"Let his troops and the Pretender Emperor's wear each other down. That would serve you best, Minister of Works."
The successive admonitions from Xun Yu and Xun You gradually calmed Cao Cao. Although he was deeply reluctant to send troops to reinforce Ma Chao, he had to admit that the uncle and nephew were right.
Ma Chao could not be destroyed yet. He still had to serve as Cao Cao's shield, drawing the Imperial Court's attention and giving Cao Cao time to build his strength.
"Then send the troops."
Cao Cao said rather reluctantly, "Have Cao Ren lead thirty thousand troops to attack Bing Province and divide Zhang Liao's forces. But remember, he must not engage them head-on."
"He only needs to keep them from committing all their strength to the campaign against Ma Chao."
After saying this, Cao Cao felt as sick as though he had swallowed a fly. He even lost his appetite, rising directly from his seat and leaving the meal.
After deciding to go home, Zhen Mi recuperated in the palace for only a few days. Once her condition improved a little, she set out for her hometown.
Eager to return, her convoy barely stopped along the way, reaching Wuji County in less than half a month.
Outside the Zhen Residence.
Zhen Yi had personally led the younger members of the Zhen Clan's various branches outside early to wait. Upon seeing the carriage slowly approach, he immediately stepped forward with everyone to bow and welcome her.
"Greetings, Noble Lady."
Although Zhen Mi was a daughter of the Zhen Clan, she had become one of the Son of Heaven's imperial consorts upon entering the palace. Her exalted status far surpassed that of everyone in the Zhen Clan, so even her elders could not neglect the proper