Chapter 28 of Romance of the Three Kingdoms marks a pivotal moment in the saga of the sworn brothers—a reunion forged through suspicion, proven by blood, and sealed by unwavering loyalty.
Recruit Zhou Cang
During his journey, Guan Yu encountered Zhou Cang, a fierce warrior who had long admired him. Impressed by Zhou’s loyalty and strength, Guan Yu accepted him as a personal retainer—a bond that would last until death.
A brother’s doubt: The clash at Gucheng
After his arduous journey—passing five passes and slaying six generals—Guan Yu finally arrived at Gucheng, where Zhang Fei had established a stronghold. But instead of a warm embrace, Zhang Fei greeted him with leveled spear and burning eyes.
Convinced that Guan Yu had betrayed their oath and surrendered to Cao Cao, Zhang Fei roared:
“Traitor! How dare you show your face here?”
The tension was electric—two legendary warriors, once sworn to die together, now poised to kill each other.
At that very moment, Cai Yang, a general from Cao Cao’s army, appeared on the horizon. He had pursued Guan Yu to avenge his nephew Qin Qi, one of the officers slain during the escape from Xuchang.
Seizing the chance to prove his loyalty, Guan Yu declared:
“I shall slay Cai Yang within three strokes—thus proving my heart has never wavered!”
True to his word, Guan Yu charged forth, struck once, and cleaved Cai Yang from horseback. The deed was so swift and decisive that Zhang Fei’s doubts vanished instantly. Overcome with remorse and joy, the two brothers embraced and wept, their bond reforged in that single stroke of the Green Dragon Crescent Blade.
The search for Liu Bei
With trust restored, Guan Yu and Sun Qian went to Runan to seek news of Liu Bei. Informed by Liu Pi and Gong Du that Liu Bei stayed in Runan for a few days, but soon returned to Hebei to report to Yuan Shao.
Guan Yu and Sun Qian led a small but loyal band toward Yuan Shao’s territory in search of Liu Bei. Knowing full well that he had once slain two of Yuan Shao’s generals and that Yuan Shao would never pardon him, Guan Yu still resolutely set out for Jizhou, Yuan Shao’s territory.
Following Jian Yong’s plan, Liu Bei escaped from Yuan Shao and reunited with Guan Yu and others in Gucheng (Ancient City). Zhao Yun also joined their ranks. Thus, Liu Bei, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, Zhao Yun, and other heroes gathered once again. They recruited troops and purchased horses in Runan, biding their time to march forward.
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