Chapter 34

Lady Cai Overhears Secrets Behind a Screen; Liu Bei Leaps His Horse Across Tan Stream

Now it is told that at the place where the golden light had appeared, Cao Cao dug up a bronze sparrow. He asked Xun You, “What omen is this?” Xun You replied, “In ancient times, the mother of Shun dreamed that a jade sparrow flew into her bosom, and thereafter she gave birth to Shun. Now that you have found a bronze sparrow, this too is an auspicious omen.” Cao Cao was overjoyed and ordered a lofty terrace built to commemorate it. That very day they broke ground, felled timber, fired tiles, and polished bricks, and began building the Bronze Sparrow Terrace on the banks of the Zhang River. It was reckoned that the work would take a year to complete. Cao Cao’s younger son Cao Zhi proposed: “If a many-storied terrace is to be built, there must be three towers. Let the lofty one in the center be called Bronze Sparrow; the one on the left, Jade Dragon; and the one on the right, Golden Phoenix. Then build two soaring bridges between them, spanning the open sky. Only then will it be a truly magnificent sight.” Cao Cao said, “My son’s proposal is excellent. When the terraces are finished, they will afford me pleasure in my old age!” Cao Cao had five sons, but Cao Zhi alone was quick-witted and gifted in literary composition, and Cao Cao had always loved him best.

Cao Cao therefore left Cao Zhi and Cao Pi in Ye Commandery to oversee the building of the terraces, and ordered Zhang Yan to guard the northern camp. Then, with the troops he had taken from Yuan Shao, numbering some five or six hundred thousand, Cao Cao led his victorious army back to the capital at Xuchang, where he richly rewarded his meritorious officers. He also submitted a memorial posthumously investing Guo Jia as Marquis Zhen and took Guo Jia’s son Guo Yi into his own household to rear him. Cao Cao then gathered his advisers to discuss a southern campaign against Liu Biao. Xun Yu said, “The great army has only just returned from its northern expedition and should not be set in motion again. Wait half a year, let the men recover their vigor and husband their strength, and Liu Biao and Sun Quan may be brought down in a single onslaught.” Cao Cao accepted this advice and divided his troops among agricultural colonies to await future deployment.

Now since Xuande’s arrival in Jingzhou, Liu Biao had treated him with great generosity. One day, while they were drinking together, a sudden report came that the surrendered generals Zhang Wu and Chen Sun were plundering the people in Jiangxia and plotting rebellion together. Liu Biao exclaimed in alarm, “Those two villains have rebelled again. The trouble they cause will be no small matter!” Xuande said, “There is no need for you to worry, elder brother. I ask leave to go and suppress them.” Liu Biao was delighted and immediately mustered thirty thousand troops for Xuande’s expedition. Xuande accepted the command and set out at once. In less than a day, he reached Jiangxia. Zhang Wu and Chen Sun led their forces out to meet him. Xuande rode forth beneath the gate banner with Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and Zhao Yun. When he saw the horse Zhang Wu was riding, he perceived that it was an exceptionally powerful and splendid steed. Xuande said, “That must surely be a horse capable of covering a thousand li in a day.”

Before the words were out of his mouth, Zhao Yun leveled his spear and galloped straight into the enemy ranks. Zhang Wu spurred forward to meet him, but before three bouts had passed, Zhao Yun thrust him from the saddle with a single stroke. Reaching out, Zhao Yun seized the reins and led the horse back to his own lines. At the sight, Chen Sun raced after him to reclaim it. With a tremendous shout, Zhang Fei charged out, spear leveled, and stabbed Chen Sun to death. The rebels all scattered. Xuande granted amnesty to those who remained, restored peace throughout the counties of Jiangxia, and led his victorious army home. Liu Biao came beyond the city walls to welcome him, escorted him into the city, and gave a banquet to celebrate his success. When the wine had flowed freely, Liu Biao said, “With such heroic ability as my brother’s, Jingzhou has one upon whom it may rely. I am troubled only that the southern Yue tribes raid our borders from time to time, while Zhang Lu and Sun Quan are both causes for concern.” Xuande replied, “I have three generals whom you may readily employ. Send Zhang Fei to patrol the southern frontier against the Yue; have Yunzhang hold Zicheng in defense against Zhang Lu; and station Zhao Yun at the Three Rivers to withstand Sun Quan. What cause will then remain for concern?”

Liu Biao was pleased and wished to follow his counsel. But Cai Mao told his elder sister, Lady Cai, “Liu Bei means to station his three generals outside the city while he himself remains in Jingzhou. In time he is certain to become a menace.” That night Lady Cai said to Liu Biao, “I hear that many people in Jingzhou have dealings with Liu Bei. We cannot fail to guard against him. There is no benefit in allowing him to remain in the city; it would be better to send him elsewhere.” Liu Biao said, “Xuande is a man of benevolence.” Lady Cai replied, “I fear only that other men’s hearts may not resemble yours.” Liu Biao fell silent in thought and made no answer.

The next day, as Liu Biao was leaving the city, he saw that Xuande’s mount was a superb horse. When he inquired about it, he learned that it had belonged to Zhang Wu, and he praised it without end. Xuande accordingly presented the horse to Liu Biao. Delighted, Liu Biao rode it back into the city. Kuai Yue saw the horse and asked him about it. Liu Biao said, “Xuande gave it to me.” Kuai Yue replied, “My late elder brother Kuai Liang was an unsurpassed judge of horses, and I too understand something of the art. Beneath this horse’s eyes run tear-shaped grooves, and beside its brow is a white mark. It is called Dilu, the Hexed Horse, and whoever rides it will suffer harm. Zhang Wu died on account of this horse. My lord must not ride it.”

Liu Biao heeded his words. The next day he invited Xuande to a banquet and said, “Yesterday you favored me with a fine horse, and I am deeply grateful for your generous intent. But, worthy brother, you are often called upon to campaign, and so will have greater use for it. I therefore beg to return it to you.” Xuande rose and thanked him. Liu Biao continued, “You have long dwelt here, worthy brother, and I fear your martial pursuits may fall into neglect. Xinye County, a dependency of Xiangyang, has ample money and grain. What would you say to taking your own troops there and establishing a garrison?”

Xuande agreed. The next day he took leave of Liu Biao and led his own troops straight toward Xinye. Just as he passed through the city gate, a man stepped before his horse and saluted him deeply, saying, “My lord, you must not ride this horse.” Xuande looked and saw that it was Yi Ji, styled Jibo, a native of Shanyang and a member of Liu Biao’s staff. Xuande hastily dismounted and asked him why. Yi Ji said, “Yesterday I heard Kuai Yidu say to Governor Liu of Jingzhou, ‘This horse is called Dilu, the Hexed Horse, and whoever rides it will suffer harm.’ That is why the horse has been returned to you. How can you ride it again?” Xuande replied, “I am deeply grateful for your concern, sir. But every man’s life and death are ordained by fate. How can a horse bring harm to its master?” Yi Ji greatly admired this lofty judgment, and from then on he frequently associated with Xuande.

After Xuande arrived at Xinye, soldiers and commoners alike rejoiced, and the government was wholly renewed. In the spring of the twelfth year of Jian’an, Lady Gan gave birth to Liu Shan. That night a white crane flew down upon the roof of the county offices, cried loudly more than forty times, and then flew away toward the west. When the time of birth came, a strange fragrance filled the chamber. Lady Gan had once dreamed at night that she raised her head and swallowed the Northern Dipper, and so the child was given the infant name Adou.

At this time Cao Cao was leading his army on the northern expedition. Xuande went to Jingzhou and said to Liu Biao, “Cao Cao is now campaigning in the north, and Xuchang lies empty. If we take the forces of Jingzhou and Xiangyang and strike while opportunity offers, a great enterprise may be accomplished.” Liu Biao replied, “It is enough for me to hold Jingzhou securely. Why should I seek anything more?” Xuande said nothing. Liu Biao invited him into the rear hall for wine. When the wine had flowed freely, Liu Biao suddenly heaved a long sigh. Xuande asked, “Why do you sigh, elder brother?” Liu Biao replied, “There is a matter weighing on my mind, but it is not easy to speak of.” Xuande was about to question him further when Lady Cai came out and stood behind the screen. Liu Biao lowered his head and said no more.

Before long the banquet ended, and Xuande returned to Xinye. In the winter of that year, he heard that Cao Cao had returned from Liucheng, and he sighed deeply that Liu Biao had not followed his counsel. Then one day a messenger arrived from Liu Biao, inviting Xuande to meet him in Jingzhou. Xuande accompanied the messenger there. Liu Biao received him, and after they had exchanged the proper courtesies, invited him into the rear hall for a banquet. There Liu Biao said, “I recently heard that Cao Cao has led his army back to the capital at Xuchang. His power grows stronger by the day, and he must harbor the ambition to swallow up Jingzhou and Xiangyang. I now regret that I did not heed your advice before and so let that fine opportunity slip away!” Xuande replied, “The empire is divided, and warfare rises daily on every side. How can opportunities ever be exhausted? If you can seize the next one when it comes, there is no need for regret.” Liu Biao said, “My brother’s words are entirely right.” And they drank together.

When the wine had taken effect, Liu Biao suddenly began to weep. Xuande asked the reason. Liu Biao said, “There is a matter weighing on my mind. I wished to confide it to you before, worthy brother, but had no proper opportunity.” Xuande replied, “What difficult matter can you not decide, elder brother? If there is any use you can make of me, I will not refuse, though it cost me my life.” Liu Biao said, “My eldest son, Liu Qi, was born to my former wife, Lady Chen. Though virtuous, he is weak and irresolute, and lacks the strength to accomplish great things. My younger son, Liu Cong, born to my present wife, Lady Cai, is quite intelligent. I wish to set aside the elder and establish the younger, but fear this would offend propriety and law. Yet if I establish my eldest son, every member of Lady Cai’s clan holds military authority, and disorder is certain to arise afterward. For this reason I cannot make a decision.” Xuande replied, “From ancient times, setting aside the elder to establish the younger has been the way to disorder. If you fear the Cai clan’s power is too great, you may gradually pare it away. You must not allow doting affection to lead you to establish your younger son.” Liu Biao fell silent. Now Lady Cai had always mistrusted Xuande, and whenever he and Liu Biao held a private discussion, she invariably came to eavesdrop. At that moment she was behind the screen, and when she heard Xuande’s words, her heart filled with bitter hatred.

Xuande realized that he had spoken amiss, so he rose and went to the privy. There he noticed that the flesh had grown again upon his thighs, and he could not keep the tears from falling. A short while later he returned to the banquet. Seeing traces of tears on Xuande’s face, Liu Biao asked in surprise what troubled him. Xuande sighed deeply and said, “In former days, I was seldom out of the saddle, and the flesh of my thighs wasted away. Now I have gone so long without riding that the flesh has grown back. The months and years slip fruitlessly by, old age draws near, and still I have founded no great achievement. That is why I grieve!” Liu Biao said, “I have heard that while you were in Xuchang, worthy brother, you and Cao Cao warmed wine over green plums and discussed the heroes of the age. You named every eminent man of the time, but Cao Cao rejected them all, saying only, ‘The only heroes in the empire are you and I.’ Even with all his power, Cao Cao did not dare place himself before you. Why should you fear that you will fail to accomplish a great enterprise?” Carried away by the wine, Xuande let slip the reply, “If I had but a foundation of my own, all the mediocre men beneath Heaven would truly give me no cause for concern.” Liu Biao heard this and fell silent. Xuande knew that he had misspoken, so he pretended drunkenness, rose, and returned to his lodging to rest. A later poet praised Xuande in these lines:Lord Cao counted every name from first to last;Of all the heroes, you alone remained.You sighed when flesh grew on your thighs again—How could the realm escape a threefold reign?

When Liu Biao heard Xuande’s words, he said nothing, but displeasure stirred within him. After taking leave of Xuande, he withdrew to his inner quarters. Lady Cai said, “Just now, from behind the screen, I heard Liu Bei’s words. He spoke with great contempt for others, which plainly shows his intention to swallow up Jingzhou. If he is not removed now, he is certain to become a future menace.” Liu Biao made no answer but merely shook his head. Lady Cai then secretly summoned Cai Mao to confer about the matter. Cai Mao said, “Allow me first to kill him in his lodging. We can inform our lord afterward.” Lady Cai approved his proposal. Cai Mao left and began mustering troops that very night.

Meanwhile, Xuande sat by candlelight in his lodging. It was after the third watch, and he was just preparing to retire, when someone suddenly knocked at the door and entered. Xuande looked and saw that it was Yi Ji. Yi Ji had learned that Cai Mao intended to murder Xuande and had come expressly under cover of night to warn him. He now revealed Cai Mao’s plot and urged Xuande to rise and depart without delay. Xuande said, “How can I simply leave without taking my farewell of Jingsheng?” Yi Ji replied, “If you attempt to bid him farewell, you will certainly fall victim to Cai Mao.”

Xuande thanked Yi Ji and took leave of him, hastily summoned his attendants, and had them all mount. Without waiting for dawn, they rode through the night beneath the stars and hurried back to Xinye. By the time Cai Mao led his troops to the lodging, Xuande was already far away. Cai Mao’s regret and fury were beyond remedy. He therefore wrote a poem on the wall, then went straight to Liu Biao and said, “Liu Bei harbors rebellious intentions. He wrote a treasonous poem upon the wall and departed without taking leave.” Liu Biao did not believe him and personally went to the lodging to inspect it. Sure enough, four lines of verse were written there:For years I have guarded, beset and confined,Gazing vainly on rivers and mountains of old.Is a dragon a creature to dwell in a pool?Riding thunder, it yearns to ascend to the sky!

When Liu Biao saw the poem, he flew into a rage. Drawing his sword, he cried, “I swear I will kill this faithless wretch!” He had gone only a few paces when sudden understanding came to him. “I have been in Xuande’s company for a long time,” he said, “yet I have never seen him compose a poem. This must be some outsider’s scheme to sow discord between us.” He turned back into the lodging and scraped the poem away with the point of his sword, then cast the sword aside and mounted his horse. Cai Mao urged him, “The troops have already been mustered. We can go at once to Xinye and seize Liu Bei.” Liu Biao replied, “We must not act rashly. Let us consider the matter at leisure.”

Seeing Liu Biao hesitant and unable to decide, Cai Mao secretly conferred with Lady Cai. They resolved to summon all the officials to a great assembly at Xiangyang and there carry out their plot. The next day Cai Mao reported to Liu Biao, “The recent harvests have been abundant. We should assemble the officials at Xiangyang to display our intention to soothe and encourage them. I ask my lord to attend.” Liu Biao said, “My ailment of the qi has flared up of late, and I truly cannot go. My two sons may preside and receive the guests.” Cai Mao replied, “The young lords are still inexperienced. I fear they may fail in the proper courtesies.” Liu Biao said, “Then send to Xinye and invite Xuande to receive the guests.” Cai Mao rejoiced inwardly, for this was precisely what his scheme required, and he immediately dispatched a man to invite Xuande to Xiangyang.

After Xuande had hurried back to Xinye, he knew that his reckless words had brought trouble upon him, but he had told no one what had happened. Suddenly a messenger arrived to invite him to Xiangyang. Sun Qian said, “Yesterday I saw my lord return in great haste, plainly distressed in spirit. By my poor reckoning, something must have happened in Jingzhou. Now that this sudden invitation to the assembly has come, you must not go lightly.” Only then did Xuande relate the whole affair to his companions. Yunzhang said, “Brother, you yourself suspect that your words gave offense. Governor Liu of Jingzhou has shown no sign of anger or reproach. The words of an outsider cannot lightly be trusted. Xiangyang is not far from here. If you do not go, you may instead arouse Jingzhou’s suspicions.” Xuande said, “Yunzhang speaks rightly.” Zhang Fei said, “There is no good banquet and no good gathering in store. Better not to go.” Zhao Yun said, “I will accompany you with three hundred horse and foot. I can ensure that no harm comes to my lord.” Xuande said, “That will be excellent.” He and Zhao Yun accordingly set out for Xiangyang that very day.

Cai Mao came beyond the walls to welcome Xuande, displaying the greatest humility and courtesy. After him, Liu Biao’s two sons, Liu Qi and Liu Cong, came out with a company of civil and military officials to receive him. Seeing both young lords present, Xuande felt no suspicion or misgiving. That day he was invited to rest for the time being at the official guesthouse. Zhao Yun had the three hundred soldiers encircle the place and keep guard. Clad in armor with his sword at his side, Zhao Yun remained close to Xuande whether walking or seated. Liu Qi told Xuande, “My father’s ailment has flared up, and he is unable to travel. He has therefore specially asked you, uncle, to receive the guests and offer comfort and encouragement to the governors and magistrates from every district.” Xuande replied, “I would not presume to undertake this task on my own. But since it is my elder brother’s command, I dare not refuse.”

The next day, it was reported that all the officials from the nine commanderies and forty-two districts had arrived. Cai Mao had already invited Kuai Yue to confer with him. He said, “Liu Bei is a formidable hero of the age. If he remains here long, he is certain to bring harm. We can remove him today.” Kuai Yue replied, “I fear we may forfeit the goodwill of the scholar-gentry and the people.” Cai Mao said, “I have already received secret instructions from Governor Liu of Jingzhou.” Kuai Yue replied, “If that is so, preparations should be made beforehand.” Cai Mao said, “On the main road by Mount Xian beyond the east gate, I have stationed my younger brother Cai He with troops to hold the way. Outside the south gate, I have posted Cai Zhong. Outside the north gate, I have posted Cai Xun. Only the west gate need not be guarded, for the Tan Creek lies beyond it, blocking the way. Even an army of tens of thousands would find it difficult to cross.” Kuai Yue said, “I have observed that Zhao Yun never leaves Xuande’s side, whether walking or sitting. I fear it will be difficult to strike.” Cai Mao replied, “I have five hundred soldiers concealed inside the city, ready for action.” Kuai Yue said, “Have Wen Ping and Wang Wei set a separate table in the outer hall for the military officers. First detain Zhao Yun there, and then the deed can be done.”

Cai Mao followed his advice. That day oxen and horses were slaughtered, and a splendid banquet was laid. Xuande rode Dilu to the provincial offices and ordered that the horse be led into the rear garden and tethered there. All the officials assembled in the main hall. Xuande occupied the seat of honor, with the two young lords seated to either side, while the rest sat according to rank. Zhao Yun stood beside Xuande with his sword at his waist. Wen Ping and Wang Wei entered and invited Zhao Yun to join the banquet outside. Zhao Yun declined to go. Xuande ordered him to take his place at the table, and Zhao Yun reluctantly obeyed and left the hall. Outside, Cai Mao had sealed everything as tightly as an iron cask. The three hundred soldiers who had accompanied Xuande were all sent back to the guesthouse. Cai Mao now waited only until the guests were half drunk, when he would give the signal to strike.

After three rounds of wine, Yi Ji rose with a cup and came before Xuande. Catching Xuande’s eye, he said in a low voice, “I pray you retire to change your clothes.” Xuande understood his meaning and at once rose to go to the privy. After presenting his cup, Yi Ji hurried into the rear garden and met Xuande there. Leaning close to his ear, he whispered, “Cai Mao has laid a plot to kill you. Troops guard the approaches outside the city to the east, south, and north. Only the west gate is open. You must flee at once!” Xuande was greatly alarmed. He hastily untied Dilu, opened the rear garden gate, and led the horse out. Leaping into the saddle, he left his attendants behind and rode alone toward the west gate. The gatekeeper questioned him, but Xuande made no reply and lashed his horse through. Unable to stop him, the gatekeeper hurried to report to Cai Mao. Cai Mao immediately mounted and led five hundred soldiers in pursuit.

Xuande burst through the west gate and rode for several li, only to find a broad stream blocking his path. Tan Creek was several fathoms wide and flowed into the Xiang River, its current swift and violent. Reaching the bank, Xuande saw that it could not be crossed. He reined in and turned back, but in the distance west of the city a vast cloud of dust was rising: the pursuing troops were almost upon him. Xuande cried, “This time I am done for!” He turned his horse and returned to the creek. Looking back, he saw that his pursuers were already near. In desperation, Xuande urged his horse down into the water. They had gone only a few paces when the horse’s forelegs suddenly sank into the mud, and the water drenched Xuande’s robe. Xuande lashed the horse and shouted, “Dilu! Dilu! Today you have brought me harm!” The instant he spoke, the horse suddenly surged upward from the water, leaped three fathoms in a single bound, and flew onto the western bank.

Xuande seemed to rise out of cloud and mist. In later times, the scholar Su composed an old-style ballad devoted solely to Liu Xuande’s horseback leap across Tan Creek. The poem ran:Flowers fade with age; spring’s day draws to its close.By chance, an official traveler reaches Tan Creek’s road.He halts his steeds, gazes afar, and wanders alone;Before his eyes, red petals drift forlorn.

He muses how the Fire Virtue waned at Xianyang,While dragon and tiger contended in strife.At Xiangyang’s feast the princely scions drank;Amid them Xuande’s life hung in peril.

Escaping alone, he fled by the western gate,While close behind the pursuing soldiers came.A river of misty water swelled Tan Creek;He fiercely urged his battle mount to leap.

The horse’s hooves shattered green crystal;The golden whip cracked in the heavenly wind.Beside his ears he heard a thousand riders race;Within the waves, twin dragons suddenly flew.

The true heroic lord who ruled the western landMet there the dragon steed beneath his seat.The waters of Tan Creek still eastward flow—Where now are dragon steed and heroic lord?

Beside the stream, I sigh thrice, my heart grown sore;The slanting sun shines silently on empty hills.The realm’s threefold division seems wholly a dream;Only their traces linger in the mortal world.

Having leaped across to the west of the creek, Xuande looked back toward the eastern bank. Cai Mao had already led his troops to the water’s edge and called out loudly, “Why has my lord fled the banquet?” Xuande answered, “I bear you no enmity. Why do you seek to harm me?” Cai Mao said, “I have no such intention. My lord must not listen to slander.” But Xuande saw Cai Mao reaching for his bow and arrows, so he hastily wheeled his horse and rode away toward the southwest. Cai Mao said to those around him, “What divine power came to his aid?” He was just about to withdraw his troops and return to the city when Zhao Yun appeared within the west gate, leading the three hundred soldiers in pursuit. Truly:The dragon steed leaped free and saved its lord;The tiger general came to slay his foe.What became of Cai Mao’s life will be told in the next chapter.

Lady Cai Overhears Secrets Behind a Screen; Liu Bei Leaps His Horse Across Tan Stream

Now Cao Cao had men dig at the place where the golden light appeared, and they unearthed a bronze sparrow. He asked Xun You, “What omen is this?” Xun You replied, “Long ago, Emperor Shun’s mother dreamed that a jade sparrow flew into her arms, and afterward she gave birth to Shun. Now that you have obtained a bronze sparrow, this too is an auspicious omen.” Cao Cao was overjoyed and ordered a lofty terrace built to commemorate it. That very day they broke ground, felled timber, fired tiles, and polished bricks, constructing the Bronze Sparrow Terrace above the Zhang River. It was estimated that the work would take a year to complete. Cao Cao’s younger son Cao Zhi proposed, “If you are building tiered terraces, you should erect three of them. The tall one in the center should be called Bronze Sparrow; the one on the left, Jade Dragon; and the one on the right, Golden Phoenix. Then build two soaring bridges rising across the open sky. Only then will it be a magnificent sight.” Cao Cao said, “My son’s proposal is excellent. When the terraces are finished, they will be enough to entertain me in my old age!” Cao Cao had five sons, but only Cao Zhi was quick-witted and intelligent and excelled at writing, so Cao Cao had always loved him best.

Cao Cao therefore left Cao Zhi and Cao Pi in Ye Commandery to build the terraces and ordered Zhang Yan to guard the northern camp. With the five or six hundred thousand troops he had acquired from Yuan Shao, Cao Cao marched back in triumph to the capital, Xuchang, where he generously rewarded those who had distinguished themselves. He also memorialized the throne to grant Guo Jia the posthumous title Marquis Zhen and raised Guo Jia’s son Guo Yi in his own household. Cao Cao then assembled his many advisers to discuss a southern campaign against Liu Biao. Xun Yu said, “The great army has only just returned from its northern campaign and should not be set in motion again yet. Wait six months while the men recover their strength and we build up our reserves. Then Liu Biao and Sun Quan can be taken in a single assault.” Cao Cao followed his advice and divided his troops among agricultural colonies to await future deployment.

Now since Xuande had arrived in Jingzhou, Liu Biao had treated him with great generosity. One day, as they were drinking together, a sudden report came that the surrendered generals Zhang Wu and Chen Sun were plundering the people in Jiangxia and plotting a rebellion together. Liu Biao exclaimed in alarm, “These two villains have rebelled again. The trouble they cause will not be slight!” Xuande said, “There is no need for you to worry, elder brother. Allow me to go and suppress them.” Liu Biao was delighted and immediately assigned thirty thousand troops to Xuande for the expedition. Xuande accepted the command and set out at once, reaching Jiangxia within a few days. Zhang Wu and Chen Sun led out their troops to meet him. Xuande rode out with Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and Zhao Yun beneath the command banner. Seeing that the horse Zhang Wu rode was exceptionally powerful and spirited, Xuande said, “That must be a horse capable of traveling a thousand li in a day.”

Before he had finished speaking, Zhao Yun leveled his spear, charged out, and headed straight for the enemy formation. Zhang Wu spurred his horse forward to meet him, but in fewer than three bouts Zhao Yun stabbed him from the saddle with a single thrust. Zhao Yun immediately seized the reins and led the horse back to his own lines. When Chen Sun saw this, he pursued Zhao Yun to take the horse back. With a tremendous shout, Zhang Fei charged straight out with his spear and stabbed Chen Sun to death. The rebel troops all scattered. Xuande pacified those who remained, restored order throughout the counties of Jiangxia, and returned in triumph. Liu Biao came outside the city to welcome him, escorted him in, and gave a banquet to celebrate the victory. When they were half drunk, Liu Biao said, “With a brother of such heroic ability, Jingzhou has someone it can rely upon. I am only concerned that the southern Yue tribes may invade without warning, while Zhang Lu and Sun Quan are also both causes for anxiety.” Xuande said, “I have three generals who can readily be entrusted with these duties. Have Zhang Fei patrol the border with the southern Yue; have Yunchang hold the inner city securely and keep Zhang Lu in check; and have Zhao Yun defend the Three Rivers against Sun Quan. What is there to worry about?”

Liu Biao was pleased and intended to follow his advice. But Cai Mao told his elder sister, Lady Cai, “Liu Bei is sending his three generals to take up positions outside while he himself remains in Jingzhou. In time, he is certain to become a threat.” That night Lady Cai said to Liu Biao, “I hear that many people in Jingzhou are associating with Liu Bei. We cannot afford to be off our guard. Allowing him to remain in the city does us no good. It would be better to send him elsewhere.” Liu Biao said, “Xuande is a benevolent man.” Lady Cai replied, “I only fear that other men do not have the same heart as you.” Liu Biao pondered in silence and gave no answer.

The next day, while outside the city, Liu Biao saw that the horse Xuande was riding was exceptionally fine. He asked about it and learned that it had belonged to Zhang Wu, whereupon he praised it without end. Xuande therefore presented the horse to Liu Biao. Liu Biao was delighted and rode it back into the city. When Kuai Yue saw the horse, he asked Liu Biao about it. Liu Biao said, “Xuande gave it to me.” Kuai Yue said, “My late elder brother Kuai Liang was extremely skilled at judging horses, and I also understand the art fairly well. This horse has tear grooves beneath its eyes and a white patch beside its forehead. It is known as Dilu, and whoever rides it will suffer harm. Zhang Wu died because of this horse. My lord must not ride it.”

Liu Biao heeded his words. The next day he invited Xuande to a banquet and said, “Yesterday you were kind enough to give me that excellent horse, and I am deeply grateful for your generosity. But as you frequently go on military expeditions, you can make better use of it. I respectfully return it to you.” Xuande rose and thanked him. Liu Biao then said, “You have lived here for a long time, worthy brother, and I fear your military skills may fall into disuse. Xinye County, a dependency of Xiangyang, has ample funds and provisions. How would it be if you took the troops under your direct command and stationed them there?”

Xuande agreed. The next day he thanked Liu Biao, took his leave, and led his own troops directly toward Xinye. Just as he passed through the city gate, a man before his horse bowed deeply and said, “You must not ride that horse, my lord.” Xuande looked and saw that it was Yi Ji, courtesy name Jibo, a native of Shanyang and a member of the Jingzhou staff. Xuande hurriedly dismounted and asked him why. Yi Ji said, “Yesterday I heard Kuai Yidu tell Liu Biao, ‘This horse is called Dilu, and whoever rides it will suffer harm.’ That is why Liu Biao returned it to you. How can you ride it again?” Xuande replied, “I am deeply grateful for your concern, sir. But every man’s life and death are ordained by fate. How could a horse bring harm to its rider?” Yi Ji greatly admired his lofty view, and from then on he frequently visited Xuande.

After Xuande arrived in Xinye, soldiers and civilians alike rejoiced, and the government was completely renewed. In the spring of the twelfth year of Jian’an, Lady Gan gave birth to Liu Shan. That night a white crane flew down onto the roof of the county offices, cried loudly more than forty times, and then flew away toward the west. At the time of the birth, a strange fragrance filled the room. Lady Gan had once dreamed at night that she looked up and swallowed the Northern Dipper, so the child was given the infant name Adou.

At this time Cao Cao was leading his troops on his northern campaign. Xuande therefore went to Jingzhou and said to Liu Biao, “Cao Cao is now campaigning in the north, and Xuchang is empty. If we use the forces of Jingzhou and Xiangyang to launch a surprise attack while the opportunity lasts, we can accomplish our great enterprise.” Liu Biao said, “It is enough for me to hold Jingzhou. Why should I seek anything more?” Xuande remained silent. Liu Biao invited him into the rear hall for wine. When they were half drunk, Liu Biao suddenly gave a long sigh. Xuande asked, “Why do you sigh, elder brother?” Liu Biao replied, “There is a matter weighing on my mind, but it is not easy to speak of.” Just as Xuande was about to ask again, Lady Cai came out and stood behind a screen. Liu Biao lowered his head and said nothing.

Soon afterward the banquet ended, and Xuande returned to Xinye. In the winter of that year, when he heard that Cao Cao had returned from Liucheng, Xuande deeply regretted that Liu Biao had not followed his advice. Then one day an envoy arrived from Liu Biao, inviting Xuande to meet him in Jingzhou. Xuande accompanied the envoy there. Liu Biao received him, and after they had exchanged the proper courtesies, invited him into the rear hall for a banquet. Liu Biao then said, “I recently heard that Cao Cao has led his troops back to Xuchang. His power grows stronger by the day, and he is certain to harbor the ambition of annexing Jingzhou and Xiangyang. I regret not listening to your advice before, worthy brother, and missing such a fine opportunity!” Xuande replied, “The empire is divided today, and warfare breaks out more with each passing day. How could opportunities ever come to an end? If you can seize the next one, there is no need to regret this.” Liu Biao said, “My brother’s words are entirely right.” They then drank together.

When the wine had taken effect, Liu Biao suddenly began to shed tears. Xuande asked the reason. Liu Biao said, “There is a matter weighing on my mind. I wanted to tell you about it before, worthy brother, but I had no suitable opportunity.” Xuande said, “What difficult matter can you not resolve, elder brother? If there is any way I can be of use, I will not refuse even if it costs me my life.” Liu Biao said, “My eldest son, Liu Qi, was born to my former wife, Lady Chen. Though he is a worthy man, he is gentle and weak and lacks the strength to undertake great affairs. My younger son, Liu Cong, born to my present wife, Lady Cai, is quite intelligent. I want to set aside the elder and establish the younger as my heir, but I fear that this would violate ritual and law. Yet if I establish my eldest son, all the members of Lady Cai’s clan control military affairs, and they are certain to create disorder later. For this reason I have been unable to decide.” Xuande said, “From ancient times onward, setting aside the elder to establish the younger has been the road to disorder. If you are concerned that the Cai clan has too much power, you may gradually reduce it. You must not establish your younger son merely because you dote on him.” Liu Biao remained silent. Lady Cai had always distrusted Xuande, and whenever he held a discussion with Liu Biao, she would secretly listen. At that moment she was behind the screen. When she heard Xuande’s words, she hated him bitterly.

Xuande realized that he had spoken unwisely and rose to go to the latrine. There he saw that flesh had grown again on his thighs, and he involuntarily began to weep. After a short while he returned to the banquet. When Liu Biao saw the tears on his face, he asked in surprise what was wrong. Xuande gave a long sigh and said, “In the past, I was rarely out of the saddle, and all the flesh on my thighs had worn away. Now I have gone so long without riding that flesh has grown there again. The months and years slip by, and old age is approaching, yet I have achieved nothing. That is why I grieve!” Liu Biao said, “I heard that when you were in Xuchang, you and Cao Cao warmed wine over green plums and discussed the heroes of the age. You named all the renowned men of the time, but Cao Cao rejected every one of them and said only, ‘The only heroes in the empire are you and I.’ Even with all his power and authority, Cao Cao did not dare rank himself ahead of you. Why should you worry that you will fail to achieve great deeds?” Carried away by the wine, Xuande let slip the reply, “If I only had a secure base, the ordinary mediocrities of the empire would truly be nothing to fear.” Liu Biao fell silent when he heard this. Realizing that he had misspoken, Xuande pretended to be drunk, rose, and returned to his lodging to rest. A later poet praised Xuande in these lines:Lord Cao counted them all upon his fingers,Yet named you alone a hero of the realm.You grieved when flesh grew back upon your thighs—How could the world not split into three domains?

When Liu Biao heard Xuande’s words, he said nothing aloud, but he was displeased at heart. After parting from Xuande, he withdrew to his private quarters. Lady Cai said, “Just now, from behind the screen, I heard Liu Bei speak with great contempt for others. That is enough to show he intends to annex Jingzhou. If we do not eliminate him now, he is certain to become a future threat.” Liu Biao did not answer, but merely shook his head. Lady Cai then secretly summoned Cai Mao and discussed the matter with him. Cai Mao said, “Allow me to kill him at his lodging first and inform our lord afterward.” Lady Cai approved his proposal. Cai Mao went out and began mustering troops that very night.

Now Xuande was sitting by candlelight in his lodging and was about to retire sometime after the third watch when someone suddenly knocked at the door and entered. Xuande looked and saw that it was Yi Ji. Yi Ji had learned that Cai Mao intended to harm Xuande and had come especially under cover of night to warn him. He immediately told Xuande of Cai Mao’s plot and urged him to leave at once. Xuande said, “How can I simply leave without taking my farewell of Jingsheng?” Yi Ji replied, “If you go to bid him farewell, Cai Mao is certain to kill you.”

Xuande thanked Yi Ji and took his leave, hurriedly summoned his attendants, and mounted together with them. Without waiting for dawn, they raced through the night back to Xinye. By the time Cai Mao led his troops to the lodging, Xuande was already far away. Cai Mao bitterly regretted that he was too late. He therefore wrote a poem on the wall, went straight in to see Liu Biao, and said, “Liu Bei intends to rebel. He wrote a seditious poem on the wall and departed without taking his leave.” Liu Biao did not believe him and personally went to the lodging to inspect it. Sure enough, there was a poem of four lines:For years in vain I have remained confined,Gazing idly on these old hills and streams.Can a dragon be a creature of the pool?It rides the thunder, longing for the sky!

When Liu Biao saw the poem, he flew into a rage, drew his sword, and declared, “I swear I will kill this faithless wretch!” But after taking several steps, he suddenly came to his senses and said, “I have spent so much time with Xuande, yet I have never seen him compose a poem. This must be someone else’s scheme to sow discord between us.” He turned back, entered the lodging, used the point of his sword to scrape away the poem, then discarded the sword and mounted his horse. Cai Mao requested, “The troops have already been assembled. We can go directly to Xinye and seize Liu Bei.” Liu Biao said, “We must not act rashly. Let us plan it at our leisure.”

Seeing Liu Biao hesitate and fail to decide, Cai Mao secretly conferred with Lady Cai. They planned to hold a great assembly of all the officials at Xiangyang and carry out their plot there. The next day Cai Mao reported to Liu Biao, “The harvests have been abundant in recent years. We should gather all the officials at Xiangyang to demonstrate our goodwill and concern for them. I ask that you attend in person, my lord.” Liu Biao said, “My breathing ailment has flared up recently, and I truly cannot go. My two sons can preside and receive the guests.” Cai Mao said, “The young lords are still inexperienced. I fear they may make mistakes in matters of etiquette.” Liu Biao said, “Then send to Xinye and invite Xuande to receive the guests.” Cai Mao was secretly delighted that this fit his scheme exactly and immediately sent someone to invite Xuande to Xiangyang.

Now after Xuande fled back to Xinye, he realized that his careless words had brought trouble upon him, but he had told no one what had happened. When the envoy suddenly arrived to invite him to Xiangyang, Sun Qian said, “Yesterday I saw you return in great haste, my lord, and you seemed deeply troubled. From what little judgment I possess, something must have happened in Jingzhou. Now that this sudden invitation to attend the gathering has come, you must not go lightly.” Xuande then told everyone all that had happened. Yunchang said, “Elder brother, you merely suspect that your words gave offense. Liu Biao did not reproach you in any way. The words of outsiders must not be trusted too readily. Xiangyang is not far from here. If you do not go, Liu Biao will become suspicious instead.” Xuande said, “Yunchang is right.” Zhang Fei said, “No banquet is a good banquet, and no meeting is a good meeting. Better not to go.” Zhao Yun said, “I will accompany you with three hundred cavalry and infantry. I can ensure that nothing happens to you, my lord.” Xuande said, “That will be excellent.” He and Zhao Yun therefore set out for Xiangyang that very day.

Cai Mao came outside the city to welcome Xuande and behaved with exceptional courtesy and humility. Liu Qi and Liu Cong then led a group of civil and military officials out to greet him. Seeing both young lords there, Xuande had no suspicions. That day he was invited to rest temporarily at a guest residence. Zhao Yun arranged his three hundred soldiers around it as a guard. Wearing armor and carrying his sword, Zhao Yun remained at Xuande’s side whether he was walking or seated. Liu Qi told Xuande, “My father’s breathing ailment has flared up, and he is unable to travel. He has therefore asked you, uncle, to receive the guests and offer reassurance and encouragement to the officials governing the various regions.” Xuande said, “I would not presume to accept such a duty on my own, but since it is your father’s command, I dare not refuse.”

The next day it was reported that all the officials from the nine commanderies and forty-two prefectures had arrived. Cai Mao consulted with Kuai Yue beforehand, saying, “Liu Bei is a formidable hero of the age. If he remains here long, he is certain to become a threat. We can eliminate him today.” Kuai Yue said, “I fear we will lose the confidence of the scholar-gentry and common people.” Cai Mao said, “I have secretly received Liu Biao’s own instructions in this matter.” Kuai Yue replied, “If that is so, preparations should be made in advance.” Cai Mao said, “At the eastern gate, on the main road by Mount Xian, I have ordered my younger brother Cai He to stand guard with troops. Outside the southern gate, I have stationed Cai Zhong; and outside the northern gate, Cai Xun. Only the western gate need not be guarded, since the Tan Stream blocks the way ahead. Even an army of tens of thousands would have difficulty crossing it.” Kuai Yue said, “I have seen that Zhao Yun never leaves Xuande’s side, whether walking or seated. I fear it will be difficult to act.” Cai Mao replied, “I have five hundred troops lying in wait inside the city.” Kuai Yue said, “Have Wen Ping and Wang Wei arrange a separate banquet in the outer hall for the military officers. First detain Zhao Yun there, and then you can proceed.”

Cai Mao followed his advice. That day cattle and horses were slaughtered, and an extravagant banquet was prepared. Xuande rode Dilu to the provincial offices and ordered the horse led into the rear garden and tethered there. All the officials assembled in the hall. Xuande occupied the seat of honor, the two young lords sat on either side of him, and everyone else sat according to rank. Zhao Yun stood beside Xuande wearing his sword. Wen Ping and Wang Wei came in and invited Zhao Yun to join the banquet. Zhao Yun declined and refused to go, but Xuande ordered him to take his seat, so Zhao Yun reluctantly obeyed and went out. Outside, Cai Mao had made the arrangements as secure as an iron barrel. He sent all three hundred soldiers Xuande had brought back to the guest residence and waited only until the guests were half drunk before giving the signal to strike.

After three rounds of wine, Yi Ji rose with a cup and came before Xuande. He signaled to him with his eyes and whispered, “Please go and change your clothes.” Understanding his meaning, Xuande rose and went to the latrine. When Yi Ji had finished offering wine, he hurried into the rear garden, met Xuande, and whispered into his ear, “Cai Mao has laid a plot to kill you. Troops are guarding the eastern, southern, and northern approaches outside the city. Only the western gate is open. You must escape at once!” Xuande was greatly alarmed. He hurriedly untied Dilu, opened the rear garden gate, and led the horse out. Leaping into the saddle, he abandoned all thought of his attendants and rode alone toward the western gate. The gate officers questioned him, but Xuande gave no reply and galloped out under the lash. They could not stop him and rushed to report to Cai Mao. Cai Mao immediately mounted and led five hundred troops in pursuit.

Now Xuande burst through the western gate and rode for several li, only to find a broad stream blocking his way. The Tan Stream was several zhang wide and flowed into the Xiang River, its current running swiftly. Xuande reached the bank and saw that he could not cross, so he reined in and turned back. In the distance west of the city, a great cloud of dust was rising—the pursuing troops were nearly upon him. Xuande exclaimed, “This time I am finished!” He turned his horse back toward the stream. Looking over his shoulder, he saw that the pursuers were already close. In desperation, Xuande urged his horse down into the stream. After only a few steps, the horse’s forelegs suddenly sank, and the water soaked Xuande’s robe. He lashed the horse and cried aloud, “Dilu! Dilu! Today you truly bring me harm!” The instant he finished speaking, the horse suddenly surged up out of the water and, with a single leap of three zhang, flew onto the western bank.

Xuande rose as though out of cloud and mist. Later, Scholar Su composed an old-style ballad devoted entirely to Liu Xuande’s horseback leap across the Tan Stream. The poem reads:Flowers fade in age, and spring draws to its close;My official travels chance to bring me to the Tan Stream road.I halt my carriage, gaze afar, and linger alone,While fallen crimson petals drift before my eyes.I think in silence how Han’s fiery virtue waned,And dragons fought with tigers, locked in strife.At Xiangyang’s gathering, the prince’s grandson drank,While Xuande, seated there, drew near to mortal danger.Escaping alone, he rushed out by the western gate,But pursuing troops were closing fast behind.Mist and water swelled across the Tan Stream;He fiercely urged his warhorse onward to the leap.Its hooves shattered the blue crystal beneath,And in the heavenly wind his golden whip cracked.Beside his ears he heard a thousand horsemen race;Within the waves, two flying dragons suddenly appeared.The true heroic lord who would rule the western landsAnd the dragon colt beneath him met their destined hour.The waters of the Tan Stream still flow east,But where now are the dragon colt and heroic lord?Beside the current, thrice I sigh, my heart filled with grief;The slanting sun shines silently on empty hills.The realm’s threefold division seems wholly like a dream;Only their traces remain behind within the world.

After leaping to the western side of the stream, Xuande looked back toward the eastern bank. Cai Mao had already led his troops to the water’s edge and shouted, “Why did you leave the banquet and flee, my lord?” Xuande replied, “There is no hatred between us. Why do you seek to harm me?” Cai Mao said, “I harbor no such intention. Do not listen to other people’s words, my lord.” When Xuande saw Cai Mao reaching for his bow and arrows, he hastily wheeled his horse and rode away toward the southwest. Cai Mao said to those around him, “What divine power came to his aid?” He was just about to withdraw his troops and return to the city when Zhao Yun appeared inside the western gate, leading the three hundred soldiers in pursuit. Truly:The dragon colt leaped away and saved its lord;The tiger general follows, bent on slaying his foe.What became of Cai Mao’s life will be told in the next chapter.