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The Three Kingdoms

Billows of Chang Jiang are rolling eastward in torrents. Heroes of all generations surge like waves, breaking on the shore and then vanish. All the achievements and failures, right or wrong, turn out to be nothing but a void. The green mountain still remains, yet merging into the radiance of endless sunrises and sunsets. On the sandbar in the river is a grey-haired fisherman, who has been viewing the changing seasons from an autumn moon to a spring breeze. Now, he is enjoying a bottle of wine with old friends, whom he has hardly met in such a joyful encounter. So many things have occurred, present and past. All become laughing and enjoyable conversations.

27/06/2021

Chapter Seventeen VIIII

September 22, 2021

Lu Bu gained the triumph. He invited Guan Yu along with Yang Feng, Han Xian and others to Xu Zhou. A huge banquet was held by him to cheer and entertain his guests. All the soldiers were rewarded with money or gifts. The next day, Guan Yu took leave of Lu Bu and returned to Xiao Pi. Han Xian was recommended for the post of the Governor of Yi Du by Bu; Yang Feng, the Governor of Lang Ya. Lu Bu called a meeting to discuss how to keep both of them in Xu Zhou. "No, this can't be done. Han and Yang now occupy Shan Dong. No more than a year, all the inner and outer city walls of Shan Dong will be at General's command," said Chen Gui. Bu took his advice. Han and Yang were sent back to garrison Yi Du and Lang Ya for the time being and waited there for another favor. "Why didn't you support them to stay here? We can scheme together to get rid of Lu Bu, can't we?" Chen Deng asked his father privately. "What if these two men decide to aid Lu Bu? Then their stay will turn out to be adding claws and sharpening teeth for a tiger," said Gui. Deng truly admired his father's insight.

Chapter Seventeen VIII

August 28, 2021

Bu was provoked into acts of attack. He rode towards Shu with his halberd drawn. Li Feng, Shu's General, also drew his spear on Bu to meet the challenge. No more than three bouts, Feng was stabbed in hand by Bu. He cast his spear to the ground and then ran away. Lu Bu commanded his soldiers to dash off. The fighting threw Shu's troops into confusion. Lu Bu led his troops in hot pursuit, plundering and looting countless horses, clothes and armors as they advanced. Proceeding less than several miles with defeated troops, Yuan Shu was intercepted halfway by a regiment of soldiers appearing from the back of the mountain. The general who took the lead was Guan Yu. "Rebel! Hurry to accept you death!" Yu shouted. Yuan Shu hastened to escape in panic. The remnants dispersed in all directions, and Guan YuV seized the chance to carry out the savage slaughter. Yuan Shu gathered his defeated troops and then fled to Huai Nan.

Chapter Seventeen VII

August 25, 2021

It was the second watch at midnight. Han Xian and Yang Feng divided their troops to set fires everywhere and received Lu Bu's army into camp, thus leading to Xun's troops in chaos. Lu Bu seized this chance to attack by surprise. Zhang Xun fled after defeat with Lu Bu in hot pursuit until dawn. Bumping into Ji Ling, who came to Xun's aid, Bu confronted his rival face to face. When they were about to fight, Han Xian and Yang Feng launched a two-pronged attack to reinforce Bu. Ji Ling was put to rout and then left. Lu Bu pursued him with his troops afterwards. Behind the mountains appeared a regiment of soldiers. As the standards were apart, a team of the cavalry came through waving the flags with the images of a dragon, a phoenix, the sun and the moon. Huge banners were decorated with a gold gourd, a silver axe and a yellow halberd designs, and white oxtails were set up at the top of each pole. Beneath the gilt canopy, Yuan Shu wore a suit of golden armor with two knives hanging under each wrist. Standing before the array, he shouted at Lu Bu, "A slave betrays his master!"

Chapter Seventeen VI

August 23, 2021

Deng took leave of Han Xian and rushed to report the progress to Lu Bu. Bu, therefore, divided up his troops into five divisions. Gao Shun took a regiment to advance on Xiao Pei fighting against Qiao Rui; Chen Gong, on Yi Du fighting against Chen Ji; Zhang Liao and Zang Ba, out of Lang Ye fighting against Lei Bo; Song Xian and Wei Xu, out of Jie Shi fighting against Chen Lan; Lu Bu led a regiment in person away from the main road fighting against Zhang Xun. Each commander took ten thousand troops to launch attacks. As for the rest of the army, they were left to defend the city. Lu Bu made camp thirty miles outside the city. Zhang Xun's troops arrived. He knew that he could not defeat Lu Bu, so he retreated twenty miles to garrison, waiting for the soldiers around to come to his aid.

Chapter Seventeen V

August 18, 2021

Consequently, Bu submitted a missive to Xu Du and sent a letter to Yu Zhou. Then Chen Deng was ordered by Bu to wait Han Xian on the way to Xia Pi with the armed escorts. After Xian arrived with his troops and made camp, Deng was allowed admittance. "Thou are Lu Bu's advisor. What brings you here?" Xian asked. Deng laughed, saying "I am the senior officer of the Han dynasty. What is meant by Lu Bu's advisor? General, you used to be the official of the Han Dynasty, but now becomes the minister of the rebels. The credit that you once got for protecting the royal family turns out to be in vain. I feel sorry for you. Besides, Yuan Shu has a very suspicious mind. Sooner or later, you will fall victim to his character. Kill him before it is too late. If you don't do it now, you'll only regret it." "I wish I could be the Han official, but I don't know whom I can turn to," Xian sighed. Deng, therefore, took out Bu's letter and gave it to Xian. After he read it, he said, "I am fully aware of it. Please return home. General Yang and I will reverse our weapons for the counter-attack against the rebels. The beacon fire is the signal. When I give the signal, Wen Marquis can send in reinforcements."

Chapter Seventeen IV

August 17, 2021

Bu took his advice and immediately ordered his subordinates to arrest Chen Gui and Chen Deng. "They are merely a bunch of cowards. According to my observation, the seven route armies are nothing more than seven piles of rotten hay. They are not worthy of any attention!" Chen Deng laughed and said. "If you have any plan that we can adopt to defeat the enemy, your life can be spared," said Bu. "General, if you are willing to accept my humble advice, the safety of Xu Zhou will be guaranteed," Chen Deng said. "Go on. I'm all ears," Bu said. "It's true that Shu's troops are numerous, but they are just an unruly mob. Besides, they don't trust each other. I will put on the defensive with regular forces and take offensive by surprise. Our success will surpass all expectations. What is more, I have another plan. This scheme will not only keep Xu Zhou safe but also can help us capture Yuan Shu alive," said Deng. "What's that?" Bu asked. "Han Xian and Yang Feng are the former officials of the Han dynasty. They left due to a fear of Cao Cao. So they went to Yan Shu for a temporary shelter because they had no place to go. Shu despises them, and they don't like to be at She's command either. If we can have them on the inside helping us by exchanging letters and coordinating with Liu Bei, who will help us from the outside, Yuan Shu will be caught by us," Deng suggested. "Thou must send the letter to Han Xian and Yang Feng in person," Bu demanded. Chen Deng agreed to the request.

Chapter Seventeen III

August 14, 2021

Scouts were sent by Lu Bu to get information about enemy's position. He was informed that Zhang Xun commanded his army to advance on Xu Zhou directly from the main road. Qiao Rui advanced on Xiao Pei; Chen Ji, on Yi Du; Lei Bo, on Lang Ye; Chen Lan, on Jie Shi; Han Xian, on Xia Pei; Yang Feng, on Jun Mountains. The seven route armies marched fifty miles per day, plundering and looting as they went. Lu Bu immediately called his advisors together for a council of war. Chen Gong, Chen Qui and Qui's son were all present. "The misfortune of Xu Zhou is caused by Chen Qui and his son. Both of them fawned on the imperial court in order to gain high rank and official pay. Today, they impute blame to General. You shall behead these two and dedicate their heads to Yuan Shu. The enemy troops will retreat eventually," said Chen Gong.

Chapter Seventeen II

August 13, 2021

Therefore, Shu established his state, named Zhong Shi and appointed his cabinet and government officials. He took the imperial carriage, adorned with the images of dragon and phoenix, which was exclusive only to the emperor and the empress. He also conducted the ceremony for offering sacrifices to Heaven in the north and south suburbs. Feng Shi, the daughter of Feng Fang, became his empress; her son, the heir. Messenger Han Yin had been ordered to escort the daughter of Lu Bu, the future princess, to marry his son. However, Shu was informed that Han Yin had been delivered to Xu Du by Bu and beheaded by Cao Cao. Shu was beside himself with wrath. Zhang Xun, therefore, was appointed as General-in-Chief, commanding more than two hundred thousand troops to launch a seven-pronged attack against Xu Zhou. The first route army, led by Chief General Zhang Xun, was positioned in the center; the second route army, led by General Qiao Rui, on the left; the third route army, led by General Chen Ji, on the right; the fourth route army, led by Deputy General Lei Bo, on the left; the fifth route army, led by Deputy General Chen Lan, on the right; the sixth route army, led by subjugated General Han Xian, on the left; the seventh route army, led by subjugated General Yang Feng, on the right. Each commander took the lead of their top-notch soldiers under the respective divisions and set out an expedition on a definite date. Jin Shang, the Inspector of Yan Zhou, was appointed Grand Commandant supervising the seven-pronged aid convoy loaded with food and provision. Shang, however, rejected the post and was thus killed by Shu. Ji Ling, therefore, was appointed Chief Commandant of the Seven-Pronged Reinforcements. Shu himself commanded more than thirty thousand troops and appointed Li Feng, Liang Gang and Le Jiu Generals of Advancement to offer assistance for the seven divisions.

Chapter Sixteen XXXXI

August 11, 2021

Deng gave a nod of approval and then went back to Xu Zhou to see Lu Bu. "How's everything going," Bu asked. Deng replied that his father was offered the rise of official pay, and he himself was promoted to Magistrate. "Why didn't you apply for me the position of Governor of Xu Zhou instead of seeking the rank and emolument for yourselves? It was thy father who taught me to collaborate with Mister Cao and refuse to be related to Gong Lu by marriage. Now I gain nothing from what I've wished for, but you and your father become prosperous and noble. I was sold by both of you!" Bu raged. Therefore, he drew his sword on Deng. Deng burst out laughter. "No, General, you completely misunderstood me!" "How so?" asked Bu. "I went to see Mister Cao and told him that he should treat General as a tiger. Feed you up with meat; otherwise, hunger will drive you to be a cannibal," Deng explained. "Mister Cao smiled and said to me, 'Not necessarily. I treat Wen Marquis as a falcon. As long as the foxes and hares are still around, I dare not satisfy his hunger. Hunger will force him to work for me; whereas, satisfaction will lead him to fly away.' Then I asked, 'Who is prey?' 'Yuan Shu of Huai Nan, Sun Ce of Jiang Dong, Yuan Shao of Ji Zhou, Liu Biao of Jing Zhou, Liu Zhang of Yi Zhou and Zhang Lu of Han Zhong are the prey,' said Mister Cao." Bu threw the sword to the ground and smiled, saying, "Mister Cao judges me well!" While they were talking, a herald announced that Yuan Shu's troops were coming to advance on Xu Zhou. Upon hearing this, Lu Bu paled visibly with shock. Indeed: Instead of establishing the diplomatic relations by marriage as the ancient states, Qin and Jin, Lu Bu and Yuan Shu turn out to be mortal enemies, fighting with each other as the ancient states, Wu and Yue. How come a marriage will end in war! Want to know what will happen next? The answer will be told in the following story.

Chapter Seventeen I

August 12, 2021

Let's resume our story. Possessing Huai Nan, a vast territory with abundant natural resources, Yuan Shu was now having the Imperial Hereditary Seal left by Sun Ce as a pawn. So, he kept pondering whether he could claim imperial title for himself. One day, his advisors and subordinates were all invited to discuss this issue in a conference. "Originally, Liu Bang, Emperor Gao Zu of Han, was nothing more than a minor law enforcement officer. Later on, he united China and became the emperor of the world. The Han dynasty has lasted four hundred years since his reign. But the fate of the empire is coming to its end. Currently, the political situation is very unstable as the water was bubbling and boiling away in the caldron. My family has assumed the prominent posts of Three Excellencies in the imperial court for four generations. We are fervently supported by the people. So, I am willing to answer the call from Heaven and live up to people's expectations that I should succeed to the throne. Would you please give me your opinions about this issue?" said Yuan Shu. "Thou shall not! Hou Ji, an ancestor of the Ji clan that became the ruling family of the Zhou dynasty, had accumulated virtues and merits for years. Until King Wen of Zhou was in reign, he could possess two thirds of the world, but he still served diligently. Illustrious Sir, although you were born in a noble family but cannot compete with Zhou dynasty on prosperity and background. It's true that the Han dynasty is declining, but the emperor is not as brutal as King Yin Zhou of the Shang dynasty. It is absolutely not feasible at the moment for you to come to the throne," Yan Xiang, the Master of Records, admonished. "My surname, Yuan, originated from the surname Chen. Those who have the surname Chen are the descendants of Emperor Shun, one of the three Sovereigns in ancient China. Chen belongs to earth; whereas, Liu belongs to fire. It is appropriate for earth to succeed fire since the fate is sealed. As the prophecy states, 'The one who replaces the Han dynasty should go up all the way to the north.' My courtesy name is Gong Lu, which has the same meaning as highway. The prophecy is thus fulfilled. What is more, the Imperial Hereditary Seal is in my hand. If I refuse to be the emperor, then I will disobey the will of Heaven. I have already made up my mind. Anyone who dares say one more word shall be beheaded!" Shu raged.

Chapter Sixteen XXXX

August 10, 2021

Knowing that Bu had refused to unite with Yuan Shu by marriage, Cao was beside himself with ecstasy. Han Yin, therefore, was beheaded in the market place. Chen Deng secretly went to see Cao. "Lu Bu is mean and wicked like jackals and wolves. He is brave but without any strategic sense and easily to quit or stay in a business. You'd better get rid of him as soon as possible," Deng admonished. "I knew that Lu Bu has a cruel and heartless character like a wolf and therefore cannot keep him for too long. However, without the admonition from you and your son, I would never be able to know his character so thoroughly. Let's make a plan to deal with him," Cao proposed. "If Chancellor intends to take any action, I am willing to be your inside helper," said Deng. Cao was extremely pleased. So the salary of Chen Gui was increased by 2,000 dan of grain by decree; Deng was appointed the Magistrate of Guang Ling. When Deng was about to take leave, Cao held his hand. "Concerning the affairs of the East, I entrust them all to you," Cao said.

Chapter Sixteen XXXIX

August 7, 2021

Let's shift our focus from Cao Cao to Wang Ze. The former returned to Xu Du with his troops; the latter carried the imperial decree to Xu Zhou respectfully. Bu received Wang Ze to his residence in person. Then Ze opened the decree and announced it. The title of General Who Conquers the East was conferred upon Bu, and the office seal was especially bestowed to him. Then Wang Ze took the private letter for Bu from Cao Cao. He went on to tell Bu that he was held in high esteem by Illustrious Cao in further elaboration. Bu was very pleased. Suddenly, Bu was informed that the messenger sent by Yuan Shu arrived. Bu asked him to come in and made a few enquiries. "Sooner or later, Illustrious Yuan will ascend the throne and adopt the heir. He is expecting the future Princess to Huai Nan the sooner the better," said the messenger. "The rebel is as bold as brass!" Bu raged. The messenger, therefore, was executed; Han Yin was put in the pillory. Along with Han Yin held in captivity and Wang Ze, Chen Deng went up to Xu Du. He was dispatched by Bu to carry a letter of thanks to emperor for his great favors. Bu also responded to Cao's letter, hoping that the formal title of Governor Xu Zhou could be conferred on him.

Chapter Sixteen XXXVIII

August 6, 2021

Cao Cao withdrew the troops and then took the roll call of officers. Yu Jin was permitted admission. He told Cao how the Qing Zhou troops plundered at will and failed to meet the expectation of people in detail. That's why he had to kill them. "In that case, why didn't you report their crime to me before you made camp?" asked Cao. Jin replied him with previous defense. "Within such a short period of time, General, you were able to strengthen armaments and fortify walls despite slander and hardships, thus turning the defeat into victory. Even those famous generals in ancient times couldn't accomplish this task better than you," Cao said with praise. Yu Jin, therefore, was rewarded with a set of gold utensils. The title of Ting Marquis of Yi Shou was conferred on him. Xia Hou Dun was reprimanded for his misconduct of military operation. Cao also offered sacrifices to Dian Wei. With due respect, he cried aloud for Dian Wei at his funeral. Cao turned to see his generals and spoke to them, saying, "When I lost my first born son and dear nephew, I didn't have such deep poignancy. Only the death of Dian Wei makes me wail." All felt the same way and lamented Dian Wei likewise. Next day Cao ordered the withdrawal of the troops from the region after a victorious campaign.

Chapter Sixteen XXXVII

August 5, 2021

Someone asked Yu Jin, saying, "General, Qing Zhou troops have accused you of rebellion. Now Chancellor is here. Why don't you speak for yourself first instead of making camp?" "The rebel troops are pressing on. Sooner or later, they will arrive. If I do not prepare in advance, how am I going to fight with them? To defend myself against the false accusation is insignificant, but to repel an invasion is significant," said Yu Jin. After Yu Jin made a military encampment, Zhang Xiu and his troops launched a two-pronged attack. Yu Jin took the initiative in meeting the challenge outside the camp. Xiu hurried to retreat. When the generals on call saw Yu Jin advance, they also commanded their troops respectively to attack the enemies, thus leading to Xiu's defeat. They pursued Xiu and his troops more than a hundred miles for the kill and pushed them to the edge of plight and powerless condition so that Xiu had no choice but to take his troops to seek shelter of Liu Biao after defeat.

Chapter Sixteen XXXVI

August 3, 2021

Now let's proceed. Upon seeing Cao and others arrive, Yu Jin directed troops to hold the front-line attack, secure their position, dig trenches and make camp.

Chapter Sixteen XXXV

August 2, 2021

The troops of Qing Zhou at Xia Hou Dun's command took advantage of circumstances to cross the country on horseback, plundering and looting as they went. Yu Jin, the Colonel of Ping Lu, suppressed and destroyed the troops of his own division along the way to appease the people. The troops of Qing Zhou returned to receive Cao and knelt down on the ground with tears to accuse Yu Jin of his rebellion and slaughter of the troops of Qing Zhou. Cao was stunned. Instantly, Xia Hou Dun, Xu Chu and Li Dian Le arrived. Cao told them that Yu Jin had mutinied. They were ordered by Cao to muster troops and deal with the riots.

Chapter Sixteen XXXIV

August 1, 2021

It was because Dian Wei obstructed the entrance to the camp that Cao Cao could mount his horse to escape from the back of the camp. Only Cao An Min followed along. Cao was shot in the right arm. His horse also got shot with three arrows. Fortunately, it was the superior steed of Da Wan, which could bear the pain and run fast. When it took its master by the side of Yu River, the rebel forces caught them up. An Min was chopped into mash of flesh. Cao urgently galloped across the river. When he hardly managed himself to get on the shore, an arrow was shot by a rebel soldier right on the horse's eye, so it fell. Cao Ang, Cao's first born son, immediately offered his horse for Cao to ride. Cao got on the horse and dashed off. Cao Ang, however, was shot dead with arrows from different directions. Cao successfully fled from danger and then encountered his generals. He grouped all the remnants.

Chapter Sixteen XXXIII

July 31, 2021

Instantly, fires swept everywhere. Cao started to put out the fire. He hurried to summon Dian Wei, who was very drunk lying fast asleep. In his dream, he could hear the sounds of gongs and drums. The battle cries were given. He jumped to his feet but couldn't find his twin halberds. Now, the rival troops arrived at the camp gate. Immediately, he pulled the sword carried at the waist of a foot soldier. Seeing the mass troops holding spears in hands and rushing the stockade, he strove forward and slashed more than twenty soldiers. The mounted troops were just forced to retreat by him; however, the infantrymen pressed on. The spears were arrayed on both sides as reeds. Wei wasn't protected by any armor at all but received dozens of stabs from head to toe. He was still fighting to the death even when the edge of the blade became blunt and could not be used anymore. He discarded the sword and grabbed two soldiers with both hands to attack the enemies. Nearly ten solders were smashed to death by the flesh weapons. The gangs dared not approach him any further but shot at him with arrows at a distance. Arrows fell as a shower of sudden rain. But, Wei guarded the gate to the last minute. Nevertheless, the rebel troops attacked the camp from the rear side. Wei received another stab in the back. He burst out several shouts and then died. His blood was gushing from wounds all over the ground. No man dared enter in from the front door even after he died a while ago.

Chapter Sixteen XXXII

July 29, 2021

Xiu was very pleased and announced to each stockade plans to prepare bows and arrows as well as armed troops in advance. When the time was ripe, Jia Xu was ordered to invite Dian Wei to the camp. Wei was served courteously with lots of wine. He returned to his abode after he had drunk far too much. It was very late at night. Hu Che Er soon blended in with the guards and went straight to the main camp. At that night, Cao Cao was having a drink with Zou Shi in the tent. Suddenly, he heard voices and neighs outside the tent, so he had someone scout around. Cao was told that Zhang Xiu's soldiers were making regular patrols at night. He wasn't suspicious of Xiu's move at all. When it was about the second watch, shouts were abruptly given behind the camp. Cao was informed that the wagon loaded with hay was on fire. "Fires are breaking out in the army. Don't panic!" Cao commanded.

Chapter Sixteen XXXI

July 28, 2021

The next day, when Cao was in camp, Zhang Xiu entered in to report the desertions.  “Large numbers of soldiers who surrendered themselves to us not long ago have deserted.  Would you please allow us to shift the garrison back to the central camp?” Zhang Xiu requested.  Cao granted what he asked for.  Therefore, Xiu transferred his garrison and divided them into four camps to rise in revolt at a fixed date.  However, Dian Wei's ferocity made him fear.  He was anxious to know how to break through Dian Wei’s defense to attack Cao Cao.  Then he had a discussion with Hu Che Er, the aide-de-camp, about how to tackle this issue.  Hu Che Er, an extraordinary person, who could carry weight of more than five hundred kilograms on his shoulder and be able to walk seven hundred miles per day, proposed a plan to Xiu right away, saying, “The secret of Dian Wei's ferocity lies in his weapons, the twin halberds.  Tomorrow, you can invite him over to have a drink. When you drink him under the table, send him back. I will mix up with his security guards and creep into his tent to steal his weapons. Until then, you have nothing to fear from him.”

Chapter Sixteen XXX

July 27, 2021

Zou Shi bowed before Cao and thanked him once again. They slept in the same tent at the very night. Zou Shi spoke to Cao Cao, saying, "If I stay in this city too long, Xiu will get suspicious. Rumors will also be widespread." "Madam, let's move to the stockade tomorrow," Cao said. The next day, they transferred to the stockade outside the city and lodged there. Dian Wei was called to guard before the tent. No one was allowed to enter without permission. Therefore, no news could be brought in Cao's ear. Cao flirted with Zou Shi every day and was too happy to think of home. Zhang Xiu's family members secretly reported this affair to him. "Cao Thieve insults me outrageously!" Xiu protested. Jia Xu was invited to have an immediate discussion over this matter. "Do not expose this scandal at the moment. Let's wait until Cao leaves the tent to discuss official business. Then we can deal with it so on and so forth…," Xu advised.

Chapter Sixteen XXIX

July 25, 2021

Upon hearing his description, Cao ordered An Min to lead fifty armed soldiers there and to take this lady. Instantly, she was brought to Cao's camp. Truly she was very pretty. Cao was impressed by her beauty and asked her name. "I am Zou Shi, Zhang Ji's wife," she replied. "Do you know who I am?" asked Cao. "I have heard your prestige for a long time. It is my pleasure to be able to look upon you and bow before you," said Zou. "You are the reason that makes me accept the surrender of Zhang Xiu. Otherwise, all your clan will be eliminated," said Cao. Zou Shi did obeisance and said, "I am extremely grateful to you for the grace of giving us second lives." "I'm blessed that I may see Madam in person today. I would like to sleep with you tonight. Then, come with me. Let's go back to the capital city to enjoy all the riches. What do you think of that?" Cao enquired.

Chapter Sixteen XXVIII

July 24, 2021

"Cao has tremendous forces. Do not become his enemy. How about let's surrender ourselves to him with the entire city?" Jia Xu urged Zhang Xiu, who then decided to follow his advice. Jia Xu, therefore, was sent to liaise with Cao. Cao saw him answer the questions with great ease and fluency. He grew fond of him and would like to take Xiu as his counselor. "I used to work for Li Que and fell under his sway but offended the whole world. Now, I work for Zhang Xiu, who listens to every word that I say. I can't leave him like this." replied Xu, who thus declined the offer. The next day, Xu ushered Xiu to see Cao, who treated them with generosity. Then, Cao led his soldiers to Wan City and stationed there. The rest of the troops were garrisoned outside the city. Their tents were connected and extended more than ten miles. Being served with daily feasts by Xiu, Cao had stayed in the city for several days. One day, Cao got drunk and retreated to his chamber. "Is there any singing girl in this city?" Cao asked his attendants. Cao An Min, the son of his older brother, knew what he meant. He secretly spoke to Cao, saying, "Last night, by the flank of this building, I caught a glimpse of a pretty woman. I tried to make inquiries about her and was told that she was the wife of Zhang Ji, Xiu's uncle."

Chapter Sixteen XXVII

July 23, 2021

Cao was about to rise in arms to attack Lu Bu in person. All of a sudden, he was informed by the herald that Zhang Ji took his troops to press on Nan Yang from Guan Zhong but was shot dead with stray arrows. Ji's nephew, Zhang Xiu, was now in charge of the troops. Appointing Jia Xu advisor, he allied himself with Liu Biao and garrisoned Wan City with the intention of invading imperial palace and capturing the son of heaven. Cao was beside himself with rage. He got ready to mobilize troops to attack him but was afraid that Lu Bu would raid Xu Du. Therefore, he asked Xun Yu for his advice. "That's easy. Lu Bu is a man without any strategic sense. He will thrill to see profits. Illustrious Sir, you may send an envoy to Xu Zhou to advance his official rank and reward him handsomely, bidding him reconcile with Xuan De. Once he is happy, he will show no consideration whatsoever for the future," Yu said. "Good idea!" Cao said. Wang Ze, the Chief Commandant of Feng Armies, was dispatched to send an imperial mandate and the letter of reconciliation to Xu Zhou for the accomplishment of this task. On the other hand, Cao raised half a million troops to attack Zhang Xiu in person. He launched a three-pronged attack, and Xia Hou Dun was the forerunner. They made camp along the River Yu.

Chapter Sixteen XXVI

July 20, 2021

Cao was beside himself, saying, "Your remarks find an echo in my heart." The next day, Cao submitted a missive to recommend Liu Bei for the post of Yu Zhou Shepherd. Cheng Yu admonished him, saying, "Liu Bei will eventually rise to power. You had better destroy him as soon as possible." "Now, it is time to employ people with talent. I don't want to lose the world support because of killing a man. Guo Feng Xiao has the same idea as mine," Cao rebutted. Therefore, Cao Cao refused to listen to Cheng Yu's advice and sent three thousand troops and ten thousand carts of grain to Xuan De, who was dispatched to Yu Zhou to take office and to garrison Xiao Pei as well as to gather his original troops to attack Lu Bu. After reaching Yu Zhou, Xuan De sent someone to inform Cao Cao of his arrival.

Chapter Sixteen XXV

July 19, 2021

Cao didn't respond to Yu's advice. Yu exited the room, and Guo Jia entered. "Xun Yu suggested me to kill Xuan De. Shall I follow his advice?" Cao asked. "Absolutely not! Master, you mobilize the troops in the name of justice to save the people from the lawless gangs. Only by honesty and righteousness can you draw those talents to serve you. What you should be afraid of is that they refuse to fall under your sway. Xuan De has been famous for his heroic deeds. Because of plight and poverty, he came here to seek shelter. If you kill him right now, you will be blamed for persecuting virtuous people. The resourceful counselors of the world will doubt your character and hesitate to work for you. At that time, who are you going to ally with to stabilize the world? To get rid of a pain in the neck while failing to live up to expectations of the world is worthless. You must make careful discernment in this matter between safety and peril," Jia advised.

Chapter Sixteen XXIV

July 18, 2021

Let's resume our story. Xuan De fled to Xu Du and made camp outside the city. Sun Qian was ordered by him to see Cao Cao. He related how they had been hotly pursued and persecuted by Lu Bu and why they came here to seek shelter. "Xuan De and I are brothers," Cao said. Xuan De, therefore, was invited to enter the city and to have a meeting with Cao. The next day, Xuan De left Guan and Zhang outside the city. He took Sun Qian and Mi Zhu to see Cao. Cao regarded him as an honorable guest and treated him with courtesy. Xuan De told everything to Cao Cao about Lu Bu's treachery. "Bu is a man without any righteousness. My brother, let's collaborate together to put him to death," Cao said. Xuan De expressed his gratitude. Cao held a banquet for him. Both of them had a good time. Cao sent him off until it was very late. Xun Yu came to see Cao, saying, "Liu Bei is a hero. If you do not get rid of him as early as possible, he will eventually become a pain in the neck."

Chapter Sixteen XXIII

July 16, 2021

Bu followed his advice to ignore the plea and pressed on the city harder and harder. Xuan De called Mi Zhu and Sun Qian for a council of war. "Lu Bu is the one that Cao Cao hates the most. How about let's run away from the city and flee to the Capital Xu Chang to seek refuge from Lu Bu. We may borrow troops from Cao Cao to destroy Bu. This is the best policy," Sun Qian suggested. "Then who is willing to take the lead and to break through the siege?" asked Xuan De. "Your youngest brother is willing to fight to the end." said Fei. Therefore, Fei was ordered to position in the front; Yun Chang, at the rear. Xuan De put himself in the center to protect the old and weak. At the third watch of that night, they departed from the north gate beneath the moonlight, but on their way out of the city, they happened to come across Song Xian and Wei Xu. Yi De held off the challengers and escaped from the siege with Zhang Liao in hot pursuit. Guan Yu, however, checkmated all their opponents. Xuan De left away, but Lu Bu didn't bother himself to pursue any further. He went straight to the city to settle down the citizens instead. Gao Shun was appointed by him to defend Xiao Pei. Lu Bu himself went back to Xu Zhou.

Chapter Sixteen XXII

15 July, 2021

Bu pushed his halberd violently forward and rode forth to fight against Zhang Fe, who also thrust his spear forward to meet the challenge. Both of them fought fiercely against each other more than a hundred bouts. Neither side, however, prevailed. Xuan De was afraid that negligence might happen. So he immediately beat the gong to withdraw his troops back to the city. Lu Bu divided his troops into teams to surround the city on all sides. Xuan De summoned Zhang Fei to rebuke him for the cause of the battle. "It is you who provoke unrest because you've plundered his horses by force! Where are these horses now?" Xuan De asked. "They are being kept in different temples," Fei said. An emissary was sent out of the city to Lu Bu's camp to ask for mercy and told him that they were willing to return those stolen horses. Both sides put an end to hostilities from now on. Bu was going to follow his advice, but Chen Gong said, "If today you do not kill Liu Bei, you will be harmed by him in the future."

Chapter Sixteen XXI

July 14, 2021

Before the arrays of the deployments of both sides, Xuan De rode forward. "My brother, why do you lead your troops here?" asked Xuan De. "In the camp gate, I shot at the crescent blade of the halberd to save you from danger. Why do you plunder my horses?" Bu pointed at him and accused him of theft. "Currently, Bei is short of horses. That's why I ask my subordinates to get fine horses for me from different places. Dare I take my brother's horses by force?" Xuan De explained. "You have indulged Zhang Fei to plunder a hundred and fifty horses of mine. Don't you dare to deny the charge!" Bu said. Zhang Fei straightened his spear and rode forth. He challenged him, saying, "It is I who took your horses away! What are you going to do with me?" "You, ringed-eyed thief, have treated me with disdain several times!" cursed Bu. "It upsets you that I have plundered your horses, but you make no mention that you have occupied my brother's Xu Zhou!" Fei said.

Chapter Sixteen XX

July 13, 2021

While they were getting into a conversation, Song Xian and Wei Xu arrived. They told Bu what they had experienced. "By thy order, Illustrious Sir, we went to Shan Dong to buy horses. Luckily, we bought more than three hundred fine horses. However, as we returned to the borders of Pei County, half horses were plundered by the robbers. We found out that it was Zhang Fei, Liu Bei's brother, disguised himself as a mountain thief plundering our horses as he went." Lu Bu raged after he listened to their report. Immediately, the troops were numbered by him to head for Xiao Pei to attack Zhang Fei. Upon hearing the news, Xuan De was astonished by the imminent crisis. He led his troops in panic and met the challenges outside.

Chapter Sixteen XIX

July 11~12, 2021

"Chen Gong deceives me into making such a decision!" Bu said to his surprise. Zhang Liao was ordered by him to lead soldiers thirty miles away outside Xu Zhou. They hurried to pursue the bride back. Even Han Yin was captured and detained for questioning. Henceforth, Bu refused to let him return. Yuan Shu was informed by Bu's messenger that the bride to be could not come at the moment because the trousseaus had not been fully prepared yet. The bride would be sent over until everything was ready. Chen Gui further suggested Lu Bu to release Han Yin to Xu Du. After a moment's indecision, Bu was notified of Xuan De's move by his subordinate. "Xuan De is raising an army in Xiao Pei for no particular reason," said the reporter. "That is what a general ought to do. I don't know what all the fuss is about," Bu said.

Chapter Sixteen XVIII

10 July, 2021

"Not long ago, Yuan Gong Lu sent you gold and silks with the intention of making you kill Liu Xuan De. However, you solved this dilemma by shooting at a crescent blade of the trident halberd. Now, all of a sudden, his son proposes to your daughter. This proposal is just for him to conceal his true motives. What he really wants is first to take your daughter as a hostage and then attack Xuan De to seize Xiao Pei. If Xiao Pei is occupied, Xu Zhou will be in danger. At that time, he will ask you to lend him food or troops. If he gets his wish, you will be wearied to cope with his needs and earn the enmity of others at the same time. If you refuse to help him, you will be accused of abandoning your kinsman and cause another warfare. Furthermore, rumor has it that Yan Shu has yearned to be an emperor for a long time. That's an rebellion. If he revolts, then you will become the relative of a rebel. The whole world cannot put up with it," said Gui.

Chapter Sixteen XVII

9 July, 2021

At that time, Chen Gui, Chen Yuan Long's father, enjoyed his retirement at home. Upon hearing the loud music, he asked his attendants what happened. They told him that Bu and Yuan were going to be in-laws. "This is the scheme, called the 'distant relatives are not allowed to interfere in family problems among next of kin'! Xuan De is now in danger," Gui said worriedly. Therefore, he went to see Lu Bu despite the infirmities of old age. "Mister, why do you drop by?" Bu asked. "I have heard that you, my General, are dead, so I come to express my condolences," said Gui. Lu Bu was shocked at the news of his own death. "How could you say so?" Bu said with a surprised look.

Chapter Sixteen XVI

8 July, 2021

"Nowadays, all the feudal princes are contending for power. Mister, who can guarantee the matrimonial alliance between you and Yuan Gong Lu will not make those nobles jealous? If you reply to the courier that the wedding should be set at a later date, what are you going to do if the bride is captured in an ambush during the wedding day? The plan we should adopt at the moment is to reject the proposal if you do not wish to marry your daughter to his son. However, since you made your promise of the marriage, you should send your daughter to Shou Chun immediately before those feudal princes find out the union. Arrange a lodge for her there and then set an auspicious date for the wedding. This is a failure-proof plan," Gong said. "Sir, you gave me good counsel on this matter," Bu said with joy. Therefore, he went home to bid Yan Shi prepare trousseaus by night and tidy up precious horses and a magnificent carriage for the bride. Song Xian and Wei Xu together with Han Yin were ordered to send her to Shou Chun. Loud music filled the air to accompany the wedding procession out of the town.

Chapter Sixteen XV

7 July, 2021

Gong took his leave of Han Yin and went to see Lu Bu. "I've heard that thou have promised to marry your daughter to Yuan Shu's son. How wonderful! But when are they going to marry?" Gong asked. "I am still pondering over the date," Bu said. "Since ancient times, there have been irrevocable rules concerning the respective intervals between the acceptance of presents for betrothal and the wedding: for the son of heaven, the interval will be a year; for the feudal princes, half a year; for the high officers, three months; for civilians, a month," Gong explained. "Yuan Gong Lu is now possessing the Imperial Hereditary Seal. He will be an emperor sooner or later. Shall we follow the rule of the interval for the son of heaven?" Bu asked. "No, thou shall not," Gong replied. "Then how about the rule for the nobles?" Bu asked again. "I am afraid not," Gong answered. "Then what about the rule for the high officers?" Bu asked further. "No, not this one either," Gong said. "Mister, are you trying to tell me we should follow the rule for the civilians?" Bu laughed. "No, none of them," Gong said. "Then what do you want us to follow?" Bu asked.

Chapter Sixteen XIV

6 July, 2021

The next day, Chen Gong went straight to the stage station to visit Han Yin. After they exchanged greetings, both of them were seated. Gong bade attendants retire and spoke to Yin privately. "Who provides this scheme? The union between these two families by marriage is for beheading Liu Xuan De, isn't it?" Gong asked. Yin was startled by Gong's question. He rose up and thanked Gong for his visit. "Please do not disclose this secret to anyone!" Yin begged. "Of course, I will not disclose a word, but if the wedding ceremony is delayed, I am afraid the scheme will be discerned by others. At that time, what you have planned will spell failure," Gong said. "Then what are we going to do? Would you please give us your advice?" Yin enquired. "I'll see Feng Xian and urge him to send his daughter to wed promptly. How's that?" Gong said. Yin was ecstatic about the proposal, thus expressing his gratitude. "If you could do us this favor, Mister Yuan will be grateful for your illustrious foresight immensely!" he said.

Chapter Sixteen XIII

5 July, 2021

Yan Shi spoke to Bu right away, saying, "I have heard that Yuan Gong Lu has stationed in Huan Nan for a long period of time. His troops are massive; food, abundant. Sooner or later, he will become the son of heaven. Once he ascends to the throne, our daughter is very likely to be the future empress or an imperial concubine. Do you have any idea how many sons he has?" " Only a son," said Bu. "In that case, you shall agree to this marriage. Even though our daughter may not be an empress, Xu Zhou will be safe," said his wife. Bu, therefore, made up his mind. He treated Han Yin generously and promised this marriage to Shu's son. Han Yin returned and reported such a good news to Yuan Shu, who immediately prepared gifts for betrothal. Han Yin was ordered one more time to send those gifts to Xu Zhou. Lu Bu received them all and set a banquet to entertain the courier. Later, Han Yin was arranged to stay at the stage station.

Chapter Sixteen XII

4 July, 2021

Yuan Shu followed his advice. Han Yin was thus dispatched as a matchmaker at the very day. He took the gifts in both hands and carried them to Xu Zhou to offer to Lu Bu, hoping to form a marriage alliance between Shu and Bu. When he arrived in Xu Zhou, he went to see Bu. "My master looks upon General with great admiration and would like to have your daughter as his daughter-in-law. He hopes to have the close ties of matrimonial relationship with you as the two powerful states in the Epoch of Warring States, Qin and Jin, did before," Han Yin proposed. Bu went to his chamber to ask the opinion of his wife, Yan Shi. Actually, Lu Bu had two wives and a concubine. He married Yan Shi as his legal wife first and then took Diao Chan as his concubine. During his stay in Xiao Pei, he married Cao Bao's daughter as his second wife. Unfortunately, Cao Shi died young without any child left. Diao Chan did not give birth, either. Only Yang Shi had an daughter whom Bu was fond of the most.

Chapter Sixteen XI

2 July, 2021

When Xuan De returned to Xiao Pei, Lu Bu went back to Xu Zhou. Ji Ling set out his journey back to Huan Nan to see Yuan Shu. He told Shu that Lu Bu's excellent archery performed in the outer gate of his central camp had forcefully brought about a reconciliation between him and Bei. He also submitted the letter written by Lu Bu to prove his account of the event. Yuan Shu was beside himself with anger. "Lu Bu has received so much grain from me. How can he deal with this issue so lightly and show his support for Liu Bei? I shall muster massive troops to fight against Liu Bei in person and to destroy Lu Bu at the same time," said Yuan Shu. "My master, do not cope with this matter in such a hurry. Lu Bu is inconceivably powerful. Moreover, he now occupies the land of Xu Zhou. If Bu and Bei work together to establish links between themselves like the connection between head to tail, it will be difficult for us to defeat them. I have heard that Yan Shi, Bu's wife, has a daughter. She has reached the age of fifteen, the marriageable age. My lord, you have a son. You can find a matchmaker to arrange the marriage between your son and his daughter. If Bu consents, he will surly kill Liu Bei. This is so-called, "Distant relatives are not allowed to interfere in family problems among next of kin!" Ji Ling said.

Chapter Sixteen X

1 July, 2021

At the moment, Lu Bu shot at the crescent blade of the Trident Halberd. He roared with laughter and threw the arrow onto the ground. "This is the will of Heavens to stop both of you fighting against each other!" said Lu Bu, holding the hands of Ji Ling and Xuan De. He shouted at his soldiers to pour wine into each vessel. They all drank a goblet. Xuan De felt quit ashamed. For a while, Ji Ling was speechless. Then he spoke to Lu Bu, saying, "I dare not to disobey your words, General. However, if I return, how am I going to convince my master of the whole story?" "I will write a letter in person to explain to your master what has happened," Bu said. After they drank another rounds, Ji Ling requested the letter and went back. Bu spoke to Xuan De, saying, "If it were not me, you would be in danger." Xuan De expressed his thanks and returned to Xiao Pei with Guan and Zhang. The next day, troops of three respective places withdrew.

Chapter Sixteen IX.3

30 June, 2021

When the bow was drawn and the string of tiger sinew twanged, the arrow with eagle plumes hit the painted halberd right away, just like a tail of the running leopard flying into the target, thus making one hundred thousand powerful soldiers throw their armors away.

Chapter Sixteen IX.2

29 June, 2021

Marquis Wen showed a great talent for archery, Which was rarely found in the world. Taking a shot at the halberd in the camp gates, The archer resolved the crisis all by himself. Truly , truly, Hou Yi was deceived by the suns he had shot down. Even the white ape wailed Lu Bu surpassed You Ji, an ancient marksman, in archery.

Chatper Sixteen IX.1

28 June, 2021

After they finished drinking, Bu beckoned to the attendant to bring his bow and arrow. Xuan De said prayers in his heart: "As long as he can hit the target, everything will be all right!" Lu Bu rolled up his sleeves and fitted the arrow to the string. Then, he drew the bow, shouting, "Shoot!" Indeed:

The bow was drawn to a full circle as an autumn moon above the sky; the arrow traveled as fast as a shooting star swiftly entered the earth.

It hit the blade of the halberd. A great cheer went up from generals and colonels inside and outside the camp. The later generations praised his archery, saying:

Chapter Sixteen VIII

25 June, 2021

Ji Ling resented Lu Bu making such an arrangement; whereas, Zhang Fei demanded only a fight. Lu Bu was wrathful, bidding, "Servants! Take my Trident Halberd!" Bu carried his awe-inspiring weapon in hand. Both Ji Ling and Xuan De turned pale immediately. "I advise you two not to fight against each other but obey the will of heaven," Bu commanded. Then, he ordered his servants to receive the halberd and take it outside the outer gate of central camp to stick it in a faraway place. He turned and looked at Ji Ling and Xuan De, saying, "There are one hundred and fifty steps between the central camp and the outer gate. If I can shoot at the crescent blade of the halberd, both of you stop fighting ever since. If I fail, you two return to respective camps and fight to the death. If anyone of you, however, disregards my advice, I will collaborate with the other to fight against him." "The halberd is stuck into the ground one hundred and fifty steps away. How is it possible he can hit the target? Let me promise him first and wait until he fails. Then I can fight for as long as it takes," Ji Ling surmised. Therefore, he promised Lu Bu right away. Xuan De, of course, readily consented. Bu asked both of them to sit and drank another cup.

Chapter Sixteen VII

23 June, 2021

After they toasted several rounds, Bu said, "Would you put an end to hostilities for my sake? I mean both of you." Xuan De was silent. Ling replied, "By the order of my master, I have mustered a hundred thousand troops only for the capture of Liu Bei. How can I quit now?" Zhang Fei drew the sword in hand with rage, shouting, "Although our troops are few, you are no more than a children's play to us! Can you compete with a million Yellow Scarf Rebels? Don't you dare to hurt my brother!" Guan Yu hurried to stop him, saying, "Let us wait and see how General Lu copes with this issue. If the mediation is not in our favor, we still have time to return to the camp and get into a fight." "The reason that I invite both camps here is to call for an immediate cessation of hostilities. I will not allow you to slaughter one another," Bu said.

Chapter Sixteen VI

21 June, 2021

Xuan De had no idea what Lu Bu was up to. He became very anxious. Ji Ling dismounted the horse and went into the stockades but found Xuan De was sitting in the camp. He was astonished and tried to get away. No matter how hard the servants persuaded him to stay, he still insisted on leaving. Lu Bu took a step forward and grabbed a hold of him to pull him back as to grab a child. "General, are you going to kill Ji Ling?" asked Ling. "No, not a chance," Bu said. "Or are you going to kill Liu Bei, the Big Ear?" Ling went on. "No, neither will I," Bu replied. "Then, what for?" Ling wondered. "Xuan De and I are brothers, but now he gets stuck by your siege. That's why I am now trying to rescue him," Bu explained. "In that case, are you going to kill Ling to revenge?" Ling asked him again. "Absolutely not! Bu does not like to cause trouble but would like to make peace. May I bring about the reconciliation between you and Xuan De?" Bu proposed. "How are you going to reconcile both of us today?" Ling asked. "I have an idea! Let Heaven decide," Bu said. Then, he pulled Ling into the camp to meet Xuan De. Both of them suspected each other. Bu sat in the middle while Ling sat on his left side and Bei, his right side. He bade attendants set the banquet and pour the wine for the guests.

Chapter Sixteen V

18 June, 2021

Upon hearing Bu's invitation, Xuan De got ready to attend the banquet. However, Guan and Zhang stopped him, saying, "My brother, thou shall not go. Lu Bu will betray you." "I treat him with generosity. He will not harm me," said Xuan De. Then, he got on his horse and rode off. Guan and Zhang followed him along. Upon arrival, they were ushered into Lu Bu's stockades. Bu said, "I am now trying to deliver you from current situation. If someday you succeed, do not forget to repay me for my aid." Xuan De expressed his gratitude to Lu Bu. Then, Bu asked Xuan De to take a seat. Guan and Zhang laid hands on the sheaths and stood behind Xuan De. The doorman announced Ji Ling as he arrived. Xuan De was stunned and tried to avoid him. "I intentionally invite both of you to meet. Do not get me wrong," Bu said.

Chapter Sixteen IV

17 June, 2021

Ji Ling's troops rose in arms and marched on the southeast region of Pei County without opposition. They pitched camp around. During the daytime, the banners were orderly arrayed, which concealed the landscape behind. At night, drums were set up; torches, lit. The rolling drums were so loud that heaven and earth seemed to collapse. Only five thousand people were garrisoned in Xuan De's county. He reluctantly led them out of the county to encamp and deploy. Suddenly, it was reported that Lu Bu had led his troops to encamp in the southwest region, just a mile away from the county. Ji Ling knew that Lu Bu came to Liu Bei's aid. He immediately wrote a letter to accuse Bu of breaking his promise. Bu smiled and said, "I have an idea to make both Yuan and Liu bear no grudge against me." A messenger was sent to invite Ji Ling and Liu Bei over to the banquet held by Lu Bu.

Chapter Sixteen III

16 June, 2021

After Lu Bu read the letter from Xuan De, he had a discussion with Chen Gong. "Yuan Shu has just provided me food and written me a letter to prevent me from helping Xuan De. But now, Xuan De is begging me for help. Being stationed in Xiao Pei, Xuan De is unlikely to be a threat to me at the moment, I reckon. However, if Yuan Shu annexes Xuan De's force and then collaborates up north with those generals garrisoned in Mount Tai, then I cannot sleep well anymore. I'd better save Xuan De this time," said Lu Bu, who immediately numbered his troops and set out an expedition.

Chapter Sixteen II

15 June, 2021

Upon hearing there was such a letter, Xuan De immediately called a meeting to discuss this issue. Zhang Fei proposed to fight. Sun Qian said, "Currently in Xiao Pei, our food is meager; our troops, small. How are we going to fight with them? We may write Lu Bu a letter and ask for help." Zhang Fei said, "I don't think this guy will come to rescue us." Xuan De said, "Qian has given us a piece of sound advice." Therefore, he sent by courier a letter of entreaty, briefly stated as following: "Your Grace, I greatly thank you for the favours you bestowed upon me. It is truly your virtues and kindness high above as clouds and sky so that Bei is able to dwell in Xiao Pei now. However, Yuan Shu intends to revenge on us. He orders Ji Ling to lead troops to Xu Zhou. We are going to perish. General, only you can save our lives. Would you please assign a regiment of troops to help us pass this imminent crisis? We very much hope for your reinforcements."

Chapter Sixteen I

14 June, 2021

Let's resume our story. Yang Da Jiang proposed a plan to attacking Liu Bei. Yuan Shu asked, "What would you propose?" Da Jiang said, "Liu Bei's soldiers are now garrisoned in Xiao Pei. Though they can be easily conquered, yet Lu Bu is now occupying Xu Zhou as a tiger crouches down. Last time, we promised to give him gold and brocade, grain and stallions. However, up until now, this promise has not been fulfilled yet. I am afraid he will turn to aid Bei. The first thing we should do right now is to send him lots of food so that he will find kindred spirits to collaborate with us. Then bid him not to take any action while we attack Liu Bei. At that time, Liu Bei will be captured. After Liu Bei is seized, we can go on to destroy Lu Bu. Xu Zhou will be within our grasp." Shu was pleased to hear that. Two hundred thousand hu units (hu: a unit of measuring weight) of millet were thus prepared. Han Yin was ordered by Shu to send to Lu Bu the a secret letter and the food. Lu Bu was extremely happy to see this gift. Han Yin was thus greeted with a show of cordiality. Yin returned to report Yuan Shu the result. Then, Shu carried on the following plan. Ji Ling was dispatched as the chief general; Lei Bu and Chen Lan, the deputy generals. Dozens of thousands of troops were at their command to advance on Xiao Pei in an imposing manner.

Chapter Fifteen XXXXV.2

13 June, 2021

Instead of heading for the lower reaches of the Yangzi River to slaughter the tiger and the leopard,

Yuan Shu went to Xu County to launch an offensive against the flood dragon.

Want to know how to deal with Liu Bei? The answer will be told in the next chapter.

~to be continued~

Chapter Fifteen XXXXV.1

12 June, 2021

Yuan Shu wished to become an emperor for a long time. Therefore, he wrote back saying that he couldn't return the seal with an excuse. Then he hurried to summon Chief Clerk, Yang Da Jiang; Commanders, Zhang Xun, Ji Ling and Qiao Rui; Full Generals, Lei Bo and Chen Lan together. More than thirty officials attended this meeting. Yuan Shu spoke to them, saying, "Because Sun Ce borrowed my troops to rise in revolt, now he can gain all the land of Jiang Dong. Instead of repaying me for my kindness, he dares demand the seal. How rude he is! What shall we do to him?" Yang Da Jiang, Chief Clerk, suggested, "Sun Ce is now possessing the strategic passes of Yangzi River. His soldiers are well trained; food, abundant. It is not appropriate to seize him now. At the moment, we shall deal with Liu Bei first to revenge his previous attacks without any legitimate call. It will not be too late to capture Sun Ce afterwards. I have an idea to capture Bei right away." Indeed:

Chapter Fifteen XXXXIV

11 June, 2021

Shortly within a day, Ce met this guy. Having a ruddy complexion and a hoary head, he appeared gracefully like a celestial being. Ce treated him as an honorable guest and invited him to examine Zhou Tai's wounds. "That's easy," Tuo said. Then he applied the herb medicine to the wounds which were all healed a month later. Ce was very pleased and expressed his gratitude to Hua Tuo with abundant rewards for his service. Afterwards, he advanced on the mountain rebels with his troops. Jiang Nan was restored to peace and good order. Soldiers were assigned by Sun Ce to garrison each strategic pass. On the one hand, he submitted a memorial to emperor to report what he had accomplished. On the other, he befriended with Cao Cao. Moreover, he sent a letter by courier to demand his hereditary seal from Yuan Shu.

Chapter Fifteen XXXXIII

10 June, 2021

Upon hearing the news, Ce was stunned. Dong Xi who served at his tent spoke to him, saying, "I confronted some pirates once before and suffered several spear wounds. Fortunately, a virtuous county official from Kuai Ji, named Yu Fan, recommended a surgeon to heal my wounds. I was fully recovered in just half a month." Ce said, "Can it be that the man you call Yu Fan is Yu Zhong Xiang?" Xi said, "That's him." Ce said, "Virtuous as he is, I shall have him work for me." Zhang Zhao and Dong Xi were ordered to hire Yu Fan all together. When Fan arrived, Ce treated him with abundant grace and appointed him Personnel Official. Ce further inquired about any physicians he knew. Fan said, "I know the god of healing of this world. He is from Qiao County of Pei Country. Hua Tuo is his name; his courtesy name, Yuan Hua. I shall introduce him to you."

Chapter Fifteen XXXXII

9 June, 2021

Sun Quan and Zhou Tai, on the other hand, defended Xuan City together. Suddenly, a gang of robbers launched an attack against them from all directions by surprise. It was very late in the night. They were unable to resist the onslaught due to such an unexpected raid. Tai held Quan in arms and carried him up to the horse. The thieves hacked them by sabers. Walking ahead naked, Tai slashed more than ten thieves with the saber in hand. Behind Tai appeared a thief who leapt a horse and aimed his spear straight at Tai. Tai, however, caught his spear and dragged him off the horse. He snapped his spear and took his horse, fighting his way out of danger. Sun Quan was saved in his rescue. Soon the rest of the thieves ran away. More than twelve cuts could be found on Zhou Tai's body. What is worse, his knife wound was beginning to swell up, oozing with pus. Death may come to him any minute.

Chapter Fifteen XXXXI

8 June, 2021

Upon hearing the defeat of the front troops in battle, Wang Lang dared not enter the city but led his subordinates to flee to the remote regions by the sea. Sun Ce retuned with his troops and seized the chance to conquer the cities. Peace reigned throughout the land. A man carried the head of Yan Bai Hu and dedicated it to Sun Ce a day later. Ce looked at him attentively. He had a tall span of height with a square face and a wide mouth. Sun Ce asked his name and was told that he was from Yu Yao of Kuai Ji. His first name was Xi; last name, Dong; courtesy name, Yuan Dai. Ce was pleased to have him at his command. He was appointed Divisional Minister of War by Sun Ce. Henceforth, an order was restored in the east region. Sun Jing received the command to guard the place. Zhu Zhi was appointed Magistrate of Wu County. So he withdrew his forces from the region and returned to Jiang Dong.

Chapter Fifteen XXXX

6 June, 2021

Wang Lang was informed that Sun Ce's troops had retreated. He led his followers to observe enemy movements from the fortified tower. However, after he saw the flames and smoke growing higher and higher at the same time and the standards orderly arrayed, he became more and more suspicious. Zhou Xin said, "Sun Ce has gone, but he set up this trap to mislead us. We can carry out a raid on enemy bases." Yan Bai Hu said, "Now that Sun Ce has left here can it be that he is heading for Cha Du? I shall order my subordinates to chase him with General Zhou." Lang said, "Cha Du is the place where we store our grain. It should be carefully guarded. Thou shall proceed thither in advance. I will come to your aid right after." Therefore, Bai Hu and Zhou Xin took five thousand troops out of the city to pursue Sun Ce. It was almost first watch when they were about twenty miles away from the city. Suddenly the beating of drums could be heard from a dense forest nearby. The torches were lit all together. Bai Hu was stunned. He hurried to wheel his horse back. A general took the lead to stop his way. It was Sun Ce. Bai Hu could immediately identify his face by the fire. Zhou Xin brandished his knife to challenge Ce but was killed by him with his thrust of spear. The rest of the troops surrendered themselves to Sun Ce. Bai Hu, however, fought a blooding way and was bound for Yu Hang.

Chapter Fifteen XXXIX

3 June, 2021

After attacking the city for several days, Sun Ce was still unable to conquer it. He held a council with his generals for discussing a counter-measure. Sun Jing said, "Relying on the strategic location of the target city, Wang Lang is now responsible for the defensive task. It is very hard for us to break through. However, most of the money and food supplies of Kuai Ji are stored in Cha Du, which is about ten miles away from here. Let's send our troops to take possession of Cha Du first and then launch an attack by surprise when they are not prepared." Ce was very pleased to hear this scheme, saying, "Uncle, that's a great idea! It is good enough to defeat those thieves!" Immediately, soldiers were ordered to light torches at each entrance and set up deceptive standards to mislead the enemy. On the other hand, they broke camp and stockade, heading southbound by night. "Master, if you leave here with a large number of soldiers, Wang Lang will come out of the city to pursue. We can win over them by the ambush troops," Zhou Yu went further. "Everything is ready. Seize the city tonight," Ce said. The troops were ordered to set off.

Chapter Fifteen XXXVIII

June 2, 2021

Sun Ce's troops took advantage of circumstances to dash to the foot of the city and then were divided into contingents to attack it from four gates. While seeing Sun Ce launch a violent attack against them in the city, Wang Lang decided to battle it out with him again. Yan Bai Hu spoke to him, saying, "Sun Ce's forces are powerful. What we can do right now is to defend ourselves by the deep entrenchments and high fortifications from attack instead of being on the offensive. No more than a month, when their food supplies are severely depleted, they will retreat. At that time, take advantage of their unwariness and raid their camp by surprise. Then we can win without fighting a battle." Lang followed his advice. They took up a defensive position around Kuai Ji City, rather than initiating any provocative action.

Chapter Fifteen XXXVII

May 29, 2021

Sun Ce was agitated by his words and got ready to fight. Tai Shi Ci, however, had already charged at the enemy. Wang Lang patted his horse and wielded his sword to fight against Ci. No more than several bouts, Lang's general, Zhou Xin, rushed to aid the attack. From Sun Ce's array, Huang Gai galloped his horse to engage Zhou Xin. The roll of drums could be heard from both sides. Both camps battled hard. All of a sudden, behind Wang Lang's array outflanked a regiment of soldiers. Turmoil arose in Wang Lang's rear forces. He was shocked and immediately wheeled his horse back to deal with the rivals. They were Zhou Yu and Cheng Pu who led troops in the charge from the flanks. They attacked Wang Lang in the front and from the rear simultaneously. Wang Lang was unable to compete with them by their sheer weight of numbers. Together with Bai Hu and Zhou Xin, he slashed a bloody way to the city. As long as they entered the city, the drawbridge was raised. They shut the city gate and refused to fight anymore.

Chapter Fifteen XXXVI

May 28, 2021

Wang Lang, the Magistrate of Kuai Ji, planned to lead his troops to rescue Bai Hu. Suddenly, a man came before him to stop his action, saying, "No, thou shall not. Sun Ce has commanded the troops of virtue and righteousness; whereas, Bai Hu leads a brutal mob. It is better to seize Bai Hu and surrender him to Sun Ce." Lang saw the man who was talking to him. He was Yu Fan, courtesy name Zhong Xiang, from Yu Yao of Kuai Ji and now served as an administrative official. Lang growled at him to show disapproval. So Fan left with a long sigh. Afterwards, Lang took his troops to meet Bai Hu and join his forces. They massed their armies around the wildness to the north of the mountain for the attack. Both armies confronted each other in the battlefield and formed a half circular array directly opposite. Sun Ce rode forth and spoke to Wang Lang, saying, "I've mobilized the soldiers of virtue and righteousness to stabilize Zhe Jiang region. Why do you help those rebels fight against me?" "Thou are never satisfied with what you have got. Wu County is now within your control, but now you intend to annex my territory! Today, I am here to revenge Yan Shi (the White Tiger)!" Lang abused at him.

Chapter Fifteen XXXV

May 26, 2021

Ce pressed on with the attack. Huang Gai raided Jia Xing. Tai Shi Ci captured Wu Cheng. Several states were conquered in rapid succession. Bai Hu escaped to Yu Hang in a rush, plundering and looting along the way. He was defeated by the indigenous man, Ling Cao, with his folks, and fled to Hui Ji. Both Ling Cao and his son came to receive Sun Ce. Ce appointed him Colonel on Active Military Service and led with him the joint troops to cross the river. Yan Bai Hu gathered the bandits who were scattered around the Xi Jin Ferry. Cheng Pu fought against Bai Hu. Hu lost the battle again, so he dashed to Kuai Ji by night.

Chapter Fifteen XXXIV

May 25, 2021

The man was saved from the city wall by the surrounded people. Bai Hu (the White Tiger) was astonished, saying, "With such a man in the rival camp, how can we resist their attacks!" Therefore, he held a discussion to call for a truce. The next day, Yan Yu was dispatched to see Sun Ce outside the city. Ce invited him to have a couple of drinks in his tent. While they were nearly drunk, Ce asked Yu, saying, "What's your brother up to?" "He would like you, General, to share the land of Jiang Dong with him evenly," Yu said. "What a rat! How dare he compete on equal terms with me!" Ce raged. So he ordered decapitation. Yu immediately drew his sword and stood up to protect himself. Ce threw his sword at Yu without a hitch. As the flying sword struck Yu, he fell instantly. Then Ce cut off his head and asked someone to send it into the city. Bai Hu knew that he was no match for Ce, so he abandoned the city and went away.

Chapter Fifteen XXXIII

May 23, 2021

Before Tai Shi Ci's voice disappeared, the bowstring had been pulled and released. Twang! The arrow hit the target. The man's left hand was penetrated and pinned against the beam instead. All the beholders up and down the walls marveled and cheered.

Chapter Fifteen XXXII

16 May, 2021

By the time when Han Dang reached the bridge, Jiang Qin and Chen Wu had already approached the bridge from the riverbank by boat to conduct a raid. The soldiers upon the shore were shot with arrows from different directions and fell down. Both of them flung themselves onto the shore and slashed them violently. Yan Yu had no choice but to retreat. Han Dang led the soldiers to kill the thieves all the way to the Chang Gate, forcing them to retire to the city. Ce took his troops to press on the rivals by sea and over land simultaneously so that the Wu City was besieged for three days. No one came out to receive the challenges. Ce then led his troops outside the Chang Gate to call the rival forces to surrender themselves by decree. A deputy general on the city wall lifted his left hand to hold up the beam and cursed them with his right hand pointing at them. Immediately, Tai Shi Ci fetched an arrow and pulled the bow string back to aim. Then he turned his head to his partners, saying, "Look how I shoot the guy at his left hand!"

Chapter Fifteen XXXI

12 May, 2021

At that time, a man called Yan Bai Hu claimed himself to be King De of Dong Wu. Wu County had been occupied by him. His troops were sent to garrison Wu Cheng and Jia Xing. While hearing the arrival of Ce's troops during that day, Bai Hu ordered his brother Yan Yu to conduct an attack and confront the enemy on the Maple Bridge, where Yu held his knife horizontally and reined back his horse. As soon as Ce received the news in the main army, he immediately got himself ready for the fight. Zhang Hong admonished him, saying, "Thou are the commander-in-chief of three armies. Your soldiers entrust their fate to you. It's not worth running risks of dealing with those small bandits. May your Grace cherish your life." "Mister, your advice is as valuable as a gold stone. However, if I refuse to take risks, my troops will not obey my commands," Ce said with thanks. Then he sent Han Dang to face the challenges.

Chapter Fifteen XXX

May 2, 2021

The next day, as the sun moved across the sky, a pole was erected before the entrance of the camp for telling the time. When the shadow on the surface of the earth moved to the noon time, Tai Shi Ci led more than a thousand troops back to the camp. Ce was in ecstasy. All the people had to admit that Ce knew the human heart. Therefore, Sun Ce mustered hundreds of thousands of troops to proceed southwards to the east bank of the river. He stabilized the economy and helped the people there. Countless citizens were willing to surrender to him. The people in Jiang Dong called him Squire Sun. Upon hearing the approach of the troops led by Squire Sun, the rivals lost their hearts to fight and ran away. When Ce's troops arrived, the act of plundering was strictly prohibited. Not even a chicken or a dog was intimidated. They were loved by the people who offered them cattle and wine for enjoyment. Ce repaid them gold and silks for their kindness . A great cheer and hooray went up from the crowd everywhere. As for the Liu Yao's former troops, if they wished to serve in Ce's army, they could join Ce's forces; if they refused to be soldiers anymore, they would be rewarded to plow fields. All the people in Jiang Nan looked upon and praised them. Hence, their forces grew tremendously. Ce then received his mother, uncles and brothers to Qu Y but left his younger brother Sun Quan and Zhou Tai to guard Xuan City. Ce himself led the troops southbound to attack Wu County.

Chapter Fifteen XXIX

April 28, 2021

Ci felt that Ce treated him with abundant grace; therefore, he asked to surrender. Ce held his hand and smiled, saying, "While we were fighting against each other in Shen Pavilion, if you had captured me, what would have done with me? Would you still have wanted to kill me then?" "I have no idea what I would have done," Ci smiled and said. Ce roared with laughter. He invited Ci to his tent. Ci was placed in the seat of honor and received Ce's warm hospitality. Ci said, "Liu Yao has just been defeated. His soldiers have already left him. Let me gather the remnants together to come to your assistance. Are you willing to trust me?" Ce stood up and thanked him, saying, "This is what I wish for. Let's make a deal. Tomorrow afternoon, I will wait here for your return." Ce gave him accent and then left. All the generals said, "Now that Tai Shi Ci has gone, he shall never return." Ce said, "Zi Yi is a man of righteousness. He will not betray me." However, they didn't believe that Ci would keep the promise.

Chapter Fifteen XXVIII

April 27, 2021

While Tai Shi Ci was running away and tried to avoid being caught, the pursuing troops halted after chasing him for thirty miles. Tai Shi Ci kept going about fifty miles. He felt tired, and his horse spent. Suddenly, the battle cries were given in the reeds. Ci hurried to escape, but the horse stumbled over the rope which was pulled at both ends. Tai Shi Ci was caught on the spot and sent to the main camp. Ce knew that Ci was taken captive. He went outside the camp and shouted at the soldiers to dismiss them. Then he untied the rope for Tai Shi Ci in person, clothed him with his own embroidered robe and politely invited him to his tent. "I understand that Zi Yi, you are the true hero. The foolish Liu Yao cannot be used as the leading general. This is a major cause of failure," Ce said to him.

Chapter Fifteen XXVII

April 17, 2021

Having enlisted more than two thousand strong and unyielding men, Tai Shi Ci consolidated his original troops with new recruits and led them to revenge Liu Yao. Sun Ce and Zhou Yu got together to discuss the plan to capture Tai Shi Ci alive. Yu gave the order to advance on the county from three directions, but the east gate was left for Tai Shi C to escape. Then along three different roads, twenty-five miles away from the city, were lying ambushes, waiting for Tai Shi Ci to approach. They thought when Tai Shi Ci got there, he and his horse must be exhausted so that they could capture him easily. Originally, the soldiers that Tai Shi Ci had recruited were villagers. They had not received any formal military training yet. The city walls of the Jing County were not high enough to defend against enemy raid. During the night, Sun Ce ordered Chen Wu to put on short clothes and carried a dagger. Wu was asked to set fire on the city walls first. When Tai Shi Ci saw the flames, he immediately mounted his horse and rode away to the east gate, with Sun Ce and his troops in hot pursuit.

Chapter Fifteen XXVI

April 12, 2021

Upon hearing the death of Sun Ce, Xue Li immediately mobilized the army within the city by night and dashed off outside the city with brave valiant generals, Zhang Ying and Chen Heng, to pursue and attack Ce's troops. At this juncture, they were assaulted by the ambush from all directions. Sun Ce took the lead to fight. He shouted out loud, saying, "I, Sun Ce, am here!" All the opposing troops were stunned. They hurriedly abandoned their weapons and bowed down to the ground. Ce gave the order not to kill anyone. Zhang Ying swiftly wheeled around his horse for escape but was killed with a thrust of the spear by Chen Wu. Chen Heng was shot dead by Jiang Qin's arrow. Xue Li was killed in the confusion caused by the fighting. Ce entered Mo Ling to console the local inhabitants and then transferred his troops to Jing County to capture Tai Shi Ci.

Chapter Fifteen XXV

April 6, 2021

At that day, Liu Yao's soldiers were put to rout. Half of them surrendered to Ce. More than ten thousand soldiers were beheaded by him. Liu Yao and Ze Rong went to Yu Zhang to seek patronage from Liu Biao. Sun Ce returned to attack Mo Ling again. He rode to the moat to demand Xue Li to surrender. An arrow was unexpectedly shot at Sun Ce's left leg from the city wall. Ce soon flipped over and fell off the horse. All the generals came to his rescue and carried him back to camp. They pulled the arrow and applied to the wound an ointment, which was made particularly for the cuts by sharp weapons. Ce ordered the army to announce falsely the death of the leading general caused by the enemy's arrow. The army mourned for him and then broke camp to set out.

Chapter Fifteen XXIV

March 28, 2021

While attacking the city, Ce was suddenly informed that Liu Yao and Ze Rong had joined together to take possession of Niu Zhu. Sun Ce was provoked by the news, thus leading massive troops to head for Niu Zhu. Both Liu Yao and Ze Rong rode forth to engage enemies. Sun Ce spoke to them, saying, "Here I am! How dare you not surrender?" A man rode forth from Liu Yao's back with his spear set straight to fight against Sun Ce. It was Yu Mi, Liu Yao's subordinate general. Less than three bouts, he was captured alive by Ce in battle. Ce wheeled his horse back to his array, with Fan Neng, Yao's general, following closely behind. Catching the sight of Yu Mi in captivity, Fan Neng immediately set his spear straight and pursued Ce fast. As he was about to thrust at Ce's back with his spear, the soldiers from Ce's array shouted out loud, saying, "Watch out! Someone is going to kill you in the back!" Ce quickly turned his head and glimpsed that Fan Neng was approaching on horseback. Ce yelled at him. His voice sounded as a thunder. Fan Neng was stunned. He flipped upside down off the horse and fell to the ground with a bump. He died with his head broken. After Ce reached the standard by the camp gate, he threw away Yu Mi, who had already been strangled with Ce's arm. At a lightning speed, Ce strangled a general to death and gave the other a scare with his roar. That one was also dead later. Henceforth, Sun Ce was called Hegemon-king, the Junior.

Chapter Fifteen XXIII

21 March, 2021

Now, Sun Ce gained Chen Wu as his helper. This man was one hundred and seventy centimeters tall with a yellow complexion and a pair of red eyes. He had weird looks, but Ce adored him and appointed him Magistrate. He was dispatched by Ce as the forerunner to attack Xue Li. Wu swiftly led a dozen of mounted soldiers to break through the rival arrays. More than fifty men were decapitated. The raid made Xue Li shut himself away in his room and refused to launch any new offensive.

Chapter Fifteen XXII

March 18, 2021

Tai Shi Ci retreated with Liu Yao, without Sun Ce in pursuit. Ce held his troops from further attack. Zhang Zhao, the Chief Secretary, spoke to him, saying, "Our rivals are reluctant to fight due to the raid carried out by Zhou Yu on Qu A. Tonight, it's our chance to attack them by surprise." Sun Ce accepted his advice. At night, the troops were divided into five regiments and marched to the rival camp without opposition. Liu Yao's army failed in battle and dispersed everywhere. Tai Shi Ci was the only one who stood up to the attack but could barely sustain. He had no choice but to ride to the Jing County to seek refuge with ten mounted soldiers by night.

Chapter fifteen XXI

March 15, 2021

The battle cry was given from both armies. One side was boasting its victory; the other, bluffing its bravery. Tai Shi Ci rode forth to challenge Sun Ce to a duel. When Ce was about to fight, Cheng Pu stopped him. "My lord, spare yourself from the fight. Let me handle this," Pu said. Then he rode out to the front of the array. "You are not my rival. Ask Sun Ce to accept the challenge!" Tai Shi Ci shouted. Cheng Pu flew into a howling rage. He set his spear upright and rode straight to Tai Shi Ci. Both riders jousted. When the dueling went on to the thirty round, Liu Yao hurried to beat the gong to call back the troops. "I almost caught the rebel chieftain. Why do you retreat the troops now?" Tai Shi Ci asked. "According to the latest news, Zhou Yu has just raided Qu A with his troops. A native of Song Zi in Lu River named Chen Wu, courtesy name Zi Lie, has betrayed us to be the inside helper of Zhou Yu. I have no home to return. We shouldn't linger on here. Speed ahead to Mo Ling to meet Xue Li and Ze Rong. Their troops will rush to our aid," Liu Yao replied.

Chapter Fifteen XX

March 7, 2020

The next day, Sun Ce led his troops to the front of Liu Yao's camp. Liu Yao took his army to confront the rival troops. Between the deployments of both sides, Sun Ce picked up Tai Shi Ci's short lance with his spear and showed it off in front of the array. By his order, the soldiers shouted, "Tai Shi Ci would have been stabbed to death, had he not fled fast!" Likewise, Tai Shi Ci also picked up Sun Ce's metal helmet with his weapon before the battle array. His soldiers were ordered to yell, "Sun Ce's head is right here!"

Chapter Fifteen XIX

March 1, 2021

Suddenly, the shouts from the back were heard. It's the reinforcements sent by Liu Yao. About a thousand troops came to Ci's assistance. While Sun Ce was in panic, Cheng Pu with other knights, totaling twelve of them in all, also made a dash for help. Ce and Ci, therefore, were forced to yield. Ci took a horse from the army, fetched his spear and mounted to fight back again. Ce's horse was carried by Cheng Pu. He seized his spear and mounted his steed, too. More than a thousand troops from Liu Yao's camp engaged Cheng Pu's squad, the twelve mounted soldiers, in a melee. They rushed and pushed each other coiling around the mountain in a confused way. The fight went on to the foot of Shen Ting ridge and the battle cry was given everywhere. Zhou Yu also arrived with his troops. Liu Yao led his army to ride down the ridge for the kill. It was nearly at dusk. The tempest was drawing near. Both sides, therefore, withdrew their troops, respectively.

Chapter Fifteen XVIII

February 20, 2021

While fighting a duel, Ci found that Sun Ce was almost flawless in brandishing the spear. It is difficult for him to gain access to Ce. So, he feigned to lose the battle, and enticed Sun Ce to pursue him. Instead of taking the same trail to the ridge, Ci turned off and went on another to the back of the mountain. "Anyone who dares to flee is not a hero!" Ce shouted upon arrival. "This guy travels with a retinue of twelve bodyguards, but I am here all by myself. Even though I can catch him alive, he will still be saved by them. I shall ride further to lure him to a secluded place. Then I can kill him," Ci brooded over the scheme in his heart. Therefore, Ci kept fighting Ce while retreating. There's no chance that Ce would let him go. He chased him all the way to the land of Ping Chuan. All of a sudden, Ci wheeled his horse back and fought against Ce for another fifty bouts. At this juncture, Ce thrust at Ci with his spear. Ci dodged the attack and clasped the spear under his arm. Then he thrust at Ce with his spear, too. Ce dodged the attack and clasped Ci's spear under his arm as well. Both of them exerted their strength to give each other a sharp pull and, as a result, fell off from each horse. They had no idea where the horses had gone. Despite that, they threw their spears to the ground, grabbed hold of each other, and exchanged blows. Their fighting dresses were, therefore, torn in tatters. Ce was quick to seize the short halberd from Tai Shi Ci's back; Ci also took the helmet from Ce's head. Ce stabbed Ci with the seized halberd; however, Ci fended off the attack with Ce's helmet.

Chapter Fifteen XVII

February 18, 2021

Let's resume our story. Sun Ce reconnoitered the approaches to the rival stockade for a while. Then he wheeled his horse back. As they were riding over the mountain ridge, they heard someone shouted up there, saying, "Sun Ce, don't you dare to go!" Ce turned to see the voice that spoke with him but only saw two horses galloping down the hill from the range. Ce had the thirteen knights make a row to face a challenge; whereas, he leveled the spear on horseback, waiting at the foot of the ridge. "Who is Sun Ce?" Tai Shi Ci yelled out loud. "Who are you?" Ce asked him back. "I am Tai Shi Ci of Dong Lai. I come here to seize Sun Ce alive!" he replied. "I am the one that you are looking for. Both of you can attack me together. I am not afraid of you at all! If I am scared by you, then I am not Sun Bo Fu!" Ce smiled and said. "Likewise, I am not afraid of you, either, even if all of you gather together to attack me," Ci said. Holding his spear in a horizontal position, Ci rode his horse as fast as he could to attack Sun Ce directly. Ce set his spear straight to accept his challenge. Two riders exchanged blows for fifty rounds, but neither side prevailed. Cheng Pu and others could not help but marvel at the fight.

Chapter Fifteen XVI

February 17, 2021

After making a wish, Ce went out of the temple and mounted his horse. Then he turned to speak to the generals, saying, "I intend to travel over the ridge to scout around Liu Yao's stockade fences." All the generals advised him not to act on impulse, but Ce refused to listen to them, so they went up to the ridge with him. They looked southwards and saw the villages in woods. Ce's reconnaissance was already reported to Liu Yao by the ambush squad fast. "It must be the scheme that Sun Ce contrives to entice us to make an attack. We shall not pursue him," said Yao. "In terms of capturing Sun Ce, what better chances can we have than now?" Tai Shi Ci said eagerly. Disregarding Liu Yao's order, Ci wore full battle dress and mounted the horse. Grabbing his spear with him, he rode off the camp. "Anyone who has guts must follow me!" Ci shouted back. All the generals, however, remained still. Only a junior fighter responded his calling. "Tai Shi Ci is truly a brave commander! I am willing to help him!" said he who then patted his horse to ride forth with Ci. However, the generals on site laughed at their naive.

Chapter Fifteen XV

February 13, 2021

Zhang Ying went back to see Liu Yao after defeat. Yao raged and wanted to kill him. The advisors Ze Rong and Xue Li urged him not to act recklessly but to send soldiers to garrison in the Ling Ling Town for defense. Yao took his troops to encamp in the south of the mountains to the Shen Pavilion; whereas, Sun Ce made camp in the north. "Is there a temple of the Han Emperor Guang Wu near the mountain?" Ce asked the indigenous people. "Yes. There is one upon the ridge," they replied. "Last night, in my dream, the Emperor Guang Wu called me to see him. I shall seek his place and pray him for help," Ce said. "Absolutely no. The south of the mountains is where Liu Yao makes his camp. What if you are attacked by the ambush? What are you going to do then?" Zhang Zhao, the Chief Clerk, said. "I am blessed by the godman. Who am I afraid of?" Ce said. Therefore, Ce put on his fighting robe and carried his weapon. He mounted his horse and was ready to fight. Leading Cheng Pu, Huang Gai, Han Dang and Jiang Qin with a total knights of about thirteen, he rode his horse out of the camp and went up to the ridge. Then, he entered the temple and burnt incense. After he dismounted the horse and completed the worship, Ce stepped forward and knelt down, wishing, "If Sun Ce can establish a business in Jiang Dong and restore the foundations which my father once laid, I shall renovate the temple and offer sacrifices seasonally."

Chapter Fifteen XIV

February 10, 2021
Initially, the arsonists who set fire behind the stockades were two sturdy generals. One was called Jiang Qin, courtesy name Gong Yi, a native of Shou Chun of Jiu Jiang; the other, Zhou Tai, courtesy name You Ping, a native of Xia Cai of Jiu Jiang. In a state of anarchy and disorder, both of them gathered a group of people as bandits, plundering and looting for a living. They had heard of Sun Ce being a man of outstanding talent, intelligence and courage for a long time. Ce was willing to employ the virtuous and recruit the brave. Therefore, they took more than three hundred adherents to seek refuge in Ce's base. Ce was elated at their surrender. He appointed both of them Colonels Who Serve in the Front of the Official Carriages. With their help, Ce recovered Niu Zhu and collected all the grain stored in the official granaries as well as weapons. More than four thousand soldiers surrendered themselves to Ce. Then he advanced on Shen Pavilion.

Chapter Fifteen XIII

February 9, 2021

Zhang Ying led his troop to Niu Zhu. Over a hundred thousand packages of grain were stored in the official granaries. Sun Ce also arrived with his troops. Zhang Ying went up for a challenge. Both armies confronted each other along the Niu Zhu Rapids. Sun Ce rode out; whereas, Zhang Ying cursed him loudly. Huang Gai, therefore, went forward to fight against Zhang Ying. Suddenly a disorder arouse in Zhang Ying's army. Someone came to report that fires were breaking out in Zhang's stockade. Zhang Ying hurried to return to his base. Sun Ce with his troops seized the chance to attack him by surprise. Zhang Ying had no choice but to abandon the food storage in Niu Zhu and fled deep in the direction of the mountain.

Chapter Fifteen XII

February 8, 2021

Liu Yao, courtesy name Zheng Li, was a native of Mou Ping in Dong Lai. He was also a descendent of the Imperial Han dynasty and the nephew of Liu Chong, the Grand Commandant as well as the younger brother of Liu Dai, the Inspector of Yan Zhou. He used to be the Inspector of Yang Zhou to garrison in Shou Chun. Forced by Yuan Shu to cross over the Jiang Dong region, he then settled in Qu A. Upon hearing the arrival of Sun Ce's troops, he hurried to call together his generals to discuss how to deal with the imminent crisis. Zhang Ying, his subordinate general, spoke to him, saying, "Let me take a regiment of soldiers to garrison in Niu Zhu. Not a rival can approach even though a million troops press on." Without letting him finish his words, a man in the tent shouted out loud, saying, "I am willing to be the forerunner of the vanguard." All the men looked at the man who was talking. It was Tai Shi Ci, a native of Huang County in Dong Lai. After Ci lifted the siege of Bei Hai, he came to see Liu Yao. Yao asked him to stay in his tent. No sooner had Ci known the arrival of Sun Ce than he volunteered as the forerunner. "You are still too young to be the leading general. Just stay by my side and obey my commands," said Yao. Tai Shi Ci bitterly disappointed at his remark and then retreated.

Chapter Fifteen XI

February 7, 2021

Ce was so pleased to meet Yu. He told him what he wished to achieve in detail. "I am willing to offer my humble service with absolute loyalty. Let's work together to realize such a big dream," said Yu. Ce was elated. "With Gong Jin as my helper, everything that I wish for will be perfectly in tune," Ce said. Therefore, he introduced Zhu Zhi and Lu Fan to Yu. "Since, my brother, you intend to accomplish a great achievement, have you ever heard that there are two Zhangs in Jiang Dong?" Yu went on. "Who are they, the so called two Zhangs?" Ce asked. "One is called Zhang Zhao, courtesy name Zi Bu. He is a native of Peng City; the other, Zhang Hong, courtesy name Zi Gang. He is from Guang Ling. Both of them possess extraordinary talent in governmental management and military operation. Due to an outbreak of rioting and public disorder, they settle down here as hermits. My brother, why don't you hire them to help you fulfill your dream?" Yu replied. Ce was very happy to hear his suggestion. Immediately, he sent letters and gifts for inviting their service. However, they refused to accept his offer. Ce went to their houses in person. He felt extremely satisfied after talking to them, so he persuaded them to work for him earnestly. Both of them finally agreed. Hence, Ce appointed Zhang Zhao Chief Clerk and General of the Gentlemen-of-the-Household of a Provincial Governor; whereas, Zhang Hong was appointed Colonel Who Takes Control the Parliament Issues as Adviser. They held a council to discuss how to attack Liu Yao.

Chapter Fifteen X

February 6, 2021

Ce took a bow and thanked Yuan Shu. Then he chose a day for him to rise in arms. On the set date, he took the troops with Zhu Zhi, Lu Fan as well as his father's generals-- Cheng Pu, Huang Gai, Han Dang, etc. -- to set out. After they proceeded to Li Yang, a regiment of soldiers caught their attention. The man in the front maintained a charming bearing with an elegant and handsome demeanor. No sooner had he caught a glimpse of Sun Ce than he immediately dismounted his horse and did obeisance. Ce looked at him and then realized it was Zhou Yu, whose courtesy name was Gong Jin. He was a native of Shu Cheng in Lu Jiang. During the time when Sun Jian attacked Dong Zhuo, Jian moved to Shu Cheng with his family. Yu and Sun Ce were at the same age. They were bound up with each other and became sworn brothers. Ce was two months his senior. Yu regarded Ce as his elder brother. Yu's uncle, Zhou Shang, was the Magistrate of Dan Yang. Now Yu was on his way home to visit his uncle and happened to run into Ce.

Chapter Fifteen IX

February 5, 2021

After three of them made their plan, Ce went to see Yuan Shu the next day. He bowed before him and cried, saying, "I have failed to avenge my father, and now my maternal uncle, Wu Jing, is persecuted by Liu Yao, the Magistrate of Yang Zhou. My old mother and all the family members are now staying in Qu A. I am afraid that they will be killed. May I boldly ask your Excellency to borrow me thousands of crack soldiers? I will lead them to cross the river to save my family from danger and by the way to visit my senior relatives. If your Excellency doubts my words, I have the hereditary jade seal, which was handed on to me by my father. I am willing to leave it here as a pledge." Upon hearing the jade seal, Shu fetched it to take a look. He was pleased to receive this treasure. "I didn't mean to take your seal as a pawn. Now that you mention it, keep it here as a matter of expedience. I will lend you three thousand troops and five hundred horses. After the disturbances are quelled, you shall return here as fast as you can. Your position is low. It's not easy for you to take control. I will appoint you the Colonel Who Frustrates the Enemies and the General Who Destroys Rebels. Set out with your troops in a definite time," said Shu.

Chapter Fifteen XIII

February 4, 2021

During the discussion, a man intruded and said, " I am well aware of your plan. There are a hundred sturdy warriors at my command. They can assist Bo Fu for the time being." Ce looked at the man that spoke with him. It was Lu Fan, stylized as Zi Heng. He was a native of Xi Yang in Ru Nan. Ce was elated at his suggestion; therefore, he asked Fan to take a seat and join the discussion. Lu Fan spoke to him, saying, "I am afraid that Yuan Gong Lu might refuse to lend his troops to us." "I have the hereditary seal left by my father. It can be served as a pledge," said Ce. "Gong Lu has always wanted this treasure for so long! If the seal can be used as a pawn, he will be more than willing to send in reinforcements," said Fan.

Chapter Fifteen VII

February 3, 2021

After the banquet was over, Ce went back to his tent. Shu's arrogant attitude towards guests during the feast made him gloomy. He went for a walk in the central hall by moonlight. Thinking of his father, Sun Jian, Ce could not hold himself any longer but burst out crying, for his father was such a hero, but now he got so lost here. Suddenly, a man came in from the outside and laughed heartily. "Bo Fu, why are you crying? When your honorable father was still alive, he sought my advices many times. If you have any trouble to make decisions, why don't you seek my advice instead of crying by yourself?" said the man. Ce looked at who was talking and then realized that it was Zhu Zhi, stylized as Jun Li, from Gu Zhang in Dan Yang. He used to be Sun Jian's Attendant Clerk. Ce immediately collected himself and invited him to take a seat. "How much I hate myself! Why can't I continue the pursuit of my father? That's why I cry," Ce said. "Why don't you take a leave and borrow troops from Yuan Gong Lu to Jiang Dong? Make him believe that you are going to rescue Wu Jing, but actually you are going to fulfill your dream. Why do you have to be stuck here and yield to his commands?" Zhi said.

Chapter Fifteen XI

February 2, 2021

A banquet was held by Yuan Shu for generals and soldiers in Shou Chun. During the feast, Yuan Shu was informed of the return of Sun Ce, who had triumphantly defeated Lu Kang, the Magistrate of Lu Jiang. Shu called Ce to see him. Ce was admitted to the hall and bowed before Shu. After Shu expressed his solicitude, Ce was attended to take a seat and enjoy food and wine. After the death of his father, Ce had retired to Jian Nan where he treated the virtue with courtesy and the scholars with humbleness. Later, due to the strive between Tao Qian and Wu Jing, Ce's maternal uncle, who was also the Magistrate of Dan Yang, Ce moved his mother and family to Qu Y to reside; whereas, he himself went to serve Yuan Shu. Shu was greatly fond of him. "If I had a son as Sun Ce, I could rest in peace!" Shu often sighed. Ce, therefore, was appointed as Colonel Huai Yi to attack Jing County. Master Zu Lang was defeated. It was this battle that Shu was impressed by Ce's bravery. So Shu ordered Ce to assault Lu Kang as he returned, and now he swept to victory in the battle again.

Chapter Fifteen V

February 1, 2021

Xuan De was allowed to enter the room to express his gratitude to Lu Bu. Bu spoke to him, saying, "I didn't mean to seize the city. It was because your brother had killed people after getting drunk that I volunteered myself to guard the city. I was so afraid that something worse might happen." "I have always wanted to cede Xu Zhou to you, my elder brother," Xuan De said. Feigning sincerity, Bu insisted on the return of Xu Zhou to Xuan De, who, however, firmly rejected it. Afterwards, Xuan De went back to Xiao Pei to garrison, thus Guan and Zhang holding grudges against Bu. "Make concessions to the current situation. Do our job and wait for the right time. Do not fight against your fate," Xuan De said. Lu Bu also sent his man to provide Xuan De grain and brocades. Henceforth, both families were reconciled after this event.

Chapter Fifteen IV

January 31, 2021

While Xuan De was taking his troops eastward to attack Guang Lin, his camp was assaulted by Yuan Shu. Half of his garrison were lost. On his way back, he happened to encounter Lu Bu's messenger who presented him a letter. Xuan De was elated to know that he was able to return home. "Lu Bu is a man without any righteousness. Don't trust him!" Guan and Zhang warned him. "Why are you suspicious of him? After all, he is willing to treat me with kindness," said Xuan De. So, he went back to Xu Zhou. On the other hand, Bu was also afraid that Xuan De might have suspicion against him. Therefore, he hurried to have his man escort Xuan De's family and dependents back. When both Madam Gan and Madam Mi met Xuan De, they told him everything including how Lu Bu had protected them from danger by ordering security to guard the gates and forbid anyone without authorization to enter. His maidens and concubines frequently provided what they needed so that they had no want. Xuan De spoke to Guan and Zhang, saying, "I knew Lu Bu would never harm my family and dependents." Xuan De entered the city to express his gratitude to Lu Bu. Zhang Fei hated him, so he refused to follow along but accompanied the sisters-in-law to Xiao Pei.

Chapter Fifteen III

January 30, 2021

While Bu was hesitant about his next move, Yuan Shu sent a letter to him by courier. It said, "Even though Gao Shun was dispatched to attack Liu Bei, Liu Bei is still alive. Once Liu Bei is caught, the promised rewards will be delivered to you." Bu accused Yuan Shu of the breach of the agreement, thus planning to launch an attack against Shu. "No, you shall not. At the moment, Shu occupies Shou Chun. He has a large number of troops with abundant food. He is not a man we should take lightly. How about let's invite Xuan De to return to Xiao Pei to garrison. He will come to our aid in the war. When the time is ready, Liu Bei can be assigned as vanguard to seize Yuan Shu first and then capture Yuan Shao later. At that time, we can conquer the world," said Chen Gong. Bu followed his advice. He immediately notified Xuan De of his hope for his return by letter.

Chapter Fifteen II

January 29, 2021

Now, let's talk about Yuan Shu. Upon hearing the news that Lu Bu had carried out a raid on Xu Zhou, he immediately sent a herald to carry a message to Lu Bu. He promised Bu nearly a million liters of grain, five hundred horses, thirteen thousand ounces of gold and silver, one thousand rolls of brocades, if Bu would help him assault Liu Bei by joint attacks from both sides. Bu was elated, thus ordering Gao Shun to lead fifty thousand troops to attack the rear of Xuan De's army. However, when Xuan De knew their plan, he hurried to withdraw his troops by the rainy day. He abandoned Xu Yi and transferred to another place with intent to head for east to conquer Guang Ling. By the time when Gao Shun's troops arrived, Xuan De had already gone away. Gao Shun went to see Ji Ling demanding the handover of rewards that Yuan Shu had promised to them. Ling said, "Would you please return home first? Allow me to discuss this issue with my warlord." Gao Shun had no alternative but to lead troops in the reverse direction. After his return, he told Lu Bu what Ji Ling had said in detail.

Chapter Fifteen I

January 28, 2021

Let's resume our story. As Zhang Fei was about to draw the sword to kill himself, immediately Xuan De stepped forward to hold him tight. He grabbed the sword from Fei's hand and threw it to the ground. "An ancient man once said, 'My brother is just like a limb attached to me; whereas, my wife, a piece of clothing. If there is a tear on my clothes, I can stitch it up. However, if my hand or foot is cut off, how am I going to restore the limb back to its original place?' Three of us swore as brothers in the peach orchard. Though being unable to be born on the same day, we made a vow to die at the same time. Today I already lost my city and family. I can't bear to lose you, my brother, anymore. After all, we haven't achieve our grand ambition, haven't we? The lost city didn't belong to me in the first place. Even though my family and dependents are trapped there, Lu Bu will not harm them. That's for sure. So, we still have a chance to save them by making a plan. My kind brother, you didn't make the mistake intentionally but by accident. How can you end your life in a rush!" said Xuan De, who burst into tears after the talk. Guan and Zhang felt so touched that they cried together.

Chapter Fourteen XXXVIIII

January 27, 2021

Zhang Fei took several dozen mounted soldiers with him all the way to Xu Yi to meet Xuan De. He told him how Cao Bao and Lu Bu had conspired together to attack Xu Zhou by night. All turned pale. "I am neither elated by possession, nor worried by loss!" Xuan De sighed. "Where are the sisters-in-law?" Guan Yu asked. "They are entrapped in the city," said Fei. Xuan De became silent and speechless. "It was you who demanded to guard the city. What did you promise us? What did our big brother instruct you to do? Now our city is lost; our sisters-in-law are drawn into a dangerous situation. What are we going to do?" Guan Yu stamped his foot and complained. Upon hearing Yu's words, Zhang Fei felt extremely ashamed of what he had done. He drew the sword with the intention of killing himself. Indeed:

Being cheerful and gratified, I drank wine to my heart's content!

But now how I wish I could draw the sword to kill myself for the drunken brawl!

Alas, it is too late for me to regret.

Want to know whether Zhang Fei would end his life or not? The answer will be told in the next chapter.

Chapter Fourteen XXXVIII

January 26, 2021

Let's resume our story. Cao Bao saw that Zhang Fei was escorted by a small retinue of around ten to twenty soldiers. He was trying to take advantage of Zhang Fei when Fei still had a terrible hangover, thus immediately leading a hundred men to pursue Fei. At the sight of Bao, Fei was greatly provoked. He patted his horse to face the challenge. After they fought against each other for three rounds, Cao Bao fled the scene of battle, with Fei in hot pursuit. Fei rushed to the river bank. He thrust at Bao's back with his halberd. Cao Bao fell into the river with his horse, and both were dead. Fei called his soldiers from the outside city. Those who went out of the city followed Fei to Huai Nan. Lu Bu entered the city to pacify the residents. A hundred soldiers were ordered to guard the entrance to Xuan De's dwelling place. Without authorization, no visitors allowed.

Chapter Fourteen XXXVII

January 25, 2021

While Zhang Fei was lying in a drunken stupor at home, his servants hurried to wake him up. They spoke to him in haste, saying, "Lu Bu cheated us to open the gates. He has killed our chieftains and already dashes in!" Zhang Fei flew into a howling rage. Immediately, he put on his armor and fetched his majestic serpent halberd. While he was just going out of the residence to mount his horse, Lu Bu had arrived with his troops. Bu was confronted with Zhang Fei, who had not fully recovered from his hangover. Fei, therefore, didn't have the strength to fight. Lu Bu knew that Fei was a brave warrior. He dared not press on him, either. The eighteen knights of Yan protected Zhang Fei to kill his way out of the east gate. They didn't even have time to save Xuan De's family and dependents from the residence.

Chapter Fourteen XXXVI

January 22, 2021

Bu followed his advice. He put on a suit of armor right away and then leapt on a horse, leading five hundred calvary men to set out first. Chen Gong was ordered to lead massive troops to advance afterwards and Gao Shun followed on. Xiao Pei was only forty to fifty miles away from Xu Zhou. They swiftly got there on horseback. At fourth watch, Lu Bu reached the foot of the walls. It was a moonlit night. The sky was very clear. However, the guards on the ramparts did not even notice that the crisis was imminent. "I am the messenger. I have carried secret messages from Governor Liu," Bu shouted at the gates. Cao Bao was immediately informed of this military situation by his soldier. He climbed to the ramparts and watched who was there. Then he ordered gate keepers to open the gates. Lu Bu gave the signal right away. A large number of soldiers flooded in. They made a decisive move in full cry.

Chapter Fourteen XXXV

January 21, 2021

The banquet was finally over. Cao Bao went back. He felt nothing but hatred for Zhang Fei. Immediately, he sent a messenger to deliver a letter directly to Xiao Pei by night. The messenger told Lu Bu that Zhang Fei had been so rude to Cao Bao. The letter went like this: "Xuan De has set out on Huai Nan. Tonight, by the time when Fei gets drunk, lead troops to attack Xu Zhou. Don't miss this chance." After Lu Bu read the letter, he discussed the feasibility of the plan with Chen Gong. "Xiao Pei is not our forever home. Since we have a chance to win Xu Zhou hands down, we should take action before it is too late," said Gong.

Chapter Fourteen XXXIV

18 January, 2021

Cao Bao had no alternative but to beg for mercy. "Sir Yi De, for the sake of my son-in-law, please forgive me for what I have done," said Bao. "Who is your son-in-law?" Fei asked. "His name is Lu Bu," Bao replied. "I wasn't going to beat you, but now that you mention his name to make threats against me. Then you are doomed to be beaten! To beat you, so to speak, is to beat Lu Bu!" Fei raged. People around couldn't stop him from striking Cao Bao. It was not until Bao had been flogged fifty times that the public flogging finally stopped due to the repeated intercession of guests with Zhang Fei.

Chapter Fourteen XXXIII

January 17, 2021

Zhang Fei drank a toast to all the officials. He tipped the wine into his big wine vessel himself and drank more than ten goblets. He drank far too much but stood up again to drink toasts to everyone. Then he drank to Cao Bao. "Truly, truIy I say to you. I don't drink," Bao said. "But you just took a drank. Why do you say no this time?" Fei insisted. Bao refused his toasts again and again. Fei was out of his senses after he got drunk. "You should be punished for disobeying orders. You deserve to be stricken a hundred times!" Fei raged. Immediately, he shouted at his soldiers to arrest him. "What did Governor Xuan De admonish you before he left?" Chen Yuan Long reminded him. "You are a civil servant, dealing with civil affairs only. Mind your own business! Don't you dare instruct me!" said Fei.

Chapter Fourteen XXXII

January 12, 2021

After Zhang Fei sent Xuan De to set out on his journey, he assigned Chen Yuan Long to manage the city. He himself was fully in charge of the administration of military affairs. One day, he held a banquet and invited all the officials to attend. After they took seats, Zhang Fei spoke to the guests, saying, "My brother bade me drink less before he left in case a series of mishaps might occur. However, today, just today, I want all of you to drink to your hearts' content but tomorrow let us abstain from alcohol, and you guys help me defend the city. Today, all the wine vessels must be full." After the speech, he rose to his feet and drank toasts to the officials. Then they passed the wine bottle to Cao Bao. "I don't drink wine in order to abide by the heavenly commandment," Bao said. "How can a fighter refrain himself from alcohol? I want you to drink a toast to me," Fei ordered. Bao was afraid of Fei's power so that he forced himself to drink a cup of wine.

Chapter Fourteen XXXI

December 27, 2020

Ji Ling, a native of Shan Dong Province, wielded a broadsword with three sharp points at one end. The weight of his weapon was about fifty kilograms. At the very day, he accused them of invasion, shouting, "Liu Bei! Country bumpkin! How dare you harass my territory!" "I have the edict from the son of heaven to punish those who abuse their power. Even the death penalty cannot redeem your sins if you dare to resist!" said Xuan De. Ji Ling's face was dark with rage. He harshly patted his horse and waved his broadsword in an aggressive way, threatening to knock down Xuan De without compromise. Guan Yu shouted at him, saying, "Don't you dare to throw your weight around!" He rode forth and battled against Ji Ling fiercely. They fought with each other for thirty bouts, yet neither side prevailed. Ji Ling yelled for timeout. Guan Gong pulled the rein to turn around and rode back to his array, waiting before the deployment. Ji Ling, however, sent Xun Zheng, his vice deputy, to replace him for the fight. "Ask Ji Ling to receive the challenges. Let's have showdown!" said Guan Yu. "Thou are merely an insignificant general without any fame. You are not a counterpart of General Ji!" replied Xun Zheng. Being provoked, Guan Yu rode straight forward to attack Xun Zheng. Both of them got into a fight for just a bout. Xun Zheng was killed by a slash and fell to the ground. Xuan De urged his troops forward to kill all the way. Ji Ling was put to rout. He retreated to the river mouth of Huai Yin and never dared wage war again. Occasionally, he would send solders to raid rival camp but their attacks were all frustrated by Xu Zhou troops, not to mention the frequent confrontations between these two opposing armies across the battlefield.

Chapter Fourteen XXX

December 18, 2020

When Yuan Shu knew that Liu Bei had submitted a missive with an intent to annex his territory, his wrath was kindled. "Thou are merely a fellow who used to earn a living by weaving mats and making sandals. Occupying such a large county, you are now evated to rank among the feudal princes. I am thinking of how to wage war against you, but you have already begun to contrive a plan to take hold of my land! I hate you! You're despicable," said Yuan Shu. Hence, General Ji Ling was ordered to rise in arms with a hundred thousand troops, heading for Xu Zhou to kill. Both armies met at Xu Yi. Xuan De's soldiers were less. They put up their tents by the mountain and along the river.

Chapter Fourteen XXIX

December 17,2020

"From now on, I shall stop drinking and never whip any soldier. I will seek advice before taking action," said Zhang Fei. "I am afraid you just pay lip-service," Mi Zhu said. "I have followed my elder brother's lead for so many years. I never break a promise. How can you look down upon me!" Fei raged. "You've made your point, my brother. However, I am still worried about you. Chen Yuan Long, will you please help me to look after my brother? Bid him don't drink too much wine in the morning and at night. Hopefully, nothing will happen," Xuan De commanded. Chen Deng agreed. After instructions, Xuan De led thirty thousand mounted troops and infantry to leave Xu Zhou and advance on Nan Yang.

Chapter Fourteen XXVIII

December 13, 2020

Immediately, Xuan De numbered the troops and was ready to set out a military expedition in a definite date. "We have to decide who can defend the city in advance," said Sun Qian. "Which one do you think is better to take overall responsibility for defense between my two brothers?" Xuan De asked. "I volunteer to undertake this task," Guan Yu said. "I need your advice from morning till night. How can I go without your company?" said Xuan De. "Your junior brother is willing to defend the city," Zhang Fei said. "No, not a chance. On the one hand, you behave very badly towards your soldiers after you get drunk. Hit them hard with a whip; on the other hand, you are a man who handles things recklessly. Never take other's advice. I can't trust you with the city," Xuan De said.

Chapter Fourteen XXVII

December 9, 2020

Xuan De in Xu Zhou heard the arrival of another messenger. He went outside the city walls to receive him. The messenger opened the edict and announced that troops must be dispatched to quell Yuan Shu. Xuan De took orders and then sent the messenger away. "It is Cao Cao's idea, again," said Mi Zhu. "Even so, the imperial order cannot be disregarded," Xuan De replied.

Chapter Fourteen XXVI

December 4, 2020

The next day Xuan De saw the messenger off to return to the imperial capital. Afterwards he submitted a missive to express thanks for royal favors. He also replied Cao's letter saying that he needed more time to contrive a plan and asked Cao to allow him to postpone the execution. The messenger went back to see Cao Cao and told him that Xuan De refused to kill Lu Bu with an excuse. "The scheme didn't work out. What are we going to do next?" Cao inquired of Yu. "I have another scheme, called 'Drive the Tiger to Devour the Wolf,'" Yu responded. "What is it all about?" Cao asked. "First, dispatch a messenger to exchange news with Yuan Shu's camp secretly. Inform him that Liu Bei has submitted a secret missive to invade Nan Commandery. When hearing this, Shu will be provoked to attack Bei. Illustrious Sir can order Liu Bei to raid Yuan Shu by decree. When both sides fight against each other fiercely, Lu Bu will certainly betray his ally and seize the chance to devour Xu Zhou. This is so called, 'Drive the Tiger to Devour the Wolf,'" Yu replied. Cao was pleased to hear that. He immediately sent a messenger to Yuan Shu's camp and then issued an edict on behalf of the son of heaven. The forged edict was sent to Xu Zhou by courier.

Chapter Fourteen XXV

December 1, 2020

Lu Bu expressed his thanks again and again. Bei asked him to stay. They had been drinking to their satisfaction until midnight. Then, Lu Bu went back. Guan and Zhang spoke to Bei, saying, "My brother, why don't you just kill Lu Bu?" "Cao Meng De fears that Lu Bu and I will join together to attack him. That's why he attaches a secret letter to the imperial edict. Hopefully, both of us will devour each other so that he can take advantage of our strife. How can I be taken in like a fool?" Xuan De replied. Guan Gong nodded approval. "All I want is to kill this rebel so that our troubles will be over!" said Zhang Fei. "This is definitely not a business that a man of honor will do," Xuan De said.

Chapter Fourteen XXIV

November 30, 2020

The next day, Lu Bu came to offer his congratulations to Xuan De, and he was admitted in. "I heard thou have received imperial favor. That's why I am here to say congratulations!" said Bu. Xuan De expressed his thanks humbly. Then Zhang Fei drew his sword and stepped forward up to the hall with the intention of killing him. Xuan De hurried to stop him. Bu was astonished, asking, "Yi De, why do you want to kill me?" "Cao Cao told us that you are a man without righteousness. He asked my brother to kill you!" Zhang Fei thundered. Xuan De kept shouting at him to retreat. Afterwards, he ushered Lu Bu to the back hall and told him everything. He took the secret letter which Cao Cao had sent to him and let Lu Bu read it by himself. After Lu Bu perceived the content of the letter, he burst out tears, saying, "That's the scheme which Cao Cao manipulates to drive a wedge between both of us!" "My elder brother, don't you worry about it. I swear I will never do such an unjustifiable action," Xuan De said.

Chapter Fourteen XXIII

27/11/2020

Let's proceed our story. Liu Xuan De heard that the emperor favored Xu Du as his imperial capital in Xu Zhou. He was about to present congratulations in writing. The advent of the messenger was reported. He went outside the city to welcome his coming and bowed low before him to receive the imperial grace. Then he prepared a banquet to entertain the messenger with courtesy and warmth. "With the help of General Cao, thou receive the grace today. You are highly recommended by him before the emperor," said the messenger. Xuan De expressed thanks. The messenger took the secret letter and handed it to Xuan De. After he read it, he said, "Allow me to think about it!" Then the banquet was over. The messenger was sent to the post house to repose. Xuan De immediately called a meeting at the very night. "Lu Bu is a man without any righteousness. What's wrong to kill this guy?" said Zhang Fei. "He came to offer services because he was pushed to the edge. If I kill him now, I will become the man without righteousness, too." Xuan De said. "It's not easy to be a good man!" Zhang Fei said. However, Xuan De refused to listen to him.

Chapter Fourteen XXII

21/11/2020

After Cao had settled all the personnel appointments, he held a banquet at the back hall of his residence, gathering all the advisers for a discussion. "Currently, Liu Bei's troops are stationed in Xu Zhou. He also manages the state's affairs as a governor. What is more, Lu Bu also offers service to Bei due to his recent defeat. Bei has arranged him to stay in Xiao Pei. If both of them collaborate together to take an offense, they will become a pain in the neck. Gentlemen, what excellent idea can you think of to deal with them?" said Cao. "Lend me fifty thousand crack troops to slash Liu Bei and Lu Bu. I will dedicate their heads as trophies to your Gracious," said Xu Chu. "Thou are truly brave, my general. However, you have no idea how to employ a plot. Xu Du is newly established as the imperial capital. It is better not to wage war in a hurry at the moment. I have an idea, called 'the Plot of Instigating Competition between Two Tigers for Food.' Currently, Liu Bei takes control of the administration of Xu Zhou, but he has not been officially announced by the mandate yet. Your Gracious can state to the imperial court to issue an edict for the authorization of Liu Bei as the Governor of Xu Zhou. At the same time, a secret letter will be given to him, directing him to kill Lu Bu. If this thing can be achieved, Bei will have no valor worrier around to assist him anymore. Then it will be easy for us to get rid of him step by step. If this thing can't be done, Lu Bu will definitely be instigated to take Bei's life. This is so called, 'the Plot of Instigating Competition between Two Tigers for Food,'" Xun Yu advised. Cao followed his words, immediately making his request for the imperial edict of appointment. Then he sent a messenger to Xu Zhou to present the edict to Liu Bei. Liu Bei was, therefore, appointed as the General Who Conquers the East and was created the Ranged Marquis of Yi City. Henceforth, he officially assumed office as the Governor of Xu Zhou. Meanwhile, a confidential letter was given to him.

Chapter Fourteen XXI

17/11/2020

Cao appointed himself Chief General and gave himself the title of Marquis Wu Ping. Xun Yu was appointed as Palace Attendant in charge of files and documents; Xun You, Counselor of Military Strategy; Guo Jia, Major in charge of wine offerings; Liu Ye, Secretary of the Master of Works; Mao Jie, General of the Gentlemen-of-the-Household Concerning Agriculture in charge of raising funds and collecting grain, and so did Ren Jun; Cheng Yu, the Chancellor of Dong Ping; Fan Cheng, the Prefect of Luo Yang, and so did Dong Zhao; Man Chong, the Prefect of Xu Dou. Xia Hou Dun, Xia Hou Yuan, Cao Ren and Cao Hong were all elevated to the rank of General; Lu Qin, Li Dian, Le Jin, Yu Jin, Xu Huang, the rank of Colonel; Xu Chu and Dian Wei, the rank of Chief Commandant. All the rest of general soldiers also received their official titles, respectively. Henceforth, power was solely concentrated in the hands of Cao Cao. All the state affairs must be reported to Cao first and then to the son of heaven.

Chapter Fourteen XX

10/11/2020

Cao Cao withdrew his troops back to camp. Man Chong ushered Xu Huang into the camp to meet Cao Cao. Cao rejoiced to see Man Chong and treated him with abundant grace. The imperial cavalcade, therefore, was received in Capital Xu Chang. All the construction works started. The palace and courts were built; the ancestral temple and sacrificial altar were established; the provincial administration hall and the government offices were renovated; the inner and outer city walls and treasuries for public funds were fixed. Dong Cheng and thirteen others were elevated to the rank of Marquis. Cao Cao was the one who had the power to decide who should be awarded and who should be punished.

Chapter Fourteen XIX

6/11/2020

While Yang Feng was pursuing Xu Huang, a blast was heard all of a sudden. The torches were lit up on the top and foot of the mountain. Ambush soldiers attacked on them from all sides by surprise. Cao took initiative to lead the troops, shouting, "I have been waiting here for quite some time. Don't you dare to go!" Yang Feng was astonished. He hurried to retreat but was already surrounded by Cao's forces. Fortunately, Han Xian took his troops to reinforce his fighting power. Both sides were sinking into the melee. Yang Feng seized the chance to escape from the confusion. Cao Cao took the advantage of such chaos among the rival troops to attack. Most soldiers at Yang and Han's command surrendered themselves to Cao. Yang Feng and Han Xian became isolated, thus leading their defeated troops to serve Yuan Shu.

Chapter Fourteen XVIII

4/11/2020

Huang pondered over his words. Then he sighed deeply. "I knew that Feng and Xian are not those who can achieve great business. However, I have served them for a long time. I cannot tolerate to leave them like this," said Huang. "Did you know that 'A superior falcon selects the best wood to perch; likewise, a virtuous chancellor chooses his warlord to serve'? If you happen to encounter a worthy warlord to work with, will you let the chance slip through your fingers? I don't think so! It is definitely not a man of honor will do," Chong urged. Huang stood up and expressed thanks to him. "I am willing to follow your words," he answered. "Why don't you kill Feng and Xian as an initiation gift before you go?" Chong proposed. "It is extremely unrighteous for a chancellor to kill his warlord. I shall never do such a thing," Huang said. "Thou are truly a patriot!" Chong praised. Following Man Chong by night, Huang led more than ten mounted soldiers under his sway to offer services to Cao Cao. Yang Feng had already been informed of this news. He flew into a rage and led a thousand troops to pursue Huang. "Xu Huang, ye traitor! Don't you dare to go!" Feng shouted.

Chapter Fourteen XVII

1/11/2020

At the very night, Man Chong disguised himself as a soldier, mixing with the rival troop and creeping to Xu Huang's tent. As Chong took a quick peep inside, he saw Huang fully armed and sitting by the candle light . Chong dashed in and bowed before him, saying, "My old friend, how's everything going?" It startled Xu Huang to find him appearing all of a sudden. Then he looked at him attentively. "Aren't you Man Bo Ning from Shan Yang? What brought you here?" he asked. "I am the Attendant Clerk of General Cao at the moment. Today, I saw my friend fighting in front of the battle array. Now I risk my life to see you only to speak a word to you," said Chong. Huang asked him to take a seat and inquired his purpose of coming. "Thy bravery and strategic mind can be rarely found in the world. Why do you make such great concessions for the purpose of accommodating the fellows like Yang and Han? General Cao is the hero of the contemporary world. He treats the wise and virtuous men with courtesy and generosity. It is a well-known fact. Today, in front of the battle array, he was impressed by your deeds of valor. Because of his admiration for you, he was reluctant to command his fine generals to battle against you to the last. Chong is thus assigned by General Cao as an envoy to invite you to serve in our camp. Mister, why don't you leave the darkness and come to the light so that we can accomplish the grand mission together?" said Chong.

Chapter Fourteen XVI

28/10/2020

Cao rode forward to see who was talking. At the sight of Xu Huang, he marveled at his awe-inspiring look. Then he ordered Xu Chu to fight against Xu Huang. Both of them were wielding their respective weapons of a sword and an axe against each other. After fighting more than fifty rounds, neither side prevailed. Instantly the gongs were clanging. Cao ordered his troops to withdraw. He called out his counsellors to discuss the situation in the aftermath of the battle. "Yang Feng and Han Xian are not worthy of attention at all, but Xu Huang is a true general of excellence. I cannot bear to attack him by full force. I have to think how to win him over by plot," said Cao. "My lord, don't you worry about it. I have met this Xu Huang once. Tonight I will disguise myself as an insignificant soldier to sneak up on his camp and persuade him with a plausible argument. I have confidence that he will devote himself to my lord," said Man Chong, the Attendant Clerk on the March. Cao sent him to undertake this task with delight.

Chapter Fourteen XV

25/10/2020

Cao gathered together all the counsellors to discuss the transfer of the capital in a secret meeting at the very day. Wang Li, the Palace Attendant and the Prefect of Grand Astrologer, spoke to Liu Ai, the Director of the Imperial Clan, in private, saying, "I have been observing the astrology for these years. Last spring after Venus offended Saturn around the Big Dipper and Altair and passed through Tan Jin Constellation, Mars reversed its course and met Venus in Zeta Tauri. When Venus reunites with Mars, a new son of heaven will appear. According to my observation, the fate of the Han dynasty is drawing to an end. There will be a new ruler rising from the lands of Jin and Wei." He also secretly reported on his findings to the Emperor Xian, saying, "Destiny has its course. The circulation of five elements will not always thrive. The element that replaces fire is earth. The kingdom which can replace the Han dynasty and govern the whole world should be Wei." When Cao heard his statement, an envoy was dispatched to admonish Li, saying, "We all know your Gracious remains loyal to the imperial court. However, the law of Heaven is mystical and deep. Spare your words. Don't talk too much!" Cao told everything to Yu. Yu said, "In the conceptual scheme of five elements, the Han emperors belong to fire so they seize the throne with the help of fire. Your Excellency belongs to earth and Hsu Du happens to be the same kind of element as my lord. If you can move to that place, you will be prosperous. Fire generates earth. Earth nourishes wood. It happens to match the advice given by Dong Zhao and Wang Li. There will be a star rising in the near future." Hence, Cao made up his mind. Next day he went to see the emperor and stated to him, saying "The east capital has long been bleak and desolate. It cannot be renovated any more. What is more, it is difficult for us to transport grain in a long distance, but Xu Du is close to Lu Yang. Its palaces and courts, money and grain, labor and goods can meet all our needs. Allow me to transport your Majesty to Xu Du! May your Majesty take my advice!" The emperor dared not to disobey his request. All the officials were intimidated by the power of Cao Cao, and no one dared to dissent from Cao's view. The date was selected for the emperor to set out the journey. Cao led the troops to guard and escort the emperor. All the officials were following along. Less than several miles after they had proceeded, they reached a high hill. A battle cry was suddenly given. Yang Feng and Han Xian took their troops to intercept the royal procession on their way to Xu Du. Xu Huang took initiative to advance, yelling, "Cao Cao, where are you going to take his Majesty under your surveillance?"

Chapter Fourteen XIIII

22/10/2020

Cao had a congenial talk with Zhao. He asked him further about state affairs. Zhao said, "Your Excellency has mobilized the righteous troops to crack down the rebellion, and then offer yourself to serve and assist the son of heaven. What you have achieved can be compared to the merits accomplished by the five powers of the Spring and Autumn period. However, different people have different minds. Those generals will probably not be willing to obey your commands. If you stay here, you will be put to considerable inconvenience. Only by the transfer of capital from Luo Yang to Xu Du can be deemed as the top policy. The imperial court has wandered from place to place for a period of time. Due to the newly return of the Sovereign to the capital city, the court is now looked upon by the people either from afar or near around with the hope of the stability of the dynasty. If you decide to transfer the capital once again, do not fail to live up to the people's expectation. The extraordinary businesses in the world must be achieved by the extraordinary people. The extraordinary merits are the result of the extraordinary business. May the general make a wise decision!" Cao held Zhao's hand and smiled to him, saying, "What you have just said finds an echo of my lofty aspirations! But now, Yang Feng's troops are stationed in Da Liang, and those chancellors are serving in the court. Will they oppose my proposal of transfer? " Zhao said, "Do not concern over these issues! First, write a letter to Yang Feng to pacify him and then tell those chancellors plainly that there is no food in the capital city. Therefore, the son of heaven must transfer to Xu Du, which is close to Luo Yang, the place for the transportation of food supply. The scarcity that the son of heaven experiences right now is caused by the remote distance of transporting food from place to place. When those chancellors hear such good news, they will surely accept your proposal with joy." Cao was overwhelmingly pleased. Zhao thanked Cao's hospitality and bade farewell. Cao held his hand again, saying, "Whatever Cao wishes to do, please give Cao your sound advice!" Zhao expressed his gratitude to him and then left.

Chapter Fourteen XIII

14/10/2020

One day, an emissary was dispatched to Cao's camp. Cao was summoned to appear before the emperor, who wanted to discuss the state affairs with him. When Cao heard that the messenger had arrived, he invited him to his camp and had a talk with him. The man had a fair complexion and was full of energy. "The eastern county was struck by famine this year. All the officials, soldiers and common people are thin and pale in appearance because of hunger. How come this guy looks so plump?" Cao wondered. Therefore, he asked the man, saying "Mister, you look healthy and plump. Can you tell me what the secret is?" "I have no secret, but I have had light diet for thirty years," the man replied. Cao nodded his head to show his approval. "What is your position right now?" Cao asked. The man replied, "After being recommended as a civil officer, I assumed the post of Attendant Officer of Yuan Shao and Zhang Yang. When I heard that the son of heaven returned to Luo Yang, I came to pay respects to the Sovereign and then was appointed as the Major Gentleman Consultant. I am a native of Ding Tao in Ji Yin. My name is Dong Zhao. You may address me Gong Ren, my courtesy name." Cao left his seat and bowed before him, saying, "I have heard of your illustrious name for a long time! How fortunate I am to meet you here!" Therefore, Cao arranged a feast for him in the tent of wine and introduced Xun Yu to him as well. Suddenly, a herald came in, saying, "A regiment of soldiers are now heading for east. I have no idea who they are." Cao immediately ordered someone to scout around. Dong Zhao said, "Here come Yang Feng and Han Xian. One is Li Jue's old general; the other, the White Wave Commander. Because of your Excellency's arrival, they decided to transfer their troops to Da Liang." "Can it be that they suspect my motivation?" Cao said. "They are the men without any strategic sense. Your Excellency, what are you afraid of?" Zhao said. Cao spoke again, saying, "What will happen to Li and Guo, these two rebels, after their departure?" Zhao said, "They are just like tigers without claws and birds without feathers. Soon after, they will be captured by your Excellency. There is nothing for you to worry about."

Chapter Fourteen XII

8/10/2020

The returned troops led by Cao Cao were still garrisoned outside the Luo Yang City. Yang Feng and Han Xian discussed with each other, saying, "Now Cao Cao has achieved such a remarkable accomplishment. He will get tremendous power in hands. How is it possible that he will tolerate both of us?" Admitted to see the emperor, they requested permission to transfer their army in search and execution of Jue and Si. Then, they made their section troops encamp in Da Liang.

Chapter Fourteen X

29/09/2020

Li Jue and Guo Si knew that Cao Cao came from afar. They proposed to adopt a blitzkrieg strategy. Jia Xu admonished them, saying, "Never, Cao's troops are strong and unyielding; his generals, brave. If we can surrender ourselves to him, the emperor might grant a general amnesty for all of us." Jue raged, saying, "How dare you discourage our battle spirit!" He drew his sword with intent to do away with Xu. All the generals helped settle the dispute. At that night, Jia Xu rode his horse and went back to his hometown alone.

Chapter Fourteen XI

5/10/2020

The next day, Li Jue's troops came to confront Cao's troops. Cao first ordered Xu Chu, Cao Ren and Dian Wei to lead three hundred iron steeds and dashed against Jue's battle array for three times. Then he deployed his army for immediate action. After Cao Cao completed all the military deployment, Li Xian and Li Bie, the nephews of Li Jue, rode forth before the array. Without letting them speak, Xu Chu galloped across the battlefield and slashed at Li Xian's head with a knife. Li Bie was startled and the leaned backwards, falling off the saddle. Chu by this chance cut off his head. He returned to the battle array, carrying the heads in both hands. Cao Cao patted and stroked Xu Chu's back, saying, "You are indeed my Fan Kuai, the savior!" Afterwards, Cao issued another order. He commanded Xia Hou Dun to take the troops to attack the enemies from the left wing and Cao Ren with his troops to fight against the enemies from the right wing. Cao himself directed the central army to charge at the enemy. Upon hearing the rolling of the drumbeat, three armies pressed on the rivals in unison. The rebel troops were unable to resist their attacks, They were put to rout and fled. Cao pulled his sword to secure the whole position in the battle by himself, leading the crack troops to pursue and kill the enemy by night. A large number of people were slaughtered, and countless rebel soldiers were willing to surrender themselves to Cao. Jue and Si were heading for the west to make their escape, wandering as a homeless cur from the bereaved family. They knew they had no place to go, so they went to the mountain to be bandits.

Chapter Fourteen IX

28/09/2020

The next day, Cao Cao arrived with his massive troops. After they made camp and settled down, Cao entered in the city to have an audience with the Sovereign. Cao paid homage at the foot of the steps in the palace court. The emperor commanded him to stand up and expressed his solicitude for him. Cao said, "I, your humble official, have received abundant national grace. Not even a moment dare I forget to repay your Majesty for your kindness. Now, the crimes committed by the thieves Jue and Si can no longer be tolerated by heaven. I have more than two hundred thousand crack troops at my command. They are capable of attacking the adversaries who oppose to the trend of the world and ensuring full compliance with the law. They are invincible. May your Majesty take care of yourself for the prosperity of the society." The title of Colonel Director of the Retainers was conferred on Cao Cao by the emperor. Cao was also authorized to mobilize the empire troops by the power of the tiger tally and served concurrently as the state secretary.

Chapter Fourteen VIII

25/09/2020

Instantly, Cao Hong, Li Dian and Le Jin came to see the emperor. After their names had been duly announced, Cao Hong stated to the emperor, saying, "My brother, Cao Cao, knew that the rebel troops would come around. He was afraid that Xia Hou Dun was unable to defend your Majesty alone. Therefore, he sent me to reinforce Hong's military presence to protect your Majesty. We sped up our expedition twice as fast as we could than we did in normal time." The emperor said, "General Cao is truly the chancellor of the whole society!" So, the emperor ordered them to travel with him in order to protect and guard him. A mounted scout came to report, saying, "Li Jue and Guo Si with advancing armies have marched in without any opposition." The emperor commanded Xia Hou Dun to divide his troops into two contingents to meet the challenges. Dun, therefore, separated from Cao Hong so that both of them could attack from the wings. The cavalrymen were sent to fight first and then the infantrymen came after. They exerted all their efforts to crush the rebellion. The rebel troops ended in a fiasco. More than a hundred thousand rebels were beheaded. Finally, they returned to the old palace, Luo Yang. Xia Hou Dun put soldiers to garrison on the outskirts of the city.

Chapter Fourteen VII

24/09/2020

Out of Luo Yang, they proceeded to a place where not even an arrow could be found but saw the sun covered with a cloud of heavy dust. The sound of gongs and drums shook the sky. A massive troops approached them. The emperor and empress were so scared that they could not utter a word. A rider on horseback suddenly appeared. He was the one who had been sent to Shan Dong as emissary. Walking to the imperial chariot, he bowed before the emperor and said, "General Cao mobilizes all the troops stationed in Shan Dong to respond to Your Majesty's decree. However, upon hearing that Li Jue and Guo Si are attacking Luo Yang, he immediately dispatches Xia Hou Dun as a forerunner to protect your Majesty. Along with him are ten top generals and fifty thousand crack soldiers." Now, the emperor felt much relieved. Soon after, Xia Hou Dun led Xu Chu, Dian Wei and others to do obeisance to the emperor and then performed the military salutes. After the emperor expressed his solicitude for them, he was informed that a regiment of soldiers had arrived from the east. The emperor hurried to order Xia Hou Dun to investigate who were coming this time. He returned with the news, saying, "They are Cao Cao's infantrymen."

Chapter Fourteen VI

20/09/2020

While the emperor stayed in Luo Yang, nothing was ready. The collapsed inner and outer walls had not been fixed yet. The emperor was notified of the arrival of Li Jue and Guo Si with their troops. He was shock and asked Yang Feng, "The emissary was sent to Shan Dong and has not returned yet. The troops of Le and Guo keep pressing on. What am I going to do?" Yang Feng and Han Xian said, "We are willing to battle it out against the thieves to protect Your Majesty." Dong Cheng said, "Our walls are not fortified. The number of our armored troops is barely enough. What if we lose the battle? What should we do then? It is better for us to escort His Majesty heading for Shan Dong to avoid the tribulation." The emperor followed his advice. They set out and advanced on Shan Dong right away. All the court officials had no horses to ride on. They could only follow the emperor on foot.

Chapter Fourteen V

14/09/2020

Let's resume our story from Cao Cao. After he realized that Emperor Xian had returned to Luo Yang, he called together his advisors for a council of war. Xun Yu went further, "In the past, Duke Wen of Jin State accepted the advice offered by King Xiang of Zhou to revenge his loss so that the whole feudal princes obeyed his commands; the Emperor Gao Zu of the Han Dynasty announced the death of Yi Emperor in obituaries so that he could win the support of the whole world; nowadays, the emperor was expelled from the capital, being treated as a prisoner. General, it is a rare opportunity for you to advocate the use of the troops of righteousness and to respect the son of heaven for the restoration of public confidence. If you do not take the initiative this time, someone will seize the chance to take action before us." Cao Cao was ecstatic about his advice. As he was going to collect himself for an attack, an imperial messenger presented the edict to summon Cao Cao for imperial audience. Cao received it with respect and got ready to mobilize his troops in no time.

Chapter Fourteen IV

12/09/2020

Yang Biao, the Grand Commandant, stated to the emperor, saying, " Though I already received the imperial decree from your Majesty, it has not been announced and put into practice yet. Now, Cao Cao is in Shan Dong. He possesses strong soldiers and great generals. It's time for your Majesty to summon him to serve in the court and assist royalty." The emperor said, "I have given you my permission by decree. I don't know why you bring it up again. Now, send someone to accomplish this mission." Biao received the order and immediately dispatched a messenger to Shan Dong to summon Cao Cao to an imperial audience.

Chapter Fourteen III-2

11/09/2020

The white snake was fatally wounded with its blood totally drained.

Scarlet banners overran the whole China with great ease.

In consecutive military coups, the Qin Empire was overthrown,

Leading to the construction of society.

Finally the boundaries of the Han Dynasty were established,

After the fall of Chu Zhui, the handsome piebald steed of Hsiang Yu, took place.

Emperor Xian was so weak that the wicked deeds arose.

The ancestral temples and society was no longer prosperous;

And the viciousness of assaults by the bandits and thieves was rampant.

Witnessing such catastrophic scenes,

Even an iron man who had no tears to shed could feel so poignant.

Chapter Fourteen III

10/09/2020

However, it happened to be the year of great famine. There were only hundreds of households left in Luo Yang City, and the citizens had no food to eat. They all went out of the city for food. They removed the bark off trees and pulled the grass up by roots to appease their hunger. According to the hierarchy of official ranks, every official from Master of Writing and downward went out of the town to collect firewood. Many of them were killed by the toppling of the ruined walls and broken fences. The fortunes of the end of the Han Dynasty was declining to such an extent that had never happened in history before. Future generations lament in a poem:

Chapter Fourteen II

9/09/2020

When the emperor entered in Luo Yang, he saw all the palaces and courts were burnt to the ground. The streets were desolate. He could see the artemisia grass grew everywhere. There were only broken fences and walls left in the palace and the courtyard. He ordered Yang Feng to build a small palace as his temporary abode. When the officials offered their congratulations to the emperor, they were all standing in the thorn bush. The emperor changed the title of his reign from the Prosperity of Stability to the Building up in Security. The first year of a new era was initiated.

Chapter Fourteen I

5/09/2020

Let's continue our story from Li Le, who was leading his troops to pursue the emperor but made a false accusation that it was Li Jue and Guo Si who were chasing after the royal carriage. The son of heaven was astonished. However, Yang Feng said, "I think it is Li Le who is pushing towards your Majesty." Xu Huang, therefore, was ordered to meet the challenge. Li Le went to fight in person. Both riders exchanged blows in just a bout. Xu Huang killed his opponent under the horse with a slash of an axe. The remnants dispersed quickly due to his violent attacks. Xu escorted and protected the royal carriage to pass through Ji Pass. Magistrate Zhang Yang carried millet and silk fabrics to receive the emperor at the Zhi Dao Pavilion. Therefore, the title of Commander-in-chief was conferred on Zhang Yang by the emperor. Yang, however, bade farewell to the emperor and then took his troops to garrison in Ye Wang.

Chapter Thirteen XXXIII.2

21/08/2020

The emperor was once attacked by the twin rebels from both sides,

And now he was surrounded in a siege by the trio of thieves,

Who merge their forces in one accord.

How did the son of heaven of the Han Dynasty escape from this tribulation? The answer will be told in the next chapter.

Chapter Thirteen XXXIII.1

19/08/2020

On the imperial order, Cheng and Feng were assigned to accompany the emperor to set out the journey. Li Le, on the other hand, secretly contacted Li Jue and Guo Si to abduct the royal carriage altogether. Dong Cheng, Yan Feng and Han Xian found out the scheme. They immediately arranged the corps to escort the royal carriage heading for Ji Pass. Without waiting for the reinforcements from Jue and Si, Li Le led his own division to pursue the emperor, upon hearing the news of the departure. After the fourth watch, he hurried to the foot of Ji Mountain, shouting, "Stop the royal carriage! Li Jue and Guo Si are here!" The Emperor Xian was trembling with fear. All of a sudden, the mountain was lit up with flames. Indeed:

Chapter Thirteen XXXII

16/08/2020

Now, let's proceed to tell our story from Han Rong who biased towards the thieves Jue and Si. Therefore, the two rebels followed his advice to release the palace officials and court attendants. It was the same year that a great famine struck. People had to seek edible wild vegetables to satisfy their hunger. The dead bodies of famine victims could be found everywhere. In order to meet the needs of royal family, Zhang Yang, the Magistrate of He Nei, provided rice and meat for the emperor to enjoy; whereas, Wang Yi, the Magistrate of He Dong, offered him silk and fabrics to wear . Hence, the emperor could be prevented from a terrible predicament. Dong Cheng and Yang Feng held a council and reached an agreement. A group of workers were sent to renovate the palace and courtyard in Luo Yang for the purpose of transporting the emperor back to the east capital. Li Le, however, refused to obey. Dong Cheng spoke to him, saying, "Luo Yang was originally the city selected by the son of heaven as the capital of the empire. An Yi is such a small piece of land. How is it possible that the royal family can be accommodated here? It is legitimate for the emperor to transfer to Luo Yang." Li Le said, "Thou and others may accompany His Majesty on the trip. I will stay here only."

Chapter Thirteen XXXI

15/08/2020

Han Rong went away. Then the emperor was invited by Li Le to Yang Feng's tent for a temporary stay. Yang Biao advised the emperor to settle in An Yi County. When the emperor moved to An Yi, they couldn't find a lofty building to receive him. Hence, both the emperor and the empress lived in a thatched cottage without a door to shield their privacy. A screen of thorns were stuck into soil around the house. The emperor and officials discussed the state affairs under the thatched roof. Generals led soldiers to crush the rebellion outside the fence. Li Le and others behaved dictatorially. Even a slightest offence would result in harsh corporal punishment and verbal abuse before the emperor. They also purposely provided the emperor with unfiltered wine and coarse food. The emperor forced himself to accept the food. Li Le and Han Xian submitted a petition to the emperor together. They recommended more than two hundred offenders including the criminals with tattoos on faces, private guards, witch doctors and people of the lower class for the posts such as colonels, secretaries, etc. Because the official seals were unable to be engraved in time, they used an awl to pierce designs on wood as substitutes which did not adhere to the system of promotion.

Chapter Thirteen XXX

14/08/2020

After they ferried to the other side of the river, there were only above ten servants accompanying the emperor. Yang Feng found a wagon pulled by oxen to carry the emperor to Da Yang. So far, they had not eaten anything yet. During the night, they boarded in a house with the roof of slate. The country folk served them rice made from millet with husks. When the meal was presented, the emperor and the empress were unable to swallow because the food was too coarse to dine. The next day, Li Le was appointed General Who conquers the North; Han Xian, General Who Conquers the East by decree. They escorted the emperor to set out in the royal carriage. Two chancellors found them before their departure. They bowed before the carriage and cried. One was Yang Biao, Grand Commandant; the other, Han Rong, Grand Coachman. The emperor and the empress cried with them, too. Han Rong said, "Thieves Jue and Si quite believe what I said. I am willing to risk my life to persuade them to suspend hostilities. Your Majesty, please take care of yourself."

Chapter Thirteen XXIX

13/08/2020

The crowd were wailing and weeping to follow along. Hu Cai was killed in the melee. Cheng and Feng saw the imminent threat of thieves. They urged the son of heaven to abandon his carriage and walked to the banks of Yellow River. Li Le and others sought a boat to ferry them across the river. It was during the rigors of a harsh weather. The emperor and empress barely managed themselves to climb up the shore. However, the side shores were too tall for them to take the boat. Moreover, the troops in pursuit were approaching. Yang Feng said, "We can loosen the reins of the horses. Tie them together as a rope. Bind up the emperor's waist on one end. Then let down the emperor by it so that he can safely land on the boat." Among the crowd appeared the empress's brother Fu De, who carried with him more than ten rolls of white silk fabrics. He said, "I have found these fabrics in the melee. We can tie them together as a rope to drag the imperial carriage." Shang Hong, Colonel of the Deployment of Military Forces, wrapped the fabrics around the emperor and the empress. He ordered the officers to let down the emperor first and then the rest people, one after another. Li Le leaned against his sword upon the prow. Fu De carried his empress sister descending slowly to the boat. Those who were unable to get on the boat from the shore strove to tear the cable. Li Le slashed them all so they fell into the water. After the emperor and empress were ferried across the river, the boat was rowed back to ferry the crowd who waited anxiously on the bank. Those who struggled to get on the ferry were cut off fingers. The wail of agony reached the sky.

Chapter Thirteen XXVIII

10/8/2020

At that time, Li Jue and Guo Si plundered and looted wherever they went. The old and weak were killed. The strong were forced to serve in the army. When they confronted the enemies, the civilians were driven to the front of the array. They were called, "a dare-to-die corps". The gangs of thieves exhibited a magnificent display of power. Li Le's troops arrived and were ask to assemble in Wei Yang. Guo Si ordered his soldiers to throw clothes and objects on the road. When Le's troops saw that the clothes were scattered everywhere, they hurried to pick them up. Hence, the troops were thrown into disarray. The scrimmages were fought from every side by the joint forces of Jue and Si. Le's troops ended in a rout. Yang Feng and Dong Cheng were unable to fend off their attacks so they escorted the emperor up to the north with the rebel forces in hot pursuit. Li Le's said, "We are at a critical moment. Your Majesty, please mount the horse and ride off first!" The emperor said, "I can't leave my officers and run away myself."

Chapter Thirteen XXVII

9/8/2020

Jue and Si had a discussion and then made a decision: "The victory can be achieved in the melee because their troops outnumber the imperial guards." Hence, Li Jue combated the enemies from the left; whereas, Guo Si fought the fight from the right. The joint forces were numerous as to cover the mountain and plain, pressing on the royal procession from everywhere. Yang Feng and Dong Cheng also fought to the last from both sides. The emperor and empress were just saved from danger, but all the officials and courtiers; documents and archives; articles and utensils used by the royal family were all left behind. Guo Si led his army to Hong Nong, plundering and looting as they went. Heading for Northern Shaanxi, Cheng and Feng protected the imperial carriage with Jue and Si leading divided troops in hot pursuit. On one hand, Cheng and Feng sent delegation to negotiate with Jue and Si for the peace agreement; on the other hand, a secret edict was sent by courier to call Han Xian, Li Le and Hu Cai, the former commanders of White Wave, to transfer their troops from the three respective locations under their domains to rescue the emperor. Li Le was also one of the bandits who gathered in woods in response to whistles and shouts. He was drafted into the army out of expediency. The commanders out of these three respective locations knew that the son of heaven was going to pardon their offenses and grant them official titles. Of course, they immediately responded to a call to arms. They broke camp to meet Dong Cheng for the joint attacks to recapture Hong Nong.

Chapter Thirteen XXVI

8/8/2020

After Guo Si lost the battle, he bumped into Li Jue on his way in full retreat. Si said to him, "Yang Feng and Dong Cheng went to rescue His Majesty and escorted him to Hong Nong . If they can make their way to Shan Dong, after they settle down, they will command the feudal princes to launch joint attacks against both of us and make their plan known to the world by degree. At that time, our parents, brothers and wives will perish." Jue said, "Now Zhang Ji's troops are allowed to be stationed in Chang An. They are not easy to mobilize at the moment. By this chance, our forces can join together and advance on Hong Nong to kill the Han emperor and then divide the world between you and me. Why not just do it?" Si approved of his plan in delight. The gangs combined to plunder and loot wherever they went. Yang Feng and Dong Cheng knew that rebel forces were coming from afar. They halted the troops on the march and returned to fight against them in East Brook.

Chapter Thirteen XXV

7/8/2020

Even though Guo Si had been defeated for a round, the next day, he numbered his troops and returned to fight to the rival camp. Xu Huang took initiative to confront the enemies; whereas, Guo Si's troops besieged the son of heaven and Yang Feng from every direction. At this critical moment, battle cry was suddenly given from the southeast region in a deafening loud sound. A general galloped forth on his horse while leading his troops to kill. The rebel forces were defeated and fled in disorder. Xu Huang took this opportunity to launch an attack and frustrated Si's army. The man who came to see the son of heaven was Dong Cheng, a relative of the emperor. The emperor complained tearfully that he had been unfairly treated. Cheng said, "Your Majesty, please don't worry about those things anymore. General Yang and I swear to slash Li Jue and Guo Si, these two thieves, in order to appease the world." The emperor ordered them to set out for the east capital as soon as possible. Hence, they travelled to Hong Nong all through the night.

Chapter Thirteen XXIV

5/8/2020

As they set battle in array, Cui Yong, Si's general, rode forth. He shouted at Yang Feng, "You are a rebel." Feng was provoked to wrath and turned to look at his array, asking, "Where is Gong Ming?" A general, with a huge axe in hand, galloped his reddish steed straight to attack Cui Yong. Both riders exchanged blows on horses for a bout. Cui Yong was hacked to death under the horse. Yang Feng seized the chance to attack the rival army by surprise. Si's troops, therefore, ended in failure, retreating twenty miles from the battlefield. Feng withdrew his army to see the son of heaven. The emperor spoke to him in appreciation, saying, "My beloved minister, you have saved my life. The merits that you have achieved are definitely not inconsequential!" Feng did obeisance to the emperor as a gesture to express his gratitude. The emperor asked, "Who hacked the rebel general?" Feng led the general to bow before the Sovereign, saying, "Xu Huang did it. His courtesy name is Gong Ming. He is a native of Yang County from the east bank of Great River." The emperor rewarded him with some material gifts. Yang Feng escorted the royal carriage to Huan Yin for the emperor's lodging. General Duan Wei offered food and drinks as well as clothes to the emperor. At that night, the son of heaven lodged in Yang Feng's camp.

Chapter Thirteen XXIII

3/8/2020

The two generals reported back to Guo Si, saying, "His Majesty has gone!" Si said, "I was trying to coax Zhang Ji and then abduct the son of heaven to Mei Wu again. How can you let him go without my approval?" Hence, both of them were beheaded. Si rose in arms to pursue the royal carriage. When the procession arrived in Hua Yin County, shouts behind shook the sky. Someone shouted, "The carriage ahead stays there and don't move!" The emperor spoke to his officials in tears, saying," I have just run away from the den of wolves, but now step into the mouth of a tiger. What am I going to do?" All of them turned pale. As the rebel troops drew near, the sound of drums could also be heard. A general appeared from the back of the mountain. In front of him stood a huge flag upon which was inscribed four words, "Great Han Yang Feng." He was leading thousands of troops to kill. Ever since Yang Feng had been defeated by Li Jue, he took his troops to station at the foot of Zhong Nan Mountain. Upon hearing the advent of the royal carriage, he came all the way to protect the emperor.

Chapter Thirteen XXII

2/8/2020

As the imperial carriage passed through Xin Feng and arrived in Ba Hills, it was the time of autumn. The howling wind blew all of a sudden. The battle cry was given unexpectedly. Hundreds of soldiers went up to the bridge to bar the way of the royal carriage. One of them harshly asked, "Who are you?" Yang Qi, the Palace Attendant, patted his horse and rode up to the bridge, saying, "His Majesty is in the royal carriage. Who dares block his way?" Two generals rode forth, saying, "By the command of General Guo, we are assigned to guard this bridge from the stealing of spies. If His Majesty is truly here as you said, we have to see him face to face so that we can take you at your word." Yang Qi raised the pearl curtain. The emperor said, "I am the Sovereign. My beloved all, why don't you retreat?" All the generals yelled long live the emperor and moved away to both sides so that His Majesty was able to proceed.

Chapter Thirteen XXI

1/8/2020

Xu secretly stated to the emperor, saying, "Li Jue is indeed greedy and without any tactic. Now the soldiers lack control and their hearts sink. We can entice him to fight for us by offering him high rank of nobility." Hence, the emperor issued an edict to appoint Jue Commander-in-Chief. Jue was delighted, saying, "This is the magic power that comes from the prayers of the witches to the deities!" The witches were greatly rewarded. However, the soldiers and generals gained nothing. Yang Feng, Chief Commandant of Cavalry, was very angry against Jue's partiality. He spoke to Song Guo, saying, "We risk our lives being shot dead by arrows and struck down by stones. How come our merits are inferior to the sorcery performed by the witches?" Song Guo said, "Why not kill this thief to save the son of heaven?" Feng said, "You set fire in the army as signal, and I will lead troops to join your forces from outside." Therefore, they made a deal to rise in revolt at second watch. Nevertheless, their conspiracy was exposed. Li Jue was told of their plan. Jue was wrathful. He ordered his subordinates to capture Song Guo and kill him first. On the other hand, Yang Feng was waiting anxiously outside for the fire signal with his troops. Unexpectedly, Li Jue led his army to fight and happened to encounter Yang Feng. Both sides were thrown in the melee. They fought against each other in the stockade until fourth watch. Feng could not prevail. He took his troops heading for Xi An. Henceforth, Li Jie's military forces declined. Moreover, Si frequently launched attacks against Jie's troops, leading to the heavy casualties of Jie's camp. Suddenly, a man came in to report, saying, "Zhang Ji has led massive troops from Shan Xi to our site, intending to be the peacemaker of both sides. He announced that if either side refuses to obey, he will strike them with his forces." Jue decided to do him a favor. He sent a messenger to Zhang Ji's camp to promise him of the reconciliation. Guo Si had no choice but to follow accordingly. Afterwards, Zhang Ji submitted the missive to the son of heaven, urging him to give Hong Nong the honor of his visit. The emperor was very pleased, saying, "I have yearned to visit the east capital for a long time. Now I have a chance to go back and take a look. It is indeed my great pleasure!" Hence, General-in-Chief of the Valiant Chivalry was conferred to Zhang Ji by decree. Ji provided food and wine to the court officers. Si released them all. On the other hand, Jue packed everything and arranged the royal procession bound for east. Hundreds of former imperial guards were provided for the visiting son of heaven. Every escort was armed with a halberd in hand.

Chapter Thirteen XX

Most of the Li Jue's troops were from Xi Liang. They relied heavily on Qiang's soldiers to reinforce their military presence. However, Huang Fu Li spread words overtly to them, saying, "Now, Li Jue rises in revolt. Those who dare follow him will be treated as the rebel forces. An endless flow of disastrous aftermath will occur one after another." Many Xi Liang People listened to Huang Fu Li's admonition. They were suffering from low morale. When Jue heard Huang Fu Li's remarks, he raged, thus sending Wang Chang, the Intrepid Tiger Warrior, to pursue him. Chang knew Huang Fu Li was a man of righteousness. He held the pursuit and let him go but only brought back a report, saying, "I have no idea where Li has gone!" Jia Xu secretly notified Qiang People, saying, "The son of heaven realizes how loyal and righteous you are, and how exhausted you feel due to the labor in such a long-lasting war. The secret edict states the you are allowed to go back to your county and will be abundantly rewarded afterwards." While complaining that Li Jue had never granted any noble rank or financial reward, Qiang's people decided to follow Xu's advice, heading homeward with their troops.

31 July, 2020

Chapter Thirteen XIX

Li Jue was beside himself with anger. He drew his sword and shouted, "Are you sent by the son of heaven to humiliate me? I shall cut your head off first!" Yang Feng, the Chief Command of Calvary, admonished him, saying, "Guo Si has not been eliminated yet. If you kill the messenger today, Si will have an excuse to attack us. All the feudal princes will help him to fight against us." Jia Xu also urged him not to act impulsively. Jue finally came to his senses. Hence, Xu drove Huang Fu Li out of the camp. Huang Fu Li thundered, "Li Jue refuses to receive the imperial command. He intends to commit regicide and establish himself!" Hu Miao, Palace Attendant, immediately stopped him, saying, "Please refrain from uttering such words! What's the benefit of arguing any longer?" Huang Fu Li rebuked him, saying, "Hu Jing Cai! Thou are also one of the imperial officers. How can you approve of his idea? 'Ministers die for the lord who is insulted.' If I am killed by Li Jue, it is my portion to die for my lord!" Huang Fu Li was shrieking abuse at Li Jue as they carried him off. When the emperor knew what had happened, he immediately ordered Huang Fu Li to return to Xi Liang.

July 26, 2020

Chapter Thirteen XVIII

Huang Fu Li came to see Li Jue right away, saying, "I am dispatched by the son of heaven to settle the disputes between you and Guo Si because I am also a native of Xi Liang as you. Si has already received the imperial edict and promised to act accordingly. What about you? What do you think of this proposal?" Jue said, "I have achieved great merits on defeating Lu Bu and accomplished distinguished deeds during my four-year assistance in managing the state affairs. These are the world-wide known facts. Guo Ya Duo is merely a horse thief. How dare he detain the imperial courtiers and compete with me? I swear I will put him to death! Now, take a look at how many counsellors and soldiers I have. Aren't those abundant enough to surpass Guo Ya Duo?" Huang Fu Li answered, "Not necessarily. In ancient times, Hou Yi relied on his archery instead of learning a lesson from his suffering. That's why he was destructed. Now, if we focus our attention on the contemporary time, how powerful Chancellor Dong used to be. You were also there to witness his prosperity. However, after Lu Bu was endowed a large sum of financial assistance by Dong Zhuo, he betrayed his master. In an instant, Dong's head was hung on the national gates. Therefore, our strength is not enough to guarantee our security. As the General of the Armies, you possess the tiger tally and battle axe. Both are the symbols of power. Moreover, your descendants and clan people enjoy high social rank. You are richly bestowed by the national grace. Indeed, Guo Ya Duo keeps the court officers in captivity, but you hold the Sovereign prisoner. Who is viler? You or Guo Ya Duo?"

July 24, 2020

Chapter Thirteen XVII

Shortly after, Li Jue came in with a sword by his side to see the emperor. The emperor's face turned to brown as the color of mud. Jue spoke to the emperor, saying, "Guo Si is disloyal to my lord. He detains the courtiers and intends to abduct Your Majesty. If I had not saved Your Majesty out of his hands, you would have already taken away by force." The emperor folded his hands in a bow to express his thanks. Jue went out. Then Huang Fu Li was received in audience by the Sovereign. The emperor knew that Huang Fu Li was very eloquent, and he came from the same county as Li Jue. Hence, he commanded him to settle the disputes between both sides by imperial edict. Huang Fu Li received the command and walked to Si's camp to talk to him about this issue. Si said, "If Li Jue agrees to free the son of heaven, I will release all the officials."

July 22, 2020

Chapter Thirteen XVI

Jia Xu happened to arrive when they were having a conversation. The emperor ordered the servants to retire. Then he spoke to Jia Xu in tears, saying "My beloved chancellor, would you please have a mercy on the Han Dynasty? Would you please save my life?" Xu bowed before the emperor, saying, "This is what I wish to do. Your Majesty, please say no more. I will come up with a plan to rescue my lord from imprisonment." The emperor stopped crying and expressed his thanks to him.

July 21, 2020

Chapter Thirteen XV

Let's procced our story from Li Jue. He liked to study sorcery and often invited the sorceress to his camp. She would beat the drum for the invocation to gods. Jia Xu constantly admonished him not to let this happen, but he refused to listen to him. Yang Qi, the Palace Attendant, secretly stated to the emperor, saying, "According to my observation, Jia Xu is indeed Li Jue's most trusted advisor. However, he never forgets my lord. Your Majesty must discuss with him to make a plan for the future."

20 July, 2020

Chapter Thirteen XIV

Yang Biao and Zhu Jun first gathered more than sixty court officials to visit Guo Si in his camp for the mission of reconciliation. However, Guo Si dared to keep all of them confined in his place. They said to him, "We came here for doing something good. Why do you treat us this way?" Si answered, "If Li Jue can abduct the son of heaven, why can't I detain you here?" Yang Biao said, "One takes away the son of heaven by force; one captures us as prisoners. What you two are up to?" Si was provoked. He drew his sword with intent to kill Biao. Yang Mi, the General of the Household for All Purposes, urged him to stay calm. Si, therefore, let go Yang Biao and Zhu Jun. The others were held in captivity in his camp. Biao spoke to Jun, saying, "I am the minister of the society. If I cannot assist and save our lord, what's the meaning of my life and what's the purpose of my birth in this world?" After Biao finished his words, he embraced Jun and cried himself to lose consciousness to the ground. Jun returned home and felt seriously ill. He died soon after. Henceforth, Jue and Si fought daily at close quarters for more than fifty consecutive days. The dead were numerous.

July 19, 2020

Chapter Thirteen XIII

All of a sudden, a guard came in to report the impending danger, saying, "A contingent of mounted soldiers are now heading for us to rescue the emperor. Their sabres are sharp, sparkling in the sunlight, and the rolling drums shakes the sky." The emperor asked who could that be. He was informed that it was Guo Si who came to his aid. The emperor felt worried after he heard the news . Outside the fort, the battle cry was given. Li Jue with his troops was fighting against Guo Si. He pointed his whip at Guo Si and reproached him, saying, "I have treated you quite well. How could you murder me?" Si replied, "You are a rebel. How can I spare your life!" Jue said, "I am here to protect and guard the Sovereign. How come that I will turn out to be a rebel?" Si said, "What you are doing right now is called abduction not protection!" Jue went on, "Needless to say more! I challenge you to a dual. The one who wins the fight can take the emperor away." Therefore, both of them combated fiercely in front of the battle arrays. After ten rounds, they were still equally matched. Now Yang Biao patted his horse to ride forth and spoke in a loud voice, saying "Generals, would you please take a rest for a while? I have invited all the officials to reconcile both of you." Hence, Jue and Si returned to each camp, respectively.

July 18, 2020

Chapter Thirteen XII

Guo Si's soldiers finally arrived. Li Jue went out of the camp to meet the challenge. Si's soldiers could not overcome the adversaries. He temporarily retreated from the battle. The emperor and empress were transferred to Mei Wu by their carriages. It was Jue's idea. He also let his nephew Li Xian to keep them under escort . Then, he suspended the duty of the herald. Food and drinks were barely enough. The attendants looked ghastly pale because of the hunger. The emperor ordered his retinue to ask Jue for rice of five hu measurements and five skeletal beef bones to be dispensed to his attendants. Jue raged, "The meals are regularly served day and night. What more can you ask for?" Therefore, he fed them with decaying meat and rotten food which were too smelly to swallow. The emperor cursed him, saying, "How dare the rebel mistreat and cheat me!" Yang Biao, the Palace Attendant, immediately stated to the emperor, saying, "Jue is brutal and cruel. Under the circumstances, Your Majesty, please bear with it for the moment. Do not offend him as to blunt his thrust!" The emperor lowered his head and spoke nothing. His eyes filled with tears. The sleeves of his robe were, therefore, wet with tears.

July 16, 2020

Chapter Thirteen XI

Ever since Emperor Guang Wu had restored the glory of the Hay dynasty after its decline,

The genealogy was divided into two ages.

From Emperor Gaozu to Emperor Guang Wu, twelve generations;

From Emperor Guang Wu to Emperor Ling, twelve generations;

However, during the reign of Huan and Ling,

The emperors were tyrannical in state operations,

Leading to the degradation of the ancestral temple and the society.

Eunuchs abused the state powers,

Drawing the national destiny to an end.

Without any strategic scheme,

He Jin took the position of Three Excellencies.

Intending to do away with the mice in power,

He summoned the crafty warlords to assist him.

Hyenas and otters were indeed banished, but tigers and wolves intruded.

Rebellious bandits from Xi Zhou produced licentious brutality.

Wang Yun, with a heart of sincerity and loyalty,

Entrusted his plan to a young beauty,

Bidding her drive a wedge between Dong and Lu.

By the eliminating of the chief criminal Dong Zhuo,

The world was in peace again.

Who would expect that Li Jue and Guo Si harbored the grudge and rose in revolt?

Who had an idea to deal with the bleak and desolate landscape appeared on the holy land?

Six Palaces were struck by famine.

The court worried the outbreak of another warfare.

People were not in one accord; the fate was unknown.

The nation was divided into different regimes by the warlords.

Future kings should take the history past as a lesson,

To maintain the integrity of the national territory,

As to keep a golden goblet intact.

During the wartime, people were suffering from moral degeneration.

Martyrs sacrificed their lives to save the country.

The reduced territories were filled with the souls of animosity.

As I read the historical records left by the ancients,

The scenes were full of pathos.

I saw the grain was all over the place.

I hated to leave, but the country had been subjugated.

The king lords should learn from the deeply rooted mulberry tree,

To lay the solid foundations of the kingdom and society.

Who could hold the treasured sword Tai E to maintain the dignity of laws and institutions?

July 7, 2020

Chapter Thirteen XI

Li Xian, Jue's nephew, took the troops to surround the imperial palace and arranged the son of heaven and Empress Fu to be transported by two separate carriages. Jia Xu and Zuo Ling were keeping the imperial carriages under surveillance. As for the rest of the court attendants, they followed along on foot. While the imperial procession made its way out of the rear gate, they happened to encounter Guo Si with his army. Instantly, arrows were shot from different directions. Countless court attendants were shot dead. Li Jue came to attack them by surprise afterwards. Guo Si's troops were thus forced to retreat. The carriages carried the emperor and empress out of the city despite the danger. Without any explanation, they drove the royal family to Li Jue's camp. On the other hand, Guo Si led the troops to the palace, looting and pillaging the court ladies back to his camp, and then set fire to the palace. When Guo Si knew that the son of heaven had been abducted by Li Jue the next day, he took his troops to Jue's camp to wage a battle against him. The emperor and empress were both terrified. The future generations laments in the poem:

July 7, 2020

Chapter Thirteen X

One day, after the morning rally was over, Li Jue invited Guo Si to his home to enjoy a feast. It ended late at night. Si returned home while intoxicated. A severe pain in the stomach suddenly seized him. His wife said to him, "You must be poisoned!" She immediately forced him to drink the liquid waste matter passed from the animal body. After he had vomited up his supper, he felt much better. "Li Jue and I carefully map out a plan for our grand ambition. Today, he murders me without any reason. If I do not launch a pre-emptive strike, I will be poisoned to death one day," Si raged and protested. Hence, he secretly mustered the armed soldiers of his military section to attack Li Jue. Jue had already been informed of Si's military action. He also raged, "How dare you, Guo Ya Duo, to betray me!" Likewise, he also gathered and numbered the armed soldiers of his military section to fight against Guo Si. Both sides took advantage of the pitched battle under the city walls, looting and plundering as they went.

July 5, 2020

Chapter Thirteen VIIII

After several days, Guo Si was about to attend a banquet held in Li's official residence. His wife said, "Jue's character is very unpredictable. Besides, both of you are not equally matched in the official rank. If he intends to poison you after a couple of drinks, what am I going to do?" Si's wife urged him to stay home, but he refused to listen to his wife's advice. In the evening, Jue had someone send wine and delicacies for them to enjoy. Si's wife secretly put poison in the first dish before it was served. When Si was going to dine, his wife spoke to him, saying, "The courses of the meal are catered outside. How can you eat without caution?" Therefore, they let the dog try the food first. The dog was immediately killed by poison. Henceforth, Si became suspicious of Jue's behavior.

July 4, 2020

Chapter Thirteen VIII

Hence, the emperor secretly allowed Yang Biao to carry out his plan by decree. Biao asked his wife to make an excuse for a special visit to Guo Si's wife in Guo's official residence. During her visit, she seized a chance to inform Si's wife, saying, "Rumor has it that General Guo and Madam Lee have a love affair and have developed into an intimate relationship. If the Commander-in-Chief knew what happened, your husband would be in jeopardy. Madam, you should refrain from seeing each other again." Si's wife was very surprised, saying, "No wonder my husband spent nights away from home recently, how could he do such a shameful thing. If you were not to disclose this secret to me, I would never be able to know the truth. I should be more careful to prevent it from happening again!" Afterwards, Biao's wife asked for leave to go home. Si's wife expressed her thanks to her repeatedly and then bade farewell.

July 3, 2020

Chapter Thirteen VII

Let's proceed our story from Cao Cao. After the conquest of Shan Dong, he stated his merits and achievements to the imperial court in a written report. Therefore, he was appointed the General Who Establishes the Paragon of Virtue and Marquis of Fei Ting. Meanwhile, Li Jue was self-appointed Commander-in-Chief; Guo Si made himself General-in-Chief. Both of them acted tyrannically and showed no fear. No one in the court dared question their commands. Yang Biao, Grand Commandant, and Zhu Jun, Grand Minister of Agriculture, secretly stated to Emperor Xian, saying, "At the moment, Cao Cao possesses more than two hundred thousand troops. Dozens of advisors and generals are working at his command. If we can gain this man to support our society and eliminate the villainous party, it will be a blessing to the world!" Emperor Xian wept to say, "I have been bullied by those two rebels for a long period of time. How fortunate it will be if they can be executed!" Biao stated to the emperor, saying, "Your Majesty, I have an idea. Drive a wedge between two of them first and then issue a decree to Cao Cao, ordering him to lead troops to kill them and sweep away the rebel party for the stability of the imperial court." Emperor Xian asked, "How are you going to carry out your plan?" Biao replied, "I have heard that Guo Si's wife is the most jealous woman of all. We can find someone to manipulate the flaw of her character to sow discord in Guo's family, thus leading to the internal fight between these two thieves."

July 1, 2020

Chapter Thirteen VI

Afterwards, Lu Bu said his farewells. He spoke to Xuan De, saying, "I am grateful that you, my lord, do not forsake me. However, I am afraid that your younger brothers are not able to get along with me. I have to leave here and seek shelter in other places." Xuan De said, "General, I have sinned against you if you leave me like this. My brothers are stubborn. I am sorry for their offensive attitudes towards you. I will surely ask them to apologize for what they did to you. There is a town named Xiao Pei just nearby. It used to be the place for my troops to be stationed. General, if you do not detest such a shallow and narrow location, it will serve as your temporary abode for you and your horses to rest. What do you think about this arrangement? As for the food and fodder as well as military provision, I will be fully responsible for supplying all your needs." Lu Bu thanked Xuan De for his kindness. He led his troops to take shelter in Xiao Pei. Xuan De also went back to his place, not to mention how he complained about Zhang Fei to make trouble without a cause.

30 June, 2020

Chapter Thirteen V

The next day, Lu Bu invited Xuan De to the feast in return for his favor. Xuan De took Guan and Zhang with him to attend the banquet. As they were in an alcohol haze, Bu led Xuan De to the back court. Guan and Zhang immediately followed along. Bu ordered his wife and daughters to do obeisance to Xuan De. He repeatedly yielded to their act of submission from modesty. Bu said, "My virtuous younger brother, do not humble yourself anymore." Upon hearing it, Zhang Fei glared at him with anger, shouting, "My brother is the jade leaf growing from a golden branch. Who are you daring to call my elder brother your virtuous younger brother? Come, let's fight against each other three hundred rounds!" Xuan De immediately stopped him by a shout. Guan Gong urged him to go away. Xuan De continued to talk to Lu Bu in a friendly manner, saying, "My younger brother is good for nothing, speaking recklessly after a couple of drinks. My elder brother, please don't blame and reproach him for being rude!" Bu was silent. In an instant, the feast was over. Bu escorted Xuan De on his way out of the door. Zhang Fei, however, sped up on horseback, holding his weapon in a horizontal position. He roared, "Lu Bu! I dare you combat me for three hundred rounds!" Xuan De asked Guan Gong to stop the fighting at once.

June 29, 2020

Chapter Thirteen IV

Xuan De led the congregation thirty miles out of the town to receive Lu Bu. Both of them rode horses side by side and entered the city. When they reached the state office, they exchanged the greetings of courtesy. After the ceremony, both of them sat down. Bu said, "Even since Minister Wang and Bu plotted to kill Dong Zhuo, I have experienced the revolt led by Li Jue and Guo Si and then drifted alone to Guan Dong. Most feudal princes could not tolerate my behavior. Recently, Thieve Cao was very vicious to invade Xu Zhou. It was you who exerted great efforts to save Tao Qian and Xu Zhou from his plunder. Meanwhile, Bu divided his forces by raiding Yan Zhou. However, I never thought that I would be trapped by his crafty scheme, leading to my tremendous loss in troops and resources. Now, I come here to seek your patronage and hopefully can make a plan with you for our grand future. Do you agree on my proposal?" Xuan De said, "Governor Tao just passed away. No one takes control of Xu Zhou so I take over the state affairs for the time being. Fortunately, General, you drop in on me. It is feasible to let you govern Xu Zhou." Then Xuan De fetched the official dispatches and seal and then handed them to Lu Bu. Bu was about to take those objects but saw that Guan and Zhang behind Xuan De' back starred at him with angry countenances. Bu flashed him a false smile and said, "Lu Bu is just a combatant. What qualifications do I have to be a state governor?" Xuan De yielded those objects to Lu Bu again. Chen Gong said, "'The dominant guest will not usurp the place of the host.' My lord, don't suspect our motives in offering services to you!" Xuan De, therefore, halted. He set a feast to entertain his guests and cleaned a house with a courtyard for them to stay.

June 26, 2020

Chapter Thirteen III

Xuan De was informed of Lu Bu's arrival. He said, "Bu is the heroic warrior of the contemporary world. Let's go outside to welcome our visitor." Mi Zhu said, "Lu Bu is a man as brutal as a tiger and a wolf. We cannot receive him; otherwise, he will harm all of us." Xuan De said, " If Lu Bu had not raided Yan Zhou, how could the disaster here have been narrowly averted? Today, he is willing to offer his services to me because he is in poverty. How is it possible that he will betray me?" Zhang Fei said, "My brother, you are such a kind person. However, to take precautions is also needed."

25 June, 2020

Chapter Thirteen II

Let's talk about Yuan Shao in Ji Zhou. When he learned the news that Cao Cao had confronted Lu Bu for a period of time, the advisor Shen Pei spoke further to him, saying, "Lu Bu is as ferocious as a leopard and a tiger. If he obtains Yan Zhou, he will plot to take possession of Ji Zhou. Under the circumstances, how about let's help Cao attack Lu Bu so that our tribulation can be avoided?" Shao followed his advice. He assigned Yan Liang to undertake this task. Fifty thousand crack troops and generals were dispatched to assist Cao Cao. When the spy got the information, he immediately delivered the message to Lu Bu at full speed. Bu was shocked and called a meeting with Chen Gong. Gong said, "I have heard that Liu Xuan De just took the position of Xu Zhou Governor. You may seek employment and protection from him." Bu followed his advice and went to Xu Zhou.

June 24, 2020

Chapter Thirteen I

Let's resume our story from Cao Cao who achieved a landslide triumph over Lu Bu in the battle of Ding Tao. Bu summoned his defeated and remnant troops by the seashore. All the generals gathered and vowed to battle against Cao Cao again. Chen Gong said, "We shall not compete with Cao Cao on the battlefield at the moment. The force of his troops is enormous. Now, we shall find shelter for protection first. Sooner or later, we will avenge our loss." Bu said, "I am planning to offer my services as a military officer to Yuan Shao again. What do you think?" Gong spoke to him, saying, "You may send a messenger to Ji Zhou to enquire about the feasibility of your plan and then you can go." Bu followed his advice.

June 23, 2020

Chapter Twelve XXIIII

On the other hand, as Lu Bu was trying to escape, he ran into his generals on their return from the battlefield and also found Chen Gong in retreat. Bu spoke to them, saying, "Though only a small proportion of the fighting force remains, I still believe I can destroy Cao Cao." Therefore, he mustered the remaining troops for launching a counter-attack against the rival army. It is well said, "Success or failure is nothing but a common thing; the defeated troops may probably obtain a triumph after they rearm!" Want to know whether Lu Bu would succeed or fail this time, the outcome can be learned in the next chapter.

June 19, 2020

Chapter Twelve XXIII

Let's proceed our story from Lu Bu who went back to his camp and told Chen Gong what had happened to him. Gong said, "Cao is very scheming. He is not an enemy we should take lightly." Bu said, "Let me attack him with fire. His ambush soldiers will be quickly destroyed." Therefore, Chen Gong and Gao Shun were left to garrison the city. The next day, Bu led a huge number of troops to raid Cao Cao. He saw the flags were fluttering in the forest from afar, so he pressed his troops to move forward and set fire to the forest on four sides. However, no one escaped from there. When he was about to set fire to the stockade, the sound of drumbeats was loudly heard, which made him hesitate to proceed. Suddenly, a regiment of soldiers appeared from the stockade. While Lu Bu spurred his horse to move faster to the spot, the bomb exploded. All the ambush soldiers showed up behind the dikes and marched on. There were Xia Hou Dun, Xia Hou Yuan, Xu Chu, Dian Wei, Li Dian and Le Jin galloping across the dikes to kill. Lu Bu knew that he was unable to compete with them all. He escaped in a hurry after defeat. Cheng Lian, Bu's vice general, was shot dead by an arrow. Nearly one third of his troops were lost. A defeated soldier reported the news of the rout to Chen Gong. Gong said, "An empty city is difficult to defend. It is better for us to retreat as soon as possible." Therefore, Gong and Gao Shun forsook Ding Tao City and protected Lu Bu's family to run away from there. Cao Cao led the triumphant soldiers to fight all the way to the city with overwhelming momentum. Zhang Chao burnt himself to death; whereas, Zhang Miao fled from the battle to seek protection from Yuan Shu. Henceforth, Cao Cao occupied all the land of Shan Dong Province, not to mention how he stabilized the people and fortified the city.

June 18, 2020

Chapter Twelve XXII

When Cao realized that Bu's troops had withdrawn, he spoke to all the generals, saying, "Bu must have suspected an ambush in the woods. We can set more flags there so that he will become even more suspicious of this condition. Along the river dikes, west to the stockade, no water can be found. Arrange more crack soldiers to lie in ambush. Tomorrow, Lu Bu will definitely come to burn the forest. The soldiers who crouch along the dikes can intercept his retreat. Bu will be captured this time." Therefore, only fifty drummers were left in the stockade to beat the drums. The men and women who had been taken captive from the village were also kept in the stockade to make shouts. Most of the crack soldiers were lying in ambush, waiting for the adversaries.

June 17, 2020

Chapter Twelve XXI

Bu cursed him harshly, leading his troops to Ding Tao in a rush. Chen Gong hurried to open the east gate in order to protect Lu Bu's family to run away from the city. Cao, therefore, gained Pu Yang at his command, and he forgave the sins which Tian Shi had committed. Liu Ye spoke to Cao, saying, "Lu Bu is a ferocious tiger. The adversity he encountered today is just temporary. We cannot make concessions to him." Cao ordered Liu Ye and the rest to guard Pu Yang. He himself dashed Ding Tao with his troops. Now, Lu Bu, Zhang Miao and Zhang Chao were stationed in the Ding Tao city. Gao Shun, Zhang Liao, Zang Ba and Hou Cheng went out fishing while making a regular patrol and hadn't returned from sea yet. Though Cao's troops arrived in Ding Tao, they didn't wage any battle for serval days. Instead, he led his troops forty miles away from the city and made stockade. It was the time that crops ripened. Cao immediately ordered his soldiers to cut and gather crops as food. A spy gave Lu Bu information about what Cao Cao had done. Bu headed his troops to the fields. When they approached to Cao's stockade, Bu saw a huge patch of luxuriant forest on the left. In fear of ambush soldiers lying there, he withdrew his army and returned to the camp.

June 16, 2020

Chapter Twelve XX

Cao Cao regained control of Yan Zhou. Cheng Yu volunteered to advance on Pu Yang and launch an onslaught. Therefore, Cao issued the following orders for the military operation: Xu Chu and Dian Wei were appointed as the vanguard; Xia Hou Dun and Xia Hou Yuan were assigned to the left army; Li Dian and Le Jin were assigned to the right army; Cao himself commanded the central force; Yu Jin and Lu Qian reinforced the rearguard. When Cao's troops arrived in Pu Yang, Lu Bu impetuously decided to meet and attack the adversary in person. Chen Gong admonished him, saying, "Don't engage the enemy forces now. Wait until all the generals gather together and then make an attack." Lu Bu said, "Whom am I afraid of?" Therefore, he refused to listen to Gong's advice and insisted on leading his troops to fight. He put his spear in a horizontal position and challenged the enemy to battle. Xu Chu rode forth to deal with him. After twenty bouts, neither party could beat the opposing side. Cao said, "Lu Bu cannot be overcome by a single man." He demanded Dian Wei to reinforce Xu Chu. The joint team attacked Lu Bu from both sides. Xia Hou Dun and Xia Hou Yuan advanced on him from the left wing; whereas, Li Dian and Le Jin approached him from the right wing. Six of them besieged Lu Bu to try to strike him down. Bu was unable to fend off their blows and turned his horse to dash back to the city. From above the city wall, Tian Shi saw that Lu Bu retreated from the battlefield. He hurried someone to raise the drawbridge. "Open the gates!" Bu roared. "We have already surrendered to General Cao," Tian Shi answered.

June 12, 2020

Chapter Twelve XVIIII

Cao Cao withdrew his troops after the triumph. Cao Ren and Xia Hou Dun came to receive Cao and told him that a spy passed on a piece of secret information to them. They said to him, "The troops in Yan Zhou have been dispatched by Xue Lan and Li Feng to plunder and loot. The city right now is empty. Now it's time to lead the triumphant army to conquer Yan Zhou in an overpowering attack." Therefore, Cao commanded his troops to dash off and attack Yan Zhou directly. Xue Lan and Li Feng didn't expect their sudden arrival. They had no other alternative but to lead the troops out of the city to meet the challenge. Xu Chu said, "I am willing to take both of their lives as a gift offered to your Excellence for our first meeting." Cao was very pleased and ordered him to fight. Li Feng wielded his spear with two crescent blades to fight against his rival. They exchanged blows on horseback twice. Then Li Feng fell off the horse and was killed by Xu Chu. Xue Lan rushed back to his own array. Li Dian intercepted his way by the drawbridge. Xue Lan was frightened of going back to the city, thus leading his troops to Ju Ye County. However, Lu Qian rushed the site at a gallop and shot an arrow at Xue Lan who fell off the horse and was found dead. The troops scattered.

June 11, 2020

Chapter Twelve XVIII

The warrior spoke to Cao, saying, "I am a native from Qiao County of Qiao Country. My name is Xu Chu and can be courteously called Zhong Kang. Due to the upheavals caused by the rebellion, I mustered hundreds of my clan people to build high walls along the entrenchment in order to fortify my fort against the threat of invasion. One day, the rebel soldiers arrived. I asked my people to collect as many stones as possible for attacks. I slung the stones to strike the rebel forces in person. None of the shots failed, so the rebels withdrew. Another day, they came to raid us again. We had no food left in the entrenchment. Therefore, I made a truce with the rebel leaders to exchange the plow oxen for rice. They agreed. After we took the delivery of rice, we drove the agreed oxen out of the entrenchment. The oxen were frightened and went back. At the sight of it, I dragged these two oxen by tails with both of my hands, striding backwards more than a hundred steps. The thieves were all stunned and too scared to take the oxen away. This area, thus, was safe again." Cao said, "I am aware of your reputation for being brave. Are you still willing to surrender?" Chu said, "This is all I ask for!" He assembled his clan to surrender. More than hundreds of people gathered. Cao then appointed Xu Chu as Chief Commandant. Chu was highly rewarded; whereas, He Yi and Huang Shao were beheaded. The riots in Ru Nan and Ying Chuan finally appeased.

June 9, 2020

Chapter Twelve XVII

Next day, the warrior challenged to fight again. Cao saw this man was awe-inspiring to behold. Therefore, he was secretly pleased in his heart. Cao bade Dian Wei feign defeat today. Wei received his command to combat his rival. After they fought thirty bouts, Wei feigned defeat as Cao Cao had told him and then turned around to go back to his military array. The warrior rushed his rival array but was forced to retreat due to the arrows shot by archers and crossbowmen from the other side. Cao quickly withdrew the troops five miles away from the battlefield, secretly ordered someone to dig a deep pit and then arranged soldiers with hooks lying in ambush. Next day, Dian Wei was ordered to lead a hundred mounted troops to challenge the warrior again. The warrior laughed, saying, "How dare you challenge me again, my defeated general?" He leapt his horse to receive the challenge. Dian Wei roughly fought against him for several rounds and then turned his horse to run away. The warrior found his enemy's intent and then followed along. Without being cautious, he fell into the pit with his horse. He was hooked and tied up to see Cao Cao. Cao shouted at his soldiers to leave them alone. He untied the rope for the warrior in person and hurriedly fetched a robe to put it on him. He invited the warrior to sit and asked his native place and name.

June 8, 2020

Chapter Twelve XVI

Now, Dian Wei pursued He Yi all the way to the Ge Slope. The warrior led the army to stop his way. Dian Wei asked, "Are you one of the rebel soldiers in the Yellow Scarves Rebellion?" "Hundreds of rebel horsemen were captured and now kept in the entrenchment!" the warrior replied. "Why don't you offer those captives to me?" Wei said. "If you can win the treasured knife in my hand, I will surrender those captives to you!" the warrior answered. Wei was furious, raising his twin spears to fight against him. The battle went on from the fifth watch to the eighth watch, but neither side could surpass the other rival. They decided to stop fighting for a while and had a rest. Shortly afterward, the warrior advanced to challenge him to battle again. Dian Wei also threw himself into the battle. Both of them fought against each other till dusk. The fighting had to suspend because each of their horses was exhausted. A herald at Dian Wei's command dashed off to inform Cao Cao the clash. Cao was stunned. Hurriedly, he ushered all the generals to watch the fight.

June 7, 2020

Chapter Twelve XV

The next day, Huang Shao led troops to the battlefield. A general walked to the front of the fighting array to challenge the rival army. Wearing a piece of yellow fabric wound tightly around the head, he was clothed in green garments and carried an iron rod with him, shouting, "I am He Man, the devil who can cut straight through heaven! Who dare challenge me?" Cao Hong saw this man and then made a loud shout. He leapt off the horse and stepped ahead with a knife carried in hand. They tangled with each other in front of respective deployment. After forty to fifty rounds, both of them were still evenly matched. Neither side prevailed. Cao Hong decided to run away by a feigning defeat . He Man caught up with him. Cao Hong enticed He Man to come closer and then made a sudden turn to strike him with his knife by surprise. He Man was not paying attention and thus received a wound. Cao Hong gave him another stab. This time He Man couldn't get away and was killed instantly. Li Dian took advantage of such a good chance galloping his horse towards the midst of the thieves. Huang Shao was unable to take precautions in time and captured alive by Li Dian. Cao's troops carried out an attack on the thieves without warning. Countless gold and fabric, grain and food were raided by them. He Yi was isolated, leading hundreds of mounted troops and dashing off to Ge Slope. While they were proceeding, behind the mountain appeared a large number of soldiers. Their commander was a sturdy man who was eighty inches tall, and his waist was around ten measurements. Carrying his knife, he intercepted He Yi as he tried to escape. He Yi raised his spear into an upright position to deal with the enemy. Without finishing the first round, he got caught by that warrior. His followers were busy to get off the horses and surrendered themselves to be bound. All the captives were driven by the warrior walking into the entrenchment of Ge Slope.

June 5, 2020

Chapter Twelve XIIII

Cao followed his advice with a heart full of joy. He left Xia Hou Dun and Cao Ren to garrison Juan City and some other places. He himself led troops onward to take the offensive against Chen Land and then marched on the Rivers of Ru and Ying with the troops. He Yi and Huang Shao, the chiefs of Yellow Scarves, knew the arrival of Cao's army, thus leading the masses to meet the challenge. They gathered in the Goat Mountain. Though huge in number, the thieves were simply a bunch of untrained commoners who were asked to assemble together but could not form a battle array. On the other hand, Cao commanded tough archers and difficult crossbow men to keep their attack in check. Then he ordered Dian Wei to take the lead; whereas, He Yi ordered his vice commander to fight. No more than three rounds, Dian Wei killed the opponent with a thrust of the spear and pushed him off the horse. Cao seized the chance to lead the troops to move on and then made camp along the side of the Goat Mountain.

June 4, 2020

Chapter Twelve XIII

Cao in Juan City knew the death of Tao Qian and the recent appointment of Liu Xuan De as the Governor of Xu Zhou. He raged and said, "I haven't revenge my father's death yet. Thou already took possession of Xu Zhou without exerting slightest efforts, not even shooting an arrow! I must kill Liu Bei first, and then I will give vent to my hatred by whipping the body of Tao Qian to avenge my noble father's murder!" The command of Cao Cao was given on the very day to mass troops for an attack against Xu Zhou . Xun Yu came in to admonish him, saying, "Liu Bang, the Ancestral High Emperor of the Han Dynasty, preserved the land within Han Ku Pass, including Shen Si and Kan Su provinces. Liu Xiu, Emperor Guang Wu, occupied He Nei. Both of them put down roots in these places and solidified the foundations of the Han so that they could command the whole world. From their territory, if they advanced, they could conquer the enemy; if they withdrew, they could defend themselves from rival attacks. Despite all the difficulties, they finally achieved great accomplishments. Your Excellency, thou revolution business started from Yan Zhou. Besides, He and Ji are not only the strategic positions of the world but also the land within the Pass and Yellow River. These large territories used to be controlled by the High Emperor and Emperor Guang Wu. If today you decide to seize Xu Zhou, the fighting troops will not be enough because you leave too many soldiers here. However, if the garrison troops are so few, Lu Bu will take advantage of our expedition to plunder here. At that time, Yan Zhou will be lost. What if the battle against Xu Zhou also fails? Where are you going to stay? Even though Tao Qian is dead, Liu Bei has taken his place to defend Xu Zhou. The inhabitants there have followed Bei's lead. They will help him fight to the death. Therefore, the decision that your Excellency has made to leave Yan Zhou but to seize Xu Zhou is just like a person who swaps the great for the small, barters the trunk for branches and exchanges safety with danger. May you ponder over these words!" Cao said, "There isn't much produce this year, especially grain. It is not such a good idea to let soldiers sit and wait here. They have nothing to do but idle around." Yu replied, "How about let us head for east to attack Chen Land and feed our armies in Ru Nan and Ying Chuan, where He Yi and Huang Shao with the remnants of Yellow Scarves occupy right now. Many provinces and counties have been plundered and looted by them. They have accumulated a lot of gold and silk, grain and fodder. These rebels are easily to rout. After we break through their defense, we can take their grain to feed three armies. The Imperial Court will be pleased to see it happen, and so do the people. This is the course of action we should take to obey the will of Heaven."

June 3, 2020

Chapter Twelve XII

Xuan De still made excuses to decline his earnest plea. Finally, Tao Qian pointed at his heart with his finger and then passed away. After the armies had offered condolences, the official dispatches and seal were offered in two hands to Xuan De . However, Xuan De still firmly rejected their request. The next day, the people of Xu Zhou crowded and paid homage in front of the official residence. They cried loudly, saying, "If Magistrate Liu refuses to manage Xu Zhou, we will never be able to enjoy peace and stability!" Guan and Zhang also urged him again and again to take this position. Xuan De granted their appeal to take office. Sun Qian and Mi Zhu were appointed as vice governors; Chen Deng, adviser. He took all the loyal supporters and troops from Xiao Pei to work with him in Xu Zhou. On the one hand, he posted an announcement to assure the citizens their safety. On the other hand, he arranged funeral affairs for Tao Qian. Xuan De and all the soldiers despite their rank put on mourning apparel. The sacrificial ceremony was solemnly held. After the ceremony, Tao Qian was buried in the plain of Yellow River. His written testament was submitted to the Imperial Court.

June 2, 2020

Chapter Twelve XI

Qian was extremely delighted to follow his advice. He sent a man to Xiao Pei where Liu Xuan De was stationed to ask him to come to discuss a military operation. Xuan De took Guan, Zhang and a dozen of mounted soldiers to Xu Zhou with him. After they arrived, Tao Qian invited him to his inner chamber. After Xuan De extended his greetings to Tao Qian, Qian spoke to him, saying, "Today, I invite Duke Xuan De to come to see me for nothing but only one purpose. That is, I am seriously ill and probably will not live too long. Currently, I am leading a precarious life. My only hope is that Duke Ming could have mercy on the city states of Han Dynasty. Accept the official dispatches and seal to manage Xu Zhou. Let me rest in peace!" Xuan De said, "But my lord you have two sons. Why don't you delegate the post to them?" Qian said, "My eldest son Shang and his brother Ying are not capable of assuming this position. After I die, I hope Duke Ming can teach and guide them to the right path. Don't let them take over the state affairs!" Xuan De said, "How can I take this mission all by myself?" Qian said, "I would like to recommend a man to be your assistant. His name is Sun Qian, courteously called Gong You, a native of Bei Hai. This man can be your attendant clerk." Then he spoke to Mi Zhu, "Duke Liu is a remarkable talent. You should do you job to help him with all your might."

June 1, 2020

Chapter Twelve X

Let's proceed our story from Tao Qian in Xu Zhou, who was now sixty-three years old. He caught an infection all of a sudden, and was thus seriously ill. He had Mi Zhu and Chen Deng come over to discuss who would manage the state affairs during his illness. Zhu said, "It was because Lu Bu raided Yan Zhou so that Cao Cao left Xu Zhou to reinforce his military presence in Yan Zhou. Now both camps reached a consensus to call a truce due to the famine. However, Cao Cao will surely resume his attack in the coming spring. My lord, you had offered your position to Liu Xuan De twice. Xuan De refused to accept it because you were strong then. But now, your physical condition is getting worse and worse. If you offer the position to Xuan De this time, I don't think he will reject your kindness again."

May 31, 2020

Chapter Twelve VIIII

This year a large group of locusts were swarming suddenly, destroying all the plants and crops of the area. In the territory of Guan Dung, a hu of grain was worth fifty strings of copper coins, leading to the tragedy of humans eating the flesh of other human beings. The grain in Cao's camp was all consumed. Cao was forced to go back to Juan City for a temporary stay. Lu Bu also took his troops stationed out of Shan Yang to seek shelter and food supply. Therefore, these two powers decided to call a truce out of expediency.

24 5 2020

Chapter Twelve VIII

Dian Wei turned his horse and came to rescue Cao Cao. Coincidently, Xia Hou Yuan arrived at the same time. Both of them saved his life and broke through the burning fire to escape. Cao rode on Xia Hou Yuan's horse. Dian Wei fought his way out for them to proceed. They fought a chaotic battle till dawn, and then Cao went back to camp. All the generals bowed down before Cao and greeted him with respect. Cao looked up and laughed, saying, "I mistakenly fell into the trap of the rascal. I will take revenge on my enemy for what I have suffered today!" Guo Jia said, "We have to come up with a plan to cope with the current situation quickly." Cao said, "How about taking advantage of the scheme they contrived? Spread the rumors about my serious injury caused by the fire. The severe burns have almost killed me. At the fifth watch, I can barely sustain and finally die due to the fatal injury. Upon hearing my death, Bu will definitely lead his troops to attack our camp. I will arrange my soldiers lying in ambush in the Ma Ling Mountain. Wait until their troops cross half of the river, and then strike them by surprise. At that time, Bu will be captured by us." "That is a great idea," Jia complimented him on his excellent plan. Therefore, all the soldiers were ordered to put on mourning apparel to attend the funeral, delivering the false news that Cao Cao was dead. However, someone had already came to Pu Yang to see Lu Bu for the report of Cao's death. Bu was told that Cao Cao was seriously burned all over the limbs. After he returned to his camp, he died immediately. Bu numbered and massed his troops right away, fighting all the way to the Ma Ling Mountain. As soon as he got there, he heard the sound of a drumbeat. All the ambush appeared. Lu Bu battled it out to escape the siege. Many of his troops were sacrificed. He was defeated and went back to Pu Yang. Henceforth, he made up his mind to defend his base resolutely instead of waging war on Cao Cao no matter what.

15 5 2020

Chapter Twelve VII

Lu Bu took his words and let Cao Cao go. He leapt his horse to pursue the false enemy. Cao Cao pulled on the reins to turn around, heading for the east gate, where he ran into Dian Wei. Wei immediately provided him support and protection, slashing a bloody road all the way to the side of the city gate with the spear. The fire was raging higher and higher as bales of hay were being pushed down from the city tower. The flames were growing everywhere. Warding off the flaming fragments by the spear, Wei risked being choked to death by smoke and burned by the fire, galloping his horse through the danger. Cao Cao followed him along. As they reached the side of the gate, a flaming beam collapsed from the city gate above, hitting right on the hip of Cao Cao's steed. The steed fell to the ground. Cao Cao lifted the beam by hands and put it on the ground. His arms, beard and hair, therefore, were seriously burned.

13 5 2020

Chapter Twelve VI

Cao Cao caught a glimpse of Dian Wei who was killing his way out, but he himself was surrounded by the opposing troops and couldn't get away to the south gate. He then decided to turn to the north gate again. However, at this juncture, he bumped into someone. A sturdy figure was silhouetted against the torch light. It was Lu Bu who was galloping his horse with the halberd upright in hand. Cao immediately covered his face with a hand. He cracked his whip, and the horse leapt forward. Bu spurred his horse to catch him up. When approaching, he struck Cao's helmet with the halberd and asked, "Where is Cao Cao?" Cao Cao pointed to the front and replied, "The one who is riding a yellow horse ahead is him."

2020/5/11

Chapter Twelve V

Dian Wei killed all the way to the drawbridge. When he turned, he could not find Cao Cao. He moved around and fought his way back to the city. In front of the city gate, he bumped into Li Dian. "Where is the Master?" Dian Wei asked. "I can't find him, either," Li Dian replied. " You should stay outside the city to hurry the reinforcements. Let me search inside for the Master," Wei said. Li Dian went away to seek help; whereas, Dian Wei attacked his way to enter the city. He was looking all over the places carefully for Cao Cao, but found no trace of his Master. Therefore, he battled his way out of the city again to the moat. This time he ran into Le Jin. "Where is our Master?" Jin asked. "I have come back and forth twice to carry out a thorough search of the city but just can't find him," Dian Wei explained. Jin went on, "Let us work in cooperation to save our lord!" Both of them reached the side of the gate. The firebombs were rolling down the city wall. Le Jin's horse couldn't advance. Despite the heavy smoke, Dian Wei risked being burned to slash his way through the gate with his weapon into the city in search of Cao Cao.

2020/5/9

Chapter Twelve IV

It was about the first watch in the evening, and the moon had not risen yet. They could only hear someone blowing the spiral shell. Suddenly, the battle cries were given. The torchlight on the gates was shimmering in the dark night. Now the city gates were wide open, and the drawbridge was lowered down. Cao Cao took the lead in the attack. He whipped his horse and charged into the city all the way to the state office. However, while he was galloping down the street, not even a person could be seen. Cao knew that he was trapped, immediately turning his horse back to the gate. "Retreat!" he shouted. From the state office came the sound of a bomb blast. Roaring fires were breaking out at the four gates of the city due to the force of the explosion. The gongs were clanging, and drums were rolling all together. All the shouting could be heard just like the billows of the river and the sea to the boil. From the inside of the east lane appeared Zhang Liao; whereas, from the inside of the west lane showed up Zang Ba. Cao Cao was attacked by these two riders from both sides in surprise. He decided to change his direction, heading for the north gate. However, by the sidewalk appeared Hao Meng and Cao Xing. Cao Cao fought against their raid for a while. Then he hurriedly rode back to the south gate, but Gao Shun and Hou Cheng intercepted him as he tried to escape. Dian Wei stared at them and grinded his teeth. He made a dash to break through their defense, forcing Gao Shun and Hou Cheng to retreat out of the city in backwards.

2020/5/8

Chapter Twelve III

Cao followed his advice, dividing his army into three teams and leading them to the city wall of Pu Yang. Cao went ahead to take a look. He saw many flags were erected on the four sides of the city walls. Upon the corner of the west gate fluttered a white flag on which a word righteousness was written. Secretly, he felt quite delighted. At noon, the city gates opened. There were two generals leading their troops to fight the battle. The front troop was led by Hou Cheng; the rear, Gao Shun. Cao commanded Dian Wei to meet the challenges and get rid of Hou Cheng directly. Hou Cheng was unable to oppose him, so he turned his horse back to enter the city. Wei rushed to the side of the drawbridge. Gao Shun could not resist his attack, either. He, therefore, retreated back to the city. All was chaos and confusion. Several solders by this chance dashed from the city to see Cao Cao. They claimed that they were the messengers of Tian Shi, dispatched to submit the secret letter. The letter ran something like this, "Tonight, during the first watch, we will beat the gang as a signal. When you hear it, attack! I will surely open the gate of the city for you." Cao ordered Xiao Hou Dun with his troop to assist him on the left and Cao Hong with his troop to assist him on the right. He himself, together with Xia Hou Yuan, Li Dian, Le Jin, Dian Wei, led his armies charging into the city. Li Dian spoke to him, "My lord, would you please wait here outside the city? Allow me and the armies to get in first." Cao shouted, "If I do not volunteer to attack first, who is willing to follow?" Therefore, Cao Cao led the charge to the city.

2020/5/7

Chapter Twelve II

On the other hand, Lu Bu went to the camp and had a discussion with Chen Gong. Gong said, "In the City of Pu Yang, there is a rich man called Tian Shi who has a thousand servants and can be deemed as the wealthiest household in this county. We can ask him to send a secret letter to Cao's camp by courier. Cao will be falsely informed that how ferocious you are, Marquis Lu Wen, and how much the people hate against you. Make him believe that now you intend to transfer your troops to Li Yang and only Gao Shun is left inside the city on guard. He may advance immediately by night, and Tian will be his liaison. If Cao does come, entice him to enter in and then set fire at four gates of the city. The arranged ambush outside each city gate will attack him by surprise. Even though Cao Cao has the talent to make plans and manage the universe, how can he escape from the trap when he gets here?" Lu Bu followed his scheme. He secretly instructed Tian Shi to courier that letter to Cao's camp. While Cao was hesitant for his next move due to his recent fiasco, someone came in all of a sudden to notify him that Tian's courier had arrived. He submitted the secret letter to Cao and said, "Lu Bu is now heading for Li Yang. The city is empty. We are looking forward to your earliest arrival. My master will be your inside help. When you see on the city wall erects a white flag with a word righteousness written upon, that is the agreed signal." Cao was beside himself. "It is the will of Heaven to help me get Pu Yang!" He rewarded the courier abundantly and collected himself ready for the dispatch of the troops. Liu Ye spoke to him, "Even though Bu is not a tactician, Chen Gong is indeed a resourceful advisor. I am afraid you will be cheated. Be careful of their tricks. If my noble Sir, you insist on going, divide your troops into three teams. Arrange two teams lying in ambush outside the city to get ready for assistance, and then lead a team to enter the city with you."

2020/5/6

Chatper Twelve I

As Cao Cao fled in panic, a group of exceptionally trained soldiers arrived for reinforcements. It was the regiment led by Xia Hou Dun who came from the south to rescue him and intercepted Lu Bu for battle. At dusk, the battle was still ongoing. Suddenly, the rain was coming down in torrents, so they led respective troops to move apart and go away in different directions. Cao got back to his camp. He rewarded Dian Wei abundantly and assigned him another post, the Chief Commandant to lead the army.

2020/5/5