. He suddenly received a letter from Kongming and learned that Lady Sun had returned to Eastern Wu. He also heard that Cao Cao had raised an army to attack Ruxu, so he consulted Pang Tong: “Cao Cao is attacking Sun Quan. If Cao Cao wins, he will certainly seize Jingzhou; if Sun Quan wins, he too will certainly seize Jingzhou. What are we to do?” Pang Tong said, “My lord, do not worry. With Kongming there, Eastern Wu will not dare invade Jingzhou. My lord may send an urgent letter to Liu Zhang, claiming: ‘Cao Cao is attacking Sun Quan, and Sun Quan has requested aid from Jingzhou. We and Sun Quan are neighboring states as interdependent as lips and teeth, so we cannot refuse to assist him. Zhang Lu is merely a bandit concerned with defending his own territory and will certainly not dare invade your borders. I now wish to lead my troops back to Jingzhou and join Sun Quan in defeating Cao Cao, but I lack soldiers and provisions. In consideration of our kinship, I hope you will quickly send thirty or forty thousand elite troops and one hundred thousand hu of provisions to assist me. Please do not delay.’ If we obtain the troops, horses, money, and grain, we can then make other plans.”

Xuande followed his advice and sent a man to Chengdu. When the envoy reached the pass, Yang Huai and Gao Pei learned of the matter. They had Gao Pei remain to guard the pass, while Yang Huai accompanied the envoy to Chengdu, where he presented the letter to Liu Zhang. After Liu Zhang finished reading it, he asked why Yang Huai had come as well. Yang Huai said, “I came expressly because of this letter. Ever since Liu Bei entered Sichuan, he has spread favors far and wide to win the people’s support. His intentions are deeply suspect. Now he asks for troops, horses, money, and grain, but you must not give them to him. To assist him would be to add firewood to a blaze.” Liu Zhang said, “Xuande and I are brothers of the same clan. How can I refuse to help him?” One man stepped forward and said, “Liu Bei is a formidable hero. By keeping him in Shu so long without sending him away, you have let a tiger into your house. If you now provide him with troops, horses, money, and grain as well, how is that any different from giving the tiger wings?” Everyone looked at the speaker. He was Liu Ba, styled Zichu, a native of Zhengyang in Lingling. After hearing Liu Ba’s words, Liu Zhang hesitated, unable to decide. Huang Quan also remonstrated with him earnestly. Liu Zhang therefore allotted only four thousand old and weak soldiers and ten thousand hu of rice. He wrote a reply and sent an envoy to Xuande, while ordering Yang Huai and Gao Pei to guard the pass closely. Liu Zhang’s envoy reached Jiameng Pass, met Xuande, and presented the reply. Xuande flew into a rage and said, “I have been defending you against your enemy, exhausting my strength and taxing my mind. Yet now you begrudge your wealth and stint on rewards. How can you expect the soldiers to risk their lives for you?” He tore the reply to pieces, cursed loudly, and stormed out. The envoy fled back to Chengdu. Pang Tong said, “My lord has always placed benevolence and righteousness above all else. By tearing up the letter and losing your temper today, you have cast aside all your former goodwill.” Xuande said, “Given this, what should we do?” Pang Tong said, “I have three plans. I ask my lord to choose one and carry it out.”

Xuande asked what the three plans were. Pang Tong said, “Select elite troops at once, march day and night, and make a direct surprise attack on Chengdu. This is the best plan. Yang Huai and Gao Pei are renowned generals of Shu, each relying on strong forces to defend the passes. My lord can now pretend that you are returning to Jingzhou. When the two generals hear of it, they will certainly come to see you off. At the farewell, capture and kill them, seize their pass, take Fu City first, and then advance on Chengdu. This is the middle plan. Withdraw to Baidi, return to Jingzhou by forced night marches, and gradually plan another advance. This is the worst plan. If you linger indecisively and do not leave, you will soon be plunged into such dire straits that nothing can save you.” Xuande said, “Your best plan is too hasty, Military Adviser, and your worst plan is too slow. The middle plan is neither too fast nor too slow and can be carried out.”

Xuande therefore wrote to Liu Zhang, saying only that Cao Cao had ordered his general Yue Jin to lead troops to Qingni Town, that the generals there could not withstand him, and that Xuande himself had to go resist him. He had no time for a face-to-face farewell and was therefore writing to take his leave. When the letter reached Chengdu, Zhang Song heard that Liu Xuande intended to return to Jingzhou. Believing this to be true, he wrote a letter that he meant to have delivered to Xuande. Just then, his elder brother Zhang Su, the governor of Guanghan, arrived. Zhang Song hastily hid the letter in his sleeve and sat talking with him. Zhang Su noticed that Zhang Song seemed distracted and became suspicious. Zhang Song brought out wine and drank with Zhang Su. As they exchanged toasts, the letter suddenly fell to the floor and was picked up by one of Zhang Su’s attendants. After the banquet ended, the attendant presented the letter to Zhang Su. Zhang Su opened and read it. It said in essence: “What I previously advised the Imperial Uncle was neither false nor mistaken. Why, then, have you delayed so long without acting? To seize power by force and then govern in accordance with justice was esteemed by the ancients. Now the great enterprise is already within your grasp. Why do you wish to abandon it and return to Jingzhou? When I heard of this, I felt as if I had lost everything. The day this letter reaches you, advance your army with all speed. I shall serve as your ally within. By no means ruin your own cause!”

When Zhang Su saw this, he was horrified. “My brother is doing something that will exterminate our entire family. I cannot fail to report him.” That very night, he took the letter to Liu Zhang and told him in full that his brother Zhang Song was conspiring with Liu Bei to hand over Western Sichuan. Liu Zhang flew into a rage and said, “I have never treated him poorly. Why does he wish to rebel?” He immediately ordered Zhang Song’s entire family arrested, and all of them were beheaded in the marketplace. A later poet lamented:To see all at one glance and miss nothing has been rare since ancient days;Who knew a private letter would disclose Heaven’s hidden ways?Before he saw Xuande begin his royal enterprise,In Chengdu first his garments were stained red with blood.

After executing Zhang Song, Liu Zhang assembled his civil and military officials and asked, “Liu Bei intends to seize my realm. What should be done?” Huang Quan said, “There must be no delay. Send men at once to warn every pass and strongpoint. Reinforce their defenses, and do not allow a single man or horse from Jingzhou through.” Liu Zhang followed his advice, and urgent dispatches sped to every pass that very night.

Meanwhile, Xuande led his army back toward Fu City. He first sent a man ahead to Fu River Pass to ask Yang Huai and Gao Pei to come out and bid him farewell. When the two generals heard the message, they conferred together. “What are we to make of Xuande’s return?” asked Yang Huai. Gao Pei said, “Xuande deserves to die. Let each of us conceal a sharp blade on his person and stab him while seeing him off, thereby eliminating this threat to our lord.” Yang Huai said, “An excellent plan.” The two men took only two hundred attendants with them and went out of the pass to bid Xuande farewell, leaving all the rest to guard it. Xuande’s entire army set out. When they reached the Fu River, Pang Tong said to Xuande from horseback, “If Yang Huai and Gao Pei come cheerfully, be on your guard against them. If they do not come, raise the army and seize their pass directly. There must be no delay.”

As they were speaking, a sudden whirlwind arose and blew down the commander’s standard bearing the word “Marshal” before Xuande’s horse. Xuande asked Pang Tong, “What omen is this?” Pang Tong said, “It is a warning of danger. Yang Huai and Gao Pei must intend to assassinate you. You should take every precaution.” Xuande put on heavy armor and personally belted on his precious sword in readiness. A man reported that Generals Yang and Gao had come to see him off. Xuande ordered the army to halt and settle down. Pang Tong instructed Wei Yan and Huang Zhong, “No matter how many soldiers come from the pass, cavalry or infantry, do not let a single one return.” The two generals received their orders and departed.

Yang Huai and Gao Pei, each with a sharp blade concealed on his person, led two hundred soldiers carrying sheep and wine straight to the army’s front. Seeing no preparations against them, they secretly rejoiced, believing Xuande had fallen into their trap. They entered the command tent and found Xuande seated there with Pang Tong. The two generals saluted and said, “Hearing that the Imperial Uncle was returning from afar, we have prepared these modest gifts to see you off.” They then presented the wine and urged Xuande to drink. Xuande said, “It is no easy task for you two generals to guard the pass. You should drink this cup first.”

After the two generals had drunk, Xuande said, “I have a secret matter to discuss with you two. All unnecessary persons must withdraw.” He then had all two hundred men they had brought expelled from the command area. Xuande shouted, “Guards, seize these two villains!” Liu Feng and Guan Ping rushed out from behind the tent in answer to his command. Yang Huai and Gao Pei hurriedly tried to fight, but Liu Feng and Guan Ping each seized one of them. Xuande shouted, “Your lord and I are brothers of the same clan. Why have you two conspired to sow discord between us?” Pang Tong ordered the guards to search them, and sure enough, a sharp knife was found on each man. Pang Tong immediately ordered both beheaded. Xuande hesitated, unable to decide. Pang Tong said, “They intended to murder my lord. Death itself is too light a punishment for their crime.” He then ordered the executioners to behead Yang Huai and Gao Pei before the tent. Huang Zhong and Wei Yan had already captured all two hundred attendants without allowing a single one to escape. Xuande summoned them in and gave each man wine to calm his nerves. Xuande said, “Yang Huai and Gao Pei tried to drive a wedge between me and my brother and carried hidden knives to assassinate me. That is why they were executed. You are innocent and need not be afraid or suspicious.” They all bowed in thanks. Pang Tong said, “I shall now have you guide us and lead our army to seize the pass. Each of you will be richly rewarded.”

They all agreed. That night, the two hundred men went first, with the main army following behind. When the vanguard reached the foot of the pass, they called out, “The two generals have returned on urgent business! Open the gate at once!” Those atop the walls recognized the voices as those of their own men and immediately opened the gate. The main army surged in and took Fu Pass without bloodshed. All the Shu soldiers surrendered. Xuande gave them generous rewards and immediately divided his forces to guard the approaches before and behind the pass. The next day, he rewarded the troops and held a banquet in the public hall. When Xuande was flushed with wine, he turned to Pang Tong and said, “Would you call today’s gathering a joyful occasion?” Pang Tong replied, “To conquer another man’s state and rejoice in it is not the conduct of a benevolent army.” Xuande said, “I have heard that when King Wu attacked Zhou, he had music composed to celebrate his achievement. Was his not a benevolent army either? Your words make no sense. Withdraw at once!” Pang Tong laughed loudly and left. Xuande’s attendants helped him into the rear hall, where he slept until midnight and then awoke sober. His attendants told him what he had said when he dismissed Pang Tong. Xuande bitterly regretted it. Early the next morning, he dressed, entered the hall, summoned Pang Tong, and apologized: “Yesterday I was drunk and spoke offensively. I hope you will not take it to heart.” Pang Tong talked and laughed as calmly as ever. Xuande said, “Of what was said yesterday, the fault was mine alone.” Pang Tong replied, “Both ruler and minister were at fault. Why blame my lord alone?” Xuande also laughed heartily, and their good spirits were restored.

When Liu Zhang heard that Xuande had killed Generals Yang and Gao and seized Fu River Pass, he was greatly alarmed. “I never expected that this would truly happen today!” He assembled his civil and military officials and asked for a plan to repel the enemy. Huang Quan said, “Send troops through the night to garrison Luo City and block that vital route. Though Liu Bei has elite troops and fierce generals, he will be unable to pass.” Liu Zhang therefore ordered Liu Gui, Leng Bao, Zhang Ren, and Deng Xian to muster an army of fifty thousand and march through the night to defend Luo City against Liu Bei.

As the four generals marched, Liu Gui said, “I have heard that an extraordinary man lives in Mount Jinping. He is called the Perfected Man Zixu and knows whether a person will live or die and rise high or remain low. Our march today takes us directly past Mount Jinping. Why not go ask him?” Zhang Ren said, “We are men leading armies against the enemy. How can we consult some man of the mountains and wilderness?” Liu Gui said, “That is not so. The sage said, ‘The way of perfect sincerity permits foreknowledge.’ If we consult a man of great wisdom, we may seek good fortune and avoid disaster.”

The four men therefore led fifty or sixty horsemen to the foot of the mountain and asked a woodcutter for directions. The woodcutter pointed to the summit of the high mountain and said that was where the Perfected Man lived. The four climbed the mountain and reached the front of his hermitage, where a young Daoist acolyte came out to greet them. After asking their names, he led them inside. There they saw the Perfected Man Zixu seated upon a rush cushion. The four bowed and asked about what lay ahead of them. The Perfected Man Zixu said, “I am merely a useless recluse of the mountains and wilderness. How could I know good or ill fortune?” Liu Gui bowed repeatedly and continued to ask. Zixu then ordered the acolyte to bring paper and brush. He wrote down eight lines and gave them to Liu Gui. They read:The Dragon on the left, the Phoenix on the right,Fly into Western Sichuan.The Fledgling Phoenix falls to earth;The Sleeping Dragon ascends to Heaven.One gain and one loss:So Heaven has decreed.Act when the moment comes,Or perish beneath the Nine Springs.

Liu Gui asked further, “What of the destinies of the four of us?” The Perfected Man Zixu said, “No one can escape what fate has fixed. Why ask again?” When Liu Gui tried once more, the Perfected Man lowered his brows and closed his eyes as if he had fallen asleep, making no reply. The four men descended the mountain. Liu Gui said, “We cannot refuse to believe the immortal’s words.” Zhang Ren said, “He is a mad old man. What benefit is there in listening to him?” They mounted their horses and continued onward. After reaching Luo City, they divided and deployed the troops to guard every strategic pass. Liu Gui said, “Luo City is Chengdu’s shield. If it falls, Chengdu will be difficult to defend. Let the four of us agree that two will guard the city, while the other two go ahead of Luo City and establish two camps against the mountains and beside the strongpoints, so that the enemy cannot reach the walls.” Leng Bao and Deng Xian said, “We are willing to go and establish the camps.” Liu Gui was delighted. He assigned them twenty thousand troops, and Leng Bao and Deng Xian made camp sixty li from the city. Liu Gui and Zhang Ren remained to guard Luo City.

After taking Fu River Pass, Xuande consulted Pang Tong about advancing on Luo City. A messenger reported that Liu Zhang had sent four generals against them and that Leng Bao and Deng Xian had that very day led twenty thousand troops sixty li outside the city and established two large camps. Xuande assembled his commanders and asked, “Who dares win the first distinction by going to capture the camps of these two generals?” The veteran general Huang Zhong stepped forward at once and said, “This old man is willing to go.” Xuande said, “Lead your own troops toward Luo City, old general. If you capture Leng Bao’s and Deng Xian’s camps, you will certainly be richly rewarded.”

Huang Zhong was delighted. He accepted the order, gave thanks, and was about to depart when a man stepped out from below the command platform and said, “The old general is advanced in years. How can he undertake this? Though I am a young commander of little ability, I am willing to go.” Xuande looked and saw that it was Wei Yan. Huang Zhong said, “I have already received the command. How dare you overstep your place?” Wei Yan said, “An old general should not rely upon the strength of his sinews and bones. I have heard that Leng Bao and Deng Xian are renowned generals of Shu and are both in the vigor of their prime. I fear the old general will be unable to capture them. Would that not jeopardize my lord’s great enterprise? That is why I offered to replace you, and my intentions were good.” Huang Zhong flew into a rage. “You call me old! Do you dare test your martial skill against mine?” Wei Yan said, “Let us compete face-to-face before my lord. Whichever of us wins may go. What do you say?”

Huang Zhong strode down the steps and called for an attendant to bring his saber. Xuande hastily stopped him. “You must not. I am now leading an army to take Sichuan and depend entirely upon the strength of you two. If two tigers fight, one of them must be wounded, and that will certainly jeopardize my great enterprise. I order you both to make peace. Stop arguing.” Pang Tong said, “You two need not quarrel. Leng Bao and Deng Xian have established two camps. Each of you will now lead your own troops and attack one camp. Whoever captures his first will receive the foremost distinction.” It was therefore decided that Huang Zhong would attack Leng Bao’s camp and Wei Yan would attack Deng Xian’s. Each accepted his orders and departed. Pang Tong said, “I fear these two may compete with each other on the road. My lord should personally lead troops behind them as support.” Xuande left Pang Tong to guard the city and set out behind the two generals with Liu Feng, Guan Ping, and five thousand troops.

Huang Zhong returned to his camp and issued orders for the next day: the men were to cook at the fourth watch, make ready at the fifth, and advance at daybreak by way of the valley on the left. Wei Yan secretly sent someone to find out when Huang Zhong would set out. The scout returned and reported, “He will cook at the fourth watch tomorrow and march at the fifth.” Wei Yan secretly rejoiced. He ordered his soldiers to cook at the second watch and march at the third so that they would reach the edge of Deng Xian’s camp by daybreak.

The soldiers obeyed the order and ate their fill. They removed the bells from the horses, carried gags in their mouths, furled their banners, and bound their armor tight, then slipped away in the darkness to raid the camp. Around the third watch, they advanced beyond their own camp. Halfway there, Wei Yan thought to himself on horseback, “If I attack only Deng Xian’s camp, it will not fully display my ability. Better to attack Leng Bao’s camp first and then use my victorious troops to strike Deng Xian’s. Then the credit for both victories will be mine.” From horseback he passed down an order directing all his soldiers onto the mountain road to the left. As the sky began to brighten, they drew near Leng Bao’s camp. Wei Yan ordered the troops to rest briefly and arrange their gongs, drums, banners, pennants, spears, sabers, and other weapons.

Scouts watching the road had already raced back to report them, and Leng Bao was prepared. At the sound of a cannon, the whole army mounted and charged out. Wei Yan spurred forward with saber in hand and engaged Leng Bao. The two generals crossed horses and fought for thirty bouts, whereupon the Sichuan troops split into two columns and attacked the Han army. The Han troops had marched half the night, and both men and horses were exhausted. Unable to resist, they turned and retreated. When Wei Yan heard the formation collapsing behind him, he broke off from Leng Bao, wheeled his horse, and fled. The Sichuan troops pursued, and the Han army suffered a crushing defeat. Before they had gone five li, drums thundered behind the mountain, shaking the earth. Deng Xian led a strong force out of the valley to cut them off and shouted, “Wei Yan, dismount at once and surrender!”

Wei Yan whipped his horse into a gallop, but it suddenly stumbled, dropped to both knees, and threw him to the ground. Deng Xian charged up and thrust his spear at Wei Yan. Before the spear struck, a bowstring twanged, and Deng Xian toppled backward from his horse. Leng Bao was just coming up from behind to rescue him when a great general galloped down the mountainside, shouting fiercely, “The veteran general Huang Zhong is here!” Brandishing his saber, he charged straight at Leng Bao. Unable to withstand him, Leng Bao turned and fled. Huang Zhong pursued his advantage, and the Sichuan troops fell into chaos.

With one division of troops, Huang Zhong rescued Wei Yan, killed Deng Xian, and pursued the enemy straight to the front of their camp. Leng Bao wheeled his horse and fought Huang Zhong again. Before they had exchanged more than ten bouts, troops came surging up from behind, and Leng Bao had no choice but to abandon the left camp and lead his defeated soldiers toward the right camp. There he saw that all the banners were completely different. Leng Bao was greatly alarmed. He reined in his horse to look and saw a great general before him, dressed in golden armor and a brocade robe. It was Liu Xuande, with Liu Feng on his left and Guan Ping on his right. Xuande shouted, “I have already captured this camp! Where do you think you are going?” Xuande, as it turned out, had brought his troops up from behind in support and had taken advantage of the situation to capture Deng Xian’s camp.

With both ways blocked, Leng Bao took a remote mountain path in an attempt to return to Luo City. Before he had gone ten li, ambushers suddenly rose along the narrow road and thrust out hooked poles together, taking Leng Bao alive. It was Wei Yan. Knowing he had broken military orders and had no excuse to offer, he had rallied the rear troops and made the Shu soldiers guide him to this spot, where he lay in ambush and caught Leng Bao exactly as planned. They bound Leng Bao with ropes and escorted him to Xuande’s camp.

Xuande raised a banner proclaiming immunity from death and ordered that no Sichuan soldier who reversed his weapon and cast off his armor was to be harmed. Anyone who injured one of them would pay with his life. He also proclaimed to the surrendered troops, “You people of Sichuan all have parents, wives, and children. Those willing to surrender may join my army; those unwilling will be released to go home.” Cheers shook the earth. After establishing his camp, Huang Zhong went directly to see Xuande and said that Wei Yan had disobeyed military orders and could be beheaded. Xuande quickly summoned Wei Yan, who arrived escorting Leng Bao. Xuande said, “Though Wei Yan is guilty, this achievement may redeem his offense.” He ordered Wei Yan to thank Huang Zhong for saving his life and told them never to quarrel again. Wei Yan knocked his head to the ground and admitted his guilt. Xuande richly rewarded Huang Zhong. He had Leng Bao brought before the tent, removed his bonds, gave him wine to settle his nerves, and asked, “Are you willing to surrender?” Leng Bao replied, “Since you have spared my life, how could I refuse to surrender? Liu Gui and Zhang Ren are my sworn friends in life and death. If you release me and let me return, I will persuade them both to surrender at once and hand over Luo City as well.” Xuande was delighted. He gave Leng Bao clothing, a saddle, and a horse, and allowed him to return to Luo City. Wei Yan said, “This man must not be released. Once he gets away, he will never return.” Xuande said, “I treat men with benevolence and righteousness. They will not betray me.”

After Leng Bao returned to Luo City and met Liu Gui and Zhang Ren, he said nothing about having been captured and released. He claimed only that he had killed more than ten enemy soldiers, seized a horse, and escaped. Liu Gui hurriedly sent a man to Chengdu to request reinforcements. When Liu Zhang learned that Deng Xian had been lost, he was horrified and hastily assembled his officials to deliberate. His eldest son, Liu Xun, stepped forward and said, “I am willing to lead troops to defend Luo City.” Liu Zhang said, “Since my son is willing to go, whom should I send to assist you?” One man stepped forward and said, “I am willing to go.” Liu Zhang looked and saw that it was his maternal uncle, Wu Yi. Liu Zhang said, “It would be best if my honored uncle went. Who can serve as deputy generals?”

Wu Yi recommended Wu Lan and Lei Tong as his deputies. He mustered twenty thousand troops and brought them to Luo City. Liu Gui and Zhang Ren received them and gave a full account of what had happened. Wu Yi said, “With the enemy army approaching the walls, it will be difficult to resist them. What sound plans do you have?” Leng Bao said, “This entire area lies beside the Fu River, whose current is extremely swift. The enemy camp ahead occupies the foot of the mountain, the lowest ground in the area. Give me five thousand troops, each carrying a spade or hoe, and I will go breach the banks of the Fu River. Liu Bei’s entire army can be drowned.” Wu Yi adopted his plan and immediately ordered Leng Bao to go release the waters, with Wu Lan and Lei Tong leading troops in support. Leng Bao accepted the command and went to prepare the tools for breaching the riverbank.

Xuande ordered Huang Zhong and Wei Yan each to guard one camp, then returned to Fu City to consult Military Adviser Pang Tong. A spy reported, “Sun Quan of Eastern Wu has sent men to establish friendly relations with Zhang Lu of Eastern Sichuan and is preparing to attack Jiameng Pass.” Xuande was alarmed. “If Jiameng Pass is lost, our route behind us will be cut off, and I will be unable either to advance or retreat. What are we to do?” Pang Tong said to Meng Da, “You are a man of Shu and know its geography well. How would it be if you went to guard Jiameng Pass?” Meng Da replied, “I recommend one man to go with me and guard the pass. With him there, nothing can go wrong.” Xuande asked who the man was. Meng Da said, “He formerly served under Liu Biao in Jingzhou as General of the Household. He is a native of Zhijiang in Nan Commandery. His surname is Huo, his given name is Jun, and his style is Zhongmiao.” Xuande was delighted and immediately sent Meng Da and Huo Jun to guard Jiameng Pass.

Pang Tong withdrew to his lodging. Suddenly, the gatekeeper reported, “A guest has come especially to visit you.” Pang Tong went out to greet him and saw a man eight feet tall with an imposing appearance. His hair had been cut short and hung loose around his neck, and his clothes were rather untidy. Pang Tong asked, “Who are you, sir?” The man did not answer but went straight into the hall and lay on his back upon the couch. Pang Tong found this very strange and questioned him repeatedly. The man said, “Wait a little. I shall tell you about the great affairs of the realm.” Hearing this, Pang Tong became still more suspicious and ordered his attendants to bring wine and food. The man rose and began eating without any show of courtesy. He ate and drank a great deal, then went back to sleep. Pang Tong remained uncertain and sent someone to summon Fa Zheng, fearing that the man might be a spy. Fa Zheng hurriedly arrived. Pang Tong went out to greet him and explained what the man had done. Fa Zheng said, “Could that be Peng Yongyan?” He went up the steps to look. The man sprang to his feet and said, “Xiaozhi, have you been well since we parted?” Precisely:Only because a man of Sichuan met an old acquaintance,The Fu River’s raging flood was made to cease.Who this man was will be revealed in the next chapter.