Sangokushi Koumei Den (comic)


 * Not to be confused with the game of the same name.

Sangokushi Koumei Den (三國志 孔明伝) is a comic adaptation of Romance of the Three Kingdoms featuring Zhuge Liang as the protagonist. It was published on October 15, 1991 by Koei with Tonbo House handling the illustrations. Jūzō Kakei served as story assistant while Kou Shibusawa was credited as planner.

Prologue
The prologue begins with a 26-year old Zhuge Liang assessing the battlefield in Jing Province before commanding his navy to eliminate their foes with a shower of arrows.

Chapter of the Crouching Dragon
Eager to help Cao Cao conquer Jing, Cheng Yu sends his assassin Qilin to monitor Zhuge Liang's activities. Meanwhile, Zhuge Liang returns from his previous campaign to share the Three Kingdoms plan to Liu Bei and his brothers.

Chapter of the Fish in Water
Tensions run high as Zhang Fei expresses his displeasure at Zhuge Liang's newfound importance. However, their relationship improves after a strategic ambush against Xiahou Dun proves effective. The chapter also marks the appearance of the Wu navy led by Sun Quan and Zhou Yu.

Chapter of the Migration
Qilin, who previously disguised herself as the maidservant Xiaolan, is finally ordered to kill Zhuge Liang during the exodus from Changban. Much to her surprise, the strategist easily avoids the attempt on his life and willingly keeps her identity a secret. Liu Bei's forces barely escape and reunite with Guan Yu who had been tasked with bringing Liu Qi's troops to their side.

Chapter of the Debate
After finding refuge in Jiangxia Castle, Zhuge Liang makes plans to form an alliance with Wu. His proposal is accepted after a vigorous debate with Sun Quan's followers, though Zhou Yu's suspicion towards him deepens.

Chapter of Chibi
The events of Chibi transpire in this chapter. With Xiaolan's assistance, Zhuge Liang successfully placates the begrudging Zhou Yu and survives another assassination attempt. Cao Cao's navy is destroyed by the fire attack, giving rise to the strategist's Three Kingdom's plot.