"The Xiliang cavalry is now split into four factions, controlled by Li Jue, Guo Si, Fan Chou, and Zhang Ji. Li Jue holds the strongest force with around 20,000 true Xiliang cavalry, Guo Si commands 17,000, Fan Chou has about 10,000, and Zhang Ji has over 8,000 riders," Fan Qin explained helplessly. The entire Sili region had essentially become the home base for the Xiliang cavalry, with them scattered everywhere.
The others gasped in shock upon hearing this. The number was simply too overwhelming—how could the Sili region support such a large number of cavalry?
"Originally, each Xiliang cavalry unit had a varying number of Qiang cavalry as their auxiliary forces, but due to food shortages, the number of Qiang cavalry has significantly decreased," Fan Qin added, providing a bit of good news at least—they wouldn't have to deal with an overwhelming number of Qiang cavalry.
"The Xiliang cavalry are fierce, but internal issues due to food shortages have caused significant problems. Their military discipline has greatly deteriorated, and they've turned to plundering—no longer just looting civilians, but even raiding Hu people in Bingzhou and sometimes attacking each other!" Fan Qin continued, delivering another piece of good news. Their chances of success had increased.
"However, despite these issues, the Xiliang cavalry remains a cohesive force, and the remnants of Dong Zhuo's faction still maintain restraint with one another. This means that the timing isn't right. If we enter the Sili region, they may use the opportunity to consolidate their forces," Fan Qin cautioned, bringing the group back to reality. The timing wasn't ripe yet.
"Given the situation, what are our options? Speak your minds," Xun Yu said, signaling for Fan Qin to stop.
"We likely won't be able to enter the Sili region unless there's internal conflict. And even if we make it past Hulao Pass, we won't be able to defeat Dong Zhuo's remnants. That's the core issue," Sima Lang said, having witnessed the strength of the Xiliang cavalry firsthand.
"Even if we breach Hulao Pass, we won't be able to rout Dong Zhuo's forces—that's the fundamental problem," Chen Qun echoed, rubbing his forehead in frustration.
"Zhicai, Zhongde?" Xun Yu turned to Xi Zhicai and Cheng Yu for their thoughts.
Both Xi Zhicai and Cheng Yu frowned deeply. The crux of the issue was that their side was too weak—so weak that they had no way to counter the enemy.
"Gongda?" Xun Yu asked his nephew, reluctant to resort to his dangerous plan.
"Didn't the Yang family say they still have some strength left? Similarly, Ma Teng and Han Sui haven't left the Xiliang region. What if we attempt to swallow them whole? If we move quickly enough, we might succeed," Xun You replied with a calm expression.
"Hmm, using Fan Chou to destabilize the Xiliang forces? Considering Zhang Ji's recent return to Hongnong and Zhang Yang's earlier behavior, Zhang Ji's days might be numbered. That could be an entry point, but we can't be certain," Fan Qin muttered, impressed by Xun You's quick thinking.
After Xun You spoke, Fan Qin quickly followed his train of thought, considering the high-ranking spies they had in the Sili region. His gaze finally landed on Sima Lang.
Fan Qin thought to himself,
"We need bait. Without it, they won't make a move," Xi Zhicai quickly added. "Since they're loyal to the Han, they should be willing to fight for the empire. They'll have no choice but to act."
"That might not work," Cheng Yu, always one to consider the worst-case scenario, disagreed. But upon seeing Xi Zhicai's cold smile, Cheng Yu instantly understood what kind of bait Xi Zhicai was referring to—the Emperor himself, Liu Xie. That bait would certainly be effective!
"In that case, we'll send a letter," Fan Qin suggested with a smile, understanding Xun Yu's intentions perfectly. "Since it concerns their own fates, they should make the choice themselves."
"Agreed," Xun Yu nodded, signaling his approval.
"I request permission to enter the Guanzhong region and deliver a message to the Emperor," Sima Lang said, stepping forward. He wasn't foolish and quickly grasped half of Xun You's plan. Seeing this as a great opportunity, he volunteered. If they succeeded, Cao Cao would rise from the ashes, and Sima Lang would gain great merit. If they failed, well, he could always find another master to serve.
"Since Boda has volunteered, we can hardly refuse. However, let's carefully consider all the angles before reporting to the lord," Xun Yu replied with a smile. While he didn't immediately agree, it was as good as a yes.
Sima Lang was well-suited for the task—his identity, spiritual talents, intelligence, and even Dong Zhuo's earlier comparison of him to his deceased son—all made him a key player in this plan.
Fan Qin thought as he observed the group,
Although Xun Yu rarely took action, focusing more on managing state affairs, when pushed, he could devise flawless strategies. Every time he acted, his plans were airtight, leaving no room for countermeasures or failure.
It might sound impressive, but in reality, Xun Yu's strategies often failed to achieve the maximum benefits due to unforeseen circumstances. And if this attempt didn't yield significant results, Cao Cao might never have another chance to compete for supremacy and restore the Han dynasty.
That's why Xun Yu was preparing with three layers of backup plans this time, delegating state affairs to Chen Qun and Fan Qin, while focusing on securing the army and key agricultural areas. If this effort failed, Xun Yu couldn't guarantee a third opportunity.
If they failed to seize the Sili region and secure Yongzhou, if they couldn't restore the fertile lands and rebuild the Zhengguo Canal, Cao Cao's only remaining option would be to retreat into Sichuan—a prospect that made Xun Yu grimace. Even with his vast intelligence, entering Sichuan wouldn't be easy.
Xun Yu thought frantically, nearly at his wit's end.