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| Simplified Chinese version |
《发矫诏诸镇应曹公，破关兵三英战吕布 - Cao Cao Appeals To The Powerful Lords; The Three Brothers Fight Against Lu Bu》 |
| 1 | 发矫诏诸... : | 却说陈宫正欲下手杀曹操，忽转念曰：“我为国家跟他到此，杀之不义。不若弃而他往。”插剑上马，不等天明，自投东郡去了。操觉，不见陈宫，寻思：“此人见我说了这两句，疑我不仁，弃我而去；吾当急行，不可久留。”遂连夜到陈留，寻见父亲，备说前事；欲散家资，招募义兵。父言：“资少恐不成事。此间有孝廉卫弘，疏财仗义，其家巨富；若得相助，事可图矣。” |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
At the close of the last chapter, Chen Gong was about to slay Cao Cao. But Chen Gong reflected, "I joined him to do righteous things. Now if I killed him, I would only do unrighteousness, and the people would condemn me. I rather leave in silence." Rising from his bed before the sunrise, Chen Gong mounted his horse and rode away eastward to his home county of Dongjun. Cao Cao awoke with the day and missed his companion. Thought he, "Chen Gong thinks me brutal because of a couple of egoistic phrases I used, and so he has gone. I ought to push on too and not linger here." So Cao Cao traveled as quickly as possible toward Qiao. When he saw his father, he related what had happened and said he wanted to dispose of all the family property and enlist soldiers with the money. "Our possessions are but small," said his father, "and not enough to do anything with. However, there is a graduate here, one Wei Hong, careless of wealth but careful of virtue, whose family is very rich. With his help we might hope for success." | |
| 2 | 发矫诏诸... : | 操置酒张筵，拜请卫弘到家，告曰：“今汉室无主，董卓专权，欺君害民，天下切齿。操欲力扶社稷，恨力不足。公乃忠义之士，敢求相助。”卫弘曰：“吾有是心久矣，恨未遇英雄耳。既孟德有大志，愿将家资相助。”操大喜；于是先发矫诏，驰报各道，然后招集义兵，竖起招兵白旗一面，上书“忠义”二字。不数日间，应募之士，如雨骈集。 |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
A feast was prepared, and Wei Hong was invited. Cao Cao made him a speech: "The Hans have lost their lordship, and Dong Zhuo is really a tyrant. He flouts his prince and is cruel to the people, who gnash their teeth with rage. I would restore the Hans, but my means are insufficient. Sir, I appeal to your loyalty and public spirit." Wei Hong replied, "I have long desired this but, so far, have not found a person fit to undertake the task. Since you, Cao Cao, have so noble a desire, I willingly devote all my property to the cause." This was joyful news, and the call to arms was forthwith prepared and sent far and near. So they established a corps of volunteers and set up a large white recruiting banner with the words Loyalty and Honor inscribed thereon. The response was rapid, and volunteers came in like rain drops in number. | |
| 3 | 发矫诏诸... : | 一日，有一个阳平卫国人，姓乐，名进，字文谦，来投曹操。又有一个山阳钜鹿人，姓李，名典，字曼成，也来投曹操。操皆留为帐前吏。又有沛国谯人，夏侯敦，字元让，乃夏侯婴之后；自小习枪棒；年十四从师学武，有人辱骂其师，敦杀之，逃于外方；闻知曹操起兵，与其族弟夏侯渊两个，各引壮士千人来会。此二人本操之弟兄：操父曹嵩原是夏侯氏之子，过房与曹家，因此是同族。 |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: | One day came a certain Yue Jin from Yangping and another Li Dian from Julu. These two were appointed to Cao Cao's personal staff. Another was one Xiahou Dun from Qiao. He was descended from Xiahou Ying of old. Xiahou Dun had been trained from his early boyhood to use the spear and the club. When only fourteen he had been attached to a certain master-in-arms. One day one person spoke disrespectfully of his master, and Xiahou Dun killed that person. For this deed, however, he had to flee and had been an exile for some time. Now he came to offer his services, accompanied by his cousin Xiahou Yuan. Each brought a thousand trained soldiers. Really these two were brothers of Cao Cao by birth, since Cao Cao's father was originally of the Xiahou family, and had only been adopted into the Cao family. | |
| 4 | 发矫诏诸... : | 不数日，曹氏兄弟曹仁，曹洪，各引兵千馀来助。曹仁字子孝，曹洪字子廉；二人兵马娴熟，武艺精通。操大喜，于村中调谏军马。卫弘尽出家财，置办衣甲旗旛。四方送粮者，不计其数。 |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: | A few days later came Cao Cao's two cousins, Cao Ren and Cao Hong, each with one thousand followers. These two were accomplished horsemen and trained in the use of arms. Then drill began, and Wei Hong spent his treasure freely in buying clothing, armor, flags, and banners. From all sides poured in gifts of grain. | |
| 5 | 发矫诏诸... : | 时袁绍得操矫诏，乃聚麾下文武，引兵三万，离渤海来与曹操会盟。操作檄文以达诸郡。檄文曰： |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: | When Yuan Shao received Cao Cao's call to arms, he collected all those under his command to the number of thirty thousand. Then he marched from Bohai to Qiao to take the oath to Cao Cao. Next a manifesto was issued: | |
| 操等谨以大义布告天下：董卓欺天罔地，灭国弑君；秽乱宫禁，残害生灵；狼戾不仁，罪恶充积！今奉天子密诏，大集义兵，誓欲扫清华夏，剿戮群凶。望兴义师，共泄公愤；扶持王室，拯救黎民。檄文到日，可速奉行！ | ||
| "Cao Cao and his associates, moved by a sense of duty, now make this proclamation. Dong Zhuo defies Heaven and Earth. He is destroying the state and injuring his prince. He pollutes the Palace and oppresses the people. He is vicious and cruel. His crimes are heaped up. Now we have received a secret command to call up soldiers, and we are pledged to cleanse the empire and destroy the evil-doers. We will raise a volunteer army and exert all our efforts to maintain the dynasty and succor the people. Respond to this, O Nobles, by mustering your soldiers." | ||
| 6 | 发矫诏诸... : | 操发檄文去后，各镇诸侯，皆起兵相应： |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: | Many from every side answered the summons as the following list shows: | |
| 第一镇，后将军南阳太守袁术。第二镇，冀州刺史韩馥。第三镇，豫州刺史孔伷。第四镇，兖州刺史刘岱。第五镇，河内郡太守王匡。第六镇，陈留太守张邈。第七镇，东郡太守乔瑁。第八镇，山阳太守刘遗。第九镇，济北相鲍信。第十镇，北海太守孔融。第十一镇，广陵太守张超。第十二镇，徐州刺史陶谦。第十三镇，西凉太守马腾。第十四镇，北平太守公孙瓒。第十五镇，上党太守张杨。第十六镇，乌程侯长沙太守孙坚。第十七镇，祁乡侯渤海太守袁绍。诸路军马，少不等，一有三万者，有一二万者一，各领文官武将，投洛阳来。 | ||
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1. Governor of Nanyang —-Yuan Shu 2. Imperial Protector of Jizhou Region —-Han Fu 3. Imperial Protector of Yuzhou Region —-Kong Zhou 4. Imperial Protector of Yanzhou Region —-Liu Dai 5. Governor of Henei —-Wang Kuang 6. Governor of Chenliu —-Zhang Miao 7. Governor of Dongjun —-Qiao Mao 8. Governor of Shanyang —-Yuan Yi 9. Lord of Jibei —-Bao Xin 10. Governor of Beihai —-Kong Rong 11. Governor of Guangling —-Zhang Chao 12. Imperial Protector of Xuzhou Region —-Tao Qian 13. Governor of Xiliang —-Ma Teng 14. Governor of Beiping —-Gongsun Zan 15. Governor of Shangdang —-Zhang Yang 16. Governor of Changsha —-Sun Jian 17. Governor of Bohai —-Yuan Shao These contingents varied in size, from ten thousand to thirty thousand, but each was complete in itself with its officers, civil and military, and battle-leaders. They were heading for Capital Luoyang. | ||
| 7 | 发矫诏诸... : | 且说北平太守公孙瓒，统领精兵一万五千，路经德州平原县。正行之间，遥见桑树丛中，一面黄旗，数骑来迎。瓒视之，乃刘玄德也。瓒问曰：“贤弟何故在此？”玄德曰：“旧日蒙兄保备为平原县令，今闻大军过此，特来奉候，就请兄长入城歇马。”瓒指关、张而问曰：“此何人也？”玄德曰：“此关羽，张飞，备结义兄弟也。”瓒曰：“乃同破黄巾者乎？”玄德曰：“皆此二人之力。”瓒曰：“今居何职？”玄德答曰：“关羽为马弓手，张飞为步弓手。”瓒叹曰：“如此可谓埋没英雄！今董卓作乱，天下诸侯，共往诛之。贤弟可弃此卑官，一同讨贼，力扶汉室，若何？”玄德曰：“愿往。”张飞曰：“当时若容我杀了此贼，免有今日之事。”云长曰：“事已至此，即当收拾前去。” |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
The Governor of Beiping, Gongsun Zan, while on his way with his force of fifteen thousand, passed through the county of Pingyuan. There he saw among the mulberry trees a yellow flag under which marched a small company. When they drew nearer, he saw the leader was Liu Bei. "Good brother, what do you here?" asked Gongsun Zan. "You were kind to me once, and on your recommendation I was made the magistrate of this county. I heard you were passing through and came to salute you. May I pray you, my elder brother, enter into the city and rest your steed?" "Who are these two?" said Gongsun Zan, pointing to Liu Bei's brothers. "These are Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, my sworn brothers." "Were they fighting with you against the Yellow Scarves?" asked Gongsun Zan. "All my success was due to their efforts," said Liu Bei. "And what offices do they fill?" "Guan Yu is a mounted archer; Zhang Fei is a foot archer." "Thus are able people buried!" said Gongsun Zan, sighing. Then he continued. "All the highest in the land are now going to destroy the rebellious Dong Zhuo. My brother, you would do better to abandon this petty place and join us in restoring the House of Han. Why not?" "I should like to go," said Liu Bei. "If you had let me kill him that other time, you would not have this trouble today," said Zhang Fei to Liu Bei and Guan Yu. "Since things are so, let us pack and go," said Guan Yu. | |
| 8 | 发矫诏诸... : | 玄德、关、张引数骑跟公孙瓒来。曹操接著。众诸侯亦陆续皆至，各自安营下寨，连接二百馀里。操乃宰牛杀马，大会诸侯，商议进兵之策。太守王匡曰：“今奉大义，必立盟主；众听约束，然后进兵。”操曰：“袁本初四世三公，门多故吏，汉朝名相之裔，可为盟主。”绍再三推辞。众皆曰：“非本初不可。”绍方应允。次日筑台三层，遍列五方旗帜，上建白旄黄钺，兵符将印，请绍登坛。绍整衣佩剑，慨然而上，焚香再拜。其盟曰：汉室不幸，皇纲失统。贼臣董卓，乘衅纵害，祸加至尊，虐流百姓。绍等惧社稷沦丧，纠合义兵，并赴国难。凡我同盟，齐心戮力，以致臣节，必无二志。有渝此盟，俾坠其命，无克遗育。皇天后土，祖宗明灵，实皆鉴之！ |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
So without more ado, the three brothers, with a few horsemen, joined Gongsun Zan and marched with him to join the great army. One after another the feudal lords came up and encamped. Their camps extended over seventy miles and more. When all had arrived, Cao Cao, as the head, prepared sacrificial bullocks and horses and called all the lords to a great assembly to decide upon their plan of attack. Then spoke the Governor of Henei, Wang Kuang, "We have been moved by a noble sense of right to assemble here. Now must we first choose a chief and bind ourselves to obedience." Then said Cao Cao, "For four generations the highest offices of state have been filled by members of the Yuan family, and their clients and supporters are everywhere. As a descendant of ancient ministers of Han, Yuan Shao is a suitable man to be our chief lord." Yuan Shao again and again declined this honor. But they all said, "It must be he! There is no other!" And then he agreed. So the next day a three-story altar was built, and they planted about it the banners of all parties in five directions of space. And they set up white yaks' tails and golden axes and emblems of military authority and the seals of leadership round about. All being ready, the chief lord was invited to ascend the altar. Clad in ceremonial robes and girded with a sword, Yuan Shao reverently ascended. There he burned incense, made obeisance and recited the oath: "The House of Han has fallen upon evil days, the bands of imperial authority are loosened. The rebel minister, Dong Zhuo, takes advantage of the discord to work evil, and calamity falls upon honorable families. Cruelty overwhelms simple folks. We, Yuan Shao and his confederates, fearing for the safety of the imperial prerogatives, have assembled military forces to rescue the state. We now pledge ourselves to exert our whole strength and act in concord to the utmost limit of our powers. There must be no disconcerted or selfish action. Should any depart from this pledge, may he lose his life and leave no posterity. Almighty Heaven and Universal Earth and the enlightened spirits of our forebears, be ye our witnesses!" | |
| 9 | 发矫诏诸... : | 读毕，歃血。众因其辞气慷慨，皆涕泗横流。歃血已罢，下坛。众扶绍升帐而坐，两行依爵位年齿分列坐定。操行酒数巡，言曰：“今日既立盟主，各听调遣，同扶国家，勿以强弱计较。”袁绍曰：“绍虽不才，既承公等推为盟主，有功必赏，有罪必罚。国有常刑，军有纪律；各宜遵守，勿得违犯。”众皆曰：“惟命是听。”绍曰：“吾弟袁术总督粮草，应付诸营，无使有缺。更须一人为先锋，直抵汜水关挑战。馀各据险要，以为接应。”长沙太守孙坚出曰：“坚愿为前部。”绍曰：“文台勇烈，可当此任。”坚遂引本部人马杀奔汜水关来。守关将士，差流星马往洛阳丞相府告急。董卓自专大权之后，每日饮宴。李儒接得告急文书，迳来禀卓。卓大惊，急聚众将商议。温侯吕布挺身出曰：“父亲勿虑：关外诸侯，布视之如草芥。愿提虎狼之师，尽斩其首，悬于都门。”卓大喜曰：“吾有奉先，高枕无忧矣！”言未绝，吕布背后一人高声出曰：“‘割鸡焉用牛刀？’不劳温侯亲往。吾斩众诸侯首级，如探囊取物耳。”卓视之，其人身长九尺，虎体狼腰，豹头猿臂：关西人也；姓华，名雄。卓闻言大喜，加为骁骑校尉，拨马步军五万，同李肃，胡轸，赵岑星夜赴关迎敌。众诸侯内有济北相鲍信，寻思孙坚既为前部，怕他夺了头功，暗拨其弟鲍忠，先将马步军三千，迳抄小路，直到关下搦战。华雄引铁骑五百，飞下关来，大喝：“贼将休走！”鲍忠急待退，被华雄手起刀落，斩于马下，生擒将校极多。华雄遣人将鲍忠首级来相府报捷，卓加雄为都督。 |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
The reading finished, Yuan Shao smeared the blood of the sacrifice upon his lips and upon the lips of those who shared the pledge. All were deeply affected by the ceremony and many shed tears. This done, the chief lord was supported down from the high place and led to his tent, where he took the highest place and the others arranged themselves according to rank and age. Here wine was served. Presently Cao Cao said, "It behooves us all to obey the chief we have this day set up, and support the state. There must be no feeling of rivalry or superiority based upon numbers." Yuan Shao replied, "Unworthy as I am, yet as elected chief I must impartially reward merit and punish offenses. Let each see to it that he obeys the national laws and the army precepts. These must not be broken." "Only thy commands are to be obeyed!" cried all. Then Yuan Shao said, "My brother, Yuan Shu, is appointed Chief of the Commissariat. He must see to it that the whole camp is well supplied. But the need of the moment is a van leader who shall go to River Si Pass and provoke a battle. The other forces must take up strategic positions in support." Then the Governor of Changsha, Sun Jian, offered himself for this service. "You are valiant and fierce, and equal to this service!" said Yuan Shao. The force under Sun Jian set out and presently came to River Si Pass. The guard there sent a swift rider to the capital to announce to the Prime Minister the urgency of the situation. Ever since Dong Zhuo had secured his position, he had given himself up to luxury without stint. When the urgent news reached Adviser Li Ru, he at once went to his master, who much alarmed called a great council. Lu Bu stood forth and said, "Do not fear, my father. I look upon all the lords beyond the Pass as so much stubble. And with the warriors of our fierce army, I will put everyone of them to death and hang their heads at the gates of the capital!" "With your aid I can sleep secure!" said Dong Zhuo. But someone behind Lu Bu broke in upon his speech, saying, "An ox-cleaver to kill a chicken! There is no need for the General to go: I will cut off their heads as easily as I would take a thing out of my pocket!" Dong Zhuo looked up and his eyes rested on a stalwart man of fierce mien, lithe and supple as a beast. He had round head like a leopard and shoulders like an ape's . His name was Hua Xiong of Guanxi. Dong Zhuo rejoiced at Hua Xiong's bold words and at once appointed him Commander of the Valiant Cavalry and gave him fifty thousand of horse and foot. Hua Xiong and three other generals —-Li Su, Hu Zhen, and Zhao Cen —-hastily moved toward River Si Pass. Among the feudal lords, Bao Xin, the Lord of Jibei, was jealous lest the chosen Van Leader Sun Jian should win too great honors. Wherefore Bao Xin endeavored to meet the foe first, and so he secretly dispatched his brother, Bao Zhong, with three thousand by a bye road. As soon as this small force reached the Pass, they offered battle. Fast reacting, Hua Xiong at the head of five hundred armored horsemen swept down from the Pass, crying, "Flee not, rebel!" But Bao Zhong was afraid and turned back. Hua Xiong came on, his arm rose, the sword fell, and Bao Zhong was cut down from his horse. Most of Bao Zhong's company were captured. Bao Zhong's head was sent to the Prime Minister's palace. Hua Xiong was promoted to Commander-in-Chief. | |
| 10 | 发矫诏诸... : | 却说孙坚引四将直至关前。那四将：第一个，右北平土垠人：姓程，名普，字德谋，使一条铁脊蛇矛；第二个，姓黄，名盖，字公覆，零陵人也，使铁鞭：第三个，姓韩，名当，字义公，辽西令支人也，使一口大刀；第四个，姓祖，名茂，字大荣，吴郡富春人也，使双刀。孙坚披烂银铠，里赤帻，横古锭刀，骑花鬃马，指关上而骂曰：“助恶匹夫，何不早降！” |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: | Sun Jian presently approached the Pass. He had four generals: Cheng Pu of Tuyin whose weapon was an iron-spined lance with snake-headed blade; Huang Gai of Lingling who wielded an iron whip; Han Dang of Lingzhi using a heavy saber; and Zu Mao of Wujun who fought with a pair of swords. Commander Sun Jian wore a helmet of fine silver wrapped round with a purple turban. He carried across his body his sword of ancient ingot iron and rode a dappled horse with flowing mane. Sun Jian advanced to the Pass and hailed the defenders, crying, "Helpers of a villain! Be quick to surrender!" | |
| 11 | 发矫诏诸... : | 华雄副将胡轸引兵五千出关迎战。程普飞马挺矛，直取胡轸。斗不数合，程普刺中胡轸咽喉，死于马下。坚挥军直杀至关前，关上矢石如雨。孙坚引兵回至梁东屯住，使人于袁绍处报捷，就于袁术处催粮。或说术曰：“孙坚乃江东猛虎；若打破洛阳，杀了董卓，正是除狼而得虎也。今不与粮，彼军必散。”术听之，不发粮草。孙坚军缺食，军中自乱，细作报上关来。李肃为华雄谋曰：“今夜我引一军从小路下关，袭孙坚寨后，将军挥其前寨，坚可擒矣。” |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
Hua Xiong bade Hu Zhen lead five thousand out against Sun Jian. Cheng Pu with the snaky lance rode out from Sun Jian's side and engaged. After a very few bouts, Cheng Pu killed Hu Zhen on the spot by a thrust through the throat. Then Sun Jian gave the signal for the main army to advance. But from the Pass, Hua Xiong's troops rained down showers of stones, which proved too much for the assailants, and they retired into camp at Liangdong. Sun Jian sent the report of victory to Yuan Shao. Sun Jian also sent an urgent message for supplies to the commissary. But a counselor said to the Controller Yuan Shu, "This Sun Jian is a very tiger in the east. Should he take the capital and destroy Dong Zhuo, we should have a tiger in place of a wolf. Do not send him grain. Starve his troops, and that will decide the fate of that army." And Yuan Shu gave ears to the detractor and sent no grain or forage. Soon Sun Jian's hungry soldiers showed their disaffection by indiscipline, and the spies bore the news to the defenders of the Pass. Li Su made a plot with Hua Xiong, saying, "We will launch tonight a speedy attack against Sun Jian in front and rear so that we can capture him." | |
| 12 | 发矫诏诸... : | 雄从之，传令军士饱餐，乘夜下关。是夜月白风清。到坚寨时，已是半夜，鼓噪直进。坚慌忙披挂上马，正遇华雄。两马相交，斗不数合，后面李肃军到，令军士放起火来。坚军乱窜。众将各自混战，止有祖茂跟定孙坚，突围而走。背后华雄追来。坚取箭，连放两箭，皆被华雄躲过。再放第三箭时，因用力太猛，拽折了鹊画弓，只得弃弓纵马而奔。祖茂曰：“主公头上赤帻射目，为贼所识认。可脱帻与某戴之。”坚就脱帻换茂盔，分两路而走。雄军只望赤帻者追赶，坚乃从小路得脱。祖茂被华雄追急，将赤帻挂于人家烧不尽的庭柱上，却入树林潜躲。 |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
Hua Xiong agreed and prepared for the attack. So the soldiers of the attacking force were told off and given a full meal. At dark they left the Pass and crept by secret paths to the rear of Sun Jian's camp. The moon was bright and the wind cool. They arrived about midnight and the drums beat an immediate attack. Sun Jian hastily donned his fighting gear and rode out. He ran straight into Hua Xiong and the two warriors engaged. But before they had exchanged many passes, Li Su's army came up from behind and set fire to whatever would burn. Sun Jian's army were thrown into confusion and fled in disorder. A melee ensued, and soon only Zu Mao was left at Sun Jian's side. These two broke through the Pass and fled. Hua Xiong coming in hot pursuit, Sun Jian took his bow and let fly two arrows in quick succession, but both missed. He fitted a third arrow to the string, but drew the bow so fiercely that it snapped. He cast the bow to the earth and set off at full gallop. Then spoke Zu Mao, "My lord's purple turban is a mark that the rebels will too easily recognize. Give it to me, and I will wear it!" So Sun Jian exchanged his silver helmet with the turban for his general's headpiece, and the two men parted, riding different ways. The pursuers looking only for the purple turban went after its wearer, and Sun Jian escaped along a by-road. Zu Mao, hotly pursued, then tore off the headdress which he hung on the post of a half-burned house as he passed and dashed into the thick woods. | |
| 13 | 发矫诏诸... : | 华雄军于下遥月见赤帻，四面围定，不敢近前。用箭射之，方知是计，遂向前取了赤帻。祖茂于林后杀出，挥双刀欲劈华雄；雄大喝一声，将祖茂一刀砍于马下。杀至天明，雄方引兵上关。程普，黄盖，韩当都来寻见孙坚，再收拾军马屯扎。坚为折了祖茂，伤感不已，星夜遣人报知袁绍。绍大惊曰：“不想孙文台败于华雄之手！”便聚众诸侯商议。众人都到，只有公孙瓒后至，绍请入帐列坐。绍曰：“前日鲍将军之弟不遵调遣，擅自进兵，杀身丧命，折了许多军士。今者孙文台又败于华雄：挫动锐气，为之奈何？”诸侯并皆不语。 |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
Hua Xiong's troops seeing the purple turban standing motionless dared not approach, but they surrounded it on every side and shot at it with arrows. Presently they discovered the trick, went up and seized it. This was the moment that Zu Mao awaited. At once he rushed forth, his two swords whirling about, and dashed at the leader. But Hua Xiong was too quick. With a loud yell, Hua Xiong slashed at Zu Mao and cut him down the horse. Hua Xiong and Li Su continued the slaughter till the day broke, and they led their troops back to the Pass. Cheng Pu, Huang Gai, and Han Dang in time found their chief and the soldiers gathered. Sun Jian was much grieved at the loss of Zu Mao. When news of the disaster reached Yuan Shao, he was greatly chagrined and called all the lords to a council. They assembled and Gongsun Zan was the last to arrive. When all were seated in the tent Yuan Shao said, "The brother of General Bao Xin, disobeying the rules we made for our guidance, rashly went to attack the enemy: He was slain and with him many of our soldiers. Now Sun Jian has been defeated. Thus our fighting spirit has suffered and what is to be done?" Everyone was silent. | |
| 14 | 发矫诏诸... : | 绍举目遍视，见公孙瓒背后立著三人，容貌异常，都在那里冷笑。绍问曰：“公孙太守背后何人？”瓒呼玄德出曰：“此吾自幼同舍兄弟，平原令刘备是也。”曹操曰：“莫非破黄巾刘玄德乎？”瓒曰：“然。”即令刘玄德拜见。瓒将玄德功劳，并其出身，细说一遍。绍曰：“既是汉室宗派，取坐来。”命坐。备逊谢。绍曰：“吾非敬汝名爵，吾敬汝是帝室之胄耳。”玄德乃坐于末位，关、张叉手侍立于后。 |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
Lifting his eyes, Yuan Shao looked round from one to another till he came to Gongsun Zan, and then he remarked three men who stood behind Gongsun Zan's seat. They were of striking appearance as they stood there, all three smiling cynically. "Who are those men behind you?" said Yuan Shao. Gongsun Zan told Liu Bei to come forward, and said, "This is Liu Bei, Magistrate of Pingyuan and a brother of mine who shared my humble cottage when we were students." "It must be the Liu Bei who broke up the Yellow Scarves rebellion," said Cao Cao. "It is he," said Gongsun Zan, and he ordered Liu Bei to make his obeisance to the assembly, to whom Liu Bei then related his services and his origin, all in full detail. "Since he is of the Han line, he should be seated," said Yuan Shao, and he bade Liu Bei sit. Liu Bei modestly thanked him, declining. Said Yuan Shao, "This consideration is not for your fame and office. I respect you as a scion of the imperial family." So Liu Bei took his seat in the lowest place of the long line of lords. And his two brothers with folded arms took their stations behind him. | |
| 15 | 发矫诏诸... : | 忽探子来报：“华雄引铁骑下关，用长竿挑著孙太守赤帻，来寨前大骂搦战。”绍曰：“谁敢去战？”袁术背后转出骁将俞涉曰：“小将愿往。”绍喜，便著俞涉出马。即时报来：“俞涉与华雄战不三合，被华雄斩了。”众大惊。太守韩馥曰：“吾有上将潘凤，可斩华雄。”绍急令出战。潘凤手提大斧上马。去不多时，飞马来报：“潘凤又被华雄斩了。”众皆失色。绍曰：“可惜吾上将颜良、文丑未至！得一人在此，何惧华雄？”言未毕，阶下一人大呼出曰：“小将军愿往斩华雄头，献于帐下！”众视之，见其人身长九尺，髯长二尺；丹凤眼，卧蚕眉；面如重枣，声如巨钟；立于帐前。绍问何人。公孙瓒曰：“此刘玄德之弟关羽也。”绍问见居何职。瓒曰：“跟随刘玄德充马弓手。”帐上袁术大喝曰：“汝欺吾众诸侯无大将耶？量一弓手，安敢乱言！与我打出！”曹操急止之曰：“公路息怒：此人既出大言，必有勇略；试教出马，如其不胜，责之未迟。”袁绍曰：“使一弓手出战，必被华雄所笑。”操曰：“此人仪表不俗，华雄安知他是弓手？”关公曰：“如不胜，请斩某头。” |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
Even as they were at this meeting came in a scout to say that Hua Xiong with a company of mail-clad horsemen was coming down from the Pass. They were flaunting Sun Jian's captured purple turban on the end of a bamboo pole. The enemy was soon hurling insults at those within the stockade and challenging them to fight. "Who dares go out to give battle?" said Yuan Shao. "I will go," said Yu She, a renown general of Yuan Shu, stepping forward. So Yu She went, and almost immediately one came back to say that Yu She had fallen in the third bout of Hua Xiong. Fear began to lay its cold hand on the assembly. Then Imperial Protector Han Fu said, "I have a brave warrior among my army. Pan Feng is his name, and he could slay this Hua Xiong." So Pan Feng was ordered out to meet the foe. With his great battle-ax in his hand, Pan Feng mounted and rode forth. But soon came the direful tidings that General Pan Feng too had fallen. The faces of the gathering paled at this. "What a pity my two able generals, Yan Liang and Wen Chou, are not here! Then should we have someone who would not fear this Hua Xiong," said Yuan Shao. He had not finished when from the lower end a voice tolled, "I will go, take Hua Xiong's head, and lay it before you here!" All turned to look at the speaker. He was tall and had a long beard. His eyes were those of a phoenix and his eyebrows thick and bushy like silkworms. His face was a swarthy red and his voice deep as the sound of a great bell. "Who is he?" asked Yuan Shao. Gongsun Zan told them it was Guan Yu, brother of Liu Bei. "And what is he?" asked Yuan Shao. "He is in the train of Liu Bei as a mounted archer." "What! An insult to us all!" roared Yuan Shu from his place. "Have we no leader? How dare an archer speak thus before us? Let us beat him forth!" But Cao Cao intervened. "Peace, O Yuan Shu! Since this man speaks great words, he is certainly valiant. Let him try. If he fails, then we may reproach him." "Hua Xiong will laugh at us if we send a mere archer to fight him," said Yuan Shao. "This man looks no common person. And how can the enemy know he is but a bowman?" said Cao Cao. "If I fail, then can you take my head," spoke Guan Yu. | |
| 16 | 发矫诏诸... : | 操教酾热酒一杯，与关公饮了上马。关公曰：“酒且斟下，某去便来。”出帐提刀，飞身上马。众诸侯听得关外鼓声大振，喊声大举，如天摧地塌，岳撼山崩，众皆失惊。正欲探听，鸾铃响处，马到中军，云长提华雄之头，掷于地上，其酒当温。后人有诗赞之曰：威镇乾坤第一功，辕门画鼓响鼕鼕。云长停盏施英勇，酒当温时斩华雄。 |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
Cao Cao bade them heat some wine and offered a cup to Guan Yu as he went out. "Pour it out," said Guan Yu. "I shall return in a little space." Guan Yu went with his weapon in his hand and vaulted into the saddle. Those in the tent heard the fierce roll of the drums and then a mighty sound as if skies were falling and earth rising, hills trembling and mountains tearing asunder. And they were sore afraid. And while they were listening with ears intent, lo! the gentle tinkle of horse bells, and Guan Yu returned, throwing at their feet the head of the slain leader, their enemy Hua Xiong. The wine was still warm! This doughty deed has been celebrated in verse: The power of the man stands first in all the world, At the gate of the camp was heard the rolling of the battle drums; Then Guan Yu set aside the wine cup till he should have displayed his valor, And the wine was still warm when Hua Xiong had been slain. | |
| 17 | 发矫诏诸... : | 曹操大喜。只见玄德背后转出张飞，高声大叫：“俺哥哥斩了华雄，不就这里杀入关去，活拏董卓，更待何时！”袁术大怒，喝曰：“俺大臣尚自谦让，量一县令手下小卒，安敢在此耀武扬威！都与赶出帐去！”曹操曰：“得功者赏，何计贵贱乎？”袁术曰：“既然公等只重一县令，我当告退。”操曰：“岂可因一言而误大事耶？”命公孙瓒且带玄德、关、张回寨。众官皆散。曹操暗使人赍牛酒抚慰三人。却说华雄手下败军，报上关来。李肃慌忙写告急文书，申闻董卓。卓急聚李儒、吕布等商议。儒曰：“今失了上将华雄，贼势浩大。袁绍为盟主，绍叔袁隗，现为太傅；倘或里应外合，深为不便，可先除之。请丞相亲领大军，分拨剿捕。” |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
Cao Cao was greatly excited at this success. But Zhang Fei's voice was heard, shouting, "My brother has slain Hua Xiong. What are we waiting for? Why not break through the Pass and seize Dong Zhuo? Could there have been a better time?" Again arose the angry voice of Yuan Shu, "We high officials are too meek and yielding. Here is the petty follower of a small magistrate daring to flaunt his prowess before us! Expel him from the tent, I say." But again Cao Cao interposed, "Shall we consider the station of him who has done a great service?" "If you hold a mere magistrate in such honor, then I simply withdraw," said Yuan Shu. "Is a word enough to defeat a grand enterprise?" said Cao Cao. Then he told Gongsun Zan to lead the three brothers back to their own camp, and the other chiefs then dispersed. That night Cao Cao secretly sent presents of meat and wine to soothe the three after this adventure. When Hua Xiong's troops straggled back and told the story of defeat and death, Li Ru was greatly distressed. He wrote urgent letters to his master who called in his trusted advisers to a council. Li Ru summed up the situation, saying, "We have lost our best leader, and the rebel power has thereby become very great. Yuan Shao is at the head of this confederacy, and his uncle, Yuan Wei, is holder of the office of Imperial Guardianship. If those in the capital combine with those in the country, we may suffer. Therefore we must remove them. So I request you, Sir Prime Minister, to place yourself at the head of your army and break this confederation." | |
| 18 | 发矫诏诸... : | 卓然其说，唤李催，郭汜，领兵五百，围住太傅袁隗家，不分老幼，尽皆诛绝，先将袁隗首级去关前号令。卓遂起兵二十万，分为两路而来：一路先令李催，郭汜，引兵五万，把住汜水关，不要厮杀；卓自将十五万，同李儒，吕布，樊稠，张济，等守虎牢关。这关离洛阳五十里。军马到关，卓令吕布领三万大军，去关前扎住大寨。卓自在关上屯住。 |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
Dong Zhuo agreed and at once ordered his two generals, Li Jue and Guo Si, to take five hundred troops and surround the residence of Imperial Guardian Yuan Wei, slay every soul regardless of age, and hang the head of Yuan Wei outside the gate as trophy. And Dong Zhuo commanded two hundred thousand troops to advance in two armies. The first fifty thousand were under Li Jue and Guo Si, and they were to hold River Si Pass. They should not necessarily fight. The other one hundred fifty thousand under Dong Zhuo himself went to Tiger Trap Pass. His counselors and commanders —-Li Ru, Lu Bu, Fan Chou, Zhang Ji, and others —-marched with the main army. Tiger Trap Pass is fifteen miles from Capital Luoyang. As soon as they arrived, Dong Zhuo bade Lu Bu take thirty thousand soldiers and make a strong stockade on the outside of the Pass. The main body with Dong Zhuo would occupy the Pass. | |
| 19 | 发矫诏诸... : | 流星马探听得，报入袁绍大寨里来。绍聚众商议。操曰：“董卓屯兵虎牢，截俺诸侯中路，今可勒兵一半迎敌。”绍乃分王匡，乔瑁，鲍信，袁遗，孔融，张杨，陶谦，公孙瓒，八路诸侯，往虎牢关迎敌。操引军往来救应。八路诸侯，各自起兵。河内太守王匡，引兵先到。吕布带铁骑三千，飞奔来迎。王匡将军马列成阵势，勒马门旗下看时，见吕布出阵：头戴三叉束发紫金冠，体挂西川红锦百花袍，身披兽面吞头连环铠，腰系勒甲玲珑狮蛮带；弓箭随身，手持画戟；坐下嘶风赤兔马；果然是人中吕布，马中赤兔！ |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
News of this movement reaching the confederate lords. Yuan Shao summoned a council. Said Cao Cao, "The occupation of the Pass would cut our armies in two; therefore, we must oppose Dong Zhuo's army on the way." So eight of the commanders —-Wang Kuang, Qiao Mao, Bao Xin, Yuan Yi, Kong Rong, Zhang Yang, Tao Qian, and Gongsun Zan —-were ordered to go in the direction of the Tiger Trap Pass to oppose their enemy. Cao Cao and his troops moved among them as reserve to render help where needed. Of the eight, Wang Kuang, the Governor of Henei, was the first to arrive, and Lu Bu went to give battle with three thousand armored horsemen. When Wang Kuang had ordered his army, horse and foot, in battle array, he took his station under the great banner and looked over at his foe. Lu Bu was a conspicuous figure in front of the line. On his head was a triple curved headdress of ruddy gold with pheasant tails. He wore a warring velvet-red robe of Xichuan silk embroidered with thousand flowers, which was overlapped by golden mail adorned with a gaping animal's head, joined by rings at the sides and girt to his waist with a belt fastened by a beautiful 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 Red Hare. Indeed Lu Bu was the man among humans, as Red Hare was the horse among horses. | |
| 20 | 发矫诏诸... : | 王匡回头问曰：“谁敢出战？”后面一将，纵马挺枪而出。匡视之，乃河内名将方悦。两马相交，无五合，被吕布一戟刺于马下，挺戟直冲过来。匡军大败，四散奔走。布东西冲杀，如入无人之境。幸得乔瑁、袁遗两军皆至，来救王匡，吕布方退。三路诸侯，各折了些人马，退三十里下寨。随后五路军马都至，一处商议，言吕布英雄，无人可敌。 |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
"Who dares go out to fight him?" asked Wang Kuang turning to those behind him. In response a valiant general from Henei named Fang Yue spurred to the front, his spear set ready for battle. Lu Bu and Fang Yue met: Before the fifth bout Fang Yue fell under a thrust of the trident halberd, and Lu Bu dashed forward. Wang Kuang's troops could not stand and scattered in all directions. Lu Bu went to and fro slaying all he met. He was irresistible. Luckily, two other troops led by Qiao Mao and Yuan Yi came up and rescued the wounded Wang Kuang, and Lu Bu pulled back. The three, having lost many troops, withdrew ten miles and made a stockade. And before long the remaining five commanders came up and joined them. They held a council and agreed Lu Bu was a hero no one could match. | |
| 21 | 发矫诏诸... : | 正虑间，小校报来：“吕布搦战。”八路诸侯，一齐上马，军分八队，布在高冈。遥望吕布一簇军马，绣旗招颭，先来冲阵。上党太守张杨部将穆顺，出马挺枪迎战，被吕布手起一戟，刺于马下。众大惊。北海太守孔融部将武安国，使铁锤飞马而出。吕布挥戟拍马来迎。战到十馀合，一戟砍断安国手腕，弃锤于地而走。八路军兵齐出，救了武安国。吕布退回去了。众诸侯回寨商议。曹操曰：“吕布英勇无敌，可会十八路诸侯，共议良策。若擒了吕布，董卓易诛耳。” |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
And while they sat there anxious and uncertain, it was announced that Lu Bu had returned to challenge them. They mounted their horses and placed themselves at the heads of eight forces, each body in its station on the high ground. Around them was the opposing army in formation, commanded by Lu Bu, innumerable horse and foot, with splendid embroidered banners waving in the breeze. They attacked Lu Bu. Mu Shun, a general of Governor Zhang Yang, rode out with his spear set, but soon fell at the first encounter with Lu Bu. This frightened the others. Then galloped forth Wu Anguo, a general under Governor Kong Rong. Wu Anguo raised his iron mace ready at his rival. Lu Bu whirling his halberd and urging on his steed came to meet Wu Anguo. The two fought, well matched for ten bouts, when a blow from the trident halberd broke Wu Anguo's wrist. Letting his mace fall to the ground he fled. Then all eight of the lords led forth their armies to his rescue, and Lu Bu retired to his line. The fighting then ceased, and after their return to camp another council met. 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." | |
| 22 | 发矫诏诸... : | 正议间，吕布复引兵搦战。八路诸侯齐出。公孙瓒挥槊亲战吕布。战不数合，瓒败走。吕布纵赤兔马赶来。那马日行千里，飞走如风。看看赶上，布举画戟望瓒后心便刺。旁边一将，圆睁环眼，倒竖虎须，挺丈八蛇矛，飞马大叫：“三姓家奴休走！燕人张飞在此！” |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
While the council was in progress again came Lu Bu to challenge them, and again the commanders moved out against him. This time Gongsun Zan, flourishing his spear, went to meet the enemy. After a very few bouts Gongsun Zan turned and fled; Lu Bu following at the topmost speed of Red Hare. Red Hare was a three-hundred-mile-a-day horse, swift as the wind. The lords watched Red Hare gained rapidly upon the flying horseman, and Lu Bu's halberd was poised ready to strike Gongsun Zan just behind the heart. Just then dashed in a third rider with round glaring eyes and a bristling mustache, and armed with a ten-foot serpent halberd. "Stay, O twice bastard!" roared he, "I, Zhang Fei of Yan, await you!" | |
| 23 | 发矫诏诸... : | 吕布见了，弃了公孙瓒，便战张飞。飞抖擞精神，酣战吕布。连斗五十馀合，不分胜负。云长见了，把马一拍，舞八十二斤青龙偃月刀，来夹攻吕布。三匹马丁字儿厮杀。战到三十合，战不倒吕布。刘玄德掣双股剑，骤黄鬃马，刺斜里也来助战。 |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: | Seeing this opponent, Lu Bu left the pursuit of Gongsun Zan and engaged the new adversary. Zhang Fei was elated, and he rode forth with all his energies. They two were worthily matched, and they exchanged half a hundred bouts with no advantage to either side. Then Guan Yu, impatient, rode out with his huge and weighty green-dragon saber and attacked Lu Bu on the other flank. The three steeds formed a triangle and their riders battered away at each other for thirty bouts, yet still Lu Bu stood firm. Then Liu Bei rode out to his brothers' aid, his double swords raised ready to strike. The steed with the flowing mane was urged in at an angle. | |
| 24 | 发矫诏诸... : | 这三个围住吕布，转灯儿般厮杀。八路人马，都看得呆了。吕布架隔遮拦不定，看著玄德面上，虚刺一戟，玄德急闪。吕布荡开阵角，倒拖画戟，飞马便回。三个那里肯舍，拍马赶来。八路军兵，喊声大震，一齐掩杀。吕布军马，望关上奔走；玄德、关、张随后赶来。古人曾有篇言语，单道著玄德、关、张三战吕布：汉朝天数当桓灵，炎炎红日将西倾。奸臣董卓废少帝，刘协懦弱魂梦惊。曹操传檄告天下，诸侯奋怒皆兴兵。议立袁绍作盟主，誓扶王室定太平。温侯吕布世无比，雄才四海夸英伟。护躯银铠砌龙鳞，束发金冠簪雉尾。参差宝带兽平吞，错落锦袍飞凤起。龙驹跳踏起天风，画戟荧煌射秋水。出关搦战谁敢当？诸侯胆裂心惶惶。踊出燕人张翼德，手持蛇矛丈八枪。虎须倒竖翻金线，环眼圆睁起电光。酣战未能分胜败，阵前恼起关云长。青龙宝刀灿霜雪，鹦鹉战袍飞蛱蝶。马蹄到处鬼神嚎，目前一怒应流血。枭雄玄德掣双锋，抖擞天威施勇烈。三人围绕战多时，遮拦架隔无休歇。喊声震动天地翻，杀气迷漫牛斗寒。吕布力穷寻走路，遥望山塞拍马还。倒拖画杆方天戟，乱散销金五彩旛。顿断绒走赤兔，翻身飞上虎牢关。 |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
Now Lu Bu had to contend with three surrounding warriors at whom he struck one after another, and they at him, the flashing of the warriors' weapons looking like the revolving lamps suspended at the new year. And the warriors of the eight armies gazed rapt with amazement at such a battle. But Lu Bu's guard began to weaken and fatigue seized him. Looking hard in the face of Liu Bei, Lu Bu feigned a fierce thrust thus making Liu Bei suddenly draw back. Then, lowering his halberd, Lu Bu dashed through the angle thus opened and got away. But was it likely they would allow him to escape? They whipped their steeds and followed hard. The soldiers of the eight armies cracked their throats with thunderous cheers and all dashed forward, pressing after Lu Bu as he made for the shelter of the Tiger Trap Pass. And first among his pursuers were the three brothers. An ancient poet has told of this famous fight in these lines: The fateful day of Han came in the reigns of Huan and Ling, Their glory declined as the sun sinks at the close of day. Dong Zhuo, infamous minister of state, pulled down the youthful Bian. It is true the new Xian was a weakling, too timid for his times. Then Cao Cao proclaimed abroad these wicked deeds, And the great lords, moved with anger, assembled their forces. In council met they and chose as their oath-chief Yuan Shao, Pledged themselves to maintain the ruling house and tranquillity. Of the warriors of that time matchless Lu Bu was the boldest. His valor and prowess are sung by all within the four seas. He clothed his body in silver armor like the scales of a dragon, On his head was a golden headdress with pheasant tails, About his waist a shaggy belt, the clasp, two wild beasts' heads with gripping jaws, His flowing, embroidered robe fluttered about his form, His swift courser bounded over the plain, a mighty wind following, His terrible trident halberd flashed in the sunlight, bright as a placid lake. Who dared face him as he rode forth to challenge? The bowels of the confederate lords were torn with fear and their hearts trembled. Then leaped forth Zhang Fei, the valiant warrior of the north, Gripped in his mighty hand the long serpent halberd, His mustache bristled with anger, standing stiff like wire. His round eyes glared, lightning flashes darted from them. Neither quailed in the fight, but the issue was undecided. Guan Yu stood out in front, his soul vexed within him, His green-dragon saber shone white as frost in the sunlight, His bright colored fighting robe fluttered like butterfly wings, Demons and angels shrieked at the thunder of his horse hoofs, In his eyes was fierce anger, a fire to be quenched only in blood. Next Liu Bei joined the battle, gripping his twin sword blades, The heavens themselves trembled at the majesty of his wrath. These three closely beset Lu Bu and long drawn out was the battle, Always he warded their blows, never faltering a moment. The noise of their shouting rose to the sky, and the earth reechoed it, The heat of battle ranged to the frozen pole star. Worn out, feeling his strength fast ebbing, Lu Bu thought to flee, He glanced at the hills around and thither would fly for shelter, Then, reversing his halberd and lowering its lofty point, Hastily he fled, loosing himself from the battle; With head low bent, he gave the rein to his courser, Turned his face away and fled to Tiger Trap Pass. | |
| 25 | 发矫诏诸... : | 三人直赶吕布到关下，看见关上西风飘动青罗伞盖。张飞大叫：“此必董卓！追吕布有甚强处！不如先拿董贼，便是斩草除根！”拍马上关，来擒董卓。正是：擒贼定须擒贼首，奇功端的待奇人。未知胜负如何，且听下文分解。 |
| Cao Cao Appeals To...: |
The three brothers maintained the pursuit to the Pass. Looking up they saw an immense umbrella of black gauze fluttering in the west wind. "Certainly there is Dong Zhuo," cried Zhang Fei. "What is the use of pursuing Lu Bu? Better far seize the chiefest rebel and so pluck up the evil by the roots!" And he whipped up his steed toward the Pass. To quell rebellion seize the leader if you can; If you need a wondrous service then first find a wondrous man. The following chapters will unfold the result of the battle. |
URN: ctp:sanguo-yanyi/ch5