After the minor incident with Cao Hong, the atmosphere in the hall grew even more solemn. Everyone gained a new understanding of Cao Pi, thinking that when His Majesty turned ruthless, he would not even spare his own clan.
"Ziyang, I know you possess many sound strategies. Now that Yong-Liang Region has been lost as well, we cannot simply watch Liu Bei continue to grow stronger. Do you have any clever plan?" Cao Pi directly called on Liu Ye.
Liu Ye had been about to return to his place when Cao Pi called his name. He cupped his hands and replied, "What Minister of Works Wang said is indeed true. Liu Bei has rashly taken over a vast stretch of Yong-Liang Region, so the troops left behind to hold Chang'an cannot be numerous. This minister suggests that General Wenbo, Zhu Ling, leave Tong Pass and probe them. If the Huayin defenders shrink their lines and retreat to Chang'an, Your Majesty may immediately mobilize elite forces westward."
"Hm? Did Ziyang not hear what was said earlier? The forces around Luoyang are limited. Where am I supposed to find elite troops to send into Guanzhong for battle? Are we simply to ignore Guan Yu in Jing Province?" Cao Pi and the others all showed surprise.
To their surprise, Liu Ye answered firmly, "Exactly—we should ignore Guan Yu and strike Chang'an with our full strength. Wan City and Luoyang need only defend as best they can. Jing Province has too few troops; they may suffice for field battles, but in siege warfare, they are simply not worth looking at."
"Sir, this plan is far too risky. It could easily stir panic among the people of Luoyang and make the defense much more difficult." Zhu Shuo was responsible for Luoyang's garrison, so he was