Kong Ming's Southern Campaign

This flow traces Kong Ming’s campaign against the southern revolt, where military strategy gives way to a deliberate effort to win lasting allegiance.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Southern Revolt

A Threat Beyond Shu’s Center A Coalition Forms Yong Kai, Zhu Bao, Gao Ding, and Meng Huo challenge Shu authority in the south and threaten local cities. Kong Ming Takes Command Kong Ming personally leads the response, seeking to secure the border without leaving the kingdom exposed to Wei or Wu.

Gao Ding Changes Sides

Divide the Rebel Alliance Release as Persuasion Kong Ming captures E Huan and releases him with a message that Gao Ding has been misled by Yong Kai. A Staged Betrayal False rumors and a forged message deepen distrust among the rebel leaders. Gao Ding kills Yong Kai and submits, reducing the revolt without destroying the local population.

The Crossing of Lu River

Terrain as an Enemy Poisonous Springs Kong Ming’s troops discover that some river crossings and springs are dangerous. Local knowledge reveals the timing and herbs needed to pass safely. Adaptation The army changes its route and habits rather than forcing a costly advance. The episode shows that military success depends on understanding the land and its inhabitants.

Seven Captures

Winning More Than a Battle Meng Huo’s Repeated Defeats Kong Ming captures Meng Huo repeatedly through stratagems, then releases him so he can return to his people and test the Shu’s power again. A Change in Understanding Each encounter gives Meng Huo evidence that Kong Ming seeks allegiance rather than revenge. The repeated releases make submission more meaningful than a single battlefield defeat.

The Submission of the South

A Political Settlement A Final Defeat Kong Ming uses fire to destroy Wutugu’s rattan-armored army, a victory that horrifies him because of the scale of death. Voluntary Allegiance After the seventh capture, Meng Huo finally submits and accepts local rule under Shu. Kong Ming’s policy aims to make peace endure after the army leaves.

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Early in the southern campaign

During the march into the Man lands

Over five months in the southern campaign

At the end of the southern campaign