Chapter 41 - Chapter 41

CHAPTER 41

She stopped when she came across the barren land; clearly, once touched by humans-or more specifically, Fanalis. The bottom half of houses made of wood and brick; crumbled and fallen, a dry well on one end and a broken fence of wood and wire acting as a barricade, destroyed. She searched for Masrur and Sharrkan, knowing that they couldn't have gotten too far.

There was a disturbing array of noises. She turned in the direction before taking off in a sprint. She reached the edge of a hill, overlooking a barren land. Where she found the boys. Sharrkan, holding a black metal sword, sized perfectly for him. Masrur, his arms painted red with blood that ran down from the wounds in his arms, which followed a bite mark pattern. They were fighting fiercely, viciously, against a large number of men. Several were already lying on their backs or fronts. They were all armed; clearly prepared, so they were either bandits or slave traders.

Sharrkan was taking the men on, moving in a blur, his sword clashing and cutting through the metal of his opponent's, he was agile and moved with a certain coordination and grace. Masrur, using his fists, was wild, with a strength that outmatched fully grown men, his legs breaking through the swords, occasionally grazing his skin. He knocked them back and out.

Sakura's fists clenched at her sides tightly. She took a breath, screaming. "SHARRKAN, MASRUR GET BACK."

The two boys turned their heads around to Sakura; she had caught their attention as well as the other men.

"Now what?"

"A girl?"

Sakura glared, looking down at the men. "What do you think you're doing? Attacking children!"

There was a man dressed differently to the other men; he wore a black fur wrapping and had a rather menacing appearance with his thick hair and beard. "We're simply collecting our merchandise. We've come for the people of Torran when this young Fanalis and Heliohapt boy attacked my group."

Sakura narrowed her eyes, gathering that they were definitely slave traders. "Well, you'll find you've come a long way for nothing then, because you'll be lucky to leave here empty-handed if I'm provoked."

Then the area was filled with laughter, as Sakura expected. She looked specifically at Masrur and Sharrkan.

"You two get back now!"

Masrur jumped over to Sharrkan, grabbed the boy, and pulled him away from the men. Heading towards the hill.

When she was certain that they wouldn't get caught in the crossfire, she decided to strike. Pooling and concentrating chakra to her first like second nature, and now with her seal unleashed, she was able to call upon tremendous strength. Leaping off the edge of the hill, coming down, her fists meeting the ground. Breaking apart and creating a tremor like an earthquake. The ground split apart and swallowed the unfortunate slave traders.

"CHA"

Masrur and Sharrkan stared with wide eyes as she emerged through the cloud of dirt, standing straight with a powerful shine in her eyes.

Sharrkan swallowed hard, whispering to Masrur. "S-She's kinda scary."

"Yeah," Masrur replied; although he sounded more in awe than frightened, he had seen her strength, but never to this extent. 

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Sinbad, Ja'far, and the Torran people all felt a tremor from where they were and a loud crashing. They all rushed into the distance, realizing that it was in the direction Masrur, Sharrkan, and Sakura had gone in. They were completely stunned to see a large portion of the terrain appear as if an earthquake had decided to travel through the area. On a more stable part of the ground, Sakura, Masrur, and Sharrkan, with a group of groggy, semi-conscious men tied together by a strong rope.

"What happened to your arms!?" Sakura exclaimed, examining the deep wounds.

"I was poisoned, so I bit into my arms to remove it," Masrur said too calmly for Sakura's temperament to handle.

"Are you two insane!?" Sakura shouted, putting her hands over Masrur's arms to heal the wounds before tending to Sharrkan's injuries. "You two could have gotten killed!"

The two boys told Sakura what had happened with the slave traders. After Masrur saw the sight of the Fanalis village, he was distraught and went into a bit of a frenzy when they found the slave traders and was reckless. Getting himself poisoned by their weapons so Sharrkan stepped in to help him.

"Next time something like this happens, don't act so recklessly!" Sakura said, her face falling. They were very skilled, she had to admit, but they were still just children.

"What happened here?" the chief asked. Walking up to the three, with Sinbad and Ja'far, who were just as eager to hear the story.

"These people are slave traders," Sharrkan said, smiling as he gestured to the men-who looked like they needed tending to themselves. "Their target was your village, but we've captured them. Now the Torran people are safe!"

Sharrkan and Masrur explained to everyone that they had found a group of slave traders from where they were in one of the deserted Fanalis villages. The slave traders were looking for the Torran village, and Masrur went ballistic and began attacking them. When they saw Masrur, they attempted to capture him by using poison, but Sharrkan was able to help fend them off with his swordplay, and they managed to subdue the group completely when Sakura dealt a single blow-hence the ruined earth.

"So you managed to defeat those slave drivers?" Sinbad asked, looking at the dozen men tied together, back to back. "I'm impressed."

Ja'far gaped at him, "Sin-

"This is not something to praise them for!" Sakura exclaimed, narrowing her eyes at Sinbad, which made him take a step back in turn, his hands raised up in surrender. "They were both injured. Next time, I'm not listening to you. Leave them be-yeah great idea!"

Before the two got into another argument, they heard a gruff chuckle and looked to the Torran chief. "You have my approval. You are different from other outsiders. I've got a good feeling about you."

Sinbad smiled, appreciating the gesture of having reached yet another person's heart. As the sun was setting, the chief granted the group permission to spend the night in the village-an honor that was reserved for none but their own brethren.

"Okay, you two," Sakura pointed at Sharrkan and Masrur, after tending to them. "No more running off on your own, okay?"

The two boys simply stared at her. Sakura didn't take that kindly and stomped her foot on the ground to create a crater. Which was actually small compared to the one she created a few feet away.

"I CAN'T HEAR YOU."

"Yes!" they said together, jumping a little at the girl's display of strength, but it wasn't just her physical ability; but the angry expression on her face mixed in with the deadly aura. One that said you must not disobey her.

Sighing, Sakura sank to her knees in front of the two boys and flung her arms around to bring them close towards her, each of their heads resting at one of her shoulders. 

"Listen here, both of you. It doesn't matter if you can't return to where you belong." Sakura said, her voice in a soft whisper. "Because as long as you are with people that care about you, you'll always be home. So don't go running off for something that's right in front of you." 

Sakura wondered if the words that fell from her own lips would finally get through her ears and reach her own heart. When they turned their backs to the open land that was the Dark Continent, Sakura wiped away a few tears from Masrur's face, kissed his forehead, and smiled.

"Let's go home."

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Their stay at Torran Village was brief, as they departed the next morning. The chief came to give them their final greetings. As they stood outside the village entrance once again, without a barricade. Sinbad decided to leave the slave traders to the Torran villagers to deal with, as it was their lives that the men were after. The chances of them leaving alive were likely none, but no one dared to materialize their thoughts into words.

The chief addressed Sinbad one more time, "Sinbad. We, the Torran people, approve of this world without conflict, you wish to create. It's very nostalgic. I am happy that someone with the same ideals as our god has finally appeared."

Sinbad looked at the chief, curious. "Are you referring to the ruler who created an actual utopia?"

Sakura remembered this god being mentioned in Sasan to them. Sinbad told the Torran chief that they had heard about him from the Sasan knight king, but the name was lost. Though the chief said that the Torran people had a library with knowledge from ancient times.

"He was the great king who ruled 'Alma Torran.'" Sakura frowned. She remembered translating a scroll in Kou that mentioned the name. "The one and only god…

"King Solomon," Sakura spoke in sync with the Torran chief, her voice was distant as if not her own.

Everyone looked at her.

"You already know his name?" the chief asked Sakura as she touched her lips with hesitation.

"I…I-yes." She finally compromised, but there was something about the way she said it that made it seem like she knew more-far more than she should and far more than Sakura herself knew she didn't. Which was why it was a bit unnerving.

'King Solomon.'

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Sinbad, Ja'far, Sakura, Masrur, and Sharrkan returned to the Reim's small territory, Kartago. In a marketplace, packed with people. They were prepared to depart the Dark Continent at last. Returning with yet another powerful alliance and a prince of Heliohapt under their care.

Ja'far adjusted the strap on his bag, smiling at Sinbad. "Now, let's head back to Balbadd."

"Yeah, it's time to leave the Dark Continent." Sinbad smiled.

"Ready to go?" Sakura patted Masrur's head, and he leaned into her touch, then she felt Sharrkan tug on her other hand. He was nervously glancing around, not used to being surrounded by so many people who were walking around. Barely giving them a second glance.

"You all sure took your time." Their heads turned at the sound of the familiar voice-the voice belonging to one of the few individuals who were no longer supposed to be present in the Dark Continent.

Sinbad's face twisted in a mixture of shock and nervousness. "Serendine!?"

The Parthevia princess had a calm smile on her face; the rest of their companions joined behind her with vague grins on their faces. 

"What are you guys doing here?" Sakura asked.

"You were supposed to be on your way back to Balbadd." Sinbad pointed. He wasn't upset, but he was slightly frazzled that they all decided to remain behind. Apparently, they decided it would be better, financially, if they took one ship back together instead of two, but Sakura felt on instinct that there was something more to this than that perfectly rational explanation. After all, there was nothing more deceptive than an obvious truth.

Sakura put her hand on her hip, her head tilted, yet she still held a strong, authoritative demeanor. "Are expenses the only reason you guys aren't already on your way back to Balbadd?"

"There's also been a lot going on here," Serendine said, her voice turning soft, her face taking on a rather worried expression. Sakura and Sinbad weren't able to ask any questions, but a new voice cut in.

"Hmm, so this is Sinbad? He's kinda flashy, isn't he?"

There was a new addition to their already large spectacle of companions, and while this one didn't necessarily stand out in a way that Hinahoho or Drakon would, he was definitely unusual. A small boy, with long black hair in a thick braid as long as his body and red eyes, rimmed-Sakura hadn't met a lot of people with eyes like that. One of them was an older female ninja from her village, Kurenai. He also carried a small wand with a jewel as red as a ruby but was shaped as a diamond.

He looked at Sinbad, resting his hand on his hip, scrutinizing the older male in a way that seemed to show he had some right to judge and place others a his own opinion, and that didn't sit right with Sinbad. "Well, I don't hate his expression. I'm Judar, nice to meet you."

Juadar's eyes then fell on Sakura; he tilted his head to the side, his eyebrows furrowed together. "Let me guess, you're Sakura, right?"

Cheeky was her first thought when the boy addressed her.

Sakura gave a small, wary smile, feeling somewhat disassembled by this boy, who was looking at her like she was some complicated puzzle that he had been forced to solve. "That's right, and it's nice to meet you too Judar."

"You sure don't look like much, but the rukh really like you," Judar stated, pointing to Sakura with little concern. "

The rukh around him and their reaction to him; it was a lot like when they were around Yunan, but at the same time, there was something darker about him. Even though he was only child, she could feel something very off and it made her uneasy; although she couldn't quite see what it was. 

Sinbad already had some issues with the boy as well, but it didn't go further than his behavior and attitude towards everyone.

"What's up with this brat!? He's awfully rude!" Sinbad came to Judar, only to slap his hands on the boy's face and stretch his face, ignoring his cries of discomfort and pain.

"Sinbad!" Serendine and Sakura protested, both for different reasons. Although neither was able to intervene because Judar had fended off Sinbad on his own. With a proud, rather conceited smirk on his face, he brought up his wand and flicked his wrist. When Sinbad felt a blistering heat, he pulled back from Judar, or more like repelled. There was a transparently bright sphere now surrounding Judar, keeping him from the outside and all that would seek to harm him.

"A borg!?" Ja'far exclaimed, knowingly yet surprised. He knew a bit about magicians, and the little that he knew included a magical shield known as a borg. "But only magicians are able to use it…"

Judar scoffed at Ja'far, the borg around him vanishing as quickly as it had appeared. "Hmph, Naturally. I am a world-creating magician, possessor of the strongest magoi. I'm a magi!"

On their travels, they had heard of magi from the countries they had visited. The legendary magicians that have appeared in history. It always seemed to be a topic of interest amongst many. Sinbad already suspected Yunan of being a magi. They were still a bit of a mystery though but it was obvious they had a great magnitude of power. With what Sakura understood, one of those abilities was to summon dungeons.

Sinbad raised an eyebrow, skeptical as he pointed to Judar. Disbelief etching in his tone. "This kid is one of them?"

Judar didn't take kindly to Sinbad's skepticism. I'll prove to you that I'm a real Magi."

Serendine protested as Judar came up to her and touched the sword where Zepar's metal vessel was. The eight pointed star reacted, glowing a bright light before vanishing and with a puff of smoke the djinn Zepar appeared before them, arms folded peering down at all of the shocked civilians that were now clearing the area in fear. Their screams lasting until their figures were completely out of sight.

Sakura was gaping, her finger shook as she pointed up to Zepar. "W-W-W-What?"

"This is a power of a magi my king." Stolas said to her "They have the ability to generate enough magoi to summon us in our physical forms."

"Well what's happened?" Zepar asked the exact question everyone was thinking as well as they stared up at the djinn with awe struck expressions. "To make me appear in my true form…Where did you get such a vast quantity of magoi?"

Judar waved to the djinn in front of him; the way his tiny hand moved around was a rather comical sight but no one was able to pick up on it because of the situation itself that overruled the settings conditions.

"Zepar. Over here."

When Zepar's eyes landed on the young child, he seemed to take a different stature. Holding his hand across his chest and leaning forward; bowing to Judar-yet another sight that would have been seen as comical. "Magi. So it was you."

Judar stood in front of Zepar, a prideful expression on his face that made him seem older than he actually was. Zepar told the baffled group then that Judar was in fact an actual magi. "A magi is a great magician loved by the rukh. All djinn greatly respect the magi and obey their wishes."

Puffing out his chest, Judar grinned widely with Zepar behind him, his hand outstretched to gesture towards the boy.

"So you get it now?" Judar gloated.

Zepar held his chin, his face taking on a surprised expression and then worry. "But magi…the rukh around you…Could it be…"

Sakura frowned; so the djinn noticed something odd about this boy's rukh as well? She wasn't able to ask him because Judar then waved his wand and Zepar turned to smoke, vanishing back into Serendine's sword.

"Well you get the point." Judar gave a tight clenched smile, "I'm a real magi."

'There's no doubt about it.' Beleth confirmed.

"And? Why is a great Magi like you here?" Ja'far asked, glaring down at Judar. It seemed that he did not like the impression Judar had given them either. Being an ex-assassin he had developed keen instincts and something was telling Ja'far that Judar was no someone to overlook easily simply because he was a child. That was something he could relate to with the boy.

"That's obvious." Judar pointed his wand in Ja'far's direction. "I came to see the 'king'."

"King?" asked Sinbad.

"Don't misunderstand. I don't mean you, I mean this women here." Judar grasped Serendine's hand, making her a little lopsided because of their height difference. "You know that Magi create dungeons to choose kings. Serene conquered Zepar's dungeon. A dungeon I created. Which means this women is my king."

'So he summoned Zepar's dungeon.' Sakura thought

Serendine seemed taken aback by Judar's declaration; although it seemed to be more like hesitance when she looked at him. As though she was already informed about all of this but she didn't expect it to be voiced. "I told you, I haven't accepted your offer yet!"

"What? You're still complaining. Just give it up and let's go back to Parthevia already. I'll make you queen!"

That stopped all other questions, everyone rounded to the matter on Parthevia immediately. 

"Go back to Parthevia? What's this about?" Sakura asked, folding her arms and frowning. "You can't possibly expect to take Serendine there now."

"Exactly." Ja'far agreed. "You're only a kid. Things in Parthevia have quieted down thanks to the ceasefire treaty…"

"Shut up freckles."

Ja'far looked like his old assassins bloodlust was seeping towards Judar, but the magi didn't seem to pay any heed to it.

"It's you who doesn't understand anything." Judar folded his arms, "Magi can feel the world's abnormalities and I am getting a terrible aura around Parthevia. And besides I've seen it all too. Their ceasefire treaty is only for show. They are still invading nearby islands and raiding villages within the country. Something like a purge? Those who oppose the people in power are either brain washed or turned into some kinda weird monster, it's terrible.

Judar didn't sound too concerned as he explained to the group the situation in Parthevia and that was not helping to lower their level of doubt about the boy. However, it still left them with a permanent mark in their minds. What was really going on there?

"And this women," Judar put his hand on his hip and gestured to Serendine. "Isn't she a Parthevian princess? All this is happening in your country but you're not going to anything about it? No matter how many times I tell you, your response is always "I can't do anything without telling Sinbad and Sakura." Judar's red eyes now fell on the pair. "So, there's something in want to ask you both. You'll have my help, so let's take back Parthevia. How about it?"

The memory of the trial in Zepar's dungeon was still fresh in her mind and Sakura felt as if their fight with words was beginning to materialize before her eyes and she didn't want that. She had managed to settle the fire of her pain with Sinbad's reassurance as well as the thoughts that the chances of Serendine's suggestion never coming to reality.

"Hey brat." Sinbad called JUdar.

"I'm not a brat!" Judar pouted, "I'm the magi Judar."

"Judar…Let's say that Parthevia is really going through an internal purge like you said. If that's true I can't just overlook it." Sakura felt her breath hitch, she turned to Sinbad with her eyes wide but she kept her jaw tightened. "But I also can't trust you immediately either. You're a magi right? A magi should be able to fly or disappear in an instant." Sinbad said thinking about Yunan. "The Magi I met before you could use his magic to do these things. You're a great magician aren't you? So why don't you just teleport us to Parthevia?"

Sakura wasn't certain what Sinbad was trying to accomplish by edging Judar on as he was. He really wasn't good with kids, he seemed to know how to anger them and he didn't have much paternal skills either. Must have been the price for having all those women skills.

Judar was steaming, his cheeks puffed and his face turning red. "You're making Fun of me!! Fine I'll show you!" Judar held up his wand and the rukh started fluttering around it, gathering magoi, turning into light that gathered at the tip of his wand. "Watch me, witness the power of a real magi!"

It was only a second later that the light vanished, they were expecting to be somewhere else but everyone saw that they were still in the cleared out area of Reim's territory. 

Judar held out his hands, a calmed expression on his face. "Or so I thought. I'd show you, but I don't wanna."

"HUH!?" Ja'far exclaimed, "But you just said you would!"

"It'll wear me out." Judar told them, completely calmed now and disinterested. "And it's not my job to take you anywhere."

Sinbad glared blankly at Judar, confirming now that he honestly did not trust him at all. Sakura didn't think to be wary of a child like this, he behaved in a way that gave belief that he was spoilt, always getting what he wanted and never knowing no. However, there was something about this that troubled her still. Why did Judar decide to appear before the group? Was he on his own? Or did someone send him? There were too many blanks.

"Sooner or later, you'll definitely realize you need my power." Judar stated confidently. That left a trickle of worry creep into Sakura. He was very assured, but there was dark glimmer in his eyes that sent a chill down her spine.

"Okay, now I am getting annoyed." Sinbad didn't make it three steps to Judar before Sakura grasped his shoulder and pulled him back before he started pinching the boy again. In a lot of ways Sinbad had his own childish tendencies.

Ja'far came up to them, whispering. "What should we do about him?"

Sinbad looked at Judar, his eyes narrowed in on him in debate. "We can't just ignore him."

Sakura folded her arms, shifting her weight on one foot. Watching as Judar pulled on Serendine's hand in an impatient manner. "There's also the information he gave about Parthevia and he isn't lying about being a magi either; although….there is something very off with him. I agree with Ja'far on this."

"We can use him." Sinbad told them, not bothering to keep his voice hushed since everyone else seemed occupied. "It would be best to have him stay where we can keep an eye on him."

Sakura wasn't so sure about using this boy for any purposes, since they didn't even know his agenda. For a child, he seemed to be far more of an enigma that anyone should be and that included her.

"Serendine," Sinbad called the princess; only speaking once he knew he had her attention. "Sorry but we'll leave him to you. After all, he claims to be your magi. Please look after him."

Nodding, Serendine accepted to look after Judar for the time being, at least this way they would be able to take some time to think about what to do next once they returned to Balbadd and Judar would be kept under watch. "I understand, if anything happens, I'll report back to you."

Judar was grinning brightly now, "You should've just come with me in the first place."

Stomping over to Judar, Sinbad grabbed the magi by his cheeks and pulled hard. He started fussing and flaying his arms around. "Shut up, we still don't trust you!"

"Sinbad stop it!" Sakura exclaimed, pulling him away and holding him back as he dropped Judar before he was able to summon another borg. "Magi or not, he's still a kid."

"He's a brat!"

"I'm not a brad and don't call me a kid," 

Judar rubbed his red cheeks, frowning at Sinbad and he-in exchange glared back at Judar. Sakura rolled her eyes, walking up to Judar. He looked at her, cocking an eyebrow but Sakura just put her hands on both of his cheeks. Judar felt a comforting warmth on his face as Sakura poured chakra to heal the sting on his cheeks before pulling away.

"There, now will the two of you finally settle down?" Sakura asked, standing with her hands on her hips.

Judar pouted with a frown, rubbing his cheek. "That's a weird power."

Sakura and Sinbad watched as Serendine left with Judar, keeping a firm grip on his hand.

"Sakura, Sinbad." Drakon waited for the two to turn around and face him. Sahel and Tamir in front of him. When Judar was out of sight with Serendine, Drakon pulled Sakura and Sinbad to the side to speak with them. He told them that what Judar had said about the purge in Parthevia was likely to be true. When Drakon had fled the country with the princes; they had been chased after. By one of the Four Heavenly generals of Parthevia; who had somehow transformed but at that same time Drakon had taken on his own transformation as well because of his household vessel. So he was able to take on the general and escape.

"The problem is that this incident implies that Parthevia has already started to infuse dungeon creatures with human beings." Drakon held up his talon as he spoke. "If they turned an entire army division or worse all of the citizens of Parthevia into monsters…"

"That would give Parthevia extreme military Prowess." Sakura finished, as calmly as she could. Although she had gone completely rigid; along with Sinbad who had reached the same terrifying conclusion on his own.

"Lady Serendine must have realized this as well. A purge to create more of these monsters…So when it comes to Parthevia we should remain extremely cautious."

"I understand…" Sinbad assured. He glanced to Sakura, their eyes meeting. "Let's investigate what's going on in Parthevia."

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King Rashid stared down at his familiar visitors from his throne; Sakura and Sinbad crouched down and kneeling in respect yet it was a sign of little representation compared to strangers. After nearly half a month; Sinbad and his comrades returned to Ballbadd. Sakura and Sinbad took to the royal palace to tell King Rashid about their latest journey and what they had gained from the new voyage. Their alliance with Heliohapt, prince Sharrkan now under their care and Serendine earning the power of a djinn (minus the details as to how she accomplished that). They mentioned the Torran people and that they were unfortunately unable to find any land stable enough to create a country of their own. To which king Rashid apologized as they weren't able to accomplish their initial goal, but it was nothing that they were concerned about because they had not returned empty handed. However, they stopped on the matter of Judar and Parthevia, which had a completely different light to it than the rest of their report.

"About the situation in Parthevia…" Rashid trailed, serious. "I've heard that ever since the ceasefire treaty, domestic affairs have stabilized. I haven't heard anything about purges."

Sinbad's face fell, his eyes glancing to the wide clearings that overlooked the city of Ballbadd but he was not looking at the scenery. "I see."

It was understandable that Sinbad was concerned about his home country, even if he wasn't able to return to it. It was the place he was born; there was a bond which compelled you to naturally take an interest even if you meant to leave it behind. Sakura understood this better than anyone.

"If you're worried, you should go see how it is for yourselves." The king's words halted both of them as they looked back to him.

"Mentor…."

"Right after Reim, Parthevia is one of our largest trading partners." King Rashid rubbed his chin in an aloof manner. "It wouldn't be unusual for me to visit Parthevia on a diplomatic trip. And after listening to your story, I think it might be beneficial to visit as soon as possible."

Sakrua and Sinbad continued to stare at the king; their bodies still but their minds racing, their ears eagerly perked, waiting for the climax that would catch them completely.

"All that's left is to put together my escort for the trip. And since the rumors of Parthevia's purge hint potential danger, I'll have to take the best of the best with me." King Rashid smirked down at the two. "So, Sinbad, Sakura, will you accompany me as part of my escort?"

Neither were able to respond, their minds still a little behind in the race of reaction. So King Rashid continued to speak.

"I'll even take you to meet him…The current emperor of the Parthevia Empire."

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Sakura and Sinbad did not have much of a debate about whether or not they would accept the offer to join the king's escort to Parthevia; as Sinbad had a burning curiosity that wouldn't be satisfied without visual aid and Sakura would be able to go with him and hopefully obscure trouble's vision from Sinbad. King Rashid informed the two previously that although he was taking them to meet with the current emperor; they would not be able to speak with him as they would only be acting as his bodyguards. However, the current emperor-if Sakura remembered correctly, would be Serendine's brother and it wouldn't hurt to access his condition as well as the countries while they were there. Sakura had hoped to put the princess's mind at ease.

Those few days before their departure went by too quickly and Ja'far had caught Sinbad and Sakura during their last minute packing. They had agreed it would be best not to tell anyone until it was closer to their departure date and there was less time for their friends to try and change their minds about the journey using logic and highly possible scenarios. 

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU'RE BOTH GOING TO PARTHEVIA!?"

Sakura cringed as she tucked away the last of her necessities. She looked over at Sinbad, who was also finishing his packing, unfortunately for them Ja'far chose that time to step into the room. Sinbad explained the story to him and Ja'far had the regular reaction whenever his master made (at least in his point of view) brash decisions without informing them and Sakura being in on it didn't help either.

"We depart tomorrow. I'll entrust the company to you until then, Ja'far." Sinbad kept his back to the boy, stuffing his already bulging bag but Ja'far wasn't going to let go.

"That's so soon!" Ja'far's attention fell on Sakura now; the two were usually always in agreement with one another when it came to stands against Sinbad's decisions but it seemed that Sakura was taking a different post now for whatever reason, which he wanted to understand.

"Sakura, why would you let him go back to Parthevia? And what's more-you're going too!?"

Sakura tried to remained indifferent, "Well; we're only going as part of the king's escort. It's not like we'll be on our own and besides this is a good chance to find out what's really happening in Parthevia. I think it's better than relying on rumors-why not just confirm them for ourselves."

Sakura did her best to keep to the logical side of the argument in order to keep advantage and she knew it was effective because Ja'far seemed to be swaying from his own decision but that didn't mean he was completely agreeing with their discretion. Before he could get another word in on it though, Serendine and Judar entered the room.

"So what I told you got you all worried huh? That's why we should've just gone when I said so." The young magi stated.

Ja'far immediately went on the defensive at Judar's sudden appearance. "We still don't trust you, you know!!"

It wasn't as if they should be surprised anymore since they invited the young magi back to the company in order to keep an eye on him. Sakura didn't know if that tactic was for the best but it would have to do for now when their options were limited in terms of what to do with him.

"But he's going right?" Judar asked demandingly. "Don't hide it freckles!"

"Stop calling me freckles!"

Pinching the bridge of her nose, Sakura turned away from Ja'ar and Judar as they started arguing to take up her light luggage. Judar had to put up a borg as Ja'far brought out his blades and wires to wrap around it in futile. Sakura found it ironic that they fought all the time, as Judar's own arrogance in personality had a similar styles to Ja'far's previous self. She thought it might be a trigger in some way.

"So, you're both really going to Parthevia aren't you?" Serendine's soft voice, sounded like bells that overpowered all noise.

Sinbad looked solemn when he confirmed that they were going and then attempted to lift whatever thoughts were most likely to be weighing on the princess's mind, such as the fact that Sindria was hosting them. "Don't worry. I'll just observe the situation. I won't say anything about any of you."

"That's not what worries me." Serendine said, truthful. "I just want you both to be careful while in Parthevia. That man is there. You must avoid him at all cost."

They already knew who Serendine was referring to, the general of Parthevia, the one who initiated the coup, Drakon's brother. Barbarossa.

"I understand." Sinbad said readying to leave, with Sakura following behind him when Serendine called out again.

"One more thing…" She paused, holding her hands together. "My brother…"

Sakura walked up to Serendine and took her hands that felt as if they were enduring a tremor. She waited until Serendine met her eyes before speaking. "We'll find out whatever we can about your brother, no matter how small." Sakura gave Serendine's hand a small squeeze before smiling gently. "So please, don't make that face. It's unbecoming for a princess."

Serendine's heart gave a sudden jolt, surprising her but Sakura's words and reminder of who she was, covered her like a protective cloak against the cold weather that was her worries and kept them from touching her. Her cheeks grew warm from the sudden heat, but she smiled back at the other pink haired girl.

"Of course."

..

..

..

The night was warm, and only sought to help keep everyone awake as a summers day would; which included Sinbad and Sakura. As they lay in bed, sleep unable to enter their minds which were already full of thoughts for tomorrow's departure. No method's seemed to put them at ease. Not even holding each other, only forcing them to shut their eyes as an attempt to put their partner at ease and to rest.

"This is ridiculous." Sakura snapped, shuffling out of bed to move to the window, leaning on the windowsill. The cool breeze touched her skin and she felt herself a little less flustered, the frustration seeming to drift off.

Sinbad sat up as well, leaning against the many pillows on the bed. "You know, you don't have to come with me."

Sakura looked at Sinbad in a manner that would have had any man get on his knees and repent for whatever crimes he had committed without knowing the source of the accusing look. Thankfully, Sinbad knew he was at a closer distance to the door should the need arise for him to run if he pushed Sakura too far.

"What exactly do you mean by that Sinbad?"

"If you're going to worry yourself like this then maybe it's better if you stay behind. It's like you told Ja'far, I would only be observing from the sidelines anyway so there shouldn't be any trouble."

All that had earned Sinbad was a painful glare, "Yes, if you were anyone else that would be the case; but you've got this constant pull that attracts trouble wherever you go. And Parthevia is bound to be the best source for trouble to find you."

Sinbad shook his head, attempting to appear lighthearted. "You're worrying over nothing."

Sakura watched warily as he stood up and walked towards her; she quickly turned her back to him after seeing the look in his eyes. So far with the Parthevia case, he had somehow been better behaved but it seemed that a still moment had finally set in and he was taking it. 

"You can say it's nothing, but you don't have the best record for avoiding mishaps." Sakura stated. "I didn't want to remind Ja'far or chances are he'd still be compiling a list on why we shouldn't go."

Sakura tensed when Sinbad put his warm hands on her shoulders, beginning to massage them. "If you were so concerned about this, then why didn't you argue against it days ago?"

"Because." Sakura huffed, keeping herself stiff to avoid leaning towards Sinbad's tempting touch. "You obviously really want to go and I doubt that anything I or anyone else say would have stopped you. Also, Parthevia is your homeland." Sakura's thoughts were becoming blurred as her mouth started moving without her thinking. "If I had the chance to see my home again, I would want to."

Sinbad could tell she didn't mean to blurt out that last statement, because she tensed immediately after she said it. He chose to overlook it this one time for her sake, now wasn't the time to bring it up or they were bound to get into another fierce argument. There was still so much he wanted to know about Sakura and that included the reason behind her being referred to as an interloper, not only by a djinn but by Judar as well. They clearly knew something about Sakura that he didn't.

"So you want me to go but at the same time you're worried about something happening to me over there; I still don't understand. Please explain your conflict of interest." Sinbad said, but he might have sounded a little too nonchalant and that manner set Sakura off in a bad way. She pulled back from Sinbad and spun around.

"Because I nearly lost you once and I don't want that to happen again!" Sakura exclaimed, slamming her hands on Sinbad's chest without her usual enhanced strength.

Sakura had been thinking about this since they agreed to accompany King Rashid. Deep within, Sakura had been set against letting Sinbad go to Parthevia, he was wanted for treason. If a rogue ninja was found returning to their village, they certainly wouldn't receive a warm welcome and she doubted that the situation would be any different for Sinbad if he was discovered in Parthevia. She had kept those thoughts locked away, since she was going with him but the suggestion from that she stay behind had been the key to unlocking her worried thoughts.

"You're not as untouchable as you think Sinbad." Sakura sniffed, clutching his top. She felt Sinbad caress her hair and felt his chest vibrate when he chuckled.

"That's why I have you, right Sakura?"

She pressed her head against his chest to hide her smile. "Idiot."

..

..

In addition to being part of the king's escort, Sakura and Sinbad had to dress the part in the Balbadd's royal guards uniform. A long cream robe with a thick black sash around the waist to hold it together, creating an opening along the collarbone. A piece of fabric wrapped around their head and traditionally, the men's hair would be in a ponytail. Sinbad only had a small part of his hair and Sakura had disregarded the head wrap completely since she didn't have enough hair to tie back. They only carried on them the metal vessels that wouldn't be visible in their new outfits, so Sinbad had left Baal in his belongings and Sakura had to leave behind Beleth and Gaap. 

The journey was almost too short for them; at least that's how it felt once they actually arrived at the port to Parthevia. The city in the background were dome structure buildings stretched for miles. Growing the further you looked like they had taken on one large structure in themselves.

Sinbad didn't say a word, simply continued to stare out at the city while they got off the boat. Sakura wondered what it must feel like to be able to return to your homeland after all this time. That didn't mean they should let their guard down though; it was one of the reasons she had joined Sinbad. Rashid asked him how it felt to be back in his homeland, Sinbad said that he couldn't really place how he felt other than nostalgic.

"Don't forget Sinbad, you're a wanted man in this country. You must not reveal your identity nor attract attention to yourself.

"I won't." Sinbad assured Rashid.

"Of course that's going to be easy with purple hair and golden eyes to blend right in; right Sinbad?" Sakura asked sarcastically with a smile, to which Sinbad pinched her cheeks in response.

"No more than pink hair and green eyes."

Sakura took a moment to bask in the new land to her that was Parthevia. It was as though there was something magnificent about arriving in the country where Sinbad had originated from. It was like coming to a part in the story that makes the reader eager for a great reveal of some kind, even though it's more likely not to happen and be just like any other chapter.

"We've been waiting your arrival, King Rashid." There were soon new arrivals at the port coming to greet King Rashid and his escort. Amongst them, there was the man who walked ahead of the others and that had greeted Rashid first. He had short green hair, with bangs that nearly covered his sharp eyes, he wore gold colored armor and Sakura immediately took to note that his appearance resembled Drakon's.

"It's been a long time, welcome to Parthevia."

Although they had never actually met him in person, both Sinbad and Sakura knew instantly that the person with this intimidating aura that seemed to fill up an area was the very person Serendine had warned them to avoid at all costs.

Sakura put a hand on Sinbad's shoulder, whispering to him. "Is that…

"General of the Parthevia Empire Barbarossa." Sinbad said, out loud due to his own shock.

Barbarossa looked at the two, they both tensed when he chuckled. His voice didn't seem capable of reaching a tone that was of comfort. "My apologies. It's been a while since I've been called that."

Rashid decided to take that moment to step in, as both Sinbad and Sakura appeared to be having trouble keeping their composure. 

"He's retired from military service and is now serving as the leader of the independent nationalist party."

Sinbad was hardly able to choke out his words through the shock; Barbarossa was now a leader of a political party that was chosen by popular vote to control the government on behalf of the people.

It was something completely different from the traditional monarchy system that Parthevia had been under before. The political structure of the country had changed after the ceasefire. When the emperor 'suddenly' died from illness and the princess disappeared, the young prince of Parthevia was enthroned. Reim and other foreign countries were demanding reparations from Parthevia after the treaty and this put the country's citizens in a very uncomfortable position. Then Barbarossa stepped in and converted Parthevia to a constitutional monarchy and due to this new reorganization, new political parties started to form. Through elections, the countries citizens were given more influence over the government.

When hearing the one side of the story as it had been set; it would seem like the perfect way for Parthevia's struggles to come to an end. However, that wasn't the only side of the story but Sakura and Sinbad weren't going to stupidly blurt it out and create anymore unnecessary complications when they had to be careful on this journey.

"Yes, I have retired from my role as general and formed a political party." Barbarossa confirmed, a calm smile, yet it sent a shiver down Sakura's spine. The backdrop of this man's tone had a condescending sense to it. "Now I'm merely acting as a member of this party, so I'm nothing more than an average citizen."

King Rashid gave a friendly laugh, informing Sinbad and Sakura that the Independent Nationalist party had won by a landslide in the elections and that the leader of that party AKA Barbarossa actually had tremendous influence on the government. It made more sent to them hearing it like that now. Barbarossa seemed to humbly disagree with that notion, saying that their political party was merely a group of like-minded citizens who wanted to change the country.

"A Parthevia Empire for the Parthevia people; that is our aim as the Independent Nationalist party." Barbarossa's eyes fell on the two youngest members of Rashid's escort. "By the way aren't you going to introduce us King Rashid? I'd like to meet your young escorts."

Sinbad and Sakura jolted back a little, peering at one another warily as Rashid averted his eyes attempting to appear aloof. However it didn't seem like it was going to matter whether or not he gave the introductions.

"Even if you don't tell me, I already know who they are." Barbarossa looked directly at the two rigid teens now. "Dungeon conqueror's Sinbad and Sakura. I've heard a great deal about the both of you."

Sakura could understand how Barbarossa would know about Sinbad, but how would he know about her? He made it sound as if he knew just as much as she did and that didn't sit well with her.

"Don't panic." Barbarossa told Sinbad. "I'm no longer a solider, so I have no interest in capturing you. On the contrary, I am rather proud of your accomplishments as a fellow Parthevian. To drive someone as accomplished as you out of your home country would be unthinkable. I welcome you, Sinbad."

Barbarossa had to be playing at some kind of angle. That's all Sakura could conclude but she didn't know where it would be beneficial for him. Although for now, she and Sinbad would just keep on high alert as they played the part as the King of Balbadd's escort. They were able to get a closer look at Parthevia beyond the rumors they have heard from others. When they entered the city however, Sinbad did nothing to hide his surprise at the state of this new Parthevia. When they entered through the city gates, Sinbad had to ask if this was really Parthevia. There was a light atmosphere, with people line up behind boxes of food and supplies and on the other side, another line of people with woven bags and sacks being filled.

"What do you think of how Parthevia has changed?" Barbarossa asked. "It still probably has a long way to go compared to Balbadd but life is starting to return to our country. All this is thanks to the food rationing."

"Rationing?" Sakura and Sinbad asked simultaneously.

"Isn't rationing usually only implemented during war?" Sakura asked.

Sinbad agreed, since he had been in Parthevia during a war when there was rationing, he wanted to ask the same question.

"It's because the war is over." Barbarossa pointed out as they walked through the streets. Explaining that there was a devastation to the land because of the war and the country were therefore no longer able to sustain itself so they had to import goods from other countries. Then, they would distribute these goods in portions equally amongst its citizens to keep them from hunger. Along with food, the party also provided medical services, homes and jobs to those in need. By dividing everything so that no one has too much or too little, they were able to start building the road to stability. Apparently, that was the case for everyone in Babarossa's nationalist party.

While Barbarossa was being thanked by a number of Parthevia people who had gathered their rations; all Sakura and Sinbad were able to do for that time was watch in awe.

"He's…not what I pictured." Sakura whispered to Sinbad, who nodded in agreement.

"Well, Serendine would naturally put him in a bad light given what he has done but even so…" Sinbad trailed as he watched Barbarossa greeted a rather bashful new member of his party. "He seems to be a great leader who knows what he's doing."

"I won't say I don't agree, but…" Sakura trailed, looking at Barbarossa's back as they walked through the streets. The people around them made way gladly, happy to be seeing the former Parthevia general. King Rashid pointed out the large number of supporters that Barbarossa's party had, by directing them to a colored band they wore that symbolized that party.

"Now you can see just how much influence he has." Rashid told them. "All of this is something he has accumulated in only a short about of time. That's the kind of man that Barbarossa is."

Barbarossa interjected then. "I'm just good at rhetoric. I can't even begin to influence economics like you. The ones that are truly amazing are merchants. That's what I think."

"I don't think so." Sinbad then spoke, in a solemn tone that Sakura noted he would take on when he discovered something like this. A great knowledge that he sorely lacked, he would internally berate himself for not knowing something he couldn't help but not know; it was so much different when he was just starting out as a merchant. He was much more optimistic, but after all of the past events, his eyes had been forcibly opened to the true cruelties of the world.

"After all, merchants can't do anything besides trade their goods. If you want to regulate laws and be able to change the lives of your countries citizens…being a merchant is not enough." Sinbad paused before speaking again. "I want to learn to govern like you."

Barbarossa smiled and looked to one of his party members, "What an honor, if that's the case. I'll give you these."

The member presented Sinbad with several neatly wrapped up scrolls. They were Barbarossa's literary works. He had composed several volumes of his own fundamental ideology, political views of the Independent Nationalist party. Barbarossa did add that they may not be as exciting as Sinbad's tales. Barbarossa then left the group, telling them that they would continue the conversation the following day.

..

..

Sinbad and Sakura spent most of their evening reading through Barbarossa's works, his ideology and use of propaganda. They were both under the covers of the bed in Sinbad's modest yet comfortable room, an oil lamp on the nightstand. Though they were both so close, it was like Sinbad had set an invisible barrier, formed from his own envy that he wanted to mask.

Sakura ran her hand through Sinbad's loose hair, as he laid on his stomach reading through the scrolls. "What's going through your mind?"

"It's amazing," Sinbad murmured, keeping his eyes on the ink of the scroll. "Barbarossa…despite being unrelated to the royal family, he was able to unify to the country to this extent."

Sakura frowned, drawing back her hand. "You're thinking about what Serendine said about 'blood' being necessary to rule?"

Hearing the crumpling of the scroll, Sakura shifted a little, waiting for Sinbad to reply. "This is just so new. So far, I've only been thinking of absolute monarchy."

"Oh that's right, this is your first encounter with actual politics." Sakura stated, noticing Sinbad's frown after she spoke. She wasn't wrong though. Throughout these years, he had only been focused on diplomatic matters, so this was an entirely new area and he was a bit of a novice. "Well not like I can really talk, I'm not very informed about these sort of things either."

"I just feel like I really don't know anything after reading all of this."

Sakura sighed softly, leaning back against the headrest and pillows, crossing her arms. "Since when has that stopped you? If you don't know, then you'll learn but you can't get this discouraged."

"I'm not." Sinbad said, though his tone told her differently. He didn't have these wavering moments either when he started out as a merchant, but as he became older, it seems he began growing more into the mind of an adult, losing his childish optimism. Sakura was actually missing that.

"Well; I say that you should see this as a chance."

Sinbad gave her a look, waiting for her to explain. She peaked through her eyelashes at the violet haired boy. "I'm saying that-although I know Serendine won't agree with this. You might want to consider this as another opportunity for a diplomatic conquest."

"You're saying I should try to form an alliance with Parthevia?" He sounded quite disbelieving. "A lot of our friends consider him the enemy."

"You don't break bread with you friends," Sakura stated. "I'm not telling you to completely trust Barbarossa, but if it will bring you closer to achieving your goal then wouldn't it be beneficial? Besides Parthevia is your home country and Barbarossa did say you were no longer a fugitive. You could even maybe ask if there's any land for you to build your country."

Although personally, the thought of becoming allies with someone like Barbarossa set a thick knot in Sakura's center but she had seen the look on Sinbad's face when he saw his homeland after so long.

"Sakura…"

"Don't take me too seriously." Sakura then turned her back to Sinbad, resting her head against the pillow and closing her eyes. "It was just a thought."

..

..

..

The Parthevia Royal palace was built of several large dome buildings that carried in size, however similarly to Balbadd, there was a single large dome building the center that tied the entire architectural design together. The throne room was a wide open space-like many Sakura and Sinbad had seen before. There were pillars lining the entrance and around in four squares with a large throne in the center. Sitting on the throne, with two still statue-like guards on both sides, was a very young boy, a child, with long blond hair, pale eyes, dressed in robes that were a few sizes too big, holding a golden staff as long as his body and wearing a crown that must have been lined with Velcro because it looked physically too heavy for him to bear on his head. This was Serendine's younger brother, Parthevia Empire, 32nd emperor, Ceylan Dikumenowlz Du Parthevia.

"I have brought King Rashid, your highness." Barbarossa addressed the young boy respectfully.

Sakura and Sinbad peered up at the young boy, his eyes as dull eyes reminded Sakura of Sharrkan's when she had first met him. At least she was going to have something to tell Serendine that wouldn't set her off in a bad way.

It was all explained to them before this meeting. While Ceylan was enthroned, being the only remaining royal in Parthevia, in the current system, all political power resided with congress. So in actual fact, the monarchy didn't weigh in heavily on the decisions made for the country presently. Barbarossa had pointed that while it seemed unfair, it was for Ceylan's own protection. He was just a symbolic emperor.

'Serendine's not going to like this.' Sakura could only think that after hearing what Barbarossa said. They were still playing on the story that Serendine had gone 'missing' and that the king had died of illness. Sakura realized that they Sinbad was in a very precarious position right now. They were balancing on a line between, with Serendine on one side and Barbarossa on the other. The trick was making sure that they didn't tilt too far on one end.

King Rashid and the young emperor began speaking. Their tones and expressions were light when they greeted.

"King Rashid…you look well." Ceylan said, "Your help providing goods for our citizens has been invaluable…our restoration is all thanks to your country…"

Sinbad seemed baffled by the boy's composure, but he realized that because he was only acting as a symbol he did not have the actual burdens and worries of a ruler. Nor should he for such a young child.

Rashid and Ceylan's conversation was brief, because a few minutes later, the young boy broke into a fit of heavy coughs that were far from regular itching throat-least from what Sakura could decipher. It was very strained, forcing its way out involuntarily and it sounded painful as well. No doubt that the boy must have been sick.

"We'll have to put our discussion on hold. Take him to the doctor." Barbarossa instructed and the guards immediately went to help the boy from the throne and down the short flight of stairs leading up to it. Barbarossa then apologized to Rashid for them having to cut the meeting short, but there was no real harm, a formality that could easily be overlooked.

"I wonder what's wrong with him." Sakura said to Sinbad, however he wasn't listening.

They were being lead out, when Sakura let out a small hiss after Sinbad gripped her arm too tightly and stopped her. When she looked to him, his eyes were not on her, but behind them. "Sakura-look over there." He spoke in a harsh whisper, with alertness that said he didn't want King Rashid or Barbarossa to know where his attention was diverted.

Sakura's eyes followed in the direction of Sinbad's and became just as wide when she spotted a new arrival in the throne room; leading the current emperor out of the room. A women; her body completely covered from head to toe, only her narrow eyes uncovered. It had been a few years since they had last seen her, the last time was in Valefor's dungeon. The sorcerer Falan.

"What the hell?" Sakura hissed, as softly as she could, still aware of their current position.

Realizing that they were beginning to fall behind, Sinbad pulled on Sakura's arm, leading her back to join the rest of the escort, Rashid and Barbarossa.

"She's still here?" Sakura whispered, frowning deeply.

"It seems so." Sinbad whispered back. "This whole situation….it's too much."

While making their way out of the palace, Barbarossa took the opportunity to speak with the two dungeon conquerors. "What did you think of Parthevia?"

It was very hard for anyone to place the newly set expression on Sinbad's face as anything other than hostile and guarded. "You were shown around the city and you saw our new political system. You've also met with his majesty so you've pretty much seen all there is to see in this country. So why the long face? There is still something bothering you isn't there?"

Sakura didn't want to give a response to Barbarossa, but that's where she differed with Sinbad. When he spoke, he was completely blunt and honest addressing Barbarossa. It seemed that Falan's appearance had shifted Sinbad's opinion of Barbarossa and the new Parthevia.

"I still don't completely trust you." Sinbad stated. "It's true that the conditions of Parthevia have improved and yet, that magician who tried to kill us is still here. Falan. Then there's you." Sakura grew weary when Sinbad looked at Barbarossa with a stern glare but it only last for a moment before he must have remembered their situation. Sinbad bowed his head. "So the doubts I've harbored about this country still haven't completely been erased. My apologies."

"I see…" Barbarossa looked to one of the members of his party. "Daru, what are my plans for today?"

Barossa was given his long list of events for today, his committee meetings, speeches and other works that sounded mandatory. Sakura thought at first that Barbarossa was trying to find space in his busy schedule to sway Sinbad of his honest opinion but that wasn't entirely the case when he demanded that all of his plans for that day to be cancelled.

Then Barossa walked over to the teens. He came up to Sinbad and put his hand on his shoulder. "King Rashid, would you mind if a borrowed him for a while?"

Sinbad and Sakura looked at Barbarossa with wide eyes, "Huh!?"

"…Sure" Rashid agreed, a bit confused.

"This is your chance. We can talk about everything you want to know. I have nothing to hide."

"But-

Sakura interjected then, deciding to cease opportunity before Sinbad's skepticism could cloud his judgment. She put on her best smile, coming up beside Sinbad, gripping his arm to get his attention. "Sinbad darling, Lord Barbarossa is right after all you were worried about the conditions of Parthevia."

Sinbad took the hint and Sakura's nudging, he looked back at Barbarossa. "Alright but I want my partner to join-

Sakura saw the flickering change in Barbarossa's face when he seemed to realize Sinbad wanted to invite Sakura to join them. It looked like he was ready to retract his statement.

"Don't be ridiculous." Sakura said, her voice cheery. "We're still a part of King Rashid's escort, it wouldn't be appropriate for both of us to abandon our posts. Besides, we must consider Lord Barbarossa who has just cleared his schedule."

Although he seemed hesitant, Sinbad decided to go along with whatever angle Sakura was playing at and nodded.

"Thank you, we should be back by this evening."

"Of course." Sakura bowed her head slightly.

Sakura continued to watch Sinbad as he left with Barbarossa, before falling back with King Rashid. She had a feeling that Barbarossa wasn't going to reveal everything to Sinbad like he had promised if Sakura had gone with them. Serendine had told her about Barbarossa in more detail than Sinbad might have been aware of and he seemed like the kind of man who wanted things done in a certain way. Despite not wanting to leave Sinbad alone with him, there was almost no chance for Barossa to do anything as he had asked King Rashid's permission which was a reassurance to her. If she had imposed then Sinbad might not be able to get the answers he wants.

Sakura had spent the remainder of her day as part of King Rashid's escort, simply standing in the background while the king dealt with important matters and negotiations, but it gave her a sight into the duties of a king and ruler. Sinbad was going to have to be far more diligent if he wanted to become the kind of king he was striving to be. Even then she wondered if it was going to be enough.

A little ways further into the day, nearing late afternoon King Rashid said that he would be taking a short break before heading back and dealing with another matter of events. Suppose it was only natural that even kings needed a break. King Rashid also dismissed the guards of his escort, saying he would just be taking a stroll through the palace gardens. Of course the head of his escort Barkak was about to argue against his decision.

"King Rashid, is it really best to leave on your own without escort?"

Rashid grinned, "Of course I am not going on my own-Sakura care to join me for a walk through the gardens?"

It was somewhat ironic that this wasn't the first time she was requested to do that; but for the sake of her role, she only bowed her head and said yes.

The section of the Parthevia palace gardens Rashid chose to walk through had a high fragrance of sweetness in the air combined with the multiple line of flower bushes that lined a maze-like path of softly cut grass that made you sink into it with every step; a water fountain as the center piece, a crystal that seemed transparent with the water flowing above it. The palace buildings from this point of view appeared completely vacant. It was peaceful enough for Sakura to actually feel content.

"Why are you walking behind Sakura?" Rashid asked, peering over his shoulder. When he saw Sakura's confused expression, he elaborated, propping out the side of his arm for her. "I cannot have a proper discussion if I can't at least see you."

Sakura came up and hooked her arm that was free of a spear with the king of Balbadd, walking in sync beside him. This was actually the first time throughout their meetings that they were in each other's company without Sinbad's presence.

"What is it you wish to discuss your majesty?" Sakura asked, peering around the gardens, taking a brief moment to marvel at its beauty while she waited for a response.

"Merely my observations; ones that I don't want Sinbad to be aware of. I'm impressed to see how far Sinbad has come after all this time. He's so different from that novice boy I foxed in Reim. I believe he is on his way to becoming a great king. Just don't tell him I admitted to any of this."

Sakura smiled at the lighthearted topic that was now the being of her affection. Reminiscing to that time in Balbadd. "Of course not, he's ego's big enough as it is."

The two shared a hearty laugh on account of Sinbad and even after their laughter died down, there was still the light atmosphere around them.

"I don't think that's ever going to change-no matter how old he gets." Sakura said, snickering when she thought about what Sinbad would be like when he was older. He had a complexity about age already this young, she couldn't imagine what would happen when he reached his thirties. For everyone else's sake, she hoped he aged slowly.

"But you've changed quite a bit yourself haven't you, Sakura?"

For whatever reason, Sakura felt obliged to deny the compliment. There was a time she was convinced she had grown; that she had finally peaked after the years she had spent in this world. After seeing Sinbad, the way he still berated himself for not knowing enough and for the mistakes he made. She had come to realize that she was also still far from what she needed to be.

"No; I'd like to think I still have a long way to go. I want to be able to stand on my own without hurting or being a burden to anyone. If I can do that…." Sakura put her hands above her chest, smiling at nothing in particular. "Then I can always be a source of strength for Sinbad."

"You already are." Rashid stated.

He was certain, because he knew. A few years ago; Sinbad had sent word to him about Sakura's disappearance. He wanted everyone to keep a look out for her. Though the letter he received about Sakura was in such a formal manner, Rashid didn't miss the desperation of the tone and context. He also didn't miss the change between the two when he saw them after the incident with the Mariadel Company. He didn't miss the marks around both Sinbad and Sakura's necks from the slave collars. He was stunned when he heard Sakura had gone so far for Sinbad as to become a slave.

"I don't know about that. I get anxious if I can't do anything to help him." Sakura admitted. "And I still get anxious."

"From the time I met Sinbad, you've always been by his side. You've done more for him than you are able to see." Rashid said firmly.

The scenery of the gardens became nothing more than a background, instead of a focal point as the conversation began to swallow them.

"You're always fighting for him Sakura, but let me ask you this. Have you ever once wanted to be the one fought for?"

Sakura paused, thinking carefully for a moment and then shaking her head. "Sinbad wants to be king and I want to be by his side. He has the ability to become king, but if I want to stand by him, I need to be the one who fights and not be fought for or he might lose his goal."

"So, you haven't entertained the idea of being with another? Someone who would make your life a little easier?"

Sakura laughed, "To answer bluntly, no I have not. I don't care much for an easy life-not anymore." 

Rashid smiled, looking up to the clear sky. The rukh around him fluttered with nostalgia from what Sakura could pick up. "You love him don't you?"

It was a simple question, with a simple answer and Sakura knew that the time for doubt was long over. "Yes, I do."

"You sound so certain, I'm glad. These days love is merely a word used to enchant for the convenience of the one who claims to possess it."

"Well; love for me has been far from convenient." Sakura stated. "It's like I'm enduring more than possessing it but I cannot cast it aside." 

"I see." Rashid fell silent for a moment too long, enough to draw Sakura's attention nearer. "Sakura, will you allow me to give you some council?"

"Of course, your majesty." Sakura responded immediately, somewhat eagerly.

A solemn expression fell over Rashid's face; it was as if he grew heavy with thoughts. Whatever he was thinking about had to be bittersweet memories, because there was a sad content in his eyes when Sakura looked at him again. "Sinbad is a great boy and without a doubt will grow to become a great man but does not know what it means to truly be a king-not yet."

Her face twisted in confusion, losing her line of understanding in what the king of Balbadd was insinuating.

"You cannot expect change without sacrifice. Despite the wealth and power of a king, there is usually something that most are unable to afford."

"What is that?" Sakura asked, fully attentive in the answer.

"Love." Rashid answered putting a halt to their movements. Feeling Sakura's grip on his arm tighten slightly in anxious waiting. "And even if they do find it; it's hard to hold onto. Yet it is what gives them the greatest strength. Whether or not love remains or leaves, a king is made greater because of love." 

The way King Rashid spoke, gave Sakura one clear message without it needing to be said. He was speaking from his own experience. There was no way for someone to sound so genuine, unless they had actually endured the even that gave the knowledge itself.

"Who was she?" Sakura asked, softly yet determined. She wanted to know who it was that made this king so great. After all, this man was the king Sinbad admired the most and who he would aspire to follow as his mentor; it made her that much more desperate to know. 

"Her name was Anise."

..

..

Sakura didn't join Sinbad and Barbarossa for dinner that night and instead retired to her room after the escort was dismissed from duty. Sinbad had come back after spending the day with Barbarossa, ready to share all of the details with Sakura. He was a little surprised when he didn't' find her in his room waiting for him but in her assigned room. He was so excited to give in his report of the day that he didn't notice the unusual air surrounding Sakura; even when he sat directly beside her and held her in his arms.

"Find anything interesting?" Sakura asked.

"Plenty." 

At first he had been a bit weary because of the agenda Barbarossa had set for them, first horseback riding-which Sakura immediately noted Sinbad couldn't' do because he didn't know how to ride a horse, though it did explain the twisted wrist she had to heal and scratches on his face from falling down a hill.

They also went fishing by a river on the outskirts of the capital city. Barbarossa confronted Sinbad on his weariness for him because he had attempted to kill them all in the dungeon using Falan, but he pointed that they were enemies at the time. Saying that he was only being faithful to his professional duties at the time. Instead of being offended, Sinbad was actually intrigued.

Sakura didn't find it unusual though, after all when she remembered her fist chunin exam they had been betrayed by one of their village allies, the Sand village. All because of Orochimaru's deceptive hand in impersonating their leader and declaring war on the Leaf village. They had even killed some people from their village, but when the truth was revealed everyone was able to look passed it because they were only doing as they were ordered.

"I understand if he was only being faithful to his duties. After all alliances are made with enemies but the only way for them to succeeds is to leave the past as it is and move forwards." Sakura said in a monotone.

"Yes well, I also asked him why he confronted us and revealed our identities because there was no reason for him to be concerned in his current position. Then he said it was because he was interested in me."

Apparently Barbarossa had a strong belief. A belief that Parthevians were the most superior race in the entire world. That was why he took such an interest in Sinbad. Simply because he was from Parthevia. Sakura found it ludicrous but it seemed that Barbarossa might have been more narrow-minded that he was letting on. He thought of Sinbad as the ideal Parthevian with his abilities and unique attributes.

"Well of course he would use you to personify his ideal Parthevian," Sakura said. "You're special Sinbad."

Sinbad gave a small, humorless snicker. Resting his elbows on his knees. "That's what Barbarossa said as well. He said he wanted to know more about me and actually asked me to become his friend."

"And what did you say?" Sakura asked, although she was listening, there was a fraction of her mind that was completely disinterested and attempting to push through the blockade Sakura had made with this conversation.

Sinbad had told Barbarossa his story, completely and honestly. He spoke about his goal to change the world of its injustice. Barbarossa then told Sinbad of his goal; to make Parthevia and its people known throughout the world. To prove that Parthevians are the most superior race. That was why he apparently changed the country's system. It was his motivation for all that he was now doing. Even when Sinbad had denied Barossa's ideas of Parthevian's being the most supreme, he wasn't deterred because Sinbad was doing what he believed-that Parthevians were a race that should stand above others and lead the world just as Sinbad was leading the company consisting of all the different races and allied with so many countries.

"Well when he puts it like that…" Sakura trailed, "Although I'm completely against this belief he has about Parthevia people being superior to all others."

"As am I." Sinbad stated, stretching out his arm to rest on Sakura's shoulders. "I think it's how he won over the people. If they were taught to think in context of his ideals they would gain complete confidence and I'm sure he wanted to use me as the personification of his ideals but that's where I got him."

Sakura craned her neck to look at Sinbad, seeing his grin. "What did you do?"

"Let's just say I took your advice."

Sinbad had gotten Barbarossa into agreeing to find land for Sinbad to build his country by using the idea of Parthevian superiority to his advantage, pointing out that he couldn't be the embodiment of Barbarossa's ideals as he wasn't able to achieve his own goals which would contradict Babarossa's belief.

"He agreed without much qualms; only that he would have the ability to assist me if he won the next election. We thus made it a promise for the future and spent the rest of our time discussing how I would build the country."

Sakura smiled with distance, "I'm glad."

"Actually, Barbarossa wants to continue our discussions later this evening and has arranged for us to share a room but that means the two of us can't-

"I'm okay with that." Sakura drew a small extra bit of air in her next breath. "But next time, I think it would be best if you didn't come to a decision to align yourself with someone based solely on my advice."

Sinbad reached out to grasp the side of her face, caressing it. "Why do you say that? You've always given me great advice and I don't think that you were wrong about this."

"Like I said before, it was just a thought."

It was then that Sinbad stopped and stared at her, concerned. Sakura usually had a lot of opinions and ideas when it came to these types of matters. Even if she wasn't experienced in them herself, she had a vast mind that could come up with multiple situations and solutions with very little information. Right now she just seemed to be listening but holding off on her own opinions which was very unlike her.

"Sakura; are you alright?" Sinbad called her, watching her far off expression. She turned back to him with a blank smile, touching the side of his face.

"I'm fine."

She fell forwards, kissing him briefly before pulling away and telling him that he should head out to meet with Barbarossa before he sent for someone. When Sinbad had left, he felt a lingering worry in his mind, but set it aside as Sakura continued to smile at him with the same affection he was becoming familiar with, because of that he didn't see her dismal.

Sakura stared at Rashid, blinking wildly for several moments as if to flash herself out of a dream, although she knew that this was very real.

"Anise…" She trailed, her mind materializing a dark haired women with a kind smile holding a small blonde boy in worn out clothing. She continued to tell herself it couldn't possibly be the person she was thinking of. Strangers shared many more things than they realize, including names. But as he continued with a tale Sakura knew had to be a tragic one, Sakura knew that it was exactly the person she thought of.

"She was a maid servant in the palace, but she was different. Beautiful and kind." Rashid smiled in reminiscence. "We fell in love but we could never truly be together. She became pregnant and after our son, Alibaba was born she left the palace. We haven't been in contact since."

When having a face to compare, Alibaba did have similar features of his father but they were masked, softened by his mother's genetics. Alibaba was the son of Anise and Rashid Saluja. A prince of Balbadd; living without any idea of who he truly was. That was the worst thing you could take from someone.

"You mean you….

"We had a son." Rashid admitted. "Anise didn't want any complications so she left."

"But! Doesn't this kind of thing happen all the time?" Sakura pointed. She learned that it wasn't uncommon for king's to have concubines and of course they were bound to have children with them, but those children were still seen as royalty.

"That is true. However; Ahbmad and Sahbmad's mother was also a factor to consider in the decision. She would not have taken kindly had she found out about Anise. So before anyone could suspect anything; Anise left with our newborn. I am already worried about what would become of Balbadd when I leave and Ahbmad is next in line to rule. Alibaba's life may have been in danger if he remained; even if he is an illegitimate child; he still has my blood running through him. The blood of a royal. And that gives him the right to lay claim to the throne."

"So just you let this happen!? You abandoned the women you loved and your child for your crown? Why?" Sakura asked, her voice on the verge of choking the air from her.

"Some men aren't meant to be happy Sakura; they're meant to be great." Rashid stated. "It's rare to have both; but I believe that Sinbad can achieve that. Although not as the both of you are right now. When Sinbad realizes what it means to be a king, what it takes and what it sacrifices. You must make sure that you are the embodiment of what he needs."

Sakura was completely speechless. Her inexperience sealed her mouth and blocked her voice. When she thought about what Serendine had suggested to her in Zepar's dungeon, she wondered; was the situation the same with her and Sinbad? If he was going to become king, wouldn't it be best for him to marry a royal one day to strengthen his position? Someone with status? If this was the decision that King Rashid-his mentor had to make….

Rashid then placed his hands on Sakura's shoulders, "Sakura, you are right about still needing to grow. You need to become a great queen for your king, if you wish to stay by his side. Take every opportunity to better yourself until none stand above you. Because if you truly love Sinbad the way I believe you do, then you'll be willing to sacrifice your own happiness for his sake."

"Would I?" Sakura said out loud. Remembering what she had said to Sinbad back in Zepar's dungeon. When Serendine had presented Sinbad with an opportunity, realistic even if only made with words. It had a chance of being the truth and that's what terrified her. "I can say whatever I want but I know in the end you cannot fool your own heart. I'm selfish and I wouldn't want to give up Sinbad so that he could be king."

"I'm not saying it wouldn't hurt, that it wouldn't be hard or that you wouldn't be going against your own heart but you would still do it. Because real love, is caring more about someone else's suffering than your own. You have to ensure that it doesn't come to that. Do you understand?"

Sakura nodded blankly, her eyes dull. "Yes."

Sakura had been replaying her conversation with King Rashid in her mind over and over again; until their last night in Parthevia. Sinbad had been occupied with Barbarossa, leaving Sakura on her own with her thoughts. King Rashid had given her more to think about. She was naïve, as was Sinbad but when time passed, she didn't want him to have to make the decision between her and his goals. However far off it was in Zepar's dungeon; the future was still there and it could come to that one day. If she wanted to go against that, she needed to be prepared.

So whenever Sakura found herself free from her escort duties, she would go to the palace library to read (after getting the permission of course), on Barbarossa's literature as well as others that seemed useful in terms of ruling. Although she found, that there was something things you simply couldn't learn or understand from the pages of a book.

'I need more.' That was all Sakura thought as she finished her fourth scroll of the night, sitting in one of the armchairs that were placed all around the large library with two floors of nothing but shelves and reading material. She obviously wasn't going to learn everything she needed over the expansion of two days, but a stubborn part of her wouldn't let her take a rest in what was supposed to be a free time in case she missed a minute of vital information that would help build her shield for the future.

Sakura was somewhat glad she didn't see much of Sinbad because she didn't want to end up telling him about the conversation she had with his mentor. Not about his unknown child, past lover or about the sacrifice of a king. She knew that he would only reassure her as he always had; tell her that she had nothing to worry about but she didn't want him to do that. In the future; should his words be put to the test; she doesn't want him to make a decision based on what he said in the past. It would be like setting a trap, forgetting about it and then falling straight into it.

Sakura didn't want him to jeopardize his own goals with promises but what's more-she didn't want him to attain his goals despite having made contradicting promises to her. 

'Which is why I am sitting in a library who knows what time at night.' Sakura thought rubbing her eyes, strained from all the reading; until another voice spoke.

"Oh, I didn't think I'd be seeing you here,"

Sakura nearly dropped the scroll in her hands when she heard Barbarossa's voice. She hadn't heard him come in through the door. He was wearing a white robe, looking more barren than he did in the day with his armor.

"Lord Barbarossa, I'm sorry-

"No need for apologies, if anything I should be the one giving them for startling you." Barbarossa said, holding up his hand. "I was just walking by when I noticed a candle light coming from the library doors. A little late night reading?"

Sakura shifted slightly as Barbarossa gazed at the folded scrolls at her feet. She had done her best to keep the space as neatly as possible but after the first hour, she got tired of moving to put the scrolls back.

"I enjoy it and I don't have much of anything else to do when I'm off duty." Sakura said calmly.

"Suppose since I've been occupying Sinbad right?" Barbarossa asked and Sakura jolted, blushing when she saw his knowing smile. Sinbad wouldn't have…

"He often speaks fondly of you; it wasn't that hard to figure out." Barbarossa stated, seating himself in one of the chairs directly opposite of Sakura's. "I must admit, I feel somewhat guilty having taken up most of Sinbad's attention. You must miss his presence; I know he misses yours."

Sakura shook her head, smiling; although she was a little distorted with Barbarossa's start at a conversation with the icebreaker being the topic of her relationship with Sinbad. Just how close had he had and Sinbad become in the expansion of three day? Although from what she understood, if Barbarossa's party won the next election, then Parthevia would join the Seven Seas alliance so Sakura had to ensure that she did nothing to deter that choice. "Not at all; I'm sure Sinbad is learning a lot from you Lord Barbarossa."

"I am honored you think that, but it would seem that you are doing a great deal of learning as well." Barbarossa pointed to the scrolls.

"Well; I appreciate new literary works and expanding my knowledge." Sakura answered as simple and vague as she could.

"That's a good quality." Barbarossa stated. Resting his elbows on his knees and linking his fingers to make a sturdy base to rest his chin. "Especially since you are Sinbad's partner."

Sakura closed her eyes, her face turning serious. "Lord Barbarossa, there is no need for you to endure me like this."

"Whatever do you mean?" Barbarossa asked with a genuine tone, wanting to know the answer rather than make a fool of her by hearing what he already knew. Although Sakura couldn't confirm he wasn't intended on the latter despite his tone of voice.

"Sinbad already explained to me your ideology of Parthevian superiority. I also know that is why you excluded me from your invitation that day." Sakura stated bluntly. 

"I'm sorry if I offended you. I must admit I was rather fixated on Sinbad but I didn't meant to give you that impression."

Sakura shook her head, completely unaffected. "You don't need to apologize; I can't say I agree with your doctrine but that doesn't meant that I am against you. For example; I agree with you that Sinbad is special and perhaps yourself as well-seeing as how you both have attained multiple djinns."

Sinbad had told Sakura, Barbarossa had attained two djinn metal vessels just as Sinbad. Serendine had mentioned him having one metal vessel in her story, but she must have missed the second or he hadn't attained it before she fled Parthevia. 

"But from what I have heard; you have four metal vessels," Barbarossa said and Sakura tensed; Sinbad must have told him that as well. "As for my doctrine-do believe Parthevian's are a superior race but you misread my words."

Sakura tilted her head slightly, "How so?"

"When I said that Parthevians were the most superior race, I meant that we are the most superior race in 'this' world…" Barbarossa's smile turned into a dark smile, his eyes meeting Sakura's, which widened with realization as it sank in. Barbarossa stood up, moving towards the door. "Do not get discouraged by my ideals Miss Haruno. After all Sinbad may be special, but he seems unaware of just how special you are."

When Barbarossa opened the door, he looked back at the pinkette. "Of course, I suppose that's what draws you two together. Only special people are able to attain special things. Perhaps one day, I shall be able to do the same as he has."

Sakura didn't breathe until the library doors had completely closed and Barbarossa's presence was no longer felt. She ran her hand down her face, as if to wipe away all of the burdens, thoughts and emotions that have been set on her from this journey's turn of events and find some peace of mind once again.

That's all for now Folks. I hope this read gives you a breather from any tough times, and that 2026 will be your new best year!

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EARLY CHAPTERS FOR MEMBERS NOW: BUYMEACOFFEE

 -Kunoichi amongst Heroes chapter (94, 95, 96, 97)

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-Crossroads of Fate chapter 33, 34, 34, 35, 36

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-SPECIAL HALLOWEEN CHAPTER: Shinigami amongst Shinobi