In late October of the sixth year of the Jian'an Era, Zhang Song returned to Shu Commandery and first sought out Fa Zheng and Meng Da.
He told them how, upon entering Jing Province, he had received Liu Bei's gracious hospitality. Judging from his words and bearing, Liu Bei truly was a wise lord.
Upon hearing this, Meng Da could not help but yearn for him. But when Fa Zheng learned that Liu Bei wished to join forces with Liu Zhang to seize Hanzhong, he gave a bitter smile and said:
"Viewed thus, though we wish to offer Yi Province, the credit for this deed will have to go to Qin Tian!"
Seeing his words, Zhang Song knew that Fa Zheng must have noticed something, and quickly asked why. Fa Zheng said:
"Brother, you only heard that Qin Tian wished to take Hanzhong, but you do not understand why he wishes to take Hanzhong!"
"Cao Cao has now suffered defeat at Guandu, but he still has fortified passes guarded by his troops."
"If Liu Zhengdong wishes to march north, he will surely lose troops and generals, yet find it difficult to achieve any decisive victory."
"But if Liu Zhengdong takes Hanzhong, he will be able to join Liu Jiyu in marching north into Guanzhong."
"Therefore, once Cao Cao learns that Liu Zhengdong has sent troops into Hanzhong, he will surely personally lead a great army here to resist."
"From what I see, Qin Tian's plan appears on the surface to aid our Western Sichuan, but in truth, it aims to lure Cao Cao's main force here."
"Moreover, Yuan Shao's envoy has already arrived. Seeing that Liu Zhengdong wishes to take Hanzhong, Yuan Shao will send troops to strike Cao Cao from the rear."
"Once Cao Cao is attacked from both