The waiting became an agonising stretch of time, each moment stretching out like taffy, testing the crew's patience. The thick air in the dimly lit room seemed to stifle every attempt at casual conversation. Austin, feeling the weight of the stillness, couldn't resist the urge.

Fingers tapping rhythmically on the table, he transformed the wooden surface into an impromptu drum set. The beats, a steady cadence echoing through the room, were his attempt to inject some life into the stagnant atmosphere.

Boyle couldn't hide the annoyance etched on her face. Glaring at him, she wanted to shout, but held her tongue. Austin, seemingly oblivious to Boyle's irritation, continued to play his makeshift drum set.

Suddenly, Elena, their captor, barged into the room. “Princess Nobuko, we verified your credentials.”

Two well-dressed diplomats stood behind Elena, Embassy staff from Imperial Tokyo. One of them was brought to tears, “Princess Nobuko,” as they both bowed.

Princess Nobuko couldn't hide her relief, eyes welled as she fought to hold back tears. “Please, raise your heads,” as she regained her composure. “I am sorry I am not dressed for my responsibility,” she said, brushing off her jumpsuit.

The lead ambassador couldn't hide a grin, “You're alive, Princess. That's what's important. Come with us, we will get you up to date. I am sure the Emperor and your Uncle Prince Hiro will be relieved at your safe return.”

Nobuko stopped at the door, “What will happen to my friends?”

Elena spoke up, staring a sharp glance at Milson, sending a shiver down the monkey's spine, “I am sure they had something to do with the raid on the cloning lab. I'll impound their vessel until I learn the truth.”

Nobuko glanced at Austin, and he flashed her a smile. “I, Second Princess of Imperial Tokyo and appointed Ambassador to the European Federation, hereby claim the nomad crew and the submersible Sugar Rush to be my diplomatic vessel.”

Elena gritted her teeth. “Are you sure, Princess? Are you sure that's wise?”

Nobuko looked at her Embassy official. “Make the arrangements to free my crew and vessel. I’ve agreed to cooperate with you, Ms. Dumitrescu. Have your escorts ready for our departure. Austin, Boyle, Milson, let's go.”

Outside the dimly lit room, the atmosphere changed drastically. The bustling streets of Athens greeted the crew as they stepped into the open air. Imperial Tokyo Embassy staff, still visibly emotional, awaited Princess Nobuko.

The lead ambassador, wiping away a tear, spoke, "Princess Nobuko, your return is a momentous occasion. The Emperor has been deeply depressed and retired from public life. Please, allow us to escort you safely back to the embassy."

Nobuko, grateful for the warm welcome, nodded appreciatively. However, she turned to Austin and Boyle, indicating that she would prefer them to stay back at the Sugar Rush. "Thank you for your kindness. I'll be safe with my people. Austin, Boyle, I ask that you await me at the submersible. I will join you shortly."

Austin, understanding the diplomatic dynamics at play, smiled at Nobuko. "We'll be waiting for you, Princess. Take your time."

Boyle, although hesitant, respected Nobuko's wishes. "If you need us, just let us know. We'll be right here."

The embassy staff, recognizing the diplomatic protocol, guided Princess Nobuko toward the embassy's waiting vehicles. As they prepared to leave, Austin and Boyle watched from a distance.

Princess Nobuko, in the company of the embassy staff, left for the Imperial Tokyo Embassy with a promise to return shortly. The streets of Athens swallowed their figures, leaving Austin and Boyle alone in the midst of the vibrant city.

Boyle, breaking the silence, raised an eyebrow at Austin. "Quite the adventure we've stumbled into, eh?"

Austin chuckled, "Just another day in the life of a nomad, starts with a storaway and ends with a rescuing a damsel. have you given any thought on what to do next kid, I’ve kind of got used to having an engineer around?”

Boyle stared up at Austin with a pout, “I am not a kid!”, after taken a breath, “I haven't thought about it, I am free for the first time, I could finally go home”

Austin patted her head, with a sigh “there's no place like home, anyway let's give the Princess some space and enjoy the scenery. Athens has its charms, even if we're on standby duty."

As they strolled through the old town, Austin and Boyle observed the flow of city life, merchants haggling in the markets, veterans sharing war stories in taverns, and dancers captivating passersby with their rhythmic movements.

Boyle couldn't help but comment, "For a moment, I thought we'd be in for a more extended stay at the embassy."

Austin grinned, "Well, we're just waiting for the Princess to wrap up her royal duties. Then, we'll set our course for Madrid and most importantly we’ll get paid. Until then, let's enjoy the sights and keep an eye on the Sugar Rush."

At last, as the night settled in, a familiar figure emerged from the streets. Princess Nobuko, adorned in elegant attire, approached with a graceful stride. A small contingent of soldiers, clad in traditional samurai-style armour, accompanied her.

Waiting at the docking door Austin greeted “Nobuko, did the embassy give us some babysitters?”

Nobuko nods, gracefully acknowledging Austin, "Let's go, and thank you for everything." She enters, walking a bit ahead of Austin, her steps betraying a slight unease as she hides her face, unable to completely conceal the emotions.The soldiers follow, maintaining a respectful distance, their stoic expressions revealing the depth of their commitment to safeguarding their princess.

As the Sugar Rush embarked on the journey from Athens to Madrid, the Mediterranean waters embraced the sleek submersible. The holographic interface displayed the designated route, and the Federation escort, led by Elena Dumitrescu, flanked the diplomatic vessel.

Within the submersible, Princess Nobuko found a moment of solitude, a respite from the diplomatic intricacies and the emotional whirlwind. Her gaze lingered on the holographic emblem representing the imperial family, a symbol of her responsibilities and the weight of her lineage. The crew, respecting her need for privacy, carried out their duties with a sense of quiet determination.

As they navigated the underwater terrain, Austin occasionally checked the holographic interface, studying the progress and remaining vigilant for unexpected challenges. The connection between Sugar, the ship's AI, and the Federation escort facilitated smooth communication, ensuring coordination in the face of uncertainties.

This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.

Final journey was smooth but quiet, the soldier that accompanied Princess Nobuko on board prevented Austin, Boyle, Milson and even Sugar from getting close her, nearing Madrid Austin awoke, heading to check on Sugar in the cockpit, to his surprise Nobuko sit pressed against the glass glazing out, knees press to her chest, none of her guards were around.

"Princess, you're up sharp?" Austin asked, genuinely surprised.

Nobuko jumped out of her skin, startled by his presence. "Austin, sorry, Captain, you scared me."

Austin noticed Nobuko's red, raw eyes and sniffing nose. Concerned, he spoke softly, "Everything okay? And where are your guards?"

Nobuko opened up, “No, Father” she hesitates for a moment, “ The emperor has awakened, and my uncle fled the country” she mumbles as her hands cover her face, attempting to hide her state.

“That's good news ain't it, Hiro will see justice?” Austin delivered a warm smile with a reasoning tone.

“My Sister, the first princess, was killed at the same time my yacht was destroyed” as her eyes swelled, she couldn't hold back any longer.

Austin approached, he couldn't stand to see her in this state, reach out to holds her tight, as she pressed her head on his shoulder, catching her tears on his jacket, “Am sorry, Nobuko, take your time, I will be here for you”

As they stood in the cockpit down in the depths Austin held her for as long as she needed, till Sugar chimed in “Austin, we’re an hour away from Madrid, do you want to prepare for docking?”

Nobuko pulled herself together, “I am sorry, Austin, I shouldn't have done that.”

Austin wipes away the few tears from her cheek, “Don't worry about, try and get 30 winks before we arrive at port, you're really going to wanna see Madrid’s walls, it's nothing like what you have back east.”

As she left the cockpit, Austin take control of the Sugar Rush, as Sugar materials next to him, “Am glad you spoken to her, I didn't know how to deal with grief”

Austin enters navigation into the console, “It's a very human emotion, who knows one day, you might feel the same about me, any way, let's end this” as he focused on the final leg.

Austin skilfully piloted the Sugar Rush, maintaining a slow and steady pace as Madrid Walls came into view. He called the crew to the cockpit, unlike the familiar bubbles they had encountered, the walls of Madrid rose majestically from the seabed to the surface, a formidable barrier that had withstood the test of time.

Boyle, Milson, and Sugar joined Austin at the helm, their eyes fixed on the approaching walls. Nobuko, standing among them, felt a mixture of relief and trepidation. The walls represented safety, but the challenges that lay beyond her were yet to be revealed.

Austin, steering the Sugar Rush with precision, marvelled at the engineering marvel that guarded Madrid, with wide eye like a child, "that a sight, one of two walled cities, that have stood for generations”

Sugar, analysing the wall, displaying it on screen, added, "Impressive is it? an architectural wonder.”

Nobuko, looking on, passed her guard who stood before her, “Captain, can you focus,” her tone bland, to not alarm her guards.

Boyle was stunned, “wow, is it true you can see the sky from within the city?”

Austin with a grin, “of course you can, you’re going to love it, one of only two places the sun reaches the earth.” flashing a wider grin he turns to Nobuko “and I bet the princess, can’t waiting to see the sun again”

Nobuko guard spoke up, stamping to draw attention “you will address her majesty properly or not at all” gasping at his weapons hilt.

Austin smirked, “and you’re on my sub, so your opinion doesn't matter”

The walls, lined with intricate designs and fortified structures, stretched vertically, creating an awe-inspiring sight. The ambient glow of luminescent algae clung to the walls, casting an ethereal ambiance that highlighted the city's defensive grandeur.

As the Sugar Rush approached the colossal gates of Madrid, Austin activated the communication system. "Madrid Walls, this is Captain Austin of the Nomad Sugar Rush. Requesting permission to enter."

A holographic interface flickered to life, displaying an emblem of Madrid. A calm, authoritative voice responded, "Captain Austin, this is Madrid Control. Welcome back. You are granted permission to enter. Follow the designated route to docking station Alpha-9."

With the confirmation, Austin guided the Sugar Rush through the docking gates, and the crew witnessed the transition from the open waters to the sky lit city of Madrid.

Nobuko, gazing at the underwater city with a mix of fascination and relief, whispered, "We made it."

Hologram of Elena interrupted Nobuko, “Welcome to Madrid, Allow me to escort you to the Imperial Embassy.”

Austin, guiding the Sugar Rush to its designated docking station, couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. "Now, let's see what the city has in store for us."

As the submersible docked in Madrid, the crew prepared to disembark, eager to step onto the solid ground within the city walls.

Just as the princess disembarked, her soldiers barred the dock, “You stay! Do not follow us!”

Nobuko turned to her men, “what are you doing, these are my saviours, my friends, I want them to accompany me to the embassy”

Milson Screeched as he flipped a finger at the guard, Boyle followed suit “Yer, she my friend” as sugar materialised next to them, as she joined in holding a finger up.

Austin approached him, “I’ve got a job to do, get out my way” Nobuko Guard eyes sharpened on Austin but it didn't stop him. “I promised the princess, I would delivery her to the embassy here, and am going to finish this job”

The guards withdrew their blades, “Stand down, on the emperor's orders, no foreigners can enter any imperial embassy.

Austin stared them down, his hand crept to the hilt of his pulser, “now then, why did you have to go and do that?”

Sugar rotated the Sugar Rush’s turret at them, “Austin, do I have permission to shoot?”

Nobuko shouted, “enough! Austin and his crew will accompany me as my guests” she steps between them.

The lead guard “negative, no rag tag nomads will accompany our royal highness”

The tense standoff at the docking station was boiling, onlookers frozen to there spot, know if anyone opened fire, the wall could be breached.

To the relief of everyone Elena, accompanied by a contingent of European soldiers, intervened. "What's going on here?" Elane questioned, her eyes darting between the Imperial Tokyo soldiers and Austin's crew. "Are you mad? If you fire, you'll sink the city!" notice the turret of the Sugar Rush charging

Austin stepped forward, "They started it, we just want to ensure the princess gets home safely."

Elane positioned herself between the two groups, "We will escort you all. Austin, we will put you and your crew up within the city until the princess's mission is complete. Your Royal Highness, can you please control your men?"

Nobuko nodded, commanding her soldiers to stand down. "Thank you, Ms. Dumitrescu. I appreciate your understanding. Austin and his crew are my guests, however, my fathers laws prevent foreigner from entering our embassies."

Elena, with a stern expression, addressed the Imperial Tokyo soldiers, "We'll provide additional security. Let's not turn this docking station into a battlefield. Follow me, and let the diplomatic proceedings continue without further interruptions."

As the tension eased, Princess Nobuko led the way towards the Imperial Tokyo Embassy, flanked by the European soldiers and accompanied by Austin, Boyle, Milson, and Sugar. The crew cast relieved glances at each other, grateful for the diplomatic intervention that prevented an unnecessary confrontation.

Within the vibrant city of Madrid, they navigated through bustling streets adorned with a mix of traditional and futuristic architecture. Boyle's eyes traced the hues of the sun, a spectrum of warm colours painting the Madrid skyline, casting its golden glow upon the city. She couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder as she basked in the sunlight. It was a moment of firsts for her, the first time she witnessed the sun. A soft breeze rustled her hair as she stood there, absorbing the unfamiliar sensation of sunlight on her skin.

Austin flashed her a soft smile as he noticed Boyle, her face contorting with a lack of understanding. He whispered to her, “Hey kid, keep your head on a swivel.” as they hurried to reach the embassy.

The Imperial Tokyo Embassy, a prominent structure surrounded by lush gardens, came into view. Elane, walking alongside the group, spoke to Austin, "We'll ensure you have comfortable lodgings while the princess completes her mission. Once everything settles, you're free to explore Madrid."

As they reached the embassy, guards greeted them, and the large gates opened to welcome the entourage. Princess Nobuko turned to Austin, expressing gratitude, "Thank you for everything, Captain Austin. Your assistance has been invaluable. Once my duties are fulfilled, I'll make sure you and your crew are duly rewarded."

Austin tipped an imaginary hat, "Our pleasure, Princess. We'll be around if you need us. Good luck with your mission."

Elane, addressing the crew, added, "Rest assured, you'll have access to the finest accommodations in the Federation. Enjoy your stay."

As Princess Nobuko entered the embassy with her escorts, Austin, Boyle, Milson, and Sugar were escorted to their lodgings within the city. The uncertainty of the diplomatic proceedings lingered, but for now, they could take a moment to rest and explore the wonders of Madrid.