The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow across the sky as Madrid prepared to host an extraordinary celebration. The opulent Imperial Tokyo Embassy, adorned with vibrant banners representing both nations, stood as a beacon of unity in the heart of the city. The air buzzed with anticipation as elegantly dressed diplomats, distinguished guests, and members of the Imperial Tokyo and European Federation delegations gathered in the embassy's expansive courtyard.

The imposing gates of the embassy parted, revealing the silhouette of the Sugar Rush crew, gleaming in the ambient light, attracting curious glances from the guests.

First to emerge was Austin, the captain of the Nomad Sugar Rush, dressed in a tailored suit that seamlessly blended his rugged charm with the formal atmosphere of the event. His confident stride exuded a mixture of nonchalance and purpose, turning heads and sparking whispers among the gathered crowd.

Following closely behind, Boyle stepped out, adorned in an outfit that combined her slender figure with a touch of elegance. Her eyes widened as she took in the splendour of the surroundings, the novelty of the occasion evident on her face. Boyle's presence injected a sense of spontaneity into the refined atmosphere, a reminder of the unconventional nature of the crew.

Lastly, Sugar, the ship's artificial intelligence, materialised as a holographic, hovered gracefully beside Austin. Her ethereal form with a bubbly tone, made a extravagant dress for herself drawn a scene, capturing the attention of those who marvelled at the extreme.

Milson ran up behind them, finding a tailor suit small enough for a Spider monkey, he ran up Boyle dress, landing on her shoulder, he flashed a cheeky smile and a wave to everyone in sight.

Together, the crew made their way through the courtyard, navigating the sea of dignitaries. Austin exchanged nods and smiles with familiar faces, while Boyle shyly greeted the occasion with wide-eyed wonder. Sugar, with a skip in her step leaped around soaking the attention.

The orchestral strains gracefully faded, leaving a hush over the courtyard. All eyes turned toward the centre stage, where the spotlight beamed onto the ornate curtains, creating an air of anticipation. As the curtains unfurled, revealing the stage bathed in soft hues, a collective gasp swept through the audience.

Emerging from the shadows, Princess Nobuko graced the stage, adorned in a traditional kimono that epitomises elegance. The fabric, woven with meticulous precision, bore rich embroidery patterns that told tales of history and heritage. Princess Nobuko's natural silk long hair was intricately pinned up, allowing the delicate strands to cascade like a waterfall down her back. Her makeup, subtle and natural, served as an enhancer rather than a mask, highlighting her innate beauty.

The orchestra played a light note as Nobuko spoke, seamlessly weaving tales of the alliance between the European Federation and Imperial Tokyo. She painted a vivid picture of the technological aid her people would provide in the ongoing war with the African Mediterranean Caliphate, a beacon of hope for a united front against adversity. Her words resonated with the crowd, conveying not only political significance but also a promise of shared progress and strength.

Nobuko's voice carried the cadence of optimism, speaking of her father, the Emperor, whose health was on the path to recovery. The attendees, listening intently, could almost feel the collective sigh of relief at this news.

However, the atmosphere shifted as she recounted the recent betrayal within her own family. With a solemn tone, she revealed the actions of her uncle, who had fled to the African Mediterranean Caliphate, betraying the trust and unity that family symbolised. The emotional undercurrent in Nobuko's words echoed through the courtyard, leaving an indelible mark on the minds of those present. The orchestra, mirroring the ebb and flow of emotions.

Princess Nobuko regained her composure. "Finally, I'd like to address the crew that saved me, the people that gave me a new lease on life—an adventure to never forget. My heroes!"

The spotlights whipped around the crowd before landing on the crew of the Sugar Rush. Austin raised his arm to shield his eyes.

Princess Nobuko continued, "Nomad Captain Austin and the crew of the submersible, the Sugar Rush, can you please join me on stage?"

With the invitation echoing through the courtyard, the crew of the Sugar Rush gracefully navigated the applauding crowd. Austin, Boyle, Milson, and Sugar moved with a blend of humility and pride, acknowledging the accolades with nods and smiles.

A side entrance to the stage, adorned with elaborate decorations, awaited their arrival. Upon reaching the stage, Princess Nobuko greeted them with a warm smile, her gratitude evident in her eyes, as she bows her head to the gasps of the courtyard.

Raising her head to acknowledge Princess Nobuko smirked as she noticed an embarrassed Boyle and Austin, Sugar offered a warm smile of gratitude and Milson a cheeky grin and wagging tail.

An attendant gracefully accompanied the stage, carrying a pillow adorned with several medals. Princess Nobuko addressed them with a gracious smile, her words resonating through the courtyard.

"To Austin, the captain who rescued me within Rogue Nation."

Austin bent down, a mix of pride and humility on his face, as the princess delicately placed a medal around his neck. The crowd erupted in applause, acknowledging the bravery that defined his actions.

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"Boyle, crew member of the Sugar, who came after me when I was kidnapped by the AMC."

Following Austin's lead, Boyle stepped forward. Although pale and sweating, she stood resolute, unable to contain her nerves. The princess, with a gentle touch, adorned Boyle with a medal, a symbol of gratitude for her unwavering loyalty.

"Sugar, the vessel that carried us through the depths, and Milson, our little mascot. Please accept this as my token of thanks."

As Sugar materialised a holographic copy of the medal onto herself, Milson enthusiastically grabbed his by the side, raising it above his head to the cheers of the crowd. Austin whispered, "I'll hold onto Sugar's medal,"

The orchestra, sensing the significance of the reunion, subtly adjusted its notes to complement the sense of unity and accomplishment. Together, they became the focal point of the celebration.

The crew, adorned with their well-deserved honours, stood alongside Princess Nobuko, the embodiment of a triumphant alliance celebrated under the Madrid night sky.

Princess Nobuko, with a grateful smile, gestured towards the side of the stage. "Thank you, Austin, Boyle, Sugar, and Milson.”

With a final nod, the crew and Nobuko gracefully descended the stage, guided by the same attendant who had brought the medals. The spotlight shifted, focusing on the vibrant crowd, eager to continue the festivities.

Just as the crew made their way into the midst of the gathering, a lively fanfare filled the air. Over the crowds, they could hear, "Austin! Austin! Wait up, Austin!" The familiar voice cut through the celebration, capturing the attention of the crew. Turning their heads to find the source, they were met with a surprising sight.

Princess Nobuko, noticing the crew's puzzled expressions, turned to Austin. "Do you know them?"

Austin, his grin growing wider with excitement, replied, "It sounds like my sister?"

The crew exchanged shocked glances at the revelation of Austin's family connection. The attendees were exclusively elites, and the presence of a family member hinted at Austin's origin from an elite lineage.

As the lively fanfare grew closer, two stylishly dressed women emerged from the crowd, making her way towards the crew with an air of familiarity. With a beaming smile, one of them approached Austin and embraced him warmly. "Austin, you scoundrel! How long has it been?"

"Aurora, Isla!" Austin exclaimed with joy, leaning in to hug his sister Aurora and his cousin Isla.

Princess Nobuko notices them, “Your Duchess Isla, and Princess Aurora of Albion?”

They nodded, Aurora spoke first “Father sent me to be the new diplomat with the federation”

Isla stood behind her, shyly speaking, “and the king sort fit to send me to the Empire of Brazil”

Princess Nobuko, recognizing the significance of their roles, extended a welcoming hand. "It's an honour to have both of you here. The diplomatic ties between our nations will surely benefit from your presence. Welcome to the celebration!"

Then, she turned to Austin with a raised eyebrow, "I didn't realise you were related to royalty. Care to share more about your background, Captain Austin?"

Austin, wanting a way to dodge the question, struggled, he brushed his hair back with a casual gesture and said, "Who wants a drink?" Redirecting the conversation, he invited everyone to partake in the celebration and enjoy the festivities.

The night continued with the courtyard alive with music, laughter, and the clinking of glasses. The crew of the Sugar Rush, along with Austin's sister and cousin, immersed themselves in the celebration.

As the festivities unfolded, Princess Nobuko approached Austin, a gentle smile on her face. "Captain Austin, would you do me the honour of accompanying me home, to the Tokyo lilypad? Your presence would be greatly appreciated."

Austin, with a thoughtful expression, hesitated for a moment. "I appreciate the offer, Princess, but I've got a penchant for roaming free. Authority and I never got along well, and that's why I'm a nomad, not still a prince."

Princess Nobuko nodded understandingly, respecting Austin's preference for freedom. "I see. I respect your independence, sometimes, I wish for it at times but never had the strength to leave.” with a heavy sigh “If you ever reconsider, the invitation stands, you’ll be welcomed in my court anytime. Until then, enjoy the night, Captain.", Austin watched as she fades into the crowds, unsure if he’ll see her again.

Meanwhile, Boyle found herself engrossed in a conversation with Isla. As they sipped on their drinks, Boyle shared her plans for the future. "You know, once I get my reward money, I'm thinking of heading back to Albion. I want to open up an engineering shop and maybe try to track down my extended family."

Isla, intrigued by Boyle's determination, responded, "That sounds like a noble endeavour.

Boyle smiled, her eyes gleaming with determination. "Thanks, Isla. It's time for me to carve my own path, you know? Maybe find a bit of stability for once."

Isla nodded in understanding. "Stability is a precious thing. And opening an engineering shop in Albion sounds like a wonderful way to contribute to the kingdom”

Aurora, overhearing the conversation, joined in, her expression serious. "Boyle, I couldn't help but catch the mention of your extended family. If I may ask, what is your connection to my brother, and where are you parents?”

Boyle's gaze shifted, a flicker of pain crossing her features. "Yeah, they're gone. Got separated when I was a kid, slavery and such.”

Aurora's eyes widened in horror, "Slavery? That's unfathomable. I can't imagine the pain you must've gone through.”

Boyle looked past Isla, noting Austin gazing into the crowd. "You know, it was your brother, Austin, who freed me. And he did it for nothing in return. I managed to smuggle myself onto his sub, and instead of turning me over to the AMC, he opted to overpay to buy my contract. That's how we got involved with Princess Nobuko."

Isla's eyes widened, a mix of surprise and admiration in her gaze. "That's quite a tale. Austin always seems to have a penchant for doing the right thing, even when it's not the easiest."

Boyle nodded, a fond smile playing on her lips. "Yeah, he's got a stubborn sense of honour. Doesn't always make life easy, but I wouldn't have it any other way."

Milson, perched on her shoulder, performed a salute and added his cheeky screech.

Aurora, genuinely concerned for Boyle's past struggles, asked, "Is there anything I can do to help? My resources and connections are at your disposal”

Boyle's usual brave face softened for a moment. "I appreciate that, Aurora. For now, I'm just focusing on building a future. But who knows, maybe someday I’ll ask for your help in finding my grandparents”

Aurora, genuinely concerned, added, "If you ever need assistance or resources, consider me a friend.”

Boyle, touched by the offer, nodded gratefully. "Thanks, Aurora. Means a lot coming from someone like you."

And so, beneath the Madrid night sky, the celebration continued, as the music played on, the night embraced them all, leaving memories of an extraordinary adventure they’ve all had, and a great send off as Austin, Milson and Sugar return to there submersible the morning after seeking new contracts, new adventure. Boyle heads to Albion to follow her dreams, while Nobuko, now safe, will be escort via the surface by both the Federation and Tokyo back to the comfort of home.