Chapter Twenty-Two: Leave None Alive

On the city wall of Ji County, Liu Yao stood at the edge, gazing into the distance. Behind him were Zhang Fei, Huang Zhong, and Tian Feng.

“A report, my lord! The scouts bring news—thirty li to the north, smoke has been seen,” a young soldier at the city gate announced.

“Understood, you may go,” Liu Yao waved him off. “Yuanhao, how long does it take for that croton to take effect?”

“My lord, according to the physician, even the strongest man will feel its effects within two hours,” Tian Feng replied.

Liu Yao stared at the map of Youzhou for a long while before he spoke: “Zhang Fei, Huang Zhong, heed my command.”

“At your service.”

“Huang Zhong, I now assign you five battalions of infantry, one battalion of cavalry, and one battalion of my personal guards. Set out immediately and reach the enemy within two hours. Strike the Wuhuan by surprise—if they flee, do not pursue. Seize their horses, weapons, and supplies.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Zhang Fei, I entrust all remaining two thousand cavalry to you. Set out at once and intercept the route behind the Wuhuan camp, where their retreat must pass. If any Wuhuan attempt to escape, slaughter them ruthlessly,” Liu Yao pointed to a spot on the map.

“Yes, sir.”

“Remember—save for the warhorses and the enemy commanders, I do not wish to see any living creature spared,” Liu Yao said, his words steeped in murderous intent.

“Yes, sir.” Both Zhang Fei and Huang Zhong shivered, responding in unison before departing to ready their troops.

Liu Yao turn