Lü Bu (Fengxian) 156 to 199 A.D.

       Lü Bu, familiar name Fengxian, served as a bodyguard and commander under Ding Yuan, who adopted him as a young man. After the Yellow Scarves rebellion ended with the death of the three Zhang brothers, Dong Zhuo took control of the Han Court and invited all the Lords that fought against the Turbans to Wenming garden. There he noticed a large man who accompanied Ding Yuan.

Dong Zhuo asked his advisor Li Ru about him. "That is Lü Bu, the adopted son of Ding Yuan. You must keep out of his way my lord." Heeding this advice, Dong Zhuo hid himself so that he would not been seen by Lü Bu.

The next day, Ding Yuan's armies assembled outside to fight with Dong Zhuos troops. Lü Bu rode at the forefront of Ding Yuan's army. His hair was arranged under a beautiful headdress of gold, and he had donned an embroidered thousand-flower fighting robe, a pheasant tailed helmet, a breastplate, and around his waste was a gleaming jade belt with a lions head clasp. With his spear set, he rode next to his master Ding Yuan.

Lü Bu rode towards Dong Zhuo's army as soon as the battle started. Dong Zhuo turned his army around and fled. The battle was a great victory for Ding Yuan whose army slew many soldiers during the pursuit.

Dong Zhuo retired ten miles further and set up camp, calling his officers to council. Dong Zhuo was impressed by Lü Bu and said, "This Lü Bu is a marvel, if he only were on my side, I would defy the whole world!" Dong Zhuo's follower Li Su came up with a plan to persuade Lü Bu to join Dong Zhuo's army. He suggested using the Red Hare, a fine bred horse, as a bribe for Lü Bu.

Thus, it was decided and Dong Zhuo sent Li Su to Lü Bu, along with a thousand ounces of gold, ten strings of beautiful pearls, a jewelled belt, and the Red Hare.

Li Su arrived at Lü Bus camp and requested to see him. After exchanging formalities, Li Su told Lü Bu that he had brought a marvellous gift with him. Lü Bu bade the guards to bring out the gift. A poem describes the Red Hare:

"Mark ye the steed swift and tireless, see the dust, spurned by his hoofs, rising in clouds;
Now it swims the river, anon climbs the hill, rending the purple mist asunder;
Scornful it breaks the rein, shakes from its head the jewelled bridle;
It is as a fiery dragon descending from the highest heaven."

        Lü Bu was delighted to receive such a gracious gift and proceed to inquire about Li Su's intentions. "What return can I hope to make for such a fine creature?" Lü Bu asked. What return could I hope for? replied Li Su. I came to you out of a sense of what is right.

          After sharing many glasses of wine, Li Su tried to persuade Lü Bu with deceptive words and idle flattery. The subject of Ding Yuan soon came up, and Li Su exclaimed. "Sir, your talent is higher than the heavens, deeper than the seas. Who in the entire world does not bow before your name? Fame, riches, and honours are yours for the taking. And you say you can do no better than remain a subordinate! The clever bird chooses the branch whereon to perch; the wise servant selects the master to serve. Seize the chance when it comes, for repentance ever comes too late."                       

          Li Su continued to praise Dong Zhuo and offered Lü Bu the gifts of gold, pearls, and jewels. Lü Bu pondered Li Sus requests and offered to kill Ding Yuan and bring his soldiers over to Dong Zhuo, as a way of making himself useful to his new master. Li Su was overjoyed with his decision and quickly departed.

          That same night, during the second watch, Lü Bu entered his masters tent, sword in hand. Ding Yuan was reading by candle light and asked Lü Bu if anything was wrong. I am a bold hero, Lü Bu said, Do not think I am willing to be your son. Why this sudden change? Ding Yuan replied. As a reply, Lü Bu grabbed his sword and cut off Ding Yuans head. Lü Bu called in an attendant. He was an unjust man and I have slain him. Let those who back me stay. The others may depart. Most of the troops ran away, the rest accompanied Lü Bu the next day when he visited Li Su. Lü Bu handed Li Su the severed head of Ding Yuan as proof of his worth. Li Su led him to Dong Zhuo.

          After making obeisance, Lü Bu seated himself with Dong Zhuo, who would be his new foster father. Overjoyed, Dong Zhuo arranged a feast and presented gold, armour and silk robes to his new ally.

          Dong Zhuos influence in the court grew and after appointing rank to himself and his brother Dong Min, he gave Lü Bu the rank of Lord of Luo Yang, Commander of Capital Districts and Commander of the Right Army.

          The chaos in the court continued as Dong Zhuo forced Emperor Shao to abdicate and replaced him with the young Prince of Chen Liu, Liu Xie. He then ordered Li Ru to assassinate the deposed Emperor, his mother and his consort.

          Cao Cao resented having to bow to Dong Zhuo and came up with a plan to assassinate him. After luring away Lü Bu by asking a for a new horse. Cao Cao used his ruby embedded sword to stab Dong Zhuo, however before he could do that, Dong Zhuo turned towards Cao and the plot was ruined. He quickly dropped to his knees and pretended to show the sword as a gift to Dong Zhuo. This distracted Dong Zhuo long enough for Cao Cao to escape with the horse Lü Bu brought him.

          After the failed assassination attempt, Cao Cao regrouped his forces outside of the capital and with the help of Chen Gong and Wei Hong, Cao Cao was able to draft an army to oppose Dong Zhuo.

          Knowing that his strength alone would not be able to defy Dong Zhuo and Lü Bu, Cao Cao sent a call to arms to Yuan Shao, who collected an army of thirty thousand men and marched to Bo Hai to take the oath with Cao Cao. Next, a decree was sent to all the powerful lords.

          The coalition fought against Dong Zhuo, but internal strife between the lords caused trouble. Sun Jian led the vanguard against Dong Zhuos general Hua Xiong. The battle was in favour of Sun Jian, however supplies did not arrive, and Sun Jians army was forced to retreat. In the melee, Sun Jians friend Zhu Mao was slain.

          Guan Yu, who was with Liu Bei and Zhang Fei, eventually killed Hua Xiong in a duel and Dong Zhuos army retreated to the capital. Upon hearing the bad news, Li Ru quickly devised another foul scheme. He advised Dong Zhuo to kill the Imperial Guardian Yuan Wei, who was Yuan Shaos uncle, to prevent an uprising inside the capital. Dong Zhuo agreed to this plan and sent Guo Si and Li Jue with five hundred men to the Imperial Guardians mansion, and ordered them to kill everyone they found there, regardless of age. The severed head of the assassinated Yuan Wei hung from the outside gate as a trophy.

          Dong Zhuo decided to mobilize his forces and bring them to Tiger Trap Gate (Hu Lao Guan). He sent Guo Si and Li Jue to guard River Si Pass with fifty thousand troops. The main army of about a hundred-fifty thousand troops marched to Tiger Trap Gate. Dong Zhuos counsellors and commanders, Li Ru, Lü Bu, Fan Chou, Zhang Ji and others; marched with the main army.

          The coalition divided into separate divisions and engaged Dong Zhuos army head on. Of the eight warlords, Wang Kuang, the Governor of He Nei, was the first to arrive. Lü Bu marched out with three thousand armoured horsemen.

          Lu Bu was conspicuous figure standing in front of the line. On his head was a triple curved headdress or gold with pheasant tails. He wore a velvet red robe of Xi Chuan silk, embroidered with thousand flowers, which was overlapped by a golden mail, adorned with a gaping animals head. Around his waste was a jewelled belt, fastened by a lion head clasp. His bow and arrows were slung on his shoulders, and he carried a long heavy trident halberd. He was seated on his snorting steed, the Red Hare. Indeed, Lü Bu was the man among humans, as the Red Hare was the horse among horses.

          Wang Kuang sent out Fang Yue, a valiant general from He Nei to challenge Lü Bu. Before the fifth bout, Fang Yue fell under a trust of Lü Bus halberd, and Lü Bu dashed forward with his troops. Wang Kuangs troops were scattered. Luckily, for him, Qiao Mao and Yuan Yus troop were able to rescue the wounded Wang Kuang.

          The three generals retreated ten miles and made up camp. The other five generals arrived and a meeting was arranged. While they sat there, anxious and uncertain, it was announced that Lü Bu came to challenge them again. The eight warlords assembled their armies and placed themselves at the head of their forces.

          The attack of Lü Bu began, Ma Shun, an officer under Governor Zhang Yang, rode out towards Lü Bu with his spear set, however he fell at the first encounter. Wu Anguo, an officer under Kong Rong, battled Lü Bu with his iron mace. The two fought ten bouts, and were well matched to each other. However, Lü Bus spear broke Wu Anguos wrist, thus he was forced to drop his mace and retreat. The warlords led their forces to Wu Anguos rescue, and Lü Bu was forced to retreat to his line.

          The fighting ceased and the warlords called another council. Cao Cao said, "No one can stand against the prowess of Lu Bu. Let us call up all the lords and evolve some good plan. If only Lu Bu were taken, Dong Zhuo could easily be killed." While council was in process, Lü Bu challenged the Lords once again.

          This time, Gongsun Zan rode out to meet Lü Bu head on. However, Gongsun Zan was no match for Lü Bu and was forced to retreat. Lü Bu saw his chance and pursued Gongsun Zan on the Red Hare. Lü Bu quickly gained on Gongsun Zan and readied his spear to slay Gongsun Zan. However, a third rider charged Lü Bu yelling loudly, Stay O bastard, I Zhang Fei of Yan awaits you! Lü Bu turned his horse around and eagerly met Zhang Feis challenge. Zhang Fei was elated; he whirled his ten foot long Serpent Spear and rode forth with all his energy. The two were equally matched and fought half a hundred bouts without advantage on either side. Then, Guan Yu, who was impatiently watching the battle, readied his Green Dragon Sabre, and rode out to attack Lü Bus other flank. The three warriors battered away for another thirty bouts, yet Lü Bu stood firm. Then, Liu Bei rode forth to assist his brothers; his dual swords raised high, ready to strike. Now Lü Bu had to fend off attacks from three sides. The light of the warriors weapons clashing resembled the revolving lanterns that were suspended during the New Year celebration. In addition, the warriors of the eight armies simply gazed at the amazing battle.

          However, Lü Bu became fatigued and his guard began to weaken. Lü Bu cast his eyes on Liu Bei and feigned a fierce thrust in his direction. Liu Bei drew back and Lü Bu skilfully escaped the battle through the open angle.

          The three brothers lead the army in pursuit of the fleeing Lü Bu and his army. When they came to the Tiger Trap Gate, the three brothers noticed the black of Dong Zhuo fluttering in the west wind. They whipped their steeds and charged towards the gate. However, the defenders of the gate hurled stones and shot arrows at the advancing army, forcing the army to retreated and make up camp.  

          The eight lords congratulated the three brothers with their victory and sent a report to Yuan Shao, who immediately ordered Sun Jians army to advance on Hu Lao Guan. Dong Zhuo expected this and sent Li Jue to propose a marriage between his daughter and Sun Jians son, hoping it would keep Sun Jians army from charging his gate.

        After hearing Dong Zhuos offer through Li Jue, Sun Jian was enraged and yelled, "What! Dong Zhuo, that rebel and renegade, that usurper of the throne! I wish I could destroy his nine generations as a thank-offering to the empire! Do you think, I would be willing to have an alliance with such a family? I will not slay you as I ought, but go, and go quickly! Yield the Pass and I may spare your lives. If you delay, I will grind your bones to powder and make mincemeat of your flesh!" Li Jue threw his arms over his head and ran out.

        After hearing about Li Jues failure to form an alliance, Dong Zhuo consulted Li Ru yet again. "Lu Bu's late defeat had somewhat blunted the edge of our army's desire for battle. It would be well to return to the capital and remove the Emperor to Chang An. Li Ru said. Dong Zhuo listened to Li Rus reasoning and agreed to the plan of leaving Luo Yang and taking up camp in Chang An, the old capital of the Western Han Dynasty. Taking Lü Bu with him, Dong Zhuo immediately set out for Luo Yang.

        There, he called all the officials to the Palace to hold a council. Using the same arguments that Li Ru presented earlier, Dong Zhuo informed the Han ministers of his decision to move the capital to Chang An. Yang Biao the Minister of Interior, Grand Commander Huang Wan and Minister of Works Xun Shuang all raised valid protests against the plan. However, Dong Zhuo would not be swayed, and three objectors were removed, stripped of their rank, and reduced to mere commoners.

        As Dong Zhuo prepared to leave in his coach, Secretary General Zhou Bi and Commander of the Gate Wu Qiong approached him. After hearing their objections, Dong Zhuo accused them of siding with Yuan Shao and promptly had them executed.

        Li Ru pointed out to Dong Zhuo that their money and food supplies were being drained by the war against the coalition under Yuan Shao. He advised Dong Zhuo to plunder Luo Yang. Many rich families were labelled traitors and killed for no reason, while Dong Zhuos generals looted the riches of Luo Yang.

        The citizens of Luo Yang were driven from their city and forced to march to Chang An, accompanied by regiments of Dong Zhuos soldiers. Many died, and the escorts plundered the fugitives and defiled the women. A wail of sorrow arose to sky, and the screams of anguish echoed through the empty Capital.

        Dong Zhuos final order as he left the Capital was to burn the whole city: houses, palaces, temples, all were to be devoured by flames. Dong Zhuo sent Lu Bu to desecrate the tombs of the emperors and their consorts for the jewels therein, and the common soldiers took the occasion to dig up the graves of officers and plunder the cemeteries of the wealthy. The spoil of the city, gold and silver, pearls and silks, and beautiful ornaments, filled many carts. With these and the young Emperors household, Dong Zhuo moved the capital to Chang An in the first year of Established Calm (Jian An) ().

            The coalition of Lords could not make up their minds about what to do next. Cao Cao decided to act on his own and took his six generals Xiahou Dun, Xiahou Yuan, Cao Ren, Cao Hong, Li Dian, Yue Jin, and ten thousand soldiers to start the pursuit.

          Dong Zhuo led his army through Ying Yang, which was governed by Xu Rong. Li Ru advised Dong Zhuo to lay a trap outside of the city. Governor Xo Rong was to open the gates for Cao Cao, and then cut off their path of retreat while Dong Zhuos army charges them. Dong Zhuo assigned Lü Bu to the rearguard.

          Very soon, they saw Cao Cao coming up from the rear. Lü Bu laughed at his opponent and set out his troops in fighting order. After taunting Lü Bu, Cao Cao sent out the warrior Xiahou Dun. Lü Bu engaged him in combat but before long, Li Ru and a cohort intervened. Cao Cao sent Xiahou Yuan to meet them. However, on the other side Guo Si appeared. Thus, Cao Cao bade Cao Ren to engage him. The attacks from three sides were too much for Cao Caos army and they were forced to retreat to Ying Yang when Lü Bus armoured cavalry completed the attack.

          Cao Caos troops stopped at the base of the hills and made camp. Just as the troops were burying their pots to prepare their meals, Xu Rongs army ambushed them. Cao Cao panicked, mounted his horse, and fled. He ran right into the waiting troops of Xu Rong. Cao Cao turned the other way but was shot in the arm by an arrow.

          The battle was a disaster for Cao Cao, who barely escaped with his when Cao Hong saved him. Xiahou Dun and a small troop of men managed to slay Governor Xu Rong and the battle ended. Cao Cao gathered the few hundred troops that were left and headed for Luo Yang.  

          While the coalition of Lords fell apart, Dong Zhuo settled in the new capital, Chang An. His wealth was as abundant as his arrogance. He appointed himself Imperial Rector and used the treasures he stole from Luo Yang to build palaces and maintain his harems. The Han court collectively sighed at the thought of Dong Zhuos corruption.

          One day, Minister Wang Yun sent a beautiful golden headdress to Lü Bu as a gift and invited him as honoured guest to his home. Wang Yun showered Lü Bu with compliments and Lü Bu was content. He drank large goblets of wine and laughed loudly. As Lü Bu started to feel the effects of the wine, Wang Yun bade his servants to bring in his daughter; Diao Chan. Lü Bu was impressed by the girls beauty and urged her to drink a cup of wine with her.  She accepted and Lü Bus gaze as fixed on her as he drunk cup after cup of wine. I would like to present her to you as handmaiden, would you accept? Wang Yun asked Lü Bu. If that is so, you may rely upon my abject gratitude. Wang Yun was pleased with Lü Bus answer, and an auspicious day would be chosen to send her to the palace. However, the time came for the guest to depart, and Wang Yun said, I would ask you to stay for the night, but the Prime Minister might suspect something. Lü Bu thanked him again and departed.

          A few days later, when Lü Bu was absent from the court, Wang Yun invited Dong Zhuo to his house. Dong Zhuo could not refuse an offer from such an esteemed Minister. Wang Yun went back to his house and prepared a great feast for the Prime Minister. At noon the next day, when the Prime Minister arrived, Wang Yun greeted him in full court attire. Wang Yun stood by as Dong Zhuo and a hundred armed guards filled the hall. Dong Zhuo sat down in the middle and the feast began. Wang Yun plied his guest with assiduous flattery. When it grew late, Wang Yun invited Dong Zhuo to the inner chamber. The guards left and only a few servants remained. Wang Yun praised Dong Zhuo, and predicted that he will play a more important role since the Han was steadily declining. Dong Zhuo was pleased and promised great things to Wang Yun. Musicians were lead inside and the curtains opened for a dancer. A poem describes it like this:

The music falls, the dancer comes, a swallow gliding in,
A dainty little damsel, soft as silk;
Her beauty captivates the guest yet saddens him within,
For he must soon depart and leave her there.
She smiles; no gold could buy that smile, no other smiled so,
No need to deck her form with jewels rare.
But when the dance is over and coy glances come and go,
Then who shall be the chosen of the fair?

        Dong Zhuo beckoned her to come near when the dance ended; he was immediately captivated by her beauty and elegance. Who is she? Dong Zhuo asked Wang Yun. A singing girl, her name is Diao Chan. Then her master bad her to sing, and she started to sing to the accompaniment of castanets. A poem describes her youthful beauty:

You stand, a dainty maiden,
Your cherry lips so bright,
Your teeth so pearly white,
Your fragrant breath love-laden;
Yet is your tongue a sword;
Cold death is the reward
Of loving thee, O maiden.

        Dong Zhuo was just as captivated as Lü Bu was, and again Wang Yun offered her as handmaiden. Dong Zhuo gleefully agreed and Wang Yun ordered an escort to bring her to the palace.

        After having escorted Dong Zhuo back to the castle, Wang Yun headed home. Along the way, he encountered a group of soldiers with red lamps who with Lü Bu. As soon as he saw Wang Yun, he grabbed him by the sleeve and yelled, You promised Diao Chan to me! And now you have given her to the Prime Minister; what foolery is this? Wang Yun calmed him and suggested they talk in private. Therefore, they went together, and Wang Yun led Lü Bu into a private chamber. After the usual exchange of greetings, Lü Bu said, Somebody told me that you sent Diao Chan to the Prime Ministers palace in a covered carriage. What does it mean? Wang Yu told Lü Bu that Dong Zhuo came to his house asking about Diao Chan, and then took her with him to give her away to his son. Lü Bu was relieved and left for the palace after thanking Wang Yun.

        The next day, Lü Bu went to the palace to find answers, but nobody was there to give any. He went to the private chambers and asked the maids. One of them told him that the Prime Minister had brought a new bedfellow last night and had not been up yet. Lü Bu grew angry and sneaked into his masters bedroom. Diao Chan was dressing her hair as she saw Lü Bu in her mirror. She cried after letting out a great sigh and wiped her tears as Lü Bu watched.

        During the next few days, Dong Zhuo thought about nothing except his new concubine. He delegated state matter and devoted himself entirely to pleasure. Dong Zhuo grew very fond of her.

        One day, while Dong Zhuo was sick, Lü Bu came to inquire about his fathers health. Dong Zhuo was asleep and Diao Chan was sitting at the head of the couch. After seeing who came in, Diao Chan leaned towards Lü Bu, pointed one hand to Dong Zhuo, and putting the other near her heart, and cried. Dong Zhuo woke up and yelled at Lü Bu, who left in anger. Li Ru, who was coming to visit Dong Zhuo, met Lü Bu in the hallway and was told about what happened. He quickly went in to see Dong Zhuo and said. Sir, you aspire to the ruler of an Empire, then why do you blame your general for such a small error? If he turns against you, it is all over. Dong Zhuo realized his mistake and the next day he gave Lü Bu three hundred ounces and twenty rolls of brocade. Therefore, the quarrel was made up. However, though Lü Bus body was with his adopted father, his mind was with Diao Chan.

            A few days later while Dong Zhuo was in discussion with the Emperor, Lü Bu left the palace and headed for the Prime Ministers residence to meet with Diao Chan. She told him to wait in the garden where she would join him later. Lü Bu waited at Phoenix Pavilion () and Diao Chan came to meet him as promised. She wailed about Dong Zhuos wicked plan and leaned her body over the curving rail saying, I can die before your eyes and prove how true I am! However, Lü Bu caught her with his strong arms and wept as he held her close.

        Lü Bu could not part with her as they cried freely, soothing each other with kind words. Dong Zhuo began to grow suspicious of Lü Bus absence. He mounted his carriage and returned to his palace. At the entrance he saw Lü Bus Red Hare, rider less. He searched the inner chambers but found nobody, when he inquired about Diao Chan, the maids told Dong Zhuo she went to admire the flowers in the Phoenix Pavilion. So Dong Zhuo went into the pavilion and saw the two of them in an intimate conversation.

        A howl of fury left Dong Zhuo as he stormed towards Lü Bu and Diao Chan. Lü Bu turned, saw who it was and ran away. Dong Zhuo picked up Lü Bus halberd that was resting on the rail of the Pavilion, and ran in pursuit. However, Lü Bu was very fast and Dong Zhuos stout body slowed him down. Seeing no hope of catching up, Dong Zhuo hurled the halberd towards Lü Bu, who easily dodged it. Dong Zhuo picked up the halberd and continued the pursuit. By now however, Lü Bu already left the Pavilion, and as Dong Zhuo ran out the gate, he dashed into another man with full power and was thrown to the ground.

        The person who Dong Zhuo collide with was no other than his advisor Li Ru, who had not fallen despite of the shock. He helped Dong Zhuo get back on his feet and accompanied him to the library where they would talk. Dong Zhuo was furious as he told Li Ru of Lü Bus acts, however, Li Ru advised him to stay calm and value Lü Bus service over that of Diao Chan. Dong Zhuo pondered his words and agreed to Li Rus advise, thus Li Ru left there feeling satisfied.

        Dong Zhuo returned to his palace and questioned Diao Chan. She cleverly twisted the whole story and faked another suicide attempt, this time in front of Dong Zhuo, who was easily tricked by his maidens performance. She told Dong Zhuo that Li Ru and Lü Bu were both scheming to take her away from Dong Zhuo. She pretended to be scared and wept in front of her master. Dong Zhuo promised to take her to Meiwo castle the next day. Diao Chan dried her tears and thanked him.

        The next day Li Ru came to see Dong Zhuo and tried to persuade him to give Diao Chan to Lü Bu. Dong Zhuo grew angry as Li Ru would not stop and finally said, Who you like to give your wife to someone else? It is better not to talk about this anymore. Li Ru left the room sighing, cast his eyes upon the heaven and said, We are dead people, slain by the hand of a girl!

        The order was given to journey to Meiwo, and all the officers gathered around the Prime Ministers Palace. Lü Bu saw Diao Chan inside Dong Zhuos carriage; her sad look tore him apart. He stared at the leaving carriage until the dust had dissipated from the horizon. Wang Yun asked why Lü Bu was so sad, and he told Wang Yun the happenings of the past few weeks. Wang Yun stamped his feet on the ground as he listened to Lü Bu. Come to my house, Wang Yun said as he grabbed Lü Bus hand, we will talk it over there.

        Wang Yun and Lü Bu retired into a secret room of Wang Yuns house, and Lü Bu explained what happened in Phoenix Pavilion. Wang Yun was in disbelief of the Prime Ministers behaviour, and his words only added to Lü Bus discontent. I will kill the wretch Dong Zhuo! Lü Bu said, I swear it! Wang Yun praised Lü Bu as the saviour of the Han and Lü Bu left that night with great anxiety.

        Wang Yun then formed a scheme with his two colleagues Minister Shisun Rui and Huang Wan. They would lure the Prime Minister back to Chang An and obtain a secret degree for Lü Bu to assassinate him. They also decided to use Li Su, who was angry with Dong Zhuo for not promoting him, as the messenger who would fetch him.

        Wang Yun consulted Lü Bu about their plan. Should Li Su refuse this mission, Lü Bu said, I will kill him. Thus, they summoned Li Su and presented the plan. Li Su agreed to the mission and broke an arrow in half as proof of his oath. The next day, Li Su and a small escort went to Meiwo, where they would present a decree that would instate Dong Zhuo as the new Emperor once he returned to Chang An.

        Wang Yun and the court officials presented themselves at the Forbidden City to start the ascension ceremony for Dong Zhuo, who arrived in his carriage. As Dong Zhuo passed through the gate, Wang Yun suddenly shouted, The rebel is here! Where are the executioners? From both sides soldiers leaped out and Dong Zhuo, who was not wearing his breastplate as usual, was pierced in the chest by a spear. Dong Zhuo dropped and yelled loudly for his son, Where is Lü Bu? Here, and with a decree to slay a rebel! Was Lü Bus answer as he stood in front of his father. There upon Lü Bu thrusts his spear into his victims throat. Li Sun immediately took a sword, cut off Dong Zhuos head, and held it high. Lü Bu produced the decree from his pocket and shouted, The decree was to slay the rebel Dong Zhuo, no other! The whole assembly cried out with joy, Wan Shui! Live Forever! O Emperor!

        Next, Lü Bu urged the slaughter of Li Ru, who was already seized by a servant. Wang Yun immediately had him executed in the marketplace. Dong Zhuos severed head and body were displayed in a busy part of the city. The guards poked the body with sticks and used the fat to light torches. The by passing citizens would kick the body with their feet.

        Wang Yun ordered Lü Bu, Huangfu Song, and Li Su to take fifty thousand troops and destroy Meiwo. When arriving at Meiwo, Lü Bu took away Diao Chan and proceeded to slaughter every member of Dong Zhuos family, sparing no one, not even Dong Zhuos aged mother. The heads of his brother Dong Ming and cousin Dong Huang were publicly displayed at the market place. The beauties of Meiwo were freed and sent back to their families. The riches of Meiwo were gathered, the wealth was enormous.

Li Jue, Guo Si, Zhang Ji, and Fan Chou whom were stationed in Meiwo to guard it, fled to Shaanxi in Liang Zhou when they heard of Dong Zhuos death. Thanks to a plot by Jia Xu, they were able to round up over one hundred thousand troops. They divided them into four groups and planned to attack the Capital Chang An from four sides. Along the way there, they met up with Niu Fu, one of Dong Zhuos son-in-laws that wanted to avenge his father-in-laws death. He joined his five thousand troops with those of the former Generals and became their Van Leader.

Wang Yun heard of their advance and consulted Lü Bu. They are a lot of rats, he said, Never mind how many there are. There is no reason to be anxious. Therefore, Lü Bu and Li Su met Niu Fu on the battlefield the next day, and Niu Fu was quickly outmatched. He retreated but turned back to initiate a night raid. Li Su was unprepared for this and suffered a huge defeat. Lü Bu was infuriated with Li Sus mistake and killed him; his severed head was exposed at the entrance of the camp.

The next day, Lü Bu attacked Niu Fu himself. Lü Bu quickly overwhelmed Niu Fu and drove him off. That night, Niu Fu discussed the situation with his advisor Hu Che Er. The two decided to steal the valuables of the four generals and desert them. This plan was adopted and the two traitors left at night with their treasure. While crossing a river, Hu Che Er killed Niu Fu and took his head to Lü Bu. After inquiring about what happened, Lü Bu immediately put Hu Che Er to death and seized his treasures.

Without wasting much time, Lü Bu proceeded to attacked Li Jues unprepared unit. Li Jue made no effort and fell back a long way. His army took up a position under a hill fifteen miles further and called a council. He decided to trap Lü Bu in a gorge and have Guo Si attack him from the rear. Every day Lü Bus army was forced to retreat back and forth in and out of the gorge, his troops were never able to rest. A messenger reported that Chang An was in trouble because of the assault from Fan Chou and Zhang Ji. He dashed trough the enemys troops that had surrounded him for days, and his loss was heavy.

Lü Bu soon reached Chang An, however the city was surrounded by enormous armies and Lü Bus attacks had little effect. From inside the city, Dong Zhuos former cohorts Li Meng and Wang Fang opened the gates from inside to let the invading armies in. Lü Bu quickly rushed towards Back Lock Gate and called out to Wang Yun. The case is desperate now. Ride with me to a place of safety! Wang Yun would not leave at the urging of Lü Bu and was determined to stay to the end. Lü Bu had to leave and abandon his family in the city. He fled to seek refuge with Yuan Shu.

However, Yuan Shu rejected his offer because of Lü Bus instability. Thus, Lü Bu traveled north and offered his services to Yuan Shao, who was Yuan Shus half brother. Yuan Shao accepted his service and made us of Lü Bus power in an attack on Zhang Yan in Chang Shan. His success filled him with pride and his arrogant demeanor annoyed the officers so much that Yuan Shao was at the point of putting him to death. To avoid this, Lü Bu escaped to Governor Zhang Yang of Shang Dang, who accepted his service.

Around this time, Pang Shu, who had been protecting Lü Bus family in Chang An, returned them to Lü Bu. This angered Li Jue and Guo Si, so they had him executed and wrote a letter to Lü Bus Lord to do the same. To escape again, Lü Bu and his household went to Zhang Miao in Chen Liu.

Just as Lü Bu arrived at Chen Liu, Zhang Miaos brother, Zhang Chao, was introducing Chen Gong. During the session, Chen Gong proposed a plan to attack Cao Cao in Yan Zhou while the latter was away on his campaigns in the east. And so Lü Bu was sent in the vanguard. Soon, he was in possession of Yan Zhou and its neighborhood, all except the small counties of Juan Cheng, Fang Xia and Dong Jun, which were all vigorously defended by Cheng Yu and Xun Yu. Lü Bu fought Cao Ren many times and repeatedly sent him back in shame.

Soon Cao Cao was forced to return to his territory. Lü Bu, knowing of Cao Caos return spoke to his subordinates Xue Lan and Li Fang, I have long waited for the opportunity to employ your skill. I will give you ten thousand soldiers, and you are to hold Yan Zhou city while I go forth to attack Cao Cao. Chen Gong protested against Lü Bus plan; however Lü Bu had no need for his advice. I am going to Pu Yang and see what develops. So Lü Bu left Xue Lan in charge of Yan Zhou and left.

Cao Cao and Lü Bu squared off at Pu Yangs open plains. Lü Bu was in front of his army, followed by eight of his generals: Zhang Liao of Ma Yi, backed by Hao Meng, Cao Xing and Cheng Lian; Zhang Ba of Hua Ying, backed by Wei Xu, Song Xian and Hou Cheng. They led and army of fifty thousand men in total.

Lü Bu ordered Zhang Ba to ride forth, and Cao Cao sent Yue Jin to meet him. They exchanged some thirty blows with no advantage to either side. Then Xiahou Dun rode out to help Yue Jin, and Lü Bu sent out Zhang Liao to meet him. And thus the four fought. Then Lü Bu grew angry, he set out his Trident Spear and rushed towards them. Xiahou Dun and Yue Jin fled in fear, however Lü Bu kept pressing the attack and Cao Caos forced retreated ten miles and made a new camp.

Whilst rejoicing their accomplishments, Chen Gong warned Lü Bu that the western camp was scarcely defended and that Cao Cao would take advantage of it. So Lü Bu sent Gao Shun, Wei Xu and Hou Cheng to defend it.

        The next day, Cao Cao attacked the camp like Chen Gong thought he would. They attacked from all four directions and the defending force was losing heavily. Cao Cao marched into the city and met with Commander Gao Shun. After the fourth watch, as dawn was breaking, Cao Cao heard war drums approaching quickly from the west. When he heard Lü Bu himself was leading the relief force, Cao Cao abandoned the attack.

        Gao Shun, Wei Xu and Hou Cheng pursued him, with Lü Bu joining them in the lead. Cao Cao sent Yu Jin and Yue Jin to stop the pursuit, but they were unable to. So Cao Cao went north, only to meet the ambush of Zhang Liao and Zhang Ba. Lu Qian and Cao Hong were sent to meet them, but they were also defeated. Cao Cao sought safety in the west, but again was met by Lü Bus forces, this time led by Hou Meng, Cao Xing, Cheng Lian and Song Xian. Cao Cao was in grave danger and cried out for help. Dian Wei came out to help on his own. Cao Cao was able to get away and make up camp. However, Lü Bu still pursued, he called Chen Gong and asked for a new strategy. Chen Gong proposed the following, In Pu Yang there is a rich, leading family, Tian by name, who number thousands, enough to populate a whole county. Make one of these people go to Cao Cao's camp with a fake secret letter about Lu Bu's ferocity, and the hatred of the people, and their desire to be rid of him. In addition, by saying that only Gao Shun is left to guard the city and they would help anyone who would come to save them. Thus, our enemy Cao Cao will be inveigled into the city, and we will destroy him either by fire or by ambush. His skill may be equal to encompassing the universe, but he will not escape."

        Therefore, the plan was set and the Tian family sent out the letter. Cao Cao went to Pu Yang as expected, around noon, two bodies of soldiers emerged from the city led by Gao Shun. Cao Cao sent Dian Wei to oppose them, though they did not come to battle, Dian Weis troops were stationed close to the drawbridge. The letter stated that by the first watch the next day the gates would be opened, so before the first watch Cao Cao brought his troops in formation near the west gate. A loud shout was heard and the gates opened, Cao Cao whipped up his steed and entered the city. However, as he approached the state residence, the streets were empty and Cao Cao realized that he walked into a trap. An explosion of signal bomb was heard, gong beat all around with a roar like rivers rushing backwards to their source. From the east and west, bodies of soldiers eagerly attacked; they were led by Zhang Liao and Zhang Ba. Cao Cao dashed out to the north; however, Cao Xing and Hou Meng barred him. Therefore, Cao Cao turned around towards the south, but was met by enemies led by Gao Sheng and Hou Cheng. Dian Wei, Li Dian, and Li Yue rode through the masses of enemy soldiers in an attempt to find their lord. When Cao Cao met up with Dian Wei, he once again made a dash at the north gate, Lü Bu stood in the opening calling out for Cao Cao. However, Lü Bu was fooled easily and chased the wrong rider, giving Cao Cao a chance to escape.

        The next day, word reached Lü Bus camp that Cao Cao was burned to death in a fire during the fifth watch. Lü Bu immediately gathered his soldiers and took the Ma Ling road to attack the enemy camp. One he passed the hills, war drums could be heard from both sides and Cao Caos soldiers charged their enemy. Only by desperate fighting, did Lü Bu get out of the melee and back to Pu Yang. There he fortified his defenses and could not be tempted to do battle.

        The next time that Cao Caos army came to attack, he had six generals leading the battle: Xiahou Dun, Xiahou Yuan, Li Dian, Lu Qian, and Yu Jin. Lü Bu came out alone to oppose them, but soon his enemies overwhelmed him and he turned back towards the city. However, the Tian family had closed the gates and would not let him in. Lü Bu was forced to flee and Chen Gong took Lü Bus family and fled the city through the east gate. Pu Yang was back in Cao Caos hands.    

        Lü Bu took refuge in Ding Tao with Zhang Miao and Zhang Chao. It was harvesting season so the other generals were foraging and stocking wheat for the next few months. Lü Bu went out to scout the enemy camp, but returned when he saw that Cao Caos camp was located near a forest. He feared an ambush and retreated to Ding Tao.

        Lü Bu decided to burn out the ambush with fire; he rode out again towards the camp and ordered his men to set fire to the woods. However, to his surprise, nobody leaped out from the woods. Still he heard the drums of his enemies, and he saw soldiers coming from the shelter in the stockade, he immediately rode forth to see what it was about. The signal bombs exploded and soldiers came out to attack Lü Bu. Xiahou Dun, Xiahou Yuan, Dian Wei, Xu Zhu, Li Dian, and Yue Jin led the troops. Lü Bu suffered a huge defeat, and almost two thirds of his troops were killing. His officer Cheng Lian died when an arrow hit him. The remains of the forces went back and reported this to Chen Gong. Therefore, Gao Shun and Chen Gong gathered the generals and abandoned Ding Tao. Zhang Chao committed suicide and Zhang Miao fled to Yuan Shu. Lü Bu rejoined his generals later on. The northeast had completely fallen to Cao Cao.

        Lü Bus spirit was not yet broken, and on Chen Gongs advice, he inquired about serving Yuan Shao once again. In response, Yuan Shao sent Yan Liang with fifty thousand troops to destroy Lü Bu. Having no means of repelling such an army, Lü Bu fled to Xu Zhou where Liu Bei was recently instated as the new Imperial Protector. Liu Bei welcomed Lü Bu with a large following. At first, Liu Bei wanted to step down as Imperial Protector and hand his title to Lü Bu, however, Lü Bu knew that it would be dangerous to do that while Guan Yu and Zhang Fei where there, so he kindly refused the offer.

        A banquet was held in Lü Bus honour, during the festivities Lü Bu showed much appreciation, and even introduced his wife and daughter to make obeisance to their benefactor, still Liu Bei showed excessive modesty. Lü Bu said, Good Younger Brother, you need not be so modest. Hearing this Zhang Fei was enraged because he felt Lü Bu was patronizing Liu Bei. He had to be calmed down and removed by Guan Yu. Later when all the guests had left, Zhang Fei challenged Lü Bu, again Guan Yu had to refrain him and Liu Bei apologized profusely.

        The next day, Lü Bu approached Liu Bei and informed him that he would leave because he feared that Zhang Fei and Guan Yu might cause trouble. Liu Bei offered the city of Xiao Pei to Lü Bu so he would not have to seek asylum elsewhere.

        After Cao Cao rescued the Emperor, a decree was sent to Liu Bei, making him Lord of Yi Cheng, General who Conquers the East, and Imperial Protector of Xu Zhou. Lü Bu came to congratulate Liu Bei, however as they were talking, Zhang Fei approached with a sword, looking to slay Lü Bu. Liu Bei immediately tried to send him away. Lü Bu was surprised and said, Why do you wish to slay me Zhang Fei? Cao Cao says you are immoral and has told my brother to slay you, shouted Zhang Fei. Liu Bei tried to remove Zhang Fei, but instead brought Lü Bu to his private chamber, where he showed him a letter from Cao Cao, ordering Liu Bei to kill Lü Bu. Liu Bei promised Lü Bu that nothing would happen, and Lü Bus mind was set at ease as they drank until late in the night.  

        Another edict was sent to Liu Bei, this time he was to secure the areas around the river Huai and wage war with Yuan Shu. Zhang Fei and Chen Deng were left in charge of Xu Zhou while he was at war. One night, while Lü Bu is in Xiao Pei, he received a letter from his father in law, Cao Bao, whom was beaten by an angry Zhang Fei for refusing wine and his relations to Lü Bu. Chen Gong proposed that Lü Bu take advantage of Zhang Feis drunken stupors and perform a night raid on Xu Zhou. Lü Bu immediately went to Xu Zhou with Gao Sheng and five hundred cavalrymen. During the fourth watch, Cao Baos men opened the gates from inside and led Lü Bus men in. Zhang Fei, still drunk, put on his armour and rounded up his troops. Cao Bao pursued him, but he was easily bested by Zhang Fei and drowned in the moat after taking a spear thrust in the back.  

        Zhang Fei retreated and Lü Bus men occupied the city. He immediately put guards around Liu Beis residence so that his family would not be disturbed. Zhang Feis troops went south to Xu Yi.

        As soon as the news of Lü Bus success reached Yuan Shu, many gifts were sent to Xu Zhou in attempt to sway Lü Bu into attacking Liu Bei. The gifts were said to contain fifty thousand carts of grain, five hundred horses, ten thousand ounces of gold and silver, and a thousand rolls of coloured silk. So Lü Bu sent Gao Shun with fifty thousand troops to attack Xu Yi. Liu Bei abandoned the city and moved his forces to Guan Ling. However, Gao Shun still attempted to claim the reward for victory from Yi Ling, who put off Gao Shun by saying that Yuan Shu was away and it would be settled later. So Gao Shun returned to Xu Zhou and Lü Bu could not decide what to do. Then a letter came from Yuan Shu, saying that no reward would be given unless Liu Bei is destroyed. Lü Bu grew angry and wanted to attack Yuan Shu, however, Chen Gong advised him to invite Liu Bei to come back instead, and then later use him to attack Yuan Shu. Lü Bu agreed to this plan and sent letters to Liu Bei asking for his return.

        Liu Beis force was weakened by another attack, thus he returned to Xu Zhou. Lü Bu feared that Liu Bei would doubt his sincerity, so he returned Liu Beis family to him immediately. Lady Gan and Lady Mi told Liu Bei that they were always guarded and were treated well. As Zhang Fei escorted the ladies to Xiao Pei, Liu Bei and Guan Yu went to thank Lü Bu. Liu Bei accepted Lü Bus excuse for attacking Xu Zhou, and refused Lü Bus offer of returning the city to Liu Bei. Lü Bu signed a peace treaty with Liu Bei, and sent gifts of food to Xiao Pei.

        As Lü Bu strengthened his position in Xu Zhou, an envoy from Yuan Shu arrived with two hundred thousand carts of millet, and letters written by Han Ying. Lü Bu was pleased and treated his guests cordially. Meanwhile Yuan Shus officers Li Ying, Lei Bo and Chen Lan attacked Xiao Pei. Liu Beis army was too small to defend Xiao Pei, so he sent a letter to Lü Bu asking for assistance. After reading the letter, Lü Bu summoned Chen Gong and decided that it would be best to protect Liu Bei, to make sure that Yuan Shu would not grow too strong. Yuan Shus forces quickly approached Xiao Pei, and Liu Beis army was forced to retreat back to the city after a brief fight. Lü Bus army arrived and camped half a mile to the southwest of Yi Lings camp. When Yi Ling heard of this he sent angry letters to Lü Bu, reproaching him for his treachery. In response, Lü Bu sent letters to both Liu Bei and Yi Ling to invite them for a banquet.

        Liu Bei arrived first with his brothers, then Yi Ling came, and as he saw Liu Bei in the tent with Lü Bu, he tried to leave. However, Lü Bu grabbed him as if he were a child and dragged him back in. Lü Bu sat him down next to him as the banquet started. Along the course of the evening, Lü Bu asked his guests to kindly settle their difference and abandon the war. Yi Ling and Zhang Fei got in a quarrel, and neither party came to an agreement. Lü Bu stood up and bade his servant to bring his Trident spear. Both guests turned pale as he gripped the weapon. "I have tried to persuade you to make peace, for that is the command of the Most High. It shall be put to the test." Henceforth, Lü Bu instructed his servant to place the halberd beyond the gate. Lü Bu explained that the gate was a hundred and fifty paces away and that if he could shoot an arrow to hit the left branch of the halberd head both armies would withdraw and would return to peace. If he would miss, then both sides are free to wage war. They all sat down again and Lü Bu drunk more wine. He picked up his bow and arrows, turned back his sleeves, carefully fitted an arrow to the string and pulled the bow to its utmost stretch. The arrow went straight for the halberd and hit the left branch square in the middle. Liu Bei was greatly relieved, and Yi Ling had no choice but to accept this command. Lü Bu ordered large goblets of wine, and promised Yi Ling a letter to take back to Yuan Shu, explaining what happened. After a few more rounds of wine, Ji Ling asked for the letter and departed. Liu Bei also retired, but not before Lü Bu could say, "Do not forget what I have delivered you today!" 

        A little while after Ji Ling had returned to his master, Han Yin came to visit Lü Bu. "My master has an immense respect for you, Illustrious Sir, and he desires to ensure perpetual alliance between the two families by a marriage, an alliance such as existed between the ancient states of Qin and Jin." Lü Bu was very pleased, but before he made a decision, he consulted his wife, Lady Yan. She was Lü Bus legal first wife, Diao Chan was his concubine, and his second wife, Lady Cao, the daughter of Cao Bao had already died. Diao Chan bore him no sons; however, Lü Bu had one daughter with Lady Yan, of whom he was quite fond. When he consulted the matter with his wife, she said, The Yuan family has dominated the regions around the River Huai for many years. They have a large army and are very prosperous. One day a Yuan will become Emperor, and our daughter may hope to become an Empress. How many sons does Yuan Shu have? Only this one, Lü Bu replied. Then we should accept the offer, Lady Yan continued, even if our daughter does not become Empress; Xu Zhou has a new ally. Thus it was decided, Lü Bu gave the favourable reply to Han Yin; who he treated with the utmost generosity. A letter was sent back to Yuan Shu, who immediately sent wedding gifts for the brides family. They were received, and banquets filled the remainder of the day.

        The next day, Chen Gong went to consult with Lü Bu. I hear your daughter is to be married to Yuan Shus son, but nobody knows when. That is yet to be decided, Lü Bu said. Chen Gong suggested that the marriage be concluded as fast as possible, to avoid any interference from other lords who might want to sabotage the plan. Lü Bu saw wisdom in Chen Gongs words and immediately went to his private chambers to tell his wife and the bride-to-be. A wedding carriage was prepared, and Lü Bu selected Song Xian and Wei Xu to escort his daughter with Han Yin to Yuan Shus city of Shou Chun. The carriage left the city as music played loudly in the streets. At the time, Chen Gui in spite of being ill went to see Lü Bu immediately. Noble Sir, what brings you here? Lü Bu asked. I heard you were dead and I came to mourn, the old man said. Who said that? Exclaimed Lü Bu. "Once upon a time you received grand presents from Yuan Shu that you might slay Liu Bei, but you got out by that clever shot at your halberd. Now they suddenly seek a marriage alliance thinking to get hold of your daughter as a pledge. The next move will be an attack on Xiao Pei and, that gone, where are you? Whatever they ask in future, grain or troops or anything else, and you yield, will bring your own end nearer, and make you hated all round. If you refuse, then you are false to the duties of a relative, and that will be an excuse to attack you openly. Beside this Yuan Shu intends to call himself Emperor, which would be rebellious, and you would be of the rebel's family: Something abominable, which the multitude people would not suffer." Lü Bu was very disturbed by this revelation and immediately ordered Zhang Liao to retrieve the wedding carriage and send it back home. When they came back, Lü Bu threw Han Yin in jail and sent a letter to Yuan Shu saying that his daughters wedding trousseau was not yet ready and that she could not come until it was taken care of.

        Chen Gui wanted to send Han Yin to Xu Chang to be trialled, but Lü Bu hesitated when he heard that Liu Bei was rounding up soldiers and horses. Song Xian and Wei Xu came in; they reported that after they bought three hundred horses in the Hua Shang Mountains, rogues on the border of Xiao Peis territory attacked them and stole half of their horses. We hear that the real robbers were Zhang Fei and his soldiers, who took on the guise of brigands." Lü Bu was furious and immediately assembled his army near Xiao Pei and waited for Liu Bei to appear. Liu Bei rode to the front of his army and said, "Elder brother, why have you brought an army against me?" Lü Bu told Liu Bei of Zhang Feis act and immediately Zhang Fei came to challenge Lü Bu, "Yes; I took your horses and you get angry. You did not say any thing when you stole my brother's Xu Zhou." Lü Bu rode forth and the two warriors engaged in a reckless battle. They fought for a hundred bouts, without any advantage to either side. Liu Bei recalled Zhang Fei from battle and offered Lü Bu to have all the horses returned in exchange for peace. Lü Bu was ready to accept when Chen Gong interfered, You will only continue to suffer if you do not get rid of Liu Bei. Lü Bu was swayed and his army advanced on Xiao Pei.

        Liu Beis army retired and by the fourth watch, his whole forces left Xiao Pei through the north gate. Song Xian and Wei Xu pursued but were driven off by Zhang Fei. Zhang Liao tried as well, but was deterred by Guan Yu. Lü Bu made no effort to chase Liu Bei and entered Xiao Pei, where he made Gao Shun the new Governor.

        While Lü Bu strengthened the defenses of Xu Zhou, Cao Cao was fighting with Zhang Xiu and Jia Xu. Liu Bei took refuge with Cao Cao in Xu Chang and enjoyed his protection. At this time, the Imperial Legate Wang Ze arrived in Xu Zhou. Lü Bu went to receive his guest and escorted him to his private residence, where his decree was read. It conferred the title of General Who Pacifies the East to Lü Bu, and it came with a special seal to confirm it. At the same time, a messenger from Yuan Shu arrived. After he was introduced, he said "My master's project of declaring himself emperor is advancing. He has already built a palace and will speedily choose an Empress and concubines, and would come to the South of River Huai. He is looking forward to receiving the fiancée of the Heir Apparent." Lü Bu had the messenger put to death and declared Yuan Shu a rebel to the Han. At the same time, Han Yin was put in a cage and sent to Xu Chang along with a letter of thanks. He also replied to Cao Caos private letter to confirm his title of Protectors of Xu Zhou. Chen Deng took up the task of going to Xu Zhou in Lü Bus place. Cao Cao was pleased to hear of the marriage failure and immediately had Han Yin put to death in the market place.  

        When Chen Deng returned to Xu Zhou, Lü Bu inquired about the visit. "My father received a generous annuity, and I was made Governor of Guang Ling." Chen Deng said. Lü Bu was enraged, You did not ask Xuzhou for me, but you got something for yourself. Your father advised me to help Cao Cao by breaking off the marriage, and now I get nothing at all of what I asked, while you and your father get everything. I have been victimized by your father." Chen Deng explained why Lü Bu was wrong, "When I saw Cao Cao, I said that to keep you going was like feeding a tiger. The tiger must be kept fully fed or he would eat humans. However, Cao Cao laughed and replied, 'No not that. One must treat the Commander like a falcon. Do not feed it until the foxes and hares are done. Hungry, the bird is of use; full fed it flies away.' I asked who the quarries were. He replied, 'Yuan Shu of the South of River Huai, Sun Ce of the South Land, Yuan Shao of Ji Zhou, Liu Biao of Jing Zhou, Liu Zhang of Yi Zhou, and Zhang Lu of Han Zhong; these are the foxes and hares.'" Lü Bu laughed, but his laughter would be short as a message came, saying that Yuan Shu was advancing his armies towards Lü Bus Xu Zhou.

        The angry Yuan Shu sent Grand Commander Zhang Xun with two hundred thousand troops to Xu Zhou. The army consisted of seven divisions under seven commanders: Zhang Xun led the Centre Army; Qiao Rui, the First Left Army; Lei Bo, the Second Left Army; Han Xian, the Third Left Army; Chen Ji, First Right Army; Chen Lan, Second Right Army; and Yang Feng, the Third Right Army. Each commander was instructed to make a certain town his objective.

        Lu Bu found out from his scouts that his own Xuzhou City² was the objective of Zhang Xun; the other towns to be first attacked were Xiao Pei, Yi Du, Lang Ye, Jie Shi, Xia Pi, and Jun Shan. The invading armies were marching twenty miles a day, and plundering the countryside as they advanced. Lü Bu called all his advisors to his court to discuss the matter. Chen Gong blamed the attack on the schemes of Chen Gui and Chen Deng. However, Chen Deng only laughed at Chen Gongs anxiety and presented Lü Bu with a plan to destroy Yuan Shus army. "Yuan Shu's troops are numerous but they are only a flock of crows; they are not an army under a leader. There is no mutual confidence. I can keep them at bay with the ordinary guards of the city and could overcome them by some unsuspected stratagem. If I should fail, I have another plan by which I can not only protect the region but also capture our enemy. Chen Deng continued. Han Xian and Yang Feng, two of the leaders of our enemies, are old servants of the Han Dynasty who fled from fear of Cao Cao and, being homeless, sought refuge with Yuan Shu. He despises them, and they are dissatisfied with his service. A little letter from the court will secure their help as our allies, and with Liu Bei to help us on the outside, we can certainly overcome Yuan Shu." Lü Bu gave the plan a chance and ordered Chen Deng to carry out the plan. A memorial was sent to the capital, relaying the strategy that would deal with the traitor* Yuan Shu.

        Chen Deng now went to see General Han Xian, whom was easily swayed by his words and promised that he and Yang Feng would defect to Lü Bu. As soon as Chen Deng reported the success, Lü Bu divided his troops into five divisions, each with ten thousand troops, and sent them to the threatened towns to meet their enemies. Gao Shun led one army to Xiao Pei against Qiao Rui; Chen Gong to Yi Du against Chen Ji; Zhang Liao and Zang Ba to Lang Ye against Lei Bo; Song Xian and Wei Xu to Jie Shi against Chen Lan. Lu Bu himself led against the main body under Zhang Xun, leaving a small guard in Xu Zhou City. Lü Bu camped ten miles outside the gates, Zhang Xun was afraid of Lü Bu and retired seven miles to await reinforcements. That night, during the second watch, Han Xian and Yang Feng arrived as soon as the arranged flares were lit. Lü Bus troops were led into the camp and caused great confusion. Then, Lü Bu started the full-scale attack. Zhang Xuns troops were routed and the Grand Commander fled the camp. Lü Bu pursued until daylight and met with another body of soldiers led by Yi Ling. Both sides got ready to engage, but with Yang Feng and Han Xians troops attacking from opposite sides, Yi Ling stood no chance and was forced to flee.

        Lü Bu again pursued and this time he encountered Yuan Shus personal army. As the ranks opened, Lü Bu saw a leader's guard with flags bearing Dragons and Phoenixes, and representations of the sun and moon, the stars in the four groups of the Great Bear Constellation, the five directions of the Earth, golden gourds, silver axes, yellow halberds, white yaks' tails, all Imperial emblems. In addition, beneath a yellow silken parasol sat Yuan Shu on horseback, clad in silver mail with a sword handle showing at each wrist. Yuan Shu railed at his opponent and sent out Li Deng to oppose Lü Bu. After the second bout, Li Dengs hand was injured and he dropped his spear. Lü Bu immediately pressed the attack and his army prevailed. The other side fled, leaving much spoil, clothing, mail, and horses. Yuan Shus army had not gone far before they met with Guan Yus troops. The casualties were plentiful and Yuan Shu managed to escape only with a handful of soldiers. With this victory, Lü Bu, accompanied by Guan Yu, Han Xian, and Yang Feng returned to Xu Zhou city. Banquets were held in celebration and Lü Bu appointed Yang Feng as Governor of Lang Ye, and Han Xian as Governor of Yi Du. They were immediately sent to their cities on Chen Guis advice.

        The wounded Yuan Shu was now caught between Cao Cao, Lü Bu, and Sun Ce. Being short on food, he raided Chen Liu. In response, Cao Cao personally led his army to destroy Yuan Shu. Letters were sent to Liu Bei, Lü Bu, and Sun Ce, calling them to join in the attack. Liu Bei was the fist to answer the call and when he joined Cao Cao, he offered the heads of Han Xian and Yang Feng, explaining that while they were Governors in Xu Zhou, they allowed their troops to abuse the civilians. Cao Cao thanked Liu Bei for getting rid of them. When Lü Bu arrived, Cao Cao treated him courteously and gave him the title General of the Left Army, promising him the seal as soon as they returned to Xu Chang. Lü Bu was exceedingly pleased with this. Then the three armies merged, Cao Cao commanded the centre, Lü Bu the left, and Liu Bei the right. Xiahou Dun and Yu Jin were the Van leaders.

        Qiao Rui led the Van of Yuan Shus army, engaging Xiahou Dun on the outskirts of Shou Chun. Xiahou Dun rode out to challenge him, and Qiao Rui fell in the third bout. His army withdrew into the city. News came that Sun Ces army was approaching from the west, and would arrive shortly. The three other land divisions each took a direction to attack. Cao Cao attacked the north, Lü Bu the east, and Liu Bei the south. Yuan Shu saw that the situation was desperate, so he appointed Li Deng, Yue Jiu, Liang Gan, and Chen Ji to defend Shou Chun with a hundred thousand troops. Yuan Shu took the rest of the troops and escaped the city by crossing the River Huai. He gathered the wealth of the city and took it with him.

        Cao Caos army needed large quantities of food every day, and since the land around Shou Chun had been struck by famine for several years, there was no way to get new food supplies. Therefore, Cao Cao hastened the military operations while the defenders tried to prolong the battle as much as they could. A month passed and the siege seemed as unsuccessful as before. The food supplies were low, so Cao Cao sent a letter to Sun Ce, whom immediately sent a hundred thousand carts of grain. Cao Caos cruel tactics from then on ensured that the united army worked non-stop to end the siege as quickly as possible. Soon the walls were scaled, the gates rammed in, and the besieged were captured. The enemy generals, Li Deng, Yue Lie, Liang Gang, and Chen Li were all captured alive and executed in the market place. All the insignia and symbols of Yuan Shus Empire were burned, and the city was wrecked. Yuan Shu was not pursued and the three armies returned to their capitals.

        Lü Bu enjoyed many banquets and the two Chens would take up every opportunity to praise him. Chen Gong warned Lü Bu that even though their words were full of praise, their heart was full of cunning schemes. However, Lü Bu would not hear about it and sent Chen Gong away. Chen Gong thought about leaving Lü Bu, but feared that his reputation would be destroyed. One day while he was out hunting, he encountered an Imperial messenger. When the messenger would not answer to Chen Gong, he was seized and taken to Lü Bu. He explained, "The Prime Minister sent me to bear a letter to Imperial Protector Liu Bei. I was now taking back the reply. I know nothing more, and I am ignorant of the contents of the letters." Therefore, Lü Bu tore open the letter and learned that Liu Bei and Cao Cao were scheming to bring him down. Lü Bu was alarmed, and after killing the unfortunate messenger, he planned his counter moves.

        Chen Gong and Zhang Ba were sent to enlist the aid of the Tai Shan Mountain bandits: Sun Guan, Wu Dun, Yin Li, and Chang Xi, so that they could take Yan Zhou, east of the Hua Sheng Mountains. Zhang Liao and Gao Shun went to attack Liu Bei in Xiao Pei. Song Xian and Wei Xu went to take Ru Nan and Ying Chuan. Lü Bu took charge of a large body of soldiers, ready to aid where assistance was needed.

        The attack on Xiao Pei was slow; Liu Bei and his brothers who kept Zhang Liao and Gao Shun out of the city defended the gates. In the meanwhile, Liu Bei sent a messenger to Cao Cao for help.

        Soon news reached Gao Shun about Cao Caos reinforcement units. He sent messengers to Lü Bu, who sent two hundred cavalrymen along with Hou Cheng, Cao Xing, and He Meng to assist in the attack.

       Gao Shun retreated from attacking Xiao Pei as Cao Caos reinforcements approached. Xiahou Dun was the first one to arrive. He set out his spear and challenged Gao Shun. The two fought for thirty bouts, and Gao Shun became tired and turned back. Xiahou Dun immediately chased him, however from Lü Bus troops, Cao Xing shot an arrow full into Xiahou Duns left eye. He pulled out his eye and swallowed it. Wasting no time, Xiahou Dun charged towards Cao Xing and mortally wounded him. Both sides stared in amazement. Having slain the man who injured him, Xiahou Dun turned back. Gao Shun immediately pressed the attack, and Xiahou Yuan defended his brother while they fled. Having scored a victory, Gao Shun returned to attack Liu Bei with Lü Bu and Zhang Liao.

        Zhang Fei and Guan Yu came out to defend their city, Liu Bei stayed behind as a backup force. Zhang Liao and Gao Shun engaged the two brothers, and Lü Bu attacked their rear, forcing them to flee. Liu Bei and score of cavalrymen went back to Xiao Pie, and Lü Bu rushed to catch up with him. The drawbridge was lowered but the archers on the gates were afraid to shoot their arrows because Liu Bei was so close to Lü Bu. The gate guards were unable to stop Lü Bu from coming in, and were scattered in all directions. Lü Bu led his forces into the city. Liu Bei saw no chance of reaching his family, so instead he fled through the west gate. Lü Bu arrived at Liu Beis residence where he met with Mi Zhu, their guardian, who said, "The hero does not destroy a person's family. Your rival for the empire is Cao Cao, and my master, always mindful of the good turn you did him at the Archery Feast, would not be ungrateful. But he could not help going to Cao Cao, and I think you will pity him." Lü Bu promised not to harm Liu Beis family and sent them to Xu Zhou with Mi Zhu. Liu Bei, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and Sun Qian fled to Xu Chang.

        Cao Caos army camped at Ji Bei where the sick Xiahou Dun recovered from his wound. Cao Ren was sent to recapture Xiao Pei with three thousand soldiers, while he himself would attack Lü Bu. When they reached Ma Dang hills near Xiao Pass, Cao Cao encountered the Tai Shan Mountain bandits that Lü Bu hired. Xu Zhu went out to battle and easily drove them off. When they scout told Lü Bu, he left Xu Zhou in the care of Chen Gui and took off with Chen Deng. On Chen Dengs advice, Lü Bu sent his family to Xia Pi along with many carts of grain as a precaution. While Chen Gong was holding off Cao Cao at Xiao pass, Chen Deng advised Lü Bu to make a night raid on their forces before they would break through. So it was arranged that when the flares were lit, Lü Bu would make a charge at night. Chen Deng also went to Chen Gong and advised him to retreat and use a flare to alert Lü Bu and go back to Xia Pi. When Lü Bu saw the flare he moved in to attack, he met Chen Gongs force who was retreating but with no lights, Lü Bu could not distinguish his ally from his enemy. While the battle went on, Cao Cao vanquished the Tai Shan bandits. When morning came, the plot was discovered and Lü Bu joined with Chen Gong to go back to Xu Zhou. However, as they reached Xu Zhou the gates would not open as Chen Gui and Mi Zhu had taken over the city from inside. When they could not detect Chen Deng, they made their way to Xiao Pei. Zhang Liao and Gao Shun met with them half way and told them Chen Deng had sent them away to help Lü Bu. Chen Deng plotted this and Lü Bu immediately headed for Xiao Pei.

        Cao Ren already occupied the city, and after being taunted by Chen Deng, Lü Bu made his attack. Zhang Feis unit came out and Gao Shun engaged. He was no match for Zhang Fei so Lü Bu rode out to assist. This time, Cao Caos army appeared. Lü Bu saw no chance of victory and retreated east while Cao Cao pursued. Guan Yu and Zhang Fei attacked the fleeing army, and Lü Bu desperately held them off as they approached Xia Pi. Hou Chengs forces came to assist Lü Bu as the force reached Xia Pi. Lü Bu was satisfied with the stored grain and protection of the River Si, and made no effort to attack Cao Caos army.

        Chen Gong advised Lü Bu to attack Cao Cao, but Lü Bu would not listen after so many defeats, and thus he waited for Cao Cao to reach the city. Lü Bu awaited Cao Cao at the top of the gate and proposed peace if Cao Cao would withdraw immediately. However, Chen Gong railed at Cao Cao and shot an arrow in his helmet. Therefore, the attack on Xia Pi began. "They have come from far and cannot maintain this for long," Chen Gong said. "General, go out with your horse and foot and take up a position outside, leaving me to maintain the defence with the remainder of our troops. If he engages you, I will come out and strike at his rear ranks; if he attacks the city, you can come to our aid. In ten days, their stores will fail, and we can beat them off. This will place them between the ox-horns." Lü Bu thought it was a good plan, however Lady Yan opposed because she feared that Chen Gong could not protect Lü Bus family. So for three days, Lü Bu did nothing. Next came news that supplies for Cao Cao were on the way from Xu Chang. Chen Gong proposed that Lü Bu intercept the supplies and leave the city to his generals. Lü Bu thought it was a good plan, but once again, Lady Yans tears kept him from making a move. Chen Gong thought all was lost. "We shall die, and no one shall know our burial place," he said. Thereupon Lü Bu stayed in his private quarters, drinking away his sorrows with his women.

        Wang Kai and Xu Si proposed a plan to renew the marriage with Yuan Shu. Lü Bu decided to take a chance and sent them to Shou Chun. Zhang Liao and He Meng accompanied the envoy through the pass with one thousand soldiers, and after successfully delivered them past Liu Bei and Cao Caos armies. During the same night, they returned to the city.

        Yuan Shu was unsure of the sincerity of Lü Bus proposal, and told Xu Si that he would not send troops until the girl had arrived. This plan was agreed upon, and Xu Si and Wang Kai waited until nightfall to return to Xia Pi. They were able to sneak past Liu Beis camp, however the escort from He Meng was discovered, and Zhang Fei captured the general after only one bout. Liu Bei sent He Meng to the main camp where Cao Cao interrogated him. After hearing about the marriage plot, Cao Cao grew angry and had He Meng executed at the gate.

        Xu Si and Wang Kai told Lü Bu of the successful mission and the capture of He Meng. Lü Bu decided to escort his daughter himself and let Zhang Liao and Gao Shun take her to Yuan Shu, after they passed the camp of Liu Bei. The next evening, Lü Bu wrapped a mailed coat around his daughter and took her on his back. Then with his mighty trident in his hand, he mounted the red hare and rode out of the city along with escorts. Zhang Liao and Gao Shun followed closely behind.  

        Zhang Fei and Guan Yu barred the road and Lü Bu was forced to take a side road. Even though he was strong, Lü Bu could not take any risk with the girl on his back. Both parties attacked him and he had no choice but to go back to Xia Pi. He was broken hearted as he reached his residence, and the besiegers celebrated their victory. Lü Bu found consolation in a cup of wine.

        The siege had gone on for two months, and the city was still standing. News reached Lü Bu that Zhang Yan, Governor of He Nei, was inclined to come to the aid of Lü Bu. However, one of his subordinates, Yang Chou, assassinated Zhang Yan and was going to offer his head to Cao Cao. Then, Kui Gu, a colleague of the Governor, killed Yang Chou and led his force to Dai Cheng.

        Hearing this, Cao Cao devised a new plan to take Xia Pi by drowning the city by use of the Rivers Yi and Si. When Lü Bu was told of this plan, he dismissed any danger and went back to drinking more wine with his wife and concubine. The result of drinking so much wine became visible as Lü Bu looked into his mirror one day, only to see a shadow of his former self. Saddened by this, Lü Bu gave out a new order, saying that anyone who would drink wine would be executed without consideration. 

        Now one of his generals, Hou Cheng, lost some horses. He found out that his servant Hou Cao stole them and wanted to sell them to Liu Bei. Hou Cheng recovered the horses and killed Hou Cao. To celebrate this occasion, Hou Cheng ordered fine wine to be made. This angered Lü Bu and ordered Hou Cheng to be executed. However, Song Xian and Wei Xu persuaded Lü Bu to spare his life. Instead, Hou Cheng received fifty lashes of the whip.

        The next day there was much commotion in the city, and Lü Bu with his trident went to see what was wrong. Hou Cheng had stolen his red hare and gave it to Cao Cao. Lü Bu grew angry with Wei Xu for letting Hou Cheng go, but before anything could be done, a while flag was raised and another attack on Xia Pi began. Lü Bu concentrated on the attack and the siege last until noon.

        Lü Bu was very fatigued and went to sleep in his tower. Wei Xu and Song Xian stole his weapon, and before Lü Bu could wake up, they threw him to the ground and bound him with ropes. Lü Bu called for his guards but other traitors slew them. A while flag was raised, the gates flung open, and the enemy entered the city. Zhang Liao, Gao Shun, and Chen Gong tried to escape the city, however they were cut off by the water and were captured by Cao Caos generals. The rivers were put in their normal course and the siege had ended.

        Cao Cao, Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei were present in the White Tower as the captives were brought it. Lü Bu looked pitiful even though he was a tall man. Seeing the three traitors, Hou Cheng, Song Xian, and Wei Xu standing near Cao Cao, Lü Bu asked them why he betrayed them after he treated them so well. Song Xian said, "You listened to the words of your women, but rejected the advice of your generals. Was not that mean?" Lü Bu was silent.

        Gao Shun was brought in, but he had no words for Cao Cao and was taken outside to be executed. Next, Chen Gong was brought in and Cao Cao questioned him. Chen Gong had no remorse over his choices, and chose death over the dishonour of defection. Cao Cao promised to take care of Chen Gongs family, and had him executed along with Gao Shun.

        Lü Bu made an appeal to Liu Bei, "Noble Sir, you sit there an honoured guest while poor me lies bound at your feet. Will you not utter one word to alleviate my lot?" However, Liu Bei had no intention to let Lü Bu live and said, "You are willing to forget the episodes of Ding Yuan and Dong Zhuo?" Hearing this, Cao Cao ordered Lü Bu to be strangled. Lü Bu was led away by the guards and yelled at Liu Bei one last time, "You long-eared lout, you forget now the service I rendered you that day at my camp gate, when my arrow hit the mark!" Just then, Zhang Liao appeared and said, Lü Bu Oh fool! Death is but death so why do you fear it? The guards hustled Zhang Liao forth to be judged, and Lü Bu was taken away to be executed. Two poems were written about the end of the mighty warrior, who was executed in the year 199 A.D., at the age of thirty-three.

The flood spreads wide, the city drowns,
Its lord is captive. Nought avails
His courser's speed or halberd's thrust.
The tiger erstwhile fierce, now whines
for mercy. Cao Cao had meted him
Full well, a falcon flown at will
and hungry kept. Poor fool! He let
Chen Gong's advice be overborne
by harem tattle; vainly now
He rails against the Long-Ears' faith

Round is the hungry tiger, eater of men, for whom is no pity,
Since the blood of his victims is fresh and not yet dry.
Liu Bei spoke no word in favour of Lu Bu.
To whom even a father's life was not sacred.

¹- After Dong Zhuo moved the Capital from Luo Yang to Chang An, he ordered a quarter of a million workers to build the city of Meiwo. This city was located about 80 miles from Chang An, and was an exact copy of the city. It had Palaces, Granaries, treasuries and warehouses. Dong Zhuo filled it with supplies that could last about twenty years, and selected eight hundred of the most beautiful maidens to dwell in the city. All of his family members and retainers took up residence in Meiwo. The city was later destroyed when Wang Yun successfully overthrew Dong Zhuo in 192 A.D.

² - Every Province, or Zhou, had a capital City with the same name was the province itself. For example, Liu Bei served Liu Yan in You Zhou city, in You Zhou province. In this case, Xu Zhou city refers to the Capital city of the Province Xu Zhou, and not Xu Zhou as a whole.

* - Using the Imperial Seal that he borrowed from Sun Ce, Yuan Shu declared himself Emperor in the year 197 A.D. This act was treason against the Han rule and made Yuan Shu a legitimate traitor.