2 : Kongming Uses A Stratagem Page

Kongming turned to his panicked subordinates with a calm, enigmatic smile. "Do not hide," he commanded. "Open the gates wide."

Sima Yi rode to the front, squinting at the tower. He knew Kongming was a man of extreme caution who never took unnecessary risks. He listened to the music; it was steady, flawless, and devoid of any agitation. 2 : Kongming Uses a Stratagem

Fearing a massive counter-attack hidden within the city's alleyways, Sima Yi ordered a total retreat. The 150,000 soldiers turned and marched away in a cloud of dust. Kongming turned to his panicked subordinates with a

"Sima Yi knows I am careful," Kongming replied, setting his instrument aside. "I used his own intelligence against him. He could not believe I would be so bold, so he convinced himself I was being clever." He knew Kongming was a man of extreme

As the sound of the Wei horses faded, the officials in Xicheng collapsed in relief, drenched in cold sweat. They asked Kongming how he knew it would work.