Liu Bei once captured a magnificent steed in battle. When his ally, Liu Biao, admired the horse, Liu Bei generously gifted it to him. However, an equestrian expert under Liu Biao warned, "This steed is exceptional, but it is said to bring misfortune to its master. You should return it." Taking this advice, Liu Biao gave the horse back to Liu Bei.
Liu Biao's wife, Lady Cai, and her brother saw an opportunity during a gathering of officials in Xiangyang. They plotted against Liu Bei, stationing guards at every city gate except the western one, which was blocked by the wide and swift-flowing Tanxi River.
At the official banquet, a man secretly warned Liu Bei of the danger. He revealed the plot and advised, "Every gate is heavily guarded except the western one. That is your only escape route." In alarm, Liu Bei mounted his horse and fled towards the western gate.
Reaching the riverbank with soldiers in pursuit, Liu Bei found his path blocked. He urged the horse into the river, but it stumbled after a few steps. "Do you truly bring harm to your master?" Liu Bei cried out in despair. Miraculously, upon hearing this, the horse gathered its strength and made a tremendous leap, clearing the river and carrying Liu Bei to safety on the opposite shore.