Cao Cao finally turned to Xun You, who had yet to offer an opinion.
Xun You pondered for a long time before saying, "This is a matter of grave importance. I find it difficult to decide just now... Minister of Works, you might first ask how Zhou Yu intends to come over to us."
"If he brings his men to surrender, we can prepare for battle and put the army on heightened alert. Should they make any suspicious move, we can shoot them down in a hail of arrows."
More than eight thousand troops, along with all those supplies and ships, were no small number. If they could truly take them in, their strength would increase considerably.
Of course, that depended on the other side surrendering in earnest.
After considering it repeatedly, Cao Cao felt that Xun You's judgment made good sense. Besides, he was unwilling to return empty-handed just like this.
So, after discussing the details with the three of them further, Cao Cao ordered someone to invite Lu Su back.
When Lu Su entered the tent and saw three unfamiliar faces dressed as scholars, he knew Cao Cao must have just consulted his advisors.
Now came the final decision on whether to believe him.
His expression barely changed, however. Feigning puzzlement, he asked, "Is there something else, Duke Cao? I have been awake all night and am quite exhausted."
"Thank you for your efforts, sir."
Cao Cao smiled, stepped forward, and took Lu Su's hand. "But our great undertaking is not yet complete, and I must still ask you to exert yourself further."
"I understand the sincerity of both you and General Zhou. Please return to the enemy camp and arrange with General Zhou to send word across the river before you act. I will certainly send men