Chapter 94

Zhuge Liang Defeats the Qiang amid Snow; Sima Yi Captures Meng Da on the Appointed Day

Now Guo Huai said to Cao Zhen, “Ever since the time of the Great Progenitor, the people of the Western Qiang have brought tribute year after year, and Emperor Wen likewise bestowed favors upon them. We should now hold the strategic passes and send a man by a byway straight into Qiang territory to ask for aid, promising a marriage alliance. The Qiang will surely raise troops and strike the rear of Shu. Then we shall attack with our main army, taking them front and rear. How could we fail to win a great victory?” Cao Zhen followed his counsel and at once dispatched a messenger to carry a letter through the night to the Qiang.

Now the king of the Western Qiang, Che Liji, had sent annual tribute ever since the time of Cao Cao. Under him were two chief ministers, one civil and one military: the civil official was Chancellor Yadan, and the military commander was Marshal Yueji. When the envoy from Wei arrived bearing gold, pearls, and a letter, he first went to see Chancellor Yadan. He presented the gifts and fully explained his request for aid. Yadan brought him before the king and presented the letter and gifts. After Che Liji had read the letter, he summoned his officers to deliberate. Yadan said, “We have always maintained relations with the state of Wei. Now Commander Cao asks our aid and promises a marriage alliance besides. By rights we should grant his request.” Che Liji followed his advice and ordered Chancellor Yadan and Marshal Yueji to raise one hundred fifty thousand Qiang troops, all practiced in the use of bows, crossbows, spears, swords, caltrops, flying hammers, and other weapons. They also had war wagons sheathed and studded with iron plates, which carried provisions, weapons, and military stores. Some were drawn by camels and others by mules or horses, and their force was known as the Iron Wagon Army. The two men took leave of their king and led their troops straight toward Xiping Pass.

Han Zhen, the Shu general guarding the pass, hastily sent a dispatch to inform Kongming. On receiving the report, Kongming asked his generals, “Who dares go and drive back the Qiang army?” Zhang Bao and Guan Xing answered, “We are willing to go.” Kongming said, “You two may wish to go, but you are unfamiliar with the roads.” He therefore summoned Ma Dai and said, “You have long known the ways of the Qiang and lived among them for many years. You may serve as guide.” He then raised fifty thousand picked troops and sent Ma Dai together with Guan Xing and Zhang Bao. The three led their army away, and after several days’ march they encountered the Qiang forces. Guan Xing first took more than a hundred horsemen up a mountainside to survey them. He saw the Qiang soldiers linking their iron wagons head to tail and forming encampments wherever they went. Weapons were arrayed all over the wagons, making them appear like fortified walls. Guan Xing watched for a long while but could devise no means of breaking the enemy. He returned to camp and consulted Zhang Bao and Ma Dai. Ma Dai said, “Let us wait until tomorrow, meet them in battle, and observe their true strength. Then we can make other plans.” Early the next morning they divided their army into three columns: Guan Xing commanded the center, Zhang Bao the left, and Ma Dai the right. All three advanced together. From the Qiang formation Marshal Yueji galloped forth in high courage, an iron hammer in his hand and a finely carved bow hanging at his waist. Guan Xing signaled all three columns to advance directly. Suddenly Qiang troops appeared on either flank, while through the center the iron wagons surged forward like a rising tide and bows and crossbows loosed all at once. The Shu army suffered a great defeat. Ma Dai’s and Zhang Bao’s forces withdrew first, while Guan Xing’s column was enveloped by the Qiang and driven under siege into the northwestern corner.

Guan Xing, trapped at the heart of the encirclement, charged left and dashed right but could not break free. The iron wagons hemmed him in as densely as city walls, and the Shu soldiers could no longer look after one another. Guan Xing sought a road of escape through the mountain valleys. As evening drew near, he saw a cluster of black banners swarming toward him. A Qiang general came on with an iron hammer in his hand, shouting, “Young general, do not flee! I am Marshal Yueji!” Guan Xing hastened onward, spurring his horse with all his might. Just as he came to a broken ravine too broad to cross, he had no choice but to turn his horse and fight Yueji. But Guan Xing’s courage had already failed him, and he could not withstand his foe. He fled toward the ravine. Yueji overtook him and struck with his iron hammer. Guan Xing dodged hastily, and the blow landed squarely on his horse’s haunch. The animal toppled into the ravine, hurling Guan Xing into the water. Suddenly he heard a great crash, and Yueji, horse and all, inexplicably fell into the water behind him. Guan Xing struggled to his feet and looked up. On the bank stood a mighty general driving back the Qiang soldiers. Guan Xing raised his sword to kill Yueji, but Yueji leaped from the water and escaped. Guan Xing took Yueji’s horse, led it onto the bank, set the saddle and bridle in order, caught up his sword, and mounted. He saw that the mighty general was still ahead, pursuing and slaughtering the Qiang. Guan Xing thought, “This man saved my life. I must meet him,” and so urged his horse after him. As he drew near, he dimly perceived within the clouds and mist a great general whose face was the color of a ripe date, whose brows were like reclining silkworms, who wore a green robe and golden armor, wielded the Green Dragon saber, and rode the Red Hare, all while stroking his beautiful beard. Guan Xing clearly recognized his father, Lord Guan, and was greatly astonished. Suddenly Lord Guan pointed toward the southeast and said, “My son, hasten away by this road. I shall protect you until you return to camp.” When he had spoken, he vanished. Guan Xing hurried southeast. At midnight a body of troops suddenly approached. It was Zhang Bao. He asked Guan Xing, “Did you see my second uncle?” Guan Xing said, “How do you know of it?” Zhang Bao replied, “The Iron Wagon Army was pressing me hard when suddenly my uncle descended from the sky. He frightened back the Qiang troops, then pointed and said, ‘Take this road to rescue my son.’ Thus I led my troops straight here to find you.” Guan Xing in turn related what had happened to him, and the two marveled and sighed together. They returned to camp, where Ma Dai met them and said, “There is no way for us to repel this army. I shall hold the stockade while you two report to the Prime Minister and ask him to devise a plan for defeating them.” Guan Xing and Zhang Bao therefore traveled through the night to see Kongming and gave him a full account of these events.

Kongming at once ordered Zhao Yun and Wei Yan each to take a force and lie in ambush. He then selected thirty thousand troops and, accompanied by Jiang Wei, Zhang Yi, Guan Xing, and Zhang Bao, personally came to Ma Dai’s camp and settled there. The next day he ascended a high hill to survey the enemy. He saw the iron wagons linked in an unbroken chain, while men and horses crisscrossed the field, galloping to and fro. Kongming said, “These men will not be difficult to defeat.” He summoned Ma Dai and Zhang Yi and instructed them in a certain plan. After they had gone, he called Jiang Wei and asked, “Boyue, do you know how to break these wagons?” Jiang Wei replied, “The Qiang rely on nothing but brute courage. How could they understand subtle strategy?” Kongming laughed and said, “You have read my mind. Dark clouds now cover the sky, the north wind blows fiercely, and snow is about to fall. My plan can be carried out.” He then ordered Guan Xing and Zhang Bao to lead troops into ambush. Jiang Wei was commanded to take an army out to battle, but whenever the Iron Wagon Army approached, he was to retreat at once. At the entrance to the camp, banners were to be planted as a deception, but no soldiers or horses stationed there. All preparations were duly completed.

It was then the end of the twelfth month, and sure enough, heavy snow began to fall. Jiang Wei led his troops out, and Yueji advanced with the Iron Wagon Army. Jiang Wei immediately withdrew. The Qiang pursued him to the camp, but Jiang Wei passed out through the rear. The Qiang came directly to the outside of the stockade to reconnoiter. Hearing the sound of a zither within and seeing that nothing but banners stood along the four walls, they hastened back to report to Yueji. Yueji grew suspicious and dared not advance rashly. Chancellor Yadan said, “This is one of Zhuge Liang’s tricks. He has merely set out an empty show to make us suspicious. We may attack.” Yueji led his troops to the front of the camp. There they saw Kongming take his zither onto a small carriage and, escorted by only a few horsemen, enter the camp and depart through the rear. The Qiang troops rushed into the stockade and pursued straight through the mountain pass, where they glimpsed the small carriage disappearing into the woods. Yadan said to Yueji, “Even if such troops have laid an ambush, they are not worth fearing.” He therefore led the main army in pursuit. Once again they saw Jiang Wei’s troops fleeing across the snow. Yueji flew into a rage and urged his men onward. The mountain road, blanketed by snow, appeared level as far as the eye could see. While the Qiang were pursuing, a report suddenly came that Shu troops had emerged from behind the mountain. Yadan said, “Even if this paltry band is lying in ambush, what is there to fear?” He concerned himself only with pressing the troops onward. Suddenly there came a tremendous crash, as though the mountains had collapsed and the earth split open, and the Qiang soldiers all plunged into concealed pits and trenches. Behind them the iron wagons had been rolling swiftly down the slick road and could not be halted in time. They piled forward in a mass, trampling one another. As the rear ranks hastened to turn back, Zhang Bao charged out on the right and Guan Xing on the left, and ten thousand crossbows loosed together. From behind, Jiang Wei, Ma Dai, and Zhang Yi attacked in three columns. The Iron Wagon Army fell into utter confusion. Marshal Yueji fled toward a valley in the rear, only to encounter Guan Xing. They crossed weapons for a single bout; then Guan Xing raised his saber with a mighty shout and cut Yueji down from his horse. Chancellor Yadan had already been captured alive by Ma Dai and was brought to the main camp. The Qiang troops scattered in every direction. Kongming took his seat in the command tent, and Ma Dai escorted Yadan before him. Kongming ordered the guards to remove the prisoner’s bonds, gave him wine to steady his nerves, and soothed him with gracious words. Yadan was deeply moved by his kindness. Kongming said, “My lord is the emperor of the Great Han. He has now ordered me to chastise the rebels. Why do you instead aid the traitors? I shall release you to return home. Tell your king this: our country and yours are neighboring states, and we should remain forever bound in alliance and friendship. Do not listen to the words of rebels.” Kongming then restored to Yadan all the captured Qiang soldiers, wagons, horses, weapons, and equipment, and released them to return to their country. They all bowed in gratitude and departed. Kongming led his two armies through the night toward the main camp at Mount Qi, ordering Guan Xing and Zhang Bao to proceed ahead with their troops. At the same time, he sent a man with a memorial reporting the victory to the throne.

Now Cao Zhen had been awaiting news from the Qiang for many days when scouts watching the roads suddenly reported, “The Shu army has struck camp, packed its gear, and set out.” Guo Huai was overjoyed and said, “They must be retreating because the Qiang have attacked them.” He therefore divided his forces into two columns and gave pursuit. The Shu troops ahead fled in disorder, with the Wei soldiers close behind. As the vanguard commander Cao Zun pressed the pursuit, drums suddenly thundered and a body of troops sprang forth. At their head was the great general Wei Yan, who shouted, “Rebel, do not flee!” Cao Zun was greatly alarmed but urged his horse forward to engage him. In fewer than three bouts, Wei Yan cut him down from his horse with one stroke of the saber. The deputy vanguard commander Zhu Zan led troops onward in pursuit, when another force suddenly appeared, headed by the great general Zhao Yun. Taken utterly unprepared, Zhu Zan was stabbed to death with one thrust of Zhao Yun’s spear. When Cao Zhen and Guo Huai saw that both vanguard commanders had been lost, they tried to withdraw their army. But behind them tremendous shouts arose, drums thundered, and horns blared as Guan Xing’s and Zhang Bao’s forces charged out from two directions. They surrounded Cao Zhen and Guo Huai and slaughtered their troops mercilessly. Cao Zhen and Guo Huai led their defeated remnants in a desperate charge and escaped. The Shu army won a complete victory, pursued the enemy as far as the River Wei, and captured the Wei camp. Cao Zhen grieved without end over the loss of his two vanguard commanders. He had no recourse but to write a memorial to the court requesting reinforcements.

Now the ruler of Wei, Cao Rui, was holding court when a close minister reported, “Grand Commander Cao Zhen has suffered repeated defeats at the hands of Shu and lost both his vanguard commanders. The Qiang troops have also suffered countless casualties, and the situation is most urgent. Cao Zhen has now submitted a memorial asking for aid. We request Your Majesty’s decision.” Cao Rui was greatly alarmed and urgently asked how the Shu army might be repelled. Hua Xin memorialized, “Your Majesty must personally lead the expedition and summon the lords in a great muster. Only then will every man devote his utmost strength, and only then can the enemy be driven back. Otherwise, Chang’an will be lost and the whole region within the passes imperiled.” Grand Tutor Zhong Yao memorialized, “A commander who knows more than other men can master other men. Sun Tzu says, ‘Know the enemy and know yourself, and you will triumph in a hundred battles.’ In my judgment, although Cao Zhen has long experience in warfare, he is no match for Zhuge Liang. I will pledge every member of my household, high and low, as surety for one man who can repel the Shu army. I do not know whether Your Majesty will approve.” Cao Rui said, “You are a venerable elder and a time-honored servant of the state. What worthy man do you know who can drive back the Shu army? Summon him quickly, that he may share Our burden.” Zhong Yao memorialized, “When Zhuge Liang formerly wished to raise an army and invade our borders, he feared this man alone. He therefore spread false rumors and caused Your Majesty to suspect and dismiss him; only then did he dare drive deep into our territory. If this man is now restored to service, Zhuge Liang will withdraw of his own accord.” Cao Rui asked whom he meant. Zhong Yao replied, “The General of Swift Cavalry, Sima Yi.” Cao Rui sighed and said, “We too regret that affair. Where is Zhongda now?” Zhong Yao replied, “I recently heard that Zhongda is living in retirement at Wancheng.” Cao Rui immediately issued an edict and sent an envoy bearing the imperial tally to restore Sima Yi to office, appoint him Pacification Commissioner of the West, and order him to raise the forces throughout Nanyang and proceed to Chang’an. Cao Rui himself would lead the imperial expedition and commanded Sima Yi to arrive there on the appointed day for the general muster. The envoy traveled through the night to Wancheng.

Now ever since Kongming had taken the field, he had won a succession of complete victories and was greatly pleased. While assembled with his officers in the camp at Mount Qi to deliberate on military affairs, he was suddenly informed that Li Feng, son of Li Yan, the commander guarding the Yong’an Palace, had come to see him. Kongming supposed that Eastern Wu must have invaded the frontier and felt both alarmed and doubtful. He summoned Li Feng into the command tent and questioned him. Li Feng said, “I have come especially to report good news.” Kongming asked, “What good news?” Li Feng replied, “When Meng Da formerly surrendered to Wei, he did so only from necessity. At that time Cao Pi admired his abilities and frequently bestowed fine horses, gold, and pearls upon him. He even rode with him in the same imperial carriage, appointed him Regular Mounted Attendant and Governor of Xincheng, and placed him in command of Shangyong, Jincheng, and other districts, entrusting him with the southwestern frontier. Since Cao Pi’s death and Cao Rui’s accession, many at court have grown jealous of him. Meng Da has been uneasy day and night and has often said to his generals, ‘I was originally a general of Shu and was driven here by circumstances.’ He has now repeatedly sent trusted men with letters to my father, asking him to report the matter to the Prime Minister at the earliest opportunity. When the five armies invaded Shu, he already entertained such an intention. Now, while at Xincheng, he has heard that the Prime Minister is campaigning against Wei. He wishes to raise the troops of Jincheng, Xincheng, and Shangyong, declare for us there, and advance directly on Luoyang. If the Prime Minister takes Chang’an, both capitals will be secured. I have now brought his messenger and the letters he has sent on successive occasions to present to you.” Kongming was overjoyed and richly rewarded Li Feng and his companions. Suddenly a scout entered and reported, “The ruler of Wei, Cao Rui, is personally proceeding to Chang’an. At the same time, he has issued an edict restoring Sima Yi to office and appointing him Pacification Commissioner of the West, with orders to raise the local troops and join the general muster at Chang’an.” Kongming was greatly alarmed. The Army Adviser Ma Su said, “What account need we take of Cao Rui? If he comes to Chang’an, we can capture him there. Why is the Prime Minister astonished?” Kongming replied, “Do you think I fear Cao Rui? The one man who troubles me is Sima Yi. Meng Da now intends to undertake a great enterprise, but if he encounters Sima Yi, his undertaking is certain to fail. Meng Da is no match for Sima Yi and will surely be captured. If Meng Da dies, the Central Plain will not be easy to gain.” Ma Su said, “Why not write to Meng Da at once and tell him to take precautions?” Kongming followed his advice and immediately wrote a letter, ordering the messenger to travel through the night and report back to Meng Da.

Now Meng Da remained at Xincheng, anxiously awaiting the return of his trusted messenger. One day the man arrived and presented Kongming’s reply. Meng Da broke the seal and read it. The substance of the letter was as follows: “I recently received your letter, from which I fully perceive your loyal and righteous heart and see that you have not forgotten your old associates. This gives me great joy and comfort. If the great enterprise succeeds, yours will be the foremost achievement in the restoration of the Han. Yet the utmost secrecy is essential, and you must not lightly entrust the matter to others. Be cautious! Be on your guard! I have recently heard that Cao Rui has again issued an edict commanding Sima Yi to raise the troops of Wan and Luo. If he hears of your enterprise, he will surely come against you first. You must make every possible preparation and must not treat the matter lightly.” When Meng Da had finished reading, he laughed and said, “Men say Kongming’s mind is burdened with too many concerns. This affair proves it.” He then wrote a reply and ordered his trusted man to carry it back to Kongming. Kongming summoned the man into the command tent, where he presented Meng Da’s answer. Kongming broke the seal and read the letter, which said:

“I have just received your weighty instructions; how could I dare show the least negligence? In my humble judgment, however, there is no need to fear Sima Yi. Wancheng lies about eight hundred li from Luoyang and twelve hundred li from Xincheng. If Sima Yi hears that I have risen, he must first memorialize the ruler of Wei. The journey there and back will consume a month, by which time my cities will be secure and all my generals and armies stationed in deep and difficult country. Even if Sima Yi comes, what have I to fear? Set your mind at ease, Prime Minister, and await only news of victory.”

When Kongming had finished reading, he flung the letter to the ground, stamped his foot, and cried, “Meng Da will surely die at Sima Yi’s hands!” Ma Su asked, “Why does the Prime Minister say this?” Kongming replied, “The art of war says, ‘Attack where the enemy is unprepared; appear where he does not expect you.’ How can Meng Da presume upon a period of one month? Since Cao Rui has entrusted Sima Yi with command, he may destroy any enemy he encounters. Why should he wait to memorialize the throne? If he learns of Meng Da’s rebellion, his army will certainly arrive in fewer than ten days. How then can Meng Da make any preparations?” All the generals acknowledged the truth of his words. Kongming urgently ordered the messenger to return with this warning: “If you have not yet risen, you must on no account let your confederates know of it. If they learn of it, you will certainly fail.” The man bowed, took his leave, and returned to Xincheng.

Now Sima Yi, while living in retirement at Wancheng, heard that the Wei armies had repeatedly been defeated by Shu, and he raised his face to heaven and heaved a long sigh. His elder son was Sima Shi, styled Ziyuan; his second son was Sima Zhao, styled Zishang. Both had long cherished high ambitions and were well versed in the books of war. That day, as they stood in attendance at his side and saw him sigh, they asked, “Father, why do you sigh so deeply?” Sima Yi replied, “How could you understand affairs of great consequence?” Sima Shi said, “Can it be that you lament the ruler of Wei’s refusal to employ you?” Sima Zhao laughed and said, “Sooner or later, a summons will surely come for Father.” Before he had finished speaking, a report arrived that an imperial envoy had come bearing the tally of authority. Sima Yi heard the edict and proceeded to muster the troops throughout Wancheng. Suddenly it was reported that a servant of Shen Yi, Governor of Jincheng, had come seeking a secret audience on a matter of grave importance. Sima Yi summoned the man into a private chamber and questioned him. The man gave a detailed account of Meng Da’s intended rebellion. He also presented a written denunciation joined by Li Fu, one of Meng Da’s trusted men, and Deng Xian, Meng Da’s nephew. When Sima Yi had heard it all, he raised a hand to his forehead and exclaimed, “This is proof that the emperor’s vast good fortune equals Heaven itself! Zhuge Liang’s army is at Mount Qi and has so terrified men within and without the realm that their courage has failed. The Son of Heaven has been compelled to proceed to Chang’an. If he had delayed even a few days longer in employing me, Meng Da’s uprising would have brought down both capitals! This traitor must be plotting with Zhuge Liang. If I capture him first, Zhuge Liang will surely lose heart and withdraw his army of his own accord.” His elder son, Sima Shi, said, “Father should hasten to write a memorial reporting this to the Son of Heaven.” Sima Yi replied, “If I await the imperial command, the journey there and back will consume a month, and it will be too late to accomplish anything.” He immediately ordered the army to march, commanding it to cover two days’ distance in one day and decreeing death for any delay. At the same time, he ordered Army Adviser Liang Ji to carry a dispatch through the night to Xincheng, instructing Meng Da to prepare for the campaign, so that Meng Da would harbor no suspicions.

Liang Ji went on ahead, while Sima Yi followed with the army. After two days’ march, a force emerged from below a mountainside. It was commanded by General of the Right Xu Huang. Xu Huang dismounted to greet Sima Yi and said, “The Son of Heaven has arrived at Chang’an to resist the Shu army in person. Where is the Commissioner now going?” Sima Yi said in a low voice, “Meng Da has rebelled. I am going to capture him.” Xu Huang said, “I am willing to serve as vanguard.” Sima Yi was overjoyed and united their forces. Xu Huang commanded the van, Sima Yi the center, and his two sons the rear. After another two days’ march, the forward scouts captured one of Meng Da’s trusted men. Searching him, they found Kongming’s reply and brought both man and letter before Sima Yi. Sima Yi said, “I shall not kill you. Relate the entire affair to me in full, from beginning to end.” The man had no choice but to recount, one by one, all the exchanges between Kongming and Meng Da. After reading Kongming’s reply, Sima Yi said in great astonishment, “All able men under Heaven see things alike. Kongming has already discerned my plan. Fortunately, the Son of Heaven possesses great good fortune and this information has fallen into my hands. Meng Da is now powerless to act.” He then urged the army onward through the night.

Now at Xincheng, Meng Da had arranged with Shen Yi, Governor of Jincheng, and Shen Dan, Governor of Shangyong, to rise on an appointed day. Shen Dan and Shen Yi pretended to consent and drilled their troops daily, waiting only for the Wei army to arrive so they could respond from within. Yet they reported to Meng Da that their weapons and provisions were not fully prepared and that they dared not fix a date for the uprising. Meng Da believed them without suspicion. Suddenly it was reported that Army Adviser Liang Ji had arrived. Meng Da welcomed him into the city. Liang Ji delivered Sima Yi’s command: “Commissioner Sima has received an imperial edict to raise the troops of all districts and drive back the Shu army. The Governor is to assemble the soldiers and horses under his command and await orders.” Meng Da asked, “On what day did the Commissioner set out?” Liang Ji replied, “By now he has probably left Wancheng and is on his way toward Chang’an.” Meng Da secretly rejoiced and thought, “My great enterprise will succeed!” He gave a banquet for Liang Ji and escorted him outside the city. He then informed Shen Yi and Shen Dan that they would rise the following day, replace their banners with those of the Great Han, mobilize the troops throughout their districts, and advance directly on Luoyang. Suddenly it was reported that dust was rising to the sky outside the city, though no one knew whence the troops had come. Meng Da climbed the wall to look and saw a body of soldiers racing toward the city beneath a banner inscribed “General of the Right Xu Huang.” Meng Da was greatly alarmed and hastily ordered the drawbridge raised. Xu Huang could not rein in his charging horse in time and came straight to the edge of the moat, where he shouted, “Rebel Meng Da, surrender at once!” Meng Da flew into a rage, hastily drew his bow, and shot him squarely in the forehead. The Wei generals rescued Xu Huang and carried him away. A shower of arrows descended from the walls, forcing the Wei soldiers to retreat. Meng Da was just about to open the gate and pursue when banners suddenly blotted out the sun on every side: Sima Yi’s army had arrived. Meng Da raised his face to heaven and sighed, “It has happened exactly as Kongming foretold!” He therefore closed the gates and held the city fast.

Now Xu Huang had been struck in the forehead by Meng Da’s arrow. His soldiers rescued him and carried him to camp, where the arrowhead was removed and physicians were ordered to treat him. That very night he died, at the age of fifty-nine. Sima Yi ordered his coffin escorted back to Luoyang for burial. The next day Meng Da climbed the walls and looked all around. He saw the Wei army surrounding the city as tightly as an iron barrel. Unable to rest whether walking or sitting, he remained filled with alarm and uncertainty. Suddenly he saw two forces attacking from outside, their banners bearing in great characters the names “Shen Dan” and “Shen Yi.” Meng Da supposed that relief forces had arrived and hurriedly led his own troops out through the wide-open gates. Shen Dan and Shen Yi shouted, “Rebel, do not flee! Prepare to die!” Seeing the situation transformed, Meng Da wheeled his horse and fled back toward the city, but a rain of arrows descended from the walls. Li Fu and Deng Xian stood atop the ramparts and cursed him, crying, “We have already presented the city to Wei!” Meng Da fought to escape by another road, but Shen Dan came in pursuit. Man and horse alike were exhausted, and before Meng Da could defend himself, Shen Dan thrust him from the saddle with one stroke of his spear and cut off his head. All the remaining troops surrendered. Li Fu and Deng Xian opened the city gates wide and welcomed Sima Yi inside. After pacifying the people and rewarding the army, Sima Yi sent a messenger to report the matter to the ruler of Wei, Cao Rui. Cao Rui was overjoyed and ordered Meng Da’s head displayed publicly in the marketplace of Luoyang. He promoted Shen Dan and Shen Yi and commanded them to accompany Sima Yi on the campaign, while Li Fu and Deng Xian were appointed to guard Xincheng and Shangyong.

Now Sima Yi led his army to Chang’an and encamped outside the city. He entered to have audience with the ruler of Wei. Cao Rui was overjoyed and said, “In a moment of blindness, We mistakenly fell victim to the enemy’s scheme of estrangement, and regret came too late! Now that Meng Da has rebelled, had you not subdued him, both capitals would have been lost.” Sima Yi memorialized, “When I heard Shen Yi’s secret report of the rebellion, I intended to memorialize Your Majesty, but I feared the delay of carrying the message there and back. Therefore, without awaiting the imperial command, I hastened away through the night. Had I waited to submit a memorial, I would have fallen into Zhuge Liang’s scheme.” When he had finished speaking, he presented Kongming’s secret letter to Meng Da. Cao Rui read it and said in great delight, “Your learning and discernment surpass even Sun Wu and Wu Qi!” He bestowed upon Sima Yi a golden battle-ax and a golden hatchet, authorizing him, whenever grave and secret affairs arose in the future, to act as circumstances required without first reporting to the throne. He then ordered Sima Yi to march beyond the passes and defeat Shu. Sima Yi memorialized, “I recommend a great general to serve as vanguard.” Cao Rui asked, “Whom do you recommend?” Sima Yi replied, “Zhang He, General of the Right, is equal to this responsibility.” Cao Rui laughed and said, “We were just intending to employ him.” He therefore appointed Zhang He commander of the forward vanguard and ordered him to accompany Sima Yi from Chang’an to defeat the Shu army. Truly:

When a wise counselor can wield his art,A fierce general is sought to lend him might.

How victory and defeat were decided will be told in the next chapter.

Zhuge Liang Defeats the Qiang amid Snow; Sima Yi Captures Meng Da on the Appointed Day

Meanwhile, Guo Huai said to Cao Zhen, “The people of the Western Qiang paid tribute year after year from the time of the Great Progenitor, and Emperor Wen also treated them with favor. We can now hold the strategic passes and send someone by a back road straight into Qiang territory to ask for help, promising a marriage alliance. The Qiang will surely raise an army to attack the Shu rear. Then we can strike with our main force, attacking them from front and rear. How could we fail to win a great victory?” Cao Zhen agreed and immediately sent a messenger galloping through the night with a letter to the Qiang.

Now the king of the Western Qiang, Che Liji, had sent tribute every year since the time of Cao Cao. Under him were one civil and one military official: the civil official was Chancellor Yadan, and the military official was Marshal Yueji. When the Wei envoy arrived in their country bearing gold, pearls, and a letter, he first went to see Chancellor Yadan. He presented the gifts and fully explained that Wei was asking for aid. Yadan brought him before the king and presented the letter and gifts. After Che Liji read the letter, he assembled his people to discuss the matter. Yadan said, “We have always maintained relations with Wei. Now Commander Cao is asking for help and has also promised a marriage alliance. It is only proper that we agree.” Che Liji followed his advice and ordered Chancellor Yadan and Marshal Yueji to raise 150,000 Qiang troops, all skilled in the use of bows, crossbows, spears, swords, caltrops, flying hammers, and other weapons. They also had war wagons sheathed and studded with iron plates, which carried provisions, weapons, and other equipment. Some were drawn by camels and others by mules or horses, and they were known as the “Iron Wagon Army.” The two men took leave of the king and led their troops directly toward Xiping Pass.

Han Zhen, the Shu general guarding the pass, urgently sent a messenger with a written report to Kongming. When Kongming received it, he asked his generals, “Who dares go and drive back the Qiang army?” Zhang Bao and Guan Xing replied, “We are willing to go.” Kongming said, “You two may wish to go, but you are unfamiliar with the roads.” He therefore summoned Ma Dai and said, “You have long understood the temperament of the Qiang and lived among them for many years. You can serve as guide.” He then raised 50,000 elite troops and sent Ma Dai with Guan Xing and Zhang Bao. They led the army away. After marching for several days, they soon encountered the Qiang army. Guan Xing first led more than a hundred horsemen up a hillside to observe. He saw the Qiang troops linking their iron wagons end to end and forming encampments wherever they went. Weapons were arrayed all over the wagons, making them look just like fortified walls. Guan Xing studied them for a long time but could think of no way to defeat them, so he returned to camp and consulted Zhang Bao and Ma Dai. Ma Dai said, “Let us wait until tomorrow, face them in battle, and examine their actual strength before making further plans.” Early the next morning, they divided their troops into three columns: Guan Xing in the center, Zhang Bao on the left, and Ma Dai on the right. All three columns advanced together. From the Qiang formation, Marshal Yueji rode boldly out, holding an iron hammer in his hand and wearing an ornate precious bow at his waist. Guan Xing signaled the three columns to advance straight ahead. Suddenly Qiang troops appeared on both flanks, while iron wagons surged out from the center like a rising tide and bows and crossbows all discharged at once. The Shu troops suffered a crushing defeat. Ma Dai’s and Zhang Bao’s forces withdrew first, while Guan Xing’s force was enveloped by the Qiang troops and driven under siege into the northwestern corner.

Trapped in the heart of the encirclement, Guan Xing charged left and right but could not break free. The iron wagons hemmed him in as tightly as city walls, and the Shu soldiers could no longer look after one another. Guan Xing searched for an escape route through the mountain valleys. As evening drew near, he saw a cluster of black banners swarming toward him. A Qiang general carrying an iron hammer shouted, “Young general, do not run! I am Marshal Yueji!” Guan Xing hurried ahead, spurring his horse with all his strength. Just as he was about to cross a broken ravine, he had no choice but to turn his horse and fight Yueji. But Guan Xing had lost his nerve and could not withstand him, so he fled toward the ravine. Yueji caught up and swung his iron hammer. Guan Xing dodged quickly, and the blow struck his horse on the rump. The horse toppled into the ravine, throwing Guan Xing into the water. Suddenly there was a crash, and behind him Yueji and his horse inexplicably tumbled into the water as well. Guan Xing struggled to his feet in the water and looked up to see a great general on the bank driving back the Qiang troops. Guan Xing raised his sword to cut Yueji down, but Yueji leaped out of the water and fled. Guan Xing took Yueji’s horse, led it onto the bank, straightened its saddle and bridle, seized his sword, and mounted. He saw that the general was still ahead, pursuing and killing the Qiang troops. Guan Xing thought, “This man saved my life. I must meet him,” and urged his horse after him. As he drew near, he saw through the clouds and mist the faint figure of a great general whose face was the color of a ripe date and whose eyebrows resembled sleeping silkworms. He wore a green robe and golden armor, carried the Green Dragon saber, rode the Red Hare horse, and stroked his beautiful beard. Guan Xing clearly recognized his father, Lord Guan. Guan Xing was astonished. Suddenly Lord Guan pointed southeast and said, “My son, quickly take this road. I will protect you until you return to camp.” As soon as he had spoken, he vanished. Guan Xing hurried southeast. Around midnight, a body of troops suddenly appeared. It was Zhang Bao. He asked Guan Xing, “Did you see my second uncle?” Guan Xing said, “How do you know about that?” Zhang Bao replied, “The Iron Wagon Army was pressing me hard when Uncle suddenly descended from the sky and frightened the Qiang troops into retreat. He pointed and said, ‘Take this road and go save my son.’ That is why I led my troops straight here to find you.” Guan Xing also related what had happened to him, and the two marveled over it together. They returned to camp, where Ma Dai received them and said, “There is no way for us to drive back this army. I will hold the stockade while you two report to the Chancellor and ask him to devise a plan to defeat them.” Guan Xing and Zhang Bao therefore traveled through the night to see Kongming and gave him a full account of the matter.

Kongming immediately ordered Zhao Yun and Wei Yan each to lead a force away and lie in ambush. He then mustered 30,000 troops and, accompanied by Jiang Wei, Zhang Yi, Guan Xing, and Zhang Bao, personally went to Ma Dai’s camp and settled there. The next day he climbed a high mound to observe and saw the iron wagons linked together without end, with men and horses crisscrossing and galloping back and forth. Kongming said, “They will not be difficult to defeat.” He summoned Ma Dai and Zhang Yi and gave them detailed instructions. After the two had left, he called Jiang Wei and said, “Boyue, do you know how to defeat these wagons?” Jiang Wei replied, “The Qiang rely solely on brute courage. How could they understand ingenious strategy?” Kongming laughed and said, “You understand my thoughts. Dense red clouds now cover the sky, and a fierce north wind is blowing. Heaven is about to send snow, and my plan can be put into effect.” He then ordered Guan Xing and Zhang Bao to lead troops away and lie in ambush. He commanded Jiang Wei to take soldiers out to fight, but to retreat and flee as soon as the Iron Wagon Army approached. At the entrance to the camp, banners were to be set up as a deception, but no troops or horses were to remain there. The preparations were then complete.

It was now the end of the twelfth month, and, sure enough, heavy snow began to fall. Jiang Wei led his troops out, and Yueji advanced with the Iron Wagon Army. Jiang Wei immediately retreated. The Qiang pursued him to the camp, but Jiang Wei withdrew by way of the rear. The Qiang troops came right outside the camp to inspect it and heard the sound of a zither being played within. Banners had been erected along all four walls, but the place was otherwise empty. They hurried back to report to Yueji. Yueji became suspicious and did not dare advance rashly. Chancellor Yadan said, “This is one of Zhuge Liang’s tricks. He has merely set up a false show of troops to make us suspicious. We can attack.” Yueji led the army to the front of the camp, where he saw Kongming carrying a zither onto a carriage and leading a few horsemen into the camp before withdrawing through the rear. The Qiang troops rushed into the stockade and pursued them straight through the mountain pass, where they saw the faint outline of a small carriage disappearing into the woods. Yadan said to Yueji, “Even if troops like these have an ambush prepared, they are nothing to fear.” He then led the main army in pursuit. They again saw Jiang Wei’s troops fleeing across the snow. Yueji flew into a rage and urged his men to pursue at full speed. Snow had covered the mountain road, making it appear smooth and level as far as the eye could see. As they pursued, a report suddenly came that Shu troops had emerged from behind the mountain. Yadan said, “Even if they have this small body of troops in ambush, what is there to fear?” He continued urging the troops forward. Suddenly there was a tremendous crash like mountains collapsing and the earth caving in, and the Qiang troops all fell into pits and trenches. Behind them, the iron wagons had gathered too much momentum to stop quickly and came crowding forward, trampling their own men. When the rear ranks tried desperately to turn back, Zhang Bao charged out on the right and Guan Xing on the left. Their two armies unleashed ten thousand crossbows at once, while Jiang Wei, Ma Dai, and Zhang Yi attacked from behind in three columns. The Iron Wagon Army fell into complete chaos. Marshal Yueji fled toward a mountain valley in the rear and ran directly into Guan Xing. They crossed weapons for only one exchange before Guan Xing raised his sword, gave a mighty shout, and cut him down from his horse. Chancellor Yadan had already been captured alive by Ma Dai and was taken to the main camp. The Qiang troops scattered and fled in every direction. Kongming took his seat in the command tent, and Ma Dai brought Yadan before him. Kongming ordered the guards to remove his bonds, gave him wine to calm his fright, and comforted him with kind words. Yadan was deeply moved by his generosity. Kongming said, “My sovereign is the Emperor of the Great Han, and he has now commanded me to punish rebels. Why do you instead help the traitors? I will now release you. Return and tell your king that our countries are neighbors and should form a lasting alliance and friendship. He must not listen to the words of rebels.” He then returned to Yadan all the captured Qiang soldiers, wagons, horses, weapons, and equipment and released them all to go home. They bowed in gratitude and departed. Kongming led his two armies through the night toward the main camp at Mount Qi, ordering Guan Xing and Zhang Bao to lead the advance. At the same time, he sent a messenger with a memorial reporting the victory.

Meanwhile, Cao Zhen had been waiting day after day for news of the Qiang. Suddenly, scouts stationed along the roads came to report, “The Shu troops have struck camp, packed up, and begun withdrawing.” Guo Huai said with great delight, “They are retreating because the Qiang army has attacked them.” He therefore divided the army into two columns and gave chase. The Shu troops ahead fled in disorder, while the Wei troops pursued from behind. As the vanguard commander Cao Zun pressed the pursuit, drums suddenly thundered and a body of troops swept out. At their head was the great general Wei Yan, who shouted, “Rebel, do not run!” Cao Zun was alarmed but spurred his horse forward to engage him. In fewer than three exchanges, Wei Yan cut him down from his horse with one stroke. The deputy vanguard commander Zhu Zan led troops in pursuit, when another body of soldiers suddenly swept out, led by the great general Zhao Yun. Taken completely unprepared, Zhu Zan was stabbed to death by a single thrust of Zhao Yun’s spear. When Cao Zhen and Guo Huai saw that both vanguard columns had lost their commanders, they tried to withdraw. But loud cries erupted behind them, drums and horns sounded together, and the two forces under Guan Xing and Zhang Bao charged out. They surrounded Cao Zhen and Guo Huai and slaughtered their troops. Cao Zhen and Guo Huai led the defeated survivors in a desperate charge and managed to escape. The Shu troops won a complete victory, pursued the enemy all the way to the Wei River, and seized the Wei camp. Cao Zhen was overwhelmed with grief at the loss of his two vanguard commanders. He had no choice but to write a memorial to the court asking for reinforcements.

Meanwhile, the ruler of Wei, Cao Rui, was holding court when an attendant reported, “Commander-in-Chief Cao Zhen has repeatedly been defeated by Shu and has lost his two vanguard commanders, while the Qiang army has also suffered countless losses. The situation is extremely urgent. He has now submitted a memorial asking for aid. Your Majesty, please decide what is to be done.” Cao Rui was greatly alarmed and urgently asked how the enemy could be driven back. Hua Xin memorialized, “Your Majesty must personally lead the campaign and summon all the lords to a great assembly. Only then will everyone devote himself fully to the task, and the enemy can be driven back. Otherwise, Chang’an will be lost and the whole Guanzhong region will be in danger.” Grand Tutor Zhong Yao memorialized, “A general who understands more than other men can control them. Sun Tzu said, ‘Know the enemy and know yourself, and you will win a hundred battles out of a hundred.’ In my estimation, although Cao Zhen has long commanded armies, he is no match for Zhuge Liang. I will stake the lives of every member of my household, noble and lowly alike, to recommend one man who can drive back the Shu army. I do not know whether Your Majesty will approve.” Cao Rui said, “You are a venerable senior statesman of the dynasty. What worthy man do you know who can drive back the Shu army? Summon him quickly to share my burden.” Zhong Yao memorialized, “Previously, Zhuge Liang wanted to raise an army and invade our territory, but he feared this man. He therefore spread rumors to make Your Majesty suspect and dismiss him, and only then did he dare advance unchecked. If Your Majesty employs him again, Zhuge Liang will withdraw of his own accord.” Cao Rui asked who this man was. Zhong Yao replied, “The General-in-Chief of Agile Cavalry, Sima Yi.” Cao Rui sighed and said, “I too regret what happened. Where is Zhongda now?” Zhong Yao replied, “I recently heard that Zhongda is living in retirement at Wancheng.” Cao Rui immediately issued an edict and sent an envoy bearing the imperial credentials to restore Sima Yi to office. He additionally appointed him Commander for Pacifying the West and ordered him to raise the armies throughout Nanyang and proceed to Chang’an. Cao Rui would personally lead the campaign and ordered Sima Yi to arrive there by a fixed date for the rendezvous. The imperial messenger traveled through the night to Wancheng.

Since beginning the campaign, Kongming had won one complete victory after another and was greatly pleased. While he was holding a council in his camp at Mount Qi, a report suddenly came that Li Yan, the officer guarding the Yong’an Palace, had sent his son Li Feng to see him. Kongming assumed Eastern Wu must have invaded the border and became deeply alarmed and suspicious. He summoned Li Feng into the command tent and questioned him. Li Feng said, “I have come especially to report good news.” Kongming asked, “What good news?” Li Feng replied, “When Meng Da surrendered to Wei, he did so only because he had no choice. At that time Cao Pi admired his talent and often gave him fine horses, gold, and pearls. Meng Da even rode with him in the same imperial carriage. He was made Palace Attendant of the Cavalry, appointed governor of Xincheng, and placed in command of Shangyong, Jincheng, and other places, with responsibility for the southwest entrusted to him. Since Cao Pi’s death and Cao Rui’s accession, many people at court have become jealous of him. Meng Da has had no peace by day or night and often tells his generals, ‘I was originally a Shu general and was forced by circumstances to come here.’ He has now repeatedly sent trusted agents with letters to my father, asking him to report the matter to the Chancellor at the proper time. He already had this intention when the five armies invaded Sichuan. Now, at Xincheng, he has heard that the Chancellor is campaigning against Wei. He wishes to raise the troops of Jincheng, Xincheng, and Shangyong, launch an uprising there, and march directly on Luoyang. The Chancellor can seize Chang’an, and the two capitals will then be secured. I have now brought his messenger and all his successive letters to present to you.” Kongming was overjoyed and richly rewarded Li Feng and the others. Suddenly a spy entered and reported, “The ruler of Wei, Cao Rui, is personally traveling to Chang’an. At the same time, he has issued an edict restoring Sima Yi to office, appointing him Commander for Pacifying the West, and ordering him to raise the local troops and rendezvous at Chang’an.” Kongming was greatly alarmed. The army adviser Ma Su said, “What is there to fear from Cao Rui? If he comes to Chang’an, we can capture him there. Why is the Chancellor so alarmed?” Kongming replied, “Do you think I fear Cao Rui? The only man who concerns me is Sima Yi. Meng Da now intends to undertake a great enterprise, but if he encounters Sima Yi, he is certain to fail. Meng Da is no match for Sima Yi and will surely be captured. If Meng Da dies, the Central Plain will not be easy to obtain.” Ma Su said, “Why not write to Meng Da urgently and tell him to take precautions?” Kongming agreed and immediately wrote a letter, ordering Meng Da’s messenger to return through the night with his reply.

Meanwhile, Meng Da at Xincheng was anxiously waiting for his trusted agent to return with a reply. One day the agent arrived and presented Kongming’s letter. Meng Da broke the seal and read it. The letter said in substance: “I recently received your letter and learned fully from it that your heart remains loyal and righteous and that you have not forgotten old friendships. This gives me great joy and comfort. If the great enterprise succeeds, you will have rendered the foremost service in restoring the Han dynasty. Yet it is essential that you maintain the utmost secrecy and not lightly place your trust in others. Be careful! Be vigilant! I have recently heard that Cao Rui has again ordered Sima Yi to raise the troops of Wan and Luo. If he hears of your uprising, he will surely come against you first. You must take every possible precaution and not treat this matter lightly.” After reading it, Meng Da laughed and said, “People say Kongming’s mind is overly suspicious. This matter proves it.” He then wrote a reply and ordered his trusted agent to deliver it to Kongming. Kongming summoned the man into his tent, and the man presented the reply. Kongming broke the seal and read the letter. It said:

“I have just received your honored instructions. How would I dare be in the least negligent? Yet I humbly believe there is no need to fear Sima Yi. Wancheng is about eight hundred li from Luoyang, and Xincheng is twelve hundred li farther on. If Sima Yi hears that I have raised an uprising, he must first submit a memorial to the ruler of Wei. The journey there and back will take a month. By then my city defenses will be secure, and my generals and the entire army will be stationed in deep and formidable terrain. Even if Sima Yi comes, why should I fear him? Set your mind at ease, Chancellor, and wait only for news of victory.”

When Kongming finished reading, he threw the letter to the ground, stamped his foot, and said, “Meng Da is certain to die at Sima Yi’s hands!” Ma Su asked, “Why does the Chancellor say that?” Kongming replied, “The Art of War says, ‘Attack where the enemy is unprepared; appear where he does not expect you.’ How could Sima Yi allow his timing to be predicted as a month? Since Cao Rui has entrusted him with command, he will eliminate an enemy whenever he encounters one. Why would he wait to submit a report? If he learns that Meng Da has rebelled, his army will certainly arrive in fewer than ten days. How will Meng Da have time to respond?” All the generals acknowledged the soundness of his judgment. Kongming urgently ordered the messenger to return with this warning: “If you have not yet begun the uprising, by no means let your associates know of it. If they know, you are certain to fail.” The man bowed, took his leave, and returned to Xincheng.

Meanwhile, Sima Yi was living in retirement at Wancheng. When he heard that the Wei armies had repeatedly been defeated by Shu, he raised his face to heaven and heaved a long sigh. Sima Yi’s elder son was Sima Shi, courtesy name Ziyuan, and his second son was Sima Zhao, courtesy name Zishang. Both had always possessed great ambitions and were thoroughly versed in military texts. They were standing at his side that day, and when they saw him sigh, they asked, “Father, why do you sigh?” Sima Yi said, “How could you understand such affairs of state?” Sima Shi said, “Are you perhaps lamenting that the ruler of Wei does not employ you?” Sima Zhao laughed and said, “Sooner or later an imperial summons is certain to come for Father.” Before he had finished speaking, a report suddenly came that an imperial envoy had arrived bearing the imperial credentials. After Sima Yi heard the edict, he began mobilizing all the armies around Wancheng. Another report suddenly came that a member of the household of Shen Yi, governor of Jincheng, was asking for a private audience on a matter of utmost secrecy. Sima Yi summoned him into a private chamber and questioned him. The man gave a detailed account of Meng Da’s intended rebellion. He also presented a written denunciation from Li Fu, one of Meng Da’s trusted men, and Deng Xian, Meng Da’s nephew. When Sima Yi had heard it all, he raised a hand to his forehead and said, “This is proof that His Majesty’s immense good fortune equals Heaven itself! Zhuge Liang’s army is at Mount Qi, terrifying everyone inside and outside the court. The Son of Heaven has now been forced to travel to Chang’an. If I had not been recalled at once, Meng Da’s uprising would have brought down both capitals! That traitor must be conspiring with Zhuge Liang. I will capture him first. Zhuge Liang will certainly lose heart and withdraw his army of his own accord.” His elder son, Sima Shi, said, “Father, you should quickly write a memorial and report this to the Son of Heaven.” Sima Yi replied, “If I wait for an imperial decree, the journey there and back will take a month, and it will be too late.” He immediately issued orders for the troops to set out, requiring them to cover two days’ distance in one day and decreeing execution for any who fell behind. At the same time, he ordered Army Adviser Liang Ji to carry a dispatch through the night to Xincheng, instructing Meng Da and the others to prepare for the campaign so that Meng Da would suspect nothing.

Liang Ji went on ahead, while Sima Yi followed with the army. After two days’ march, a force rounded the foot of a hillside. It was led by General of the Right Xu Huang. Xu Huang dismounted to greet Sima Yi and said, “The Son of Heaven has arrived at Chang’an to resist the Shu army in person. Where is the Commander going now?” Sima Yi said in a low voice, “Meng Da has rebelled. I am going to capture him.” Xu Huang said, “I am willing to serve as your vanguard.” Sima Yi was delighted, and they combined their forces. Xu Huang commanded the advance, Sima Yi the central army, and Sima Yi’s two sons the rear guard. After another two days’ march, scouts from the vanguard captured one of Meng Da’s trusted agents. They searched him, found Kongming’s reply, and brought him before Sima Yi. Sima Yi said, “I will not kill you. Tell me everything from beginning to end.” The man had no choice but to relate every detail of the correspondence between Kongming and Meng Da. After reading Kongming’s letter, Sima Yi was greatly astonished and said, “The capable men of the world all see things alike. Kongming discerned my plan before I could act. Fortunately, the Son of Heaven is blessed and this information has fallen into my hands. Meng Da can do nothing now.” He then urged the army forward through the night.

Meanwhile, Meng Da at Xincheng had arranged with Shen Yi, governor of Jincheng, and Shen Dan, governor of Shangyong, to begin their uprising on a fixed date. Shen Dan and Shen Yi had pretended to agree and drilled their troops every day, but they were only waiting for the Wei army to arrive so they could act as its agents within. They told Meng Da, however, that their weapons, provisions, and fodder were not yet fully prepared and that they did not dare set a date for the uprising. Meng Da believed them without suspicion. Suddenly a report came that Army Adviser Liang Ji had arrived, and Meng Da welcomed him into the city. Liang Ji conveyed Sima Yi’s command: “Commander Sima has now received an imperial edict to raise the armies of every district and drive back the Shu troops. The governor is to assemble the troops under his command and await further orders.” Meng Da asked, “On what day did the Commander set out?” Liang Ji replied, “By now he has probably left Wancheng and is heading toward Chang’an.” Meng Da secretly rejoiced and said, “My great enterprise will succeed!” He held a banquet for Liang Ji and escorted him outside the city. He then informed Shen Yi and Shen Dan that they would rise the next day, replace their banners with those of the Great Han, mobilize all their forces, and march directly on Luoyang. Suddenly a report came that dust was rising to the sky outside the city, though no one knew where the troops had come from. Meng Da climbed the wall to look and saw a body of soldiers galloping toward the city beneath banners bearing the words “General of the Right Xu Huang.” Meng Da was greatly alarmed and urgently ordered the drawbridge raised. Xu Huang was unable to rein in his horse and charged straight to the edge of the moat. He shouted, “Rebel Meng Da, surrender at once!” Meng Da flew into a rage, quickly drew his bow, and shot him squarely in the forehead. The Wei generals rescued Xu Huang and carried him away. A storm of arrows came down from the wall, forcing the Wei troops to retreat. Meng Da was just about to open the gate and pursue them when banners blotted out the sun on every side: Sima Yi’s army had arrived. Meng Da raised his face to heaven and sighed, “Everything has happened exactly as Kongming predicted!” He then closed the gates and prepared a resolute defense.

Xu Huang had been shot in the forehead by Meng Da. His soldiers carried him back to camp, removed the arrowhead, and ordered physicians to treat him, but he died that night at the age of fifty-nine. Sima Yi had his coffin escorted back to Luoyang for burial. The next day, Meng Da climbed the wall and looked all around. The Wei troops surrounded the city on every side as tightly as an iron barrel. Whether walking or sitting, Meng Da could find no peace and remained frightened and uncertain. Suddenly he saw two armies attacking from outside, their banners prominently bearing the names “Shen Dan” and “Shen Yi.” Believing reinforcements had arrived, Meng Da hurriedly led his own troops out through the wide-open city gate. Shen Dan and Shen Yi shouted, “Rebel, do not run! Prepare to die!” Seeing the situation had changed, Meng Da wheeled his horse and fled back toward the city, but a storm of arrows came down from the wall. Li Fu and Deng Xian stood on the wall and cursed him: “We have already surrendered the city!” Meng Da fought his way out and fled, with Shen Dan in pursuit. Meng Da and his horse were both exhausted, and he was caught unprepared when Shen Dan stabbed him from his horse with a single thrust of his spear and cut off his head. All the remaining troops surrendered. Li Fu and Deng Xian threw open the city gate and welcomed Sima Yi inside. After pacifying the people and rewarding the army, Sima Yi sent a messenger to report to the ruler of Wei, Cao Rui. Cao Rui was delighted. He ordered Meng Da’s head taken to the marketplace in Luoyang and displayed to the public. He promoted Shen Dan and Shen Yi and ordered them to accompany Sima Yi on the campaign, while Li Fu and Deng Xian were commanded to guard Xincheng and Shangyong.

Meanwhile, Sima Yi led his army to a camp outside Chang’an, then entered the city to see the ruler of Wei. Cao Rui said with great delight, “In a moment of blindness, I mistakenly fell victim to a scheme of alienation. My regret came too late! Now that Meng Da has rebelled, if you had not suppressed him, both capitals would have been lost.” Sima Yi memorialized, “When I heard Shen Yi’s secret report of the rebellion, I intended to submit a memorial to Your Majesty, but I feared the delays of the journey there and back. I therefore did not wait for an imperial decree but went through the night. If I had waited to report the matter, I would have fallen into Zhuge Liang’s plan.” When he finished speaking, he presented Kongming’s secret reply to Meng Da. Cao Rui read it and said with great delight, “Your knowledge and judgment surpass even those of Sun Wu and Wu Qi!” He awarded Sima Yi a pair of golden battle-axes and decreed that, when urgent and confidential matters arose in the future, Sima Yi need not submit a report but could act as circumstances required. He then commanded Sima Yi to march beyond the passes and defeat Shu. Sima Yi memorialized, “I recommend a great general to serve as vanguard.” Cao Rui asked, “Whom do you recommend?” Sima Yi replied, “General of the Right Zhang He is fit for the responsibility.” Cao Rui smiled and said, “I was just about to employ him.” He therefore appointed Zhang He vanguard commander and ordered him to accompany Sima Yi from Chang’an to defeat the Shu army. As the verse says:When a ruler has a strategist skilled in wisdom,He seeks a fierce general to help display his might.What the outcome would be will be told in the next chapter.