After the intense trials within Zagan's Dungeon, Hakuryuu, Aladdin, Alibaba, and Morgiana returned to Sindria. Hakuryuu bore the scars of battle, having lost his left arm during the confrontation. Utilizing Zagan's power, he replaced it with a wooden prosthetic that functioned as effectively as his original limb.
Accompanying them was Dunya Musta'sim, a Dark Metal Vessel user who had initially opposed them. Betrayed by Ithnan and severely injured, she had lost her iron sand knight, which dissipated during the conflict. Recognizing her as a victim rather than a villain, the group brought her to Sindria for healing and to learn more about the Dark Metal Vessels.
Their return was met with celebration, but also surprise. Sinbad, who had faced Ithnan outside the dungeon, stood before them unharmed. During their absence, Ithnan attempted to escape, but Sinbad intercepted him over the sea. As the curse threatened to consume him, turning his Rukh black, Sinbad revealed his ability to absorb Black Rukh using his own White Rukh, a testament to his unique state of being "half-fallen."
Ithnan, shocked by this revelation, exclaimed, "It can't be. My curse should turn your Rukh black." Sinbad, donning his Focalor Djinn Equip, responded, "This body of mine is already cursed." With both black and white Rukh swirling around him, he unleashed a powerful magic spell, defeating Ithnan. The remnants of Ithnan's Rukh, still within the dungeon, were purified and returned to the Great Flow by Aladdin and Alibaba.
That evening, Sindria was alive with festivities celebrating the successful dungeon conquest. I joined the revelry, reuniting with my friends: Alibaba, Morgiana, Hakuryuu, Aladdin, and Kougyoku. As we shared stories of our recent adventures, they turned to me with curiosity.
"Hey Naberius, we've all shared our stories, but you've never told us about your past."
I hesitated, then began, "Well, if you insist... I was born a slave in Reim, never knowing my parents. Being a Fanalis child, I was sold to the gladiator arena, where every day was a fight for survival."
Morgiana's eyes widened, "You're a Fanalis? Why didn't you tell us?"
I chuckled, "I thought it was obvious from my red hair and training with Masrur. I didn't think it was important."
They all looked embarrassed, each offering their own apologies.
Continuing, I said, "From the age of nine, I fought beasts, monsters, and humans. Near death multiple times, I discovered magic within myself. I taught myself martial arts and swordsmanship, training every night. Over time, I earned the nickname 'Red Blaze Reaper' for my heat-infused weapon techniques. Eventually, I escaped and stowed away on a ship to Balbadd. There, I met Sinbad, Ja'far, Masrur, Morgiana, Aladdin, Alibaba, and Kougyoku. In Sindria, I found a place where I belonged, making new friends among the Eight Generals and you, Hakuryuu."
The group listened intently, some with tears in their eyes. Kougyoku, moved by my story, declared, "We should wage war on Reim for what they did to you!" We all tried to calm her down.
Sinbad and the Eight Generals, who had been listening from nearby, approached. Sinbad said to Ja'far and Drakon, "The kid's been through a lot." Turning to Masrur, he added, "Don't you think so too?"
Masrur nodded, "Yes, he reminds me of myself."
Hinahoho, Pisti, Sharrkan, Yamuraiha, and Spartos were visibly emotional. The girls hugged me, tears streaming down their faces, while the guys offered words of encouragement. Hinahoho gently patted my head, a gesture of comfort and solidarity.
In that moment, surrounded by friends who had become like family, I felt a profound sense of belonging. Despite the hardships of my past, I had found a place where I was accepted and valued.