Chapter 98

Wang Shuang Is Slain Pursuing the Han Army; the Martial Marquis Triumphs in a Raid on Chencang

Sima Yi addressed the throne: “I once memorialized Your Majesty that Kongming would surely come by way of Chencang, and for that reason I placed Hao Zhao there to defend it. Events have now proved me right. If the enemy could invade through Chencang, the transport of provisions would be exceedingly convenient. Fortunately, Hao Zhao and Wang Shuang hold that route, so they dare not transport grain that way; by the other narrow paths, carriage is arduous. By my reckoning, the Shu army has no more than one month’s provisions, and its advantage lies in forcing a swift battle. Our army need only hold out for a long while. Your Majesty may issue an edict ordering Cao Zhen to defend every pass and strongpoint and not to give battle. In less than a month, the Shu army will withdraw of its own accord. Then we may strike when it is vulnerable, and Zhuge Liang can be captured.”

Cao Rui said with delight, “Since you possessed such foresight, why do you not personally lead an army to attack him?”

Sima Yi replied, “It is not that I cherish my person or prize my life. In truth, I wish to preserve these troops against Lu Xun of Eastern Wu. Before long, Sun Quan will surely usurp the imperial title and proclaim himself sovereign. Once he assumes that august title, he will fear that Your Majesty means to punish him, and will certainly invade first. That is why I wish to hold these troops in readiness against him.”

While they were still speaking, an attendant suddenly reported, “Commander Cao has submitted a dispatch on the military situation.”

Sima Yi said, “Your Majesty should immediately send someone to warn Cao Zhen that, whenever he pursues the Shu army, he must first determine whether it is strong or weak. He must not penetrate deeply into dangerous country and fall into Zhuge Liang’s stratagem.”

Cao Rui at once issued an edict and sent Han Ji, Minister of Ceremonies, bearing the imperial insignia, to warn Cao Zhen: “On no account give battle; devote yourself solely to careful defense. Only after the Shu army has withdrawn may you strike.”

Sima Yi escorted Han Ji beyond the city and charged him: “I yield the merit of this victory to Zidan. When you see him, do not say that this counsel came from me. Say only that the Son of Heaven has issued an edict commanding him to make defense his first concern. Whoever undertakes the pursuit must exercise the utmost care; do not send anyone hasty or impetuous.”

Han Ji took his leave and departed.

Now Cao Zhen was holding council in his command tent when he was suddenly informed that the Son of Heaven had sent Han Ji, Minister of Ceremonies, bearing the imperial insignia. Cao Zhen went out of camp to receive him and led him inside. After accepting the edict, he withdrew to confer with Guo Huai and Sun Li.

Guo Huai laughed and said, “This is Sima Zhongda’s judgment.”

“What do you think of it?” Cao Zhen asked.

Guo Huai replied, “These words reveal a profound understanding of Zhuge Liang’s way of using troops. In time to come, the man capable of holding the Shu army at bay will surely be Zhongda.”

“And if the Shu army does not withdraw?” asked Cao Zhen.

Guo Huai replied, “You may secretly send instructions to Wang Shuang to lead troops on patrol along the narrow roads. The enemy will then be unable to transport provisions. When their grain is exhausted and their army retreats, pursue them with the momentum of the moment, and you may win a complete victory.”

Sun Li said, “I shall go to Qishan disguised as the commander of a grain convoy. I will load all the carts with dry firewood and thatch soaked in sulfur and saltpeter, then have someone spread a false report that grain is arriving from Longxi. Since the Shu troops lack provisions, they are certain to come seize it. Once they have entered among the carts, we shall set them ablaze and support the attack with ambush troops outside. Thus we may prevail.”

Cao Zhen was delighted. “An excellent stratagem!”

He immediately ordered Sun Li to lead troops and carry it out. He also sent instructions to Wang Shuang to patrol the narrow roads with his forces, while Guo Huai was to command operations at Jigu and Jieting and order the troops on every route to guard the strategic points. Cao Zhen further appointed Zhang Hu, son of Zhang Liao, as vanguard, and Yue Chen, son of Yue Jin, as deputy vanguard. Together they were to hold the foremost camp and were forbidden to give battle.

Meanwhile, in his camp at Qishan, Kongming sent men forth each day to challenge the enemy, but the Wei troops held fast and would not come out. He summoned Jiang Wei to confer with him.

“The Wei troops remain behind their defenses and refuse battle because they know our army has no grain. Transport through Chencang is now blocked, while passage over all the other narrow roads is difficult. By my reckoning, the provisions accompanying the army will not suffice for even one month. What are we to do?”

As they deliberated, a sudden report arrived that the Wei army in Longxi was transporting several thousand cartloads of grain west of Qishan, and that the officer commanding the convoy was Sun Li.

“What kind of man is he?” Kongming asked.

A man from Wei reported, “He once accompanied the Ruler of Wei on a hunt at Mount Dashi. A fierce tiger was suddenly startled from cover and charged straight toward the imperial party. Sun Li dismounted, drew his sword, and slew it. From that time onward he was enfeoffed as a Senior General. He is one of Cao Zhen’s trusted men.”

Kongming laughed. “The Wei commanders know that I lack grain and have therefore devised this scheme. The carts must be loaded with thatch and other combustibles. All my life I have specialized in attacks by fire; do they now think to lure me with such a trick? If they learn that my army has gone to seize the provisions, they will surely come to raid my camp. We may turn their own stratagem against them.”

He summoned Ma Dai and instructed him: “Lead three thousand troops straight to the place where the Wei army has stored its grain. Do not enter their camp, but set fires upwind of it. Once the wagons catch fire, the Wei troops will surely come to surround my camp.”

He then dispatched Ma Zhong and Zhang Yi, each with five thousand troops, to encircle the enemy from outside and attack in concert from within and without. The three men departed after receiving their plans.

Kongming next summoned Guan Xing and Zhang Bao and instructed them: “The Wei army’s forward camp stands at the junction of roads leading in all four directions. If fire rises from the western hills tonight, the Wei troops will surely come to raid my camp. You two are to lie in ambush on either side of the Wei stockade. The moment their troops leave camp, you may seize it.”

Then he summoned Wu Ban and Wu Yi and instructed them: “Each of you is to lead a force into ambush outside the camp. When the Wei troops arrive, cut off their road of retreat.”

Having completed all his dispositions, Kongming seated himself high upon Qishan to watch from above.

Wei scouts learned that the Shu troops intended to seize the grain and hurriedly reported it to Sun Li. Sun Li sent an urgent dispatch to Cao Zhen, who in turn sent men to the forward camp with instructions for Zhang Hu and Yue Chen: “When fire rises west of the mountain tonight, the Shu troops will surely go to give aid. You may then send out your forces and act thus and thus.”

The two accepted the plan and ordered men to climb the watchtower and keep their eyes fixed on the fire signal.

Sun Li concealed his troops west of the mountain and waited only for the Shu soldiers to arrive. At the second watch that night, Ma Dai came with three thousand troops, every man holding a gag in his mouth and every horse’s bit muffled. They went straight to the western side of the mountain and saw a great many wagons, rank upon rank, drawn up in a circle to form a camp, with banners planted among the empty carts.

Just then a southwesterly wind arose. Ma Dai ordered his soldiers to go directly south of the camp and set it afire. All the wagons caught, and the flames shot into the heavens.

Sun Li supposed that the Shu troops had entered the Wei camp and kindled the signal fire, so he hurriedly led all his men forward in a sudden assault. Behind him drums and horns shook the sky as troops attacked from two directions: Ma Zhong and Zhang Yi had closed around the Wei army and trapped it in their encirclement.

Sun Li was greatly alarmed. Then shouts arose among the Wei troops, and a fierce band came charging from beside the flames—it was Ma Dai. Attacked from within and without, the Wei army suffered a crushing defeat. The flames raged, the wind blew fiercely, and men and horses fled wildly in every direction; the dead were beyond counting. Sun Li gathered the wounded remnants of his force and escaped through smoke and fire.

Meanwhile, Zhang Hu saw the flames soaring into the sky from his camp. He flung open the stockade gates and, together with Yue Chen, led out all his troops and charged toward the Shu camp. Not a single man was to be seen inside. As they hurriedly turned their army back, Wu Ban and Wu Yi attacked from two directions and severed their road of retreat.

Zhang Hu and Yue Chen desperately broke through the encirclement and raced back to their own camp, only to find arrows descending from the earthen walls as thick as flying locusts. Guan Xing and Zhang Bao had already seized the stockade.

The Wei troops were utterly defeated and all fled toward Cao Zhen’s camp. Just as they were about to enter, another band of routed soldiers came flying toward them—it was Sun Li. They entered the camp together and reported to Cao Zhen how they had fallen into the enemy’s stratagem.

When Cao Zhen heard this, he guarded the main camp with the utmost caution and no longer gave battle. The victorious Shu troops returned to Kongming.

Kongming secretly sent a man to impart a plan to Wei Yan, while at the same time ordering all the camps struck and the army made ready to move.

Yang Yi said, “We have just won a great victory and entirely broken the edge of the Wei army’s spirit. Why, then, do you mean to withdraw our troops?”

Kongming replied, “My army has no grain, and our advantage lies in a swift battle. Now that the enemy holds firm and refuses to come out, the disadvantage is ours. Though they have suffered a temporary defeat, reinforcements are sure to come from the Central Plains. If light cavalry should strike our supply route, we would then be unable to return even if we wished. Now, while the Wei troops are newly defeated and dare not look the soldiers of Shu in the face, we may take them unawares and seize the opportunity to withdraw. My only concern is Wei Yan’s force, which is holding Wang Shuang at the mouth of the Chencang road and cannot easily disengage. I have already sent him a secret plan, ordering him to slay Wang Shuang. That will make the men of Wei afraid to pursue us. Only the rear units are to set out first.”

That night, Kongming left only gongs and drums in the camp to sound the watches. By dawn the entire army had withdrawn, leaving nothing but an empty camp.

Cao Zhen was sitting gloomily in his camp when a sudden report came that General of the Left Zhang He had arrived with troops. Zhang He dismounted and entered the command tent.

“I have come by imperial command specifically to serve under your direction,” he said.

“Did you meet with Zhongda before you came?” Cao Zhen asked.

Zhang He replied, “Zhongda instructed me: ‘If our army wins, the Shu troops will certainly not find it convenient to leave; if our army loses, the Shu troops will withdraw at once.’ Since our army’s defeat, has the Commander sent scouts to learn the movements of the Shu troops?”

“I have not,” replied Cao Zhen.

He immediately sent men to investigate. Sure enough, it was an empty camp, with only several dozen banners planted there. The army had already been gone for two days. Cao Zhen regretted his failure, but it was too late.

Now Wei Yan, having received the secret plan, struck camp at the second watch that night and hastened back toward Hanzhong. Spies had already reported this to Wang Shuang, who drove his troops forward in full force to pursue. After more than twenty li, he was on the point of overtaking them. Seeing Wei Yan’s banners ahead, Wang Shuang shouted, “Wei Yan, do not flee!”

The Shu troops did not so much as turn their heads. Wang Shuang spurred his horse in pursuit.

Suddenly the Wei soldiers behind him shouted, “Fire has broken out in the camp outside the city! We fear we have fallen into an enemy stratagem!”

Wang Shuang hurriedly reined in his horse and turned back. Seeing flames soaring into the sky, he hastily ordered his army to retreat.

When they reached the left side of a hillside, a single horseman suddenly burst from the woods and cried in a thunderous voice, “Wei Yan is here!”

Wang Shuang was taken completely by surprise. Before he could defend himself, Wei Yan struck him from his horse with one sweep of his blade. The Wei soldiers, fearing an ambush, scattered and fled in all directions.

Wei Yan had only thirty horsemen under his command. With them, he proceeded at an easy pace toward Hanzhong.

A later poet praised the deed:

Kongming’s wondrous schemes surpassed Sun Bin and Pang Juan,Bright as a long-tailed star that lights an entire realm.In advance and retreat, his use of troops no spirit could fathom;At the mouth of the Chencang road, he slew Wang Shuang.

It turned out that, under Kongming’s ingenious plan, Wei Yan had first kept thirty horsemen in reserve and hidden them beside Wang Shuang’s camp. They were to wait until Wang Shuang raised his troops to give chase, then set fire to his camp. When he turned back, Wei Yan would take him unawares, burst forth, and slay him.

After cutting down Wang Shuang, Wei Yan led his force back to Hanzhong, reported to Kongming, and rendered an account of his troops and horses. Kongming held a great victory banquet, but no more need be said of that.

Zhang He, unable to overtake the Shu army, returned to camp. Suddenly a messenger sent by Hao Zhao at Chencang arrived to report that Wang Shuang had been slain.

When Cao Zhen heard the news, his grief knew no bounds, and from brooding over it he fell ill. He therefore returned to Luoyang, leaving Guo Huai, Sun Li, and Zhang He to guard the several approaches to Chang’an.

Now Sun Quan, Ruler of Wu, was holding court when a spy brought word: “Zhuge Liang, Chancellor of Shu, has twice sent out his armies, and Cao Zhen, Commander of Wei, has lost troops and commanders.”

The assembled ministers all urged the King of Wu to raise an army against Wei and seek to possess the Central Plains, but Sun Quan remained hesitant and undecided.

Zhang Zhao memorialized: “I have lately heard that on East Mountain at Wuchang, a phoenix has descended in auspicious homage, and that yellow dragons have repeatedly appeared in the Great River. My lord’s virtue equals that of Tang and Yu, and his wisdom rivals that of Kings Wen and Wu. You may now ascend the imperial throne, and only then raise your army.”

The many officers all assented: “Zibu speaks truly.”

Accordingly, the bingyin day of the fourth month in summer was chosen, and a ceremonial terrace was built in the southern suburbs of Wuchang. On that day the assembled ministers invited Sun Quan to ascend the altar and assume the imperial throne. He changed the eighth year of Huangwu to the first year of Huanglong.

He bestowed on his father, Sun Jian, the posthumous title Martial and Fierce Emperor, and on his mother, Lady Wu, the title Martial and Fierce Empress. His elder brother Sun Ce was posthumously made Prince Huan of Changsha. His son Sun Deng was established as imperial crown prince.

Zhuge Ke, eldest son of Zhuge Jin, was appointed Left Guardian of the Crown Prince, and Zhang Xiu, second son of Zhang Zhao, was appointed Right Assistant of the Crown Prince.

Zhuge Ke’s style was Yuanxun. He stood seven feet tall, was exceedingly intelligent, and excelled at ready replies. Sun Quan was very fond of him.

When Zhuge Ke was six years old, he accompanied his father to a banquet at the court of Eastern Wu. Seeing that Zhuge Jin had a long face, Sun Quan ordered someone to lead in a donkey and wrote in chalk upon its face: “Zhuge Ziyu.” Everyone roared with laughter.

Zhuge Ke hurried forward, took the chalk, and added two characters beneath the words, making them read: “Zhuge Ziyu’s donkey.” Everyone present was astonished. Sun Quan was delighted and gave him the donkey.

On another occasion, during a grand banquet for the officials, Sun Quan ordered Zhuge Ke to offer wine to the guests. When he came to Zhang Zhao, Zhang Zhao refused to drink, saying, “This is not the proper way to honor the aged.”

Sun Quan said to Zhuge Ke, “Can you compel Zibu to drink?”

Accepting the command, Zhuge Ke said to Zhang Zhao, “In ancient times, Father Shang was ninety years old, yet he grasped the yak-tail standard and bore the battle-ax, and never once spoke of his age. Today, when battle is at hand, you, sir, remain in the rear; but when wine is served, you place yourself at the fore. How can you call this a failure to honor the aged?”

Zhang Zhao had no answer and was obliged to drink.

For this reason Sun Quan loved Zhuge Ke and appointed him to guide the crown prince. Zhang Zhao had assisted the King of Wu and held rank above the Three Excellencies, and therefore his son Zhang Xiu was made Right Assistant of the Crown Prince.

Sun Quan also appointed Gu Yong chancellor and Lu Xun Senior General, charging them to assist the crown prince in guarding Wuchang. He himself returned to Jianye, where the assembled ministers discussed plans for attacking Wei.

Zhang Zhao memorialized: “Your Majesty has only just ascended the august throne and must not yet set troops in motion. You should cultivate the arts of peace and lay aside warfare, establish more schools, and thereby reassure the hearts of the people. Send an envoy into Sichuan and form an alliance with Shu, so that together we may divide the empire, then pursue our designs gradually.”

Sun Quan followed his counsel and immediately sent an envoy traveling day and night into Sichuan to see the Latter Emperor. After the formal courtesies, the envoy reported the matter in full.

Upon hearing it, the Latter Emperor consulted his assembled ministers. The general opinion was that Sun Quan had usurped the imperial dignity and that friendly relations with him ought to be severed.

Jiang Wan said, “We should send someone to ask the Chancellor.”

The Latter Emperor immediately dispatched a messenger to Hanzhong to consult Kongming.

Kongming said, “Send a man bearing gifts into Wu to offer congratulations, and request that Lu Xun be sent with an army against Wei. Wei will certainly order Sima Yi to oppose him. If Sima Yi goes south to resist Eastern Wu, I shall march out of Qishan once more, and Chang’an may be taken.”

The Latter Emperor followed his counsel and ordered Grand Commandant Yang Zhen to take famous horses, jade belts, gold, pearls, and other treasures into Wu as congratulatory gifts.

When Yang Zhen reached Eastern Wu, he appeared before Sun Quan and presented the state letter. Sun Quan was overjoyed. He entertained the envoy at a banquet and then sent him back to Shu.

Sun Quan summoned Lu Xun and told him of Western Shu’s proposal that they jointly raise troops against Wei.

Lu Xun said, “This is Kongming’s scheme to protect himself from Sima Yi. Since we have agreed to act together, we cannot refuse to comply. Yet for the present, let us merely create the appearance of raising an army, thereby lending distant support to the Shu troops. When Kongming presses Wei hard, we may take advantage of the opening to seize the Central Plains.”

Orders were issued at once that troops throughout Jingzhou and Xiangyang be trained and that an auspicious day be chosen to launch the campaign.

When Chen Zhen returned to Hanzhong, he reported everything to Kongming.

Kongming was still concerned that Chencang could not be lightly approached, so he first sent men to reconnoiter. They returned and reported, “Hao Zhao is gravely ill within Chencang.”

“Our great undertaking will succeed,” Kongming said.

He summoned Wei Yan and Jiang Wei and instructed them: “Lead five thousand troops and hasten through the night straight to the walls of Chencang. If you see fire rise, combine your strength and storm the city.”

Neither man entirely trusted the plan, and they asked, “On what day are we to set out?”

“Have everything ready within three days,” replied Kongming. “There is no need to take leave of me. Set out at once.”

They accepted the plan and departed.

Kongming then summoned Guan Xing and Zhang Bao, whispered instructions into their ears to act thus and thus, and sent each of them away with a secret plan.

When Guo Huai heard that Hao Zhao was gravely ill, he consulted Zhang He.

“Hao Zhao is seriously ill,” he said. “You must go quickly to relieve him. I shall write a memorial and report the matter to the court, so that some further decision may be made.”

Zhang He took three thousand troops and hurried to relieve Hao Zhao.

At that time Hao Zhao was near death. That very night, while he lay groaning in pain, a sudden report came that the Shu army had reached the foot of the walls. Hao Zhao hurriedly ordered men to mount the walls and defend them.

Then fires broke out at every gate, and the city fell into great confusion. When Hao Zhao heard what had happened, the shock killed him. The Shu troops surged into the city in a single mass.

When Wei Yan and Jiang Wei led their troops to the walls of Chencang and looked about, they saw not a single banner, nor did they hear any watchman sounding the watches. The two were startled and suspicious and dared not attack the city.

Suddenly a cannon boomed, and banners rose on every side. Then they saw a man in a silk cap and crane-feather fan, wearing a crane cloak over a Daoist robe, who called loudly, “You two have come too late!”

They looked and saw that it was Kongming. Hastily dismounting, they bowed to the ground and said, “The Chancellor’s divine calculations are wondrous indeed!”

Kongming ordered them admitted to the city and said, “I learned through my scouts that Hao Zhao was gravely ill. I ordered you to lead troops and take the city within three days only to steady everyone’s hearts. Meanwhile, I ordered Guan Xing and Zhang Bao to pretend they were merely mustering troops, then secretly leave Hanzhong. Concealed among their soldiers, I traveled by forced marches through the night and came straight to the city walls, giving the enemy no time to move reinforcements. I had already planted agents in the city to start fires and raise shouts in support, making the Wei soldiers alarmed and uncertain. An army without its commander was bound to fall into disorder of its own accord. I then seized the city as easily as turning over my hand. The Art of War says: ‘Appear where you are least expected; attack where there is no preparation.’ This is precisely what it means.”

Wei Yan and Jiang Wei bowed low before him.

Kongming pitied Hao Zhao in death. He ordered that Hao Zhao’s wife and children escort his coffin back to Wei, thereby honoring his loyalty.

Kongming said to Wei Yan and Jiang Wei, “Do not yet remove your armor. Lead your troops at once to make a surprise attack on San Pass. If its defenders learn that your army is coming, they will surely flee in alarm. But if you delay even a little and Wei troops reach the pass, it will be difficult to take.”

Wei Yan and Jiang Wei accepted the command and led their troops straight to San Pass. As Kongming had predicted, all the defenders fled.

The two had only just ascended the pass and were about to remove their armor when they saw a great cloud of dust rising beyond it: Wei troops were approaching.

“The Chancellor’s divine foresight is beyond all fathoming!” they said to one another.

They hurriedly climbed the tower to look and saw that the Wei commander was Zhang He. The two divided their forces and held the dangerous approaches.

Seeing that the Shu troops had secured the strategic roads, Zhang He ordered his army to retreat. Wei Yan pursued and attacked for a time. Countless Wei soldiers were slain, and Zhang He withdrew in crushing defeat.

Wei Yan returned to the pass and sent a man to report the victory to Kongming.

Kongming had already led troops out from Chencang by way of Xie Valley and taken Jianwei. The Shu troops behind him continued to advance in succession. The Latter Emperor also sent the general Chen Shi to assist.

Kongming drove his great army out to Qishan once more. After establishing camp, he assembled his officers and said, “Twice I have marched out of Qishan without gaining the advantage. Now that I have come here again, I expect the men of Wei to oppose me on the same battlegrounds as before. They suspect that I mean to seize Yong and Mei, and they will surely station troops to defend those places. But I observe that Wudu and Yinping adjoin Hanzhong. If we obtain those two commanderies, we may also divide the strength of Wei’s forces. Who dares take them?”

“I am willing to go,” said Jiang Wei.

“I too am willing to go,” said Wang Ping.

Kongming was delighted. He ordered Jiang Wei to lead ten thousand troops to seize Wudu, and Wang Ping to lead another ten thousand to seize Yinping. The two accepted their plans and departed.

Zhang He returned to Chang’an and told Guo Huai and Sun Li, “Chencang has fallen, Hao Zhao is dead, and San Pass has also been occupied by the Shu army. Kongming has now marched out to Qishan once more and is advancing along separate routes.”

Guo Huai was greatly alarmed. “If that is so, he will surely seize Yong and Mei!”

He left Zhang He to defend Chang’an and ordered Sun Li to hold Yongcheng. Guo Huai himself led troops through the night to defend Meicheng, while also sending a memorial to Luoyang with an urgent appeal for aid.

The Ruler of Wei, Cao Rui, was holding court when an attendant reported, “Chencang has fallen, Hao Zhao is dead, Zhuge Liang has again marched out to Qishan, and San Pass has also been seized by the Shu army.”

Cao Rui was greatly alarmed.

Suddenly another report arrived that Man Chong and the others had submitted a memorial saying: “Sun Quan of Eastern Wu has usurped the imperial title and allied himself with Shu. He has now sent Lu Xun to train troops at Wuchang and await orders. Within days, he is certain to invade.”

Hearing that danger threatened in two quarters, Cao Rui lost his composure and fell into a great panic. Cao Zhen had not yet recovered from his illness, so he summoned Sima Yi to consult with him.

“In my humble judgment,” Sima Yi said, “Eastern Wu will certainly not send out its army.”

“How do you know this?” asked Cao Rui.

Sima Yi replied, “Kongming has long desired to avenge the defeat at Xiaoting; it is not that he does not wish to swallow Wu. He fears only that the Central Plains would take advantage of his weakness to strike him, and therefore has temporarily allied himself with Eastern Wu. Lu Xun understands his intention and has thus made a feigned show of raising troops in response, but in truth he means only to sit by and watch success or failure. Your Majesty need not guard against Wu. You need only guard against Shu.”

“Your judgment is truly profound!” said Cao Rui.

He appointed Sima Yi Commander-in-Chief with supreme authority over all the forces on the various routes in Longxi, and ordered an attendant to bring Cao Zhen’s seal of military command.

“I shall go and receive it myself,” said Sima Yi.

Taking leave of the Emperor, he departed from court and went straight to Cao Zhen’s residence. He first sent a man inside to announce him, and only then entered to pay his respects.

After inquiring about Cao Zhen’s illness, Sima Yi said, “Eastern Wu and Western Shu have joined forces and raised armies to invade us. Kongming has now marched out to Qishan again and established his camp there. Are you aware of this, my lord?”

Cao Zhen said in astonishment, “My family knew that I was gravely ill and would not let me hear of it. With the state in such peril, why has Zhongda not been appointed commander to drive back the Shu army?”

“My talents are meager and my wisdom shallow,” replied Sima Yi. “I am unequal to the office.”

Cao Zhen said, “Bring the seal and give it to Zhongda.”

“Commander, do not trouble yourself,” said Sima Yi. “I am willing to lend you what aid I can, but I dare not accept this seal.”

Cao Zhen sprang to his feet. “If Zhongda does not assume this responsibility, the empire is in danger! Ill as I am, I shall go before the Son of Heaven and recommend you!”

“The Son of Heaven has already issued his gracious command,” said Sima Yi. “It is only that I dare not accept.”

Cao Zhen was overjoyed. “Now that Zhongda has assumed this charge, the Shu army can be driven back.”

Seeing Cao Zhen repeatedly press the seal upon him, Sima Yi at last accepted it. He took leave of the Ruler of Wei and led an army toward Chang’an to fight a decisive battle with Kongming.

Thus it was:

The old commander’s seal passed into the new commander’s hand;Of armies threatening by two roads, only one would truly come.

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

Wang Shuang Is Slain Pursuing the Han Army; the Martial Marquis Triumphs in a Raid on Chencang

Sima Yi said in a memorial: “I once told Your Majesty that Kongming would certainly come by way of Chencang, and for that reason I placed Hao Zhao in command of its defense. Now events have proved me right. If he could invade through Chencang, transporting provisions would be extremely convenient. Fortunately, Hao Zhao and Wang Shuang are guarding it, so he dares not use that route to move his grain. Transport along the other minor roads is very difficult. By my calculations, the Shu army has no more than one month’s provisions with it, so its advantage lies in seeking a quick battle. Our army should simply hold out for a long time. Your Majesty may issue an edict ordering Cao Zhen to defend the passes on every route and not to give battle. In less than a month, the Shu army will retreat on its own. We can then strike while it is vulnerable, and Zhuge Liang can be captured.” Cao Rui said with delight, “Since you had such foresight, why do you not personally lead an army to attack him?” Sima Yi replied, “It is not that I cherish my person or value my life. I truly wish to preserve this army to guard against Lu Xun of Eastern Wu. Before long, Sun Quan will certainly usurp the imperial title and proclaim himself emperor. Once he does so, I fear that, knowing Your Majesty will attack him, he will certainly invade first. That is why I wish to keep this army ready for him.”

While he was still speaking, a court attendant suddenly reported, “Commander Cao has sent a report on the military situation.” Sima Yi said, “Your Majesty should immediately send someone to warn Cao Zhen that whenever he pursues the Shu army, he must first determine whether its position is weak or strong. He must not penetrate deeply into dangerous territory and fall into Zhuge Liang’s trap.” Cao Rui at once issued an edict and sent Han Ji, Minister of Ceremonies, bearing the imperial insignia of authority, to warn Cao Zhen: “You must not give battle. Your chief concern must be to hold your positions carefully. Only after the Shu army has withdrawn may you attack it.” Sima Yi escorted Han Ji outside the city and instructed him, “I am yielding the credit for this to Zidan. When you see him, do not say that this was my proposal. Say only that the Son of Heaven has issued an edict ordering him to make defense his highest priority. Whoever pursues the enemy must be extremely careful; do not send anyone hot-tempered or impetuous.” Han Ji took his leave and departed.

Meanwhile, Cao Zhen was holding a council in his command tent when it was suddenly reported that the Son of Heaven had sent Han Ji, Minister of Ceremonies, bearing the imperial insignia of authority. Cao Zhen went out of the camp to receive him and brought him inside. After accepting the edict, he withdrew to consult with Guo Huai and Sun Li. Guo Huai laughed and said, “This is Sima Zhongda’s advice.” Cao Zhen asked, “What do you think of it?” Guo Huai replied, “These words show a profound understanding of Zhuge Liang’s methods of warfare. In the future, the man capable of resisting the Shu army will surely be Zhongda.” Cao Zhen said, “But what if the Shu army does not retreat?” Guo Huai replied, “We can secretly send someone to tell Wang Shuang to lead troops in patrols along the minor roads. The enemy will then have no way to transport provisions. Once their grain is exhausted and their army retreats, we can pursue them and win a complete victory.” Sun Li said, “I will go to Qishan disguised as the commander of a grain convoy. I will fill all the carts with dry firewood and thatch soaked in sulfur and saltpeter, and then have men spread a false report that a shipment of grain has arrived from Longxi. If the Shu army lacks provisions, it will certainly come to seize them. Once they have entered our midst, we can set fire to the carts and support the attack with ambush troops outside. In this way we can win.” Cao Zhen said with delight, “An excellent plan!” He immediately ordered Sun Li to lead troops and carry it out. He also sent a man to tell Wang Shuang to patrol the minor roads with his troops, while Guo Huai led forces to oversee Jigu and Jieting, ordering the troops on every route to guard the strategic positions. Cao Zhen then appointed Zhang Hu, son of Zhang Liao, as vanguard, and Yue Chen, son of Yue Jin, as deputy vanguard. Together they were to guard the forward camp and were forbidden to give battle.

Meanwhile, in his camp at Qishan, Kongming sent men out to challenge the enemy every day, but the Wei troops held firm and refused to come out. Kongming summoned Jiang Wei to confer and said, “The Wei army is holding firm and refusing battle because it knows that our army has no provisions. Transport through Chencang is now blocked, while the other minor roads are steep and difficult to traverse. By my calculations, the provisions with the army will not last a month. What are we to do?” While he was still considering the problem, it was suddenly reported that several thousand Wei grain carts from Longxi were west of Qishan, under the command of Sun Li. Kongming asked, “What sort of man is he?” A man from Wei replied, “He once accompanied the Emperor of Wei on a hunt at Mount Dashi. A fierce tiger was suddenly startled from cover and charged straight at the emperor. Sun Li dismounted, drew his sword, and killed it. After that he was appointed Senior General. He is one of Cao Zhen’s trusted men.” Kongming laughed and said, “The Wei commanders have calculated that we are short of grain, so they are using this scheme. The carts must be loaded with thatch and other materials for starting fires. I have specialized in fire attacks all my life. Do they really mean to lure me with such a scheme? If they learn that our army has gone to seize the provisions, they will certainly come to raid our camp. We can turn their own scheme against them.”

He then summoned Ma Dai and instructed him, “Lead three thousand troops directly to the place where the Wei army has stored its provisions. Do not enter the camp, but start a fire upwind of it. Once the carts and equipment catch fire, the Wei troops will certainly come to surround our camp.” He also sent Ma Zhong and Zhang Ni, each with five thousand troops, to encircle the enemy from outside and attack from both within and without. The three men received their plans and departed. Kongming then summoned Guan Xing and Zhang Bao and instructed them, “The forward Wei camp connects with roads in all four directions. If a fire rises in the western hills tonight, the Wei troops will certainly come to raid our camp. You two are to lie in ambush on either side of the Wei stockade. As soon as their soldiers leave the camp, you may raid it.” He next summoned Wu Ban and Wu Yi and instructed them, “Each of you is to lead a force and lie in ambush outside our camp. When the Wei troops arrive, cut off their route of retreat.” After completing these deployments, Kongming took a seat high on Qishan and watched from above. Wei scouts learned that the Shu troops intended to seize the grain and hurriedly reported it to Sun Li. Sun Li sent a swift report to Cao Zhen. Cao Zhen sent a man to the forward camp with orders for Zhang Hu and Yue Chen: “Watch for a fire to rise west of the mountain tonight. The Shu troops will certainly go to their comrades’ aid. You may then send out your forces and act as follows.” The two men received the plan and ordered men to climb the watchtower and keep a special lookout for the fire signal.

Meanwhile, Sun Li concealed his troops west of the mountain and waited for the Shu forces to arrive. During the second watch that night, Ma Dai came with three thousand troops, every man carrying a gag in his mouth to keep silent and every horse’s bit muffled. They went straight to the western side of the mountain and saw a great many carts and pieces of equipment, packed layer upon layer into a camp, with banners planted among the empty vehicles. Just then, a southwest wind began to blow. Ma Dai ordered his soldiers to go directly to the southern side of the camp and start a fire. All the carts and equipment caught, and the flames soared into the sky. Sun Li assumed that the Shu troops had entered the Wei camp and started the signal fire, so he hurriedly led all his forces in a sudden charge. Then drums and horns thundered behind him, and troops attacked from two directions. Ma Zhong and Zhang Ni had surrounded the Wei army on every side. Sun Li was greatly alarmed. Then battle cries rose among the Wei troops, and a powerful force came charging from the edge of the firelight. It was Ma Dai. Attacked from both within and without, the Wei troops suffered a crushing defeat. With the flames fierce and the wind strong, men and horses fled wildly in confusion, and countless numbers were killed. Sun Li led away the wounded remnants of his army, plunging through smoke and fire as they fled.

Meanwhile, Zhang Hu saw the flames soaring into the sky from his camp. He threw open the camp gates and, together with Yue Chen, led all their men and horses in an attack on the Shu camp, only to find it completely deserted. As they hurriedly withdrew, the two forces led by Wu Ban and Wu Yi charged out and cut off their retreat. Zhang Hu and Yue Chen fought desperately through the encirclement and rushed back toward their own camp, only to see arrows raining down from the earthen walls like swarms of locusts. Guan Xing and Zhang Bao had already seized their camp. The Wei troops suffered a crushing defeat and all fled toward Cao Zhen’s camp. Just as they were about to enter, they saw a band of defeated soldiers racing toward them. It was Sun Li. They entered the camp together and met Cao Zhen, each relating how he had fallen into the enemy’s trap. When Cao Zhen heard what had happened, he guarded the main camp with the utmost care and refused to give battle again. The victorious Shu troops returned to report to Kongming.

Kongming secretly sent instructions to Wei Yan, while at the same time ordering the entire camp to be struck and the army to move out. Yang Yi said, “We have just won a great victory and completely broken the fighting spirit of the Wei army. Why do you now wish to withdraw?” Kongming replied, “Our army has no provisions, so our advantage lies in a quick battle. Now that the enemy is holding firm and refusing to come out, we are the ones placed at a disadvantage. Although their army has suffered a temporary defeat, reinforcements are certain to come from the Central Plains. If light cavalry raids our supply route, we will be unable to return even if we wish to. Now, while the Wei troops have just been defeated and dare not face the Shu army directly, we can take them by surprise and seize the opportunity to withdraw. My only concern is Wei Yan’s force, which is holding Wang Shuang at the entrance to the Chencang road and cannot quickly disengage. I have already sent him secret instructions to kill Wang Shuang and make the men of Wei afraid to pursue. Only the rear units are to depart first.” That night, Kongming left only gongs and drums in the camp to sound the watches. By the end of the night, the entire army had withdrawn, leaving behind an empty camp.

Meanwhile, Cao Zhen was sitting gloomily in his camp when it was suddenly reported that General of the Left Zhang He had arrived with troops. Zhang He dismounted, entered the command tent, and said to Cao Zhen, “I have come by imperial command to place myself under your orders.” Cao Zhen asked, “Did you see Zhongda before you left?” Zhang He replied, “Zhongda told me, ‘If our army wins, the Shu troops will certainly not find it convenient to leave. If our army loses, the Shu troops will certainly leave at once.’ Now that our army has suffered a defeat, has the Commander sent scouts to investigate the Shu army’s movements?” Cao Zhen replied, “Not yet.” He immediately sent men to investigate, and they found that it was indeed an empty camp, with only a few dozen banners planted inside. The army had already been gone for two days. Cao Zhen regretted his failure bitterly, but it was too late.

Now Wei Yan, after receiving the secret plan, struck camp during the second watch that night and hurried back toward Hanzhong. Spies had already informed Wang Shuang, who drove his troops onward in force and pursued with all his might. After more than twenty li, he was on the verge of catching up and could see Wei Yan’s banners ahead. He shouted, “Wei Yan, do not run!” The Shu troops did not even look back. Wang Shuang spurred his horse in pursuit. Suddenly, the Wei troops behind him cried out, “A fire has broken out in the camp outside the city! We may have fallen into an enemy trap!” Wang Shuang quickly reined in his horse and turned back. Seeing flames soaring into the sky, he hurriedly ordered his troops to retreat. When he reached the left side of a hillside, a lone rider suddenly galloped out of the woods and shouted, “Wei Yan is here!” Wang Shuang was so startled that he had no time to defend himself, and Wei Yan cut him from his horse with a single stroke. Suspecting an ambush, the Wei troops scattered and fled in every direction. Wei Yan had only thirty cavalrymen under his command, and they proceeded slowly toward Hanzhong. A later poet praised him:

Kongming’s wondrous plans surpassed Sun Bin and Pang Juan;Like a brilliant comet, he illuminated the land.In advance or retreat, his warfare defied mortal measure;At the Chencang road, he struck down Wang Shuang.

It turned out that, following Kongming’s ingenious plan, Wei Yan had first kept thirty cavalrymen behind and concealed them near Wang Shuang’s camp. They were to wait until Wang Shuang led his troops out in pursuit, then set fire to his camp. When he returned, Wei Yan would take him by surprise, burst out, and kill him. After leading his troops in killing Wang Shuang, Wei Yan returned to Hanzhong, reported to Kongming, and formally accounted for his men and horses. Kongming held a great banquet, but there is no need to relate it here.

Meanwhile, Zhang He failed to overtake the Shu army and returned to camp. Suddenly a messenger sent by Hao Zhao from Chencang arrived with a report that Wang Shuang had been killed. When Cao Zhen heard this, he was overwhelmed with grief, and his anxiety developed into an illness. He therefore returned to Luoyang, leaving Guo Huai, Sun Li, and Zhang He to guard the various routes around Chang’an.

Meanwhile, the ruler of Wu, Sun Quan, was holding court when a spy reported, “Zhuge Liang, the Chancellor of Shu, has sent out troops twice, and Cao Zhen, the Wei commander, has lost soldiers and generals.” The ministers all urged the King of Wu to raise an army against Wei and seek possession of the Central Plains, but Sun Quan hesitated and could not decide. Zhang Zhao memorialized, “We have recently heard that a phoenix descended in ceremonial splendor on East Mountain at Wuchang, while yellow dragons have repeatedly appeared in the Great River. My lord’s virtue equals that of Tang and Yu, and his wisdom rivals that of Kings Wen and Wu. You may now assume the imperial throne and then raise an army.” The assembled officials all agreed, saying, “Zibu is right.” They therefore selected the bingyin day of the fourth month in summer and built a ceremonial terrace in the southern suburbs of Wuchang. On that day, the ministers invited Sun Quan to ascend the altar and assume the imperial throne. The eighth year of Huangwu was renamed the first year of Huanglong. Sun Quan posthumously honored his father, Sun Jian, as Emperor Wulie, and his mother, Lady Wu, as Empress Wulie. He posthumously honored his elder brother, Sun Ce, as Prince Huan of Changsha. He appointed his son Sun Deng as imperial crown prince. He named Zhuge Ke, the eldest son of Zhuge Jin, Left Assistant to the Crown Prince, and Zhang Xiu, the second son of Zhang Zhao, Right Supporter to the Crown Prince.

Zhuge Ke’s courtesy name was Yuanxun. He stood seven feet tall, was exceptionally intelligent, and was quick and skillful in his replies. Sun Quan was very fond of him. When Zhuge Ke was six years old, he attended a banquet in Eastern Wu with his father. Seeing that Zhuge Jin had a long face, Sun Quan ordered someone to bring in a donkey and write on its face with chalk, “Zhuge Ziyu.” Everyone roared with laughter. Zhuge Ke hurried forward, took the chalk, and added two characters beneath the words, making the inscription read, “Zhuge Ziyu’s donkey.” Everyone present was astonished. Sun Quan was delighted and gave him the donkey. On another occasion, Sun Quan held a great banquet for his officials and ordered Zhuge Ke to offer wine to the guests. When he reached Zhang Zhao, Zhang Zhao refused to drink, saying, “This is no way to honor the elderly.” Sun Quan said to Zhuge Ke, “Can you compel Zibu to drink?” Zhuge Ke accepted the command and said to Zhang Zhao, “In ancient times, Father Jiang Shang was ninety years old, yet he held the yak-tail standard and bore the battle-ax, and never once spoke of being old. Today, when it is time to face the enemy, you, sir, take your place in the rear; but when it is time to drink wine, you take your place in front. How can you say we are not honoring the elderly?” Zhang Zhao had no answer and was forced to drink. Sun Quan loved Zhuge Ke for this, and therefore appointed him to guide the crown prince. Because Zhang Zhao had assisted the King of Wu and held a rank above the Three Excellencies, his son Zhang Xiu was appointed Right Supporter to the Crown Prince. Sun Quan also appointed Gu Yong as chancellor and Lu Xun as Senior General, assigning them to assist the crown prince in guarding Wuchang. Sun Quan then returned to Jianye. The ministers gathered to discuss plans for attacking Wei. Zhang Zhao memorialized, “Your Majesty has only just ascended the imperial throne. You should not yet mobilize the army. You should cultivate civil government and suspend military operations, establish more schools, and reassure the people. Send an envoy into Sichuan to make an alliance with Shu so that you may divide the empire together, and then pursue your plans gradually.”

Sun Quan followed his advice and immediately ordered an envoy to travel day and night into Sichuan to see the Latter Emperor. After completing the formal courtesies, the envoy reported the entire matter in detail. When the Latter Emperor heard it, he consulted with his ministers. The general opinion was that Sun Quan had usurped the imperial title and that Shu should sever its friendly alliance with him. Jiang Wan said, “We should send someone to ask the Chancellor.” The Latter Emperor immediately dispatched a messenger to Hanzhong to ask Kongming. Kongming said, “Send someone bearing gifts to Wu to offer congratulations, and request that Lu Xun lead an army against Wei. Wei will certainly order Sima Yi to resist him. If Sima Yi goes south to oppose Eastern Wu, I can march out of Qishan once again, and Chang’an may be taken.” The Latter Emperor followed his advice and ordered Grand Commandant Yang Zhen to take fine horses, jade belts, gold, pearls, and other treasures into Wu as congratulatory gifts. When Yang Zhen reached Eastern Wu, he met Sun Quan and presented the letter of state. Sun Quan was delighted, gave a banquet in his honor, and sent him back to Shu. Sun Quan summoned Lu Xun and told him of Western Shu’s proposal to join forces and attack Wei. Lu Xun said, “This is a scheme by Kongming, who fears Sima Yi. Since we have agreed to act with him, we cannot refuse. But for now we should merely make a show of mobilizing our army, supporting the Shu forces from afar. Once Kongming’s attack on Wei becomes intense, we can take advantage of the opening to seize the Central Plains.” Orders were issued immediately for troops throughout Jingzhou and Xiangyang to be trained and made ready to march on a chosen date.

Meanwhile, Chen Zhen returned to Hanzhong and reported to Kongming. Kongming was still concerned that Chencang could not be attacked lightly, so he first sent scouts to investigate. They returned and reported, “Hao Zhao is gravely ill inside Chencang.” Kongming said, “Our great undertaking will succeed.” He summoned Wei Yan and Jiang Wei and instructed them, “Lead five thousand troops and travel through the night straight to the walls of Chencang. If you see a fire break out, combine your strength and attack the city.” Neither man fully believed him, and they asked, “On what day are we to depart?” Kongming replied, “Everything must be ready within three days. There is no need to take leave of me; set out at once.” The two men received the plan and departed. He then summoned Guan Xing and Zhang Bao, whispered instructions into their ears, and gave each of them a secret plan before sending them away.

Meanwhile, when Guo Huai heard that Hao Zhao was gravely ill, he consulted Zhang He and said, “Hao Zhao is seriously ill. You must go quickly and replace him. I will write a memorial to the court myself and request further instructions.” Zhang He led three thousand troops and hurried to relieve Hao Zhao. By then, Hao Zhao’s condition was critical. That night, while he lay groaning, it was suddenly reported that the Shu troops had reached the city walls. Hao Zhao hurriedly ordered men to mount the walls and defend them. At that moment, fires broke out at every gate, throwing the city into complete disorder. When Hao Zhao heard this, he died of shock. The Shu troops poured into the city in a single rush.

Meanwhile, when Wei Yan and Jiang Wei led their troops to the walls of Chencang, they saw not a single banner and heard no watchmen sounding the night watches. Alarmed and suspicious, they did not dare attack the city. Suddenly, a cannon sounded, and banners were raised on every side. They saw a man wearing a silk headcloth and carrying a feather fan, dressed in a crane-feather cloak and a Daoist robe, who shouted, “You two have arrived too late!” They looked and saw that it was Kongming. The two hurriedly dismounted, bowed to the ground, and said, “The Chancellor’s plan is truly divine!” Kongming ordered them admitted into the city and said, “My scouts learned that Hao Zhao was gravely ill. I ordered you to lead troops and take the city within three days merely to reassure everyone. In fact, I had Guan Xing and Zhang Bao pretend to be conducting a troop inspection while secretly leaving Hanzhong. I concealed myself in their army and traveled by forced marches through the night, going straight to the city walls so the enemy would have no time to move reinforcements. I had already planted agents inside the city to start fires and raise battle cries in support, making the Wei troops frightened and uncertain. With no commander over them, they were certain to fall into disorder. I then took the city as easily as turning over my hand. The Art of War says, ‘Appear where the enemy does not expect you, and attack where he is unprepared.’ This is precisely what it means.” Wei Yan and Jiang Wei bowed to the ground. Out of compassion for Hao Zhao’s death, Kongming ordered that his wife and children be allowed to escort his coffin back to Wei, in recognition of his loyalty.

Kongming said to Wei Yan and Jiang Wei, “Do not remove your armor yet. Lead your troops in a surprise attack on Sanguan Pass. When its defenders learn that your army has arrived, they will certainly flee in terror. If you delay even a little, Wei troops will reach the pass, and then it will be difficult to capture.” Wei Yan and Jiang Wei accepted the order and led their troops straight to Sanguan Pass. As expected, all the defenders fled. The two men had just climbed onto the pass and were about to remove their armor when they saw a great cloud of dust rising beyond it: Wei troops were approaching. They said to one another, “The Chancellor’s divine foresight is beyond all measure!” They hurriedly climbed the watchtower and looked out. The approaching commander was the Wei general Zhang He. The two divided their forces and guarded the narrow strategic approaches. When Zhang He saw that the Shu troops had occupied the vital roads, he ordered his army to withdraw. Wei Yan pursued and attacked them for a time. Countless Wei soldiers were killed, and Zhang He fled in a crushing defeat. Wei Yan returned to the pass and sent a man to report to Kongming. Kongming had already led troops out from Chencang through Xie Valley and captured Jianwei. The rest of the Shu army advanced in a steady succession. The Latter Emperor also sent the general Chen Shi to assist. Kongming drove his great army out to Qishan once again. After setting up camp, he assembled his officers and said, “I have marched out of Qishan twice without gaining an advantage. Now that I have come here again, I expect the men of Wei to confront us on the same battlegrounds as before. They will suspect that I intend to take Yong and Mei and will certainly send troops to defend them. But Wudu and Yinping are connected with Hanzhong. If we take these two commanderies, we can also divide the strength of the Wei army. Who dares to capture them?” Jiang Wei said, “I am willing to go.” Wang Ping also said, “I am willing as well.” Kongming was delighted and ordered Jiang Wei to lead ten thousand troops to take Wudu, and Wang Ping to lead ten thousand troops to take Yinping. The two men received their plans and departed.

Meanwhile, Zhang He returned to Chang’an and told Guo Huai and Sun Li, “Chencang has fallen, Hao Zhao is dead, and Sanguan Pass has also been occupied by the Shu troops. Kongming has now marched out of Qishan once more and is advancing along separate routes.” Guo Huai exclaimed in alarm, “If that is so, he will certainly take Yong and Mei!” He left Zhang He to guard Chang’an and ordered Sun Li to protect Yongcheng. Guo Huai himself led troops through the night to defend Meicheng, while sending an urgent memorial to Luoyang asking for aid.

Meanwhile, the Emperor of Wei, Cao Rui, was holding court when an attendant reported, “Chencang has fallen, Hao Zhao is dead, Zhuge Liang has marched out of Qishan once again, and Sanguan Pass has also been seized by the Shu troops.” Cao Rui was greatly alarmed. Then another report arrived, a memorial from Man Chong and others stating, “Sun Quan of Eastern Wu has usurped the imperial title and formed an alliance with Shu. He has now sent Lu Xun to train troops at Wuchang and await orders. He will certainly invade at any moment.” When Cao Rui heard that crises had arisen in two places, he lost his composure and became extremely frightened. Cao Zhen had not yet recovered from his illness, so Cao Rui summoned Sima Yi for consultation. Sima Yi said, “In my humble judgment, Eastern Wu will certainly not mobilize its army.” Cao Rui asked, “How do you know?” Sima Yi replied, “Kongming has always wished to avenge the defeat at Xiaoting. It is not that he does not wish to swallow up Wu; he merely fears that the Central Plains would strike while Shu was vulnerable, and so he has temporarily allied himself with Eastern Wu. Lu Xun also knows Kongming’s intentions. That is why he is pretending to mobilize his forces in response, when in fact he is merely sitting by and watching to see who wins and who loses. Your Majesty need not guard against Wu. You need only guard against Shu.” Cao Rui said, “Your insight is truly profound!” He appointed Sima Yi Commander-in-Chief, giving him supreme authority over all the troops on the various routes in Longxi, and ordered an attendant to fetch Cao Zhen’s seal of military command. Sima Yi said, “I will go and obtain it myself.” He took leave of the emperor, departed from court, and went directly to Cao Zhen’s residence. He first sent someone inside to announce his arrival, and only then entered to see Cao Zhen.

After inquiring about Cao Zhen’s illness, Sima Yi said, “Eastern Wu and Western Shu have joined forces to launch an invasion. Kongming has now marched out of Qishan again and established camp there. Are you aware of this, my lord?” Cao Zhen said in surprise, “My family knew how ill I was and would not let me hear the news. With the state in such danger, why has Zhongda not been appointed commander to drive back the Shu army?” Sima Yi replied, “My ability is slight and my wisdom shallow. I am not worthy of the office.” Cao Zhen said, “Bring the seal and give it to Zhongda.” Sima Yi said, “Commander, do not trouble yourself. I am willing to lend what assistance I can, but I dare not accept this seal.” Cao Zhen leaped to his feet and said, “If Zhongda does not accept this responsibility, the realm is in danger! I will go before the Son of Heaven despite my illness and recommend you!” Sima Yi replied, “The Son of Heaven has already issued that gracious command, but I did not dare accept it.” Cao Zhen said with great delight, “Now that Zhongda has assumed this responsibility, the Shu army can be driven back.” After Cao Zhen repeatedly urged the seal upon him, Sima Yi finally accepted it. He took leave of the Emperor of Wei and led troops toward Chang’an to fight a decisive battle with Kongming. Truly:

The old commander’s seal passed to the new,And of two armies, only one came through.

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