Ret Pov
I stared at the hologram of the breaking news. Had Yusan really surfaced? But, why did he attack a different place? He had his eyes set of Quadra according to Zepheria. And I doubted Zepheria lied to us.
Had Yusan had a change of plans? Zepheria did warn him that taking Quadra would be a big task. The guy might've gotten cold feet and aimed for a less ambitious target.
"Think we should regroup with the others," I said.
Deros nodded and tapped his headset. Unlike his Quadran friends, he lacked a brain chip implant and mechanical enhancements.
"Hello, Varia," he said. He nodded. "Yeah, I saw the report. You're with Vyran? Then we'll go over to where you two and the others are. Eh? You ran into my grandparents?" He laughed. "Then you're probably close by. We'll be there soon."
"So, where to now?" Huitlo asked as Deros lowered his hand.
"The siblings and their search groups are in a restaurant. It must be near here as they ran into my grandparents," Deros said, a hint of amusement in his voice.
"Alright, let's get moving," I replied, motioning for Huitlo to follow. "The sooner we regroup, the better."
As we navigated through the busy streets of the commercial district, I couldn't help but feel a sense of urgency. Yusan's sudden attack on a different location had thrown a wrench into our plans, and we needed to figure out his next move quickly.
"Do you think Yusan's change of target means he's given up on Quadra?" Huitlo asked, his brow furrowed in thought.
"I doubt it," I said, shaking my head. "Yusan is too ambitious to give up that easily. This might just be a diversion or part of a larger strategy."
We continued walking, the lively atmosphere of the commercial district providing a stark contrast to the tension we felt. The sounds of street vendors, musicians, and chattering crowds filled the air, a reminder of what we were fighting to protect.
"There's the café," Deros said, pointing to a small but fancy looking establishment with outdoor seating. "Let's see if they're inside."
As we approached the café, I spotted Varia, Vyran, and the rest of our group through the large windows. They were all gathered around a table, engaged in what looked like a very animated conversation.
"Looks like we found them," I said, pushing open the door and stepping inside. The warm, inviting atmosphere of the café was a welcome change from the chaos outside.
"Ret! Deros! Huitlo!" Roan exclaimed, waving us over. "You won't believe what just happened."
"We heard," Deros said, taking a seat. "Yusan attacked a different location. Do we have any idea why?"
Varia nodded. "We've been discussing that. It's possible he's trying to throw us off or testing the waters before making a move on Quadra."
Deros's grandparents looked up from their conversation with Lia.
"We were just telling them about some of Yusan's past tactics," Lia said. "He often uses misdirection to keep his enemies off balance."
"That sounds like him," Huitlo said with a sigh. "So, what's our next move?"
Varia held her hand out and projected a star map. "We need to head to the Sotes system as soon as possible. Although, as Lia and Huitlo just said, it could be a distraction."
"Although, Yusan won't know we're here," Huitlo said. "So why would he throw us off?"
I glanced at him, Tira, Lia, and Zairus, unless someone here is a spy.
The prince narrowed his eyes at me. "Seriously, Retas? Do you really think I would help that guy after he had someone fire at me back in Edesia?"
He sighed. "You make a solid point, but that could've been an act to get me to trust you. I mean, if Yusan gets the tech of this world, he could overthrow your sister with more ease."
He grabbed me by the collar of my shirt. "You really think me capable of that? I love Xilonem! I never once wanted to dethrone my big sister. How are we sure you aren't the spy? You allied with the rebels back in Edesia."
I scoffed. "You know why I did so."
"Stop arguing," Zairus said, stepping in between us.
We turned away from one another.
Varia sighed, lowering her hand and dispelling the star map. "This isn't the time for infighting. We're all in this together, and we need to stay united if we want to stop Yusan."
"Varia's right," Sarudei said as she stood up. "Yusan thrives on discord among his enemies. We can't let him manipulate us into turning against each other."
"Thanks, Sarudei. We need to focus on the task at hand. If Yusan is targeting the Sotes system, then that's where we need to be."
"Hold on, some of us should stay here in case Yusan shows up," Vyran said, giving us a worried look.
"True," Varia said, sighing. "Tell, leave it to me. With my chip still damaged, I won't be of much help. While you're gone, I'll get it fixed."
Deros frowned. "But you're the captain. Vyran and I could only leave the academy because you were with us."
"Actually, I think you should stay too, Deros," Vyran said, smiling weakly.
Deros gasped. "How come?"
He sighed. "I can tell you haven't not fully recovered yet from pushing your body to it's limit back in Edesia."
"But..."
Lyrica put her hands on her grandson's shoulders. "Think you should listen to your friend, De."
Deros sighed. "Fine. But be careful."
Vyran nodded.
Varia chuckled. "The director won't be surprised if it's you missing. You've always been a problematic one."
Vyran pouted. "You exaggerate, Sis." He grinned. "But I do wander off and do my own thing. This won't be any different. Tell Veronia that I will be back soon, okay?"
Varia crossed her arms. "Tell her yourself. We need to go home. Dad can help us get a better ship than what the Titanos use."
Vyran gulped. Was he scared of his dad?