Jiameng Pass.
When the generals under Bai Xiaowen heard that Guan Yu was coming, worry showed on every face.
Guan Yu was far more famous than Huo Jun. Jiameng Pass was already difficult to take. With such a powerful ally defending it, how were they supposed to break through?
Bai Xiaowen laughed three times when he heard the news. "I thought it would take a few more days to capture the pass. Now that Guan Yu is here, he's practically handing both passes to me!"
None of the generals understood what he meant.
"This plan depends on secrecy," Bai Xiaowen said. "Don't spread word of it. Just follow my orders." He called Ma Chao over and gave him a few quiet instructions.
Ma Chao frowned slightly.
Bai Xiaowen saw his expression. "Mengqi, have you forgotten the death of your father, General Ma Teng? Your enemy is right before you. What matters more to you: your reputation, or avenging him?"
Ma Chao trembled faintly and lowered his head. "Avenging him, of course. Rest assured, Duke of Yan. I'll do as you say."
The next day, Ma Chao led his troops back to the pass.
The commander's banner atop the gatehouse had changed. Instead of "Huo Jun, General of the Household," it now bore the seven characters for "Guan Yunchang, Marquis of Hanshou Village."
Looking up from below, the Yuan Army saw Guan Yu standing on the gatehouse. He was nine feet tall, with a beard two feet long, a face red as a jujube, and a mighty build. Behind him stood Zhou Cang, holding the Green Dragon Crescent Blade, its edge flashing coldly. A chill ran through the soldiers.
Bai Xiaowen received a prompt from the Spirit Realm Rules:
"Guan Yu's combat skill, Intimidation, has been triggered."
``` [Intimidation: Passive.