Guan Yu Temple, Xuchang, Henan, China

This Mural Depicts the Events Described below

At the beginning, Cao Cao was pleased with Guan Yu but later began to realize of the latter's reluctance to stay on, thus ordered Zhang Liao, "Go and speak with him and probe about his feelings."

Thus, when Zhang Liao spoke with Guan Yu, the latter sighed and said, "I am in full knowledge of the honor and privilege Cao Cao had shown me, however, General Liu [Liu Bei] had treated me well also, hence I swear to die with him and I will never betray him.

I will not be staying here forever, but I will contribute a [sizeable] exploit first to repay Cao Cao's favor first before I take my leave." Zhang Liao related his words to Cao Cao, and the latter was impressed by his honorable attitude. Seeing Guan Yu had killed Yan Liang, Cao Cao knew that he would surely take his leave soon, hence further showered him with rewards.

Guan Yu did not accept any of the gifts and sealed all of them [a sign of rejection]; he also proceed with writing a letter to tender his resignation before leaving for Yuan Shao's land where Liu Bei was situated. Some of Cao Cao's subordinates wanted to chase after him but Cao Cao replied, "each for his own master; hence do not give chase".