Back in the ancient times, in the uprising and thriving empire of Baghdad, where the marketplaces are teeming with life, the imperial palace shines and stands proud in the center of this kingdom and thousands of people arrive at the enormous port from the edges of the world, a peculiar traveler disembark from his ship.

 

There was an upheaval on the inside of the palace due to the preparations for the traveler's arrival. Servants were running through numerous corridors. There was going to be a feast.

A runty servant entered the throne room and bowed to the two people in it.

 

- Preparations are ready my Lords." He said and exited the room stepping backwards, still bowing.

- Where is he? Didn't he arrive yet? He should be already in the palace!" The king yelled nervously while making aimless circles around the throne room.

- Calm down father. I've been informed that his ship has already arrived at our port. He will be here any time now.." Said the young prince, leaning on the balcony's ledge.

 

People started gathering on the front door of the palace, making a fuzz. Cornets started echoing throughout the corridors, signaling the arrival of the so expected guest. The throne room's door opened widely, a mass of servants leading the guest inside the room.The boy bowed to the people inside the room.

 

- My Lords, Great King of Baghdad and Crown Prince Soohyun, I, ShinBad Dongho, send you my regards." The guest introduced himself and saluted the imperial faces.

- Oh, we finally get to meet you, great privateer ShinBad, conqueror of the seven seas. Accept our hospitality and enjoy your staying at our kingdom." Said the gracious prince, shaking the sailor's hand.

 

The king saluted the young boy as well and sent his servants to lead his guest along with his crew, who were waiting outside, to their imperial appartments.

As soon as the door clanged closed, the king sank on his heavy throne and created a stressful mood that filled the chamber.

 

- Don't you tell me that the great captain ShinBad of the seven seas, is just an eighteen year old nipper! I can not believe that! I was expecting a great man, scarred from every journey of his, around the world and it appeared to be just a youngster!" He yelled.

- What's wrong father? Why are you acting like this? I find him really interesting and kind person. And if I'm not wrong he's around twenty. He is an adult nevertheless." The kind prince tried to quiten his blood relative, even though he had objections about his perceptions.

 

At late afternoon, the gardens of the palace were filled with people, around a long table. The feast started, ShinBad Dongho's crew enjoying themselves alongside with the palace's inhabitants and staff. The king was quietly sitting on one side, siping from his wine, his eyes scanning every action the young boy made. Prince Soohyun, rose from his seat, holding his cup in the air.

 

- We welcome you and your crew, ShinBad Dongho and we carry out this feast to please our visitors. It's a great honor that an infamous captain, alongside with his brave crew, shares his time and graces us with his presence. Let's drink to you and hope for a new friendship.

- Thank you my prince. It's our honor being welcomed in the empire of the thriving Baghdad. We accept your frienship and we drink to you too my Lords." The young navigator stood up, facing the kind prince opposite him and sealed the beginning of a new friendship and the beginning of the feast with a sip from his golden cup.

 

For hours, captain Dongho and his companions were narrating their adventures around the world, keeping everyone on their seats, listening with eyes glued on them. Everyone except the king who kept a distance from his guest, being unamused.

 

- ... on my second journey, I faced big creatures who looked like birds. They were called Roks! ... and that's how I managed to trick the Cyclop and return to my ship... then I found this island. Full of shining treasures, countless gems and an ambudance of grayish amber diamonds! 

 

The sound of the horns put an end to Dongho's narrations and signaled midnight. It was late enough and everyone should get back to their respective chambers.

 

 

The kind prince decided to pay a visit at his young guest, later that night. When he opened his chamber's door, he found the balcony's door open and him standing at the bulwark. He was wearing only his cashmere sweatpants, exposing his toned chest. His hair were wet, his skin as well. He was looking at the sea as a dim breeze passed through his hair. 

 

- Captain ShinBad. My regards. Can I accompany you?

- Oh prince Soohyun. Of course you can. And please, call me Dongho.

 

Sooohyun got closer to the younger boy and sat at the mantel besides him. The sailor offered him the bottle of booze, he was holding on one hand. The prince accepted it and took a sip from it, then placing it on the marble surface.

Dongho sighed and raised his eyes to meet the sky. He felt familiar enough already with the throne prince and told him what has been afflicting his open mind.

 

- My prince. I have had so many journeys. Countless adventures. Even though I'm quite young, I've been on the sea since I was seven. I became a captain when I was still sixteen. But that's another story. The truth is that I'm tired. I want to finally land in a place for a while until I start sailing again.

- Our palace is always open for you, Dongho. I'll be your host for as long as you desire.

 

A sweet melody intercepted their talk. A candle light illuminated the balcony opposite Dongho's. A beautiful, brunette girl appeared under the light. Her fingers were caressing the strings of a wooden guitar, drawing sweets notes from them.

 

- That melody. Sweet like passion fruits and tempting like the sirens' songs. Soohyun-shi, who is that girl? " Dongho asked, enchanted from the girl.

- Ow, that girl? She's my younger sister, Princess Alexia. She was busy and couldn't make it to meet you. I'm sure she would be glad to acquaint you.

- Please my prince, could you arrange it to meet her? I wanna see her. Do me that favor, my lord.

- I'l call out one of my servants to inform her. You, my friend, go to the gardens. The moonlight embellishes the whole scene these hours and that suits you both.

 

These were the prince's words and it hapenned so. Dongho changed into his clothes and exited the palace. He stood under a silver arch, enwrapped with red roses waiting the girl. A few moments later, the princess arrived at the garden. Her black intractable hair were falling on her shoulders, meeting the handmade orange gold fabric.

 

- My lady.." Dongho tried to say, captivated by the figure in front of him. "...my name is ShinBad Dongho. It's a great honor meeting you. 

- So you are the infamous ShinBad. It's nice meeting you. I'm princess Alexia. " The girl replied, smiling at him. As soon as she finished her introduction, the young boy bent over her and kissed softly her hand, making the girl blush under the bright light of Baghdad's full moon.

 

The young couple was missing for hours, exploring the endless palace gardens. The pirate was holding his breath, hanging from her sweet voice. They got to know each other and from what it seemed like, they growed feelings for each other. These secret meetings continued for many nights, the prince covering their backs. One of those nights, Dongho announced his friend the decision he made with the princess.

 

- Oh ow.. That should be a problem my friend. Our father won't be happy to hear about this marriage." The prince advised his lovestruck friend, leaning on his room's bookshelf.

- I don't know Soohyun.. I really want her, I've never met a girl like her. She talked to you and you know that she wants this too. I'll do anything, just help me." Answered the troubled sailor, aknowledging the king's fret towards him.

- Well then. I'll do whatever passes through my hand to help you, but I don't promise much.

 

Dongho was determined to do it. The following day, found him and the prince on the throne room, ready to ask the king for his daughter's hand.

 

- WHAT? No! No, it's not happening. My daughter is going to marry a strong and mighty prince! I won't let her ruin her life with a kid!" The king hissed, hearing Dongho's proposal to his daughter.

- But my Lord, I'd give eveything for Alexia! You want my ship, take it! My treasures and gems, they're yours! And I could even show you that I'm no kid and can deliver any quest of yours if you ask!" The young captain raised confidently his voice.  

 

The prince, staring at that conflict, was poking every now and then his friend so as to calm him down but with no avail.

 

- I want neither your ship nor wealth ShinBad. Said, you will deliver any quest uh? Fine. If you want to marry my daughter then you will. But you should find her a proper ring. I guess it shouldn't be a bother to the great pivateer, to bring her the Ruby Ring. Is it?" The king snickered, satisfied about his decision.

- The Ruby Ring? Father, are you insane? That's suicide! That ring is hidden on the Tartarus! In the vast abyss!" Prince Soohyun protested terrified.

- If that ring suits her, I'll bring it!" Dongho accepted the king's challenge, not giving attention at the shocked prince next to him shouting "Are you nuts?"

 

The prince dragged Dongho on his room and slammed the door behind.

 

- I'm pretty sure that you won't change your mind, my friend. So here is the only help I can offer you besides supplying your ship. Here, take this map. I hope you can read celestial maps." Soohyun grabbed an old piece of paper hidden in bookshelf and placed it on the other boy's hands.

- Thank you prince Soohyun but I know where the entrance for Tartarus is..

-I t's not a map to FIND Tartarus. It's a map to EXIT from it! Once you're in, you won't be able to get out without this, not even in a million years." The prince said, staring at his reflection on the mirror and twiddled the emerald gem that was hanging from his neck.

- Wow. Soohyun-shi, where did you find an artefact like this?" Said the young captain, trailing his fingers on the timeworn scroll.

- Let's say I had some bad encounters. You should leave now. You'd better say goodbye to Alexia.

 

The sailor nodded and left prince Soohyun on his room, still staring at the golden framed mirror. The prince took a deep breath and shut his eyes closed. When he opened them, he took his coat and wore it so as to cloak the green marble on his neck.

Dongho exited the prince's chamber and walked down hastily the corridors, heading to the princess' bedroom. Alexia welcomed the young captain in her room and let him sit by her side on the bed.

 

- Please Dongho, don't go. My father wouldn't mind, keeping you out of his way. And now you're just digging your own grave. That's suicide! And I really want you alive." The girl remonstrated, trying to change her love's mind.

- No, my dear Alexia. I have to do this. Don't worry about me. I'll be back, safe and sound with your ring and make you a proper proposal. Nothing will stand in my way, I promise." The latter comforted his girl, holding her hands close to his face and pecking them occassionally.

-T hen take me with you! I want to be by your side, whatever happens. 

- No! I won't! That's not happening, I can't take you with me. 

 

Alexia tried to protest once again but failed. Her -probably- future husband, stood up and raised objectionally his hand, refusing to hear more nonsense like this. The brunette girl pouted and crossed her arms on her chest. Dongho got closer to her and cupped her face. "I'm leaving tomorrow morning. Take care" he said and kissed her forehead. 

 

- You too. Be carefull." She said, watching him exit her room.

 

The next morning, ShinBad and his crew bid farewell to the palace inhabitants. The captain embraced his prince friend and bowed to the king. Then he boarded on and signaled his companions to set sail for their journey.

 

 

The ship was sailing for a few days, making its way towards Greece, where the entrance for the underworld realm was.

 

The young sailor felt his stomach growling and decided to get down at the storeroom to satisfy his uneasy tummy. Descending the stairs, he lighted the room with an oil lamp. To his surprise, there was someone waiting for him.

 

- Alexia?! What on the seven seas are you doing here?!

- Your comrades were really kind, letting me stay here. So, here I am dear. You think that I'll let you leave with just a forehead kiss?" Princess Alexia giggled and proceeded her way to get on the deck.

- No no no no, this ain't right! You shouldn't be here! GUYS! Who is the obvious idiot that let her climb onto the ship?" The captain yelled, running behind the girl.

 

The navigator explained that the princess had threatened them, she would burn them alive if they wouldn't help her. "And she really meant it captain" he added.

 

- Don't worry my love. I'm a great cook. You're gonna eat well! So where is this ship heading?" Asked Alexia, positioning a sword with its sheath on the waistband of her breeches.

- I didn't know you had skills like that. Alright then. We are going to the kingdom of Greece. Acheron river is our destination. It's the scary entrance to the underworld. Are you really gonna use that?" The sailor replied and then pointed at the sheath, laying on Alexia's side.

- I'm not afraid of anything, as long as you are by my side. And yes, I'll use it if necessary.

- Do you even know how to use it?

 

 For weeks the ship crossed high seas and waves. Dongho helped the princess practice her sword fighting skills due to her entreaties. At her free time, she took well care of him, cooking delicious foods.

Meanwhile, Baghdad's king was wrathfull as he learned about his daughter, traveling along with the young captain. Prince Soohyun was aware of it from the start but he knew that he couldn't change his stubborn sister's mind.

The ship followed steadily its route, facing many dangers like weird creatures or even natural causes like strong winds, tidal waves and maybe whirlpools. It wasn't the first time the sailors have faced matters like these and got over them with the crew's strength, Alexia's boldness and Dongho's cleverness.  

After spending much time sailing through the vast sea, the crew arrived at Greece. 

 

- This is it crew. The gate to abyss. River Acheron. My dear Alexia, you should be carefull from here and now. This is the river of pain. I've heard that some rivers of the abyss creates illusions and generates fears. Everyone! Watch your backs and don't let your guard down." Ordered the young privateer.

- Yes Captain!" Yelled everyone.

 

The craft floated on the river, ripping the waters aside. The echo of the splashing waters was interrupted by screams. It was none of the crew's though.

 

- They must be howls from the humans that passed the other side. Or just their spirits.  We continue forward, steadily." Dongho tried to quiten his companions and stood by Alexia's side.

 

They passed the first river without any obstacle to delay them. Then, they came across the next river. Styx. The main river that went through the whole abyss. Styx was meant to be the river of hatred, commanded by the goddess which was named after, Goddess Styx. Some of the sailors started shouting and fighting with each other. ShinBad supposed that the change of his ship's members' behavior was due to the appearence of the goddess. He kept Alexia on his embrace prtecting her.

 

- Great Goddess Styx! Mistress of hatred and wrath, ruler of the abyss' river Styx, hear my voice and show up!" He shouted, summoning the goddess on his ship.

 

A purplish shadow filled the river's cave and landed on the ship's deck in front of the hugging couple. The smoke started forming into an appealing woman with raven hair and a dark purple outfit that exposed the most of her skin, except her more private parts. 

 

- Mm.. Great Captain ShinBad.. What brings the infamous Privateer to my river? What is it that you want from me?" The goddess said with an alluring voice, puckering her lips close to his.

- Stay away from him !" Alexia hissed and shove the human-formed goddess away from her future husband.

- Yah! Quite a cheeky girlfriend you have my dear. She has guts..." Styx made a circle around the couple, transforming her half body into smoke.

- I want your help, mistress. Please release my crew from this rage of yours that affects them and lead our way to the next river. I'm willing to repay you for your help if you give it to us." answered the boy.

- It's pretty fascinating that you two were not affected by my presence. Haven't you got any hatred in your souls? You are so interesting.. Well, I can do more than that. There are three rivers remaining. I could pass you through Cocytus, river of wailing and Lethe, river of oblivion. That could absolve you from much trouble since my dear friend, goddess Lethe, awaits at her river. And believe me, my captain. She's not that kind and generous as I am. So, I'll gladly offer you my help but there has to be a tiny problem to that. I can not pass your ship. So it has to be only you. " The goddess ended her speech and sat on the edge of the ship's prow.

 -I see. Crew gather!" Dongho yelled to his sailors as Styx brought them to their senses."By the time I leave this ship you have orders to leave the cave. Open up to the sea and wait for me until I return. From now, I have to continue my way alone.

- What? What do you mean alone? I want to come with you in case something bad's happening! I won't let you." The princess cried out, being aware of the dangers that could may found the young traveler.

- I'm sorry my princess but I can't accept that you're coming with me. No. I'll be just fine. I can't risk your life with that, it's not a game anymore. Wait for me and I promise to come back to you safe and sound, with or without the ring." He kissed the girl's cheek and gave her a reassuring smile.

 

 

And that's what happened. The ship exited the rivers and returned to the sea. Dongho followed the goddess who led him on the last river. Phlegethon, the river of fire. The sailor landed on a rock which was floating on the red, boiling water. He observed that there were many rocks on this river that led to Dongho's final destination, the depths of Tartarus. Jumping from rock to rock, above streams of scorching waters and under giant flames, burning all around him, he finally reached a monstrous metallic door. Before he could reach out his hand, the door opened widely, releasing a realm of darkness, ready to absorb him.

 

When the young man opened his eyes, he realised that he was on a vast desert. The strange was the sky. It was plain dark and seemed like it swallowed the edges of the sandy field. The good thing is that after some time, strange markings appeared on the black dome, forming constellations. 

"At least I have a couple of signs now" He thought.

 

- Well, well.. Look who arrived at my kingdom to pay me a visit.. The notorious conqueror of seven seas. What's the reason of your arrival, ShinBad Dongho?" A familiar voice echoed through the boundless desert.

 

Dongho veered his head to look at the source of the voice. By the time he saw the figure that was standing before his eyes, he drawed his sword and stumbled some steps behind. His mind couldn't compehend what was going on and didn't say a single word. 

 

- Surprised, dear? C'mon don't be rude. I was so looking forward to meet you and when that really happens, you are drawing your sword? I expected you would be more fun." Said the foretold man and pouted like a kid.

- S Soohyun shi? What, what on the seven seas are you doing here?!" Dongho mumbled from the shock, seeing his prince friend on the heart of Tartarus. He lowered his sword slightly without letting his guard down and straightened his body.

- Nah ah ah. Wrong guess my friend. My name is Kronus, the glorious king, ruler and leader of Tartarus. It just happens that I look like Baghdad's prince Soohyun. Of course I have a really good sense of humor, unlike him." The prince's twin body introduced himself.

 

With a playful sway of his fingers, an open walled throne room appeared under the dark sky. Tartarus' king was laying horizontally on his black throne, embelished with Golden Eye and Black Moon diamonds.

 

- I'm seeking for the Ruby Ring, my Lord. How can I find it?" Regaining his confidence, he asked the mighty King.

- It's not that hard to find it, my friend. I always carry it with me. Quite a charming jewel, isn't it? The hard part is to get it from me. You see, in my kingdom we usually get paid for our services, give and get rules. So, the price for this cutie ring is to bring me something that I want. Something that I can sense you are hidding on your pocket. A little green gem, am I right?" Kronus picked the ring from the inside of his black coat and pointed at the sailor with it. 

 

As the black cloth was shifted due to the king's movement, Dongho noticed a green sparkle coming from the man's neck. He peaked his hand at his pocket, groping the Emerald gem that prince Soohyun had given him.

 

- You are right, my dark lord. I have what you want. You know, I have no qualms to pass it to you since it means nothing to me. I have countless Emeralds on my ship so one won't make the difference. But I don't quite trust creatures from the underworld. So here is how I work. I take first and then give. I hope you don't mind my little whim, my lord.." The captain's words were so exquisitive and convincing, even though he said a few lies and didn' t put the dark king into second thoughts.

 

Kronus throwed the little jewel to Dongho and waited for his payment. The boy instead of revealing the precious gem, grabbed a small dagger and rapidly aimed for the king's neck, bringing off his target.

 

- That was not funny ShinBad.. Did you really think that a tiny dagger like this would harm me?" Kronus hissed, irritated by the boy's sudden reaction.

- Who told you that I was aiming for you, Kronus? I supposed that the thing, hanging from your neck was similar to Soohyun's Emerald. I think I just broke it" Dongho snickered as the Dark King realised that his gem was cracking.

 

"Dongho, take my gem and protect it with your life. Because it is my life too. Take it in your journey in case you need it. And if you find an Emerald that looks like mine, please, Destroy It!" The young captain recalled Soohyun's words on their farewell.

 

A green light escaped from the cracked Emerald and Soohyun's form started fading from Kronus' figure. The two Emeralds, king's and Soohyun's, shattered in million pieces and vanished into thin air. Alongside with the crack, a hoarse scream echoed the depths of Tartarus. Dongho found the chance to run away a few meters as the shining of the gems blurred Kronus' vision. After keeping a good distance, the captain searched for the magic map that prince gave him and placed it on the desert's sand. It had to be placed under the Scorpio's constellation but he didn't have much time. Kronus real form was revealed as he looked at the throne room that they were a minute ago. A thick black smoke headed towards the sailor, threatening him to be quick.

Dongho reassured that the map was on the right position and started spelling Persephone's song. By the time he sang the last words he pressed his right foot upon the map. A metallic door opened on the black dome, taking him away. The black smoke didn'r reach the sailor in time and Kronus screemed as the young one exited from the door.

 

- Damn you ShinBad Dongho! Next time I see you, I'll make you pay for this!

- I can't see you laughing now Kronus!" The captain giggled as the door closed behind him.

 

The sudden change of the lighting, from pure darkness to burning rays of light, made him close his eyes. Like a dream, Dongho imagined his self flying above the five rivers of underworld and as he waked up, he was laying on a cold and wet surface.

 

"Wait, that's the exit. This is the entrance of Acheron. I'm out! Where's the ring? Alright, I have it. And there's my ship! They are waiting for me! ALEXIA, GUYS! OVER HERE!" Dongho spotted his ship and started swaying his hands.

 

His companions saw him and picked him up. The boat set forth to Baghdad.

 

Their arrival was the best tiding, Baghdad had ever had. Everyone on the kingdom gathered at the port to welcome them with cheers. Prince Soohyun hugged the couple and thanked Dongho.

 

- Don't worry about that Emerald again prince Soohyun. You don't have a dark twin anymore.

- Thank you my friend. You saved my life with your braveness. I'll always be gratefull to you..

 

Soohyun found time to explain Dongho how he got into this, but that's a different little strory...

The king apologized, identified the sailor's caliber and thanked him for taking care of his daughter. He gave his blessings to the loving couple and their wedding took place at the palace, just a few days later. The Ruby Ring shined on Alexia's hand. The travelers decided to land on Baghdad and built their lives there. And what will happen if another quest falls on their hands? Who knows? Maybe another adventure will add on their stories...

 

 

The end

 

 

 

 

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FairyTale__ Sinbad, Legend of the Seven Seas

Shin Dongho starring as Sinbad 

Shin Soohyun starring as the prince

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