149 War!

The Emperor had his gaze peering downwards at the army arrayed in batches within Villa.

Mercenaries, guilders, and squads of numerous families, each brimming with a resolve of their own.

Avillians had all been gathered into underground compartments. They were of little use being women or combatants of Adept-rank.

The real fighting force lay in criminal cells, as the enemy was better than an ally who couldn't be trusted.

The previous night, the Emperor had a Master deliver the five children to the capital.

He would decide their fate once the war was over, whenever that would be.

'It will soon begin'

Dawn and morning came in quick succession and left soon after, leaving the men standing guard in the hot afternoon sun.

At this time, one of the scouts spotted movement from afar.

From a different direction, moving dots came into view.

As the dots moved closer, the dust they blew up was no joke.

'So, they are here'