The Strategic Failure at Xuyi Northern Wei Campaign This section describes the retreat of the Northern Wei forces (the "Wei") after failing to take the city of Xuyi during their invasion of the southern territories.

To the south, the army looked upon Guabu A strategic ferry crossing and hill on the northern bank of the Yangtze River, near modern Nanjing., and the various commanderies all surrendered. Yet at the small city of Xuyi, the siege failed to capture it, and the army was forced to retreat.

The sun sets on the soldiers who could not take a single city. Not a speck of dust from the land was claimed. How could there be no men capable of turning this into a major garrison? It remains unpacified and cannot be held because it is too small.

Indeed, those who would block water must first dam its source; those who would fell a tree must first cut its roots. If the root and source remain while one merely attacks the minor branches, there will ultimately be no benefit.

Shouyang, Xuyi, and Huaiyin These were the three "anchor" cities of the Huai River defense line. are the very roots of the Huainan region. If these three garrisons are not captured, and only one is held by a remaining force, it becomes a solitary city. If few soldiers are stationed there, they will be insufficient to hold their ground; if many soldiers are stationed there, the transport of grain supplies will be difficult to maintain.

Once the main army has returned, the hearts of the remaining soldiers will be isolated and fearful. Furthermore, the summer waters will rise high, making any rescue mission extremely difficult. To use a newly-arrived force to strike a long-established enemy, or to use weary troops to resist those who are rested—if it truly comes to this, our men will surely be captured by the enemy.

The weather is currently hot, and the seasonal rains are just beginning to fall. I pray that Your Majesty follows the established regulations of the Ancestral Founder Referring to Emperor Taiwu of Northern Wei (ruled 423–452 CE), a legendary military leader., turns your carriage back toward Luoyi An ancient name for Luoyang, the capital of the Northern Wei dynasty., and conserves our strength to observe future developments...