"Excellent!"
Tian Feng withdrew his gaze from Han Sui's severed head, then cautioned Ma Chao, "Though Han Sui is dead, you must not announce his death immediately."
"Over the next few days, General, continue spreading word that you have taken Han Sui as your adoptive father. Let that circulate for a few days, then fabricate news that Han Sui encountered a Xiongnu army that had entered the pass to plunder while on his return journey and unfortunately perished. Send that news back to his army."
"Afterward, you can take a batch of Xiongnu heads to them, claiming that you have slaughtered every last one of the Xiongnu who ambushed and killed Han Sui, avenging him. Then, as Han Sui's adopted son, you can take command of the army left like dragons without a head."
"That will allow you to unite the Western Liang Army smoothly."
Though Han Sui and all his trusted followers had died here, the two armies had been enemies for many years. If Ma Chao suddenly went over to take command of the Western Liang Army, conflict would inevitably follow.
It would therefore be better to establish his status as Han Sui's adopted son, pin the crime on the Xiongnu while avenging Han Sui, and only then take over the Western Liang Army. This would minimize resistance from Han Sui's army.
"You truly have thought of everything, sir!"
Ma Chao was deeply impressed. Tian Feng had not only helped him kill Han Sui, but had even arranged how he would take over Han Sui's army. All he needed to do was follow Tian Feng's plan.
This was far more efficient than fighting and killing.
Having explained all this, Tian Feng rose. "General, now that Han Sui is dead, I will stay here no longer."
"I hope you