Xiulote pondered the opportune moment for waging war when suddenly he heard the scout's report.
"Your Highness, a large enemy force has appeared ten miles to the southeast, at least five thousand strong!"
Upon hearing this, Xiulote ascended to the high platform on the great boat, straining his eyes southeastward. Ten miles was nearly the limit of plain sight, and in the southeast were faintly visible several small dots in flight. Following them were a large mass of black dots and birds startled into flight from where they passed.