At those words, Cao Cao looked hesitant and sighed deeply. "But after the crimes I've committed, how could the Son of Heaven spare me?"
"Besides, I'm still wavering. My forces are far stronger now than before. I might yet be able to contend with the Imperial Court."
Xu You scoffed. "You're dreaming. Even someone as formidable as Ma Chao ended up defeated. How could you possibly be a match for the Imperial Court?"
"The Son of Heaven has unified the north and is leading his iron cavalry south. How can you contend with the Imperial Court's armies with merely Jing Province and Jiangdong?"
"Even if you exploit the abundant waterways of Jingxiang and Jiangdong to develop a navy and resist the Imperial Court for a time, that is no lasting solution."
"Besides, Yi Province, that great granary, has also been recovered by the Imperial Court. Jing Province and Jiangdong produce limited grain, hardly enough to sustain you..."
Xu You analyzed the situation for Cao Cao in an unending torrent.
But halfway through, he suddenly noticed Cao Cao staring at him with bright, intent eyes, listening to his analysis with utter concentration. Realization struck him at once.
"Cao Aman! You shameless bastard!"
Xu You slammed the table and sprang to his feet, pointing straight at Cao Cao's nose as he unleashed a torrent of abuse, his face livid.
Cao Cao had not come seeking his advice about surrendering at all. He was using the pretext to draw him out and make him analyze the situation!
His earlier talk of surrender had lulled Xu You into complacency, and in a moment of carelessness, he had fallen into the scoundrel's trap!
Seeing that Xu You had uncovered his intent, Cao Cao could not help thinking, What a pity.
He had indeed come that