Meng Ao, also known as Mou Gou, hailed from the state of Qi. He began his military service there, rising from squad leader to commander of a thousand men. During this period, he repeatedly clashed with the formidable Zhao general Ren Pa (Lian Po), suffering consistent defeats that ultimately led him to emigrate to Qin alongside his son, Meng Wu (Mou Bu). In Qin, Meng Ao achieved the rank of Great General and commanded the Meng Ao Army. His tactical approach prioritized defensive warfare and siegecraft, earning him the title "Famous Sieger of Cities" for his methodical strategy of surrounding enemy cities and applying relentless pressure to erode morale. Characterized as a "Boring, but Practical" commander, he relied on fundamental tactics over innovation. This made him highly effective against weaker adversaries but limited against superior opponents like Ren Pa. To counterbalance his perceived mediocrity, he recruited exceptionally talented deputies, notably Huan Yi (Kan Ki) and Wang Jian (Ou Sen), both rumored to possess strength comparable to the elite "Qin Six Great Generals." Tall and elderly in appearance, Meng Ao often kept his eyes closed and sported a long beard, maintaining a consistently calm demeanor. Under stress, he habitually disguised himself as a common soldier to blend with his troops, reflecting his preference for solidarity. His leadership fostered profound loyalty, earning him the description "A Father to His Men." He participated in major campaigns, including the invasion of Han where he captured eleven cities within a single month. During the Sanyou campaign against Wei, commanding 250,000 troops, he faced his arch-rival Ren Pa once more. Although he lost his left arm in a duel with Ren Pa, his army secured victory through the decisive actions of his deputies. He later defended Hangu Pass during the Coalition War, where his forces played a critical role in ensuring Qin's survival. Meng Ao was the father of Meng Wu (Mou Bu) and grandfather of Meng Tian (Mou Ten) and Meng Yi (Mou Ki). His relationship with his son was strained; he forbade Meng Wu from early battlefield involvement and disapproved of Meng Yi's military ambitions, though he showed warmth towards Meng Tian. Historically widowed, he resided at the Meng family estate in Qin. In his final years, Meng Ao acknowledged his envy of the legendary Qin Six Great Generals, feeling he never attained their heroic stature. He advised younger generals like Xin (Shin) and Wang Ben (Ou Hon) to prioritize cooperation, echoing the unity of past greats. He died of illness roughly one year after the Coalition War, mourned by family and comrades. His last moments included reflections on his journey from Qi to Qin and his unfulfilled aspirations. Historically active during the reigns of Kings Zhuangxiang and Zheng of Qin, Meng Ao led campaigns against Han, Wei, and Zhao. He captured numerous cities, including Gao, Gong, and Taiyuan, expanding Qin's territories, and died in 240 BCE during a campaign in Wei. The manga portrays him as less accomplished than historical accounts suggest, attributing many successes to his deputies. His legacy endured through his family, particularly his son and grandsons who became pivotal military figures in Qin.