Advent of the Attack

  "I ought to admit, you don't look anything as I remember."

  "Neither do you, old man."

  "…" The little chat shook and rocked. A few days had passed since the whole poison business. '-The stewards decided to help me get to the Emerald City. The next move is there's to make,' and there, Staxius' journey resumed. 

A great cloud of uneasiness circled over the fortress De'ilo. Aside from the crude name, the place rises sharply over a gentle hill; one considered to be the only route into the main heart of the Aapith Nation's territory. Either the hill, where the fortress guards the passage, or the coast, a long journey cut with dangerous obstacles. 

More days elapsed, between the election and gathering of the forces – Yui, Minerva, and Cruse had their hands full. 

  "So much for that discussion," Yui tied her hair and passed confused glances at Minerva. The latter kept her sharp, calculating gaze upon the layout Yui proposed.