Chapter 14

Cao Cao Removes the Court to Xuchang; Lü Bu Seizes Xuzhou by Night

Now Li Le led his troops forward, falsely claiming that Li Jue and Guo Si were pursuing the imperial carriage. The Emperor was greatly alarmed. Yang Feng said, “That is Li Le.” He ordered Xu Huang to ride out against him, and Li Le himself came forth to fight. Their horses crossed, and in the very first exchange Xu Huang struck Li Le from his horse with one blow of his axe. He scattered and slew the remaining rebels, then protected the imperial carriage through Ji Pass. Zhang Yang, the Administrator, came to meet the Emperor at Zhi Road with grain and silk prepared. The Emperor appointed Zhang Yang Grand Marshal. Taking leave of the Emperor, Zhang Yang withdrew to garrison Yewang.

The Emperor entered Luoyang and saw that the palaces and halls had all been burned away. The streets and markets lay desolate, and everywhere the eye could see was overgrown with wormwood. Within the palace precincts there were only crumbling walls and ruined ramparts. He ordered Yang Feng to build a small palace for his temporary residence. When the civil and military officials came to court with their congratulations, they all stood amid thorns and brambles. An edict changed the Xingping era to the first year of Jian’an.

That year there was another great famine. Only a few hundred households remained in Luoyang, and with nothing to eat, all went outside the city to strip bark from the trees and dig up grass roots for food. From the Gentlemen of the Secretariat downward, officials went out of the city themselves to gather firewood and forage; many died among the crumbling walls and ruined ramparts. Never was the decline of the Han’s fortunes at the end of the dynasty more extreme than this. A later poet lamented:

Blood flowed at Mang and Dang; the white serpent died;Red banners swept unhindered through the four directions.Chasing the stag of Qin, they restored the altars of state;The steed of Chu was overthrown, and borders rose anew.The Son of Heaven grew weak, and treacherous villains rose;The ancestral realm decayed, and brigands ran wild.Look upon the ruin visited on the two capitals—Even men of iron, though tearless, would grieve and tremble.

Grand Commandant Yang Biao memorialized the Emperor: “An edict was graciously issued before, but no one was ever sent to deliver it. Cao Cao is now east of the mountains, with powerful troops and flourishing ranks of commanders. He may be summoned to court to support the royal house.”

The Emperor said, “Since We have already issued the edict, why must you memorialize Us again? Send someone at once, and that will suffice.”

Yang Biao received the command and immediately dispatched an envoy east of the mountains to summon Cao Cao.

Now Cao Cao, east of the mountains, heard that the imperial carriage had returned to Luoyang and gathered his advisers for deliberation. Xun Yu stepped forward and said, “In former times, Duke Wen of Jin restored King Xiang of Zhou, and the feudal lords submitted to him. Gaozu of Han held mourning rites for Emperor Yi, and the hearts of all under Heaven turned to him. Today the Son of Heaven has suffered exile and humiliation. If, at this moment, General, you are truly the first to raise a righteous army and uphold the Son of Heaven in accordance with the hopes of the people, it will be a strategy unmatched in any age. If you do not act early, another will act before you.”

Cao Cao was overjoyed. Just as he was preparing to muster his forces, word suddenly came that an imperial envoy had arrived bearing an edict of summons. Cao Cao received the edict and fixed a day to raise his army.

The Emperor, meanwhile, remained in Luoyang, where nothing was yet prepared. The city walls had collapsed, and though he wished to repair them, he lacked the means. Then came a report that Li Jue and Guo Si were approaching at the head of their troops.

Greatly alarmed, the Emperor asked Yang Feng, “The envoy sent east of the mountains has not yet returned, and now the armies of Li Jue and Guo Si are upon us. What are We to do?”

Yang Feng and Han Xian said, “We are willing to fight the rebels to the death and protect Your Majesty.”

Dong Cheng said, “The city walls are unsound and our arms and soldiers are few. If we fight and fail to win, what then? It would be better to escort Your Majesty east of the mountains for refuge.”

The Emperor followed his counsel and set out that very day toward the east. The officials had no horses and all followed the imperial carriage on foot.

They had not gone an arrow’s flight beyond Luoyang when they saw dust clouds blotting out the sun and heard gongs and drums clamoring to the sky. An immense host of men and horses was approaching. The Emperor and Empress trembled, unable to speak.

Suddenly a lone rider came galloping toward them. It was the envoy previously sent east of the mountains. Reaching the imperial carriage, he bowed and reported: “General Cao has mustered all his forces east of the mountains and is coming in answer to the edict. Hearing that Li Jue and Guo Si had invaded Luoyang, he first dispatched Xiahou Dun as vanguard, with ten senior commanders and fifty thousand picked troops, to protect the imperial carriage.”

Only then was the Emperor’s heart at ease. Before long, Xiahou Dun arrived with Xu Chu, Dian Wei, and the others. They presented themselves before the Emperor and all paid their respects according to military ceremony. The Emperor had just finished comforting and exhorting them when another report came: a second army was approaching from due east.

The Emperor immediately ordered Xiahou Dun to investigate. He returned and reported, “It is Cao Cao’s infantry.”

Presently Cao Hong, Li Dian, and Yue Jin came before the imperial carriage. After announcing their names, Cao Hong memorialized: “My elder kinsman knew that the rebel army was drawing near and feared Xiahou Dun might be unable to prevail alone. He therefore ordered us to make double speed and come to his aid.”

The Emperor said, “General Cao is truly a servant of the altars of state!”

He then commanded them to protect the imperial carriage as it advanced. Scouts came with a report: “Li Jue and Guo Si are driving their troops straight toward us.”

The Emperor ordered Xiahou Dun to divide his men into two columns and meet them. Xiahou Dun and Cao Hong formed the two wings. The cavalry went out first, with the infantry following behind, and attacked with all their strength. The rebel forces of Li Jue and Guo Si suffered a crushing defeat, losing more than ten thousand heads.

The Emperor then returned to the old palace at Luoyang, while Xiahou Dun encamped outside the city.

The next day, Cao Cao arrived with the main body of his army. Once his camp had been established, he entered the city to see the Emperor and bowed below the steps of the audience hall. The Emperor commanded him to rise and issued words of comfort and commendation.

Cao Cao said, “Your servant has long enjoyed the grace of the state and has never ceased thinking how to repay it. Now the crimes of Li Jue and Guo Si have reached their full measure. Your servant commands more than two hundred thousand picked troops. With the obedient, I shall punish the rebellious, and there is no victory I cannot win. May Your Majesty carefully preserve your sacred person and hold the altars of state above all else.”

The Emperor appointed Cao Cao Colonel-Director of Retainers, granted him the imperial tally and battle-axe, and entrusted him with the affairs of the Imperial Secretariat.

Li Jue and Guo Si, learning that Cao Cao had come from afar, proposed to seek a swift battle. Jia Xu remonstrated: “You must not. Cao Cao’s troops are seasoned and his commanders brave. It would be better to surrender to him and ask that your own crimes be pardoned.”

Li Jue angrily said, “How dare you break the edge of our spirit!” He drew his sword to kill Jia Xu, but the other commanders intervened and secured his release. That night Jia Xu rode away alone and returned to his native district.

The next day, Li Jue’s army came out to meet Cao Cao’s forces. Cao Cao first ordered Xu Chu, Cao Ren, and Dian Wei to lead three hundred armored cavalry in three charges through Li Jue’s formation, and only then drew up his battle lines.

As the formation closed, Li Jue’s nephews Li Xian and Li Bie rode out before the ranks. Before they could speak, Xu Chu spurred forward and cut down Li Xian with a single stroke of his blade. Li Bie, taken by surprise, toppled backward from his horse, and Xu Chu killed him as well. Carrying both heads, he returned to the formation.

Cao Cao stroked Xu Chu’s back and said, “You are truly my Fan Kuai!”

He then ordered Xiahou Dun to lead troops out on the left and Cao Ren to lead troops out on the right, while he himself led the central army in a charge against the enemy formation. At the first beat of the drum, all three armies advanced together. The rebel troops could not withstand them and fled in utter defeat.

Cao Cao personally drew his jeweled sword and pressed the formation onward, leading his men in pursuit and slaughter through the night. A great many were cut down, and those who surrendered were beyond counting. Li Jue and Guo Si fled westward for their lives, frantic as homeless dogs. Knowing there was nowhere left to harbor them, they had no choice but to take to the hills and become bandits.

Cao Cao withdrew his troops and again encamped outside Luoyang. Yang Feng and Han Xian conferred together: “Now that Cao Cao has achieved this great victory, he is certain to seize supreme power. How could he tolerate the likes of us?”

They therefore entered the palace and memorialized the Emperor, then, on the pretext of pursuing and killing Li Jue and Guo Si, led their own troops away to garrison Daliang.

One day the Emperor sent a man to Cao Cao’s camp to summon him to the palace for deliberations. When Cao Cao heard that an imperial messenger had arrived, he invited him in. He saw a man with finely formed brows and clear eyes, full of vigor and vitality.

Cao Cao thought to himself, “There is now a great famine in Dong Commandery. Officials, soldiers, and common people all show hunger in their faces. How is this man alone so well nourished?”

He therefore asked, “Your honored countenance is so full and flourishing. By what regimen have you brought yourself to such a state?”

The man replied, “I have no special method. I have merely eaten plain food for thirty years.”

Cao Cao nodded, then asked, “What office do you hold?”

He replied, “I was recommended as Filial and Incorrupt. I formerly served as an Assistant Officer under Yuan Shao and Zhang Yang. Hearing that the Son of Heaven had returned to the capital, I came especially to pay court and was appointed Gentleman of Correct Deliberation. I am from Dingtao in Jiyin. My surname is Dong, my personal name Zhao, and my style Gongren.”

Cao Cao rose from his mat and said, “I have long heard your name. I am fortunate to meet you here.”

He laid out wine for Dong Zhao in his command tent and had him meet Xun Yu. Suddenly a man came to report, “A body of troops is heading east. We do not know who they are.”

Cao Cao promptly sent someone to investigate. Dong Zhao said, “Those are Yang Feng, formerly a commander under Li Jue, and Han Xian, leader of the White Wave band. Because you have come here, illustrious lord, they intend to lead their troops away to Daliang.”

Cao Cao said, “Can they suspect me?”

Dong Zhao replied, “They are men without counsel. Why should you trouble yourself about them, illustrious lord?”

Cao Cao asked again, “What will become of the two rebels Li Jue and Guo Si now that they have fled?”

Dong Zhao said, “A tiger without claws, a bird without wings—they will soon be captured by you, illustrious lord. They are not worth a thought.”

Finding Dong Zhao’s words much to his mind, Cao Cao asked him about the great affairs of the court.

Dong Zhao said, “Illustrious lord, you have raised a righteous army to put down violence and disorder and entered the court to support the Son of Heaven. This is an achievement worthy of the Five Hegemons. But the commanders are different men with different intentions and may not submit to you. If you remain here, I fear there will be difficulties. The best policy is to move the imperial carriage to the capital at Xu.

“Yet the court, after wandering in exile, has only newly returned to the capital. Those near and far look up to it, hoping for the peace of a restored court. If the imperial carriage is moved again now, the people’s hearts may not accept it. But only by doing what is extraordinary can one achieve extraordinary merit. I pray you, General, decide upon it.”

Cao Cao took Dong Zhao by the hand and said with a smile, “This has always been my own intention. But Yang Feng has deployed his forces at Daliang, while the great ministers remain at court. Might there not be some other upheaval?”

Dong Zhao said, “That is easily managed. Send Yang Feng a letter to set his mind at ease. Then explain openly to the great ministers that the capital lacks grain and that you wish the imperial carriage to proceed to the capital at Xu, which is near Luyang and can be supplied by the transport of provisions, so that there need be no anxiety over shortages or long distances. When the great ministers hear this, they will gladly consent.”

Cao Cao was overjoyed. Dong Zhao took his leave. Holding his hand, Cao Cao said, “Whatever I may plan, I ask only that you instruct me.”

Dong Zhao expressed his thanks and departed.

From that time onward, Cao Cao met privately each day with his advisers to deliberate the transfer of the capital.

At the time, Wang Li, Palace Attendant and Grand Astrologer, privately told Liu Ai, Minister of the Imperial Clan: “When I look upward and observe the celestial patterns, I see that since last spring Venus has trespassed against Saturn in the constellations Dipper and Ox and passed through the Celestial Ford. Mars has also moved retrograde and joined Venus at the Celestial Gate. When metal and fire conjoin, a new Son of Heaven must arise. I see that the ordained span of the Great Han is nearing its end. In the lands of Jin and Wei, one is certain to rise.”

He also secretly memorialized Emperor Xian: “Heaven’s Mandate comes and goes, and none of the Five Phases remains forever ascendant. What succeeds fire is earth. The one who succeeds the Han and possesses all under Heaven will arise in Wei.”

When Cao Cao heard this, he sent word to Wang Li: “I know that you are loyal to the court, but the Way of Heaven is deep and remote. I hope you will say no more.”

Cao Cao related the matter to Xun Yu. Xun Yu said, “The Han rules by the virtue of fire, while your own destiny, illustrious lord, belongs to earth. The capital at Xu belongs to earth; once you reach it, you are certain to flourish. Fire can engender earth, and earth can strengthen wood. This accords exactly with the words of Dong Zhao and Wang Li. In days to come, one is certain to rise.”

Cao Cao’s resolve was settled.

The next day, he entered the palace to see the Emperor and memorialized: “The eastern capital has lain waste for many years and cannot be restored. Moreover, the transport of grain is arduous. The capital at Xu lies near Luyang. Its walls, palaces and halls, money and grain, people and goods are all sufficient for our needs. Your servant dares to request that the imperial carriage proceed to the capital at Xu. May Your Majesty consent.”

The Emperor did not dare refuse. The assembled ministers all feared Cao Cao’s power, and none dared voice a contrary opinion. A day was therefore chosen for the departure. Cao Cao led his army as escort, and all the officials followed.

They had traveled no more than a few stages when they came to a high ridge. Suddenly a tremendous cry arose, and Yang Feng and Han Xian appeared at the head of their troops to bar the road. Xu Huang stood foremost and shouted, “Cao Cao, where do you mean to take the imperial carriage after abducting it?”

Cao Cao rode out to look and saw Xu Huang standing there in stern and awe-inspiring might. Secretly marveling at him, he ordered Xu Chu to ride forth and engage him.

Blade and axe clashed for more than fifty bouts, with neither gaining the advantage. Cao Cao then sounded the gong and withdrew his troops. Summoning his advisers, he said, “Yang Feng and Han Xian are truly beneath consideration, but Xu Huang is a genuine and able commander. I cannot bear to overcome him by force. I must win him over by stratagem.”

Man Chong, an Assistant Officer on Cao Cao’s staff, said, “My lord need not be concerned. I once had a brief acquaintance with Xu Huang. Tonight I will disguise myself as a common soldier and slip into his camp. I will persuade him with words and guarantee that he will give you his whole heart and come over to you.”

Cao Cao gladly sent him.

That night Man Chong disguised himself as a common soldier, mingled with the opposing troops, and stole his way to Xu Huang’s tent. There he saw Xu Huang seated in armor, holding a candle.

Man Chong suddenly stepped before him and saluted. “Has my old friend fared well since we parted?”

Xu Huang sprang up in surprise, looked closely at him, and said, “Are you not Man Boning of Shanyang? How have you come here?”

Man Chong replied, “I now serve as an Assistant Officer under General Cao. Today, before the battle lines, I caught sight of my old friend. Wishing to offer you a word of counsel, I have come at the risk of my life.”

Xu Huang invited him to sit and asked his purpose in coming.

Man Chong said, “Your courage and strategy are rarely matched in this world. Why then do you stoop to serve men like Yang Feng and Han Xian? General Cao is a hero of the age. His love of worthy men and courtesy toward scholars are known throughout the realm. When he saw your valor before the lines today, he conceived the deepest respect and admiration for you. Unable to bear sending fierce commanders against you in a battle to the death, he especially dispatched me to invite you. Why do you not forsake darkness and turn toward the light, that together we may accomplish a great enterprise?”

Xu Huang remained deep in thought for a long while, then sighed and said, “I have always known that Yang Feng and Han Xian are not men capable of founding a great enterprise. But I have followed them a long time and cannot bear to leave them.”

Man Chong said, “Have you not heard, ‘A fine bird chooses the tree in which it roosts; a worthy minister chooses the lord whom he serves’? To encounter a lord worthy of service and let him pass within arm’s reach is not the act of a true man.”

Xu Huang rose and thanked him. “I am willing to follow your counsel.”

Man Chong said, “Why not kill Yang Feng and Han Xian before you leave and offer their heads as your gift of introduction?”

Xu Huang replied, “For a minister to murder his lord would be profoundly unrighteous. I will never do it.”

Man Chong said, “You are truly a righteous man!”

Xu Huang then led several dozen horsemen from his personal command and rode through the night with Man Chong to join Cao Cao. But someone had already reported the matter to Yang Feng. Enraged, Yang Feng personally led a thousand horsemen in pursuit, shouting, “Xu Huang, traitor and rebel, do not flee!”

In the midst of the pursuit, a cannon suddenly thundered. Torches flared together above and below the hills, and ambushing troops poured out on every side. Cao Cao personally led the army at their head and shouted, “I have been waiting here a long time! Do not let them escape!”

Yang Feng was greatly alarmed and hurried to turn his troops back, but Cao Cao’s soldiers had already surrounded him. Just then Han Xian led troops to the rescue. The two armies fell into a confused battle, and Yang Feng broke free.

Taking advantage of the disorder in the enemy army, Cao Cao pressed the attack. More than half the soldiers of Yang Feng and Han Xian surrendered. Left isolated, Yang Feng and Han Xian led their defeated remnant away to seek refuge with Yuan Shu.

Cao Cao recalled his forces to camp, and Man Chong brought Xu Huang in to see him. Cao Cao was overjoyed and treated Xu Huang with great generosity.

He then escorted the imperial carriage to the capital at Xu, where palaces and audience halls were built, the imperial ancestral temple and the altars of soil and grain were established, government bureaus, ministries, offices, and courts were set up, and the city walls, official residences, and storehouses were repaired. Dong Cheng and twelve others were enfeoffed as marquises.

The rewarding of merit and punishment of guilt were both placed at Cao Cao’s disposal.

Cao Cao appointed himself General-in-Chief and Marquis of Wuping. He made Xun Yu Palace Attendant and Director of the Imperial Secretariat; Xun You Military Adviser; Guo Jia Major and Libationer; Liu Ye an Assistant in the Ministry of Works; Mao Jie and Ren Jun Household Generals of Agricultural Affairs, charged with supervising money and grain; Cheng Yu Chancellor of Dongping; Fan Cheng and Dong Zhao Magistrates of Luoyang; Man Chong Magistrate of the capital at Xu; Xiahou Dun, Xiahou Yuan, Cao Ren, and Cao Hong generals; Lü Qian, Li Dian, Yue Jin, Yu Jin, and Xu Huang colonels; and Xu Chu and Dian Wei commandants. All the remaining commanders and soldiers received offices according to their rank.

From that time onward, all great power passed into Cao Cao’s hands. The major affairs of the court were first submitted to Cao Cao and only then presented to the Son of Heaven.

Once Cao Cao had settled these great affairs, he gave a banquet in the rear hall, assembled his advisers, and deliberated with them.

“Liu Bei is encamped in Xuzhou and administers the province in his own right. Recently, Lü Bu, defeated in war, sought refuge with him, and Liu Bei gave him Xiaopei as his residence. If the two men unite in purpose and lead their troops against us, they will become a mortal threat at our very heart. What excellent plan have you gentlemen for dealing with them?”

Xu Chu said, “Grant me fifty thousand picked troops, and I will cut off the heads of Liu Bei and Lü Bu and present them to the Chancellor.”

Xun Yu said, “The General is brave indeed, but he does not understand the use of strategy. The capital at Xu has only just been settled; we must not embark rashly on a military campaign. I have a plan called ‘Two Tigers Competing for Food.’ Although Liu Bei now governs Xuzhou, he has not received an imperial commission. Illustrious lord, you may memorialize for an edict formally appointing Liu Bei Governor of Xuzhou, then secretly send him a letter directing him to kill Lü Bu. If the deed succeeds, Liu Bei will no longer have that fierce warrior to assist him and may gradually be dealt with. If it fails, Lü Bu will certainly kill Liu Bei. This is the plan of ‘Two Tigers Competing for Food.’”

Cao Cao followed his counsel. He immediately memorialized for an imperial appointment and dispatched an envoy to Xuzhou bearing the decree. Liu Bei was appointed General Who Subdues the East, Marquis of Yicheng Village, and Governor of Xuzhou. A sealed private letter was enclosed as well.

Now Liu Xuande, in Xuzhou, heard that the Emperor had proceeded to the capital at Xu and was just preparing a memorial of congratulation when a report came that an imperial envoy had arrived. He went beyond the city walls to welcome him into the commandery. After bowing and receiving the gracious mandate, he prepared a banquet for the envoy.

The envoy said, “That you have received this gracious appointment, my lord, is truly due to General Cao’s recommendation before the Emperor.”

Xuande expressed his thanks. The envoy then took out the private letter and handed it to him.

After reading it, Xuande said, “This matter still requires deliberation.”

When the banquet ended, he lodged the envoy at the posthouse. That night Xuande discussed the matter with his companions.

Zhang Fei said, “Lü Bu has always been a man without honor. What harm is there in killing him?”

Xuande said, “He came to seek refuge with me when his fortunes were exhausted. If I kill him, that too would be unrighteous.”

Zhang Fei said, “It is hard to be a good man!”

Xuande would not follow his advice.

The next day, Lü Bu came to offer his congratulations, and Xuande ordered that he be admitted.

Lü Bu said, “I heard that you had received a gracious appointment from the court and came especially to congratulate you.”

Xuande modestly thanked him. Just then Zhang Fei came rushing into the hall with drawn sword, meaning to kill Lü Bu. Xuande hurriedly restrained him.

Greatly startled, Lü Bu said, “Yide, why are you determined to kill me?”

Zhang Fei shouted, “Cao Cao says you are a man without honor and has told my elder brother to kill you!”

Xuande repeatedly shouted at Zhang Fei to withdraw. He then led Lü Bu into the rear hall and truthfully explained all that had happened, showing him the secret letter Cao Cao had sent.

After reading it, Lü Bu wept and said, “The villain Cao means only to set us at odds!”

Xuande said, “Do not be troubled, brother. I, Liu Bei, swear never to commit such an unrighteous deed.”

Lü Bu bowed his thanks again and again. Liu Bei kept him there to drink, and he did not return until evening.

Guan Yu and Zhang Fei asked, “Elder brother, why did you not kill Lü Bu?”

Xuande said, “Cao Mengde fears that Lü Bu and I will join in plotting an attack against him. He therefore devised this scheme to make the two of us devour one another, while he reaps the advantage between us. How could I allow myself to be used by him?”

Lord Guan nodded and said he was right.

Zhang Fei said, “I only want to kill this villain and put an end to future trouble!”

Xuande said, “That is not the act of a true man.”

The next day, Xuande sent the imperial envoy back to the capital, together with a memorial expressing gratitude for the Emperor’s favor. He also replied to Cao Cao’s letter, saying only that the matter must be considered at leisure.

The envoy returned to Cao Cao and reported that Xuande had not killed Lü Bu.

Cao Cao asked Xun Yu, “This plan has failed. What are we to do?”

Xun Yu said, “I have another plan, called ‘Driving the Tiger to Devour the Wolf.’”

Cao Cao asked, “How does the plan work?”

Xun Yu replied, “You may secretly send someone to Yuan Shu with greetings and report that Liu Bei has submitted a confidential memorial proposing to seize the southern commanderies. When Yuan Shu hears this, he will surely be enraged and attack Liu Bei. You may then openly issue an edict commanding Liu Bei to campaign against Yuan Shu. When the two sides clash, Lü Bu is certain to conceive a different purpose. This is the plan of ‘Driving the Tiger to Devour the Wolf.’”

Cao Cao was overjoyed. He first sent a man to Yuan Shu, then forged an edict in the Son of Heaven’s name and sent another man to Xuzhou.

Now Xuande, in Xuzhou, heard that an imperial envoy had arrived and went beyond the walls to receive him. When he opened and read the edict, he found that it commanded him to raise troops against Yuan Shu.

Xuande accepted the command and sent the envoy back ahead of him.

Mi Zhu said, “This is another of Cao Cao’s schemes.”

Xuande replied, “Though it is a scheme, the sovereign’s command cannot be disobeyed.”

He therefore mustered his troops and horses and fixed a day for departure.

Sun Qian said, “You must first appoint someone to guard the city.”

Xuande said, “Which of my two younger brothers can defend it?”

Lord Guan said, “I am willing to guard the city.”

Xuande said, “I need to discuss affairs with you morning and evening. How can we be parted?”

Zhang Fei said, “Your younger brother is willing to guard the city.”

Xuande replied, “You cannot defend it. First, after drinking, you become violent and flog the soldiers. Second, you act rashly and will not heed anyone’s remonstrance. I cannot be at ease.”

Zhang Fei said, “From this day forward, I will not drink wine or beat the soldiers, and in all matters I will listen to counsel and remonstrance. That should suffice.”

Mi Zhu said, “I fear only that your mouth may not answer for your heart.”

Zhang Fei angrily said, “I have followed my elder brother for many years and have never broken my word. How dare you think so lightly of me?”

Xuande said, “Though you say this, brother, I am still not at ease. I will ask Chen Yuanlong to assist you. Let him see morning and evening that you drink little wine and cause no mishap.”

Chen Deng assented.

When Xuande had given all necessary instructions, he led thirty thousand cavalry and infantry out of Xuzhou and advanced toward Nanyang.

Now Yuan Shu heard that Liu Bei had submitted a memorial proposing to swallow up his commanderies and counties. He was enraged.

“You were no more than a weaver of mats and plaiter of sandals, yet now you have seized a great commandery and placed yourself among the feudal lords. I was just preparing to attack you, and now you presume to plot against me! It is deeply hateful!”

He ordered his senior commander Ji Ling to raise one hundred thousand troops and advance in fury upon Xuzhou. The two armies met at Xuyi. Xuande’s troops were few, so he established his camp with mountains behind it and water beside it.

Ji Ling was a man from east of the mountains. He wielded a three-pointed blade weighing fifty jin.

That day he led out his troops and shouted abuse: “Liu Bei, village lout! How dare you invade my borders?”

Xuande said, “I bear the Son of Heaven’s edict to punish a subject who refuses submission. Now you dare come against me; death itself cannot atone for your crime!”

Ji Ling flew into a rage, spurred his horse, flourished his blade, and rode straight at Xuande.

Lord Guan shouted, “Common wretch, do not presume upon your strength!” He rode out and fought a great battle with Ji Ling. They fought thirty bouts in succession without victory or defeat.

Ji Ling called loudly for a brief rest. Lord Guan turned his horse back toward his own lines and stood before the formation awaiting him. But Ji Ling instead sent out his deputy commander, Xun Zheng.

Lord Guan said, “Send Ji Ling himself! I will settle with him which of us is cock and which is hen!”

Xun Zheng said, “You are merely an obscure subordinate commander and no match for General Ji!”

Lord Guan was enraged and rode straight at Xun Zheng. At the first crossing of horses, he cut him down.

Xuande drove his troops forward in a charge. Ji Ling suffered a great defeat and withdrew to hold the mouth of the Huaiyin River, no longer daring to offer battle. He merely sent soldiers to raid Xuande’s camps by stealth, but every attack was defeated by the troops of Xuzhou.

The two armies remained locked in confrontation, but that need not be told here.

After seeing Xuande on his way, Zhang Fei entrusted all miscellaneous business to Chen Yuanlong, while weighing the major military decisions himself.

One day he prepared a banquet and invited all the officials to attend. When everyone was seated, Zhang Fei said, “Before my elder brother left, he ordered me to drink less wine, fearing that I might cause some mishap. Today, gentlemen, let us all drink our fill this once. Beginning tomorrow, every one of us will abstain from wine and help me defend the city. But today you must all drain your cups.”

When he had spoken, he rose and personally offered wine to each official. When he came to Cao Bao, Cao Bao said, “I have taken a lifelong vow to Heaven not to drink wine.”

Zhang Fei said, “How can a fighting man refuse wine? I insist that you drink one cup.”

Cao Bao was afraid and had no choice but to drink it.

Zhang Fei offered wine to every official in turn, then filled a huge goblet for himself and drained several dozen cups in succession. Before he knew it, he was deeply drunk. Yet he rose again and went round offering wine to the officials.

When he came to Cao Bao, Cao Bao said, “I truly cannot drink any more.”

Zhang Fei said, “You drank just now. Why do you refuse this time?”

Cao Bao repeatedly declined. Inflamed by the wine, Zhang Fei flew into a rage.

“You have disobeyed my military command. You deserve one hundred strokes!”

He shouted for the soldiers to seize Cao Bao.

Chen Yuanlong said, “What did Lord Xuande instruct you before he left?”

Zhang Fei replied, “You are a civil official. Attend to the business of civil officials and do not interfere with me!”

Having no other recourse, Cao Bao pleaded, “Lord Yide, for my son-in-law’s sake, forgive me this once.”

Zhang Fei asked, “Who is your son-in-law?”

Cao Bao replied, “Lü Bu.”

Zhang Fei was furious. “At first I had no desire to beat you. But now you bring up Lü Bu to frighten me, so I am all the more determined to beat you! In beating you, I am beating Lü Bu!”

No one could restrain him. Cao Bao had received fifty lashes when the others pleaded so bitterly for mercy that Zhang Fei finally stopped.

When the banquet ended, Cao Bao returned home with a profound hatred for Zhang Fei. That very night he sent a man with a letter directly to Xiaopei to see Lü Bu. In it, he gave a full account of Zhang Fei’s insolence and added: “Xuande has already gone to Huainan. Tonight you may take advantage of Zhang Fei’s drunkenness and lead troops in a surprise attack on Xuzhou. You must not let this opportunity pass.”

When Lü Bu read the letter, he summoned Chen Gong for consultation.

Chen Gong said, “Xiaopei was never a place in which to remain for long. Now that Xuzhou offers an opening we can exploit, if we fail to seize it, repentance will come too late.”

Lü Bu followed his counsel. He armed himself, mounted his horse, and rode ahead with five hundred cavalry. He ordered Chen Gong to follow with the main army, while Gao Shun advanced behind them.

Xiaopei was only forty or fifty li from Xuzhou; once mounted, they soon arrived. When Lü Bu reached the foot of the walls, it was just the fourth watch. The moonlight was clear and pure, and the men atop the walls had noticed nothing.

Lü Bu approached the city gate and called, “An agent has come with secret intelligence for Governor Liu!”

Cao Bao had troops on the wall. They reported the matter to him, and Cao Bao climbed the wall to look. He immediately ordered the soldiers to open the gate.

Lü Bu gave a single secret signal. All his troops poured in together with a tremendous shout.

Zhang Fei lay drunk in the government residence. His attendants hurriedly shook him awake and reported, “Lü Bu has tricked them into opening the gates and is fighting his way into the city!”

Zhang Fei was enraged. In his haste, he armed himself and snatched up his eighteen-foot serpent spear. He had only just emerged from the residence and mounted his horse when Lü Bu’s troops arrived and confronted him.

Zhang Fei was still not sober and could not fight with his full strength. Lü Bu had always known his valor and did not dare press him too hard. Eighteen riders from Yan, Zhang Fei’s own commanders, protected him as he fought his way out through the eastern gate. Xuande’s family remained in the residence, but there was no time to attend to them.

Cao Bao saw that Zhang Fei had only a dozen or so attendants and, knowing that he was drunk, led more than a hundred men in pursuit.

When Zhang Fei saw Cao Bao, he flew into a rage and spurred his horse to meet him. After three bouts, Cao Bao turned and fled. Zhang Fei pursued him to the riverbank and thrust his spear squarely into the middle of Cao Bao’s back. Man and horse together plunged dead into the river.

Outside the city, Zhang Fei rallied his soldiers. All who escaped through the gates followed him toward Huainan.

Lü Bu entered the city and reassured the inhabitants. He assigned one hundred soldiers to guard the gates of Xuande’s residence and forbade anyone to enter without authorization.

Zhang Fei led several dozen horsemen straight to Xuyi to see Xuande and gave a full account of how Cao Bao and Lü Bu had acted in concert, one within and one without, to launch a night attack on Xuzhou.

Everyone lost color.

Xuande sighed and said, “What is there in gain to rejoice over? What is there in loss to grieve over?”

Lord Guan asked, “Where are our sisters-in-law?”

Zhang Fei replied, “They are all trapped inside the city.”

Xuande fell silent and said nothing.

Lord Guan stamped his foot and reproached Zhang Fei: “What did you say when you first asked to defend the city? What instructions did our elder brother give you? Today the city is lost and our sisters-in-law are trapped. What are we to do?”

At these words, Zhang Fei was so stricken with fear and shame that he had nowhere to hide. Drawing his sword, he made ready to cut his own throat.

Thus it was:

With cup raised high, how freely passion runs;When the sword is drawn to cast life off, regret has come too late.

What became of his life will be revealed in the next chapter.

Cao Cao Removes the Court to Xuchang; Lü Bu Seizes Xuzhou by Night

Now Li Le led his army forward, falsely claiming that Li Jue and Guo Si were pursuing the imperial carriage. The Son of Heaven was greatly alarmed. Yang Feng said, “This is Li Le.” He then ordered Xu Huang to ride out against him, and Li Le personally came forward to fight. Their horses met, and in only one exchange Xu Huang struck Li Le from his horse with one blow of his battle-ax. He scattered and killed the remaining rebels, then protected the imperial carriage as it passed through Ji Pass. Governor Zhang Yang brought grain and silk to welcome the imperial carriage at Zhi Road. The Emperor made Zhang Yang Grand Marshal. Zhang Yang took leave of the Emperor and went to station his troops at Yewang.

The Emperor entered Luoyang and saw that all the palaces had been burned down. The streets and markets were desolate, and everywhere he looked there was nothing but wild mugwort. Within the palace grounds there were only crumbling walls and ruined partitions. He ordered Yang Feng to build a small temporary palace for him to live in. When the civil and military officials came to court and offered their congratulations, they all stood among thorns and brambles. An edict changed the Xingping era to the first year of Jian’an.

That year there was another great famine. Only a few hundred households remained in Luoyang, and they had nothing to eat. They all went outside the city to strip bark from trees and dig up grass roots for food. Even officials from assistant secretaries downward had to go outside the city themselves to cut firewood and gather food, and many died among the crumbling walls and ruined buildings. Never was the decline of fortune at the end of the Han more severe than this. A later poet lamented it:

Blood flowed at Mang and Dang, and the white serpent died;Red banners swept across the land in every direction.The chase for Qin’s deer overturned one realm and raised another;The steed of Chu was brought down, and borders were established.The Son of Heaven was weak, and treacherous men arose;The imperial house withered, and thieves and rebels raged.Seeing the disasters suffered by the two capitals,Even a man of iron, though tearless, would grieve in dread.

Grand Commandant Yang Biao memorialized the Emperor: “Previously Your Majesty graciously issued an edict, but it has not yet been carried out. Cao Cao is now east of the mountains, with strong troops and powerful generals. He may be summoned to court to support the imperial house.” The Emperor said, “Since I already issued the edict before, why must you memorialize me again? Simply send someone there now.” Yang Biao received the command and at once sent an imperial envoy east of the mountains to summon Cao Cao.

Now Cao Cao was east of the mountains. When he learned that the imperial carriage had returned to Luoyang, he gathered his advisers to discuss the matter. Xun Yu came forward and said, “In former times, Duke Wen of Jin restored King Xiang of Zhou, and the feudal lords submitted to him. Emperor Gaozu of Han held mourning rites for Emperor Yi, and the hearts of the realm turned to him. Now the Son of Heaven has suffered exile and hardship. If, at this moment, General, you are truly the first to raise a righteous army and support the Son of Heaven in accordance with the people’s hopes, that would be a strategy seldom seen in any age. If you do not act early, someone else will act before us.” Cao Cao was delighted. Just as he was preparing his forces to march, it was suddenly reported that an imperial envoy had arrived bearing an edict of summons. Cao Cao received the edict and fixed a day to raise his army.

Meanwhile, nothing was yet properly prepared for the Emperor in Luoyang. The city walls had collapsed, but there was no means to repair them. Someone reported that Li Jue and Guo Si were approaching with their armies. The Emperor was greatly alarmed and asked Yang Feng, “The envoy sent east of the mountains has not yet returned, and now the armies of Li Jue and Guo Si are coming again. What are we to do?” Yang Feng and Han Xian said, “We are willing to fight the rebels to the death in order to protect Your Majesty.” Dong Cheng said, “The city walls are not strong, and we have few troops and weapons. If we fight and do not win, what then? It would be better to escort Your Majesty east of the mountains for the time being and take refuge there.” The Emperor followed his advice. That very day the imperial carriage set out toward the east. The officials had no horses, so they all followed the imperial carriage on foot.

They had gone less than a bowshot beyond Luoyang when they saw clouds of dust blotting out the sun and heard gongs and drums roaring to the sky. An immense force of men and horses was approaching. The Emperor and Empress trembled and could not speak. Suddenly a rider came galloping toward them. It was the envoy who had previously been sent east of the mountains. He reached the imperial carriage, bowed, and reported: “General Cao has mobilized all his forces east of the mountains and is coming in answer to the edict. Hearing that Li Jue and Guo Si had attacked Luoyang, he first sent Xiahou Dun as the vanguard, leading ten senior generals and fifty thousand elite troops, to protect the imperial carriage.” Only then was the Emperor’s heart at ease. A short while later, Xiahou Dun arrived with Xu Chu, Dian Wei, and the others. They appeared before the Emperor and all paid their respects according to military ceremony. The Emperor had just finished comforting and encouraging them when it was suddenly reported that another army was arriving from due east. The Emperor immediately ordered Xiahou Dun to investigate. He returned and reported, “It is Cao Cao’s infantry.”

Before long, Cao Hong, Li Dian, and Yue Jin came to appear before the imperial carriage. After giving their names, Cao Hong reported: “My elder kinsman knew that the rebel army was close. He feared that Xiahou Dun could not manage alone, so he sent us as well, making double speed to assist him.” The Emperor said, “General Cao is truly a loyal servant of the imperial house!” He then ordered them to protect the imperial carriage as it moved forward. Scouts came to report: “Li Jue and Guo Si are advancing rapidly with their armies.” The Emperor ordered Xiahou Dun to divide his force into two columns and meet them. Xiahou Dun and Cao Hong formed the two wings. The cavalry went out first, with the infantry following behind, and they attacked with all their strength. Li Jue and Guo Si’s rebel troops suffered a great defeat, and more than ten thousand heads were taken. The Emperor then returned to the old palace at Luoyang. Xiahou Dun stationed his army outside the city.

The next day, Cao Cao arrived with the main body of his army. After setting up camp, he entered the city to see the Emperor and bowed below the palace steps. The Emperor gave him permission to rise and issued words of comfort and praise for his service. Cao Cao said, “I have long received the favor of the state and have constantly thought of how to repay it. Now the crimes and wickedness of the two rebels, Li Jue and Guo Si, have reached their full measure. I have more than two hundred thousand elite troops. When the obedient punish the rebellious, there is nothing they cannot conquer. Your Majesty should carefully preserve your imperial health and place the imperial house above all.” The Emperor then appointed Cao Cao Colonel Director of Retainers, granted him the imperial emblems of authority—the tally and battle-ax—and put him in charge of the affairs of the Imperial Secretariat.

Now Li Jue and Guo Si knew that Cao Cao had come from far away, and they discussed fighting him at once. Jia Xu advised them: “You must not. Cao Cao’s troops are elite and his generals are brave. It would be better to surrender to him and ask that your own crimes be pardoned.” Li Jue angrily said, “How dare you break our fighting spirit!” He drew his sword and was about to kill Jia Xu, but the other generals persuaded him to spare him. That night Jia Xu rode away alone and returned to his native village.

The next day, Li Jue’s army came out to meet Cao Cao’s forces. Cao Cao first ordered Xu Chu, Cao Ren, and Dian Wei to lead three hundred armored cavalry and charge through Li Jue’s formation three times. Only then did he arrange his own battle line. When the formation had been completed, Li Jue’s nephews Li Xian and Li Bie rode out before it. Before they could speak, Xu Chu galloped forward and cut down Li Xian with one stroke of his blade. Li Bie was so startled that he fell backward from his horse, and Xu Chu killed him as well. Carrying both heads, he returned to the formation. Cao Cao stroked Xu Chu’s back and said, “You truly are my Fan Kuai!” He then ordered Xiahou Dun to lead troops out on the left and Cao Ren to lead troops out on the right, while Cao Cao himself led the central army in a charge against the enemy line. At the first beat of the drum, all three armies advanced together. The rebel troops could not withstand them and fled in a great defeat. Cao Cao personally drew his jeweled sword and supervised the battle line. He led his men in pursuit throughout the night, killing immense numbers, while those who surrendered were beyond counting. Li Jue and Guo Si fled westward for their lives, frantic as homeless dogs. Knowing that there was nowhere they could take shelter, they had no choice but to enter the mountains and become bandits.

Cao Cao brought his army back and again camped outside Luoyang. Yang Feng and Han Xian discussed matters together. “Now Cao Cao has achieved a great victory,” they said. “He is certain to seize the highest authority. How could he tolerate men like us?” They therefore went in and reported to the Son of Heaven. Using the pursuit and destruction of Li Jue and Guo Si as their excuse, they led their own troops away and stationed them at Daliang.

One day the Emperor sent a man to Cao Cao’s camp to summon Cao Cao into the palace for a discussion. When Cao Cao heard that an imperial envoy had arrived, he invited him in. He saw that the man had clear brows, handsome eyes, and a vigorous appearance. Cao Cao thought to himself, “There is now a great famine in Dong Commandery, and officials, soldiers, and common people all look hungry. How is this man alone so well fed?” He therefore asked him, “Your honored face is full and healthy. What regimen has brought you to this condition?” The man replied, “I have no special method. I have merely eaten plain food for thirty years.” Cao Cao nodded, then asked, “What office do you hold?” The man replied, “I was recommended as Filial and Incorrupt. I formerly served as an aide to Yuan Shao and Zhang Yang. Now that I heard the Son of Heaven had returned to the capital, I came especially to pay court and was appointed Court Gentleman for Proper Counsel. I am from Dingtao in Jiyin. My surname is Dong, my given name is Zhao, and my courtesy name is Gongren.” Cao Cao rose from his seat out of respect and said, “I have long heard your name! I am fortunate to meet you here.” He then set out wine in his tent to entertain Dong Zhao and had him meet Xun Yu. Suddenly someone reported, “A body of troops is heading east. We do not know who they are.” Cao Cao quickly sent someone to investigate. Dong Zhao said, “Those are Yang Feng, formerly a general under Li Jue, and Han Xian, a commander of the White Wave bandits. Because you have come here, illustrious lord, they are leading their troops away to Daliang.” Cao Cao said, “Could they be suspicious of me?” Dong Zhao said, “They are men without plans. Why should you concern yourself with them, illustrious lord?” Cao Cao also asked, “What will become of the two rebels, Li Jue and Guo Si, now that they have gone?” Dong Zhao replied, “A tiger without claws and a bird without wings will soon be captured by you, illustrious lord. They are not worth thinking about.”

Cao Cao found Dong Zhao’s words well suited to his own thoughts, so he asked him about the great affairs of the court. Dong Zhao said, “You raised a righteous army, illustrious lord, to eliminate violence and disorder, and entered the court to assist the Son of Heaven. This is an achievement worthy of the Five Hegemons. But the various generals are different men with different intentions and may not submit to you. If you remain here, I fear there may be difficulties. The best plan is to move the imperial carriage to the capital at Xu. Yet the court has been driven from place to place and has only just returned to the imperial capital. People near and far look up to it, hoping for peace in a single day. If the imperial carriage is moved again now, it will not satisfy the hearts of the people. But extraordinary deeds alone bring extraordinary achievements. I hope you will decide on this plan, General.” Cao Cao took Dong Zhao’s hand and said with a smile, “That has always been my own intention. But Yang Feng has deployed his forces at Daliang, and the senior ministers remain at court. Might there not be some other disturbance?” Dong Zhao said, “That is easy. Send Yang Feng a letter to put his mind at ease beforehand. Clearly inform the senior ministers that the imperial capital has no grain and that you wish the imperial carriage to go to the capital at Xu, which is close to Luyang and can receive transported grain, so there will be no fear of shortages or distant supply lines. When the senior ministers hear this, they should gladly agree.” Cao Cao was delighted. Dong Zhao thanked him and took his leave. Cao Cao held his hand and said, “Whenever I have any plan in mind, I ask only that you instruct me.” Dong Zhao offered his thanks and departed.

From then on Cao Cao held secret daily discussions with his advisers about moving the capital. At that time, Palace Attendant and Grand Astrologer Wang Li privately said to Liu Ai, Minister of the Imperial Clan, “I have looked up and observed the signs in the heavens. Since last spring, Venus trespassed against Saturn in the constellations Dipper and Ox, then passed through the Celestial Ford. Mars also moved backward and met Venus at the Celestial Gate. When metal and fire meet, a new Son of Heaven is certain to arise. I see that the allotted fortune of the Great Han is about to end. In the lands of Jin and Wei, someone is certain to rise.” He also secretly memorialized Emperor Xian: “Heaven’s Mandate comes and goes, and none of the Five Elements remains forever in its ascendancy. Earth will replace fire. The one who replaces Han and possesses the realm will arise in Wei.” When Cao Cao heard this, he had someone tell Wang Li, “I know you are loyal to the court, but the Way of Heaven is deep and remote. I hope you will not say too much.” Cao Cao told Xun Yu of this. Xun Yu said, “Han rules through the virtue of fire, while you, illustrious lord, have an earth destiny. The capital at Xu belongs to earth, and once you go there you are certain to prosper. Fire can produce earth, and earth can make wood flourish. This agrees exactly with the words of Dong Zhao and Wang Li. In days to come, someone is certain to rise.” Cao Cao’s intention was then settled. The next day he entered to see the Emperor and reported: “The eastern capital has long lain waste and cannot be repaired. Moreover, transporting grain here is extremely difficult. The capital at Xu is near Luyang. Its city and palaces, money and grain, people and supplies are fully sufficient for our needs. I dare request that Your Majesty’s carriage go to the capital at Xu. I ask only that Your Majesty agree.” The Emperor did not dare refuse. All the ministers feared Cao Cao’s power, and none dared voice a different opinion. A day was therefore chosen for the imperial departure. Cao Cao led his army as escort, and all the officials followed. They had gone no more than a few stages when they came to a high ridge. Suddenly great shouts arose, and Yang Feng and Han Xian led their troops forward to block the road. Xu Huang was at their head and shouted, “Where are you taking the imperial carriage, Cao Cao, you would-be abductor?”

Cao Cao rode out to look at him. Seeing Xu Huang’s stern and imposing presence, he privately marveled at him. He then ordered Xu Chu to ride out and engage Xu Huang. Blade and battle-ax clashed for more than fifty exchanges, with neither gaining victory. Cao Cao immediately sounded the gong to withdraw his army and summoned his advisers for discussion. “Yang Feng and Han Xian are truly not worth speaking of,” he said, “but Xu Huang is an excellent general indeed. I cannot bear to take him by force. I must recruit him by a plan.” Man Chong, an army administrative officer, said, “Do not be concerned, my lord. I once met Xu Huang briefly. Tonight I will disguise myself as a common soldier and slip into his camp. I will persuade him with words and guarantee that he will wholeheartedly come over and surrender.” Cao Cao gladly sent him.

That night Man Chong disguised himself as a common soldier and mingled among the other army’s men. He secretly reached the front of Xu Huang’s tent and saw Xu Huang sitting there by candlelight, wearing his armor. Man Chong suddenly stepped before him, bowed with clasped hands, and said, “Has my old friend been well since we parted?” Xu Huang sprang up in alarm, looked closely at him, and said, “Are you not Man Boning of Shanyang? How have you come here?” Man Chong said, “I now serve as an administrative officer under General Cao. Today I saw my old friend before the battle line. I wished to offer you a word of advice, and so I came here at the risk of my life.” Xu Huang invited him to sit and asked the reason for his coming. Man Chong said, “Your courage and strategy are rarely seen in this world. Why do you lower yourself by serving men like Yang Feng and Han Xian? General Cao is a hero of the present age. His love of worthy men and respect for scholars are known throughout the realm. When he saw your bravery before the lines today, he admired and valued you greatly. For that reason, he could not bear to force so fine a general into a battle to the death and specially sent me to invite you. Why not leave darkness and turn toward the light, so that together we may accomplish a great enterprise?”

Xu Huang pondered for a long time, then sighed deeply and said, “I have always known that Yang Feng and Han Xian are not men capable of establishing a great enterprise. But I have followed them for a long time and cannot bear to abandon them.” Man Chong said, “Have you not heard, ‘A fine bird chooses a tree on which to roost, and a worthy minister chooses a lord whom he will serve’? If a man meets a lord worthy of service and lets him slip past within arm’s reach, he is no true man.” Xu Huang rose and thanked him, saying, “I am willing to follow your advice.” Man Chong said, “Why not kill Yang Feng and Han Xian before leaving and make their heads your gift when you are presented?” Xu Huang said, “For a minister to kill his lord would be a great injustice. I will never do it.” Man Chong said, “You are truly a righteous man!” Xu Huang then led several dozen riders from his personal command and, in the same night, went with Man Chong to join Cao Cao. Someone soon reported this to Yang Feng. Yang Feng was furious. He personally led a thousand riders in pursuit and shouted, “Xu Huang, traitorous rebel, do not run!”

While the pursuit was under way, a cannon suddenly sounded. Torches flared together above and below the hills, and ambushing troops rushed out from all directions. Cao Cao personally led the army at the front and shouted, “I have been waiting here for a long time! Do not let them escape!” Yang Feng was greatly alarmed and hurried to turn his army back, but Cao Cao’s troops had already surrounded him. Just then Han Xian led troops to the rescue. The two armies became entangled in battle, and Yang Feng escaped. Taking advantage of the disorder in the enemy ranks, Cao Cao pressed the attack. More than half the soldiers of the two commanders surrendered. Isolated and weakened, Yang Feng and Han Xian led their defeated troops away to join Yuan Shu.

Cao Cao withdrew his army and returned to camp. Man Chong led Xu Huang in to meet him. Cao Cao was delighted and treated Xu Huang generously. He then escorted the imperial carriage to the capital at Xu. Palaces and halls were built, and the ancestral temple, altars of soil and grain, government offices, bureaus, courts, and administrative buildings were established. The city walls, official residences, and storehouses were repaired. Dong Cheng and twelve others, thirteen men in all, were enfeoffed as marquises. The rewarding of merit and punishment of crime were both placed under Cao Cao’s authority.

Cao Cao appointed himself General-in-Chief and Marquis of Wuping. He appointed Xun Yu Palace Attendant and Director of the Imperial Secretariat; Xun You Military Adviser; Guo Jia Major and Libationer; Liu Ye as an administrative officer to the Minister of Works; Mao Jie and Ren Jun as Household Generals of Agricultural Administration, responsible for pressing and supervising the collection of money and grain; Cheng Yu as Chancellor of Dongping; Fan Cheng and Dong Zhao as Magistrates of Luoyang; Man Chong as Magistrate of the capital at Xu; Xiahou Dun, Xiahou Yuan, Cao Ren, and Cao Hong as generals; Lü Qian, Li Dian, Yue Jin, Yu Jin, and Xu Huang as colonels; and Xu Chu and Dian Wei as commandants. All the remaining generals and soldiers were each granted offices. From that time onward, all great power belonged to Cao Cao. Important affairs of the court were first reported to Cao Cao and only afterward memorialized to the Son of Heaven.

After Cao Cao had settled these great affairs, he held a banquet in the rear hall, gathered his advisers, and discussed matters with them. He said, “Liu Bei has stationed troops in Xuzhou and taken charge of the province himself. Recently, after being defeated, Lü Bu went to join him, and Liu Bei had him live at Xiaopei. If the two men unite and lead an army against us, they will become a danger close to our very heart. What excellent plan do you gentlemen have for dealing with them?” Xu Chu said, “Grant me fifty thousand elite troops, and I will cut off the heads of Liu Bei and Lü Bu and present them to the Chancellor.” Xun Yu said, “The general is certainly brave, but he does not understand the use of strategy. The capital at Xu has only just been settled, and we must not rashly begin a war. I have a plan called ‘The Plan of Two Tigers Competing for Food.’ Although Liu Bei now governs Xuzhou, he has not received an imperial appointment. You, illustrious lord, may memorialize the throne and request an edict formally appointing Liu Bei as Governor of Xuzhou. At the same time, send him a secret letter ordering him to kill Lü Bu. If he succeeds, Liu Bei will lose the fierce warrior who supports him and may gradually be dealt with. If he fails, Lü Bu will certainly kill Liu Bei. This is ‘The Plan of Two Tigers Competing for Food.’” Cao Cao followed his advice. He immediately memorialized the throne to request an imperial appointment, then sent an envoy bearing it to Xuzhou. Liu Bei was appointed General Who Conquers the East, Marquis of Yicheng Village, and acting Governor of Xuzhou. A sealed secret letter was sent with the appointment.

Now Liu Xuande was in Xuzhou. When he heard that the Emperor had gone to the capital at Xu, he was just preparing to submit a memorial of congratulations. Suddenly it was reported that an imperial envoy had arrived. Liu Bei went outside the city walls to welcome him and escorted him into the commandery seat. After bowing and receiving the gracious imperial appointment, he held a banquet to entertain the envoy. The envoy said, “The fact that you, my lord, have received this gracious appointment is truly due to General Cao’s recommendation before the Emperor.” Xuande offered his thanks. The envoy then took out the private letter and handed it to him. After reading it, Xuande said, “This matter still requires some thought.” When the banquet ended, he lodged the envoy at the official posthouse. That night Xuande discussed the matter with his followers. Zhang Fei said, “Lü Bu has always been an unrighteous man. What harm is there in killing him?” Xuande said, “He came to join me when his power was exhausted. If I kill him, that too would be unrighteous.” Zhang Fei said, “It is hard to be a good man!” Xuande did not follow his advice.

The next day, Lü Bu came to congratulate Xuande, who had him invited inside. Lü Bu said, “I heard that you had received a gracious appointment from the court, and so I came especially to congratulate you.” Xuande modestly thanked him. Suddenly Zhang Fei drew his sword and rushed into the hall, intending to kill Lü Bu. Xuande hurriedly stopped him. Greatly alarmed, Lü Bu said, “Why is Yide determined to kill me?” Zhang Fei shouted, “Cao Cao says you are an unrighteous man and ordered my elder brother to kill you!” Xuande repeatedly shouted at Zhang Fei to withdraw. He then led Lü Bu into the rear hall and truthfully told him the whole cause of the matter. He also gave Lü Bu the secret letter sent by Cao Cao to read. When Lü Bu had finished reading it, he wept and said, “This is only Cao Cao the traitor trying to set the two of us against each other!” Xuande said, “Do not worry, brother. I, Liu Bei, swear that I will not commit such an unrighteous act.”

Lü Bu bowed and thanked him again and again. Liu Bei kept him there to drink, and he did not return until evening. Guan Yu and Zhang Fei said, “Elder brother, why did you not kill Lü Bu?” Xuande said, “Cao Mengde fears that Lü Bu and I may join in a plan to attack him. That is why he used this scheme to make the two of us devour each other, while he takes the profit between us. How could I allow myself to be used by him?” Lord Guan nodded and said that this was so. Zhang Fei said, “I only want to kill this traitor and put an end to future trouble!” Xuande said, “That is not the conduct of a true man.”

The next day, Xuande sent the imperial envoy back to the capital. He also submitted a memorial thanking the Emperor for his favor and sent a reply to Cao Cao, merely saying that the matter should be delayed and planned later. The envoy returned to Cao Cao and told him that Xuande had not killed Lü Bu. Cao Cao asked Xun Yu, “This plan has failed. What are we to do?” Xun Yu said, “I have another plan called ‘The Plan of Driving the Tiger to Devour the Wolf.’” Cao Cao said, “How does the plan work?” Xun Yu said, “Secretly send someone to Yuan Shu to convey your respects and report that Liu Bei has submitted a secret memorial seeking to seize Nanjun. When Yuan Shu hears this, he will certainly be furious and attack Liu Bei. You may then openly issue an imperial edict ordering Liu Bei to attack Yuan Shu. When the two sides clash, Lü Bu is certain to form other intentions. This is ‘The Plan of Driving the Tiger to Devour the Wolf.’” Cao Cao was delighted. He first sent a man to Yuan Shu and then, under the authority of a supposed imperial edict, sent another man to Xuzhou.

Now Xuande was in Xuzhou. When he heard that an imperial envoy had arrived, he went outside the city walls to welcome him. He opened and read the edict, which ordered him to raise an army against Yuan Shu. Xuande accepted the command and sent the envoy back ahead of him. Mi Zhu said, “This too is a scheme of Cao Cao’s.” Xuande said, “Though it may be a scheme, an imperial command cannot be disobeyed.”

He therefore mustered his troops and horses and fixed a day for departure. Sun Qian said, “You should first appoint someone to defend the city.” Xuande said, “Which of my two younger brothers can defend it?” Lord Guan said, “I am willing to defend this city.” Xuande said, “I wish to discuss affairs with you morning and evening. How can we be separated?” Zhang Fei said, “I am willing to defend this city.” Xuande said, “You cannot defend it. First, after drinking, you become violent and whip the soldiers. Second, you act rashly and do not follow other people’s advice. I do not feel at ease about you.”

Zhang Fei said, “From now on I will not drink wine, I will not strike the soldiers, and I will listen to advice in every matter. That will be enough.” Mi Zhu said, “I only fear that your mouth will not agree with your heart.” Zhang Fei angrily said, “I have followed my elder brother for many years and have never broken my word. How can you think so little of me?” Xuande said, “Though you say this, brother, I still cannot set my mind at ease. I will ask Chen Yuanlong to assist you. Morning and evening, let him see that you drink little and do not cause anything to go wrong.” Chen Deng agreed. After Xuande had given all his instructions, he took command of thirty thousand cavalry and infantry and left Xuzhou, advancing toward Nanyang.

Now Yuan Shu heard it said that Liu Bei had submitted a memorial seeking to swallow up his prefectures and counties. He was furious and said, “You are nothing but a man who wove mats and plaited sandals. Now you have suddenly occupied a great commandery and placed yourself in the ranks of the feudal lords. I was just about to attack you, yet you instead seek to plot against me! This is deeply hateful!” He therefore ordered his senior general Ji Ling to raise one hundred thousand troops and charge toward Xuzhou. The two armies met at Xuyi. Xuande had fewer troops, so he established his camp with a mountain behind him and water beside him.

Ji Ling was a man from east of the mountains. He used a three-pointed blade weighing fifty jin. That day he led his troops out and shouted abuse: “Liu Bei, you village bumpkin! How dare you invade my territory?” Xuande said, “I obey the Son of Heaven’s edict in punishing a disloyal subject. Now you dare come and resist me. Even death cannot fully punish your crime!” Ji Ling was furious. He urged on his horse, brandished his blade, and charged straight at Xuande. Lord Guan shouted, “Common wretch, do not presume to show your strength!” He rode out and fought a great battle with Ji Ling. They fought thirty exchanges in succession, with neither winning. Ji Ling shouted for a short rest, and Lord Guan turned his horse back toward his formation, where he stood before the line waiting for him. Instead, Ji Ling sent his deputy general Xun Zheng to ride out. Lord Guan said, “Tell Ji Ling to come himself, so that I may settle with him which of us is the better man!” Xun Zheng said, “You are only an obscure junior general and no match for General Ji!” Lord Guan was furious and charged straight at Xun Zheng. Their horses met once, and he cut Xun Zheng down from his horse. Xuande drove his troops forward in an attack. Ji Ling suffered a great defeat and withdrew to defend the mouth of the Huaiyin River, not daring to offer battle. He only ordered soldiers to make surprise attacks on Xuande’s camp, but every time they were defeated by the Xuzhou troops. The two armies remained opposed, but that need not be related here.

Now after Zhang Fei saw Xuande depart, he placed every kind of miscellaneous business in Chen Yuanlong’s hands, while he personally considered all important military matters. One day he arranged a banquet and invited all the officials to attend. When everyone was seated, Zhang Fei began to speak: “When my elder brother left, he instructed me to drink less, fearing that it might cause affairs to go wrong. Today, gentlemen, let us all get thoroughly drunk this once. Starting tomorrow, every one of us will abstain from wine and help me defend the city. But today everyone must drink his fill.” When he had finished speaking, he rose and personally offered cups to all the officials. When he reached Cao Bao, Cao Bao said, “I have sworn before Heaven not to drink wine.” Zhang Fei said, “How can a fighting man refuse to drink? I want you to take one cup.” Cao Bao was afraid and had no choice but to drink one cup.

After Zhang Fei had offered wine to every official, he filled a huge goblet for himself and drank several dozen cups in succession. Before he knew it, he was very drunk. He then rose again to offer wine to the officials. When he reached Cao Bao, Cao Bao said, “I truly cannot drink any more.” Zhang Fei said, “You drank just now. Why do you refuse now?” Cao Bao repeatedly refused to drink. In his drunkenness Zhang Fei became violent and angry, saying, “You have disobeyed my military command. You deserve one hundred strokes!” He shouted for the soldiers to seize him. Chen Yuanlong said, “What did Lord Xuande instruct you when he left?” Zhang Fei said, “You are a civil official. Attend only to the affairs of civil officials and do not interfere with me!”

Cao Bao had no other choice and pleaded, “Lord Yide, for the sake of my son-in-law, please pardon me this once.” Zhang Fei said, “Who is your son-in-law?” Cao Bao said, “Lü Bu.” Zhang Fei was furious and said, “At first I did not want to beat you, but now you bring up Lü Bu to frighten me. That makes me all the more determined to beat you! When I beat you, it is the same as beating Lü Bu!” No one could persuade him to stop. Cao Bao had been whipped fifty times before the others’ desperate pleas finally made Zhang Fei stop.

When the banquet ended, Cao Bao returned home, deeply hating Zhang Fei. That very night he sent a man carrying a letter directly to Xiaopei to see Lü Bu. In the letter he gave a full account of Zhang Fei’s outrageous conduct and added: “Xuande has already gone to Huainan. Tonight you can take advantage of Zhang Fei’s drunkenness and lead troops in a surprise attack on Xuzhou. You must not miss this opportunity.” When Lü Bu saw the letter, he summoned Chen Gong to discuss it. Chen Gong said, “Xiaopei was never a place where we could remain for long. Now there is an opening we can exploit in Xuzhou. If we fail to take it now, it will be too late for regret.”

Lü Bu followed his advice. He immediately put on his armor, mounted his horse, and led five hundred cavalry ahead. He ordered Chen Gong to bring the main army behind him, with Gao Shun following after. Xiaopei was only forty or fifty li from Xuzhou, so they reached it as soon as they rode out. When Lü Bu arrived beneath the city walls, it was just the fourth watch. The moonlight was bright and clear, and the men on the walls had noticed nothing. Lü Bu went to the city gate and called out, “An envoy with confidential business has come from Governor Liu!” Cao Bao’s soldiers were on the wall and reported this to Cao Bao. Cao Bao climbed the wall to look, then ordered the soldiers to open the gate. Lü Bu gave a secret signal. All his troops rushed in together, raising a tremendous shout.

Zhang Fei lay drunk in his residence. His attendants hurriedly shook him awake and reported, “Lü Bu has tricked them into opening the city gate and has fought his way inside!” Zhang Fei was furious. He hurriedly put on his armor and seized his eighteen-foot serpent spear. He had only just left the residence and mounted his horse when Lü Bu’s troops arrived and met him head-on. Zhang Fei was still not sober and could not fight with his full strength. Lü Bu had long known Zhang Fei’s bravery and did not dare press him too hard. Eighteen riders from Yan protected Zhang Fei and fought their way out through the eastern gate. Xuande’s family remained in the residence, and Zhang Fei had no time to look after them.

Now Cao Bao saw that Zhang Fei had only a little more than ten attendants, and he also relied on Zhang Fei’s drunkenness. He therefore led more than a hundred men in pursuit. When Zhang Fei saw Cao Bao, he was furious and urged his horse forward to meet him. They fought three exchanges. Cao Bao was defeated and fled, and Zhang Fei pursued him to the riverbank. With one thrust of his spear, Zhang Fei struck Cao Bao squarely in the back. Man and horse together fell dead into the river. Outside the city, Zhang Fei called the soldiers to him. All who escaped from the city followed him toward Huainan. Lü Bu entered the city and reassured the inhabitants. He ordered one hundred soldiers to guard the gate of Xuande’s residence and allowed no one to enter without permission.

Now Zhang Fei led several dozen riders straight to Xuyi to see Xuande. He gave a full account of how Cao Bao and Lü Bu had worked together from inside and outside to attack Xuzhou by night. Everyone turned pale. Xuande sighed and said, “What is there to rejoice about in gaining, and what is there to grieve about in losing?” Lord Guan said, “Where are our sisters-in-law?” Zhang Fei said, “They have all been trapped inside the city.” Xuande remained silent and said nothing. Lord Guan stamped his foot and reproached Zhang Fei: “When you first asked to defend the city, what did you say? What did our elder brother instruct you to do? Today the city is lost, and our sisters-in-law are trapped. What are we to do now?” When Zhang Fei heard this, he was so ashamed and frightened that he had nowhere to hide. He drew his sword and was about to cut his own throat. Indeed:

Why was his feeling so reckless when he raised the cup and drank his fill?Now he draws his sword to cast away his life, but regret has come too late!

What became of his life will be explained in what follows.