He had planned to conquer all counties in Longxi (west of Long Ridges), and within a year, all cities except Jicheng (capital of Tianshui Commandery) in the area surrendered to the allied force.

Even though the Inspector of Liang Province, Wei Kang, faced a large numerical disadvantage, his assistant, Yang Fu, greatly encouraged the defenders by taking the lead in protecting the city.

Now Ma Chao was irritated and censured the elder venomously, causing Yan Wen to finally stand up and say, "A gentleman serving a lord can die for him but not betray him, yet you desired an old man to conduct evil speeches!

Such a victory greatly impressed Qianwan, leader of the Di tribe, so the latter allied with Ma Chao, who now named himself General Who Conquers the West and Governor of Bing Province.

By conquering Jicheng, Ma Chao had gained a base from which to command the majority of Liang Province and exert influence around the area.

The siege on Jicheng is featured in Koei's video game Dynasty Warriors 5: Xtreme Legends and is called Battle of Ji Castle.