Chapter 24: Changing Plans

The atmosphere at the Hidden Hand headquarters was tense.

New rumors claimed Ryuko was involved in illegal activities. This threatened his carefully crafted image. 

As Ryuko prepared to confront these new threats, an unexpected visitor arrived.

The door opened quietly, and a tall woman with an air of elegance and authority entered. Ryuko recognized her at once: Saint Shalria Gu.

She was a high-ranking member of the Gu family. A faction of hers had once attacked him. 

Her presence commanded immediate respect, and she had not brought any slaves this time, unlike before.

Ryuko rose from his desk, his expression a mix of curiosity and welcome. "Saint Shalria, it's a pleasure to see you, What brings you here today?"

Shalria nodded gracefully, her eyes meeting his with a steady gaze. 

"Ryuko, our families have a deep bond through joint ventures. 

I represent the Gu family, acting on our patriarch's authority. We've learned about the disturbing whispers regarding you and the Hidden Hand.

The Gu family seeks a direct discussion with you about these issues."

Ryuko gestured to a set of chairs. "Please, have a seat, I'm eager to hear what you have to say."

As Shalria settled into one of the chairs, Ryuko's advisor, Victor, and his companion, Layla, stood nearby, watching with interest.

Shalria began speaking in a calm and measured tone. "The rumors claim that the Gu family is using mercenaries to attack you and to destabilize Mariejois. 

This is, of course, a blatant lie, and the reputation of the Gu family is in question.

We believe this misinformation is part of a broader scheme to sow doubts about the Gu family and the Hidden Hand."

Ryuko narrowed his eyes slightly. "Sowing doubts about the Gu family is one thing, but allow me to say that this is indeed true, I was personally attacked by one of their factions.

What you're telling me now seems absurd."

Shalria offered a slight smile, though her gaze remained firm. "I understand. We were told that a small faction, running an info network, attacked you. We have punished them. Their attack was isolated. 

To improve our relations and counter falsehoods, the Gu family would like to help. 

Please publicly deny the rumors linking us to mercenary activities in Mariejois. In return, we will give you two significant gifts."

Victor leaned forward, clearly interested in the offer. "This depends on your sincerity, What are the details of these gifts?"

Shalria smiled gently. "First, we have prepared a powerful physical enhancement drug known as 'Strength Elixir.' 

It comes in ten bottles, designed to enhance physical fitness and strength for those who use it, as a gift to build goodwill. 

Second, the Gu family wishes to make a large financial contribution of ten billion Berry."

Ryuko raised his eyebrows in surprise. "Your offer is incredibly generous.

It seems that sending mercenaries to attack other palaces is unpopular. Even the guards seem to have confirmed this."

Shalria's expression was serious. "Please help us by correcting the rumors. 

"A statement denying any link between the Gu family and mercenaries will restore our reputation and strengthen our alliance.""

Ryuko considered the offer with an open mind. 

The offer was tempting. Their cooperation could help him. Also, reducing one front of the attacks was good for him. However, he had to balance a strategy in forming an alliance with them.

He looked at Shalria with a thoughtful expression. "Your offer is generous.

i believe it can serve our mutual interests. 

I will publicly correct the information and clarify the Gu family's position. In return, you will acknowledge the alliance and support you have provided."

Shalria's face brightened with relief. "Thank you, Ryuko We look forward to strengthening our alliance and dispelling these harmful rumors."

The next day, Ryuko made a public statement. Standing before a crowd of spectators and media representatives, he addressed the rumors directly.

"The recent rumors against the Hidden Hand and the Gu family are entirely false," Ryuko declared, his voice steady and authoritative.

"The Gu family has no connection to any mercenary activities, and these rumors are a deliberate attempt to sow discord. 

We are committed to maintaining the truth and upholding the integrity of our operations."

After the Gu family spread the statement in Mariejois, doubts faded. Trust in the Hidden Hand and its allies grew.

Later, in a private meeting with Shalria, Ryuko received the promised gifts. 

He received ten bottles of Strength Elixir and ten billion Berry. 

Ryuko accepted the gifts with gratitude.

"Thank you, Saint Shalria. Your support has been invaluable," Ryuko said. 

"I look forward to our continued partnership between the Hidden Hand and the Gu family."

Shalria nodded in acknowledgment. "And so do I, Ryuko. Together, we will strengthen our positions and confront any threats to our interests."

As public opinion shifted and the alliance solidified, Ryuko grew more determined. 

He would face the challenges ahead with resolve and skill. His new allies and the success of the Hidden Hand would support him.