If it was a genuine opening and they failed to seize it, they would miss an excellent opportunity to crush the enemy; if it was a trap and they stepped into it, they would suffer devastating losses.
Pang Tong's analysis was undoubtedly sound, but after hearing it, Sima Yi remained cautious. He shook his head and said, "I believe we should exercise greater care and take no risks."
He and Zhuge Liang had each accompanied a separate force on this expedition. He did not want anything going wrong on his side and leaving him outshone by Zhuge Liang.
"Heh."
Pang Tong scoffed at this and cast Sima Yi a sidelong glance. "It seems not everyone listed in Lingyun Pavilion possesses genuine talent and learning."
This was naked provocation and contempt.
Pang Tong was arrogant by nature. If he did not acknowledge someone's worth, he cared nothing for their status and would open his mouth to mock them.
Both Zhang Liao and Zhang He frowned at his words.
They were, after all, acquainted with Sima Yi and had fought shoulder to shoulder with him before. Naturally, they were displeased to see a man they had only just met ridicule him like this.
"Shiyuan, what nonsense are you talking!"
Seeing the atmosphere turn sour, Liu Bei hurried to smooth things over. He bowed to Sima Yi and apologized. "My military advisor has grown accustomed to speaking and acting without restraint. He truly means no harm."
"What Attendant Sima just said is reasonable as well. However, we have held Swordland for many days and know something of the Cao Army. They will certainly be unprepared."
"Tonight, I am willing to lead troops out of the city myself to raid the Cao camp, while General Zhang holds Swordland. Even if my judgment proves mistaken