Amidst the steady hum of activity around the stronghold, the tension between Kazuichi and Ryuunosuke seemed to linger in the air, despite the friendly front. Scouts moved with purpose, Hybrids sharpened their blades, and the clanging of metal echoed through the halls as weapons were forged and fortified. Preparations continued, but an unspoken weight hung over Kazuichi, one that could only be alleviated by a more concrete alliance. And so, after the initial meeting, Ryuunosuke made an offer that immediately caught Kazuichi's attention.