««« Chapter 34 »»» Behind The Screen, Lady Cai Overhears A Secret; Across The Tan Torrent, The Dilu Horse Carries Its Master.

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1 The diggers at the spot whence the golden light proceeded presently unearthed a bronze bird. Looking at it, Cao Cao turned to his companion, saying, "What is the portent?"
2 "You will remember that the mother of the praiseworthy King Shun dreamed of a jade bird before his birth, so certainly it is a felicitous omen," said Xun You.	» Explainer -- Kin Shun -- King Shun was an ideal king in ancient mythology. King Yao gave him the throne due to his virtues and merits.
3 Cao Cao was very pleased, and he ordered forthwith the building of a lofty tower to celebrate the find, and they began to dig foundations and cut timber, to burn tiles and to smooth bricks for the Bronze Bird Tower on the banks of the River Zhang. Cao Cao set a year for the building.	» SamuraiSchoolgirl -- Is this why Wei is symbolized by a bird?
4 His younger son, Cao Zhi, said, "If you build a terraced tower, you should add two others, one on each side. The center tower as the tallest should be called the Bronze Bird Tower. The side towers named Jade Dragon Tower and Golden Phoenix Tower. Then connect these by flying bridges and the effect will be noble."
5 "My son, your words are very good; and by and bye when the building is complete, I can solace my old age therein."	» Rahonavis -- Solace -- Yeah right! As if Cao Cao would ever seriously retire. » DongDal -- Why not? -- You really don't want to be on a battle field in your old age. You wouldn't be able to defend yourself as well.
6 Cao Cao had five sons, but this one Cao Zhi was the most clever and his essays were particularly elegant. His father was very fond of him and, seeing that the young man took an interest in the building, Cao Cao left him with his elder brother Cao Pi at Yejun to superintend the work, while he led a half-a-million army that had recently been captured from the Yuans back to Capital Xuchang.
7 When he arrived, he distributed rewards liberally and memorialized the Throne obtaining the title of the Pure Lord for the late Guo Jia. And he took Guo Jia's son, Guo Ye, to be brought up in his own family.
8 Next Cao Cao began to consider the reduction of Liu Biao's power.
9 Xun You said, "The Grand Army has only just returned from the north and needs rest. Wait half a year that the soldiers may recover from the fatigue of the campaign, and both Liu Biao and Sun Quan will fall at the first roll of the drums."	» _I luv ND Football -- Advisors -- Not bad advice, but what if they ally by then? Liu Biao armies and the strategies of Zhou Yu are not to be discounted. The Oath Brothers would surely participate in such a battle, right? Cao Cao might conquer the territory, but the generals might escape, and he'd be facing some very skilled generals. » Ragnarok -- What if they do? -- They'd still be no match for Cao Cao. Sun Quan is a young, inexperienced man, and without the full trust of his officers and soldiers at this point. Liu Biao is no serious threat, and Cao Cao as gained some 500,000 soldiers from Yuan Shao. On another note. Liu Bei is little threat. He'll be fleeing South all too shortly. I'll let you decide.
10 Presently Cao Cao approved of this plan. To enrich his troops, he assigned certain lands to them to till while they rested.
11 In Jingzhou, Liu Biao had been very generous to Liu Bei ever since he had come as a fugitive seeking shelter. One day at a banquet there came news that two generals, Zhang Wu and Chen Sun, who had tendered their submission, had suddenly begun plundering the people in Jiangxia. They evidently meant rebellion.
12 "If they really rebel, it will cause a lot of trouble," said Liu Biao, rather dismayed.
13 "Do not let that trouble you. I will go and settle it," said Liu Bei.
14 Pleased with this proposal, Liu Biao told off thirty thousand troops and placed them under his friend, and the army marched as soon as the orders were issued. In a short time it reached the scene, and the two malcontents came out to fight. Liu Bei, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and Zhao Zilong took their stand beneath the great banner and looked over at the enemy.	» WUuuu -- How long until Liu Bei betrays this one? -- (rhetorical so please don't answer literally) » IloveNDfootball -- He doesn't. -- Liu Bei was not a traitor. He fled Cao Cao after recieving an edict to destroy him. He abandoned Yuan Shao to escape exection by his own Lord. He advised Lu Bu's execution to prevent greater deaths. He was driven away by the treacherous Cai clan. Liu Bei swore to protect the Han. He never swore to help Cao Cao (or other warlors), and even if he did, his oath to the Emperor supersedes the oath to Cao Cao. Also, he swore an oath to Zhang Fei, not Lu Bu. I'm responding to your view that Liu Bei betrays everyone, I saw the sarcasm. » WUuuu -- oath or no oath -- there is wrong and right, and if Liu Bei was interested in doing the right thing he would have chastised Zhang Fei for screwing up and stealing and not turned on Lu Bu. » MasterLiang -- Lu Bu stole Xuzhou, so Liu Bei is a villian. Right... -- To quote Abraham Lincoln; "That is cool. A highwayman holds a pistol to my ear and mutters through his teeth, 'Stand and deliver, or I shall kill you, and then you will be a murderer!'" » WUuuu -- for the past few chapters Lu Bu has been saying -- please don't forget when I saved you from Yuan Shu, and Liu Bei has been praising him for it and saying he'd repay Lu Bu. » MasterLiang -- Lu Bu saved him from Yuan Shu for himself, not Liu Bei. -- Lu Bus dealings with Yuan Shu during this entire situation make his statments seem a bit... well, like bullshit. Didn't Lu Bu basically move to have Liu Bei eliminated just before that? His constantly shifting alliances and moods make any final descison from him difficult to fathom. Liu Bei was eliminating an unstable man who would have most likely had him done away with as soon as the mood struck him. » WUuuu -- He moved to have Liu Bei eliminated in a fit of anger the only time it ever got serious between them -- besides that, yes he considered it several times but never did anything about it, just as Liu Bei considered it against Lu Bu several times. » Kveltulfr -- But people seem content to ignore that -- They don't care that Liu Bei swore to repay him. They don't care that Liu Bei agreed to help get Cao Cao to accept him. No, Liu Bei betrayed him and advised Cao Cao to have him killed, but since Liu Bei did it, it MUST have been the moral thing to do. » Drackor -- The Moral Thing... -- I think Liu Bei understood the same thing Cao Cao did. Lu Bu was the kinda person that needed to be placated to be kept in check. With his constantly shifting alliances, it is no wonder everyone was out to have him killed. In the end Lu Bu only had himself to blame. As for Liu Bei, sounds to me that people who are annoyed that the book is Shu-Biased are finding excuses to pick apart the Virtuous character that LGZ goes to great lengths to try and show. If you wanna pick him apart. Pick something legitimate to attack, not something frivolous like Betrayal. The proof of that is in the pudding. Lu Bu: That betrayal was due to Lu Bu's inability to keep alliance. Cao Cao: He never served Cao Cao at that time but the Emperor, who he is STILL Loyal too. Yuan Shao: He never served Yuan Shao, he was a guest General under Yuan Shao and free to leave at any time.
15 Zhang Wu was riding a handsome prancing horse, and Liu Bei said, "He certainly has a fine steed."
16 As he spoke, Zhao Zilong galloped out with his spear set and dashed toward the enemy. Zhang Wu came out to meet him, but the combat was very brief for Zhang Wu was soon killed by a spear thrust. Thereupon Zhao Zilong laid a hand upon the bridle of the fallen man's horse to lead it back to his own side. The slain rebel's companion Chen Sun at once rode after Zhao Zilong, whereupon Zhang Fei uttered a loud shout and rode out to meet him. With one thrust Zhang Fei slew the rebel. Their followers now scattered, and Liu Bei speedily restored order in Jiangxia and returned to Jingzhou City.	» HeroOfChaos -- Sometimes i wonder why they have an army... -- They just seem to settle every battle in a duel or two so what's the point of having an army? I think it's just to impress their opponents. » JiaGai -- Duels don't always decide battles. -- Duels also don't always take place. If a battle can be settled by a single duel, then all the better, but there are many occasions when large armies meet. As another side note, you need armies to maintain and garrison territories as well as invade enemy territories. A single, powerful duelist is great, but an army is even better. Even Lu Bu alone cannot turn the tide of a war, but a well maintained and disciplined army can. » Super Dian Wei -- Yeah... -- You think just because Lu Bu can beat up a general means he can beat up an entire some odd thousand man army? Leaders only duel to increase morale, not win a war. » iluvNDfootball -- The Reason -- The reason the Turbans fled is that they are basically peasants with swords, and they saw their leaders killed in moments. Naturally, they fled. » JiangWeisLastStand -- War is completely morale -- When a head officer is struck down, the armies quickly start testing their own abilities, while the winning officers army is now pumped up and ready to fight, knowing that their general is a bad ass. You really have had to be on the battlefield to know, I know. Also think why the U.S. won the revolutionary war. Aside the French involvement and the inability for the Britsih to retrieve supplies quickly, we fought for the sake of our freedom. We had a greater reason to win than just money. (oh and there was alot of fighting tactics unseen before to the British.) » confuscianGent -- Ahem... patriotic garbage aside, JiangWeislaststand... -- you might notice evidence of this throughout history. Why does it happen? Well, the soldiers are just peasants and workers, not war heroes. When they see their lord, who has probably forced them into service, get killed, their first thought is "the bastard's dead! Run lads!". » IloveNDfootball -- Or.. -- OH MY GOD! HE JUST KILLED ______! _____ is so much better than I am! I can't withstand him! Get out of here!
17 Liu Biao, grateful for this service, rode out to the boundary to welcome the victors. They reentered the city and grand banquets were instituted, at which they emptied great goblets in congratulations over the victory.
18 At one of these banquets the Imperial Protector said, "With such heroism as my brother has shown, Jingzhou has one upon whom to rely. But a source of sorrow is the borders with the lands of Yue, Wu, and Shu, from which a raid may come at any time. Zhang Lu of Shu and Sun Quan of Yue and Wu are to be feared."	» Explainer -- Yue, Wu, and Shu -- Yue, Wu, and Shu were three states during the Spring and Autumn and the Warring States periods. Yue and Wu’s territory was approximately that of the South Land. Shu was in the mountainous region west of Jingzhou.
19 "But I have three bold generals," said Liu Bei, "quite equal to any task you can set them. Send Zhang Fei to keep ward on the southern border of Yue, Guan Yu to guard the city of Guzi against Zhang Lu in the west, and Zhao Zilong holding the Three Gorges will protect you from Sun Quan. Why need you grieve?"
20 The scheme appealed strongly to the Imperial Protector, but Cai Mao did not approve.
21 So he spoke to his sister, Liu Biao's wife, saying, "Liu Bei is putting his troops in such commanding positions all round the region. That is the danger."
22 Lady Cai, thus influenced by her brother, undertook to remonstrate, and that night began by saying to Liu Biao, "Some in the Jingzhou army seem to have a great liking for Liu Bei. They are always coming and going. You ought to take precautions. I do not think you should let Liu Bei stay in the city. Why not send him on some mission?"
23 "Liu Bei is a good man," replied the Imperial Protector.
24 "I think others differ from you," said the lady.
25 Liu Biao said nothing but muttered to himself. Soon after he went out of the city to see Liu Bei and noticed he was riding a very handsome horse. They told him it was a prize taken from the recently conquered rebels; and as he praised it very warmly, Liu Bei presented it to him. Liu Biao was delighted and rode it back to the city. Kuai Yue saw it and asked where it had come from. The Imperial Protector told him it was a gift from Liu Bei.
26 Kuai Yue said, "My passed-away brother, Kuai Liang, knew horses very well, and I am not a bad judge. This horse has tear-tracks running down from its eyes and a white blaze on its forehead. It is called a Dilu horse, and it is a danger to his master. That is why Zhang Wu was killed. I advise you not to ride it."	» Yorak -- dilu -- For you KOEI fans out there, if you didn't already know, this is the Hex Mark horse. » Shokyo -- It's called a hex mark coz of the white dot on it's head. -- It was supposed to be a "target" making the horse unlucky. Wow, I'm learning! ^-^ » heffalump -- When did Kuai Liang die? I can't remember.
27 Liu Biao began to think.
28 Soon after he asked Liu Bei to a banquet and in the course of it said, "You kindly presented me with a horse lately, and I am most grateful. But you may need it on some of your expeditions and, if you do not mind, I would like to return it."
29 Liu Bei rose and thanked him.
30 The Imperial Protector continued, "You have been here a long time, and I fear I am spoiling your career as a warrior. Now Xinye in Xiangyang is no poverty-stricken town. How would you like to garrison it with your own troops?"
31 Liu Bei naturally took the offer as a command and set out as soon as he could, taking leave of the Imperial Protector the next day. And so he took up his quarters in Xinye.
32 When he left Jingzhou City, he noticed in the gate a person making him emphatic salutations, and the man presently said, "You should not ride that horse."
33 Liu Bei looked at the man and recognized in the speaker one of the secretaries of Liu Biao named Yi Ji, a native of Shanyang. So Liu Bei hastily dismounted and asked why.
34 Yi Ji replied, "Yesterday I heard that Kuai Yue told the Imperial Protector that that horse was a Dilu horse and brought disaster to its owner. That is why it was returned to you. How can you mount it again?"
35 "I am deeply touched by your affection," replied Liu Bei, "but a person's life is governed by fate, and what a horse can interfere with that?"	» WUuuu -- Possibility -- So please don't jump down my throat for it- But could Liu Bei represent fatalism and Cao Cao free will? Not sure yet, but I guess I'll see how it develops. » Ragnarok -- How can a horse? -- How can a dream? A rainbow? A found item? Or any other of these omens be regarded so highly? » RauUsu -- Oh no! I tripped on my shoelace! What does that mean? » toocold -- hmmm -- that is quite an auspicious omen..... » LiaoHua -- You are quite wrong -- The shoe lace represent ropes and your advisors are going to hang you » Seraph -- Hmmm, WUuuu brings up a good point. -- Cao Cao seems to try to reach for the heavens, while Liu Bei seems to go with the flow and try to do what he sees as the correct thing to do. Does Cao Cao ever refer to himself as having the mandate of heaven? On the other hand, it is apparent that the author believes in fatalism. All things are attributed to how the heavens ordained it. Still, it is a good theory.
36 Yi Ji admitted his superior view, and thereafter he kept in touch with Liu Bei wherever he went.
37 The arrival of Liu Bei in Xinye was a matter of rejoicing to all the inhabitants, and the whole administration was reformed.	» VGuyver -- Difference between Liu Bei and Liu Biao -- While Liu Biao and Liu Bei were both exellent rulers. The difference was Liu Bei had more charisma, and more famous as a warrior and leader, and unlike Liu Biao, he actually acted to dire situations and important events, while Liu Biao let countless opportunities slip by.
38 In the spring of the twelfth year of Rebuilt Tranquillity (AD 207), Liu Bei's wife, Lady Gan, gave birth to a son who was named Liu Shan. The night of his birth a crane settled on the roof of the house, screeched some forty times and then flew away westward.	» Hybrid -- Was there any symbolism in there? If there was, I didn't see any... *Mutter mutter* » Explainer -- Yes, there was. It is about the future of Liu Shan. -- You will know why the crane screeched 40 times, and why it flew to the west as you read to chapter 80. Cranes are prestigious animals in Asian tradition. » RauUsu -- Does he die at age 40 somewhere West of there? (Im seriously guessing I have no idea) » WuTugu -- go on kongming.net -- they have biography on everyone, so look on there
39 Just at the time of birth a miraculous incense filled the chamber. Lady Gan one night had dreamed that she was looking up at the sky, and the constellation of the Great Bear had fallen down her throat. And she conceived soon after.	» MaChaChao -- Well that's..... um..... interesting. -- Of course, Lady Wu had dreams about the sun and moon when she conceived Sun Ce and Sun Quan, so I'm not that surprised. » someone -- ...right -- I'm thinking this was probably caused by the burning insense. It would have been pretty easy to slip some marijuana in there... :p » Super Dian Wei -- This dream symbolizes the Wu empire. -- Sun Ce is the sun, and Sun Quan is the moon. » JiaGai -- Hmmm... -- If I remember correctly, the north star is the "star of death" and the big dipper (great bear) are the stars that point to "the star of death." I might be wrong, but interesting omen, nonetheless. » Super Dian Wei -- Hell. I made mine up. -- But thats cool... even though I dont get how that relates to the sun and the moon. » someone -- you had me convinced -- Super Dian Wei, it really doesn't seem like you made that up. Also I think Jia Gai was referring to this actual paragraph, instead of what Machachao posted about these ladies having strange dreams. :) » caoxer -- Lady Wu's dream -- I think the sun is Sun Ce and when he died (when the sun set) Sun Quan succeded him (the moon replaced the sun). Just a stupid guess. Oh yea, Lady Gan swallowed the constellation that points to the star of death then she gave birth to Liu Shan. That means Liu Shan will undo something!!! Mwahahahahaha!!!! I craked the code! I think...
40 While Cao Cao was absent from the capital on his northern expedition, Liu Bei went to Liu Biao and said to him, "Why do you not take this opportunity to march against the capital? An empire might follow from that."	» WUuuu -- Note -- To all those who say Liu Bei wasn't ambitious, re-read that. » LordSunQuan -- because he wants every chance to defeat Cao Cao, it doesnt mean that hes ambitious. » JiaGai -- What? -- Liu Bei could see opportunity and could point it out to others. He knew how to seize it, yet he often kept himself from doing so when it conflicted with his personal values. He was a very ambitious man. » WUuuu -- No -- Thats not what he says. He wants "an empire." That's ambition. » IloveNDfootball -- No -- He says this to spur Liu Biao on, not because he desires an empire, and by that he means Liu Biao might recieve great reward. » WUuuu -- Er, read what it says -- Not Great Reward, Not Defeat Cao Cao. An EMPIRE. » caoxer -- I think Liu Bei said his real mission........ -- He said AN EMPIRE and not the RESTORATION OF THE HAN!!! He wants to make himself emperor and rule china under Shu, not the Han. I think he just retains his false want to restore the Han in order to retain his officer's sympaty for his "good (however lost) cause" and gain more sympathetic officers. » RoboSSS -- Right... First he's telling Biao that HE could create an empire. -- Why does his mentioning this opportunity to Biao make him such an ambitious person? They are of the royal family, Biao moreso, Bei knows this. Also how could he forget his pledge to the Emperor to rescue him from Cao? That's most likely why he says an "Empire". What do you think the feudal system entails? It's just land owners that back a certain leader, blah blah blah. He likely realized that with Biaos status, he could control more land easier, especially under the Han banner (which he would have after they rescued the emperor). And I don't recall any of the Lius having intentions of kidnapping the emperor to setup their own, new dynasty. Just because they hold the land, doesn't imply any intentions of creating a new dynasty. Check earlier in the book. There's something about a similar situation where one feudal lord held 2/3rds or so of the land but still remained loyal to the dynasty. But I guess it can't possibly be anything like that, now can it WUuuu? Because Bei really was a greedy man who sought to rescue the emperor only to force his will upon him to create a new dynasty for himself... Wait a minute... Ambition is one thing, WUuuu... Your warped view of Liu Bei is another. Why don't you try viewing these situations with less bias, rather than just pointing out that Bei had ambition and somehow that makes him evil or whatever you keep saying... » WUuuu -- Whoa, when did I say Liu Bei was evil? -- I said he had ambition, people keep pretending he doesn't. I'm merely using this to point out the obvious. So please, before you jump to conclusions read what I said for what it is, not for what you want it to mean. » GeneralZhaoYun -- Again Lord WUuuu I hope we can use this topic for a duel between us in the next round -- And to all the other posters: LiuBei was ambitious! His dream was to restore the Han. If he had succeeded, and the Han reign would still last, the latter emperor was still useless. LiuBei, being the restorer of the Han and a member of the imperial family line, should have gained a tremendous status then. If he could be convinced to proclaim himself as Emperor of Shu, how can he not be convinced to proclaim himself as ruler of Han? Liu saw this from the very beginning. If he would fail, he would be known as a righteous and virtues man. If he would succeed he be would the the next surpreme Emperor of China. You can say he was ignorant and let many chances slip, but he was most aware of the fact that because of his righteous(fake?) ideals he would appeal to many able officers. LiuBei was the one who would sneak up from behind and take what he thinks is his. *this was my pro-WUuuu answer* Normally I love LiuBei :P » WUuuu -- Thanks GZY -- and We can debate on it, in teams (I promised Boyan this topic too), me and Jim (or someone else if he's too busy) vs you and Boyan. If you're up for it? » MasterLiang -- Of course he was ambitious. -- Otherwise, he would have stayed home. » DongDal -- If you look at Liu Bei's wording -- It seems as if he mean that as soon as the capital is taken then the Empire will be restored.
41 "I am well placed here," was the reply. "Why should I attempt other things?"
42 Liu Bei said no more. Then the Imperial Protector invited him into the private apartments to drink. While they were so engaged, Liu Biao suddenly began to sigh despondently.
43 "O brother, why do you sigh thus?" asked Liu Bei.
44 "I have a secret sorrow that is difficult to speak about," said Liu Biao.
45 Liu Bei was on the point of asking what it was when Lady Cai came and stood behind the screen, whereat Liu Biao hung his head and became silent. Before long host and guest bade each other farewell, and Liu Bei went back to his own place at Xinye.	» RauUsu -- Well now we know who wears the pants in the family!
46 That winter they heard that Cao Cao had returned from Liucheng, and Liu Bei sighed when he reflected that his friend had paid no heed to his advice.
47 Unexpectedly a messenger came from the capital city with a request that Liu Bei would go thither to consult with the Imperial Protector. So he started at once with the messenger to Jingzhou City. He was received very kindly, and when the salutations were over, the two men went into the private quarters at the rear to dine.
48 Presently Liu Biao said, "Cao Cao has returned, and he is stronger than ever. I am afraid he means to absorb this region. I am sorry I did not follow your advice for I have missed an opportunity."
49 "In this period of disruption, with strife on every side, one cannot pretend that there will be no more opportunities. If you only take what that offers, there will be nothing to regret."
50 "What you say, brother, is quite to the point," replied Liu Biao.
51 They drank on for a time till presently Liu Bei noticed that his host was weeping, and when he asked the cause of these tears, Liu Biao replied, "It is that secret sorrow I spoke of to you before. I wished to tell you, but there was no opportunity that day."	» RauUsu -- Im surprised that I havent seen some guys getting drunk, and then making crap stratagies! » Etherie -- haha -- "Ok, ok, I have a plan. First, attack Sun Quan with some ten thoushand troopsh. Ok, then tell Cao Cao he's funny! Then move all of the forces to Liao Dong!!! We cannot looshe!" » Tiamatty -- Drunken strategies -- There's a couple occasions where people get drunk and develop great strategies. » guanping -- when? » MaTseng -- zhang fei at han zhong -- he tricked zhang he into thinking he was drunk and was able to defeat him through it. although he wasn't really drunk. » guanping -- he wasn't drunk when he made that one » MaTseng -- ... um.. DUH! i said it re read the post guan :) » guanping -- I know but Tiamatty was saying people had made great plans while drunk -- so your example doesn't count » Ryofu -- i know this doesnt have to do with the chapter but in dynasty warriors five... -- if you could add five new players who would they be and why? » MaTseng -- dynasty warriors should be blown up and koei should be nuked -- william wallace » guanping -- um why ask it here? -- Well Cheng Pu of Wu, Ma Dai of Shu, Deng Ai of Wei, Cheng Gong of Lu Bu and Yab Liang of Yuan Shao » DongDal -- I know that -- Xing Cai (Zhang Fei's daughter), Ling Tong and Cao Pi are definetly in DW5. » guanping -- Pang De is as well » MaTseng -- i still don't know why they put xing cai in their -- i didn't know zhang fei even had a daughter.. but yeah ma dai should be put in it. chen gong noooooo too many people with fans already. i mostly think liao hua or zhou cang should be given a character » guanping -- She married Liu Shan...you know what that means...*shudder* » MaTseng -- ... -- isn't that technically incese??? AHHHHHHHH!!! RETARD BABIES!!! » guanping -- it means they will make Liu Shan a playable character....... » MaTseng -- hell no they won't -- i won't let em!!! -bombs koei- » DongDal -- On a brighter note. -- Guan Ping is also a playable character. » Tiamatty -- Retard babies -- Liu Chan was already pretty retarded . . . Anywho. Pang De will be there, too. Which is cool. And best of all - the return of character-specific Musou! March 2005 is the current due date for North America. » MaTseng -- truly? -- yeah i heard it was coming to america in march i'm glad to hear it's true. i hope it's better then they've been. » DongDal -- So when's it coming out in the U.K. » MaTseng -- i believe this month actually. » DongDal -- It's coming out here before the states? -- Now there's a surprise. » guanping -- I think summer for UK » DongDal -- Oh well... -- Hopefully I'll have gotten some money by then. » MaTseng -- i thought it was before the states. whatever.
52 "O brother, what difficulty have you, and can I assist you? I am entirely at your service."
53 "My first wife, of the Chen family, bore me a son Liu Qi, my eldest. He grew up virtuous but weakly and unfitted to succeed me in my office. Later I took a wife of the Cai family, who bore me a son named Liu Zong, fairly intelligent. If I pass over the elder in favor of the younger, there is the breach of the rule of primogeniture. But if I follow law and custom, there are the intrigues of the Cai family and clan to be reckoned with. Further, the army is in the hollow of their hands. There will be trouble, and I cannot decide what to do."	» Hybrid -- Deja Vu -- Didn't this happen before, in the Yuan family? Almost down to the letter? Maybe Liu Bei could look into that, or not... » nlink -- Yeah well. -- History always repeats itself simply because people don't learn. » Rahonavis -- First Rights -- The rule of Primogeniture has been in every nation, race and creed as far back as history can remember. It is because of this that internal struggles are always prevalent. A decree by the ruler doesn't always work because its all about the power and prestige. If infighting was bad between 2 brothers born of the set of parents, it gets absolutely hideous when 2 brothers come from different mothers.
54 Liu Bei said, "All experience proves that to set aside the elder for the younger is to take the way of confusion. If you fear the power of the Cai faction, then gradually reduce its power and influence, but do not let doting affection lead you into making the younger your heir."	» caoxer -- Do my eyes decieve me? -- Did Liu Bei just suggest something so unvirtuous as destroying an entire families rightful prestige. Let me check... yup he just did something so out of character that it disgusts me for no reason because no one ever said Liu Bei was perfectly virtuous. Although this is very out of character for him. I guess Mao something (the one who made Lord Cao appear evil and Liu Bei appear totally good-like) forgot to revise this part of the book from its original Luo Guanzhong goodness. » JiaGai -- What rightful prestiege? -- The Cais have power simply because they were married into the Liu family (in this case, Liu Biao). The rightful heir is NOT an offspring of the Cais, yet they wish to take the throne. To nullify this political threat, Liu Bei offers very practical advice. He is advocating the rightful heir, which is the proper thing to do.
55 Liu Biao pondered silent. But Lady Cai had had a suspicion why her lord had summoned Liu Bei and what was the subject of discussion, so she had determined to listen secretly. She was behind the screen when the matter was talked over, and she conceived deep resentment against Liu Bei for what he had said.
56 On his side, Liu Bei felt that his advice had fallen upon a forbidden subject, and he arose and walked across the room. As he did so he noticed that he was getting heavy and stiff, and a furtive tear stole down his cheek as he thought of the past. When he returned and sat down, his host noticed the traces of weeping and asked the cause of his sorrow.
57 "In the past I was always in the saddle, and I was slender and lithe. Now it is so long since I rode that I am getting stout, and the days and months are slipping by---wasted. I shall have old age on me in no time, and I have accomplished nothing. So I am sad."	» ManwithaGoldenEyebal -- He's having a mid-life crisis. -- The best medicine? Go out and buy one of those fancy red...er, horses.
58 "I have heard a story that when you were at Xuchang at the season of green plums, you and Cao Cao were discussing heroes. You mentioned this name and that to him as humans of parts, and he rejected everyone of them. Finally he said that you and he were the only two persons of real worth in the whole empire. If he with all his power and authority did not dare to place himself in front of you, I do not think you need grieve about having accomplished nothing."	» someone -- yeah -- Liu Biao has a good point there.
59 At this flattering speech Liu Bei, as wine was getting the better of him and in a half maudlin manner, replied, "If I only had a starting point, then I would not be afraid of anyone in a world full of fools."	» WUuuu -- Hmm -- His idealist mask is slipping. » LordSunQuan -- yep -- he revealing his true self » IloveNDfootball -- He's drunk. -- He's drunk and acting unusually. This isn't his true self. Ironically, though, this scene makes me think of the movie Rudy. » WUuuu -- You don't lie when you're drunk -- You reveal you're true feelings against your wishes/better judgement. Trust me on that one. (And Liu Bei calls everyone in the wold but himself a fool. real humble!) » JiaGai -- I wouldn't say his idealist mask is slipping. -- However, his inner ambitions are now made obvious. I'm sure he still believes in the ideals he proclaims, but his ambition is something he rarely displays, like now. » RauUsu -- I think I spoke too soon a couple of paragraphs ago! » Explainer -- A post by LuBoyan -- Lol, why does everyone see so much bad in Liu Bei? -- His goal is to restore Han and bring peace to the land. Cao Cao just wants power, and the Suns just want their piece of the pie. I honestly believe he is genuinely humble, and I guess I go by the idea that power should go to those that love it the least. » Explainer -- A post by WUuuu -- Boyan, power should go to those with the greatest ability to wield it effectively. -- Read Douglass Adams "Hitchhiker's" series for why its an insanely silly idea to just give power to he who wants it least. Liu Bei is ambitious; he wants power. To say he is humble and doesn't try an gain power is silly if you've payed attention to his actions. You can try and say he does it to save the Han, but he is related to them, the power is still for him, and this act is not selfless. The whole trying to win the people's love thing might be an act, but might be genuine. He's very unconfident at times, and I think he tried to get the people's love to compensate for this. I waffle on this alot. I'm sure Liu Bei isn't what he seems, but he contradicts himself so much that its nearly impossible to say with certainty what he is. » Explainer -- A post by LuBoyan -- To WUuuu, you know the most effective weilders of power? One revolutionized Germany, made an incredible road system, stabilized the economy and created jobs. With his military might and diplomatic power he threatened to take over the entire world. Another, through famous five year plans completely industrialized Russia's economy in record time. Under his leadership, the sprawling and disorganized Russian peoples united to defeat the more technically advanced armies of Germany. Both were by far the most efficient weilders of power in the twentieth century. They took almost nothing and shook the very foundations of the world. If they hadnt been played against each other, their legacies would most likely dominate the present. Those people were of course Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler, masters of power. They loved power and weilded it skillfully for the most part(if by skill you mean the obtaining of more power) but I think we can agree that these were not ideal leaders. Sorry, WUuuu, but the track record for masters of power is incredibly bad, so give Louis the XVI over Louis XIV. » Explainer -- A post by WUuuu -- You are right. But while Hitler and Stalin were very effective wielders of power, so were many other far more honourable leaders. IMO two of the most effective leaders ever were Ramses II (Ozymandias) and Alexander the Great. Neither committed the attrocities of Stalin or Hitler yet both greatly betterred themselves and the lands they conquered. Power can be wielded well by those who want more. Another easy example is FDR who shook America out of the revolution and gave us many reforms we still use today. » LuBoyan -- To WUuuu -- I'll continue this here, if you don't mind WUuuu. How was Ramses II honorable? You know, you can say you don't believe in the Bible, but the enslavement of the Israelites is historical fact (that was Ramses II that Moses has to plague. Charlton Heston anyone?) I've recently been doing some reading on Alexander the "Great" (for another side note, ironically) and his empire collapsed right after his death (which is right after he made his empire). It fragmented and crumbled. His rule was short, 13 years. All of his beautiful "Alexandrias" were merely trophy cities of a conquering general. His greatness lies on the battlefield alone. And to another post you made earlier (thanks for pointing me here Explainer), people reveal their true selves when drunk? If that's true, then my neighbor's true self is inane babble about me killing their rabbits. Besides being occasionally funny, drunk people won't tell you anything useful. » WUuuu -- okay, here it is then -- I know the enslavements of Isrealites was a fact, and as a Jew it is something I don't take lightly. As wrong as these people were, that does not mean they did not make amazing accomplishments. The Jews were considered lesser people. It was a wrong consideration, yes, but they weren't exactly scientifically advanced enough to prove it. Both were superstitious, religious societies. Ramses II was still honourable. Alexander is a conquering general who had an excellent and progressive system of law in the lands he unified. Did his empire last after his death? No, but that wasn't the question. The question was could someone hunger for power and be honourable. That his empire wasn't lasting doesn't change that: Empires by conquest do not always last. And the drunk post. Drunk people don't just speak the truth, but they very rarely lie. They speak wierdness, they're minds are altered, but they also lose so much self control that they either lose all trustworthiness, or cannot help but being brutally honest. For example, a drunk man with friends may lie about sexual conquests to an inane degree (rarely a small exageration for whatever reason), or they will be utterly honest to the point where it is in bad taste. I study alchoholism alot, in classes and in experience (pet theme of my writing, its necessary), and Liu Bei just doesn't seem like the type to get drunk and make idle boasts. Get drunk and admit something he never would sober? Yeah, thats Liu Bei. » caoxer -- Re: The Paragraph -- He is drunk! When you are drunk, you can't control yourself. He also slipped a while back. He said "march to the capital...an EMPIRE may be sprouted.." or something that means go to the capital kick Lord Cao and establish Shu for me alone to rule!!! Liu Bei wants an empire, as is apparent when he himself said it, and not the restoration of the Han. He keeps the fake act to keep his officers and attract more sympathetic officers like Zhuge Kongming. It's tough to accept by you Liu Bei fans hell even I, upon the realization, couldn't easily accept it. But then I thought about the altering of the novel by Mao something in order to show that Liu Bei is good and virtuous and Lord Cao is evil in order to discourage any emperor using or something, because anybody who usurps the emperor is evil (as the altered novel says) and encourage saving the emperor in case of usurpation. » JiaGai -- Okay, now. -- It's pretty obvious Liu Bei is an ambitious man and he seeks power, even the throne to the Empire itself. It's also fact that, in the novel, his entire character was re-written to conform to a Confucian ideal in order to make him the one, true hero of the story. It's just not possible to completely reconcile these two different Liu Bei's without him "breaking character" every so often, but you must realize, blaming it on Liu Bei is uncalled for. He doesn't "pretend" to have virtue in the novel. He doesn't keep up false pretenses. For the sake of the novel (and the novel alone), Liu Bei is a highly virtuous and upright individual forced to make difficult decisions that sometimes clash with his beliefs. » WUuuu -- I knew that -- But I choose to look at Liu Bei often just as a character in the novel, without the intended traits of Luo Guanzhong, and when you do that, he comes off as a completely different character. Also, I made basically that same arguement to Turkey about two weeks ago, what took ya Jia :-P
60 His host said no more and the guest, feeling that he had slipped up in speech, rose as if drunk, took leave, and staggered out saying he must return to his lodging to recover.
61 The episode has been celebrated in a poem:
62 When with crooking fingers counting, Cao Cao reckoned up the forceful Humans of real determination, Only two he found; and one was Liu Bei. But by inaction He had grown both fat and slothful; Yet the months and years in passing Fretted him with nought accomplished.
63 Though Liu Biao kept silence when he heard the words of Liu Bei, yet he felt the more uneasy. After the departure of his guest, he retired into the inner quarters where he met his wife.
64 Lady Cai said, "I happened to be behind the screen just now and so heard the words of Liu Bei. They betray scant regard for other people and mean that he would take your territory if he could. If you do not remove him, it will go ill with you."
65 Her husband made no reply, but only shook his head.
66 Then Lady Cai took counsel with her kinsman Cai Mao, who said, "Let me go to the guest-house and slay him forthwith, and we can report what we have done."	» someone -- paranoia -- Lady Cai and Cai Mao must suffer from an extreme case of paranoia or something because they get all freaked out about Liu Bei when they are the ones trying to kill him or convince Liu Biao that keeping him around will get him killed. I mean Liu Bei did say that the child of Liu Biao and Lady Cai shouldn't rule when Liu Biao dies, but he's just honoring tradition. And if he's discussing who should rule after Liu Biao, then wouldn't that mean he doesn't want to take Liu Biao's lands? » caoxer -- They are paranoid... -- But I think that they think that the son of Lady Cai is better fit to rule after Liu Biao and that Liu Bei wants the other one to rule so he can... usurp his power yeah! Liu Bei could use Jingzhou as his base and with his rule as the imperial protector of Jingzhou, he could easily take the state of Shu and Wu! Now I'm getting paranoid! But maybe that was what they were thinking. Hmmm... Liu Bei is very ambitious then! Thinking about a couple of years a head of time. That dirty quadruple-crossing bastard!!! OK better stop before I get even more paranoid. » Koren -- Paranoid -- No they're both pissed at Lui Bei, because the wife and the brother are related to the younger son, and Lui Bei said earlier not to put the younger son to power. » guanping -- rember if the younger got into power, Cai Mao and Lady Cai would have a lot of power -- in one of the most fertile regions in China
67 His sister consented and he went out, and that night told off a party of soldiers to do the foul deed.
68 Now Liu Bei sat in his lodging by the light of a single candle till about the third watch, when he prepared to retire to bed. He was startled by a knock at his door and in came Yi Ji, who had heard of the plot against his new master and had come in the darkness to warn him. He related the details of the plot and urged speedy departure.
69 "I have not said farewell to my host. How can I go away?" said Liu Bei.
70 "If you go to bid him farewell, you will fall a victim to the Cai faction," said Yi Ji.
71 So Liu Bei said a hasty good-bye to his friend, called up his escort, and they all mounted and rode away by the light of the stars toward Xinye. Soon after they had left the soldiers arrived at the guest-house, but their intended victim was already well on his way.
72 Naturally the failure of the plot chagrined the treacherous Cai Mao, but he took the occasion to scribble some calumnious verses on one of the partitions.
73 Then he went to see Liu Biao to whom he said, "Liu Bei has treacherous intentions, as can be seen from some lines written on the wall. And his hurried departure is suspicious."
74 Liu Biao felt doubtful, but he went to the guest-house and there on the wall he read this poem:
75 Too long, far too long I have dreamed life away, Gazing at scenery day after day. A dragon can never be kept in a pond, He should ride on the thunder to heaven and beyond.
76 Greatly angered by what he read, Liu Biao drew his sword and swore to slay the writer. But before he had gone many paces, his anger had already died down, and he said to himself, "I have seen much of the man, but have never known him write verses. This is the handiwork of someone who wishes to sow discord between us."	» _anonymoose -- Wow -- Dang, those general people were smart. If our generals today were half that smart, the world would be rid of evil people before they rose to power. Liu Biao is way way smart. » Hybrid -- Yup... -- But, then again, they didn't have to deal with nuclear war and human rights. Still, it could help if the Miltary of the Modern Age could at least have some better judgment, like they did back in that age. » JiaGai -- I don't really think things have changed much. -- As far as "better judgement" anyway. It's simply the methods that changed, over the course of the years. With the advent of new technology, older methods just don't work the way they used to. Remember that this novel does exaggerate the abilities of certain historical figures to make them seem more heroic. While I do not doubt they were great military leaders and warriors, I also know I should take some of these passages with a grain of salt and merely enjoy it for what it is: an epic retelling of events in 3rd century China. » Rahonavis -- Wisdom -- Even the dumbest man has some form of wisdom or another, sometimes it manifests itself quite unintentionally, Liu Biao is neither a wise nor stupid man but he has understanding and he can be observant. In here he may just be displaying his intuition. » dgr81 -- more scholar-type than warrior -- correct me if i'm wrong but i thought liu biao had a pretty big reputation as a scholar. » DongDal -- Besides, only an idiot would write that passage on a wall.
77 So saying, he turned back and with the point of his sword scraped away the poem. Then, putting up his sword, he mounted and rode home.
78 By and bye Cai Mao reminded him, saying, "The soldiers are awaiting your orders to go to Xinye and arrest Liu Bei."
79 'There is no hurry," he replied.
80 Cai Mao saw his brother-in-law's hesitation and again sought his sister.
81 She said, "Soon there is to be the great gathering at Xiangyang, and we can arrange something for that day."
82 Next day Cai Mao petitioned the Imperial Protector, saying, "We have had several fruitful harvests recently. I pray you, Sir, attend the Full Harvest Festival at Xiangyang. It would be an encouragement to the people."
83 "I have been feeling my old trouble lately. I certainly cannot go," replied he, "but my two sons can go to represent me and to receive the guests."	» DeadEyedOne -- "My old trouble"? -- What, does he have piles or somethin'? ... Or a hernia, perhaps? » RauUsu -- "I cut my face shaving and have become depressed and therefore ill."
84 "They are full young," replied Cai Mao. "They may make some mistakes."
85 "Then go to Xinye and request Liu Bei to receive the guests," said Liu Biao.	» heffalump -- Uh oh!
86 Nothing could have pleased Cai Mao more, for this would bring Liu Bei within reach of his plot. Without loss of time he sent to Liu Bei requesting him to go to preside at the Festival.
87 It has been said that Liu Bei made the best of his way home to Xinye. He felt that he had offended by that slip in speech, but determined to keep silence about it and attempt no explanation. So he discussed it with nobody. Then came the message asking him to preside at the Festival, and he needed counsel.
88 Sun Qian said, "You have seemed worried and preoccupied lately, and I think something untoward happened at Jingzhou. You should consider well before you accept this invitation."
89 Thereupon Liu Bei told his confidants the whole story.
90 Guan Yu said, "You yourself think your speech offended the Imperial Protector, but he said nothing to show displeasure. You need pay no attention to the babble of outsiders like Yi Ji. Xiangyang is quite near and, if you do not go, Liu Biao will begin to suspect something really is wrong."	» Kelpie -- Hold on a second here... -- Didn't Yi Ji recently save Liu Bei's life by telling him about the Cai plot?
91 "You speak well," said Liu Bei.
92 Said Zhang Fei, "Banquets are no good; gatherings are no better. It is best not to go."	» MightyWarriorDave -- Banquets -- Zhang Fei speaks the truth, we've all seen how most banquets end up. » JiaXuAdvocate -- Let's hear it for the prescience of Zhang Fei! -- But alas, he is over-ruled
93 "Let me take three hundred horse and foot as escort: There will be no trouble then," said Zhao Zilong.
94 "That is the best course," said Liu Bei.
95 They soon set out for the gathering place, and Cai Mao met them at the boundary and was most affable and courteous. Soon arrived the Imperial Protector's sons at the head of a great company of officers, civil and military. Their appearance put Liu Bei more at ease. He was conducted to the guest-house, and Zhao Zilong posted his men so as to guard it completely, while he himself, armed, remained close to his chief.
96 Liu Qi said to Liu Bei, "My father is feeling unwell and could not come, wherefore he begs you, Uncle Liu Bei, to preside at the various ceremonies and give encouragement to the officers who administer the region."
97 "Really I am unfit for such responsibilities," said Liu Bei. "But my brother's command must be obeyed."
98 Next day it was reported that the officials from forty-two counties of nine territories of Jingzhou had all arrived.
99 Then Cai Mao said to Kuai Yue, "This Liu Bei is the villain of the age and if left alive will certainly work harm to us. He must be got rid of now."	» Patricoo -- villain? I doubt it. Nice quote though.
100 "I fear you would forfeit everybody's favor if you harmed him," replied Kuai Yue.
101 "I have already secretly spoken in these terms to the Imperial Protector," said Cai Mao, "and I have his word here."
102 "So it may be regarded as settled. Then we can prepare."
103 Cai Mao added, "My brothers are ready. Cai He is posted on the road to the Xian Hills from the east gate; Cai Zhong and Cai Xun are on the north and south roads. No guard is needed on the west as the Tan Torrent is quite safeguard enough. Even with legions, Liu Bei could not get over that."
104 Kuai Yue replied, "I notice that Zhao Zilong never leaves him. I feel sure he expects some attack."
105 "I have placed five hundred men in ambush in the city."
106 "We will tell Wen Ping and Wang Wei to invite all the military officers to a banquet at one of the pavilions outside the city, and Zhao Zilong will be among them. Then will be our opportunity."
107 Cai Mao thought this a good device for getting Zhao Zilong out of the way.
108 Now oxen and horses had been slaughtered and a grand banquet prepared. Liu Bei rode to the residence on the horse of ill omen, and when he arrived, the steed was led into the back part of the enclosure and tethered there. Soon the guests arrived, and Liu Bei took his place as master of the feast, with the two sons of the Imperial Protector, one on each side. The guests were all arranged in order of rank. Zhao Zilong stood near his lord sword in hand as a faithful henchman should do.	» Rahonavis -- I really hate the word henchman. -- I wish they didn't use that word especially for Zilong. For someone who's a skilled and mighty warrior who never lost a single duel, henchman is a little harsh. » Yorak -- old translation -- Keep in mind that this is an old translation. It was probably out before "henchman" became a term used for James Bond villains and the like. Technically, it means pretty much the same thing as "servant" or "retainer." » JohnnyBlood -- Henchman - James Bond films -- Sooo... we meet again, Mr Bei... *Cao Cao swivels chair and is stroking a white cat*
109 Then Wen Ping and Wang Wei came to invite Zhao Zilong to the banquet they had prepared for the military officers. But he declined. However, Liu Bei told him to go, and, after some demur, he went. Then Cai Mao perfected his final arrangements, placing his people surrounding the place like a ring of iron. The three hundred guards that formed the escort of Liu Bei were sent away to the guest-house.
110 All were ready and awaiting the signal. At the third course, Yi Ji took a goblet of wine in his hands and approached Liu Bei, at the same time giving him a meaningful look. Then in a low voice he said, "Make an excuse to get away."
111 Liu Bei understood and presently rose and went to the inner chamber, and then he went to the backyard. There he found Yi Ji, who had gone thither after presenting the cup of wine.
112 Yi Ji then told him, saying, "Cai Mao plots to kill you, and all the roads have been guarded except that to the west. My lord, you must lose no time to depart."
113 Liu Bei was quite taken aback. However, he got hold of the Dilu horse, opened the door of the garden, and led it out. Then he took a flying leap into the saddle and galloped off without waiting for the escort. He made for the west gate. At the gate the wardens wanted to question him, but he only whipped up his steed and rode through. The guards at the gate ran off to report to Cai Mao, who quickly went in pursuit with five hundred soldiers.	» Kelpie -- See... Yi Ji *is* to be trusted!
114 As has been said Liu Bei burst out at the west gate. Before he had gone far, there rolled before him a river barring the way. It was the Tan Torrent, many score spans in width, which pours its waters into the River Xiang. Its current was very swift.
115 Liu Bei reached the bank and saw the river was unfordable. So he turned his horse and rode back. Then, not far off, he saw a cloud of dust and knew that his pursuers were therein. He thought that it was all over. However, he turned again toward the swift river, and seeing the soldiers now quite near, plunged into the stream. A few paces, and he felt the horse's fore legs floundering in front, while the water rose over the skirt of his robe.
116 Then he plied the whip furiously, crying, "Dilu, Dilu, why betray me?"
117 Whereupon the good steed suddenly reared up out of the water and, with one tremendous leap, was on the western bank. Liu Bei felt as if he had come out of the clouds.	» Drunken Master -- Dilu Horse -- whoa... makes you wonder why people think that horse is so cursed. it's saved Liu Bei plenty of times, yet it only curses others who ride it. » _Shu Emperor Ma Chao -- Dilu means hex mark -- the dilu, in mandarin, literaly means dotted head. It was a bad omen because people thought the dot made the horse (and rider) a target. the dynasty warriors 3 horse is Hex mark » Super Dian Wei -- I think this horse somehow knew of Liu Bei's virtues -- and decided to be of Liu Bei's service. It's like sword in the stone, only the chosen one can wield it.
118 In after years the famous court official, Su Dongpo, wrote a poem on this leap over the Tan Torrent:	» Rahonavis -- Su DongPo -- Su was one of the most famous poets of his time and it's befitting that a cursed horse (by all reckoning) should actually save its master. Mmmm...... Very moving.
119 I'm growing old, the leaves are sere, My sun slopes westward, soon will sink, And I recall that yesteryear I wandered by Tan River brink. Irresolute, anon I paused, Anon advanced, and gazed around, I marked the autumn's reddened leaves, And watched them eddying to the ground. I thought of all the mighty deeds Of him who set the House of Han On high, and all the struggles since, The battlefields, the blood that ran. I saw the nobles gathered round The board, set in the Banquet Hall; Amid them, one, above whose head There hung a sword about to fall. I saw him quit that festive throng And westward ride, a lonely way; I saw a squadron follow swift, Intent the fugitive to slay. I saw him reach the River Tan, Whose swirling current rushes by; Adown the bank he galloped fast, "Now leap, my steed!" I heard him cry. His steed's hoofs churn the swollen stream; What chills he that the waves run high? He hears the sound of clashing steel, Of thundering squadrons coming nigh. And upward from the foaming waves I saw two peerless beings soar; One was a destined western king, And him another dragon bore. The Tan still rolls from east to west. Its roaring torrent never dry. Those dragons twain, ah! Where are they? Yes, where? But there is no reply. The setting sun, in dark relief Against the glowing western sky. Throws out the everlasting hills While, saddened, here I stand and sigh. Humans died to found the kingdoms three, Which now as misty dreams remain. Of greatest deeds the traces oft Are faint that fleeting years retain.	» Yorak -- priorities -- They give little two-line verses for fallen heroes, noble advisors, and faithful servants, and this epic ballad for a jumping horse? » JiaXuAdvocate -- O.k. Here's a question -- I'm surely missing some brain cells, but I also wonder one thing that I just can't figure out... If this poem was written in Chinese, how could it possibly be translated so perfectly to still rhyme? Unless of course this was written in English. That would be the only reasonable explanation. Any thoughts? » Shokyo -- I expect when it was translated it was translated straight into English... -- I imagine it wouldn't have rhymed. Then they probably changed the word order so it would make sense, then do a lot of work with a thesaurus to make it rhyme.
120 Thus Liu Bei crossed the rolling river. Then he turned and looked back at the other bank which his pursuers had just gained.
121 "Why did you run sway from the feast?" called out Cai Mao.
122 "Why did you wish to harm a person who has done you no injury?" replied Liu Bei.
123 "I have never thought of such a thing. Do not listen to what people say to you."
124 But Liu Bei saw that his enemy was fitting an arrow to his bowstring, so he whipped up his steed and rode away southwest.	» nlink -- What a comical scene. -- Here you have Cai Mao saying to Liu Bei "Don't listen to what people are saying, I'm not trying to kill you," as he is fitting an arrow to his bow and preparing to shoot the guy. It's like wielding an axe and chasing somebody, all the while screaming "Come here, I just wanna talk! I promise I won't hurt you!" » JiaXuAdvocate -- LOL -- Yeah... Cai Mao shouting across the river: "I HAVE NEVER THOUGHT OF SUCH A THING... hey hand me that bow over there... DON'T LISTEN... no the other bow... thanks... DONT LISTEN TO WHAT PEOP... where is my quiver?.... WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING!! can I get some poison for this tip? HEY WHERE ARE YOU GOING???? I JUST WANNA PLAY CUPID... AWWW COME BACK" » Shokyo -- "I'm not trying to kill..." *Liu Bei gallops off.* "... I'm so busted, aren't I?"
125 "What spirits aided him?" said Cai Mao to his followers.
126 Then Cai Mao turned to go back to the city, but in the gate he saw Zhao Zilong coming out at the head of his company of guards.	» Yorak -- Aw hell -- When Zhao Zilong comes out, you *know* you're screwed. » Tenma -- Unfortunately Zhao Zilong doesn't kill him...
127 By wondrous leap the dragon steed his rider's life could save, Now follows him, on vengeance bent, his master's henchman brave.
128 The next chapters will tell what fate befell the traitor.

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