The New World [Magi Fanfic]

A Child Emperor

"General of the Parthevia Empire... Barbarossa." King Rashid said, introducing the general. Lucy glowering at the man subtly. Barbarossa's facial expression change from a serious face into that of an amused expression.

"My apologies. It's been awhile since I've been called that." Barbarossa said.

"...That's right, you haven't heard... He's retired from his military service. He is now serving as Leader of the Independent National Party." One of the ex-general's retainers spoke up in pure bliss.

"Leader... of a political party? What the hell?" Sinbad said, whispering the last part.

"Haha. I am not surprised you haven't heard of it. A political party is an organization formed by those who share common political views. The party that is chosen by popular vote controls the government on behalf of the people. It's a completely different political system from an absolute monarchy, where a single king rules." Barbarossa explained with an amused smirk.

-

After the ceasefire with Reim, Parthevia's political structure changed greatly. The emperor died from 'sudden illness', the princess disappeared, a child prince was enthroned, and on top of that, Reim and other foreign countries demanded reparations from Parthevia after the ceasefire treaty. This put Parthevia citizens into an uncomfortable position... The deadlock between the countries was finally broken by the political changes set in motion by General Barbarossa. Parthevia gave up its absolute monarchy and instead entrusted political power to citizens, converting it to a constitutional monarchy. Due to this political reorganization, many political parties began to form in Parthevia, and throughout elections, the country changed, allowing its citizens to create influence over the government.

-

"...Yes, I have retired from my role as general and have started a new political party. Now I am merely acting as a member of this party, so I am nothing more than an average citizen." Barbarossa said.

"Haha... what are you saying Lord Barbarossa? The leader of the party in power has tremendous influence over the government. Calling yourself just an average citizen is beyond modest." King Rashid asked with a small smile.

"That's not true... We won the election thanks to all of our party members. We're a group of like-minded allies that came together to change our country with our own two hands. A Parthevia Empire for the sake of the Parthevian people... That is our aim as the Independent National Party." Barbarossa grinned as he turned his gaze towards Sinbad. The latter gulped as he gripped Lucy's hand a bit harder.

"By the way, Aren't you going to introduce us? I'd like to meet the man beside you... King Rashid?" The Ex-General said. King Rashid turned his gaze towards Sinbad and Lucy, without saying a word.

"...Even if you don't tell me. I know who he is. Dungeon Conqueror, Sinbad. Rumors of that man have spread worldwide. You're that man, aren't you?" Barbarossa grinned. Sinbad grit his teeth and pushed Lucy behind and took a protective stance with his spear aimed in front of him.

"Wait, don't panic. I am no longer a soldier. I am not interested in capturing you. On the contrary... as a fellow Parthevian, I am proud of your accomplishments. Conqueror of multiple dungeons, leader of a formidable trading company and an extraordinary hero. There's no one who hasn't heard of your adventures. You're a spectacular person. To drive someone as accomplished as you out of your home country would be unthinkable. I welcome you, Sinbad." Barbarossa said with his arms out in a welcoming gesture. Sinbad stayed silent with sweat drops coming down his face. Lucy put a hand on his shoulder in a calming manner. Everyone stood in silence until one of Barbarossa's retainers spoke up.