Chapter 63

Zhuge Liang Weeps Bitterly for Pang Tong; Zhang Fei Righteously Releases Yan Yan

Now Fa Zheng met with the man, and the two clapped their hands and laughed. Pang Tong asked who he was, and Fa Zheng replied, “This gentleman is a native of Guanghan. His surname is Peng, his given name Yang, and his style Yongyan. He is a man of distinction in Shu. Because his forthright speech offended Liu Zhang, Zhang had him placed in a cangue and condemned to penal servitude; hence his cropped hair.” Pang Tong received him with the courtesies due a guest and asked whence he had come. Peng Yang said, “I have come expressly to save the lives of your tens of thousands of men. I can speak only after I have seen General Liu.” Fa Zheng hastened to report this to Xuande. Xuande came in person to meet Peng Yang and asked the reason. Peng Yang said, “How many troops does the general have in the forward camp?” Xuande told him truthfully, “Huang Zhong and Wei Yan are there.” Peng Yang said, “How can one who commands an army fail to understand the terrain? The forward camp lies against the Fu River. If the river waters are released and troops block both front and rear, not one man will escape.” Xuande suddenly understood. Peng Yang continued, “The Gang Star is in the west, and Venus hangs over this place. Some inauspicious event must occur. You must be exceedingly cautious.” Xuande at once appointed Peng Yang a member of his staff and secretly sent word to Wei Yan and Huang Zhong, ordering them to patrol vigilantly morning and evening against any attempt to release the waters. Huang Zhong and Wei Yan conferred and said, “We shall each take watch on alternate days. If enemy troops arrive, we will notify one another.”

Now Leng Bao saw that wind and rain had risen violently that night. Leading five thousand troops, he advanced straight along the riverbank and made ready to release the river, when suddenly great shouts arose behind him. Leng Bao knew the enemy was prepared and hurriedly turned his force about. From the rear Wei Yan led his troops in pursuit, and the men of Shu trampled one another underfoot. As Leng Bao fled, he encountered Wei Yan. After only a few bouts, Wei Yan captured him alive. By the time Wu Lan and Lei Tong came to his aid, Huang Zhong’s force had also charged upon them. Wei Yan escorted Leng Bao to Fu Pass. Xuande rebuked him, saying, “I treated you with benevolence and honor and released you to return. How dare you betray me! This time you cannot be spared!” He had Leng Bao taken out and beheaded, and richly rewarded Wei Yan. Xuande then gave a banquet in Peng Yang’s honor. Suddenly it was reported that Military Adviser Zhuge Liang had specially dispatched Ma Liang from Jingzhou with a letter. Xuande summoned him and questioned him. After making his obeisance, Ma Liang said, “All is peaceful in Jingzhou. My lord need have no concern.” He then presented the military adviser’s letter. Xuande opened and read it. In brief, it said: “Last night Liang calculated by the Taiyi method. This year is Guihai, and the Gang Star is in the west. I have also observed the celestial signs: Venus hangs over the region of Luo, portending much ill fortune and little good for our commanders. You must be exceedingly cautious.”

After reading the letter, Xuande told Ma Liang to return ahead of him. Xuande said, “I shall return to Jingzhou to discuss this matter.” Pang Tong thought to himself, “Kongming fears that I shall conquer the western province and win all the merit, so he has deliberately sent this letter to hinder me.” He therefore said to Xuande, “I too have calculated by the Taiyi method and already know that the Gang Star is in the west. It signifies that my lord is destined to gain Western Shu; it does not portend any other misfortune. I too have read the heavens and seen Venus hanging over Luo. Since the Shu general Leng Bao has already been beheaded, the ill omen has been fulfilled. My lord must harbor no doubts, but advance with all speed.”

Seeing Pang Tong urge him again and again, Xuande led his army forward. Huang Zhong and Wei Yan received him into the camp. Pang Tong asked Fa Zheng, “How many roads lead from here to Luo?” Fa Zheng drew a map upon the ground. Xuande compared it with the map left by Zhang Song and found no discrepancy. Fa Zheng said, “There is a broad road north of the mountains that leads directly to Luo’s eastern gate. South of the mountains there is a narrow road that leads to its western gate. The army may advance by either route.” Pang Tong said to Xuande, “I shall order Wei Yan to serve as vanguard and advance by the southern byroad. My lord should appoint Huang Zhong as vanguard and proceed by the broad northern road. We shall rendezvous at Luo and take the city.” Xuande said, “From childhood I have been well practiced in archery and horsemanship, and I have often traveled narrow roads. The military adviser may take the broad road and seize the eastern gate; I shall take the western gate.” Pang Tong said, “The broad road is certain to be barred by troops, so my lord should lead his army against them. I shall take the narrow road.” Xuande said, “You must not, Military Adviser. Last night I dreamed that a divine being struck my right arm with an iron cudgel, and even after waking my arm still ached. Perhaps this expedition will not prosper.” Pang Tong said, “When brave men enter battle, some die and others are wounded; such is the natural course of things. Why should you become suspicious over a dream?” Xuande said, “What troubles me is Kongming’s letter. What if the military adviser remained to guard Fu Pass?” Pang Tong laughed loudly. “My lord has been misled by Kongming. He does not wish me alone to achieve great merit, and so he wrote these words to fill my lord’s heart with doubt. Doubt in the heart gives rise to dreams—what evil can there be in that? Only if I spill my brains and liver upon the ground will I have proved my true devotion. My lord, say no more. We shall march tomorrow morning without fail.” That same day the orders were issued: the soldiers were to cook at the fifth watch and mount at daybreak. Huang Zhong and Wei Yan led their forces out first. Just as Xuande was again settling the plan with Pang Tong, Pang Tong’s mount suddenly shied at something ahead and threw him to the ground. Xuande leaped down and himself seized the horse’s bridle. He said, “Why does the military adviser ride such a wretched horse?” Pang Tong replied, “I have ridden it for a long time, and it has never behaved so before.” Xuande said, “A horse that shies before battle may cost a man his life. The white horse I ride is exceedingly gentle and well trained. The military adviser may ride it, and nothing can go amiss. I shall ride this inferior horse myself.” He then exchanged mounts with Pang Tong. Pang Tong thanked him, saying, “I am deeply grateful for my lord’s generous favor. Even ten thousand deaths could not repay it.” They mounted and went forward by their separate roads. Watching Pang Tong depart, Xuande felt deeply ill at ease and rode on in dejection.

Now in Luo, Wu Yi and Liu Gui learned that Leng Bao had been lost and met with the others to deliberate. Zhang Ren said, “In the secluded mountains southeast of the city there is a narrow road of the utmost importance. I shall lead a force to guard it myself. You gentlemen must hold Luo securely and allow no mishap.” Suddenly a report came that the Han army was approaching by two roads to attack the city. Zhang Ren hastily led three thousand troops out first and took the byroad to lay an ambush. When he saw Wei Yan’s troops pass, Zhang Ren ordered that they be allowed to go by without alarm. Later Pang Tong’s force came into view, and Zhang Ren’s soldiers pointed from afar at a great commander in its midst. “The man riding the white horse must be Liu Bei.” Zhang Ren was overjoyed and issued secret instructions to his men.

Now Pang Tong advanced slowly onward. Raising his head, he saw that the passage between the two mountains was narrow and thickly overgrown with trees. Moreover, it was the end of summer and the beginning of autumn, and the branches and leaves were luxuriant. Pang Tong became deeply suspicious. Reining in his horse, he asked, “What is the name of this place?” One of the newly surrendered soldiers pointed and said, “This place is called Fallen Phoenix Slope.” Pang Tong started in alarm. “My Taoist name is Young Phoenix, while this place is called Fallen Phoenix Slope. It bodes ill for me.” He ordered the rear ranks to withdraw with all speed. Just then a cannon sounded from the slope ahead, and arrows flew like a swarm of locusts, all aimed at the rider of the white horse. Alas, Pang Tong perished beneath that storm of arrows. He was only thirty-six years old. A later poet lamented him:

Ancient Xian rises ridge on ridge in purple, emerald hue;Beside a mountain bend stood the abode of Shiyuan.The children knew the familiar song that called the turtledove;The lanes once heard the fame of talents fit to stretch a steed.He foresaw the realm divided threefold, its rough edges smoothed away;His tall frame wandered solitary over ten thousand miles.Who knew the Dog of Heaven would send a falling star,And never let the general return in robes of glory?

Before this, a children’s rhyme had been heard in the southeast:

A phoenix and a dragonTogether journey into Shu.But scarcely halfway onward,The phoenix dies east of Fallen Slope.The wind brings rain, the rain brings wind;When Han revives, the roads of Shu will open.And when the roads of Shu are open,Only the dragon will remain.

That day Zhang Ren shot Pang Tong dead, and the Han troops became so congested that they could neither advance nor retreat; more than half were killed. The vanguard sent a swift report to Wei Yan. Wei Yan hurriedly reined in his troops and tried to turn back, but the mountain road was so narrow that they could not engage the enemy. Then Zhang Ren cut off their route of return and shot at them from the heights with powerful bows and heavy crossbows. Wei Yan was thrown into alarm. One of the newly surrendered Shu soldiers said, “We had better fight our way to the foot of Luo and advance by the main road.”

Wei Yan followed his advice. Taking the lead to open a path, he fought his way toward Luo. Where the dust rose, another army charged in from ahead: it was led by Wu Lan and Lei Tong, the defenders of Luo. Behind him, Zhang Ren came in pursuit. Attacked from front and rear, Wei Yan was surrounded in the very heart of the press. Though he fought desperately, he could not break free. Suddenly the rear ranks of Wu Lan and Lei Tong fell into disorder, and the two commanders hastily wheeled their horses about to save them. Wei Yan seized the chance and pressed after them. At the head of the charging force, a commander brandished his weapon, spurred his horse, and cried, “Wenchang, I have come expressly to save you!” Wei Yan looked and saw that it was the veteran general Huang Zhong. Attacking from both sides, they defeated Wu Lan and Lei Tong and drove straight to the foot of Luo’s walls. Liu Gui led troops out to attack them, but Xuande came up behind and held him off. Huang Zhong and Wei Yan then turned about and withdrew.

By the time Xuande’s troops reached the camps, Zhang Ren’s army had again cut out from the byroad. Liu Gui, Wu Lan, and Lei Tong came foremost in pursuit. Unable to hold the two camps, Xuande fought as he withdrew and fled back toward Fu Pass. Victorious, the Shu troops pressed steadily after him. Xuande’s men were exhausted and their horses spent; they had no heart for battle and thought only of flight. As they drew near Fu Pass, Zhang Ren’s troops pressed them ever more closely. Fortunately, Liu Feng appeared on the left and Guan Ping on the right, leading thirty thousand fresh troops. The two commanders charged out, drove Zhang Ren back, pursued him for twenty li, and recovered a great many warhorses.

Xuande and his army reentered Fu Pass. He asked for news of Pang Tong. A soldier who had escaped with his life from Fallen Phoenix Slope reported, “The military adviser and his horse were both shot dead beneath a storm of arrows before the slope.” On hearing this, Xuande turned westward and wept without cease. From afar he summoned Pang Tong’s spirit and made sacrificial offerings. All the generals wept as well. Huang Zhong said, “Now that we have lost Military Adviser Pang Tong, Zhang Ren will surely come to attack Fu Pass. What are we to do? We had better send someone to Jingzhou and invite Military Adviser Zhuge to come and devise a plan for taking Shu.” As he spoke, a report came that Zhang Ren had led his army directly beneath the walls and was challenging them to battle. Huang Zhong and Wei Yan both wished to go out and fight. Xuande said, “Our keen edge has just been blunted. We should hold fast and await the military adviser’s arrival.” Huang Zhong and Wei Yan accepted the order and kept close guard over the city. Xuande wrote a letter and instructed Guan Ping, “Go to Jingzhou for me and invite the military adviser.” Guan Ping took the letter and traveled by day and night toward Jingzhou. Xuande himself remained at Fu Pass and would not offer battle.

Now Kongming was in Jingzhou. It was the festival of the Seventh Night, and he held a great evening banquet for all the officials, at which they discussed the conquest of Shu. Suddenly, due west, a star as large as a dipper fell from heaven, scattering streams of light in every direction. Kongming started in alarm, threw his cup to the ground, covered his face, and wept. “Alas! What grief!” The officials anxiously asked the cause. Kongming said, “Earlier I calculated that this year the Gang Star would be in the west, inauspicious for a military adviser. The Dog of Heaven trespassed upon our army, and Venus hung over Luo. I therefore wrote my lord and urged him to guard carefully against disaster. Who could have imagined that tonight a star would fall in the west? Pang Shiyuan’s life must surely be ended!” When he had spoken, he wept loudly and said, “My lord has now lost one of his arms!” All the officials were astonished, though they did not yet believe him. Kongming said, “Within a few days, news will surely come.” That night the banquet broke up before the guests had drunk their fill.

Several days later, while Kongming was sitting with Yunchang and the others, someone reported Guan Ping’s arrival. All the officials were startled. Guan Ping entered and presented Xuande’s letter. Kongming read it, and within were these words: “On the seventh day of the seventh month of this year, Military Adviser Pang was shot and killed by Zhang Ren before Fallen Phoenix Slope.” Kongming wept loudly, and not one of the officials failed to shed tears. Kongming said, “Since my lord is now at Fu Pass, unable either to advance or retreat, I have no choice but to go.” Yunchang said, “If the military adviser leaves, who will defend Jingzhou? Jingzhou is a place of the greatest importance, and what hangs upon it is no light matter.” Kongming replied, “Though my lord does not explicitly name the man in his letter, I already understand his intention.” He then showed Xuande’s letter to all the officials and said, “In this letter my lord entrusts Jingzhou to me and tells me to appoint whomever I judge capable. Even so, by sending Guan Ping with the letter, he means for Lord Yunchang to assume this grave responsibility. Yunchang, remember the bond sworn in the Peach Garden and spare no effort in defending this place. The responsibility is no light one; I trust you will exert yourself.” Yunchang made no further demur but resolutely accepted. Kongming arranged a banquet and formally transferred the seals of office. Yunchang reached out with both hands to receive them. Holding up the seals, Kongming said, “The whole matter now rests upon the general.” Yunchang replied, “Once a true man accepts a grave charge, only death can make him relinquish it.” When Kongming heard Yunchang utter the word “death,” he was displeased. He would have withheld the seals, but his word had already been given. Kongming asked, “If Cao Cao leads an army here, what will you do?” Yunchang replied, “I shall resist him with all my strength.” Kongming asked again, “If Cao Cao and Sun Quan both raise armies and come against you, what then?” Yunchang said, “I shall divide my forces and resist them both.” Kongming said, “If you do that, Jingzhou will be in peril. I have eight words for you. Remember them well, and you may preserve Jingzhou.” Yunchang asked what the eight words were. Kongming replied, “Resist Cao Cao in the north; make peace with Sun Quan in the east.” Yunchang said, “The military adviser’s words shall be engraved upon my heart.”

Kongming then handed over the seals and ordered the civil officials Ma Liang, Yi Ji, Xiang Lang, and Mi Zhu, together with the military commanders Mi Fang, Liao Hua, Guan Ping, and Zhou Cang, to assist Yunchang in guarding Jingzhou. He himself was to command the army into Shu. First he detached ten thousand picked troops and ordered Zhang Fei to lead them by the main road straight toward Bazhou, west of Luo; whoever arrived first would receive the foremost merit. He then detached another force and appointed Zhao Yun its vanguard, ordering him to sail upriver and rendezvous at Luo. Kongming followed with Jian Yong, Jiang Wan, and the others. Jiang Wan, whose style was Gongyan, was a native of Xiangxiang in Lingling. A distinguished scholar of Jing and Xiang, he was then serving as secretary.

That day Kongming led fifteen thousand troops out, departing on the same day as Zhang Fei. Before Zhang Fei left, Kongming admonished him: “Western Shu has many heroes and men of talent. You must not underestimate the enemy. Along the road, strictly restrain the three armies. They must not plunder the people and thereby lose their goodwill. Wherever you go, you must preserve and comfort the inhabitants. You must not wantonly indulge in flogging your soldiers. I trust the general will reach Luo early and commit no error.”

Zhang Fei gladly accepted the charge, mounted his horse, and departed. As he advanced, wherever the people submitted, he allowed not so much as an autumn hair to be harmed. He took the road directly through Hanchuan. When he approached Ba Commandery, a scout returned and reported, “Yan Yan, the governor of Ba Commandery, is a famous general of Shu. Though advanced in years, his vigor is undiminished. He can draw a powerful bow and wields a great saber. He has courage enough to withstand ten thousand men. He holds the city fast and has raised no flag of surrender.” Zhang Fei ordered camp to be made ten li from the city and sent a man inside with this message: “Tell that old wretch to come and surrender at once, and I shall spare the lives of everyone in the city! If he refuses submission, I shall raze the walls to the ground and leave neither old nor young alive!”

Now Yan Yan was in Ba Commandery. When he heard that Liu Zhang had sent Fa Zheng to invite Xuande into Shu, he struck his breast and sighed, “This is what is meant by sitting alone on a barren mountain and inviting a tiger to serve as one’s guard!” Later, when he heard that Xuande had occupied Fu Pass, he was furious and repeatedly wished to raise troops and attack, but feared an army might come along this road. That day, learning that Zhang Fei’s troops had arrived, he mustered the five or six thousand men under his command and prepared to meet the enemy. Someone offered this counsel: “At Changban in Dangyang, a single shout from Zhang Fei drove back Cao Cao’s host of a million. Even Cao Cao avoids him at the mere sound of his name. He must not be underestimated. For now, we should deepen our moats, raise our ramparts, and hold firm without venturing out. His army has no provisions; within a month at most, it will withdraw of its own accord. Moreover, Zhang Fei’s temper is like raging fire, and he is forever flogging his soldiers. If we refuse battle, he will surely grow angry; in his anger he will treat his men with savage cruelty. Once the soldiers’ hearts turn against him, we can seize the opportunity to strike, and Zhang Fei may be captured.” Yan Yan followed this counsel and ordered every soldier to mount the walls and defend them. Suddenly a soldier appeared outside and shouted, “Open the gate!” Yan Yan ordered him admitted and questioned him. The soldier said that General Zhang had sent him and repeated Zhang Fei’s words exactly. Yan Yan flew into a rage and cursed him: “How dare that base wretch behave so insolently! Would General Yan ever surrender to rebels? Lend me your mouth to carry my answer back to Zhang Fei!” He summoned armed guards, had the soldier’s ears and nose cut off, and released him to return to camp.

The soldier returned to Zhang Fei and tearfully reported how Yan Yan had mutilated and reviled him. Zhang Fei flew into a rage. Gnashing his teeth and glaring, he armed himself, mounted his horse, and led several hundred riders beneath the walls of Ba Commandery to challenge Yan Yan. The troops on the walls heaped every manner of abuse upon him. Zhang Fei was impatient by nature. Several times he charged to the drawbridge and tried to cross the moat, but each time a storm of arrows drove him back. By evening not a single man had emerged, and Zhang Fei returned to camp with his belly full of rage. Early the next morning, he again led his troops out to challenge. From the fighting tower over the gate, Yan Yan shot an arrow that struck Zhang Fei’s helmet. Pointing at him, Zhang Fei cried furiously, “When I seize you, old wretch, I shall eat your flesh with my own mouth!” That evening he again returned empty-handed. On the third day, Zhang Fei led his troops around the walls, cursing. The city was built among the mountains, with rugged hills on every side. Zhang Fei rode up a hill and looked down into the city. He saw that all the soldiers were armed and armored, drawn up in ranks and lying in wait within, but none would come out. He also saw laborers going to and fro, carrying bricks and stones to assist in the defense. Zhang Fei ordered the cavalry to dismount and the infantry to sit down, hoping to lure the enemy out, but there was no movement. After cursing them for another entire day, he once more returned empty-handed. In camp, Zhang Fei thought to himself, “I curse them all day long, but they simply refuse to come out. What am I to do?” Suddenly a plan occurred to him. He ordered the army to cease going forward to challenge, but to remain fully prepared in camp awaiting battle. Only thirty or fifty soldiers were sent directly beneath the city to shout abuse and lure Yan Yan’s troops out, whereupon the army would engage them. Zhang Fei rubbed his fists and palms, waiting for the enemy to come. The soldiers cursed for three days in succession, but still no one emerged. Zhang Fei knitted his brows and conceived another plan. He ordered his troops to scatter abroad, cut firewood and grass, and search for paths, making no further challenge. For several days Yan Yan saw no movement from Zhang Fei and became suspicious. He sent more than ten common soldiers, disguised as men from Zhang Fei’s woodcutting parties, to slip secretly out of the city, mingle with the enemy soldiers, and enter the hills to gather information.

That day the troops returned to camp. Zhang Fei sat in his tent, stamping his feet and cursing loudly, “That old wretch Yan Yan is maddening me to death for nothing!” Just then three or four men before the tent said, “The general need not fret. Over the past few days we have discovered a narrow path by which we can slip past Ba Commandery.” Zhang Fei deliberately shouted, “If there was such a way, why did you not report it sooner?” They answered, “We have only just succeeded in scouting it out these past few days.” Zhang Fei said, “There is no time to lose. Tonight, cook at the second watch. At the third watch, while the moon is bright, strike the whole camp and move out. Let the men hold gags in their mouths and remove the bells from the horses, and march in perfect silence. I shall open the road in front, and the rest of you will follow in order.” Once the command was issued, it was announced throughout the camp.

The spies heard this news and all returned to the city to report it to Yan Yan. Yan Yan was overjoyed. “Just as I calculated, that wretch could not endure any longer! If you steal away by the byroad, your provisions, baggage, and carts must follow behind. Once I cut off your rear, how will you get through? Witless wretch, you have fallen into my trap!” He immediately issued orders for the troops to prepare for battle. “Tonight we too shall cook at the second watch and leave the city at the third. Lie in ambush where the trees and undergrowth are thick. Wait until Zhang Fei has passed through the narrow throat of the road. When his carts and baggage arrive, listen for the drums and charge out together.” The order was passed. As night drew near, Yan Yan’s entire army ate its fill, armed and armored itself, and stole silently out of the city. The men scattered into ambush and waited for the drum signal, while Yan Yan himself, accompanied by more than ten subordinate officers, dismounted and hid in the forest. After the third watch, they saw from afar Zhang Fei himself riding at the front, holding his spear crosswise as he quietly led the army onward. When he had gone three or four li, the carts, baggage, men, and horses behind began passing in succession. Yan Yan saw everything clearly and ordered the drums beaten. The ambushers rose on all sides. Just as they rushed forward to seize the carts and baggage, a gong sounded behind them and a fierce body of troops swept in. A great voice cried, “Old rebel, do not flee! I have waited for you at precisely the right place!” Yan Yan whipped his head around and saw at their head a mighty commander with a leopard’s head, round glaring eyes, a swallow’s chin, and a tiger’s beard. He wielded an eighteen-foot serpent spear and rode a deep-black horse. It was Zhang Fei. Gongs thundered on every side, and the troops charged in. At the sight of Zhang Fei, Yan Yan was at a loss what to do. They had not fought a single bout when Zhang Fei feigned an opening. Yan Yan slashed at him with his saber. Zhang Fei dodged, drove his horse in close, seized Yan Yan by the gap in his armor beneath the throat, and captured him alive. He hurled him to the ground, and the soldiers rushed forward and bound him with ropes. The Zhang Fei who had passed earlier was an impostor. Knowing that Yan Yan would use drums as his signal, Zhang Fei had ordered the striking of gongs as his own. When the gongs sounded, all his troops converged, and more than half the Shu soldiers threw down their armor, reversed their weapons, and surrendered.

Zhang Fei fought his way to the walls of Ba Commandery, while his rear force had already entered the city. He ordered that no civilians be killed and posted proclamations to reassure the people. A band of executioners pushed Yan Yan forward. Zhang Fei sat in the great hall, but Yan Yan refused to kneel. Glaring and gnashing his teeth, Zhang Fei roared, “When a great army arrived, why did you not surrender, but dared resist it?” Without the least sign of fear, Yan Yan shouted back, “You are men without honor who have invaded our province and commanderies! Here there are generals who lose their heads—there are no generals who surrender!” Zhang Fei flew into a rage and ordered those beside him to take Yan Yan out and behead him. Yan Yan cried, “Rebel wretch! If you mean to cut off my head, then cut it off. Why grow angry?” Seeing Yan Yan’s commanding voice and unchanged countenance, Zhang Fei turned from anger to joy. He descended the steps, ordered the guards away, and personally untied Yan Yan. Taking a robe, he clothed him in it, helped him to the seat of honor in the center, bowed his head, and made obeisance, saying, “My words just now were offensive. I trust you will not hold them against me. I have long known that the venerable general is a heroic man.” Moved by Zhang Fei’s grace and honor, Yan Yan surrendered. A later poet praised Yan Yan:

White-haired, he dwelt in Western Shu;His stainless fame shook the mighty realm.His loyal heart shone like the radiant sun;His soaring spirit swept the Yangtze’s length.He would rather lose his head and die—How could he bend his knees and yield?The aged general of Bazhou:Throughout the world he had no peer.

Another poem praised Zhang Fei:

His valor beyond compare took Yan Yan alive;By honor alone he won soldiers and people.To this day his temple image remains in Ba and Shu,Where spring brings daily village wine, chickens, and swine.

Zhang Fei asked Yan Yan for a plan to enter Shu. Yan Yan said, “I am a defeated general, yet I have received your generous favor. I have no means to repay it, but gladly offer such service as a dog or horse may render. Without bending a bow or loosing a single arrow, you may advance directly to Chengdu.” Truly:

Only because one general gave him all his heart,City after city yielded as easily as turning the hand.

What his plan was will be revealed in the chapter that follows.

Zhuge Liang Weeps Bitterly for Pang Tong; Zhang Fei Righteously Releases Yan Yan

Meanwhile, when Fa Zheng met the man, they both clapped their hands and laughed. Pang Tong asked who he was, and Fa Zheng replied, “This gentleman is from Guanghan. His surname is Peng, his given name is Yang, and his courtesy name is Yongyan. He is one of the outstanding men of Shu. Because he spoke frankly and offended Liu Zhang, Zhang put him in the cangue and condemned him to penal servitude. That is why his hair is short.” Pang Tong received him with the courtesy due a guest and asked where he had come from. Peng Yang said, “I have come expressly to save the lives of your tens of thousands of men. I can explain only after I have seen General Liu.” Fa Zheng hurried to report this to Xuande. Xuande personally came to meet Peng Yang and asked the reason. Peng Yang said, “How many troops does the general have in the forward camp?” Xuande told him truthfully, “Huang Zhong and Wei Yan are there.” Peng Yang said, “How can commanders fail to understand the terrain? The forward camp lies beside the Fu River. If the river is breached and troops block both front and rear, not a single man will be able to escape.” Xuande suddenly understood. Peng Yang continued, “The Gang Star is in the west, and Venus hangs over this place. Some misfortune is bound to occur, so you must be extremely cautious.” Xuande at once appointed Peng Yang to his staff and secretly sent word to Wei Yan and Huang Zhong, ordering them to keep vigilant patrols morning and evening as a precaution against the river being breached. Huang Zhong and Wei Yan discussed the matter: “Each of us will take watch on alternate days. If enemy troops come, we will notify each other.”

Meanwhile, Leng Bao saw that a fierce wind and rain had arisen that night. He led five thousand troops straight along the riverbank and made preparations to breach the river, when suddenly great shouts rose behind him. Realizing that the enemy was prepared, Leng Bao hurriedly turned his forces back. Wei Yan came in pursuit from the rear, and the troops of Shu trampled one another. As Leng Bao fled, he ran into Wei Yan. After only a few exchanges, Wei Yan captured him alive. By the time Wu Lan and Lei Tong arrived to support him, Huang Zhong’s force also came charging in. Wei Yan escorted Leng Bao to Fu Pass. Xuande rebuked him: “I treated you with benevolence and honor and released you to return home. How dare you betray me! This time I cannot spare you!” He had Leng Bao taken out and beheaded, then richly rewarded Wei Yan. Xuande held a banquet in Peng Yang’s honor. Suddenly it was reported that Zhuge Liang, the military adviser in Jingzhou, had specially sent Ma Liang with a letter. Xuande summoned him and asked for news. After completing the formal courtesies, Ma Liang said, “Jingzhou is at peace. My lord need not worry about it.” He then presented the military adviser’s letter. Xuande opened and read it. In summary, it said: “Last night Liang calculated the numbers of the Supreme Unity. This year is Guihai, and the Gang Star is in the west. I also observed the signs in the heavens: Venus hangs over the region of Luo City, portending much misfortune and little good for our commanders. You must be extremely cautious.”

After reading the letter, Xuande told Ma Liang to return ahead of him. Xuande said, “I intend to return to Jingzhou to discuss this matter.” Pang Tong thought to himself, “Kongming is afraid I will win the Western Region and claim the achievement, so he has deliberately sent this letter to stop me.” He therefore said to Xuande, “I too have calculated the numbers of the Supreme Unity, and I already knew that the Gang Star was in the west. It means that my lord is destined to obtain Western Chuan and does not portend any other misfortune. I have also read the heavens and seen Venus hanging over Luo City. Since the Shu commander Leng Bao has already been beheaded, the evil omen has been fulfilled. My lord must not harbor doubts. We should advance at once.”

Seeing Pang Tong urge him again and again, Xuande led the army forward. Huang Zhong and Wei Yan received them into the camp. Pang Tong asked Fa Zheng, “How many roads lead from here to Luo City?” Fa Zheng drew a map on the ground. Xuande compared it with the map Zhang Song had left him and found no discrepancies. Fa Zheng said, “There is a main road north of the mountains that leads directly to the eastern gate of Luo City. South of the mountains is a narrow road that leads to the western gate. The army can advance by either route.” Pang Tong said to Xuande, “I will have Wei Yan serve as vanguard and advance by the narrow southern road. My lord should have Huang Zhong serve as vanguard and advance by the main road north of the mountains. We will rendezvous at Luo City.” Xuande said, “Since childhood, I have been skilled in archery and horsemanship and have often traveled narrow roads. The military adviser should take the main road to seize the eastern gate, while I take the western gate.” Pang Tong said, “Enemy troops are certain to intercept us on the main road, so my lord should lead his forces against them. I will take the narrow road.” Xuande said, “You must not, Military Adviser. Last night I dreamed that a divine figure struck my right arm with an iron staff. When I awoke, my arm still hurt. Perhaps this expedition will not go well.” Pang Tong said, “When brave men enter battle, they either die or suffer wounds. That is only natural. Why should a dream make you suspicious?” Xuande said, “What troubles me is Kongming’s letter. Why not remain and guard Fu Pass?” Pang Tong laughed loudly. “My lord has been misled by Kongming. He does not want me alone to achieve a great victory, so he said this deliberately to plant doubt in your mind. Doubt in the heart produces dreams. What misfortune can there be? Only if I spill my brains upon the ground will I have fulfilled my deepest resolve. My lord, say no more. We will set out tomorrow morning as planned.” Orders were issued that day for the soldiers to cook at the fifth watch and mount at daybreak. Huang Zhong and Wei Yan led their troops ahead. Just as Xuande and Pang Tong were confirming their plans once more, Pang Tong’s mount suddenly shied and stumbled, throwing him to the ground. Xuande leaped down and personally caught the horse by the bridle. He said, “Why is the military adviser riding such a bad horse?” Pang Tong replied, “I have ridden this horse for a long time, and it has never behaved like this.” Xuande said, “A horse that shies before battle can cost a man his life. The white horse I ride is extremely gentle and well trained. The military adviser should ride it, and nothing can possibly go wrong. I will ride this bad horse myself.” He therefore exchanged horses with Pang Tong. Pang Tong thanked him, saying, “I am deeply grateful for my lord’s great kindness. Even ten thousand deaths could not repay it.” They mounted and went their separate ways. After watching Pang Tong depart, Xuande felt deeply uneasy and rode on in dejection.

Meanwhile, in Luo City, Wu Yi and Liu Gui heard that Leng Bao had been lost and met with the others to discuss the situation. Zhang Ren said, “There is a secluded narrow road through the mountains southeast of the city. It is of the utmost importance, so I will personally lead a force to guard it. You gentlemen must hold Luo City securely and allow no mishap.” Suddenly it was reported that the Han army was approaching by two routes to attack the city. Zhang Ren hurriedly led three thousand troops to the narrow road and laid an ambush. When he saw Wei Yan’s troops pass, he ordered his men to let them all through without raising an alarm. Later, when Pang Tong’s force appeared, Zhang Ren’s soldiers pointed from a distance to the leading commander in the army and said, “The man riding the white horse must be Liu Bei.” Zhang Ren was delighted and issued secret instructions to his men.

Meanwhile, Pang Tong continued winding forward. Looking up, he saw that the two mountains pressed close together and that the trees and undergrowth were dense. It was also the end of summer and beginning of autumn, when the branches and leaves were at their thickest. Pang Tong grew deeply suspicious. Reining in his horse, he asked, “What is this place called?” One of the newly surrendered soldiers pointed and said, “This place is called Fallen Phoenix Slope.” Pang Tong started in alarm. “My Taoist name is Young Phoenix, and this place is called Fallen Phoenix Slope. It is inauspicious for me.” He ordered the rear ranks to retreat quickly. Just then, a cannon sounded from the slope ahead, and arrows flew like a swarm of locusts, all aimed at the rider on the white horse. Alas, Pang Tong died beneath that storm of arrows. He was only thirty-six years old. A later poet lamented him:

Ancient Xian’s peaks rise joined in purple-green array;Shiyuan once had a home beside the mountain bay.Children knew the song that called the turtledove;The lanes had heard how far his soaring steed might rove.He planned the realm’s division, leveling every scar,And his tall form wandered alone ten thousand miles afar.Who knew the Heaven Dog would make a falling star,And never let the general return in brocade from war?

Earlier, a children’s rhyme had circulated in the southeast:

A phoenix and a dragonTogether entered Shu.But only halfway on the road,The phoenix died east of Fallen Slope.The wind brings rain, the rain brings wind;When Han revives, the roads of Shu will open.When the roads of Shu are open,Only the dragon will remain.

That day, after Zhang Ren shot Pang Tong dead, the Han troops became jammed together, unable either to advance or retreat, and more than half were killed. The forward army rushed word to Wei Yan. Wei Yan hurriedly reined in his troops and tried to turn back, but the mountain road was so narrow that they could not fight properly. Zhang Ren also cut off their route of retreat and had powerful bows and heavy crossbows fired at them from high ground. Wei Yan began to panic. One of the newly surrendered soldiers of Shu said, “We should fight our way toward Luo City and then advance by the main road.”

Wei Yan followed his advice, personally opening a path and fighting his way toward Luo City. Where the dust rose ahead, another force came charging toward him. It was led by Wu Lan and Lei Tong, the defenders of Luo City, while Zhang Ren pursued from behind. Attacked from front and rear, Wei Yan was surrounded in the center. He fought desperately but could not break free. Suddenly the rear ranks of Wu Lan and Lei Tong fell into confusion, and the two commanders hurriedly wheeled their horses around to save them. Wei Yan seized the opportunity and pursued. At the head of the attacking force, a commander brandished his weapon, spurred his horse, and shouted, “Wenchang, I have come especially to save you!” Wei Yan looked and saw that it was the veteran commander Huang Zhong. Attacking from both sides, they defeated Wu Lan and Lei Tong and charged straight to the foot of Luo City. Liu Gui led troops out to attack them, but Xuande came up from the rear and held him off in support. Huang Zhong and Wei Yan then turned back.

By the time Xuande’s troops reached their camps, Zhang Ren’s forces had again cut out from the narrow road. Liu Gui, Wu Lan, and Lei Tong led the pursuit. Unable to hold either of his two camps, Xuande fought as he withdrew and fled back toward Fu Pass. Victorious, the troops of Shu pursued him relentlessly. Xuande’s men were exhausted and their horses spent. They had no heart left for fighting and thought only of escape. As they neared Fu Pass, Zhang Ren’s force pressed ever closer behind them. Fortunately, Liu Feng appeared on the left and Guan Ping on the right, leading thirty thousand fresh troops. The two commanders intercepted Zhang Ren and drove him back, then pursued him for another twenty li and recovered a great many warhorses.

Xuande and his army reentered Fu Pass. He asked for news of Pang Tong. A soldier who had escaped alive from Fallen Phoenix Slope reported, “The military adviser and his horse were both shot dead in front of the slope by a storm of arrows.” Hearing this, Xuande faced west and wept without cease. From afar, he summoned Pang Tong’s spirit and offered sacrifices to him. All the commanders wept as well. Huang Zhong said, “Now that we have lost Military Adviser Pang Tong, Zhang Ren is certain to attack Fu Pass. What are we to do? We should send someone to Jingzhou and ask Military Adviser Zhuge to come discuss a plan for taking Chuan.” While they were still speaking, a messenger reported that Zhang Ren had led an army directly to the foot of the walls and was challenging them to battle. Huang Zhong and Wei Yan both wanted to go out and fight. Xuande said, “Our fighting spirit has just suffered a blow. We should hold fast and wait for the military adviser to arrive.” Huang Zhong and Wei Yan accepted the order and kept close guard over the city. Xuande wrote a letter and instructed Guan Ping, “Go to Jingzhou on my behalf and summon the military adviser.” Guan Ping took the letter and traveled night and day to Jingzhou. Xuande himself guarded Fu Pass and did not go out to fight.

Meanwhile, Kongming was in Jingzhou. It was the Double Seventh Festival, and he gathered all the officials for an evening banquet, where they discussed the campaign to take Chuan. Suddenly, due west, a star as large as a dipper fell from the sky, scattering streams of light in every direction. Kongming started in alarm, threw his cup to the ground, covered his face, and cried, “Alas! How grievous!” The officials anxiously asked why. Kongming said, “Earlier, I calculated that this year the Gang Star would be in the west, which was unfavorable to the military adviser. The Heaven Dog encroached upon our army, and Venus hung over Luo City. I had already sent my lord a letter warning him to take precautions. Who could have thought that tonight a star would fall in the west? Pang Shiyuan’s life must surely be over!” When he had finished, he wept loudly and said, “My lord has now lost one of his arms!” All the officials were shocked, though they did not yet believe him. Kongming said, “Within a few days, news is certain to arrive.” That night the banquet broke up without anyone drinking to his full enjoyment.

Several days later, while Kongming was sitting with Yun Chang and the others, a messenger reported that Guan Ping had arrived. All the officials were startled. Guan Ping entered and presented Xuande’s letter. Kongming read it. It said, “On the seventh day of the seventh month this year, Military Adviser Pang was shot and killed by Zhang Ren before Fallen Phoenix Slope.” Kongming wept bitterly, and every official shed tears. Kongming said, “Now that my lord is at Fu Pass, trapped between advance and retreat, I have no choice but to go.” Yun Chang said, “If the military adviser leaves, who will defend Jingzhou? Jingzhou is a vital region, and the responsibility is no small matter.” Kongming said, “Although my lord’s letter does not explicitly name the man, I already understand his intention.” He showed Xuande’s letter to all the officials and said, “In this letter, my lord entrusts Jingzhou to me and tells me to judge for myself whom to appoint. Even so, by sending Guan Ping with the letter, he means for Lord Yun Chang to assume this grave responsibility. Yun Chang, remember the bond sworn in the Peach Garden and devote all your strength to defending this place. The responsibility is no light one, and you must exert yourself.” Yun Chang made no further objection and accepted with solemn resolve. Kongming arranged a banquet at which he formally handed over the seal and ribbon of office. Yun Chang reached out with both hands to receive them. Holding up the seal, Kongming said, “The whole matter now rests on the general’s shoulders.” Yun Chang said, “Once a true man accepts a grave responsibility, only death can make him lay it down.” Hearing Yun Chang speak the word “death,” Kongming was displeased. He wanted to withhold the seal, but his word had already been given. Kongming asked, “If Cao Cao leads an army here, what will you do?” Yun Chang replied, “I will resist him with all my strength.” Kongming asked again, “And if Cao Cao and Sun Quan both raise armies against you, what will you do?” Yun Chang replied, “I will divide my troops and resist them both.” Kongming said, “If you do that, Jingzhou will be in danger. I have eight words for you. Remember them well, and you can preserve Jingzhou.” Yun Chang asked what the eight words were. Kongming said, “Resist Cao Cao in the north; make peace with Sun Quan in the east.” Yun Chang said, “I will engrave the military adviser’s words on my heart.”

Kongming then gave him the seal and ribbon and ordered the civil officials Ma Liang, Yi Ji, Xiang Lang, and Mi Zhu, together with the military commanders Mi Fang, Liao Hua, Guan Ping, and Zhou Cang, to assist Yun Chang and join him in guarding Jingzhou. Meanwhile, Kongming personally took command of the troops entering Chuan. He first detached ten thousand picked soldiers and placed them under Zhang Fei, ordering him to take the main road and fight his way toward Bazhou, west of Luo City. Whoever arrived first would receive the first merit. He then detached another force, appointing Zhao Yun its vanguard, and ordered it to travel upstream and rendezvous at Luo City. Kongming followed behind with Jian Yong, Jiang Wan, and the others. Jiang Wan’s courtesy name was Gongyan. He was from Xiangxiang in Lingling, a distinguished scholar of Jing and Xiang, and was currently serving as a secretary.

That day, Kongming led fifteen thousand troops out at the same time as Zhang Fei. Before Zhang Fei departed, Kongming instructed him: “Western Chuan has many outstanding men. You must not underestimate the enemy. Along the road, strictly command the entire army not to plunder the common people and thereby lose their support. Wherever you go, you must protect and provide for them. Do not indulge in flogging your soldiers. I hope the general will rendezvous at Luo City promptly, without delay.”

Zhang Fei gladly accepted the instructions, mounted, and departed, proceeding steadily onward. Wherever he went, if the inhabitants surrendered, he did not allow so much as an autumn down to be disturbed. He headed directly along the Hanchuan road. As he approached Ba Commandery, a scout returned and reported, “Yan Yan, the governor of Ba Commandery, is a famous commander of Shu. Though advanced in years, he has lost none of his vigor. He can draw a powerful bow and wields a great saber. He possesses courage that ten thousand men could not withstand. He is holding the city and has raised no flag of surrender.” Zhang Fei ordered camp to be made ten li from the city, then sent a man inside with this message: “Tell that old fool to come and surrender at once, and I will spare the lives of everyone in the city! If he refuses to submit, I will flatten the city and leave neither old nor young alive!”

Meanwhile, Yan Yan was in Ba Commandery. When he heard that Liu Zhang had sent Fa Zheng to invite Xuande into Chuan, he struck his breast and sighed, “This is what they call sitting alone on a barren mountain and inviting a tiger to protect you!” Later, when he heard that Xuande had occupied Fu Pass, he was furious and repeatedly wished to raise troops and attack him, but feared an army might come along this road. That day, on learning that Zhang Fei’s troops had arrived, he mustered the five or six thousand men under his command and prepared to meet the enemy. Someone offered this plan: “At Changban in Dangyang, Zhang Fei gave a single shout and drove back Cao Cao’s million troops. Even Cao Cao avoids him at the mere sound of his name. He must not be underestimated. For now, we should only deepen our moats, raise our ramparts, and hold firmly without going out. His army has no provisions, and within a month at most it will naturally withdraw. Moreover, Zhang Fei has a temper like raging fire and is given to flogging his soldiers. If we refuse to fight, he is certain to become angry; and in his anger, he will treat his men with savage cruelty. Once the army’s morale turns against him, we can seize the opportunity to attack, and Zhang Fei can be captured.” Yan Yan followed this advice and ordered every soldier onto the walls to defend them. Suddenly they saw a soldier outside shouting, “Open the gate!” Yan Yan ordered him admitted and questioned him. The soldier said he had been sent by General Zhang and repeated Zhang Fei’s words exactly. Yan Yan was furious and cursed him: “How dare that wretch be so insolent! Do you think General Yan would ever surrender to rebels? Lend me your mouth to give Zhang Fei my answer!” He called for guards, had the soldier’s ears and nose cut off, and sent him back to camp.

The soldier returned to Zhang Fei and tearfully reported how Yan Yan had mutilated and reviled him. Zhang Fei flew into a rage, grinding his teeth and glaring. He armed himself, mounted, and led several hundred horsemen to the foot of the walls of Ba Commandery, where he challenged the defenders to battle. The soldiers on the walls answered with every kind of insult. Zhang Fei was impatient and several times charged as far as the drawbridge, trying to cross the moat, but each time a storm of arrows drove him back. By evening, not a single man had come out. Zhang Fei swallowed his anger and returned to camp. Early the next morning, he again led troops out to issue a challenge. From the gate tower, Yan Yan shot an arrow that struck Zhang Fei’s helmet. Pointing at him in fury, Zhang Fei shouted, “When I catch you, old fool, I will eat your flesh with my own mouth!” That evening he again returned empty-handed. On the third day, Zhang Fei led his troops around the city, shouting abuse. The city was built in the mountains, with rugged peaks all around it. Zhang Fei rode his horse up a mountain and looked down into the city. He saw that all the soldiers were armed and armored, drawn up in ranks and lying in wait inside, but refusing to come out. He also saw civilian laborers going back and forth, carrying bricks and stones to help defend the city. Zhang Fei ordered his cavalry to dismount and all his infantry to sit down, hoping to lure the defenders into battle, but there was no response. After cursing them for another entire day, he again returned empty-handed. In camp, Zhang Fei thought, “I curse them all day long, but they simply refuse to come out. What am I to do?” Suddenly, a plan came to him. He ordered the main body not to go out and issue challenges, but to stand fully prepared in camp and wait for battle. He sent only thirty or fifty soldiers directly beneath the walls to shout insults, hoping to lure Yan Yan’s troops out and engage them. Zhang Fei rubbed his fists and palms, waiting only for the enemy to come. The soldiers cursed them for three consecutive days, but no one came out. Zhang Fei furrowed his brow and devised another plan. He ordered his troops to scatter in all directions to cut firewood and search for paths, and no longer sent anyone to challenge the city. After seeing no activity from Zhang Fei for several days, Yan Yan became suspicious. He ordered more than ten common soldiers to disguise themselves as members of Zhang Fei’s firewood parties, secretly leave the city, mingle with Zhang Fei’s troops, and enter the mountains to gather information.

That day, the troops returned to camp. Zhang Fei sat inside, stamped his feet, and cursed loudly: “That old fool Yan Yan has infuriated me for nothing!” Three or four men appeared before his tent and said, “The general need not be so anxious. Over the past few days, we have discovered a narrow road by which we can secretly get past Ba Commandery.” Zhang Fei deliberately shouted, “If there is such a route, why did you not tell me sooner?” They answered, “We only discovered it during our scouting these past few days.” Zhang Fei said, “There is no time to lose. Cook at the second watch tonight. At the third watch, when the moon is bright, strike camp and have everyone depart. Let the men hold gags in their mouths and remove the bells from the horses so that we can travel silently. I will open the road in front, and the rest of you will follow in order.” Once the order had been issued, it was announced throughout the camp.

The enemy scouts heard this news and all returned to the city to report it to Yan Yan. Yan Yan was delighted. “I knew that wretch would be unable to restrain himself! If you sneak past by the narrow road, your provisions, fodder, carts, and baggage must follow behind. I will cut off your rear—then how will you get through? What a witless fool, to fall into my trap!” He immediately issued orders for his troops to prepare for battle: “Tonight we too will cook at the second watch. At the third watch, we will leave the city and conceal ourselves where the trees and undergrowth are thick. Wait until Zhang Fei has passed through the narrow throat of the road. When his baggage train arrives, listen for the drums, then charge out together.” The orders were issued. As night approached, Yan Yan’s entire army ate its fill, donned armor, and quietly left the city. They scattered into ambush and waited only for the drums. Yan Yan himself led more than ten subordinate commanders, dismounted, and hid in the woods. Sometime after the third watch, they saw Zhang Fei in the distance, personally riding at the front with his spear held crosswise, quietly leading the army forward. After he had gone three or four li, the carts, baggage, men, and horses behind him began to pass in succession. Seeing everything clearly, Yan Yan had the drums beaten, and the ambushers rose on all sides. Just as they rushed forward to seize the baggage train, a gong sounded behind them and a powerful force swept in. A great shout rang out: “Old rebel, do not run! I have been waiting for you!” Yan Yan spun around and saw at the head of the force a great commander with a leopard’s head, round eyes, a swallow’s jaw, and a tiger’s beard. He wielded an eighteen-foot spear and rode a dark black horse. It was Zhang Fei. Gongs thundered on every side as the troops charged in. At the sight of Zhang Fei, Yan Yan was at a loss. They had not completed even one exchange when Zhang Fei feigned an opening. Yan Yan slashed at him with his saber. Zhang Fei dodged, drove in close, and seized Yan Yan by a gap in his armor. He captured him alive and hurled him to the ground, where the soldiers rushed forward and bound him with ropes. The Zhang Fei who had passed earlier was an impostor. Zhang Fei had calculated that Yan Yan would use drums as his signal, so he had ordered the sounding of gongs as his own. When the gongs sounded, all his troops converged, and more than half the soldiers of Chuan threw off their armor, reversed their weapons, and surrendered.

Zhang Fei fought his way to the walls of Ba Commandery, but his rear forces had already entered the city. Zhang Fei ordered that the common people not be harmed and posted proclamations to reassure them. A group of executioners pushed Yan Yan forward. Zhang Fei sat in the main hall, but Yan Yan refused to kneel. Glaring and grinding his teeth, Zhang Fei roared, “When a great commander arrived here, why did you not surrender, but dared to resist?” Showing no trace of fear, Yan Yan shouted back, “You people have no honor! You have invaded our provinces and commanderies! Here there are only generals who lose their heads—there are no generals who surrender!” Zhang Fei flew into a rage and ordered his attendants to behead him. Yan Yan shouted, “You rebel wretch! If you want to cut off my head, then cut it off! Why get angry?” Zhang Fei saw that Yan Yan’s voice was bold and powerful and that his expression had not changed. His anger turned to joy. He descended the steps, ordered the attendants away, and personally untied Yan Yan. He brought him clothing and dressed him, helped him to the seat of honor in the center, then bowed his head before him and said, “Please do not blame me for the offensive words I spoke just now. I have always known that the veteran general is a heroic man.” Moved by Zhang Fei’s kindness and honor, Yan Yan surrendered. A later poet praised Yan Yan:

White-haired, he dwelt in western Shu;His stainless name shook the great realm.His loyal heart shone like the radiant sun;His mighty spirit swept the Long River.He would rather lose his head and die—How could he bend his knees and yield?The aged general of BazhouHad no equal under Heaven.

Another poem praised Zhang Fei:

His valor beyond compare took Yan Yan alive;By honor alone he won soldiers and people alike.To this day his temple image remains in Ba and Shu,Where spring brings daily offerings of wine, fowl, and swine.

Zhang Fei asked him for a plan to enter Chuan. Yan Yan said, “I am a defeated commander, yet I have received your great kindness. I have no way to repay it, but I am willing to serve you with the labor of a dog or horse. Without drawing a single bow or firing a single arrow, you can go straight to Chengdu.”

Indeed:

Once a single commander gave him all his heart,City after city fell as easily as spitting into one’s hand.

What his plan was will be explained in the next chapter.