The morning after Shikihime''s revelation, a palpable change had come over Shikuro. He was notably quieter, reflecting the inner turmoil stirred by the truths uncovered the night before. Yet, in a silent show of trust and acceptance, he took Shikihime''s hand, allowing her to guide him through the dark forest.


    As they cautiously navigated their way, Shikihime, ever vigilant, noticed another group trailing them in the distance. Recognizing them as a search party, she quickly alerted the others, signaling them to find cover. The urgency of the situation was clear; they needed to act swiftly and decisively.


    Bjorn, seeking clarity amidst the sudden shift in their situation, inquired about what was happening. Minato confirmed that they were being pursued, a fact that prompted a strategic response from Shikihime. "We will attack them tonight," she declared, her tone resolute. "In the pitch black, we''ll have the upper hand."


    Yoru, sidelined by the limitations of the dark environment, expressed her dissatisfaction with being unable to join the offensive. Shikuro, concerned about the risks, suggested the possibility of a daytime confrontation, but Shikihime was quick to point out the strategic advantage of a nocturnal assault. "They won''t travel at night for fear of using torches and revealing their position. We must use this to our advantage."


    Bjorn, seeking further details, asked about Shikihime''s plan. She explained that their approach would involve scouting, analysis, and if feasible, neutralization of the threat. However, she also acknowledged the drawback of their plan. "Killing them outright will expose our position," she mused, her mind racing for alternatives.


    It was then that Yoru proposed a cunning, albeit risky, solution: poisoning the search party''s food to make their deaths appear accidental. The suggestion sparked a debate among the group. Minato pointed out the dangers of such a tactic, advocating instead for a straightforward ambush to secure their supplies.


    "If it takes days, or even weeks, for them to be found, the forest and its beasts will likely obscure the true cause of their deaths," Minato argued, emphasizing the practicality of his approach.


    That night, under the cover of darkness, Shikihime set out on a crucial mission, leaving Shikuro, Bjorn, and Yoru behind. The three maintained a vigilant silence, each lost in their thoughts as they awaited Shikihime''s return from her reconnaissance.


    Approximately two kilometers away, Shikihime meticulously observed the enemy camp. She counted ten adversaries, with three on guard duty. The camp was heavily fortified with traps, a clear indication that the enemy had anticipated their tactics and prepared countermeasures. Despite the risks, Shikihime noted valuable resources within the camp: bows, food, potentially lifesaving medicine, blankets for the cold nights, and a tent. Weighing the risks against the benefits, the decision to engage was a difficult one.


    Minato, studying the camp''s layout, came up with a strategic plan. In the center of the camp, a small campfire was enclosed by four walls of cloth, designed to conceal its light. His plan was to extinguish the campfire, plunging the camp into darkness and giving them the advantage.


    Shikihime and Akalune positioned themselves to take out the guards silently. Minato, with a bucket of water, stealthily climbed a tree above the campfire. His action would be the signal for the ambush. As he doused the fire, the embers flickered and died, casting the camp into darkness and turning the hunters into prey.


    The surprise attack was swift and effective. Three hours later, the group reunited, bringing with them the spoils of their daring raid. Akalune had sustained a head injury but was quickly tended to with first aid. Their haul included travel bags, food supplies, medicine, bows and arrows, ropes, blankets, and a tent.


    Bjorn, assessing their gains, wondered if they should return to loot the rest of the camp. However, Shikuro, focused on their primary objective, emphasized the need to press forward. "Time is of the essence. We should hurry and cross the river. Once we’re across, we can afford some respite," he advised, his decision evident in his tone.


    Shikihime concurred, her eyes set on their next milestone. "We''re halfway to Vrastislava. We need to endure until then," she stated, her resolve unwavering.


    The following day, after a cautious journey through the dense forest, the group reached the edge of the river. Understanding the need for discretion and safety, they opted to set up their camp a little deeper in the forest, yet close enough to the river to keep an eye on their objective. The proximity to the river offered them both strategic advantage and a hidden vantage point, crucial for their next move.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    The opposite bank of the river presented a stark contrast to their current location. The forest there was thinner, offering less cover but better visibility during the day. This difference in the terrain was something they needed to consider for their crossing.


    Yoru, with her expertise in tracking and reconnaissance, took the lead in searching for signs of an outpost or any remnants left by intelligence operatives that might aid in their crossing of the wild river. Her skills were vital in such a situation, where the slightest clue could mean the difference between a safe passage and a perilous one.


    As Yoru scoured the area, the rest of the group took the opportunity to rest and prepare. They knew that crossing the river would be a challenging endeavor, requiring both physical prowess and strategic planning. The river, with its unpredictable currents and hidden dangers, was not to be underestimated.


    Shikihime, Shikuro, Bjorn, Minato, and Akalune used this time to take stock of their supplies, tend to their equipment, and mentally prepare for the next phase of their journey. The recent raid had provided them with additional resources, but they were aware that the journey ahead would test their limits.


    Yoru''s return just before sunset brought with it a sense of anticipation. She had possibly located the spot they were searching for, but needed someone with keener eyesight for confirmation. Understanding her implication, the group prepared for the next phase of their mission.


    The following day, after a two-hour trek led by Yoru, they reached a location where the dense arrangement of trees significantly reduced visibility. However, from this point, the river was clearly visible. The group gathered around, curious about what they were supposed to find.


    Yoru pointed out a distinct mark on a tree, initially dismissed by Shikihime as animal claws. Upon closer inspection, Shikihime realized the significance of the mark – it resembled the claws of a black tiger, a creature not native to these parts. It was a cleverly disguised sign, something only someone familiar with the Dynasty''s operatives would recognize.


    Agreeing with Yoru''s assessment, Shikihime deduced that the mark indicated the proximity of a hidden outpost or resource utilized by their operatives. The group began an intensive search of the area, their eyes scanning every possible nook and cranny for further clues.


    After about an day of searching, it was Akalune who made the next discovery. They approached a large tree with a peculiar, dull spot on its surface. As Shikihime and Yoru examined it closely, Shikihime found a small lever concealed within what appeared to be a solid part of the tree. With a sense of trepidation, she reached in and pulled the lever, resulting in a faint clicking sound emanating from the ground.


    The group frantically searched the surrounding area until Shikihime located a section of ground where she could fit her fingers. She attempted to pry it open but found it too heavy to lift. Shikuro stepped in to assist and, with his formidable strength, managed to open it completely on his own, revealing an entrance to a pitch-black underground base.


    Interlude: Prince Leif Decision


    Prince Leif, aboard his flagship and flanked by two fleets, approached the shores of Frostgard with a mind burdened by recent reports and suspicions. His intent was clear – he needed to address the troubling developments within the Iskaldt Rike Realm, particularly the alarming involvement of Archduke Aldrik.


    Upon landing, Leif was met by Ingrid and Erik, both displaying a mix of sorrow and determination. The gravity of their expressions foretold the seriousness of their news.


    Ingrid stepped forward first, her voice steady but laced with concern. "Your Highness, we''ve confirmed that Sagar is a traitor. We have proof."


    Leif''s expression hardened. "Show me."


    Erik produced documents and evidence, pointing out communication lines and various correspondences that revealed a sinister plot. "It''s clear, Your Highness. Sagar has been in league with the Stardust Kingdom. And it appears he''s had help from within our own realm."


    Leif''s eyes narrowed, processing the revelation. "This betrayal runs deep. We must investigate further."


    Erik nodded, his voice heavy with responsibility. "We believe that Archduke Aldrik''s Duchy of Eirtaoir is involved. Sagar''s connections there are too convenient to be a coincidence. But we lack the jurisdiction to investigate other duchies."


    Leif considered his next steps carefully. "I will handle this personally. The crown must act to uncover the truth."


    He then turned his attention to the letter from the Kurayami Dynasty, informing him of their independent search in the Stardust Kingdom and the mobilization of their fleets. "This is a delicate situation. It could easily escalate to war."


    Ingrid broke the silence. "Your Highness, I suggest I lead an expedition to the Stardust Kingdom for negotiations."


    Erik interjected, a hint of protest in his tone. "I should be the one to go, Your Highness. I need to restore my honor."


    Leif looked at Ingrid, who responded with a nod of understanding. "I''ll remain here with the regent seal, then."


    Erik hesitated but eventually handed over the seal to Ingrid. Leif, appreciating Erik''s dedication, offered him command of a fleet, but Erik declined. "I''ll lead mercenaries instead. We can''t weaken Frostgard''s defenses."


    Leif acknowledged Erik''s decision with a nod. "Very well. Keep me informed of your findings."


    The conversation shifted to the disappearance of Shikuro and Shikihime. Erik listened intently, absorbing every detail.


    Finally, with a salute, Erik departed, his parting words resolute. "I will find Shikuro and Shikihime, Your Highness. And if the Kingdom is involved, I''ll uncover their role in this."


    Prince Leif watched Erik leave, his thoughts heavy with the burden of leadership. The realm was on the brink of a political maelstrom, and his actions in the coming days would be crucial in navigating these treacherous waters.