HELLO MY WONDERFUL READERS. THANK YOU ALL OF THE REVIEWS AND ALSO FOR THE FAN ART. IT INSPIRES ME TO WRITE.
I know it's taken a while for me to update even though I'm on break, but I have a lot to take care of aside from being a university student.
Also, along with this charper, I bring some news. If any of you happen to be fans of Hunter X Hunter; then feel free to take a look at the first chapter of my crossover that I have just posted and tell me what you think.
Enjoy this chapter!
"Aw you're so cute!" exclaimed Sakura, starring down at the baby girl in her arms, she had long teal-blue hair in two braids and amber coloured eyes. The traits of most of the Imuchakk people. Sakura recently found out that Rurumu had given birth to two girls. Both resembling their mother quite a bit. Apparently, that was the reason she had not been around when Sinbad had dealt with Madaura, because Sakura was certain if she was here. She would not have allowed Sinbad to take the risk that got him turned into a slave in the first place.
Sindria trading company were currently making last minute preparations before they took off to Ballbadd. Sindria had been preparing to set up base in the country and they were finally ready. In Sakura's opinion, it was a good idea to get out of Reim. Sinbad would be welcomed there, thanks to his association with King Rashid.
Sakura's attention was drawn away from the company affairs, when she felt a strong tug on her top.
"I think she's hungry." Sakura said, tickling the baby's stomach. "And I hate to say it but I'm less than qualified for that job."
"Don't worry," Pipirika assured her, waving her hand. "Rurumu-nee should be finished soon, I'll take all of them to her in a few minutes."
Sakura nodded before lifting the Imuchakk baby into the air, watching her break out into a fit of giggles before bringing her back down. At least she managed to distract her from her hunger for a little while.
"Can you imagine having twins?" Pipirka asked, bouncing the other baby girl on her lap, while watching Kikiriku run around on the carpet the two girls were sitting on. "That's double the work."
Sakura groaned, running her hand through the teal hair, "I can't imagine having one."
Pipirika frowned, she leaned closer to Sakura "When do you plan on having children then?"
Raising her eyebrow, lifting her chin into the air Sakura spoke, "I will consider having children, when my age number doesn't end with 'teen'. That's my philosophy."
"Well you are with Sinbad, so philosophies can change."
Sakura felt her face threaten to grown hot, but she did her best to push back, what was evidently the involuntary action of blushing. Apparently, there was some kind of trial all couples had to endure when they were still green, that included teasing from their friends. Even Sinbad had been caught getting flustered-him of all people. To think the man who charmed multiple women in the day; honestly it was hard for Sakura not to take a crack at him as well-mostly because she was certain he would have a comeback that would send her hiding in her room for the rest of their relationship.
"There is no way anyone will change my mind about something like that, not even Sinbad." Sakura stated, attempting to save herself further grief.
"I can't change your mind about what?"
Sinbad opened the door, just in time to hear Sakura's statement however he wasn't certain of the context. Though when he saw the look on her face, he definitely wanted to find out what turn this conversation took before he walked in.
Pipirika and Sakura glanced at each other, as if pleading an unspoken oath. They did not respond to Sinbad and turned their heads away.
"Fine," Sinbad sighed, surrendering. "Anyway, we'll be heading off soon. Pipirika, Rurumu asked for the kids."
Pipirak stood up, taking the twin girls and Kikiriku before heading towards the door, greeting Sakura and Sinbad. After she left, Sinbad carefully closed the door. With his hands behind back, Sinbad strolled in with an 'innocent' expression on his face.
"So-
"No." Sakura replied, already figuring what Sinbad was going to ask. "I am not telling you what we were talking about, and you cannot convince me to do otherwise."
Sinbad let out, what Sakura could only describe as a whining before he sat down next to her. Sakura narrowed her eyes at Sinbad, his legs were crossed, hands holding his ankles as he rocked side to side.
"Why do you have that look on your face?" Sakura asked, leaning away from him.
Sinbad kept smiling as he rested his head on Sakura's shoulder, "I missed you."
Sakura rolled her eyes, "You've seen me every day; I'm in your office with you for hours."
"I missed being with you like this!" Sinbad clarified, nuzzling her shoulder.
Because of all the preparations for their move to Balbadd, Sakura and Sinbad were not able to see much of each other out of a professional setting. They had been working almost none stop, Sakura was really feeling the brunt of things because on top of helping Sinbad, she also dealt with the children who had joined the company.
She apparently wasn't the only one who had nightmares of that night, and she started making medicine to help calm the children down. They apparently slept better like that but Sakura was worried about them becoming dependant on the medicine. She had almost been tempted to take them herself. If it wasn't for workload, she wouldn't have a valid excuse for the bags under her eyes. Only Masrur was really aware that Sakura was having trouble sleeping, and that was because he spent some nights sleeping with her.
As if memory brought about action, Sakura yawned and rubbed her eyes. She felt Sinbad take his head off her shoulder and a gentle pressure on her head.
"Is there something bothering you Sakura?"
"No," she replied and she was grateful that he didn't press her, even though he knew she wasn't telling the truth.
"You ready?" Sinbad asked.
"Yeah," Sakura replied, smiling.
"Then let's go to Balbadd."
Sakura had been to many cities and many different countries; each with unique features. Sasan had its natural resources and its knights were powerful fighters, Artemyra's women were able to control animals, Imuchakk people's bodies were not only large but they were able to survive in harsh environments and Kou was an expanding force with a powerful monarch that already had a dungeon capturer and a very promising future, but Sakura had never seen a place like Balbadd before. It was a costal nation, made up of hundreds of islands; it was a country that flourished as the centre of sea commerce. It was also about to become Sindria's new base of operation.
Sakura had wanted to stay with Rurumu, Pipirika and Mystras to help with the cargo and to see the company's new building but Sinbad insisted that she come with him, Ja'far and Hinahoho to greet the king. She obviously had not seen him since their first time in Reim and Sakura was somewhat nervous about meeting him again. Apparently, they had used the king as a way to let Madaura's guard down and get her to sign the contract that ruined her. They made her think that Balbadd was going to adopt slavery into its country, with that in mind she was willing to put herself in debt to Sindria, believing that it had been a good investment opportunity. Though underhanded, it was rather genius.
The royal palace had a very unique design, the buildings had cylindrical shaped roofs that fanned out into cubes from the bottom; all the towers were symmetrical, standing side by side perfectly. There was a giant wall surrounding the magnificent structure, all you could see from it were the tall rooftops. The inside was even more impressive, the floors were made of powerful, smoothed out stone. A large red carpet lined with green and gold lead up to a small flight of stairs where the kings throne stood. There was a second floor where guards were able to stand around.
"We're extremely grateful to be granted the favour of your hospitality. I, Sinbad, head of the Sindria Trading Company, have come here today to give you my thanks and to report our accomplishments to you…King Rashid of Balbadd."
Ja'far, Hinahoho and Sakura were crouched down in a lunge position, their hands together and heads bowed, Sinbad was in front of them, also bowing as they greeted king Rashid. Sinbad began by thanking the king for his hospitality, that their move from Napolia to Balbadd had been successful and that they would be opening the next day.
And then he came too what was most important…
"Also, about the incident with the Mariadel Company…..without your assistance, I woldn't be here today."
Sakura could practically feel Ja'far and Hinahoho tense beside her even though they were not touching. The air seemed to grow thick, but then Rashid spoke, his voice calm yet mixed with tenderness and it became lighter than a feather.
"There is no need for such formality. Just treat me the way you always have." Rashid said, though there was no smile in his face, there was glee in his eyes. "Welcome back Sinbad. I'm glad you're back safely."
Sakura felt her shoulder's visibly slump in relief and then Rashid's eyes fell on her. "And I was surprised to see you're here as well Sakura; it's been a while."
"It has." She laughed with a nervous glimmer. She herself had come to admire the king, much like Sinbad. Straightening up, Sakura bowed her head once again. "King Rashid, I would also like to personally thank you for what you have done for Sindria; from the bottom of my heart. I am extremely grateful to you, for protecting both the company and its founder."
Sinbad glanced back at Sakura, their eyes met and they smiled before returning to face Rashid again.
"Again, there is no need for such formality." Rashid said, waving his hand dismissively. "However, the two of you really do live for adventure don't you? When I think to the first time we've met, I would consider you both rash. I'm not sure whether your courage could be call recklessness."
Sinbad scratched his cheek, his mouth turned downward. "I'm sorry; I throw myself into things I want to do whole-heartedly and then it ends up like this…" He then looked back at Sakura again. "But I am fortunate enough to have friends who are willing to put everything on the line for my sake. Although it does make me worry some."
Ja'far then decided to chime in, breaking Sinbad and Sakura's moment of solitude. "I'll say, try putting yourself in the position of those around you."
Flustered, Sinbad began whispering to Ja'far not to say things like that in front of his mentor. However Rashid then spoke that had everyone's attention returning.
"Sinbad…is it still sufficient to call Sakura your friend?"
Though Rashid voiced it as a question, he had an expression that told them he already knew the answer and this was just a way of getting a rise out of the two teenagers. It worked as well, as both were flustered, babbling out of sync with one another. Trying to deny at first and then realising that there were two witnesses in the room that could at any time chime to differ (Ja'far). However, it was even worse when they tried to explain it. Despite Sinbad's impeccable ability to charm and woo women, he had not been in a relationship before and the same went for Sakura. Being in love, did not make you an expert on relationship either.
As babbling wasn't getting them anywhere; both finally managed to reach a question that brought them to a standstill. "How did you know?"
Hinahoho, Ja'far and Rashid gave the two a deadpan expression from all sides, but Sakura and Sinbad were oblivious to the implication.
"I've been around enough to notice the signs." Rashid said with a crooked smile. "Honestly, I'm a bit relieved. The two of you made quite a pair."
The two held back from looking to each other; they were going to get enough teasing when they got back to everyone. Deciding to skilfully draw them away from the topic, Sinbad spoke again.
"This incident has given me something to think about though." Sinbad began, "Becoming a slave, I realised the world is full of unreasonable things besides war. I'm glad I realised that. A lot of people were affected by everything that happened. But now, I have no hesitation about the path I must take."
The whole room had grown quiet as they listened to Sinbad, using his talent to turn heads. Sinbad looked up, his eyes shining with that familiar gleam of determination he often held whenever giving these kinds of speeches.
"I will build a country." He stated clearly, his one fist clenched tight. "Now that I have everything I need…this is the perfect time."
Sakura wanted to mention to Sinbad that he did not in actual fact, have everything he needed. Aside from funds and suitable allies. There was still one fundamental matter at hand. Luckily, Rashid beat her to state the obvious.
"I have no problem with you founding your own country." Rashid said "But, just what are you planning on doing about the land you need to build it?"
Sakura's sweat dropped as she slouched, "And there it is…"
Sinbad seemed at a loss, just as expected. He may have had a strong will, determination, a sharp mind and great leadership skills. However, he also had a habit of delving in so deep into situations that he would miss the base of it.
"Land?"
Sakura didn't hesitate to slap her forehead then.
"Think about it. If you don't have land you can't build a country."
Sinbad seemed to think for a moment, finally considering something he had not thought about throughout his question to create a country.
"Since you're my mentor I don't suppose I could have a small-
"No Sinbad." Sakura quickly interjected, already knowing what he was going to ask but she couldn't bear to hear him actually ask it. If he continued, she was going to have to go over there and gag him. Friend or not they were still in the presence of a highly respected individual. Sakura was never one to undermine authority nor allow someone else to-and she promised herself to make sure that the same principle applied to Sinbad.
"A country's foundation is its land. Both your assets and resources." Rashid explained.
Sakura pulled a face, frowning slightly. "But most land in this world has already been claimed. Most already belong to other countries. The only way to expand is invasion and that typically results in war. For example, Hakutoku Ren unified two neighbouring kingdoms founding the Kou Empire and is continuously expanding by convincing other lands to come under their patronage. Though it does at times result in conflict."
Rashid nodded, "That's right, you seem to know a lot about the Kou Empire Sakura, ever been there?"
The pinkette bit her lip, she and Koumei had sometimes ended up talking about the Kou Empire's founding; she found the history of the country very interesting. Though considering how the rest of her stay there went; she'd rather not bring it into discussion.
"No, I've only heard of it," she quickly recovered,
"Well Sinbad, what Sakura says is correct about claimed land. Although if you found some untouched land somewhere capable of supporting a population. That would be a different story."
Rashid then pointed at Sinbad's metal vessel, "But you have those. Metal vessels. If you use that power that surpasses human knowledge, it wouldn't be difficult for you to destroy a country in a single night. You could also use it to get the land to build a country. However that would be hypocritical of you, when you dream of creating a country that ends conflict. How will you create your own country?"
Sakura quickly interjected, "It is true that with both mine and Sinbad's metal vessels, but you were wrong about one thing king Rashid," the pinkette stopped to take a breath, "We are not the only ones in this world who have obtained metal vessels, our travels to other countries have made that clear. If we resorted to those kinds of measures, there are plenty who would be able to fight back."
Without her consent, Sakura's mind instantly went to Kouen. He may only have one metal vessel by far, but he was looking for more. He was just as ambitious as Sinbad and if she dare say so, just as terrifying. Picturing those two in battle….she shivered.
'Eh they're literally continents apart, what are the odds the two of them will ever face off against each other?' Sakura thought
"As defensive as ever." Rashid said, smiling at Sakura. "I'm not trying to threaten Sinbad. I'm just interested in the answer. However as an apology let me tell you something. South of the Reim Empire is a land known as the 'Dark Continent; it's a place that is considered a savage, untouched land."
Everyone's ears seemed to perk at the mention of untouched land.
"The dark continent." Sinbad repeated, absolutely focused.
"Yes, a vast amount of land that belongs to no country. I cannot guarantee that it's what you're looking for but it's the only untouched land left in the world. It might be worth the look." Rashid explained, he exhaled and opened his eyes to look down on the group. "But don't forget it's not going to be that easy to create a country."
Of course, Sinbad already knew this but it was only through actual experience that he had begun to grasp true contemplation of the difficulty. Sinbad spoke again, it seemed he was ready to voice a question but stopped when he heard muttering coming near them. Everyone else stopped as they also heard the voices.
"Brother stop…."
"Shut up. I can't forgive having such a lowly thief in the palace!"
Sinbad stood up, he silently walked towards one of the many pillars that stood along the wall. The two voices continued, unaware that everyone could hear them. Sinbad drew back the curtain that hung along the pillar.
"Quit your complaining. It's loud. Who are you two?"
Sakura craned her head back, to see two boys running in a circle frantically attempting to get away from Sinbad. One was crying about how he was going to get killed by a 'lowly commoner.'-also known as Sinbad.
Catching them from the back of their clothes, Sinbad pulled them up into the air watching them squirm. Sakura sighed, Sinbad may have been good at charming people and he did well to persuade the slave children. However, handling kids was a completely different matter. He did not know the basic etiquette of handling children.
"Best of luck when you two of have kids." Gaap said in a deadpan voice.
"I think she'd have better luck with the guy who didn't return her affections, the one she always talks about." Sitri chimed.
"Use to talk about." Gaap corrected.
'Okay, you two shut up.' Sakura stood up and went over to Sinbad, before telling him to put the boys down. Sinbad of course decided to protest.
"No, these brats need to learn some manners."
Sakura put her hands on her hips, "Even so, that is not your job. You're not their father."
Taking the two boys, Sakura set them down gently. Getting a closer look at the two. One boy had a rather long face, wavy black hair and a nervous expression on his face. While the other was husky, with a large round head and short black hair. Both were dressed in fine robes, indicating high status, which explained the one boy's tone of arrogance.
"You two…I thought I told you to stay out of here. Hurry up and get out…"
When Sakura looked at King Rashid she noticed that his expression changed to what would be described as; exhausted. He scratched his forehead as one often did to indicate they were getting a headache.
"But why father!? Why did you let a guy like this into the palace!?"
Sinbad gaped at the two boys, "Did he just say father?"
"Then those two are…?" Sakura pointed
"That's right. These are my sons." Rashid said, sounding hesitant.
"I am the first prince of Balbadd, Ahbmad Saluja," the husky boy stated with pride, puffing out his chest.
"I-I am the second prince Sahbmad Saluja,"
Sakura bowed her head, "It's an honour, I apologise for my leader's behaviour."
Ahbmad scoffed, "Well at least one of these lowly commoners know their place."
Sinbad frowned and stepped forward, "That's it-
"Sinbad." Sakura turned back to him, giving a warning glare.
"What did I do?" Sinbad asked, confused. He wasn't the one who just insulted her! He then looked back to Rashid.
"Are they really your sons? They don't look anything like you."
Sakura's jaw dropped, "Sinbad!"
Ahbmad glared at Sinbad, throwing hair punches at him while his brother attempted to calm him down. "You insolent thief! I'm going to have you thrown out of this palace immediately!"
Sinbad smirked, "Oh! Go ahead and try. I'm here on official business with the king as the head of my company. I've done nothing wrong."
Aside from harass the princes of said king, Sakura wanted to comment but she was already feeling too tired to give a response. She watched as the two boys ran off, Ahbmad now threatening to tell his mother about what happened. Ja'far said that it must be the queen, but Sakura wasn't too sure.
"Don't worry," Rashid said sighing. "This happens all the time, although this is quite embarrassing. I don't know if it's because I left their education up to their mother, but they've turned into hooligans. I worry about the day I will have to leave this country in the hands of my sons."
"I'd be worried too." Gaap said offhandedly
'Shut up.' Sakura hissed in her mind, though she didn't necessarily disagree with her djinn. She also realised that the king use the term mother and not wife or queen. Their relationship must be based on political terms. And those were the kinds with more complications.
"Nobody's perfect, a perfect country doesn't exist either. You homeland is a good example…"
Sinbad frowned, "Has something happened to Parthevia?"
"It has been a while since you've been there…Parthevia has agreed to sign a cease-fire treaty with Reim."
King Rashid proceeded to tell the group about Parthevia's current situation. Sakura listened closely, there might be something she could take back to Serendine. Perhaps something that would calm her nerves about its condition. Rashid told them that with the previous emperor of Parthevia dead and the princess missing (no one chimed in to mention they were aware of it). There was still the prince (Serendine's younger brother) but he was apparently still a child. King Rashid said that most of the domestic issues have been left to the general of the royal guard.
"There are rumours that he set things in motion himself by initiating a coup…
Sakura had heard that from Serendine, she was certain this was who the king was speaking of. Barbarossa, even though they had not met the man before, it seemed that they were certainly learning a lot about him.
"However, the general immediately put a stop to the war that was draining national resources and have been focusing on creating new policies for the country. Because of this, he has gained the support of the people. Parthevia is also showing economic recover now. Thanks to a single general, Parthevia has changed."
Sakura knew better than to be objective, putting aside personal feelings was a rule of being a ninja. That was how they had formed allies that were once their worst enemies. However, she didn't know about this case.
"I heard that you originally left your country to attain power to save it. If that was where you started. I think it would be a good idea to try thinking about it once more. What you want to do and why you want to build your own country."
When they left the royal palace, it was clear that Rashid had given them a lot to think about. They had decided to take a look around Balbadd, since they now had the opportunity. Balbadd was beautiful, with many ravines for boats to ride on with the same near equivalency of a road for caravans. It wasn't called a port city for nothing. They were walking along one of these ravines, while attempting to figure out what their next move was going to be.
Sinbad stood quietly, looking out at the edge of the water, deep in thought.
"Sin…" Ja'far called
When he didn't respond, Hinahoho spoke-to no one in particular. "What should we do now?"
"We need to search for land to build a country, but I also want to know the situation in Parthevia."
Sakura turned away from Sinbad, she had given up on getting him to talk a while ago and decided to leave him be for now. Knowing he would break out of that soon enough.
"The king already told us," Sakura stated. "That Parthevia's situation had changed; but I think that we should focus on the main goal here. To create a country and we first need to find a place to do that.
The thought of involving themselves with Parthevia did not sit well with Sakura, Ja'far had been hired by that country's military general to track down Sinbad and eliminate him. Sinbad told her himself, he believed Parthevia was a lost cause. In fact, she wanted to add that Parthevia was not Sindria's concern. However, she wasn't sure it was her place to say that. Then there was also Serendine and Drakon who had come from Parthevia, escaping after the coup.
"I got it! I'm king of the mountain!"
Sakura, Ja'far and Hinahoho turned around and saw a few children, running around on top of the roof of a small house. Looking in the area, Sakura realised that they had somehow ended up near the more rundown part of the city; the slums. The houses here were more or less the same, made of brick and worn out. The poorly kept environment was not the only thing that gave away its living status, but the atmosphere the individuals created. There were people laying outside, leaning against some of these building or lying on the floor.
"I guess places like this still exist, despite Balbadd's flourishing trade." Ja'far said softly.
"Just as King Rashid said, building a country and maintaining it won't be a simple task."
Sakura didn't say anything, instead she returned to Sinbad's side. Resting her hand on his shoulder. "Sinbad…"
The pinkette startled a little when she felt Sinbad take her hand and cover it with his own. Lowering her hand, he turned around to Ja'far and Hinahoho-a content smile on his face.
"I've made up my mind!" he began, Sakura felt the rukh fluttering gently around him. "Parthevia has become a peaceful country, that's what matters. We only knew about what happened from Drakon and Serendine's perspective, but it seems that Barbarossa was not a villain without a plan."
Sakura narrowed her eyes, for some reason she already knew what he was going to say next. "But you don't want us to share this new information with Drakon or Serendine."
He nodded, tightening his grip on Sakura's hand in a pleading manner. "It would only upset them."
She knew he wasn't wrong, this kind of information taken in the wrong context, could lead to some rash actions. That could possibly put Sindria at risk or worse-Sinbad himself. And here Sakura was hoping that she could tell Serendine about this, but when she thought it through; Sinbad was right. She is the princess of Parthevia; the countries change in situations may not matter to her as much as how it was obtained. By her losing her father, her throne, her birth right…
"Yeah, you're right."
"It's good to hear the war's over at least," Sinbad said, his voice then lowered. "Even though there are things I want to change about the world, there will always be countries that won't change. There will always be people who promote injustice."
Sakura then gave Sinbad's hand a reassuring squeeze, to remind him and he continued.
"I said I would start by saving my home country, but I'm not about to stand in the way of my own progress."
Everyone kept quiet, sensing that Sinbad had more to say.
"Besides…" Sinbad's eyes closed, his smile grew larger "A new adventure of the Dark Continent is waiting!"
The atmosphere became lighter, as Sinbad continued to go on excitedly about how they were going to build a country there. Wondering, what this new land would be like.
"Our destination is the Dark continent! Let's go!" Sinbad exclaimed, ready to lead everyone through the streets and back to the company but he stopped when he came to a sudden halt. He looked back at Sakura, who was staring up at the roofs where some of the slums children were still playing.
"Sakura?" Sinbad called.
Removing her hand, Sakura smiled brightly. "You guys go ahead, there's something I want to check out."
"I can come with-
Shaking her head, Sakura gestured forward with her head. "You go on ahead, I won't be too long."
Sinbad seemed like he wanted to protest, but Sakura gave one look to Ja'far and Hinahoho. As if they had deciphered a code, the two got a hold of Sinbad and lead him back; telling him about the preparations they needed to make before they could head to the Dark Continent.
It was strange, one moment she didn't feel anything and then it appeared. She had heard the fluttering of the rukh, after Sinbad had dimmed down. It was vague, but it was there and strong enough to get her attention. She followed the laughter, until she reached a clearing in the slums with nothing but piles of sand bags that filled the area, creating a hill. There were children running around, in a race. Sakura saw that they were trying to get to the top of the sand heap before the others. A piece of white cloth tied to stick replicating a flag sat on top.
The children were clambering up the makeshift mountain to reach the goal. There was one that was outclassing them all, a boy with dark dreadlocks, sharp yellow eyes; he appeared to be about six. He climbed up the hill, grabbing the flag on top and turned around. Towering over the group of children with a huge grin.
"All hail your new king!"
One of the other children called out, "Gotta hand it to you Cassim; that was awesome!"
"There isn't anyone who can beat me is there?" The boy Cassim gloated.
Right behind him, Sakura saw a worn out green dresser. Most likely thrown away by someone. The draw from the dresser slid open and the flag was suddenly snatched from Cassim's hand. Within the draw, a small boy appeared. A boy who looked to be five; with short blonde hair and hazel colour eyes with a hint of gold.
He grinned, waving the flag around. "You should never let your guard down during battle Cassim." He stood up in the draw, "Know why, because I can dig more tunnels in this mountain that you can begin to count!"
There were murmurs from the other children, however Sakura was fixated on the two that were standing on top. That sensation she felt before, grew. The rukh were fluttering more vigorously, it was different from anything she had seen before. Sakura gasped softly. 'What is this?'
"I win again!"
Cassim frowned at the smaller boy, "Dammit Alibaba, that's cheating!"
"Is not!"
"Is too!"
It looked like the two boys were about to break out into a fight, over who had actually won their little game. However before that could happen, the flag had vanished from the blonde boys hand. As if by magic.
"Huh?"
"Where'd it go?" asked Cassim, starring at the blonde boy's empty hand.
"I-I don't know!"
There were a few more mutters from the other children at the bottom; a loud whistle had all of the tiny heads turning to the roof of a small house. They saw a figure standing on top, a girl with short pink hair, waving something in her right hand-their flag!
Cassim frowned "Hey that's ours!"
Alibaba nodded, frowning at her as well. "Yeah, give that back!"
"Hey!"
"That's not fair!"
The other children also chimed in and Sakura was looking down at some hostile expressions. All from little kids, the oldest couldn't be older than eight. There were about….twenty or so now looking at her. Boys and girls. And judging from their state of dress, the worn out rags, they were all from the slums. Sakura's heart gave a little tug. The last time she had seen a child in a position like this, she had gotten teary eyed in the middle of the street.
Sakura's eyes fell on the small boy, Alibaba. He seemed to stand out from the crowd of children; his hair was a physical feature that set him apart from the rest of the dark haired children but more than that, Sakura saw the rukh's reaction to the boy, a kind of calling she couldn't understand.
It was something that peeked her interest, but seeing all of the children now. There was something else she wanted to do instead.
Sakura waved the flag around, a playful smirk on her face. "Well how about this. If you can catch me I'll give it back."
Bending her knees slightly, Sakura pushed up and launched herself into the air. The wind blew through her hair, the children's heads moved around; their eyes following her in awe as she landed on the ground in front of the hill.
Spinning on her heel, Sakura looked down at the children, "Well, how about it?"
Cassim was the first to recover from the state of shock, he glared at her. His eyes were so angry. Sakura actually shivered, but her determination did not deter.
Cassim looked like he was about to say something, when Alibaba spoke first. Jumping out of the draw, he started running towards her full speed, his tiny bare feet stumbled down the mountain. His held an excited face.
"You're on!"
Two feet close to Sakura, he reached his hand out for the flag however the pinkette vanished into thin air. Alibaba and the other children gasped all looking around for her again.
"You're gonna have to do better than that." Sakura said in a sing-song voice. Cassim jumped back, turning around to see Sakura now sitting on the dresser. She held up the flag high. A big grin on her face. "Though I must say, I am impressed. You were the first to strike; Alibaba right?"
Seeing a dark flash next to her Sakura spun around on the dresser, her legs straight swinging around; all of her body weight supported on one hand as she jumped off. Cassim came around the dresser to make a grab for the flag. His hands kept darting out towards it, but Sakura always moved it out of reach. He didn't come close to even touching the fabric, but that didn't mean he was willing to give up so easily.
'He's got spirit,' Sakura thought before she took another big jump off the hill near another group of children. She looked at them, holding the flag in front of them.
"Well?"
They also began coming at her, Sakura continued to avoid them as they reached out for the flag. There were four of them; yet none could get close getting it back.
After another minute, Sakura vanished and materialised on the other side of the mountain again. Soon enough, all of the children were coming at her to get the flag, however, they were attacking individually-not as a team.
Sakura kept pace for about five minutes, she notice the children tiring yet they did not stop attacking. There was a thing with children's stubbornness and pride. It was far more resilient than adults. They couldn't understand their own limits; in a way that's what made them reckless. From her experience, it was a child's early experiences that had the most influence on their view on life and how they dealt with it. They were impressionable and that's what she was counting on.
"You're all still attacking alone." Sakura sighed, she continued to evade the children as if the task were as simple as walking down the street. She showed no sign of fatigue, however she did notice the children growing wary every passing minute. She didn't miss their grumbling stomachs either.
Sighing Sakura came to an abrupt halt, she jumped onto another house. Overlooking the children, panting and sweating. It may have all been for a flag that could be easily replaced, however it was their own stubbornness that kept them going. The flag was theirs and they were not willing to give it up without a proper fight.
'Far more admirable than many adults.' Sakura thought.
Tucking the flag on the side of her belt, Sakura clapped her hands twice to get their attention. "This is no good! At this rate you'll never get your flag back."
Craning her neck slightly to the side, Sakura managed to avoid a stone that was aimed at her head. The throw was slow, but nearly dead on. Her eyes fell on Cassim. Standing with his back slouched forward and his one arm dangling in front of him-as if he had just thrown something.
"What the hell is wrong with you people!?" Cassim shouted, "You having fun tormenting kids! Just because you're bigger than us!"
Sakura didn't respond and simply stared at the boy; he had a hateful look in his eyes. Something she had seen in Ja'far before. However this was from another source. There was an obvious past behind this cause. The question wasn't directed just at Sakura; it wasn't a surprise though that children like these would receive grief from adults. They were seen as easy targets. Taking their situations and state of living as a means to define them until they believe it.
'That isn't what I want to do,'
Putting her hands on her hips, Sakura let out a dramatic sigh. "I just wanted to play a game since it's been a while, but you're all so slow….." putting her finger on her chin, Sakura appeared to be in thought. She snapped her fingers, all the children still watching her. "I know how to make you faster!"
…
…
…
…
…
…
…
"What….
"Wow….
"No way….
"This is….
All of the children stared at the sight before them, their jaws open wide (some had saliva running down their chin.). Sakura had her arms crossed over her chest, but a blank expression on her face. Behind her, a cart meant to be pulled by at least two people or one animal; however she came pulling it in herself till she reached the junk yard the children played in. She had disappeared for half an hour with the flag and came back with a cart, filled to the brim with crates of different fruits, some dry meat, bread and two barrels of water.
"What are you waiting for?" Sakura asked the dazed children, she pointed to the cart.
"C-Can we really eat all of this?" a girl asked.
"You're not going to beat me without energy." Sakura shrugged, then she gave a genuine smile that erased all doubts. "Go right ahead."
They didn't need to be told twice, the children ran towards the cart and started gathering up as much as they could carry. Sakura just stood back and watched the scene unfold. After they removed all the boxes from the crates, the boy Cassim came to the front.
"Alright everyone form a line."
At the beginning Sakura could see three different scenarios occur from her bringing food. One; the children would grab whatever they could get and run off with it. Second; they would stay but fight each other to get as much food as possible. Third (and what was possibly the most unlikely); they would share the food equally.
There was a light feeling in Sakura's chest as she watched the latter occur. The boy Cassim had taken the initiative to dish out all of the food and he had given everything in equal portions-though Sakura had gotten more than enough for all of the children to have seconds. It was only after everyone else was eating, that he helped himself with the same portion as everyone else. He went to sit with Alibaba and a little girl with dreadlock hair and the same yellow eyes as Cassim. It was easy to tell they were siblings.
"You truly are a kind one my king." Gaap said.
"It's nice to see you have not changed," Sitri told her. "Although I still think you're a bit sadistic for making them chase you around like that."
Sakura only smirked in response. 'That's not it Sitri; that's not it at all'
A flash of red caught her eye and Sakura held up her hand to catch the apple that was thrown her way. She turned in the direction it had come from and saw Cassim with his arms extended. When Sakura looked at his eyes, she saw a shift. The hate was gone, they did not hold hostility even though he appeared to be frowning.
"You're going to need energy too," was all he said before returning to his meal.
Sakura took a bite into the apple.
With their stomachs full, Sakura could see the change in all of the children's faces. There was no longer any hostility but the determination remained. This was now a real game.
"Go!" Cassim called.
The children started running; but it wasn't towards Sakura. They started running around her, a circle in constant motion. Sakura's eyes darted around her but she didn't turn around; this was clearly meant to make her dizzy and throw her off balance.
One of the children broke up the formation and went for the flag tucked on the side of Sakura's waist. The pinkette avoided him easily enough, but then another came at her from behind when she was occupied with the other child; she managed to avoid him as well. However; the numbers continuously started to grow and the circle was soon no more. Sakura was being boxed in from all directions.
'So that's why they were whispering amongst themselves.' Sakura thought as she side stepped a child. 'I wonder who came up with this plan.'
"Now!" Cassim called, he was the only one that wasn't a part of the formation. Watching everything from a distance near the hill.
The children suddenly launched forward all at once; Sakura realised that they had closed off any escape gaps. The pinkette jumped into the air, she landed halfway up the hill of sacks and looked at the children.
"Not bad," Sakura said "You almost had me."
Cassim started clambering up the mountain, alone. He rushed to Sakura, reaching out for the flag. Placing her hands behind her back, Sakura manoeuvred ever so slightly out of Cassim's reach. Sakura began to gradually move up the hill, Cassim in pursuit. His eyes never leaving the flag.
Sakura reached the top, standing up straight she looked at Cassim. Who was heavily panting and sweating. "You're trying to win alone against me; that's not going to work." Sakura stated, she hadn't wanted to say it but it seemed that he still didn't understand. "When facing off against someone that's stronger; numbers usually help you."
Cassim didn't respond to her, only he stopped panting and Sakura saw a hint of a smile on his face. She tilted her head to the side. 'What was that for?'
Sakura felt something slide out of her waist, she turned around quickly and saw a smiling blonde boy in a draw, holding a flag.
"I got it!" Alibaba announced.
All of the children cheered and clapped; it took a moment for Sakura to realise what had happened. She looked down at Cassim and realised why he was smiling. She had been so occupied avoiding the other children that she didn't notice the single blonde boy that was missing from the group. Cassim had only meant to lead her up the hill so that Alibaba could come out and snatch the flag when she was occupied.
The pinkette smirked, 'Not bad….'
Cassim ran up the hill, as if he wasn't tired at all and high fived Alibaba. The two boys then gave her sheepish smiles of accomplishment.
"Nice job, did you come up with this plan while you were eating?"
Cassim nodded, he rubbed his nose proudly. "Me and Alibaba came up with the plan and we passed it on."
Placing one hand on top of each boy's head, Sakura smiled affectionately. "You two make a good team. Remember that."
"Hey miss," Alibaba said looking up at Sakura, "Why'd you take our flag?"
Sakura didn't hesitate in answering; "I just wanted to see if you all were determined and would work together."
Cassim frowned again, "But why?"
"You kids are living in a difficult world. You need to stand up for yourself and work together if you want to survive. I didn't know any other way to teach you this lesson than through a game."
She kept it as simple as she could, these were only children after all. There were only two facts that they needed to take from that statement.
Cassim and Alibaba just stared up at her, Sakura reached down and lifted the two up. Cassim struggled a little before he settled and Alibaba just held on tighter. She turned back to the other children.
"Okay, I need everyone to form a line."
The sun was setting over Balbadd, the sky was lit with a bright orange tinge mixed with purple. Sakura walked through the slums. After an eventful game of 'Capture the flag' Sakura had given each of the children a bag of coins from her dungeon treasure-a weight that they could carry. Knowing that it wouldn't be safe to have them carrying this much around. She took it upon herself to get all of the children to their homes. She smiled every time she heard a child run into their homes and hear their joy-filled voices as they told their parents what had happened in the junk yard. She met with some of the parents who extended their thanks but she didn't stay long since she had to get ALL of the children back.
The only three left was Cassim, his little sister Mariam and Alibaba. Sakura had Mariam propped on top of her shoulders. Alibaba and Cassim holding one of her hands.
"Here it is." Alibaba called pointing to a little space, with bricks covered in fabric. "Mom, I'm home!"
A women came out of the opening, a beautiful women with long black hair and dark eyes, pale skin unmarred.
"Alibaba!" she called happily. Alibaba started pulling Sakura with a bit of force to get to his mother. Sakura now stood in front of the women, who looked at her.
"Oh, is this a new friend Alibaba?"
Alibaba nodded, "Uh huh, this miss Sakura!"
Chuckling Sakura shook her head, "Sakura is just fine."
"Nice to meet you Sakura, I am Anise." The women introduced herself with a kind smile that Sakura couldn't help but return. This might explain why Alibaba stood out to her before; his mother was similar. She didn't give the same reaction of the rukh, but she stood out above the rest of the people in the slums. They were dreary and obviously weary; not that it could be helped. Poverty granted great difficulty.
"I'm sorry for getting him back so late; it's my fault really." Sakura said.
Anise shook her head, "Don't worry about it."
"Mom look!" Alibaba said holding up the bag of coins with a bit of effort.
Anise's eyes widened "Is that-
"It's his reward for winning the game." Sakura interjected, smiling down at Alibaba.
"We all got!" Alibaba said cheerfully, gesturing to the bag Cassim held.
The dark haired boy then let go of Sakura's hand and went in front of Anise, "Um, Aunty Anise, could you…." He held up the bag in front of her and the women's face showed a kind of understanding. She nodded and took the bag from him.
"Don't' worry." Anise said reassuringly.
Sakura was confused, but she had a feeling that this was a personal matter; a boundary she shouldn't cross.
"This is certainly a lot though, are you some kind of noble lady?" asked Anise, it was pure curiosity that laced the question and nothing of hostility.
"Oh no!" Sakura shook her hand around nervously, "I am no lady,"
Stepping forwards Anise grasped Sakura's hand gently, bringing it to her mouth and planting a small kiss on it. "Thank you."
For the first time in a while, Sakura was hit with a familiar wave, a warmth-a true mother's warmth.
It was dark by now, Cassim had lead Sakura by the hand through the slums. Even in this darkly lit area, the boy seemed to know his way around perfectly. Mariam seemed to be half asleep on Sakura's head. Cassim suddenly stopped, "This is far enough."
Sakura frowned, "I want to get you home safe-
"It's just down this road." Cassim said gesturing in front of him. "I'll take Mariam."
Bringing the little girl off her shoulders; Sakura handed her to Cassim. He held his sister with great care, not usually the kind you got from a six year old. He seemed to have a strong sense of protection for her. Almost as if he was the only one who did.
"Are you sure?" Sakura asked; she knew that there was something going on with him. First he handed the money to Alibaba's mother. It didn't seem like an offer. Now he didn't want her to take him home.
'What kind of home does he live in then….' Sakura wondered sadly.
"Thank you for everything." Cassim said about to leave.
"Cassim," Sakura crouched down, she put her hand on his shoulder; her eyes seemed to shine under the moonlight. She appeared ready to give a long speech; but instead she leaned forward. Placing a small kiss on the boy's forehead. She heard a small gasp of surprise.
Sakura pulled away, smiling gently. "Don't ever lose hope."
That's all for now; I don't know when the next chapter will be coming but rest assured that I am working on it. Also again; if you happen to be a fan of Hunter X Hunter, then check out my new story.
Don't' forget to review!
