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I do not own Magi.


Enigma

Chapter Two:

The Miracle and the Curse


The young girl blinked, staring up at the new world before her with gray eyes, head tilted in curiosity and confusion as to where she was.

The ragged clothing she wore slipped at her shoulders, and she absently tugged it back up, standing up on small legs and taking a step into the leafy maze, eyes wide with child like curiosity.

Tousled locks fell past her shoulders, and the young girl wandered through the maze, eyeing the different plants in faint awe.

A nagging presence in the back of her mind told her to look for her mother. One moment she had been following her, and then her mother had told her to wait there while she went off to go look somewhere else.

But the mother had left the child in a strange place, and unable to contain her curiosity, she trekked further into the dungeon, unknown to her that she would have to conquer the dungeon or lose her life.

Vines crisscrossed over the grass covered floor, and it felt wonderful and cool beneath her bare feet, which had been aching from the walk here. Large leaves shaded the sunlit roof, allowing only few beams of light to stream through.

Strange creatures she had never seen before whistled by or buzzed past, curious glances sent the child's way. Large plants and flowers of all sorts filled the maze like an Amazon jungle, and she heard birds somewhere.

The young girl wondered if she'd stumbled upon paradise as she drew to a halt beside a large tree.

The trunk soared upwards to heights she couldn't even see. Thick branches coated in lofty leaves shrouded the rich brown bark, and vines covered the exterior, soft moss growing in clumps by the roots.

A deer looking thing glanced to the child behind a clump of bushes, antlers sharpened like knives. A panther-like creature watched her from the branches, green eyes watching her form as its tail flicked back and forth.

The young child, blissfully unaware, padded up to the tree, gazing up to it in amazement in awe. And with twitching fingers, she reached out, feeling the smooth, cool bark beneath her finger tips.

"Do they think this will solve their problems?" The girl blinked, hearing a voice seeming to resonate from the tree. Her eyes grew wide as a large blue man appeared to leave the tree, gazing down at her in curiosity. "Have they never seen a dungeon before?"

His chest rippled with taut muscles, and dark leaves entwined around his arms, and leaves and branches formed together to appear as a crown upon his head. His hair was a deep shade of blue, darker than his skin, but his eyes were a beautiful shade of green, like emeralds or a bed of moss.

Ornate jewels decorated some parts of him, all graciously endowed with plants and vines, and the djinn gazed down at the girl.

"Really now, offering a child as a sacrifice..." The Djinn blew a sigh through his lips, and the air became fresh and cool, and the girl smiled up at him.

"Who are you?" The girl chirped, and the great Djinn blinked at her curiously, leaning down, despite his hulking form, and meeting her gaze.

"I am the fifty-third dungeon, Camio. A Djinn of the earth and the life it bears." Looking faintly amused, the Djinn turned to the girl. "And who are you?"

The girl looked hesitant, glancing at the floor. "I'm not supposed to say my name because it's not important. Back home—"

"You are in my realm child," Camio eyed her curiously; there was something odd to the child. "Your name?"

"Kali." Her eyes shone and she stretched up a hand to the giant. "It's nice to meet you!"

Camio's eyes widened and he shrunk down to a human size, and an air of leaves and the earth followed him. Gently, he bent over and clasped the girl's hands in his own, gazing at her for a moment before a smile pulled at his lips. "Tell me, Kali, do you wish to be a king one day?"

Kali blinked, eyes widening at the notion. Camio waved a hand, and a necklace appeared in his palm. The string was a series of thin, tightly woven vines and roots, and at the end was a clear metal feather of an ebony hue. The Djinn reached upwards and with gentle hands, clasped it around her neck, letting the vines and roots entwine in an unbreakable knot.

Camio inhaled softly, feeling a startling sense of calm. His brethren would laugh at the notion of picking a child, but he loved her feel, and he would pick as he pleased. But the startling sense of peace that filled one at finding their vessel was curious, and he already felt himself preparing to bind with the necklace.

"I don't think I'd want to be a king," Kali started, stroking the pendant in awe as Camio felt his form grow light. "There's only one thing I want."

Camio paused, looking up at her curiously. "What is it, my king?"

Kali leaned forward, and soft, slightly chapped lips brushed against the Djinn's ear.

"Freedom."


Several Years Ago

Location: Seventieth Dungeon: Seere

"I am the seventieth dungeon, Seere." The young male whistled, running his hands through a lyre as he floated upon a cloud. "A Djinn of happiness and treasures of the heart."

The blue male turned, propping his head up on his shoulder as he gazed down at the young girl. Dark blue locks were pulled into a braid slung over his shoulder, and muscles rippled beneath the loosely clad toga as he grinned. "What can I do for you, m'lady?"

Seere's braid was woven in with downy white feathers, and his eyes were the palest silver she had ever seen, making it look as if he were sightless. His face was rounded but smooth, as if he'd been carved from marble, and a constant breeze seemed to tug at his hair, fluttering around him.

Kali blinked at the Djinn, watching as he turned and created a mini tornado in his palms, watching as it swirled about in the air. He grinned and soared across the large room, feathery silver wings expanding from his back as he chased after a few birds.

The clothes she had, er, borrowed, slipped partially off her shoulder. Different cuts intercrossed all over her body from the sharp edged wind currents. Her hair was matted with dirt, and Kali panted, hands shaking in near defeat at the sight of the owner of the troublesome dungeon.

Like Camio, the Djinn was beautifully handsome, an ethereal feel filling her at the simple sight. But the air in the room made her giddy, tempting her to keel over laughing or enjoying herself to her heart's content.

"Are you sure about this one, Camio?" Kali glanced to the dagger in her hands, and back to Seere, who was grinning widely as a large tornado formed in his palms, quickly expanding.

"He will be of use to you in the future." Camio encouraged, and Kali let out a cry as she leapt to the side, dodging the torrent of wind sent her way. "I promise."

"Dang it," The young girl lifted the dagger up and met seemingly sightless white hues as the djinn grinned impishly at her. "If I die, I'm haunting you."

"I don't think that is possible, my king." Camio mused, and adding a quick warning Kali dodged a mini storm, ducking as gusts of wind were sent her way. "Since when you humans die, you join the great flow of Rukh—"

"Forget it!"


"Man, you were a pain." Kali muttered, staring at the silver dagger in her hands, the hilt curved and engraved to look as if wings were wrapped around it. "My hair won't sit right for weeks!"

In response, the ten-year old watched in awe as it glowed, and the familiar pentagram appeared on the blade. Kali's eyes softened and she tucked it away into her shirt, keeping it close to her heart.

Scrapes lined her arms, and sharp cuts and nicks covered her body from the sharp gusts and hard edged wind torrents. Her body ached, and her hair settled around her in a messily windswept fashion. She could feel bruises starting to form, and overall, she was beat.

But she felt wonderful.

A smile pulled at her lips, and she shut her eyes, feeling the dagger warm beside her chest within its sheath.

"Seere is a light-hearted one, and isn't very serious." Camio mused, and the young girl ruffled her hair, trying to untangle the wind strewn knots. "But I told you he would warm up to you."

"Mmm," Kali rolled her shoulders in response, leaning against the sacks of gold and jewels from the dungeon as she gazed up at the pit the dungeon had formed. "Do you think this one was his doing as well?"

"Who else?" Kali patted her chest where the dagger lay in its sheath, and she shut her eyes for a moment, basking in the cool breeze that fluttered around her.

"Camio?"

"Yes?"

"How am I going to take this all back?"

"If you use Seere, you could fly."

"Are you serious?" The girl sat up, jerking out the dagger and gazing at it in admiration. "He did have wings and all—do you know how amazing that would be?"

"But you would have to perform a Djinn equip, my dear."

Kali's mood quickly deflated, and the girl groaned, slumping back into the large sacks of treasure and gazing at the dagger forlornly. "Like I'm that strong..."

"It takes practice." Camio murmured, and Kali sighed, looking up thoughtfully.

"I suppose I could just—"

"You've got to be kidding me!" Kali froze, ears perking up at the unfamiliar voice. She heard footsteps on the ground above the ditch, and her gaze snapped upwards. "Did someone beat us here? Damn—I thought the villagers said no one would come near?"

"We have company." Camio's voice was calm, and Kali laid a hand on her dagger, sliding Seere out of the sheath and watching the rim of the ditch above her, waiting. "Don't fight, Kali. Something seems...off."

What do you mean? A clump of dirt fell from the rim, and her gaze snapped back upwards.

In that moment, a burst of Rukh shot upwards and soared high into the sky. Kali's eyes widened at the sudden appearance of the light creatures, and gray eyes turned upwards, looking past the sudden torrent of Rukh and meeting a golden gaze.

"A miracle has appeared." Camio whispered, but Kali barely heard the Djinn as she gazed into golden hues, looking back at her in a mixture of shock, surprise, and curiosity.

The Rukh around this young man was mad, and he looked to be in his teens, several years older than her. His eyes were like gold, and his hair was pulled back into a ponytail, dark purple hues contrasting against tanned skin.

Kali's eyes fluttered to the Rukh, soaring up into the sky and dispersing into the air, into the earth. She'd never seen such a huge burst of them at once, and she wondered if this strange boy had anything to do with it.

Two destinies were tied.

The golden-eyed stranger stared at her in shock, mouth opened in disbelief, and Kali faintly wondered if she should tell him he'd choke on a fly like that. But the boy suddenly jerked a finger at her in disbelief. "Did you conquer the dungeon?"

Should I lie? Kali frowned, looking back to the sacks of gold behind her. That would be hard to explain though... Camio?

But for once, the Djinn was silent, and Kali's frown deepened, unsettled by the lack of reply. Camio seemed to be deep in thought, lost somewhere within his own musings, and she was on her own to deal with the situation.

"Uh," Kali rubbed the back of her head, staring at the dirt ground beneath her in thought. "...No?"

The boy looked at her with a raised eyebrow, and in response, the dagger in her hands began to glow, and Kali's eyes grew wide as a torrent of wind swept around her, sending dust into the air, and causing her hair to flutter. She inwardly cursed and tucked the dagger at her side, letting out a sigh and gazing up at the other male.

"I guess that answers that." Kali shrugged, pulling the loose shirt back over her shoulder. "Who're you?"

The golden-eyed boy blinked, as if still trying to process the situation at hand, and a large grin touched his lips. Kali watched curiously as he leapt down into the ditch, landing several feet away from her. He jerked a finger to himself, and she guessed he was somewhere in his teens. "My name's Sinbad!"

"The miracle boy," Camio sounded amused, and Kali took this as a sign that he wasn't of any immediate harm.

"B-But you're just a kid!" Sinbad declared, and Kali blinked blandly at the boy as his arms flailed out wildly. "You—I can't—"

He finally settled for a sulk, absently fiddling with the sword at his hip, and she eyed the boy curiously. Was he one too?

A hand was suddenly jutted in front of her face, and she instinctively flinched, eyes flicking up to meet Sinbad's impish grin, a bright look on his face. "What's your name, kid?"

He's probably only...sixteen? Give or take a few years. Kali looked at the hand owlishly and Sinbad blinked, looking at her curiously. "Don't tell me you come from some place where they don't shake hands."

Silently, her hand raised and she put it in his, and Sinbad gripped her hand in a strong grip, and silver met gold. "Kali."

The Rukh were going mad, and she would've been distracted by the endless torrent fluttering around this man if it weren't for his golden eyes, which held her in place as his grin widened.

This person was strange. Kali settled on that. She wasn't sure how to read Rukh yet, but from what she could see, they were strong around this boy, and without a doubt, he radiated an aura that seemed almost...inviting. He was the kind of person who could say something, and you would believe him solely because the look on his face was one you could not deny.

That's dangerous. Sinbad let out a low whistle, examining the contents before him, and the girl sitting in front of it all. "You did this all by yourself?"

Kali lifted thin shoulders up in a shrug, and her eyes were drawn to the sword at his hip, and something told her that this boy was a dungeon conqueror as well. That would explain his knowledge of the place. "That's pretty amazing!"

"Thanks," Kali watched him curiously as Sinbad looked thoughtful as he scrutinized her, and she felt herself tense slightly, not liking the idea of being sized up.

"You know, you're kinda cute." Sinbad declared finally, rubbing his chin as if in deep thought. "But a bit young."

"I could say the same." Kali retorted, and Sinbad grinned, raising his eyebrows.

"You think I'm cute?"

Strange boy. Kali stood, and was disappointed to find that she only came up to the boy's shoulder. Sinbad gazed at her in curiosity, his eyes flickering to her dagger before looking to her again. "What made you come all the way out here?"

"No reason," Kali glanced up at the sky. The sun was out and shining, and not a cloud blocked the endless blue.

"Where'd you come from?" Kali tugged down one of the large sacks of jewels and gold, and opened up a rucksack slung behind her, scooping up a few handfuls and filling the bag with some gold and a few things that caught her eye.

"Nowhere in particular."

Sinbad watched the girl curiously, following a few paces behind her as she weaved in and out of the large bags, taking a few things here and there. "You seem to like being vague."

"It keeps people guessing." Kali glanced back to her bag, settling on the fact that this was good enough to keep her going for awhile. "What about you?"

"What about me?" Sinbad grinned, and something seemed to settle on his face, as if he'd decided something. Kali noticed the look, and suddenly, she felt as if she should leave. "Hey, are you going anywhere?"

Kali paused, wondering if she should answer the boy. Camio remained silently, and she longing wished the Djinn would say something. She'd relied on his advice so often; it made her disappointed that she seemed incapable of doing anything without him.

She really was hopeless.

"No," Kali turned and gazed into golden eyes. "Not really."

Sinbad's grin widened, and his eyes glimmered brightly, and she was struck with that dazzling radiance the boy seemed to emanate. "Then this may sound sudden—but how would you like to travel with me?"

Kali nearly dropped her bag for a moment, blinking with wide eyes at Sinbad. "What?"

"You seem strong," Sinbad motioned to her dagger and his eyes were bright and alight with a fire that she knew she could never posses. "I think it'd be great to have a companion at my side—like a team! We could travel the world together and go on all sorts of adventures!"

Listening to such words from anyone else would seem stupid, but coming from him, Kali couldn't help but be drawn to the way his face lit up, and his eyes shone with excitement.

A hand was held out to her, and Kali blinked at it, still in disbelief at what had just transpired.

Join me.

She felt something stir in her chest, and her initial shock died down to a calm settlement of disbelief and surprise. He wanted her to join him? Someone wanted her by their side?

She'd never heard such words before.

Kali gazed back into gold, and Sinbad's grin was threateningly infectious as he seemed to will her to clasp his hand with her own and seal the deal. Looking at him, she could see a world of people and friendships flutter through her eyes—this boy offered her a life she had never dared to think of, one filled with people and joy and a happiness of friends she had never known.

"No thank you."

Sinbad grinned at her for a moment, and then his face turned into one of puzzlement as he seemed to mull over her words, letting them register in his mind. "What?"

Ah, what a wonderful world it would be. But this boy had a goal, something he strove to accomplish, and she had her own. The life she wished to live would not entwine with his, and the things she searched may walk beside, but would never cross with his. That was where she drew the line and knew what she wanted in that moment.

Kali glanced to the towering bags, and turning to Sinbad she added. "There's a merchant town not to far from here, do me a favor and give all this to them?"

Sinbad blinked at her dumbly, and Kali blew out a puff of air, looking around and, satisfied that she had what she needed, she gave Sinbad a rough salute.

"Good luck then, Sinbad." Kali slung the rucksack over her shoulder, and Sinbad blinked awake, recovering from his initial shock of rejection, alas, it would not be his first after this. "It was...nice meeting you."

"But—" The boy's eyes grew wide as her feet suddenly disappeared from view, and her form seemed to flicker for a moment. "Whoa..."

Kali met his eyes, and she offered him a childish grin, waving her small hand at him. "Bye."

Sinbad's eyes widened and he reached for her. "Wait a moment—"

And then she was gone.


Several Years Later

Throughout both their lives, the two could not untie the destiny that had unfolded before them.

Despite Kali's caution, she somehow managed to run into Sinbad several more times throughout the years, and in each case, he offered her the same proposal. And every time his hand was held out to her, she would decline.

Sinbad got older, stronger, and began to grow into a leader. He had gained companions, and yet, he still sought out for her to join him. Kali grew, and she'd like to believe she'd gotten stronger as well, though perhaps just not as strong as Sinbad.

Kali had made the mistake of assuming that Sinbad had forgotten her, and to her surprise and bafflement, he had not. He was always eager to reach her whenever she came into sights, and made a habit of coming up with different ways to get her to come with him.

At one point though, he had chased her through a town, demanding a reason why, and he nearly managed to corner her, and if it wasn't for her ability, she was sure escaping the strange and powerful boy would have been a great deal harder.

Kali was very careful after this.

Every time Sinbad would come into play, she either kept to the shadows or simply left, not wanting to draw attention to herself.

But what was beginning to annoy her was the fact that he was somehow there whenever she least expected it. Granted, their encounters though many, were always spanned out by months to years, but the result would never change.

"Damn it!" The young girl cursed under her breath, feet pumping against the hardened rock floor, tears threatening to leak from her eyes at the injustice of this situation. "It just had to be a fire dungeon!"

"Hmm," Camio's thoughtful voice sounded amused as Kali continued to run for her life, scorching bursts of flames cracking through the floor and arching upwards. "It's a little hard to tell who this is, but this seems familiar..."

The sound of hurried footsteps caught her ear and she snapped her gaze back, leaping onto a stretch of flat ground with no cracks, and she waited, gazing back down the tunnel she had come from. Kali's eyes narrowed, and she slid the dagger from her chest, fingers wrapping around the wing designed hilt. A string of feathers dangled at the end, and Kali watched the direction they blew towards, turning her gaze back to where she'd come from.

A scorching wave of heat fanned past her, and Kali's eyes widened at the dungeon creatures that ran towards her.

The canine like creatures had drips of lava leaving their mouths, and hard bodies crafted from molten rock glowed as fire lined their back. Flames danced along the pack of them, and Kali let out a groan, sprinting faster as the creatures gained on her. "Damn it!"

What I'd give for some sort of water Djinn right now. Kali glanced back and noticed the canines were hot on her trail, and she'd rather not picture what it'd be like if one of them caught a hold of her.

Quickly she spun on her heel, raising her dagger and narrowing her eyes. "Spirit of happiness and freedom, Seere!"

A large bout of wind encased the dagger and burst forth, nearly knocking Kali off her feet as it shot towards the fire dogs. There were howls and yips and the tornado of wind encased the creatures, sending them back and dispersing the flames.

Wiping a trail of sweat off her face, Kali quickly stood, gripping the dagger tightly as she ran forward, not waiting to see if it'd done the trick. Wind was a touchy power against fire, and she wasn't sure if she was quite able to tap the storm side of Seere just yet.

Her foot skidded along the ground, and Kali's eyes grew wide as a canine leapt at her from the shadows, jaws dripping lava and ivory teeth lunging towards her. She winced when her hand collided with the round, feeling a burning sensation flare across the skin, but she used the base to turn, ducking under the dog and jerking the dagger upwards.

Wind soared into the canine's body and she felt it expand before exploding completely, bits of molten rock and lava scattering across the ground.

Kali winced at the jolt of pain that went up her right arm, and she turned, grimacing at the burn marks, and the large cut that had begun to blister from where its claws had scrapped her.

"Are you alright?" Kali nodded absently, knowing Camio could feel it, and gingerly stood. It hurt to grip the dagger too tight from the burns on her palms, but a cool, breezy feeling settled around the hilt, and she thanked Seere as she regained her bearings. "Down this tunnel, then?"

Life was cruel, and she stared at the fork in the path blankly, the burn on her hands and arm now a dull, though painful throb, and she resisted the urge to run a hand through her hair, knowing it would only hurt her hand.

The monster came from the left. Kali's gaze turned down the tunnel. Which means he was either guarding something or there's more. Or I could go right, and not know what I'm heading towards.

...

...

...

Idly, Kali placed her dagger on the ground and gave it a swift twist, watching the blade spin across the ground until it slowed, pointing down the right tunnel.

"Right it is then," Kali snatched her dagger back up and trekked deeper into the dungeon, praying that fate would be kind to her.

Vein like patterns along the wall streamed with magma, lighting the way down the tunnel, and Kali was careful to beware of any more surprises that may come from the dungeon. Gray eyes gleamed in the fire light, and if this dungeon weren't so deadly, Kali would take the time to admire how beautiful it was.

A cool breeze blew towards her, and she blinked trudging forward as the tunnel's mouth opened up to a wide center cavern. Eyeing the area warily, she stepped into the light, gazing up through the darkness to the torches that lined the walls.

"Closer," Camio murmured, and Kali scanned the cavern, the only other way out was a tunnel beside the one she had just come out from.

Piles of gold and jewels were stacked upon each other, overlapping and spilling over along the edges of the cavern wall. It was a particularly large hoard, and the torches gave the gold a near molten gleam. Kali's eyes landed on a sword in one of the piles, and her lips twisted upwards in a grin, and she slid the dagger back into its sheath. "I like this one, Camio."

Her fingers brushed over the sword, and she gingerly pulled it from the pile of jewels, running her finger along the curved blade. The blade itself had a dragon imprinted in the side. It was straight until it began to slowly curve, and the hilt seemed to have a leathery feel to it. It was the length of her shoulder to her fingertip, and it felt light in her hands.

The end had a silver tassel attached, with a curved, spiked ring, resembling a dragon curled, with its back spikes exposed. Kali stared at the sword a moment longer before tucking it into the sash at her side, making sure it was snug. It was rare she ever took things for herself from dungeons, but when you found something as cool as this—what the hell, right?

"Something's coming." Kali's gaze snapped toward the opposite tunnel, and she pulled her dagger out, eyes narrowed and body tensing for the next creature the dungeon was prepared to toss her way.

"Hah! Those dogs were nothing!" Her eyes widened and realization hit her too late as a figure suddenly barreled into her, knocking her to the ground.

Camio flared out in alarm and Kali hissed in pain, clutching her head from the collision with the ground, only to let out a yelp as her burned hands winced from the contact. A heavy weight kept her from being able to move, and she grimaced, feeling the world spin beneath her.

"What did I—I'm sorry!" Her heart dropped at the familiar voice and she felt the body above her stiffen. "Wait—it's you!"

"Damn this dungeon." Kali cursed, rubbing her eyes with the back of her hands, and opening them up to meet surprised golden eyes. "Could you get off me?"

"What are you doing here?" Sinbad questioned in surprise, blinking at the girl curiously. "I haven't seen you in awhile—you never keep in touch!"

"Why would I?" Kali blew a strand of purple hair out of her face, only to have his low ponytail fall over his shoulder, tickling her face. "Could you get off of me now?"

Sinbad was practically sitting on the lower half of her body, but his legs kept himself from crushing her completely. From when she'd last seen him, he'd obviously matured, looking several years older.

And his clothes had changed too.

The boyish face she had first seen had developed into a stronger structure, muscular and defined, and his hair had gotten longer as well. The golden eyes were sharper, and wherever she'd gone, this man had developed quite the name for himself.

And according to some of the people she's talked too, (mostly women, though to her discomfort, a few men) claimed that he was without a doubt handsome. Sinbad had grown from a criminal to a hero, to the man of women's dreams.

To Kali, he was a thorn in her side that wouldn't budge.

"You look well," Sinbad observed, leaning back he took in the full view of the girl sprawled out beneath him, a blank expression on her face. "Seeking to conquer another dungeon?"

"Same to you and as you." Kali replied, she resigned herself to simply staring up dully at the male, wondering when on earth he would finally get off of her.

"You know, this is obviously a sign," Sinbad mused, looking down at her almost sagely. "We're constantly running into each other, so this obviously can't be a coincidence every time."

"I don't know what you're talking about." Kali shrugged, and she wondered if she should use Seere or Camio.

"It must be destiny." Sinbad grinned, crossing his arms over his chest as he nodded, looking pleased with his conclusion. "It was meant to be."

"You're heavy." Kali deadpanned, and Sinbad blinked, obviously displeased that she had completely disregarded his idea. "I can't breathe."

"You're talking just fine," Sinbad rolled his eyes, and looking back to her curiously he added. "Besides, you could just disappear and reappear somewhere else couldn't you? That must mean you want to be here."

Kali was silent, beginning to curse herself to the high heavens above, and Sinbad blinked, looking at her fully. Understanding suddenly dawned on him, and a look of hopefulness suddenly flickered across his face. "Don't tell me you can't disappear anymore?"

"I can still disappear." Kali snapped, annoyed at herself for not being more careful. "It just doesn't work in dungeons, never has. My powers get nullified."

Sinbad blinked at her in disbelief and Kali's hand began inching towards the new sword at her side, seeing as it would be far less noticeable than reaching for her dagger. The golden eyed male's face contorted into one of pleasure and he grinned down at her almost smugly. "So you're basically helpless in dungeons."

"Wanna bet?" Kali challenged, arching a brow as a smirk curled on her lips. Sinbad's eyes narrowed and Kali tilted her chin upwards, silver clashing against gold. "If you're not afraid that is."

Her eyes widened when his hand pinned both of hers above her head. His other hand began tying a tough rope around it, binding her wrists together as Sinbad smiled down at her. "I'd love to make a bet with you that I would surely win, but first, I have to conquer this dungeon."

Kali's eyes widened in disbelief and she let out a yelp as Sinbad hoisted her over his shoulder, drawing his sword with his free hand and holding her there with his other. "And after I conquer this dungeon, we can talk about you joining me."

"Bastard—" Kali started, curling around to try and free herself, but the ropes ground tightly into her wrists, and she was unable to disappear—shit. "I was here first!"

"All's far in love and war," Sinbad sang, charging further into the dungeon, Kali slung over his shoulder. "And I can't have you escaping on me when this is the perfect chance to finally convince you."

"A no means no, how hard is it to understand that?"

"It's obviously destiny that's brought us here!"

"Coincidence. It's called a coincidence."

"I don't believe in coincidences!"

Kali pounded her hands against Sinbad's back, but it seemed to have little to no affect on the male as he trekked onwards, practically radiating smugness. Kali nearly hissed in frustration, and she felt Camio laugh, obviously amused with the whole thing.

"Persistent." Camio murmured, and Kali spat in agreement. "Why don't you say yes?"

I'm not looking for companionship. Kali glowered at the rock floor. I have you and Seere. Besides, he obviously has his own goal he needs to accomplish, I have mine.

"You can work together, can't you?"

I'm afraid.

Camio was silent, and Kali's lids lowered, images of the male before her flickering through her mind. If I'm not careful, I'll be sucked in by everything this man stand's for. There's only one thing I want Camio.

"Of course, my king." Camio whispered, and Kali shut her eyes for a moment, feeling his calming presence beside her.

It was only when Sinbad came to an abrupt halt did her eyes snap open, and her gaze surveyed the area before them.

This cavern was larger than the last, and even more jewels were stacked to great heights. There was no other exit, and Kali assumed this must be the final stage of the dungeon. Sinbad was tense beneath her, head turning this way and that as his grip on his sword tightened.

Eyeing the blade, a plan formed within her mind, and a small smile curled on her lips as she turned her gaze forward.

"Sinbad."

"Hmm?" The older male gazed around the large cavern, taking in the hordes of gold, but his eyes searched for where the Djinn of the dungeon lay.

"What do you want?"

Sinbad paused, craning his head to turn and look at the girl slung over his shoulders. But Kali's face was hidden from his view, and staring at her curiously he turned, looking up at the cavern's ceiling.

"I want a lot of things," Sinbad admitted casually, and she felt him shift, and his grip on her back loosened faintly. "I'd like you to be my companion for one."

"What is your goal?" Kali clarified, and she shifted so that she was lower over the side, while busying her hands with tugging at his ponytail. She was faintly surprised and a bit amused to find that his hair was pleasantly soft and silky.

"You're assuming I have one."

"You do."

She imagined him smirking, and Sinbad let out a breath of air. "I want to change the world."

A smile touched Kali's lips, and she whispered a quiet 'told you so' to Camio before she put her action into play. With a heave, she launched herself backwards, using her legs to wrap around Sinbad's waist and pull herself over his shoulder. She felt the man stiffen in surprise, and move to grasp her, but she was already falling back.

Kali jerked her bound wrists outwards and watched in satisfaction as Sinbad's own sword sliced through the ropes, missing her wrists by a hair's breath. Sinbad's eyes were wide and his cheeks had dusted lightly in scarlet and Kali released her grip on his hips, planting her palms against the floor despite the burn, and launching herself away from him.

When she was a safe distance away, she slid her dagger and held it out, eyeing him with a small smirk on her face. "You'll just have to do it without this dungeon then."

Sinbad blinked processing what had just happened. The corners of his lips tugged upwards and Sinbad smirked, leaning a hand against his hip as he observed the girl in front of him. "I don't really believe in fighting women."

"That's fine." Kali slid from her stance, regarding him languidly, and Sinbad was reminded of a cat. "Then just stay out of my way."

"I'm afraid I can't do that," Sinbad sighed in disappointment, and he sheathed his sword, crossing his arms over his chest. "I'll be the one to conquer this dungeon."

Kali rocked back onto her heels, meeting golden eyes and a determined smirk.

There was a feral hiss, like spitting embers, and Kali's eyes widened as she felt a wave of heat behind her. Sinbad's eyes widened and he was before her, baring his sword down as the feline creature tackled her to the ground, claws digging into her back.

Kali instantly twisted, hissing in pain at the scorch marks left along her back. She jerked Seere in front of her and turned as the feline flew past, her dagger leaving a deep mark along its side.

"Spirit of wrath and heroes—lend me your power!" Kali's eyes widened and a bolt of electricity shot before her, large and bursting like lightning itself. The bolt slammed and enveloped the dungeon creature.

The flame cat released a feral screech before crumpling to the floor in a pile of ashes. Kali blinked at it in disbelief, marveling at the power one man alone held.

"You're hurt," A hand was reaching towards her and Kali jerked, looking at Sinbad in surprise. "Did it get you deep?"

"Oh," Kali absently patted her back, feeling the claws marks burn, but that was all. "No, I'll be fine."

"You're bleeding!" Sinbad exclaimed, looking at the girl before him in disbelief.

Kali looked at him strangely. "Don't we all?"

Sinbad blinked, baffled. The powerful man rolled his eyes, tearing off apart of his shirt and moving towards her. "Here, let me see."

Before she could protest, firm arms were around her, and Sinbad leaned over her, fingers working to tie the strip of cloth securely around her back. Kali stood stock still, breathing in the mixture of smoke and spices, not used to have her wounds treated by anyone else.

"There," Sinbad moved back, examining his work proudly. "It would be a shame if someone as beautiful as yourself was left with scars, you know."

The comment made a wry grin touch Kali's lips. Her body was scarred beyond salvation, but it was a funny thought. "You're a strange man."

Sinbad looked startled and Kali shook her head. "One moment you're a kidnapper and now a hero? What's next—a king?"

"I'm simply doing what's right." Sinbad clarified, grinning brightly at the girl as he gripped his sword beside him. "Perhaps you can stand aside and let me conquer this dungeon as a token of thanks?"

"You both assume this dungeon with be conquered so easily."

The two froze, and the ground began to shake. Kali's eyes snapped to the center of the room where the ground began to crumble, the earth seeming to split in two as a clawed arm shot out and gripped the floor in a powerful grip.

Flames licked out of the open, scorching the air around them, and Kali raised her arms up as a shield as a figure slowly raised itself from the gap in the floor. Her eyes widened at the rough scales, gleaming like rubies under the fire light, and at the golden slits staring them in the face, a long snout breathing smoke.

Before them stood a dragon.

You've got to be kidding me. Kali's grip tightened on the dagger, despite the sting of pain, her eyes narrowed at the hulking creature.

The dragon stood at a tremendous height, with curved horns above his head nearly brushing the ceiling. Long and curved ebony claws decorated one foot, while ivory ones adorned the other, both looking deadly. Rough wings were pressed to its back, and a long tail flicked out behind it, spikes adorning the end in a razor sharp edge.

"I'm guessing I have to beat you to beat the dungeon." Sinbad mused; a look of excitement lined his features as he drew his sword, eyeing the hulking creature before him. "Doesn't sound too hard."

"Foolish." Fire escaped the dragon's mouth, and its jaws opened in a loud roar, one that

sent the cave shaking from the simple force. The roar revealed rows of jagged teeth, and

Kali swallowed the lump in her throat, eyeing the beast warily.

"Damn it." She cursed, and she felt a small cyclone encircle the dagger as she slid her foot along the floor, prepared to strike.

But a blur of purple shot past her and Kali blinked, watching in disbelief as Sinbad

arched his sword, and a current of electricity ran along the blade, jolting outwards and

striking the dragon. Kali's eyes widened in disbelief, and as Sinbad turned, their eyes

met, and he flashed her a suave smirk.

She would not be out done.

The dragon let out a furious roar, and Kali ducked under a swipe of its paw and swung her dagger in a series of crisscrossing arcs. Sharp currents of wind left each strike and slammed into the dragon, sending it a staggering step back.

She suddenly found herself swept up in a pair of firm arms and pressed to a warm chest as Sinbad scooped the girl up, dashing to the side as the dragon's tail came down with a crashing thud.

"I think I've just saved your life." Sinbad beamed, looking pleased with himself as he held Kali in his arms, a smear of ash on his cheek.

Kali's eyes hardened and she gripped his collar, using the momentum of her swing to send them both skidding across the floor. A burst of flames soared over their head, and Sinbad blinked as Kali flashed him an impish grin. "And I've just saved yours."

His eyes narrowed slightly and Kali's eyes twinkled almost playfully as she was pushing off the floor, running towards the dragon as she held her dagger in front of her. "Spirit of happiness and freedom, I call out to you, embody my will and grant me greater power—" Kali narrowed her eyes and held the dagger, hilt to her heart. "Come forth, Seere!"

A torrent of wind filled the cavern, causing Sinbad to hold his arm to his face as his eyes widened in surprise as the gust of wind grew; picking up in size at it formed a cyclone about Kali's dagger.

The wings engraved onto the hilt seemed to unlatch and expand, curling around her hands as a body of wind began to form behind her. Sinbad's eyes widened at the horse-like features that began to appear, and sure enough, a stallion seemingly made of the wind hovered over her shoulder, eyes gleaming silver.

The dragon let out a roar, and a shot of fire escaped its mouth, shooting towards the girl in a flurry of red and gold. Kali's eyes narrowed and she held her dagger before her, a sharp gust leaving the dagger from where she sliced the air and cutting through the attack, causing it to part around her.

Kali's eyes flickered to where her clothes were slightly singed, and she cursed. I need to work on that move a bit more.

"You're still new to this," Camio offered encouragingly. "You've only had Seere for so long."

"Baal!" Kali's eyes widened as a bolt of electricity flickered past her, engulfing the dragon in a furious glow of static. The dragon roared in pain and Kali blinked in disbelief, the tempest horse beside her snorting at the display.

Sinbad's eyes were hardened in determination, and his face held a grin of excitement as he swung his sword, parrying it against the dragon's tail.

This isn't fair. Kali slumped slightly, and the horse stomped the ground. How the hell did he get so good?

"...He has a...destiny to fulfill?"

"I'm not done just yet," Kali swung her dagger and the horse let out a loud whinny, charging across the room in a flurry of wind and storm as it grew a cyclone about it, charging headfirst into the dragon.

The large creature rocked with the attack, roaring in frustration as it dug its claws into the earth against the cyclone pressing against it. Kali quickly shot forward, raising her dagger above her head and preparing to slam it into the soft underbelly.

Something sharp dug into her shoulder and Kali's eyes widened as she was sent backward at a frightening pace. Her back collided into the ground painfully and she winced, gritting her teeth at the impact.

Kali tried to leap back up, but her eyes darted to her shoulders, where thick, talon-like claws had dug into her clothes and impaled her to the ground. She pulled against it and heard only a rip, leaving her pinned to the floor.

Gray eyes quickly searched the area and Kali's eyes widened in surprise as feet landed beside her, and Sinbad bad was at her side in an instant. "Are you alright?"

Kali stared at him in surprise for a moment, startled to hear such words directed at her. It was only when the ground shook did she snap from her gaze and nod. "I'm fine—I can get out myself—"

"Clearly!" Sinbad shook his head in disbelief at the girl as his hands wrapped around one of the claws. "I'll get you out—"

Kali flicked her wrist, pointing the dagger towards the incoming gust of fire and deflecting it with a cyclone of her own. Sinbad blinked, hair flying past him from the blast of the explosion.

She glanced to where the dragon's mouth curled upwards, prepared to strike again, and she glanced back to Sinbad. "Worry about me later—you'll get hurt if you try and save me first!"

"And you're far more vulnerable lying here!" Sinbad retorted, and Kali clicked her tongue in annoyance, struggling against the claws, only to hear the sound of ripping increase.

Kali's eyes grew wide as the spiked tail appeared above their heads. "Duck!"

Sinbad turned, eyes widening at the attack, but he held his ground, bringing his sword up to block the blow.

The force of the collision sent him skidding across the ground, and Kali's eyes were wide in disbelief.

He didn't move.

Why didn't he move?

"You would have been hit if he did." Camio answered, and Kali paused at the words, feeling alienated now that they were directed at her. "Blocking it ensured you would be alright."

He shouldn't care. Kali felt herself begin to panic. Why would he care? I should mean nothing—I'm just a stranger.

"I want you to be my companion."

Sinbad was up, sword glowing as he charged at the dragon. But Kali's eyes widened as its tail swung from behind.

He shouldn't care.

With a growl of frustration she lunged forward, hearing a loud ripping sound hit her ears as she pulled free of the claws and lunged forward, Seere's wind at her heels and propelling her faster as she swung her dagger.

Neither should I.

A gust of wind separated the dagger from the hard spikes of the dragon's tail, giving Kali enough room to duck and swipe upwards, leaving a deep cut along part of the tail. A roar shook the cavern and Kali glided to the floor, feeling the wind gentle her landing as she stumbled a bit, feeling light headed.

"Don't push yourself."

A firm back was pressed to hers and Kali raised her dagger up, glaring at the dragon as lava pooled across the floor, a look of rage in its eyes. "I think we make a pretty good team."

"Not my kind of thing," Kali quipped, and the two moved in unison, Kali ducking to the side as Sinbad drew his sword, sending shocks of lightning around the dragon.

Back to back the two swung inwards, a cyclone bursting forth from Kali's dagger as a bolt shot from Sinbad's sword, entwining in the air and slamming into the towering beast with a shock that shook the cavern.

The dragon released an agonized roar, staggering backwards and digging claws into the earth as smoke poured off the scales, heavy drips of lava falling from its gaping jaw as its head hit the floor, and with a mighty shake, the dragon fell.

Kali sucked in deep breaths, feeling her body aching and her hands shaking as she stared at the fallen dungeon creature. After a moment, she twirled the dagger in her hands and slid it into its sheath beside her heart, running a sore hand through matted locks as she breathed in a sigh of relief.

It was over.

"You can sure fight!" Sinbad praised, and his presence was beside her, but she was too tired to shuffle away. "I knew paying attention to you would pay off! You're awesome!"

As if I can compare. Kali eyed the excited male warily. "Don't expect this to happen again."

"Now that you mention it," Sinbad looked thoughtful, and despite the fact that parts of his clothes were charred, there were scrapes on his face, and smudges of ash everywhere, a bright grin split his face. "This is the first time we've fought together!"

First time. The words rang like a bell and Kali stared at Sinbad, processing the word.

I worked together with someone.

I wasn't alone.

It felt...

Nice.

She'd always somehow managed to run into him, whether it be on land or sea, town or village, they'd meet. But this was the first time she'd seen him in action in an actual dungeon like this, the first time she'd seen a metal vessel user beside herself fight. It was the first time she'd fought with anyone beside Camio or Seere.

This man is going to kill me. Kali rubbed her scrapped shoulder, letting out a sigh. "Nothing good ever happens when we meet."

"That's cruel!" Sinbad pouted, looking hurt, and the action was uncharacteristically childish for someone like him. "I thought you were finally warming up to me!"

"Must be the dungeon." Kali shrugged, and Sinbad's eyes followed the action and the male froze, staring at her with wide eyes. "What?"

Slowly, a crimson hue began to spread across his cheeks as he opened his mouth, unable to say anything as he stared at her as if in a daze. Kali frowned, wondering if he'd finally lost it when a clump of cloth fell from her shoulder.

The ripping.

Shooting a glance downwards, Kali was horrified to find that her tunic had been ripped apart, leaving a tightly woven part to conceal her chest, and ripped up pants now practically shorts from the claws that had pinned her.

I have fewer clothes on than an entertainer! Kali's cheeks dusted pink and she stumbled a few steps away, trying to maintain what was left of her dignity. Sinbad remained gaping—though the man was not shy to a woman's body, quite the opposite actually, seeing this particular girl in front of him without most of her clothing was...new.

Though he felt slightly guilty, he would not deny that he enjoyed it.

Kali swallowed down the embarrassment of it all and turned, appearing unaffected by the change of events. "I'm surprised the Djinn hasn't shown up."

"Yeah..." Sinbad trailed off, he found his eyes traveling up her back, curiously following the patterns of some intricate tattoo, but the rest was shielded by her hair and what remained of her clothes.

Damn it all. Kali's cheeks were flushed, but she refused to let the remaining bit of her dignity go. Stupid dungeon.

"So much dignity and pride... I love it!"

The two glanced up, bracing themselves for another fight when a flurry of flames scorched through the room, centering at one point in particular and soaring upwards in a cyclone of flames, gold and red and orange licking out and engulfing the area.

Sinbad through an arm out in front of the girl, but Kali watched, mesmerized by some unseen force as the flames cleared into crackles of embers, and the man in the center revealed a dazzling smile.

The Djinn's hair was a dark crimson, streaks of gold entwined within the satin colored strands. Eyes burned golden, and flames flickered around the Djinn as he flashed the two a dazzling smile, muscles rippling across his chest, giving the illusion that the markings on his chest were moving. Dark maroon silks wrapped around his waist, leaving his chest bare, save for the golden circlets and chains hanging on his person. Long, curved horns protruded from his head, and crimson red scales sheathed the beginnings of his hands.

"I am the fortieth dungeon Raum. A Djinn of passion and destruction." Raum's lids lowered and his eyes met Kali's dazed ones. "I especially love destroying a man's dignity."

Raum's lips curled upwards in a seductive manner. "Something you have plenty of, my dear."

"I don't think you should trust this one," Sinbad started, turning to the girl beside him with a troubled gaze. "He seems—are you alright?"

Sinbad blinked, baffled as Kali stared at Raum in a daze, a flush across her cheeks as she gazed lovingly at him. Sinbad froze in disbelief. "Hey! Don't tell me you're attracted to this guy!"

"He's...nice..."

"He's a Djinn!" Sinbad exclaimed, shaking the girl by her shoulders as he frantically struggled to get her out of this daze. "Get a hold of yourself!"

"Hot..."

"It's just the dungeon!" Sinbad protested, slightly offended that she'd fall for the looks of a Djinn, but not himself. "Hey!"

"I tend to have that affect," Raum smiled wickedly, snapping his fingers and Kali blinked, looking confused as she gazed around in surprise.

"What just happened?" Sinbad nearly fell over and put a hand to his head, shaking his head in disbelief.

Kali's eyes landed on Raum and she stiffened, her body growing tense. "Do we have to fight again?"

"As fun as that was, it won't be necessary." Raum waved his hand and the large body shrunk in size, resorting to that of a human's as he stalked towards the two, leaving burnt prints in his wake. "I like you!"

Sinbad watched in disbelief as Raum strode to a baffled Kali, sliding his arms around her waist and pulling the girl to his smoldering body. Kali stiffened at the contact, his body dangerously hot against hers, but Raum leaned closer, golden eyes ablaze as he grinned. "You will be the one I choose!"

Kali blinked, not registering what the Djinn had said as he wrapped his arms around her neck, gazing lazily at Sinbad. "This guy was a pretty prime choice, but I prefer women for my vessels. Makes things more, ah—interesting."

Kali's face blanched and she turned to Sinbad, her gaze unsettlingly serious as Raum continued to hang off of her. "I take back what I said. You can have him."

"Hey! You're cruel, my king." Raum merely smirked, pressing his lips to Kali's cheeks. "But feisty... I like the fire in your eyes..."

"Quickly," Kali looked pleadingly at Sinbad. "Take him."

Raum's eyes landed on the sword strapped to her hip, and a wicked grin split his lips as he pulled it from her sash, setting it in her hands. "Let us rule the world one day, my king."

There was a brilliant flash of light, illuminating the room in a warm glow before it dispersed. Kali and Sinbad blinked at each other, letting what just happened settle on them.

"Ah! You can take it!" Kali cried, quickly tossing the sword to Sinbad as the pentagram glowed on the blade of the sword, right where the head of the dragon tattooed on the blade began.

Sinbad instinctively caught the sword, but let out a cry of surprise as he let it clatter to the floor. "Hot!"

"Raum has chosen you," Camio's voice was firm, but he himself sounded displeased. "You must accept that, Kali."

"First time I've seen someone reject a Djinn," Sinbad mused as Kali sulkily picked up the sword, sliding it into the sash that luckily managed to keep her torn pants together. "Looks like you beat me this time."

He should have been chosen. Kali stared at Sinbad for a moment, and the Rukh about him fluttered radiantly. He has the skills to be a great leader one day—a truly ideal candidate.

"Perhaps Raum saw in you what Seere and I did." Camio mused, and Kali couldn't help the flutter of pleasure in her chest at the word. "We all see something in the one we chose."

A coat fell over her shoulders and she looked up sharply in surprise as Sinbad offered her a grin. "It's not proper for a lady to be dressed like that now, is it?"

...

...

...

"You sound fake."

"I was trying to be civil!" Sinbad retorted and Kali stared at the coat that easily enveloped her frame, and she let out a tired sigh.

Working with someone by your side was different. The past experiences she'd been through had all been on her own, and now, conquering a dungeon with someone else by your side... It felt empowering, and it made her feel as if she could do anything.

"You're not too bad." Kali offered finally, turning as she touched the metal feather on her neck. "For a stalker."

"It's called fate." Sinbad corrected, but a pleased grin touched his lips.


The two worked and gathered up the treasures of the dungeon, and when they were ready, a familiar light appeared, basking the two in its radiance as they were teleported out of the dungeon.

Kali gazed about her, leaning against one of the sacks of jewels and admiring the mesmerizing view before her.

It was as if the stars had come down and coated the earth, surrounding them as the beam of light took them to the world they knew. Her eyes softened and she fiddled with the sword at her hip, lids lowering almost peacefully as the aches and pains her body had taken began to resurface.

"You shouldn't be so careless, you know."

She turned her gaze to Sinbad, cracking one eye open as he leaned against the sack beside her, a pleasant look on his face.

"Are you one to talk?" Kali mused, and Sinbad turned to her, a strangely serious look in his eyes that put her on edge.

"When we fought," Sinbad started, and his eyes were like melted gold against her gray stained blue. "It seemed like you didn't care if you got hurt or not. You just did whatever you needed."

"'Cause I don't."

"You only have one life to live," Sinbad's words were hard, and it made Kali blink both eyes open as she gazed forward, knowing he was looking at her. "Don't waste it."

"Observant," Camio murmured, and kali inclined her head, looking at the person before her curiously. "He's an interesting one, Kali."

"I'm sure there are people who are worried about you," Sinbad smiled, looking up as a fond look flickered across his face. "People who would be sad if something happened. Don't you have a place to go back to?"

"Stay back!"

"Is it all over now?"

"No." Sinbad blinked, turning to look at the girl as Kali gazed up at the starry scenery before them, lights twinkling as Rukh fluttered about.

A wry grin touched her lips and a wistful look came into her eyes.

"I don't have a place like that."

The second Kali's feet hit the ground, a breath of relief left her, and she felt the feeling of freedom envelop her like a welcoming blanket, keeping her warm. "This is more like it."

"We really did work pretty well together," Kali turned, and a hand was offered in front of her face. Sinbad's eyes were determined, and a grin filled his face, leaving Kali mesmerized by the radiance of it. "I think you'd be a great companion."

Every time. "What can I do for you?" Kali arched a brow, feeling herself grow light as she prepared to disappear.

"It's not what you can offer me." Sinbad shook his head, looking amused. "It's what I'm hoping to offer you."

Kali froze, and the process came to a halt.

"It's obvious you've got no real place to go," Sinbad started, and rubbing the back of his head he added. "I don't really have one either, but let's work together. We can do this again—and all sorts of adventures!"

Sinbad rubbed the back of his head awkwardly, a thoughtful look on his face. "I mean, I'm technically wanted by my own home country, and it seems we've got nowhere to go back to. So why not go forward together?"

He sounds like when we first met. Kali shut her eyes for a moment before opening them up in amusement.

She couldn't despise this man.

"You don't ever give up, do you?" Kali murmured, looking at him in exasperation.

A firm hand grasped hers, and Kali looked up sharply in surprise when Sinbad's grin widened. "There'll always be a place for you beside me."

Something within her twisted, and Kali stared at him, mesmerized for a moment by the flow of Rukh surrounding him. Sinbad's eyes were aglow, and the aura she'd seen on him when they first beat was shining, threatening to engulf her and pull her into this man's flow.

"I won't let it happen again."

Kali's open mouth closed, and she curled herself around her resolve, seeking strength from it. Camio was beside her, and she knew that she had her own mission to complete, and she wouldn't be able too if she followed this man.

"I'll have to decline," Kali answered breezily, and Sinbad blinked, eyes widening as her body began to disappear. "Do what you will with the winnings."

Silver met gold and Kali smirked, saluting the male. "May we meet again, Sinbad."

Kali disappeared, leaving with a new metal vessel, and settling for the fact that even though she could never join Sinbad, she would at least consider the man a companion.

But she wasn't about to let him know that.


For those of you who have asked, Judar will make an appearance later on in the story, and somewhat soon if I do say so. I'll for most be following the plot, so since this is a little bit before Balbadd, he'll be making his appearance soon too. :D

Poor Kouen will have to wait though.

Thank you all for reviewing and favoriting and following this story! I was surprised at the feedback, and it was really nice to see so many people interested in this. :) Especially since the Magi fandom is still a bit small, I'm hoping it'll get a lot more popular soon because this anime is just amazing and deserves all the love it can get.

Thanks again! :D

Marshmellow-

-OUT!