"-And that's how it is. May he stay with me for the time being my King?" Alibaba was bowed low at the waist before his father at the royal court. He was lucky in being able to get a semi-private audience with his father. Around him were nobles of the highest authority that were brought into court by the royal house themselves. Alibaba could feel the scornful whispers and stares from most of them. Those were Ahbmad's friends he figured.
King Rashid sat at the throne with a silent regard for his youngest son and his new companion. Behind Alibaba Lo'lo stood at attention. He did not bow or show any deference to the King or the court. He was dressed in a combination of island garbs and pilfered Reim armor. Alibaba didn't exactly approve of the second-hand stealing. The plan was to distribute the stolen goods into the market as planned, with the illegal goods given to Tirdad's smuggling contacts to get rid of. Still, Lo'lo did look better now. He looked nothing like the slave he once was.
"When you went to visit the western Isle, the ship was blown off course and you ran into slave trading pirates?" Alibaba could feel the skepticism in King Rashid's voice. "And you then freed all the slaves on the ships, amongst whom was a Fanalis? A Fanalis that wishes to stay with you?" Alibaba nodded his head sharply, not daring to look up from his bow. He bit his lip harshly while waiting for the verdict.
"This is ridiculous!" The voice was from the left, a nasal tone that belonged to Lord Varanci. He was in charge of mitigating the relations between Balbadd and Quart, a small city to the north that had rich mines. He lived in the first district and had a nice home that was often home to parties for the rich. Abhmad liked to visit him often, Sahbmad in silent tow. Alibaba never met the man long enough to have a proper opinion.
"We all know what Fanalis are and what they are capable of!" He continued in a harsh shout to the others in the court. "If word gets out that the third Prince has a troupe of them living in his quarters they'll think that they are his own personal guard or soldiers! They might even think that Balbadd is trying to arm itself with the warriors and be more wary to trade with us!" Alibaba bit his lip harder. He was scared of this. He had tried to explain to Lo'lo that he couldn't just let him stay with Alibaba, that he had to get permission. Lo'lo didn't understand, not knowing that Alibaba was a prince. As a last-ditch effort, Alibaba had let that spill, nearly getting strangled by Kassim and Zainab for the reckless choice. Lo'lo still didn't budge however. To him, Alibaba being a prince just meant that he should be able to do whatever he wanted. A nice sentiment, but wrong.
"Two Fanalis is hardly a troupe Varanci." This was from the left. An aged voice of an elder wise with years. Alibaba peeked through the fringe of his hair and saw that it was Lord Farrow. He was in charge of the fishing company at the docks. There were rumors that he planned on retiring from court and giving the seat to his grandson who was currently running the business. He had a calculating gleam in his eye while looking over the Fanalis.
"Though I suppose you do have a point, if drastic. Supposedly Reim has its own squadron of Fanalis for war-time conflicts. People might think of that when news of the Prince's friends gets leaked out." The old man pursed his lips thoughtfully but didn't say anything more.
Those two men's statements was like letting floodgates open as the other nobles began to speak their own doubts and worries about Lo'lo. No one liked the idea of Alibaba letting him stay at the palace. Throughout it all King Rashid was silent. He watched Lo'lo carefully. Alibaba didn't dare rise from his bow. Behind him, he heard the sound of Lo'lo shifting on his feet. In the small time since meeting Lo'lo Alibaba had learned that the man was kind, but had a short temper. Alibaba prayed silently that Lo'lo could stay under control just for this moment.
"And how do we know if what the Prince said is true?" Lord Gavun asked with a side eye to Alibaba. He twisted his mustache with one hand and readjusted his tunic with the other. "He didn't board any of the royal ships or let any of the guard attend him. For all we know he's lying about the whole thing." Alibaba visibly faltered at this, wincing. There was shuffling behind him again, and he felt a hand press onto his shoulder as Lo'lo stepped forward. Alibaba looked up in panic, flinching at the wild ferocity in the man's gaze.
"What the hell is your problem?" Lo'lo growled, eyebrow twitching. Alibaba feared that he may have even seen a vein throbbing. "He's your Prince! I thought that made him more important than squabbling pests like you!" Lo'lo crossed his arms, staring down all those who dared meet his gaze. Alibaba's mouth dropped open at the brashness of Lo'lo's words. Did this guy have no sense of his surroundings?
"I'm so very sorry!" Alibaba dashed forward to stand in front of Lo'lo. Nervous sweat ran down his face as he faced the outrage of the nobles "Lo'lo isn't used to the courts, and he means no offense." Alibaba studiously ignored Lo'lo as he continued to stare down the nobles in defiance. Everyone could tell that he did mean to offend. Alibaba's mind stuttered, scrambling a way to fix this. Before he could think of anything, Rashid raised his hand to silence the room.
" While Lords Varanci and Farrow make good points, I see little to worry about." Rashid's voice cut through the room like a sharpened blade. "Balbadd is known for being a peaceful and non-aggressive country. We are merchants and traders, not warlords. Our allies know this." He looked over at Lo'lo with a speculative eye. His gaze moved over to Alibaba, filled with intent. Alibaba knew what it meant. He had some explaining to do.
"I trust in my son's word for how he came across his new friends. I see no true reason to deny his request." It would be a hard conversation to have, but Alibaba couldn't help but feel the bloom of happiness of the approval for Lo'lo.
Dexia shuffled on his feet nervously. The veiled woman behind him was silent, nose held high in contempt at the ragged surroundings. It irked him. The noble thought herself too good for main base and slums in general, even if she was dealing with the Barasi. Some high horse she was on. Dexia didn't voice his opinion. He wasn't stupid enough to do that.
He wasn't the smartest thug in Balbadd, but he wasn't an idiot either. Dexia knew when to keep his head down, mouth shut, and follow orders. He survived the slums this long knowing when and where to throw his alliance. When Kassim had up and left, for the blasted upper classers no less, there weren't many options left. Mirno's lot were a rough bunch that Dexia hung with for a time, but he couldn't stand the old man. Tirdad was a loon, and after a few altercations at the red light districts Papak and his brothers wouldn't take him in.
Then the Barasi started up. Dexia could see right away that they were going to be powerful, and signed himself up real quick. His intuition was right, given how much territory and members now in the fold. They had guards in their pockets, Port workers, bandits, pirates, and even informants in the palace itself!
Dexia glanced back at the woman. She was a new addition. Only recently joining the cause. Lady was high in the social food chain too, with the firm requirement that her identity remained secret to everybody save for the bosses. Dexia figured her to be a regular at the palace courts, given the way she walked and talked in a constant sneer.
He didn't know why she showed up that day. As far as he knew, the lady was scheduled to show for another week. Something must have happened. There were rumors of a botched run with some shipments. Dexia didn't know much, having been on his own assignment at the time. Whatever it was, he figured it to be important to bring her all the way down here. He led her to the boss' private quarters, and kept his eyes down as she passed him into the room. He stepped back from the door to keep away any instincts to eavesdrop. Dexia wasn't willing to tempt himself. The boss and captains would not take kindly to him sticking his nose in business above his station.
Dexia knew better than to push his luck. He had seen what the Barasi does to traitors.
It took some time before they were able to garner a proper plan against the Barasi. The raid against Summer's Eve was fast and loose, both plan and execution flimsy despite the results. It was discovered that the Barasi's weapons and armor was mostly procured from the desert bandits. The ships were raided for the slaves, where the Barasi would add the captives to their numbers or sell them off.
Tirdad and his men worked on the ship raids. They would free the slaves, find what evidence they could in the manifests, and then leave the ships to go on their merry way. Lo'lo would often join in on the raids, happy to wreck a ship or two in the case that the Barasi's pirates showed up mid-raid. Alibaba could tell when the pirates had intercepted Tirdad's group. Lo'lo would return with a smug air and insist on retelling the whole adventure in extreme detail. It almost made Alibaba feel bad for the Pirates. Almost.
A majority of the slave shipments were coming from Partveria, with a few coming from Reim, Artmyra, and the Akita islands. That stuck out to Alibaba, because the last he knew, Akita didn't trade much in human trafficking. Not to say it was non-existant, but it was odd. Alibaba put the thought to the side, given that it had the least amount of shipments anyway. Seeing the pattern had also given Alibaba more insight as to why Sindria's ships were never hit. Sinbad was a mitigating factor to be sure. Of that Alibaba had no doubt. No one would be stupid enough to anger a King who had conquered so many Dungeons. Yet, even without that, the Barasi wouldn't attack Sindria's shipments. Sindria didn't trade in slaves, having the same policy as Balbadd on the subject. Because of this, the Barasi wouldn't need to mess with Sinbad. Not when they were only after slaves in the sea-fair.
As for the bandits, that was dealing in a more delicate manner. Almost all of the main trading routes that were used were being attacked. It left little wiggle room for caravanners. It also didn't help that the attacks were seemingly at random, or would happen in two different places simultaneously. The troubling part was that there was no sight of a possible base for the bandits, or for the Barasi whole either. It was difficult to anticipate the attacks or help defend against them. Frustratingly enough, the Barasi had a solid hold with the land trade.
The Barasi were up to some end game that Alibaba couldn't see. There was no telling how close they were to achieving it when he didn't even know what the goal was. Any moment now could be the critical one. That wasn't even taking in the factor of Sinbad. It had been almost a month since Rashid sent word to Sinbad. The man was likely on his way to Balbadd at the very moment, giving Alibaba a small window of time with his current leeway on the situation. When Sinbad showed up, he'd take the reigns and Alibaba would likely be benched.
When Alibaba revealed the truth of what happened with the Summer's Eve and Freeway's battle, he was furious. Alibaba had never seen his father so angry, it was terrifying. Rashid was near ready to storm Lord Danca's estate – he was the one who hired Summer's Eve's services – and demand answers. Rashid didn't, given that there wasn't much proof to be had that didn't contradict what Alibaba had reported to the courts. Instead, Rashid was helping Alibaba in discovering the reason behind slaves coming to Balbadd. He was the one who given Alibaba access to so many scrolls and files. Truthfully, if Alibaba thought he was swamped, he knew his father was ten times more busy in the research. Hopefully he had gotten further with their only clue. The emblem.
Each manifest listed a different name that routed to a different noble house, leading to various countries and outer cities from Balbadd. The only connection they could find was a small emblem that was indicated with each purchase referencing 'Miscellaneous Goods'. That usually meant cloth, jewels, tools, and books. In this case, it could only mean the slaves. Alibaba had been pouring over the emblems for each noble house, searching for a match. The emblem was of simple design, a small dove with a wreath on its head and a branch of honeysuckle in its claws.
His room was covered in scrolls. The amount was so thick that Alibaba was sure that Lo'lo could go swimming in it. Alibaba was about to take a break from his research to head towards the Old Grounds for training. His control with Amon was slowly but steadily getting better. He was becoming more confident in preforming his partial equip. It wouldn't be long before he could control his Magoi enough to do a full equip.
After training, he'd visit Papak's place where Kassim was staying. Alibaba needed to check in with them to start plans for what they were going to do about the bandits. Trying to stop the bandits in one go was too ambitious, even if Alibaba wished to do so. They had to focus most of the efforts on the slave ships and were spread too thin because of it. The Barasi had more numbers on their side, While the Underground Alliance – as the slums have taken to calling it – were barely scraping by.
Alibaba cleared out the mess of scrolls before leaving, knowing he'd be too tired to do it later. He couldn't let the maids clean it up. The scrolls themselves could sometimes have sensitive information. With Alibaba's lack of progress finding the culprit to the slaves, he wasn't trusting many in the palace or its courts. Kassim's skepticism may have rubbed off on Alibaba, but it didn't hurt to be careful.
It was the mid-afternoon, so Alibaba had a few hours worth of training he could do. He was determined to acquire his full equip as soon as possible. They had no idea just how powerful the Barasi's magic tools were, or what else was up to their sleeves. At this point, Alibaba wasn't going to risk anything.
Barrack was in the courtyards with the guards, watching over their practice drills. Alibaba approached him, dressed in more civilian clothes for his outing. Barrack noticed him, nodding his head silently as Alibaba stepped up beside him. The man let out a hearty chuckle and tilted his head to the right.
"Your friends are putting on a show." Alibaba looked to where Barrack had indicated. Over in an empty pavilion, Morgiana and Lo'lo were sparring. Alibaba's mouth dropped as he watched. Morgiana was like a flying dancer, leaping in the air and twisting out kicks with amazing precision. Lo'lo was grinning fully, laughing as he blocked her easily. He wasn't doing much, re-directing her blows with ease. Morgiana wasn't off-put from it, merely landing in a crouch just to launch herself once more. It reminded Alibaba of her spars against Masur when they were in Sindria.
"A-ah. At least they're having fun." Lo'lo amusement was obvious, while Morgiana's less so. The girl was normally stoic, and her expressions hard to read at times. Alibaba could tell she was enjoying herself though. Her brows weren't furrowed as much as when she was angry or frustrated. Though, she was perhaps taking the spar more seriously than Lo'lo. Alibaba watched them further, wondering who would win. Morgiana was constantly on her feet, while Lo'lo stayed in his place without worry. It was soon becoming apparent that while she was impressive, her stamina was running out. Lo'lo, who hadn't moved much, was still in top shape. He was also proving that, currently, he was more skilled than she was. Sadly, Lo'lo would be the winner. Alibaba was rooting for Morg.
"Barrack," Morgiana landed on the ground in a crouch again. This time she didn't get up. Alibaba used the break to speak with the captain. "I'm going to head into the city. I won't be back until late tonight." Barrack turned from Morgiana's spar and frowned at Alibaba.
"That late? Excuse my manners sir, but are you sure that will be safe?" Barrack glanced to the palace gate dubiously. "There have been rumors about the lower districts. It is not my place to intrude, but I worry that it does not bode well." Alibaba flattened his lips. He knew that people were talking about the Alliance's war against the Barasi. They were in a power stalemate, with the Alliance steadily taking control of the sea, and the Barasi still holding the land trading hostage. He hadn't thought that word would reach as far as the palace so quickly. Things were still pretty under the radar considering, what with the nobles refusing to report the ship raids. The only reason that they hadn't heard from the markets was that most of the traders robbed were planning on trading in the lower districts.
Alibaba paused that thought. The lower districts. Only the mid-low classes were being affected. The lower class especially. The caravans trading in the upper districts, where the nobles and well-off middle class traded, weren't touched. It was as if the Barasi were being extra careful to not tip off the palace what was happening. Or, they were ordered to by someone in the courts. They already knew that there was spy for the Barasi in the courts. It was the only way they were able to gather their information on the ships.
What if their spy wasn't a subordinate, but a partner? Like Alibaba was for Kassim in the Troupe. They give information out for either a price or other incentive, with a promise of the Barasi leaving the upper districts alone. The Barasi, wanting to gather as much goodwill and followers in the slums and small districts would agree without hesitation. It was a perfect ploy to not only trick the nobles into placidity but the regular civilians into thinking that the nobles were purposely messing with their trade. Fester ill between the classes as the lower districts lose more and more in the markets, and the nobles continued to only get wealthier.
"Young Prince?" Alibaba startled, mind snapping back into the present. Barrack was looking at him curiously, a hint of worry still in his gaze. Alibaba swallowed the sudden lump in his throat. He needed to discuss this with Tirdad and Papak. No need to get ahead of himself. They'll speak about it together, and if they think it's plausible, he'll report it to his father. He was due to check in with him soon, giving the King an update on the Barasi.
"I know what you're talking about." Alibaba gave a weak smile. "It's sort of one of the reasons why I'm going. Kassim lives there and, well-" Alibaba hated deceiving Barrack like this. The man was trustworthy, of no doubt. Still, Rashid had ordered this to be kept under wraps. Not only was there a spy in the palace, but a noble was dealing in slaves. It was a political nightmare. If word got out to the city? Alibaba didn't want to imagine. The whole point to his training and getting Amon was to avoid a rebellion after all.
"I understand." Barrack sighed. "Please be careful, and tell Kassim that I want to see him. He's missed several training sessions." Alibaba promised with a guilty wince. Kassim's been too busy on the streets to really come to Barrack's lessons. Alibaba knew that the boy was training when possible, with both his swords and flame canons.
There was a shout to left, where an altercation was happening between two guards. Barrack sighed once more and gave Alibaba an apologetic farewell. Alibaba grimaced as the man began to shout without mercy at the two guards. Alibaba was guessing that it wasn't the first offense.
Morgiana and Lo'lo must have seen him because when Alibaba turned they were heading his way. She had sweat running down her face, but her breathing was normal. Lo'lo looked perfectly fine with a smug smile.
"It's good to see you're both working hard." Alibaba said. They likely only sparred due to boredom. At least, on Lo'lo's half. The man was always ready for a fight. "Especially you Morgiana. You did really well!" Alibaba gave her a thumbs up. Morgiana blushed at the encouragement. Lo'lo grumbled under his breath, eyebrows arching.
"Hey, I was the one who won the fight." Alibaba chuckled at the put-out tone. Lo'lo shrugged with a shake of his head. "Whatever. Morgiana might be quick, but her strength is lacking." Morgiana didn't seem put out by the matter-of-fact way Lo'lo delivered the words.
"Well, you are older. And bigger." Alibaba pointed out needlessly. "And she's much stronger than people who aren't Fanalis." Lo'lo blinked, as if he hadn't even considered that. Knowing him, he hadn't. Lo'lo forgot his own strength plenty of times. One time he broke one of the doors to Alibaba's room by accident. The man apologized heavily for it. Alibaba waved it off, still amazed at the show of strength. Lo'lo was a fearsome opponent. Morgiana was brave to spar with him.
"I want to be stronger." Morgiana's words were small. Alibaba barely heard the near whisper. He looked to her in surprise. She had a determined expression, eyes earnest. Morgiana reached a hand up and touched the necklace he gave her.
"I want to be able to help Alibaba like he was able to help me. I need to get stronger for that." Lo'lo hummed in consideration. It did explain why Morgiana would constantly drag him out for spars when he wasn't out wrecking Barasi pirates. Alibaba pursed his lips, hesitation making him unable to speak at first.
He had thought about it, unsure it if was proper. Morgiana had no ties to him personally, not like the Morgiana of the future he knew. Telling her about household vessels and asking her to become one was asking too much. He hadn't even discussed it with Kassim yet. Alibaba didn't know if there was a proper way to approach the subject. Sinbad had told them about it the first time, all but requesting Morgiana to become a member of Alibaba's household for him. A fact that irked Alibaba somewhat now when he thought about it. His other household members, Olba and Toto, had become members on their own. They received their vessels without Alibaba's notice, signing up without thinking to ask or be asked. It left Alibaba floundering somewhat now.
Thinking about Olba and Toto made him miss them. Toto was a great teacher in Reim. Olba and his siblings held a soft spot in Alibaba's heart as well. Olba had looked up to Alibaba, and with him the others. They had wanted to follow him, a touching sentiment. In dark and quiet times, Alibaba would think on them. How they were. Toto was likely okay in the hands of the old teacher in Reim. Olba and his siblings were another matter. Were they okay? Or had they been ensnared by that witch who they called 'Mother'? Were they trapped into becoming her pirates already?
Alibaba had to force himself to push those thoughts aside. As much as he worried for his friends, he had other things to deal with. Just like when he first arrived in the past and he couldn't help Morgiana. He would help them. Eventually. There were steps to doing so, the first one was dealing with the Barasi.
The rival gang had metal vessels with unknown powers and at least one Fanalis. Morgiana wanting to be stronger wasn't a bad thing. It made sense. If she had her household vessel, Alibaba knew she would be a great asset. She would be better protected also, having more fire-power at her disposal. Alibaba nodded his head to himself, decided.
"Well, I might be able to help with that." Alibaba kept his voice low. Morgiana and Lo'lo perked in interest. Alibaba jerked his head towards the palace gates. "I'm going to head into the city, I'll tell you on the way." Lo'lo and Morgiana traded looks but nodded. Alibaba wasn't expecting Lo'lo to accompany them, but he wasn't going to run the man off. He was sure that Morgiana would have told him about it anyway. The Fanalis had become close in their connection to each other.
Alibaba waited until they passed through the first and second district, wanting to be further from the prying eyes of the wealthy nobles. As they entered the third district, he slipped into familiar back alleys that led to the Old Grounds.
"What I was talking about before," He began, slowing his walk into a more leisure pace. "As a Dungeon capturer, I have a metal vessel." Alibaba smiled as Lo'lo blinked in surprise. He forgot that Lo'lo didn't know about Amon. "I met Morgiana when I was in Amon's Dungeon." He elaborated.
"Amon, a Djinn, is housed within my knife." Alibaba patted his sheathed vessel. Morgiana nodded along as Lo'lo looked at the gold hilt with curiosity. "That makes it a metal vessel. With Amon, I can have something called a Household. Someone with a close bond with me, or who chooses to follow me, or help me capture other dungeons, could harness a similar power of Amon's by becoming a member of my Household." Alibaba held up his hand and waved it quickly as he saw Lo'lo and Morgiana start to have questioning looks.
"Ah, not that I plan to capture other dungeons." Amon had said he couldn't have a second Djinn that time when they were in Zagan's Dungeon. And, frankly, he really didn't want to go through that kind of hell again. No thank you. "And you don't have to stay with me if you don't want to. I know you want to go to the Dark Continent, Morgiana. And, as for you Lo'lo, well..." Alibaba trailed off with a shrug. He honestly had no idea what Lo'lo's plans were. Whether he wanted to stay in Balbadd or go was up to the man himself. Alibaba didn't even know if he would want to become a member.
"But, it's an option. I wouldn't mind you becoming a member if it meant helping." Morgiana looked to be thinking carefully. Lo'lo didn't seem to be bothered all that much.
"I don't need any fancy powers. I'm strong enough as is." Lo'lo reasoned. Alibaba nodded, understanding. Lo'lo was powerful, and he didn't mind that the man passed up the choice. Truthfully, Alibaba wasn't sure how he would feel if Lo'lo accepted. It was hard to imagine anyone other than Morg, Olba, and Toto as his Household.
"How do I become a member?" Morgiana asked. Alibaba thought about that. Memories from the future could be hazy at times. They came upon the bridge to the Old Grounds. The place was deserted, making it perfect for his training.
"There's no ceremony, if that's what you're wondering. All you need is something that you would keep on you at all times, something that's made of metal." Alibaba smiled as he remembered the gauntlets that Morgiana had tried on when Sinbad was explaining it. "If it has a deep significance or bond to you, it would be better of course." Just like how Amon had transferred straight into Alibaba's dagger. While it wasn't worth much financially, it did remind Alibaba of good memories of his father when he was younger.
"It just needs to made of metal?" Alibaba blinked at the sudden excitement in Morgiana's words. He nodded his head mutely. "I- I have my old shackles." Morgiana's feet twisted on the ground and her head was facing down. "I couldn't bring myself to get rid of them, so I brought them. I've had those for so long. Then you helped me break free, from both the physical and invisible chains I wore. I think, now, they serve as a reminder that I choose freedom." Morgiana looked up with a kind smile. Alibaba paused, feeling a smile on his own face. It would seem, no matter the time-line, she held the same beliefs.
"Okay. We'll take the shackles to a smithy to repair them into something better." Alibaba had a feeling he knew what design she was going to ask for. Lo'lo dropped a hand on Morgiana's head and ruffled her hair playfully.
"I don't understand, but you certainly seemed determined. Be sure to impress me with these new 'powers'!" Alibaba laughed at Lo'lo's request. The man seemed to always be ready for a fight. He might have made a good gladiator.
Morgiana and Lo'lo began to lightly spar again, this time with Lo'lo actually giving her tips. Alibaba left the two to their business and pulled out Amon. Closing his eyes, Alibaba focused inwardly on his magoi. It was still startling to him somewhat. Looking back, or forward in this case, Alibaba's magoi was nothing to be impressed with. While above average, it was a drop in the bucket compared to his fellow Djinn Equip users. Even Kougyoku had a better pool of magoi. When Kassim's magoi and Rukh merged with his it became slightly better. Not enough to impress however. In actuality, Alibaba wouldn't be surprised if he was the weakest of his peers. Granted that could mostly be from his lack of experience in comparison to theirs. Alibaba didn't think much on the technicalities, just on the facts.
Currently, he wasn't so sure about his 'ranking'. Likely still the same with his lack of control, but there was something certainly different. It was odd having the different amount of magoi. Amon had said in the Dungeon that it was yet to completely form, which implied it growing. The concept was strange to Alibaba. He supposed it made sense that one's magoi grew with their maturity, but with his mental capacity of twenty-two years it was hard to not think himself fully grown. If what Amon had said was true, then Alibaba could expect that his original magoi supply, from when he was grown in the future, would be double the amount. It skewed the mental chart he had for magoi amounts and strength he had. He had no idea just where he'd fall on the scale, or where he even was currently.
The heart of the matter, Alibaba supposed, was his own mind. Alibaba was ninety-percent sure that he could skip straight into his full equip now. It was a scary thought. Before, Alibaba's control was so fickle that it hadn't even crossed his mind. Amon was still new, if a familiar and warming presence, and they hadn't been able to properly connect. As he trained, Alibaba was able to get a better grasp of his magoi and power.
The risk of him setting the city ablaze was minimal now, and Amon was more settled in his vessel. Like a soft hum in the back of his head that Alibaba could only hear if he paid attention. It was suspicious how quickly he had become adjusted to the influx of power. Especially considering Amon's first interaction with the boy. Amon had doubted Alibaba's claim and had no idea of the bond they once shared. Even when choosing Alibaba, the boy feared that they wouldn't have the same connection.
And, Alibaba supposed they still didn't. Amon was never talkative, having the ability in rare instances when special circumstances were met. The best Alibaba had to go off of was how much ease he had at coaxing his Djinn's powers. In the start, it was flimsy at best. Now Alibaba could summon flames without a second thought. It was a startling progress that he didn't think possible. He didn't know what had changed. Whether it was Alibaba, in his steady process of sorting his magoi out, or Amon himself, was a mystery.
In the end, Alibaba didn't dwell much more that random musing on the topic. Alibaba needed the power to face against Al-Tharmen. He doubted a full equip would be needed for the Barasi, but the option was a calming thought to have.
Not that he really planned on testing his theory. The fast power growth was suspicious to Alibaba. He didn't feel comfortable in trying, only for it to blow up in his face. Literally. Instead Alibaba focused on his partial equip. While performing the equip and holding it was no longer much of an issue, Alibaba needed to practice his skills with Amon's sword. The giant broadsword was difficult for his small body and natural affinity for short swords.
Flames erupted around Alibaba with a minimal push of his will. His dagger morphed, elongating into black molten steel. His hands and forearms dark, looking as if he were part of a volcano himself. Alibaba lessened the flames and hefted the sword up in a testing grip. The weight was heavy, his arms straining to keep the sword aloft. Alibaba made a note to do more strength training for his arms. Alibaba was sure he made a comical sight – a small twelve-year-old holding such a giant sword. He was dwarfed by it when nineteen, let alone now. Alibaba fixed his stance, left leg going backwards to support his weight as he straightened his back. He gave a few practice swings before launching into a more complicated routine.
Alibaba's sword control wasn't the best, given the size difference of when he was older. He was much more used to his current height now, after a year and a half of it. Having Amon's sword complicated things, however. Having the sword in hand brought back memories and instincts from when he was taller. There were somethings he just couldn't do, whether from lack of muscle strength or his height. It was frustrating at times for Alibaba.
That was the whole point of training though. Alibaba went through his regular routine, pooling out a steady stream of magoi. He didn't summon any flames, focusing on his swordsmanship. Mentally he went through Sharkann's tutoring. He didn't train with a broadsword for long because Sinbad gifting him the royal sword. Alibaba would admit to missing the blade, but he didn't plan on his dagger getting broken again.
Time flew by as Alibaba trained. He didn't pay much attention to his surroundings, so intent on his task. He was determined to have better control before having to face the Barasi head on. Something that he was sure to happen. The Barasi wasn't just going to let Alibaba and his friends impede on their plans. No, Alibaba was sure that there would be retaliation soon. He just hoped that no one would get hurt.
That would be easier to ensure if they had any idea for what the Barasi wanted. The simplest answer would be anger at the palace for the plague. For Kassim, that was enough to start his gang. Still, he hadn't attacked any nobles or the treasury until he had ample opportunity in the form of a naive Alibaba. The Barasi are putting all their chips in from the get-go.
It didn't make any real sense to Alibaba. The only thing they seemed to be doing was rob the nobles and merchants of weapons merch and take slaves into their gang. It was as if they were stocking up for a war. But against whom? Balbadd's royalty? A different gang? Alibaba was in the dark, and he didn't like it.
It was with these troubling thoughts in his head that Kassim came running into the area. Alibaba stopped where he was, panting heavily and wiping sweat from his brow. Kassim's face was pulled tight and had a dark look in his eyes. Alibaba released his equip. Something had happened.
Lo'lo and Morgiana paused in their sparring as well. When Kassim reached them he had the whole group's attention. He was breathing heavy as if he had run across the whole city. Whatever was going on it must be important. Alibaba's head ran through several scenarios. Most of them were for the worst case possible.
"Mirno's men have the Barasi tattoo." Kassim spoke tersely, visibly seething. Alibaba blanched, feeling his heart drop. Mirno had joined the Barasi. The playing field was no longer in their favor. This was bad. Alibaba crossed his arms and tried to clear his head.
With Mirno throwing his weight into the ring, things changed. If they acted fast, then the ripple effect won't be as bad. The Alliance had to make the first move. It was the only way to keep their momentum from being halted. There was a raid planned that night for a suspected base just outside the city. Alibaba had planned on speaking with Papak and Tirdad about its plans after his training. He'd have to bring up the new information as well.
Mirno- Alibaba looked out towards where he knew the gambling halls were. Mirno had helped him and Kassim out when his mother died. Alibaba was always intimidated by the powerful figure in his childhood. He was gruff but not unkind to them. Alibaba never got back in touch with Mirno before. Alibaba never found out what happened to the other man in the future. When Kassim ruled the slums, Mirno and his halls were gone.
"We have to let the others know." Alibaba sheathed Amon and turned back to his friends. Lo'lo looked bored, the significance of the situation going over his head. Morgiana, who did, was more reserved with expectance. She was waiting for Alibaba or Kassim to take the lead. Kassim still looked furious, fists clenched with anger. Kassim was closer to Mirno, having stayed with him longer than Alibaba did.
The four raced through the streets to Papak's main pleasure house on the outskirts of the second district. He and Tirdad would be waiting there. At the doors were a group of beautiful women in scant silk clothing trying to attract business. They recognized Alibaba immediately, one of the girl's sauntering to him with a sweet smile. Alibaba couldn't help the blush that overtook his face as she wrapped an arm around his shoulders to hug him close to her bosom.
"Here for the royal treatment, Master Prince?" Her husky voice was punctuated with giggles from her companions. Bypassers chuckled at Alibaba's shyness, men giving him thumbs up while their wives clucked with disappointed expressions despite the smiles tinging their lips. Kassim rolled his eyes, but Alibaba could tell that he was mentally making fun of his predicament. He smirked mercilessly while linking arms with a busty girl with green hair hanging down to her waist.
A few of the girls flocked to Lo'lo's side with awed expressions. He looked down at them in mild amusement, head cocked to the side as a girl glued herself to his side. Morgiana was the only lucky one, standing amidst them with a blank expression. She eyed Alibaba carefully, causing him to blush more at the embarrassing situation.
He froze as the woman next to him leaned down to whisper in his ear. Her lips were dangerously close to his earlobe, and he cursed his change of luck. Sure, when he wanted to go to pleasure houses, he'd get mauled by a beast of a woman who should not have been the number one pick. She was always kind, make no mistake, but Alibaba would sooner peg those behemoths as trained warriors than sex workers. Yet, the one time he wasn't at the red light alley for pleasure, he had to be picked by the beauties. He wasn't the hormonal infused teenager of his youth, and while he was not unaffected by a woman's beauty, he wasn't as continuously enamored about it like Aladdin! Coupled with Morgiana's unwavering stare, he just wanted to melt into a pile of goo.
"Master Papak and Tirdad are waiting in the loft suite for you." Her breathy whisper was unheard by the others, except possibly Lo'lo and Morgiana. Alibaba nodded his head jerkily, feeling his face heat up more from the whistles of the other patrons entering the building. He was going to kill whosever's idea of a cover story this was.
"My friends and I would like the Royal Treatment, ah-" He blurted it out awkwardly, faltering when he realized he didn't know the lady's name. Normally the matrons Papak's buildings would meet Alibaba outside when the meetings were held on his territory. The woman laughed, hugging him tighter to herself in her mirth. Alibaba felt like he was going to die.
"Mou, I didn't know Master Prince was so ad~ven~tu~rous!" She sang out playfully with a wink, grey eyes glittering in the dusking light. "My name is Dione." Dione practically glided as she escorted Alibaba inside. His friends trailed behind him, waving goodbye to the other workers at the doors. The building as warm and dim with candlelight. Laughter echoed as girls entertained with dancing and serving drinks. As they walked up the stairs Alibaba could see customers being guided into private rooms. Judging by the smirks and whistles by those who noticed him, most thought Alibaba would be getting the same 'treatment'.
Papak's personal room was wedged in the far corner of the upstairs floor. Two of his brothers were guarding the doors, eyes narrowed as they watched the going ons below from the balcony. If Alibaba remembered correctly, they were Merikh and Bahram. They stood tall at the door with stern expressions. There were rumored stories about those who caused trouble in Papak's houses. Those two were always involved with the most terrifying ones. These were the two who followed Papak to the alliance proposal.
The brothers tensed at the initial approach, but relaxed when recognizing the group. They were dressed lightly despite the night air outside and had no visible weapons. They must have been brawlers and dealt with rowdy customers with their brute force. A different approach than Papak. Alibaba knew the man was a master with his spear. He was on par or better than most of the royal guard.
"Merikh," Dione came to a stop with an alluring smile at the taller brother, eyes playful as she continued her role. "My customer here wishes to receive the Royal Treatment with his friends." Merikh looked them over critically, frowning as he took in Kassim's weapons and the two Fanalis.
"Don't cause any trouble." The implications of what would happen if they didn't were clear. Baham opened one of the doubled doors for them to file through. When they were all inside, Alibaba tried to think of the thudding sound of Baham closing it to be non-malicious. He somewhat succeeded.
Dione separated from Alibaba immediately when the door shut. She gave him a smile before moving to a part of the room were other girls dressed similarly were waiting. The office was warm in the candlelight and the flames from the fireplace. Tirdad was lounging in a window seat with delicate throw pillows. The window was open, and he had one leg hanging out its side. Upon their entry, he turned to give Alibaba a cheerful grin and wave.
Papak was sitting at his desk on the east side of the room. He had his reading glasses on, leafs of paper in his hands. Behind him were racks of various weapons lining the east wall. His favored spear leaned against the desk to his right side. Between the desk and the fireplace were a few red-leathered chairs. Alibaba took a seat with Morgiana and Kassim. Lo'lo stood at their backs with a bored yawn.
Papak shuffled through his paperwork diligently, a frown marring his face. Whatever he was reading, it wasn't good. Guiltily, Alibaba wished that it was for the man's business instead of the alliance. They had enough problems in that area as it was.
"You're a bit over-protected today Small Prince." Tirdad pulled his leg in and faced the group with interest. He eyed Alibaba's company with a mysterious smile. Alibaba blushed in the sudden spotlight and was unsure what to say. He hadn't meant to make a power-move or anything of the sort. It was just that Kassim had the first-hand knowledge of Mirno's actions. Alibaba didn't even think to tell Morgiana and Lo'lo to stay behind. He doubted they would listen to such a request anyway. This was why he shouldn't be King. Alibaba had no idea what to do in these kind of situations!
"Leave it Tirdad." Papak sighed, dropping his papers. He lifted his glasses onto his head and rubbed the bridge of his nose tiredly. Papak sent Tirdad an annoyed glare that sent the other into lifting his hands in mock surrender.
"He's in territory not his own, and it's not like I don't have my own back up with me either." Alibaba blinked in confusion at the statement. Papak's brothers were outside the room. While that wasn't too far away, it would take precious moments to get to Papak when facing against Alibaba's friends. He looked around the room once more, thinking he had somehow missed another person.
There was no one else, save for the small group of girls hanging in the background. They were in the small corner of the room, next to the weapon racks. They talked amongst themselves quietly with smiles and secretive glances. At first, Alibaba thought nothing of it. He figured that the girls were on break from work and were just resting upstairs. Or something. Honestly, despite traversing pleasure houses with Sharkkan and Sinbad in Sindria or once having a prostitute mother, Alibaba had no idea how these places were ran behind the scenes.
Then he noticed something gleaming from the corner. One of the women, a short-statured girl with short hair pinned back with flower pins, had semi-hidden garter belt underneath her slited skirt. On the garter belt were long metal pins. A few even had specifically colored gems at the top. She caught Alibaba's stare and smiled with a coy wink and blew him a kiss. Alibaba snapped his gaze away with new understanding. Papak was smiling fondly at him.
"It's bad for business if one has to keep throwing out bad touching customers left and right. And let me tell you, over ninety percent of my business are such customers. My brothers are good for the more obvious problem cases, while my elite shoo out the less obvious. Men don't realize their being thrown out as easily when it's done by a beautiful woman." He leaned back in his chair and shot Tirdad's surprised face a look of disdain.
"You were the only one foolish enough to show up on your own." Tirdad shrugged, eyes still lingering on the group of women. He looked back to Papak endearingly, ignoring the scoffing comment and smiled. It held the same effect of an insult to Papak, who scowled back.
"And here I thought we were all friends. I'm hurt." He placed a hand on his chest. Normally, Alibaba would enjoy the banter between the two leaders. Tonight was different though. Before Papak could retort, Alibaba leaned forward with purpose.
"We've come across something important." The two men paused and took in Alibaba's serious tone. Papak straightened and composed himself into a more professional manner. Tirdad shifted in his seat, smile still in place.
"Funny that Small Prince, so have I." He swept his hand out to Alibaba, giving him the floor. Alibaba took a calming breath, still getting nervous when put on the spot. Kassim liked to tease him about it in their off time, but Alibaba just couldn't help it.
"Mirno's men have shown to have the Barasi's mark." It was a short statement that spelled out a long list of problems. Papak inhaled deeply with a frown, sharing a dark look with Tirdad. The smuggling king crossed his arms with a twist to his lips.
"That explains some things, and leaves other questions." He murmured quietly to the room. Alibaba nodded, though he didn't know just what Tirdad was alluding to. Perhaps to whatever news he had brought?
"Kassim was the one to bring me the news. I came straight here, so he would be better at explaining." Alibaba hadn't thought of asking Kassim to elaborate. The information was so important he wanted to get it to the others as soon as possible.
Kassim didn't look as angry before. He was more calm now, less likely to lash out. Alibaba was glad for that. He didn't like seeing Kassim like that. It reminded him too much of when Kassim was sinking into depravity. That was a dark time, for everyone. Kassim wasn't falling anytime soon, logically Alibaba knew that. Still, he would much rather see the smiling face of his friend than the bitter twisted snarl he held for Mirno's latest actions.
"I was at Gina's bar, scouting out the area." Gina owned a bar just inside of the south western half of the slums, near the west docks. She was a hardened woman, thought to be an ex-pirate or smuggler. She was a no-man's land of a sort. Gina didn't tolerate fighting of any sort, and was strong enough to throw down with anyone who broke her rules. They were thinking on speaking with her, maybe pull her to their for a safe house. It would give them a foothold to the western districts, and get them closer to those docks.
"It was looking good until Seo and Lea walked in." Kassim leaned back in his chair with his arms crossed. Seo and Lea were names that Alibaba recognized. Kassim ran with them back when Alibaba was still staying in Mirno's care. It was in the short period between his mother's death and being taken to the palace. Judging by the dark look in Kassim's eyes, it was not a pleasant reunion.
"They are the reigning champions of Mirno's fighting rings. He uses them as his personal dogs now. I was in the back, so they didn't see me at first. When they did, I was approached." Kassim paused, sending a quick look to Alibaba. "Mirno was offering his regards and an apology. Wanted to make amends and give me the opportunity to speak with him."
"He wants to recruit you." Papak's voice was cold, but not unkind. He was frowning as he watched Kassim's scoffing shrug. Alibaba worried his bottom lip at the revelation. He didn't think Mirno would try that. He knew where Kassim's loyalty was, of that there was no doubt. It wasn't fair to Kassim though. Mirno was one of the few people that Kassim respected when growing up.
"I told them to fuck off." He spat in distaste. "Mirno was the idiot to not listen. Seo and Lea didn't get the point at first, but when they did, I saw it. Seo has the tattoo on the inside of his wrist. I saw it when he tried to shake my hand before leaving." Kassim's face looked odd when he said that. He was holding something back. Papak and Tirdad noticed, waiting a beat for Kassim to elaborate. When nothing came, Tirdad took the spotlight.
"Word is that Barasi have been more prolific in the western docks than normal. As if they own the place. With Mirno's blessing, they might as well own it. They get most of their profits from the ships coming in from the west." Tirdad tapped his fingers on his knee in a rapid pattern. He pursed his lips thoughtfully.
"If we want any good progress on that front, we need Gina's support. She'd be a valuable spy. I have history with her that might make her lean to our cause." Knowing his personality, Tirdad most likely overestimated such a bond. They needed the help, however, so Alibaba wasn't going to contest it.
"More importantly, I have a lead on our slave traders." Alibaba straightened. He noticed both Lo'lo and Morgiana perking as well, red eyes focusing on Tirdad's form. The smuggler smiled toothily at the attention. Any news on that front was good, considering the wall that Alibaba had hit.
"The seal we found on all the documents, I think I know where it's from. I asked around a few of my old crew, and one mentioned that he had seen it before." Tirdad paused, the tapping on his leg coming to an abrupt stop. This made Alibaba more interested. If Tirdad couldn't speak about this in a relaxed manner, then it was doubly important.
"He's been sailing around the eastern seas lately. He was on the coast of a land to the northeast of us. It was controlled by what he called the Kou Empire. One of the ships in the port had the same brand on their boxed merchandise." Alibaba's stomach dropped out. Kou Empire.
Truthfully, there wasn't much that Alibaba found wrong with the Kou. Or, at least, with the royal family. He didn't agree with the nation's hell-bent determination on world domination. Plus the whole thing with Al-Tharmen using it as their main base. Those were negative factors when dealing with the Empire.
The royal family, however, was different. Difficult and annoying, yes. Evil though? No. Kougyoku was a naive girl who deserved better than a life as a caged bird, and Kouha was a reckless hellion that should never be left in charge of anything. Kouen was a beast of a man, more general than King, and in certain aspects Alibaba could respect him. Sometimes. Alibaba had no real interaction with Hakuei, other than fighting with her against the Dark Medium. Hakuryuu was a complicated matter.
Koumei was the only one he held any real issue with. Koumei was the one who officially took control of Balbadd after Alibaba's retreat (kidnapping by Sinbad). He was the one who turned the city into a depressing state that sucked the life and soul from the trading hub. He was cold, logical, and was very good with his job. Alibaba would likely always harbor an odd relationship with the man because of this. Alibaba wasn't one to hold grudges, not in the ways that others would. Revenge was a foreign concept to him, unlike Hakuryuu. He'd rather make friends than enemies, and really, everyone deserved a second chance. Well, anyone who was willing to try to make amends or compromise.
"Serse was only at port for a few days, and he said that he wished they hadn't been there at all. That the Kou was something to run away from, as quick as possible." Tirdad obviously took his friend's warning seriously, with how straight his posture was. Alibaba was happy that he was taking it seriously. This changed nearly everything. There was a Kou agent in the nobles, possibly in the palace, already. Before the treasury fire, before what would have been Kassim's revolt. Alibaba pondered on the implications. Was his return to the past what changed this? Or was the Kou always here, even then, and they just never found out. It always did bug him how Abhmad became so trusting to the other nation. He might not be the most likable of people, but he wasn't stupid.
Somehow, between now and an undetermined future, the Kou had the ear of Balbadd's palace. Or, in the worst case scenario, they already do. Have had the implant long before Alibaba's trip into the past. It was hard to think about. To even imagine. Like Balbadd's fate was doomed from the start. Alibaba couldn't let himself think that way. Rukh guide him, he was going to stop this. One way or another. The fierce emotion startled him, It coursed through his veins like a rampaging fire. Alibaba would not stand for this. Balbadd was his home. He was going to protect it until the end. From outside enemies and those within if needed. He's fought against the palace before, and he'd be willing to do it again.
"We're looking for a noble or family that has roots outside of Balbadd." Alibaba surmised. Alone that would be just as impossible as before. Balbadd was a melting pot of nationalities, from the slums all the way to the nobles. But-
"Someone from the Kou." Papak hummed thoughtfully. Alibaba nodded. It should narrow the list down significantly. The Kou have been isolated for so long that he doubted there would be many immigrants from the Empire. Papak looked to Tirdad with a pensive face.
"What do we know of the country?" Tirdad held up his hand in a see-saw gesture with a shrug. Right now, the Kou haven't made any big waves politically. Not that Alibaba could remember at least. He had never heard of the Kou until after Sinbad and Kougyoku arriving in Balbadd. Not that his lack of knowledge meant much. He had spent a long time staying low, closing his ears to anything out of his sphere of relevance as a wagon driver. He didn't want to risk being found and dragged back to the palace. That and he had wanted to run away from his past.
So, Tirdad wouldn't know much. No one would, barring Sinbad and his generals. Alibaba was faced with a new dilemma. He did have information on the Kou. Too much for a small prince of Balbadd. If he blurted everything he knew, Tirdad and Papak would have questions. Ones that he couldn't answer. Not without revealing the complete truth. Then they would lock him up. Time travel was impossible. A pipe dream that only the crazy truly believed.
"They are a militant country. One that has been expanding." Tirdad stressed the last word with a quirked brow. Papak's lip twitched and his fingers clenched into tight fists. There was a silent conversation working here. A significance that went over Alibaba's head.
It didn't go over Lo'lo's.
"They're trying to take over this place." His deep rumble was matter-of-fact. Bored even. He liked action, leaving the meetings and planning to the likes of Kassim and Alibaba. He preferred to be the battering ram to the Barasi, knocking them down with a roaring shout and praise to little Morgiana in his shadow. His comment threw Alibaba. He wasn't expecting Lo'lo to really take any part of the meeting. Not until they worked into the raid's plans at least.
His observation was not untrue. The Kou were after Balbadd. Alibaba has known this from the start, with his memories from Before. Lo'lo had no knowledge of the future, of Balbadd's fall to the Kou. Alibaba tilted his head as he thought, running over the conversation once more. How had Lo'lo come to that particular resolution?
The Kou had a plant in Balbadd's upper tier. No one knew just how high that was. That plant was either working with the Barasi or were being thwarted by them, all the while the Barasi had their own spy. Two spies, or one. Alibaba honestly didn't know which would be better. The Barasi were working slowly to an unknown end, one that likely spelled out nothing good for Balbadd and its capital. If left to fester, it could cripple the peace. Fracture it in a way not unlike how Kassim had once upon a time.
The Kou were either a feared or unknown country. Mysterious to the world from lack of knowledge, and feared by those they conquered. Slowly, they have been moving across the map in search of power, information, and land. Expanding.
They had a foot in Balbadd, the hub of the world. The Kou wanted power and land. Combined, it certainly looked like the first step in a long con to domination. Alibaba blinked in shock as it added up within his head. This kind of strategy reminded him of Koumei. Koumei, who preferred a silent take over without any fuss. Who was easily the smartest of the Kou, who was the mastermind behind Kouen's strength. Alibaba felt a surge of irritated respect at his once adversary. Koumei, like Hakuryuu, would always hold strange emotions for him.
"Then we stop them." Alibaba started, mind snapping back to the present. "We start with shutting down the Barasi and finding the traitor in the palace. The bandit raid going down tonight, what have the scouts reported?" It was time to jumpstart their efforts. The sooner this was dealt with, the better. Al-Tharmen will not step foot in Balbadd ever again. Not if Alibaba could help it.