Chapter 40: knife behind

Gongsun Zan's determination was unwavering. He was not going to let Lu Bu's return go unchallenged. With a resolute expression, he ordered his troops to prepare for battle.

Tao Qian and Zhang Yang exchanged glances, both concerned about the decision. They respected Gongsun Zan's martial prowess, but they were also aware of the unpredictability of Lu Bu. They had heard tales of his battlefield exploits and knew that underestimating him could be fatal.

As the coalition forces got ready for the impending clash with Lu Bu, they quickly organized their troops into formation. Gongsun Zan mounted his horse, a seasoned warhorse named Red Hare, and raised his spear high.

"Warriors of the White Horse Yicong, today we face the mighty Lu Bu! Let his name be struck with fear at the mention of the White Horse General, Gongsun Zan!" Gongsun Zan's voice echoed across the battlefield, rallying his troops.

Tao Qian and Zhang Yang also prepared to lead their forces into the fray. They knew the importance of presenting a united front against this formidable foe.

On the other side of the battlefield, Lü Bu had already led his forces away from Hulao Pass, moving swiftly to evade the coalition forces. He was aware of the numerical advantage the enemy held, and his priority was to break free from their encirclement.

As they rode, Hua Xiong approached Lü Bu and said, "General, where should we go now? We need a plan."

Lü Bu nodded, realizing the urgency of the situation. "We must find a defensible position to regroup and gather our strength. From there, we can decide our next course of action. For now, we must escape the encirclement."

With Hua Xiong's agreement, Lü Bu led his forces towards a nearby strategic location. It was crucial to find a place where they could momentarily hold off the pursuing coalition armies and devise a strategy.

Back on the battlefield, Gongsun Zan's forces began to move forward, led by their valiant general. The coalition lords were united in their determination to face Lü Bu head-on. The clash between these two formidable forces was imminent, and the fate of Hulao Pass hung in the balance.

Amidst the chaos of battle, Lu Bu and Gongsun Zan had successfully fought their way out of the immediate melee. Their respective troops were still engaged in fierce combat, but the two generals now faced each other in a momentary lull.

Gongsun Zan, astride his warhorse Red Hare, and Lu Bu, mounted on his fiery steed Chitu, regarded each other with a mix of wariness and respect. Both warriors had proven their martial prowess on numerous occasions, and they recognized a formidable adversary when they saw one.

Gongsun Zan was the first to break the silence. "Lu Bu, you are as fierce as they say. Your exploits are well-known in these lands."

Lu Bu acknowledged the compliment with a nod. "And Gongsun Zan, the White Horse General, is a name that commands respect. Your courage on the battlefield is matched only by a few."

Gongsun Zan's expression softened slightly, and he inclined his head. "You flatter me, Lu Bu. But let's not exchange pleasantries while our troops are locked in battle. What do you intend to do now?"

Lu Bu's gaze remained focused, his eyes scanning the battlefield behind Gongsun Zan. "My priority is to break free from this encirclement. I intend to find a strategic location where I can regroup and plan our next steps."

Gongsun Zan nodded in understanding. "I see your point. The coalition forces are relentless, and your escape will not be easy. If you're seeking a defensible position, I know of a nearby location that might serve your purpose."

Lu Bu regarded Gongsun Zan with a mix of curiosity and wariness. "You would help me escape?"

Gongsun Zan chuckled lightly. "I've never been one to let personal enmity cloud my judgment. Our encounter today may have been inevitable, but my foremost concern is the well-being of my troops. If you can find a way to break out of this encirclement without further bloodshed, it's a path I'm willing to consider."

Lu Bu contemplated the offer for a moment. The situation was dire, and a pragmatic approach might be the only way forward. "Very well, White Horse General. Lead the way."

Gongsun Zan nodded in agreement. "Follow me. We'll have to move quickly before the coalition forces regroup."

With that, the two generals, who had been locked in combat moments ago, now rode side by side, leading their respective forces towards the location that Gongsun Zan had in mind. The battlefield behind them continued to roar with the clash of armies, but for now, a fragile alliance had formed in the face of a greater threat.