It had been a month since they arrived at Moeru. After the peace council back at Doerin, all the armies were driven back to their home countries. The kings parted ways with the promise to meet in Moeru after one month. Upon arriving back home, Shu had time to go through all the maps he had made about the Dark Continent. He connected the events together, trying to come up with a flawless plan. He took account of all of those said legends about the continent and tried to make sense of some doubts. It was not easy. His uncle didn't have the time to finish the records. He didn't know what he couldn't write down. There might be some greater danger on the continent and the only way to discover it was to go and see. The whole month was eventful. His mother caught a fever and had to rest for two weeks straight. Shu stayed by her side, tending to her and working on the plan at the same time. It was as if even before they left for the Dark Continent things weren't looking good.

The morning where the other kingdoms were expected to arrive, Shu dressed himself in his best robes and stepped out of his rooms just as dawn was approaching. He was not at all looking forward to seeing Lui, he tried to convince himself. He followed his father out of the castle when the horns blared, indicating the arrival of the guests. Each kingdom had its own small troop of army with them. Shu peered through the crowd, looking for a certain face. When his eyes stopped at certain violet orbs, Shu just stared for a second until Lui smirked, raising his brow. Shu scowled at him, averting his gaze, ignoring the flush that reached his cheek. The albino didn't know why even after being together, his heart skipped a beat every single time he looked at him. Maybe it is one of those mysteries about love. You never know what it will do to you until you're in too deep with no way out.

The King of Moeru led them towards the war council room. The only sound was the slight murmurs as everyone filled in. Lui found himself sitting opposite Shu who was fidgeting with his every move. When King Kurenai stood up, everyone went silent. Everyone was waiting expectantly. They first discussed about the things they already knew about the Dark Continent. All the kingdoms were dead set on defeating this common enemy lurking behind the scene playing with them like puppets. Soon, everyone's eyes were on Shu. They all remembered the responsibility given to the albino by the King of Dorein. When Shu stood up, he could feel a certain fear lurking in his heart. He had gone through every possible way they could attack and came up with a solid plan. But these men sitting in front of him were way more experienced than him. They know the valour of war. They know what could happen.

Shu gestured at one of the servants who came inside holding a roll of paper. Shu unrolled it on the table, taking all of their attention. It was a map he himself designed from all the information he had gathered in the past few weeks. "Is this-" Free asked, running his fingers through the paper as his eyes scanned the map.

"Yeah. It's a map of the Dark Continent. It's a rough sketch though. This is all I could do from the information I found" Shu sighed. "There's not much to deal with"

"Did you make a plan?" The king of Dorein kingdom asked, his dark eyes settling on his own crimson. His eyes held nothing but trust. Shu found himself gaining some of the courage he had lost.

"I did." Shu glanced at his father who gave him a firm nod. He pointed at the continent and the adjoining islands scattered around the sea closer to it. "See the shape of the land? It looks like a crescent moon. As far as the records go, the main castle is in the far corner of the continent. It's in the north corner of the island and the only harbour is there, facing the capital city of the continent. The rest of the land is circled with rocky beaches and impossible storms which is one of the many reasons why no one can find this island."

Lui pointed to the corner point, "So, the only harbour is here and also the castle?"

Shu nodded, "According to the information, yes."

"But striking at the harbour as the first thing is like walking straight to the devil's mouth" Zenkuro said, placing a hand on the castle in the corner of the map.

"I agree" Natsu said, "And Prince Shu is right," he ran a finger through the sea around the main island. "This area is impossible to cross through. It's filled with rocks and there's a rumour about disappearing ships."

"Wait" Itsuki frowned, "That area is known for mysterious sea monsters. As far as the Moeru legends go that is."

Shu hummed, "Yeah, I wonder if there is a connection of any sort. But what I'm telling you is King Zenkuro is right. If we directly attack the main harbour, they will know. There's a chance that they are waiting for an attack. The worst case scenario would be walking into their own trap."

"If they set up all these events, there's a chance they are actually controlling this too. We need to find a method they won't expect" King De La Hoya commented.

Shu nodded, tracing his finger through the shortest road from Moeru to the island. "This path will roughly take a month. Counting all the mythical sea monsters and the rocks the ships have to pass through, there's at least an eighty percent chance the whole troop will be destroyed. But that's our best shot"

"Would it be worth it risking all our troops?" King Aoi asked.

"No, it won't. We won't be sending a whole troop. We'd be sending one troop of the most able candidates from each kingdom. We still don't know much about the Dark Continent, the worse is that as you said working into their trap. Hence, we need to first gather information and make find out the best moment to attack."

"You mean we should send two troops?"

Shu nodded at Free. "Yes. The first troop will go through the shortest way from Moeru to the Dark Continent. I know it's filled with all those rocky paths and storms, but one ship can manage through the gaps if the crew is crafty enough. The first troop will land on the Dark Continent roughly around two weeks considering all the storms, myths and natural barriers. They will have to make their way to the north towards the castle. On their way, they can save the people who are under the influence of their leaders. From convincing them, we'd have help from inside too."

"How are you so sure that they are going to help us? We don't even know them." Aunt Mitsuki's voice echoed.

Shu smiled, "That's human psychology. According to the records, people were friendly to uncle whenever an official was not watching them. The officials are the ones who keep everyone under control for the leaders. The people are probably burning with revenge. The system is corrupt. To change that, we'd have to understand the system and change it from the inside. People give up on themselves when they lose their hope but our troop can go and give them hope and a proper leader to spark that ember in their hearts. People are waiting for a change. And we're going to give them the chance they've been waiting for for years. When the troops inside the dark continent push through the power of their leaders through tricks and plans, there will be a point the final battle will be fought. And five months before that, they'd have to send the main troops in Moeru a letter asking for reinforcements."

"How are we going to communicate?" Zac questioned, wrinkling his brows.

"It can be done" Lui said, looking at Shu. Both of them knew the way they communicated during the war period. It can be used in this way.

"Yeah. When the troops back in Dark Continent ask for help, the troops here have to be at their best and ready to battle. It will take maximum five months, counting the pirate attacks and storms, but at minimum it will only take four months to reach the main harbour. The leaders would be too focused on putting down the small troop and when the main army attacks from their main harbour, we can catch them by surprise. It's better if the troop from Dark Continent keeps constant connections with Moeru and reports all the information they find about the place. It will help the main body to get ready for all sorts of possibilities. And in the mean time it would be important to collect rations that would be needed for the sea journey and building strong ships. When all this is done, the troop here will only need the message to rush to help the rest back on the island. Any questions?"

Shirosagi let out a long breath, looking at King Kurenai. "Where have you kept this genius all these years?"

"He's a secret weapon" His father shot back, looking at Shu with a nod. "Everything can be arranged that way. I'm down for this plan."

"It's risky" King Zenkuro said. "In fact, there's a lot of things that can go wrong. But it's brilliant. I agree, if we choose a good team for the first, we'll win this war."

King De La Hoya hummed thoughtfully, "Maximum four candidates from each kingdom would be chosen. Is that alright?"

Shu sat down, letting them decide the rest. "Yes, that would be fine" King Shakadera said, "Every participant in this small group will need to have a clean record of previous wars and fights. We need people with both intelligence and strength. It has to be balanced in the group"

"I agree" King Kurenai placed his hands on the table, leaning in. "We'll hold another council this evening. It's better if we send the first group as quickly as we could."

"We need to take action" Aoi agreed, "And fast"

They finally came into an agreement and parted ways to choose the prominent candidates for the expedition. Itsuki and Shu followed the king to the private chambers of Moeru royal members. From his expression, they knew it was to discuss the candidates. The guards bowed as they entered the room. Shu's eyes instantly landed on his mother, sitting near a windowsill looking outside. A distant look in her eyes. She was still pale and weak after the fever. When she heard them enter, she turned around. "Oh, you're here"

His father nodded, sitting beside her. Itsuki and Shu took their own seats opposite of them, sharing a look. "About the candidates" He said, crossing his arms. "Itsuki, what do you want to do?"

Itsuki sighed, "My honest opinion is it would be better if I didn't go. My dad was killed because of them. I want to be there when they land the final blow. I want to be the one landing the final blow"

King Kurenai nodded understandingly. "I knew you would be more interested in training the troops here and attacking the castle. And you, Shu?"

Shu blinked, "Me?"

"He isn't going" A voice said, breaking their conversation. Shu looked at his mother, looking straight at him in the eye. Her eyes stormed with strong determination. "You can't send him there."

"But mom" Shu started, startled by the fact his mother was the one objecting this time. It was a first. She shook her head, closing her eyes.

"Your situation got worse back in that war. I didn't even know until you came back. You could've-" She stopped choking back a sob. Shu averted his gaze to the floor. He knew that it would've killed her to know that he could've almost died but she wasn't there. "I'm not agreeing to this. No"

Shu's father's eyes slid into Shu's own. "Listen, Akiko, he had shown much promise to us. He has what it takes to lead that group. We can't trap him here" He held onto her shoulders, trying to talk her out of her decision.

Shu saw the change in his mother's eyes. It was pain. Unridden pain and exhaustion that sported for years coming out as raw pure emotions. "No. You can't send him there! Please, don't take my child from me."

"Mom, it's not-"

"No. It's too dangerous. You're not leaving the castle. Please" She breathed heavily, "I don't want to lose you. Not this early. Please stay" Shu closed his eyes for a second, sighing. That was the love of a mother. The purest form of love in the world.

"But Aki-"

Shu cut him off, "It's fine." He smiled, closing his eyes. "I'll stay here. Itsuki and I can find some good candidates from our kingdom. Right?"

Itsuki snapped out of his daze, "U-Uh yeah. We'll do that"

As the two teenagers stood to walk out, Shu's mother reached him and pushed him to her chest, wrapping her arms around him. He stiffened for a second, surprised before melting into her hug. "Thank you" she whispered in his ear. Shu hummed, burying his head to her shoulder. Taking in the familiar smell. He wanted to go but he cared for his mother more. Shu knew each day without him, knowing he was fighting unknown battles in those islands would kill her slowly. She would be ridden with pain and the last thing he wanted was for her mom to be in that pain. He had given her enough distress all through these course of years. He wasn't planning to be the reason for her tears anymore.

"It's fine mom. You should go and rest. I'll be back, soon"

She pushed away, placing a hand on his cheek she nodded. "Take care" She whispered letting them go. The doors closed behind them and Shu finally allowed himself to breathe. Disappointment crashing down on him.

"Are you alright?" Itsuki asked, nudging him with his elbow. "I know you want to go"

Shu shrugged, "Can't leave when she's worrying about me like that. Besides, I wouldn't be able to get medicine for that long. I need crystal flowers to survive now."

Itsuki gave him a tight lipped smile, ruffling his hair. "You're amazing, Shu."

When they reached the main entrance leading them towards the city plaza, Free and Valt came through a hallway. They stopped upon seeing them. "Shu!" The hazel eyed male chirped, skipping his way to Shu. "I was chosen from my kingdom, and Free is going too!"

Shu chuckled, "That's cool. I'm pretty sure you two are going to make a great team.

"What about you?"

Before Shu could answer Free, Itsuki chimed in. "Do you guys hear any news whether Natsu's going or not?"

"You should've just asked me"

They all whirled around to see Natsu with a cocky grin. Itsuki scowled, "Where did you come from?"

He pointed at the sky, "Up"

"Weirdo" He muttered under his breath, "Are you going?"

Natsu stretched his arms, "Nah. Prince Kurogane and Orochi are chosen from our kingdom. The maximum is four and the minimum can be anything after all. I'd rather stay here and help with training the troops"

Shu tilted his head, "Itsuki said the same"

Itsuki slapped Shu's arm with a scowl. "I didn't know this asshole was going to do the same thing. I was just going with my own plan."

Natsu grinned, stepping towards Itsuki. "I kind of figured you'd want revenge. The final blow, that's more of your style" He offered Itsuki his arm, the sloppy grin never leaving his face. "I'd help you land that final blow"

Itsuki looked at his hand and gave him a smile matching Natsu's. He nodded, "I'm counting on you then, Natsu"

"Wow" Valt whispered, leaning against him. "They are such good friends."

Shu hummed, wondering about Lui. Was he going? Thinking about Hyoketsu, they will obviously send Lui from their kingdom. He was the greatest warrior they ever had. Unlike him. "Anyway" Itsuki said, looking over his shoulder, his arms folded behind his back. "I'm going to find good candidates from our kingdom. You coming, Shu?"

Shu gestured at Natsu. "You two go ahead. I have something to do"

Itsuki raised his bow with a teasing smile, "Oh yeah? Does this thing start with L and end with I"

"Shut up. I hate you"

"Love you too little brother" Itsuki called out, as they walked out of the castle. Valt and Free soon joined them because Valt wanted to show Free around the capital. He kept gushing about how beautiful it is around the city. Shu walked back to the castle, peering through the corners to catch a glimpse of Lui. He stopped in front of the massive doors that led to the guest chambers and hesitated for a second. The door opened, startling the albino, and coincidence or not, Lui walked out. When he saw Shu standing with a lost look on his face, he stopped.

"Hey" He said, frowning. "Did I startle you or something?"

Shu huffed, "No. I was expecting... someone?"

Lui grinned, placing his hands on his hips as he leaned down onto Shu's face, peering into his flushed cheeks. "I wonder who this someone is"

"Not you, obviously"

"Oh, are you sure?" He asked, standing upright again.

"Yes. I am here to meet uh..." The albino trailed out, blinking. "I'm here to see whether Hiro was around"

Lui frowned, "Who's Hiro?"

"Someone I know" Shu shot back, slipping his hand into Lui's. "I changed my mind. "C'mon."

He allowed the albino to drag him along the hallways towards a garden. They watched in silence at the Sakura trees for a while, the petals flying around them colouring the whole garden in a light rose. The stepped down from the staircase and walked along the lush green lawn, decorated with Sakura petals that carpeted the whole area in a beautiful serene pink. Lui's eyes slid to Shu's robes, the same shade of pink with black borders decorated with the same flower petals scattered around the silk bordered in silver. They quietly reached the pond of Koi fishes in the corner. Lotus leaves floated on the water like solitary ships. White and Light Pink lotus flowers opened their petals to the clouded sky above them. Through all the gaps between them, Lui could see the synchronization of white and orange, swimming in the water. "Are you going?" Shu finally asked, not shifting his gaze from the pond.

"Yeah. Gou and Me."

"Figured" Shu said with a smile. "Be careful out there. And.." He turned to look at Lui who had his eyes fixed on his figure. "Write for me, when you can" That was when the truth dawned on Lui. He didn't ask the question and let it linger in the air around them. He is not going, Lui thought. But why? He wanted to ask, to speak the words. Instead, he stared at the male in front of him. That white locks tumble gracefully down around his face. The chilly wind swept them away. His fingers trembled with the need to tuck those stray strands behind his ear. His lips tingled with the need to kiss those lips.

"Why?" He asked, after a moment of silence. The question lingered in the air. Shu smiled. A sad smile that didn't reach his eyes.

"Things" Shu said, being subtle about the reasons. He focused his eyes on the Koi fish when the first raindrop fell onto his arm. Shu instinctively looked up to see the dark clouds looking over them. The first one was followed by another and soon, the sky came crashing down upon them. Clear raindrops poured down and kissed the ground filled with Sakura petals. The wind raced around them, taking away whatever the left of the petals in the trees, creating a carpet of pink on the grass. Thicker than before.

"Let's go inside" Lui said, hurriedly as he took Shu's wrist. But the latter didn't move from his spot beside the pond. He just kept staring at the sky. Raindrops fell on his face and moistened his face. "Shu?"

Shu glanced at him with a grin, his hand instantly reaching for the leather band holding his hair up. He pulled it down, letting his hair flow down to his back, already getting soaked in the rain. "Why? You're scared of the rain?"

Lui messaged his temples, "You shouldn't stay out in the rain"

"You're such a granny!" The albino scowled. kicking off his shoes. He stepped on the soft flower petals feeling the wet ground underneath him with his bare feet. "It's fun"

"I'm gonna pick you up and get you back to the castle" Lui inched towards him. "Watch me"

Shu turned and took a dash away from the White Tyrant. Lui cursed, "Wait, you little shit" He said, despite his words a smile was playing on his lips. They chased each other around the garden until Shu decided it was better to go in. Because one, it was getting too cold and two, he could feel his lungs tightening under the chilliness in the air. But his pride didn't let him accept either of the reasons.

"Since you're nagging me, I'll go in"

Lui crossed his arms. "Nah, you can stay here"

"No, this is the part where you tell me okay, let's go in"

"No. Stay here for all I care"

"You're so cruel"

"And you're so stubborn"

"I am not"

"You are"

"I'm-" Shu stopped. His face crumpled like a sheet of paper. "Achoo"

"You're going to be the death of me" Lui muttered, taking Shu's hand and dragging him back into the castle. The two of them stumbled into the hallway soaking wet from the rain. Shu looked at Lui through his dampened bangs, dripping with water. His clothes were sticking to his skin, Shu could see the outlines of his toned muscles. Uh oh, he was checking out Lui, wasn't he? He averted his gaze clearing his throat. "What?" Lui grumbled, "Go and change your-"

"Prince Shu?" Shu turned around on his heel to see his personal butler standing in the hallway with an exasperated look on his face. Shu put his hands in surrender with a guilty look.

"I can explain"

The man took in the appearance of both the teens in front of him and sighed. "I'll run a bath for both of you. Come with me"

"Both of us?" Shu asked, pointing at either of them. "Well it's really-"

"The main bath would be big enough for both of you. Now Princes please come with me before any of you catch a cold"

Shu looked at Lui, "Say no"

"Okay, let's take a bath"

This pervert, Shu thought, glaring at the taller male who looked at him with an innocent face and a shrug. "What's the big deal? We're both guys"

But we're in love, so that's not how it works, Shu thought aggressively, stomping his way towards the bath. Lui was walking beside him without a care in the world. When they walked in, the massive tub was already ready. The steam filled the air and Shu instantly caught the smell of roses inside the room. He peered into the water to see it completely covered with herbs and flower petals. Oh, he thought, we wouldn't be able to see each other through the water. Unless, they have to change-

"You close your eyes, I'm gonna change and go in, and then I'd do the same" Lui said, already pushing out his robes. Shu turned around and clenched his eyes shut. If someone else told him to do this, he would've never agreed with them but this was Lui, he trusted him. Soon, the sound of water splashing caught his ears. "You can change" Lui called out. Shu turned to see him already inside, his eyes firmly closed. Shu hesitantly reached for the knot on his outer robes. He shed all the wet clothes away and stepped into the warm water, letting out a relieved sigh.

"That last thing I thought would happen is taking a bath with you" Shu mumbled, sighing.

"You're the one who wanted to play tag in the rain" Lui pointed out, laying his hands back on the cold wooden floor behind the massive bathing area. Shu huffed, sinking himself down. His hair floating around him. "Now tell me" Lui raised his brow, "why?"

Shu sat back up, trying to keep his eyes away from Lui. He was far too good looking for his own heart. "Mom" He whispered, playing with one of the rose petals floating on the water. "She's scared to send me. She wasn't there when it got bad. I'm pretty sure she doesn't want to lose me. I don't want to give her anymore pain either" He let out a dry laugh, "I've given her enough trouble as it is"

Lui stayed quiet for a moment, "Do you want to go?"

Shu settled his eyes on Lui and gave him a quiet nod. "Yeah. I mean, I do want to. Everyone I knew back in school is going. It feels like I'm being left behind."

"Tell her that" Lui suggested, "She'll understand"

Shu shook his head, "It's fine. I'll wait here for you. That's why I asked, I don't want to miss out on anything. Will you write for me?"

Lui nodded, "Of course I will. Shu, it will take months, maybe years for the small troop to achieve their goal."

"I know" Shu murmured. He had calculated the time. They'd have to collect rations and train the main troops for all the odds they will meet here and for the smaller troops to make it to the castle will take at least two or three years minimum. If they were met with far more great obstacles this process would take much more time. "It will take a long time. This war."

They waited in silence for the next few moments. After a while they followed the same process to dress back. Shu tightened the knot on his clothes and grabbed a towel, drying his hair. Lui was standing beside him. "Want to see the town?"

"I thought you'd never ask" Lui said, rolling his eyes.

The pair walked out of the castle and took the path that led them towards the city. Shu intertwined their fingers together, holding onto Lui's hand looking around. "So, Kurenai Shu, aren't you going to tell me?" Shu gave him a questioning glance. Lui smirked. "I saw you staring back at the bath"

Shu stopped, "I did not"

"Your blush says otherwise" He peered into his face, the smug grin never leaving his face. After a while, he stood back up. "I mean I looked at you"

Shu flushed crimson and jumped to the side, wrapping his arms around himself. "You pervert, what?"

Lui raised his brow, "We were sitting opposite each other in a bath. Alone. And you're telling me you kept your eyes off of me the whole time?"

"Well" Shu muttered, "I guess it's impossible." He juts out his bottom lip. "But how are you saying all that with a straight face?"

"Because I'm an honest man"

"Honest, my foot" Shu growled, "You did look handsome though" Shu muttered in a low voice almost impossible to hear.

"I didn't catch that" Lui grinned, obviously wanting to hear it again. "What were you saying?"

"I hate you" Shu screamed at his face. "Never going to compliment you again. Truly. Never"

Lui reached down and squished his cheeks together. "Well, I won't stop saying how beautiful you are."

Shu grabbed both of his hands off his face and sighed. "You're just too sappy, Lui. That's not a good look on you." He took his hand. "It's not like you're going to leave for forever"

"Should I stay?"

Shu shook his head, "Don't. It's fine. I can wait for you to come back. Besides, they need you."

Lui hummed, caressing his skin thoughtfully. Talk by talk, they arrived at the edge of the town. They both stood by the main entrance when Lui's eyes suddenly went towards their hands. Was this okay? He wondered quietly. He knew the Moeru people loved Shu but what would they think if he went to the city holding hands with an enemy prince? Even though the truce was called, the hostility inside them cannot be suppressed that easily. "Is this alright?" Lui asked, gesturing their entangled hands.

Shu looked down at them and back at Lui. "Of course! If they are going to see their prince, they are going to see him for who he is." Shu nudged him with a reassuring smile. "It'll be fine."

Lui didn't look convinced. "Are you sure about that?"

"I'm not ashamed to be seen like this Lui. I love you, and I'm not going to hide that fact from anyone. You can tell me if you're uncomfortable though."

Lui almost laughed at the statement. "I'm not. I was worried about you"

"Never worry mister." Shu winked, "I'm marking my territory. The girls are going to do all that weird hair twirling and flirting business if I don't"

"You're possessive" Lui commented slyly as they entered the city. They did attract attention just as he thought. But the attention was not something to loathe. People were friendly and welcoming. Much more than the Dorein kingdom and obviously Hyoketsu. None of them passed by without waving at Shu. Some stopped by to talk. It was almost as if they were this one big family inside the kingdom. Back in Hyoketsu, it was respect that drove them forward. When royalty walked by, they all bowed and showed their respect. It was a custom. People loved and hailed their royal family but the hierarchy was strict and absolute. Even though there was no oppression of the lower class, there was an obvious difference. But here, there was nothing. Everyone was together. Royalty and commoners alike. This was the famed hospitality of Moeru, Lui realized looking at people who were even friendlier to him. They forgive easily. No wonder Shu is someone who's filled with empathy and forgiveness. He grew up among the kindest people he had ever met.

"Shu-Kun!" A cheerful voice called, grabbing their attention. A pair of twins waved at them. Shu gave them a delighted look, waving back at them walking over.

"Toko, Nika, it's been so long. How have you guys been?"

"We've been good!" The twins said in sync, their eyes quietly studying the figure standing behind him.

"Did you come with your brother and dad?"

Nika nodded, "Yeah. Mom stayed behind. She's coming tomorrow to visit your mom. Is that Prince Lui?" She whispered the last part, peering to look at him.

"Yeah. Lui, this is Toko and Nika, Valt's younger siblings"

"Aoi Siblings?" Lui raised his brow.

Toko nodded quietly, "Nice to meet you, prince Lui."

Lui echoed the greeting without giving it much thought. "Just Lui is fine."

"Anyway" Nika took Shu's wrist, dragging them both into the restaurant they were standing in front of. Shu had known Toko and Nika since they were young. The twins turned fourteen this year and Shu realized they had changed a lot appearance wise but personality wise, they were the same two loving siblings Shu always wanted but never had. Inside the restaurant, Valt, Free, Itsuki and Natsu were seemingly talking with each other. They all and most of the guests inside quieted down as the pair walked in. Valt grinned, waving wildly.

"Guys, here"

Lui grumbled beside him as they walked to take a seat beside Itsuki. "What brought you two here?" Itsuki asked with a smile.

"Just walking around. Did you find any candidates yet?"

Itsuki groaned, dropping his head to the table. "Not a single willing candidate. Can you believe it? Like those who are willing don't have the proper rewards they need. It's frustrating. The way this is going, I'd have to end up going"

"What about that general's son? The one with blue eyes?" Shu frowned, trying to recall his name.

"He's away on a mission. Something about assassins in the north area."

Free crossed his arms, "So, Itsuki is going then?"

Itsuki nodded, "Seems like it. There would be no one"

"I'm sorry" Shu muttered, ducking his head. "I wish I could've done something"

Itsuki shook his head, "You tried. It's fine. Let's see what we can do"

The group fell into silence. Natsu looked as if he was deep in thought. "Prince Shu, are you willing to go?"

Shu shrugged, "If they let me, I would've joined. But the odds are against me. There's no possible way I can find a way to get Crystal flowers to a journey that long."

"That can be arranged" Lui drummed his fingers on the smooth tabletop restlessly. "There's a way. And you know, considering all the facts, we can actually convince your mother"

Shu raised his brow giving him a questioning glance. Free nodded along, "I know where you're going at. From all the evidence it's quiet clear your sickness has something to do with the Dark Continent. There's a chance we can find a cure"

Shu crossed his arms, leaning back against his chair. His brow creasing with thoughts swirling inside his mind. That did make sense. He could convince his mom with that fact. That should be worth a shot. "I'd talk with her" Shu concluded, looking at Itsuki. "If there's at least one candidate from Moeru, you can stay back and continue with your plan. I'd try that"

Itsuki shrugged, "Your choice. I'd support you"

Their conversation was cut short by the twins who charged back to their tables with food. They had taken a close friendship with the owner of the restaurant and kept helping her whenever they came to Moeru. After lunch they went back to the castle. Shu found himself walking around looking for his mother but each time was distracted by someone else. When he finally reached her, he failed to convince her either. Soon, it was time for the evening council. The albino cursed at his luck walking to the throne room. Unlike the morning council, the evening one was held in the main throne room. He walked into see the rest already seated on their respected seats. His father sitting on the high throne with his mother just beside him in hers. Everyone waited until the kingdoms announced their candidates one by one. From Hyoketsu, there was Lui and Gou. Akarui kingdom sent Zac and Orochi for the team. Chikara kingdom added Xander and Ruway to the group. It was almost as if their little squad back at the school was assembling together. Free, Valt, Honcho, Wakiya and Sisco were also in the squad completing the members. When the name of the Moeru kingdom came up, Itsuki stood, surprising everyone. Shu knew it was that they had no other option except for walking into the squad himself. A beat of silence followed. Everyone waited for Prince Shu to be chosen but when there were no other members, King De La Hoya raised his voice. "Prince Shu is not joining?"

Shu averted his gaze to the floor with a sigh. He knew his dad must already have an excuse readied but aunt Mitsuki beat him to it. "Of course not. He was in no position to join the squad. He'd only be a burden for the rest of the team. He'd be left behind."

Itsuki tightened his grip around his sheath, gritting his teeth. This was not his place to speak. Instead, surprising everyone Queen Akiko stood, her eyes storming with frustration. "Mitsuki, you have no right to talk to him like that"

Shu was taken aback just as the rest of the people inside the room. He had never seen his mother lose her calm. Aunt Mitsuki didn't take the hint and quiet down, "Oh yes? Can you give me any other reason he's staying behind?"

Shu shifted his gaze to his mother. She opened her mouth but no words came out. They watched as the queen stumbled back, clutching to her chest gasping for breath. "Mom" Shu raced towards the podium where his father and mother were sitting. The King was instantly by her side. "Itsuki, the medics" Shu called out. The taller male dashed out of the room. Everyone shifted in their seats, standing up in a hurry, worried about the queen of Moeru. Shu and King Kurenai helped her to stand. Shu looked at his father and nodded, "You keep the meeting going dad. I'll take her to the room"

He looked hesitant for a moment until Akiko reassured her with a smile. Shu led her out of the door and towards the room. When they reached the room, Itsuki was already there with the medics. They helped her lay down and the two young princes stepped out giving them the chance to examine her. The albino sank to the floor, burying his head in his hands with a long puff of air. Itsuki sat down beside him, looking at the empty hallway in front of them. "She'd be okay" He wrapped one of his arms around his younger brother, squeezing him with comfort.

"I hope so" He muttered, dropping his head to Itsuki's shoulder. The elder placed his own on Shu's. Both of them waited until they were allowed back inside. Itsuki didn't mention anything about the incident that happened inside the throne room and Shu was thankful for it. With his mom being sick, he could care less about the insults thrown at him anyway.

"What happened?" King Kurenai arrived hurriedly. They had gone inside after a while. Shu was sitting beside her bed, caressing his arm watching his mother sleeping soundly on the bed.

"She's stressed" Itsuki said, looking up from his spot beside Shu. "The medics said she needed to rest more to get better and had to stop worrying about things"

Kurenai nodded, walking to sit by her. He looked at his son, worry creasing his brow. His lips pulled down into a frown. "Shu"

He looked up when his dad continued, "Why don't you go and take a rest? It's been a long day for everyone. I'll send a message to you as soon as she wakes up"

Shu would have rejected and persisted to stay there but he knew his father needed a moment with his mother. Shu nodded, standing up. Itsuki followed him out of the room. "I'm going to the training area" He inquired quietly. He sounded upset about the whole incident and besides Shu knew he didn't want to go on this expedition. Everything was tangled together like a messy ball of yarn. Shu couldn't find the edges to fix everything. Shu nodded, heading towards his room. His dad was right, today was exhausting. It started off better than he thought, then it all went downhill. He opened the doors, intending to fall back to his bed and rest for the rest of the day when he spotted Lui, standing by the window. The male turned when he walked in. If it was some other time, Shu would've thrown a tantrum about coming into his room without permission but right at the moment Lui knew what he wanted. He knew Shu needed someone. When Shu walked straight to his opened arms, he felt a sense of relief flooding into his mind. Lui's arms around him were nothing but comfort. It was like walking home after a restless day. It was like a sprinkle of rain after a windless day. There was no place like home compared to Lui

"How's she?"

"Fine. Just the fever" He buried his head on Lui's chest, basking in that warmth and love. "What happened after I left?"

"The squad was allowed. We'd be leaving the day after tomorrow."

Shu didn't speak. He just tightened the grip. It would be years till he'd be seeing Lui again. It would be years till he'd be in Lui's hold like this again. It was frustrating but that is the inevitable truth. The two of them, fall back to his bed. The mattress shifted with their movements. Lui traced his finger on Shu's face, feeling his soft skin underneath his fingers. Shu closed his eyes, leaning closer, feeling his warmth enveloping his body. There were no words spoken. The I'll miss yous, dying on their tongues before being spoken. They spoke through their fingers trailing on each other's bodies. Shu exhaled deeply when Lui reached down and kissed his neck, peppering kisses along his jaw and the corner of his lips. He closed his eyes when the White Tyrant pulled him close, his strong arms wrapped around Shu's waist. When Lui's kisses stopped, Shu opened his eyes to see the other male staring at him. His violet eyes just fixed on his face. "What?"

Lui raised his brow, "You look relaxed"

Shu hummed, leaning in and pressing his lips against Lui's. His hand moved to Shu's cheek, cupping it with his fingers. He tilted his head taking in the smell of the albino, tasting each corner of him. When they pulled away, they stared at each other with momentary confusion. "Someone knocked on the door" Shu muttered, untangling himself from Lui. He reached for his headband and pulled his hair up watching Lui sliding down from the bed. "Come in" Shu said.

A soldier almost burst in. "Prince Shu, there's an intruder inside the castle."

Shu blinked, "Why did you-" He started, then thought the better of it. Intruder or not, if he hadn't knocked, the soldier must've walked right into them kissing. "Where are mom and dad?"

All the kings are in the west wings discussing future decisions. The Queen is fine, Prince Itsuki is with her. I was ordered to look for you."

Shu nodded, rushing out of the door. Lui following him close by. "Where's the intruder?" It was Lui who questioned.

"The soldiers chased him to the main garden. He's running towards the main gates. It seems like he'd-" Cutting the soldier off they could hear shouts. When Shu and Lui arrived at the verandah the others were already there. The archers were trying to get a clear shot at the spy who was in the far main garden.

"It's too far" Valt groaned, watching another archer failing to take the shot.

Shu snatched the bow from the hands of one of them and pulled out an arrow from the quiver. "Free, Lui, take the route from this hallway and to the right there's a staircase. Turn left and open that door. You'd reach the main garden."

The two males nodded, dashing out to the main garden. Shu hopped on the railing and aimed, one thing he had always been good at. His crimson eyes scanned the area and as soon as the man appeared out of a cluster of trees, he released the arrow. They all watched as it struck right at his arm, slowing him down. Too far, Shu thought. He was aiming for the leg. If they brought enough time until Free and Lui arrive there, it's a win. Shu jumped out of the railing and grabbed a quiver which held dozens of arrows and slung it over his shoulder. "Valt" The hazel eyed male nodded, completing his sentence.

"Let's go"

They took the open route to the main garden, looking for a better spot. The arrow had indeed slowed the man down. When they took a turn and reached the next hallway, Shu stopped seeing the chance. "Prince Shu" one of the guards said, "This place is too narrow to take aim at"

But if I don't, he'll get out. Shu thought. He was closer to the back exit. The guards who were supposed to guard it were not in sight. Shu took an arrow, telling Valt to keep going towards the main garden. He could see Free and Lui arriving at the garden but they needed a few more minutes to catch up. He took aim again and released and this time, it hit the target right on the leg, making him fall to the ground with a scream. Shu dashed through the hallway with guards hot on his heels. When he reached the garden, the other three were already there. The man was on the ground, clutching to his leg. The arrow he struck at his arm hadn't gone deep but from the blood on his leg, the second one had dug deeper into his skin. "Do you think he's from the dark continent?"

Valt nodded, "Probably. I wonder how he entered without anyone noticing."

Shu narrowed his eyes, scanning the area around them. He was not obviously around. There had to be- a silver glint caught his eyes and Shu automatically dodged as a dagger whizzed past his ear. A piercing scream followed as one of the guards fell to the ground. Dead. Free and Lui were already their position while Valt inched closer to Shu. The two friends stood back to back when a group of men attacked. All of them had their faces covered with black clothing. They moved swiftly, dodging the swords of the soldiers. Nine, Shu counted when one of them tried to make a move on their fallen companion. They wanted to kill him, Shu realized. They were not intending to leave any people behind in case of betrayal. Smart, Shu thought, rushing to protect the fallen man. They needed him for information. Three were already down when the rest arrived. After the kings and the rest of their friends were in action, it was easier to take them all down. It was clear that all of those nine assassins were well trained. When all of them were down, King Kurenai spoke to one of his commanders. "Strengthen the security of the gate. No one is allowed to enter or exit the castle. If an emergency arrives, make sure everyone is thoroughly checked before doing anything"

"Yes, your highness" The man said, walking out of the garden.

Shirosagi knelt, fishing out one of the black clothes from a man's face. It was someone that no one knew of. They took off the masks one by one and Shu himself reached down to the man he took down and pulled off the black cloth to see a familiar face. He froze. This was the man who brought him the map of the Dark Continent. The only one who was allowed in the room except for the confidential staff inside. This is why they needed him, Shu thought. He was the only one who knew the plan aside them.

Then another thought struck him. He felt someone's footsteps getting closer and stopping right behind him. His blood ran cold as the voice spoke. Everyone was busy with the assassins and the distress to notice and there was nothing out of the ordinary. Just the head commander of his father checking on him. His cold voice spoke in his ear. "Prince Shu" He whispered. This very man who was standing behind him was the person that introduced the spy to him, telling him he would do a good service by helping him. After he came to work with him, Shu had faced nothing but problems. His mother got ill, and he found himself losing documents. He pushed those odds aside thinking he was getting distressed because of his mother's fever. It all made sense now. They didn't want him to finish the map and when he did, they wanted to know the plan. But before he could take action, he felt the coldness of a dagger seeping into his skin and the commander smiled, thrusting it forward. 

A/N

K guys, this is the map Shu was talking about. Yeah, basically I made all this up for the story and I'm pretty shitty at drawing and ofc i hope my handwriting is readable because I added a filter for good use and it kinds fucked up the look. Anyways, Shu's map is way more bigger than this buuut this is the best I could do in a random piece of paper. (Actually I added the filter to make it look ancient but now it looks like some 5 year old drawing. There was a better filter but I wanted this to be dark and now it's dark but its crap aw shit)

And a little bit of more explaining about the plan because the small group would literally land on the other side from the castle. As Shu said they're trying to attack from the behind by getting all the cities far away from the capital but still under the influence of it. Moreover, this way, they can slowly advance on the capital and gather information around as well. This information will serve as good stuff to the main course. Anyways, that's about it. 

This is the original if you guys cant read that weird filter. BUT IM KEEPING THE UP ONE FOR COOL PURPOSES. LIKE, THAT KINDA LOOK ANCIENT TO MEH OKAY? nqwfwofb I'm so weird. Anyways, remembering this map won't give you marks in history or geography exams. So, go study too.  

Sorry not sorry for the cliffhanger tho. I want to kill someone. But doing it is illegal so this is my way of taking revenge. Kidding kidding, or am I? :D

K, Imma end this note. And as always thanks for the support. Like really. My addiction to this fandom is slowly fading away and in the end I'm always here. It's like, I keep on coming back to Beyblade because I still can't get over the first two seasons because they were so good. Buut yeah, I'd be here a bit longer. Got two more shui sitting in my drafts and cant let em go lol. Anyways, see ya! Thanks for reading. Stay safe <333