Emperor Xian of Han frowned and said, "You command a great army. Can't you hold the city? By your own account, Cao the traitor's downfall is not far off. Xudu has high walls and stout defenses, perfect for holding out."
Bai Xiaowen shook his head. "Your majesty, Cao the traitor has operated in Xudu for a long time and has many followers. When I took the city, Xudu's granaries had already been burned. The army has no food and cannot hold the city. We can only withdraw."
Emperor Xian of Han said angrily, "Cao the traitor's followers have poisoned the realm beyond measure. Since you are now in charge, you must not spare them! The remaining Cao faction, led by Minister of Works Xun Yu, should all be arrested and executed, lest they bring disaster in the future."
Bai Xiaowen thought to himself, Emperor Xian of Han must have been bottling up quite a grievance.
If Emperor Xian of Han were allowed to take power, heads would truly roll and blood would flow like rivers. Who knew how many families he would purge?
Bai Xiaowen said, "Your majesty is wise. Cao the traitor is powerful, and most officials who served him did so under coercion. Now is the time to win the people's hearts from Cao the traitor. If we begin a slaughter, we will only drive them all to his side and cut off their hope of setting things right."
There was still a trace of anger on Emperor Xian of Han's face.
Bai Xiaowen again urged Emperor Xian of Han to head north with the army and move the capital to Ye City.
Emperor Xian of Han hesitated.
After enduring a life of wandering, hunger, and cold, Emperor Xian of Han had finally come to understand the value