In the quiet morning light, after the breakfast guests had departed, Shikuro and Shikihime found themselves alone in the spacious dining room. Shikuro, with a contemplative expression, initiated the conversation they both knew was inevitable.
"Shikihime, do you truly wish to accompany me to the Stardust Kingdom?" he asked, his gaze searching hers for an honest answer.
Shikihime paused, considering his question. Her life had always been governed by duty, not personal desires. "I will fulfil my obligations," she responded initially, her voice steady.
Unsatisfied with her response, Shikuro pressed further. "I want to know what you want, not what duty dictates," he insisted, his tone gentle yet earnest.
Taken aback by the personal nature of the question, Shikihime took a moment before answering. "Truthfully, I would like to go with you," she admitted, her voice softer now.
Shikuro nodded, though his expression remained serious. "Personally, I'm not in favor of the idea. It makes us vulnerable. There are forces targeting both of us, possibly working independently. This trip could provide them an opportunity to strike at us together."
Shikihime's interest piqued. "How do you know there are multiple parties involved? I wasn't aware of this," she inquired, her strategic mind already analyzing the implications.
Shikuro hesitated, weighing his words. "That's part of what I wanted to discuss with you. I have a proposition, a deal that could benefit us both," he revealed, his voice low.
In response, Shikihime stood and gracefully made her way to him. She sat on his lap, wrapping her right arm around him. Their heads were close, a position that allowed for private conversation while minimizing the risk of being overheard. Shikuro, aware of the practicality of her actions, couldn't help but feel a hint of nervousness under her close presence.
"This way, we can speak freely without concern for eavesdroppers," Shikihime whispered, her breath warm against his ear.
As they sat together in the quiet aftermath of breakfast, Shikihime couldn't help but add a teasing remark about Shikuro's evident frustration whenever she initiated any intimacy. It was a light jab, but one that hinted at the growing comfort and playful dynamics between them. Shikuro, used to her teasing by now, chose to ignore the jibe and steer the conversation back to the pressing matters at hand.
"We need to share our full intelligence on this matter," Shikuro began, his voice reflecting the seriousness of the situation. "If we're not fully transparent with each other, we risk not only compromising ourselves but also creating confusion if something unforeseen occurs."
Shikihime, her teasing demeanor set aside, met his gaze with a look of keen interest and understanding.
Shikuro continued, "Furthermore, we'll have to start planning our marriage while we're in the Stardust Kingdom. We'll only have about a month after returning, and it's bound to be a hectic period." His tone conveyed a mix of practical concern and underlying stress about the timing.
Shikihime, with a wry smile, couldn't resist a sarcastic response. "Oh, my dear, what an absolutely brilliant idea, planning our wedding in the heart of enemy territory. Surely the most ideal place of all," she remarked, her sarcasm thinly veiling the genuine apprehension she felt.
Shikuro, however, didn't appreciate the sarcasm in the midst of such a critical discussion. His annoyance was evident, a rare crack in his usually composed facade. Shikihime quickly realized her mistake and reassured him of her seriousness. "I do mean it," she said earnestly. "Considering the Stardust Kingdom's close ties with the Longyue Divinity and their fanatical beliefs, it's a risky environment. They could easily use animals for espionage. It's one thing to be on guard against people, quite another to be wary of a mouse that could be eavesdropping."
Shikuro nodded, understanding her concerns. "Your point is well taken. We'll need to limit our discussions to non-essential topics while in their territory. Things like food preferences, minor traditions, and some ceremonial aspects of the wedding. There will be many dignitaries attending, including my king and your emperor. We have to appear engaged but cautious."
Shikihime listened intently, agreeing with his approach. "We can utilize our travel time and the limited privacy in their palace for more meaningful discussions," she suggested.
Shikuro then broached the topic of their security during the visit. "I trust Bjorn and Erik implicitly," he stated. "However, Erik is still recovering, so I plan to leave him behind as regent, entrusting Bjorn with overseeing our safety."
Shikihime, who had also found Bjorn trustworthy, nodded in agreement. "I would like Yoru to collaborate with Bjorn on the security strategy," she added, her strategic mind at work.
Shikuro's smile at her suggestion was one of approval and relief. "That's exactly what I was hoping for," he said, his smile broadening.
Shikuro, his expression a blend of seriousness and openness, laid out his proposal. "Let's make a deal," he began. "I'll share my complete intelligence with you. You'll be involved in the tactics, scheduling, and have the right to veto decisions. We should view compromise not as a loss for either side, but as a mutual victory. I'll also consider any personnel you wish to bring along, though your party cannot exceed the size of mine, as this event is under the Iskaldt Rike Realm's banner, not the Dynasty's. Do these terms seem fair to you?"
Shikihime took a moment to ponder his offer, her mind analyzing every angle for potential catches or loopholes. Shikuro observed her contemplation, adding, "If there are terms you wish to revisit or reevaluate later, we can certainly do so. I want us to work on this together, as true partners."
After a brief pause, during which she weighed various scenarios, Shikihime nodded in agreement. "I accept your terms," she said, her tone indicating both her approval and her commitment to their collaborative effort.
To her surprise, Shikuro responded with a warm smile and a gentle pat on her head, a bold move considering his usual restraint from initiating intimate gestures. Shikihime looked up at him, her smile broadening. "You might one day be a great archduke," she teased.
Shikuro chuckled at her comment. "I've always considered myself a great archduke. But if I don't seem so in your eyes, then I suppose I must strive harder," he replied with a light-hearted air.
Shikihime, maintaining her playful tone, retorted, "You don't need to change; you just need the right wife by your side to be complete."
Shikuro laughed, the sound echoing warmly in the room. "Then I must ensure I am properly wed. It seems I still have some areas to improve."
In a spontaneous moment, Shikihime leaned forward and planted a passionate kiss on Shikuro's lips, marking their first proper kiss. The action caught Shikuro completely off guard. He sat frozen in his chair, a mix of surprise and uncertainty in his eyes, as he allowed Shikihime to take the lead in this uncharted territory.
As she drew back, Shikuro's face was flushed with a blend of embarrassment and confusion. His usual composure had been utterly disrupted by her bold move. Shikihime couldn't help but laugh at his bewildered expression.
"Shikuro," she teased, "if you get this lost with just a kiss, I fear I might remain a virgin on our wedding night." Her playful words were designed to provoke a reaction, and they did just that.
Shikuro, now visibly annoyed, averted his gaze, clearly flustered by the turn of events. Sensing his discomfort, Shikihime shifted to a more serious tone. "Am I not attractive to you?" she asked, her question genuine and searching.
Shikuro snapped back to attention, hastening to dispel any such notion. "You are very attractive," he assured her earnestly. "It's just that I don't want to break protocol or cause you any discomfort."
In response, Shikihime leaned in for another passionate kiss, then pulled back with a sly smile. "I'm the one breaking protocol here, and you're allowing me to take that risk," she pointed out. She leaned closer, whispering, "I was hoping you'd return the kiss. Do I need to send you some literature on relationships between men and women? You should know what to do with a woman on our wedding night, my dear."
Shikuro, even more flustered, managed to reply, "I assure you, I know exactly what to do with a woman."
Shikihime's smile broadened as she steered the conversation back to their impending trip. "I propose we travel on the Kraken. It would symbolise the alliance between our kingdoms. Your fleet can accompany us, enhancing our security on the sea."
Shikuro, recovering from the earlier exchange and recognizing the strategic value of her suggestion, agreed. "That's a sound plan. It sends a strong message and ensures our safety."
Shikihime, her expression turning serious, outlined her plans for the upcoming journey. "I'll leave Kage here to manage the wedding preparations and to maintain a flow of information. She'll act as our liaison in my absence," she stated, her tone indicating the trust she placed in her attendant.
Pausing for a moment, she then shared that she had something important to disclose to Shikuro, a secret that held significant weight. "There's a national secret of the Dynasty, known only to a few. It's something you're unaware of, and it could theoretically impact our agreement. I plan to reveal it to you after our wedding, but know that it's for your ears only."
Shikuro's interest was piqued, but he expressed concern. "Does this secret pose a risk to our security?" he asked, his brows furrowing slightly.
Shikihime reassured him. "No, it actually enhances our security and has no bearing on our current plans. But it's a matter I must keep close for now. I have many secrets, Shikuro, which I'll reveal in time. I ask for your patience."
Shikuro, slightly taken aback, questioned her trust in him. Shikihime's response was candid yet measured. "I believe you are trustworthy, but full trust is something that grows over time. I need more of it."
Respecting her stance, Shikuro didn't press further, though internally, his curiosity about her secret was piqued.
Shifting the topic back to their preparations, Shikuro revealed his intention to equip his closest guards with full bluesteel heavy armor. "I'm also willing to provide some for your soldiers, though my resources are limited."
Shikihime accepted his offer and added her own plans for the journey. "I'll be travelling in my military uniform, wearing my light bluesteel armor. I'll also carry my short sword and two daggers, also made of bluesteel."
Shikuro considered her choice. "It's unusual for a princess to travel in battle gear," he noted.
"I agree," Shikihime replied, "but given Nightblack's knowledge of my military background, it won't seem out of place. I suggest you also consider travelling in battle gear, as a precaution."
Shikuro nodded, a sense of unease evident in his expression. "I too have a bad feeling about this trip. It feels as though we're playing into Nightblack's hands."
Shikihime gracefully stood from Shikuro's lap and strode over to a bell by the door, ringing it to summon their attendants back into the room. As the servants and attendants filed in, the atmosphere shifted. They all paused, their gazes fixating on Shikuro, who sat there bewildered by the sudden attention.
Kage's eyebrows furrowed slightly, her eyes darting between Shikihime and Shikuro in a silent question. Bjorn, barely containing his laughter, gave Shikuro an amused look. Shikuro, increasingly uncomfortable under the scrutiny, finally broke the silence. "What's going on? Why is everyone looking at me like that?" he asked, his confusion evident.
Bjorn, unable to resist the opportunity for a jest, chimed in with a wide grin. "Seems like you two had a good time together," he quipped, eliciting a few suppressed chuckles from the others.
Shikuro, still perplexed, searched the room for a clearer explanation. Bjorn stepped closer, placing a hand on Shikuro's shoulder in a brotherly gesture. "It's fine, Shikuro. We all know you're close. No one's judging you. In fact, I'm happy to see such love between you two."
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Shikuro, feeling a mix of annoyance and embarrassment, shot a questioning look at Shikihime. "What did you do?" he demanded.
Feigning innocence, Shikihime responded with a playful tone. "Oh, what do you mean? I've done many things. Are you asking me to share them here with everyone?"
Bjorn whistled, clearly enjoying the exchange. Shikuro, growing increasingly flustered, attempted to clarify. "We did nothing inappropriate, as you're implying. I would never—"
But Bjorn cut him off, a smirk playing on his lips. "Calm down, Shikuro. It's obvious what happened. You've got her lipstick on your cheek and lips. It's alright, we understand. You're soon to be married, after all."
Shikuro's hand flew to his face, and to his horror, he found traces of red lipstick on his fingers. 'That cunning woman,' he thought, realizing Shikihime had deliberately left her mark on him. As he prepared to voice his annoyance, Shikihime winked slyly at him and announced their departure for dinner later that evening. With a final, mischievous glance, she exited the room with her attendants, leaving Shikuro to process the playful yet bold statement she had made.
***
Shikihime gathered her trusted circle in the privacy of her chambers. Kage, Yoru, Sora, Minato, and Akalune formed a semi-circle around her. Minato, off-duty and in civilian clothes, lent a relaxed air to the meeting.
"I've come to an agreement with Shikuro," Shikihime began, her tone serious. "It involves full intelligence sharing and joint coordination. Kage, I need you here to oversee the wedding preparations and act as our information conduit."
Kage, surprised, started to protest, but Shikihime's firm gaze silenced her. "Your experience is invaluable here, Kage. I trust you to handle things in my absence." Kage bowed, albeit reluctantly, accepting her role.
Shikihime turned to Yoru next. "Yoru, your cooperation with Bjorn is crucial. Everything concerning our travel and security needs to be tightly coordinated."
Yoru nodded, her face a mask of professionalism. "Understood, my lady. May I inquire about the specific areas of collaboration?"
Shikihime explained, "Share all pertinent information regarding security measures, travel routes, and schedules. We can't afford any gaps in our knowledge."
Attention then shifted to Minato. "There's a possibility we'll have additional bluesteel armor. Coordinate with Bjorn on distribution, focusing on those accustomed to heavy armor. Though, considering its lightness, even those used to medium armor should adapt easily."
Minato acknowledged the task, bowing respectfully.
Kage, voicing her concerns, asked, "Is it wise to equip so many with such valuable armor?"
Shikihime paused, her expression thoughtful. "The stakes are high, Kage. We need every advantage. Besides, it's time we learned to cooperate more closely with Shikuro's forces."
Shikihime's gaze then settled on Akalune. "We'll be travelling on the Kraken, escorted by the Realm's fleet. Remember, we're using non-conventional protocols for this mission."
Akalune, understanding the implication, nodded solemnly.
Sora, eager for clarity on her role, asked, "Will I be accompanying you on this journey?"
"Yes, Sora. I need someone I trust on the Kraken at all times," Shikihime affirmed.
Kage interjected, "Perhaps it's time to expand your personal guard, especially with Rin and Haru away."
Shikihime's gaze settled on Minato and Akalune. "Your presence here today marks your deeper involvement in my inner circle," she announced, her tone conveying the significance of their roles.
Minato responded with a respectful bow, acknowledging the honor and responsibility of the position. Akalune, visibly moved by the trust placed in her, knelt gracefully before Shikihime.
Shikihime stepped closer to Akalune, her demeanor softening. "I'm seeking to build a relationship based on mutual understanding and respect with you, Akalune. I don't need mere compliance; I need someone who can question my decisions when they stray off course. Someone who is willing to offer their honest opinions. In short, I need a friend who understands the balance between duty and personal judgement, who can think independently while remaining loyal to their responsibilities."
She gestured towards Minato, whose dignified reaction served as a model for the conduct she expected. Akalune rose to her feet, a newfound determination in her eyes. "I will learn from your wisdom and guidance, my lady," she vowed, bowing deeply in gratitude for the opportunity to grow and serve in a more significant capacity.
***
As the newly forged agreement set the wheels in motion, Yoru found herself at the forefront of critical preparations. Her daily meetings with Bjorn had become the backbone of their strategic planning. In a secure chamber within the palace, they pored over maps and documents, their discussions weaving through the intricacies of logistics and security.
"Your insight is remarkable, Yoru," Bjorn remarked one day, impressed. "The level of detail in these plans speaks highly of both you and Lady Shikihime."
Yoru, a slight smile on her face, nodded in acknowledgment. "Lady Shikihime believes in thoroughness. Every element, every contingency is considered."
Their meetings, often extending late into the evenings, were marked by a sense of urgency and precision. The stakes were high, and neither of them was willing to leave anything to chance.
In the midst of these preparations, Torsten returned from his clandestine mission with news that cast a shadow over their efforts. He sought an immediate audience with Shikuro, finding him in the midst of his own strategic plan.
"Shikuro, we have a problem," Torsten announced gravely as he entered the study. "Our hidden bluesteel reserve is under threat."
Shikuro's demeanor shifted instantly, his eyes narrowing. "Give me the details," he commanded, his voice a low rumble.
Torsten laid out the intelligence he had gathered. The revelation that their secure reserve of bluesteel was known to the enemy was just the beginning. He brought forth captured nobles, their faces etched with fear, who had betrayed their allegiance, weaving a tale of treachery that implicated two groups working in tandem against Shikuro and Shikihime.
"The conspiracy extends beyond our borders," Torsten continued, his words heavy with implication. "There are links to Archduke Aldrik's duchy, and possibly even to the Kurayami Dynasty. It appears the Stardust Kingdom assassins used this route to infiltrate Frostgard."
The magnitude of the betrayal sent ripples of shock through Shikuro. He processed the information, his strategic mind already formulating responses. "Bring Ingrid here," he ordered, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Ingrid's arrival marked a stark change from the woman they once knew. Gone was the warmth and openness, replaced by a steely resolve and an unforgiving nature, especially towards those she commanded.
After listening to Torsten's report, Ingrid expressed her desire to join the investigation. Torsten's immediate refusal highlighted the depth of mistrust that had crept into their ranks. "Your involvement is a risk we cannot afford," he stated bluntly.
Ingrid's response was a cold, mirthless laugh. "Trust is irrelevant. I seek justice for the dishonor brought upon me."
Shikuro, recognizing the need for unity in this crisis, intervened. "You will work together on this. We cannot afford internal strife."
Seeking a moment of respite, Shikuro offered them a drink, a gesture to lighten the tense atmosphere. As they sipped their whisky, he reflected aloud, "I miss the days when trust was a given among us."
Ingrid's reply was tinged with sadness and bitterness. "Those days are long gone, shattered by the betrayal we've endured. Now, I trust only you and myself."
Torsten, ever the pragmatist, voiced his skepticism. "I can't blindly trust either of you. This entire situation might be a ploy by one against the other."
Shikuro, though taken aback, respected the honesty in Torsten's words. "I understand. Trust is earned, not given."
Their discussion turned to the resources needed for the investigation. Torsten outlined his requirements: permission to extend the investigation to the Mainland and the resources to do so effectively.
Shikuro pondered the request, then began drafting a letter to Prince Leif, requesting his assistance for Torsten's mission. Sealing the letter with his insignia, he handed it to Torsten. "This is my contribution for now. Take it to Prince Leif; I have asked him to assist you as much as he can."
Torsten accepted the letter with a salute of gratitude. "Thank you, Shikuro. This will aid us greatly."
As Torsten prepared to leave, Ingrid spoke up. "There is more I need to report," she said, her voice steady but carrying an undercurrent of urgency.
Shikuro and Torsten turned their attention to her, bracing for more revelations in an already complex web of deceit and treachery.
Ingrid leaned forward, her eyes sharp with determination. "The merchants have been instrumental in this conspiracy," she revealed. "They've facilitated communication between the two groups targeting us. I've established connections to understand their operations."
She glanced at Torsten, her gaze piercing. "Your investigation is critical, Torsten. But we may have overlooked how deeply these merchants are involved. They've been transporting personnel under the guise of crew members, while supplying resources to our enemies. It's a complex web that's difficult to trace."
Torsten's expression was skeptical, but Ingrid continued undeterred. "Here's my proposal: we use this situation to our advantage. Give me a letter intended for Prince Leif. I'll ensure it's delivered through my contacts."
Shikuro raised an eyebrow. "And how does this help us?"
Ingrid's plan was bold. "We make it known in your inner circle that Torsten is carrying a critical letter to the prince. If he faces any hindrance or interception, it's a clear indication that the betrayal isn't from within the Dynasty."
Shikuro's frown deepened. "But that doesn't necessarily prove their loyalty."
Ingrid was ready with her counter. "True, but it narrows down our list of suspects. If the letter reaches the prince safely through my channels, while Torsten faces obstruction, it indicates that the conspiracy might be deeper within our ranks."
The room fell silent as they considered Ingrid's plan. It was a risky move, but desperate times called for desperate measures.
Torsten, still doubtful of Ingrid's intentions, finally nodded. "It's a gamble, but we're running out of options. I agree to this plan."
Shikuro contemplated their next move, his mind racing through the potential outcomes. "Alright," he decided, "let's proceed with this plan. But we must tread carefully. The stakes couldn't be higher."
Ingrid's eyes flashed with a resolve born of her recent hardships. "I'll arrange the letter's delivery. We'll see how this unfolds."
***
The evening before their departure, Shikuro and Shikihime shared a dinner in the intimate setting of the palace dining hall. The atmosphere was light, a rare moment of tranquility in the midst of tumultuous preparations. Amidst the clinking of silverware and the soft hum of conversation, Shikihime, always one to probe the deeper waters of their relationship, posed a question laced with seriousness.
"Do you plan to take any concubines after our marriage?" she asked, her tone deceptively casual.
Shikuro paused mid-bite, the question catching him off guard. He set his utensils down and moved closer to her, an uncommon gesture of affection from him. His hand gently caressed her cheek as he met her gaze.
"I have no such plans," he replied sincerely, "unless we face difficulties in producing an heir. The continuation of our house is a duty I cannot ignore. I hope you understand that."
Shikihime's heart skipped a beat. His words, so unexpected, stirred something within her. She searched his eyes for any sign of jest, but found only earnestness. "Surely you're joking, Shikuro," she said, a hint of disbelief in her voice.
But Shikuro's gaze remained steady, unwavering. "No, I am not. It's the truth."
Overwhelmed by a surge of emotions, Shikihime stood up and, in front of everyone, gave Shikuro a passionate kiss. It was a bold move, one that spoke volumes of the feelings she was starting to harbor for him. For the very first time she admitted that there is a chance for love between them.
As they resumed their meal, the conversation flowed, but Shikihime's responses were distant. Her mind wandered, lost in a whirlwind of thoughts about the future. Her marriage to Shikuro was not just a political alliance; it was becoming something far more personal.
The realization that her life might take a turn towards happiness—a concept she had long considered unattainable—left her both elated and contemplative. The duty that had defined her existence, the mission bestowed upon her, was nearing its end. What lay beyond was a path she had not dared to dream of—a life filled with love, a family, the joy of personal fulfillment.
As dinner concluded, they retired to their respective quarters. Shikihime's steps were lighter, her heart carrying the warmth of a newfound hope. The future, once a landscape of duty and intrigue, now held the promise of a different kind of fulfillment. For the first time, she allowed herself to envision a life beyond her obligations, a life where happiness was not just a fleeting visitor, but a permanent resident.
For Shikihime, the imminence of the marriage signaled the end of one chapter and the tentative beginning of another. It was not just the culmination of her final mission, as dictated by her father and the circumstances of her life, but the dawn of an unforeseen possibility — a life unshackled from the relentless grip of duty.
Shikihime was adrift in thoughts of what might lie ahead. The prospect of a life filled with genuine happiness, a concept she had once deemed an unattainable luxury, now seemed within reach. The idea of building a family, nurturing love, and experiencing joy beyond the cold calculus of political intrigue was tantalizingly real.
With the completion of her mission through this marriage, the rigid framework of duty that had defined her existence was about to dissolve. She had once envisioned a future rife with political maneuvering, preparing to assert herself against potential consorts and rivals. Yet, now, a different path beckoned, one inspired by her father's wish — a path of personal happiness and fulfillment.
As they departed from the dining hall, Shikihime's steps were hesitant, reflective of her internal conflict. She walked to her quarters, her heart lighter yet filled with a mix of hope and apprehension. For the first time in her life, Shikihime allowed herself to dream of a future beyond the strict confines of her responsibilities — a future where her happiness was not just a transient interlude, but the very essence of her existence.
Interlude: Yoru's Intelligence
Yoru was in her element, surrounded by maps and reports, as she tirelessly fed intelligence to Bjorn and Sagar. Her commitment to her duty was unyielding, her focus sharp. She watched as the two men struggled to assimilate the flood of information she provided, their expressions often betraying a mix of bewilderment and exhaustion.
As she observed them, Yoru couldn't help but wonder if they were truly the high-ranking officers they were supposed to be, or merely muscle-brained soldiers in positions above their capability. The thought amused her momentarily, but she quickly refocused on her task.
During one particularly long meeting, Shikuro joined them. Yoru was initially skeptical of his presence, but as she detailed strategic locations and potential vulnerabilities within the Stardust Kingdom, she noticed him taking notes. This raised her opinion of him; perhaps he was more invested in these matters than she had initially thought.
However, her newfound respect was short-lived. After the meeting, as Shikuro left his notes on the table, curiosity got the better of Yoru. She approached to review his work, only to discover, to her irritation, that he hadn't been taking notes at all. Instead, he had been sketching her – one drawing showed her with a serious expression, and another, flipped 180 degrees, depicted her smiling with a note that read, "When she smiles, she is nice." Frustrated, Yoru decided to take the drawing to Shikihime to complain about her future husband's lack of seriousness.
That evening, Yoru presented the drawing to Shikihime, expecting her to share in her annoyance. To her surprise, Shikihime burst into laughter, thoroughly amused by Shikuro's artistic endeavor. She even requested more drawings, playfully suggesting they could decorate their bedroom with them after the wedding. This unexpected reaction left Yoru feeling doubly irritated, both at Shikuro and now at Shikihime.
The following day brought another round of meetings. Sagar arrived with swollen, tired eyes, clearly struggling from the previous day's information overload. Yoru patiently reiterated some key points from earlier discussions, managing to engage in a more meaningful conversation. Through this, she gained a new appreciation for Bjorn, realizing that he simply needed time to process information. It was a small victory in the grand scheme of things, but for Yoru, it was a reminder of the varied challenges that intelligence work entailed.