I woke up in a room. There was an elegant bed with drapes on it. I touched the drawer by it's side, grazing my fingertips against it's wood surface. "Mommy, where did daddy go?"

A little girl sat upon a mother's lap out on the balcony. "He's protecting us, he's protecting this empire." I saw the sad smile on her lips as she stroked the little girl's pink hair. Her green-yellow eyes glistening. "Daddy's a hero! Is Shina there too?"

"No, she's right there, on the bed." I looked over at my side and suddenly saw a girl about the same age as the one on the woman's lap.

So...was this Shina and me when we were little? But, I don't understand, what empire? Was Shina not telling me something?

I woke up from my dream. Looking around, I couldn't tell where I was, it was an unfamiliar place that I was trapped in. But as I took a closer look, I could see another person.

It was...

°°°°°°°°°°

Dear Morgiana and the King of Sindria,

I, Shina Niverna of the fanalis Nivernia, have taken my sister back with me. If you wish to know more, travel to the land that used to be Nivernia, and meet the slave owner, Master Nagasaki and me through the rubble of the empire. We will ve waiting.

Shina.

Shina...so she is still alive.

I ran out the doors, and passed the hallways leading to Sinbad's room. He must know, we have to find out the truth and get Mira back. No matter what.

°°°°°°°°°°

Shi...na?" I tried to say, but I could barely do it because of how thirsty I was.

"Ah, you've finally woke up. I was starting to get worried."

"...Shina. Where have you been?" I missed her for so long. Shina...