Romance of the Three Kingdoms/Chapter 11

　　卻說獻計之人，乃東海朐縣人，姓糜，名竺，字子仲。此人家世富豪，嘗往洛陽買賣。乘車而回，路遇一美婦人，來求同載，竺乃下車步行，讓車與婦人坐。婦人請竺同載。竺上車端坐，目不邪視。行及數里，婦人辭去；臨別對竺曰：「我乃南方火德星君也，奉上帝勅，往燒汝家。感君相待以禮，故明告君。君可速歸，搬出財物。吾當夜來。」言訖不見。竺大驚，飛奔到家，將家中所有，疾忙搬出。是晚果然廚中火起，盡燒其屋。竺因此廣捨家財，濟貧救苦。後陶謙聘為別駕從事。當日獻計曰：「某願親往北海郡，求孔融起兵救援；更得一人往青州田楷處求救。若二處軍馬齊來，操必退兵矣。」

     Let us now turn to the person who had offered the suggestion. He was from Qu County, Donghai Commandery. His surname was Mi, his given name was Zhu and his style name was Zizhong. He belonged to a wealthy family, and had travelled to Luoyang in order to buy and sell goods. He had boarded his carriage and was returning to his home town, when he encountered a married woman along the road. The woman asked to ride along in his chariot, so Zhu got out and started walking, allowing the woman to ride in the carriage. The woman invited Zhu to ride along with her in the carriage. Zhu got in, but sat perfectly upright, and did not cast any sideways glances. After travelling a few li, the woman took her leave. Before departing, she said to Zhu, "I am the fire goddess of the south. I have received a decree from our heavenly father to burn down your house. However, I was moved by your kind treatment of me. That's why I told you flat out. You should return quickly and move your household possessions. I will be coming in the evening." After she finished speaking, she disappeared. Zhu was shocked, and rushed home. He gathered up everything in his house, and hurriedly moved out. That night, as expected, a fire broke out in the kitchen area, burning the house to the ground. Because of this, Zhu began spreading his wealth around and helping the poor and destitute. Later on, Tao Qian hired him as an assistant. On this day, he offered a suggestion, saying, "I am willing to personally go to Beihai Commandery and ask Kong Rong to raise an army that could assist us. Furthermore, someone else should go to Qingzhou and ask Tian Kai to assist us. If both of their armies arrive in unison, Cao will have no choice but to retreat."

　　謙從之，遂寫書二封，問帳下誰人敢去青州求救。一人應聲願往。眾視之，乃廣陵人，姓陳，名登，字元龍。陶謙先打發陳元龍往青州去訖，然後命糜竺齎書赴北海，自己率眾守城，以備攻擊。

     Qian followed his suggestion, and subsequently wrote two letters, asking which of his subordinates would be daring enough to travel to Qingzhou to request assistance. One person responded to the call, and volunteered to go. Everyone looked at this person. He was from Guangling, his surname was Chen, his given name was Deng, and his style name was Yuanlong. After first dispatching Chen Yuanlong to Qingzhou, Tao Qian then ordered Mi Zhu to deliver a letter to Beihai. Qian personally led the effort to guard the city and prepare for the coming attack.

　　卻說北海孔融，字文舉，魯國曲阜人也；孔子二十世孫，泰山都尉孔宙之子。自小聰明。年十歲時，往謁河南尹李膺，閽人難之，融曰：「我係李相通家。」及入見，膺問曰：「汝祖與吾祖何親？」融曰：「昔孔子曾問禮於老子，融與君豈非累世通家？」膺大奇之。

     Let us now turn to Kong Rong in Beihai, whose style name was Wenju, and was from Qufu in the State of Lu. He was the 20th lineal descendant of Confucius. His father was Kong Zhou, captain of Mount Tai Commandery. Rong was clever, even as a child. When he was ten years old, he paid a visit to Li Ying, governor of Henan Commandery. When the gate guards challenged him, Rong said, "I have generational ties with Minister Li," and walked in to see him. Ying asked him, "How are your ancestors related to my ancestors?" Rong said, "A long time ago, Confucius asked Laozi about ritual etiquette; doesn't that mean that I have a connection with you that spans the generations?^[1]" Ying was greatly impressed with the boy.

　　少頃，太中大夫陳煒至。膺指融曰：「此奇童也。」煒曰：「小時聰明，大時未必聰明。」融即應聲曰：「如君所言，幼時必聰明者。」煒等皆笑曰：「此子長成，必當代之偉器也。」自此得名。後為中郎將，累遷北海太守，極好賓客。常曰：「座上客常滿，樽中酒不空，吾之願也。」在北海六年，甚得民心。

     After a while, Chief Counselor Chen Wei arrived. Ying pointed to Rong, and said, "This is a gifted child." Wei said, "If one is smart as a child, it does not necessarily mean that one will be smart as an adult." Rong replied, "It sounds as though you must have been smart as a child." Wei and the others all chuckled, saying, "When this boy grows up, he shall be a great talent in his time." From then on, Rong began to make a name for himself. He later was made commander of the palace guards, then was rapidly promoted to governor of Beihai. He especially enjoyed visitors. He often would say, "It is my wish that I am constantly hosting a guest of honor, and that the wine jug never goes empty." He had been in Beihai for six years, and was extremely popular among the people.

　　當日正與客坐，人報徐州糜竺至。融請入見，問其來意。竺出陶謙書，言：「曹操攻圍甚急，望明公垂救。」融曰：「吾與陶恭祖交厚，子仲又親到此，如何不去？只是曹孟德與我無讎，當先遣人送書解和。如其不從，然後起兵。」竺曰：「曹操倚重兵威，決不肯和。」融教一面點兵，一面差人送書。

     On this particular day, he had been sitting with guests, when someone reported that Mi Zhu had arrived from Xuzhou. Rong invited him in and asked why he had come. Zhu took out Tao Qian's letter, and said, "Cao Cao has besieged our city and the situation is now dire. We were hoping that you could render assistance." Rong said, "I have close ties with Tao Gongzu. What's more, you have come to me as well. How can I not go? It's just that I have no beef with Cao Mengde. I will first send someone with a letter requesting a peaceful resolution. If he does not comply, then I will raise an army." Zhu said, "Cao Cao relies heavily on military might. He most certainly will not want to make peace." Rong simultaneously called for soldiers to be recruited, while at the same time sending someone to deliver the letter.

　　正商議間，忽報黃巾賊黨管亥部領群寇數萬殺奔前來。孔融大驚，急點本部人馬，出城與賊迎戰。管亥出馬曰：「吾知北海糧廣，可借一萬石，即便退兵；不然，打破城池老幼不留！」孔融叱曰：「吾乃大漢之臣，守大漢之地，豈有糧米與賊耶！」管亥大怒，拍馬舞刀，直取孔融。融將宗寶挺槍出馬；戰不數合，被管亥一刀，砍宗寶於馬下。孔融兵大亂，奔入城中。管亥分兵四面圍城，孔融心中鬱悶。糜竺懷愁，更不待言。

     While they were discussing the situation, someone came in to report that the ragtag army of the Yellow Turban rebel leader Guan Hai was arriving by the tens of thousands. Kong Rong was shocked, and hastily called for his main forces to exit the city and meet the bandits in battle. Guan Hai took to the field on his horse, saying, "I know that Beihai has a lot of grain stores. If I can borrow ten thousand dan, I will immediately withdraw my forces. Otherwise, I will destroy your city and not a single person, old or young, will be left alive!" Kong Rong yelled back, I am a minister of the Great Han. I am in charge of protecting the lands of the Great Han. How can I possibly hand over my rice stores to bandits!" Guan Hai was furious and, with a flourish of his broad sword, charged on his horse straight at Kong Rong. Kong Rong's general, Zong Bao, raised his spear and rode out on his horse. After not more than a few rounds, Zong Bao was cut down from his horse by Guan Hai's sword. Kong Rong's army devolved into mass chaos, then fled back into the city. Guan Hai surrounded the city on all sides with his men. Kong Rong's heart became heavy. It goes without saying that Mi Zhu became worried as well.

　　次日，孔融登城遙望，賊勢浩大，倍添憂惱。忽見城外一人挺槍躍馬殺入賊陣，左衝右突，如入無人之境，直到城下大叫：「開門！」孔融不識其人，不敢開門。賊眾趕到河邊，那人回身連搠十數人下馬，賊眾倒退，融急命開門引入。其人下馬棄槍，逕到城上，拜見孔融。融問其姓名，對曰：「某東萊黃縣人也。覆姓太史，名慈，字子義。老母重蒙恩顧，某昨自遼東回家省親，知賊寇城，老母說：『屢受府君深恩，汝當往救』，某故單馬而來。」孔融大喜。原來孔融與太史慈，雖未識面，卻曉得他是個英雄。因他遠出，有老母住在離城二十里之外，融常使人遺以粟帛；母感融德，故特使慈來救。

     The following day, Kong Rong climbed to the top of the city wall and looked out into the distance. When he saw the vastness of the bandit force, he became even more worried. Suddenly, he spotted a man outside of the city walls who had raised his spear and was charging on his horse into the ranks of the bandits. The man was attacking with fearless abandon. When the man reached the walls of the city, he shouted, "Open the gates!" Not recognizing the man, Kong Rong did not dare open the gates. When the bandits had pressed to the banks of the city's moat, the man turned around and stabbed dozens of men, causing them to fall from their horses. The bandits retreated. Rong hastily ordered the gates opened, and the man was led inside. The man dismounted from his horse and ditched his spear. He climbed straight to the top of the city wall, then paid his respects to Kong Rong. When Rong asked for the man's name, the man said, "I am from Huang County, Donglai Commandery. My surname is two syllables: Taishi.^[2] My given name is Ci and my style name is Ziyi. My mother has been a major recipient of your kind care. Yesterday, when I returned home from Liaodong in order to visit my relatives, I found out that these bandits were attempting to plunder your city. My mother said, 'We have been the recipient of His Excellency's kind care on multiple occasions. You must go to his aid.' That is why I have come alone on my horse." Kong Rong was overjoyed. As it turns out, even though Kong Rong did not know Taishi Ci by sight, he nevertheless was aware that this man was a hero. Because Ci had left home, leaving his aged mother living 20 li outside of the city, Rong had frequently sent someone with grains and silks to give to Ci's mother. Ci's mother was grateful for Rong's kindness, so she especially sent for Ci to come to Rong's aid.

　　當下孔融重待太史慈，贈與衣甲鞍馬。慈曰：「某願借精兵一千，出城殺賊。」融曰：「君雖英勇，然賊勢甚盛，不可輕出。」慈曰：「老母感君厚德，特遣慈來；如不能解圍，慈亦無顏見母矣。願決一死戰。」融曰：「吾聞劉玄德乃當世英雄，若請得他來相救，此圍自解；只無人可使耳。」慈曰：「府君修書，某當急往。」融喜，修書付慈。慈擐甲上馬，腰帶弓矢，手持鐵槍，飽食嚴裝，城門開處，一騎飛出。近河，賊將率眾來戰，慈連搠死數人，透圍而出。管亥知有人出城，料必是請救兵的，便自引數百騎趕來，八面圍定。慈倚住槍，拈弓搭箭，八面射之，無不應弦落馬，賊眾不敢來追。

     Presently, Kong Rong gave Taishi Ci the royal treatment, showering him with gifts of armor, a saddle and a horse. Ci said, "I would like to borrow 1,000 of your elite troops. I shall exit the city and kill the bandits." Rong said, "Even though you are brave, the bandit force is quite substantial. You must not be too rash in going out there." Ci said, "My mother is grateful for your profound kindness. That is why she especially sent for me. If I cannot help you to break out of this encirclement, I will be too ashamed to face my mother. I am willing to fight to the death." Rong said, "I have heard that Liu Xuande is a great hero of our age. If we could get him to come to our assistance, this encirclement would vanish all by itself. Unfortunately, there is nobody that I can send." Ci said, "If you write a letter, I will deliver it to him with all due haste." Rong was delighted. He wrote the letter and gave it to Ci. Ci donned his armor and mounted his horse. He attached his bow and arrows to his belt, and carried an iron spear in his hand. After he was well fed and properly dressed, he dashed out of the city gates on his horse. When he approached the moat, the bandit leader led his men in an attack. Ci stabbed and killed several people in a row with his spear, breaking free of the encirclement. Guan Hai knew that someone had left the city, and anticipated that it was surely for the purpose of seeking relief troops. Accordingly, he personally led several hundred cavalry into the fray and surrounded Ci on all sides. Ci leaned his spear against something, then took up his bow and arrow. He shot in all directions. None failed to fall from their horses in concert with the twang of his bow string. The bandit forces did not dare give chase.

　　太史慈得脫，星夜投平原，來見劉玄德。施禮罷，具言孔北海被圍求救之事，呈上書札。玄德看畢，問慈曰：「足下何人？」慈曰：「某太史慈，東海之鄙人也。與孔融親非骨肉，比非鄉黨，特以氣誼相投，有分憂共患之意。今管亥暴亂，北海被圍，孤窮無告，危在旦夕。聞君仁義素著，能救人危急，故特令某冒鋒突圍，前來求救。」玄德斂容答曰：「孔北海知世間有劉備耶？」乃同雲長、翼德點精兵三千，往北海郡進發。

     After Taishi Ci escaped, he travelled night and day toward Pingyuan in order to see Liu Xuande. After they had exchanged pleasantries, Ci explained in detail how Kong Beihai had been surrounded and was seeking help. He then presented the letter. After Xuande finished reading the letter, he asked Ci, "Who are you?" Ci said, "I am Taishi Ci. I come from a remote area of Donghai Commandery. Kong Rong is not a member of my family, and we don't come from the same hamlet. However, we have made it a point to forge a bond with each other on the basis of mutual aspirations and mutual goodwill. I also share his concerns and worries. Now that Guan Hai has staged a rebellion, Beihai is in a state of siege, cut off from the outside with nowhere to turn. The people there are in imminent danger. He heard about your outstanding benevolence and righteousness, and that you were capable of helping someone who is in peril. Because of this, he specifically ordered me to disregard my own safety and break out of the encirclement in order to come and ask for your assistance." Xuande gazed at him intently, and replied, "Kong Beihai knows that there is a Liu Bei in this world?" Accordingly, he picked out 3,000 elite troops, then advanced with Yunchang and Yide toward Beihai.

　　管亥望見救軍來到，親自引兵迎敵；因見玄德兵少，不以為意。玄德與關、張、太史慈，立馬陣前，管亥忿怒直出。太史慈卻待向前，雲長早出，直取管亥。兩馬相交，眾軍大喊；量管亥怎敵得雲長，數十合之間，青龍刀起，劈管亥於馬下。太史慈、張飛，兩騎齊出，雙槍並舉，殺入賊陣。玄德驅兵掩殺。城上孔融望見太史慈與關、張趕殺賊眾，如虎入羊群，縱橫莫當，便驅兵出城。兩下夾攻，大敗群賊，降者無數，餘黨潰散。

     When Guan Hai saw the relief army approaching, he personally led his troops out to meet the enemy. Because he saw that Xuande's army was small, he did not take them seriously. When Xuande, along with Guan, Zhang and Taishi Ci, advanced to the front of the battle lines, Guan Hai angrily charged forward. Taishi Ci was about to advance as well, but Yunchang had already begun to charge straight at Guan Hai. When the two of their horses met, everyone began cheering and shouting. Everyone wondered how Guan Hai could possibly be a match for Yunchang. Within a dozen or so bouts, up came the Green Dragon Blade, cutting Guan Hai down from his horse. Taishi Ci and Zhang Fei both rode out in unison, spears held out in parallel, on a murderous charge into the enemy line. Xuande dispatched his soldiers in a surprise attack. Kong Rong had been observing the battle from the top of the city's wall. He saw how Taishi Ci, Guan and Zhang had gone on a rampage against the bandits. They were like tigers entering into a flock of sheep. They were unstoppable. It was at that point that Kong Rong dispatched his own troops out of the city. A pincer attack ensued, causing the bandits to suffer a major defeat. Countless numbers of them surrendered, while the rest scattered in defeat.

　　孔融迎接玄德入城，敘禮畢，大設筵宴慶賀。又引糜竺出見玄德，具言張闓殺曹嵩之事，今曹操縱兵大掠，圍住徐州，特來求救，玄德曰：「陶恭祖乃仁人君子，不意受此無辜之冤。」孔融曰：「公乃漢室宗親，今曹操殘害百姓，倚強欺弱，何不與融同往救之？」玄德曰：「備非敢推辭，奈兵微將寡，恐難輕動。」孔融曰：「融之欲救陶恭祖，雖因舊誼，亦為大義。公豈獨無仗義之心耶？」玄德曰：「既如此，請文舉先行，容備去公孫瓚處，借三五千人馬，隨後便來。」融曰：「公切勿失信。」玄德曰：「公以備為何如人也？聖人云：『自古皆有死，人無信不立。』劉備借得軍，或借不得軍，必然親至。」

     Kong Rong welcomed Xuande into the city. Then, after exchanging pleasantries, he threw a banquet in order to celebrate. Mi Zhu was then brought in to meet with Xuande. Mi Zhu gave a detailed account of how Zhang Kai had killed Cao Song, how Cao Cao had now set his army loose to plunder and surround Xuzhou, and how Mi Zhu had come here to ask for assistance. Xuande said, "Tao Gongzu is a benevolent gentleman. I would not have expected that he could be the recipient of this kind of baseless accusation." Kong Rong said, "You are personally related the house of Han. Cao Cao is now harming the citizenry. He is using his might to bully the weak. Why not go with me in order to help out?" Xuande said, "I would not dare to decline such an offer. However, I only have a small contingent of troops. I'm afraid that it is difficult for me to act so rashly." Kong Rong said, "Although my reason for rescuing Tao Gongzu has to do with my long time friendship with him, it is also rooted in my sense of justice. Could it be merely that you don't share that sense of justice?" Xuande said, "Since you insist, why don't you go ahead of me. Allow me to go to Gongsun Zan and ask for somewhere between three and five thousand troops. After that, I will come." Rong said, "Don't break your promise." Xuande said, "What kind of a person do you take me for? The great sage said, 'From of old, death has been the lot of all men; but if people have no faith in a person, there is no standing for that person.' I will either be allowed to borrow the troops or not. Either way, I will be there with you."

　　孔融應允；教糜竺先回徐州去報，融便收拾起程。太史慈拜謝曰：「慈奉母命前來相助，今幸無虞。有揚州刺史劉繇，與慈同郡，有書來喚，不敢不去，容圖再見。」融以金帛相酬，慈不肯受而歸。其母見之，喜曰：「我喜汝有以報北海也！」遂遣慈往揚州去了。

     Kong Rong gave his consent. He instructed Mi Zhu to go on ahead of him and report back to Xuzhou. Rong then prepared to set out himself. Taishi Ci expressed his thanks, saying, "I came here, at my mother's insistence, in order to help out. How fortunate it is that everything turned out ok. There is a person named Liu Yao, who is governor of Yangzhou. He is from the same commandery as me. He has sent a letter to me, summoning me to him. I don't dare to not go. Perhaps I shall see you again someday." Rong tried to reward him with money and goods, but Ci declined the gifts, then left. When his mother saw him, she said, "I am happy that you were able to repay Beihai's kindness!" She then sent off Ci to Yangzhou.

　　不說孔融起兵。且說玄德投北海來見公孫瓚，且說欲救徐州之事。瓚曰：「曹操與君無讎，何苦替人出力？」玄德曰：「備已許人，不敢失信。」瓚曰：「我借與君馬步軍二千。」玄德曰：「更望借趙子龍一行。」瓚許之，玄德遂與關、張引本部三千人為前部，子龍引二千軍隨後，往徐州來。

     It goes without saying that Kong Rong raised an army. Let us now turn to Xuande, who went to Beihai to see Gongsun Zan so that he could explain how he wanted to help save Xuzhou. Zan said, "There is no enmity between Cao Cao and you. Why bother to exert yourself on behalf of these people?" Xuande said, "I have already told them that I would, and I don't dare go back on my word." Zan said, "I will loan you a force of 2,000 men." Xuande said, "I would also like to borrow Zhao Zilong for the expedition." Zan gave his consent, then Xuande, Guan and Zhang set out toward Xuzhou, leading with the main force of 3,000 men, while Zilong brought up the rear with the other 2,000 men.

　　卻說糜竺回報陶謙，言北海又請得劉玄德來助；陳元龍也回報青州田楷欣然領兵來救；陶謙心安。原來孔融、田楷兩路軍馬，懼怕曹兵勢猛，遠遠依山下寨，未敢輕進。曹操見兩路軍到，亦分了軍勢，不敢向前攻城。

     Let us now turn to Mi Zhu, who had reported back to Tao Qian how, in Beihai, he was able to enlist Liu Xuande to help out. Additionally, Chen Yuanlong reported back that Tian Kai of Qingzhou was happily leading troops to come and assist. Tao Qian's mind was put to rest. As it turned out, the two armies of Kong Rong and Tian Kai had been afraid of the ferocity of Cao's army, and had been camped out far away. They did not dare make a hasty advance. When Cao Cao saw that both armies had arrived, he divided his forces, and did not dare advance on the city.

　　卻說劉玄德軍到，見孔融。融曰：「曹兵勢大，操又善於用兵，未可輕戰。且觀其動靜，然後進兵。」玄德曰：「但恐城中無糧，難以久持。備令雲長、子龍領軍四千，在公部下相助；備與張飛奔曹營，逕投徐州去見陶使君商議。」融大喜，會合田楷，為掎角之勢；雲長、子龍領兵兩邊接應。

     Let us now turn to Liu Xuande, whose army had now arrived, and was meeting with Kong Rong. Rong said, "Cao's military might is considerable. Moreover, Cao is adept in the use of military force. We must not attack prematurely. We must first observe what he does, before advancing our own forces." Xuande said, "I'm just afraid that, since the city is without supplies, it will be difficult for it to hold out for long. I have ordered Yunchang and Zilong to lead 4,000 men. These men will serve under your command. I will make a dash through Cao's camp, along with Zhang Fei, and head for Xuzhou so that I can consult with provincial governor Tao." Kong Rong was overjoyed. He then met up with Tian Kai in order to prepare for an attack on two fronts. Yunchang and Zilong brought their troops over to Kong Rong's location.

　　是日玄德、張飛引一千人馬殺入曹兵寨邊。正行之間，寨內一聲鼓響，馬軍步軍，如潮似浪，擁將出來。當頭一員大將，乃是于禁，勒馬大叫：「何處狂徒！往那裡去！」張飛見了，更不打話，直取于禁。兩馬相交，戰到數合，玄德掣雙股劍麾兵大進，于禁敗走。張飛當前追殺，直到徐州城下。城上望見紅旗白字，大書「平原劉玄德」陶謙急令開門。玄德入城，陶謙接著，共到府衙。禮畢，設宴相待，一面勞軍。

     That same day, Xuande and Zhang Fei led one thousand men in a skirmish on the flank of Cao's camp. While they were advancing, drums began to thunder from within the camp, as wave upon wave of soldiers came pouring out. They were being led by a general. It was Yu Jin. He pulled back the reins of his horse, and shouted, "Where did you madmen come from?! Where do you think you are going?!" Zhang Fei saw him, but did not answer him. He simply charged straight at Yu Jin. Their two horses met, but after several rounds, Xuande drew his pair of straight swords and drove his men in a forward charge. Yu Jin suffered a major defeat. Zhang Fei chased him all the way to the outer walls of Xuzhou. From the top of the city walls, Tao Qian could see red banners with large white writing that said, "Liu Xuande of Pingyuan." Seeing this, he hastily ordered the gates opened. When Xuande entered the city, he was met by Tao Qian. The two of them headed to the city government offices. After exchanging pleasantries, a banquet was arranged, by way of rewarding the troops for their efforts.

　　陶謙見玄德儀表軒昂，語言豁達，心中大喜，便命糜竺取徐州牌印，讓與玄德。玄德愕然曰：「公何意也？」謙曰：「今天下擾亂，王綱不振，公乃漢室宗親，正宜力扶社稷。老夫年邁無能，情願將徐州相讓。公勿推辭。謙當自寫表文，申奏朝廷。」玄德離席再拜曰：「劉備雖漢朝苗裔，功微德薄，為平原相，猶恐不稱職；今為大義，故來相助；公出此言，莫非疑劉備有吞併之心耶？若有此念，皇天不佑！」謙曰：「此老夫之實情也。」再三相讓，玄德那裡肯受。糜竺進曰：「今兵臨城下，且當商議退敵之策。待事平之日，再當相讓，可也。」玄德曰：「備當遺書於曹操，勸令解和。操若不從，廝殺未遲。」於是傳檄三寨，且按兵不動，遣人齎書以達曹操。

     Tao Qian became heartened when he observed Xuande's dignified bearing and forthright speech, so he ordered Mi Zhu to hand over the tablet and seal of Xuzhou to Xuande. Xuande was stunned, saying, "What is your purpose in giving me this?" Qian said, "Even though the world is now in a state of turmoil, the imperial family still commands respect. You are a member of the House of Han and are well positioned to shore up the nation. I am old and feeble. I would prefer to relinquish control of Xuzhou. Please don't turn me down. I could write a letter petitioning the imperial court." Xuande rose from his seat and gave a salute, saying, "Although I am a descendent of the Han Dynasty, I am a man of little accomplishment or virtue. I am merely a magistrate of Pingyuan County. I am not qualified to take over such a position. I came to help out because I felt that it was the right thing to do. Could it be that you are saying these things because you suspect me of harboring intentions of gobbling up your territory? If this is what you were thinking, then heaven forbid!" Once again entreating him, Qian said, "These are my true feelings." However, Xuande wouldn't dream of accepting. Mi Zhu stepped in and said, "The enemy is now at our doorstep. We should be devising a strategy for making them withdraw. After peace is once again established, you can yield your post then, if you want." Xuande said, "I will send a letter to Cao Cao, advising him to make peace. If Cao doesn't comply, it will not be too late to slaughter his forces." With that, a notification was forwarded to all three camps, instructing them to hold their position. He then sent someone to deliver a letter to Cao Cao.

　　卻說曹操正在軍中，與諸將議事，人報徐州有戰書到。操拆而觀之，乃劉備書也。書略曰：

     Let us now turn to Cao Cao, who was with his troops. He had been discussing matters with his generals, when someone reported that a challenge letter had arrived from Xuzhou. When Cao tore it open and read it, he discovered that it was a letter from Liu Bei. The letter said something to the effect of:

　　曹操看書，大罵「劉備何人，敢以書來勸我！且中間有譏諷之意！」命斬來使，一面竭力攻城。郭嘉諫曰：「劉備遠來救援，先禮後兵，主公當用好言答之，以慢備心；然後進兵攻城，城可破也。」操從其言，款留來使，候發回書。

     After Cao Cao read the letter, he fumed, "Who does this Liu Bei think he is, daring to send me a letter advising me what to do! He must be trying to mock me in this letter!" He ordered that the messenger be executed, and then ordered a full-scale attack on the city. Guo Jia admonished Cao, saying, "Liu Bei has come a long distance in order to lend his assistance. We should first extend courtesy to him, before we use military force. Your Excellency should respond with polite words, in order to make Bei lower his guard. Then, if we advance and attack the city, the city can be taken." Cao followed Jia's advice, politely imploring the messenger to stay and wait for the response letter to be issued.

　　正商議間，忽流星馬飛報「禍事！」。操問其故，報說呂布已襲破兗州，進據濮陽。原來呂布自遭李郭之亂逃出武關，去投袁術；術怪呂布反覆不定，拒而不納。投袁紹，紹納之，與布共破張燕於常山；布自以為得志，傲慢袁紹手下將士。紹欲殺之，布乃去投張楊， 楊納之。時龐舒在長安城中，私藏呂布妻小，送還呂布。李傕、郭汜知之，遂斬龐舒，寫書與張楊，教殺呂布；布因棄張楊去投張邈。恰好張邈弟張超引陳宮來見張邈。宮說邈曰：「今天下分崩，英雄並起，君以千里之眾，而反受制於人，不亦鄙乎？今曹操征東，兗州空虛，而呂布乃當世勇士，若與之共取兗州，伯業可圖也。」張邈大喜，便令呂布襲破兗州，隨據濮陽。止有鄄城、東阿、范縣三處，被荀彧、程昱設計死守得全，其餘俱破。曹仁屢戰，皆不能勝，特此告急。

     While they were talking things over, a messenger on horseback suddenly arrived reporting a "catastrophe!" When Cao asked what had happened, the messenger reported that Lü Bu had already brought Yanzhou to its knees, and had entered and occupied Puyang. As it turned out, after the fiasco with Li and Guo,^[4] Lü Bu escaped through Wu Pass and sought out Yuan Shu. Shu blamed Lü Bu for constantly shifting his loyalties and refused to take him in. Lü Bu next sought out Yuan Shao, who did take him in, and together with Bu, defeated Zhang Yan at Changshan. Bu started to get cocky and became arrogant in his dealings with Yuan Shao's officers and enlisted men. Shao was about to have him killed, so Bu left and sought out Zhang Yang, who took him in. Around that time, Pang Shu, who had been residing in the city of Chang'an and was secretly hiding Lü Bu's wife and kids, arranged for their return to Lü Bu. When Li Jue and Guo Si found out, they executed Pang Shu and sent a letter to Zhang Yang, instructing him to kill Lü Bu. As a result, Bu abandoned Zhang Yang and sought out Zhang Miao. As luck would have it, Zhang Miao's younger brother Zhang Chao brought Chen Gong to see Zhang Miao. Gong advised Miao, saying, "The world is now in disarray, and heroes are joining forces. You are in charge of a vast area, yet are under someone else's thumb. Is that not despicable? Cao Cao is now advancing eastward and Yanzhou is empty. Lü Bu is an exceptionally brave warrior in our time. If we were to join forces with him in taking Yanzhou, we could expand our power and influence." Zhang Miao was overjoyed. He ordered Lü Bu to bring Yanzhou to its knees, and to then occupy Puyang. Other than Juancheng, Dong'e and Fan Counties, where a plan to fight to the death was devised by Xun Yu and Cheng Yu, all of the other areas were forced to surrender. Cao Ren fought in a number of battles, but was unable to achieve a victory, and therefore had sent an urgent dispatch to Cao Cao.

　　操聞報大驚曰：「兗州有失，使吾無家可歸矣，不可不亟圖之！」郭嘉曰：「主公正好賣個人情與劉備，退軍去復兗州。」操然之，即時答書與劉備，拔寨退兵。

     Cao was shocked when he heard the report, saying, "If Yanzhou is lost, I will no longer have a home to return to. I must come up with a plan and fast!" Guo Jia said, "Now would be a good time to explain to Liu Bei that a personal situation has come up. You can then withdraw your forces and take back Yanzhou." Cao concurred, and immediately sent a letter of reply to Liu Bei. Cao broke camp and withdrew his forces.

　　且說來使回徐州，入城見陶謙，呈上書札，言曹兵已退。謙大喜，差人請孔融、田楷、雲長、子龍等赴城大會。飲宴既畢，謙延玄德於上座，拱手對眾曰：「老夫年邁，二子不才，不堪國家重任。劉公乃帝室之胄，德高才廣，可領徐州。老夫情願乞閒養病。」玄德曰：「孔文舉令備來救徐州，為義也；今無端據而有之，天下將以備為無義人矣。」糜竺曰：「今漢室凌遲，海宇顛覆，樹功立業，正在此時。徐州殷富，戶口百萬，劉使君領此，不可辭也。」玄德曰：「此事決不敢應命。」陳登曰：「陶府君多病，不能視事，明公勿辭。」玄德曰：「袁公路四世三公，海內所歸，近在壽春，何不以州讓之？」孔融曰：「袁公路塚中枯骨，何足掛齒！今日之事，天與不取，悔不可追。」

     Let us now turn to the messenger, who had returned to Xuzhou and entered the city to see Tao Qian. Handing Qian the letter, the messenger explained that Cao's forces had already withdrawn. Qian was overjoyed, and sent someone to invite Kong Rong, Tian Kai, Yunchang, Zilong et al. to come into the city for a big a meeting. After the banquet had concluded, Qian invited Xuande to sit at the seat of honor. He then clasped his hands in front of his chest as a gesture of courtesy, and addressed everyone present, saying, "I am old, and my two sons lack the talent to handle important affairs of state. Lord Liu is a descendant of the imperial household. He is a man of great integrity and broad talent. He should take charge of Xuzhou. I would like to retire to a life of leisure, so that I can restore my health." Xuande said, "Kong Wenju compelled me to come to the aid of Xuzhou out of a sense of justice. If I were to now occupy it for no good reason, the world will judge me to be without any sense of justice." Mi Zhu said, "The house of Han is now in a state of decline, and the world is turned upside down. If you desire to make a name for yourself, now is the time. Xuzhou is full of wealth and there are hundreds of thousands households. You must accept this position. You mustn't demure." Xuande said, "This is the kind of offer that I dare not accept." Chen Deng said, "The venerable Tao suffers from a number of maladies, and is unable to govern; you must not decline this offer." Xuande said, "Yuan Gonglu's 's family have occupied the highest positions within the government for four generations.^[5] Of the places controlled by him, Shouchun is the closest. Why not cede control to him?" Kong Rong said, "Yuan Gonglu is a deadbeat; he's not even worth mentioning! If the heavens grant you an opportunity like this, and you don't accept, you will always regret it."

　　玄德堅執不肯，陶謙泣下曰：「君若捨我而去，吾死不瞑目矣！」雲長曰：「既承陶公相讓，兄且權領州事。」張飛曰：「又不是我強要他的州郡；他好意相讓，何必苦苦推辭？」玄德曰：「汝等欲陷我於不義耶？」陶謙推讓再三，玄德只是不受。陶謙曰：「如玄德必不肯從，此間近邑，名曰小沛，足可屯軍。請玄德暫駐軍此邑，以保徐州，何如？」眾皆勸玄德留小沛，玄德從之。陶謙勞軍已畢，趙雲辭去，玄德執手揮淚而別。孔融、田楷亦各相別，引軍自回。玄德與關、張引本部軍來至小沛，修葺城垣，撫諭居民。

     After Xuande continued to persist in his unwillingness to accept the offer, Tao Qian began to cry, saying, "If you abandon me and leave, I will go to my grave with regret in my heart!" Yunchang said, "Seeing as Tao Qian is offering to relinquish the post to you, you could temporarily take charge of Xuzhou." Zhang Fei said, "It's not as though we are forcing him to give us his lands. His intentions are good in relinquishing his post to you; what's the point of insisting on declining his offer?" Xuande said, "Do you all want me to devolve into a scoundrel without a sense of justice?" Tao Qian repeatedly tried to relinquish his post, but Xuande simply would not accept. Tao Qian said, "Since you insist on not accepting my offer, there is a place near here called Xiaopei, where you could station your troops. Please post your soldiers there for the time being, in order to protect Xuzhou, alright?" They all implored Xuande to remain in Xiaopei, so Xuande complied with their wishes. After Tao Qian had finished rewarding the troops, Zhao Yun departed. Wiping the tears from his eyes, Xuande shook hands with him as they said goodbye to each other. Kong Rong and Tian Kai also bid farewell, leading their own armies back to where they had come from. Xuande, Guan and Zhang led their main army to Xiaopei, where they repaired the city walls, in order to appease the local citizenry.

　　卻說曹操回軍，曹仁接著，言呂布勢大，更有陳宮為輔，兗州、濮陽已失，其鄄城、東阿、范縣三處，賴荀彧、程昱二人設計相連，死守城郭。操曰：「吾料呂布有勇無謀，不足慮也。」教且安營下寨，再作商議。呂布知曹操回兵，已過滕縣，召副將薛蘭、李封曰：「吾欲用汝二人久矣。汝可引軍一萬，堅守兗州。我自率兵，前去破曹。」

     Let us now turn to Cao Cao, who was returning with his army. Cao Ren came out to greet him. He explained that Lü Bu was a force to be reckoned with, and that moreover, Chen Gong was assisting him. Yanzhou and Puyang were already lost, but the city walls of Juancheng, Dong'e and Fan Counties were still intact, thanks to the fierce efforts of Xun Yu and Cheng Yu. Cao said, "In my estimation, Lü Bu is all brawn and no brains. He's not even worth worrying about." He then instructed his men to pitch camp. After that, he consulted with his advisors. Lü Bu knew that Cao Cao was returning with his army, and that Cao had already passed by Teng County. Bu summoned his two lieutenants, Xue Lan and Li Feng, saying, "I have wanted to make use of you two for a while. Take an army of 10,000 men, and guard Yanzhou with your life. I will personally lead an army to advance on and smash Cao's forces."

　　二人應諾。陳宮急入見曰：「將軍棄兗州，欲何往乎？」布曰：「吾欲屯兵濮陽，以成鼎足之勢。」宮曰：「差矣。薛蘭必守兗州不住。此去正南一百八十里，泰山路險，可伏精兵萬人在彼。曹兵聞失兗州，必然倍道而進，待其過半，一擊可擒也。」布曰：「吾屯濮陽別有良謀，汝豈知之？」遂不用陳宮之言，而用薛蘭守兗州而行。

     The two men did as they were told. Chen Gong hastily came to see Bu, saying, "I see that you are abandoning Yanzhou; where are you going?" Bu said, "I will concentrate my troops in Puyang so that I can triple the strength of my forces." Gong said, "That's a bad idea. There is no way that Xue Lan will be able to hold onto to Yanzhou. 180 li due south of here, the roads leading toward Mount Tai are hazardous. We could hide 10,000 of our elite troops there. Cao's army knows that they have lost Yanzhou, so they will be advancing in double time for sure. If we wait until after they've passed the halfway point, we could take them in one swift blow." Bu said, "I'm stationing troops in Puyang because I have something else in mind. How could you possibly know what I'm planning?" In the end, he didn't heed Chen Gong's advice, but instead left Xue Lan in charge of defending Yanzhou. Bu then set out.

　　曹操兵行至泰山險路，郭嘉曰：「且不可進；恐此處有伏兵。」曹操笑曰：「呂布無謀之輩，故教薛蘭守兗州，自往濮陽；安得此處有埋伏耶？」教曹仁：「領一軍圍兗州，吾進兵濮陽，速攻呂布。」

     When Cao Cao's army arrived at the hazardous roads leading toward Mount Tai, Guo Jia said, "We must not advance; I'm afraid that there may be a hidden army waiting in ambush for us." Cao Cao smiled and said, "Lü Bu lacks a strategic mind. That's why he left Xue Lan in charge of defending Yanzhou, while he headed off for Puyang; how could he possibly have the foresight to hide his men here?" He instructed Cao Ren, "Take your army and surround Yanzhou. I will advance toward Puyang and quickly attack Lü Bu."

　　陳宮聞曹兵至近，乃獻計曰：「今曹兵遠來疲困，利在速戰，不可養成氣力。」布曰：「吾匹馬縱橫天下，何愁曹操！待其下寨，吾自擒之。」

     When Chen Gong heard that Cao's army was approaching, he came up with a brilliant plan, saying, "Cao's army will be tired after such a long journey. Now is a good time to quickly attack, before they have a chance to regain their strength." Bu said, "I have single-handedly conquered the length and breadth of this country. Why would I worry about Cao Cao! I'll wait until they pitch camp, then I will capture him personally."

　　卻說曹操兵近濮陽，下住寨腳。次日引眾將出，陳兵於野。操立馬於門旗下，遙望呂布兵到。陣圓處，呂布當先出馬，兩邊排開八員健將：第一個雁門馬邑人，姓張，名遼，字文遠；第二個泰山華陰人，姓臧，名霸，字宣高；兩將又各引六員健將：郝萌、曹性、成廉、魏續、宋憲、侯成。布軍五萬，鼓聲大震。

     Let us now turn to Cao Cao, whose army had pitched camp near Puyang. The following day, he led everyone out and formed them into battle lines outside of the city. Cao halted his horse beneath the banners at the entrance to his camp. In the distance, he could see that Lü Bu's army was arriving. Lü Bu rode out in front of his own battle lines. Eight of his fiercest generals arranged themselves on either side. The first general was from Mayi, Yanmen Commandery. His surname was Zhang, his given name was Liao, and his style name was Wenyuan. The second general was from Huayin, Mount Tai Commandery. His surname was Zang, his given name was Ba, and his style name was Xuangao. Between these two, they commanded an additional six fierce generals: Hao Meng, Cao Xing, Cheng Lian, Wei Xu, Song Xian and Hou Cheng. Bu's army numbered 50,000; the sound of its beating drums shook the earth.

　　操指呂布而言曰：「吾與汝自來無讎，何得奪吾州郡？」布曰：「漢家城池，諸人有分，偏爾合得！」便叫臧霸出馬搦戰。曹軍內樂進出迎，兩馬相交，雙槍齊舉。戰到三十餘合，勝負不分。夏侯惇拍馬便出助戰，呂布陣上，張遼截住廝殺。惱得呂布性起，挺戟驟馬，衝出陣來，夏侯惇、樂進皆走，呂布掩殺，曹軍大敗，退三四十里，布自收軍。

     Cao pointed to Lü Bu and said, "I have no grudge against you. Why have you seized my lands?" Bu said, "The lands of the house of Han are the property of everyone. You must think you're the only one entitled to them!" He then ordered Zang Ba to ride out on his horse and challenge the enemy. Yue Jin emerged from Cao's ranks in order to meet the challenge. The two men's horses clashed, as each raised their spears in unison. After more than thirty bouts, there was still no clear victor. Xiahou Dun slapped his horse into action in order to lend assistance. Zhang Liao emerged from Lü Bu's battle lines in order to intercept and kill Dun. Lü Bu became enraged by all of this. He raised his halberd and rode his horse at full gallop out from his own battle lines. Both Xiahou Dun and Yue Jin fled. Lü Bu took advantage of the moment in order to press his attack, causing Cao's army to suffer a major defeat. Cao's army retreated 30 to 40 li, before Lü Bu withdrew his own forces.

　　曹操輸了一陣，回寨與諸將商議。于禁曰：「某今日上山觀望，濮陽之西，呂布有一寨，約無多軍。今夜彼將謂我軍敗走，必不準備，可引兵擊之；若得寨，布軍必懼。此為上策。」操從其言，帶曹洪、李典、毛玠、呂虔、于禁、典韋六將，選馬步二萬人，連夜從小路進發。

     After Cao Cao lost the battle, he returned to camp and consulted with his generals. Yu Jin said, "I climbed a hill today so that I could get a better view of the area. Lü Bu had a camp to the west of Puyang that did not have many soldiers. Tonight, those generals will surely be unprepared, having just been routed by our army. We could lead our men in an attack on them. If we can capture their camp, then Bu's soldiers will be terrified for sure. This is the best course of action." Cao followed his advice, taking with him his six generals --- Cao Hong, Li Dian, Mao Jie, Lü Qian, Yu Jin and Dian Wei --- as well as 20,000 horses and men, on an all night advance along a small side road.

　　卻說呂布在寨中勞軍。陳宮曰：「西寨是個要緊去處，倘或曹操襲之，奈何？」布曰：「他今日輸了一陣，如何敢來？」宮曰：「曹操是極善用兵之人，須防他攻我不備。」布乃撥高順并魏續、侯成引兵往守西寨。

     Let us now turn to Lü Bu, who was in his camp, rewarding his troops. Chen Gong said, "Our western camp is in a critical location. What would we do if Cao Cao attacked it?" Bu said, "He lost a battle today, what makes you think he would he dare to come?" Gong said, "Cao Cao is a man who is extremely good at using soldiers; we must prevent him from attacking us while unawares." Accordingly, Bu appointed Gao Shun, along with Wei Xu and Hou Cheng, to lead a force toward Bu's western camp in order to protect it.

　　卻說曹操於黃昏時分，引軍至西寨，四面突入。寨兵不能抵擋，四散奔走，曹操奪了寨。將及四更，高順方引軍到，殺將入來。曹操自引軍馬來迎，正逢高順，三軍混戰。將及天明，正西鼓聲大震，人報呂布自引救軍來了。操棄寨而走。背後高順、魏續、侯成趕來，當頭呂布親自引軍來到。于禁、樂進，雙戰呂布不住，操望北而行。山後一彪軍出，左有張遼，右有臧霸。操使呂虔、曹洪戰之，不利，操望西而走。忽又喊聲大震，一彪軍至，郝萌、曹性、成廉、宋憲四將，攔住去路。眾將死戰，操當先衝陣。梆子響處，箭如驟雨射將來。操不能前進，無計可脫，大叫「誰人救我！」

     Let us now turn to Cao Cao, who had led his army at dusk to Bu's western camp, then stormed in from all sides. The camp's soldiers were unable to hold their ground, and scattered in all four directions. Cao Cao had captured the camp. It was close to the fourth watch before Gao Shun had arrived with his troops, fighting his way in. Cao Cao personally led a force of men and horses to intercept. His army ran straight into Gao Shun's. The three armies were intermingled, and fought each other indiscriminately. As dawn approached, the sound of drums shook the earth from the west. Someone reported that Lü Bu had arrived, personally leading a rescue force. Yu Jin and Yue Jin both tried to hold back Lü Bu, all to no avail. Cao headed north. A group of soldiers came out from behind a hill, with Zhang Liao on the left and Zang Ba on the right. Cao ordered Lü Qian and Cao Hong to fight them, but it was not going well. Cao then departed to the west. Suddenly, the sound of thunderous shouting could be heard, as another group of soldiers arrived. Bu's four other generals --- Hao Meng, Cao Xing, Cheng Lian and Song Xian --- had blocked Cao's path. They were all locked in a life and death struggle, with Cao leading the charge. Arrows rained down on them from the direction of the sound of watchman clappers. Cao was unable to advance, and had run out of ideas for how to escape. He yelled out, "Somebody save me!"

　　馬軍隊裡，一將踴出，乃典韋也。手挺雙鐵戟，大叫「主公勿憂！」飛身下馬，撐住雙戟，取短戟十數枝，挾在手中，顧從人曰：「賊來十步乃呼我！」遂放開腳步，冒箭前行。布軍數十騎追至，從人大叫：「十步矣！」韋日：「五步乃呼我！」從人又曰：「五步矣！」韋乃飛戟刺之，一戟一人墜馬，並無虛發，立殺十數人。眾皆奔走。韋復飛身上馬，挺一雙大鐵戟，衝殺入去。郝、曹、宋、候四將，不能抵擋，各自逃去。典韋殺散敵軍，救出曹操，眾將隨後也到，尋路歸寨。

     One of Cao's generals burst forth from the cavalry. It was Dian Wei. He was carrying twin long-handle iron halberds in his hands. He shouted, "Fear not, my lord!" He jumped down from his horse, propped up his twin long-handle halberds, then grabbed about a dozen or so short-handle halberds.^[6] He addressed his attendants, saying, "Call out to me when the bandits are within ten paces of me!" He then strode forward, braving the arrows as he went. Dozens of Bu's cavalrymen gave chase, whereupon Wei's attendants yelled out, "Ten paces!" Wei said, "Call out to me when they are within five paces!" Again, Wei's attendants yelled out, "Five paces!" Wei then threw the short-handle halberds, striking the enemy one by one. With each throw, he managed to fell another man from his horse. Not a single short-handle halberd missed its mark. A dozen people were killed in this way. The rest all fled. Wei jumped back onto his horse, once again grabbed his twin long-handle iron halberds, then charged forward. Four of Bu's generals --- Hao, Cao, Song and Hou --- could not keep Wei at bay, so they all fled. Dian Wei tore into the enemy, causing them to scatter. After Wei had rescued Cao Cao, the rest of Cao's generals arrived as well. Together, they all searched for the road back to camp.

　　看看天色傍晚，背後喊聲起處，呂布驟馬提戟趕來，大叫「操賊休走！」此時人馬困乏，大家面面相覷，各欲逃生。正是：雖能暫把重圍脫，只怕難當勁敵追。不知曹操性命如何，且看下文分解。

     Just as the evening began to descend upon them, they could hear a din of shouting from behind them. Lü Bu was charging at them on his horse, halberd in hand, shouting, "Cao, you scoundrel, halt this instant!" At this point, the men and horses were exhausted. Everyone looked at each other wearily, not knowing what to do. They all wanted to flee. It was a case of:

Although they were temporarily able to break out of their encirclement, it may be much more difficult for them to keep a formidable enemy from giving chase.

     Don't know whether Cao Cao lived or died? Keep reading, and all will be explained.