As Shikihime and Shikuro settled into their room at the inn, Shikihime couldn't help but smile, watching Shikuro's visible discomfort. His frown deepened as he paced the room, a bundle of nerves and frustration.

  "What's so amusing?" Shikuro finally asked, unable to contain his irritation.

  Shikihime's smile widened, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Your behavior, Shikuro. It's like watching a child who's lost in a market. Remember, we're supposed to be honeymooners, not captives of circumstance. Lighten up a bit."

  Shikuro stopped his pacing, running a hand through his hair in exasperation. "This is all so foreign to me. I'm a soldier, a leader, not some lovestruck groom. How am I supposed to act in this charade?"

  For a moment, Shikihime's playful demeanor faded, replaced by a piercing seriousness. "You're acting pathetic, Shikuro. Pull yourself together."

  Her words struck a nerve. Shikuro advanced on her, pointing a finger inches from her face, his voice laced with anger. "Say that again. I dare you."

  Without flinching, Shikihime met his gaze and repeated, "Pathetic. That's what you are right now."

  In a fit of anger, Shikuro turned and kicked the bed, causing one of its wooden legs to crack. Shikihime's smile returned, more amused than ever. "Perfect! Now we have a cover story for our 'wild honeymoon night.'"

  Shikuro opened his mouth to retort but seemed lost for words. He opened and closed his mouth several times, struggling to formulate a response.

  Shikihime, still smiling, tried to ease the tension. "I think the most challenging part of our escape is behind us. Take a moment to relax, Shikuro. You're not just physically tired; this whole ordeal is mentally taxing you. We're safe for now. Use this time to regain your composure."

  As the evening sun cast its warm glow through the window, Shikihime stood up gracefully, her hands reaching to unfasten her clothes. Shikuro, taken aback by her sudden action, stammered, "What... what are you doing?"

  Shikihime, with a mischievous glint in her eye, slowly began peeling off layer after layer of her travel-worn attire. Shikuro's heart raced; was this an invitation, a challenge, or something else entirely? His mind was a whirlwind of confusion and anticipation.

  Meanwhile, Shikihime had stripped down to her undergarments, which were a far cry from their original pristine condition. Noticing their gray and dirty state, Shikuro's thoughts abruptly shifted. Perhaps she was signaling him to take the lead, to step into the role of the passionate husband she had crafted for him. Emboldened by this thought, he began to awkwardly remove his own clothing.

  Just as Shikihime neared him, she reached for her chest, retrieving a fresh set of clothes. She turned to Shikuro, who was now half-naked and visibly embarrassed. "Shikuro, what are you doing?" she asked, a playful note in her voice. "I'm just stepping out to change. I'll be back for dinner. Please be ready for our evening together, my dear."

  Flustered and unsure how to react, Shikuro watched as she left the room, Minato trailing behind her. Once outside, Minato spoke up, "I hope you're not pushing him too far, Shikihime. Have some mercy."

  Shikihime's smile widened. "I didn't expect him to be so captivated by me," she admitted, a hint of surprise in her voice. Pausing, she turned to Minato, a curious look in her eyes. "Do you think I'm... sexy, even like this?"

  Minato's gaze swept over her from head to toe, taking in her disheveled appearance. After a moment's consideration, he replied, "You'd have a chance with me, at least."

  Shikihime's laughter echoed softly in the hallway. Minato's response, unexpectedly frank, added a lightness to her step. It was a small victory, a moment of levity in the midst of their tense situation.

  Under the dim glow of the evening sky, Shikihime confidently strode out of the inn, turning left in a direction contrary to expectations. The Black Sun Company lay to the right, but she veered away, weaving an unpredictable path through the streets. Her steps were measured, her gaze occasionally flicking back, as if searching for signs of anyone following. Minato, ever vigilant, trailed slightly behind, his senses attuned to their surroundings. But it appeared they were alone; no shadows lurked behind them.

  Circling back to the main road after an hour of this careful navigation, they finally approached the Black Sun Company. The building loomed large and imposing, its architecture a stark contrast to the simpler structures around it.

  Inside, they were greeted by a receptionist who wore a practiced smile. Shikihime, without hesitation, presented her badge, the symbol of her intent clear. "I've come to trade," she stated firmly. The receptionist's eyes briefly widened in recognition before she regained her composure, returning the badge and asking them to wait momentarily.

  The waiting area was steeped in a heavy silence, broken only by the soft murmur of conversations in distant corners. Shikihime and Minato exchanged no words, understanding the gravity of their mission required discretion.

  Soon, a man who had been conversing with the receptionist departed swiftly, only to return with a woman introducing herself as Renata. Her entrance was marked by a blend of grace and authority. With a courteous bow, she addressed them as "dear guests," inviting them to follow her to the private chambers of the company.

  The large room they entered was grand in scale, with high ceilings and an air of clandestine secrecy. Renata confidently approached a torch on the wall and pulled it, revealing a hidden mechanism. With a quiet rumble, a bookcase slid aside, unveiling a secret passage. Without hesitation, they followed Renata into the darkness, a realm where their heightened senses thrived.

  Emerging into another room, they found themselves in a space designed for covert meetings. A large, ornate table dominated the center, surrounded by plush armchairs that seemed to swallow light. Shikihime chose a chair and sat gracefully, her posture regal yet tense. Minato remained standing, a silent guardian behind her.

  Renata, assuming a more formal demeanor, performed a respectful bow. "It is an honor to meet you, Princess Shikihime," she began, her voice laced with a blend of respect and subtle curiosity. "Congratulations on your engagement," she added, though her eyes flickered with unspoken knowledge.

  Shikihime's response was frosty, her features unmoving. "The pleasure is mutual, Renata," she replied, her hand resting on her cheek, betraying none of her thoughts. "I presume you're aware of my current predicament and the unfolding events."

  Renata took her seat, meeting Shikihime's gaze with an unwavering look. "Indeed, I must be," she said, her tone implying a depth of understanding befitting her role as the head operative for the region. "Part of my duty, after all."

  Shikihime nodded, her expression still unreadable. "Then you likely anticipate what I require of you," she stated, cutting straight to the heart of the matter.

  "Partially, my princess," Renata conceded, making a few discreet notes. "Clothes, accommodation, a status report, and a message to the Dynasty – all will be arranged. However, extricating yourself from the Stardust Kingdom under these circumstances will be... challenging."

  Shikihime's nod was thoughtful, her mind already strategizing. "Understood. And there are six of us, including the Archduke. Safety is paramount. Additionally, I need this information relayed to Kage in Frostgard. I must recuperate, gather my strength. Expect a detailed report through my subordinate tomorrow. Our entry into the city today was just the beginning."

  Renata nodded, her expression a mix of admiration and concern. She continued making notes, the scratch of her pen the only sound in the room. The air was thick with unspoken plans and the weight of responsibility that lay on their shoulders.

  Renata leaned in slightly, her expression one of professional curiosity. "Princess Shikihime, is there anything specific I should prioritize or expedite?" she inquired, her tone suggesting readiness to mobilize resources at a moment's notice.

  Shikihime, maintaining her composed demeanor, offered a measured response. "Prioritize precision over haste, Renata. We're staying at the inn for a few days, so there's no need to rush. Our current status and safety are of utmost importance. An accurate and detailed report to the Dynasty should be your first action."

  She paused, fixing Renata with a piercing gaze that conveyed the seriousness of her next words. "However, I must insist on one crucial condition. Do not, under any circumstances, send operatives to follow us. We're on high alert and will act decisively against any perceived threats. Observation from a distance is permissible, but direct trailing is off-limits. Is my directive clear?"

  Renata, unfazed by the stern warning, nodded in understanding and agreement.

  Shikihime continued, her tone slightly softer but still laced with authority. "There are two smugglers involved in our entry into the city. One of them goes by the name Jane. Keep an eye on them. They helped us willingly, but they're unaware of our true identities and the number of people in our group. Monitor them discreetly as a precaution."

  As Renata diligently made notes, she looked up, curiosity evident in her eyes. "And your hair, Princess, is it part of your disguise?"

  "Yes," Shikihime replied, lightly touching her altered locks. "They're searching for me, and I anticipate that sketches or paintings will soon circulate. This change is a necessary precaution. Speaking of which, I will require cosmetics and herbs for hair coloring."

  Renata nodded, jotting down the additional request. "Consider it arranged, Princess. Your discretion and forethought are admirable."

  Shikihime's gaze shifted towards Minato, her expression one of contemplation. "There's another matter I need to address – supplies. Have we overlooked anything?" she inquired, her tone suggesting a thorough approach to their preparation.

  Minato, with his usual efficiency, responded promptly. "We need to replenish our medical supplies extensively. And it's imperative we administer some form of restorative during our recovery period. We can't afford a relapse of your illness."

  Acknowledging his advice with a nod, Shikihime turned her attention back to Renata. "Please include an assortment of medicines in our supplies. And add poison pills and powders to the list. Equip us as though we're preparing for an assassination mission. We need to be prepared for any eventuality."

  Renata diligently scribbled down the new instructions, quickly filling up another sheet of paper. Her pen moved swiftly, capturing every detail of Shikihime's requests.

  Shikihime continued, her voice steady but laden with urgency. "I've left a coded message in one of our hidden locations – the underground safehouse beneath the river... its name escapes me at the moment."

  Renata, with a confident wave of her hand, reassured her. "Consider it done, Princess. I'll handle that as well."

  After a brief pause, Renata's demeanor shifted, her face clouding with a mix of hesitation and concern. "Princess Shikihime, I regret to inform you that I have some unsettling news to share. Are you prepared for what I'm about to reveal?"

  Shikihime met Renata's gaze squarely, her eyes reflecting a resilience born of adversity. "Proceed," she commanded firmly. "I am no stranger to harsh realities. What's the matter?"

  Renata, sensing the gravity of the moment, apologized for her hesitance before delivering the grim update. "It's about Haru and your other companions. Their fate is... dire." She paused, gathering her thoughts. "Rin, however, seems to have escaped. Details are scarce, but she's likely on her way back to the Dynasty as we speak. We can expect news of their return to reach us here in about two weeks."

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  Shikihime's icy tone cut through the room, her words sharp as she demanded more from Renata. "Is that all? Is there anything else of importance I need to be made aware of?"

  Renata hesitated, considering her next words carefully. "Would you require additional personnel, Princess?" she ventured.

  Shikihime contemplated this, her thoughts a swirling maelstrom of strategy and caution. "No, not at this juncture," she finally said, her voice measured. "It would draw too much attention. We must remain inconspicuous. However, that may change depending on the contents of your report."

  Renata nodded, understanding the precarious balance of visibility and safety that Shikihime was navigating.

  "There's also the matter of identification badges for our companions from the realm, Archduke Shikuro and his guard Bjorn," Shikihime added, her gaze steady and expectant.

  Renata moved with purpose to a shelf, retrieving two badges and handing them over to Minato, adhering to the established protocol. As she did so, she began, "Admiral Tomoe, if I may—"

  As Renata began to speak again, addressing Shikihime with a title that clearly did not sit well with her, she was swiftly interrupted. "What did you just call me?" Shikihime's voice was dangerously low, a clear warning embedded in her words.

  Renata's reaction was immediate. She bowed deeply, her apology swift and sincere. She quickly corrected herself, "Princess Shikihime, would you consider a venture into the land of no one?"

  Shikihime leaned forward slightly, her interest piqued but cautious. "That will depend on your report. We'll convene a meeting with everyone involved. The Archduke grows restless when excluded from our plans. Do you grasp the implications of what I'm saying?"

  Renata nodded again, her pen moving across the paper as she made additional notes.

  Shikihime then inquired, "Is there anything else we need to discuss?"

  With Renata's standing and bowing, it was clear the business at hand was concluded. The meeting was over. Shikihime stood up, followed by Minato, with Renata trailing behind. They left the hidden room, emerging into the dimly lit space once more.

  Back at the reception, Renata extended her professional courtesies with a polite farewell. "Dear guests, it has been a pleasure conducting business with you. Please do not hesitate to visit us again should the need arise."

  The evening draped the city streets in a cloak of dim light, casting long shadows that flickered in the faint glow of lanterns. Shikihime, with the stealth and alertness of a seasoned scout, led the way, her eyes scanning the surroundings for any sign of danger. Minato followed closely, his senses heightened, every muscle tensed for action.

  It wasn't long before Shikihime's keen perception picked up a familiar presence. "It's Akalune," she murmured to Minato, her voice a whisper, her lips barely moving. "She'll likely intersect our path a few streets from here." Minato, though still vigilant, relaxed slightly, trusting Shikihime's judgement.

  As they meandered through the labyrinthine streets, Shikihime mused on the precarious state of the city's security. With most guards stationed around the city, the inner streets were more vulnerable than ever. A perfect breeding ground for ambushes and secret meetings.

  True to Shikihime's prediction, Akalune emerged from the shadows a few turns later, melding into their group with the ease of a shadow. "It's good to see you here, my friend," Shikihime greeted her warmly. "Has Yoru been as successful in her scouting?"

  Akalune nodded. "She's ahead of us, already keeping an eye on the city. But she seems a bit concerned about the room arrangements."

  Shikihime's eyes twinkled with understanding. They must have paired Yoru with Bjorn in the inn, an amusing yet potentially explosive combination. Minato, ever practical, suggested, "Let's return to the inn. We all need to discuss our next steps."

  Upon their arrival at the inn, they were greeted by the sight of Bjorn, Yoru, and Shikuro already seated at a large table set for six. The trio waved them over. Shikihime, Akalune, and Minato took their seats across from them, exchanging warm greetings.

  As they settled into the lively atmosphere of the inn, Shikihime declared with a wide grin, "I'm so famished I could eat a whole feast! And I'm definitely not skipping dessert." Shikuro, concern etched on his face, began, "Shikihime, why won't you tell us wha—" but his words were abruptly cut off by a sharp kick under the table from Yoru. Shikuro shot her a stunned look, clearly not expecting such a bold move from a servant.

  Shikihime's smile widened as she leaned in towards Yoru, her voice a playful scold, "Leave disciplining my husband to me, Yoru. It's my privilege to reprimand a naughty boy, not yours, alright?" Yoru mumbled an apology and nodded, then leaned in to whisper urgently in Shikuro's ear, "Act normal, you idiot. We can't risk drawing attention or having our conversation overheard. We're just six friends enjoying dinner."

  Shikuro, still reeling from Yoru's kick and her whisper, nodded dumbly, his expression a mix of surprise and confusion. Shikihime, though she hadn't heard Yoru's words, guessed their content from Shikuro's baffled look and couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction.

  Akalune, ever the peacemaker, lifted her glass with a warm smile, "Cheers!" The rest echoed her sentiment, clinking their drinks together in a moment of camaraderie. After a while, Bjorn's face lit up with a contented smile. "You know," he mused, "I could live without many things, but a life without beer would be like an eternal void."

  Minato chuckled, "I wouldn't say that about the beer, but I get your point." Shikihime's eyes sparkled with mischief. "Why not go for something stronger tonight? Let's get smashed!" she proposed, her voice bubbling with rebellious glee.

  Akalune, joining in the playful banter, chimed in, "But remember, tomorrow is shopping day. Minato promised me a date, so let's not overdo it tonight, Arabela." Shikihime responded with a broad smile, taking another hearty swig from her keg.

  When the food finally arrived, the table fell into a comfortable silence, each person savoring the meal that had been a long time coming. It was a rare moment of peace and normalcy, a cherished reprieve from the relentless challenges they faced.

  After their hearty dinner, the group reconvened in Bjorn and Yoru's room. Outside, Minato lurked in the shadows, the corridor dimly lit by only two flickering candles. He had intentionally snuffed out one, ensuring their meeting remained clandestine.

  Inside, the room was arranged in an intimate circle: Shikuro and Shikihime on the bed, Bjorn seated comfortably in a chair, Akalune standing with her usual poise, and Yoru seated in a traditional posture on the floor. The air was thick with anticipation, a mixture of fatigue and determination among them.

  Yoru, always the protector, was the first to voice her discomfort, "I do not like these arrangements. As your guard, it's risky for you to share a room with a man." Shikihime met her gaze steadily, "Noted, but declined. We'll maintain this setup. I won't risk random discovery. My purity is mine to protect." Her eyes glinted mischievously as she leaned toward Yoru, adding, "And if he tries anything, I promise to 'ring his bells' so hard they'll retract." Shikuro's hand instinctively moved to protect himself, his imagination vividly conjuring the threatened scenario.

  Shikihime then recounted their day's exploits and encounters at the Black Sun Company, handing out badges to Bjorn and Shikuro. She instructed Yoru to draft a report, which she would review and send out the following day. Yoru nodded in acknowledgment, her pen poised and ready.

  As they discussed their stay, Shikihime estimated they'd be in town for several days. She emphasized the importance of acting normally and avoiding trouble. Then, with a hint of playful scheming, she turned to Akalune. "You and Minato could 'celebrate' tonight. It won’t raise any suspicions. We’ve already broken a bed, so I'm quite alright with Shikuro," she said with a sly grin.

  Turning her attention to Yoru, she added, "You'll need to share the bed with Bjorn, but please, let’s avoid any unnecessary risks." Yoru cast a piercing gaze at Bjorn, who quickly reassured her, "You have nothing to fear from me, miss. I'm far too exhausted and full to contemplate anything remotely untoward."

  Akalune snapped to attention and saluted crisply, her face solemn. "As you command, my lady," she declared, her voice resonating with unwavering loyalty. Shikihime, observing Akalune's reaction, couldn't help but smile slightly, her eyes softening. "Relax, Akalune, it was only a jest. Don't commit to actions that might lead to regret." Her gaze then shifted to Yoru, who stood with an elegance that belied her role as a servant. There was a wistful look in Shikihime's eyes as she admired Yoru's beauty, a silent acknowledgement of the potential being overshadowed by duty.

  Turning her attention back to the group, Shikihime asked, "Are there any questions?" Bjorn and Shikuro raised a few queries for clarification. Once satisfied, the group decided it was time to disperse for the night. Shikihime and Shikuro were the first to leave, heading back to their shared room.

  In the privacy of their chamber, Shikuro's demeanor was a stark contrast to his usual composure; he seemed to be a bundle of gloomy thoughts, lost in his own world. Shikihime, sensing an opportunity to lighten the mood, began to change into her night robe right in front of him. However, Shikuro's reaction, or lack thereof, was unexpected — he simply turned his gaze away, leaving Shikihime slightly puzzled and disappointed.

  She approached him, her voice laced with concern. "What's troubling you, Shikuro? Have I pushed you too far with my teasing?" Shikuro's response was a gentle shake of his head. "No, Shikihime, you've been incredible. It's just that... without your guidance, we would've likely faced a much grimmer fate."

  Shikihime then took her usual spot on his lap, a position they often found themselves in during their more intimate conversations back in Frostgard. Her words were light, yet tinged with a hint of playfulness. "You know, Shikuro, you could always just swim back to your fleet," she joked. But Shikuro's reaction was not as expected; no smile, no chuckle, just a somber look.

  Shikihime continued, her tone growing more serious. "You're different from us, Shikuro. You weren't aware of the gift we possess. Alone, your plan with Bjorn would've been quite different, wouldn't it? Yes, we've provided valuable intel and assistance, but remember, it's all about adapting to the environment. Don't be too hard on yourself. Let's get some rest."

  As Shikuro eventually changed and lay in bed, Shikihime lay awake, pondering over their situation. When she thought Shikuro had fallen asleep, her emotions, held back for so long, began to surface. Tears streamed silently down her cheeks as she mourned for Haru and the team she had sent on that fateful mission. Regret and resolve battled within her; she vowed to remember their sacrifice and seek vengeance, however long it might take.

  In the midst of her silent sorrow, Shikuro unexpectedly wrapped his arms around her from behind, offering comfort. "It's alright to let it out, Shikihime," he whispered gently. "Is this about the loss of your friends?" All she could muster was a simple "Yes," as she continued to cry, her body shaking with suppressed sobs. Shikuro remained wordlessly by her side, holding her tightly, providing a silent strength in her moment of vulnerability.

  Interlude: Ryo's Decision

  Ryo, the admiral of the Frostgard fleet, was grappling with an increasing number of perplexing reports. As he maneuvered his fleet in international waters, just two days away from Frostgard, he felt the weight of his responsibility as a pivotal conduit for information. His primary directive was clear: if Shikihime was located, he had to act swiftly, either making autonomous decisions or relaying critical information to the Emperor. More often than not, his role involved forwarding these updates to his father, Prime Minister Kaito Kurayami.

  However, recently he received an unprecedented command from his father: "Bring Shikihime home." This directive left Ryo puzzled, hinting at potential political upheaval or even the disintegration of their current alliance. The urgency in his father's words was unusual and foreboding.

  Ryo sifted through more letters, his mind clouded with thoughts. One from Prince Leif caught his attention. It detailed Erik's successful deployment in the Stardust Kingdom and his conviction that Shikihime had headed southwest. Ryo couldn't help but feel that Prince Leif's naiveté shone through his actions. Rather than deploying his subordinate Ingrid, whose position as a woman in a patriarchal kingdom could have been leveraged for political gain, Leif chose a direct approach, revealing crucial intel to someone outside his direct command.

  Another letter from a fellow admiral brought a glimmer of hope: six out of eleven fleets were poised to provide rapid support. This was a rare piece of good news amidst the chaos.

  But the relative peace of this discovery was soon shattered by a disturbing report from Kraken. Sora, the report's author, narrated troubling occurrences within the fleet. There was a noticeable hostility from certain ships and personnel, almost as if they were preparing for a confrontation rather than collaboration. The mention of planned joint drills seemed ludicrous to Ryo and raised several questions about the fleet's true intentions.

  Grateful for Sora's vigilance and her decision to distance herself from potential danger, Ryo acknowledged her move to head further south and switch communication channels.

  As Ryo, the High Admiral, scanned through his pile of correspondence, a letter from Kage caught his eye. Kage, known for her resourcefulness, typically sent reports that were informative but rarely alarming. However, as Ryo read through her message, his forehead began to bead with sweat. The contents of the letter were evidently grave, compelling him to immediate action.

  Without a moment's hesitation, he called out, "Colonel Aoi!" The Colonel, Aoi, Ryo's dependable second-in-command, appeared promptly, snapping to attention with a crisp salute. Ryo, usually meticulous about military formalities, bypassed the return salute, indicating the urgency of the situation.

  "Prepare to sail immediately," Ryo commanded, his voice laden with gravity. He swiftly outlined his orders: Admiral Yamato was to take two fleets and establish a blockade between the Kingdom and the Duchy of Eirtaoir. Ryo's own plan was bold and unyielding – to intercept and halt all merchant vessels heading towards the realm, operating under the cover of anonymity.

  He instructed Aoi to relay to Yamato the necessity of positioning two additional fleets near the Stardust Kingdom's official sea lanes, just within international waters. Yamato was to publicly justify this move with the pretext of intercepting Shikihime, should she be found in any of the northern docks.

  "Once you've dispatched these orders, return here," Ryo continued, his mind already racing ahead. "I'll have several letters ready by then. We need to mobilize the remaining fleets and ground forces." He planned to replicate some letters for added security and draft others addressed to Prince Leif, outlining the drastic but necessary measures.

  As Colonel Aoi left to execute the orders, Ryo's gaze fell upon a portrait of his siblings, Tomoe and Shikihime, captured in a moment of youthful innocence. He whispered to the empty room, a mix of resolve and regret in his voice, "Sorry, Father, I can't bring Shikihime home. War is at our doorstep, and this alliance is vital."

  Closing his eyes, a heavy burden settled on his shoulders. He murmured a silent plea for his absent sister, "Wherever you are, Tomoe, stay safe. I'm sorry, but I have to condemn you to a life within the realm's walls." In that quiet room, the weight of impending conflict and the responsibility of leadership bore down on Ryo, a lone admiral steering his fleet into an uncertain future.