"Fine, let's surrender to Cao!" Kong Rong sighed softly.

Although he was unwilling to admit it, reality was cruel.

They can't hold on; Qingzhou is doomed to fall.

If we continue to defend it, we will suffer utter destruction.

Rather than that, it's better to choose surrender; at least that way, everyone can save face.

Seeing this, the advisors showed expressions of joy and shouted in unison, "Our lord is wise!"

Then everyone dispersed to prepare.

Meanwhile, Cao Cao also received news of Kong Rong's surrender.

He looked excited and laughed loudly, "Hahaha, great! Kong Rong has actually surrendered! Now the pressure on us has lessened!"

Cao Cao praised Kong Rong for being pragmatic, knowing that he couldn't hold Qingzhou, so he simply surrendered and still managed to save face.

Yuan Shao, on the other hand, was furious and shouted, "That dog Kong Rong has actually surrendered to Cao Mengde!"

"My lord, please don't be upset. Kong Rong's surrender only means that Qingzhou is doomed and Kong Rong is helpless. My lord should hurry up and conquer the three prefectures of Qingzhou, Gaoyang, etc." Xu You quickly advised.

Yuan Shao nodded, finding Xu You's words reasonable. He took a deep breath and asked, "Ziyuan, do you have a plan to help me take Qingzhou as soon as possible?"

Xu You smiled and said, "My lord, Yuan Shu has probably already sent out his troops..."

Yuan Shao's eyes lit up. If Yuan Shu attacked Xuzhou, Cao Cao would definitely lead his troops to support Xuzhou.

Otherwise, if we fail to capture Qingzhou and then lose Xuzhou as well, it will be a huge loss!

Having figured this out, Yuan Shao smiled and said, "Send down the order: at all costs, conquer the three counties including Gaoyang!"