Book of Shu · Biographies of Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, Ma Chao, Huang Zhong, and Zhao Yun — English Translation

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Guan Yu, courtesy name Yunchang, originally had the courtesy name Changsheng. He was from Xie County in Hedong. As a fugitive, he fled to Zhuo Commandery. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) <the earlier sovereign of Shu-Han; a historical designation> gathered followers in his native district, Guan Yu and Zhang Fei defended him against attack. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) became Chancellor of Pingyuan, he made Guan Yu and Zhang Fei Majors of Separate Commands, each leading a body of troops. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) shared a bed with them when sleeping, and their affection was like that of brothers. Yet amid crowded gatherings, they stood in attendance all day, accompanying the Former Lord (Liu Bei) through every danger and hardship.

When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) launched a surprise attack and killed Inspector of Xu Province Che Zhou, he left Guan Yu to defend Xiapi as acting administrator—

—while he himself returned to Xiaopei.

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In Jian'an 5, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) campaigned east, and the Former Lord (Liu Bei) fled to Yuan Shao. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) captured Guan Yu and took him back, appointing him Lieutenant General and treating him with great courtesy. Yuan Shao sent his senior general Yan Liang against Administrator of Dong Commandery Liu Yan at Baima. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) sent Zhang Liao and Guan Yu as the vanguard. Seeing Yan Liang's command banner and canopy, Guan Yu spurred his horse forward and stabbed him amid the multitude, cut off his head, and returned. None of Yuan Shao's generals could withstand him, and the siege of Baima was lifted. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) immediately memorialized to enfeoff Guan Yu as Marquis of Hanshou Village. Initially, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) admired Guan Yu's character but perceived that he had no intention of remaining long. He told Zhang Liao, “Try asking him sincerely about it.” Zhang Liao did so, and Guan Yu sighed: “I know very well how generously Duke Cao (Cao Cao) treats me. But I received great kindness from General Liu (Liu Bei) and swore to die with him; I cannot betray him. I shall not remain forever. I must first render a service to repay Duke Cao (Cao Cao), then leave.” Zhang Liao reported these words, and Duke Cao (Cao Cao) admired Guan Yu's righteousness.

After Guan Yu killed Yan Liang, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) knew he would certainly leave and bestowed further generous rewards. Guan Yu sealed up everything he had been given, submitted a letter of farewell, and went to the Former Lord (Liu Bei) in Yuan Shao's army. The attendants wished to pursue him. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) said: “Each serves his own lord. Do not pursue him.”

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Guan Yu followed the Former Lord (Liu Bei) to Liu Biao. When Liu Biao died and Duke Cao (Cao Cao) pacified Jing Province, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) intended to go south from Fan and cross the Yangzi. He separately sent Guan Yu with several hundred boats to rendezvous at Jiangling. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) pursued him to Changban in Dangyang. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) turned toward Hanjin and happened to meet Guan Yu's boats; together they reached Xiakou.

CommentaryThe Record of Shu says: Earlier, when Liu Bei was at Xu, he hunted with Duke Cao (Cao Cao). During the hunt, when the company scattered, Guan Yu urged Liu Bei to kill Duke Cao (Cao Cao), but Liu Bei refused. At Xiakou, adrift among the river islets, Guan Yu angrily said, “Had you followed my advice on that hunt, we would not be in today's predicament.” Liu Bei replied, “At the time, I spared him for the state's sake. If Heaven supports the rightful, how do we know this will not become a blessing?” I, Pei Songzhi, consider that Liu Bei later plotted with Dong Cheng and the others, failing only because the affair was exposed. If he cherished Duke Cao (Cao Cao) for the state's sake, how can this be reconciled with that claim? If Guan Yu truly urged it and Liu Bei refused, it must have been because Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s trusted followers and relatives were numerous. Such an act, without prior planning, could not be undertaken hastily. Although Cao Cao might be killed, Liu Bei himself could not escape. He refrained through calculation, not affection. It was merely an elegant explanation invented for a past event.

Sun Quan sent troops to help the Former Lord (Liu Bei) resist Duke Cao (Cao Cao), who withdrew his army. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) took the commanderies south of the Yangzi and rewarded the founding contributors. Guan Yu was appointed Administrator of Xiangyang and General Who Sweeps Away the Enemy, stationed north of the Yangzi. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) went west to pacify Yi Province, Guan Yu was appointed to supervise affairs in Jing Province. Hearing that Ma Chao had surrendered, and not previously knowing him, Guan Yu wrote to Zhuge Liang asking whose talents Ma Chao could be compared with. Knowing Guan Yu's concern to remain foremost, Zhuge Liang replied: “Mengqi [Ma Chao] combines civil and military ability. His heroic vigor exceeds others; he is an outstanding man of the age, of the company of Qing Bu and Peng Yue. He should compete side by side with Yide [Zhang Fei], but still cannot match the Bearded One's exceptional superiority.” Guan Yu had a fine beard, hence Zhuge Liang called him the Bearded One. Guan Yu was delighted with the letter and showed it to his guests.

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Guan Yu had once been struck by a stray arrow that passed through his left arm. Although the wound healed, the bone ached whenever the weather became overcast and rainy. A physician said: “The arrowhead was poisoned, and the poison has entered the bone. The arm must be opened and the bone scraped to remove the poison; only then will the trouble cease.” Guan Yu immediately stretched out his arm for the physician to cut. He happened to be hosting a meal with the generals. Blood flowed from his arm, filling a basin, yet he cut roast meat, drank wine, and talked and laughed as usual. [Translator's note: The diagnosis and procedure are reported as the historical account describes them.]

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In the twenty-fourth year, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) became King of Hanzhong (Liu Bei) and appointed Guan Yu General of the Front, granting him credentials and an execution axe. That year, Guan Yu attacked Cao Ren at Fan. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) sent Yu Jin to assist Cao Ren. In autumn, prolonged rain caused the Han River to overflow, submerging all seven armies under Yu Jin's command. Yu Jin surrendered to Guan Yu, who also executed General Pang De. Some bandit groups in Liang, Jia, and Luhun accepted Guan Yu's seals and designations from afar and became his supporters. His might shook the central lands. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) considered moving the capital from Xu to avoid his momentum. King Xuan (Sima Yi) <a posthumous royal designation; Sima Yi later received imperial honors under Jin> and Jiang Ji thought Sun Quan would certainly resent Guan Yu's success. They could send someone to urge Sun Quan to strike his rear, promising to cede lands south of the Yangzi as his fief; then the siege of Fan would lift of itself. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) followed this advice. Earlier, Sun Quan had sent an envoy to seek Guan Yu's daughter as a wife for his son. Guan Yu insulted the envoy and refused the marriage, greatly angering Sun Quan.

CommentaryThe Dianlue says: When Guan Yu besieged Fan, Sun Quan sent envoys offering assistance but instructed them not to advance quickly. He also sent his Chief Clerk ahead to convey the offer. Angry at the delay, and proud of having already captured Yu Jin and the others, Guan Yu cursed: “How dare that little cuttlefish [鰂子 in this source; the insult may contain a corrupt character] do this! If I take Fancheng, can I not destroy you?” Hearing this, Sun Quan understood Guan Yu despised him. He deceitfully wrote a letter in his own hand apologizing and promising to come personally. I, Pei Songzhi, consider that although Jing and Wu were outwardly friendly, inwardly they distrusted and guarded against one another. Thus Sun Quan secretly dispatched his army against Guan Yu. The Biography of Lü Meng says: “He concealed elite troops in boats, having men dressed in white work the oars in merchants' clothing.” This shows that Guan Yu did not seek Sun Quan's assistance, and Sun Quan would not have told Guan Yu he was coming. If he had promised help, why conceal his movements?

Moreover, Administrator of Nan Commandery Mi Fang at Jiangling and General Shi Ren at Gong'an had long resented Guan Yu's contempt for them. When Guan Yu marched out, Mi Fang and Shi Ren did not provide all the military supplies needed to support him. Guan Yu said, “When I return, I shall deal with them,” and both became fearful and uneasy. Sun Quan secretly enticed them, and they sent men to welcome him. Meanwhile, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) sent Xu Huang to rescue Cao Ren—

—so Guan Yu could not prevail and withdrew his army. Sun Quan had already occupied Jiangling and captured the wives and children of Guan Yu's soldiers, and Guan Yu's army dispersed. Sun Quan sent generals to intercept him; Guan Yu and his son Guan Ping were beheaded at Linju.

CommentaryThe Record of Shu says: Sun Quan sent generals against Guan Yu and captured him and his son Guan Ping. Sun Quan wished to spare Guan Yu to oppose Liu Bei and Cao Cao, but his attendants said: “A wolf cub cannot be reared; it will eventually cause harm. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) did not eliminate him at once and brought great trouble upon himself, even contemplating moving the capital. How can he now be allowed to live?” Guan Yu was therefore beheaded. I, Pei Songzhi, observe that according to the Book of Wu, Sun Quan sent General Pan Zhang to cut off Guan Yu's escape route and beheaded him as soon as he arrived. Moreover, Linju was two or three hundred li from Jiangling. How could there have been time to delay killing him and deliberate over his fate? The claim that “Sun Quan wished to spare Guan Yu to oppose Liu Bei and Cao Cao” is so implausible that it need not detain discerning readers. The Chronicle of Wu says: Sun Quan sent Guan Yu's head to Duke Cao (Cao Cao) and buried his body with the rites of a feudal lord.

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Guan Yu was posthumously designated Marquis Zhuangmou (Guan Yu) <a posthumous title whose combined interpretation remains disputed>.

His son Guan Xing succeeded. Guan Xing, courtesy name Anguo, won a fine reputation while young, and Chancellor Zhuge Liang regarded him as exceptional. At about twenty, he became Palace Attendant and Central Supervisor of the Army, but died a few years later. His son Guan Tong succeeded, married a princess, and rose to General of the Gentlemen of the Household of the Tiger Guards. He died without a son, so Guan Xing's son by a secondary wife, Guan Yi, continued the fief.

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Zhang Fei, courtesy name Yide, was from Zhuo Commandery. In his youth he served the Former Lord (Liu Bei) alongside Guan Yu. Guan Yu was several years older, and Zhang Fei treated him as an elder brother. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) followed Duke Cao (Cao Cao) in defeating Lü Bu and returned with him to Ji [計; the place character in this source requires review]. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) appointed Zhang Fei General of the Gentlemen of the Household. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) broke with Duke Cao (Cao Cao) and sought refuge with Yuan Shao and Liu Biao. After Liu Biao's death, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) entered Jing Province, and the Former Lord (Liu Bei) fled south of the Yangzi. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) pursued for a day and night and caught him at Changban in Dangyang. Hearing that Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s troops had arrived, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) abandoned his wife and children and fled, ordering Zhang Fei with twenty horsemen to guard the rear. Zhang Fei held the water crossing and broke the bridge. Glaring with spear held crosswise, he declared, “I am Zhang Yide [Zhang Fei]! Come and fight me to the death!” None of the enemy dared approach, and the Former Lord (Liu Bei) escaped. After the Former Lord (Liu Bei) secured the commanderies south of the Yangzi, he appointed Zhang Fei Administrator of Yidu and General Who Conquers the Enemy, enfeoffing him as Marquis of Xin Village. Later he was transferred to Nan Commandery. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) entered Yi Province and then attacked Liu Zhang, Zhang Fei, Zhuge Liang, and the others traveled upstream, separately pacifying commanderies and counties. At Jiangzhou, Zhang Fei defeated and captured Liu Zhang's general Yan Yan, Administrator of Ba Commandery. Zhang Fei rebuked him: “When the great army arrived, why did you dare resist instead of surrendering?” Yan Yan replied: “You behaved lawlessly and invaded our province. Our province has generals who lose their heads, but none who surrender.” Angry, Zhang Fei ordered him dragged away and beheaded. Unchanging in expression, Yan Yan said, “Behead me if you will! Why be angry?” Admiring his courage, Zhang Fei released him and received him as a guest.

Zhang Fei won battles wherever he passed and joined the Former Lord (Liu Bei) at Chengdu. When Yi Province was pacified, Zhuge Liang, Fa Zheng, Zhang Fei, and Guan Yu were each given five hundred jin of gold, a thousand jin of silver, fifty million coins, and a thousand bolts of brocade. Others received gifts in varying measure. Zhang Fei was appointed concurrent Administrator of Baxi.

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After Duke Cao (Cao Cao) defeated Zhang Lu, he left Xiahou Yuan and Zhang He to guard Hanchuan. Zhang He separately led the armies down into Baxi, intending to move its people to Hanzhong. He advanced to Dangqu, Mengtou, and Dangshi and confronted Zhang Fei for more than fifty days. Zhang Fei led more than ten thousand elite troops by another route to intercept him. The mountain roads were narrow, preventing the front and rear from helping one another, and Zhang Fei defeated Zhang He. Abandoning his horse, Zhang He climbed through the mountains and withdrew by a bypath with only a little over ten followers. He brought his army back to Nanzheng, and Ba was secured. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) became King of Hanzhong (Liu Bei), Zhang Fei was appointed General of the Right and given credentials. In Zhangwu 1, he was promoted to General of Chariots and Cavalry, concurrently Director of Retainers, and advanced to Marquis of Xixiang. His investiture document said: “I have inherited Heaven's succession and the great enterprise, seeking to eliminate cruelty and quell disorder, though the proper course is not yet fully clear. Now the enemy causes harm, and the people suffer. Those who long for Han crane their necks in expectation. I am deeply distressed, uneasy in my seat and unable to relish food. I prepare the armies and proclaim their charge, about to execute Heaven's punishment. Your loyalty and resolution match the footsteps of Shao Hu [召虎, a renowned Zhou minister], and your fame is known near and far. Therefore I issue this distinguished command, grant you a lofty-walled fief, advance your rank, and give you authority in the capital. Display Heaven's might broadly, win submission through virtue, and punish rebellion, fulfilling my intention. Does the Odes not say, ‘Without distress or haste, they came to the royal standard; initiating and diligently pursuing military achievement, they received this blessing’? Can you fail to strive?”

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Zhang Fei was powerful and imposing, second only to Guan Yu. Wei's counselor Cheng Yu and the others called Guan Yu and Zhang Fei matches for ten thousand men. Guan Yu treated soldiers well but was arrogant toward scholar-officials; Zhang Fei respected gentlemen but showed no care for lesser men. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) often warned him: “You punish and kill excessively, daily whipping strong soldiers and then keeping them at your side. This is a path to disaster.” Zhang Fei did not reform. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) attacked Wu, Zhang Fei was to lead ten thousand troops from Langzhong to rendezvous at Jiangzhou. As he prepared to depart, his subordinate commanders Zhang Da and Fan Qiang killed him, took his head, and fled downstream to Sun Quan. The commander of Zhang Fei's camp submitted a report. Hearing that it came from the camp commander, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) said, “Alas! Zhang Fei is dead.” Zhang Fei was posthumously designated Marquis Huan (Zhang Fei) <a posthumous title associated with martial authority>. His eldest son Zhang Bao died young. His second son Zhang Shao succeeded and rose to Palace Attendant and Supervisor of the Masters of Writing. Zhang Bao's son Zhang Zun became a Master of Writing; he followed Zhuge Zhan to Mianzhu, fought Deng Ai, and died.

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Ma Chao, courtesy name Mengqi, was from Maoling in Youfufeng. His father Ma Teng rose with Bian Zhang, Han Sui, and the others in the western provinces at the end of Emperor Ling (Liu Hong)'s <a ruler of the Eastern Han dynasty> reign. In Chuping 3, Han Sui and Ma Teng led their forces to Chang'an. The Han court appointed Han Sui General Who Guards the West and sent him back to Jincheng; Ma Teng became General Who Conquers the West and was sent to garrison Mei. Later, Ma Teng attacked Chang'an, was defeated, and withdrew to Liang Province. Director of Retainers Zhong Yao, stationed in Guanzhong, wrote to Han Sui and Ma Teng explaining the consequences of good and ill fortune. Ma Teng sent Ma Chao to follow Zhong Yao against Guo Yuan and Gao Gan at Pingyang. Ma Chao's general Pang De personally cut off Guo Yuan's head. Later, Ma Teng quarreled with Han Sui and requested to return to the capital region. He was summoned as Minister of the Guards, while Ma Chao was appointed Lieutenant General, enfeoffed as Marquis of Duting, and given command of Ma Teng's troops.

CommentaryThe Dianlue says: Ma Teng, courtesy name Shoucheng, was a descendant of Ma Yuan. Under Emperor Huan (Liu Zhi) <a ruler of the Eastern Han dynasty>, his father, whose courtesy name was Zishuo, served as Commandant of Langan in Tianshui. After losing office, he remained in Longxi among the Qiang. Poor and unmarried, he took a Qiang woman as his wife, and she bore Ma Teng. Ma Teng was poor in youth and had no property. He frequently cut timber in the Zhang Mountains and carried it to sell in towns to support himself. He stood more than eight chi tall, with a large body and striking face and nose. His character was worthy and generous, and many respected him. At the end of Emperor Ling (Liu Hong)'s reign, Inspector of Liang Province Geng Bi trusted corrupt officials. Wang Guo and other commoners, together with Di and Qiang people, rebelled. The provincial and commandery authorities recruited brave, strong men to suppress them; Ma Teng was among the recruits. Recognizing his unusual ability, they made him a military staff officer in command of troops. His achievements brought appointment as Army Major, then Lieutenant General, and later General Who Conquers the West, usually stationed between Qian and Long. During Chuping he was appointed General Who Conquers the East. Grain was scarce in the western provinces. Ma Teng memorialized that his troops lacked food and requested access to grain at Chiyang, moving his camp to the heights at Changping. But General Wang Cheng and the others feared Ma Teng would harm them and attacked his camp. Ma Teng had gone out nearby and was unprepared; defeated, he fled westward. With the Three Adjuncts in turmoil, he did not return east. He and General Who Guards the West Han Sui became sworn brothers of different surnames. Initially close, they later encroached upon one another's troops and became enemies. Ma Teng attacked Han Sui, who fled, gathered forces, and returned to attack Ma Teng, killing his wife and children. Their warfare continued. Early in Jian'an, the state's institutions were nearly undone, so Director of Retainers Zhong Yao and Governor of Liang Province Wei Duan were sent to reconcile them. Ma Teng was summoned back to garrison Huaili, transferred to General of the Front, granted credentials, and enfeoffed as Marquis of Huaili. He guarded against northern raiders and the White Horsemen to the east, treated scholars well, advanced worthy men, and protected the people's lives. The Three Adjuncts were secure and loved him. In the tenth [fifteenth in the parenthetical reading] year, he was summoned as Minister of the Guards. Considering himself old, he entered the capital guard. Earlier, when Duke Cao (Cao Cao) became Chancellor, he recruited Ma Teng's eldest son Ma Chao, who declined. Ma Chao later became Military Supervisory Staff Officer under the Director of Retainers. In the campaign against Guo Yuan, a flying arrow struck him; he wrapped his foot in a bag and fought on, defeating Guo Yuan and cutting off his head [the narrative's attribution is retained alongside the main text's credit to Pang De]. An edict appointed him Inspector of Xu Province, then Remonstrant Grand Master. When Ma Teng entered the capital, Ma Chao was appointed Lieutenant General to command his camp. Ma Chao's younger brother Ma Xiu was appointed Commandant of Imperial Carriages, and Ma Xiu's younger brother Ma Tie Cavalry Commandant. Their families were all moved to Ye; Ma Chao alone remained behind.

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After taking command, Ma Chao allied with Han Sui and joined Yang Qiu, Li Kan, Cheng Yi, and the others, advancing to Tong Pass. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) met Han Sui and Ma Chao for a mounted conversation without large escorts. Relying on his strength, Ma Chao secretly intended to rush forward and seize Duke Cao (Cao Cao). But Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s general Xu Chu glared at him, and Ma Chao dared not move. Following Jia Xu's plan, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) sowed division between Ma Chao and Han Sui. They became suspicious of one another and suffered a great defeat.

Ma Chao fled to take shelter among the non-Chinese peoples. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) pursued as far as Anding, then returned east because of trouble in the north. Yang Fu told Duke Cao (Cao Cao): “Ma Chao has the courage of Han Xin and Qing Bu and has won the hearts of the Qiang and other peoples. If the great army withdraws without strict precautions, the commanderies of Longshang will cease to belong to the state.” Ma Chao indeed led the tribes against Longshang's commanderies and counties, all of which responded. He killed Inspector of Liang Province Wei Kang, occupied Ji City, and took possession of his troops. Ma Chao proclaimed himself General Who Conquers the West, concurrent Governor of Bing Province, and Supervisor of Military Affairs in Liang Province. Wei Kang's former officials and people, including Yang Fu, Jiang Xu, Liang Kuan, and Zhao Qu, plotted against Ma Chao. Yang Fu and Jiang Xu rose at Lucheng. Ma Chao attacked but could not take it; Liang Kuan and Zhao Qu shut Ji City's gates against him. Unable either to advance or return, Ma Chao fled to Zhang Lu in Hanzhong. Finding Zhang Lu unfit for joint planning, he was inwardly distressed. Hearing that the Former Lord (Liu Bei) was besieging Liu Zhang at Chengdu, he secretly wrote offering surrender.

CommentaryThe Dianlue says: In Jian'an 16, Ma Chao rebelled with the Guanzhong generals Hou Xuan, Cheng Yin, Li Kan, Zhang Heng, Liang Xing, Cheng Yi, Ma Wan, Yang Qiu, Han Sui, and the others, ten commands in all, numbering one hundred thousand men. They jointly occupied the Yellow River and Tong Pass positions, establishing camps and formations. That year, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) campaigned west and fought them where the Yellow and Wei rivers meet. Ma Chao and the others fled in defeat. Reaching Anding, Ma Chao went on to Liang Province. An edict ordered the arrest and extermination of his family. Again defeated in Longshang, he later fled to Hanzhong. Zhang Lu made him Libationer for Supervising Instruction and intended to give him a daughter in marriage. Someone remonstrated: “If a man does not love his own family, how can he love others?” Zhang Lu abandoned the marriage. Before Ma Chao's rebellion, his secondary wife's younger brother Zhong had remained in the Three Adjuncts; after the defeat, Zhong entered Hanzhong first. On New Year's Day, Zhong offered Ma Chao a toast for long life. Ma Chao beat his breast and spat blood: “A whole household of a hundred people met the same fate in one day, and now we two congratulate each other!” Later he repeatedly requested troops from Zhang Lu to recover Liang Province. Zhang Lu sent him, but without success. Zhang Lu's generals Yang Bai and the others, jealous of his ability, wished to harm him. Ma Chao escaped through Wudu into Di territory and then went to Shu. This was Jian'an 19.

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The Former Lord (Liu Bei) sent men to receive Ma Chao, who led troops directly to the city. Those inside were terrified, and Liu Zhang bowed his head in surrender—

—and Ma Chao was appointed General Who Pacifies the West, placed in charge of Linju, and retained his former title of Marquis of Duting.

CommentaryThe Records of the Duke of Shanyang (Liu Xie) says: Seeing how generously Liu Bei treated him, Ma Chao habitually addressed Liu Bei by his courtesy name. Guan Yu became angry and requested that he be killed. Liu Bei said: “A man in desperate circumstances has come to me. If you kill him in anger merely for using my courtesy name, what example will this set for the realm?” Zhang Fei said, “Then we should show him proper ceremony.” At a great gathering next day, Ma Chao was invited in, while Guan Yu and Zhang Fei stood on duty with swords. Looking around the seats, Ma Chao could not see them; then, seeing them standing guard, he was greatly alarmed and never again used Liu Bei's courtesy name. Next day he sighed: “Now I understand why I failed. For calling a ruler by his courtesy name, I nearly died at the hands of Guan Yu and Zhang Fei.” Thereafter he served Liu Bei respectfully. I, Pei Songzhi, consider: Ma Chao came to Liu Bei in distress and received office and rank. How could he arrogantly use Liu Bei's courtesy name? Moreover, when Liu Bei entered Shu, Guan Yu remained guarding Jing Province and was never in Yi Province. Thus, when Guan Yu heard of Ma Chao's surrender, he wrote to Zhuge Liang asking whose talents Ma Chao could be compared with. Events cannot have been as this book states. How could Guan Yu have stood guard with Zhang Fei? People act because they consider their actions proper; knowing them improper, they refrain. If Ma Chao did use Liu Bei's courtesy name, he must have thought it reasonable. Even if Guan Yu asked to kill him, Ma Chao should not have heard it. Merely seeing the two men on duty, how could he know it concerned the courtesy name and say he nearly died at their hands? Such unreasonable writing is deeply objectionable. The impure, confused, and false accounts recorded by Yuan Wei, Yue Zi, and the others are almost too numerous to recount.

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When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) became King of Hanzhong (Liu Bei), he appointed Ma Chao General of the Left and granted credentials. In Zhangwu 1, Ma Chao was promoted to General of Valiant Cavalry, concurrently Governor of Liang Province, and advanced to Marquis of Li Township. The investiture document said: “Though lacking virtue, I have inherited the supreme position and serve the ancestral temples. Cao Cao and his son have accumulated guilt generation after generation, causing me distress as painful as illness. Within the seas, people are resentful and turn back to rightful allegiance. The Di and Qiang submit, and the Xunyu admire righteousness. Your trustworthiness is established in the north, and your martial authority shines. I therefore entrust this responsibility to you: raise your tigerlike might, supervise the distant lands, and seek out the people's suffering. Clearly proclaim the court's teaching, cherish and protect near and far, and exercise rewards and punishments solemnly and carefully, strengthening Han's blessings and answering the realm's expectations.”

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Ma Chao died in the second year, aged forty-seven. Near death, he memorialized: “More than two hundred members of my clan have been almost entirely killed by Mengde [Cao Cao]. Only my younger cousin Ma Dai remains to continue the sacrifices of our humble lineage. I entrust him deeply to Your Majesty and have nothing more to say.” Ma Chao was posthumously designated Marquis Wei (Ma Chao) <Formidable Marquis>, and his son Ma Cheng succeeded. Ma Dai rose to General Who Pacifies the North and advanced to Marquis of Chencang. Ma Chao's daughter married the King of Anping (Liu Li).

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Huang Zhong, courtesy name Hansheng, was from Nanyang. Governor of Jing Province Liu Biao appointed him General of the Gentlemen of the Household to defend You County in Changsha together with Liu Biao's nephew Liu Pan. After Duke Cao (Cao Cao) conquered Jing Province, Huang Zhong was made acting Assistant General and remained at his former post under Administrator of Changsha Han Xuan. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) pacified the southern commanderies, Huang Zhong pledged allegiance and followed him into Shu. After receiving his assignment at Jiameng, he returned to attack Liu Zhang. Huang Zhong always led assaults and broke enemy formations, his courage foremost in the army. Once Yi Province was settled, he became General Who Attacks the Enemy. In Jian'an 24, he attacked Xiahou Yuan at Mount Dingjun in Hanzhong. Xiahou Yuan's troops were highly trained, but Huang Zhong pressed forward at the spearhead, exhorting his soldiers. Gongs and drums shook the heavens and cheers resounded through the valleys. In one battle, Xiahou Yuan was killed and his army decisively defeated. Huang Zhong was promoted to General Who Conquers the West. That year, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) became King of Hanzhong (Liu Bei) and wished to appoint Huang Zhong General of the Rear. Zhuge Liang said: “Huang Zhong's reputation has never equaled Guan Yu's or Ma Chao's. To place him in the same rank now—Ma Chao and Zhang Fei are nearby and have seen his achievements, so the intention can be explained to them. But Guan Yu will hear at a distance and may be displeased. Might this be inadvisable?” The Former Lord (Liu Bei) said, “I shall explain it myself.” Huang Zhong was accordingly ranked with Guan Yu and the others and given the title Marquis Within the Passes. He died the next year and was posthumously designated Marquis Gang (Huang Zhong) <Resolute Marquis>. His son Huang Xu had died young, leaving no heir.

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Zhao Yun, courtesy name Zilong, was from Zhending in Changshan. He originally served Gongsun Zan. When Gongsun Zan sent the Former Lord (Liu Bei) to support Tian Kai against Yuan Shao, Zhao Yun followed and commanded the Former Lord (Liu Bei)'s cavalry.

CommentaryThe Separate Biography of Zhao Yun says: Zhao Yun stood eight chi tall, with an imposing appearance. Selected by his home commandery, he led officials and soldiers serving as volunteers to Gongsun Zan. Yuan Shao then claimed the governorship of Ji Province, and Gongsun Zan was deeply concerned that its people were following him. Pleased with Zhao Yun's arrival, Gongsun Zan teased: “I hear everyone in your province favors the Yuan family. Why have you alone changed your mind and returned from error?” Zhao Yun replied: “The realm is in turmoil, and no one knows who is right. The people suffer as though hanging upside down. My province deliberated and chose to follow benevolent government. We do not slight Lord Yuan (Yuan Shao) or privately favor you, General.” He then campaigned with Gongsun Zan. The Former Lord (Liu Bei), also dependent on Gongsun Zan, repeatedly welcomed Zhao Yun, who formed a deep attachment to him. When Zhao Yun's elder brother died, he took leave of Gongsun Zan to return home temporarily. Knowing he would not return, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) clasped his hand in farewell. Zhao Yun said, “I shall never betray your kindness.” When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) went to Yuan Shao, Zhao Yun met him at Ye. They shared a bed. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) secretly sent Zhao Yun to recruit several hundred men, all called the troops of General of the Left Liu (Liu Bei), without Yuan Shao knowing. Zhao Yun then followed the Former Lord (Liu Bei) to Jing Province.

When Duke Cao (Cao Cao) pursued the Former Lord (Liu Bei) at Changban in Dangyang, and he abandoned his wife and children and fled south, Zhao Yun personally carried the young child—the Later Lord (Liu Shan) <the succeeding sovereign of Shu-Han; a historical designation>—and protected Lady Gan, the Later Lord (Liu Shan)'s mother. Both escaped danger. Zhao Yun was promoted to General of the Headquarters Gate. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) entered Shu, Zhao Yun remained in Jing Province.

CommentaryThe Separate Biography of Zhao Yun says: At the Former Lord (Liu Bei)'s defeat, someone reported that Zhao Yun had gone north. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) threw a hand halberd at the speaker, saying, “Zilong [Zhao Yun] will not abandon me!” Soon Zhao Yun arrived. After helping pacify the southern commanderies, he became Lieutenant General and concurrent Administrator of Guiyang, replacing Zhao Fan. Zhao Fan's widowed elder sister-in-law, Lady Fan, was exceptionally beautiful, and Zhao Fan wished Zhao Yun to marry her. Zhao Yun declined: “We share the same surname; your elder brother is like my own.” He firmly refused. When urged to accept, Zhao Yun said: “Zhao Fan surrendered under pressure; his intentions remain uncertain. There is no shortage of women in the realm.” He did not marry her. Zhao Fan indeed fled, and Zhao Yun incurred no implication. Earlier, fighting Xiahou Dun at Bowang, Zhao Yun captured Xiahou Lan alive. Xiahou Lan was from his home district, and they had known one another since childhood. Zhao Yun asked the Former Lord (Liu Bei) to spare him and recommended his knowledge of law for appointment as Military Adjudicator. Zhao Yun did not keep him close to himself: such was his caution. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) entered Yi Province, Zhao Yun became Major of the Remaining Camp. At this time, Lady Sun, wife of the Former Lord (Liu Bei), was arrogant and overbearing as Sun Quan's younger sister. She had brought many Wu officials and soldiers, who acted lawlessly. Considering Zhao Yun stern and reliable, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) specially entrusted him with internal affairs. Hearing of Liu Bei's western expedition, Sun Quan sent many boats to fetch his sister. She secretly intended to take the Later Lord (Liu Shan) back to Wu. Zhao Yun and Zhang Fei deployed troops and intercepted the boats on the river, recovering the Later Lord (Liu Shan).

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When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) returned from Jiameng to attack Liu Zhang, he summoned Zhuge Liang. Zhuge Liang led Zhao Yun, Zhang Fei, and the others westward upstream, pacifying commanderies and counties. At Jiangzhou, Zhao Yun was separately sent up the Outer Water route to Jiangyang and joined Zhuge Liang at Chengdu. Once Chengdu was settled, Zhao Yun was appointed General Who Assists the Army.

CommentaryThe Separate Biography of Zhao Yun says: After Yi Province was pacified, it was proposed to distribute the houses within Chengdu and the gardens, mulberry fields, and farmland outside among the generals. Zhao Yun objected: “Huo Qubing said that until the Xiongnu were destroyed, he had no use for a home. Now the state's enemies are more than the Xiongnu; we cannot seek comfort yet. Only when the whole realm is settled should each return to his native village and farm his own land. The people of Yi Province have just suffered war. Their fields and houses should all be returned. Let them settle and resume their livelihoods; only then can taxes and service be levied, with their goodwill secured.” The Former Lord (Liu Bei) followed his advice. After Xiahou Yuan's defeat, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) contested Hanzhong and transported tens of millions of sacks of rice below the northern mountain [the quantity follows the source]. Huang Zhong thought they could be taken, and Zhao Yun's troops accompanied him to seize the rice. Huang Zhong failed to return at the appointed time, so Zhao Yun went out from the fortified camp with several tens of lightly equipped horsemen to look for him. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) happened to be bringing out a large force. His vanguard attacked Zhao Yun; during the fighting, the main force arrived and pressed him hard. Zhao Yun charged through its formation, fighting as he withdrew. Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s troops scattered and then regrouped. Breaking through the enemy, Zhao Yun returned toward his fortified camp. General Zhang Zhu was wounded; Zhao Yun again galloped back to fetch him. Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s army pursued to the camp. Magistrate of Mianyang Zhang Yi, then inside, wished to shut the gates and defend. Instead, Zhao Yun entered, opened the gates wide, lowered the banners, and silenced the drums. Suspecting an ambush, Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s army withdrew. Zhao Yun thundered the drums to the sky and fired military crossbows at their rear. Alarmed, the enemy trampled one another; many fell into the Han River and drowned. Next morning, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) came to Zhao Yun's camp and inspected the previous day's battlefield. He said, “Zilong [Zhao Yun] is courage through and through!” Music and a drinking feast continued until dusk, and the army called Zhao Yun the General of Tigerlike Might. When Sun Quan attacked Jing Province, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) was furious and intended to attack him. Zhao Yun remonstrated: “The state's enemy is Cao Cao, not Sun Quan. Destroy Wei first, and Wu will submit of itself. Although Cao Cao is dead, his son Cao Pi has usurped the throne. We should use the people's sentiment to plan early for Guanzhong, occupying the upper Yellow and Wei rivers to punish the rebels. The righteous men east of the passes will surely bring provisions and ride out to welcome the royal army. We should not leave Wei aside and fight Wu first: once battle is joined, it cannot be ended quickly.” The Former Lord (Liu Bei) refused and campaigned east, leaving Zhao Yun to supervise Jiangzhou. After the Former Lord (Liu Bei)'s reverse at Zigui, Zhao Yun advanced to Yong'an, but the Wu army had already withdrawn.

In Jianxing 1, Zhao Yun became Central Protector of the Army and General Who Conquers the South, was enfeoffed as Marquis of Yongchang Village, and was then promoted to General Who Guards the East. In the fifth year, he accompanied Zhuge Liang to garrison Hanzhong. Next year, Zhuge Liang announced that his army would advance by Xie Valley, and Cao Zhen sent a large force to oppose it. Zhuge Liang ordered Zhao Yun and Deng Zhi to resist while he himself attacked Mount Qi. Zhao Yun and Deng Zhi had weak forces against a strong enemy and suffered a reverse in Ji Valley. Yet they gathered their men and defended firmly, avoiding a great defeat. On the army's withdrawal, Zhao Yun was demoted to General Who Guards the Army.

Zhao Yun died in the seventh year and was posthumously designated Marquis Shunping (Zhao Yun) <Gentle and Pacifying Marquis; the formal explanation follows in the annotation>. Under the Former Lord (Liu Bei), only Fa Zheng received a posthumous title. Under the Later Lord (Liu Shan), Zhuge Liang's achievements and virtue surpassed the age, while Jiang Wan and Fei Yi carried the state's great responsibilities; they too received posthumous titles. Chen Zhi received exceptional distinction through imperial favor, and Xiahou Ba, having come from afar to join the state, also received a title. Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, Ma Chao, Pang Tong, Huang Zhong, and Zhao Yun were then honored posthumously, which contemporary opinion regarded as a distinction.

CommentaryThe Separate Biography of Zhao Yun records this edict of the Later Lord (Liu Shan): “Zhao Yun formerly followed the late emperor [Liu Bei], accumulating manifest achievements. When I was very young and traveled through hardship, I relied on his loyalty and obedience to escape danger. Posthumous titles commemorate founding achievements. Let officials outside the palace deliberate on a suitable title for Zhao Yun.” General-in-Chief Jiang Wei and the others argued: Zhao Yun followed the late emperor [Liu Bei], rendering notable service, helping administer the realm, and observing the laws. His achievements deserve record. At Dangyang, his righteousness penetrated metal and stone, and he loyally protected his sovereign. A ruler remembers rewards and generously honors subordinates through ritual; a minister forgets death. If the dead have awareness, such honor makes them imperishable; the living, moved by gratitude, will give their lives. Respectfully examining the rules for posthumous names, “gentle, worthy, compassionate, and generous” is called shun; “conducting affairs in due order” is called ping; and “overcoming and settling calamity and disorder” is called ping. Zhao Yun should therefore be designated Marquis Shunping (Zhao Yun).

Zhao Yun's son Zhao Tong succeeded, rising to Gentleman of the Household of the Tiger Guards and Supervisor and acting Commander of the Central Army [督行領軍; exact division of duties requires review]. His younger son Zhao Guang was a General of the Headquarters Gate. He followed Jiang Wei to Tazhong and died in battle.

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The Appraisal says: Guan Yu and Zhang Fei were both called matches for ten thousand men and were tigerlike ministers of their age. Guan Yu repaid Duke Cao (Cao Cao) with service, and Zhang Fei righteously released Yan Yan: both showed the character of men worthy to serve a state. Yet Guan Yu was stubborn and conceited, while Zhang Fei was violent and ungenerous. That their failings brought defeat was the ordinary course of things. Ma Chao relied on the tribes and his courage, bringing destruction upon his clan. How regrettable! Yet was it not better that, from desperate straits, he reached security? Huang Zhong and Zhao Yun were strong, resolute, and fiercely brave, both serving as the ruler's claws and teeth. Were they not of the company of Guan Ying and Teng Gong [Xiahou Ying]?