The following morning, Shisui was summoned to the Daimyo's palace.
His father, Masaki Morinaka, had received reports from Hanagakure's outer scouts: an envoy from a neighboring kingdom was requesting audience—and their timing was suspicious.
"You think it's related to Liryssa?" Shisui asked.
Masaki nodded. "Possibly. There's talk of a rising faction in the sea-kingdoms who oppose her father's rule. Some believe she was sent here as a spy. Others think her presence may spark conflict."
Shisui frowned. "She's not a spy."
Masaki leaned forward. "I believe that. But politics don't need truth—they only need suspicion."
Later that day, Shisui informed Liryssa. Her expression darkened.
"There are those in the ocean depths who despise peace. If they're reaching out here, it means they want to exploit our marriage… or destroy it."
Liryssa volunteered to meet the envoy with Shisui, and Masaki—after much hesitation—agreed.
That evening, Naoko and Himeya approached Shisui and Liryssa.
Naoko crossed her arms, avoiding direct eye contact. "We still don't approve of how everything happened. But… you've been trying. So we'll support you. For now."
Himeya added with a faint smile, "And if anyone threatens Hanagakure—or you—they'll face all three of us."
Liryssa gave a respectful bow. "Thank you. I will not let your trust go to waste."
For the first time since her arrival, the weight on Shisui's shoulders lightened.
But even as new bonds formed, the storm from beyond the waves crept closer.