An Original Story Inspired by Disney's Aladdin.
written by
Eva Luz Villalón Turrubiates
October 1998
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   To Sedeara for all her help and support and the great inspiration she has put into my life.
                Without her this story would have never been finished.

==================================================================

  Chapter One
  An Heir is Born
 

It was a warm dawn in the desert dunes.... the sun was starting to rise in the sky making the golden sands shine... there was
something in the air that morning...there was something in the sky... it was a special day...

The proud city of Agrabah awoke that morning with the sounds of the horns and the bells.... the Royal Messengers came out to
the streets, marketplaces and squares to proclaim the good news to the people.... every single man, woman and child of the city
felt joy filling their hearts.

Allah's blessings had fallen upon them.... a Prince had been born in Agrabah!

At the palace, everyone was very excited with the arrival of the baby. It had been a long and
extenuating night for everybody, but now the atmosphere was filled with love, happiness and
tenderness.

The royal physician came out from a room. In the hall the Sultan, Genie, Abu, Rajah, Carpet and
Rasoul were waiting. The Sultan asked anxiously:  "Doctor, please, is everything all right? How is my daughter? How is the
baby?"

"Your Highness!" The doctor bowed. "As I announced earlier, our Princess is fine... she's extenuated after the childbirth, but
she's strong and she'll recover in no time... as for the baby, believe me, in all my years as a physician I have never seen such a
beautiful and healthy baby... Your Majesty, the Princess Jasmine and Aladdin gave us a wonderful Prince... the heir of
Agrabah's throne.... "

Everyone sighed in relief and the Sultan and Genie exchanged proud looks and smiles. Out of
nowhere, Genie made cigars appear for everyone, and then a little stuffed camel which he started to wrap in a gift box. He was
obviously excited.  "Oh, I can't wait to meet my little nephew... I'm sure he's gonna love this toy... Oh, a little baby! How cute!
Can we see 'em, doc? Can we? Can we?"

"Well..." The doctor meditated the request for a while. "The Princess and the baby are resting right now... hmmm... ok, but just
for a second... and no crowds..."

The Sultan nodded:   "We'll do as you say, doctor... I want to see my daughter... and my grandson..." He giggled happily.
"Genie, you can come with me... the rest of you will have to wait until they both are ready to receive visits, ok?!?"

Abu make a mad noise, moved his arm angrily and then folded his arms across his chest. Rajah made a noise and laid himself
on the floor. Carpet was more understanding. Rasoul just stayed there, guarding the door.

The Sultan and Genie entered the room. The curtains were closed, so the room was partially dark. Aladdin, who was sitting on
a couch next to the bed did stand up when the Sultan and Genie entered.

Aladdin smiled widely. In his eyes they could see the pride and the love of the new father. Aladdin
spoke quietly: "Sultan! Genie! I'm so glad to see you!"

"How are you, my boy?" The Sultan said in the same quiet tone.

"I'm fine, Sultan... tired, but happy... and proud..."

"And you should be, Al". Spoke Genie in that quiet tone too, giving Al the gift box. "Here, it's a little something for the kid... the
doc told us everything about your beautiful baby... "daddy"... "

 Al and Genie exchanged smiles. Then Aladdin said:  "Jasmine is sleeping right now... she was so brave during the childbirth...
she deserves her rest... the baby is sleeping too... but you can see them if you want... come..."

The Sultan and Genie went closer to the bed, where Jasmine was sleeping deeply, with a smile in her lips, holding a little bundle
beside her. Aladdin pulled tenderly the hair from Jasmine's forehead and then he, carefully, took the little bundle in his arms to
show him to the Sultan and Genie.

"Here, Your Highness... he's your grandson... my kid... my son..."

"Praise, Allah!" Said the sultan smiling. "Here is the Prince of Agrabah... my grandson... my beautiful child..."

"Al," Genie said tenderly, "this is your son... yours and Jasmine's... I'm proud of you, kid, you both have done such a nice
work! He's the most beautiful kid I've ever seen, and believe me, in all my years I've seen lots of babies..... "

The boy was, in fact, the most beautiful baby any of them had seen in their lives.

Aladdin smiled proudly while he stared at the sleeping baby. The Sultan and Genie were amazed with the child. He was
amazingly beautiful. The Sultan spoke:  "I'll send right away messengers to all the Kingdoms around the 7 deserts to announce
to them our good news... after 40 days from this blessed day, we'll present the baby to the people of Agrabah, according with
our ancient tradition, and I'll give him the Royal Title of Prince of Agrabah... I'm so proud of you, my boy! You and my
daughter gave me all I could ask for... but hear this, my boy, someday I'll
die and you will reign over Agrabah, Aladdin... and you have to teach this boy who he is, where he comes from... that way,
you'll be as proud of him as I am of you".

"I will, your Majesty". Aladdin smiled.

 Aladdin kissed the baby and placed him beside Jasmine again. The Sultan kissed his daughter and then he spoke: "You need to
get some sleep as well, my boy".

"Yeah, I think so... I'm actually very tired, this was a long night.... a blessed night.... but don't worry about me... I'm staying
here with my wife... and with my son".

 The Sultan nodded: "You deserve the rest... now we are leaving....come with me Genie, we have so much work to do".

"Yes your Highness.... Al, kid, I'm so proud of you".

Aladdin smiled as they left the room. Then Aladdin kissed his wife's forehead, and then his son's face and he laid on the couch,
trying to get some sleep, but he was so excited, that he could hardly do it.

After a while Princess Jasmine opened her eyes. The room was still dark, thanks to the heavy
tapestries and curtains. For a moment she couldn't remember anything but suddenly she felt that little, warm body beside her
own and everything came to her. He was her son. She moved uneasily and took the baby in her arms, hugging him closely and
contemplating him in his sleep. She stared at him for a long moment, smiling and feeling her heart beating faster. He was a
beautiful baby. She could tell he reminded her of someone else..... Aladdin.... Jasmine saw her husband dozing on the couch
next to the bed. Jasmine kissed her son and smiled sweetly, looking at her husband. She called him with a low and still weak
voice:  "Aladdin! "

"What? What's....?" Aladdin woke up jumping and ran his hand across his hair. He saw his wife
looking and smiling lovingly at him. He returned the warm smile and immediately went to her side,
sitting on the edge of the bed and kissing her on the cheek with love. He spoke with a low voice filled with excitement and love
while he took a lock of her hair off her face: "Oh Jasmine! You're awake! How are you feeling, my princess?"

"I'm fine, Aladdin.... I'm tired but feeling really well...." She looked in his eyes lovingly. "I want to thank you, Aladdin.... thanks
for being with me the whole time during the childbirth.... It was not an easy thing but your presence gave me force... thank you
Aladdin, because.... "

"Oh, c'mon Jasmine...." He interrupted her gently. "You know I'll be there for you always..... I won't leave you, Jasmine.... you
can always count on me.... and now," he smiled proudly, "my son can also count on me forever.... I won't let you down.... not
any of you.... "

Both of them stared at the baby for a while, caressing him lovingly and holding their hands in a
wordless declaration of love. After a while, Jasmine broke the silence:   "He looks like you, Aladdin.... and I feel so happy....
it's a new feeling.... a sense of love... of life... I
never thought a baby could fill a life with such happiness and pride.... I can feel a power inside me...something I can't explain...
"

"No need for explanations, Jasmine, because I feel the same thing.... I guess that's the magic of life...the power of love.... and
now we are part of that force, of that power..... in our son, Jasmine, we've reached immortality..... "

Aladdin rested his head on her pillow and took Jasmine's hand in his. She smiled and spoke:
"Father must be so happy..... "

"Everybody is happy.... the Sultan came to meet his grandson this morning and yes, he's very happy and very proud....
everybody in the Palace is happy.... there's a party in Agrabah right now in honor of our son.... but no one is happier or
prouder than me."

Jasmine smiled and looked at Aladdin. Suddenly he was looking sad.

"Aladdin?" When she spoke, her voice was worried. "What's wrong, my love?"

"Nothing...." He tried to smile. "It's nothing.... I'm fine.... just a little tired.... "

"It's for Cassim, isn't it? "

 Aladdin looked at her, then he looked at his son. He sighed; he couldn't hide anything from Jasmine.  She knew him so
well......

"Yes, it's my dad..... I just..... I would like.... I'd love to have him here right now... I want him to know his grandson.... he's a
grandfather now.... he'd be so proud and happy.... but it's been more than a year since he left Agrabah forever..... the last news
I had from him was eight months ago.... he was searching for an ancient treasure near the River Nile.... "

"Don't worry Aladdin.... I'm sure he's going to hear the good news.... sooner or later... you'll see.... this kind of news doesn't
happen everyday in the Seven Deserts... an heir is born... the news will be spread all over the deserts and it will arrive at
Cassim's ears.... besides, don't forget that Iago is with him....Iago is sure to have the news as soon as they are in the streets.... "

"Iago!" Aladdin smiled sadly. "Allah knows how much I miss that cranky parrot! We spent a lot of good times together.... I
really hope someday he'll come back.... "

Jasmine lowered her eyes and her voice when she spoke:   "Maybe if I talk with my father.... maybe he could forgive Cassim
and Iago.... who knows, maybe if... "

"Shhhh!" Aladdin quieted her gently, putting his finger to her mouth. "Don't worry about that Jasmine....it's ok.... my father made
his decision.... and your father was very kind in.... "

"But he's your father, Aladdin.... and he has a grandson now... his only grandson... he has every right to be here and hold this
boy in his arms... he missed your first years Aladdin... it's not fair that now he's sentenced to miss his grandson's first years as
well.... my father has to listen... he has to
understand.... Cassim is your father.... "

 Aladdin looked in her eyes and then at his son and caressed the boy's little head as he whispered:
"I know... and I understand.... now I can understand.... "

"Aladdin.... "

"We'll talk with your father Jasmine..." He smiled. "We'll do it for sure.... but for now we need to think of you and of our son....
besides, my dad is a rascal... he'll find the way to get in here and meet his grandson... you'll see.... "

"You think so?"

"I know so...."
 
Jasmine smiled and so did Aladdin. He leaned over to kiss her but the baby made a restless
movement and started to make strange noises. Aladdin looked at Jasmine in alarm. She smiled
reassuringly at Aladdin and then at her son:   "He must be hungry.... I guess it's time to feed our boy...."

"Gosh!" Said Aladdin with a shy smile. "I guess we need to get used to this parent business..... "

Later on that afternoon the royal physician came to the room. The Sultan and the Genie were with him.  They all smiled when
they saw the proud parents and the sleeping baby. Jasmine spoke with a note of excitement in her voice:   "Oh father! I'm so
happy!"

"My dearest! " The sultan hugged his daughter and kissed her forehead. "You made your father proud, Jasmine! This little boy
will be Agrabah's glory and the glory of our family.... I'm so proud of you.... of the both of you...."

"We all are happy and proud". The Genie spoke. "Jas, Al, you have a beautiful boy..... "

 Aladdin and Jasmine smiled.

"Well," said the sultan, "here's Agrabah's heir.... have you chosen a name for this young prince?"

Aladdin and Jasmine exchanged looks and smiles. Then Jasmine said:  "His name is Ali...."

"Prince Ali of Agrabah.... " The Sultan said proudly.

"Sounds good to me". Genie said giggling "It reminds me of another Prince Ali I met a while ago...
why, the kid even looks like him... don't you think Al? "

Aladdin poked Genie's ribs affectionately. Jasmine giggled as well.

"Is everything all right with you, Princess? " The doctor asked. "Any indisposition or pain?"

"I'm perfect doctor... everything is just fine.... Aladdin is taking good care of me..."

"Good, I'm glad about that.... what you need to do now, princess, is take a good rest.... and you,
Aladdin, you need to eat something... you haven't eaten anything since yesterday, have you?"

"Yeah... " Smiled Aladdin. "I think you are right doctor... I really need something to eat... with all this excitement I totally forgot
about that.... but I don't want to leave Jasmine or my son.... "

"Go, my boy... " Smiled the Sultan. "Go and take a good rest... and a good meal.... I'll stay here with my daughter until you're
back.... "

 Aladdin looked at Jasmine. She nodded. Aladdin came closer to her and kissed her face. Then he caressed his son's head and
whispered:   "I'll be back as soon as I can.... I love you... the both of you.... "

 Aladdin left the room followed by Genie who was telling him how proud he was and how beautiful the little prince was.
Aladdin was shining with pride and happiness. In the hallway Abu and Carpet came to hug the new daddy. Abu climbed onto
his shoulders making happy noises and Carpet rolled up around Aladdin, just the way he did when they first met. Then Rajah
appeared and made Aladdin fall to the floor while he happily licked his face. Aladdin was laughing:
"all right! That's enough guys! " He said, trying to get to his feet with Genie's help. "I'm also very happy and very excited about
this whole thing!"

Rajah looked into Aladdin's eyes purring, but with a worried face. Aladdin smiled and, patting the
tiger's head, he said: "Don't worry Rajah.... everything is fine... Jasmine is fine... she's resting now but she's fine... there's nothing
to worry about.... "

 Rajah purred happily and rubbed his head against Aladdin's legs. Genie passed his hand over
Aladdin's hair affectionately:   "But now our kid needs something to eat.... C'mon Al, little buddy! I'm going to prepare a good
meal for you..... a meal that's fit for a sultan..... come with me guys! "

"Ok, but let's be quick about it.... I don't want to leave Jasmine or Ali alone for a long time.... "

 =================================================================
Chapter Two
Mozenrath

The most complete darkness covered the Land of the Black Sand as usual. Everything was quiet.
Everything was lonely. The streets of the city were, as always, empty, lonely and only a ghostly
desert wind crossed the old and dark city. And above that desolated city was standing there in all its majesty and glory the
Citadel, the castle and fortress of the Master of that land.

Mozenrath was not in a good mood that night. He was a very taciturn man, always lost in his own
thoughts. But that night he looked depressed.... almost sad.

 He was sitting in his throne, staring at a big sand hourglass. The device which served to count his
time... the device that was stoplessly counting his time left on Earth. Mozenrath sighed deeply. It was obvious that dark
thoughts were torturing his soul that night. He arose to his feet and paced around the hourglass whispering to himself:   "I haven't
much time left.... it's not much of it left... my time is almost up.... and there's nothing I can do about it....." -he looked at his
gauntlet and sighed- "The power given to me is not worth this sacrifice!  What did I get? Where have I come? This isn't what I
had in mind.... when all this started I had other plans.... other dreams.... and now.... now here I am.... and I have not much
time... "

 A shadow slid through the air and went to Mozenrath's side. It was Xerxes. The magic eel spoke: "Master.... must come..... "

"Not now Xerxes, " said the young wizard rubbing his gauntlet and staring at the fall of the sand in the hourglass- "Not now..... "

"It is important..... "

"I don't care..... " Mozenrath buried himself in his throne. "I don't care about anything tonight.... Ah, Xerxes! " he sighed. "If
only I had some time.... just a little more time.... I could find some spell... some magical formula to break this curse.... I could
find a way out.... I know I could.... but there are so few sand grains left... it's all a matter of time now.... I'm almost done....
almost done... I'm hopeless....when the last grain of sand falls I will die.... "

 Xerxes didn't respond. He didn't want to interrupt his master's meditations, especially because he
knew Mozenrath's reactions when he got mad. But the news he had was important, very important, so he decided to have a
try:   "Master..... Agrabah.... big party..... "

Mozenrath looked at his familiar, arching an eyebrow. Obviously the news was totally pointless for him.

"Oh yes? Well.... my Agrabanian friends can celebrate all they want.... after all, it seems to me that's all they can do....
celebrations, parties.... some people spend their lives throwing away all they have in parties.... personally I find it totally
useless..... "

"But this party..... is big.... is important..... "

Mozenrath left his throne and went out to his balcony. There he looked absently at his dark kingdom and the never-ending
night. When Xerxes went to his master's side, the young wizard said with a note of envy in his deep voice:   "Destiny smiled
upon that street rat.... he never risked anything in his life.... he got everything and he didn't have to pay any price for the
power... for the glory... for the happiness.... all his dreams came true.... that isn't fair, is it? It's a mystery the way the Powers
play with the lives of us, humans.... Why have they chosen that street rat? Why did they ask me to pay? I don't know.... I did
give everything... I did risk everything.... I did bet everything I had.... and I have nothing... I win nothing.... I have so much
power here.... no one could ever  defeat me.... not even Aladdin.... but it's me... it's my own body who is doing what no
warrior, no wizard and no hero could do.... my body is getting weaker... I'm being defeated by my own body..... and soon....
soon I will die.... "

Mozenrath sighed.  "Once I gave my right hand for power.... but now I'd gladly give my other hand for life... just for a little
more of life... I'd give anything for a healthy body.... I wish I could be reborn in a young and strong healthy body.... one that is
full of life, of strength... a body full of passion.... full of energy... yes, if only I could get my wish.... reborn.... be a healthy man....
I'd be the most powerful human on Earth... the most powerful being ever.... once I tried to take over Aladdin's body.... but I
failed... I must admit, that street rat has an enviable body.... he's strong, he's full of life and energy.... yes, that street rat has just
everything... he has life, he has a future... he has a kingdom.... he has a genie... he even has a princess..... "

"And now, " Xerxes said, "he has a son...."

 Mozenrath looked at his familiar with wide eyes:  "What did you say Xerxes? What did you say?"

"Aladdin.... Jasmine.... a son..... "

"Are you trying to tell me that Agrabah is celebrating the birth of the heir? "

"Yes master.... "

 An evil smile brightened Mozenrath's face. He went into his Citadel, rushing to the room where he had his magic mirror. As he
got closer he said some magic words and the mirror started to glow with a blinding blue light. The image of Agrabah appeared.
The streets were filled with color and music. The people were happy. The Agrabanian sky was illuminated with a colorful
spectacle of fireworks. And the Sultan in his royal balcony was announcing the birth of the heir. He was telling Agrabah that in
forty days they would officially present the newborn prince to the people.

Mozenrath smiled malevolently and started to walk from one corner to the other in the room, thinking out loud:   "Aladdin has
always been a healthy, strong man.... the princess Jasmine is a healthy and beautiful woman... what came from their union can
only be a healthy, strong and beautiful child... full of life and determination and..... heir of the great kingdom of Agrabah
besides... This is just perfect! It's simply perfect! "

He meditated for a couple of seconds and then he laughed.

"Just imagine, Xerxes, the street rat and his princess will have to spend the rest of their lives taking
good care of his beloved son.... the fruit of their love.... and they must protect him from any harm, even if their greatest enemy is
living inside the body of that child.... Yes! I could even get rid of those pests... I would have them on my side unconditionally....
I can't believe it! Aladdin and Jasmine did me a great favor bringing this boy into the world.... giving life to him.... they are also
giving life to me.... "

"What will master do? "

"I'm going to prepare everything.... this must be perfect... no mistakes this time.... this time I'm going to prepare even the last
detail.... this is my last chance and I'm not taking any risk.... "

 Mozenrath spent the whole night in his library studying, reading, checking all kinds of books and
scrolls. No, Xerxes and not even the mamluks dared to interrupt his work. Hours were passing very quickly but Mozenrath
was so concentrated on what he was doing that he didn't notice how much time he spent there. It seemed he was going to read
forever. Finally, after all his work, he leaned back heavily into his chair, sighing. Xerxes, who had been observing his master's
work finally came closer cautiously.

"Master?"

"I've got it, Xerxes, " the wizard told him, rubbing his eyes. "I've found what I was looking for.... I knew I had it here
somewhere.... "

"Mozenrath found spell? "

"Yes Xerxes.... I have the spell I was looking for... and I have it right here.... " he reviewed his notes. "I can not use with the
child the same spell I tried to use on the street rat.... after all, the baby is a brand new body.... I don't want to transport my
spirit into his body... no.... I'm planning to take over his body and his own life.... I will be reborn in Aladdin's son.... I can't
afford any mistake now... and I will grow up as the most perfect human being on Earth... I must thank that little thief and the
royal pain he has for a wife.... after all they are the ones who are giving me the possibility of a new life... This is so ironic!"  He
laughed.

"I can't lose time.... " Mozenrath went to one of the windows where a telescope was placed and took a look at the sky. "The
stars must be in a perfect line if I want this spell to work properly.... "

For a few minutes Mozenrath stared at the sky and checked some stellar maps. Then he smiled
widely and spoke:  "In forty days the stars will have the correct alignment.... and they will be in that position for a couple of
nights..... I have enough time to get all the stuff I'll be needing for my spell.... I also need to have everything ready here before I
go.... after all I won't be around for a while.... for a few years.... until the young prince of Agrabah is old enough to come to
take the throne of the Land of the Black Sand....and his place as the most powerful wizard ever.... forty days.... well, I don't
want to ruin the great celebration in Agrabah..... I will allow the sultan to officially present the young heir to his people.... and
that night I will go to take him.... that will be the night.... I will be reborn as the Prince of Agrabah..... "

Mozenrath's laugh sounded even more scary than usual. Xerxes laughed with his master.

"C'mon Xerxes, let's get down to business..... we can't lose time..... "

================================================================== Chapter Three
Cassim and Iago

 A mature man dressed in dark clothes with a red and blue parrot on his shoulder walked without rush across the marketplace
in a city somewhere in the Seven Deserts. They were on their way to the inn.  Once in a while they stopped to look at the
stands, but since the both of them were talking, more than looking at the stands, they just stopped to talk in front of them.

"I know I've always told you that when it comes about money, the more the better, Cassim, but it took us months to find that
treasure in the deserts of Egypt.... I almost melted with the sun... not to mention that I nearly... "

"I thought you were a treasure hunter, bird.... I thought you must be used to that kind of adventures...."

"I know, I know.... but remember, I used to live in a palace..... birds get use to it very quickly, you know.... "

"You also lived in that hovel you are always complaining about..... "

"Yeah, but even that hovel, those ruins that Al called home were comfortable in comparison with the weather in the desert....
well, anyway, my point is that I totally agree with you that we must go after that treasure you say is hidden in that Babylonian
temple.... it's a great idea, I love it.... but first we should enjoy our Egyptian treasure for a while.... we could visit any casino in
Getzistan... there we could gain so much money.... we could double our treasure.... and without any danger.... no desert
travels, no dangers... no cursed treasures hidden in secret caves.... "

"I understand you, my feathered friend.... but even if I have this Egyptian treasure in my hands now, I can't help but think about
that Babylonian treasure.... when you are a treasure hunter, the treasure is not the most important.... you become obsessed with
the hunt itself.... "

"That's perfect, you know.... we could make an arrangement, you would be the one who hunts the treasures and I would be the
one who spends the treasures.... fair deal, don't you think?"

Cassim looked at the parrot and laughed. They had been together for many months now and they
were good friends by now. Cassim stopped in front of a food stand.

"We better get something to eat, bird.... you must be hungry and that's why you're delirious... "

"I'm delir....? Oh Cassim.... " Iago sighed. "You don't understand me... poor little bird.... "

"Are you hungry or not?"

"Yes I am.... so let's get some fine food here.... "

 When they approached the food stand they listened to the merchants who were talking nearby.

"As I told you, " said the merchant who owned a jewels stand, "the vizier did buy only the best of the best for the royal gift....
he got my best merchandises.... and it's no wonder, the city must be on good terms with the Sultan of Agrabah since that city is
so prosperous and powerful.... "

When Cassim and Iago heard the name of Agrabah the both of them paid attention to the
conversation.

"I've heard that Agrabah is probably the most powerful city in all the lands of Allah..... we need to keep peace and friendship
with Agrabah..... "

"You're right... " the other vendors replied.

"So," spoke Cassim, "our Emir is visiting the Kingdom of Agrabah, right? Any particular reason?"

"As far as I was told," the same merchant answered, "he's going to the official presentation of the
newborn prince of Agrabah... "

Cassim and Iago exchanged looks. For a moment none of them said anything but then Cassim smiled widely: "The prince of
Agrabah you said?"

"Yes, that's what I said... a few months ago the Princess of Agrabah married some street rat... we all knew the story.... it was
quite a scandal at first.... but the young man has turned out to be the
greatest hero in all the Seven Deserts.... and I was told at the Emir's palace that a heir is born from that union... "

"Praise Allah!" Cassim laughed, unable to hide his pride. "And when did that blessed birth happen, good people?"

"Well, the little prince was born a couple of weeks ago.... more or less... I couldn't tell you the exact date but one thing I know
for sure is that the Emir's caravan left the city to attend the royal ceremony of the official presentation of the heir five days
ago.... I heard that the royal presentation will take place two weeks from today..... "

Cassim left the marketplace and took the way to the inn. He was lost in his happy thoughts. Iago
smiled, he was excited: "Well.... so Al and the princess have a son.... " But he caught himself and spoke with his usual cranky
voice: "Those kids! They didn't lose any time..... but what did I expect? You have no idea how much I hated all their mushy
stuff.... they were always.... "

"My grandson! " Interrupted Cassim with pride and excitement in his voice. "Oh my feathered friend... suddenly I feel
immortal..... my blood will live forever in this boy.... the newborn prince of Agrabah.... my grandson.... "

"And what are you going to do? Are you going to send him some gift or something? "

"No.... I'm going to Agrabah..... I want to meet my grandson.... "

Iago perched on a beam in a wall of the old and lonely alley they were crossing:

"Cassim! " He was alarmed. "You know very well that we are fugitives in Agrabah! In the moment they'd see us enter the city
they would lock us up in the dungeon for life..... we could barely escape the last time... remember? "

"I know but I can't do anything else.... it's my grandson... he's the son of my own son.... it's my own blood.... I can't stay here
and pretend not to have a son or a grandson.... I want to go to meet him... I want to see my boy and the princess.... I have
every right in doing so.... even as a wanted man... "

Iago moved his head and tried to get Cassim back to his senses:  "Look, Cassim, I understand... I really do.... but for the first
time in my life I have a treasure of my own... I think this is not the time to let someone throw me in the dungeon.... and the same
goes for you.... "

"Yes, you are right bird.... I have a treasure.... a great treasure... a treasure than can not be compared with any treasure on
Earth.... I have my son.... and now my grandson.... I can't miss this... I never knew my boy when he was a little kid... and I
want to meet my grandson... it's the least I can do... I need a good horse... I'm going to buy the best horse in the marketplace...
a strong horse that can get us to Agrabah without any stop.... I must be there the day of the official ceremony... I need to know
my grandson.... "

"But Cassim... what about the treasure? Are we taking the treasure with us? "

"No.... I'm going to hide it in a cave near here... it will be safe there... and we need to be on our way tonight.... we'll travel
light... and we'll be in Agrabah right in time for the ceremony.... "

"Hide the treasure you said? Oh boy! Now I know where all those crazy Al ideas came from.... like father like son.... just think
Cassim, we are not welcome in Agrabah.... do you think the sultan will receive us with joy and let us have some guest rooms at
the palace and all? I don't think so, pal!"

"No, he won't.... and I don't care... I'm going to visit my grandson, not the sultan.... we'll hide ourselves in the crowd during the
ceremony... and then I'll find the way to see my son... and meet my grandson.... C'mon bird! We are leaving tonight!"

Cassim left the alley. Iago sighed and shook his head. Cassim wouldn't listen to him and it was
dangerous for both of them to go back to Agrabah. When Iago noticed he was all alone in the alley, he smiled proudly and
whispered: "The kid and the princess have a son now! What a happy event! What a blessed day! I can't wait to go to Agrabah
and meet the boy.... besides, I want to see Al and Jasmine too.... and I want to see that stupid monkey.... and the rug....why, I
even miss that silly Genie.... Oh Al!.... Jasmine! If I have this chance to see you again, I really don't care if I have to lose my
part of the treasure or risk my feathers... I want to see you! All of you! But of course, you'll never hear me saying this! "

Iago rushed to catch up with Cassim at the marketplace.

==================================================================
Chapter Four
The Official Presentation Day

 Days passed fast upon the Arabian deserts. The day of the presentation was almost there and the joy and happiness of the
people filled the air of the city. Agrabah was preparing itself for the official event. The streets were filled with color and music.
The flags, the flowers, everything was almost ready for the big party.

 That day Aladdin and Jasmine were taking a walk in the palace menagerie. It was sunset and they wanted to share some
private time after the hard day they had. Aladdin was telling to his wife all the events of the day: "It went pretty well.... better
than expected, I'd say.... I don't think your father will have any other problem with those vendors... thank goodness we were
able to fix the argument in good terms... those merchants now can have their own stores in the west side of the market... and
everyone was happy after the arrangement we did.... "

"I'm glad about that..... "

"But tell me Jasmine, how was your day? How did everything go with you and the kid? "

"It was a wonderful day, " she smiled, "our son is such a sweet and nice boy.... I really enjoy our time together.... I love to
spend the day taking care of him.... I want to stay with him the whole time... I'm glad we decided not to hire any nurse.... I want
to raise my own son.... I never had my mother with me when I was growing up and I want for Ali to have his mother with him
the whole time... I love him with all my heart and soul.... "

"So do I.... " Aladdin smiled. "So do I.... "

Jasmine looked at his face and caressed it gently: "You do miss it, don't you Aladdin?"

"Miss what?"

"That life of adventures you used to live before we were married.... "

"No... " Said Aladdin trying to rest importance on the subject. "Of course not.... I'm with you and that's all that matters for me
now... I have my son, I have you.... and I'm working here with your father, learning a lot of things.... that adventure life is
worthless for me now.... "

 Jasmine smiled and said:

"That's not true, my darling.... and you know that.... you are a restless man and I know that to stay here at the palace taking
care of all this official business is not what you like to do... it's not you... you still long for adventures.... you still want to fight
monsters and defend our kingdom from the evil enemies.... "

Jasmine sighed. "Sometimes I feel that by marrying you the only thing I did was trap you.... I finished with your freedom, didn't
I? "

"No Jasmine, " said Aladdin sincerely, "don't say that.... that's not true.... yeah, I admit that
sometimes I miss all those crazy adventures we had.... and sometimes I get bored with official
business and all that your father is trying to teach me.... but now I'm a husband.... now I'm a father... I can't be running around
acting as if nothing were important to me.... all those official affairs are boring but.... well.... someday I'll be in charge of this
kingdom and I will have all the responsibilities over my shoulders.... there's so much I still need to know... I can't fail your
father... I can't fail my son.... but most of all, I can't fail you...."

"Oh Aladdin! " She hugged him. "You have no idea how much I love you! "

"I love you too my princess.... I love you too!"

 Aladdin leaned over and softly kissed Jasmine's lips. She melted into that kiss. After a few seconds they pulled away
reluctantly. Aladdin smiled and said:  "I must admit it, Jasmine.... sometimes I wish I could have a crazy adventure, like in our
old times... with Genie, Carpet, Abu.... with Iago... and of course, with you.... "

"-Iago! " She smiled. "I want to see that parrot! I miss him a lot! I wonder how things are going for him and your father? "

"I'm sure they get along pretty well... " he laughed. "They are two of a kind... a couple of rascals... I'm sure they are fine.... Iago
must be having the best time of his life with my dad.... looking for
treasures... going to exotic places.... having lots of adventures.... "

"You miss them, don't you? "

"Yes, Jasmine... I miss them a lot.... both of them.... I mean, Iago and I went through so many things together.... he was with us
for a long time..... and my dad....well.... I really hadn't the chance to get to know him better but.... somehow I feel I do know
him.... for some reason... I don't know why but.... oh well, he's my father after all.... and regardless of what he did, well.... I
miss him a lot.... "

"Oh Aladdin, I'm so sorry about all this... my father shouldn't keep this thing like this.... after all
Cassim, he's your father... he's also.... "

"That's ok, Jasmine". He interrupted her lovingly. "That's ok..... don't worry about that... my father
made a lot of mistakes... that's not your fault... that's not mine and it's not your father's either.... it is just the way my dad lives...
that's what my dad is... that's what he likes..... we shouldn't worry about him... besides I'm sure he'll show up here to meet his
grandson sooner or later, you'll see...."

"I hope you're right Aladdin.... "

"You'll see! "

"Well, " Jasmine changed the subject, "the ceremony and the party are almost ready now... it's just a couple of days more.... a
couple of days and our son will be officially the Prince of Agrabah... the heir to the throne..... tell me, Aladdin, did you ever
dream you'd be a powerful Sultan? The father of a dynasty of fair and brave rulers?"

"I always had wild dreams about my future... but I never thought all my dreams would some day come true.... I have my son, I
have you... what else could I ask for? "

"I love you Aladdin! "

"I love you too, Jasmine! "

"Now let's get back to our quarters.... Ali must be really hungry now and I don't think father is very happy to take care of a
crying and hungry baby... "

"Let's go.... "

 
 
 In the Land of the Black Sand, Mozenrath was carefully watching the night sky. He was taking notes in his notebook. He'd
been working for hours now. Finally he smiled and spoke:

"Everything is ready now, Xerxes.... the alignment of the stars is correct.... and I have everything
ready... just two days... two more days.... tomorrow the little boy will be presented at his people and he'll receive his rightful
title of Prince of Agrabah.... heir of a great and glorious kingdom.... heir of the best features of his parents.... and heir of my
powers... he's a lucky little kid, isn't he? I will let the people celebrate for the prince.... after all I must take care of my own
interests.... it's me who they will be cheering for after all.... tomorrow at night, after the great party, I will enter the palace and
I'll take the child and his mother and bring them here to the Citadel... here I will proceed with the transfusion of my spirit.... I
will enter the body of the little prince, I will take over him... and I'll have here princess Jasmine to take care of her son after I'm
finished with him.... I'm going to get rid of this weak old body once and for all.... and the best part is that Aladdin, my greatest
enemy will have to take care of me.... he'll see that nothing bad ever happens to me... until I'm old enough to come back and
take over my kingdom.... and my power..... then I will have two kingdoms in my hands... and with the power of my magic and
with the force of my new young and healthy body I will be the most powerful man on Earth! "

 Xerxes spoke with a worried face: "What Xerxes will do in the meantime? "

"You, " smiled the wizard, "you'll stay here, watching over my Citadel... watching over my magic... you'll wait until I return.... as
soon as I can I'll be back... it will take just 13 or 14 years.... not much really.... I don't want to waste a single minute of the new
life that tomorrow starts for me.... I have everything under my control.... I have it all planned... nothing could go wrong... "

Mozenrath walked across his lab, from corner to corner, reviewing his plan and smiling to himself.
Then he went to his balcony and once again he checked the stars with his telescope. Then he looked at the horizon and
whispered:

"I never thought Aladdin and Jasmine would give me what I need most... for the first time in my life I'm glad that street rat is a
strong man and the princess a beautiful woman.... " And with a devilish smile he added: "Now the only thing I must do is get use
to the idea of calling them "dad" and "mom".... "

Mozenrath laughed and then he went to his bedchamber. He needed to take a good rest before the hard day that was to come.
His big day.
 
 

 Since the first hour in the morning the city of Agrabah woke up with the sounds of trumpets, horns and drums. It was a very
special day. It had been a long time since the last time Agrabah celebrated a ceremony like this. The last time had been when
Jasmine's father was proclaimed Prince of the city and it had been long time ago. The law said that only the male children could
be proclaimed princes of Agrabah, not the women. Jasmine and Aladdin had already talked about that stupid law and they both
agreed that they would change that unfair law. Jasmine knew very well about unfair laws and she knew that when Aladdin was
the sultan he would make better laws. Not that her father was a bad ruler but sometimes he was so... formal... so stuck to the
laws.

Jasmine was thinking about this while she was preparing herself for the ceremony. She was sitting in front of her mirror finishing
her hairdo. She looked at her reflection and smiled. She looked very well, even better than before she was pregnant.

Smiling she went to Ali's cradle, where the little prince was. The boy was making soft noises and
moving restlessly in his cradle. He was discovering his own new world. He was playing with his own hands. Jasmine stared
sweetly at him for a long moment. She was thinking how much Ali looked like Aladdin. He even was as restless as his father.
And he also had that sparkle in his eyes and that boyish smile. Jasmine sighed, thinking how much she loved the both of them.
The men of her life. The three men in her life, because she loved her father with all her heart. But what she felt for Aladdin and
for her son was even bigger than the love for her father... or maybe they were just different kinds of love.

 Jasmine took the baby in her arms and hugged him tightly but softly against her chest. She sat in the bed and started to hum a
lovely song for her son. The baby was happy in his mother's arms. He stared and smiled at her while she was singing. She
kissed his forehead and told him with a sweet, low voice: "Who is this handsome young man? Who's gonna be named prince of
Agrabah today? Oh Ali... my little son... my dear Ali... I love you so much! "

Suddenly the door opened and Aladdin entered the room, rushing. He was going to say something but he stopped when he saw
that lovely scene: his wife and his son. He smiled tenderly and went to kiss the both of them.

"It's everything all right Jasmine? Are you ready? "

"Yes... I'm ready.... now I only need to dress Ali in his royal clothes.... here," she said handing the
baby to Aladdin who took him with some clumsiness, "hold him while I get his clothes... and hold his head.... "

"Yes, I know.... " Aladdin smiled while he tried to hold the baby in the proper way. "I got you! Here you go Ali.... you're ok
now... you are with your dad.... there's nothing to worry about son.... "

 Aladdin looked at the royal clothes Jasmine had in her hands and making a face he said: "Does he really have to wear that? I
don't think it's a very comfortable thing.... "

Jasmine smiled and looked at the little royal suit, then she looked at Aladdin and the baby:
"I know you don't like this style that much Aladdin.... I know you hate formalities.... but today is a very special day and I think
that the occasion is worthy of this suit... besides, I think it's lovely, don't you? "

"Yeah.... " Said Aladdin, not very convinced. "I guess so... I really don't know much about the royal fashion and all that stuff.....
" he placed the baby on the bed so Jasmine could have him dressed. "I think I'm not used to this kind of life yet, Jasmine... you
know, it's all so full of luxury..." He started to help Jasmine by handing to her the baby's clothes and watching closely what she
was doing. "I never was a cultured kind of guy, you know... I am so... common... and suddenly I married a princess.... it's been
magical for me... but not very easy Jasmine... not easy at all.... "

"Well, as far as I'm concerned I think you're doing this wonderfully.... " She said keeping her eyes on what she was doing with
the baby.

"You really think so? Well... I don't know... sometimes I feel I haven't what it takes to be the husband of a princess.... you
know, with these fancy clothes and everything..... but sometimes I still feel like a street rat myself..... "

Jasmine looked at his worried face and smiled: "Don't say that Aladdin, you look great to me.... you are very handsome....
besides you are the only man I could love.... "

Aladdin blushed and replied: "And you are beautiful, my princess..... "

Now it was Jasmine who blushed and smiling, she took Aladdin's hand and pulling him back to her, she hugged him. She spoke
while they stared at the little boy who was laying in the bed:
"And look at what our love has made, Aladdin.... he's beautiful, isn't he? "

"He is, Jasmine... as beautiful as his mother.... "

Suddenly Genie's voice called them from the door: "May I come in? "

"Go ahead! " Aladdin said and then he whispered to Jasmine. "At least they learned they must call
before they get into our bedchambers.... "

"Al! Jas! " Genie smiled. "You two look great! And everything is ready for our young prince... the sultan is waiting for you..... "

"Let's go then.... "

Jasmine took the baby in her arms while Aladdin and Genie stared lovingly at them. Then, Genie
spoke as if he just remembered it: "Oh! I just want to remind you, guys, that tonight after the party I'm going to leave for a
while... Eden is waiting for me.... I haven't seen her since I knew we were gonna have a new member in our family here..." -he
said caressing the boy's head- "she couldn't come today.... but I promised I'd visit her as soon as the ceremony ends.... I guess
it's time for me to take care of my own personal business... "

"We know, Genie, " Aladdin smiled, "and we know how much you deserve that private time with
Eden.... and we hope you enjoy your time together".

"And we are very grateful for you, Genie, " Jasmine added, "because you've been a great help for us all the time.... "

"Oh, don't mention it, Jas.... it was my pleasure.... besides, I'll be back in a couple of weeks... I don't think I could spend much
time away from Agrabah anyway... away from you or away from this handsome little heir.... "

Genie tickled Ali's chin and the kid giggled happily. Jasmine smiled and Aladdin spoke:

"Well then, we shouldn't keep Agrabah waiting... or the Sultan.... " Aladdin kissed his son. "This
young man must take his place in the world.... as the prince of Agrabah! "
 
 

 The official ceremony was very long and very solemn, as the tradition asked of it. The little boy was presented to the people as
the Prince Ali, Heir of Agrabah's Throne. After the ceremony there was a big party in the streets of the city and a big and fancy
reception at the palace for the official guests. The day ended with a colorful spectacle of fireworks illumination the desert night.
All to bring honor to the new prince.

While the Agrabanian sky was glittering with the colors of the fireworks, a man covered with his dark cape watched the
spectacle from an old and far roof high above the streets of the city. It was a ruined hovel but it had a great view. The palace
looked amazing from there. When the man was thinking about all this a voice sounded behind him:

"It's beautiful, isn't it, Cassim? Agrabah is such a beautiful city.... "

"It is, bird... it really is.... I'm so sorry we couldn't make it in time to the official ceremony this
evening... well, I've never liked formalities a lot anyway.... But look at that! It's amazing! Well, I must admit, the Sultan really
knows how to honor his grandson... the spectacle is amazing... I've never seen anything like this before.... "

"Yeah, the Sultan loves this kind of stuff.... " Iago nodded. "I'm quite sure he already got a bunch of new toys for the baby...
and for him.... oh well.... and.... I suppose you have an equally amazing gift for your grandson. Right Cassim? Something that
can match with this spectacle... maybe something gold?"

"Well.... " Cassim said nervously. "Actually.... I... I don't.... I.... "

"Cassim! How dare you to show up in Agrabah as a wanted man without even a small gift for the kid? Well, forget it.... we're
dead! "

"It's not that easy, my feathered friend.... What could I give to someone who has everything? I can offer nothing to him.... what
could I give to him that could be a match for the great gifts the Sultan is giving to him? "

"We have lots of gold now Cassim.... are you forgetting our Egyptian treasure?"

"No.... but it's not about gold, bird.... is about.... something else... "

"What do you mean, Cassim? Why are you getting dramatic here? "

"I don't know... it's just that.... I never was there for my son.... I left him all alone in the world... and I don't want to make the
same mistake with my grandson.... the only thing I can offer to him is that I'll be there for him always when he needs me....
Somehow I feel that in my grandson I must repay all the harm I did to Aladdin..... "

"Oh yeah! " Iago said. He hated be dramatic so he decided to change the subject. "So, tell me, are we staying in here tonight or
what? "

"As long as we stay here in Agrabah I think this is a good place to be.... we can't expect to be
received at the palace in one of the guest rooms, can we? "

"No, of course not.... but I had some ideas in mind... some inn.... some.... "

"They must be filled with all the guests.... besides, this is the place where my son lived... when he did grow up... and we are
staying here.... "

"I can't believe this... " Iago muttered. "I'm condemned to live in this hovel for life! "

"Better this hovel than the Sultan's dungeons... Now get ready bird! " Cassim told him. "Let's get some dinner and after that
we'll be paying a visit to the palace.... "

"Diner! " Smiled Iago. "That's good! It's the best thing you've said the whole day.... I'm starving... let's get some fresh fruits and
some baklava and...... "

The words got lost in the silence as they were walking away from the hovel.

 
 
The emotion of the day had ended and now a peaceful and beautiful night covered the city and the
palace. The last guests had just left the palace and Aladdin and Jasmine were very tired after all the festivities. The little Ali was
restless and tired as well. He needed a good rest after that crazy day.

Aladdin went with his wife to their bedchambers. Jasmine entered to the private bathroom to change her clothes while Aladdin
was playing with the baby on the bed.

"He's very uneasy tonight.... " Aladdin said. "I hope he doesn't get sick..... "

"Don't worry, " Jasmine replied from the bathroom, "this was a hard day for all of us... and Ali was the star... he's just tired,
that's all.... I'll put him to sleep and tomorrow he'll be as good as new... you'll see.... "

"I hope so.... I'd hate to have him sick.... I can't stand the idea of something bad happening to our
son.... and I won't let anything bad happen to you Ali.... I promise.... "

"Yes, " Jasmine said, "I'm also worried for him and I'd hate to have him sick too..... but one thing I know for sure is that we
both are safe as long as we have you here with us..... "

"Sure! " Aladdin smiled. "I'll be here for you forever! I will never leave you! "

Aladdin was lovingly tickling his son and playing and talking to him. The little boy seemed to love to play with his dad. Jasmine
appeared in the room dressed in her robe. She smiled when she saw
Aladdin playing with his son. Aladdin looked at her and smiled. She looked beautiful in that robe.

"You look beautiful Jasmine! " He said with a low voice.

She blushed and spoke half smiling while she took the baby in her arms: "I'd better lay Ali to sleep.... I don't want him to stay
up this late.... "

"Yes, " Aladdin smiled, "I'm going to say good bye to Genie... he's already leaving... Eden is waiting for him and he's very
excited.... he deserves this time with her... "

"Yes, he deserves it.... now, Ali, say good night to daddy.... "

The boy giggled as Aladdin kissed his forehead and whispered his goodnight. Then he kissed his wife and stood up: "I'll be right
back.... " he said as he walked to the door.

"Aladdin! " Jasmine called him.

"Yes my darling? "

"I love you! "

"I love you too! " he smiled.

 
 Aladdin found the Genie in the throne room. He was talking with Abu, Carpet and Rajah, giving some instructions to them of
how they must behave while he was gone. Aladdin smiled:

"Don't worry Genie! We'll be fine... Abu, Carpet and Rajah aren't troubles here... the only trouble we used to have here is long
gone by now.... "

"Yes.... " smiled sadly Genie. "That cranky and crazy parrot! Boy, I've missed him a lot! "

Abu made some noises to let his friends know how much he missed the parrot too. Even Rajah looked a little sad at the
mention of Iago's name. Aladdin smiled again:

"Well, it's not the time to get sentimental here, Genie.... Eden is waiting for you.... "

"Yes, you are right Al... Eden is waiting for me and I can't wait to be there with her! I miss her so
much! This is going to be the best vacation of my life! I just hope you don't need me here.... "

"I'll take care of everything, Genie.... don't worry.... "

"Ok... but remember, if you need me, just rub my lamp and I'll be back as soon as I can.... "

"I know... "

"Well then... Al, it's been a pleasure to be here with you... but even Genies need some rest once in a while.... so, it's time to say
good bye.... I'll be back in a couple of weeks! "

They came out of the throne room to the menagerie. Genie was still giving Al some instructions.
Aladdin smiled at the words of his friend. When Genie said everything he had, a couple of suitcases appeared from nowhere
and Aladdin and Genie hugged.

"Well, I'm going now.... take care, Al... and take care of Jas and the baby... I'll bring some gifts for all of you! I promise! "

"Have fun Genie! "

The Genie disappeared into the night sky. Aladdin stared at the sky for a couple of minutes, smiling and waving his hand to his
friend. Then he sat on the edge of the fountain. It was a beautiful night and a wonderful desert wind caressed his face. He
looked at the balcony of his room and smiled as the image of Jasmine lovingly rocking Ali came to his mind. Without even
thinking about it images of his own childhood came to his mind and suddenly he remembered his mother.

He had so little memories of her. She had died when he was just 5 years old. He remembered her as a sweet and loving
woman. She always laid him to sleep and stayed there, telling him stories until he got to sleep. Regardless of their poverty she
always had time and love for her son. Until the day she died. Life changed for him suddenly when his mother died. He was an
orphan in the streets. The face of Cassim appeared in his mind and he almost reproached him that he was not there when they
had needed him the most. He shook his head trying to let those thoughts out. After all Cassim was his father. He looked at the
balcony once again and smiled thinking that now he had a family of his own.

"And I'll be there always for you... " He said out loud. "I'll never leave you... I'll be the best father in the world.... the best
husband.... I won't let you live anything I lived.... I'll protect you from any harm... I love you! I love the both of you! Jasmine,
Ali, you are my whole life! "

 
In the royal bedroom Jasmine was singing a lullaby for her baby. The boy was already sleeping but Jasmine was still singing
quietly while she was rocking and contemplating her sleeping son. A happy smile curved her lips. Rajah was there with her,
laying at her feet, purring happily while he was hearing his mistress singing.

Jasmine couldn't stop thinking how much Ali looked like Aladdin.... the same eyes, the same nose, the same face.... but it was
obvious that the little prince would be more handsome than his father
when he grew up.

Suddenly Jasmine remembered her mother and her early death. She sighed sadly at the memory. She also remembered her
father and how he had to raise her all alone. It had been hard for both of them.

"My life was never easy... " She said to Rajah but speaking to herself. "I always was a lonely girl... I never had all the love I
needed.... " She shook her head. "Oh Rajah! That will never happen to my son! I'll be here with him always and forever! "

She prayed to Allah to allow her to stay with her boy and with her husband for a long time.

"You are a lucky little boy, Ali! " She whispered. "You have a mother who loves you and a father who would do anything for
you! I love you my little prince! I love you Ali! "

Jasmine leaned over to kiss her son when a light came into the room and a very familiar voice
sounded: "How touching, Princess! Really, maternity has been good to you.... I never pictured you as a mother, I must admit....
but it seems to me you are doing an excellent job..... "

"Mozenrath! " She said with surprise but her voice quickly changed to determination. "What are you doing here? "

Rajah was already in front of the wizard, willing to pay with his life for the security of the princess and the little heir. Mozenrath
looked at him and made a face while he continued with his speech:

"I knew Agrabah had a new heir and I thought I must pay a visit.... I want to salute the little prince, that's all.... after all we are
long time friends, princess.... and believe it or not, the birth of your son
made me feel very happy..... "

"I don't know what's on your mind Mozenrath! But I'm warning you, if you put a finger on my son, I'll.... "

"Shhhh!" He interrupted her. "No need of this attitude, princess! I assure you, my intentions with your son are the best in the
world.... "

At that moment Rajah attacked the wizard. Jasmine embraced her son and ran to the door. But
Mozenrath, with just a movement of his hand sent Rajah unconscious to the floor. Jasmine was about to open the door but
Mozenrath, using the power of his magic, closed the door. Jasmine yelled to Aladdin but Mozenrath smiled and then laughed:

"Really princess, there's no need of this... as I told you, nothing bad will happen to you or your son... trust me.... "

Jasmine was covering the baby with her own body. Mozenrath came to her and looked at the baby, smiling, pleased: "It's
perfect! Better than expected! Time to go, princess! "

And with another movement of his hand, the room was filled with a powerful light and when the light disappeared the princess,
the baby and the wizard were gone already.

 
 
Aladdin was still in the menagerie, staring at the sky and dreaming of the future when something made him jump. A light, a
noise.... in his room... he jumped to his feet and whispered:

"Jasmine?"

At that moment he heard the princess screaming his name. That scream hit his head and with a
terrible sense of fear in his heart he ran into the palace, screaming for the guards.

In no time Aladdin and the guards were in the hallway of the royal chamber but as soon as they arrived they could hear a big,
strange noise and they saw a light coming from inside the room. Aladdin was trying unsuccessfully to open the door. The guards
were trying to help him but the door wouldn't open. Aladdin cried for Jasmine and took Rasoul's sword. It took only two hits of
his sword and the lock was broken. When they entered the room they found Rajah laying unconscious on the floor and the
room empty.... the princess and the newborn prince were gone.

An unknown and terrible fear entered Aladdin's heart. He'd never felt this kind of fear before. He put one hand on his head and
the other one on the wall trying to keep his balance. Suddenly he was feeling dizzy. Someone had kidnaped his wife and his
son. His heart felt like it was about to explode. He felt he was going insane. The pain and the terror he was feeling were so
much for him to carry all by himself. At that moment the Sultan entered the room. He saw Rajah on the floor, the scared guards
and the desperate Aladdin, who was rubbing his head, trying to control himself. The Sultan put his hand on Aladdin's shoulder:
"My boy.... what happened here? My daughter? My grandson? What....?"

"They are gone.... " Aladdin could hardly hold back his tears. "Someone took them.... my wife... my son..."

"By Allah! " The Sultan was very worried. "But.... who? How....? "

"It was my duty to be here with them, Sultan... " Aladdin said scolding himself. "I should have been here with Jasmine and my
son! But I was NOT here! I was in the menagerie.... I was.... Oh Jasmine! How could I have been so stupid? Your highness....
I didn't..... I should...."

"Aladdin! " The voice of the Sultan had a strict tone Aladdin had never heard before. He was trying to make Aladdin get back
to his senses. "Aladdin, you must pull yourself together! Relax! "

"But Sultan.... "

"My boy.... listen to me.... you are a good husband... and a good father... this was not your fault... you were in the menagerie....
you were here after all.... "

"But someone entered here... and.... my family is gone now... "

"I know..... my daughter and my grandson are in danger.... but Aladdin, my boy.... you are not the kind of man who blames
himself when things are going wrong.... you are the kind of man who takes action..... who is always looking for solutions, not
for guilt.... What is happening with you now? "

Aladdin looked at the sultan and took a deep breath. "Sultan.... you are right..... Jasmine and Ali need me.... and I won't let
them down.... I'm going to save
them..... and I'm sorry if I'm acting like this, your highness.... but now I'm a family man and my family means for me more than
my own life... my wife and my son are my whole life... "

At that moment Rajah woke up and when he saw what was going on he went clumsily to Aladdin's side, growling sadly.
Aladdin patted his head:

"You did well, Rajah.... don't worry.... I'll find them and I'll bring them back home... they have nothing to fear Rajah.... I'll save
them....."

"Do you have any idea who could have done this, my boy?"

"I have an idea, your majesty.... " Rasoul said inspecting the door. "Look at this... "

Aladdin went to the door and took something in his finger: "A single grain.... a single grain of sand and all the mystery was
solved.... black sand.... "

"Mozenrath... " The Sultan said.

Rajah growled wildly and the same fierce expression appeared on Aladdin's face. He called for Carpet: "Carpet! Let's go!
Sultan, I'm going to the Land of the Black Sand.... this time Mozenrath will regret what he has done... " His voice sounded
terrible when he said that. He took his sword and placed it in his belt. "This time I won't be merciful with him! Jasmine, hang
on.... I'm on my way!"

He climbed onto Carpet and Abu who had just arrived went to his master's side.

"To the Land of the Black Sand, Carpet! As fast as you can!"

"May Allah protect you my boy! " The Sultan said as he saw Aladdin disappearing in the sky.

 
 
The shadows of the night were the perfect cover for the figure who was crossing the menagerie of the Royal Palace of
Agrabah. Cassim hid himself behind a bush and put his cape around his body,
covering his face as well while he was trying to figure out which one could be the chamber of his son. Suddenly a red parrot
landed in his shoulder:

"This is so risky, Cassim.... the guards usually are guarding the menagerie all night long... it's strange they are not here tonight...
maybe they took the night off because of the ceremony.... but the moment they find us, the dungeon will be our permanent
home.... and I don't want that.... not now that I have a treasure of my own waiting for me... Cassim, are you listening to me? "

"Be quiet bird! It's all right.... everything is fine so far... if they discover us that will be because of you and your talk... "

"Ok then.... I won't say another word.... "

"Which could be my son's bedroom?"

"Well.... " Iago said looking at Jasmine's balcony, "I'd say they are keeping Jasmine's old bedroom as their royal chambers....
that's it.... that balcony over there.... "

"It's too high to climb.... we need to get in there so we're going into the palace..... "

"What? Enter the palace? But Cassim.... are you out of your mind? Enter the palace will be certain death! Cassim, listen to
me.... "

"Shhhhh! Relax bird..... it's late.... I think the guards are not working tonight... I'm sure we can do it... it won't be a problem,
you'll see..... "

"Oh boy! I know I'm going to regret this..... "

Cassim entered the palace using the very same door Aladdin had used a few minutes ago. Cassim
was an agile man, so he crossed the corridors quickly and without being noticed. But regardless of his silence, when he went to
one corner he met Rasoul face to face.

"You! " The captain shouted. "It's you! "

 Cassim tried to get his sword but Rasoul had his sword in his hand already so with a quick movement he put his in Cassim's
throat. Iago squeaked and tried to escape but he was stopped by Fasal. Rasoul smiled: "I knew some day you were going to
come back.... now it's payback time... you owe me one.... it's an honor thing.... and it's time for you to pay... " He said
grabbing Cassim's throat with his hand. "You'll be rotting in the dungeons, King of Thieves.... at least some good came out of
this accursed night.... I got you! "

"I told you Cassim! " Iago was screaming. "I told you so! Thousands of times! But would you listen to me? Nooooo! Why
should you listen to the parrot? Why in the name of....? "

"Iago?" The voice of the Sultan came from inside the room. He was happily surprised. "Iago.... is that you? Is that really you?"
He giggled.

"Your Highness! " Iago said. "Sultan! Yes, it's me, Iago, your most humble subject....."

"But Iago.... what are you doing.....? " The Sultan noticed Cassim. "Rasoul! What's going on here?"

"Your Highness, " the captain said, "The King of Thieves.... again..... "

"Cassim? " The Sultan said doubtfully. "But.... how? "

"Yes. It's me.... " Cassim said with dignity, getting rid of Rasoul's grip and fixing his clothes. "I've
come to meet my grandson..... I know I'm a wanted man in Agrabah.... I know I have some debts with you, Sultan.... and I'm
disposed to pay the consequences of my actions.... I'll go to prison if that's what you want.... but I demand to be allowed to
meet my grandson.... "

The Sultan looked at Cassim with surprise but soon the look changed from surprise to pain and
sadness: "I'm afraid that won't be possible, Cassim..... "

"Sultan! " He said, "that child is my grandson as much as he's yours.... and even if I'm a criminal, a
wanted man, I think I have every right to meet my boy's son...... And I won't be.... "

"Cassim!" The Sultan interrupted him softly. "I know how you feel.... and believe me, I could have given you permission to
come to the ceremony.... to celebrate with us this blessed event.... your son and my daughter gave us a beautiful grandson,
Cassim.... but now.... you cannot see them, Cassim... they are gone... "

"What?"

"My dearest... my daughter and my beloved grandson have been kidnaped."

"What? " Cassim was very excited. "But who? How? How could....? When?"

"It was Mozenrath.... " The sultan said sadly.

"Who's Mozenrath?"

"Don't ask... it's a twisted wizard boy... " Iago responded.

"And where's my son? "

"Aladdin is on his way to fight Mozenrath and save my daughter and his son.... I just plead to Allah for the boy to be there on
time... to save my dear Jasmine... and my little prince.... my grandson..."

"OUR grandson... " Cassim corrected. "So, where's this Mozenrath?"

"In the Land of the Black Sand.... " Iago answered by reflex, but at the same time he regretted his own words. "I mean...."

"You know the way, bird?"

"Cassim.... I.... I don't know if it's a good idea... it's just that..."

"It's my son!" Cassim said sending Iago a dirty look. "It's my son's kid! I won't turn my back on them now! I won't leave them
all alone! I'm going to help Aladdin! " He looked at the Sultan. "I know I have lots of unpaid debts yet... and I don't want to be
a wanted man forever.... I will pay for my crimes.... but Sultan, not tonight.... tonight I'm going to help my boy....."

"I understand." The Sultan said. "Rasoul, give to Cassim the best horse from my royal stables.... and the best sword of the royal
armory...."

Rasoul looked at Cassim with rage in his eyes, but he bowed to the Sultan anyway.

"Yes your Highness, I'll do as you say!"

"Cassim, good luck! "

"Don't worry sultan.... Allah will provide for us!"

==================================================================
 Chapter Five
 The Citadel

 In the Citadel Mozenrath was preparing himself for his dark purpose. He glanced at the sky and then he took a look at his
telescope making his last notes. He smiled and whispered: "There! Everything is ready! At last... now it's time..."

 He went to his desk and reviewed some notes. Then he went to check the device he had built for the occasion which was
almost identical to the one he had used with Aladdin a while ago, this one was only a little more fitting for a baby. He found
everything perfect.

"It's time, Xerxes.... the time has come.... I hope you remember correctly all the instructions I gave to you... in a few years I'll
be back... I'll be back to take over my throne as the Lord of the Black Sand.... but most of all, I'll be back to take control of
my magic.... and you, Xerxes, you must be here then.... I'm going to need you then.... Is that clear?"

"Clear, master.... Xerxes will be here...."

"Good... in a few hours all will be done.... and there's no power on Earth that could undo what I'm going to do tonight...... if
everything goes as I planned, in a few minutes I'll be reborn as the Prince of Agrabah..... now listen closely, Xerxes.... after the
transfusion you'll give me 15 minutes.... it's that clear? 15 minutes... after that you are going to go to the princess's room and
you'll let her out.... she must take care of her son..... got it?"

"Yes.... 15 minutes..."

Mozenrath laughed at the idea of him being rocked by Jasmine.

"I was smarter than the Powers expected! I will never pay the sentence they imposed on me... this
time I'll pay the price of my body.... but it's worth it.... it's more than worth it.... "

Mozenrath stared at his mirror for a long moment.

"This weak and lifeless body is not mine anymore.... -he sighed- Come on, Xerxes... it's time....."

Mozenrath went to the room where the princess and her son were locked up. He entered the room. The princess was on the
bed, covering her son in her arms. When she saw the wizard she received him with a look that could kill.

"Go away, Mozenrath! I won't let you put a finger on my son! You have to kill me first....."

"I told you Princess," He sighed, "you have nothing to fear.... your boy has nothing to fear... in fact I'm going to give him a very
special gift.... I'm going to make him the heir of my powers and the heir of my kingdom...."

"You are crazy, Mozenrath..... what you are talking about?"

"You see, this body of mine... is weaker everyday.... and I had this brilliant idea about your son...."

"No! " Jasmine shouted as she realized Mozenrath's twisted plan. "I won't allow that! You already tried that with Aladdin once,
Mozenrath... and you failed... you almost died, remember? You won't lay a finger on my son!"

"I think you have no choice, Princess.... " He smiled, rubbing his gauntlet. "Everything is ready.... and the best part is that very
soon I'll be calling you and Aladdin mom and dad.... " He laughed.

"No! That won't happen! Aladdin won't let you...!"

"Oh, but he's not here, is he? He can't spoil my plan.... not this time.... I took precautions.... Now,
princess, enough with the chat already.... I have work to do....."

 Using his gauntlet's magic he froze Jasmine for a couple of seconds so he could take the baby off her hands. He took the baby
carefully. Jasmine was fighting his magic but she couldn't broke the spell. Mozenrath smiled: "The son of Aladdin.... the son of a
princess and a hero... what a combination! I must admit it, Princess, you have a beautiful son... that street rat and you did a
great job.... he's perfect.... he's handsome.... he's healthy, he's strong... he's the heir of the great kingdom of Agrabah.... this kid
has everything.... he just needs one thing and that's the one thing I'm giving to him.... power! Well, I'll see you soon, princess!
Oh! And one more thing.... take good care of this cute little baby.... take good care of him....."

Mozenrath left the room laughing and closed the door behind him. As soon as he left Jasmine could move her body. She went
to the door and tried to open it but it was useless.

"Ali! Oh Ali, my little son! I won't let Mozenrath hurt you! Oh Aladdin, I know you are on your way! Please Aladdin, hurry!
Oh merciful Allah, help me! Give me strength to protect my son! And please, permit my husband to arrive here in time!"

After her short prayer she felt herself filled with force and she continued with her efforts to get out the room.

 
 
 Aladdin was pushing Carpet to go faster. They had never traveled at such velocity before, but for
Aladdin it seemed all too slow. He couldn't stop thinking about Jasmine and his baby. He was telling himself they had to be all
right. Otherwise he would never forgive himself for what could happen to them.... to either of them.

The Citadel silhouette appeared far on the horizon and Aladdin thanked Allah for being finally there. He asked Carpet to go a
little faster, a last effort. They were almost there. He started to prepare himself to face his most powerful enemy.... an enemy
that this time had gone so far... In no time they had arrived at the Citadel.

In the Citadel, Mozenrath was working fast. He put the baby in his device and stared at him for a long moment, almost studying
him. The baby was very uneasy since he was not with his mother.
Mozenrath smiled thinking that this little boy was his salvation. He almost laughed when he thought
that Aladdin and Jasmine had saved his life without even thinking about it. He looked at the restless baby and slowly put his
hand on the baby's head. He caressed the little head and smiled almost with love while he was saying: "You must be very
thankful, young Ali.... I'm giving to you the greatest gift anyone could ever give you.... I'm giving you a power beyond your
wildest dreams.... you will be the most powerful man on Earth, boy..... you will be forever remembered in the sands of the
Seven Deserts... and even far away from the desert's frontiers.... your name will live forever.... Ali!"

He turned to Xerxes: "Is everything ready?"

"Ready master....."

"Good... then it's time.... let's proceed....."

 
Aladdin entered the dark city of the Black Sand. When they were closer to the Citadel he noticed
some strange blue glitter covering the Citadel. And when he was finally there he realized that it was some sort of energy field.
And they realized that the hard way, when Carpet tried to cross it and some sort of electric shock send them all to the floor in
pain.

Aladdin, Carpet and Abu were there, laying on the floor, half unconscious for a couple of minutes. The energy hit them hard.
The first to react was Aladdin. He went to his feet feeling his body very heavy and his head about to explode. He found support
in his sword and unsteadily he walked to the limits of the blue light: "Mozenrath! That filthy jackal! He took precautions this
time! How can I cross this energy? What does this wizard want from my wife and my son? What should I do?"

His thoughts were interrupted by a Mamluk army that was getting closer to them. Abu and
Carpet prepared themselves to fight the mamluks. Aladdin held his sword. He was still dizzy from the electric shock but he was
willing to die fighting.

 Inside the Citadel the Princess Jasmine, making a big effort finally was able to open the doors of her prison. She was totally
tired but that was not going to stop her. She ran into Mozenrath's lab. She knew she had to be there before the wizard could
harm her little son.

 When she entered the lab, what she saw filled her with fear and horror. Mozenrath had her baby in some sort of cradle and
there where many cables all over the place. Mozenrath was preparing himself at a table near Ali. Jasmine remembered the day
when he tried to do the same with Aladdin. The baby was moving and making noises but he didn't seem to be harmed. Jasmine
ran to him but she didn't take precautions of her own and Mozenrath saw her. With a hit from the magic of his gauntlet he tried
to send Jasmine to the floor. But the princess was quicker than that and she avoided the blow of his magic. Mozenrath, who
was almost ready for the transfusion tried to get up from his table but that gave Jasmine time to reach her son. She was about to
take him when Mozenrath sent her another ray of magic and this time the princess did fall to the floor. Mozenrath spoke very
angrily: "I don't have time for this, princess! I only have a couple of hours to make this transfusion successful.... Do you know
when the stars will be in the correct alignment to try this again? One hundred years, princess! One hundred years! I don't have
that much time, Jasmine.... I don't have time and you are distracting me! I cannot afford any mistake.... not now.... do you
understand?"

Jasmine was rubbing her head. She was dizzy. She didn't notice that two mamluks came to her and imprisoned her. She felt too
weak to defend herself. The magic hit her hard. She almost couldn't talk: "Even if it takes my life, Mozenrath, I won't let you
cause any harm to my son!"

"How touching, princess! I really think you are going to make the perfect mother to me, you know... " He teased her. "But right
now I don't have time to chat...." The mamluks chained Jasmine to one of the lab's columns. Mozenrath smiled. "Well then....
don't worry princess, the transfusion won't take long... just a few minutes... and then you can have your precious son back...
and I really expect you take good care of your beloved son, Jasmine... very good care...."

"You are....!"

"Ah ahh ah, princess! Well brought up princesses shouldn't know that language!"

"When Aladdin..."

"That street rat won't help you this time.... so, Jasmine.... witness the miracle...."

Jasmine was trying to release herself from her chains but it was no use. Mozenrath smiled once again and went back to his
device, preparing himself for the transference. He was ready in no time and without losing any time the process began. Princess
Jasmine was trapped, she was almost crying and the only thing she could do was pray for her husband to arrive in time to save
Ali.

Outside the Citadel Aladdin was still fighting the mamluks. Suddenly he noticed that the blue light
faded for a second. Aladdin didn't know it but it was the moment when Mozenrath had used his power to hit Jasmine. Without
thinking Aladdin jumped and crossed the energy wall, but almost at the same moment the power was reactivated and Aladdin
felt a shock all over his body. He did fall inside the wall of energy and Abu and Carpet remained on the outside. He was in....
but unconscious once again.

He was unconscious for a few minutes. But he awoke soon and rubbing his head he got to his feet. His legs were unable to
support him any longer. But making his best effort he tried to recover himself and ran into the Citadel, to Mozenrath's lab.

When he entered the lab what he saw made him feel a cold fear in his heart. Jasmine chained to a
column and his son and Mozenrath in the middle of some sort of energy field, pretty much like the one that was surrounding the
Citadel. Jasmine sighed in relief when she saw him:

"Aladdin! Oh Aladdin! I knew you wouldn't....!"

"Jasmine! " He interrupted her while he broke her chains with his sword. "Jasmine, what's going on here? What's...?"

"Mozenrath is trying to transport his essence into Ali's body... just like he wanted to do with you,
Aladdin.... we must stop him..... we don't have much time...." She explained as quickly as she could.

Aladdin nodded and worriedly looked at her while he caressed her cheek: "But what about you, Jasmine? Are you ok?"

"I'm ok Aladdin.... but our son.... " She answered holding his hand.

"Ali has nothing to fear.... I'm here now and I'm going to save him.... don't worry Jasmine... everything will be all right...."

"Be careful Aladdin...."

 Aladdin went to the energy field and with a deep breath he crossed it regardless of the electric shock he felt once again. He
was getting use to them. But the energy was weaker, he could say that. Mozenrath was wasting all his energy and all his power
in the transference. Aladdin knew that. Aladdin took his son in his arms. The baby seemed to be sleeping. When the baby was
extracted from his cradle the device failed and the energy field disappeared. Aladdin ran to Jasmine and took her hand in his. In
a hurry they ran to the door, but at that moment Mozenrath woke up: "You! " He screamed. "You, filthy street rat! Come back
here with that baby!"

The doors of the lab closed suddenly and Aladdin handed the baby to Jasmine. He put his wife and his son behind him, trying
to protect them with his body and his sword. He spoke with a tone of his voice that not Mozenrath, not even Jasmine had
heard before:

"Leave us alone, Mozenrath! You have done many evil things in your life.... but hear this, if something happens to Jasmine or to
my son you will die.... I'll kill you if you dare to lay a finger on them! Is that clear?"

"Oh Aladdin! " Mozenrath was angry. "You don't have the courage it takes to kill someone... and you know that..... Why don't
you thank me for the gift I'm giving to your son? Let me do my work in peace! I don't have time for this!"

Mozenrath came closer to Aladdin and he prepared his sword. But Mozenrath send Aladdin a magical ray with his gauntlet.
Aladdin avoided it with his sword and the magic hit Mozenrath, making him to lose balance and fall to the floor. Aladdin went
to Mozenrath and with his own body he imprisoned the wizard on the floor. He screamed to Jasmine: "Carpet is outside,
Jasmine! Save Ali! Go!"

"But Aladdin! I won't leave you!"

"Do as I said, Jasmine..... please.... I'll be ok.... now go!"

"Aladdin!"

"Go Jasmine.... don't do this for me... do it for Ali.... Go!"

Jasmine looked at her son. Then she looked at Aladdin. There was fear in her eyes. She nodded and whispered: "I'll be back
Aladdin! I promise! I love you! Allah protect him!"

She ran to the Citadel's door but she didn't get far, for a group of mamluks came to attack her. She knew she could beat them
but not now that she was carrying her son. There was no way out for her. She ran back to the lab. When she entered she saw
Aladdin go to the floor, hit by Mozenrath's magic. Aladdin hit his head against the wall as he went to the floor. Jasmine felt pain
and anger: "Aladdin! No!"

"Oh! Princess! You are back, I see....."

"Mozenrath, leave us alone!"

 For an answer the wizard paralyzed her with his magic and took the baby once again. Jasmine was struggling against his magic
but it was useless. But she could notice that Mozenrath's magic wasn't feeling that powerful anymore.... the wizard was getting
weaker, she was sure about it. It took him a terrible amount of power to settle up his plan.... she knew they could burn out his
magic. If only she could move. Finally she was released from Mozenrath's magic. She ran to the still unconscious Aladdin and
moved him to wake him up: "Aladdin! Wake up Aladdin! We must do something!"

"Very touching!"

That was the only comment from Mozenrath. He went to his device and the same energy field
appeared around it. He placed Ali in the cradle and then he placed himself in the table while he was saying to himself: "I don't
have much time! I'm wasting my time and my energy! I don't have much left!"

 The process started once again. Aladdin opened his eyes and shook his head which was laying on Jasmine's lap. She helped
him to his feet. She was worried: "Aladdin, are you ok?"

"I've had better days.... it's been a lot of electric shocks in one day.... I feel terrible.... But...."

 As soon as he noticed what was happening with Mozenrath and his baby he went to the energy field, but Jasmine stopped him:

"Aladdin, wait! Mozenrath doesn't have much power left.... and not much time left either... he's using all his remaining strength
to do this.... it's dangerous...."

"What can we do? It's our son, Jasmine.... we can't leave him alone...."

"I know... I know... but there must be another way, Aladdin.... I don't want Mozenrath to hurt you anymore...."

Aladdin threw his sword to the energy and for a moment it seemed to be a failure, for nothing
happened. Jasmine and Aladdin looked at each other. They were disappointed. But a look of
determination crossed Aladdin's eyes: "He's my son, Jasmine! And I'll die for him if that's necessary!"

"Aladdin, wait!"

But Aladdin wouldn't listen to her. He took his sword and ran into the energy, but as Jasmine had told him, it was more
powerful than ever and it hit Aladdin even harder this time. His body crashed into the wall. Jasmine went to his side, caressing
his face:

"Aladdin! Please! Are you ok?"

"Yes... I'm fine.... " He whispered.

"Look at you, Aladdin.... you are hurt...."

"Jasmine... " He said with a sad look. "What are we going to do? We can't stop this! We.... Oh
Jasmine!"

"Aladdin!"

 They went into each other's arms and looked at the circle of energy that was glittering there. Aladdin sighed and once again he
took his sword: "There must be another way! I won't give up that easy!"

Jasmine was going to say something when a familiar voice called him: "Aladdin! What's going on in here?"

Aladdin and Jasmine stared at each other and then Aladdin asked doubtfully: "Dad? Dad, is that you?"

"Of course it's him! And I can see you're still in need of people to come to save your skin every time you get into trouble with
this wizard boy, right kid?"

"Iago! " Jasmine said unable to hide his surprise and happiness.

"But.... but how...?"

"I'll explain everything later, son.... now tell me what we need to do to stop this...."

"It's too much energy, dad.... I'm afraid I have no idea what can we do...."

"You must fight fire with fire, Al.... " Iago said. "Call the Genie!"

"The Genie! " Said Aladdin as if the idea has never occurred to him. "The Genie! But Genie.... the
lamp... I...."

"You forgot this at the palace, kid.... " Iago handed the lamp to Aladdin.

"Oh Iago! Great! I hate to interrupt your date with Eden, Genie, but this is important.... " He said
rubbing the lamp.

 In a blue smoke the Genie appeared in his pajamas: "Oh, c'mon Al! It's the middle of the night, why are you....? Cassim!
Iago!" Genie appeared in his normal clothes. "Oh, we are having a family reunion.... but why are we in Mozenrath's lab?"

"Genie!" Aladdin said. "You gotta help me! Mozenrath is trying to get into Ali's body.... we can stop him, we need your
powers!"

"This twisted wizard boy won't give up! Don't worry Al! I'll stop him!"

Genie went to check the sort of energy he was using. Jasmine looked at the sky using Mozenrath's telescope: "Hurry! " She
said. "The stars are losing their alignment.... we need to make some time...."

"This is more powerful than ever." Genie said. "We need to break this energy.... and fast!"

"Mozenrath is losing energy, he's burning out himself to achieve his purpose." Jasmine said.

"Then we need to use this in our advantage!" Cassim suggested.

"Ok, " Genie said, "cover everyone! Here it goes!"

Aladdin took Jasmine and covered her with his body. A big explosion occurred in the lab. As soon as the energy field was
broken Cassim took a small bomb he had in his pocket and fired it.

"I've learned a trick or two of my own in all my years.... Aladdin, quick, the baby!"

 In a hurry Aladdin took his baby and came back to Jasmine's side, covering once again. Before
Mozenrath could react Cassim did throw the bomb and the machine exploded in many little pieces. The explosion resounded in
all the Citadel and hit Mozenrath hard and he went to the floor.

 When the explosion was over, Aladdin saw his baby. He was scared and crying: "Ali! It's all over now, son! You are safe!"

He kissed him and put him in Jasmine's protective arms. Jasmine kissed her son and looked at
Aladdin with a loving look. Aladdin nodded, smiling, and hugged both his son and his wife.

Mozenrath spoke: "You! Aladdin! What have you done! You destroyed my machine! You spoiled my plan!"

"This time and every time, Mozenrath! " Said Aladdin standing up.

"I have so little power left, Aladdin.... but with the last power I'm going to kill you... I'm not the only one who will die here!"

Mozenrath raised his arm and he was about to use his gauntlet when he heard a voice: "Stop! I wouldn't do it if I were you!"

He saw a man... a man who was awfully alike to.....

"Who are you?"

"My name is Cassim..... the King of Thieves..."

"The former King of Thieves. " Iago corrected.

"And also Aladdin's father..... so, if you have a problem with my son or with my grandson, then you have a problem with
me....."

"Oh, wonderful! A family reunion! I'll deal with you later.... " The wizard hit Cassim hard with his magic.

"Mozenrath!" Aladdin screamed and attacked the sorcerer with his sword. "This time you've gone too far Mozenrath!"

Mozenrath was weak but he was not going to let Aladdin finish him that easily. He sent Aladdin a
magic ray, but Aladdin was fast and he avoided it. For a minute they both fought each other wildly but then Aladdin went to the
floor and with his foot he hit Mozenrath's heel, making the sorcerer hit the floor. As soon as Mozenrath was on the floor,
Aladdin with a very quick movement tried to take off his gauntlet. Mozenrath fought bravely but then Aladdin hit his face with
his fists. The blood came out of Mozenrath's nose and Aladdin took off the gauntlet. Aladdin took his sword and put it on
Mozenrath's throat. The sorcerer growled with surprise and despair: "You don't understand! This is my only and my last chance
to save my life! I don't have time to lose!"

"Save your life by taking my son's?"

"What does it matter, Aladdin?"

"I'm sorry Mozenrath," Aladdin said in a wild tone of voice, "but I'm not going to let you to harm my son or my wife... or my
dad.... I've been merciful with you in the past, but not anymore.... today you did your last evil.... today you are going to die! "

Mozenrath was scared. He had never seen Aladdin like this before. He knew Aladdin was serious, he was going to kill him.
But Mozenrath was not the only one who was surprised and scared, for Jasmine and the guys couldn't believe Aladdin's
behavior. Jasmine looked at Cassim:

"Cassim! Stop him!"

Aladdin grabbed his sword over his head and was about to let it hit Mozenrath's neck when he heard his father calling him:
"Aladdin! Stop!"

"But dad, this man...."

"I know, son... this man has done so much evil... this man has caused so much pain... so much
harm... but it this really what you want? Will this make you feel better? Look at him, son... he's
defeated... he's going to die.... don't stain your hands with his dirty blood son.... you are a goodman... unlike him.... is this the
kind of thing you'd like to tell to your son when you tell him this story? Is this the kind of thing you want to do in front of your
wife? I know your pain, Aladdin.... but this is not worth it.... Aladdin.... I can't tell you: "son, follow my footsteps" because I'm
not a good man... I know how is this.... I only can tell you "son, look who I am, learn from my mistakes"... but Aladdin,
someday you'll be able to tell your son to follow your own footsteps... don't spoil it now because of this evil sorcerer....."

Aladdin looked at the scared and helpless Mozenrath, then he looked at Jasmine and his dad. He
sighed and put down his sword. "You are right dad.... this is not the right thing....."

Everyone sighed in relief.

"Well done, my boy." Cassim said.

Jasmine smiled and put her son in Cassim's arms and she went to her husband's side. She hugged Aladdin tightly. He rested his
head in her hair. "It's all over now, Jasmine.... you are safe.... Ali is safe...."

"I'm so proud of you, Aladdin.... so proud......"

Mozenrath felt his force was all gone. He leaned back and fell unconscious. He couldn't do anything else.

Cassim smiled looking at his little grandson. Iago came to watch over his shoulder.

"You have a beautiful boy, my son!"

Aladdin and Jasmine broke their embrace and Aladdin smiled putting his arm around Jasmine's
shoulders.

"He is beautiful.... just like his mother....."

Cassim nodded and smiled proudly: "My grandson!"

"I told you you were going to be grandfather very soon, Cassim." Genie smiled.

"With these kids and their mushy stuff" Iago said, "that's not really a surprise...."

Aladdin and Jasmine blushed and smiled. Cassim laughed and said: "It's time to go back home...."

"What are we going to do with Mozenrath, Aladdin? " Jasmine asked.

"He's very weak, we can't take him with us...."

"He doesn't have much time left, Al." Genie said. "Let's leave him here.... there's nothing else we could do for him....."

Aladdin looked at Mozenrath and said: "I feel so sorry for you, Mozenrath.... the only way to reach immortality is love.... too
bad you can't
understand that....."

 The all went outside the Citadel. Aladdin helped his wife to climb onto carpet and looked at his father: "How could you find us,
dad? You didn't go to the palace, did you?"

"We did... the sultan told us about what happened and the bird showed me the way...."

"You met my father?" Jasmine asked. "What did he say?"

"Well.... not much.... at least he didn't throw me to the dungeons". Cassim climbed on his horse.

"Dad, we have so much to talk about.... are you coming back to Agrabah with us?"

"Aladdin... son.... I don't know...."

"Please, Cassim.... " Jasmine said. "My father must understand... and we need to tell him how you
helped to save Ali's life.... and Aladdin's too.... and even my own life....."

Cassim looked at Jasmine and her son and then at his own son. Aladdin smiled: "We'll see you in Agrabah?"

Cassim smiled and nodded: "To Agrabah! " He said spurring his horse.

They all left behind the Land of the Black Sand and the dying sorcerer who had caused them so much pain and so much harm.

==================================================================
Epilogue
Back to Agrabah

 The Sultan was happy to have his daughter and his grandson back at home. Jasmine told him how brave Cassim was and how
he helped them to save their lives. The Sultan was impressed:

"Cassim, I'm glad you came here... without you I don't know what could've happened...."

"Don't even mention it, Sultan.... I wasted so much time going by the wrong way... trying to find
happiness and fortune in the wrong places.... now I realize that all I wanted was a family... all I wanted was my son.... and now
my grandson...."

"Are you staying with us, dad?"

Cassim put his hand on Aladdin's shoulder: "Son.... I can't stay here.... I'm still a wanted man, remember?" He glanced at the
sultan. "I better be going now....."

Aladdin nodded. Jasmine sent her father a pleading look, and the Sultan cleared his throat:
"Cassim.... I know you made a lot of mistakes in the past.... I know you are not exactly the best man I could ask for to have
here at my palace.... but you are Aladdin's father.... and well.... you proved today how much you are worried for your son and
for your grandson.... I think love redeems all your old crimes.... and I want to ask you to stay here with us at the palace.... "
The sultan glanced at Rasoul. "From now on Cassim is a royal citizen of Agrabah.... not a wanted man anymore... is that clear,
captain?"

"Yes, Your Highness". Rasoul sighed.

Aladdin and Jasmine exchanged smiles and Aladdin went to his father: "You see, dad? You are a free man now.... and so are
you, Iago.... so, are you staying with us?"

Cassim smiled and bowed to the Sultan: "Thanks Sultan! It's an honor". He took the little Ali from Jasmine's arms. "I have so
much to share with my son.... and so much to share with my grandson.... but you are an anchor, Sultan... a safe harbor.... me....
I am a sail.... always going with the wind.... our grandson has so much to learn from both of us.... but I'll be here for him
forever..... that's a promise..."

"Dad?"

"Aladdin.... I feel honored.... but I can't stay here.... it's not me...."

Aladdin nodded and lowered his eyes: "I understand...."

"Son," Cassim put his hand on Aladdin's shoulders, "you have me.... and you always will.... do you understand that? This is not
my place..... " He put the baby in Aladdin's arms. "Now you have a family of your own.... now we are a big happy family....
you don't have to be sad.... look at your son... look at how beautiful he is.... he needs you Aladdin, never forget that...."

"I won't dad... but I need you, too....."

"And I'll be here.... now that I'm a free man I'll be here as often as I can..... but I can't live here...."

"Cassim," the Sultan said, "if you want it, I'd be happy if you accepted a post as a part of Agrabah's diplomatic corps.... you
could continue with your travels that way...."

"Me? An ambassador? I feel honored.... but.... I have to decline... once again.... this is not what I want for my life.... I'm sorry
sultan...."

"That's ok.... I understand..."

"Now it's time for us to go...." He said to Iago.

"Are you leaving again Iago?" The sultan asked.

"Yeah, well.... it's not that I don't want to live in a palace and all.... but I still have some Babylonian treasure waiting for me....
besides, I don't want to leave Cassim alone...."

Aladdin placed the baby in Jasmine's arms and came to his father's side: "I'll miss you dad.... please, be careful... and come
back soon!"

"I will my son! I sure will.... and next time I'll be bringing some fabulous gifts for Ali, you'll see..."

Aladdin and Cassim embraced each other for a long moment. Then Cassim spoke: "Take good care of your wife, son.... and of
your son".

"I will dad...."

Cassim climbed onto his horse. Iago went to his shoulder: "Don't worry about a thing, Al... I'll watch over him.... oh... and... by
the way.... you two have a lovely
boy... he's cute...."

"Thanks Iago....."

Cassim looked at Jasmine and smiled and then at Aladdin: "I'll be back, son.... now that I have a home in Agrabah.... now that
I have a family here... I'll see you all soon!"

"Dad...."

"Yes?"

"You too are a great man.... I can't follow your footsteps in crime.... but I can follow your footsteps in love..."

"Aladdin!"

"I love you dad!"

"And I love you son!" Cassim smiled spurning his horse. "Take good care of the baby.... and if you need me, just give me a
call.... I'll be back soon! Now off to that Babylonian treasure! Go!"

Aladdin put his arm around Jasmine's shoulders as they looked at Cassim as he left Agrabah. They knew he'd be back. They
waved their arms until they couldn't see Cassim anymore. Jasmine looked at Aladdin's face: "Are you feeling better now,
Aladdin?"

"Sure... I feel a lot better now Jasmine.... I have my dad, I have you and our son.... life is good... And now my dad is a free
man. He knows he has a family waiting for him here in Agrabah.... he'll be back soon...."

"I feel a lot better knowing that Cassim is free to come wherever he wants to do so. At least something good came out of
this...."

"Yes.... that's a good thing.... after all this troubles....."

"Yes, this was an awful experience.... thank Allah we came out of this with our lives.... I still can't
believe that Mozenrath wanted our son's life for his own.... what a way to reach immortality! Taking someone else's life....."

"It's a shame.... I feel sorry for Mozenrath, Jasmine....."

"He'll pay.... and hopefully we won't see him again...."

Aladdin nodded and smiled at his wife. He embraced her and their son and kissing her forehead he said: "Too bad that
Mozenrath can't understand that the only true way to reach immortality is love... for love is the secret of immortality... our love
gave us this little boy... and in our son we'll live forever.... we are immortals now...."

"In our son we've reached immortality, Aladdin.... but in each other we've found life...."

Aladdin nodded and smiled peacefully as he rested his head in Jasmine's hair and put one arm on her shoulders and the other
one around the sleeping baby she was holding. She rested her head on her husband's shoulder. They stared for a long time at
the desert, at the way where Cassim had just left. She thanked Allah for her son and for her husband and for the blessed life
she had with those two men. She also prayed for their future. And for the lonely sorcerer they had left in the Land of the Black
Sand.

THE END