"As long as we can hold out until winter arrives, Yuan Shao will surely withdraw. Then, Young General, you will have room to breathe and can gather your forces again to resist the enemy."
Zhang Yan laid out his plans and intentions.
When Gongsun Xu heard that Zhang Yan did not intend to confront Yuan Shao head-on, but only to harass his rear, he could not help feeling dissatisfied.
But Zhang Yan was not his subordinate, after all. Insisting that the Black Mountain Army help defend the city would be taking a mile after being given an inch.
Thus, Gongsun Xu could only say, "Sorry for the trouble, General Zhang... But if Ji County falls into peril, I still hope you will send troops to relieve the siege."
"Of course!"
Zhang Yan agreed at once, declaring with righteous conviction, "Resisting the Yuan Thief and protecting You Province are duties we cannot shirk!"
"However..."
Then his tone shifted, and he said somewhat sheepishly, "I have one small request. I hope you will agree, Young General."
Here it comes.
Gongsun Xu and Gongsun Fan exchanged a glance. Both knew that a bandit chief like Zhang Yan would never help them for nothing.
Sure enough, he was starting to make demands.
But they were the ones who needed his help, so Gongsun Xu asked with a smile, "Speak freely, General Zhang. If it is within my power, I certainly will not refuse."
"It is nothing major."
Zhang Yan laughed and scratched his head. "We are running a little short of provisions in the mountains. I hope you could lend us some, Young General. Whatever amount you see fit... I really am rather embarrassed to ask."
The corner of Gongsun Xu's mouth twitched.
Whatever amount he saw fit-that was the hardest amount to give.