For the second day in a row, Shikuro found himself unable to shake off a sense of loss over Shikihime's drastic hair change. Her shorter locks were still endearing, maintaining her feminine charm, yet he missed the long, flowing hair he had grown so fond of. He understood her pragmatic reasons - to lessen the risk of detection and the burdens they carried - but part of him wished she hadn't felt compelled to go so far.

  As they neared the city of Vrastislava, its sprawling expanse loomed larger than Shikihime had imagined. "Reading about a place and actually seeing it are worlds apart," she mused, gazing at the distant cityscape.

  Shikuro's thoughts were interrupted by Shikihime's voice. "Did carrying me really tire you out? Even with your limitless stamina?" she asked.

  Bjorn, walking alongside, overheard and chimed in, "Limitless stamina doesn't equate to comfort, especially when holding an awkward posture for days. It's physically taxing, no doubt."

  Shikuro remained silent, but his expression softened. Shikihime's acknowledgment of his efforts brought a hint of a smile to her face. "Maybe he's finally forgiven me," she thought, a wave of relief washing over her.

  The group huddled together to discuss their approach to entering Vrastislava. Minato, ever the strategist, voiced his concern. "Relying on bandit intel is risky. It could be outdated or entirely false."

  Bjorn nodded in agreement. "And trying to bribe our way in? Given the current tension, it could be more than just risky; it could be fatal."

  Yoru, who had been scanning their surroundings, spoke up. "There's always someone willing to take a bribe. It's all about timing and circumstance."

  Shikuro turned to Shikihime, seeking her input. "What do you think?"

  She pondered for a moment. "If we enter the city, our distinctive blue steel armor and weapons will draw so much attention, it might as well be a death sentence. Even local criminals would be tempted to hunt us down."

  Akalune nodded in agreement. "It's akin to walking into a trap."

  Yoru suggested a more drastic approach. "We could ambush a villager, take their clothes..."

  Shikihime quickly interjected, "I'd rather we keep that as a last resort."

  Shikuro raised an eyebrow. "You have an issue with stealing under these circumstances?"

  "It's not the act of stealing I'm worried about," she replied. "If a theft is reported, and someone with a keen mind connects the dots, it would reveal our presence immediately. I'd rather not gamble on such high stakes."

  Shikihime scanned the group, her expression a mix of frustration and determination. "Here we are, so close to Vrastislava, yet it feels like it's worlds away," she sighed.

  Yoru, ever the problem-solver, chimed in with a hint of resolve in her voice. "There's always a way in. The real challenge is blending in once we're inside. Full capes might hide us, but six cloaked figures wandering around will only draw unwanted attention."

  Minato, leaning against a nearby tree, offered a practical solution. "What if we disguise ourselves as guards accompanying a noble couple? If Shikuro and Shikihime pretend to be newlyweds, it wouldn't be out of place."

  Shikihime's eyes twinkled mischievously as she turned to Shikuro. "Ah, playing the part of a doting husband and wife, sharing a cozy room at the inn. How economical," she teased.

  Shikuro's patience frayed at the edges. "Can you take this seriously for once? We're brainstorming solutions, not making jokes."

  Shikihime shot a quick glance at Minato. "If he's this easily flustered, no one would believe we're a married couple," she quipped, causing Akalune and Yoru to nod in agreement.

  Shikuro's annoyance bubbled to the surface, his voice tinged with frustration. "Why can't you all take this seriously?"

  Bjorn, placing a calming hand on Shikuro's shoulder, interjected with a voice of reason. "Relax, Shikuro. They have a point. We might indeed have to convincingly share a room or even a bed to avoid suspicion. It's a future concern, yes, but not entirely implausible."

  Shikihime shifted the conversation back to their immediate needs. "Yoru and I can use our robes for some level of disguise. What about the rest of you? Minato, do you have anything less conspicuous?"

  Minato, with a slight smirk, replied, "Of course, I always carry a set of civilian clothes."

  Bjorn and Shikuro exchanged a look of surprise, as if Minato had suddenly revealed a hidden side of himself. Shikihime's lips curled into a smile. "How very prepared of you, Minato. You're full of surprises."

  Shikuro felt a strange, unfamiliar sensation stir within him – jealousy. It was an uncomfortable feeling, one he didn't appreciate. He found himself glaring at Minato, a silent challenge in his eyes, only interrupted by Bjorn's gentle prod, bringing him back to the present.

  As twilight painted the sky in hues of orange and red, Shikihime and her group reached the edge of the dense forest, standing only about seven hours' walk from their elusive destination: the city of Vrastislava. The proximity of the city weighed heavily on their minds as they contemplated their next move. The daylight was waning, and with it, their options seemed to narrow.

  Shikihime's sharp eyes caught a curious sight—a small group breaking away from the main road to set up camp. It struck her as odd. Akalune shared her suspicion, "At this hour, it's safer within the city walls. Why camp out here unless...?"

  Nodding in agreement, Shikihime motioned to Yoru, "Let's check it out. We'll be back soon." Stealthily, they approached the caravan, making just enough noise to announce their presence without startling the campers.

  A woman's voice called out, "Who's there?"

  "We're just adventurers passing by," Shikihime replied, her voice laced with feigned innocence.

  A man emerged, crossbow at the ready, skepticism written all over his face. "As if," he said, eyeing them warily.

  Shikihime raised her hands in a calming gesture, "Easy, my friend. We're not here to cause trouble."

  "That's my decision to make," the man retorted, not lowering his weapon.

  Undeterred, Shikihime laughed lightly, "I was actually telling my companion here to hold back from harming you." The man and his partner exchanged puzzled looks, unsure how to interpret her words.

  Shikihime didn't miss a beat, "You're smugglers, aren't you? Brave enough to camp out here, far from the city's protection."

  The pair glanced at each other, tension rising. The man, now a bit more wary, asked, "And who might you be?"

  "Let's just say, your fate if you don't lower that crossbow," Shikihime said coolly, her confidence unshaken. The man, sensing the gravity of her words, lowered his weapon, though he kept it ready.

  Shikihime continued, "We need to smuggle some people into the city. Are you up for it?"

  The woman interjected nervously, "We're not smugglers," but her tone betrayed her.

  Shikihime, growing impatient, pressed on, "We can skip the charades. We need to get inside the city, and we're willing to pay."

  "How much are you offering?" the man asked cautiously.

  Shikihime, keen not to reveal their resources, countered, "Tell me your price per person."

  "One large gold each, but we can only take three," the man finally said.

  Shikihime and Yoru huddled together, pretending to deliberate. "We have the funds, but let's not agree too quickly," Yoru whispered, "Alternatively, we could split up. Me, Akalune, and Minato could sneak into the city under cover of night."

  As Shikihime waited, she couldn't help but overhear the couple's hushed debate. "This is too risky," the man muttered, his voice tinged with worry. "If they're caught and we're implicated, we're as good as dead." The woman, equally anxious, added, "Yes, but we can't ignore the potential reward. They need disguises, and we can provide that. But what if they betray us?"

  Shikihime observed them closely, noting their dilemma. She intervened with a tempting offer, "I'll pay half the amount upfront. Think about it – we keep our identities hidden, minimal interaction, just complete the job. You need the money, and we need to get past the guards and offload our gear. In three days, we can settle this and part ways." Her words seemed to sway the woman, but the man remained visibly conflicted.

  This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

  In a bold move, Shikihime tossed a large gold coin towards the woman. "Start with the clothes. We'll return shortly with my companions," she declared, her tone firm. The man, finally relenting, let out a resigned sigh.

  Turning to Yoru, Shikihime instructed, "Go fetch Bjorn and Shikuro. You three are capable of sneaking in, right?" Yoru hesitated, concerned for Shikihime's safety. "I can't leave you alone," she protested. Shikihime, her eyebrows raised in challenge, retorted, "That wasn't a suggestion, Yoru. It was an order. Now go."

  Yoru, still reluctant, sought to address a practical matter. "We need a rendezvous point after we separate," she pointed out. Shikihime nodded in agreement and turned to the couple. "Where will we meet afterwards? What inn will you secure for us?" she inquired.

  The man, now more cooperative, responded, "The Dark Tiger Claws, near the Black Sun Company. They're known for their discretion and shady dealings – the perfect cover for us." Shikihime and Yoru exchanged knowing looks. Fortune seemed to favor them with this choice of location.

  With a final nod of understanding, Yoru departed to execute their plan, leaving Shikihime to negotiate the finer details of their precarious agreement with the couple.

  Shikuro paced anxiously, his gaze fixed on the direction where Shikihime and Yoru had vanished. Minato, silently observing, noted Yoru's solitary return and the absence of Shikihime. He remained quiet, waiting for Yoru's explanation.

  Upon arrival, Yoru was immediately barraged with Shikuro's worried inquiries. "Where's Shikihime? Is she alright?" he asked, his voice laced with concern.

  "She's negotiating with the caravan folks," Yoru explained, her tone even. "She's finalizing our entry into the city. She's decided that you, her, and Bjorn will go with the smugglers. The rest of us will sneak in under cover of darkness."

  Yoru handed over the all-encompassing capes to Minato and Akalune, which would aid their covert entry. Shikuro's frustration was palpable. "And you left her alone with them?" he demanded.

  Yoru stood her ground. "It wasn't my choice, but she insisted. She can handle herself." Minato interjected, his skepticism evident. "This plan has flaws. Separating Shikihime from her closest guards for an extended period is risky, especially given her recent condition."

  Yoru's patience waned at Minato's challenge. "Know your place, Minato," she retorted sharply. "She's not just Shikihime; she's Tomoe, the undefeated Admiral of the Abyss Fleet. Don't underestimate her."

  Minato, unfazed, countered. "Two days ago, she struggled to walk for more than a few hours. She's relying on herbs to keep pace with us. In her current state, she's vulnerable."

  Yoru dismissed his concerns with a frustrated 'Tsch!'. "A couple of commoners with rusty crossbows pose no real threat. We're wasting time debating this."

  Shikuro, witnessing the heated exchange, stepped in to mediate. "I understand Minato's concerns, but the decision is made. The question now is, can the three of you make it inside the city undetected?"

  Akalune confidently affirmed her ability, Yoru nodded in agreement, and Minato, ever pragmatic, assured, "I'll manage. It's a matter of duty."

  Shikuro couldn't help but admire Minato's unwavering focus and commitment. In the past few days, his respect for the man had grown significantly.

  Shikuro's gaze shifted to Minato, the air heavy with a sense of uncertain anticipation. He extended a large gold coin towards Minato, his voice firm yet tinged with an unspoken worry, "Just in case." Minato's hand closed around the coin, his expression a blend of gratitude and solemn understanding. "Thank you," he said, his voice steady. There was a pause, a moment where their shared uncertainties and unspoken fears seemed to hover in the air between them.

  Minato, sensing Shikuro's concern, assured him, "I'll leave now, to be fresh for tomorrow night." Shikuro, still uneasy, asked, "Shouldn't you rest today? To be in shape for what lies ahead?" Minato's gaze met Shikuro's, a quiet confidence emanating from him. "You should be more concerned about yourself," he advised. "They're going to smuggle you inside. Whatever awaits you there... be prepared for discomfort." With a firm handshake, Minato departed, leaving Shikuro to ponder his words.

  As Yoru and Akalune guided Shikuro and Bjorn towards the caravan, the group covertly stashed away one of their traveling bags, a tent, and additional supplies they wouldn't need for the imminent journey. The caravan loomed closer, and Yoru and Akalune halted, allowing only Bjorn and Shikuro to proceed.

  Upon their arrival, Shikuro and Bjorn were met with an unexpected sight. There, before them, was a woman, tears streaming down her cheeks, and a man beside her, his eyes brimming with unshed tears. Shikihime stepped forward to greet them, her approach startling Shikuro. She reached out and planted a kiss on Shikuro's cheek, her voice laced with a mix of determination and feigned vulnerability, "This is my husband... We married in secret, bound by a love that drives us to face all adversities together."

  Shikuro and Bjorn, taken aback, could only stare in disbelief as the woman continued, her voice breaking with emotion, "Miss Arabela, you are the bravest woman I've ever met. May all your dreams find their fulfillment." Shikihime's response was equally tearful, "Yes, and now, with your help, my hope glimmers anew. You both are good-hearted people; there's nothing to be ashamed of. Be proud of yourselves. Without you, I would have lost all hope."

  The man, standing beside a woman, formally introduced himself and his companion. Addressing Shikuro with a newfound respect, he said, "Mr. Philip, we will assist you in entering the city. This serene countryside is far removed from the turmoil of the unknown lands and the central politics. Remember, should you need our aid in the future, we are here to help."

  Shikuro, momentarily taken aback, simply raised an eyebrow in response. Bjorn, sensing the need for a more personal touch, nudged Shikuro and encouraged him, "Come on, Philip, introduce yourself. Arabela, your cherished wife, has risked so much for this. You owe her at least a few words of gratitude."

  Caught off guard by this unexpected role-playing, Shikuro stumbled through his introduction. He was never one for acting, and this situation was certainly outside his comfort zone. Nonetheless, he awkwardly thanked "Arabela" for her immense sacrifice. In a clumsy attempt to seem more convincing, he gave her a playful pat on butt, which was met with a resigned sigh from Bjorn.

  Shikihime, ever the tease, played along and said with a wink, "We'll have to wait, my dear. But once we find our sanctuary at the inn, it'll be straight to bed for us." Shikuro, unprepared for her intense gaze, averted his eyes, his cheeks warming slightly.

  The woman, observing their interaction, couldn't help but express her amusement, "It's exactly as you described, Miss Arabela. He's quite the shy one, isn't he? Uncomfortable around strangers, no doubt. If we were in uniform, you'd never make it past the city gates with him."

  Shikihime, maintaining her role, nodded in agreement. "That's precisely why we need your assistance. He may seem tough, like an ogre at times, but there's an endearing charm to him when he's out of his element. Give me a few months with him, and if my efforts don't work, perhaps the children will."

  Shikuro, caught off guard by the mention of children, shot a puzzled look at Shikihime. The woman, seeing his reaction, reassured him with a smile, "Don't stress, Mr. Philip. Embracing this new life won't be easy, but it's what makes you a true hero. To renounce one's noble status, to defy societal norms and cast aside the constraints of class – it's a tale of love conquering all. Together, you'll overcome every challenge and live a life of happiness until the end of your days."

  Interlude: Rin’s Return

  After three grueling weeks of solitary travel, Rin was on the cusp of her destination - Frostgard. The relentless journey had sapped her strength; her body was a canvas of exhaustion, hunger, and thirst. The urgency of her mission eclipsed her physical state – she needed to report her findings, and quickly. Her thoughts were fixated on making contact with Shikihime or Kage, or anyone back at the estate who could assist.

  The boat's docking at Frostgard coincided with the descent of dusk. Deciding to leverage the cover of darkness, Rin chose to wait, concealing herself amidst the shadows on the merchant ship. As twilight melded into the deep blues of night, Rin emerged like a wraith from her hiding spot. Her objective was clear – reach the estate without drawing attention.

  But as she stealthily navigated the familiar streets towards the estate, something felt unsettlingly off. The silhouettes and structures of the estate loomed differently in the moonlight – altered, unfamiliar. A sense of foreboding crept over her. Retreating into the darkness to reassess, she was suddenly met with the cold touch of steel against her neck.

  "Who are you?" The voice was as sharp as the blade it accompanied.

  A flicker of recognition sparked in Rin. "Kage?" she ventured tentatively.

  The tension in the air seemed to evaporate as the knife was sheathed. Turning around, Rin's eyes met Kage's – it was indeed her.

  "You have no idea how relieved I am to see you," Rin breathed out, her relief palpable. "I must speak with Shikihime immediately. I bring grave news."

  Kage's expression remained unreadable as he listened. "Shikihime is not here. We need to get you to the palace discreetly, and see to your condition. I'll explain everything once we're in a safe place. Can you follow me?"

  Without hesitation, Rin nodded, her resolve unshaken despite the weariness that clung to her bones. Together, they melted back into the night, moving towards safety and the answers that Rin so desperately sought.

  In the dim-lit serenity of Kage's chambers, Rin sat devouring warm food and gulping down fresh water. Her manners forgotten, she ate with a desperation that was both raw and revealing. Kage observed her without judgment, understanding the depths of exhaustion and turmoil that must have driven Rin to such a state. The sorrow in Kage's eyes mirrored the sadness enveloping Rin as she devoured her meal.

  Breaking the silence, Rin's voice, tinged with urgency, cut through the room. "When will Shikihime return?" she asked, her eyes searching Kage's for answers.

  Kage hesitated, a flicker of concern crossing her features. "I don't know, Rin. Shikihime's whereabouts are a mystery. She is missing in action." Her voice was laced with a mix of worry and resolve.

  Rin's brow furrowed, her questions tumbling out in rapid succession. "Was she taken from here? What were you doing when this happened? Is this why you're here alone? Does the Dynasty know? Should I have disembarked agai—"

  Kage cut her off, firm but gentle. "Shikihime has been missing for nearly three weeks. She's believed to be in Stardust Kingdom, on the run with Shikuro and others. Ryo is already taking measures. The Realm dispatched a fleet and envoy to apprehend them..."

  Panic flashed in Rin's eyes, her voice rising in alarm. "KAGE!!! It's a trap! They must return immediately!"

  "Rin!" Kage's hand met Rin's cheek in a sharp slap, a bid for her focus. "Calm down, Rin. Gather your thoughts. I know you've been through a lot, but we need clarity now."

  Rin hastily produced several letters from her bag, handing them to Kage. Each letter read by Kage added to the gravity of the situation; her face grew paler, her hands trembled slightly with the realization of the unfolding disaster.

  "Rin..." Kage finally spoke, her voice barely above a whisper after digesting the contents of the letters. "It's too late to intervene now. Even the fastest ship won't make it in time... It's too late," she admitted, her voice strained with defeat.

  "No, it's not," Rin insisted, her tone firm. "We must send a warning. This information could change everything."

  Kage snapped back to the present, her resolve returning. "Rest now, Rin. Regain your strength. War looms on the horizon for all of us. Be prepared. I'll handle things here." With those final words, Kage hurried from the room, leaving Rin alone with her thoughts.

  Rin gazed out the window into the starlit night, her heart heavy with unspoken pleas to Sora and Shikihime. "Please... survive and return," she whispered into the darkness, hoping against hope that her silent prayers would find them.