Princess of Balbadd (Magi x Reader)

Test to Travel

Your fingers run over the metallic chains admirably. "This does make a beautiful wedding present. Everything here has been ready except having the groom present," you hint at the impending ceremony.

"Hopefully all those preparations will stay good for a while longer."

Your hand drops and you look at him flatly. "What do you mean?"

"I've got one more voyage to make before we can have Sindria."

"One more?! But Sin! You just got two more dungeons!" You gesture to all the treasures behind him. "How much more do you need?"

He cups your hand in both of his and rubs the back of it. "This trip isn't for that. We now have the funds. We just need the people!"

Now 'people' wasn't something you expected to go out of the way to get, considering how many applications for residency the office was filled with. Accommodating a big enough residential district in a timely manner was one of the projects you personally worked on so no one in need would be turned away.

"You just got back! Can't getting more people wait until after the ceremonies?" you implore.

"They've waited long enough. I've already discussed new dates for the ceremonies with your father. Seeing the progress on the islands, the wall around the southeast island is complete. It's time to give the Tison villagers a proper home. Since it's those I grew up with and a delicate situation, you understand how I must see to this personally. It will be best to have them settled in before throngs of others move out to Sindria. Huh? What's wrong?"

By now your arms are crossed in front of you and lips nettled to the side of your face. He had already discussed it with father?!?! Meaning not only he had been back for a number of days, but he was even at the palace and had every opportunity to reunite with you earlier.

You retort, "Were you going to stop in Balbadd briefly then take off without even seeing me?! If I hadn't happened to be down here today..."

"But you were here and you did see me. And we should see each other again before I depart. It will take time to prepare for the voyage."

You pout, "Then can I at least come with you this time? No dungeon, no danger, right?"

"We'll be heading to the Dark Continent. It's a long trip towards a harsh environment. I'm not sure you're ready for such a journey."

"When is anyone ever ready until they experience it?! I've fulfilled my responsibilities here. I've survived dangerous encounters visiting our islands. Heck, I even fought off a person that attacked me here on the streets of Balbadd...while I was unarmed! I'm probably more prepared now than you were when you went into your first dungeon!"

He scratches the back of his neck then sighs, "How about this? We spar together and if you can prove to me you can defend yourself, you can come with me."

"All right! You're on!" you reply, enthusiastic at the chance to prove yourself.

~*~

In the courtyard, you face him with your sword ready. A few company workers spectate from the windows around the area. But they are silent with curiosity.

"Now I want you to come at me with everything you've got, like your life depends on it. Don't hold back," Sinbad instructs, "There is a possibility that a household could choose you even if it is a match between comrades. That is how Hinahoho and Mystras gained their household vessels. If you do manage to gain one so quickly, I'll know for sure you're ready!"

"Okay, okay. Let's go!" you urge. You are determined to convince him to take you with him.

You wait for Sinbad to make the first move. He announces to begin and lunges at you. With one hand behind your back, your sword parries as you spin around him. He turns likewise as he passes, swinging with different strikes that you adjust to block. Keeping your eyes attentive for an opening, you swing at his exposed abdomen after his upward strike. However, he hops and flips backwards over your blade like a lightweight boy despite his adult, muscular body.