Richard's eyes widened. "No way, right? Cao Cao was so powerful and had so many fierce generals under him. How could he lose to Yuan Xi?"
"This is intelligence Maturin sent over. Believe it or not?" Abota said irritably. "The situation is critical now. Yuan Xi is personally leading his army in pursuit of Cao Cao. Even Xu Chu died in battle! In my opinion, Cao Cao is very likely finished this time. We need to make plans early too."
Richard thought for a moment. "Cao Cao dying might not be entirely a bad thing. With my reputation and standing in the Cao Clan Group, I can completely inherit Cao Cao's legacy, just like Yuan Xi inherited Yuan Shao's!"
Abota shook his head, disagreeing with Richard's view:
"Whether Cao Cao's defeat and death is good or bad for us depends on the situation!
"If the overall situation hasn't collapsed, then it's a good thing. Take Yuan Xi, for example. He attacked Xudu and abducted the Emperor, preventing Cao Cao from pursuing his victory at Guandu. The situation didn't collapse with Yuan Shao's death, and he even gained precious time to unify Hebei!
"But now, Cao Cao's defeat and death could very well lead to the complete collapse of the Cao Clan Group! We've pushed deep into the heart of Jizhou, trapped with no way forward or back. How could we possibly have a chance to return to Xudu and inherit the throne?"
Richard abruptly rose to his feet. "Opportunities aren't waited for. They're created! I'll give the order to return to Xudu right now!"
However, after Richard issued the command in Cao Xiong's name, the two Cao Cao generals under his command refused to agree.
Richard grew anxious. "I'm the commander of this army! I ordered a retreat, and you