After noting down the name, he said, "Your suggestion just now wasn't wrong, but the army is unlike other places. Your rank is low, and speaking out over your superiors will only invite trouble."
"Come serve under me from now on."
In saying this, he naturally intended to recruit Lu Xun, while also keeping him close enough to observe carefully and see whether he could make use of him.
"Nuo!"
Lu Xun accepted without servility or arrogance, then asked, "Should we still follow General Cao Hong's orders and set up camp in the wooded hills?"
Cao Xiu considered for a moment, then nodded. "Do as he said. Liu Bei is holding Swordland and won't lightly risk coming out to attack. Just strengthen the patrols at night."
"This weather really is too hot."
Although he knew that camping in the wooded hills carried some risk, Cao Hong had a point. Liu Bei was holding Swordland and was unlikely to come out and fight them head-on.
Besides, the weather really was scorching, so it was necessary to camp in the woods to shelter the officers and men from the heat.
"I shall carry out your orders."
At this, Lu Xun offered no further advice. He cupped his fists and withdrew.
Watching him leave, Cao Xiu turned toward the Topographical Map hanging in the tent. His gaze settled on Swordland, marked in red with a Vermilion Brush, and did not move for a long time.
Just what would it take to capture this place?
Not long after Cao Cao's reinforcements reached Swordland, Zhang Liao, Zhang He, Sima Yi, and the others also led their reinforcements to Deyang County.
At that moment, countless civilians were evacuating outside Deyang County.
The departing civilians stretched into the distance like a vast, winding dragon. Families with