The next morning, Rin stood in front of a mirror, adjusting the Imperial Guard uniform now adorning his frame.
The dark navy fabric fit snugly, embroidered with silver and gold accents, signifying the Imperial House of Hoshimi. But the most important detail—the insignia of the two Imperial Princesses—was stitched on his chest, marking him as their personal guard.
Rin sighed.
"So, this is my role now…?"
He had spent years as the White Elder's apprentice, wearing simple robes, blending into the background. Now, he was dressed as a high-ranking guard, standing out in a way he never wanted.
At that moment, his two tormentors arrived.
"Riiiiinnnn~! You look so cool!" Izumi cheered, rushing over to inspect his uniform. She grabbed the fabric of his sleeve and stretched it, grinning.
Aya, more reserved, crossed her arms. "Hmph. Not bad. It suits you, actually."
Rin gently pried Izumi's hands off his uniform before giving them both a flat look.
"I feel like a decoration," he muttered.
Izumi giggled. "Well, you are! You're our bodyguard and our good luck charm."
Aya nodded in agreement. "Besides, with you around, we won't have to deal with any annoying suitors."
Rin sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose.
"This is going to be a long trip."
Inside their private carriage, the three of them sat comfortably while Rin reviewed the itinerary.
"Once we arrive, we'll be separating from the other attendants," Rin stated, flipping through the detailed schedule.
Aya leaned forward, resting her chin on her palm. "Because they'll be setting up our delegation headquarters, right?"
Rin nodded. "Correct. The Raksha Sword Kingdom is hosting the opening of the festival at the Central Mansion. That's where we'll be heading first."
Izumi huffed. "So basically, we have to socialize immediately?"
Aya sighed. "Of course. It's a diplomatic event."
Rin glanced at them both. "Try not to be too obvious about how much you hate it."
Izumi pouted. "We don't hate it… we just… don't like it."
Aya smirked. "At least there's sword-fighting involved."
Rin shook his head. "Just don't cause an international incident."
Both Princesses exchanged looks before grinning mischievously.
"No promises."
Rin sighed again.
"I should've stayed with the White Elder…"
Rin pulled out two small, enchanted communication talismans from his sleeve and handed them to Izumi and Aya.
"These will allow you to contact me instantly if anything happens," he explained, his tone serious. "If you press the center, I'll come immediately."
Aya raised an eyebrow. "Immediately?"
Izumi grinned. "Like, instantly?"
Rin sighed. "As fast as I can, yes."
The two princesses exchanged glances before turning back to Rin with teasing smiles.
"So…" Izumi hummed.
"If we get hungry, can we press it?" Aya added.
Rin's eye twitched.
"No. Do not play with it and don't call me just because you want food or water. I am not your servant."
The two princesses burst into giggles, clearly enjoying making fun of their serious older brother.
Aya smirked. "Rin, you're so responsible~"
Izumi nodded dramatically. "It's like you're our father instead of our brother~"
Rin rubbed his temples, exhaling slowly.
"I'm not being responsible for fun," he muttered. "I just don't want you two to be dependent on me."
Aya and Izumi blinked at him before softening their expressions.
"…We know," Aya said with a small smile.
Izumi grinned. "But we like depending on you sometimes, Rin."
Rin paused, then let out a small sigh.
"Yeah, yeah…" he muttered. Then, after a moment, he added, "Fine. I'll make a deal with you two."
Aya and Izumi perked up.
Rin crossed his arms. "After the formal events, when we have free time, I'll go around town with you both. We can visit the marketplace or wherever you want."
The princesses beamed.
"Deal!" Izumi cheered.
Aya smirked. "You better not go back on your word, Rin."
Rin chuckled slightly before shaking his head.
"Yeah, yeah… Just don't cause too much trouble before then."
As the carriage passed through the grand gates of the Raksha Sword Kingdom, the difference between this land and the Hoshimi Empire became immediately apparent.
Gone were the graceful wooden pagodas, curved rooftops, and delicate paper lanterns of their homeland. Instead, the towering stone fortresses, sprawling cobblestone streets, and intricately carved Gothic spires greeted them.
Massive cathedrals with pointed arches stretched toward the sky, their stained glass windows gleaming in the morning sun. The streets were lined with stone buildings adorned with ivy and blooming flower boxes, while the people wore elegant tunics, corseted gowns, and sturdy leather armor, a stark contrast to the flowing silks and layered robes of the Hoshimi Empire.
It was a world that looked as if it came straight from a knight's tale—a realm of chivalry, steel, and grandeur, blended with hints of modern refinement in the form of lamplights powered by magic and smooth-paved roads.
Izumi leaned forward, pressing her face against the carriage window with wide, sparkling eyes.
"Whoa…" she breathed, completely entranced. "It's like we stepped into a storybook."
Aya, sitting beside her, tilted her head slightly. "It's… overwhelming," she admitted. "Everything is so rigid and strong-looking compared to home." She tapped her chin. "The architecture… it's built to impress and intimidate rather than to flow with nature."
Rin, who had been silently observing, nodded slightly. "The structures are built for defense first, beauty second," he remarked. "Unlike the Hoshimi Empire, where balance and harmony are valued, here it's about power—a reminder of their military strength."
Izumi pulled back from the window, her grin mischievous. "I wonder if they're just as serious about romance as they are about war~"
Aya giggled. "If they're all knights, maybe they'll try to sweep us off our feet."
Rin rolled his eyes. "You two… Please don't start trouble the moment we arrive."
Aya smirked. "No promises, dear brother."
As the carriage slowed to a stop, the three siblings straightened, preparing to step into a new world of steel, honor, and intrigue.
The Imperial Carriage slowed to a halt before the grand Central Manor, a magnificent structure that stood as the heart of the Raksha Sword Kingdom. With its towering marble pillars, intricately carved stone archways, and gleaming chandeliers visible through massive windows, the manor exuded a commanding presence—one befitting a kingdom known for its warrior heritage.
Beyond the entrance, a vast gathering of nobles, warriors, and foreign delegates stood in their finest attire, waiting for the grand introduction of guests that marked the official start of the Sword Festival.
Inside the carriage, Izumi and Aya adjusted their formal attire, their usual playful demeanor shifting into the composed grace expected of Imperial Princesses. The moment their expressions settled into perfect serene elegance, they turned their gazes toward Rin—the man who would now step into his role as their escort and protector.
For the remainder of this mission, he would not be their brother, Hoshimi Rin. He was their Imperial Guard, Shimuzu Rin.
Izumi smirked slightly, eyes gleaming with mischief even beneath her poised expression. "You know the drill, Rin."
Aya gave him a small, knowing smile. "Make us look good."
Rin let out a quiet exhale, shaking his head. His sisters might be royalty, but their confidence in him was almost too casual.
Still, he adjusted his Imperial Guard uniform, the insignia of the Imperial Princesses displayed proudly on his chest. With one fluid motion, he stepped out of the carriage first, his presence immediate and commanding—neither too intimidating nor too meek, but the perfect blend of strength and discipline.
The eyes of the gathered crowd flickered toward him. Some recognized the insignia, some merely saw a striking figure. Either way, he had done as requested—he had set the stage.
Turning, Rin extended his gloved hand toward the carriage.
"Your Highnesses," he said smoothly, voice steady and formal.
Izumi was the first to take his hand, descending with practiced grace. Aya followed next, her movements equally refined.
With that, the three siblings stepped forward into the watchful eyes of the Raksha Sword Kingdom, their regal presence commanding the attention of the entire hall.
As the grand doors to the Central Manor swung open, the sound of the herald's voice echoed across the vast hall.
"Presenting the Hoshimi Delegation—Their Highnesses, Imperial Princess Izumi Hoshimi and Imperial Princess Aya Hoshimi!"
A hush fell over the room as the gathered nobles and dignitaries turned their attention to the two elegant figures stepping into the grand hall. Izumi and Aya, bathed in the soft glow of the golden chandeliers above, carried themselves with the effortless grace expected of royalty.
Their flowing silk garments, adorned with intricate embroidery reflecting the Hoshimi Empire's heritage, shimmered subtly under the light. Unlike the extravagance of others in the room, their light makeup and natural beauty made them stand out even more—refined yet striking in their simplicity.
As expected, they turned heads.
Rin, following just two steps behind, felt the weight of countless gazes shifting between him and his sisters. His black eyes moved calmly over the crowd, taking in the different expressions—some filled with admiration, some with curiosity, and others with calculated interest.
His posture remained perfect—straight-backed, composed, and unyielding. Even though the attention was focused on Izumi and Aya, he was being observed as well.
He adjusted his pace slightly, ensuring that he was always in step with his sisters. The protocol of a personal guard dictated that he must remain just behind them, vigilant but unobtrusive. He made sure to follow it precisely.
As they moved deeper into the hall, whispers began to spread.
"The Hoshimi Princesses are as stunning as ever…"
"And their escort…? Who is he? A knight? He carries himself like a noble…"
"No insignia of nobility, but his presence is something else…"
Rin ignored the murmurs, keeping his focus on his task. His role was simple—protect his sisters and observe.
As the three approached the main reception area, Rin's senses sharpened. This was where the true interactions would begin.
The grand hall was alive with murmurs and shifting gazes, each noble present waiting for an opportunity to engage with the Imperial Princesses of the Hoshimi Empire.
Izumi and Aya, now momentarily without their escort, stood in a controlled yet approachable posture, their poised expressions revealing nothing but polite curiosity.
The first wave of nobles came, introducing themselves with elegant bows and exchanging pleasantries.
A tall, silver-haired noble with a thin, well-groomed beard stepped forward first. His rich, dark green robe signified his high status, and the emblem on his chest identified him as a Duke.
"Your Highnesses," he spoke in a rich, honeyed tone, bowing deeply. "It is an honor to finally meet the esteemed daughters of Emperor Masaki. Tales of your grace and wisdom have traveled far, even to the Raksha Sword Kingdom."
Izumi gave a polite, diplomatic smile. "You flatter us, Duke—" she hesitated for a fraction of a second, waiting for his name.
"Duke Reynald Voster," he supplied with a smile.
Aya, standing slightly behind Izumi, observed him carefully. Flattery was to be expected, but sometimes it carried hidden intentions.
Another noble joined in, a man with wavy chestnut hair and a rather elaborate blue-and-gold ensemble. His mannerisms were slightly more relaxed, but his eyes gleamed with something that made Izumi slightly wary.
"I am Marquis Eldrin Loire," he introduced himself, his smile lingering a little too long as he took in their features. "Truly, I must say, the beauty of the Hoshimi bloodline is... unmatched."
Aya's lips twitched slightly in annoyance, but she maintained her pleasant demeanor.
"We appreciate your kind words, Marquis Eldrin," she said smoothly. "The Hoshimi Empire has always cherished our connection with the Raksha Sword Kingdom."
Duke Reynald nodded approvingly. "Indeed, our two nations have shared a fruitful alliance for years. The presence of Your Highnesses at this festival is a testament to that bond. If I may be so bold, are the Princesses enjoying their time in our humble kingdom thus far?"
Izumi responded first, keeping her tone gracious yet neutral.
"We have found the Raksha Sword Kingdom to be quite impressive in both culture and architecture," she said. "It is different from our home, yet it carries its own distinct beauty."
Aya added, her gaze flickering over the lavish decorations of the hall, "The festival preparations are particularly grand. It seems the people take great pride in this tradition."
The nobles nodded, pleased with the answer. However, Marquis Eldrin's eyes lingered on them a little too much.
Then, the conversation took a turn.
"Your Highnesses, if I may be so bold," Marquis Eldrin said, his tone shifting into something more personal. "It is quite rare to see two such radiant figures unaccompanied by suitors."** His smile carried a certain slyness.**
Aya tensed slightly, but Izumi answered without hesitation.
"Our duties as Imperial Princesses leave little time for such pursuits," she said smoothly. "Our priority is to represent our Empire well and strengthen its bonds with allies."
Marquis Eldrin chuckled, seemingly unconvinced.
"Ah, but surely you must have admirers? A beauty such as yours must inspire devotion. Perhaps even among the esteemed warriors of this festival?"
Izumi and Aya exchanged glances. This was stepping too close to personal matters.
Aya took the lead this time, her voice carrying a sharper edge while maintaining her politeness.
"Marquis, we appreciate your interest, but such matters are not discussed lightly. The festival should be our focus, as should the strengthening of alliances."
Marquis Eldrin, however, did not back down.
"Come now, Your Highness. The bonds between noble houses are often sealed through such discussions. Who knows? Perhaps this festival will mark the beginning of something new?"
Izumi was about to issue a firmer response, but before she could—
A new voice entered the conversation.
"That is quite enough, Marquis Eldrin."
The voice was smooth but held an unshakable authority.
Izumi and Aya turned to see a young man around their age, maybe slightly older.
He had ash-blonde hair tied back loosely, with sharp green eyes that gleamed with quiet confidence. His attire was refined but suited for practicality rather than excessive display—a mix of military precision and noble elegance.
More importantly—
The murmurs around the hall confirmed his identity.
"That's Prince Callen Raksha, the Second Prince of the Kingdom..."
Prince Callen stepped forward, his movements fluid and deliberate, like a seasoned swordsman. He turned to Izumi and Aya, his expression calm and composed, as if stepping in had been the most natural thing in the world.
"Apologies, Your Highnesses," he said, offering a small bow. "It seems Marquis Eldrin has forgotten his place in the presence of Imperial Royalty."** His tone, while polite, carried an underlying firmness that left no room for further discussion.**
Marquis Eldrin immediately stiffened.
"Prince Callen, I assure you, I meant no disrespect—"
"Then I'm certain you'll understand that certain questions should not be pressed," Callen interrupted smoothly, his gaze unwavering.
The Marquis hesitated, before offering a forced smile and stepping back.
"Of course, Your Highness," he said, bowing his head slightly before excusing himself.
Prince Callen then turned back to Izumi and Aya. His green eyes studied them for a moment, as if assessing their reaction to what had just transpired.
Then, with a polite smile, he spoke.
"Forgive the intrusion, but I thought it necessary to step in. I hope my intervention was not unwelcome?"
Izumi and Aya exchanged a glance before turning back to Prince Callen, offering polite smiles.
"We appreciate your intervention, Prince Callen," Izumi said, dipping her head slightly. "It was a timely assistance."
Aya nodded in agreement, her expression still composed but appreciative. "Nobles often test boundaries, but you handled it with remarkable tact. We are grateful."
Prince Callen chuckled softly, his green eyes lingering on them both with an interest that wasn't entirely hidden.
"It is only natural to step in when I see a situation turning uncomfortable," he said smoothly. "But I must admit, meeting the renowned Imperial Princesses of the Hoshimi Empire in person is a privilege of its own."
His gaze flickered between Izumi and Aya, analyzing their expressions. There was something measured in the way he spoke—as if every word was deliberate.
The Hoshimi Empire was one of the most powerful nations, and these two Princesses were more than just beautiful—they were key figures in maintaining that dominance.
A potential alliance? A political advantage?
Whatever it was, there was a glint of intrigue behind Callen's eyes.
But before the conversation could deepen any further—
A calm yet firm voice cut in.
"Your Highnesses, I have returned."
Prince Callen turned his head slightly, and Izumi and Aya immediately recognized the source.
Standing just a step away was Rin.
Now dressed in his formal Imperial Guard uniform, the insignia of the two Imperial Princesses marked clearly on his chest, he stood with the composed, professional air of a seasoned protector.
His black eyes flickered to Prince Callen for the briefest moment before focusing back on his sisters.
"The designated area for observing the opening ceremony has been confirmed," Rin reported smoothly. "I will escort you there once you are ready."
Izumi and Aya both visibly relaxed at Rin's presence—a subtle shift, but noticeable.
Prince Callen, meanwhile, turned his full attention to Rin, his expression changing slightly.
"So this is the Imperial Guard assigned to you," Callen mused, studying Rin with a critical gaze. "I've heard whispers of the First Apprentice of the White Elder… but I did not expect to see such a young man entrusted with such an important role."
Rin remained unfazed.
"I merely fulfill my duty, Your Highness," he replied evenly. "As long as the Imperial Princesses are under my protection, no harm will come to them."
Callen's lips curled slightly, as if amused.
"Such confidence. Tell me, is it due to skill? Or sheer loyalty?"
Aya and Izumi tensed slightly. There was something probing in Callen's words.
Rin met his gaze without hesitation.
"Skill and loyalty should never be separate in a knight," he answered simply. "One without the other is meaningless."
Callen studied Rin for a moment longer before chuckling.
"Spoken like a true warrior."
He took a step back, his green eyes flickering once more to Izumi and Aya.
"It seems you are in capable hands, Princesses." His voice was polite, but there was an unreadable note beneath it.
Then, with a final glance at Rin, he added, "I look forward to seeing how well you protect them."
With that, Prince Callen turned and left, disappearing into the crowd.
Izumi and Aya let out a breath they didn't realize they were holding.
Aya leaned slightly toward Rin. "That man… He's dangerous."
Izumi crossed her arms. "He has an agenda, that much is obvious."
Rin glanced in the direction where Callen had left, his expression unreadable.
"It doesn't matter," he finally said. "No matter what his intentions are—I'm here. And I won't let anyone get too close unless you allow it."
Aya smirked. "Good answer."
Izumi sighed. "Well then, shall we go? The festival is about to begin."
Rin nodded, falling into step behind them once more—his watchful eyes ever-vigilant.
As soon as the doors shut behind them, Rin moved swiftly, his fingers tracing a barely visible pattern in the air.
A faint shimmer passed through the room, as if the very air rippled for a brief second. The light from the lanterns flickered momentarily before stabilizing.
Illusion magic.
A concealment veil.
It wouldn't just hide their words but also distort any potential eavesdroppers—whether magical or mundane.
Rin let out a quiet breath. "We're secure now."
Izumi stretched her arms lazily, finally dropping the regal act she had maintained outside.
"Finally. That was exhausting," she sighed, flopping onto a cushioned seat.
Aya sat down more gracefully, but her expression was just as tired. "I hate political games. Especially when we're the ones being hunted."
Rin leaned against the wall, crossing his arms. "You both know the rules. Outside the Imperial Palace, assume we are always in enemy territory."
His voice was calm but firm.
"Our lives exist behind a blade."
His black eyes swept over the two of them.
"If we are pushed back—even once—consider it our death."
Izumi and Aya met his gaze.
There was no joke in his words.
The world they lived in was merciless. If they miscalculated, trusted too easily, or let their guard slip… the consequences would be absolute.
Izumi sighed, her usual playfulness dimming slightly. "We know, Rin."
Aya's fingers drummed lightly against the table. "That doesn't mean we have to like it."
Rin didn't argue.
Instead, he walked over and sat down across from them. "Then let's make sure we never have to find out."
Silence stretched between them for a moment. Not uncomfortable, but heavy with unspoken understanding.
Outside, the distant sounds of the festival preparations continued.
Inside, the three siblings remained sharp, aware… and waiting.