At the border between Hanyang Commandery in Xiliang and You Fufeng of Sili, before Long Pass, Wang Xuan stationed his main army there.
Another force, led by Zhang Fei, consisted of ten thousand cavalry and ten thousand infantry. They traveled along the Wei River and went straight to the walls of Tianshui City.
By securing these two routes, they completely cut off Xiliang's only chance of pulling another food-supply stunt. The Xiliang army could only defend passively, hoping to wear Wang Xuan down while also hoping Cao Cao would put enough pressure on Liu Bei.
"Zilong, how many more days until Feng Xian's forces can pass through the Ulan Buh Desert and enter Beidi Commandery?"
"According to the last report we received, if nothing unexpected happens, they'll be able to cross the desert and enter Beidi Commandery in five days, then launch a surprise attack on Lian County through Lingwu Valley." Zhao Yun flipped through the intelligence and smiled at Wang Xuan. "Feng Xian also wrote that the sand sled designed by the Imperial Advisor is incredibly useful. In the past, it would have been impossible for a large army to cross the desert and launch a surprise attack, but with the sand sleds carrying large quantities of supplies, crossing the desert has become effortless. Of course, the compass is indispensable too."
"That thing is indeed useful on the grasslands. It can even serve as a sled in winter—practically a necessity for herdsmen." Wang Xuan smiled. "Then it's settled. Send someone to notify Ma Teng that we'll launch the general assault in seven days."
"Can Ma Teng be trusted?" Zhao Yun hesitated before voicing the concern in his heart.
"There's no need to worry about whether he can be trusted." Wang Xuan waved his hand, lifted his teacup, and took