Chapter 6

Bizon attacked Alfred with plant vines.

Alfred swung his sword, and all those vines were cut to pieces by a silver light. Bizon charged at Alfred, who blocked Bizon's sword with his own. Their swords clashed for about half a minute, then Alfred swung his sword , creatin that silver light once more. Bizon tried to block with his sword, but it still cut him. However, Bizon was not about to give up. He started to charge at opponent again when Alfred yelled, "Match over."

Bizon then came to a reluctant halt. Lasha ran to heal him with his magic. There was a long cut across his chest. Before Lasha was half finished, Bizon pushed him away and picked up his sword.

"Stop!" Lasha said. "You need to be healed."

"I need to rescue Hina!" Bizon shouted back.

After Alfred knocked out Bizon, he had Lasha and some other magicians heal him. Once he awoke, Alfred told him that before he could rescue Hina, he had to first master his Metal Vessel. So, everyday since then, he fought Alfred to prove himself.

"I don't think you need to worry as much as you are, Bizon." Alfred said.

"Why not?!" Bizon asked.

"Since Hina's disappearance, Sindria has not tried to ransom her." Alfred said. "Therefore it is likely that they do not know she is within their borders."

"Listen to him, Bizon." Tarjim said. "What he is saying makes sense."

All Bizon did was ask Alfred for another battle. They clashed once again.

Alfred used more waves of silver light. Bizon blocked them with trees, which was useless. The trees were cut clean through. Bizon blocked the light with his sword, but was still sent flying. Rage was festering in Bizon's heart. An idea bloomed in his mind. He tried channeling his emotions into his metal vessel. When Alfred's next wave came rushing at him, he focused every ounce of hate that dwelled within his soul into his blade. His sword glowed with a purple light and monsters emerged from the sword. They were like slimy, green slugs with red eyes and giant, razor-sharp teeth. The wave of silver light cut some of them to pieces. However, there were still many left, and they were still coming out of the blade. The monster flew through the air, straight towards Alfred. He attacked with his silver light, but no matter how many he killed, more took their place.

The warrior did not panic. He simply said, "I surrender."

When he said that, Bizon stopped changeling his anger into his weapon. As soon as he stopped, all the monsters turned to dust.

"You did it!" Tarjim said, congratulating his friend.

"What kind of magic was that?" Lasha asked.

"I'm not sure." Bizon replied, then fell to his knees.

Clearly, that move was exhausting.

"It would seem your Metal vessel does not only manipulate life," Alfred said. "Apparently, it can create life. Those monsters are -or were- solid proof. While I would like you to train some more, we had an agreement. If you still wish to rescue princess Hina, you will have my permission, and my aid."

"Thank you, Alfred." Bizon said. "Now, we must prepare for the rescue."

"No need." He replied. "I already have a means of infiltrating Luxon prepared for you."

Meanwhile, in Sindria . . .

Hina was painting Luxon from a hill-top with Aoba at her side.

A day ago, the two of them were taking a walk through the city, Hina had spotted some paint. From the expression on her face, Aoba could tell she wanted them. He bought them for her, and showed her the hill that was perfect for painting a city. She was enjoying it greatly. Every second she spent with Aoba, Hina felt happy. He was not what she expected of a prince of Sindria. Her tutors back in Parthevia taught her that the royal family of Sindria were power hungry savages and their people were poisoned by their ideas. However, Aoba was kind, understanding, and had a good heart. All the people she had met in this beautiful country were so nice. If Hina ever returned to Parthevia, she would tell her father about this great country and do everything she could to convince him to end the war.

Though, if life continued as it has, she might never return to Parthevia. What awaited her back there was a fiance she did not love and power she was afraid to use. Life for her in Sindria was wonderful, and she did not want it to end.

"Is it done?" Aoba asked.

Hina had told him not to look at her painting until she had finished.

"Yes." Hina replied.

Aoba was in awe of her artwork. The city was beautifully painted and Hina did not it with the sun high in the sky, as it was now. Instead, she painted the city as she imagined it would look like at sunset. All the colors blended together perfectly. As Aoba looked at it, he felt a strong warmth filling his heart. Hina was certainly a talented artist.

"This is incredible, Hina." Aoba said. "You are a true master of art."

"No." Hina replied, blushing. "I admit I have some skill, but I still wish to improve."

"Good." Aoba said.

"Huh?" Hina inquired.

Back in Parthevia, all of her art instructors insisted she did not need further practice. That she should start working to master something else.

"It is important to have something you are passionate about." Aoba explained. "There is always more room to improve. Many people, once they believe that they have reached the peek of their skill in a certain area, they just abandon it. However, if they continued to pursue their passion, they would have achieved greater accomplishments than they thought possible. For example, my father, Sinbad, dreamt of creating a great country. Even after he founded Sindria, he continually strives to improve it. To make life better for the people he rules."

"So, how far do you think I can develop my art?" Hina asked.

"That depends on you." Aoba replied. "If you are truly passionate, there is no limit to what you can accomplish. I am certain you could be remembered as one of the greatest artists of this era, if really want to be."
"Don't you think you are exaggerating, just a bit?" Hina asked.

"No." Aoba replied. "Everyone has great potential, and I see tremendous potential in you."

Hina could feel blood rushing to her face. She did not know what to say. All she could do was stare into Aoba's handsome eyes. He stared right back at her. They began to lean towards each other. Both of them knew what they were about to do.

"Sorry to break this up." Dio interrupted them.

Surprised, Aoba lost his balance for a second and almost fell over. Hina retained her composure, but turned away. Behind Dio was a portal, which explained how he got so close to them, without being noticed. He must have had Elvira use Space-Manipulation magic.

"What is it, brother?" Aoba asked.

"Father has asked to see you." Dio said in a serious tone. "Immediately."

"Alright." Aoba replied. "Could you take Hina back home for me?"

"Sure." Dio answered. "Just go to father, now."

"See you later, Hina." He said to Hina with a smile.

She smiled back at him. Then Aoba stepped through the portal and vanished. Seconds later, the portal disappeared, leaving Hina alone with Dio. Hina had spent very little time with the second-prince, Dio, so she studied his appearance while she tried to think of a way to end the uncomfortable silence. He wore light-armor, had dirty-blonde hair, sky-blue eyes and had a few scars on his arms. Attached to his belt was a sword with an eight-pointed star emblem on it; proof that he had conquered a Dungeon and claimed the power of its Djinn. There was something strange about the way he looked at her. It was not quite hatred, but he clearly had some reason to not want her around.

"How do you feel about Aoba?" Dio asked.

"Pardon?" Hina replied.

"I am asking if you ... like him." Dio said.

"Yes, as a friend." Hina replied, feeling a bit confused.

Why is he asking me this? Hina wondered.

"'Just as a friend'?" Dio asked. "So, you do not have any romantic feelings for him?"

When she heard that question, Hina could feel herself blushing fiercely. Why was he asking her this? Could it be she did not trust her since she was from Parthevia? Whatever his reason for asking, Hina replied, "No, I do not!"

"Okay." Dio said. "Sorry, I believe that was a rude question to ask."

Hina said nothing. The two of them then started walking home in total silence.

Aoba found himself directly in front of his father, Sinbad. He was startled for a second because he did not expect to be brought to him directly. Sinbad was laying in a bed with his seven metal vessels with him. One was a sword that had once belonged to Aoba's grandfather, who he had never met, three were necklaces, two were rings and one was a crown. His father smiled at him. To be honest, Sinbad did not look well. He seemed rather weak; his face was covered with wrinkles and liver spots, his hair and skin were both a ghostly white. However, his eyes still held incredible wisdom he had obtained over decades of study and adventure.

"Hello, father." Aoba said.

"It is good to see you my son." Sinbad smiled at him.

"I am happy to see you, too." Aoba replied.

Sinbad did not let many people see him lately. He did not want people to see him so sick and weak. Whatever his reason for summoning Aoba, it must have been important.

"As you are aware, my days are numbered." Sinbad said.

Aoba felt a strong sting in his heart. The idea of his father dying was not something he liked to think about. Part of him just could not accept it. His father was undoubtedly the greatest king who ever lived. Such an amazing man dying of sickness and old age was impossible to imagine.

"I know you do not want to face the fact that I will die soon, but it can not be denied." Sinbad said. "You have grown into a fine young man, Aoba. One who respects how sacred peace is and hates the horror that is war. My wish is for you to inherit my throne."

A long moment of silence passed.

"But I thought you would pick Dio." Aoba replied. "He is clearly the better choice."

"Dio is a good person, but he is too willing to fight." Sinbad said. "He does not understand the value of life and peace as well as you do." I have already written you as my successor in my will."

"Father-" Aoba started to argue.

"Please, let me speak." Sinbad said between coughs.

Aoba decided to remain silent and nodded.

"Your destiny is to be the future king of Sindria." Sinbad continued. "However, before you do, you must conquer a Dungeon. In this age, all the great king's of this era possess metal vessels. To gain their, you must obtain one yourself."

The logic of what Sinbad was saying was perfect, but Aoba wanted to argue. He still was not convinced he should be king. Also, though he had learned much about the other countries of the world, he rarely left Sindria, except for diplomatic missions with his father and brother. Even then, he just made an appearance, he did not say anything. He feared he would accidently cause a war. Though, that might be a bit of an exaggeration.

"Do not doubt your worthiness, my son." Sinbad said. "You will be a great king. Please, do this for me. This is my final request to you."

For a long moment, there was complete silence.

"Alright." Aoba said finally.

Even though he still did not believe his father was right, Aoba agreed because he did not want his father to die with any sorrow or regrets.

"I am so grateful, my son." Sinbad said with a wide smile. "I have already prepared a ship and crew to take you to the Dungeon. You leave tomorrow morning. Tonight, we will celebrate your departure."

Aoba simply nodded, finding himself unable to speak. This had been an eventful day for him and it was not even over. As Aoba was walking out of his father's private chamber, Sinbad said, "Be sure to bring your new lady friend."

"Pardon?" Aoba replied.

"Dio informed me that you have a new girl in your life." Sinbad said. "One you saved in the aftermath of a battle."

Aoba could feel himself blushing. Why had Dio told their father he had romantic feelings for Hina? Sure, he really enjoyed spending time with her and she was the most beautiful girl he had ever seen, but …

"It's not like that." Aoba said after gathering his thoughts for a second.

"Are you sure?" Sinbad asked.

"Yes." Aoba said, though he did not sound very convincing.

After Aoba left his room, Sinbad laugh so hard he started coughing.

"Kids today." He said to no one. "They have so much trouble figuring out how they really feel."

"As I recall, so did you." Yunan said, suddenly appearing beside Sinbad's bed.

Sinbad was not surprised by Yunan's appearance.

"I don't remember that." He replied.

"Really?" Yunan smirked. "I seem to remember you flirting with every pretty girl you met. That is, until you met Hakuei. However, you still had trouble expressing your true feelings. If there is anything I have learned over my many, many years of life, it is that love is never simple."

"I can not argue there." Sinbad said. "I have a feeling you are not just here to comfort me during my final days."

"Clever, as always." Yunan replied. "Only a short time ago, a soldier from Parthevia conquered a Dungeon."

"So, the rumors were true." Sinbad said. "Do you think he is a threat to Sindria?"

"Yes." Yunan replied, his tone grave. "His Rukh is already turning black. In addition, I had a vision of the future shortly after he obtained his metal vessel."

"What did you see?" Sinbad said.

"There is a battle coming." Yunan replied. "One that will lead to either a long golden age, or a long era of despair and hate. The outcome of the will determine which road history will take."

"Is that all you can tell me?" Sinbad asked. "What of my sons?" Do you have any idea what fate has in store for them?"

"Yes, actually." Yunan said. "This battle will also determine their fates. If the battle is won by the metal vessel user with a black Rukh wins, then they will die."

"And if they win?" Sinbad inquired.

"Then they both shall find love." Yunan replied.

That night, Mayuka, Hina, and Dio attended Aoba's goodbye part. It was a wonderful celebration. People everywhere were dancing, laughing and flirting. There was music that could be heard from any corner in the city. Many people were dancing. Even the people serving the drinks and food seemed to be having fun.

For Hina, it was the best party she had ever experienced. Back in Parthevia, there was so much pressure on her to be formal and not cause an incident. Not to mention, the music was boring, unlike the music in Sindria, called "Jazz". She wore a beautiful pink dress she picked out with Mayuka. Aoba was quite wided eyed when he saw her. At that moment, Hina could tell she was blushing.

In all the time she had spent in Parthevia, she had never been able to socialize so freely. There, she was monitored constantly and told what she should say. Hina was careful not to tell anyone she was from Parthevia. As far as anyone knew, she was just a girl Prince Aoba saved. Sounded like something out of a fairy tale, so many people wanted to talk with her. Mostly she told them how grateful she was to him and that he loved her art.

When the moon was high in the sky, Hina noticed Aoba was nowhere to be seen. He had been there at the beginning, but then disappeared. From the beginning of the celebration, Hina felt something was off about him. He seemed to be faking his smile. Hina decided to go and look for him and ask him how he was. The first place she went to was his room.

Mayuka had the same idea, only she asked Dio were his brother was.

"Do you know where he is?" Mayuka asked.

"Yes, I believe he is with Yunan." Dio replied. "Said he had something to ask him."

"Thank you, Dio." Mayuka smiled at him.

"Mayuka-" Dio began.

"Yes?" She inquired.

"Nevermind." Dio said, not meeting her eyes.

Hesitantly, Mayuka walked away. Dio felt a sting in his heart. He truly hated lying to her.

Meanwhile, Hina found Aoba in his room. He was simply staring at a wall.

"Aoba?" Hina said.

"Yes?" He replied and turned to face her. "Hello, Hina. What are you doing here?"

"I should be asking you that." Hina said. "You are missing your own party."

Aoba sighed. "I don't deserve it."

"What are you talking about?" Hina asked.

"Do you really think I can conquer a Dungeon?" Aoba inquired. "That I can lead this country?"

"Yes." Hina replied without hesitation.

"Well, I don't." Aoba said. "I know I will fail."

"No you won't." Hina replied.

Then she walked across the room and opened the doors to the balcony.

"Come over here." Hina said.

Aoba stepped out onto the balcony. He looked out at the crowded streets. The sight was rather amazing. It made Aoba feel both happy and sad. Part of him was glad to be part of such a wonderful country with so many smiling people. However, the rest of him was sad because he knew he would fail them.

"You are not going to fail Sindria." Hina said. "If you want proof, simply look to your people. All of them believe in you, as do I. You need to believe in yourself. Once you do, you can be the king your father already knows you can be."

Aoba stared into her eyes and she stared right back at him. As fireworks exploded in the sky, Aoba and Hina kissed. At first, it was light, but it quickly became fierce. That was the moment they realized the most important thing about themselves.

They loved each other.