On the other side, on the official road leading to Beiguan, dust billowed and the sound of horse hooves echoed.
Zhao Zun and his party galloped forward, finally catching up with the resting Xuzhou Army at an open area along the official road.
The long line of troops rested by the roadside, soldiers sitting in groups of threes and fours, some gnawing on dry food, some wiping their weapons, while others closed their eyes to rest, clearly exhausted from the long journey.
Zhao Zun reined in his horse, Jin Er Cong neighed and came to a steady halt.
He dismounted swiftly and walked briskly to Song Yuanqing, knelt on one knee with cupped fists, his voice loud and respectful.
"This subordinate greets the General."
Song Yuanqing was sitting on the ground with a hard piece of bread in his hand. He had just taken a bite and hadn't yet swallowed when he saw Zhao Zun perform such a grand gesture of respect. Quickly, he stood up, reaching out to hold Zhao Zun's arm.
