Chapter 10

One would think that sleeping indoors on a warm, comfortable bed outshines slumbering under the thicket any day.

Drenched and miserable, Morgiana wakes to the maddening serenade of a starved mosquito bickering near her ear. Bloodshed mars her hand and sheets in a blink. Huh, the vermin had its fill after all. "Morning Mor." She sits up, eyes half lidded from sleep and the stunning brightness of their room.

"Good morning Aladdin." Morgiana slinks off her mattress. Knots of fatigue unfurl across her rolling shoulders. She hasn't done any formal training lately. Her muscle mass appears to be normal but Morgiana is definitely experiencing withdrawals. Aladdin sits at the edge of his bed, rubbing a creamy salve along scarlet welts scattered across his lean arms. Those mosquitoes made a meal of him. "Aren't you looking cherry."

Aladdin's curved lip was an indecisive blend of unimpressed disbelief, "You did not just say that, Mor." An amused smile was his final answer.

A small smile cracks her lips. Swiping a sheet off her bed, Morgiana covers herself while crossing the room. She lingers near the balcony entrance.

"It's so hot, almost as bad as last night." Aladdin settles himself on Morgiana's right, fanning his sweaty face with a hand, "The innkeeper mentioned a device that keeps the room cool but it must've malfunctioned." That would explain why the heat was scarcely prevalent during the daytime yesterday. Morgiana takes a few reluctant steps into the light.

An hour or two past dawn. The sun's magnificent ascension and the sky's lack of cloud cover foreshadow a scorching day for the Fire Kingdom. Merchants have begun setting up shop while other nationals hurriedly commute through Fire's sand crusted streets. "So we're going shopping today, right?" Aladdin hangs onto the banister while leaning backwards, his sapphire eyes expectant.

Morgiana offers a half smile, "You're just itching to go, aren't you." Aladdin's exuberance drastically deadpans. Morgiana frowns, "What?"

Once they've freshened up and locked their dwelling's door, Aladdin's alacrity returned as though it never vanished, "Faster Mor, faster!" He bounces down the groaning staircase.

Morgiana slows her gait – much to the alchemist's annoyance – as he waits impatiently on the bottom step, "I'm mildly surprised, Aladdin. To think you would ever pass on the opportunity to eat."

Aladdin's snarky grin does not go unnoticed, "If you were hungry Mor, you should have said so."

"Okay, to the market then." She strides past him, to be reeled back by Aladdin's gentle hand on her right shoulder.

He fluidly slithers his arm around Morgiana's neck and brandishes an award winning smile, "Hey, hey. What's the rush sister?" Drizzling such sweet talk over his desperation makes Aladdin look pitiful, "We shouldn't be out and about on empty stomachs. Might as well not let our gold go to waste, wouldn't you agree?"

"Certainly." Morgiana smothers a smug smile.

Memories of last night's events resurface with every step towards the upstairs tavern. Morgiana hopes they never see that inquisitive hostess again. Toto.

…Toto.

Lacking the iridescent glow of cobalt lights from hours prior, the tavern's ambience is completely different. That, and a self-service station has been set up near the bar area. Other patrons were scattered about the place, quietly dining on their meals. No one appears interested in the pair. Ruby eyes flicker from the buffet to Aladdin, "It appears we are to help ourselves."

"Well don't mind if I do!" He runs off, claiming a plate from the ceramic tower at the buffet tables starting point. The food served last night posed no issue but she should vet the breakfast items, just to be on the safe side, "Mor, the fruits are so good!" Aladdin stuffs his face and piles his plate simultaneously. So much for that.

"Have you not an inkling of suspicion?" Morgiana grabs a small saucer, doubting she will eat much, "At least let me inspect the food first before you go gorging it all down."

Aladdin rolls his eyes, uncommon for him, "Sis, everyone here is eating from the same stockpile of food and they're all fine. Quit worrying over nothing."

"Over nothing?" How can he expect her to not be precautious? Anything could happen if they weren't careful, like food poisoning, unconsciousness, death!

"Mor." Aladdin steals the saucer from Morgiana's palm, "I'll get breakfast while you save us seats."

Morgiana eyes him, "But I can do so myself."

Aladdin shakes his head, concern scribbled on his face, "What you need to do right now is have a seat, relax and stop sprouting grey hairs all over your head."

Morgiana was not expecting such a scolding from Aladdin but, "My hair is visible?!" Why didn't he say something earlier! She pats the top of her head to find the veil still in place and relief immediately washes over her.

"What I meant to say was," He nudges Morgiana away from the food table with his elbow, "Stop stressing." Aladdin is clearly amused, grinning while gliding down the queue and stacking their plates.

Morgiana pouts, scouting an empty table close to the entrance. Somebody needs to be the voice of reason, Aladdin is taking their situation far too lightly. She doesn't need to relax...he's the one who should be relaxing!

In under three minutes, Aladdin juggles his loaded plate, her scarce saucer and two simmering mugs towards the table, "And you are still mad." Both mug and saucer skid to a stop in front of Morgiana.

"I am not angry." Her fingers encircle the warm ivory mug, "And thank you for carrying everything when you did not need to."

"You know, I'm really glad we can be outward and honest about our feelings like this." A whiff of sweet chocolate and...something she does not recognize cradles her nose, "I'm sorry if what I said wasn't to your liking but you really do need to calm when it comes to certain things, Mor."

"Sure." Froth dissolves as Morgiana carefully swirls her grainy cocoa tea and takes a precarious sip, "You brewed this?"

Mid-bite, Aladdin nods his head and a proud smile lights his face while he chews on something crunchy, "Jus por ou!"

Mellow sweetness cushions her taste buds. Chocolate, honey, orange, accompanied by the underlying bitterness of coffee and... something else. Just what is that elusive flavour?

Expectancy scribbles itself over Aladdin's face. The academic twinkle in his stare is admittedly unnerving, "Do you feel any different?"

Morgiana slowly pulls the mug away from her lower lip, "What did you do."

"Nothing, nothing." Aladdin takes a swig of his own mug, feigning disinterest in their conversation. His demeanor does not scream a nonchalant "nothing".

"Ala-" "Hey there!"

Saved by the intrusion of a passerby. And not just any passerby. Morgiana groans inwardly, why now of all times, "Good morning, Otto!" Aladdin cheerfully greets the young sentry who welcomed them to the inn yesterday. Can Morgiana's mood plummet any further?

"Morning, morning." The happy guard roams along the circumference of the table. Sliding beside Morgiana, gaze suggestive, "And how is my little kitten this fine morning?" Apparently her temperament could.

"Ooooo!" Aladdin gushed. He would be gushing in more ways than one if he were anyone else.

Morgiana takes a bite out of her savoury pastry, ignoring the pest, "I take it she's the 'difficult to please' type?"

"You bet!" Morgiana's eyes flash toward Aladdin who flinches, "But I'm kidding!"

"If I may ask, what is your name?" Because it makes complete sense to give that information to someone who almost gutted her with ease at their first meeting, "The silent treatment can only take you so far, sweetheart." Otto sighs, defeated. To the point where the sentry droops on repented knee, head bowed at Morgiana's feet, "Truly, I am sorry for my rude behavior during our first encounter." Bits of pastry clog Morgiana's throat. As vexing as Otto's actions had been, there really was no need for groveling, "Part of my job requires weeding out weaponry and I noticed that blade of yours. I'll admit I was a little curious to see if a sweet thing like you could actually handle a sword, and I was pleasantly surprised." Intrigue fogs those midnight black eyes complemented by long, dark lashes, "Accept my apology or don't, it's entirely up to you but the fact that I'm sincerely sorry does not change."

"Please stand." Is bowing down to others so freely such a natural inclination for humans? "You are forgiven, Otto. As you say, you were merely carrying out your duties. Even if your methods are...brazen."

"Great!" A wicked large grin pulls on Otto's lips. He settles into a squat, an astounding feat given that stiff crimson armour, "So, any significant others I should know about or do I have a shot?"

Morgiana recoils, "Umm...What?" Where is this coming from?

Otto's charming gaze is warm, filled with pure longing. A steel gauntlet settles over the guard's shiny scarlet breastplate, "Your undeniable beauty and feisty nature enthralls my soul. I'm open to the idea of a long distance relationship, if you would have me."

Aladdin chokes on a gulp of tea, coughing and beating his chest with a fist while liquid drools from both his lips and eyes.

Morgiana flounders to keep a straight face, "Stop. Please."

Theatrics, all of it. Morgiana's certain the guard's goal is to get a rise out of her. But what is the purpose for this, and the purpose for Otto's existence?

Brokenness crushes Otto's jubilance. The guard stands with a sigh, armour clinking, "Alright. Otto knows when he is not wanted." Did...Otto speak in the third person narrative just now? "We all know courtship amongst territories is uncommon. But, if you ever fancy the taste of a man from the Fire Kingdom, you'll be in for a real treat." There's that shameless banter Morgiana has come to know, waggling eyebrows and all.

"So Otto, what brings you to the dining hall?" Aladdin's quick to swap topics and Morgiana does not complain, "Isn't your post on the outside?"

Descending locks swing from a high ponytail as Otto's neck lolls from side to side, "Just...making a few rounds before my shift begins. What about you two, any plans for today?"

Morgiana shrugs, snapping a brackish cracker between her lips. Aladdin answers after a sip of tea, "Probably just a browse around the market, nothing much."

Otto nods, "Sounds good. Any sightseeing on the agenda?"

"Not really." Morgiana responds.

The sentry careens backwards animatedly, "You're visiting the Fire Kingdom and never planned on exploring?" Expeditions are distractions. Time is something Morgiana will not let go to waste. Each day the tyrant king steps up to that regal dias, warming her father's throne, is the twist of an unreachable blade lodged inside Morgiana's chest, "Well then, there's been a sudden change to your itinerary. I'm taking you both to visit the city's main attraction. What am I talking about, you've already seen me!" Morgiana and Aladdin deadpan simultaneously, "Alright, alright. In all seriousness, I'm bringing you out to see the highlight of Fire Kingdom, no charge but I'll accept any and all tips!"

"Thank you, Otto." Salty remnants of another cracker descend from her wriggling fingertips, "However, we only plan on visiting the market today." Traveling around in public with Otto at her heels is the most unappealing thought Morgiana has had today.

The guard's pout is almost…cute, "But I want to take you out as part of my apology."

"Wif no oteriur motuves whasoeva?" Aladdin eyes Otto but the intimidation tactic fell flat on account of his pastry stuffed mouth.

Otto stands taller, right fist in left palm, followed by a languid bow. Magi's most common salute, "On my honour as a mercenary." Not exactly an honourable trade, "Besides, if you plan on leaving for the market now, you will have a little wait. Most stalls formally open in the next hour."

There is much to take in. So much that her brain might implode from excessively deliberating the pros and cons. Maybe Aladdin is…right about Morgiana's overactive weariness. Otto is frivolous, but honest. In hindsight, mapping out key areas of the city would be beneficial, and Morgiana is certain she can glean a thing or two from the mercenary, "Alright then, Otto." Morgiana swallows her final sip of cocoa, standing, "You may address me as Mor. This is my brother."

She waves a hand towards the blue haired alchemist chomping on another slice of watermelon, "Aladdin."

"We will be in your care." Morgiana's half smile falls short of reaching her intense eyes, "I trust you understand that I will not take harm towards me and my brother in kind."

"Would never dream of it, my pretty kitty." Otto winks, stepping away from their table, "Excuse me for a moment while I change into something more fitting for our expedition."

Aladdin finishes his final slice of fruit, "Okay, we should be done with breakfast by then." Otto nods before leaving through the distant hallway, "Never thought you'd agree to this, Mor."

Not that she is entirely thrilled about the situation.

"We need information Aladdin." Tone hushed, Morgiana takes her seat while they wait, "As much as it pains me to be around Otto, there is some merit to the mercenary."

Aladdin looks unsure. He seemed fine with Otto just moments ago, "If you say so."

Otto arrives under five minutes later in a light grey tunic scraping below the knee, black cloth belt tied around the waist and worn black boots sheathing a dagger each. Hands at the hips, Otto's eyes maneuver between Morgiana and Aladdin, "Ready to go?"

Same slender build, same scent – like the floral breeze of Bougainvillea Dark Woods on the northern outskirts of her homeland. "Sure." Morgiana heard Aladdin say.

A gentle touch on her chin startles Morgiana, "Chin up, my dear. It's impolite to stare." Otto's finger withdraws from Morgiana's face. She is instantly mortified that the mercenary caught her staring, "But since it's you, I'll allow it."

Morgiana stifles a groan. What she would do to put an end to Otto's ridiculous smirking. The mercenary gestures to the corridor, silently walking ahead. Aladdin wraps his left arm around Morgiana's right one, impeding their advance. He speaks into her ear softly, "If you don't feel comfortable with Otto, maybe we shouldn't go along with him. I don't like it when you're fazed and I'm not the one who caused it."

She pokes his side with a light elbow, half-smiling. Aladdin truly has a gift for realigning Morgiana's emotions, "I can handle Otto just fine Aladdin. I was simply caught off guard." None has ever flirted so openly with Morgiana. Brother would turn in his grave.

Several doorways shrouded by multicolored, glittery curtains line the white walled corridor. A staircase leading to the ceiling awaits at the hall's end.

"...I want everything ready before tonight."

"Yes, Madame Ramal."

Morgiana recognizes the short innkeeper as she steps out from beyond chartreuse drapes at the penultimate doorway to their left. The woman catches sight of the three immediately, stormy grey eyes inquisitive as she stands in wait. Her stone gaze settles on Otto who paused within an arm's reach of the innkeeper, "Explain." She demands, narrowing her eyes. Thin wrinkles crack Madame Ramal's brow even further.

"We are going up to the roof." Otto's head tips low, "Our guests were interested in getting a better view of the city and I was happy to oblige." Yes, Aladdin and Morgiana desperately begged for a chaperone.

She was a foot shorter than Morgiana but the innkeeper's domineering presence is impressive. Striding past, the older woman's steel gaze traps Morgiana's eyes. For one second they soften into quicksilver but in another breath mimic the harsh line of her pink lips, "Tardiness will not be tolerated. Be back here in time for your shift."

"Of course, Madame Ramal." Otto smirks, rising to full height, "You know I'm the prince of punctuality."

"Hn, prince you say." The innkeeper mumbles dryly, hobbling off to the dining area.

Otto presses forward, "Come on then, we have under an hour before I need to return." Climbing the stairs first, the mercenary fiddles with a ring of copper keys, choosing the longest one of four. It takes a few jiggles but the mercenary finally unlocks the rectangular hatch, tossing it upwards. Strobes of sunlight welcome themselves in.

Otto steps to the side, "After you."

"Go on ahead. You are leading the way after all." Having the mercenary at her back might not be in Morgiana's best interests.

Their guide smiles wryly, "What a gentlewoman." That snarky tone will not bother Morgiana today. She leaves Otto be as the mercenary climbs up to the roof first with Morgiana in tow and Aladdin at the rear.

The early morning sun greets them just before a multitude of buildings come into view. Every structure in the city blends perfectly with the desert backdrop. Mellow yellows, sandy browns and sprinkles of grey here and there, as far as she can see. The Portalis quartet shockingly stand out, each inhabiting its own corner of the city. Closest to their location, the south gate is a few miles away while its northern counterpart is an inconspicuous spec on the horizon. Yet the most eye-catching allure in Morgiana's line of sight would be a single edifice to the northwest, dwarfing every other in both size and grandeur.

Gold plated pillars of ostentatious design rim the kingdom's palace grounds. Archways connect each pillar to the next, an outlandish crown haloing the topaz structure at its center. Towers upon towers, carved and crafted into one ornate castle. Even at a distance, Morgiana can see the attention to detail poured into creating such a jewel.

Architects, mere men, have the potential to envision and create such intricacies.

It's so…wonderful.

Marvel flickers in her ruby eyes. Not often did Morgiana receive the opportunity to escape her territory's borders as a child.

"How's the view, and I don't mean me."

Morgiana refuses even an eye roll but later mumbles, "It is different from our small town."

"You haven't seen anything yet." Otto marches across the barren rooftop, stopping at the only edge overlooking another building, "Did I ask where you're both from?"

Aladdin joined Otto at the rooftop's end but stumbles back as Morgiana responds, "Did you not?" Otto steadily holds Aladdin's right arm, "I too have a difficult time remembering."

"You alright there?" The mercenary lets Aladdin loose and the alchemist nods, near winded.

"Yes. I'm fine Otto, thank you." She walks over to the edge, sneaking a peak down below. Ah, that's it. Aladdin's fear of heights can be so irrational. He climbs towering trees all the time, but once he strokes a particular height, panic consumes him.

Otto points northward, stepping onto the precarious ledge, "Now then, we're going this way."

Aladdin figures it out – his face pales exponentially – before Morgiana asks, "By that you mean, we will be traveling across rooftops?"

"That's right." Otto squats low without fear, obsidian eyes scouting the scene with careful concentration, "Some time ago, troublesome children from the slums created a game where they would race around the city this way. Core...something they called it. Fitting when you consider it's a real core workout. Was all fun and games until one of them...won the championship and they all went home, so now it's our turn!" Otto fluidly swept a few pertinent details under the rug.

"Y-you know what I think?" Aladdin's voice quivered, "Why don't we just go for a nice casual walk, on the ground?"

"Come on Aladdin." Otto jumps off the ledge and slaps Aladdin on the back. The alchemist nearly careens off the side of the building, eyes wider than full moons, "I would expect this from Mor, not you. Trust me, it's worth it from this height."

Muscle training, combat, those are Morgiana's forte. Comforting hand, not her greatest skill but she hopes Aladdin draws relief from her gentle touch on his shoulder. A half smile reaches her lips, "It will be fine, I am right here with you."

Otto nods, "You're in great hands, remember?" The mercenary skirts the edge yet again, observing the narrow alley down below, "This is the only real obstacle, the rest is pretty much a breeze." The jump is child's play, just shy of four feet, but if one considers the off chance they might take the dreary plunge to the bottom, faintness of hearts is understandable. "I'll go first, just to show you-" Otto's bravado goes silent as wind whooshed past Morgiana's ears.

Leaping and landing takes little effort, she even surpassed the edge by nearly two feet. Try as Morgiana did to make the perfect jump, however, she noticeably stumbled on her left footed landing.

Stomp!

Planted a few inches ahead of hers were Otto's small feet. They practically landed in the same spot but the mercenary's feet were longer.

"Easy, right?" Otto grins reassuringly.

Aladdin steps onto the ledge, "Yes, easy." He teeters to the left but regains his balance smoothly. This might not end well, "Okay, I'm going to jump. Right...now." Aladdin rhythmically swings his arms back and forth but his feet are glued to the roof, "I'm doing it...I'm jumping."

"Oh please do, Aladdin. Preferably before judgement day." Otto playfully mocks.

Discomfort crosses Aladdin's face. He's not going to jump, but needs to get across…

Ah!

That's it!

Morgiana should have thought of it sooner. The miffed alchemist is not the only prodigy around.

"Just letting you both know. This is unamusing."

"But no one is laughing." Morgiana tightens her clasp on Aladdin's right hand.

Otto snorts, "I am." Aladdin's foul scowl casts a dark glance at the mercenary who oscillates their portion of the human chain, "For someone from Strength I wouldn't think such an easy jump would pose a challenge."

"Strengths manifest in different shapes, Otto." Morgiana remarks, forgetting to ask just how their black haired companion concluded the two were from Strength Nation.

Otto nods in agreement, "Can't argue with that. So we're ready now?"

"Uh, just a sec-" "No time like the present."

A secret smile in her ruby eyes matches the one reflected in Otto's obsidian ones. Morgiana and Otto leap without warning, tugging Aladdin along with them.

Easy as the breeze.

Aladdin is still wailing, two whole minutes after they crossed the gap.

"Now this is just plain sad." Otto's head shakes with pity.

If they were related, Morgiana would be ashamed to call Aladdin her blood.

"I...could have done it by myself, thank you very much." Aladdin stands taller, regaining some of his inflated confidence.

Otto's fine eyebrows raise incredulously, "I mean, we're taking the same route on our way back so..."

Morgiana casts a light hand on Aladdin's shoulder. He has attained the pinnacle of paleness, "I'll be there if you need a hand Aladdin."

He shrugs her off, pride evidently wounded. Morgiana kept her distance then, falling to the back of their procession while Otto led the way. Their guide was far from useless, animatedly revealing 'fun facts' about Fire Kingdom's capital, surrounding towns and areas – Oleander Springs catching Morgiana's attention.

Separating Fire Kingdom from the Wind Tribe's territory, a massive caldera formed from a volcanic implosion around a half century ago. Sulphur streams and mineral pools bubble across the vale, complemented by peach, pink and pearl blooms. It's a destination, Otto says, that one does not wish to dwell in over an extended period of time.

"Some folks visit the springs to collect the therapeutic mud, or bathe in the sulphur pools. I've gone a handful of times but it's wise to keep your wits about you in that place. People have gone missing and were never found. Others return with signs of memory loss. Few say they encountered something…or someone. Even in those cases, the witnesses have trouble recounting exactly what happened to them. Oleander Springs is a 'get-in-get-out' situation."

That is in no wise disconcerting. None whatsoever.

"Wow, sulphur pools?" Aladdin plucks his notepad and a pencil out of his satchel, scribbling, "I can't wait to get a sample of that mud!" Only Aladdin can look past the obvious danger in the face of academic discovery, "Those flowers you mentioned – Oleanders – could they be the source of everyone's mental distortion?"

Otto shrugs, scaling a short wall that led to another rooftop, "Don't know. Never experienced it so I can't tell you. I would recommend staying away from the flowers, if your theory rings true."

Twenty minutes of maneuvering along housetops leads to a rickety stepladder missing three of seven rungs. At the top is a landing, encircled by a steel railing and a breathtaking view.

Brilliant golds and ambers crackle, coiling in the air. The heat of those flames must be scalding, deadly even. Granite steps on all four sides pave the way towards a colossal fireplace, burning at the city's epicenter. A dazzling diamond pristinely seated at the intersection of two broad roads connecting the northern Portalis to the southern, the east gate to the west. A sentry quartet guards the structure, each positioned and the foot of a staircase wearing intricate ruby robes. Amongst the heat of the day, frivolous garb and raging fire at their backs, it's a wonder none of those men have suffered severe heatstroke. Propped up at every corner, marble pillars tower a few feet above the spiraling wisps.

Imagining this scene in the coolness of night makes Morgiana gape in complete awe. Aladdin gets closer. Gripping the metal banister he whispers, "Woah."

Morgiana settles on Aladdin's left and Otto on hers, "The Grande Hearth, heart and pride of the Fire Kingdom." Said pride fervently burns within Otto's eyes, "Since the dawn of our kingdom, these flames have burned and never gone out. It's rumored that if they ever do, calamity and destruction will descend on this world. Great and unstoppable...but that's an old wives tale." Otto waves it off but as Morgiana has come to learn, the mercenary's black eyes give everything away. Not for one second does Otto believe the speculation to be false, "Fun fact! The Grande Hearth was set ablaze by Queen Sheba of The Red Lions."

Morgiana froze, ghastly chills claw down her spine. She tries her hardest to maintain a neutral face but her breathless tone didn't follow suit, "She did?"

Otto boastfully nods, "That is correct. The Fanalis Queen was once considered 'Mother' by all the territories, but nowadays the Red Lioness's influence is blatantly disregarded, in lieu of the tyrant king's indiscriminate slander and eradication of her peaceful clan."

Morgiana's blood simmers, quickly approaching boiling point. Aladdin's soft pinky is subtle, roping around Morgiana's where their hands touch metal. A reminder, to keep her negative emotions in check. A promise, that one day things will change.

"During the events of a long, grievous war," Otto continues, "Queen Sheba cast out a great evil from our lands and united the Eight Territories under a single title - Magi. At the wars end, she established the Fire Kingdom within the desert region of Magi, where the sun rises from the northeast. The Grande Hearth was her gift to us." Otto skirts the railing, slender fingers lithely dance along smooth grey metal, "Of course, foolish man loves interfering with everything sacred. Some have tried putting the flames out but none has come close. One imbecile in particular 'declared war' on our territory, in the name of Water Kingdom. He wielded Water's essence, created a puddle from moisture particles in the atmosphere. A pitiful sight it was. Try drawing water out of this desert, you'll be at it for a while. Our wards were swift in stopping him. His end, I will leave to your imagination."

The flames appeared less appealing suddenly. Morgiana swipes beads of sweat off her forehead, "Did Water Kingdom truly wage war?"

"No. Both Kingdom's rulers immediately squashed any suspicions amongst their citizens and that ordeal actually tied us closer together. But now that King Rashid is gone, who knows what will happen to the treaty."

"He must have been a great king." But Morgiana already knew that. Slowly now, gently test the waters, "Based on how highly people speak of him."

Otto sits on the railing, back to the fireplace while those dark eyes curiously study Morgiana, "Greatest king on the throne in my entire lifetime, and the only one I've ever known. Come tomorrow, this city, this entire kingdom will be turned on its head if that filthy swine wins the election."

Ahbmad Saluja.

Campaigning against his younger brother, the taller timid one. There has been no fanfare, no talk of the second prince at all.

"It's two brothers against each other, right?" Aladdin inquires, "Do you think one has a higher chance of ascending the throne?"

Otto's head tilts backwards, "Hmm, I would say...they're near equal. One uses bribery, the other actions. It all depends on whether they reach their target audiences. There's one final rally on the market steps later today, their last appeal to voters. By sundown tomorrow, their fates - all our fates – will be sealed."

"But why an election?" Morgiana's lower back leans on the railing, elbows propped up on the bar, "I find myself curious. King Rashid's firstborn should be king by default, no?"

Otto takes a while to respond, lips curled inwards in contemplation. Suddenly, a tiny frown paired with downcast eyes, "It's not common knowledge, so don't tell a soul. Especially that you heard it from me." Otto's voice lowers, grip tightening on the rail, "When King Rashid passed away, he left behind his last will and testament. Those present at the hearing were King Rashid's sons, his widow and Royal Advisor Kouen, the king's former right hand." This information sounds highly confidential. How does an apparent commoner like Otto uncover this sort of intel? "The late king announced his successor, not Prince Ahbmad like they all assumed but the crown prince's younger brother. Of course, the news was met with outrage by his first son. Before the announcement could be declared before the entire court, however, the slippery swine managed to destroy King Rashid's will right under Royal Advisor Kouen's nose. It was impossible to prove that the king's missing will was indeed real and that the kingdom was left to the rule of someone other than the crown prince. Long story short, both parties ended up coming to an agreement. That the throne's successor will be decided by the people through an election."

Morgiana makes eye contact with the raven haired guard, "Let the heart of the Fire Kingdom decide it's head. Unorthodox but understandable. Whatever will come out of it surely has a purpose." Yunan always said that. Every time he would catch Morgiana staring after her home along the forest's outskirts. She never found out whether his words were a supposed source of comfort or simply figurative jargon.

"I can only hope the whole heart is in the right place." Otto grumbles, "Most of them are eating up that swine's disgusting fodder." The mercenary's loyalties are clearly on display.

Aladdin gives Otto a wry smile, "I take it the crown prince is not your cup of tea."

Otto huffs, "In the wise words of those uncouth slum rats, Prince Ahbmad sucks." The salty downturn of Otto's lips smoothly transforms into a smile filled with undying adoration, "His opponent is ten thousand times more qualified to rule this kingdom."

Prince Sahbmad!

That was his name.

The second prince must truly be something spectacular by the admiration and respect radiating from Otto's dark eyes, "Is someone a smitten kitten?" Otto stiffens, clearly unprepared for Morgiana's comment. She smiles, a small smile, "I jest."

Seconds later Otto smirks, almost wearily, "Well aren't you full of surprises. You continue to exceed my expectations, Mor." Within two seconds of leaping off the railing, Morgiana is stuck between Otto and cold metal pressed against the small of her back. Not stuck exactly, breaking a human arm is quite easy. The mercenary's words were Morgiana's restraint, "Anything else you'd like to know, Purrrincess?"

Otto knows.

Or…was that another jibe?

Morgiana remained indecisive for far too long. She failed to notice when Aladdin grabbed Otto's shoulder, "Mind taking a step back?" Challenge frighteningly shone in those sapphire depths. Morgiana has never seen Aladdin so livid.

Otto laughs lightly, hands raised off the railing before stepping a foot away from Morgiana, "Sorry, sorry. I meant no harm, forgive me." Aladdin releases Otto's shoulder once his temperament cools off and the mercenary messages the area, whimpering. Interesting. Another side of her brother, Morgiana is impressed.

But…

"Hey." Morgiana reaches out, tiptoeing until she strokes Aladdin's head, "The older, overprotective one is me. No getting angry on my behalf." Her best friend's frustrations migrate to a new host. Crimson eyes narrow. No one interferes with her brother's emotions, "Alright then, commoner," Morgiana spat, eyeing Otto the way she would a pesky fly, "Tell me about Fire's soul. It's Essence."

Otto blinks twice, "Fire's soul?" Thoughts swirl within onyx eyes locked on Morgiana, "Never heard it phrased that way." A naughty smirk materializes seconds later, "And what if I refuse to tell you?"

"Then our expedition is over." Morgiana spins on her heels, making for the stepladder, "Come Aladdin."

Silence breaks when Morgiana steps down the first rung, "The soul of Fire." Morgiana glances at Otto who blankly stares into the Grande Hearth's inferno, "As with every other territory, The Essence is difficult to come by in this kingdom. Some are well known for their abilities. Others, I'm certain, hide the fact that they are blessed. Having The Essence is highly praised here, just as our neighbours to the north exalt their Gifted." Implying that the opposite can be said about the other territories…?"Why do you ask?"

"I wish to meet one of these Gifted." Morgiana responds honestly, the time for beating around the bush long past. Who knows, maybe Otto has a friend.

Aladdin speaks up, face taut with lingering rage, "We encountered one at the market yesterday. He shot this huge fireball out of his hands and used its momentum as a form of flight." Intrigue crosses Otto's visage as the mercenary turns to face them, "He was tall and blond with a horn sticking out of his head."

"It was not a horn." Morgiana defends, "Just...a peculiar sense of hairstyle."

Faint snickers caught Morgiana and Aladdin unawares. Their source stumbled back, holding on to the railing for dear life as mirthful giggles filled the atmosphere. Sweet and feminine, Toto finally gives herself away.

And that was a poor choice in naming her alter ego.

Poorer were Morgiana's slow deductive skills, "A...a horn!" Her bubbly laugh oozed with a strange sense of familiarity, "I can't wait to tell him that one."

"Do you know the one we speak of?" Morgiana inquires and Toto's laughter ceases.

She clears her throat, vocals dropping to a deceptive tenor, "Of course. No one else fits the description other than Prince Alibaba."

"Prince...Alibaba?" Who is that?

Toto smiles in understanding, "By your expression, you've never heard of him. His existence isn't well known outside of our kingdom. He is the late king's third child, born of a common palace chambermaid. Prince Alibaba may be an illegitimate heir, but he is his father's chosen successor and Fire Kingdom's rightful king." That explains why she is so knowledgeable, Toto knows the prince on a personal level.

The blond boy is a prince, royalty. Morgiana would have never guessed, "I wish to meet him."

"You and every other thirsty coquette in this kingdom." Toto rolls her eyes, appalled.

Morgiana's nose twitched, "Refrain from ever classifying me with the likes of uncultured call girls." As if Morgiana intends to throw herself at the blond. Ridiculous.

Toto chuckles, hearty unlike her dainty display moments ago, "My apologies. I was insinuating no such thing, Princess." Not very subtle is she. Just how did Toto sniff Morgiana out? "Hate to be the bearer of bad news but it will be impossible to have an audience with the prince, my dear." Toto brushes a stray lock off her shoulder, "He's busy preparing for this afternoon, then the day after is the election and after that may either be his coronation or whatever happens when he loses."

How depressing.

Morgiana stifles her inward sigh. Aladdin was right, as rare as the Gifted are, they'll come across another. Encountering the blond boy a second time is nothing more than a pipe dream at this point.

"Otto, how long has it been since we left?" Aladdin asks, gaze trailed on Morgiana before he smiles sadly.

Toto's eyes widen with fear, "Oh no. I'll be late!" She races for the stepladder but jumps down instead, "We'll take the less scenic route, it's quicker and the marketplace is on the way."

Their guide abandons her duties, sprinting like her life depends on it. That might just be the case.

Morgiana's sights refused leaving Toto. It would be difficult for Aladdin and herself to find their way back on their own. She descends the ladder first, glancing at her best friend for a moment, "Lucky for you, there's nothing to jump...I hope."

"Mor, I know you're disappointed about Prince Alibaba," Aladdin drops to her side. So that's what his downcast smile was about. He bumps her shoulder, "But cheer up, we'll find someone else. I'm sure of it." Aladdin's grin was brighter than a sunbeam.

She nods and a small smile overtakes her lips, "Right."

Five minutes of running and climbing elapse until they caught up with Toto. The raven haired beauty's stamina is extremely impressive, not a trail of sweat on her brow nor laborious breaths, "Ever experience rope burn?" Morgiana shakes her head, she has no recollection of any rope related incidences. Neither does Aladdin, "Well you will today."

In under a minute they land on a lower rooftop, a metal 'T' shaped post stands at the opposite end of the roof with four red strings connecting to a post situated on the neighbouring building. Clothing hangs on each wire except for a long, single strand floating amid the shallow wind. Toto grabs the rope from its source, "Don't worry, this is completely safe. At least...I foresee none of us dying. We're that good." The distance below is not very far. Morgiana could make that jump with minor injuries but injuries nonetheless. Toto shows them how to latch onto the rope and slides down smoothly, touching the ground before she bolts, "Head in the same direction as me but take the left, a right, then a left again and you should be alright. Just retrace your steps and continue down the street, the inn's on your right!" Toto disappears through the rising sandstorm left behind by her spectacular sprint.

"He is really something, that Otto." Should Morgiana tell him?

"Indeed." She takes the rope, handing it to Aladdin, "You first, or would you rather me carry you down?" Okay, Morgiana deserved that scowl.

Left, right, left, then the marketplace came alive.

Vendors, buyers and passers-by, their ruckus unapologetically smacks Morgiana's delicate ears. Aladdin runs ahead, stopping at a produce seller's stall. Fresh fruits and vegetables were the only items on display down this strip of road.

"Hmm?" Aladdin presents a green mango the size of her fist when Morgiana catches up. He peels a rosy ripe one between his teeth.

She shakes her head, "No, thank you."

"Take it." Aladdin insists, waving the fruit in front of her eyes, "You never know when you'll need a mango."

"That makes no sense." But Morgiana accepts it anyway. Tenderly, she stows the small mango in her bag. Rope burn is not a joke, Morgiana's palms are still raw from earlier.

The intersection up ahead heralds another section of the market, crafts and clothing the main attraction. Trinkets - miniature flags, pins, hair ornaments - adorned with Fire Kingdom's sigil and fabrics intricately stitched in styles of all kinds garnished each stall. A flowy, mint green dress steals Morgiana's attention, it reminds her so vividly of Toto's beautiful scarlet outfit. Violet feathers decorate the ensemble's base, coupled with a large beaded belt of the same colour. The seller doesn't seem to be around.

What is she thinking? Morgiana has no need for a new dress...it's really pretty though.

Glittering gold blinds her eyes for one fraction of a second before cold metal clings to her neck. Morgiana grabs a pair of hands, tosses their owner overhead and pins him to the sand. Millimeters from crushing his ribcage, the man wheezes for breath.

A merchant.

He appears harmless. Morgiana eases off his chest and the middle aged man gasps for air. Adrenalin ebbs out of her system and the frigid sensation at her throat is more noticeable.

A gold necklace studded with a glowing ruby at it's center adorns her neck. Another strained cough diverts Morgiana's attention to the man attempting to sit up. She offers a hand, pulling him gently to his feet, "My apologies."

"That's alright." He responds once his breathing returns to normal, "You're not the first I've startled." Then why are you still startling people? "I thought that necklace would look perfect on you, and I was right." Her fingers chastely peruse every groove engraved into the sparkling jewelry, "Made with white gold and for a lovely lady like you, only five hundred silvers. No, four fifty, I'm feeling generous today."

The necklace screams expensive, a prime target for thieves. Morgiana unhooks the clasp behind her neck, "As beautiful as it is, I... can't afford it." Can't afford to own it.

"Oh...how about four hundred?" The merchant pushes Morgiana's extended hand with the necklace back to her but she shakes her head.

"I'm sorry." She hands the necklace to its owner.

The man was not convinced, "You look like you really want it."

Morgiana shrugs with a half smile, "It's a quality necklace but..."

The seller kindly retreats and Morgiana wishes him a good sale. Glancing around the area, she had a feeling it would happen if she kept her eyes off him for too long. Aladdin is nowhere to be found.

"Marvelous." Where did that busy body of an alchemist go?

Disappearing without saying anything, that boy can be so unreasonable. No heads of blue hair, only attractive vendors and their attractive customers. Retracing her steps might be wise but what if Aladdin ran ahead? Morgiana sighs, best she begins from their starting point.

Swiveling around, Morgiana heads back to the intersection. Well, she planned to. Getting hit in the nose was not part of her strategy.

"Ow." She stumbled back, messaging the area. It's not broken, thankfully.

"Oh, I'm sorry for bumping into you. Are you alright?" The one who also turned around at the exact moment she did asks. Gingerly stroking his chin - where they probably collided - the blond observes Morgiana worriedly, "Hey, you're the girl from yesterday."

Morgiana takes a step back, just to be certain she was hearing and seeing correctly. She didn't believe it was him, couldn't believe it.

Prince Alibaba.