Sunlight dappled the vast expanse of the highland plains. Beneath the sky, two massive legions drew near to each other. The samurai bore the same flags, wore the same armor, spoke the same language, and had familiar faces among them. One side was noisily and excitedly welcoming their allies; the other waited in silence for their opponents.
The King's ceremonial flag waved, signaling the opposing side to speed up. However, the middle-aged commander, Keteke, was in no hurry and even began to decelerate, his suspicion growing. Xiulote, somewhat puzzled, cast his gaze to the central army at the rear and noticed that two thousand samurai were already slowly shifting position, clearly indicating the true intended recipients of the flag signals.