Three Kingdoms Volume 16: Defending the Keep [1 ed.] 9788998341664

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Wei Dong Chen • Xiao Long Liang

Defending the Keep

Vol.

16

Vol.

16

“...An ambitious series...useful for educators looking for ways to make Asian history and culture come alive.” – School Library Journal

“...An accessible introduction to Chinese historical fiction.” – Booklist

“...Invaluable...beautiful artwork... commendable efforts to bring the characters to life.” – Publishers Weekly

Three Kingdoms Many centuries ago, China was made up of several provinces that frequently waged war with one another for regional supremacy. In 221 BC, the Qin Dynasty succeeded in uniting the warring provinces under a single banner, but the unity was short-lived, only lasting fifteen years. After the collapse of the Qin Dynasty, the Han Dynasty was established in 206 BC, and unity was restored. The Han Dynasty would last for hundreds of years, until the PostHan Era, when the unified nation once again began to unravel. As rebellion and chaos gripped the land, three men came forward to take control of the nation: Bei Liu, Cao Cao, and Quan Sun. The three men each established separate kingdoms, Shu, Wei, and Wu, and for a century they contended for supremacy. This was known as the Age of the Three Kingdoms. Written more than six hundred years ago, Three Kingdoms is one of the oldest and most seminal works in all of Eastern literature. An epic story spanning decades and featuring hundreds of characters, it remains a definitive tale of desperate heroism, political treachery, and the bonds of brotherhood.

Vol. 16

Defending the Keep Created by

WEI DONG CHEN

Wei Dong Chen is a highly acclaimed artist and an influential leader in the “New Chinese Cartoon” trend. He is the founder of Creator World, the largest comics studio in China. His spirited and energetic work has attracted many students to his tutelage. He has published more than 300 cartoons in several countries and gained both recognition and admirers across Asia, Europe, and the USA. Mr. Chen’s work is serialized in several publications, and he continues to explore new dimensions of the graphic medium.

illustrated by

XIAO LONG LIANG

Xiao Long Liang is considered one of Wei Dong Chen’s greatest students. One of the most highly regarded cartoonists in China today, Xiao Long’s fantastic technique and expression of Chinese culture have won him the acclaim of cartoon lovers throughout China.

Original Story “The Romance of the Three Kingdoms” by Luo, GuanZhong Editing & Designing Design Hongs, Jonathan Evans, KH Lee, YK Kim, HJ Lee, JS Kim, Lampin, Qing Shao, Xiao Nan Li, Ke Hu © Chen, Wei Dong 2014. All rights reserved. Scanning, uploading, and electronic distribution of this book is prohibited.

Wei Dong Chen and Xiao Long Liang have chosen to draw this adaptation of Three Kingdoms in a manner reminiscent of the ancient Chinese printing technique. It is our hope that the historical look of Three Kingdoms will amplify the timelessness of its themes, which are just as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago.

Characters

Volume 16

BEI LIU Bei Liu is the ruler of Western Shu, who has managed to consolidate his power after many years of struggle, making him one of the three most powerful men in China. Now, in order to press his advantage and realize his goal of restoring the Han Dynasty, Bei Liu must attack Cao Cao’s forces in HanZhong.

LIANG ZHUGE Once Bei Liu makes attacking Cao Cao his primary objective, it is up to Liang Zhuge to craft the strategy. When a renowned but elderly warrior, Zhong Huang, steps forward and offers to lead the attack, Liang Zhuge rebuffs him. This only serves to enrage Zhong Huang and make him more determined to achieve victory – which may be what Liang Zhuge had in mind all along.

FEI ZHANG Fei Zhang is Bei Liu’s fiery and unpredictable blood brother. In the past, Fei Zhang’s love of food and booze led to reckless decisions that ultimately cost Bei Liu control of XuZhou. Taking advantage of his reputation as a drunk, Fei Zhang spreads a false rumor to incite an attack from He Zhang. When the plan works, Fei Zhang redeems himself by winning the battle.

ZHONG HUANG Zhong Huang is a renowned soldier who has spent decades on the front lines. His reputation is so great that even Yu Guan expresses admiration for him. When Zhong Huang joins forces with Bei Liu, he immediately offers to lead the attack on JiaMeng. Liang Zhuge questions Zhong Huang’s fitness for the job, and the provocation results in Zhong Huang leading Bei Liu’s forces to victory in a series of battles.

YU GUAN Yu Guan is currently acting as the governor of JingZhou, one of Bei Liu’s most important strongholds. JingZhou is highly coveted by Quan Sun and Eastern Wu – who claim ownership of the land from a prior agreement with Bei Liu – but Yu Guan has refused their repeated negotiation requests. His scornful rejections have made him despised by Quan Sun, who declares him a sworn enemy of Eastern Wu.

Characters

Volume 16

CAO CAO Cao Cao has recently acquired HanZhong by overthrowing Lu Zhang. But he makes the strategic error of not pressing his advantage, instead choosing to let his forces rest after a vigorous battle, while at the same time declaring himself king and claiming the throne of the Wei Kingdom. The delay gives Bei Liu enough time to muster his army and plot an attack. Led By Zhong Huang, Bei Liu’s forces drive Cao Cao’s army from HanZhong, putting the prime minister decisively on the back foot.

PI CAO Pi Cao is the eldest son of Cao Cao, who inherits the title of heir to the throne when his father pronounces himself King of Wei. He has a rocky relationship with his younger brother, Zhi Cao, which causes both them and their father a tremendous amount of stress.

YI SIMA Yi Sima began as a low-ranking member of Cao Cao’s counsel, but over time has become a trusted voice, guiding Pi Cao’s ascension to heir to the throne and giving Cao Cao honest assessments of his strengths and weaknesses. It is Yi Sima who advises that Cao Cao strategically withdraw his troops when it becomes clear that they’ve lost HanZhong.

XIU YANG Xiu Yang is one of Cao Cao’s civil servants, who vehemently argues against withdrawing troops from HanZhong. Disagreeing with Cao Cao when he’s in a good mood can be dangerous. However, as Xiu Yang learns, disagreeing with Cao Cao when he’s in a bad mood can be fatal.

QUAN SUN As the ruler of Eastern Wu, Quan Sun could be a deciding factor in the struggle between Cao Cao and Bei Liu. However, when he tries to help Bei Liu by attacking Cao Cao’s forces in HeFei, he is caught flatfooted and driven back to Eastern Wu by Cao Cao. His senior strategist, Su Lu, dies shortly after, forcing Quan Sun to appoint a successor.

MENG LU After Su Lu’s death, Meng Lu is appointed Quan Sun’s chief military strategist. Meng Lu’s first piece of advice is to focus on stabilizing Eastern Wu, and not to focus solely on influencing the outcome of Cao Cao and Bei Liu’s struggle. Meng Lu is also aware that he has a large number of enemies within Eastern Wu, and so starts counseling the young Xun Lu on how to one day assume his role.

Chapter 1

Bei Liu’s Moment 216–218 AD

Summary Bei Liu has secured a large chunk of

he wishes to claim. Fei Zhang is victorious

western China, which he calls Western Shu.

in one battle, while Liang Zhuge seeks

In doing so, he has attained enough power

another general to lead Bei Liu’s armies to

and land to compete as an equal with

victory. Up steps Zhong Huang, an older

Cao Cao and Quan Sun. After defeating

but legendary soldier, who defies Liang

Quan Sun in battle, Bei Liu sets his sights

Zhuge’s skepticism and demands to be put

on conquering Cao Cao’s stronghold of

in charge of Bei Liu’s forces.

HanZhong, including a series of mountains

Zhuo

XiaoPei ChangAn Tong Pass TianDang

C

JiaMeng Pass HanZhong

LuoYang

NanYang

WaKou

ChengDu

B

XiangYang

ShouChun uai River H

RuXu

Wu

A

NanJun WuLing

HeFei

KuaiJi Red Cliffs

ChaiSang

BoYang

YuZhang ChangSha

A Quan Sun returns to Eastern Wu after his defeat in HeFei. B Fei Zhang defeats He Zhang, one of Cao Cao’s generals, in WaKou. C Zhong Huang takes command of Bei Liu’s forces and launches an attack against Cao Cao’s military in JiaMeng and TianDang.

My Lord Quan Sun! Get out of here! now!

G N A KL Hyah!

Oh no you don’t! Get back here!

010

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

H S O O FW

HYAH ! GRAH!

011

H S O WH

PING

My Lord!

012

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

Gah!

Go, My Lord! We’ll hold them off! You don’t have a choice! You must make the jump!

Okay, you can do this. What’s so hard about it? Bei Liu’s done it...

G SHIN

I’m his ally at the moment, so maybe somebody up there likes me just as much as him right now.

K C O L P 013

E E Y N

All right, horse. For death and glory! Hyah!

H H EH

H S O O WH

HRRRK!

Ha! It work­ ed! We made it!

Good horse. Such a good horse.

WHO MP 016

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

Back at Cao Cao’s camp in HanZhong...

Hm. Well, Quan Sun attacked HeFei as expected. Luckily, Liao Zhang held him off.

But it looks like the battle took a lot out of both sides. I don’t trust him to hold it. We’ll defend the keep ourselves.

017

Yuan Xiahou!

My Lord!

He Zhang! My Lord!

Yes, My Lord!

하후연

You will take control of DingJun Mountain.

Yuan Xiahou

장합

I want you to lead your forces to MiCang mountain.

He Zhang

Yes, My Lord.

018

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

These two mountains are very important. They are also dependent on each other for security. Make sure you are in constant communication, and help each other when needed.

You have our word, My Lord. Defend them both, no matter what.

Meanwhile, in Western Shu...

019

G N O O H S 020

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

After years of struggling to gain a foothold in the seemingly endless battle for control of China, Bei Liu had finally established himself as one of the three great powers in the nation. He chose to rule through benevolence instead of intimidation, and he tempered his own ambition with the desire to do well for his people. Once Western Shu had been stabilized, Bei Liu made plans to expand his realm by attacking HanZhong.

! H A R H UR

! H A R H UR

Brother… You’ve done it.

022

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

Days later... We’ve set up three heavily fortified camps on three decisive peaks.

now, Fei Zhang and his enemy forces have come to take control. We must not let them.

It is not our goal to start right in with all-out war. We’ll guard our fortresses, bide our time, and wait for the right moment.

He Zhang

Rest assured, Fei Zhang has a short fuse and no patience. Our moment will arrive sooner than you think. My Lord! Fei Zhang is outside one of the fort­ resses.

He’s drunk and hurling insults. Again.

023

Ha ha ha! That slobbering buffoon never fails to sink to my expectations. He can’t invade our camps, so instead he sulks and gets drunk.

Tell the men no one is to lift a finger.

We’ll let him drink half his army under the table. Wait until they can barely stand, then attack. Fei Zhang’s head will make a lovely prize.

The stalemate between Fei Zhang and He Zhang lasted for weeks. Each man wanted to defeat the other, but neither were willing to give up an inch of ground. So the impasse persisted.

024

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

My Lord, another shipment has arrived. Liang Zhuge has sent more of your favorite liquor.

Has he now?

Ah! That’s the stuff. Further proof that Liang Zhuge knows men’s minds better than they know their own! Ha ha!

G

G LU LU G LU

G

Dig in, boys! I’d say today’s rounds are on the house!

025

HWOOT

HWOOT

Quiet as a tomb in there. The fools. All of them passed out from drinking. now’s our chance. They’ll never know what hit them.

026

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

Charge!

! E G R A H C

Zzz... Zzz...

CLOP P O L C CLOP

! ! ! H H H A YA

!

UT O EM

H

ET P I W

!

RS E N O

S

RI P O N

027

It’s over for you, Fei Zhang!

h av e You’ll r be o s o t he u p in t ! ife l r e t af H a h a!

SHONK What the hell?

028

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

?

My Lord! What’s going on?

There’s nobody here? We’ve charged right into a trap!

The camp is totally empty!

Fall back! Everyone out, now! Run!

SIZZ FSHOOW

FZEEW

029

THOMP Shields up! Guard the general!

There are too many arrows! Where are they coming from?

030

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

SHONK Ack!

Shoom

GAH!

031

T! A E R T E R Y!

OUT

WA F MY

O

MOVE IT!

ARGH!

032

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

Commander! Watch out!

SHOOM

KLANK

OOF!

HOOMP GUH... 033

It can’t be... Fei Zhang?

Ha! Better to be a smart drunk than a stupid fool!

Give my regards to the bartender in the sky!

034

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

KLONG

HYAH!

H S O O WH

Come on! We’re leaving! Move!

035

Bao Zhang

You see, son? It’s important to manage expectations. He thought I was inferior, so he fell for the oldest trick in the book.

HA H

036

A HA !

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

HA H

A HA !

Ha ha! Here we go again. Another event has unfolded exactly as you plan ned.

It looks like Fei Zhang has won yet another victory over Cao Cao’s forces. I trust you knew this would happen?

Yes, My Lord.

We can not remain idle, My Lord. Word is that He Zhang is heading for JiaMeng.

Fei Zhang may have a short temper and a taste for booze, but he is a true warrior. I knew he’d be able to beat He Zhang, but time was of the essence.

So I sent him several jugs of wine, hoping to provoke He Zhang into an attack. It worked.

And to think I was going to punish Fei Zhang for his drinking.

So I heard. What do you have in mind?

037

Zhong Huang

It’s not that I don’t appreciate the offer, Zhong Huang. It’s just that He Zhang is one of Cao Cao’s fiercest soldiers. We’ll let Fei Zhang deal with him once again.

You see, hold­i ng onto this terrain is key for us.

If it’s all right with you two, I’d like to speak. And know that I mean this with all due respect.

038

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

If we were to lose it to...

Ahem!

we would not be able--

If you wish to insult me, come out and say it. Quit trying to talk around me.

Yan Yan

I don’t care what you think of my age, I have been forged in battle for decades! You send me out there, I return with the enemy’s head!

039

nobody doubts your courage, my friend. But He Zhang is younger and stronger.

Oh?

FOOMP He may be younger, Liang Zhuge, but can he do this?

040

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

HRR...

SNAP And one more!

THUD

SNAP Let’s do two!

SNAP 041

Even I can’t do that.

I don’t believe it.

He snapped three bows.

Hm... Very well. I’ll allow you to handle He Zhang.

FOOM P Decades of experience don’t just wear a person down, they harden him. I can snap bows like twigs and swing swords like chopsticks. Why wouldn’t I be able to handle He Zhang?

042

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

But you must take help. Who will it be?

My Lord! I’d like to volunteer for duty.

I would follow this Zhong Huang into any battle. Allow me to go with him.

As you wish.

Zhong Huang, take Yan Yan.

You two are to depart for JiaMeng and wipe out the enemy’s forces.

Yes, My Lord! Yes, My Lord!

043

Commander Liang Zhuge, may I speak? I don’t get this plan at all.

JiaMeng is an important target. And you’re leaving its fate in the hands of old men. Don’t get me wrong, I know they are true warriors, but isn’t this matter just too important for uncertainty?

That’s not your concern.

I know both men are more than 70 years old.

But they make a good point. Experience can offer advantages that youth can not. Even He Zhang won’t be able to outwit them in battle.

That may be true. But--

044

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

Enough!

You still don’t get why we’re sending them, do you? We’re creating a diversion to catch Cao Cao off guard. But don’t think that I’ve sent them on a suicide mission. Far from it.

Do you hear, My Lord?

You can mark my words on this...

Zhong Huang will be back sooner than we think. And when he returns, we will be singing songs about his great victory.

045

Chapter 2

The Heir Apparent 218 AD

Summary Cao Cao has begun preparations for an

Liu’s forces to a string of victories against

elaborate celebration, as he has decided

Cao Cao’s military. In his new role as heir

to coronate himself, claiming the title of

apparent, Pi Cao analyzes the situation

King of Wei, the territory he rules. He puts

with the advisor Yi Sima, and quickly

his son Pi Cao in charge of preparing the

determines they will lose a battle against

celebration, a responsibility he takes very

Zhong Huang. Based on this, they make

seriously because he’s been named heir

tactical recommendations to Cao Cao, who

apparent to Cao Cao’s throne.

personally leads his forces into battle.



Meanwhile, Zhong Huang leads Bei

XiLiang ChangShan

A

YeDu BeiHai

XiaoPei ChangAn Tong Pass TianDang JiaMeng Pass

LuoYang XuChang

NanYang HanZhong XiangYang

WaKou

ShouChun uai River H

HeFei RuXu

Wu

B ChengDu

NanJun WuLing

KuaiJi Red Cliffs

ChaiSang

BoYang

YuZhang ChangSha

A Cao Cao proclaims himself King of Wei Kingdom and names Pi Cao the heir apparent to the throne.

B Zhong Huang moves through JiaMeng to conquer TianDang.

In 215 AD, Quan Sun attempted to conquer HeFei, but was defeated by the forces of Liao Zhang. Cao Cao then led 400,000 soldiers to HeFei and engaged Cao Cao himself. Thus began a series of battles whose outcome resulted in Quan Sun returning to Eastern Wu and agreeing to a truce with Cao Cao.

Hold it.

Okay, raise the left one a bit.

It’s still not level! Hoist him up higher!

조 비

Keep going. A little bit more...

Pi Cao

I don’t like it. The name of the king appears smaller than the name of the kingdom. It won’t do.

048

Hrrk.

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

My Lord, we can’t do that. Have the men engrave a dragon symbol on the king’s name.

Dragon and phoenix patterns are reserved for the imperial palace. It would be an insult to use them.

If I don’t see a dragon pattern engraved on there in three days, I’ll have one engraved on your face!

Does it sound like I want your advice? Do as I say!

One more thing! What’s with all this red drapery? I thought I told you to replace it with gold!

My Lord.

And here is a poem written to celebrate the occasion.

Here are the plans for the palace you requested.

Hm. Yes. Yes, this is exactly what I wanted.

Let me see. He better not have screwed up again.

Well done. It does honor to my father’s life and work.

049

…

This makes me sick.

Tell me truthfully. Have you ever seen a more garish display of arrogance?

Zhi Cao

Well ...

Your father has left every little matter to Pi Cao’s discretion. Don’t you want to have any role in how the new kingdom is run?

What other option is there, when you refuse to play a part?

050

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

What have I said? He can have it all. I don’t care for power. I’m sick of the struggle.

My Lord, you can’t just give up like this.

You and I both know you’re the only one who can rule after your father. Why do you deny it?

Because it’s not my role to assume. My father has made his choice. He has chosen my older brother. And why shouldn’t he? It’s clear Pi Cao is the more desirable choice.

Just ask the woman I used to love. She chose Pi Cao over me, as well.

?

051

She’s headed to Pi Cao’s chamber…

Where did…

052

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

It’s no use, My Lord. This one you must let go.

In 216 AD, Cao Cao returned from battle to XuChang, where he assumed the throne of the Kingdom of Wei. Upon being crowned, Cao Cao chose his eldest son, Pi Cao, as his successor.

053

My Lord …

I don’t have to. Everyone’s given up on me.

I know it hurts. But please, don’t give up.



Sigh …

Sigh Pi Cao may be the chosen heir to the throne…

But your father can change his mind at any time. It’s his decision to make.

054

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

That’s enough, Xiu Yang! Shut up.

I am sick of people trying to exploit the bad blood between my brother and I. My father’s approval isn’t that important to me.

I said enough! no more!

I’ve made up my mind. I don’t care about the power.

But My Lord--

The throne would suit me ill. But my brother was born to sit on it.

re to a c t ’ d I don worl a r e ov e rule r hav e g n o I no l for! e s u any

055

Goodbye, Xiu Yang. Pretend I’m dead.

That’s the best thing you can do for me now.

056

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

Listen up, all of you!

Soon, a new era will begin. For Wei Kingdom and for China! A toast to my father, Cao Cao!

Cheers!

Zhen Cao!

Cheers!

Give me your glass. It’s my honor to pour your drink.

Zhen Cao

The honor is all mine. Let me congratulate you. There is no more suitable heir to the throne than you.

057

Ha ha ha! That’s kind of you to say.

My dear nephew. It’s strange call­ ing you nephew, as we are the same age.

Shuang Cao!

Come, To us! And to this joyous day.

Rest assured, as long as I’m alive, your future is secure.

Today there are no titles, only drinking and celebration.

Shuang Cao

Cheers!

Regardless of title, let me also congratulate you on being named heir to the throne. You deserve it.

058

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

Thank you!

You know, Shuang Cao, you remind me a lot of your father. Keep it up, and you too could be named Supreme Commander.

Thank you, My Lord. I will heed your words.

Excuse me for a moment. I’ll be right back.

059

NOW WHAT DOES YI SIMA WANT? He Zhang was defeated by Fei Zhang, yes?

And in doing so, he lost MiCang Mountain. now he’s doing battle against the veteran soldier Zhong Huang in JiaMeng.

All right, then. What are we looking at?

060

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

This information is already two weeks old, though. They could still be fighting, or the victor already decided.

I don’t get it. He Zhang is a great general.

I see.

He should be able to run right over an old-timer like Zhong Huang, shouldn’t he?

not actually. You see, this is all part of Liang Zhuge’s master plan. He’s using Zhong Huang to distract us.

What this all means is that we can’t defend both TianDang Mountain and JiaMeng Mountain.

He wants us to think about how to deal with the old man. That way, he can launch an attack while we’re distracted.

Yes, but...

Well, almost. Let’s not forget that if Bei Liu wins this war we’ll lose them and DingJun mountain as well.

TianDang Mountain is being defended by General Hong Cao. And DingJun Mountain is under the control of General Yuan XiaHou. I have a hard time believing that two such seasoned leaders could be defeated like that.

061

Well, don’t forget... Momentum is a large part of win ning.

Okay...

Bei Liu’s armies have won a string of victories, so momentum’s on their side.

Get me a tactical briefing, so I can relay it to my father.

I will.

But it’s only one battle. I’m sure it won’t turn the world upside-down.

062

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

I hate to make admitting defeat in battle my first item of business as heir to the throne.

True.

I see... And you vouch for what this says?

I do, father. This is a careful analysis, made after all ideas had been put on the table and considered.

Sigh Liang Zhuge is clever, there is no doubt. But he always seems to get his way.

063

Don’t be despondent, father. Liang Zhuge is without an equal in this entire world. His intellect is so great that we could spend years formulating a plan to defeat him, and still end up being humiliated.

It is most unwise to diminish his talents. They are unmatched.

Ha!

All right. I trust your judgment on this matter.

Well said, son.

You are already wise beyond your years if you know when not to dismiss someone’s talents.

Guard!

My Lord.

Summon my commanders. Get them here now!

A job well done, my boy.

I’m already pleased by the way we work together. We will do this often.

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Three Kingdoms Volume 16

If you value how we work together, father, then let me join you in battle. I feel nothing but shame when you put your life on the line and I am not there.

You are most kind, son.

But you need to stay here and practice for the day you become emperor.

AY THE D OME I BEC .. ROR. EMPE

065

SHO OM

Swords don’t age!

They just get more deadly! none of you stand a chance!

Stand your ground!

no falling back! We outnumber them!

onally I wi ll pers fi rst be head th e o flees! cowa rd wh

Oh, hell. Incoming!!!

SHInG SHInG SHInG

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Three Kingdoms Volume 16

My Lord Zhong Huang, we are approaching Scouts Cao Cao’s tell us he has stronghold more than 100,000 of TianDang troops stationed Mountain. there. If we keep giving chase, we risk run ning into an ambush. nothing ventured, nothing gained!

The enemy can’t attack us if they’re all headless! Attack!

All ahead full! Charge!

069

General XiaHou, we have a problem. Zhong Huang is not only brave. He’s wise.

We need to dig in and defend our keep. We should seal the gate and brace ourselves.

Is that so? Stand down, coward. I’ll handle the old man.

De Xiahou

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Three Kingdoms Volume 16

And try not to speak again. You’re ruining morale.

Hao Han

Hao Han, no! If we lose you, we can’t hold this mountain!

General XiaHou!

My Lord, let me have a shot at the old bastard! He killed my brother years ago. I would like to avenge the loss.

This mountain is the passage­ way to our strongholds of TianDang and DingJun. If we lose this, we lose them!

071

Hao Han! Don’t be a fool!

I’m aware of the stakes. But frailty like yours is why we’ve lost so many battles. now stand back and watch how real men deal with this sort of thing!

CLO P CL OP C LOP Hao Han! Come back!

072

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

Zhong Huang! Come here, old man!

SH P E W

nice shot! Is that the best you’ve got? This should be quick...

P O O HW 073

SPLOK

Wait, where did Hao Han go?

! ! ! H YAAH 074

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

You shouldn’t dwell on the dead!

FWAK H S O O H W Gah!!! no!!! My arm!

075

In 218, having defeated He Zhang at JiaMeng Pass, Zhong Huang and Yan Yan carried their momentum forward and took TianDang. Cao Cao’s forces retreated all the way back to DingJun Mountain and heavily fortified themselves.

A toast to General Zhong Huang! Despite our concerns about his age, he has proven us all wrong. We owe you our humility and our gratitude.

You’ve shown us what a true heart is.

And you’ve shown us that true courage has no age.

076

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

I thank you, My Lord. But I owe it to you and Liang Zhuge.

Just think, My Lord. We’ve taken the mountain pass. now we can take DingJun.

My Lord!

Yuan XiaHou is not only as tough as He Zhang, he is twice as smart. It’s no accident that he ended up in charge of DingJun.

So, if you wouldn’t mind another mission, I’d like you to lead our forces into battle for DingJun Mountain.

That’s right. And once we’ve done that, we will rule over almost all of HangZhong.

Wait. I object, My Lord.

Yuan XiaHou defends DingJun. He is no pushover, like He Zhang was.

General Zhong Huang has more than proved his worth to this point, My Lord. But he will find it hard to defeat Yuan Xiahou.

077

I suggest sending word to Yu Guan in JingZhou. He’s better suited to this fight.

Huh? Commander Liang Zhuge!

I’m not yet even seventy years old! How dare you doubt my abilities!

You give me 3,000 soldiers, and I promise I’ll lay Yuan XiaHou’s head at your feet before the next full moon!

Stand up. Here, have a drink. To your continued success on the battlefield!

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I’m sorry, My Lords. I don’t mean to offend. But please give me this chance to prove myself.

Once again you denigrate me to my face! Did you know that Po Lian defended the Zhao Kingdom well into his eighties?

You don’t have to kneel, general.

THMP

I believe you. I hereby assign you to take DingJun.

ZHONG HUANG

Chapter 3

Zhong Huang Victorious 218 AD

Summary In Eastern Wu, Quan Sun’s most trusted



Meanwhile, Zhong Huang is on

advisor, Su Lu, has died. After mourning

his way to DingJun, where Yuan Xiahou

the loss of his friend, Quan Sun appoints

is defending the fortress for Cao Cao.

Meng Lu as his successor. Meng Lu humbly

Emboldened by the news that Cao Cao

accepts the position, but he does not see

is on his way with 400,000 troops, Yuan

himself as the long-term solution to Eastern

Xiahou decides to launch an attack

Wu’s problems. He meets with Xun Lu,

on Zhong Huang’s forces as a way of

whom he believes represents the future of

impressing his king. However, every

Eastern Wu. Although the conversation is

opponent of Zhong Huang thus far has

interrupted by an assassination attempt,

underestimated his cunning on the

Meng Lu succeeds in convincing Xun Lu to

battlefield, and none have lived long

think about accepting a leadership role.

enough to regret it.

ChangAn

GuanDu

LuoYang Tong Pass

B

XuChang

TianDang NanYang HanZhong

JiaMeng Pass

A

DingJun

XiangYang

River Huai

ChengDu ChongQing

NanJun

Red Cliffs WuLing

ChangSha

A Cao Cao arrives in HanZhong with an army of 400,000 soldiers.

B Zhong Huang invades DingJun fortress.

Meanwhile, in the land of Eastern Wu, Quan Sun’s most trusted advisor, Su Lu, took gravely ill and soon after died.

Rest well, Su Lu. May your soul be at peace for the rest of time. It seems our greatest minds die too young. First Yu Zhou. now Su Lu.

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For years, I have allied myself with Bei Liu to prevent Cao Cao from seizing power. This was Su Lu’s counsel.

As Su Lu is now dead, I see no reason why we shouldn’t come up with a new strategy.

Meng Lu... Su Lu asked me in his last moments to make you his successor.

Consider yourself promoted.

Time for you to spread your wings. I humbly accept. I won’t fail you, My Lord.

What do you say?

083

I swear to honor the memories of Yu Zhou and Su Lu by completing their work, and seeing to it that Eastern Wu becomes the sole ruling power of this nation.

Now that Su Lu was dead, Meng Lu wasted no time asserting himself in Quan Sun’s strategy. In 218, when Bei Liu marched on HanZhong, Meng Lu urged Quan Sun to be patient and see how events unfolded. At the same time, he was working behind the scenes...

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Later that night...

KREA K

?

SHING

Sh... Quiet.

085

Here, Xun Lu.

Have a drink with me.

Ha ha!

Relax. You’re much too intense.

H S A KR

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If you don’t learn to relax, you’ll never to be able to see what’s in front of you. Or above you.

Oh no you don’t!

HYAH!

CK A H W

M A L S

UGH.. . 087

K C KRA LOOK OUT!

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HYAH!

SHONK WHAM

K SHON

THUD

Watch out, Xun Lu! Behind you! ,

089

FUMP

WHOA!

H C N O KR

Come on in, if you want.

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Let’s talk.

SLAM koff

Who sent you?

My Lord! Have mercy!

Who. sent. you?

I’m acting on orders... from...

091

I didn’t need to hear what he had to say.

Why did you do that? You killed him!

Of course I do. But that’s not the point.

So you know who sent him?

This is the point. Sometimes what you know can hurt those you know.

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Wait... You’re saying it’s an inside job?

And you knew about it? That’s why you’re here?

Ha ha!

The main reason for my visit is that I want to discuss JingZhou with you.

I’m not your bodyguard. Sorry.

Oh? I thought we were making good progress on getting it back.

nope.

I’ve had scouts sending back reports for several months now. Yu Guan is still in full control. There isn’t even a good way to get near the place.

He’s set up guard posts as far as 30 miles out. If anyone approaches, signal fires are lit to alert JingZhou.

093

Despite the obstacles, we can not afford to give That’s up on taking where JingZhou. you come in.

Huh. Clever.

Me? Are you insane? I’m not cut out for--

We need a new leader, someone who represents the future of Eastern Wu.

You are Quan Sun’s nephew, are you not? You are both a scholar and a martial arts master. There’s no better man for the job than you.

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Rest assured, you will make an excellent leader very soon. I believe you’ll surpass even myself.

I don’t know about this. I don’t know that I’m ready to do what you’re asking me to do.

Are you afraid you might get hurt? That you might die?

Even your uncle marvels at your talent.

And yet you still doubt yourself. Why is that?

Of course I don’t care about those things!

I will keep that in mind.

Good. Because fear leads to hesitation. And if you hesitate to do the right thing when you have the chance, you can not be called a leader.

095

Meanwhile, at Yuan XiaHou’s camp on DingJun Mountain…

Thank the gods.

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It says here that Commander Cao Cao is on his way. And he’s bringing 400,000 troops.

Yuan Xiahou

It’s about time. now we can engage in a proper fight.

What are his orders until he gets here?

He knows the importance of holding the mountain, but he doesn’t want us to stay in a defensive crouch. He’s challenged us to find ways to take the fight to the enemy.

And with Cao Cao coming, there is no better time to launch an attack. Bei Liu’s head would make a great welcoming gift.

That’s a great idea! Give us the order, commander!

It’s payback time! We’ll even bring back Chao Ma’s head if Bei Liu’s doesn’t suffice.

097

My Lord! Urgent news!

Zhong Huang is on the move! He’s already claimed the fortress at the base of the mountain.

What is it? Tell us.

!

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Those morons! I told them not to lower their guard. Our weakness has been exposed. This side of the mountain is the most difficult to defend.

099

It’s too late to gripe. They’ll be able to see every move we make from where they are.

They had one job to do! How pathetic!

Dang Han

Seal the gate! now!

We must hunker down and wait for Cao Cao’s army. They’ll be here soon.

You’re right.

But not soon enough! We must fight!

Besides, Commander Cao Cao asked us to take the fight to the enemy, so that’s what we’ll do.

If we seal ourselves in here, this will be a short fight. But how--

Don’t worry. I have an idea. Zhong Huang always begins his attacks by sending in the cavalry.

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So we wait for the mounted soldiers to make their advance. Once they do, our archers will wipe them out.

KRIC K 101

Here we go! They’re on their way.

BAH DUM BAH DUM

Archers at the ready. Wait until the enemy is within range.

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.

ST

.. Y D EA

Those fools. They’re riding into a death­ trap.

Steady... Almost there...

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Here comes the cavalry, as expected. Let’s see that they ride right into a shower of arrows.

Oh, and the first one to catch Zhong Huang--

? K N O O SH H! A G

105

NK THO O NK TH

Huh? Look out! Incoming!

Those aren’t cavalrymen! That cun ning old bastard put his archers on horses!

ZZ I W H S

K O L P S WHOMP

NYEE HH 106

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P M O R F

We’re trapped! There’s no way out of here!

K KRAC Call in the reinforce­ ments!

now!

107

Damn it! Oh, no. not again.

Fire all you’ve got!

Sound the charge! Get He Zhang out of there!

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He Zhang walked right into a trap!

Yuan Xiahou’s suit of armor

! H ARG

K I L P S That’s right, Yuan XiaHou... A little closer...

A few more steps, and then a well-earned dirt nap.

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NG O SHO

G N O O SH nG O O G SH OOn G SH OOn H

G SHOOn

S

G SHOOn

GUH!

SH OOn

G

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My Lord! We can’t take much more of this! We’re getting butchered!

I know!

But it’s too late now!

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Zhong Huang has suffered severe losses too. We fight to the death, no matter what!

Charge!

CLOP CL OP CLOP 115

!

! GRAH!!!

Zhong Huang!

Come and fight me, you coward!

I am Yuan XiaHou, commander of the Kingdom of Wei! And I will end you!

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Come on!

FWMP

Where are you, you feck­ less--

H S O O H W

K O L SP Once more, Zhong Huang demonstrated fierce skill and courage on the battlefield, and claimed Yuan XiaHou’s head with a single swing of his blade. After the battle, He Zhang retreated to Sui Han, and Liang Zhuge sent Feng Liu and Da Meng to occupy DingJun Mountain. 117

no! not Yuan XiaHou!

M A B

HRRR... Shut up, He Zhang.

It’s my fault, My Lord. I deserve to die.

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On your feet.

But you put your faith in me time and again, and I’ve done nothing but let you down. I’ve lost battles, and now I’ve lost HanZhong Fortress.

This is war. There will be defeats from time to time.

According to military code, I must pay for this with my head!

And Bei Liu has a foothold in the west because of my failings. I don’t deserve to live.

Oh, shut up.

I’m not going to kill a general. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but there’s a shortage of them lately.

I have a better idea. Go back out there and make up for your failings. Bei Liu’s head will do fine.

Huang Xu!

I want you to accompany He Zhang. Take charge of the armies to the east and west of Sui Han.

Yes, My Lord.

My Lord!

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Xiu Yang

Liang Zhuge is very shrewd. I’m certain he’ll send his army to take the provisions. We should place an ambush party at the site to launch a surprise attack while we move the supplies.

My Lord, don’t forget that a huge chunk of our provisions for the army are stored a short distance from DingJun. now that DingJun is lost, we must recover those provisions before they’re lost to the enemy.

Fine. Yi Sima, your thoughts?

Good idea.

He Zhang, this is your chance to make amends.

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You and Huang Xu have your orders.

Make sure those troops return to Western Shu in coffins!

Yes, My Lord!

HM...

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Meanwhile, Zhong Huang presented a special gift to Bei Liu...

As promised! A startling but welcome sight, Zhong Huang.

I believe even the great commander Po Lian* could not have matched what you’ve done for us.

It’s been an honor.

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*Po Lian was a famous military general of Zhao during the Warring States period of China.

now, please record these words.

General Zhong Huang is hereby appointed leader of the Western forces, and will receive a generous bonus.

My Lord... If I may. We won a glorious battle today, there is no deny­ing that.

But I lost almost 2,000 men along the way.

Got it, My Lord.

I’d ask that my bonus be shared with the widows of the fallen soldiers.

Huh.

Very well, then.

That is the most noble gesture I’ve seen anyone make in some time, Zhong Huang.

I have one more favor to ask.

I don’t believe my work is done yet. Let me seize the supply base near DingJun.

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Ha!

no, My Lord!

There’s no holding you back. Well, I’d say you’ve more than earned it. You may set out at your earliest--

Commander Zhong Huang has gone into battle for us twice now. And twice he has done us proud.

But if we send him in a third time, the enemy will be ready. They underestimated him twice now. They won’t do it a third time.

Here we go again. Why do you insist on belittling me? I’m prepared to give everything. Even my life.

They will be ready this time. So it will be a totally different battle.

Sigh... Fine. If you insist on going, I’ll allow it. But take Yun Zhao with you.

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And you’re going to follow the plan I lay out for you. If you do...

Then we can wipe out Cao Cao’s forces and end this war for good!

Chapter 4

Falling Back to HanZhong 218 AD

Summary While Bei Liu oversees the battles against

back to Eastern Wu empty-handed.

Cao Cao’s forces, Yu Guan remains in



JingZhou, charged with defending the

continue to push Cao Cao’s army back to

stronghold against the forces of Eastern

the farthest border of HanZhong. When

Wu. While Yu Guan takes this responsibility

Cao Cao musters his army for one final

very seriously, he is growing frustrated from

stand and meets Bei Liu on the battlefield,

being so far removed from battle. When an

Bei Liu’s forces retreat before the fight can

envoy from Eastern Wu arrives to negotiate

commence. Cao Cao knows that Bei Liu

handing JingZhou over to them, Yu Guan

and Liang Zhuge have something up their

belittles the messenger and sends him

sleeves, but he can’t figure out what it is…

Meanwhile, Zhong Huang’s forces

ChangAn

GuanDu

LuoYang Tong Pass

XuChang

TianDang NanYang

B JiaMeng Pass

HanZhong DingJun XiangYang

ChengDu

JingZhou ChongQing

NanJun

River Huai

A Red Cliffs

WuLing

ChangSha

A Yu Guan defends JingZhou from attack by Eastern Wu. B Bei Liu drives Cao Cao’s forces to the border of HanZhong, where they meet for a decisive battle.

Yu Guan was training his forces while protecting JingZhou.

HMPH...

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H! A R H H! HYA

! H H YAA WHOMP

H! A O HO

WHAM 129

FUMP

SLAM

KRAC K

HYAH! 130

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

OOF!

H C N KRO HA!

K C A H W

BAM

F F I B 131

Hm.

Father!

? K C A SM

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GRR...

Are you okay?

You fool! Bow!

I ordered the men to attack without hesitation.

Easy, son. It’s all right. It’s okay. Get up.

You landed a blow. I’d say you’ve earned a prize!

Come here, son. This kind of courage should be rewarded. Put him in charge of a regiment.

As you wish, father.

133

It should be punished!

My Lord, please don’t tease me. I struck my commander. Such a foolish act should not be rewarded!

FWMP

I’ll be the judge of that, young man. We should train as we would fight.

I say you’ve done nothing wrong. now get off your knees and assume your command.

Yes, My Lord.

Father, are you sure you’re feeling all right?

Anything less would be certain death in actual battle.

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I feel fine, son. now tell me what you wanted to talk about.

We have Cao Cao’s forces on the run. There will be a decisive battle at Sui Han.

We’ve received news from Liang Zhuge this morning. General Zhong Huang killed Yuan XiaHou and took control of the fortress of DingJun Mountain.

Very good. Commander Zhong Huang is a living legend.

Send him in.

You also have a guest.

A messenger from Meng Lu is waiting to see you. He’s been here for ten days.

Here? now?

We don’t need to give the royal welcome to some whelp from Eastern Wu.

Yes, sir!

135

A messenger from Meng Lu was ushered in. There was no fanfare.

My Lord Yu Guan. It is an honor.

May the gods smile upon you and your kin.

And may you know nothing but peace.

Stand up. now.

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Quan Sun has asked me to convey to you his thanks for your efforts in helping us subdue our enemies.

To express his thanks, he offers you many valuables and fine books.

Here, take this. It lists the items he gave you.

As you can tell, I’m a busy man. So keep this brief.

We have no need for riches here. We’ll keep the books. You keep the valuables.

Please, take. It will make things less awkward.

There is no need for this kind of flattery. We were merely upholding our end of an agreement.

I, uh...

I’m sorry to hear that. But I never change my mind.

now, if you have nothing else to say or offer, I suggest you leave. Right this minute.

137

There is one more thing, My Lord. You captured a large number of soldiers from Eastern Wu recently.

My Lord asks that you return them to Eastern Wu, so they may be tried and punished accord­ ingly.

I can’t do that. Those men trespassed on my land.

no.

Once they did that, I punished them according to our laws.

now, if you’d like to take them with you, grab a shovel. They were beheaded and buried. What?!

Go home and tell your master I don’t talk to errand boys! Tell him to show his face if he wants Ack! to speak! Yes, My Lord.

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Maybe you were a little too hard on him.

He did. But I have to uphold certain standards. I don’t negotiate with errand boys.

Liang Zhuge told us to make peace with our eastern allies and focus on fighting Cao Cao, didn’t he?

In the meantime, you must not neglect your training.

This is typical of Quan Sun. He is a man of small character. He seeks immediate gains.

So of course he sends a lackey.

Sometimes you need to rap the knuckles of young boys so they don’t go around mindlessly brandishing swords they can’t swing.

Yes, sir.

One day very soon I will conquer all of Eastern Wu, and I want you by my side when I do.

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I don’t believe it! Cao Cao’s army abandoned the supply base before we even got here!

They cower in fear at the mere mention of Zhong Huang’s name!

Don’t gloat. Burn it down.

FZZZZ

These sacks are full of sand.

SHUNK

FWSSS 140

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My Lord! It’s an ambush!

CHARGE!

YAAHH!!!

Don’t panic! Form ranks behind me. And follow my lead!

141

Well, well, well. The great and ancient Zhong Huang.

ronglie mu

HAWOOSH

GUH! That was quick...

SHUNK 142

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Hrr... gluh

Watch out! He’s the deadliest man alive with a bow!

SHOONG

H S O O H

Come back here! Zhong Huang!

THONK

Your death will be a tribute to the memory of Yuan XiaHou!

FWIP

? 143

SHING

CLOP CL OP

WHAM 144

Three Kingdoms Volume 16

SHONK

It’s no use, Zhong Huang! There is no escape!

Give it up, old man! It’s time to join your fellow dead men!

Ugh!

GAH!

Didn’t your mother teach you to respect your elders?

145

T!

OU TCH

WA

!

U

AO H Z N

Y IT’S

LOP C P O CL CLOP 146

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Hmph. Kids these days. Always late for things.

Hello, Zhong Huang! Fine mess you have on your hands.

Damn it!!!

We had him trapped! There was no way out! Who the hell came to his rescue?

And why can’t Huang Xu and He Zhang take care of him?

My Lord, that’s Yun Zhao!

147

Ha ha! I don’t believe it. Yun Zhao, the one-man army, is still alive.

!

So be it. Listen up, all of you! Keep after them! The ghost of Yuan XiaHou cries out for vengeance! He demands their heads!

Yes, sir.

CLOP P O L C CLOP My Lord! Cao Cao’s army is right on our tail.

I’ll deal with them. Zhong Huang, stay here and see after the wounded. no! That army is too much for you to deal with all by yourself.

You’d do well to seal the fortress and fortify the defenses against the enemy’s advances.

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With all due respect, Zhong Huang, I once cut a path through an army of one million soldiers all by myself. Well, that’s not completely true... I was holding Bei Liu’s baby. Tell me what it is I’m supposed to be afraid of?

Okay, Yun Zhao. You’ve convinced me. now prove it.

Tell me I can’t do with an army what I did with a baby in my arms.

Hold up, men! We’re here!

NYEH

What the... What’s he doing now?

149

The fortress gate is wide open. And Yun Zhao is all alone.

I don’t like it. It smells like a trap. One man against a whole army? That would be insane.

Make way for Commander Cao Cao!

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Well, what are you waiting for? Attack the fortress, already.

It’s got to be a trap. They mean to ambush us.

It doesn’t feel right, My Lord. Yun Zhao is guarding the gate alone.

What kind of an ambush can they mount in a narrow pass like this? Stop making excuses! Get in there and bring me back his head!

Yes, My Lord.

LD…

HO

!! ! W

NO

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M O O H Z FWI S

G TWIn

You’ve walked right into our trap, Cao Cao! Time to die!

I knew it! It’s a trap!

Retreat!

Where are you going? He’s bluffing, you morons! We outnumber them!

Stand your ground! I’ll kill anyone who flees!

My Lord!

153

news from the supply base. While we were chasing Yun Zhao, Bei Liu’s soldiers attacked. They took everything!

Yi Sima

They attacked while our backs were turned?

Having lost his three strategic mountain fortresses and now the supply base for his armies in the region, Cao Cao was left with no choice but to make a hasty retreat.

Damn it! We’ve fallen for another of Liang Zhuge’s schemes!

Okay. now you can retreat!

Fall back, you imbeciles!

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Po Zhang & Ping Guan

But even Cao Cao’s retreat did not go according to plan. On Liang Zhuge’s instructions, Bei Liu ordered his forces to cross the Han River and prevent Cao Cao’s escape. In response, Cao Cao sent word to Bei Liu that he wanted to settle the matter once and for all.

The next day, both sides met at the face of WuJie Mountain for the decisive battle. The air was so heavy with tension that even the birds didn’t dare to make a sound.

Good to see you again, Bei Liu. I see the years have taken their toll.

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Kind of you to notice. Time hangs heavy on your face, too.

So tell me...Is bluffing still your specialty after all these years?

Is that so.

Ha ha! An arrogant question from an arrogant man.

By my count, I’ve taken three of your camps and half your generals. So who’s the one pretending around here?

You ungrateful peasant!

You are nothing more than a liar and a thief. You’ve earned none of what you have!

159

Spare me your indignation! Therefore I am a member of the royal I am empower­ed by imperial order family. to defeat those guilty of treason!

I will not be called a thief by a man who tried to steal an entire nation away from its rightful ruler! A man who murdered a member of the royal family and then declared himself a king! And a man who could have killed you decades ago, but didn’t. A mistake I intend to fix today.

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!

R FO

FOR G

A N I H

C

LORY

!

161

All right, listen up! Today’s objective is simple. Bring me the head of Bei Liu, and I will give you SiChuan to rule as you please!

My Lord! Bei Liu’s army is retreating! They’ve even left their supplies behind. We must chase them!

Stop!

Wait...

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Hm...

Let’s not chase them.

Withdraw our regiments immediately. Do not touch the provisions left by the enemy.

I don’t get it.

Withdraw? Is he crazy?

What’s he doing?

Look! They’re getting away. It makes no sense.

163

WHU

MP

Phew! That was a close call. Too close.

I feel like a decade fell off the end of my life.

Liang Zhuge. How on earth did you know he wouldn’t chase us?

Simple, really. Cao Cao is a good soldier, but a very distrustful person.

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He saw us retreat, he saw that we left our supplies, he saw he had a chance to cut us off. And to him, it was too good to be true. He believed it was a trap.

Heh. That’s very good. You know Cao Cao better than he knows himself.

You do?

True, but knowledge does not ensure victory. A plan does. And I have a plan for how to defeat Cao Cao in YangPing.

First step, cut off their supply chain. Second step, set fire to the mountain where they’ve set up camp, so they can’t gather wood for fires. Third, we attack their convoy wagons.

Let’s hear it.

They’ve traveled far to have this fight. Without supplies, they won’t last long. They’ll have to retreat.

Ha ha! By the gods, you make this kind of thing look easy.

165

I don’t know where I would be without you, Liang Zhuge.

Just the same, brilliance like yours is a rare gift.

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nor I without you. I’m only here because of your generous spirit.

Maybe so...

But all brilliance pales in the face of nature’s plans.

P I W F

Sigh

Damn you, Liang Zhuge!

I know you’re up to something! What is it?

BAM Is that so? Tell me, Dun XiaHou, have your past failures taught you nothing?

My Lord... You must not worry about them.

Our army is strong and vast-400,000 soldiers. We can deflect whatever surprise they try to spring on us.

I... I...

What’s 400,000 men when you can get 100,000 of them killed in a matter of hours?

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Spreading out does not help us. We are strongest when we are together.

My Lord! What if we spread the army out and try to outflank the enemy?

My Lord…

Xiu Yang

I hate to go against you, but I agree with He Zhang.

HanZhong lacks flat terrain. A large, centralized army would not be as strong there.

The best plan would be to divide the army up into smaller squads, ones that can attack quickly and then withdraw.

The best plan?

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Is that what you think?

Dividing our army up is exactly what Liang Zhuge wants! I’m sure of it!

none of you are as clever as him.

And how would these squads communicate? How do they avoid accidentally attacking one another?

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BAH DUM

What... What’s that sound?

BAH DUM BAH DUM BAH DUM

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What’s going on?

My Lord!

Don’t worry. It’s not a surprise attack.

The noise is coming from the valley, where those flames are burning.

Send the scouts. See what they’re up to.

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THE

S RE COUT TUR H NE AS D!

My Lord!

Bad news. We’ve got trouble!

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THREE KINGDOMS: THEMES

RECKLESS BRAVADO

The story of the three kingdoms is the story of countless acts of bravery, but it also the story of countless acts of reckless bravado, the kind of unnecessary flaunting that can cost land and lives. If pride is the greatest character flaw among many of the story’s greatest tragic figures, bravado is the way that pride shows itself – it can take the form of bragging in front of allies, taunting adversaries, or ignoring those people one considers to be beneath him. The reason Bei Liu asks Yu Guan to protect the stronghold of JingZhou is simple: Yu Guan is a legendary warrior whose very name strikes fear in the hearts of his opponents. His fidelity to his sworn brother is beyond question, and his bravery on the battlefield is unsurpassed. But this creates the potential for unexpected problems: because Yu Guan has had no equal for a very long time, he has lost sight of how important to respect others as equals, even if they are inferior. In JingZhou, Yu Guan’s only company are those he governs and the pride-inducing memory of

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all the great things he’s achieved. That’s why he so coldly dismisses the envoy from Eastern Wu – not just because he refuses to betray his sworn brother, but also because he believe the people and leaders of Eastern Wu to be beneath him. This is a dangerous attitude to have; now that China has been reduced to three kingdoms, it means that Yu Guan could be fighting two enemies instead of just one. When confronted with that kind of disadvantage, the last thing he should do is make himself an even bigger target by insulting his adversaries. Yu Guan would do well to learn a lesson from Liang Zhuge. When his nearest rival, Yu Zhou, died, Liang Zhuge went to great lengths to show his respect for Yu Zhou’s memory, openly mourning Quan Sun’s late strategist and saying a prayer that brought grown men to tears. Now, Liang Zhuge did not actually believe Yu Zhou to be his equal, but he did rightly believe that not showing respect for the dead would be seen as a tremendous insult and cause much

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bigger problems down the line. So he preempted those resentments by paying his respects. He also managed, in the same visit, to lure Tong Pang into Bei Liu’s service. So Liang Zhuge managed to not only mitigate a threat, he actually strengthened his own advantage by not engaging in reckless bravado.

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Vol. 16

Vol. 17

Vol. 18

Vol. 19

Vol. 20

“...Invaluable...beautiful artwork...commendable efforts to bring the characters to life.” – Publishers Weekly

Bei Liu has become one of the three most powerful men in China, which means he must learn how to defend himself on multiple fronts. Now, Bei Liu must dispatch his two sworn brothers to keep the territories he has fought long and hard to gain. If they succeed, their dream will be one step closer to being realized. If they fail, it will all come crashing down.

In collaboration with Tianjin Shenjie Comics, China

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