The emperor's first step was to secure his flank against the hostile Oromo, whom he defeated at Wuchale 14 March 1782. At the same time he had to suppress a plot against him by putting "Dejazmach" Wolde Gabriel in chains. But once they reached the Bashilo, his men mutinied at the prospect of crossing into Shewa, and he was forced to turn back; within three weeks, he was holding court in Aringo. The tribute from Asfa Wossen which reached him months later was small compensation for this failure.