««« Chapter 62 »»» The Taking Of River Fu Pass, Yang Huai and Gao Pei Perish; The Siege Of Luocheng, Huang Zhong and Wei Yan Rival.

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1 Zhang Zhao proceeded to unfold his device: "If you undertake any expedition farther west, Cao Cao will undoubtedly return to the attack. Rather write two letters, one to Liu Zhang saying that Liu Bei has leagued himself with you against the west, which will raise suspicions in the mind of Liu Zhang and cause him to attack his guest, and another letter persuading Zhang Lu to march upon Jingzhou, which will uproot Liu Bei. Between these two conflicting matters, Liu Bei cannot give supports to all fronts, and we can march against Jingzhou."
2 Sun Quan approved, wrote the two letters, and sent them by two messengers.
3 In the meantime, Liu Bei had been winning the hearts of the people about Jiameng Pass, where his army lay. When he received the news of his wife's flight and of Cao Cao's attack on Ruxu, he called in Pang Tong and laid the matter before him.
4 "The victor of Ruxu, whoever it is, will assuredly possess himself of our region of Jingzhou," said Liu Bei at the close.
5 "You need not trouble about that region," said Pang Tong. "I do not think the South Land or the Middle Land will try to take it so long as Zhuge Liang is there. But, my lord, write to Liu Zhang telling him you wish to return on account of this threatening danger. It will be a plausible excuse. You may say that on account of Cao Cao's attack, Sun Quan has sent to you for help, and that as his country and yours are neighbors and dependent upon each other for safety you cannot refuse. Further, you will assure him that there is no danger of any invasion by Zhang Lu. However, we have too few troops for our purpose and insufficient grain, so you must also urge your relative to send you thirty or forty thousand of veterans and a plentiful supply of food. He will not refuse, and with more soldiers and provisions we can do as we please."
6 Liu Bei agreed to this and sent a messenger to Chengdu. When his messenger reached the River Fu Pass, Yang Huai and Gao Pei, who commanded the garrison, already knew of the design, and the former of the two generals went with him to the city.
7 After reading the letter, the Imperial Protector asked Yang Huai, "Why did you come with the messenger?"
8 "Only because of that letter," Yang Huai replied. "This Liu Bei, from the day he first entered Yizhou, has been trying to win over the hearts of your people by a display of kindness and virtue. He certainly intends no good, and I think you should refuse both the troops and the supplies he asks. To help him is like adding fuel to a fire."
9 "We are affectionate brothers, and I must help him," said the Imperial Protector.
10 "Liu Bei is nothing but a vagabond swashbuckler," someone cried, "and if you keep him here in the west, you are loosing a tiger in your household. If you give him the troops and supplies he asks, you are adding wings to your tiger."
11 Turning whence the voice proceeded, they recognized the speaker as one Liu Ba, a native of Lingling. His words threw the Imperial Protector into a state of doubt and hesitation. Huang Quan also dissuaded him most earnestly, and finally Liu Zhang actually decided to send only four thousand of worn-out soldiers and a paltry supply of grain. At the same time fresh orders enjoining a diligent watchfulness were sent to the guardians of the passes.
12 When Liu Bei read the letter that accompanied the Imperial Protector's miserable contribution to his strength, he was furious and cried, "I have been spending myself in your defense, and this is my reward! You are mean and greedy enough to stint my supplies. How can you expect generous service?"	» Bmwmasse -- haha -- i guess liubei isnt as virtuous, and good tempered, and all that crap that he tries to be to please the ppl. » MasterLiang -- Actually, this is a good show of virtue. -- In a virtuous confucian realtionship, respect flows both ways, or it all means nothing, father to son, husband to wife, liege to servant, brother to brother. If Liu Zhang breaks that bond (and puts liu bei's life in jeopardy in the meanwhile) you can expect him to be unhappy. » DongDal -- Plus... -- Liu Bei has just spent a fair few months defending Liu Zhang's land and Liu Zhang has just turned his back on him. What else is he supposed to do?
13 Liu Bei tore the letter to fragments and execrated the writer thereof. The bearer of the letter fled back to the capital.
14 Then said Pang Tong, "You have hitherto laid too much stress on humanity and righteousness. However, that is all over now, and all affection between you two is at an end, now that you have torn up that letter."
15 "Yes. And since that is so, what next?" asked Liu Bei.
16 "I have three schemes ready in my mind. You may choose which pleases you."	» Super Dian Wei -- Quick -- Out of all the dragons and phoenixes and guys who turn into smoke when they die, I find this most amusing: that all the strategists just had these plans ready when asked. It seems very awe inspiring, because this Liu Zhang situation has only just arisen, and yet Pang Tong already had a plan (not to mention, MULTIPLE plans) ready to go. I don't know how they come up with these complicated strategies so fast, but I say hats off to them! » JiaGai -- Training -- Men like them are well versed in Sun Zi's Art of War, as well as well studied on history. They are able to take inferences of other events, dissect the motivations, objectives and successfullness of each strategy, and undestand how to apply it to current situations. That and they had imagination. I cannot stress how vital a good imagination is when combined with a great education. » toocold -- chess -- I think it's alot like a game of chess. They think out all of the enemies moves and plan ahead. Also you have to understand, when they're camped or garrisoned they don't have a whole lot to do but sit around and maybe train the armies. They have a lot of time to think and plan. » Fuddy -- Way too smart... -- This guy is supposed to be as smart as Zhuge Liang, right. Pang Tong probably knew that Liu Zhang would refuse to send troops. He probably used this as a chance to convince Liu Bei to attack Liu Zhang and that is why he already had three plans. » JiaXuAdvocate -- Don't forget to Add 30% Fiction -- And Voila! You have Schemes ala Magic. » CaoCaofan -- i think toocold has it -- these strategists more than likely simply considered all the possible scenarios and then planned ahead!! I'm sure they didn't just sit around absent minded until the army actually needed a plan, but rather sat around thinking up schemes. Also the Art of War told to do this and did influence their thought heavily soooo...!
17 "What are your three schemes?"
18 "The first, and best, is to send an army forthwith and seize Chengdu. The second is to capture and put to death the two generals of the River Fu Pass. They are the two most famous fighting men in this land. If you give out that you are returning to Jingzhou, they will assuredly come to say farewell. Seize and put them to death, and the Pass and Fucheng are both yours. Chengdu will follow soon. The third plan is to drop this role you have been playing, go back to Jingzhou and make a regular invasion. But if you ponder these schemes too long, you will get into such straits that nothing can save you."
19 Liu Bei replied, "Of your three schemes, O Instructor, I find the first too summary and the last too slow. I choose the second scheme, which is neither."	» ManwithaGoldenEyebal -- Wait just a second! -- Because Liu Zhang only sends "four-thousand worn out soldiers and a paltry supply of grain", suddenly Liu Bei has no objection to taking Shu? » PanFeng -- not only that! -- but he chooses the 2nd option, which is to execute 2 innocent men who are guilty of no crime. Not saying it not smart, but still it doesn't seem very virtuous. » CaoCaofan -- what?? Liu Bei not virtuous?!? NO WAY!!! » Drackor -- Action and Reaction -- This is how it goes, Liu Bei has been pretty much fighting Liu Zhang's war for him. Now Liu Bei wants help and is refused? As for the second option, well, Jing and Yi are Officially at war, oftentimes the virtuous thing to do in wartime is normally something unvirtuous. This tactic will save lives in the long run. Would you sacrifice 2 men for 2,000? I would and I wouldn't lose a wink of sleep over it. » CaoCaofan -- What??? How is he fighting Liu Zhangs war for him?? -- Liu Bei is just pissed because he didn't get everthing he wanted! Which only happened because Liu Zhang realized the scheme Bei's forces were planning! » Drackor -- Yi and Han Zhong -- It clearly says in the book that Liu Zhang invites Liu Bei into Yizhou to help Liu Zhang defend Yizhou from Zhang Lu. However, Liu Zhang hasn't even offered any troops to Bei for the defense, at least not that I remember reading. The ENTIRE defense of Yizhou is being conducted by Jingzhou troops under the direction of Pang Tong and Liu Bei. » CaoCaofan -- BUT!! -- He was simply going to help!! He didn't actually help at all yet! And he isn't exactly planning nice things anyway, he is justy using this no reinforcement thing as an exuse to carry out his REAL plan!! » roflcopter -- yes, liu bei has helped. he has helped a lot. -- the most that liu zhang has done is hold passes. although this is important, it is nowhere near how much liu bei has done in this war. as a wei fankid, you should know that cao cao's idea holds true: defense often wins battles, but offense often wins wars. also, yes, liu bei may have wanted the land, but have you also noticed how he has not seized it, or even tried to seize it yet?
20 So a letter was written to Liu Zhang saying that Cao Cao was sending an army against Qingni, and since the generals there were unequal to the defense, Liu Bei had to go to help. As the matter was pressing, there could be no personal leave-taking.
21 "I knew that the real desire of Liu Bei was to return to Jingzhou," said Zhang Song, when he heard of the letter to Liu Zhang.
22 Zhang Song then also composed a letter to Liu Bei. While he was looking about for a trusty person to take it, his brother Zhang Su, who was the Governor of Guanghan, came to see him. Zhang Song hid the letter in his sleeve while he talked with his brother. Zhang Su noticed his anxious inquietude, which he could not explain. Wine was brought in and, as the two brothers chatted over it, the letter dropped to the floor unnoticed by Zhang Song. One of Zhang Su's servants saw it, picked it up, and gave it to his master, who opened and read it.
23 This is about how it ran:
24 "What I said to you lately was not mere meaningless talk. Why, then, postpone action? The ancients valued the person who took by force and held by conciliation. If you act at once, the whole matter is in your hand. Why abandon all and return to Jingzhou? Surely I do not hear aright! When you get this letter, attack without a moment's delay and remember that I am your ally on the inside. Above all, no delay!"
25 "This plot of my brother's will end in the destruction of the whole family," said Zhang Su. "I must get in the first word."
26 So at once he went in and laid the whole matter before the Imperial Protector.
27 "I have always treated your brother so well!" said Liu Zhang, very angry.
28 Liu Zhang issued orders to arrest Zhang Song and behead him and all his household in the market place.
29 Zhang Song, such as he have been but few, Little thought he that a letter would betray When he plotted for another. But success he never knew, For himself there opened out a gory way.
30 Having thus learned of a real conspiracy to deprive him of his heritage, Liu Zhang assembled his officers and asked their advice.
31 Huang Quan spoke out, saying, "Prompt action is needed. Send to every strategic point telling them to increase the garrisons and keep careful guard and, above all, prevent the entrance of any person from Jingzhou."
32 Such orders were sent to all points of vantage where were garrisons.
33 In the meantime, carrying out Pang Tong's scheme, Liu Bei had marched down to Fucheng, where he halted and sent in a messenger to invite the two generals to come forth and say farewell. But they did not respond immediately to this invitation.
34 "What is the real meaning of this retirement?" said one to the other.
35 "This Liu Bei ought to die," said Gao Pei. "Let us hide daggers under our dress and stab him at the place of farewell. That will end all our lord's troubles."
36 "A most excellent plan," said Yang Huai.
37 So they two, taking only a small escort of two hundred, went down out of the Pass to say goodbye. Most of their forces were left in the camp.
38 On the way down to River Fu, Pang Tong had said to his master, "You have need to be on your guard against those two if they come to bid you farewell. If they do not come, then the Pass must be attacked without delay."
39 Just as he said this, a violent gust of wind overthrew the leading flag of the army, and Liu Bei asked what this portended.
40 "That means a surprise. Those two intend to assassinate you, so be on your guard."
41 Accordingly, Liu Bei put on double armor and girded on his sword in readiness. When the two generals arrived, the army halted while the generals should pay the farewell visit.
42 Then Pang Tong said to his two generals, Wei Yan and Huang Zhong, "However many soldiers come down from the Pass, see to it that none return."	» Tenma -- Pang Tong -- Pang Tong is VICIOUS! 'see to it that none return'. Damn... » Yunsung -- Not vicious, foresightful. -- A threat now is a threat later. It was the only strategically sound choice.
43 The two generals of West River Land, Yang Huai and Gao Pei, armed with hidden daggers, came up, their escort bearing gifts of sheep and wine. They marked no precautions being taken against an attack and began to think their task of murder would be an easy one. They were led in to where Liu Bei sat under a tent, his adviser with him.
44 They said, "We hear, O Imperial Uncle, that you contemplate a long march, and therefore we come to offer a few poor gifts to speed you on your way."
45 The cups of farewell were duly filled.
46 Then Liu Bei replied, "You have a heavy responsibility to defend the Pass, Generals. I pray you drink first."
47 They drank. Then Liu Bei said, "I have a secret matter to talk over with you."
48 So all the two hundred soldiers of the escort were sent away and led to the midst of the camp.
49 As soon as they had gone, Liu Bei shouted, "My generals, lay hands upon these two rebels!"
50 Thereupon Liu Feng and Guan Ping rushed out from behind the tent. The two generals of the Pass were taken aback, but began to struggle. However, Liu Feng and Guan Ping each seized one man and held him.
51 "Your lord and I are of the same house," said Liu Bei. "Why then have you plotted against me and conspired to sow enmity between us?"
52 Pang Tong bade them search the captives, and the hidden daggers were found. So both were ordered to immediate execution. However, Liu Bei hesitated and was unwilling to confirm the sentence and put them to death. But his adviser insisted that they were worthy of death for the assassination they had penned, and bade the executioners fall on. So the two men were beheaded. Of their following not one had been allowed to slip away.
53 Liu Bei summoned the soldiers of the escort to his tent, gave them wine to comfort them, and said, "Your leaders conspired to sow dissension between brothers and were found with daggers hidden beneath their clothing. They were assassins in intent and have met the fate they merited. You have committed no crime and need feel no alarm."
54 The soldiers thanked him for his clemency with low obeisance.
55 Then said Pang Tong, "If you will now show the way so that our troops may capture the Pass, you shall even be rewarded."
56 They consented. That same night the army set out, with the soldiers of the renegade escort leading the way.
57 When they reached the Pass they hailed the gate, saying, "Open the gate quickly! The Generals have returned earlier than they expected because of important business."
58 Hearing the voices of their comrades, the gate guards had no suspicion of treachery and threw open the gates. In rushed the enemy soldiers and so gained possession of River Fu Pass without shedding a drop of blood. The defenders came over to the side of Liu Bei and were liberally rewarded. This done, the army was posted so as to guard the approaches and maintain what they had captured.
59 The next few days were spent in banquets and feasts in celebration of success.
60 At one of these feasts, Liu Bei turned to his adviser, saying, "This is what one might call a joyful occasion."
61 "To employ warlike weapons in making an attack upon the possession of another is not using them in the best way," replied Pang Tong. "Nor is such attack the most proper occasion for rejoicing."
62 Liu Bei replied, "The success of King Wu of Zhou was celebrated with music. I suppose weapons were not well used on that occasion either. Why do you talk so wide of reason? You had better retire."	» Explainer -- King Wu -- King Wu, aka the Martial King, founded the Zhou Dynasty (BC 1050-221), with the help of the Duke of Zhou, who was his brother. » toocold -- liu bei/ pang tong -- Liu Bei is kind of an ass to Pang Tong. He's lucky to have him, yet he acts like he'd rather have Zhuge Liang around. If that was the case he should have left Pang Tong at wherever Zhuge Liang is. » Shokyo -- Pang Tong had nowhere else to use his talents. -- He's probably not to popular with Wei coz of the linked ships plan, and he was refused Wu coz he was an ugly git. Liu Bei was the only other person who he could go to. I guess he could've stayed in his little cottage, but he hasn't done that, and I don't know why. » WUuuu -- There are other people to go to! -- Pang Tong could have gone to Liu Zhang or that guy who was willing to invade Liu Zhang also. Just because we know that the future Wu, Shu and Wei are the most important doesn't mean that they do. Liu Zhang seemed to have quite a bit of power at this point and maybe with Pang Tong could have eliminated Shu. » Shokyo -- If he wanted to serve any of them, he would have. -- This is just my opinion and I'll probably do a crappy job of explaining it, so here goes...: Sun Quan was in a really good position. He had a strong and prosperous country with loads of people, a strongish army (and when I say strongish, I mean it was big just not as big as Cao Cao's) and... it was just good, OK? Pang Tong joining Wu would've probably been the end of Wei. Cao Cao would be up against Shu with a Sleeping Dragon and a Wu with a Young Pheonix. I haven't worked out exactly how Pang Tong would beat Zhuge Liang; he'd outlive him I suppose, well that's the only way I can think of really. Now Pang Tong looks at Sun Quan and thinks, "What would happen if in the end, Sun Quan became emperor of China and it became the Wu Dynasty? It would be really good! Wow! I'll go help him do that then..." When Sun Quan turned him down, Liu Bei was the next best choice; he was of imperial blood and the people loved him. I think I may have repeated myslef a few thousand times but ho hum... » TheYellowDwarf -- Liu Bei's showing his tail now that he's drunk (recall a couple chapters up at Liu Biao's). » Bmwmasse -- i like it when liubei is drunk.. -- it shows he has some of the same weaknesses as zhang Fei.
63 Pang Tong laughed and withdrew from the table, while the attendants supported Liu Bei to his own chamber, where he had a long sleep. About midnight he awoke from his wine, and then the servants told him that he had driven sway his adviser from the feast. He was at once filled with remorse. Next day, having dressed early in full costume of ceremony, he took his seat in the great hall, summoned his adviser and apologized handsomely for his rude behavior the night before.
64 "I drank too much last night and spoke rudely. Pray forgive me."
65 Pang Tong, who had taken the whole episode in very good part from the first, laughed and talked as usual.
66 But Liu Bei went on, "Really I was the only one to blame yesterday."
67 "We both slipped up. It was not only you, my lord," said Pang Tong.
68 Then Liu Bei laughed too, and the two were as good friends again as ever.
69 When Imperial Protector Liu Zhang heard of the doings of his relative and guest, he said, "I did not think that such things would come to pass."
70 The officers of Yizhou met to consider how to oppose the further advance of Liu Bei.
71 Huang Quan said, "Let us send without delay a force to hold Luocheng, which is the very throat of the road he must take. He may have veteran soldiers and fiery generals, but he will not be able to pass."
72 So the four ablest generals---Deng Xiang, Ling Bao, Liu Gui, and Zhang Ren---were told off for this duty, and they led fifty thousand troops.
73 As they marched, Liu Gui said, "In the Silky Hills there is a wonderful Daoist who calls himself 'The Super Human of the Dark Void.' He has the gift of second sight, so let us visit him as we pass and inquire what our fortunes are to be."	» YellowSquirrel -- hehe -- thats creative. "the super human of the dark void". sounds like a bad star trek show » DongDal -- Agrh... -- Romance of the Three Kingdoms Star Trek image! Liu Bei as Kirk! Zhuge Liang as Spock! Zhang Fei as Scotty! Hua Tou as Bones! He Man as a red shirt! Cao Cao as a Romulan! Lu Bu as a Klingon! GET OUT OF MY MIND! » Seraph -- Gotta love those Daoist names -- I wonder how they came up with them? Maybe it was something like how the Native Americans got their spiritual name or whatever. All I know is that I am thoroughly unqualified to speculate on this issue. » DongDal -- Mabye they were drunk at the time.
74 "What should one seek of a hermit when one is out to repulse an enemy?" said his colleague, Zhang Ren, contemptuously.
75 "Your view is wrong," said Liu Gui. "The Holy One (Confucius) has said that it is characteristic of the most entire sincerity to be able to foreknow. So let us inquire of this man of high intelligence that we may know what to do and what to avoid."
76 Whereupon they went up into the hills and sought the hermit's retreat. They were a small party, on horseback. Meeting a wood-cutter, they inquired the whereabouts of the dwelling of the wise man, and he pointed to one of the highest hills, saying that the Sage lived on the very summit. They climbed up to the spot he had told them of and found a small hut. At their summons, a lad in Daoist garb came out to speak with them. He asked their names and led them into the presence of the Super Human, who received them seated on a rush cushion. They made a low obeisance, told him the reason of their coming, and asked of the future.
77 "How can a poor Daoist recluse know ought of fortunes, good or evil?" said he.
78 However, after a time, as Liu Gui repeated his request again and again and comported himself most humbly, the hermit bade the lad bring paper and ink and he wrote eight lines, which he handed to his questioner.
79 "Supported by dragon and phoenix, So flies he westward. But the phoenix shall fall to the earth. And the dragon shall soar to the sky; There shall be successes and failures, For such is the eternal law. See that ye act when occasion offers, Lest ye descend to the Nine Golden Springs."	» galEighteen -- so accurate... (after finishing the novel, you would see this poem clearly) » MasterMaDai -- LOL! -- If someone asked me to forsee the future basically i would of said the same thing... » Super Dian Wei -- o mie gawsh! -- I would have not made a poem about it! YEAH! WOOOOOO-HOO!
80 Having read the oracle, they pressed the seer to reveal them their individual fortunes, but he replied, "Why ask these things? None can escape his fate."
81 Liu Gui ventured to question the Sage further, but his eyelids dropped as if he slumbered. Nor would he vouchsafe a word more, and the four generals took leave and descended the hill.
82 "One must have faith in such as he says," said Liu Gui.
83 "What is to be gained by listening to the sayings of a daft old man?" replied Zhang Ren.
84 So they continued their road to Luocheng.
85 When they arrived, Liu Gui said, "Luocheng is the throat of the road to Chengdu. We must create a pincers defense for the city. Two of us are to guard the ramparts while the other two are to station themselves in front of the city, where is a point of vantage sheltered by some hills."
86 Thus Deng Xiang and Ling Bao wanted to build the ramparts outside the city. Twenty thousand troops were told off. The two generals went to establish two camps in two stockades twenty miles away, hoping to be able to keep the foe away from the city.
87 The River Fu Pass being captured, Liu Bei took counsel with his adviser as to the next point to be attempted. This was Luocheng.
88 The scouts reported: "Liu Zhang has sent four generals to the defense of that city, and two camps has been established twenty miles away to form an ox horn."
89 Then Liu Bei assembled his officers and asked who would go to attack the camps. The veteran Huang Zhong offered himself.
90 "Veteran General, take your own troops and go," said Liu Bei. "A goodly reward shall be yours if you capture the two camps."
91 Huang Zhong thanked his lord and was just leading away his troops when suddenly up spoke a youthful leader, saying, "The General is too old to go on such an expedition. I am of poor ability, but I wish to take his place."
92 The speaker was Wei Yan.
93 Huang Zhong replied, "I already have my commission. Why should you wish to supplant me?"
94 "Because the task is beyond an old man's strength," said Wei Yan. "The two generals in those camps we know are the best and boldest in the country. They are strong, and, veteran as you are, I fear you will be unable to overcome them. If you fail, our lord's great design will be hindered. Therefore I ask that I may replace you, and my intent is kindly."
95 This reminder of his age angered the old man.	» Patricoo -- proof that both these men might have been unfit for this job alone despite their skills -- both seemed stubborn.
96 "Old, am I? Dare you compete with me in the use of warlike weapons?" said Huang Zhong.
97 "Yes, I dare. And our lord shall be the judge. The winner shall undertake this expedition. Do you agree?"
98 Huang Zhong ran down the steps and called to his soldiers to bring his sword.
99 But Liu Bei would stop this contest and said, "I have need of both of you in the task that lies before me. When two tigers fight, one is sure to lose; and the loss of either of you is more than I could bear. Be reconciled and quarrel no more."
100 "You two must not quarrel," said Pang Tong. "But as there are two camps to be taken and two generals to fight, take one each and let each lead his own troops. The first to capture his camp shall be held to have rendered the greater service and to have acquired the greater merit."
101 This decision pacified them, and it was settled that Huang Zhong, the veteran, should go against Ling Bao, and Wei Yan, the younger leader, should attack Deng Xiang.
102 But after they had marched away, Pang Tong recommended, "You, my lord, should follow them lest they should quarrel on the way."
103 So leaving the city of Fucheng in care of his adviser, Liu Bei also marched, taking with him Liu Feng, his adopted son, and Guan Ping, his nephew by adoption. They took five thousand troops.
104 After having received the command to take one of the camps, Huang Zhong went to his own camp and issued orders for the morning meal to be ready very early, and for everyone to be in marching order by daybreak. When the time arrived, his army set out, taking the road through a gully to the left of the hills.
105 But early as Huang Zhong started, his rival had stolen a march on him. Wei Yan had sent over the night before to find out the hour fixed for Huang Zhong's start and had arranged his own departure a watch earlier, by which he would be able to reach his objective at dawn. After Wei Yan's troops had taken their early meal, they removed the bells from the horses end put gags in their own mouths to prevent talking, and all-silently the army stole out of the camp just as the other party were eating their breakfast. The ensigns were furled and weapons covered lest the glint of steel should betray their movement.
106 Thus far successful in getting the start of his rival, Wei Yan thought as he rode along what a fine score he would make if he anticipated Huang Zhong also in his attack and captured the camp of Ling Bao before Huang Zhong could get there. Wei Yan at once deviated from his own line and marched toward the camp defended by Ling Bao, of which the capture had been assigned to Huang Zhong.	» WUuuu -- Wei Yan is an ass. » JiaXuAdvocate -- I agree. -- I can't totally hate people from this book, but Wei Yan definitely leaves a lot to be desired. » Tenma -- Haha, I love Wei Yan. -- Everyone thinks he's an idiot, but here he is beating his opponent, and now he moves to take out another. He wants to prove himself to Liu Bei and that he's worth something. Under his old lord, whose name I can't remember, never got promoted for all of his services. » YellowSquirrel -- Han Xuan -- I believe Wei Yan's previous master was Han Xuan of Jiangxia. I could be wrong, though, but I also think it was Huang Zhong's as well. » Seraph -- I think -- that he's painted as a bad guy right from his intro and is treated as such throughout the book. And if he's succesful in his deviation, why punish him? » Super Dian Wei -- Wei Yan's service streak... -- 1st- Liu Biao Then- Han Xuan Then- Liu Bei » ZhaoZilongfan -- I don't see it that way -- I think that Wei Yan, in this part of the novel, shows the rashness and impulsiveness of youth. Trying to do what he believes is right, trying to prove himself, and headstrong enough to fight anything. » Bmwmasse -- yeah i agree with zhaoZilongfan -- so what about his service streak? the first time we read about it said wei yan wanted to join luibei, but never had the chance. anyway, he is a great warrior... i know u guys will probably hate me in adding koei in this, but he is awsome in DW4. ps: wei yan neeeded to prove that he was worth something more than Huang because he isnt a veteran. » IloveNDfootball -- Furthermore, he not only left Han Xuan's service, he personally killed his master. -- It just shows a treacherous streak that leaves Kongming a little worried about him. » CaoCaofan -- ummmm -- Has everyone forgotten how many people Liu Bei has served and abandoned when Cao Cao came to attack???? » IloveNDfootball -- Did Liu Bei personally kill his lord? No. -- Liu Bei left when things became untenable (Cao Cao's tyranny, Yuan Shao's wrath, Liu Biao's death). Save for his war with Cao Cao, which was provoked by Cao Cao's tyranny, he never betrayed a lord. » DongDal -- Apart from Lu Bu. -- But even then that was because of Lu Bu's actions. So I suppose that could be disallowed to...
107 Just before arrival, Wei Yan halted his troops and bade them prepare the drums and ensigns and their weapons.
108 Early as it was, yet the camp commander was on the alert, for the advancing force had been observed by his scouts. At the first sign of attack, the defenders poured out in full force. Wei Yan galloped up and made straight for Ling Bao. These two fought twenty or so of bouts, and then the troops of West River Land came up and joined in the battle. The troops of Jingzhou under Wei Yan having marched a long distance, were fatigued and could not withstand this onslaught, so they fell back. Wei Yan heard the confused sound of hoofs behind him and, giving up all thought of finishing his encounter with Ling Bao, turned his horse and fled. The troops of West River Land kept up the pursuit, and the attackers were defeated and retired.
109 They had gone about two miles when another army of Yizhou appeared from behind some hills. They advanced with heating drums. Their leader, Deng Xiang, shouted to Wei Yan to surrender, but Wei Yan heeded him not; whipping up his steed he fled the faster. However, the tired horse tripped and fell on its knees, throwing its rider to the ground. Deng Xiang's forces came galloping up, and he himself set his spear to thrust and slay Wei Yan. Before the spear could get where it was supposed to be, twang! went a bowstring, and Deng Xiang lay prone upon the earth.
110 Ling Bao, Deng Xiang's colleague, rode up quickly to his rescue, but just then a body of horse came dashing down the hill, and their leader shouted, "General Huang Zhong is here!"
111 With uplifted sword Huang Zhong rode toward Ling Bao, who turned his steed and galloped off to the rear. Huang Zhong pursued, and the army of Yizhou were thrown into confusion. So Huang Zhong was able to rescue his colleague Wei Yan. Huang Zhong had thus slain Deng Xiang and forced his way up to the gate of the camp. Once again Ling Bao came and engaged Huang Zhong. The two had fought some ten bouts when appeared another body of soldiers. Thereupon Ling Bao fled again, and this time he made for the other camp, abandoning his own to the troops of Jingzhou.
112 But when he drew near his camp, he saw no longer the familiar flags of his own side. Instead, alien banners fluttered in the breeze. He checked his steed and stared at the new force. The leader was a general wearing a silver breastplate and clad in a silken robe, no other than Liu Bei himself. On his left was his son and on his right rode his nephew.
113 "Whither would you come?" cried Liu Bei. "The camp is ours. I have captured it."
114 Now Liu Bei had led his troops in the track of the other two armies ready to help either in case of need. He had come across the empty and undefended camp and taken possession.
115 Left with no place of refuge, Ling Bao set off along a byway to try to get back to Luocheng. He had not gone far when he fell into an ambush and was taken prisoner. Bound with cords he was taken to the camp of Liu Bei.
116 The ambush had been prepared by Wei Yan, who, knowing he had committed a fault, had collected as many of his soldiers as he could find and made some of the captured soldiers of Yizhou guide him to a spot suitable for laying an ambush.
117 Liu Bei had hoisted the flag of amnesty for his enemies, and whenever any soldier of the West River Land laid down his weapons and stripped off his armor he was spared. Also all the wounded were granted life. Liu Bei told his enemies that they had liberty of choice.
118 He said, "You soldiers have parents and wives and little ones at home, and those who wish to return to them are free to go. If any wish to join my army, they also will be received."	» Shokyo -- Liu Bei -- He's so kind! I guess that's what sets him further apart from the other leaders. » Super Dian Wei -- post-a-licious -- While thats great and all, kindness never gets you anywhere in a state of war. » Flying Flash Swallow -- Love in War -- On the contrary, Liu Bei's kindness has given him the two greatest advisers in the country as well as an extremely loyal army headed by five legendary generals. Just because the Princely One doesn't sacrifice his integrity for temporary gain, doesn't mean his kindness hurts over the long run. P.S. Cao Cao is a loser. » Super Dian Wei -- It wasn't necesarily Liu Bei's kindness that got him that stuff... -- It was that he purely stood for a cause, and moved by this purity, people flocked to him. » JiaGai -- Liu Bei -- As for the matter of Liu Bei, he was unique amongst all his peers, rivals and contemporaries. He stood for virtue in a time of war, when virtues such as his are highly impractical, and had the strength to retain his convictions despite being told to do otherwise. Common people, who are often abused by those in power, would find this quite refreshing and attractive, which is part of the reason why the common folk were so drawn to him. This kind of popular support cannot be denied and in great enough numbers, could grant a kind of power rivalling that of other rulers. Cao Cao saw this early on and realized what a threat Liu Bei could become, which is why he was always on his ass. » Super Dian Wei -- All true and dandy... -- but there were key times when he was not aggressive enough. » JiaGai -- Yes, his virtue was a double edged sword. -- Because of his beliefs, he often let opportunities and advantages slip by, which had to irritate his officers (who always begged him to seize them). Liu Bei could make compromises with himself more often (instead of being dragged kicking and screaming) he would have had an easier time. He wasn't a military genius or a great general, but he was good enough to get the job done, especially when surrounded by some of the greatest officers of the era. It's just a shame he was too stubborn. » Tsailiao -- Liu Bei -- If only was he a bit more ambitious... » Shokyo -- He's a very confusing character -- He has set his sights very high, and some people would say that that was a mark of great ambition. But his principles come first, so we already have a conflicting character trait. In a way he's biting off more than he can chew; he wants to restore the Han Dynasty, but he does not have the harshness to not let anything get in his way as Cao Cao does. I would try and place a measurement of some sort on his ambition, but the mix of his high expectations of himself and his lack of ruthlessness makes it next to impossible for me. » lordLiuXuande -- Liu Bei -- The only reason many talented officers and people joined Liu Bei in his crusade to revive the Han is because people thought of him as the imperial uncle(has connection to the emperor which gives him popularity and chrisma) and because of his virtue. » WUuuu -- He is nepotistic -- He's just picky about who he's nepotistic about. What other than nepotism places Zhang Fei higher than Zhao Yun on the list of Tiger Generals? Zhang Fei seems to lose constantly and its usually do to drink, yet I can't think of a time Zhao Yun failed at an assigned task, and wasn't willing to go above and beyond to secure success. » Jiankang -- Response to WUuuu: Zhao Yun vs. Zhang Fei -- That's the problem. Zhao Yun never failed at "an assigned task". Zhao Yun seems to be a tactician. Someone who you send off to accomplish a very defined task. Zhang Fei, on the other hand, is truly a general. Zhang Fei is not just a tactician, he's a strategist. (i.e He's sent off to conquer a set of forts and ultimately subdued Yan Yan.) He's given command and could use his discretion on how to accomplish this. In modern times, Zhao Yun would be a very effective middle manager. You (as Liu Bei, CEO) set the goals, you define his task, and he's really effective and accomplishes it effectively. Zhang Fei, on the other hand, is like a top executive. You just give him a problem and tell him to solve it. Sure, Zhang Fei could be at the local pub drinking away... but he does come up with good and creative ways to solve things. I think Zhang Fei is appropriately appreciated by Liu Bei. -jian kang » WUuuu -- Zhang Fei and Zhao Yun -- Zhang Fei was just as likely to accomplish an assigned task as to get too drunk and bring ruin (see most especially the Lu Bu scenario). An effective middle man who always gets everything done is far more valuable than a smart tactician with a 50% success rate...especially if you're "company" has Zhuge Liang in it. » Jiankang -- To WUuuu, true... true... with Zhuge Liang, a good, efficient executioner's all you need. » CaoCaofan -- Zhang Fei a strategist?? -- HAHAHAHAHA What do you mean? He was a moron, sure he came up with a few crappy little plans but he was too easily angered, tricked ,and irrisponsible to be good! Liu Bei would have benefited by killing him, Sure he'd lose Zhang Fei a good warrior, but he could have likely kept Lu Bu under him! Lu Bu greatly respected Liu Bei and IMO would have loyaly served him and been a better asset than Zhang Fei!!! » SIIIS -- Lu Bu respected Liu Bei???? HAHAHAHA what do you mean? -- Have you forgotten about the time he stole Xuzhou from Liu Bei after Liu Bei generously let him stay at Xiaopei??? How bout how he disrespectfully calls Liu Bei little brother? Lu Bu said himself that he wasn't able to submit under nobody, he wanted to rule himself!! » Drackor -- All things Shu. -- When it comes to the 5 Tiger Generals and their appointments, You guys seem to think they have some kind of order, they don't. Remember that when Guan Yu read the list of Tiger Generals he asked who Huang Zhong was and why he was ranked as high as Guan was. Tiger General wasn't a rank but a title or respect. The order the Tigers are listed are ordered by length of service. Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, Zhao Yun, Huang Zhong and Ma Chao. That is the order in which they joined Bei. These 5 are equal to each other, which is why they are all Tiger Generals. There is no nepotism here, Liu Honors Guan and Zhang first because they served him from the beginning. Zhao Yun. He was compared to a man who could only affectively complete a defined task. I say to that, remember long slope bridge. His defined task was to protect Liu's family. As far as he knew they were dead and that task was over, yet he rushed in. He had no plan once he was in there, yet he succeeded. Also the northern campaigns. Both him and Wei Yan proved then that they were above simple Van duties. Liu Bei. In these times of war I don't think its necessarily his virtue alone that makes the people love him. Liu Bei is only slightly more virtuous than the rest of the warlords, its his love of the people they are attracted to. In these times of war Liu Bei is the only leadership figure that works for the people, the here and now. Look at his life and every situation he is in. He solves them for the here and now. Xuzhou, Jingzhou, Yizhou Were all things that were done for the here and now and not for the future. Liu Bei made it a point to "appear" virtuous when everyone was looking. He simply lacked Foresight. » Michael M. Pettit -- Huang Zhong ... -- Guan Yu did know who Huang Zhong was, as they fought to a draw when Guan Yu was dispatched to take Changsha in Liu Bei's campaign for Jingzhou. He was merely dismissing Huang Zhong for his age or lack of talent or what have you like pretty much everyone else other than Yan Yan did at one time or another. If I remember correctly, he pointed out why Zhao Yun and Ma Chao were good appointments (Zhao Yun because he was practically a brother to Liu Bei, and Ma Chao for his ancestry and boldness). It was actually Ma Chao he did not know, as when Liu Bei settled Shu, Guan Yu wanted to go have a friendy duel with Ma Chao to see who was stronger. And the misconception of the order of the Tiger Generals is generally because Guan Yu is regarded as the leader, which ... well, he was. You're pretty much right about Liu Bei, and it goes well with Heaven, Earth, and Human as Zhuge Liang foretold. Cao Cao held Heaven's Advantage, Sun Quan held Earth's Favor, and Liu Bei was to be the Human's Heart and complete the trinity, which he effectively does. Cao Cao and the Suns have been more about their legacies while Liu Bei has been pretty much a heart-on-his-sleeve kind of guy regarding his people, and they love him for it. » DongDal -- The 5 Tigers. -- In my opinion I rank the Tiger Generals like this. 1: Zhang Fei. 2: Zhao Yun. 3: Huang Zhong. 4: Guan Yu. 5: Ma Chao. » Seraph -- A little note about the 5 Tigers -- Historically, the five Tigers did not include Zhao Yun, who was replaced on the list by Pang Tong. Zilong had an independant rank whose name I do not recall. The list was created sometime later, though I again do not recall exactly when. In any case, the position was largely ceremonial. Ma Chao did less than Wei Yan for Shu, but he made the list. I think it was more a matter of who Liu Bei intimately trusted than how much service the general actually rendered for the country.
119 At this proof of generosity the sound of rejoicing filled the land.
120 Having made his camp, Huang Zhong came to Liu Bei and said, "Wei Yan should be put to death for disobedience!"
121 The culprit was summoned and came, bringing with him his prisoner. Liu Bei decided that the merit of capturing an enemy should be set against his fault and bade him thank his rescuer, enjoining upon them both to quarrel no more. Wei Yan bowed his head and confessed his fault, and Huang Zhong was handsomely rewarded.
122 The prisoner was then taken before Liu Bei to decide upon his fate. Liu Bei loosened Ling Bao's bonds by his own hands and gave him the cup of consolation. After he had drunk, Liu Bei asked if he was willing to surrender.
123 "Since you give me my life, I can do no other," said he. "Moreover, my two companions, Liu Gui and Zhang Ren, and I are sworn to live or die together. If you will release me, I will return and bring them also to you and therewith you will get possession of Luocheng."
124 Liu Bei gladly accepted the offer. He gave Ling Bao clothing and a horse and bade him go to the city to carry out his plan.
125 "Do not let him go," said Wei Yan. "If you do, you will never see him again."
126 Liu Bei replied, "If I treat humans with kindness and justice, they will not betray my trust."	» WUuuu -- Why not just ask Pang Tong? » Patricoo -- Actually I think that Pang Tong was ways back. -- While Liu Bei followed the two, Pang Tong held the rear...I guess.
127 So the prisoner was set free.
128 When Ling Bao reached the city and saw his two friends, he told them, saying, "I slew many of the enemy and escaped by mounting the steed of one of them."
129 Ling Bao said no word of having been captured. Messengers were sent in haste to Chengdu for help.
130 The loss of his general, Deng Xiang, disturbed the Imperial Protector greatly. He called his advisers together to consult.
131 Then his eldest son, Liu Xun, said, "Father, let me go to defend Luocheng."
132 "You may go, my son, but who is there to go with you?"
133 One Wu Yi at once offered himself. He was brother-in-law to Liu Zhang.
134 Liu Zhang said, "It is well that you go, brother-in-law, but who will second you?"
135 Wu Yi at once recommended two men, Wu Lan and Lei Tong, who were appointed to assist in the command. Twenty thousand troops were given them, and they set out for Luocheng. Liu Gui and Zhang Ren came out to welcome them and told them what had happened.
136 Wu Yi said, "If the enemy draw near to the walls, it will be hard to drive them off again. What do you two think should be done?"
137 Ling Bao replied, "The city lies along River Fu and the current is strong. The enemy camp lies low at the foot of the hills. With five thousand people I can cut the river banks, flood their camp, and drown Liu Bei and his army with him."
138 The plan was approved, and Ling Bao went away to carry it out. Wu Lan and Lei Tong were told off to supervise the workers. They began to prepare the tools for cutting the bank.
139 Leaving Huang Zhong and Wei Yan in command of the two camps, Liu Bei went away to Fucheng to consult with Pang Tong, the army's instructor. Intelligence had been received that Sun Quan had sent a messenger to seek to make a league with Zhang Lu to make a joint attack upon the Jiameng Pass, and Liu Bei was alarmed lest it should come to pass.
140 "If they do that, I am taken in the rear and helpless in both advance and retreat," said he. "What do you counsel, O Instructor?"
141 Pang Tong turned to Meng Da, saying, "You are a native of Shu and well skilled in its topography. What can be done to make the Pass secure?"
142 "Let me take a certain man with me, and I will defend it myself and answer for its safety."
143 "Who is he?" asked Liu Bei.
144 "He was formerly an officer under Liu Biao. His name is Huo Jun, and he is a native of Nanjun in the south."
145 This offer was accepted, and the two generals departed.
146 After the council, when Pang Tong returned to his lodging, the doorkeeper told him that a visitor had arrived. When Pang Tong went out to receive him, he saw a huge tall fellow eight cubits in stature and of noble countenance. His hair had been cut short and hung upon his neck. He was poorly dressed.	» _RJ -- EIGHT Cubits?! -- Huge is an understatement. Maybe this guy is Paul Bunyan's ancient Asian counterpart... » YellowSquirrel -- pardon the language but -- HOLY SHIT » grandmasteryuri -- how bigs a cubit?? » Super Dian Wei -- It is an ancient measurment... -- the distance from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. About 18". » toocold -- Dang... he's a monster
147 "Who may you be, Master?" asked Pang Tong.
148 The visitor made no reply, but went at once straight up the room and lay upon the couch. Pang Tong felt very suspicious of the man and repeated his question.
149 Pressed again, the visitor said, "Do let me rest a little. Then I will talk with you about everything in the world."
150 This answer only added to the mystery and increased the host's suspicion, but he had wine and food brought in, of which the guest partook ravenously. Having eaten, he lay down and fell asleep.
151 Pang Tong wag greatly puzzled and thought the man must be a spy. He sent for Fa Zheng, met him in the courtyard, and told him about the strange visitor.
152 "Surely it can be no other than Peng Yang," said Fa Zheng.
153 Fa Zheng went inside and looked.
154 Immediately the visitor jumped up, saying, "I hope you have been well since we parted last!"
155 Because two old friends meet again, A river's fatal flood is checked.
156 The next chapter will explain who the stranger was.

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