North of Panyu City, battlefield.
The setting sun dyed the entire plain a dark red.
Corpses lay sprawled across the ground, stretching for miles beyond the eye's reach.
The soldiers were clearing the battlefield, loading their own dead onto horse carriages while piling the Rebel Army's corpses together for burning.
The air was thick with bloody smell and scorched smell, mingled with gunpowder smoke and dust, making it hard to breathe.
Han Shizhong sat astride his horse, his expression calm as he looked over this Asura Field.
Then he reined his horse around and headed toward Panyu City.
Several deputy generals followed closely behind him.
Wei Zhaodu waited at the city gate with Xue Rengui to receive him.
Han Shizhong dismounted and cupped his fists in salute. "Lord Wei, I have long admired your name."
Wei Zhaodu returned the salute. "Marquis Han, you have worked hard. Please."
The group entered through the city gate and made their way along the main street toward the Jiedushi Mansion.
On both sides of the street, commoners stood in their doorways, watching this unfamiliar army with eyes full of curiosity and fear.
The soldiers wore matte black armor, long sabers at their waists. Their steps were orderly, and not a sound could be heard.
Jiedushi Mansion, rear hall.
Once host and guests had taken their seats, maidservants served tea and refreshments.
Han Shizhong lifted his teacup, took a sip, then set it down and looked at Wei Zhaodu.
"Lord Wei, though Huang Chao has been defeated, he himself is still on the run.
According to the scouts' reports, he has fled southwest. The southwest is Wuxi Barbarians territory, with high mountains, dense forests, and complex terrain.
If he escapes into the deep mountains, it will be difficult to capture him again."
Wei Zhaodu nodded.