Chapter 1429: Expanding Influence

After Cao Cao learned the news of Liu Bei heading to Jingzhou to seek help, he did not feel surprised. He sat by the desk in the study, holding a volume of military strategy in his hand, his brows slightly furrowed, his eyes deep. He knew deeply Liu Bei's wisdom and courage, and also knew that he would never sit and wait for death, and would definitely seek the support of allies to oppose him. Cao Cao's mouth hooked into a cold smile, and he secretly thought in his heart: "Liu Bei, oh Liu Bei, you truly are still unwilling to submit to me."

Thus, Cao Cao also began to actively prepare, preparing to welcome the coming decisive battle. He summoned the generals under his command, jointly discussing tactics and strategy. The strategist Xun You offered a plan: "My lord, Liu Bei going to Jingzhou this time must be to seek Liu Biao's help. We can take advantage of their alliance not yet being stable to launch a surprise attack, catching them off guard." Cao Cao nodded in agreement, immediately ordering the mobilization of the main army, preparing to head south to Jingzhou.

Finally, on a sunny morning, the two armies unfolded a decisive battle on a vast plain. The coalition army led by Liu Bei and Liu Pan confronted Cao Cao's main army. The soldiers of both sides fought bravely, swords flashed and shadows flickered, and blood flowed like a river. On the battlefield, the sounds of war drums, shouting, and the clashing of weapons intertwined, resounding through the clouds. ===== CHAPTER 1430 =====