Chapter 3

Dong Zhuo Rebukes Ding Yuan at Wenming Garden; Li Su Bribes and Persuades Lü Bu

Now Cao Cao said to He Jin that day, “The scourge of the eunuchs has existed in every age. But rulers should never have granted them such authority and favor as to let matters come to this. If they are to be punished, remove only the chief villains; handing them over to a single prison officer would be enough. Why summon troops from the provinces in such commotion? If you mean to exterminate them all, the plan is certain to become known. I predict that it must fail.” He Jin said angrily, “Mengde, do you too harbor private motives?” Cao Cao withdrew, saying, “The man who throws the realm into chaos will surely be He Jin.” He Jin then secretly dispatched envoys bearing sealed edicts, sending them by forced marches through the night to the various regional commands.

Now Dong Zhuo, General of the Vanguard, Marquis of Taixiang, and Inspector of Xiliang, had previously failed to distinguish himself in the campaign against the Yellow Turbans. The court had intended to punish him, but he escaped by bribing the Ten Regular Attendants. Later he cultivated powerful men at court and thereby attained high office, commanding an army of two hundred thousand in the western provinces. He had long harbored ambitions of disloyalty. When the edict arrived, he was delighted. He mustered his troops and horses and set them in motion by successive detachments. He ordered his son-in-law Niu Fu, a General of the Household, to hold Shaanxi, while he himself led Li Jue, Guo Si, Zhang Ji, Fan Chou, and the army toward Luoyang. Dong Zhuo’s son-in-law and adviser Li Ru said, “Though we now act under an edict, much about the affair remains obscure. Why not send someone to submit a memorial? Then our cause will be legitimate and our words justified, and great designs may be pursued.” Dong Zhuo was delighted and duly submitted a memorial. Its substance read:

I have privately heard that rebellion and disorder beneath Heaven continue without end solely because Zhang Rang and the other Palace Attendants have treated Heaven’s constant order with contempt. I have heard that, to still a boiling pot, it is better to remove the firewood than to pour in hot water; and though lancing a festering sore brings pain, it is better than nurturing its poison. I therefore dare to enter Luoyang to the sound of bells and drums and ask that Zhang Rang and the others be removed. Great will be the good fortune of the altars of state! Great will be the good fortune of all beneath Heaven!

When He Jin received the memorial, he showed it to the ministers. Zheng Tai, Attendant Censor, remonstrated: “Dong Zhuo is a jackal and wolf. Bring him into the capital and he will surely devour men.” He Jin said, “You are too suspicious and unfit to plan great affairs.” Lu Zhi also remonstrated: “I have long known Dong Zhuo’s character. His face is amiable, but his heart is ruthless. Once he enters the imperial precincts, disaster is certain to arise. Better stop him from coming and prevent disorder before it begins.” He Jin would not listen. Zheng Tai and Lu Zhi both abandoned their offices and left. More than half the ministers at court departed as well. He Jin sent men to receive Dong Zhuo at Mianchi, but Dong Zhuo halted his forces and made no move.

When Zhang Rang and the others learned that provincial troops had arrived, they conferred together. “This is He Jin’s scheme,” they said. “Unless we strike first, every one of our clans will be destroyed.” They therefore concealed fifty axemen and swordsmen inside Jiade Gate at Changle Palace, then went in and reported to Empress Dowager He: “The General-in-Chief has forged an edict to summon provincial troops to the capital and means to exterminate us. We beg Your Majesty to take pity and save us.” The empress dowager said, “You may go to the General-in-Chief’s residence and beg forgiveness.” Zhang Rang replied, “If we go to his residence, our flesh and bones will be ground to powder. We beg Your Majesty to summon the General-in-Chief into the palace and command him to desist. If he refuses, then we ask only to die here before Your Majesty.” Empress Dowager He accordingly issued an edict summoning He Jin.

On receiving the edict, He Jin prepared to go at once. His chief clerk Chen Lin remonstrated: “This edict from the empress dowager must be a scheme of the Ten Regular Attendants. You must not go under any circumstances. If you go, disaster is certain.” He Jin said, “The empress dowager summons me. What disaster could there be?” Yuan Shao said, “Our design has now leaked out and the affair stands exposed. Do you still mean to enter the palace, General?” Cao Cao said, “First summon the Ten Regular Attendants outside. Only then should you enter.” He Jin laughed. “That is a child’s notion. I hold the authority of all beneath Heaven. What would the Ten Regular Attendants dare do to me?” Yuan Shao said, “If you insist on going, let us bring armored soldiers as an escort against the unforeseen.”

Yuan Shao and Cao Cao each selected five hundred elite troops and placed them under the command of Yuan Shao’s younger brother Yuan Shu. Fully armed and armored, Yuan Shu led the soldiers into formation outside the Azure Gate. Yuan Shao and Cao Cao, wearing their swords, escorted He Jin as far as Changle Palace. A Palace Attendant conveyed the sovereign command: “The empress dowager has summoned the General-in-Chief alone. No one else may enter without permission.” Yuan Shao, Cao Cao, and the rest were all barred outside the palace gate.

He Jin strode proudly in alone. When he reached the gate of Jiade Hall, Zhang Rang and Duan Gui came out to meet him, and their men closed around him on both sides. He Jin was appalled. Zhang Rang sternly denounced him: “What crime had Empress Dowager Dong committed that you falsely had her poisoned? When the Mother of the Nation was buried, you feigned illness and did not attend! You began as a petty butcher and wine seller. We recommended you to the Son of Heaven and brought you honor and rank. Yet instead of thinking how to repay us, you plotted our murder! You say we are deeply corrupt—then who are the pure ones?”

In panic, He Jin sought a way out, but every palace gate had been shut. The armed men in ambush rushed out together and hacked him in two. A later poet lamented:

The Han house leaned toward ruin; Heaven’s count was spent.He Jin, devoid of counsel, rose among the Three Excellencies.Again and again he spurned his loyal ministers’ warnings;How could he escape the sword blades within the palace?

After Zhang Rang and the others had killed He Jin, Yuan Shao waited a long while without seeing him emerge. From outside the palace gate he shouted, “Let the General mount his carriage!” Zhang Rang and the others flung He Jin’s severed head over the wall and proclaimed: “He Jin plotted rebellion and has been executed. All others coerced into following him are fully pardoned.”

Yuan Shao shouted fiercely, “The castrated officials have murdered a great minister! All who would destroy this vile faction, come forward and join the fight!” He Jin’s subordinate commander Wu Kuang set fire to the Azure Gate. Yuan Shu led his troops in a charge into the palace courts. Whenever they saw a eunuch, regardless of rank or age, they killed him. Yuan Shao and Cao Cao cut their way through the gates and forced an entrance. Zhao Zhong, Cheng Kuang, Xia Yun, and Guo Sheng were driven before the Tower of Emerald Blossoms and chopped into pulp. Flames soared into the sky throughout the palace.

Zhang Rang, Duan Gui, Cao Jie, and Hou Lan seized the empress dowager, the crown prince, and the Prince of Chenliu and carried them off into the inner apartments, then escaped by a rear passage toward the Northern Palace. Lu Zhi had resigned his office but had not yet departed. Seeing the upheaval within the palace, he donned armor, took up a spear, and stood beneath the gallery. From a distance he saw Duan Gui driving Empress Dowager He toward him. Lu Zhi shouted, “Duan Gui, you traitorous villain! How dare you abduct the empress dowager?” Duan Gui turned and fled. The empress dowager leapt from a window, and Lu Zhi hurried forward and saved her.

Wu Kuang fought his way into the inner court and saw He Miao coming out with a sword in hand. Wu Kuang shouted, “He Miao conspired to murder his own brother! Let us kill him together!” The men all cried, “We will cut down the villain who plotted against his brother!” He Miao tried to flee, but they surrounded him on every side and hacked him to pieces.

Yuan Shao then ordered his troops to divide into parties and kill the families of the Ten Regular Attendants. Old and young alike were utterly exterminated, and many beardless men were mistakenly killed. Meanwhile, Cao Cao had the palace fires put out, requested that Empress Dowager He temporarily take charge of state affairs, and dispatched troops in pursuit of Zhang Rang and the others to search for the young emperor.

Now Zhang Rang and Duan Gui, holding the young emperor and the Prince of Chenliu captive, rushed through smoke and fire and fled all night until they reached Mount Beimang. Around the third watch, great shouts arose behind them as men and horses swept up in pursuit. At their head was Min Gong, an assistant official of Henan’s Central District, who shouted, “Traitorous villains, do not flee!” Seeing the crisis upon him, Zhang Rang threw himself into the river and died.

The emperor and the Prince of Chenliu did not know what was truly happening and dared not cry out. They hid among tangled weeds beside the river. The pursuing troops scattered in all directions and did not know where the emperor was. The emperor and the prince remained hidden until the fourth watch. Dew began to fall, and they were faint with hunger. Clinging to each other, they wept; yet for fear of discovery, they stifled their sobs among the wild grass.

The Prince of Chenliu said, “We cannot linger here. We must find some other road to safety.” The two knotted their clothes together and climbed up the bank. Thorns covered the ground, and in the darkness they could not see a path. Just as they were at a loss, hundreds upon hundreds of fireflies suddenly appeared in swarms. Their radiance lit the way, and they wheeled only before the emperor. The Prince of Chenliu said, “Heaven is aiding us brothers!” They followed the fireflies and gradually found a path.

By the fifth watch, pain in their feet left them unable to continue. Near a ridge they saw a haystack, and the emperor and the prince lay down beside it. In front of the haystack stood a country estate. That night the master of the estate dreamed that two red suns fell behind his house. Startled awake, he threw on his clothes, went outside, and looked all around. Seeing a red glow soaring into the sky from the haystack behind the estate, he hurried over and found two people lying beside it.

The master asked, “Whose sons are you two young men?” The emperor dared not answer. The Prince of Chenliu pointed to him and said, “This is the reigning emperor. In the revolt of the Ten Regular Attendants, he fled for his life and came here. I am his younger brother, the Prince of Chenliu.” The master was horrified. Bowing twice, he said, “I am Cui Yi, younger brother of Cui Lie, Minister of State under the late emperor. Because I saw the Ten Regular Attendants selling offices and persecuting worthy men, I withdrew from the world and live here in seclusion.” He helped the emperor into the estate and, on his knees, offered him wine and food.

Meanwhile, Min Gong overtook Duan Gui and seized him, demanding to know where the Son of Heaven was. Duan Gui said they had become separated on the road and that he did not know where the emperor had gone. Min Gong killed Duan Gui, hung his head beneath his horse’s neck, and divided his troops to search in every direction. He himself rode on alone, following the road in pursuit.

By chance he came to Cui Yi’s estate. Seeing the severed head, Cui Yi asked about it, and Min Gong gave him the full account. Cui Yi led Min Gong in to see the emperor, and sovereign and subject wept bitterly together. Min Gong said, “A nation cannot go a single day without its ruler. I beg Your Majesty to return to the capital.”

There was only one lean horse at Cui Yi’s estate, and it was saddled for the emperor. Min Gong and the Prince of Chenliu shared another horse. They had traveled less than three li from the estate when they met Minister of State Wang Yun, Grand Commandant Yang Biao, Chunyu Qiong, Colonel of the Left Army, Zhao Meng, Colonel of the Right Army, Bao Xin, Colonel of the Rear Army, Yuan Shao, Colonel of the Central Army, and a following of several hundred men and horses, who had come to receive the imperial carriage. Sovereign and subjects all wept.

They first sent a man ahead to the capital with Duan Gui’s head, to display it as a warning. They then provided fine fresh horses for the emperor and the Prince of Chenliu and escorted the emperor back to the capital.

Before this, the children of Luoyang had sung:

“The emperor is no emperor, the prince is no prince;A thousand carriages, ten thousand riders flee to Beimang.”

Now the prophecy was fulfilled.

The imperial escort had gone only a few li when suddenly they saw banners blotting out the sun and dust veiling the sky as a force of soldiers approached. All the officials lost color, and the emperor too was greatly alarmed. Yuan Shao spurred forward and demanded to know who they were. From the shadows of the embroidered standards, a commander galloped out and cried sternly, “Where is the Son of Heaven?”

The emperor trembled and could not speak. The Prince of Chenliu reined his horse forward and rebuked him: “Who are you?” The commander replied, “Dong Zhuo, Inspector of Xiliang.” The prince said, “Have you come to protect the imperial carriage, or have you come to seize it?” Dong Zhuo answered, “I have come expressly to protect it.” The prince said, “If you have come to protect the imperial carriage, the Son of Heaven is here. Why do you not dismount?”

Dong Zhuo was startled and hurriedly dismounted, bowing beside the road. The Prince of Chenliu spoke reassuringly to him and, from beginning to end, never once misspoke. Dong Zhuo privately marveled at him, and already conceived the intention of deposing one prince and enthroning the other.

That day they returned to the palace and saw Empress Dowager He, and all wept bitterly. When an inventory was made of the palace, the Heirloom Seal of the Realm was found to be missing.

Dong Zhuo encamped his troops outside the city. Every day he entered at the head of armored cavalry and rode roughshod through the streets, leaving the common people anxious and afraid. He passed in and out of the palace courts without the least restraint. Bao Xin, Colonel of the Rear Army, came to Yuan Shao and said that Dong Zhuo was sure to harbor treacherous designs and should be eliminated at once. Yuan Shao said, “The court has only just been restored to order. We must not act rashly.” Bao Xin went to Wang Yun and told him the same. Wang Yun said, “Let us first deliberate on it.” Bao Xin then led away the troops under his own command and departed for Mount Tai.

Dong Zhuo enticed the troops formerly commanded by the He brothers into his service and brought them all under his control. In private he said to Li Ru, “I wish to depose the emperor and enthrone the Prince of Chenliu. What do you think?”

Li Ru said, “The court now has no master. If you do not act at this moment, delay will bring unforeseen changes. Tomorrow summon all the officials to Wenming Garden and announce the deposition and enthronement. Behead whoever refuses obedience. The day for establishing your power and authority is today.”

Dong Zhuo was delighted. The next day he laid out a great banquet and invited all the dukes and ministers. All feared Dong Zhuo; who would dare not attend? He waited until the full assembly had arrived, then came slowly to the garden gate, dismounted, and entered the banquet wearing his sword.

After several rounds of wine, Dong Zhuo ordered the wine service halted and the music stopped. He said in a stern voice, “I have something to say. Let every official listen in silence.” All inclined their ears.

Dong Zhuo said, “The Son of Heaven is lord of the myriad people. Without majesty and proper bearing, he cannot serve the ancestral temples and the altars of state. His present Majesty is weak and timid, unlike the Prince of Chenliu, who is intelligent and devoted to learning, and fit to inherit the great station. I wish to depose the emperor and enthrone the Prince of Chenliu. What do the assembled ministers think?”

When the officials heard him, none dared speak. One man at the table thrust his low table aside, strode out, and stood before the feast. He shouted, “No! No! Who are you to utter such outrageous words? The Son of Heaven is the late emperor’s legitimate son and has committed no fault whatsoever. How dare you recklessly discuss deposition and enthronement? Do you mean to become a usurper and traitor?”

Dong Zhuo looked at him and saw that it was Ding Yuan, Inspector of Jingzhou. Dong Zhuo angrily shouted, “Those who obey me live; those who oppose me die!” He drew his sword to strike Ding Yuan down. At that moment Li Ru noticed a man standing behind Ding Yuan. He had an imposing bearing and an awe-inspiring presence. In his hand he held a painted halberd with a squared skyward blade, and he glared furiously at Dong Zhuo.

Li Ru hurried forward and said, “This is a place for feasting and drinking. Affairs of state should not be discussed here. It will not be too late to debate them publicly in the main court tomorrow.” Everyone urged Ding Yuan to mount his horse and leave.

Dong Zhuo asked the assembled officials, “Was what I said in accord with public justice?”

Lu Zhi said, “Your Excellency is mistaken. In ancient times, when Taijia proved unenlightened, Yi Yin banished him to the Tong Palace. The Prince of Changyi had been on the throne only twenty-seven days when he committed more than three thousand offenses, and so Huo Guang reported to the Imperial Ancestral Temple and deposed him. His present Majesty, though young, is intelligent, benevolent, and wise, and has not committed the slightest fault. You are an inspector from an outer province, have never taken part in the government of the court, and possess neither the great ability of Yi Yin nor that of Huo Guang. How can you forcibly take charge of deposition and enthronement? The Sage said, ‘If a man has the purpose of Yi Yin, such an act is permissible; if he lacks the purpose of Yi Yin, it is usurpation.’”

Dong Zhuo flew into a rage, drew his sword, and advanced to kill Lu Zhi. Peng Bo, a Consultant, remonstrated: “Secretary Lu is a man esteemed throughout the realm. If you begin by murdering him, I fear all beneath Heaven will be shocked and terrified.” Dong Zhuo desisted.

Minister of State Wang Yun said, “The deposition and enthronement of an emperor cannot be discussed after drinking. Let the matter be debated on another day.” Thereupon all the officials dispersed.

Dong Zhuo stood at the garden gate with one hand on his sword. Suddenly he saw a man on a leaping horse, halberd in hand, galloping back and forth outside the gate. Dong Zhuo asked Li Ru, “Who is that man?”

Li Ru said, “He is Ding Yuan’s adopted son, Lü Bu, courtesy name Fengxian. My lord, for the present you must avoid him.” Dong Zhuo entered the garden and hid himself away.

The next day a messenger reported that Ding Yuan had led his army outside the city and was challenging Dong Zhuo to battle. Enraged, Dong Zhuo led out his army with Li Ru to meet him. The two formations drew up facing each other.

Lü Bu appeared with a golden crown binding his hair, a battle robe patterned with a hundred flowers, Tangni armor upon his body, and a jeweled belt adorned with lion designs around his waist. Urging on his horse and leveling his halberd, he followed Ding Jianyang to the front of the formation.

Ding Jianyang pointed at Dong Zhuo and cursed him: “The state has suffered misfortune. Castrated officials seized power and plunged the myriad people into misery. You have not rendered the smallest measure of service; how dare you recklessly speak of deposition and enthronement and seek to throw the court into disorder?”

Before Dong Zhuo could reply, Lü Bu flew forward on his horse and charged straight at him. Dong Zhuo fled in panic, and Ding Jianyang led his army in a sweeping assault. Dong Zhuo’s forces were badly defeated. They retreated more than thirty li before making camp, where Dong Zhuo gathered his men for counsel.

Dong Zhuo said, “Lü Bu is no ordinary man. If I could obtain his service, why should I have any fear of all beneath Heaven?”

A man stepped out before the command tent and said, “My lord, do not worry. Lü Bu and I come from the same district. I know that he is brave but without strategy, and that at the sight of profit he forgets all loyalty. With my three-inch tongue, which no one can wear down, I can persuade Lü Bu to come over and surrender with folded hands. Will you permit me?”

Dong Zhuo was delighted. Looking at the man, he saw that it was Li Su, a General of the Household of the Rapid-as-Tigers.

Dong Zhuo said, “What will you use to persuade him?”

Li Su replied, “I have heard that my lord possesses a famous horse called Red Hare, which can travel a thousand li in a day. I must have that horse, along with gold and pearls, to bind his heart through profit. Then I shall press my persuasion further. Lü Bu will certainly betray Ding Yuan and come over to my lord.”

Dong Zhuo asked Li Ru, “Will this plan work?”

Li Ru said, “If my lord seeks to take all beneath Heaven, why begrudge a single horse?”

Dong Zhuo gladly gave him the horse, together with a thousand taels of gold, several dozen bright pearls, and a jade belt.

Bearing the gifts, Li Su made his way to Lü Bu’s camp. Soldiers posted in ambush along the road surrounded him. Li Su said, “Report quickly to General Lü that an old friend has come to see him.” The soldiers reported this, and Lü Bu ordered that he be admitted.

On seeing Lü Bu, Li Su said, “My worthy younger brother, have you been well since we parted?”

Lü Bu saluted him and said, “We have not met for a long time. Where are you now serving?”

Li Su replied, “I presently hold the office of General of the Household of the Rapid-as-Tigers. When I heard that my worthy brother was upholding the altars of state, my joy was beyond measure. I have a fine horse that travels a thousand li in a day, crosses rivers, and climbs mountains as though treading level ground. Its name is Red Hare. I have come expressly to present it to my worthy brother, that it may lend power to the tiger’s might.”

Lü Bu at once ordered the horse brought over for inspection. Indeed, from head to hoof it was as red as burning charcoal, without half a hair of any other color. From head to tail it measured one zhang; from hoof to neck, eight chi. When it neighed and roared, it seemed ready to soar into the sky or plunge into the sea.

A later poet wrote solely in praise of Red Hare:

It races a thousand li, sweeping dust from its way;It crosses streams and climbs hills as violet mist unfolds.Silken reins snap; the jade-studded bridle tosses—A dragon of fire flies down from the Ninth Heaven.

When Lü Bu saw the horse, he was overjoyed. He thanked Li Su, saying, “You have given me this superb steed. How can I repay you?”

Li Su said, “I came for the sake of fellowship and honor. How could I expect repayment?”

Lü Bu set out wine to entertain him. When the wine had flowed freely, Li Su said, “I have seldom been able to see my worthy brother, but your honored father often comes to meet me.”

Lü Bu said, “You are drunk, brother! My late father departed this world many years ago. How could he meet with you?”

Li Su laughed loudly. “No, no. I was speaking of Inspector Ding, your father of today.”

Alarmed, Lü Bu said, “That I remain with Ding Jianyang is also a matter of necessity.”

Li Su said, “My worthy brother has the talent to uphold Heaven and bestride the seas. Who within the Four Seas does not admire and honor you? Achievement, fame, wealth, and rank should be as easy for you as taking something from a bag. Why speak of necessity and remain beneath another man?”

Lü Bu said, “My regret is that I have not met the right lord.”

Li Su smiled. “‘A fine bird chooses the tree on which it roosts; a worthy minister chooses the lord whom he serves.’ If you fail to seize the moment early, regret will come too late.”

Lü Bu said, “You serve at court, brother. In your judgment, who among its men is a hero of the age?”

Li Su replied, “I have surveyed all the ministers, and none can compare with Dong Zhuo. Dong Zhuo respects the worthy and treats gentlemen with honor; his rewards and punishments are clearly distinguished. In the end he will accomplish a great enterprise.”

Lü Bu said, “I wish to follow him, but regret that I have no means of introduction.”

Li Su took out the gold, pearls, and jade belt and arranged them before Lü Bu.

Lü Bu started in surprise. “Why do you have these?”

Li Su ordered the attendants away and told Lü Bu, “Lord Dong has long admired your great name and specially commanded me to present these gifts. Red Hare was also given by Lord Dong.”

Lü Bu said, “Lord Dong values me so highly—how can I repay him?”

Li Su said, “Even one as untalented as I am has become a General of the Household of the Rapid-as-Tigers. If you were to go to him, your honor would be beyond description.”

Lü Bu said, “I regret that I have not the smallest service to offer as a gift upon my introduction.”

Li Su said, “Such service lies within the turn of your hand. It is only that you are unwilling to perform it.”

Lü Bu pondered for a long while, then said, “I mean to kill Ding Yuan and lead his army over to Dong Zhuo. What do you think?”

Li Su said, “If my worthy brother can do this, it will truly be the greatest of achievements. But the matter admits no delay. You must decide and act swiftly.”

Lü Bu arranged with Li Su to surrender the next day, and Li Su took his leave.

At the second watch that night, Lü Bu took up his saber and went straight into Ding Yuan’s tent. Ding Yuan was reading by candlelight. Seeing Lü Bu arrive, he said, “Why has my son come?”

Lü Bu said, “I am a man of proud and imposing stature. How could I consent to be your son?”

Ding Yuan said, “Fengxian, why has your heart changed?”

Lü Bu stepped forward and, with a single stroke, cut off Ding Yuan’s head. Then he shouted, “All of you, listen! Ding Yuan was without benevolence, and I have killed him. Those willing to follow me, remain here. Those unwilling may leave!”

More than half the soldiers scattered.

The next day, Lü Bu carried Ding Yuan’s head to see Li Su. Li Su then led him before Dong Zhuo. Dong Zhuo was delighted and set out wine to entertain him. Dong Zhuo was the first to bow, saying, “Now that I have obtained the general, I am like parched seedlings receiving sweet rain.”

Lü Bu invited Dong Zhuo to take his seat, then bowed before him and said, “If Your Excellency does not reject me, I ask leave to honor you as my adoptive father.”

Dong Zhuo presented Lü Bu with golden armor and a brocade robe. They drank to their full content and then parted.

From that time Dong Zhuo’s power and prestige grew greater still. He personally assumed the duties of General of the Vanguard; appointed his younger brother Dong Min General of the Left and Marquis of Hu; and appointed Lü Bu Commandant of Cavalry, General of the Household, and Marquis of Duting.

Li Ru urged Dong Zhuo to settle the plan of deposition and enthronement without delay. Dong Zhuo therefore held a banquet within the government offices and assembled the dukes and ministers, while Lü Bu commanded more than a thousand armored soldiers stationed as guards on either side.

That day Grand Tutor Yuan Wei and all the officials attended. After several rounds of wine, Dong Zhuo drew his sword and said, “His present Majesty is benighted and weak and cannot serve the ancestral temples. Following the precedents of Yi Yin and Huo Guang, I shall depose the emperor as Prince of Hongnong and enthrone the Prince of Chenliu as emperor. Whoever refuses will be beheaded!”

The assembled ministers were terrified, and none dared answer.

Yuan Shao, Colonel of the Central Army, stepped boldly forward and said, “His present Majesty has occupied the throne only a short while and has committed no failure of virtue. You mean to depose the legitimate heir and enthrone a lesser son. What is that, if not rebellion?”

Dong Zhuo said furiously, “The affairs of all beneath Heaven rest with me! I shall do this now—who dares refuse? Do you think my sword is not sharp?”

Yuan Shao too drew his sword. “Your sword is sharp, but mine has never been otherwise!”

The two stood opposed across the banquet.

And so it was:

Ding Yuan upheld the right, yet first he lost his life;Yuan Shao now contests the blade, his own fate poised in peril.

What ultimately became of Yuan Shao’s life will be told in the next chapter.

Dong Zhuo Rebukes Ding Yuan at Wenming Garden; Li Su Bribes and Persuades Lü Bu

Now Cao Cao said to He Jin that day, “The harm caused by eunuchs has existed in every age. But rulers should not grant them power and favor and allow matters to come to this. If you wish to punish the guilty, remove only the chief villains. Handing them over to a single prison officer would be enough. Why make such a commotion by summoning troops from outside? If you mean to kill them all, the plan is certain to become known. I judge that it will surely fail.”

He Jin angrily said, “Mengde, do you also harbor private motives?”

Cao Cao withdrew and said, “The man who throws the realm into chaos will surely be He Jin.”

He Jin then secretly sent messengers carrying sealed edicts, ordering them to travel day and night to the various military commands.

Now the General of the Vanguard, Marquis of Tai District, and Inspector of Xiliang, Dong Zhuo, had earlier failed to gain merit in fighting the Yellow Turbans. The court had intended to punish him, but he escaped through bribing the Ten Regular Attendants. Later he also formed connections with powerful men at court and so obtained a high office. He commanded an army of two hundred thousand in the western provinces and had long harbored thoughts of disloyalty.

When he received the edict, he was delighted. He called up his soldiers and horses, and they set out in successive units. He ordered his son-in-law, General of the Household Niu Fu, to hold Shaanxi, while he himself led Li Jue, Guo Si, Zhang Ji, Fan Chou, and others with their troops toward Luoyang.

Dong Zhuo’s son-in-law and adviser Li Ru said, “Although we have received an edict, much about this affair remains obscure. Why not send someone to submit a memorial? Then our cause will have a proper name and justification, and great matters may be pursued.”

Dong Zhuo was delighted and submitted a memorial. In outline it said:

I have heard that rebellion and disorder throughout the realm continue without end entirely because Zhang Rang and the other Palace Attendants have insulted and defied the constant order of Heaven. I have heard that when one stirs boiling water to stop it boiling, it is better to remove the firewood; and though cutting open a festering sore is painful, it is better than allowing the poison to grow. I dare to enter Luoyang with bells and drums sounding and request the removal of Zhang Rang and the others. Great will be the good fortune of the sacred altars! Great will be the good fortune of the realm!

When He Jin received the memorial, he showed it to the ministers.

Zheng Tai, Attending Censor, advised him, “Dong Zhuo is a jackal and wolf. If he is brought into the capital, he is certain to devour men.”

He Jin said, “You are too suspicious and unfit to plan great affairs.”

Lu Zhi also advised him, “I have long known what kind of man Dong Zhuo is. His face appears kindly, but his heart is cruel. Once he enters the imperial precincts, he is certain to cause disaster. It would be better to stop him from coming and thus avoid bringing about disorder.”

He Jin would not listen. Zheng Tai and Lu Zhi both abandoned their offices and left. More than half the ministers at court departed. He Jin sent men to meet Dong Zhuo at Mianchi, but Dong Zhuo kept his troops in place and did not move.

When Zhang Rang and the others learned that outside troops were arriving, they conferred together and said, “This is He Jin’s scheme. If we do not strike first, all our clans will be destroyed.”

They therefore concealed fifty armed men with swords and axes inside Jiade Gate at Changle Palace. Then they went in and reported to Empress Dowager He, “The General-in-Chief has falsely issued an edict to summon outside troops to the capital, intending to destroy us. We beg Your Highness to show mercy and save us.”

The empress dowager said, “You may go to the General-in-Chief’s residence and apologize for your offenses.”

Zhang Rang said, “If we go to his residence, our flesh and bones will be chopped to pulp. We beg Your Highness to summon the General-in-Chief into the palace and order him to stop. If he refuses, then we will ask to die here before Your Highness.”

The empress dowager therefore issued an edict summoning He Jin. He Jin received it and was about to go.

His chief clerk Chen Lin advised him, “This edict from the empress dowager must be a scheme of the Ten Regular Attendants. You absolutely must not go. If you go, disaster is certain.”

He Jin said, “The empress dowager has summoned me. What disaster could there be?”

Yuan Shao said, “Our plan has now leaked out, and the affair is exposed. Do you still mean to enter the palace, General?”

Cao Cao said, “First summon the Ten Regular Attendants outside. Only then should you enter.”

He Jin laughed and said, “That is a child’s opinion. I hold the power of the whole realm. What could the Ten Regular Attendants dare to do to me?”

Yuan Shao said, “If you insist on going, we will lead armored soldiers as your escort to guard against the unexpected.”

Yuan Shao and Cao Cao each selected five hundred elite soldiers and ordered Yuan Shao’s younger brother Yuan Shu to command them. Yuan Shu put on full armor and led the troops into formation outside the Gate of Green Locks. Yuan Shao and Cao Cao, wearing swords, escorted He Jin to the front of Changle Palace.

A Palace Attendant conveyed the empress dowager’s command: “The empress dowager has summoned only the General-in-Chief. No one else may enter without permission.”

Yuan Shao, Cao Cao, and the others were all stopped outside the palace gate. He Jin strode proudly inside. When he reached the gate of Jiade Hall, Zhang Rang and Duan Gui came out to meet him, and men closed around him on both sides. He Jin was greatly alarmed.

Zhang Rang sternly rebuked him: “What crime did Empress Dowager Dong commit that you recklessly had her poisoned to death? At the funeral of the mother of the nation, you claimed illness and did not appear! You began as a petty butcher and wine seller. We recommended you to the Son of Heaven, allowing you to attain honor and rank. Instead of thinking how to repay us, you plotted to murder us! You say that we are utterly corrupt. Then who are the pure ones?”

In panic, He Jin tried to find a way out, but all the palace gates were closed. The armed men in ambush rushed out together and cut He Jin into two pieces.

A later poet lamented him:

The house of Han leaned toward ruin, its Heaven-given span at an end; Without a plan, He Jin rose among the Three Excellencies. Again and again he refused his loyal ministers’ counsel, And could not escape the sword blades within the palace.

After Zhang Rang and the others had killed He Jin, Yuan Shao waited a long time without seeing him come out. He therefore shouted from outside the palace gate, “General, please mount your carriage!”

Zhang Rang and the others threw He Jin’s severed head over the wall and proclaimed, “He Jin plotted rebellion and has now suffered execution. All others who were coerced into following him are fully pardoned.”

Yuan Shao shouted fiercely, “The eunuchs have plotted the murder of a great minister! Let all who would destroy this evil faction come forward and help us fight!”

He Jin’s officer Wu Kuang immediately set fire to the Gate of Green Locks. Yuan Shu led his soldiers in a sudden assault into the palace grounds. Whenever they saw a eunuch, regardless of high or low rank, they killed him. Yuan Shao and Cao Cao broke through the gates and entered.

Zhao Zhong, Cheng Kuang, Xia Yun, and Guo Sheng were pursued to the front of the Tower of Emerald Blossoms and hacked into meat paste. Flames rose to the sky within the palace.

Zhang Rang, Duan Gui, Cao Jie, and Hou Lan seized the empress dowager, the crown prince, and the Prince of Chenliu and took them into the inner apartments. Then they escaped by a rear route toward the Northern Palace.

At this time Lu Zhi, though he had resigned his office, had not yet departed. When he saw the upheaval in the palace, he put on armor, took up a spear, and stood below a gallery. From a distance he saw Duan Gui forcing Empress Dowager He along.

Lu Zhi shouted, “Duan Gui, you rebel! How dare you abduct the empress dowager?”

Duan Gui turned and fled. The empress dowager jumped out through a window, and Lu Zhi quickly rescued her, so she escaped harm.

Wu Kuang forced his way into the inner court and saw He Miao coming out with a sword in hand. Wu Kuang shouted, “He Miao joined the plot to murder his elder brother. We must kill him together!”

Everyone cried, “We are willing to cut down the villain who plotted against his own brother!”

He Miao tried to flee, but they surrounded him on every side and chopped him to pieces.

Yuan Shao then ordered the soldiers to split up and kill the families of the Ten Regular Attendants. Regardless of age or rank, they exterminated them all. Many men without beards were mistakenly killed.

Meanwhile, Cao Cao had the palace fires extinguished, asked Empress Dowager He to take temporary control of state affairs, and sent troops in pursuit of Zhang Rang and the others to search for the Young Emperor.

Now Zhang Rang and Duan Gui had seized the Young Emperor and the Prince of Chenliu. Braving smoke and breaking through flames, they fled through the night until they reached Mount Beimang.

Around the third watch, a great clamor arose behind them as men and horses came in pursuit. At their head was Min Gong, an assistant official of the Central Division of Henan, who shouted, “Rebel villains, do not run!”

Seeing that matters were desperate, Zhang Rang threw himself into the river and died.

The emperor and the Prince of Chenliu did not know what was really happening and dared not call out. They hid in wild grass beside the river. The pursuing troops scattered in every direction, but they did not know where the emperor was.

The emperor and the prince remained hidden until the fourth watch. Dew fell, and they were hungry. They embraced each other and wept. Still fearing discovery, they stifled their cries among the wild grasses.

The Prince of Chenliu said, “We cannot remain here for long. We must seek another way to survive.”

They tied their garments together and climbed up the riverbank. Thorns covered the ground, and in the darkness they could not see the path. While they were at a loss, hundreds and thousands of fireflies suddenly appeared in swarms. Their light shone all around as they flew and circled only before the emperor.

The Prince of Chenliu said, “This is Heaven helping us brothers!”

They followed the fireflies and gradually found a path. By the fifth watch their feet hurt so badly that they could walk no farther. Beside a ridge they saw a haystack, and the emperor and the prince lay down beside it.

In front of the haystack stood a country estate. That night its owner dreamed that two red suns had fallen behind the estate. He awoke in alarm, put on his clothes, went outside, and looked in every direction. Seeing a red light rising to the sky from the haystack behind the estate, he hurried over to investigate. There he found two people lying beside the hay.

The owner asked, “Whose sons are you two young men?”

The emperor did not dare answer.

The Prince of Chenliu pointed to the emperor and said, “This is the present emperor. Because of the rebellion of the Ten Regular Attendants, he fled here to escape danger. I am the emperor’s younger brother, the Prince of Chenliu.”

The owner was greatly startled and bowed twice, saying, “I am Cui Yi, younger brother of Cui Lie, who served the former emperor as Minister over the Masses. Because I saw the Ten Regular Attendants selling offices and persecuting worthy men, I withdrew and have lived here in seclusion.”

He helped the emperor into the estate and knelt as he presented wine and food.

Meanwhile, Min Gong caught up with Duan Gui and seized him. He asked where the Son of Heaven was. Duan Gui said that they had become separated halfway and that he did not know where the emperor had gone.

Min Gong killed Duan Gui, hung his head beneath his horse’s neck, and divided his troops to search in every direction. He himself rode alone along the road, searching as he went.

By chance he reached Cui Yi’s estate. Cui Yi saw the severed head and questioned him, and Min Gong gave him a full account. Cui Yi led Min Gong in to see the emperor, and ruler and subject wept bitterly together.

Min Gong said, “A state cannot be without its ruler for even one day. I beg Your Majesty to return to the capital.”

There was only one thin horse on Cui Yi’s estate, and it was saddled for the emperor. Min Gong and the Prince of Chenliu shared another horse.

They had traveled less than three li from the estate when Minister over the Masses Wang Yun, Grand Commandant Yang Biao, Colonel of the Left Army Chunyu Qiong, Colonel of the Right Army Zhao Meng, Colonel of the Rear Army Bao Xin, Colonel of the Central Army Yuan Shao, and a company of several hundred men and horses arrived to meet the imperial party. Ruler and ministers all wept.

First they sent a man to carry Duan Gui’s head back to the capital and display it publicly. Then they provided better horses for the emperor and the Prince of Chenliu and escorted the emperor back to the capital.

Earlier, the children of Luoyang had sung this rhyme:

“The emperor is no emperor, the prince is no prince; A thousand carriages and ten thousand riders flee to Beimang.”

Now its prophecy was fulfilled.

The imperial party had gone only a few li when they suddenly saw banners blotting out the sun and dust covering the sky as a body of troops approached. All the officials turned pale, and the emperor himself was greatly alarmed.

Yuan Shao galloped forward and demanded to know who they were. From among the embroidered banners, a general rode out at speed and sternly called, “Where is the Son of Heaven?”

The emperor trembled and could not speak.

The Prince of Chenliu reined his horse forward and demanded, “Who are you?”

The general replied, “I am Dong Zhuo, Inspector of Xiliang.”

The Prince of Chenliu said, “Have you come to protect the imperial carriage, or have you come to seize it?”

Dong Zhuo answered, “I have come expressly to protect it.”

The Prince of Chenliu said, “If you have come to protect the imperial carriage, the Son of Heaven is here. Why do you not dismount?”

Dong Zhuo was greatly startled. He hurriedly dismounted and bowed by the left side of the road.

The Prince of Chenliu spoke reassuringly to Dong Zhuo and, from beginning to end, never misspoke. Dong Zhuo privately marveled at him and already began to consider deposing one prince and enthroning the other.

That day they returned to the palace and met Empress Dowager He, and everyone wept bitterly. When the palace possessions were checked, the Hereditary Imperial Jade Seal could not be found.

Dong Zhuo stationed his troops outside the city. Every day he led armored cavalry into the city, rampaging through its streets and markets. The common people were frightened and uneasy. Dong Zhuo went in and out of the palace grounds without the slightest restraint.

Bao Xin, Colonel of the Rear Army, went to see Yuan Shao and said that Dong Zhuo was certain to harbor rebellious intentions and should be eliminated at once.

Yuan Shao said, “The court has only just been restored to order. We must not act rashly.”

Bao Xin went to see Wang Yun and told him the same thing.

Wang Yun said, “Allow us time to discuss it.”

Bao Xin then led the troops under his own command away to Mount Tai.

Dong Zhuo enticed the soldiers formerly under He Jin and his brother to join him, bringing them all under his control.

In private he said to Li Ru, “I wish to depose the emperor and enthrone the Prince of Chenliu. What do you think?”

Li Ru said, “The court now has no master. If you do not act at this moment, delay will bring changes. Tomorrow assemble all the officials in Wenming Garden and declare the deposition and enthronement to them. Behead anyone who refuses to obey. The establishment of your authority and power depends on what you do today.”

Dong Zhuo was pleased.

The next day he prepared a great banquet and invited all the highest ministers and officials. They all feared Dong Zhuo, so who dared not attend?

Dong Zhuo waited until all the officials had arrived. Then he slowly came to the garden gate, dismounted, and entered the banquet wearing his sword. After several rounds of wine, Dong Zhuo ordered the wine stopped and the music silenced. Then he said sternly, “I have something to say. Let all the officials listen in silence.”

The officials leaned close to hear.

Dong Zhuo said, “The Son of Heaven is lord of the countless people. Without dignity and proper bearing, he cannot serve the ancestral temple and the sacred altars of the state. The present emperor is weak and timid, while the Prince of Chenliu is intelligent and fond of learning and is fit to inherit the great throne. I wish to depose the emperor and enthrone the Prince of Chenliu. What do the great ministers think?”

When the officials had heard him, none dared make a sound.

One man at the banquet pushed away his table, strode out, stood before the gathering, and shouted, “No! No! Who are you that you dare speak such outrageous words? The Son of Heaven is the legitimate son of the late emperor and has committed no fault since taking the throne. How can you recklessly discuss deposing and enthroning? Do you mean to become a usurper and rebel?”

Dong Zhuo looked at him and saw that it was Ding Yuan, Inspector of Jingzhou.

Dong Zhuo angrily shouted, “Those who obey me live; those who oppose me die!”

He drew his sword and was about to behead Ding Yuan. At that moment Li Ru saw a man standing behind Ding Yuan. He was imposing in appearance and awe-inspiring in bearing. In his hand he held a painted halberd with a squared Heaven-point, and he glared angrily at Dong Zhuo.

Li Ru quickly stepped forward and said, “This is a banquet. State affairs should not be discussed here. It will not be too late to debate the matter publicly in the government hall tomorrow.”

The others all urged Ding Yuan to mount his horse and leave.

Dong Zhuo asked the officials, “Does what I have said agree with justice?”

Lu Zhi said, “Your Excellency is mistaken. In ancient times, because Taijia lacked understanding, Yi Yin confined him in Tong Palace. The Prince of Changyi had occupied the throne for only twenty-seven days when he committed more than three thousand offenses, so Huo Guang reported the matter to the imperial ancestral temple and deposed him. Though the present emperor is young, he is intelligent, humane, and wise and has not committed the slightest fault. You are an inspector from an outer province. You have never taken part in the government of the state, nor do you possess the great ability of Yi Yin or Huo Guang. How can you force through the deposition and enthronement of a sovereign? The sage said, ‘If one has the purpose of Yi Yin, it is permissible; without the purpose of Yi Yin, it is usurpation.’”

Dong Zhuo flew into a rage, drew his sword, and advanced to kill Lu Zhi.

Peng Bo, a Court Consultant, advised him, “Master of the Imperial Secretariat Lu is held in high esteem throughout the land. If you begin by murdering him, I fear the whole realm will be shaken with terror.”

Dong Zhuo stopped.

Minister over the Masses Wang Yun said, “The deposition and enthronement of an emperor cannot be discussed after drinking. Let us debate it again on another day.”

The officials then all dispersed.

Dong Zhuo stood at the garden gate with his hand on his sword. Suddenly he saw a man on horseback, holding a halberd, galloping back and forth outside the gate.

Dong Zhuo asked Li Ru, “Who is that man?”

Li Ru said, “He is Ding Yuan’s adopted son. His family name is Lü, his given name is Bu, and his courtesy name is Fengxian. My lord should avoid him for the moment.”

Dong Zhuo went into the garden and hid.

The next day a man reported that Ding Yuan had led his army outside the city and was challenging Dong Zhuo to battle. Dong Zhuo was enraged and led out his troops with Li Ru to meet him.

The two formations faced each other. Lü Bu wore a golden crown over his bound hair, a battle robe patterned with a hundred flowers, Tangni armor, and a precious belt decorated with lions. Urging his horse forward and leveling his halberd, he followed Ding Jianyang to the front of the formation.

Ding Jianyang pointed at Dong Zhuo and cursed him: “The state has suffered the misfortune of eunuchs wielding power, bringing misery and ruin upon the countless people. You have not earned a single inch of merit. How dare you recklessly speak of deposing and enthroning and seek to throw the court into disorder?”

Before Dong Zhuo could answer, Lü Bu spurred his horse straight at him. Dong Zhuo fled in panic, and Ding Jianyang led his army in a full assault. Dong Zhuo’s troops suffered a great defeat. They retreated more than thirty li, made camp, and assembled to discuss their position.

Dong Zhuo said, “I see that Lü Bu is no ordinary man. If I could gain his service, what would I have to fear anywhere in the realm?”

A man stepped out before the command tent and said, “Do not worry, my lord. I come from the same district as Lü Bu. I know that he is brave but lacks judgment and that he forgets loyalty when he sees profit. With this three-inch tongue of mine, which has not yet rotted, I can persuade Lü Bu to come and surrender with folded hands. Will you allow me?”

Dong Zhuo was delighted. Looking at the man, he saw that it was Li Su, General of the Household of the Rapid-as-Tigers Guards.

Dong Zhuo said, “How will you persuade him?”

Li Su said, “I have heard that my lord owns a famous horse called Red Hare, which can travel a thousand li in a day. I must have this horse, together with gold and pearls, to bind his heart through profit. I will then add my arguments. Lü Bu will certainly turn against Ding Yuan and come over to my lord.”

Dong Zhuo asked Li Ru, “Will this plan work?”

Li Ru said, “If my lord wishes to take the realm, why begrudge a single horse?”

Dong Zhuo gladly gave it to Li Su, together with one thousand taels of gold, several dozen bright pearls, and one jade belt.

Li Su took the gifts and went to Lü Bu’s camp. Soldiers lying in ambush along the road surrounded him.

Li Su said, “Quickly report to General Lü that an old friend has come to see him.”

The soldiers reported this, and Lü Bu ordered that he be brought in.

When Li Su saw Lü Bu, he said, “Worthy younger brother, have you been well since we parted?”

Lü Bu saluted him and said, “It has been a long time since we met. Where do you live now?”

Li Su said, “I presently hold the office of General of the Household of the Rapid-as-Tigers Guards. When I heard that you were supporting the sacred altars of the state, my joy was beyond measure. I have an excellent horse that can travel a thousand li in a day, cross rivers, and climb mountains as though walking on level ground. Its name is Red Hare. I have come especially to present it to you, worthy younger brother, to add to your tiger-like power.”

Lü Bu immediately ordered the horse brought over for him to inspect.

Sure enough, the horse was red from head to hoof like glowing charcoal, without half a hair of any other color. From head to tail it was one zhang long, and from hoof to neck it stood eight chi high. When it neighed and roared, it seemed ready to soar into the sky or plunge into the sea.

A later poet wrote solely of the Red Hare horse:

It charges a thousand li and sweeps the dust away; Crossing streams and climbing hills, it parts the purple mist. It snaps the silken reins and shakes the jade-studded bridle, A fiery dragon flying down from the Nine Heavens.

When Lü Bu saw the horse, he was delighted. He thanked Li Su, saying, “Elder brother, you have given me this excellent steed. How can I repay you?”

Li Su said, “I came out of loyalty and friendship. How could I hope for repayment?”

Lü Bu ordered wine prepared to entertain him.

When they had drunk freely, Li Su said, “I rarely have the chance to see you, worthy younger brother, but your honored father often comes to meet me.”

Lü Bu said, “Elder brother, you are drunk! My late father left this world many years ago. How could he meet you?”

Li Su laughed loudly and said, “No. I mean Inspector Ding, your father of today.”

Lü Bu became uneasy and said, “My serving under Ding Jianyang also arose from necessity.”

Li Su said, “You possess the talent to uphold the sky and carry the seas. Who within the Four Seas does not admire and respect you? Merit, fame, wealth, and rank should be as easy for you to obtain as taking something from a bag. Why speak of necessity and remain beneath another man?”

Lü Bu said, “I regret only that I have not met the right lord.”

Li Su laughed and said, “‘A fine bird chooses the tree where it will roost; a worthy minister chooses the lord whom he will serve.’ If you fail to seize the opportunity early, it will be too late for regret.”

Lü Bu said, “You serve at court, elder brother. Whom do you consider a hero of this age?”

Li Su said, “I have looked over all the ministers, and none compares with Dong Zhuo. Dong Zhuo respects worthy men and treats scholars with courtesy. His rewards and punishments are clear. In the end, he will accomplish a great enterprise.”

Lü Bu said, “I wish to follow him, but regret that I have no path of approach.”

Li Su took out the gold, pearls, and jade belt and laid them before Lü Bu.

Lü Bu was startled and said, “Why have you brought these?”

Li Su ordered the attendants to withdraw and told Lü Bu, “Lord Dong has long admired your great reputation and expressly ordered me to present these things to you. The Red Hare horse was also Lord Dong’s gift.”

Lü Bu said, “Lord Dong values me so highly. How can I repay him?”

Li Su said, “Even a man without talent like me has become General of the Household of the Rapid-as-Tigers Guards. If you go to him, your rank and honor will be beyond description.”

Lü Bu said, “I regret that I have not earned even the merit of a drop of water or a speck of dust to offer as a gift when I seek an audience.”

Li Su said, “The merit lies within the turning of your hand. You are merely unwilling to perform the deed.”

Lü Bu pondered for a long time, then said, “I intend to kill Ding Yuan and lead his army over to Dong Zhuo. What do you think?”

Li Su said, “If you can do that, worthy younger brother, it will truly be the greatest possible service. But this matter allows no delay. You must decide and act quickly.”

Lü Bu arranged to surrender the next day, and Li Su took his leave.

During the second watch that night, Lü Bu took a sword and went straight into Ding Yuan’s tent. Ding Yuan was reading by candlelight.

When he saw Lü Bu arrive, he said, “My son, what brings you here?”

Lü Bu said, “I am a mighty man in my own right. How could I be willing to remain your son?”

Ding Yuan said, “Fengxian, why has your heart changed?”

Lü Bu stepped forward and with one stroke cut off Ding Yuan’s head. Then he shouted, “All of you, listen! Ding Yuan was without humanity, and I have killed him. Those willing to follow me may remain here. Those unwilling may leave as they please!”

More than half the soldiers dispersed.

The next day Lü Bu carried Ding Yuan’s head to see Li Su. Li Su then brought him to meet Dong Zhuo.

Dong Zhuo was delighted and prepared wine to entertain him. Dong Zhuo bowed first and said, “Now that I have gained you, General, I am like drought-stricken shoots receiving sweet rain.”

Lü Bu helped Dong Zhuo to his seat and bowed before him, saying, “If you do not reject me, my lord, I ask permission to honor you as my adoptive father.”

Dong Zhuo gave Lü Bu golden armor and a brocade robe. They drank their fill and then parted.

From that time Dong Zhuo’s power and influence grew still greater. He personally assumed the duties of General of the Vanguard. He appointed his younger brother Dong Min General of the Left and Marquis of Hu, and appointed Lü Bu Cavalry Commandant, General of the Household, and Marquis of Duting.

Li Ru urged Dong Zhuo to settle the plan for deposition and enthronement as soon as possible.

Dong Zhuo therefore arranged a banquet within the government offices and assembled all the highest ministers and officials. He ordered Lü Bu to command more than one thousand armored soldiers as guards on both sides.

That day Grand Tutor Yuan Wei and all the officials arrived. After several rounds of wine, Dong Zhuo drew his sword and said, “The present emperor is foolish and weak and cannot serve the imperial ancestral temple. I will follow the precedents of Yi Yin and Huo Guang, depose the emperor as Prince of Hongnong, and enthrone the Prince of Chenliu as emperor. Anyone who refuses will be beheaded!”

The assembled ministers were terrified, and none dared answer.

Yuan Shao, Colonel of the Central Army, stepped boldly forward and said, “The present emperor has held the throne only a short time and has committed no failure of virtue. You wish to depose the legitimate heir and enthrone a son of a concubine. What is that if not rebellion?”

Dong Zhuo angrily said, “The affairs of the realm rest with me! If I act now, who dares refuse to obey? Do you think my sword is not sharp?”

Yuan Shao also drew his sword and said, “Your sword is sharp, but my sword has never been blunt!”

The two confronted each other at the banquet.

It was just as the lines say:

Ding Yuan upheld justice and was first to lose his life; Now Yuan Shao contests the blade, and his own position turns perilous.

What became of Yuan Shao’s life will be told in the next chapter.