After the warm and somewhat surprising reunion with his sister, Admiral Ryo turned his attention to Shikuro. He stood at attention and saluted with the utmost respect. "Archduke Shikuro Frostgard, it is a great honor to meet someone of your stature in person. I am High Admiral Ryo Kurayami. May the sun cast a long shadow on your journey through marriage, as your life becomes intricately entwined with that of Shikihime's."

Shikuro, maintaining his composure despite the earlier surprise, responded with a polite nod. He was just about to articulate his thoughts when Shikihime interjected, her voice bright and her smile genuine. "Why all this formality? Let's enjoy a meal together where we can discuss the details more comfortably."

Ryo turned to her, a hint of brotherly exasperation in his voice. "Sister, immediately bringing the Archduke onto the ship would breach our protocol. You're aware of that."

Shikihime began to retort playfully, "Of course, but wasn't it you who said—should I quote you here?—that I need to..." Her words were cut short as Ryo playfully placed his hand over her mouth, silencing her mid-sentence.

"Alright, alright," Ryo conceded with a light-hearted sigh. "My apologies, Archduke, for her informal behavior. Would you be inclined to join us in my private chambers for a drink and some refreshments? Your retainers are, of course, welcome."

Shikuro gave a subtle nod of approval and discreetly signaled Ingrid and Bjorn to follow. Together, they stepped aboard the imposing flagship, embarking on what promised to be an evening of intriguing conversation and unforeseen developments.

Ryo, Yoru, Sora, Bjorn, Ingrid, Shikihime, and Shikuro made their way into the dining room aboard the flagship. The room, though not overly large, was spacious enough for a ship, striking a balance between functionality and elegance. The curiosity of the guests was palpable, and Ryo, sensing their intrigue, gestured towards Shikihime. "Go ahead, sister, explain to our guests."

With a knowledgeable air, Shikihime began, "This room serves multiple purposes. It's where we host guests and share meals under normal circumstances. But in times of war, it transforms into a strategic war council room. The table, as you can see, is large enough to accommodate extensive maps and plans."

Ryo then moved to one of the chairs, gesturing for the others to take their seats. Once everyone was comfortably seated, he joined them, his demeanor both welcoming and commanding. "The meal we offer tonight may be humble compared to the grand feasts of the court, but I hope we can all enjoy it together. We have an assortment of drinks - wine, beer, water - anything you might wish for," he said warmly.

His gaze then shifted to Shikihime, turning more serious. "I've been hearing troubling news from our intelligence. I'm here to understand what's happening and to ensure you're being treated as you deserve, sister. Father and the Emperor harbor doubts about the recent activities of your betrothed."

Shikuro opened his mouth to speak, but Ryo cut him off firmly. "Hold your words, Archduke. This is a conversation with my sister. Let her speak. I have orders to bring her back if I'm dissatisfied with her report. So..." His eyes narrowed as he looked coldly at Shikuro. "Stay silent and listen. Do not interrupt. I seek her account of the situation."

Shikihime offered her brother a calm, composed smile, masking the undercurrent of tension in the air. "Brother, I'm not entirely sure what you're expecting to hear. Everything is as well as it can be, from my perspective. But if there's a specific concern you have, you'll need to be more explicit."

Ryo's response came with a light chuckle, though his eyes remained sharp and probing. "You've been silent for three weeks, Shikihime. No reports, no sightings. Kage informed us you were injured, yet recovering swiftly. What puzzles us is the lack of details about the assassination attempt. We're talking about Minato, one of our most skilled warriors, being seriously injured, and yet the information we receive is frustratingly vague. Are you truly safe? Is someone forcing you to give us filtered reports? You haven't forgotten, have you, that until your marriage, you are still a part of our Dynasty?"

Shikihime's expression shifted, a hint of vulnerability flickering in her eyes. "You're misunderstanding the situation, brother. The reason for my silence wasn't subterfuge or coercion. I was physically incapacitated, bedridden for over three weeks, unable to even leave my bed. I made an impulsive, foolish decision. Overwhelmed by certain emotions, I abandoned all my guards and pursued an assassin on my own. It was a grave error, one I deeply regret and was ashamed to admit."

Ryo let out a soft chuckle, the sound almost out of place in the tense atmosphere. "And who, dear sister, could have possibly made you lose your legendary composure?"

Shikihime's voice was barely above a whisper, yet it carried a weight of unspoken pain. "The killer of Tomoe," she admitted.

There was a palpable intensity as Ryo locked eyes with her, searching for the truth in her gaze. "Then, I would expect you to be celebrating an act of vengeance. Why the sorrow?" he probed.

A shadow of regret passed over Shikihime's face. "She escaped. Again, I let her slip through my fingers. I'm so sorry, brother, for being such a failure," she confessed, her voice laden with remorse as she gave a small, respectful bow.

The room felt heavier with unspoken emotions, a mix of disappointment, understanding, and familial concern. Ryo's stern gaze softened as he acknowledged her pain. "I believe you, and I understand your loss," he said gently. His eyes then shifted to Shikuro, his tone taking on a sharper edge. "So, Archduke Shikuro, perhaps you could enlighten me. Why did you nearly lose your betrothed, allow assassins to escape back to the Stardust Kingdom, leave an incompetent governor unpunished, and fail to lodge any formal complaint with the Stardust Kingdom? We question your motives. Isn't our alliance beneficial enough? We agreed on naval support in times of war in exchange for your mercenaries—a deal seemingly in your favor. And yet, it seems Shikihime has been deliberately kept in the dark, forced to prioritize defense over establishing her diplomatic faction. Why have you excluded her house from the flow of information? Are you trying to use her as a pawn in your game? Be cautious, my future brother-in-law. Tread carefully."

Shikuro felt the weight of Ryo's scrutinizing gaze, a silent challenge that demanded a response. He met Ryo's eyes with unwavering firmness and began, "The arrival of your envoy caught us off guard. She came with fewer guards than expected and declined the additional men I offered. I respected her autonomy, allowing her the freedom to make her own decisions. We were informed that she would bring a sizable entourage, a message we understood had been communicated to the Dynasty. It raises questions about your intentions. Were you attempting to use her as a pretext for conflict with us?"

A smile played on Ryo's lips. "Excellent," he remarked, his tone laced with a mixture of amusement and intrigue. "I will investigate why such crucial information failed to reach us. You have a boldness about you, Archduke, a trait that seems to complement my sister well. Perhaps it is this very audacity, even in the face of perceived incompetence, that captivates her."

Shikihime's patience snapped. "That's enough, Ryo," she exclaimed, her voice echoing sharply as her fist struck the table. "You will apologize for speaking to my future husband in such a manner. Remember, you are addressing the Archduke of Frostgard and your future brother-in-law. Show some restraint and offer the respect he deserves! Or we shall take our leave."

Shikuro's response, assertive and unflinching, seemed to echo in the room, a clear assertion of his position and perspective. He stood his ground, embodying the authority and responsibility of his title. His words were not just a defense but a challenge back to Ryo, questioning the motives behind the envoy's minimal escort.

Ryo's smile widened slightly, a gleam of respect in his eyes. "Your candor is refreshing, Archduke. It's rare to encounter such forthrightness. I assure you, the lack of communication regarding the envoy's entourage will be thoroughly investigated. It seems there's more to you than meets the eye, a complexity that no doubt intrigues my sister."

Shikihime's patience, however, wore thin. Her outburst resonated with a mixture of indignation and protectiveness. Her eyes blazed with the fire of her conviction, standing firmly beside her betrothed. "Apologize now, Ryo. This is not just about respect; it's about understanding the bonds we are forming here. We are allies, not adversaries. Your words and tone must reflect that."

Ryo's expression softened, a sign of his deep respect for Shikihime. He nodded, acknowledging her point. "You are right, sister. My apologies, Archduke Shikuro. It was not my intention to cause offense. Let us proceed with a clearer understanding and mutual respect."

Ingrid's expression was a mix of distress and contemplation, reflecting the weight of recent events. She was visibly troubled by the thought that they had barely captured anyone from the assailants who had threatened her town. Her gaze shifted between the faces at the table, seeking some semblance of reassurance in these turbulent times.

Shikihime, ever observant, noticed Ingrid's discomfort. With a voice filled with empathy and strength, she addressed her, "Ingrid, you did what you could under those circumstances. It's important that we learn from our past mistakes rather than dwell on them." Her words were not just a comfort but a reminder of resilience.

Ingrid managed a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Lady Shikihime. Your words bring solace in these trying times."

The conversation then took a strategic turn as Ryo focused his attention back on Shikuro. "I plan to stay here for the next three days before I must depart for the Mainland to meet the King. On my return journey, I will dock here for one more day. Shikihime, considering the recent events, do you require additional reinforcements?"

Before Shikihime could respond, Shikuro interjected, his tone firm and resolute. "Actually, I would prefer if you removed your ships from my docks. It's not feasible to have your fleet stationed here for an extended period. Upon your return from the King's visit, I would appreciate it if you took your ships with you."

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Ryo studied Shikuro carefully, his gaze piercing. "Why? They are stationed here for Shikihime's safety, not to challenge your authority."

Shikuro's reply came with unwavering conviction. "Their presence, though well-intentioned, isn't serving its purpose of protection and, inadvertently, undermines my authority. I can assure her safety. I swear this to you, here and now, in the presence of all gathered."

Ryo remained unfazed by Shikuro's declaration, his gaze sharp and calculating. "Have you uncovered the traitor in your ranks yet?" he asked pointedly.

Shikuro's response was terse, tinged with bitterness. "No," he admitted.

Ryo's eyes bore into him, his tone growing more serious. "Then consider this: the traitor could be among us at this very moment, listening in. You can trust no one fully, except perhaps yourself. How do you plan to protect Shikihime from a traitor whom you haven't caught and who does not hold allegiance to you?"

Shikuro felt the walls closing in. The question was a valid one, highlighting a vulnerability he couldn't ignore. Before he could formulate a response, Shikihime interjected with an unexpected question.

"How much do you love me, brother?" she asked, her eyes locking onto Ryo's.

Ryo, taken aback, let out a small chuckle. "Enough to know you're about to propose a wild scheme," he replied, a hint of amusement in his voice.

"Exactly!" Shikihime's eyes sparkled with a mix of determination and cunning. "Then, how about you gift me one of your ships, complete with its crew? A full crew from one of your ships would be a significant boost to my defenses, wouldn't it?"

The suggestion left everyone momentarily speechless. Ryo's laughter broke the silence. "I should have expected such a bold idea from you. Very well, one ship and its full crew will be gifted to you as a token from our Dynasty."

He paused, thoughtful. "I'll arrange the necessary formalities tomorrow. This shouldn't undermine your authority, correct, Archduke?" His eyes sought confirmation from Shikuro.

Bjorn nodded in agreement, seeing the strategic advantage. Shikuro, however, hesitated, calculating the implications. "How many constitute a full crew for such a ship?"

"Five hundred," answered Shikihime without missing a beat.

Shikihime, maintaining her composed demeanor, turned to Ryo with a strategic inquiry. "Brother, how are our stocks of grain and corn faring?"

Ryo met her gaze, his expression betraying a hint of curiosity. "The harvests have been bountiful for the past three years. Why do you ask?"

Shikihime leaned forward, her voice steady. "What about a trade then? We find ourselves in dire need of grain and our corn reserves are dwindling. Would you be willing to assist?"

Ryo's response was straightforward, a mix of pragmatism and familial obligation. "While we are siblings, outright charity isn't feasible. So, I must decline."

Shikihime wasn't deterred. "Who said anything about a free exchange? We propose that the corn we provide to you returns as 50% of its value in liquid form," she suggested, hinting at a more reciprocal arrangement.

Ryo's interest was piqued. "A trade for corn, then? That's more like it. But what of the grain? I'm aware your mainland has had a poor harvest this year."

Shikuro, seizing the opportunity, joined the conversation. "I can offer a substantial amount of bluesteel, let's say 200 kilograms."

Ryo's eyes lit up with interest. "Now that's a more compelling proposition. However, grain for 200 kilograms of blue steel seems excessive. There must be an ulterior motive."

Shikuro nodded, laying his cards on the table. "I seek information and certain services in exchange. I want comprehensive data on Isabelle's origins, her house, her past, and any connections to the Stardust Kingdom. We're aware that several assassins fled there; I need names, locations. If the information is substantial, I'm willing to add an extra 20 kilograms to our deal. Give me your best."

The room fell into a tense silence as Ryo weighed his options. Shikihime could sense her brother's hesitation. The stakes were high; bluesteel was a highly coveted resource, prized for its unmatched strength-to-weight ratio.

After a moment of contemplation, Ryo made a counteroffer. "How about this: Instead of the extra 20 kilograms for me, you'll gift them to Shikihime. In return, she'll receive custom-made armors and weapons using that steel. Does that sound fair?"

Shikuro didn't hesitate. "Agreed," he said, recognizing the value of strengthening their alliance with such a trade.

As the guests settled around the resplendent table aboard the Kurayami Dynasty flagship, a sense of anticipation filled the air. Ryo stood at the head, his presence commanding yet affable. Raising his glass, he addressed the gathering with a resonant voice, "To new friendships and the fortification of our bonds." The clink of glasses followed, echoing his sentiment.

The conversation flowed effortlessly, with light-hearted banter setting a relaxed tone. Shikuro, taking a sip of his drink, complimented the chefs on the exquisite flavors, sparking a lively discussion on culinary traditions across their realms. Laughter and anecdotes were exchanged, creating a convivial atmosphere ripe for storytelling.

Shikuro, with a contemplative look, began his story. "When I first assumed the role of Archduke, I faced a peculiar situation. A small village in our realm was convinced they had a dragon in their midst." Murmurs of intrigue circled the table. "Instead of a fearsome beast, it turned out to be a large, unusually shaped rock casting a dragon-like shadow. The villagers were planning all sorts of elaborate schemes to appease it."

He chuckled lightly. "I decided to visit the village myself. With a team of artists, we transformed the 'dragon rock' into a piece of community art. It turned into a festival of sorts, a celebration of creativity over fear. It taught me a valuable lesson about leadership – sometimes, it's about finding unconventional solutions to peculiar problems."

The table erupted in laughter, appreciating the blend of humor and wisdom in his tale.

Shikihime, her eyes sparkling with nostalgia, took her turn. "Ryo and I once embarked on a secret adventure as children. We sneaked out of the palace to explore the town during a festival. Disguised as commoners, we spent the day enjoying the festivities, unnoticed."

Her smile widened. "We ended up participating in a local competition, which we won, much to our surprise. Returning to the palace with a trophy for the best homemade kite was both thrilling and terrifying, considering the scolding we received afterward."

Ryo nodded, adding, "It was one of the best days of my childhood, even with the consequences. It's a reminder of the joys found in simple pleasures."

Ryo leaned back, his eyes reflecting years of seafaring experience. "During one of our expeditions, we encountered a storm unlike any other. The waves were monstrous, and for a moment, it seemed as if the sea would claim us."

He paused, the intensity of the memory palpable. "But amidst the chaos, the crew's solidarity was unwavering. We worked as one, harnessing the storm's fury to navigate safely. That day, I learned the true strength of unity in the face of adversity."

The group listened, rapt by the harrowing yet inspiring tale.

Ingrid, with a hint of pride in her voice, began her tale. "In my town, we have a tradition called the 'Night of Lights,' where we celebrate the longest night of the year. Each household crafts lanterns, and we illuminate the entire town, creating a sea of flickering lights against the darkness."

She smiled softly. "Last year, I led the organization of the event. It was a challenge, coordinating everything, but seeing the town come alive with light and the joy it brought to everyone... it was magical. It reminded me of the power of community and the beauty we can create together."

The table nodded in appreciation, picturing the enchanting scene she described.

Bjorn cleared his throat, ready to share. "During one of our military campaigns, we were stationed in a remote area, far from any civilization. The conditions were harsh, and morale was low."

He leaned forward, his voice steady. "To lift the spirits of my men, I organized a makeshift tournament. It started as a simple contest of strength and skill, but it grew into something more – a celebration of our resilience and brotherhood. That night, around the campfire, sharing stories and laughter, I realized the true strength of a leader lies in the hearts of his people."

His story resonated with a sense of camaraderie and the importance of leadership in challenging times.

Yoru and Sora exchanged a glance, a silent agreement passing between them before they began their joint story. "We were on a reconnaissance mission in the dense forests of the Northern Territories," Yoru started, his tone reflecting the seriousness of the task.

Sora continued, "The mission was risky, with many unknowns. But it was during that expedition that we discovered an ancient ruin, hidden for centuries. Inside, we found artifacts of immense historical value, shedding light on a long-forgotten civilization."

Yoru added, "It was a discovery that went beyond our mission objectives. It brought a sense of wonder and curiosity, reminding us that there are always new mysteries to uncover in our world."

Their tale, filled with adventure and discovery, captivated everyone at the table, showcasing their shared passion for exploration.

The lunch continued with stories and shared experiences, each tale weaving a tapestry of different lives and perspectives. As the meal drew to a close, the group felt a deeper connection, a sense of unity born from their shared stories.

Ryo concluded the gathering with words of gratitude and anticipation for future collaborations. The lunch, more than just a meal, had become a bridge between cultures and personalities, laying the groundwork for a strong alliance and friendship.

Interlude: Ryo's Hard Times

High Admiral Ryo Kurayami sat in his dimly lit study, a weighty sense of responsibility pressing upon his shoulders. He had received a challenging mission from his father, the Prime Minister of the Kurayami Dynasty. The task was deeply personal, yet carried significant political implications. His mission: to visit Tomoe, his younger sister, who had been sent to the Iskaldt Rike Realm as part of a crucial diplomatic alliance. He was to assess her well-being and determine if she had found harmony—or even happiness—in her new life. If she had not met these conditions, he was to bring her home.

The dilemma tore at Ryo. He understood the strategic necessity of the alliance with the Realm. Without it, the Dynasty risked pushing the Realm into the arms of the Stardust Kingdom, a scenario that could shift the delicate balance of power in the region. However, sending Tomoe away had been a tough decision. Her talents and intelligence were a significant asset to their Dynasty, and Ryo viewed the alliance as a loss rather than a gain. But the decision wasn't his to make; it was his father's, and he respected that.

Pouring over the reports of recent events in the Realm, Ryo's unease grew. The news was troubling. Tomoe, masquerading as Shikihime, had faced significant challenges and was even severely injured, leaving her fate uncertain. A frown etched his face as he read through the correspondences, including one from the real Shikihime, sent just before her tragic end. In her letter, she playfully wrote that he would have to bow his head to her the next time they met. Ryo silently vowed that he would have, had he been given the chance.

The next letter was from Tomoe herself, written in the secret language they had developed in their childhood. She assured him she was fine, referring to Archduke Shikuro as a "boring guy" and suggesting Ryo should tease him to see his humorous reactions. She wrote of taking every opportunity to provoke the Archduke, finding amusement in his responses.

Sipping his red wine, Ryo pondered his next move. The situation was complex, with layers of political and personal implications. His sister's well-being was his priority, but he also had to consider the broader context of their Dynasty's position. The choice before him was not just about Tomoe's happiness; it was about the future of their Dynasty.

Reflecting on Tomoe's words, Ryo wondered about the dynamics between her and the Archduke. Was there more to their relationship than what was on the surface? Could her presence in the Realm be more beneficial than he initially thought? The thought brought a small smile to his face, despite the gravity of the situation.

Ryo's thoughts turned to his duty as a brother and a high-ranking official of the Dynasty. He knew he needed to see Tomoe in person to truly understand her situation. The decision would not be easy, but he was prepared to face it with the wisdom and strength that had always guided him.

As the night deepened, Ryo Kurayami sat alone in his study, the soft glow of the candlelight casting long shadows on the walls. In the silence, he made a silent vow to protect his sister and his Dynasty, no matter the cost. The journey ahead would be fraught with challenges, but he was ready to face them with the determination and resilience that defined the Kurayami bloodline.