Wei Annals, Volume 4

From the year of Chongguang Dahongxian (Xinhai) to the end of Eyan Shetige (Jiayin), a total of four years.

Emperor Ming of Wei, Part 2, Part 1

Taihe 5th Year (Xinhai, 231 AD)

1. Spring, the second month. Wu Lord Sun Quan granted the Imperial Inspector Pan Jun a tally of authority, ordering him to join Lü Dai in commanding 50,000 troops to campaign against the Five Streams Barbarians. Pan Jun’s elder cousin Jiang Wan served as the chancellor’s chief clerk under Zhuge Liang. The Grand Administrator of Wuling, Wei Jing, submitted a memorial stating that Pan Jun had sent a secret envoy to contact Jiang Wan, seeking to secure a retreat for himself. Wu Lord said, “Pan Chengming would not do such a thing.” He immediately sealed Wei Jing’s memorial and showed it to Pan Jun, then summoned Wei Jing back to court and dismissed him from office.

2. The army led by Wei Wen and Zhuge Zhi marched for over a year. Soldiers dying from disease and pestilence accounted for eight or nine out of ten. Danzhou was extremely far away and ultimately could not be reached. They only captured several thousand people from Yizhou and returned. Wei Wen and Zhuge Zhi were convicted for lacking accomplishments and were executed.

3. The Shu Han chancellor Zhuge Liang ordered Li Yan to serve as acting director of the chancellor’s office in the capacity of Central Protector. Li Yan changed his name to Li Ping. Zhuge Liang led the various armies to invade Wei, besieging Mount Qi, and used wooden oxen to transport military grain. At this time, the Grand Marshal Cao Zhen was ill. Wei Emperor Ming ordered Sima Yi to station westward at Chang’an, commanding Generals Zhang He, Fei Yao, Dai Ling, Guo Huai, and others to resist the Shu army.

4. In the third month, the Marquis of Shaoling, Cao Zhen, died.

5. There had been no rain since the tenth month of the previous year, continuing into this month.

6. Sima Yi sent Fei Yao and Dai Ling to leave 4,000 elite troops to defend Shanggui, while the remaining forces all marched westward to rescue Mount Qi. Zhang He wanted to divide the troops to station in Yong County and Mei County. Sima Yi said, “If the forward army can alone withstand the enemy, then the general’s words are correct. If it cannot withstand them and is divided into two parts, this is the reason why the three armies of Chu were crushed by Qing Bu.” Thereupon they advanced. Zhuge Liang divided his forces, leaving some to attack Mount Qi, while he himself led the army to meet Sima Yi at Shanggui. Guo Huai, Fei Yao, and others intercepted Zhuge Liang. Zhuge Liang defeated them, took the opportunity to extensively harvest the Wei army’s wheat, and encountered Sima Yi east of Shanggui. Sima Yi withdrew his troops and relied on the treacherous terrain to defend. The two armies could not engage in battle, and Zhuge Liang led his forces back.

Sima Yi and his men followed closely behind Zhuge Liang and reached Lucheng. Zhang He said, “They came from afar to meet us. They wish to fight but cannot. They consider our army unfavorable for battle and want to use a protracted war to overcome them. Moreover, the defenders at Mount Qi know that the main force is already nearby, so their morale is naturally stable. We can camp here, dispatch surprise troops, and feign an attempt to cut off their retreat route. We should not advance yet dare not press close, losing the people’s expectations. Now Zhuge Liang has penetrated deep with a lone army, his grain is scarce, and he will soon depart.” Sima Yi did not listen and still followed closely behind Zhuge Liang. After arriving, he again climbed the mountain to set up camp and refused to engage. Jia Xu and Wei Ping repeatedly requested to do battle, then said, “You are afraid of the Shu army as if afraid of a tiger. Are you not afraid of being laughed at by all under heaven?” Sima Yi was troubled by this. All the generals requested battle. Summer, the fifth month, on the Xinsi day, Sima Yi finally sent Zhang He to attack the southern siege where He Ping, the Wudang Supervisor, was stationed. He himself led the army along the middle road to attack Zhuge Liang. Zhuge Liang sent Wei Yan, Gao Xiang, and Wu Ban to meet the attack. The Wei army was heavily defeated. The Shu Han forces captured 3,000 suits of armor. Sima Yi withdrew to camp and fortified.

In the sixth month, Zhuge Liang withdrew due to exhausted grain supplies. Sima Yi sent Zhang He to pursue. Zhang He said, “Military law states that when besieging a city, one must leave an escape route; retreating troops should not be pursued.” Sima Yi did not listen. Zhang He had no choice, so he advanced. Zhang He pursued to Munen and engaged Zhuge Liang in battle. The Shu army took advantage of the high ground and set up an ambush. Crossbows and arrows were loosed together. A stray arrow struck Zhang He’s right knee, and Zhang He was killed in action.

7. Autumn, the seventh month, on the Yiyou day, the imperial prince Cao Yin was born. A general amnesty was granted under heaven.

8. Since the Huangchu era, the laws and prohibitions regarding the feudal princes had been extremely strict. The officials’ surveillance was very urgent, to the extent that even in-laws dared not exchange greetings. The Prince of Dong’e, Cao Zhi, submitted a memorial stating: “Yao promoted moral teachings, first drawing close to relatives, then to the distant, from near to far. King Wen of Zhou first set an example for his wife, then extended it to his brothers, and further to governing his family and state. Your subject believes that Your Majesty inherits Emperor Yao’s virtue of reverent insight, embodies King Wen’s spirit of respectful benevolence, spreads grace to the consorts, and manifests kindness to the nine clans. The hundred officials take turns resting and taking shifts. Government affairs are not neglected in the court; the conditions of the people can be expressed in private homes. The path for relatives is open; the feelings of congratulations and condolences can be expressed. This can truly be described as extending oneself to others and broadly bestowing favors. As for your subject, the way of human relations is cut off. I am confined in this sage era and privately mourn for myself. I dare not hope to form friendships with like-minded people, to manage human affairs, or to discuss human relationships. Lately, even marriages are not allowed, brothers are separated, news of good and ill fortune is not communicated, and the rites of congratulations and condolences are abandoned. The violation of affection and principle is worse than that between strangers; the difference in estrangement is greater than that between the Hu and Yue peoples. Now, due to strict regulations, I have no hope of ever attending court. As for pouring out my heart to the emperor and tying my feelings to the court, the spirits know this. Yet this is truly brought about by heaven; what more can be said! Thinking further, the various princes often harbor anxious hearts, hoping that Your Majesty will graciously issue an edict allowing the feudal states to exchange congratulations and greetings, to hold ceremonies during the four seasons, thereby recounting the joy and affection of flesh and bone, and preserving the deep brotherly bonds. The families of consorts and concubines may present gifts such as rouge and powder, allowing exchanges twice a year, sharing grace and righteousness with the noble relatives, and receiving the same treatment as the hundred officials. In this way, what the ancients sighed over and what the Airs and Odes sang of will reappear in this sage era! Examining myself, I do not even have the small use of an awl or knife. Looking further at those whom Your Majesty promotes and appoints, if you treat me as a person of a different surname, I privately estimate that I am not inferior to the scholars and officials at court. If I could resign my fief, don a military officer’s cap, remove the red ribbon, and wear the blue ribbon, serving as Commandant of the Equipages or Commandant of the Chariots, merely seeking a title, peacefully residing in the capital, holding the whip and brush, following the imperial canopy when traveling, attending the imperial chariot when entering court, receiving and answering the sage’s inquiries, and picking up omissions and supplying deficiencies by your side—this is the utmost sincere wish of your subject, which I have never forgotten even in dreams. From afar, I admire the scene of the ‘Deer Cry’ feast between lord and minister; in the middle, I recite the admonition of the ‘Cherry Tree’ that ‘brothers are not outsiders’; nearby, I ponder the deep meaning of the ‘Chopping Wood’ on friendship; and finally, I harbor the sorrow of the ‘Tall Artemisia’ on the inability to repay parental kindness. Every time the four seasons gather for festivals, I live alone in solitude. By my side are only servants; facing me are only my wife and children. For high-flown discussions, I have no one to speak to; for profound principles, I have no one to display. There is not a time when I hear music without clutching my chest in grief, or face a wine cup without sighing. Your subject believes that the loyalty of a dog or horse cannot move people, just as a person’s loyalty cannot move heaven. The legends of city walls collapsing and frost falling I initially believed, but comparing them with my own heart, they are merely false words! The sunflower and mallow leaves turn toward the sun. Although they cannot cause the sun to turn back its radiance, their intention to face the sun is sincere. I privately compare myself to the sunflower and mallow. If I could receive the bestowal of heaven and earth’s grace and be illuminated by the light of the sun, moon, and stars, it truly depends on Your Majesty. Your subject has heard that the ‘Wenzi’ says: ‘Do not seek good fortune first; do not court disaster first.’ Now, with this isolation, the brothers share the same anxiety, yet I alone speak out directly. I truly do not wish to see anything in this sage era that fails to receive grace. I want Your Majesty to promote the virtue of bright illumination and timely harmony, and to proclaim the great and brilliant virtue!” Emperor Ming issued an edict in reply: “The promotion of moral teachings has its rises and declines. It is not that they are good at the start and bad later; it is caused by the times. Now, the affection and ritual between the feudal states’ brothers are lax and negligent, and the gifts to the families of consorts and concubines are sparse. Originally, there was no edict prohibiting the feudal states from exchanging visits. Correcting the excess, the lower officials feared punishment, and it came to this. I have already ordered the relevant departments to handle it according to what the prince has stated.”

Cao Zhi again submitted a memorial, saying: “In former times, Emperor Wen of Han set out from the state of Dai and suspected there would be turmoil at court. Song Chang said: ‘Within the court there are relatives like the Marquis of Zhu Xu and the Marquis of Dong Mou; outside there are the fiefs of Qi, Chu, Huainan, and Langye. This is a clan as solid as a rock. I hope Your Majesty will not doubt.’ Your servant humbly wishes Your Majesty to look far back to King Wen of Zhou relying on the aid of Guo Zhong and Guo Shu, to consider in the middle King Cheng of Zhou relying on the assistance of the Duke of Shao and the Duke of Bi, and to reflect near at hand on the rock-solid stability Song Chang spoke of. Your servant has heard that when a sheep dons a tiger’s skin, it rejoices at seeing grass but trembles at seeing jackals and wolves, forgetting it is wearing a tiger’s skin. Now if the generals appointed are not good, it is similar to this. Therefore the common saying goes: ‘Those who worry about doing things do not understand them; those who understand cannot do them.’ In former times, Guan Shu and Cai Shu were exiled and executed, while the Duke of Zhou and the Duke of Shao became ministers. Shu Yu violated the law, but Shu Xiang upheld the state. The calamity of the Three Overseers, your servant himself should bear; the assistance of the Two Souths, seeking it will not be far off. Among the princes of the imperial clan, there must be those capable of undertaking this mission. Those who can make the whole world listen attentively and watch intently are those who hold power. Therefore, plans can change the ruler, and authority can intimidate subordinates. When powerful families hold governance, it does not lie in whether they are relatives; where power resides, even the distant must be important; where authority departs, even the close must be insignificant. Those who seized Qi were the Tian clan, not the Lü clan; those who divided Jin were the Zhao and Wei clans, not the Ji clan. I hope Your Majesty will examine this clearly. If when it is auspicious they occupy the position alone, and when it is calamitous they distance themselves from the misfortune, these are ministers of a different surname. Those who desire the state’s stability, pray for the family’s honor, share glory while alive, and bear calamity together in death—these are ministers of the imperial clan. Now, on the contrary, the imperial clan is kept distant while those of different surnames areed. Your servant is privately perplexed. Now your servant shares with Your Majesty the burden of treading on thin ice and stepping on hot coals, climbing mountains and fording rivers, sharing cold and warmth, dryness and dampness, high and low alike. How could I leave Your Majesty! Overwhelmed with indignation, I submit this memorial to express my heartfelt feelings. If there is anything that does not meet Your Majesty’s intent, I humbly request that it be temporarily stored in the archives and not immediately discarded or destroyed. After your servant’s death, the matter may still be worthy of consideration. If there is any slight point that touches Your Majesty’s wisdom, I request it be brought out for discussion at court, so that learned scholars, versed in ancient and modern affairs, may correct what does not accord with righteousness in your servant’s memorial. Then your servant’s wish will be fulfilled.” Emperor Ming merely replied with gracious words.

In the eighth month, Emperor Ming issued an edict, saying: “The late emperor established laws, and the reason he did not allow the various princes to remain in the capital was the fear that with a young ruler on the throne and an empress dowager ruling behind the court, it was necessary to guard against small beginnings and prevent gradual developments, which concerns the rise and fall of the state. I have missed the various princes for twelve years. Distant thoughts—how could they not stir longing! Now I order the various princes and the dukes and marquises of the imperial clan each to bring one legitimate son, and come to court in the first month of next year. In the future, if there is a young ruler with an empress dowager in the palace, let the laws of the late emperor be followed.”

9 When the Han Chancellor Zhuge Liang attacked Mount Qi, Li Ping remained in the rear, in charge of supervising the transport of grain and supplies. It happened that heavy rains fell continuously, and Li Ping, fearing that grain transport could not keep up, sent the military adviser Hu Zhong and the military inspector Cheng Fan to convey his meaning, ordering Zhuge Liang to withdraw the army. Zhuge Liang accepted the proposal and withdrew. When Li Ping heard that the army had withdrawn, he pretended to be surprised and said, “The army’s grain was very abundant; why did they withdraw!” He also wanted to kill Cen Shu, who was in charge of grain transport, to absolve himself of the responsibility for his own negligence. He also submitted a memorial to the Later Lord Liu Shan, saying, “The army’s withdrawal was a feint, intended to lure the enemy into battle.” Zhuge Liang brought out all the letters and memorials he had personally written before and after, which were full of contradictions and errors from beginning to end. Li Ping, having exhausted his arguments, could only bow his head and confess his guilt. So Zhuge Liang submitted a memorial detailing Li Ping’s former and later faults and crimes, dismissed him from his post, stripped him of his rank and fief, and exiled him to Zitong Commandery. He then appointed Li Ping’s son Li Feng as a Commandant of the Palace Gentlemen and a military adviser, and personally wrote a letter admonishing him, saying: “I worked with your father with one heart and one mind to revive the Han dynasty. I recommended him to serve as Chief Commandant in charge of the affairs of Hanzhong, and entrusted the affairs of the Eastern Pass to you. I thought that you would move heaven and earth with your utmost sincerity and could be relied upon from beginning to end. How could I have expected that a rupture would occur halfway! If the Chief Commandant can recognize his own faults and devote himself wholeheartedly, and if you and Jiang Gongyan work together with open hearts, then past errors can be corrected and what has been lost can be recovered. I hope you will carefully consider this admonition and understand my intentions!”

Zhuge Liang also wrote a letter to Jiang Wan and Dong Yun, saying: “Xiaoqi once told me that Li Zhengfang had scales and armor in his belly, and that his fellow villagers considered him unapproachable. I thought that those with scales and armor simply should not be provoked. I never expected that he would act like Su Qin and Zhang Yi, which was beyond my expectations. Let Xiaoqi know about this.” Xiaoqi was Chen Zhen, the Commandant of the Palace Guards from Nanyang.

10 In winter, the tenth month, Wu ruler Sun Quan sent the Palace Gentleman Sun Bu to feign surrender, in order to lure the Inspector of Yangzhou, Wang Ling. Sun Quan ambushed troops at Fuga to await him. Sun Bu sent someone to tell Wang Ling: “The road is distant, and I cannot come on my own. I request that troops be sent to receive me.” Wang Ling reported Sun Bu’s letter to the throne and requested that troops be dispatched to meet him. The General Who Conquers the East, Man Chong, believed this was certainly a feigned surrender and did not send troops to him. Instead, he wrote a reply on behalf of Wang Ling, saying: “I know you can distinguish right from wrong and wish to avoid calamity and return to the righteous path, to leave violence and turn toward goodness. I greatly commend this. Now I want to send troops to meet you, but I consider that with too few troops they would be insufficient to protect you, and with too many troops the matter would certainly become known far and wide. For now, plan secretly to fulfill your wish, and when the time comes, act according to circumstances.” It happened that Man Chong received an edict summoning him to court. Before leaving, he instructed the Chief Clerk left in charge of his headquarters, saying: “If Wang Ling wants to go to meet him, do not give him troops.” Wang Ling later could not obtain troops and only sent one Inspector commanding seven hundred infantry and cavalry to meet Sun Bu. Sun Bu launched a night attack; the Inspector fled, and more than half of his men were killed or wounded. Wang Ling was the son of Wang Yun’s elder brother.

Before this, Wang Ling had submitted a memorial saying that Man Chong was old and fond of drink, and was not fit for a post of independent command. Wei Emperor Ming was about to recall Man Chong. The Palace Attendant Guo Mou said: “Man Chong served as Grand Administrator of Runan and Inspector of Yuzhou for over twenty years, and rendered meritorious service in the provinces. When he came to guard Huainan, the people of Wu all feared him. If the matter is not as Wang Ling’s memorial states, it will give the Wu people a chance to spy out our weakness. You might summon him back to court, and test him by inquiring about affairs in the east.” Mingdi followed his advice. When Man Chong arrived at the capital, his body and complexion were robust and healthy. Mingdi comforted him and then sent him back.

11 In the eleventh month, on the day of Wuxu, the last day of the month, there was a solar eclipse.

12 In the twelfth month, on the day of Wuwu, the Marquis of Bowu and Respectful, Hua Xin, died.

13 On the day of Dingmao, Wu granted a general amnesty and changed the next year’s reign title to Jiahe.

Taihe 6 (renzi year, 232 AD)

1 In spring, the first month, Wu ruler Sun Quan’s youngest son, the Marquis of Jianchang, Sun Lü, died. The Heir Apparent Sun Deng went from Wuchang to the capital to visit his father, taking the opportunity to state that he had long been away from his parents’ side and was deficient in filial piety as a child. He also stated that Lu Xun was loyal and diligent, and there was nothing to worry about. Thereupon Sun Deng remained at Jianye.

2 In the second month, Wei Emperor Ming issued an edict changing the fiefs of the various princes, all converting their fiefs into commanderies.

3 The beloved daughter of Emperor Ming, Cao Shu, passed away. The emperor was deeply grieved, posthumously granting her the title of Princess Yi of Pingyuan, establishing a temple for her in Luoyang, and burying her at Nanling. He also took a grandnephew of Empress Zhen, Zhen Huang, to be buried with her in joint interment, posthumously ennobling Zhen Huang as a Marquis of Lie, and appointing an heir for him to inherit the title. The emperor wished to personally attend the funeral and also wanted to go to Xuchang. Minister of Works Chen Qun admonished him, saying: "For children who die before the age of eight, the rites are inherently incomplete; even more so for an infant less than a year old. Yet you are using adult rites to send her off, making mourning garments for her, with the entire court dressed in white, weeping and wailing morning and evening—there has been no precedent for this since ancient times. Your Majesty even wishes to personally inspect the tomb and attend the sacrificial farewell ceremony! I hope Your Majesty will restrain yourself and abandon these useless and harmful matters; this is the greatest wish of the subjects under heaven. I have also heard that Your Majesty’s carriage is to go to Xuchang, with both palaces moving east together, and all officials great and small in the court are astonished and alarmed. Some say it is to avoid calamity, others say it is to relocate the palace, and still others do not know the reason. I believe that good and ill fortune follow Heaven’s decree, and disaster and blessing lie in human action; relying on moving about to seek peace is useless. If relocation and avoidance are truly necessary, then repairing the Western Palace at Jinyong City and the separate palace at Mengjin would allow temporary separate residence—why must the entire palace be exposed in the wilderness! The toil and expense, both public and private, would be incalculable. Moreover, even worthy and auspicious men do not lightly move their homes, so as to settle their villages and keep people free from fear. How much more so for a sovereign ruling over all states under heaven—how can his every move be so frivolous and rash!" Junior Tutor Yang Fu said: "When Emperor Wen and Empress Dowager Wuxuan died, Your Majesty did not attend the funerals, valuing the altars of state and guarding against unforeseen events. How can you now attend the funeral of a babe in arms?" The emperor did not heed them. On the day Guiyou of the third month, the emperor set out eastward on a tour of inspection.

4 Sun Quan, the ruler of Wu, sent General Zhou He and Colonel Pei Qian by sea to Liaodong to seek horses from Gongsun Yuan.

Earlier, Yu Fan was by nature unrestrained and blunt, often making mistakes due to drunkenness, and he liked to contradict others, repeatedly being slandered. Sun Quan once discussed immortals with Zhang Zhao, and Yu Fan pointed at Zhang Zhao, saying: "They are dead men talking about immortals—are there really immortals in this world!" Sun Quan’s accumulated anger was not just one instance, so he exiled Yu Fan to Jiaozhou. When Zhou He and others went to Liaodong, Yu Fan heard of it and thought that the Wuxi region should be subdued, while Liaodong was extremely remote; even if they came to submit, it was not worth acquiring, and now they were wasting their own resources to seek horses—this was neither in the state’s interest, and he feared it would yield nothing. He wished to remonstrate but dared not, so he submitted a memorial to Lü Dai for his perusal, but Lü Dai did not reply. Yu Fan was denounced by someone with whom he had a grudge, and was further exiled to Mengling County in Cangwu Commandery.

5 Summer, fourth month, on the day Renyin, Emperor Ming of Wei arrived at Xuchang.

1 Fifth month, the imperial son Cao Yin died.

7 Autumn, seventh month, Weiwei Dong Zhao was appointed as Situ.

8 Ninth month, Emperor Ming of Wei traveled to Mopi, built the Xuchang Palace, and constructed the Jingfu Hall and Chengguang Hall.

9 Gongsun Yuan harbored duplicity in secret, repeatedly communicating with Wu. Emperor Ming of Wei sent the Grand Administrator of Runan, Tian Yu, to lead the armies of Qing Province by sea, and the Inspector of You Province, Wang Xiong, to attack him by land. Sanqi Changshi Jiang Ji admonished, saying: "Any state that is not capable of swallowing another, and any minister who has not yet committed rebellion, should not be lightly attacked. If you attack them and cannot subdue them, you will instead drive them to become enemies. Hence the saying: 'When tigers and wolves block the road, do not bother with foxes and badgers.' First eliminate the great harm, and the small harms will naturally disappear. Now the lands beyond the sea have been vassals for generations, annually sending accounting officers and filial and incorrupt candidates, never lacking in tribute. Yet those who deliberate wish to attack them first. Even if one battle can conquer them, gaining their people would not strengthen the state, and gaining their wealth would not enrich the state; if the campaign does not go as desired, it will create enmity and lose trust." The emperor did not listen. Tian Yu and the others went, but achieved no military success, and an edict was issued to withdraw the forces.

Tian Yu believed that the Wu emissary Zhou He and others would be returning, that the winds would be strong at year’s end, and they would surely fear drifting and being lost at sea. Since the eastern sea route had no shores, they would likely reach Cheng Mountain, where there was no place to conceal ships. So he led his troops to encamp at Cheng Mountain. When Zhou He and the others reached Cheng Mountain, they encountered a great wind. Tian Yu commanded his troops to attack Zhou He and his men, and beheaded them. When Sun Quan heard of this, he then recalled Yu Fan’s words, and summoned Yu Fan back to Jiaozhou. But it happened that Yu Fan had already died, and only his coffin was sent back.

10 Eleventh month, on the day Gengyin, Chen Si Wang Cao Zhi died.

11 Twelfth month, Emperor Ming of Wei returned to the Xuchang Palace.

12 Attendant Censor Liu Ye was favored and trusted by Emperor Ming of Wei. The emperor was about to campaign against the state of Shu, and all the court officials, both inside and outside, said it was not feasible. Liu Ye entered the palace to discuss with the emperor and said it was permissible to attack; when he went out and spoke with court officials, he said it was not permissible. Liu Ye had boldness and strategic insight, and his words were always well-reasoned. Zhonglingjun Yang Ji, a trusted minister of the emperor, also deeply respected Liu Ye. He held the most steadfast position against attacking Shu, and whenever he came out of the palace, he would visit Liu Ye, who would then explain the reasons against attacking. Later, when Yang Ji discussed the campaign against Shu with the emperor, Yang Ji earnestly admonished. The emperor said: "You are a scholar—what do you know of military affairs!" Yang Ji apologized, saying: "My words are indeed not worth adopting, but Attendant Censor Liu Ye was a strategist for the late emperor, and he often said Shu could not be attacked." The emperor said: "Liu Ye told me that Shu could be attacked." Yang Ji said: "Liu Ye can be summoned for a confrontation." The emperor issued an edict summoning Liu Ye and questioned him, but Liu Ye remained silent throughout. Later, Liu Ye sought a private audience and rebuked the emperor, saying: "Attacking a state is a major strategic matter. I was fortunate to participate in hearing such a great plan, and I often feared that in my sleep I might leak secrets and increase my guilt—how would I dare speak of it to others! Military operations are a way of deception; before an operation begins, the more secret it is, the better. Yet Your Majesty openly revealed it—I fear the enemy state has already heard." The emperor then apologized to him. After Liu Ye left, he rebuked Yang Ji, saying: "If a fisherman wants to catch a big fish, he must let out the line and follow it, and only when he can control it does he reel it in—then he never fails to get it. The majesty of a ruler is not merely a big fish! You are indeed a loyal minister, but your plan is not worth adopting, and you cannot fail to think carefully." Yang Ji also apologized to him.

Someone said to the emperor: "Liu Ye is not entirely loyal; he is skilled at discerning Your Majesty’s inclinations and catering to them. Your Majesty should test Liu Ye by speaking with him, always asking him the opposite of what you think. If his answers always oppose what you ask, then Liu Ye regularly aligns with Your Majesty’s mind. If every time his answers match your questions, then Liu Ye’s true thoughts cannot be hidden." The emperor acted on this method to verify, and indeed discovered the truth. From then on, he distanced himself from Liu Ye. Liu Ye then went mad, was transferred to be Da Honglu, and died of melancholy.

The Fu Zi says: "Cunning and deceit are not as good as clumsy honesty—truly so! With Liu Ye’s intelligence and strategic schemes, if he had established himself through virtue and righteousness, and acted with loyalty and trustworthiness, then what ancient worthies could have surpassed him! He alone relied on his talent and wit, without valuing sincerity and steadfastness; inwardly he lost his ruler’s heart, outwardly he was troubled by the world, and in the end he harmed himself because of it—is that not a pity!"

13 Liu Ye once slandered Shangshu Ling Chen Jiao for monopolizing power. Chen Jiao was frightened and told his son Chen Qian about it. Chen Qian said: "The lord is sagely and enlightened; father is a high minister of the court. If there is now a disagreement, it will at most mean not becoming a Sangong." A few days later, the emperor’s suspicions indeed dissipated.

The Gentleman of the Department of the Imperial Secretariat, Lian Zhao of Lean, gained favor through his talent. He delighted in scrutinizing the minor faults of the various ministers to flatter the emperor. The Gentleman of the Yellow Gate, Du Shu, submitted a memorial saying: "I have seen Lian Zhao’s memorial stating that the Left Administrator Cao Fan was sentenced to interrogation because matters deserving punishment were not handled according to the imperial edict. He also said: 'All those who should be punished are to be reported separately.' The Director of the Imperial Secretariat, Chen Jiao, himself memorialized that he dared not decline punishment nor state his reasons, with a sincere and sorrowful intent. I privately feel sorrow for the court! The ancient emperors, in assisting the age and governing the people, none failed to gain the people’s affection from afar and exhaust the wisdom and strength of their ministers at hand. Now Your Majesty toils anxiously over various governmental affairs, sometimes personally lighting the lamp to handle them, yet the multitude of tasks remain unsettled, and penal laws and prohibitions grow daily more lax. Tracing the reason, it is not only that ministers are not loyal, but also that the ruler is not skilled in employing them. Baili Xi was foolish in the state of Yu but wise in the state of Qin; Yu Rang found a temporary refuge in the Zhonghang clan but displayed integrity under Zhibo—these are clear examples from antiquity. If Your Majesty believes there are no good talents in the present age and the court lacks worthy assistants, can we merely gaze longingly at the distant traces of Ji and Xie and sit waiting for future outstanding talents? Those now called worthy all occupy high offices and enjoy generous emoluments, yet their integrity in serving the ruler is not established, and their devotion to public affairs is not focused—this is because the duties entrusted are not concentrated, and the world is full of taboos. I believe that loyal ministers are not necessarily close, and close ministers are not necessarily loyal. Now if someone distant slanders another, Your Majesty suspects it is a private revenge against a hated person; if someone praises another, Your Majesty suspects it is private favoritism toward a close associate. Those nearby thus offer words of hatred or favor, causing those distant to dare not slander or praise, so that even the successes and failures of governance are met with hesitation. Your Majesty should consider how to broaden the minds of the court ministers, encourage the integrity of the virtuous, so that they naturally match the ancients and leave their names in history. Instead, allowing someone like Lian Zhao to cause disruption among them, I fear the great ministers will only seek to preserve their positions and emoluments, sitting idly by watching the gains and losses of governance, becoming a warning for later ages. In ancient times, the Duke of Zhou admonished the Duke of Lu, saying: 'Do not let the great ministers resent not being employed.' This means that the unworthy cannot be great ministers, and once they are great ministers, they cannot fail to be employed. The 'Book of Documents' enumerates the merits of Shun, praising him for expelling the Four Evils, and does not say that all crimes, great or small, warrant expulsion. Now the court ministers do not consider themselves without talent but believe Your Majesty does not employ them; they do not consider themselves ignorant but believe Your Majesty does not consult them. Why does Your Majesty not follow the Duke of Zhou’s method of employing ministers and Shun’s practice of expelling the Four Evils, so that the Palace Attendants and Directors of the Imperial Secretariat sit in attendance within the curtains when at rest and follow the ornate carriage when in motion, personally responding to imperial inquiries and each stating their strengths? Then the conduct of all ministers can be known, and the advancement of the worthy and the retreat of the dull and inferior will be a concern—who would still hesitate and not exert their utmost? With Your Majesty’s sagely intelligence, personally discussing governance with the ministers, causing each to do their utmost, the worthy and foolish, the talented and untalented, all depend on Your Majesty’s employment. Using this to govern, what task cannot be accomplished? Using this to establish achievements, what merit cannot be completed! Whenever there is military action, the imperial edict often says: 'Who should worry about this matter? I should worry about it myself.' Recently, an edict also said: 'Those who worry about public affairs and forget private interests will certainly not act this way; only by putting public before private can things naturally be accomplished.' I reverently read the sagely edict and realized that the sage’s thoughts fully understand the situation below, yet I also wonder why Your Majesty does not manage the root but worries about the branches. Whether a person is talented or not is indeed inherent; even I consider that not all court ministers are competent. A wise ruler employs people so that the talented cannot neglect their strength and the untalented cannot occupy unsuitable positions. If an election is not appropriate, it does not necessarily constitute a crime; the entire court tolerating inappropriate people is the strange thing. Your Majesty knows they are not exerting themselves but worries about their duties for them; knows they are untalented but teaches them to govern—is this merely the ruler toiling while the ministers are at ease? Even if sages and worthies appeared together, they could never govern the state this way! Your Majesty also worries that the prohibitions of the Imperial Secretariat are not strict and that private requests are unceasing, thus establishing regulations for receiving guests entering and exiting, and using harsh clerks to guard the gates of the government offices—this truly does not get to the root of prohibition. In ancient times, during the reign of Emperor An of Han, the Junior Treasurer Dou Jia summoned the innocent elder brother’s son of the Commandant of Justice Guo Gong, yet it was still reported and memorialized, with memorials and impeachments in profusion; recently, the Colonel of the Capital District Kong Xian summoned the wildly rebellious younger brother of the General-in-Chief, yet the relevant departments remained silent, watching the wind and conforming to intentions, which is worse than accepting private requests. This is a manifestation of elections not based on actual circumstances. Dou Jia had the favor of kinship, and Guo Gong was not a state minister, yet it was still so; comparing today’s situation with antiquity, Your Majesty only needs to personally enforce the penalties that must be carried out to sever the root of nepotism and partisanship. The system of entering and exiting, and harsh clerks guarding the gates, are not tools for governing the state. If my words are slightly adopted, why worry that evil will not be eradicated, and that someone like Lian Zhao is nurtured! Exposing and denouncing evil is a loyal act; yet the world detests petty men doing this because they disregard reason and seek advancement through expediency. If Your Majesty does not examine the beginning and end of matters, and is sure to consider opposing the masses and defying custom as serving the public, and secretly informing on others as fulfilling integrity, how can it be that a man of broad talent cannot do such things? It is truly because he considers the principles and does not do them. If the whole world turns away from righteousness and pursues profit, this is the ruler’s greatest concern—what joy would Your Majesty have then?" Du Shu was the son of Du Ji.

The emperor once suddenly arrived at the gate of the Imperial Secretariat. Chen Jiao knelt and asked the emperor, "Where is Your Majesty going?" The emperor said, "I wish to examine the documents." Chen Jiao said, "This is my own duty, not a place Your Majesty should personally approach. If I am not competent, please dismiss me; Your Majesty should return." The emperor felt ashamed, turned his carriage around, and went back. The emperor once asked Chen Jiao, "The Grand Commandant Sima Yi is loyal and upright—can he be called a pillar of the state?" Chen Jiao said, "He is the hope of the court. As for being a pillar of the state, that I do not know."

14. Lu Xun of Wu led troops toward Lujiang. Those discussing the matter believed they should quickly send relief. Man Chong said: "Though Lujiang is small, its generals are strong and its soldiers elite; they can hold out for a while. Moreover, the enemy abandons their boats and marches two hundred li overland, leaving their rear empty and cut off. We would have tried to lure them in if they did not come. Now we should let them advance. The only concern is that they might flee before we can pursue them." So he marshaled the army and headed for Yangyikou. When the Wu people heard of this, they fled during the night.

At this time, the people of Wu had plans to launch an attack every year. Man Chong submitted a memorial saying: "The city of Hefei is close to rivers and lakes to the south and far from Shouchun to the north. If the enemy attacks and besieges it, they can rely on the water advantage; when our officers and troops go to its rescue, we must first defeat the enemy's main force before the siege can be lifted. The enemy can approach easily, but it is very difficult for our officers and troops to go to its relief. We should move the troops inside the city westward thirty li, where there is a strategically dangerous terrain to rely on, and build another city to defend. This is to lure the enemy to flat ground and control their retreat route, which is advantageous in terms of strategy." General of the Guard Jiang Ji argued: "Doing this would both show weakness to the world and destroy the city upon seeing the enemy's smoke—this is abandoning it without being attacked. Once it comes to this, the enemy's plundering will have no end, and we will certainly need to use the Huai River region as a defensive position." The emperor did not approve. Man Chong again submitted a memorial saying: "Sunzi said: 'Warfare is the way of deception. Therefore, when able, show inability; use profit to make the enemy arrogant; use fear to make the enemy see.' This means that situation and reality are not necessarily consistent. He also said: 'Those skilled in moving the enemy create false appearances.' Now, the enemy has not yet arrived, and we move the city backward—this is what is called creating a false appearance to lure the enemy. Lure the enemy away from the water, choose the opportune moment to act, gain victory externally, and bring good fortune internally!" Minister Zhao Zi considered Man Chong's plan correct, and the imperial edict then followed and adopted it.

In the first year of Qinglong (Guichou, AD 233)

1 Spring, first month, on the day of Jiashen, a qinglong (green dragon) appeared in a well at Mopi. Second month, on the day of Dingyou, the emperor went to Mopi to observe the qinglong and changed the reign title.

2 Gongsun Yuan sent Colonel Su Shu and Palace Attendant-in-Ordinary Sun Zong with a memorial declaring himself a vassal to the state of Wu; the Lord of Wu was greatly pleased and issued a general amnesty for this reason. Third month, the Lord of Wu sent Grand Master of Ceremonies Zhang Mi, Commander of the Palace Guard Xu Yan, and General He Da leading an army of ten thousand men, carrying gold, silver, precious goods, and the complete items of the Nine Bestowals, to be granted to Gongsun Yuan by sea, enfeoffing him as King of Yan. The entire court, from Gu Yong downward, all remonstrated, saying: "Gongsun Yuan cannot be trusted, and the favor and treatment are too generous. We should only send officials and troops to escort Su Shu and Sun Zong back." The Lord of Wu did not listen. Zhang Zhao said: "Gongsun Yuan betrayed Wei out of fear of being attacked, and sought aid from afar—this is not his true intention. If Gongsun Yuan changes his mind and wants to show Wei his innocence, our two envoys will not be able to return. Will this not be a laughingstock to the world!" The Lord of Wu repeatedly rebutted Zhang Zhao, but Zhang Zhao's resolve became even more earnest. The Lord of Wu could not endure it, pressed his sword, and said angrily: "When the scholars of Wu enter the palace, they bow to me; when they leave the palace, they bow to you. My respect for you has reached its peak, yet you often humiliate me in public. I constantly fear I will make a mistake!" Zhang Zhao stared fixedly at the Lord of Wu and said: "I know my words will not be adopted, but I exhaust my foolish loyalty each time, truly because when the Empress Dowager was dying, she called this old servant to her bedside, and the words of her final edict of entrustment are still present." Then tears streamed down his face. The Lord of Wu threw his sword to the ground and wept with him. However, in the end, he sent Zhang Mi and Xu Yan on their way. Zhang Zhao was angry that his words were not used and claimed illness, refusing to attend court. The Lord of Wu resented him, blocked his gate with earth, and Zhang Zhao, inside, also sealed it with earth.

3 Summer, fifth month, on the day of Wuyin, the Prince of Beihai, Cao Rui, died.

4 Intercalary month, on the Gengyin day, the first day of the month, a solar eclipse occurred.

5 Sixth month, a fire broke out in the Jushi (ball-game room) of the Luoyang Palace.

6 The Xianbei chieftain Kebineng lured the Baosai Xianbei chief Budugen into forming a deep alliance and marriage, personally leading ten thousand cavalry to the north of Jing to welcome his tribesmen and goods. The Inspector of Bing Province, Bi Gui, submitted a memorial requesting an immediate military deployment, to intimidate Kebineng externally and pacify Budugen internally. The emperor read the memorial and said: "Budugen has already been enticed by Kebineng and harbors suspicions. Now, if Bi Gui deploys troops, he must not cross the border and pass through Mount Juzhu." By the time the edict arrived, Bi Gui had already advanced and camped at Yin'guan, sending General Su Shang and Dong Bi to pursue the Xianbei. Kebineng sent his son to lead over a thousand cavalry to welcome Budugen's tribe; they met Su Shang and Dong Bi and fought at Loufan. Both generals died in battle. Budugen and Xie Guini's tribes all rebelled and went beyond the border, joining Kebineng to invade the frontier. The emperor sent General of Swift Cavalry Qin Lang to lead the central army to campaign against them. Kebineng then fled to the northern desert, and Xie Guini led his tribe to surrender. Budugen was soon killed by Kebineng.

7 Gongsun Yuan realized that Wu was far away and difficult to rely on, so he executed Zhang Mi, Xu Yan, and others, sent their heads to the capital, and confiscated all their military supplies and treasures. Winter, twelfth month, Emperor Ming of Wei issued an edict appointing Gongsun Yuan as Grand Marshal and enfeoffing him as Duke of Lelang.

When the Lord of Wu, Sun Quan, heard of this, he was enraged and said: "I am already sixty years old. The difficulties and ease of worldly affairs have all been experienced. Recently, I have been pushed back and forth by a rat, making anger surge like a mountain. If I do not personally cut off that rat's head and throw it into the sea, I will have no face to face the myriad states. Even if I am ruined because of this, I will not regret it!"

Lu Xun submitted a memorial saying: "Your Majesty, with the quality of divine martial prowess, responds to Heaven's mandate, defeated Cao Cao at Wulin, defeated Liu Bei at Xiling, and captured Guan Yu at Jingzhou. These three rebels were all heroes of their time, yet all had their edge blunted. Where the sage's transformation reaches, ten thousand li away, all bow like grass. Now you are about to sweep away Huaxia and unify the great enterprise. Yet now you cannot endure a small anger and fly into a rage, violating the warning that 'a man of a thousand gold coins does not sit beneath a hanging eave,' and belittling the heavy responsibility of the ten-thousand-chariot sovereign—this is what your subject finds doubtful. I have heard that one who travels a thousand li does not stop halfway, and one who plots for all under Heaven does not harm the great enterprise for small matters. The strong enemy is still at the border, and the distant lands have not yet submitted. If Your Majesty takes a ship on a long expedition, it will certainly cause the enemy to spy on us. When calamity arrives and you worry, regret will be too late. If the great affair can be accomplished in time, then Gongsun Yuan will submit without being attacked. Now, why begrudge the people and horses of Liaodong, yet alone wish to abandon the solid foundation of Jiangdong without regard?"

Shangshu Puye Xue Zong submitted a memorial saying: "Formerly, Emperor Yuan of Han wanted to ride a tower ship, and Xue Guangde requested to cut his own neck to dye the wheels with blood. Why? Because the danger of water and fire is extreme, and it is not something an emperor should venture into. Now, Liaodong is a small state of Rong and Mo, with no solid cities, no defensive plans, and weapons that are dull and inferior, like dogs and sheep without governance. Going there will certainly conquer, as indeed the sage's edict says. However, that land is cold and barren, grain cannot grow, the people are accustomed to riding horses and migrate without fixed abode. Suddenly hearing of a great army's arrival, they will estimate they cannot resist, and will be like startled birds and frightened beasts, fleeing far away in a long drive, not a single person or horse to be seen. Even if you gain empty land, holding it yields no benefit—this is the first reason it cannot be done. Add to this the vast floodwaters with mountain-like perils, the unpredictable changes of sea voyages, wind and waves hard to avoid. In the blink of an eye, people and boats will scatter. Even with the virtue of Yao or Shun, wisdom has no place to act; even with the bravery of Meng Ben or Xia Yu, strength has no place to exert—this is the second reason it cannot be done. Add to this dense fog covering above and salt water evaporating below, easily causing edema diseases that spread contagiously. Among those who sail the seas, few avoid this sickness—this is the third reason it cannot be done. Heaven gives birth to a sage person, who should respond to the times to pacify calamities and bring peace to the common people and all things. Now, the rebel is about to perish, and the world is about to be settled. Yet you go against a certain plan to seek the most dangerous obstacles, neglect the stability of the Nine Provinces, and indulge a momentary rage. This is neither the important strategy for the state, nor something that has ever been done since the opening of heaven and earth. This is truly why all your subjects bow low, hold their breath, eat without taste, and sleep without rest."

The Minister of Civil Office, Lu Mao, submitted a memorial: “The northern bandits share a border with our territory. If there is an opportunity to exploit, they will seize it promptly. The reason we crossed the sea to seek horses and humored Gongsun Yuan was to deal with urgent crises and eliminate the troubles at our heart. Now we abandon the root to chase the leaves, spurn the near to govern the far, alter plans out of anger, and mobilize troops in agitation—this is precisely what the cunning enemy hopes to hear, and it is no good policy for Great Wu. Moreover, in military tactics, the way to exhaust the enemy is to use labor, while we rest to await the weary; the gains and losses, as perceived, are often numerous. Besides, Tazhu is still far from Gongsun Yuan’s territory. Now, if we reach his shore, our forces must be divided into three parts: the elite to attack, the lesser to guard the ships, and the rest to transport grain. Though the marching troops are many, it is difficult to use them all. Add to this the burden of single men carrying grain on foot through distant, deep enemy territory. The bandits’ land has many horses, and their ambushes and interceptions come without fixed timing. If Gongsun Yuan is cunning and deceitful, and has not severed ties with the north, then once we raise troops, they will be as dependent as lips and teeth. If he is truly isolated and without support, then out of fear he will flee far away, and it may be hard to destroy him quickly. This would delay Heaven’s punishment on the northern border while mountain bandits rise to take advantage. I fear this is not a fully secure long-term plan!” The Lord of Wu did not agree.

Lu Mao submitted another memorial: “War is indeed a means used by previous generations to punish the violent and awe the four barbarians. But such campaigns were only launched after the treacherous heroes had been eliminated, the realm was at peace, and there was leisure for deliberation in the court. As for times when the Central Plains are in chaos and the realm is in contention, it is generally necessary to deepen the roots and strengthen the foundation, cherish the people’s strength, and conserve resources. There is no proper occasion at such a time to abandon the near and govern the far, wearying the army. In the past, Wei Tuo rebelled and usurped the title of emperor. At that time, the realm was stable and the people were prosperous, yet Emperor Wen of Han still considered a distant expedition difficult and merely issued an edict of admonition. Now the fierce enemy has not yet been eliminated, and the borders remain on alert. Gongsun Yuan should not take priority. I hope Your Majesty will restrain your wrath, employ strategy, temporarily let the army rest, and calmly plan for the future. This would be a great fortune for the realm!” The Lord of Wu then halted the campaign.

The Lord of Wu repeatedly sent people to comfort Zhang Zhao, but Zhang Zhao therefore did not rise. The Lord of Wu then went out, passed by Zhang Zhao’s gate, and called out to him. Zhang Zhao excused himself, saying he was gravely ill. The Lord of Wu set fire to his gate, intending to frighten him, but Zhang Zhao still did not come out. The Lord of Wu had the fire extinguished and waited at the gate for a long time. Zhang Zhao’s sons together helped him up. The Lord of Wu took him back to the palace in his carriage and deeply reproached himself. Zhang Zhao, having no choice, then attended court.

Initially, Zhang Mi, Xu Yan, and others arrived at Xiangping. Gongsun Yuan planned to harm them, so he first scattered their officials and soldiers, placing the imperial envoys Qin Dan, Zhang Qun, Du De, Huang Qiang, along with sixty officials and soldiers, in Xuantu. Xuantu was two hundred li northeast of Liaodong. Its Grand Administrator, Wang Zan, governed two hundred households. Qin Dan and the others were lodged among the common people, relying on them for food and drink. After more than forty days, Qin Dan discussed with Zhang Qun and the others: “We have come from afar, disgraced the state’s mission, and been abandoned here—there is no difference from death. Now I see that this commandery is very weak in strength. If we can unite our hearts and minds, burn the city walls, kill their officials, and avenge the state’s shame, then even if we die, it will be without regret. How can we endure a life of disgrace, remaining prisoners and captives for long?” Zhang Qun and the others agreed. Thus they secretly made a pact, planning to act on the night of the nineteenth day of the eighth month. At noon that day, they were informed on by a man of the commandery named Zhang Song. Wang Zan then gathered his troops, closed the city gates. Qin Dan, Zhang Qun, Du De, and Huang Qiang all escaped over the walls. At the time, Zhang Qun had a festering sore on his knee and could not keep up. Du De often supported him as they walked together, traveling through rugged mountain valleys for six or seven hundred li. The sore worsened, and Zhang Qun could go no further. He lay in the grass, and they guarded each other, weeping in sorrow. Zhang Qun said: “I am unfortunate, my wound is severe, and death is near. You should hurry on, hoping to reach some place. What benefit is there in guarding me in vain to die together in this desolate ravine?” Du De said: “We have drifted ten thousand li, sharing life and death. I cannot bear to abandon you.” So he urged Qin Dan and Huang Qiang to go ahead, while Du De stayed alone to guard Zhang Qun, gathering wild vegetables and fruits to feed him. Qin Dan and Huang Qiang, after several days apart, reached Goguryeo. There they read out the Lord of Wu’s edict to the Goguryeo king Weigong and his chief clerk, falsely claiming that rewards had been sent but were seized by Liaodong. Weigong and the others were greatly pleased, immediately accepted the edict, and ordered envoys to follow Qin Dan back to welcome Zhang Qun and Du De. They dispatched twenty-five black-robed men to escort Qin Dan and the others back to Wu, submitted a memorial acknowledging vassalage, and presented a tribute of one thousand sable skins and ten sets of heji bird leather. When Qin Dan and the others saw the Lord of Wu, their sorrow and joy were beyond control. The Lord of Wu considered them brave and appointed them all as Commandants.

8. In this year, the Lord of Wu led troops intending to besiege Xincheng, but because the city was far from the water, he waited over twenty days and dared not disembark. Man Chong said to the generals: “Sun Quan, knowing we have moved the city, will surely boast among his troops. Now he has come in great force, seeking a temporary achievement. Though he dares not approach the city wall, he will certainly come ashore to display his military might and show his strength.” So he secretly deployed six thousand infantry and cavalry to lie in ambush in the hidden areas of the Fei River, waiting for him. The Lord of Wu indeed came ashore to display his forces. Man Chong’s ambush suddenly attacked, beheading several hundred men; some also jumped into the water and drowned. The Lord of Wu also sent Quan Cong to attack Lu’an, but he did not succeed.

9. The Shu-Han Inspector of the Southern Barbarians, Zhang Yi, enforced the law harshly and strictly. The Southern Yi chieftain Liu Zhou rebelled. The Chancellor, Zhuge Liang, appointed the Canjun, Ma Zhong of Baxi, to replace Zhang Yi and summoned Zhang Yi to return. Someone said to Zhang Yi that he should hurry back to accept punishment. Zhang Yi said: “Wrong. I was removed because the barbarians stirred up trouble and I was not competent. However, my replacement has not yet arrived. I am facing the battlefield and should transport grain and stockpile supplies as materials to eliminate the bandits. How can I abandon public affairs just because I am being demoted?” So he continued his administration without slackening, and only departed when his replacement arrived. Ma Zhong, relying on the foundation he had laid, defeated Liu Zhou and beheaded him.

10. Zhuge Liang encouraged agriculture, drilled military affairs, built wooden oxen and flowing horses, transported grain to concentrate at Xie Valley Mouth, and constructed granaries at Xie Valley. He gave the people and soldiers a period of rest, and only employed them after three years.

The Second Year of Qinglong (Jia Yin, 234 AD)

1. Spring, second month. Zhuge Liang led his entire army of one hundred thousand men from Xie Valley to invade, sending envoys to Yue to arrange a simultaneous major attack.

3. Third month, Geng Yin day. The Duke of Shanyang died. Emperor Ming of Wei wore white mourning garments and conducted the funeral.

4. Ji You day. A general amnesty was declared.

4. Summer, fourth month. A great plague broke out.

5. The Chonghua Hall caught fire.

6. Zhuge Liang arrived at Mei County and encamped his army south of the Wei River. Sima Yi led his army across the Wei River, built fortifications with their backs to the river to resist him, and said to the generals: “If Zhuge Liang goes out from Wugong and heads east along the mountains, that would indeed be worrisome. If he goes west to Wuzhang Plains, you generals will have nothing to fear.” Zhuge Liang indeed encamped at Wuzhang Plains.

The Inspector of Yongzhou, Guo Huai, said to Sima Yi: “Zhuge Liang will surely contend for the North Plain; we should occupy it first.” Most of those discussing this thought it wrong. Guo Huai said: “If Zhuge Liang crosses the Wei River and ascends the North Plain, linking his forces with the Northern Mountains, cutting off the Long Road, and unsettling the people and the Yi, this will not benefit the state.” Sima Yi then sent Guo Huai to occupy the North Plain. The trenches and fortifications were not yet completed when the Han troops arrived in force. Guo Huai met them and drove them back.

Zhuge Liang, because his previous several campaigns had all failed due to insufficient grain transport, preventing him from fulfilling his ambitions, then divided his troops to establish agricultural settlements as a base for a long stay. The soldiers who cultivated the land mixed among the residents along the Wei River. The people were settled, and the army did not seize private property.

In the fifth month, the King of Wu (Sun Quan) entered the mouth of the Chao Lake and advanced toward the new city of Hefei, claiming an army of one hundred thousand. He also sent Lu Xun and Zhu Gejin with over ten thousand men into Jiangxia and the mouth of the Mian River, advancing toward Xiangyang. General Sun Shao and Zhang Cheng entered the Huai River, advancing toward Guangling and Huaiyin. In the sixth month, Man Chong wished to lead the various armies to rescue the new city. General Tian Yu of the Yiyi Army said: “The enemy has mobilized their entire force for a great attack. It is not to seek small gains, but to use the new city as bait to draw out our main army. We should let them attack the city, blunt their sharp edge, and not engage them in direct battle. If the new city cannot be taken, the enemy will surely become weary and slack. When they are weary and slack, then we can attack and achieve a great victory. If the enemy sees through our plan, they will certainly not attack the city and will inevitably withdraw on their own. If we advance now, we will fall right into their trap.”

At that time, the officers and troops in the east were all on leave in rotation. Man Chong submitted a memorial requesting the mobilization of troops from the central army and the recall of all those on leave, so that once assembled, they could attack the enemy. The Sanqi Changshi, Liu Shao of Guangping, debated, saying: “The enemy has just arrived; their minds are focused and their spirit is sharp. Man Chong, with a small force fighting within his own defense zone, if he immediately advances to attack, he will certainly not be able to prevail. Man Chong’s request to await reinforcements is not a mistaken plan. I believe we should first send five thousand infantry and three thousand elite cavalry as a vanguard. They should set out, spreading their reputation and advancing, displaying military might. When the cavalry reaches Hefei, they should scatter their formations, set up many flags and war drums, and show off their strength below the city walls. This will lure the enemy into withdrawing, cut off their return route, and block their supply lines. When the enemy hears that the main army is coming and that the cavalry has cut off their rear, they will certainly be shocked and terrified, and flee, breaking themselves without a battle.” The emperor adopted this plan.

Man Chong wanted to withdraw the defenders from the new city and lure the enemy to Shouchun. The emperor did not agree, saying: “In the past, Emperor Guangwu of Han sent troops to occupy Lüeyang and ultimately defeated Wei Xiao. Our late emperor established Hefei in the east, guarded Xiangyang in the south, and held Qishan in the west. When enemies came to attack, they were always defeated by these three cities because they are places that must be fought for. Even if Sun Quan attacks the new city, he will certainly not take it. Command the various generals to hold firm. I will personally lead an expedition. By the time I arrive, I fear Sun Quan will have already fled.” Thereupon, he sent the Zhenshu General of the Hu Army, Qin Lang, leading twenty thousand infantry and cavalry to assist Sima Yi in resisting Zhuge Liang. He commanded Sima Yi, saying: “Simply strengthen the defenses and hold firm to blunt the enemy’s edge. If they attack, they cannot succeed; if they withdraw, they have no battle to fight. If they stay long, their provisions will be exhausted; if they plunder, they will gain nothing. Then they will surely flee. When they flee, pursue them. This is the strategy for complete victory.” In autumn, the seventh month, on the Renshen day, the emperor took a dragon boat and embarked on an eastern expedition. Man Chong recruited brave men to burn the enemy’s siege equipment, and shot and killed Sun Tai, the son of the King of Wu’s younger brother. Additionally, many of the enemy’s officers and troops were ill. When the emperor was still several hundred li from the Wu forces, the decoy troops arrived first. The King of Wu initially thought the emperor would not come out. When he heard that the main army had arrived, he fled, and Sun Shao also withdrew.

Lu Xun sent a close confidant, Han Bian, bearing a memorial to see the King of Wu, but he was captured by patrolling soldiers. Zhu Gejin, upon hearing this, was greatly frightened and wrote to Lu Xun, saying: “The sovereign has already returned. The enemy has captured Han Bian and fully knows the true situation of our army. Moreover, the river waters are drying up. We should quickly retreat.” Lu Xun did not reply. He was hurrying people to plant turnips and beans, and playing chess and shooting arrows with his generals as if nothing were unusual. Zhu Gejin said: “Boyan (Lu Xun) is full of wisdom and strategy. He must have a plan.” So he went in person to see Lu Xun. Lu Xun said: “The enemy knows that the sovereign has returned and has no further worries. They can concentrate their strength against us. Moreover, they have already occupied the key strategic points. The morale of our officers and troops is shaken. We ourselves must be calm to stabilize the army’s spirit, and then employ tactics of change before we can withdraw. If we show signs of retreat now, the enemy will think we are afraid and will take the opportunity to press us. That will certainly lead to defeat.” Thereupon, he secretly devised a plan with Zhu Gejin. He had Zhu Gejin command the warships, while Lu Xun led all his troops and advanced toward Xiangyang city. The Wei army had always feared Lu Xun’s reputation and quickly turned back to rush to Xiangyang. Zhu Gejin then led the ships out, and Lu Xun slowly reorganized his ranks, making a great show of force, and marched on foot toward the warships. The Wei forces dared not approach. When they reached Baiwei, they pretended to go hunting. Secretly, Lu Xun sent Generals Zhou Jun and Zhang Liang to attack Jiangxia, Xinshi, Anlu, and Shiyang, killing or capturing over a thousand people before returning. The court officials thought that since Sima Yi was locked in a stalemate with Zhuge Liang, the emperor could go west to Chang’an. The emperor said: “Sun Quan has fled, and Zhuge Liang’s courage is broken. The main army is sufficient to subdue them. I have no worries.” Thereupon, he advanced to Shouchun, recorded the merits of the various generals, and awarded them different ranks and rewards accordingly.

In the eighth month, on the Renshen day, Emperor Xian of Han was buried at the Chanling Mausoleum.

On the Xinsi day, the emperor returned to Xuchang.

Sima Yi confronted Zhuge Liang for over a hundred days. Zhuge Liang challenged him many times, but Sima Yi would not come out to fight. Zhuge Liang then sent someone to present Sima Yi with a woman’s headdress and clothing. Sima Yi was greatly enraged and submitted a memorial requesting battle. The emperor sent the Weiwei, Xin Pi, holding a tally as army supervisor, to restrain him. The Hujun, Jiang Wei, said to Zhuge Liang: “Xin Zuozhi (Xin Pi) has arrived with the tally. The enemy will not come out to fight again.” Zhuge Liang said: “He originally had no intention of fighting. The reason he insisted on requesting battle was merely to display his might before his troops. A general in the field may refuse the sovereign’s commands. If he could overcome us, why would he need to travel a thousand li to request battle?”

Zhuge Liang sent an envoy to Sima Yi’s camp. Sima Yi asked about Zhuge Liang’s sleep, eating, and the detail of his handling of affairs, but did not ask about military matters. The envoy replied: “Our Master (Zhuge Liang) rises early and sleeps late. Matters involving punishment of twenty strokes or more are all reviewed personally. The food he eats is no more than a few sheng.” Sima Yi said to others: “Zhuge Kongming eats little but handles many affairs. How long can he live?”

Zhuge Liang’s illness became severe. The Han sovereign (Liu Shan) sent the Shangshu Puye, Li Fu, to visit and inquire after him, and to consult on major state affairs. When Li Fu arrived, he finished his conversation with Zhuge Liang, took his leave, and departed. After a few days, he returned. Zhuge Liang said: “I know the reason for your return. Though our conversation the other day lasted a whole day, there was still something left unsaid. You have come again to settle it. As for what you ask, Gongyan (Jiang Wan) is the suitable person.” Li Fu apologized, saying: “Earlier, I indeed failed to ask: after your death, who can take charge of great matters? So I immediately returned. May I ask, after Jiang Wan, who can succeed him?” Zhuge Liang said: “Wenwei (Fei Yi) can succeed him.” He was asked who came next, but Zhuge Liang did not answer.

In this month, Zhuge Liang died in the army. The Changshi, Yang Yi, reorganized the troops and withdrew. The common people ran to report this to Sima Yi, who led his army in pursuit. Jiang Wei ordered Yang Yi to turn the banners around and beat the war drums, as if about to meet Sima Yi’s attack. Sima Yi withdrew his troops and did not dare approach. Thereupon, Yang Yi formed his ranks and departed. Only after entering the mouth of the valley did he announce the mourning. The common people composed a proverb, saying: “The dead Zhuge Liang put the living Zhongda (Sima Yi) to flight.” When Sima Yi heard this, he laughed and said: “This is because I can foresee the affairs of the living, but cannot foresee the affairs of the dead.” Sima Yi inspected the remains of Zhuge Liang’s camp and sighed, saying: “Truly a remarkable talent of the world!” He pursued as far as Chian, but did not catch up, and so returned.

Long ago, the Han Front Army Commander Wei Yan, exceptionally brave and surpassing others in valor, was skilled at treating his soldiers well. Whenever he followed Zhuge Liang on military campaigns, he always requested to lead ten thousand troops, planning to rendezvous with Zhuge Liang at Tong Pass by a separate route, acting like Han Xin once did. Zhuge Liang restrained him and did not permit it. Wei Yan often said Zhuge Liang was timid, lamenting that his own talents could not be fully utilized. Yang Yi was capable and sharp. Whenever Zhuge Liang launched an expedition, Yang Yi would often plan deployments and calculate provisions and fodder, needing no repeated deliberation, completing everything in an instant. The army’s orders and arrangements all relied on Yang Yi’s handling. Wei Yan had a proud nature; people of the time avoided him, but only Yang Yi did not defer to Wei Yan, who resented this bitterly, and their relationship was like fire and water. Zhuge Liang deeply cherished both men’s abilities and could not bear to discard either.

Fei Yi was sent as an envoy to Wu. The King of Wu, drunk, asked Fei Yi: “Yang Yi and Wei Yan are nothing but herding petty men. Though they have made some trivial contributions to current affairs, like cocks crowing and dogs stealing, now that they have been employed, they must not be taken lightly. If one day Zhuge Liang is no longer there, they will surely cause chaos. You people are muddled and do not know to guard against this—is this what is called ‘leaving good plans for one’s sons and grandsons’?” Fei Yi replied: “The discord between Yang Yi and Wei Yan arises merely from personal grudges; they do not have the hard-to-manage ambitions of Qing Bu or Han Xin. Now, as we are sweeping away powerful enemies and unifying the empire, achievements rely on talents to be accomplished, and undertakings rely on talents to be expanded. If we discard such men and guard against future troubles, it is like fearing wind and waves and discarding boats beforehand—this is not a long-term strategy.”

When Zhuge Liang was critically ill, he arranged with Yang Yi and the Commandant Fei Yi the plans for withdrawing the army after his death, ordering Wei Yan to cover the rear, with Jiang Wei as the next in command; if Wei Yan did not obey the order, the army was to proceed on its own. After Zhuge Liang died, Yang Yi kept the death secret and did not announce mourning, sending Fei Yi to probe Wei Yan’s intentions. Wei Yan said: “Though the Chancellor has died, I myself am still here. The Chancellor’s household relatives and officials can escort the coffin back for burial; I should personally lead the various armies to attack the enemy. How can we abandon the great affairs of the empire because of one man’s death! Moreover, who am I, Wei Yan, to submit to Yang Yi’s command and act as a rear-guard general?” Then he and Fei Yi jointly drafted arrangements for staying and departing, ordering Fei Yi to write it personally and sign jointly with him, notifying the various generals. Fei Yi deceived Wei Yan, saying: “I should go back and explain this to Chief Clerk Yang for you. Chief Clerk Yang is a civil official, with little experience in military affairs; he will surely not go against your orders.” After Fei Yi left, he spurred his horse and galloped away. Wei Yan soon regretted it, but it was too late.

Wei Yan sent men to spy on Yang Yi and the others’ movements, discovering that they intended to follow Zhuge Liang’s established plan, with each camp withdrawing troops in succession. Wei Yan was furious, and before Yang Yi set out, he led his own troops straight south in retreat, burning the plank roads wherever he passed. Wei Yan and Yang Yi each submitted memorials accusing the other of rebellion; within a day, urgent reports arrived one after another. The Han ruler asked the Attendant-in-Ordinary Dong Yun and the Chief Clerk of the Rear Headquarters Jiang Wan about this. Jiang Wan and Dong Yun both vouched for Yang Yi and suspected Wei Yan. Yang Yi and the others ordered trees to be felled to open a road, traveling day and night, also following behind Wei Yan. Wei Yan arrived first, occupied the Southern Valley Mouth, and sent troops to block Yang Yi and the others. Yang Yi and the others ordered General He Ping to confront Wei Yan in the front. He Ping rebuked the soldiers who had taken the forward positions, saying: “The Chancellor has just died; his bones are not yet cold—how dare you do this!” Wei Yan’s soldiers knew that Wei Yan was in the wrong, and none were willing to fight for him; they all scattered. Wei Yan, with only his son and a few men, fled toward Hanzhong. Yang Yi sent General Ma Dai to pursue and behead them, and then exterminated Wei Yan’s three clans. Jiang Wan led the various guard battalions north to rush to the rescue; after traveling several dozen li, news of Wei Yan’s death arrived, so they turned back. Initially, Wei Yan had wanted to kill Yang Yi and the others, hoping that public opinion would allow him to replace Zhuge Liang as regent. Therefore, he did not surrender to Wei in the north but turned south to attack Yang Yi; in truth, he had no rebellious intent.

The various armies returned to Chengdu. A general amnesty was granted, and Zhuge Liang was posthumously granted the title Marquis Zhongwu. Earlier, Zhuge Liang had submitted a memorial to the Han ruler saying: “In Chengdu, there are eight hundred mulberry trees and fifteen qing of poor fields; my sons’ and younger brothers’ clothing and food are self-sufficient. I do not manage other property to add even a bit of income. If I die, let there be no surplus silk in my household and no surplus wealth outside, so that I do not betray your majesty.” The result was exactly as he had said.

The Chief Clerk of the Chancellor’s Office, Zhang Yi, often praised Zhuge Liang, saying: “His rewards did not overlook the distant, and his punishments did not favor the close. Titles could not be obtained without merit, and penalties could not be avoided because of high status. This is the reason why both the worthy and the foolish could forget themselves and serve the state with all their might!”

Chen Shou commented: “Zhuge Liang, as Chancellor, pacified the people, displayed ritual norms, streamlined offices, followed expedient systems, opened his heart sincerely, and dispensed justice fairly. Those who were loyal and beneficial to the times were rewarded even if they were enemies; those who violated the law and were negligent were punished even if they were relatives. Those who confessed their crimes and spoke the truth were released even if their crimes were serious; those who used clever words to cover up faults were executed even if their faults were minor. No good deed was too small to be rewarded, and no evil deed was too slight to be denounced. He was thoroughly proficient in all affairs, governed things from their roots, examined reality according to names, and allowed no falsehood to be tolerated. In the end, within the borders of Shu, everyone revered and loved him. Though his penal laws were strict, there were no resentful people, because his heart was fair and his warnings were clear. He can be called an outstanding talent in governing the state, a figure comparable to Guan Zhong and Xiao He!”

Earlier, the Chief Commandant of the Long River Garrison, Liao Li, considered himself talented and renowned enough to be Zhuge Liang’s deputy. He was often morose because his position was idle, constantly complaining and slandering. Zhuge Liang reduced Liao Li to commoner status and exiled him to Wenshan. After Zhuge Liang’s death, Liao Li wept and said: “I am ultimately to become a barbarian wearing left-lapel garments!” Li Ping, upon hearing this news, also fell ill and died. Li Ping had always hoped that Zhuge Liang would reinstate him, allowing him to make amends for his faults—this was because he considered that later people would not be able to do so.

Xi Zuochi commented: “In ancient times, Guan Zhong took away the three hundred households of Bo’s fiefdom in Pianyi, and Bo bore no resentment to the end; the sage considered this difficult. Zhuge Liang caused Liao Li to weep and Li Yan to die of grief—was it merely that they had no resentment? Water, when extremely level, is emulated even by the crooked; a mirror, when extremely bright, makes the ugly forget their anger. The reason water and mirrors can fully reveal the truth of things without incurring resentment is that they are selfless. If water and mirrors, being selfless, can still avoid slander, how much more so for a great man and noble one who cherishes the heart of loving life, spreads the virtue of compassion and forgiveness, applies laws where they cannot be avoided, imposes punishment for crimes one has personally committed, bestows titles without selfish motives, and executes criminals without anger—will the empire not be convinced?”

The people of Shu repeatedly requested to establish a shrine for Zhuge Liang. The Later Ruler did not permit it. The people then privately sacrificed to him by the roadside according to the seasons. The Commandant of Infantry, Xi Long, and others submitted a memorial saying: “Please establish a shrine near his tomb at Mianyang, and put an end to private sacrifices.” The Later Ruler followed this advice.

The Later Ruler appointed the General of the Left, Wu Yi, as General of Chariots and Cavalry, granting him a tally of authority to oversee Hanzhong. He appointed the Chief Clerk of the Chancellor’s Office, Jiang Wan, as Master of Writing, to oversee all state affairs. Soon after, he added to Jiang Wan the title of Acting Protector, granted him a tally of authority, and concurrently appointed him Inspector of Yi Province. At that time, they had just lost their leader, and both inside and outside the court felt danger and fear. Jiang Wan, with his outstanding abilities, stood above all officials, showing neither a sorrowful expression nor a joyful one. His demeanor, conduct, and actions were as usual. From then on, the expectations of the multitude gradually came to trust him.

When Wu learned of Zhuge Liang's death, fearing that Wei would take advantage of Shu's weakened state to attack, they reinforced the garrison at Baqiu with ten thousand troops, partly to rescue Shu and partly to carve up Shu territory if necessary. When Shu heard of this, they also reinforced the garrison at Yong'an to guard against unforeseen events. The Later Ruler sent Right Central Chief Retainer Zong Yu as an envoy to Wu. The Wu ruler asked him, "Eastern Wu and Western Shu are like one family, yet I have heard that Western Shu has increased its garrison at Baidi City. Why is that?" Zong Yu replied, "I believe that Wu's reinforcement of its garrison at Baqiu and Shu's reinforcement of its garrison at Baidi City are both natural responses to the development of circumstances; neither is worth inquiring about from the other." The Wu ruler laughed heartily, praised him for his straightforward and bold reply, and showed him courtesy second only to that shown to Deng Zhi.

Wu's Zhuge Ke believed that the terrain of Danyang Commandery was rugged and dangerous, and that the mountain people were mostly bold and sturdy. Although troops had been sent to subdue them in the past, they had only obtained the commoners from the outer counties. The rest of the people deep in the mountains could not all be captured. He repeatedly requested to be appointed to office there in order to pacify them, claiming that within three years he could obtain forty thousand armored soldiers. All the court officials argued: "Danyang's terrain is steep and perilous, bordering on the four commanderies of Wu, Kuaiji, Xindu, and Poyang, covering an area several thousand li square with ten thousand mountain valleys. The people in those remote depths have never entered towns or cities, nor faced officials. They flee through the wilderness with weapons in hand, living their entire lives among the forests and thickets. Fugitive criminals and habitual evil-doers all flee and hide together. The mountains produce copper and iron, so they forge their own armor and weapons. Their customs favor martial skills and military drill, and they value strength and courage. Climbing high mountains, rushing into dangerous places, and crashing through thorny underbrush is as natural to them as fish swimming into deep pools or monkeys leaping among trees. They constantly watch for opportunities to come out and commit banditry. Every time troops are sent to suppress them, they seek out their lairs and hiding places. When they fight, they swarm like bees; when defeated, they scatter like birds and beasts. From ancient times onward, they could not be controlled." All considered it very difficult. When Zhuge Ke's father, Zhuge Jin, heard of this, he also believed that the matter would ultimately not succeed and sighed, saying, "Zhuge Ke will not bring prosperity to our family; instead, he will bring the calamity of our clan's destruction!" Zhuge Ke repeatedly argued that he would surely succeed, so the Wu ruler appointed him as General Pacifying the Yue, concurrently serving as Grand Administrator of Danyang, allowing him to implement his own plans.

Winter, eleventh month, an earthquake occurred in Luoyang.

Wu's Pan Jun campaigned against the Wuling Man barbarians. After several years, he beheaded and captured tens of thousands of people. From then on, the power of the various Man tribes weakened, and the region became peaceful. In the eleventh month, Pan Jun returned to Wuchang.