Cherreads

Chapter 35 - Part34:The Surprise Attack on Fragrant Drunken Slope

In a chaotic world of shifting fortunes and countless heroes, Hou Cheng, a general under Lü Bu, was ordered to lead his troops to the Fragrant Drunken Slope in Xumi. The land was lined with rolling mountains and lush green trees, beautiful yet thick with the smoke of war. Knowing the difficulty of his mission, Hou Cheng frowned deeply, his eyes sharp and determined. He carefully surveyed the terrain on Fragrant Drunken Slope, then gave a decisive order for his soldiers to quickly build fortifications.

 

The soldiers dared not slack off. Carrying heavy timber and thick stones, they panted heavily, their clothes soaked with sweat. Some cut down trees, some dug trenches, others moved earth and rocks—each had a clear role and worked in perfect coordination. Hou Cheng paced back and forth, barking orders and demonstrating in person at times, making sure every defense was solid and reliable.

 

Meanwhile, Huang Zhong was patrolling nearby with his army. Though advanced in years, he remained vigorous and awe‑inspiring, mounted on a tall warhorse. His eyes, sharp as eagles, watched for any sign of movement. His troops marched in perfect formation, disciplined like a steel river winding through the mountains.

 

Suddenly, a soldier pointed toward the distant slope, his face tense. "General! Look—something's happening over there!" Huang Zhong followed his gaze and saw dust rising above Fragrant Drunken Slope, with soldiers faintly visible at work. His heart jolted. He immediately realized the enemy was building defenses. "Advance at full speed, and stay hidden!" he commanded.

 

Huang Zhong's army closed in quietly, moving through the woods without a sound. As they drew near Hou Cheng's men, Huang Zhong recognized their banner. So these are Lü Bu's men, he thought. If I've found them today, I won't let them get away!

 

Hou Cheng was completely focused on fortifications, unaware of the approaching danger. Then Huang Zhong's men burst from the forest like fierce tigers, their battle cries shaking the heavens. Hou Cheng panicked and turned to fight, but it was too late.

 

Huang Zhong charged ahead, broadsword in hand, cutting through the enemy like a dark bolt of lightning. His blade swung with terrifying force; enemy soldiers fell left and right, blood spraying everywhere. Seeing defeat, Hou Cheng tried to flee, but Huang Zhong locked onto him. "Hou Cheng! Where do you think you're going?" he roared. He dug his heels into his steed, and the horse lunged forward like an arrow loosed from a bow.

 

Hou Cheng fled in terror, but his horse was no match for Huang Zhong's legendary steed. Huang Zhong quickly closed in. Hou Cheng looked back in horror, seeing Huang Zhong's furious face and his raised broadsword glinting coldly. He closed his eyes in despair, waiting for death.

 

A sharp crack echoed. Huang Zhong's blade struck down hard. Hou Cheng's head flew off, and his body slumped from the saddle. Seeing their commander dead, Lü Bu's soldiers lost all morale and scattered. Huang Zhong pressed the attack, wiping out the remaining troops.

 

When Lü Bu learned of Hou Cheng's death, he flew into a violent rage. His eyes blazing, he slammed his wine cup to the ground and roared: "Huang Zhong! You dare kill my finest general? I will make you pay with your blood!" He immediately summoned his army, preparing to lead them personally to avenge Hou Cheng.

 

Clad in armor and holding his Sky Piercer Halberd, Lü Bu stood imposingly on the parade platform. Fury and bloodlust burned in his eyes as he addressed his troops: "Brothers! Hou Cheng was one of us. Now that old dog Huang Zhong has murdered him—shall we let this pass? Today, we march! We will tear Huang Zhong apart and avenge Hou Cheng!"

 

Inspired by Lü Bu's rage, the soldiers raised their weapons and shouted: "Avenge Hou Cheng! Avenge Hou Cheng!" Their cries thundered across the skies. Lü Bu nodded in satisfaction, waved his hand, and barked: "March!"

 

And so Lü Bu led his mighty army toward Huang Zhong's camp. A terrifying, earth‑shaking battle was about to begin. Who would emerge victorious—the unparalleled Lü Bu, or the still‑mighty veteran Huang Zhong? No one knew. The entire chaotic world waited for the outcome, and the fates of all would be changed by this war.

More Chapters