Chapter 18

Jia Xu Foresees the Enemy and Secures Victory; Xiahou Dun Plucks Out the Arrow and Devours His Eye

Now Jia Xu had fathomed Cao Cao’s intention and resolved to turn his scheme against him. He said to Zhang Xiu, “From the city wall I have watched Cao Cao ride around the city for three days. He has seen that at the southeastern corner the colors of the bricks and earth differ, old from new, and that more than half the abatis has been destroyed. He means to break in there. Yet he is making a show of heaping grass in the northwest, hoping to deceive us into withdrawing our troops to defend that quarter. Then, under cover of darkness, he will surely scale the southeastern corner and enter.” Zhang Xiu said, “Then what are we to do?” Jia Xu said, “It is easily managed. Tomorrow, order our finest and strongest soldiers to eat their fill, travel light, and conceal themselves in the houses of the southeast. Then have the common people disguise themselves as soldiers and make a show of defending the northwest. At night, let Cao Cao’s men scale the wall at the southeastern corner. Once they have entered the city, a single cannon blast will sound, the ambush will rise on every side, and Cao Cao can be captured.”

Zhang Xiu was delighted and followed his plan. Before long, a scout reported to Cao Cao that Zhang Xiu had withdrawn all his troops to the northwestern corner, where they were shouting and defending the walls, while the southeast had been left almost entirely empty. Cao Cao said, “He has fallen into my trap!” He secretly ordered the army to prepare spades, pickaxes, and scaling equipment. By day he led his troops only against the northwestern corner; but at the second watch, he brought picked soldiers to the southeastern corner, climbed down into the moat, and hacked open the abatis. There was not a sound from within the city. The troops surged in together. Then came the blast of a cannon, and ambushers rose on every side. Cao Cao’s army hastened to retreat, while Zhang Xiu himself drove his boldest men against them from the rear. Cao Cao’s army was utterly defeated and fled dozens of miles beyond the city. Zhang Xiu pursued and slaughtered them until daybreak before recalling his troops and returning to the city. When Cao Cao mustered the remnants of his army, more than fifty thousand men had been lost, together with baggage and supplies beyond count. Lü Qian and Yu Jin were both wounded.

When Jia Xu saw Cao Cao fleeing in defeat, he urgently advised Zhang Xiu to send a letter to Liu Biao and ask him to raise troops to cut off Cao Cao’s route of retreat. On receiving the letter, Liu Biao was about to mobilize when a scout suddenly reported that Sun Ce had stationed troops at Hukou. Kuai Liang said, “Sun Ce’s encampment at Hukou is part of Cao Cao’s design. Cao Cao has just suffered defeat. If we do not strike him while we have the advantage, he will surely become a source of trouble later.” Liu Biao therefore ordered Huang Zu to hold the strategic passes, while he himself led troops to Anzhong County to cut off Cao Cao’s retreat; at the same time, he arranged to join forces with Zhang Xiu. When Zhang Xiu learned that Liu Biao’s army had set out, he and Jia Xu led their troops in pursuit of Cao Cao.

Meanwhile, Cao Cao’s army marched slowly on. When it reached Xiangcheng and came to the Yu River, Cao Cao suddenly burst into loud weeping in the saddle. Everyone was startled and asked him why. Cao Cao said, “I am thinking of how my great general Dian Wei fell here last year. I cannot help but weep!” He immediately ordered the army to halt and pitch camp, then prepared a great sacrificial feast to mourn and honor Dian Wei’s departed spirit. Cao Cao personally offered incense, wept, and bowed in worship, and not a man in the entire army failed to sigh with emotion. Only after the rites for Dian Wei were complete did he sacrifice to his nephew Cao Anmin, his eldest son Cao Ang, and the soldiers who had fallen in battle. He even made an offering to the Ferghana horse that had been shot dead.

The next day, a messenger suddenly arrived from Xun Yu with this report: “Liu Biao is supporting Zhang Xiu and has stationed troops at Anzhong, cutting off our road home.” Cao Cao replied to Xun Yu in a letter: “I am marching only a few miles each day, not because I do not know that the enemy is pursuing me, but because my plan is already settled. Once we reach Anzhong, Zhang Xiu will certainly be defeated. Do not doubt it.” He then urged the army onward until it reached the borders of Anzhong County. Liu Biao’s troops were already holding the strategic ground, and Zhang Xiu was coming up from behind with his army. Under cover of darkness, Cao Cao ordered his soldiers to cut a path through the difficult terrain while secretly placing a surprise force in ambush.

At the first glimmer of dawn, Liu Biao’s and Zhang Xiu’s armies joined forces. Seeing that Cao Cao had few troops, they suspected he had escaped and led their men into the defile to attack him. Cao Cao unleashed his hidden force and routed both armies. His troops passed through the outlet at Anzhong and made camp beyond the defile. Liu Biao and Zhang Xiu each rallied his defeated troops, then met. Liu Biao said, “Who would have expected us to fall instead into Cao Cao’s treacherous scheme?” Zhang Xiu said, “Allow me to devise another plan against him!” The two armies thereupon assembled at Anzhong.

Meanwhile, Xun Yu learned through scouts that Yuan Shao intended to raise an army against the capital at Xu, and sent a dispatch by night at full speed to Cao Cao. When Cao Cao received it, he was alarmed and turned his army homeward that very day. An agent reported this to Zhang Xiu, who wished to pursue. Jia Xu said, “You must not pursue. If you do, you will certainly be defeated.” Liu Biao said, “If we do not pursue today, we will sit by and lose our opportunity.” He strongly urged Zhang Xiu to take more than ten thousand troops and pursue together with him. After marching a little over ten miles, they caught up with the rear of Cao Cao’s army. Cao Cao’s troops fought with all their strength, and the armies of Zhang Xiu and Liu Biao were heavily defeated and returned. Zhang Xiu said to Jia Xu, “I did not follow your advice, and this defeat has come just as you said.” Jia Xu replied, “Now you should reorganize the troops and pursue him again.” Zhang Xiu and Liu Biao both said, “We have already been defeated. How can we pursue again?” Jia Xu said, “If you pursue him this time, you will certainly win a great victory. If it proves otherwise, I ask that you cut off my head.” Zhang Xiu trusted him. Liu Biao, beset by doubts, refused to accompany him. Zhang Xiu therefore led one army in pursuit by himself, and Cao Cao’s troops were indeed badly defeated, abandoning horses, baggage, and supplies all along the road as they fled.

Zhang Xiu was pressing forward in pursuit when a powerful body of troops suddenly swept out from behind a hill. He dared pursue no farther and withdrew his army to Anzhong. Liu Biao asked Jia Xu, “First we pursued retreating troops with picked soldiers, yet you said we would certainly be defeated. Later we attacked victorious troops with beaten men, yet you said we would certainly prevail. In the end, everything happened exactly as you said. How could such different circumstances both confirm your judgment? I ask you to instruct me clearly.” Jia Xu said, “It is easily understood. Though you, General, are skilled in the use of troops, you are no match for Cao Cao. Even when Cao Cao’s army is defeated, he will certainly leave a formidable commander to guard the rear against pursuers. Though our troops were keen, they could not overcome him; therefore I knew we must be defeated. As for Cao Cao’s urgency in withdrawing, there must have been trouble at the capital of Xu. After he had broken our pursuing force, he would surely travel light and hurry home, making no further preparations against us. We pursued again when he was unprepared, and therefore were able to win.” Liu Biao and Zhang Xiu both submitted to the excellence of his judgment. Jia Xu advised Liu Biao to return to Jingzhou and Zhang Xiu to hold Xiangcheng, so that they might support each other like lips and teeth. The two armies then went their separate ways.

Meanwhile, as Cao Cao marched on, word came that Zhang Xiu was pursuing and attacking his rear guard. He hastily led his generals back to its aid, only to find that Zhang Xiu’s army had already withdrawn. The defeated soldiers returned and told Cao Cao, “Had that force from behind the hill not blocked the middle of the road, every one of us would have been captured.” Cao Cao quickly asked who its commander was. The man lowered his spear, dismounted, and bowed before Cao Cao. He was Li Tong, courtesy name Wenda, a native of Pingchun in Jiangxia and General of the Household Who Guards Might. Cao Cao asked where he had come from. Li Tong replied, “I have lately been guarding Runan. Hearing that the Chancellor was at war with Zhang Xiu and Liu Biao, I came especially to lend support.” Cao Cao was delighted. He enfeoffed Li Tong as Marquis Who Establishes Merit and ordered him to guard the western borders of Runan against Liu Biao and Zhang Xiu. Li Tong bowed his thanks and departed.

Cao Cao returned to the capital at Xu and submitted a memorial declaring that Sun Ce had rendered meritorious service. Sun Ce was appointed General Who Suppresses Rebellion and granted the title Marquis of Wu. An envoy was sent with the imperial edict to Jiangdong, instructing him to guard against and suppress Liu Biao. Cao Cao returned to his residence, and when all the officials had paid their respects, Xun Yu asked, “Chancellor, when you marched slowly toward Anzhong, how did you know that you would certainly defeat the enemy?” Cao Cao said, “They had no road by which to withdraw and would be forced to fight to the death. I went slowly to lure them on while secretly laying my plans against them. That was how I knew victory was certain.”

Xun Yu bowed in admiration. Then Guo Jia entered. Cao Cao said, “Why have you come so late?” Guo Jia drew a letter from his sleeve and presented it to Cao Cao, saying, “Yuan Shao has sent a man to deliver this letter to the Chancellor. He says that he wishes to lead troops against Gongsun Zan and has come especially to borrow provisions and soldiers.” Cao Cao said, “I had heard that Yuan Shao intended to seize the capital at Xu. Now that he sees I have returned, he has conceived another design.” He broke the seal and read the letter. Finding its language and intent arrogant and insolent, he asked Guo Jia, “Yuan Shao is so outrageous that I wish to punish him, but I fear my strength is insufficient. What should I do?”

Guo Jia said, “You know that Liu Bang was no match for Xiang Yu. Yet Emperor Gaozu prevailed through wisdom alone, and Xiang Yu, for all his strength, was captured in the end. Today Yuan Shao has ten causes of defeat, while you have ten causes of victory. Though his forces are great, they need not be feared. Yuan Shao is encumbered by rites and elaborate formalities; you conduct yourself according to what is natural: this is victory in principle. Yuan Shao acts in defiance of rightful order; you lead in obedience to it: this is victory in justice. Since the reigns of Emperors Huan and Ling, government has been weakened by excessive leniency. Yuan Shao answers this with further leniency; you correct it with severity: this is victory in governance. Yuan Shao is generous in appearance but jealous at heart, and most of those he appoints are relatives; you are outwardly simple but inwardly discerning, and employ men solely for their ability: this is victory in breadth of judgment. Yuan Shao makes many plans but few decisions; once you have a plan, you act at once: this is victory in strategy. Yuan Shao devotes himself to gathering reputation; you treat others with perfect sincerity: this is victory in virtue. Yuan Shao cares for those near him and neglects those far away; your concern reaches everywhere: this is victory in benevolence. Yuan Shao listens to slander and falls into confusion; insidious accusations have no effect on you: this is victory in discernment. Yuan Shao confounds right and wrong; your laws and standards are strict and clear: this is victory in civil order. Yuan Shao delights in empty displays of force and does not understand the essentials of war; you overcome many with few and wield troops with godlike skill: this is victory in arms. With these ten causes of victory, you will have no difficulty defeating Yuan Shao.”

Cao Cao laughed. “If what you say is true, how could I deserve such praise?” Xun Yu said, “Guo Fengxiao’s argument of ten victories and ten defeats accords exactly with my own humble judgment. Though Yuan Shao’s troops are numerous, why should they be feared?” Guo Jia said, “Lü Bu in Xuzhou is truly a mortal threat at our very heart. Now that Yuan Shao is marching north against Gongsun Zan, we should take advantage of his distant campaign to seize Lü Bu first and clear the southeast. Then we may turn our plans against Yuan Shao. That is the best strategy. Otherwise, just as we attack Yuan Shao, Lü Bu will surely exploit our emptiness and strike the capital at Xu, causing no small harm.”

Cao Cao approved his words and began discussing an eastern campaign against Lü Bu. Xun Yu said, “We should first send someone to arrange matters with Liu Bei. Only after his reply arrives should we move the army.” Cao Cao agreed. On one hand, he sent a letter to Xuande; on the other, he dismissed Yuan Shao’s envoy with lavish gifts and submitted a memorial appointing Yuan Shao General-in-Chief and Grand Commandant, with concurrent command over the four provinces of Jizhou, Qingzhou, Youzhou, and Bingzhou. In a secret reply, he wrote: “You may attack Gongsun Zan. I will assist you.” Yuan Shao was overjoyed when he received the letter and immediately advanced against Gongsun Zan.

Meanwhile, whenever Lü Bu held a banquet for guests in Xuzhou, Chen Gui and his son never failed to lavish praise on his virtue. Chen Gong was displeased. Finding an opportunity, he warned Lü Bu, “Chen Gui and his son flatter you to your face, General, but their intentions are unfathomable. You should be on your guard against them.” Lü Bu angrily rebuked him: “Why do you offer slander without cause? Do you mean to harm good men?” Chen Gong went out, sighing, “When loyal counsel cannot enter, men such as ourselves are certain to suffer calamity.” He thought of abandoning Lü Bu and going elsewhere, but could not bear to do so; he also feared that others would ridicule him. Thus he remained gloomy and unhappy day after day.

One day, Chen Gong took several riders into the country around Xiaopei to hunt and dispel his gloom. Suddenly he saw a mounted courier galloping along the official road. Suspicious, Chen Gong abandoned the hunt and led his attendants by a side road to overtake the rider. He asked, “Whose mission are you carrying?” The courier recognized him as one of Lü Bu’s officers and was so alarmed that he could not answer. Chen Gong ordered him searched and found a secret letter from Xuande replying to Cao Cao. He immediately took both the man and the letter before Lü Bu. Lü Bu asked the reason for this. The courier said, “Chancellor Cao sent me to deliver a letter to Liu, Governor of Yuzhou. I have now received this reply, but I do not know what is written in it.” Lü Bu opened the letter and read it closely. In substance, it said:

I have received your clear command to act against Lü Bu; how could I fail to devote myself to it day and night? Yet my troops are few and my commanders scarce, and I dare not move rashly. If the Chancellor raises a great army, I will serve as its vanguard. I am keeping my troops under strict discipline and my armor in readiness, awaiting only your honored command.

When Lü Bu read this, he was greatly alarmed. “How dare the villain Cao Cao do this!” He had the courier beheaded at once. First he sent Chen Gong and Zang Ba to join forces with the Taishan bandit leaders Sun Guan, Wu Dun, Yin Li, and Chang Xi, and seize the commanderies of Shandong and Yanzhou in the east. He ordered Gao Shun and Zhang Liao to take Pei and attack Xuande. He ordered Song Xian and Wei Xu to move west and seize the regions of Ru and Ying. Lü Bu himself commanded the central army, ready to support all three columns.

Meanwhile, Gao Shun and the others led their army out of Xuzhou. As they drew near Xiaopei, someone brought word to Xuande, who hastily consulted his followers. Sun Qian said, “We must send an urgent appeal to Cao Cao.” Xuande said, “Who can go to the capital at Xu to ask for aid?” A man below the steps came forward and said, “I am willing to go.” Xuande looked and saw Jian Yong, courtesy name Xianhe, a man from his own commandery who was then serving on his staff. Xuande wrote a letter and entrusted it to Jian Yong, sending him to the capital at Xu at full speed through the night to request relief. At the same time, he put the city’s defensive equipment in order. Xuande himself guarded the southern gate, Sun Qian the northern gate, Guan Yu the western gate, and Zhang Fei the eastern gate. He ordered Mi Zhu and Mi Zhu’s younger brother, Mi Fang, to guard the central headquarters. Mi Zhu had a younger sister who had married Xuande as his second wife. Since Xuande and the brothers were related as brothers-in-law, he entrusted them with the central headquarters and the protection of his wife and children.

When Gao Shun’s army arrived, Xuande called down from the gate tower, “Fengxian and I have no quarrel. Why has he led troops here?” Gao Shun replied, “You have conspired with Cao Cao to harm my lord. Now the affair has been exposed. Why do you not submit to be bound?” With that, he waved his army forward to attack the city. Xuande closed the gates and did not come out. The next day, Zhang Liao led troops against the western gate. From atop the wall, Guan Yu said to him, “Your bearing is no ordinary one. Why have you thrown yourself away in the service of a villain?” Zhang Liao lowered his head and said nothing. Guan Yu recognized in him a spirit of loyalty and honor, so he added no abusive words and did not ride out to fight.

Zhang Liao withdrew his troops to the eastern gate, whereupon Zhang Fei rode out to meet him in battle. Someone had already reported this to Lord Guan. Lord Guan hastened to the eastern gate and saw Zhang Fei just emerging from the city while Zhang Liao’s army was already retreating. Zhang Fei wished to pursue, but Lord Guan quickly called him back into the city. Zhang Fei said, “He has withdrawn out of fear. Why should I not pursue him?” Lord Guan said, “That man’s martial skill is no less than yours or mine. My righteous words moved him, and he has begun to feel remorse. That is why he would not fight us.” Zhang Fei understood. He merely ordered the soldiers to hold the city gates firmly and no longer went out to give battle.

Meanwhile, Jian Yong reached the capital at Xu and met Cao Cao, to whom he related everything that had happened. Cao Cao immediately assembled his advisers and said, “I wish to attack Lü Bu. I do not fear that Yuan Shao will restrain me; I fear only that Liu Biao and Zhang Xiu may harass my rear.” Xun You said, “Those two have only recently been defeated and will not dare move lightly. Lü Bu is fierce and valiant. If he joins forces with Yuan Shu and ranges unchecked between the Huai and Si rivers, it will soon become difficult to deal with him.” Guo Jia said, “We should strike now, while his rebellion has only just begun and the hearts of his followers have not yet attached themselves to him.”

Cao Cao followed this advice. He ordered Xiahou Dun, together with Xiahou Yuan, Lü Qian, and Li Dian, to lead fifty thousand troops in the van, while he himself commanded the main army and followed in successive divisions. Jian Yong accompanied them. Before long, a scout reported the movement to Gao Shun, who sent an urgent message to Lü Bu. Lü Bu first ordered Hou Cheng, Hao Meng, and Cao Xing to lead more than two hundred horsemen to support Gao Shun. He had them move thirty miles from Pei to meet Cao Cao’s army, while he himself followed with the main force to support them.

From within Xiaopei, Xuande saw Gao Shun withdraw and knew that the Cao army had arrived. He therefore left only Sun Qian to defend the city and Mi Zhu and Mi Fang to guard his household. Then he and Lords Guan and Zhang led all their troops outside the walls, established separate camps, and prepared to support Cao Cao’s army.

Meanwhile, Xiahou Dun led his army forward and came face-to-face with Gao Shun’s troops. He leveled his spear, rode out, and challenged him. Gao Shun came forth to meet him. Their horses crossed, and they fought for forty or fifty bouts. Unable to withstand him, Gao Shun turned and fled from the field. Xiahou Dun spurred his horse in pursuit. Gao Shun circled around the battle line as he fled, and Xiahou Dun, refusing to relent, circled after him. From within the formation, Cao Xing saw what was happening. Secretly he drew his bow and set an arrow to the string. Taking careful aim, he loosed. The arrow struck Xiahou Dun squarely in the left eye. Xiahou Dun gave a great cry and hastily pulled out the arrow, but the eyeball came out with it. He roared, “Essence from my father, blood from my mother—I cannot throw it away!” He put the eye into his mouth and swallowed it. Then, still gripping his spear, he spurred his horse straight at Cao Xing. Cao Xing had no time to defend himself before Xiahou Dun drove the spear through his face and killed him beneath his horse. Every soldier on both sides who saw it was appalled.

After killing Cao Xing, Xiahou Dun wheeled his horse and rode back. Gao Shun came after him from behind and waved his entire army forward. Cao Cao’s troops were badly defeated. Xiahou Yuan protected his elder brother as they fled. Lü Qian and Li Dian led the routed soldiers away and made camp at Jibei. Victorious, Gao Shun turned his army back against Xuande, just as Lü Bu’s main force arrived. Lü Bu divided his troops with Zhang Liao and Gao Shun into three columns, which converged upon the three camps of Xuande, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei. Indeed:

The fierce commander who swallowed his eye could still fight on,But the arrow-struck vanguard could not long hold firm.

How Xuande fared in victory or defeat will be revealed in the next chapter.

Jia Xu Foresees the Enemy and Secures Victory; Xiahou Dun Plucks Out the Arrow and Devours His Eye

Now Jia Xu had already guessed Cao Cao’s intention and decided to turn his plan against him. He said to Zhang Xiu, “From the city wall I have watched Cao Cao circle the city and inspect it for three days. He has seen that the bricks and earth at the southeastern corner differ in color, some new and some old, and that more than half the defensive barriers there are damaged. He means to attack and enter at that point. But he is falsely piling grass in the northwest and making a show of force there, hoping to deceive us into withdrawing our troops to defend the northwest. Under cover of night, he is certain to climb into the city at the southeastern corner.” Zhang Xiu said, “Then what are we to do?” Jia Xu said, “That is easy. Tomorrow, have the strongest and most vigorous soldiers eat their fill, take only light equipment, and hide inside the houses in the southeast. Then have the common people disguise themselves as soldiers and make a show of defending the northwest. At night, let the enemy climb the wall at the southeastern corner. Once they have climbed into the city, fire one signal shot, and all the ambushing troops will rise together. Cao Cao can then be captured.”

Zhang Xiu was delighted and followed his plan. Before long, scouts reported to Cao Cao that Zhang Xiu had withdrawn all his troops to the northwestern corner, where they were shouting and defending the city, while the southeast was almost completely empty. Cao Cao said, “He has fallen into my trap!” He secretly ordered his army to prepare shovels, pickaxes, and equipment for climbing the walls. During the day, he led his troops in attacks only against the northwestern corner. At about the second night watch, however, he led elite soldiers to the southeastern corner, where they climbed down into the moat and cut apart the defensive barriers. There was no movement at all inside the city, and the troops surged in together. Suddenly a signal shot sounded, and ambushing soldiers rose on every side. Cao Cao’s troops hurriedly retreated, but Zhang Xiu personally drove his strongest warriors against them from behind. Cao Cao’s army suffered a great defeat, withdrew from the city, and fled for several dozen li. Zhang Xiu continued the slaughter until dawn before recalling his troops and returning to the city. When Cao Cao counted the defeated army, he found that more than fifty thousand men had been lost, together with countless supplies and baggage. Lü Qian and Yu Jin had both been wounded.

When Jia Xu saw Cao Cao flee in defeat, he urgently advised Zhang Xiu to send a letter to Liu Biao asking him to raise troops and cut off Cao Cao’s route of retreat. When Liu Biao received the letter, he was about to mobilize his army, but a scout suddenly reported that Sun Ce had stationed troops at Hukou. Kuai Liang said, “Sun Ce’s stationing of troops at Hukou is part of Cao Cao’s plan. Cao Cao has just been defeated. If we do not seize this opportunity to strike him, he is certain to become a future danger.” Liu Biao therefore ordered Huang Zu to hold the strategic passes firmly, while he personally led troops to Anzhong County to cut off Cao Cao’s retreat. At the same time, he arranged to join Zhang Xiu. When Zhang Xiu learned that Liu Biao’s army had already mobilized, he and Jia Xu led their troops in pursuit of Cao Cao.

Meanwhile, Cao Cao’s army was moving slowly. When it reached the Yu River near Xiangcheng, Cao Cao suddenly began weeping loudly on horseback. Everyone was startled and asked him why. Cao Cao said, “I am thinking of how my great general Dian Wei was lost here last year. I cannot keep myself from weeping!” He at once ordered the army to halt and set up a great sacrificial feast to mourn and make offerings to Dian Wei’s departed spirit. Cao Cao personally took incense, wept, and bowed in worship, and no one in the whole army failed to sigh with emotion. After completing the rites for Dian Wei, he made offerings to his nephew Cao Anmin and his eldest son Cao Ang, as well as to the soldiers who had died in battle. He even made an offering to the Dayuan horse that had been shot dead.

The next day, a messenger suddenly arrived from Xun Yu with this report: “Liu Biao is helping Zhang Xiu and has stationed troops at Anzhong, cutting off our route home.” Cao Cao replied to Xun Yu in a letter: “I am traveling only a few li each day, not because I do not know that the enemy is pursuing me, but because my plan is already settled. Once we reach Anzhong, Zhang Xiu will certainly be defeated. None of you should doubt it.” He then urged the army onward until it reached the borders of Anzhong County. Liu Biao’s army had already occupied the strategic ground, while Zhang Xiu was leading troops up from behind. Under cover of darkness, Cao Cao ordered his men to cut a road through the dangerous ground and secretly placed a surprise force in ambush.

At the first glimmer of dawn, the armies of Liu Biao and Zhang Xiu joined together. Seeing that Cao Cao had few soldiers, they suspected that he had escaped, so both led their troops into the dangerous ground to attack him. Cao Cao released his hidden surprise force and inflicted a great defeat on both armies. Cao Cao’s troops passed out through the Anzhong boundary pass and set up camp beyond the narrow defile. Liu Biao and Zhang Xiu each reorganized their defeated troops and met together. Liu Biao said, “Who would have expected us to fall instead into Cao Cao’s treacherous scheme?” Zhang Xiu said, “Allow me to plan against him again!” The two armies therefore gathered at Anzhong.

Meanwhile, Xun Yu learned from his scouts that Yuan Shao intended to raise an army and attack the capital at Xu. He sent an urgent letter by night to inform Cao Cao. Cao Cao was alarmed when he received the letter and turned his army back that very day. When a spy reported this to Zhang Xiu, Zhang Xiu wanted to pursue him. Jia Xu said, “You must not pursue him. If you do, you will certainly be defeated.” Liu Biao said, “If we do not pursue him today, we will simply let the opportunity slip away.” He strongly urged Zhang Xiu to lead more than ten thousand troops in pursuit with him. After traveling a little more than ten li, they caught up with the rear of Cao Cao’s army. Cao Cao’s troops fought with all their strength, and the armies of Zhang Xiu and Liu Biao were badly defeated and returned. Zhang Xiu said to Jia Xu, “I did not follow your advice, and this defeat occurred exactly as you said.” Jia Xu said, “Now you should reorganize the troops and pursue him again.” Zhang Xiu and Liu Biao both said, “We have already been defeated. How can we pursue him again?” Jia Xu said, “If you pursue him this time, you will certainly win a great victory. If that does not happen, I ask you to cut off my head.” Zhang Xiu trusted him. Liu Biao remained doubtful and refused to go with him. Zhang Xiu therefore led one army in pursuit by himself. Cao Cao’s troops were indeed badly defeated, and they fled down the road, abandoning soldiers, horses, supplies, and baggage as they went.

As Zhang Xiu continued the pursuit, a strong body of troops suddenly surged out from behind a mountain. Zhang Xiu did not dare pursue any farther, so he withdrew his army to Anzhong. Liu Biao asked Jia Xu, “First we pursued a retreating army with elite troops, and you said we were certain to be defeated. Later we attacked a victorious army with defeated soldiers, and you said we were certain to win. In the end, everything happened exactly as you said. Why were the circumstances so different, yet both predictions proved true? I ask you to explain it clearly to me.” Jia Xu said, “It is easy to understand. Although the general is skilled in using troops, he is no match for Cao Cao. Though Cao Cao’s army had been defeated, he was certain to leave a powerful general to guard the rear against pursuers. Though our troops were fierce, they could not defeat such a force. That is why I knew we would certainly lose. As for Cao Cao’s urgent retreat, it had to be because something had happened at the capital at Xu. Once he had defeated our pursuing army, he was certain to travel back quickly with light wagons and make no further preparations against us. We pursued him again when he was unprepared, and that is why we were able to win.” Liu Biao and Zhang Xiu both acknowledged the excellence of his judgment. Jia Xu advised Liu Biao to return to Jingzhou and Zhang Xiu to defend Xiangcheng, so that they might support each other like lips and teeth. The two armies then went their separate ways.

Meanwhile, as Cao Cao was traveling, he heard that his rear army had been pursued by Zhang Xiu. He hurriedly led his generals back to rescue it. He saw that Zhang Xiu’s army had already withdrawn. The defeated soldiers returned and told Cao Cao, “If the troops from behind the mountain had not blocked the road midway, all of us would have been captured.” Cao Cao urgently asked who their commander was. The man dismounted with his spear in hand and bowed before Cao Cao. He was Li Tong, courtesy name Wenda, a native of Pingchun in Jiangxia, and held the office of General of the Household Who Pacifies Might. Cao Cao asked where he had come from. Li Tong said, “I have recently been guarding Runan. When I heard that the Chancellor was fighting Zhang Xiu and Liu Biao, I came especially to support you.” Cao Cao was delighted and made Li Tong Marquis of Established Merit. He ordered him to guard the western border of Runan against Liu Biao and Zhang Xiu. Li Tong bowed in thanks and departed.

Cao Cao returned to the capital at Xu and submitted a memorial stating that Sun Ce had rendered meritorious service. Sun Ce was appointed General Who Attacks Rebels and granted the noble rank of Marquis of Wu. An envoy was sent with the imperial decree to Jiangdong, instructing him to guard against and suppress Liu Biao. Cao Cao returned to his residence, and after all the officials had paid their respects, Xun Yu asked, “Chancellor, when you traveled slowly toward Anzhong, how did you know that you would certainly defeat the enemy troops?” Cao Cao said, “They had no road by which to retreat and would therefore be certain to fight to the death. I slowly drew them on while secretly planning against them. That is how I knew that victory was certain.”

Xun Yu bowed in admiration. Then Guo Jia entered. Cao Cao said, “Why have you come so late?” Guo Jia drew a letter from his sleeve and reported to Cao Cao, “Yuan Shao has sent a man to deliver this letter to the Chancellor. He says that he wishes to send troops against Gongsun Zan and has come especially to borrow grain and soldiers.” Cao Cao said, “I heard that Yuan Shao intended to seize the capital at Xu. Now that he sees I have returned, he has formed another plan.” He opened the letter and read it. Seeing that its language and meaning were arrogant and insolent, he asked Guo Jia, “Yuan Shao is behaving with such contempt that I wish to attack him. I regret only that my strength is insufficient. What should I do?”

Guo Jia said, “You know that Liu Bang could not match Xiang Yu in strength. Yet Emperor Gaozu won through wisdom alone, and though Xiang Yu was powerful, he was captured in the end. Yuan Shao now has ten causes of defeat, while you have ten causes of victory. Though Yuan Shao’s forces are numerous, they need not be feared. Yuan Shao is burdened with elaborate rites and excessive ceremony, while you act according to what is natural. This is victory in the Way. Yuan Shao acts in rebellion, while you lead in obedience to lawful authority. This is victory in righteousness. Since the reigns of Emperors Huan and Ling, government has failed through excessive leniency. Yuan Shao continues that leniency, while you correct it with severity. This is victory in government. Yuan Shao is outwardly generous but inwardly suspicious, and most of those he employs are relatives. You are outwardly simple but inwardly discerning, and you employ people solely according to ability. This is victory in judgment. Yuan Shao makes many plans but reaches few decisions, while you act as soon as you obtain a sound plan. This is victory in strategy. Yuan Shao seeks only to gather fame and reputation, while you treat people with complete sincerity. This is victory in virtue. Yuan Shao cares for those nearby but neglects those far away, while your concern reaches everywhere. This is victory in benevolence. Yuan Shao listens to slander and is confused by it, while insidious accusations have no effect on you. This is victory in understanding. Yuan Shao confuses right and wrong, while your laws and standards are strict and clear. This is victory in civil order. Yuan Shao likes to make empty displays of force and does not understand the essentials of warfare, while you defeat many with few and use troops like a god. This is victory in military skill. With these ten causes of victory, it will not be difficult for you to defeat Yuan Shao.”

Cao Cao laughed and said, “If what you say is true, how could I deserve such praise?” Xun Yu said, “Guo Fengxiao’s account of ten victories and ten defeats agrees exactly with my own humble opinion. Though Yuan Shao has many troops, why should he be feared?” Guo Jia said, “Lü Bu in Xuzhou is truly a mortal danger at our very heart. Now that Yuan Shao is campaigning north against Gongsun Zan, we should take advantage of his distant absence and first capture Lü Bu, clearing away the danger in the southeast. After that, we can plan against Yuan Shao. This is the best strategy. Otherwise, while we are attacking Yuan Shao, Lü Bu is certain to take advantage of our emptiness and attack the capital at Xu, and the harm will be considerable.”

Cao Cao agreed and began discussing an eastern campaign against Lü Bu. Xun Yu said, “We should first send someone to make an agreement with Liu Bei. Only after his reply arrives should we mobilize the army.” Cao Cao followed this advice. On the one hand, he sent a letter to Xuande. On the other, he rewarded Yuan Shao’s envoy generously and submitted a memorial appointing Yuan Shao Grand General and Grand Commandant, with concurrent command over the four provinces of Ji, Qing, You, and Bing. He secretly replied in a letter: “You may attack Gongsun Zan. I shall assist you.” Yuan Shao was delighted when he received the letter and immediately advanced against Gongsun Zan.

Meanwhile, whenever Lü Bu held a banquet for guests in Xuzhou, Chen Gui and his son always praised Lü Bu’s virtue extravagantly. Chen Gong was displeased. Finding an opportunity, he told Lü Bu, “Chen Gui and his son flatter the general to his face, but what lies in their hearts cannot be known. You should guard carefully against them.” Lü Bu angrily rebuked him: “You offer slander without cause. Are you trying to harm good men?” Chen Gong went out and sighed, “When loyal advice is not accepted, all of us are certain to suffer disaster.” He wanted to abandon Lü Bu and go elsewhere, but could not bring himself to do so. He also feared being mocked by others, and so remained gloomy and unhappy all day long.

One day, Chen Gong took several horsemen hunting in the country around Xiaopei to relieve his gloom. Suddenly he saw a courier on a post horse racing along the official road ahead. Chen Gong grew suspicious. He abandoned the hunt and led his attendants along a side road to catch up with the man. He asked, “Whose messenger are you, and where are you from?” The messenger recognized that Chen Gong was one of Lü Bu’s officers and was so frightened that he could not answer. Chen Gong ordered his person searched, and they found a secret letter in which Xuande replied to Cao Cao. Chen Gong immediately seized both the man and the letter and brought them before Lü Bu. Lü Bu asked the messenger about the matter. The messenger said, “Chancellor Cao sent me to deliver a letter to Liu, Governor of Yuzhou. I have now received his reply, but I do not know what the letter says.” Lü Bu opened the letter and read it carefully. Its main points were:

I respectfully received your clear command to plan against Lü Bu. How could I fail to devote myself to it day and night? But my soldiers are few and my generals scarce, so I dare not move lightly. If the Chancellor raises a great army, I shall serve as the vanguard. I am now strictly training my troops and preparing their armor, and await only your honored command.

When Lü Bu read this, he was greatly alarmed and said, “How dare that traitor Cao Cao act like this!” He had the messenger beheaded at once. First, he sent Chen Gong and Zang Ba to join with the Mount Tai bandits Sun Guan, Wu Dun, Yin Li, and Chang Xi, and to seize the commanderies of Shandong and Yanzhou in the east. He ordered Gao Shun and Zhang Liao to take Pei and attack Xuande. He ordered Song Xian and Wei Xu to seize the regions of Ru and Ying in the west. Lü Bu himself commanded the central army, ready to support all three routes.

Meanwhile, Gao Shun and the others led their troops out of Xuzhou. When they were nearing Xiaopei, someone reported their approach to Xuande. Xuande urgently consulted his followers. Sun Qian said, “We must quickly appeal to Cao Cao for help.” Xuande said, “Who can go to the capital at Xu and ask for emergency aid?” One man below the steps came forward and said, “I am willing to go.” Xuande looked and saw Jian Yong, courtesy name Xianhe, a man from his own commandery who was then serving on his staff. Xuande immediately wrote a letter and gave it to Jian Yong, sending him by night to the capital at Xu to seek aid. At the same time, he prepared the equipment for defending the city. Xuande himself guarded the southern gate, Sun Qian the northern gate, Yunchang the western gate, and Zhang Fei the eastern gate. He ordered Mi Zhu and Mi Zhu’s younger brother, Mi Fang, to protect the central headquarters. Mi Zhu had a younger sister who had married Xuande as his second wife. Since Xuande and the brothers were related by marriage, he ordered them to guard the headquarters and protect his wife and children.

When Gao Shun’s army arrived, Xuande stood on the defensive tower and asked, “Fengxian and I have no quarrel. Why have you led troops here?” Gao Shun said, “You have joined Cao Cao and intend to harm my lord. Now the matter has been exposed. Why do you not submit to being bound?” When he had finished speaking, he signaled his army to attack the city. Xuande closed the gates and did not come out. The next day, Zhang Liao led troops to attack the western gate. From the city wall, Yunchang said to him, “Your appearance and bearing are no ordinary man’s. Why have you thrown yourself away in the service of a traitor?” Zhang Liao lowered his head and said nothing. Yunchang knew that this man possessed a spirit of loyalty and righteousness, so he did not add any harsh words and did not come out to fight him.

Zhang Liao led his troops away to the eastern gate, and Zhang Fei immediately came out to meet him in battle. Someone had already reported this to Lord Guan. Lord Guan hurried to the eastern gate and saw Zhang Fei just coming out of the city, while Zhang Liao’s army was already withdrawing. Zhang Fei wanted to pursue, but Lord Guan urgently called him back into the city. Zhang Fei said, “He withdrew because he was afraid. Why should I not pursue him?” Lord Guan said, “This man’s martial skill is no lower than yours or mine. Because I moved him with upright words, he now feels considerable regret. That is the only reason he did not fight us.” Zhang Fei then understood. He merely ordered the soldiers to hold the city gates firmly and did not go out to fight again.

Meanwhile, Jian Yong reached the capital at Xu, met Cao Cao, and gave a full account of what had happened. Cao Cao immediately assembled his advisers and said, “I wish to attack Lü Bu. I am not worried that Yuan Shao will restrain me. I fear only that Liu Biao and Zhang Xiu will cause trouble behind me.” Xun You said, “Those two have recently been defeated and will not dare to move lightly. Lü Bu is brave and fierce. If he should also join Yuan Shu and range freely between the Huai and Si rivers, it will soon become difficult to deal with him.” Guo Jia said, “We can now take advantage of the fact that he has only just rebelled and that the people’s hearts are not yet attached to him. We must go quickly and attack him.”

Cao Cao followed this advice. He immediately ordered Xiahou Dun, together with Xiahou Yuan, Lü Qian, and Li Dian, to lead fifty thousand troops as the advance force. Cao Cao himself commanded the main army, which set out in successive divisions, and Jian Yong accompanied them. Scouts soon reported this to Gao Shun, who sent an urgent report to Lü Bu. Lü Bu first ordered Hou Cheng, Hao Meng, and Cao Xing to lead more than two hundred horsemen to support Gao Shun. He had Gao Shun withdraw thirty li from Pei to meet Cao Cao’s army, while he himself led the main force behind them as support.

Inside Xiaopei, Xuande saw Gao Shun withdraw and knew that Cao Cao’s troops had arrived. He therefore left only Sun Qian to guard the city and Mi Zhu and Mi Fang to protect his household. Xuande himself, together with Lords Guan and Zhang, led all the troops out of the city. They divided their forces, established separate camps, and prepared to support Cao Cao’s army.

Meanwhile, Xiahou Dun led his army forward and encountered Gao Shun’s troops. He leveled his spear, rode out, and challenged him to battle. Gao Shun came forward to meet him. Their horses crossed, and they fought for forty or fifty bouts. Gao Shun could no longer hold his own and fled from the field. Xiahou Dun spurred his horse in pursuit, while Gao Shun rode around his battle formation. Xiahou Dun would not give up and also rode around the formation after him. Cao Xing saw this from within the ranks. Secretly taking up his bow and setting an arrow to it, he aimed carefully and shot. The arrow struck Xiahou Dun directly in the left eye. Xiahou Dun gave a great cry and hurriedly pulled out the arrow with his hand. To his surprise, he pulled out his eyeball with it. He shouted, “My father’s essence and my mother’s blood must not be thrown away!” He put the eye into his mouth and devoured it. Then he once more leveled his spear, spurred his horse, and charged straight at Cao Xing. Cao Xing had no time to defend himself before Xiahou Dun drove the spear through his face, killing him beneath his horse. Every soldier on both sides who saw it was horrified.

After killing Cao Xing, Xiahou Dun turned his horse and rode back. Gao Shun pursued from behind and signaled his whole army to advance. Cao Cao’s troops suffered a great defeat. Xiahou Yuan protected his elder brother as they fled. Lü Qian and Li Dian led the defeated troops away and set up camp at Jibei. After winning the battle, Gao Shun led his army back to attack Xuande, just as Lü Bu’s main force also arrived. Lü Bu divided his troops with Zhang Liao and Gao Shun into three routes and attacked the three camps of Xuande, Guan, and Zhang from both sides. Just as the poem says:

Though the fierce general who ate his eye could fight,The arrow-struck vanguard could not hold out long.

The outcome of Xuande’s battle is not yet known; listen to the explanation in the next chapter.