The golden hues of the Sasan sunset painted the city in warm tones as Reana prepared to leave the kingdom. In a quaint room, adorned with rich Sasan tapestries and ornate furniture, she meticulously packed her belongings.
Her stay in Sasan had been eventful. The unexpected alliance forged between Sinbad and the Knight King, Darius, opened avenues for trade and collaboration. Reana, acting as the emissary for Sinbad's company, played a pivotal role in negotiating the terms. Yet, amidst the bustling negotiations and strategic discussions, an unexplained unease had begun to gnaw at her consciousness.
With each passing day, Reana felt an inexplicable sense of worry and restlessness growing within her, like a faint whisper of foreboding echoing in the depths of her soul. She couldn't pinpoint the source of this disquiet, nor the reason behind it, but it lingered in the back of her mind, casting a shadow over her preparations to depart from Sasan.
Reana sighed, the weight of her departure settling in. Being away from Sinbad felt strange; a sensation akin to a piece of her being temporarily severed. She missed the lively banter, the strategic discussions, and the comforting presence of her fellow adventurers. The thought of rejoining them in Artemyra was a beacon of excitement amid the bittersweet farewell to Sasan. Yet, a sense of urgency pulsed through her veins, driving her to hasten her preparations and embark on her journey sooner than planned.
Though the ship that bore Sinbad and their companions to Artemyra had safely returned some time ago, carrying news of their arrival, silence now enveloped the air. The journey to Artemyra was known to be treacherous, fraught with perilous obstacles that hindered communication with distant lands. Though she trusted in their resilience and resourcefulness, a part of her couldn't shake this nagging worry that something was amiss.
With a wistful smile tinged with concern, she imagined her friends in Artemyra, embarking on new adventures and exploring the mysteries of the foreign land. Perhaps Sinbad was honing his skills, furthering his mastery of the Djinn's powers. Or, knowing him, he might be engaging in some unconventional method of problem-solving... like destroying mountains.
As she folded her garments, placing them in a bag, there was a knock on her door. It opened to reveal Spartos, Darius's younger son. His eyes, usually lively, now held a touch of melancholy.
"Reana," he greeted, his voice tinged with a mix of sadness and warmth.
"Spartos," she smiled, setting aside her packing for a moment. "What brings you here?"
The young boy hesitated for a moment before stepping into the room. "Are... Are you really leaving?" he asked, trying to hide the quiver in his voice.
Reana nodded. "Yes, it's time for me to rejoin Sinbad and the others."
Spartos struggled to hold back tears. "I... I don't want you to go. Listening to your stories was so much fun, I understand why my brother always wanted to hear more." He paused before adding. "Can't you stay? Just a little longer?"
Reana's heart twinged at the genuine sorrow in Spartos's eyes. She knelt down to his eye level and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Spartos, you're a remarkable young man. I've enjoyed every moment we spent together. But there's a whole world out there, waiting for you to explore. And who knows, someday, we might cross paths again."
Spartos, trying to be brave, wiped away a tear that had escaped. "Promise?"
Reana smiled warmly as he stood up again. "I promise. I won't forget you, Spartos. You have a bright future ahead. One day you'll have your own adventures."
Just then, Darius entered the room. He approached Reana and placed a hand on his son's shoulder.
"Reana," he began, "Thank you for your hard work during your stay. Thanks to your help everything is set up to start trading with your company."
"It was my pleasure, Knight King," Reana replied respectfully. "Your kingdom is truly remarkable."
Darius nodded.
As the farewell moment approached, they all moved toward the docks where the ship awaited. Spartos, still grappling with his emotions, clung to Reana's side.
The ship's crew was ready and only waiting for her. The farewell was bittersweet, and as Reana stepped onto the ship, she looked back one last time to see Spartos standing there, a small figure against the backdrop of the Sasan kingdom.
As the ship set sail, Reana waved to Spartos until the kingdom of Sasan was nothing but a distant silhouette on the horizon.
----
The land of Artemyra stretched before Reana as she embarked on the steep trails of the ravine. The rugged terrain posed a formidable challenge, and the hot, humid weather intensified the difficulty of her journey. However, thanks to the thoughtful advice from Darius, the Knight King of Sasan, she was well-prepared for the demanding path ahead.
Reana moved with a deliberate pace, a conscious effort not to exhaust herself prematurely. The anticipation of reuniting with Sinbad and the others fueled her determination. Regular pauses punctuated her ascent, allowing her to refresh herself by drawing water from the river below using a small bucket tied to a long rope.
The weight of the bucket was a tangible reminder of the arduous climb. She watched as the vessel descended into the ravine, dipping into the cool, flowing water. Drawing it back up required strength, but the reward was a refreshing drink that invigorated her for the next stretch of the journey.
At a certain point, the trail led to an unexpected dead end, as if a section of the path had succumbed to nature's forces. A sense of frustration briefly clouded Reana's face. She surveyed her surroundings, her eyes catching sight of another path on the opposite cliff face. The ravine yawned between her and the alternate route.
A sigh escaped her lips as she leaned against the rocky wall beside her. "I wish I could fly like Yunan..." she mumbled, momentarily contemplating the vast expanse that separated her from the other side. Collecting herself, she turned away from the precipice, determined to find another way forward.
The journey unfolded like a tapestry of challenges — walking, climbing, and occasional retracing of steps. Each step carried her closer to her destination, but the path was far from linear.
As the hours passed, Reana pressed on. Her senses attuned to the surroundings, she estimated her proximity to the city by the subtle trails of smoke that painted the sky. The anticipation of reaching Artemyra became a silent companion, urging her onward.
Eventually, she decided to take a break, not just to rest her fatigued muscles but to cleanse herself before reaching her destination . Finding a shaded spot, she lowered the bucket into the river to draw water, droplets cascading like liquid silver as she refreshed herself. It was a meticulous process, but one that brought a sense of cleanliness and vitality back to her worn body.
The process was time-consuming, but the ritual brought a sense of renewal. The cool water against her skin felt like a revitalizing embrace. It wasn't just a physical cleansing; it was a moment of reprieve for her mind and spirit.
The final leg of Reana's journey led her to the summit of the ravine, where the landscape transformed before her eyes. As she crested the ridge, the expansive view unveiled a vast stretch of dry land, starkly torn by the ravine below. The city of Artemyra lay nestled within the embrace of the cliffs on each side, a testament to human perseverance and adaptability etched into the very stone.
Buildings, intricately hewn and built from the cliffs, rose majestically on either side of the ravine, a fusion of human architecture and the raw, natural canvas of the landscape. The craftsmanship was awe-inspiring, the dwellings seamlessly integrated into the rock as if the city itself had organically emerged from the earth.
The absence of conventional bridges connecting the two sides of the ravine intrigued her. Instead, her eyes caught the spectacle of people mounted on giant birds, gracefully navigating the expanse. These creatures, ressembling giant vultures, soared above the deep chasm, bridging the gap between the city's halves.
Reana stood at the precipice, absorbing the vertiginous sight. The ravine, once a formidable barrier, had become a cradle, protecting and nurturing a vibrant community.
----
The bustling streets of Artemyra were alive with activity as Reana made her way through the city. Giant birds soared overhead, their wings stirring impressive gusts of wind. Reana couldn't help but marvel at the sight, wondering in awe how the riders controlled these creatures without the aid of reins or bridles.
As she walked, Reana noticed something peculiar—the absence of men. Everywhere she looked, she saw only women going about their daily tasks, their demeanor confident and their strides purposeful. It was a stark contrast to what she was accustomed to, but she found herself intrigued by the matriarchal society that governed Artemyra.
Curious glances followed her as she navigated the streets, but no one attempted to stop her or question her presence.
Determined to reunite with her friends, Reana set her sights on the royal palace. Surely, Sinbad and the others would have already made their way there to negotiate with the queen. If anyone knew of their whereabouts, it would be her.
Approaching the grand entrance of the palace, Reana was halted by a guard. The guard, with her blonde hair and piercing gaze, inquired about her presence. Reana explained that she was with the Sindria trading company, and her companions had arrived ahead of her.
To her surprise, the guard seemed taken aback by her response. However, she simply instructed Reana to wait momentarily and disappeared into the palace. Moments later, she returned and granted Reana permission to enter.
Inside the halls of the palace, Reana was greeted by a woman who beckoned her to follow. There was an air of authority about her, and Reana couldn't shake the feeling that she was being assessed.
As they made their way to the throne room, Reana noticed the woman's spear and the faint gathering of Rukh around it.
Upon entering the throne room, Reana's gaze was drawn to the elevated dais where the queen's throne sat. Behind a semi-transparent curtain, her form was shrouded in mystery.
Reana stopped a few steps before the stairs, her curiosity piqued. Something felt off about the situation, and she couldn't quite put her finger on it. She couldn't understand why a simple guard would possess what she guessed was a metal vessel, while the queen herself appeared to be without one. Moreover, the absence of Rukh around the throne was a perplexing anomaly, as there was always some around people. She turned to the woman who had escorted her, a silent interrogation in her eyes.
The woman smirked, her eyes alight with amusement. "You're perceptive, I'll give you that. Judging from the staff you're holding, I'm guessing you must be a magician. That's why you noticed that I set up a decoy on the throne in my place."
With a graceful stride, she ascended the steps to the throne, discarding the false figure and taking her rightful place. Resting one foot casually on her knee, she regarded Reana with a knowing gaze.
"Let me introduce myself properly. I am Mira Dianus Artemina, queen of Artemyra," she declared, her voice commanding yet tinged with intrigue.
Reana's eyes widened in astonishment as she knelt before the queen, offering her respects. "Your Majesty, I am honored to be in your presence. I am Reana, a representant of the Sindria trading company."
"Sindria?" Mira mused thoughtfully. "Ah, the bunch of men that came here some time ago."
Reana's heart skipped a beat at the mention of her companions. "Yes, Your Majesty. They journeyed ahead of me while I was handling the negotiations with Sasan."
"Sasan?" Mira's brow furrowed in contemplation. "To forge an alliance with such a stringent nation is indeed commendable."
Reana's heart skipped a beat as she broached the topic that weighed heavily on her mind. "Your Majesty, if I may inquire... Have you seen my companions? I did not encounter them on my journey here."
A heavy silence descended upon the throne room. Mira's gaze bore into her with an intensity that sent a shiver down her spine. "You see," the queen began, her voice measured and deliberate, "the problem with men is their presumption. They believe they can obtain anything they desire, and when faced with resistance from a woman, they resort to manipulation and deceit."
Reana's breath caught in her throat, a cold dread settling in the pit of her stomach. She feared what the queen's words might portend.
"All of this to say," Mira continued, her tone tinged with disdain, "that this Sinbad thought himself above reproach. He dared to offend me, to seduce me. And for his insolence, I had him and his companions thrown into the 'valley of the dead.' They are dead as we speak... Oh, except that Imuchakk one, whom we have kept for... experimentation" she ended with a smirk.
Reana felt as if the ground had been ripped from beneath her feet, her heart plummeting into a bottomless abyss of despair. She struggled to process the queen's words, the enormity of the revelation washing over her like a relentless tide. Her thoughts drifted back to Sasan, to the nagging sense of worry that had plagued her out of nowhere. Was it her intuition, her instincts, trying to warn her of the impending tragedy?
"S... Surely you jest, Your Majesty," Reana stammered, her voice trembling with disbelief.
"I assure you, I do not jest," the queen replied, her tone unwavering. "And trust me, you are better off without such people in your life."
A cold shiver ran down Reana's spine at the queen's callous words. The magnitude of her loss threatened to overwhelm her, leaving her reeling in a haze of grief and confusion.
"Were you attached to them? Did you consider them your friends? Or perhaps something more?" Mira inquired, her gaze sharp as it bore into Reana's soul.
"I... I..." Reana faltered, her words faltering in the face of the queen's piercing gaze.
The queen's lips curled into a smirk, a glimmer of amusement dancing in her eyes as she taunted Reana with her probing questions.
"Did I hit the mark?" Mira taunted. "Don't tell me you hold affection for that Sinbad."
Reana recoiled at the queen's words, her heart clenching with a mixture of anguish and longing.
"He... He is my most important friend," Reana admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
Mira's smirk widened into a knowing grin, her gaze filled with an unsettling mixture of amusement and scorn.
"So it is as I suspected," the queen remarked. "You harbor feelings for him, don't you?"
The question hung in the air, pregnant with unspoken implications. Reana's heart constricted painfully within her chest as she grappled with the weight of the queen's words. The question echoed in her mind. Was the queen right? What exactly were her feelings for him? The answer eluded her, lost amidst a whirlwind of conflicting emotions.
"I... He's all I have, he's my only family" Reana confessed, her voice tinged with desperation. "I don't have any memories of my life before I woke up in his village. He found me and treated me like family... Is there... really nothing that can be done?"
"I would have preferred a clearer answer," the queen remarked coolly. "Either way, we're not going to do anything. I won't go back on my decision. That aside... you're welcome to stay here until you're ready to forget them and leave." She paused, before adding with a mocking smirk. "Oh well, you could even find yourself a better man. We have some decent ones here. At least they behave better than your so-called friends. Now I will ask you to leave, I have more important things to attend to."
Reana's heart sank at the queen's callous dismissal, her hopes of finding a way to rescue her friends dashed against the cold reality of their fate. Tears threatened to spill from her eyes as she grappled with the crushing weight of her despair.
Yet, amidst the turmoil of her emotions, a flicker of determination ignited within her. She would find a way to locate Sinbad and her companions, no matter the cost.
First, she had to find Hinahoho.
----
As Reana wandered through the streets of Artemyra, her heart heavy with grief and uncertainty, she couldn't shake the feeling of emptiness that gnawed at her soul. The night had descended upon the city, casting shadows that seemed to mirror the darkness that had enveloped her spirit.
Under normal circumstances, she might have found solace in the beauty of the starry sky above, but tonight, even the magnificence of the heavens eluded her. She walked aimlessly, her mind consumed by thoughts of her lost friends and the harrowing revelation of their fate.
As she roamed the streets, Reana's eyes scanned the few people she encountered, searching for any sign of her Imuchakk friend. His towering stature would surely make him easy to spot, but to her dismay, there was no sign of him.
As she continued her solitary journey, lost in her own thoughts, Reana stumbled upon a peculiar scene near the edge of a cliff. A group of people had gathered around a giant wooden perch, their attention focused on something below. Curiosity piqued, Reana approached cautiously, her footsteps echoing softly against the cobblestone pavement.
"What's going on here?" she inquired, addressing the nearest person in the group.
The person turned to face her, and Reana couldn't help but feel a pang of surprise. It was a man, the first she had encountered since her arrival in Artemyra, a stark contrast to the predominantly female population of the city.
"Oh my, you're not from here, are you?" the man responded, his effeminate voice carrying a hint of warmth and friendliness. "You see, our job is to collect gems from the ravine."
He gestured to the others gathered around him, and as Reana observed them, she noted that they were all men, save for two women who appeared to be supervising the operation.
"For that," the man continued, "we throw pieces of meat down into the ravine and wait for the birds to bring them back. We collect the gems that are stuck in the meat. But for the past few days, the birds haven't been bringing back all the meat, if any at all. So we asked the women to give us bigger pieces of meat. Now we're waiting for the birds."
As Reana listened to the man's explanation, a glimmer of hope flickered within her heart. Could it be possible that her friends were somehow still alive, trapped at the bottom of the ravine? The missing meat seemed like more than just a coincidence—it felt like a sign, a beacon of hope amidst the darkness of her despair.
She decided to wait with the group, observing their actions closely. If there was even the slightest chance that her friends were still alive, she would find a way to reach them, no matter the cost.
----
As the birds began to arrive from the ravine, carrying huge pieces of meat adorned with shiny stones, a sense of excitement rippled through the gathered crowd. The men eagerly gathered around the birds, their eyes alight with anticipation as they prepared to collect the gems.
"They brought it back this time," one of the women noted, a hint of satisfaction in her voice.
"That takes care of your complaints, right? So, collect the gems," instructed the other, her tone firm.
"See, just like I told you. The birds didn't bring back the meat before because it was too small." said a man.
"I can't wait to get to work. Let's hurry!" claimed another.
Reana watched the scene unfold with a tinge of disappointment, her hopes of finding her missing friends slowly fading. It seemed that the disappearance of the meat had nothing to do with Sinbad, Ja'far, and Mistoras after all. With a heavy sigh, she turned to leave, her heart heavy with sorrow.
However, her departure was interrupted by a sudden commotion among the group. One of the women exclaimed in surprise as she examined a particularly large piece of meat. Reana paused, curiosity piqued, and turned back to see what had caused the disturbance.
"Wh-What's this?" one of the women exclaimed, her voice tinged with disbelief. "This piece is... big, huh..."
A hush fell over the crowd as they observed the unusual piece of meat, their curiosity piqued. And then, to Reana's utter astonishment, she saw three figures clinging to the meat as the birds approached. Her heart leaped in her chest as she recognized her friends.
As the birds prepared to land, Reana's companions let go and landed in front of the astonished onlookers. To Reana's relief, they appeared relatively unscathed, though their attire left much to be desired—each adorned with nothing more than a strategically placed leaf.
Reana couldn't help but blush at the sight, her cheeks burning with embarrassment as she hurriedly retrieved some pieces of cloth from a nearby box.
"Kyaaaa! What the hell are they?!!!" screeched the women.
Sinbad caught sight of Reana approaching and flashed her his trademark grin, his eyes sparkling with warmth.
"Reana!" he called out, his voice filled with genuine joy.
Beside him, Ja'far and Mistoras echoed his sentiments, their expressions betraying their relief.
"Sinbad..." Reana breathed, her emotions threatening to overwhelm her. Relief flooded through her veins, mingling with a tinge of annoyance at his reckless behavior. How could he have been so careless, so oblivious to the danger he had put himself in?
Noticing the cloth in her arms, Sinbad approached her. Reana took deliberate, slow breaths, trying to steady her nerves, his almost naked form causing her cheeks to flush crimson.
"Thanks for that, you're saving us!" he laughed, taking the cloth from her with a grateful smile.
Once clothed, Sinbad turned his attention to some of the men nearby, leaving Reana alone with Ja'far and Mistoras. As she watched Sinbad interact with the others, a surge of frustration bubbled within her. She couldn't help but feel upset at his carefree attitude, as if he didn't realize the danger he had been in. As if he didn't understand the worry and fear she had experienced while searching for him.
"Idiot..." Reana grumbled under her breath, her voice tinged with frustration and relief. Tears threatened to spill from her eyes as she struggled to contain her emotions. Beside her, Ja'far chuckled softly, a knowing gleam in his eyes.
She shot him an embarassed glance as she handed some cloth to him and Mistoras. As the two clothed themselves, they overheard the men nearby talking to Sinbad.
"If our women didn't work so hard, we'd all be out in the cold!"
"My wife has been so cold lately, but I don't want a divorce!"
"Mine is so busy raising children, it's impossible for her to work."
"Women have it though, don't they? Working day after day."
"They really do."
"Artemyra's societal roles for men and women are the complete opposite of ours." remarked Ja'far.
"It seems a bit strange," Mistoras mused. "But... everyone seems to enjoy it."
"Yeah, they really do," Ja'far agreed, his tone tinged with curiosity.
"That's right," Sinbad declared, returning to their side with a cheerful grin. "Let's go greet the queen and let her know that we've returned alive!"
Reana arched an eyebrow skeptically at his suggestion. "At this hour?" she questioned, her tone laced with incredulity.
"Yup," Sinbad replied, unfazed. He seemed entirely undeterred by the late hour.
----
The night air was filled with tension as Reana, Ja'far, and Mistoras stealthily made their way through the darkened streets of Artemyra. They had just completed a daring mission: sneaking into the royal palace to retrieve their belongings.
As they stole away with their possessions, Mistoras voiced his concern, his voice tinged with anxiety. "Is it really okay for us to sneak into the royal palace to take our things back like this?"
Ja'far's response was grim. "It's not okay. If they find us, it'll be a big problem."
Mistoras's eyes widened in alarm. "Huh?! Then let's put it all back!"
Reana, however, remained steadfast. "Isn't it far more dangerous to let our enemies have the metal vessels?" she pointed out, her voice calm but resolute.
"But there wasn't a single metal vessel in any of this stuff!" Mistoras exclaimed in frustration.
"Yeah... Sinbad was probably right," Ja'far interjected, his tone reflective. "The queen must be keeping them with her... We have to meet up with him soon..."
Their conversation was abruptly interrupted by a spectacle unfolding in the night sky. Above the city, Sinbad, adorned in his Djinn Baal equip, clashed with Mira, the queen herself, who was also clad in her own Djinn equip.
"Sinbad and... the queen are... fighting with their Djinn equips?! Why..." Mistoras's voice trailed off in disbelief.
"And she's using a lightning Djinn," Reana observed quietly, her heart sinking at the sight of Sinbad once again embroiled in a dangerous confrontation. "Just like Baal..."
Reana watched in silence as the two opponents clashed, their lightning-powered attacks colliding with explosive force. She couldn't help but feel a pang of frustration at Sinbad's recklessness, his penchant for getting himself into trouble yet again.
"And she's using a lightning Djinn," Reana sighed. "Just like Baal..."
"Our lightning powers cancel each other out, huh," sneered Queen Mira, her voice dripping with contempt as she assessed her adversary. "Your attacks won't work, you know."
Sinbad, undeterred by her taunts, leaped to the top of a nearby house, his determination unwavering as he held aloft the necklace containing Valefor, his second Djinn.
"Then I guess I'll have to show you the power of my second Djinn," he declared, his voice tinged with resolve.
"Sin... That Djinn equip is...!" Ja'far began, his words trailing off as Sinbad's Djinn equip disappeared, replaced by another.
"A different Djinn equip? You think I'll let that sort of trick pass?" grinned Queen Mira, her confidence unshaken as she prepared to face Sinbad's new onslaught.
Without a word, Sinbad unleashed a barrage of icicles, each one hurtling towards Queen Mira with deadly precision. The icy projectiles exploded in a cloud of frost, enveloping the queen in a veil of frost and snow.
"A direct hit!" exclaimed Ja'far, a note of triumph in his voice as he witnessed Sinbad's seemingly successful attack.
"...No," Sinbad muttered, his voice low and tense as Mira emerged from the cloud unscathed. "She's completely uninjured."
Queen Mira's voice cut through the silence, her tone tinged with smug satisfaction as she addressed Sinbad.
"So, you attacked with ice this time, huh? In contrast to its appearance, it's quite a powerful technique," she remarked, her words laced with arrogance. "Is this what you meant? The power of a multiple dungeon conqueror? 'Cerberus' is a three-headed Djinn. One head is ice. One head is lightning. And the main body, me, can control fire... With power over three different elements, it's the strongest Djinn! There's no need to change my equip. With the power of only two elements, you can't beat me!"
"If a Djinn equip like that exists... then he has no chance!" Mistoras panicked, his voice trembling with fear. "If we don't stop this fight, Sinbad will...!"
Ja'far shook his head, a serene smile playing on his lips as he reassured his companion.
"No," he said calmly, his voice steady and sure. "He must have changed Djinn equips because he had an idea. Let's leave it to Sin..."
Mistoras turned to Reana, his eyes pleading for her agreement.
"Don't look at me like that," she laughed, her voice tinged with amusement. "I don't agree with him starting yet another fight, but I believe in him. He has never lost a single fight, after all."
They watched with bated breath as Sinbad won the fight using Valefor's true ability. Queen Mira's movements, senses and thoughts were slowed drastically, allowing Sinbad to dodge her attacks with ease and incapacitate her.
Obviously, Sinbad being his usual self, he couldn't resist taunting her before putting an end to this.
----
The next day arrived with an air of tension and anticipation hanging heavy in the atmosphere as Sinbad and his companions made their way to their new audience with Queen Mira. Along the open corridor leading to the queen's chambers, Mistoras couldn't conceal his anxiety, his nerves on edge with the uncertainty of what awaited them.
"Ja'far... What's going to happen to us?" Mistoras fretted, his voice quivering with apprehension. "We've offended the queen twice now... Are we being executed? Even though we've managed to make it back alive?! I really can't take it!"
Reana chuckled softly. "Calm down, Mistoras," she reassured him, her voice a soothing balm to his frayed nerves.
"But...!!"
Before Mistoras could voice his concerns further, they were interrupted by the guard's announcement of their arrival.
"Your Majesty. They're here," the guard announced, opening the door and gesturing for them to enter.
As they stepped into the queen's chambers, they were met with an unexpected sight. Queen Mira lay reclined on her bed, partially obscured by a luxurious blanket, while maids attended to her, their delicate hands massaging her form. Ja'far's expression remained blank, while Mistoras blushed furiously, his cheeks aflame with embarrassment at the intimate scene before him.
Sinbad, however, remained composed, his gaze fixed upon the queen with a calm assurance that belied the gravity of their situation.
"You guys sure were slow," Mira remarked lazily. "I'm exhausted from all the waiting."
"Your Majesty, we are honored to have another audience with you." Sinbad greeted her, his hands joined in a gesture of respect
Mira waved off his formalities with a dismissive gesture, her demeanor relaxed despite the weight of their conversation. "Ha... Such empty words," she sighed, her tone tinged with amusement. "Like I could ignore you. Thanks to our battle last night, my skin is covered in blemishes, and my beautiful body is ruined."
With lazy grace, Mira rose from her bed, the blanket slipping from her form as she began to dress herself. Despite her words, there was a mischievous twinkle in her eyes as she addressed Sinbad.
"However... It's been a long time since I've felt that excited... he he. You're the first man to ever pin me down in defeat, Sinbad," she remarked with a playful smirk. "I'll never forget the events of last night either..."
A subtle scowl flickered across Reana's features at the queen's words, though she quickly masked it with a neutral expression. A smirk tugged at Mira's lips, indicating that she had noticed Reana's slight discomfort. But the moment passed quickly, and Mira went to seat on her throne.
"I apologize for our last audience, I'm sorry" she declared. "And even if this is the royal palace, I've given further consideration to the outcome of diplomatic issues. Artemyra will officially form an agreement with Sindria trading company."
The tension that had lingered in the air dissipated at her words, replaced by a palpable sense of relief among them. As the queen continued, explaining her decision to form an official agreement with the Sindria trading company, a wave of gratitude washed over Sinbad and his companions. The weight of uncertainty that had hung over them lifted, replaced by a glimmer of hope for the future. It was a testament to the power of diplomacy and negotiation, and they couldn't help but admire Mira's willingness to set aside past grievances for the greater good.
Sinbad seized the opportunity to share his dream of creating a world without conflicts, a vision that resonated deeply with him and his companions. Mira listened intently, her expression skeptical.
However, when Sinbad mentioned his intention to form an alliance with Artemyra, similar to those he had established with Imuchakk and Sasan, Mira's demeanor shifted. She understood the implications of such an alliance: binding the metal vessels users. Her expression hardened, and she leveled a threatening gaze at Sinbad, the tip of her spear only inches from his face.
"Do you really think I'll agree to that?" she challenged, her voice sharp with hostility.
But Sinbad met her gaze with unwavering resolve, his demeanor calm and composed in the face of her aggression. He did not flinch from her threat, standing firm in his conviction.
Mira's hostility began to wane as she contemplated Sinbad's impassive demeanor. As she recalled the circumstances of her own defeat at his hands, she understood why the Knight King had agreed to the alliance.
"He lost in a battle of 'metal vessels' to someone who seemed to be merely a merchant." she voiced, her voice slightly bitter. "If that had been a real battle, his country would have been invaded after his defeat... Even a King's power is not absolute. The knight King understood that, so he resigned and accepted your alliance. Moreover, Sasan has strong ties to Reim, doesn't it? If the 'legendary priestess' of Reim found out about the metal vessels, it would probably cause trouble."
"'Legendary priestess' of Reim?" Ja'far asked, his curiousity piqued.
"What the hell, you guys? You don't know about her even though you are merchants from Reim?" Mira said, a hint of incredulity in her voice.
"We don't really know much about Reim's territories besides Napolia..." Reana's voice held a tinge of apology as she explained their lack of knowledge.
Mira sighed, her expression softening slightly as she shared her knowledge with them.
"The 'legendary priestess' is someone who has devoted her life to Reim, continuing to support the prosperity of the Empire," Mira explained. "She is a magician who has lived there for the past 200 years... and is perhaps one of the legendary 'Magi'."
"200 years?!!!" Ja'far's exclamation underscored the incredulity shared by the others at the notion of someone living for such an extraordinary length of time.
"A legendary... 'Magi'?" Mistoras echoed.
Reana, intrigued, interjected with a question of her own. "Excuse me, but... what is a 'Magi'?"
Mira paused, considering her response carefully before offering an explanation that left them in awe. "A 'Magi'... even now, we know little about them, but they are figures found in legends around the world. They appear during crucial junctures in history and direct the flow of the world, as well as countless lives. They are a special existence, and have been called 'creators of the world' and 'choosers of kings' due to their great abilities. That is a 'Magi'."
Her words hung in the air, the weight of their significance sinking in as they contemplated the implications of such extraordinary beings.
"Artemyra's people have a special ability," Mira continued, her voice now tinged with a hint of mystery. "Since long ago, we have searched for an explanation for that power, and we happened to learn a little about the 'Magi' along the way. But we still don't know all the details. 'Magi' have power beyond that of human comprehension. For example, it seems that with a single wave of their wand, they can raise a 'tower' that contains the power to create a king, and then lead their chosen 'King' there. Doesn't that sound like all the 'dungeons' that have been appearing around the world? But I don't think the dungeon that I conquered was raised by Reim's 'Magi'... We still have no proof that Reim's priestess actually is a 'Magi'."
Reana was speechless, her mind reeling with the implications of Mira's words. She glanced at Sinbad, her eyes meeting his in a silent exchange of understanding. She saw the flicker of recognition in his gaze, the realization dawning on him as it did on her. The parallels between the 'Magi' and their own experiences were unmistakable
It reminded her strongly of Yunan, the enigmatic 'traveler' who had crossed their paths, led Sinbad towards Baal's dungeon and taught her magic. The memory of his cryptic guidance and profound wisdom lingered in her mind.
"... Your Majesty," Sinbad said. "What kind of people are 'Magi'?"
"Like I told you, we do not know any more details. But, if I had to describe them... I would say that 'Magi' are those loved by the 'Rukh'."
Reana listened intently, her mind racing with memories of Yunan's teachings. She had always been able to see the Rukh around her, ethereal little white bird-like forms fluttering through the world. The queen noticed the look of recognition on Reana's face and smiled.
"The fact that dungeons have appeared worldwide, and the fact that we conquered those dungeons, even by accident... We may have been led to this point... by the will of something other than ourselves," Mira concluded.
"...That was a long preface, was it not?" the queen remarked after a short silence, her tone returning to its usual nonchalant demeanor. "Anyway, you are the only man I can approve of. Let us form an alliance," she declared, extending her hand.
"Thank you, Your Highness," Sinbad replied, his voice tinged with gratitude and determination.
----
As they walked down the streets of Artemyra, the tension from their encounter with the queen slowly dissipated, replaced by a sense of relief and accomplishment. Ja'far let out a heavy sigh, his hand instinctively resting on his chest as if to calm his racing heart.
"I'm glad we somehow managed to settle that amicably," he remarked, casting a sideways glance at Sinbad. "When you started that Djinn equip battle with the Queen, Sin, I really wondered what would happen to us."
Sinbad, ever the picture of nonchalance, simply shrugged. "But somehow it turned out fine," he replied with a casual air.
Reana shook her head and sighed, as Ja'far grabbed him by the collar, unable to contain his frustration any longer. "You just abused your power and manipulated people the same way you did in Sasan!" he exploded. "Quit being so irresponsible and be more diligent with your studies!"
Before Sinbad could offer a retort, Mistoras piped up with an unexpected question. "Um... We're leaving tomorrow, right? So, until then... Do we have free time?" he inquired.
Ja'far furrowed his brow, puzzled by the sudden shift in topic. "Yes, that was the plan," he confirmed, wondering what Mistoras had in mind.
The young knight began to dart around, as if searching for something. "Mistoras, what's wrong?" Reana asked, her curiosity piqued by his behavior.
The young knight stammered for a moment, clearly flustered. "Huh? N... N... Nothing?!" he stuttered, his cheeks flushing crimson. "I definitely couldn't do something with that girl just because I made it back from that valley alive?!"
"You're such a terrible liar!" Ja'far exclaimed.
Sinbad pressed him for answers. "What are you talking about? Tell me, Mistoras!" he demanded.
But before Mistoras could respond, two women approached them, their presence catching everyone off guard. The taller of the two women smiled warmly at Mistoras. "Well, if it isn't the boy from before," she greeted him. "You really did come back from the valley of the dead, huh? Her Majesty the Queen praised you. She said you really had guts."
Mistoras' eyes widened in disbelief, his cheeks flushing even brighter. "Is that true?!" he blurted out, rushing toward the women with eager anticipation. "I'm so happy! I'm glad that I could do my best thanks to you!"
The taller woman chuckled at his enthusiasm. "Did you really want your reward of doing something nice with me that badly? Teehehe... How cute," she teased.
Mistoras nodded fervently, his excitement palpable. "Yes!"
Sinbad winced at the exchange. "He couldn't have..." he muttered, running a hand through his hair in frustration. "Was this the reason he wanted to hurry up and get out of that valley?"
Reana and Ja'far exchanged knowing glances, their expressions a mixture of amusement and exasperation.
"You say that, even though you'd be the same in his place..." Ja'far grumbled, shooting Sinbad a pointed look.
Sinbad whirled around, his mouth open to retort, but the woman's voice diverted their attention back to the conversation at hand.
"But we've done something bad. Using one of our important guests so cruelly..." she said with a wide grin. "It's a little late, but here is the other member of your party we had restrained. Teehehe... Although we're a bit reluctant to let him go..."
As she spoke, their eyes were drawn to a large figure approaching. At first, their smiles widened, eager to see their friend again, but the expressions quickly faded as they noticed something amiss with his form. It wasn't just the Imuchakk coming their way; Hinahoho was literally swarmed with swooning women clinging to him. His towering figure was obscured by the sea of adoring admirers, and his body was covered in lipstick marks of various shades, scattered haphazardly all over his skin.
Silence fell over the group as they stared in disbelief at the sight before them, their expressions a mix of shock and confusion.
"Hinahoho?" Sinbad finally called out tentatively, his voice barely above a whisper, but the Imuchakk turned his head away, avoiding their gaze. His usually jovial demeanor was replaced by an air of discomfort and embarrassment, evident even from a distance.
"Come see us again sometime!" one of the women cooed, a bright smile on her lips.
"You were really good!" added another
"We had him fully cooperate with our research," chimed in a third, a mischievous glint in her eye. "It felt grea... I mean, it really helped us. Thanks, Hinahoho."
Their heads all snapped to stare at the Imuchakk, and once again, he averted his gaze, his discomfort palpable.
Sinbad's brow furrowed with concern as he addressed his friend, his voice tinged with a hint of reproach. "Hinahoho... You... Rurumu..."
"I didn't. Do. Anything. Bad!" Hinahoho's words spilled out in a rush, his voice tinged with mortification. "I never... crossed that last line!"
"Hinahoho..." Reana's voice echoed.
"It's not my fault!" Hinahoho's frustration boiled over.
Beside them, Mistoras suddenly erupted into tears, his cries echoing through the street. "Hinahoho! While we were stuck living in that valley, you were up here doing such nice things! How cruel! It's too cruel!! I really wanted to do that kind of thing, good kinds of things, with a pretty girl! Uwaah! Soooo cruel!"
Sinbad grabbed Mistoras' arm, his voice steady as he tried to soothe the young knight's distress. "Mistoras... Don't cry anymore. Hinahoho's actions may not be what we expected, but we still have the future to look forward to, right?"
"Sinbad..." Mistoras' tears continued to flow, but there was a glimmer of reassurance in his eyes.
"That's right... We had a path open to us from the beginning, didn't we?" Sinbad's words held a solemn weight as he addressed the young man, his gaze unwavering. "This country's heaven that stimulated our intellectual desire. Our paradise... The red-light district!"
Reana, Ja'far, and Hinahoho stared at him, their expressions a mixture of disbelief and judgment, while Mistoras harbored a serious expression, matching Sinbad's.
"Intellectual desire...?" Reana raised an eyebrow.
But Sinbad and Mistoras were too engrossed in their conversation to notice her query.
"If it's the red-light district, there are lots of pretty girls, right?" Mistoras asked excitedly, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.
"Yes, there are!" Sinbad exclaimed enthusiastically, his infectious energy lighting up the atmosphere.
"If it's the red-light district, we can do nice things with girls, right?!" Mistoras continued, his excitement palpable.
"We can!" Sinbad replied with equal fervor, matching Mistoras' enthusiasm.
"Sinbad!"
"What!"
"I'll follow you forever!"
"Yeah! Follow me!"
And with that, the two of them dashed off in search of their 'paradise,' leaving Reana, Ja'far, and Hinahoho behind.
"...They are going after all, huh?" Ja'far said blankly, his expression betraying a mixture of resignation and amusement. "To the red-light district."
Beside them, Hinahoho continued to mumble mindlessly, his embarrassment apparent. "It's not my fault... It's not..."
Reana couldn't help but chuckle at the absurdity of the situation, drawing Ja'far's attention.
"I didn't expect you to find this funny..." he remarked, his tone laced with curiosity.
"Ja'far... What can you tell me about this country's specificities?" Reana asked, her eyes twinkling with amusement as she addressed her companion.
"Huh... Aside from the city built on the cliffs and the majority of women?" Ja'far responded, his brow furrowed in thought.
"That's it!" she grinned. "Women are the ones doing most of the work here, aren't they? In contrast to the rest of the world."
"Yes..." Ja'far nodded in agreement, reflecting on the unusual customs of Artemyra. After a few seconds, a smile started tugging at the corners of his lips. "...Oh... You mean the red-light district's... huh... workers... are swapped too?"
"Oh yes, I'm pretty sure of it," Reana confirmed, unable to contain her laugher as she exchanged amused glances with Ja'far.
"Serves them right!" Ja'far exclaimed, joining Reana in laughter.
----
Reana wandered through the bustling streets of Artemyra, her mind adrift in contemplation as she observed the vibrant cityscape. She had recently parted ways with Ja'far, who had chosen to stay behind with Hinahoho until the giant had calmed down from their earlier encounter. Lost in her thoughts, Reana found herself drawn to a series of buildings adorned with flashy signs depicting scantily clad figures, their provocative allure impossible to ignore. With a soft chuckle, she paused before the first establishment, imagining the disappointment her two companions were about to feel.
However, the blush of embarrassment soon tinged her cheeks, and she quickly averted her gaze, intending to leave the suggestive atmosphere behind. Yet, before she could take more than a few steps, she stumbled upon a familiar face.
Standing before her was the guard who had been on duty when she entered the palace, her stern demeanor replaced by a warm smile. Beside her stood a small girl, no more than five years old, who regarded Reana with curious eyes.
"Hi! We meet again," the woman greeted, her voice friendly and inviting. "My name is Serra. If I remember correctly, you are Reana, right?"
Reana returned the greeting with a nod, a small smile gracing her lips. "Yes, that's correct. And who might that be?" she inquired, bending down slightly to address the young girl.
"Pisti!" the girl exclaimed, raising a hand to her chest, proudly introducting herself.
"She's the Queen's youngest daughter," Serra explained.
"Hi, Pisti!" Reana greeted warmly, matching the girl's bright demeanor as she crouched down to Pisti's eye level.
Pisti scrutinized her with a curious intensity, her eyes darting over Reana's form with unabashed curiosity.
"What's wrong?" Reana asked, a soft chuckle escaping her lips at the girl's inquisitive gaze.
Serra chuckled softly, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Do you happen to have some free time?"
Reana considered the question for a moment, intrigued by the unexpected invitation. "Yes, why?" she replied, her curiosity piqued.
"I think she'd like for you to try on clothes from our country," Serra explained with a playful grin. "How about it?"
Reana considered the offer for a moment, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Hmm... Sure," she agreed, though she wasn't entirely sure what she was getting herself into.
Her answer was met with a bright grin from Pisti, who wasted no time in seizing the hem of Reana's skirt and tugging her along with infectious excitement.
----
As Reana hurried towards the spot where her friends were gathered, Serra and Pisti in tow, she couldn't help but feel a pang of unease. She had been delayed by the two of them unexpectedly barging into her room, which had resulted in her being coerced into changing into an outfit that made her feel self-conscious and uncomfortable. The garment, similar to what Serra was wearing with added feathers, featured a large vertical slit in the chest area, leaving Reana feeling exposed and vulnerable. She kept her hands crossed over her chest in an attempt to conceal revealing aspect of the garment as much as possible.
As she approached her friends, Reana couldn't help but notice the disheveled appearance of Sinbad and Mistoras. Their clothes were half-undone, their skin covered in kiss marks, and they looked absolutely dreadful. She fought to suppress a burst of laughter at the sight of them, her lips twitching with the effort to maintain her composure.
"What happened to you two?" she managed to ask, struggling to contain her amusement.
Sinbad and Mistoras exchanged a glance before shaking their heads, opting not to reply. Instead, Sinbad's gaze stayed on Reana, his curiosity evident.
"That's... new," he said, gesturing to her outfit.
Before Reana could respond, Serra stepped forward, a playful glint in her eyes. "Oh, we stumbled upon Reana in the red-light district," she explained casually, her tone light and teasing. "Pisti and I thought she could use a bit of an Artemyra makeover."
Sinbad's eyes widened in shock at the mention of Reana being in the red-light district, his expression betraying his disbelief. Reana quickly intercepted the conversation, aware of the curious glances her friends were casting her way.
"I was just passing by," she explained quickly, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "I wasn't there for any particular reason."
Sinbad seemed to relax slightly at her explanation, but his gaze remained fixed on her, lingering longer than necessary.
Just then, a woman approached and stopped in front of them, her demeanor exuding warmth and professionalism. With her hands crossed on her chest in a greeting gesture, she smiled warmly at the group.
"Good morning," she began. "I'll be traveling with you from today on. I'm Artemyra's diplomat, Parsine. As a representative of our alliance, and as an intermediary to help process and manage trade, I'll be joining you..."
However, Parsine's words trailed off as she noticed the defeated expressions on Sinbad and Mistoras' faces, as well as the lingering melancholy that seemed to hang over Hinahoho. Concern furrowed her brow as she addressed them, her voice soft with empathy. "What happened?" she inquired gently.
Reana, interjected with a chuckle, attempting to downplay the somber atmosphere. "Oh, don't mind them," she said, offering a reassuring smile.
"Macho festival..." Mistoras mumbled, his voice barely audible as he cast his gaze downward.
Sinbad winced at the mention. "Hey, stop it, Mistoras," he muttered, his tone laced with discomfort. "It just brings back memories."
Sensing their unease, Parsine offered a suggestion. "Umm... If you're not feeling well, we could wait until tomorrow to leave," she suggested, her tone gentle and accommodating.
"No, let's leave today," they said in unison, shaking their heads vigorously.
----
After Sinbad and Mistoras returned from refreshing themselves and changing clothes, they followed Parsine to one of the perches used for the giant birds, ready to depart from Artemyra. Reana held Pisti in her arms as they walked, the little girl chattering excitedly.
"These birds will take you back to your ship," the caretaker explained as they approached the perch. "Please, get on their backs."
"Looks like this is farewell to Artemyra," Reana remarked softly.
"A lot happened since we arrived here," Ja'far commented, his tone reflective. "We climbed the side of a huge ravine... We were tossed down into the valley of death... And we even lived there for a while... Even though we haven't been here all that long, it feels like we've spent a lot of time in this country, doesn't it?"
Reana giggled. "If you ask me, a few weeks is quite a lot of time considering it wasn't supposed to last this long," she remarked mockingly.
As they reminisced about the events that unfolded since their arrival, Queen Mira arrived, accompanied by a few guards. The group turned to greet her respectfully.
"It's finally time for you to leave, huh? Looks like my days of boredom will return," the Queen said with a wistful smile, her gaze lingering on each member of the group. "I'm a little reluctant to let you go."
Ja'far expressed his surprise. "Your Majesty... You didn't need to come here just to see us off..."
"Don't worry," Mira reassured them, a warm smile on her lips. "I've come to like you all more than anyone from other countries I've developed friendly relations with. Besides... In the future, I may entrust my beloved daughters to your care. I thought you should at least meet them. If we don't understand the condition of the world around us, we may no longer be able to protect our country. I want to create a place for them with you so that they can broaden their experiences... Well, that will all be far into the future, though."
As she spoke, two young girls appeared from behind her, catching everyone's attention.
"Haha," Sinbad grinned. "What cute little ladies."
However, their surprise grew as four more young girls emerged from behind the queen.
"They're cute, right? These are all my daughters," Mira explained proudly, gesturing to each of them.
Sinbad expressed his admiration. "Your Majesty has truly been blessed with children!"
Mira shrugged dismissively. "Having so many children is natural in this country." "Oh... And I see you've already met the last one," she added, her gaze falling on Pisti in Reana's arms, a feather in hand. Noticing the girl staring at Sinbad, Reana carried closer to him.
"That's Pisti, my youngest daughter," the Queen explained, her voice filled with pride. "Despite her small size, she already possesses enough power to control our large birds. I'm looking forward to seeing what the future holds for her."
As Pisti extended the feather to Sinbad, he bent slightly towards her, a smile playing on his lips. The suddeen proximity caused Reana to blush slightly.
"It seems she's taken a liking to you," Mira observed with a smile, noting Reana's flushed cheeks. "And to you too, it seems, Reana."
Reana nodded shyly as Pisti placed a feather in Sinbad's hair, the gesture filled with innocence and warmth.
"That feather she gave you two... It's said in our country that it's a copy of the feathers of the Rukh. It's a lucky feather," the Queen explained.
Reana frowned slightly, her hand instinctively moving to her hair. To her surprise, she felt a feather tucked amongst her locks, a silent gift from Pisti that she hadn't noticed before.
"Sinbad, Reana, may the Rukh guide you on your journey," the Queen said with a gentle smile.
"Thank you," Sinbad replied warmly. "However... I'd like to ask again just to be sure... Are you sure you don't need any of us staying here to help plan for our future trading?" he inquired.
"No need," Mira replied, a hint of amusement in her voice. "I wouldn't want to separate you all."
As Reana returned Pisti to her mother, the Queen leaned in close to whisper to her, her words causing a flush of embarrassment to spread across Reana's cheeks.
"If you want him, stay with him, don't split up like you did before coming here," the Queen whispered with a mischievous grin.
Reana stammered in response, her cheeks burning with embarrassment. "Y-You're mistaken, Your Majesty... I don't..." she began, her words trailing off as the Queen interrupted her.
"I don't believe you," Mira grinned knowingly, her gaze holding Reana's for a moment longer before she stepped back, effectively ending their conversation.
Flustered, Reana returned to her friends, who regarded her with curious glances. Though she didn't comment on the Queen's words, their lingered in her mind as they climbed onto the birds' backs.
Once settled, they took off into the sky, Pisti waving at them from below, her small form growing smaller as they soared higher and higher, leaving Artemyra behind.
A/N: Hey! Finally finished this chapter!!!
I had a few ideas for the events in Artemyra, but I had to think a lot about what I truly wanted to include. I rewrote some parts multiple times because I wasn't satisfied with them.
Longest chapter so far, I wonder if I should have split it. What do you think?
As always, I hope you like it! And don't hesitate to leave a comment, tell me your thoughts, what you like, what you would like to see, what you wish I had done differently... Everything! I want to improve myself :D
Enjoy!