I do not own Magi.


Enigma

Chapter Fifteen:

The Dream and the Nightmare


"Sometimes, I wonder if you're really here."

Kali blinked, a faint look of surprise flittering over her face as she turned her head backwards, meeting warm, crimson eyes and bright red, bordering sunset pink hair. Kali's lips curled upwards and she tipped her head back, scooting over on the cushion and patting the seat beside her. "What makes you say that?"

Muu hummed, stepping over and coming to stand beside her, his golden armor clinking as it shone in the moonlight. The moon above them was full, beaming down in a rare moment of pleasantness that Kali gratefully took advantage of as she slipped a grape between her lips, leaning back against the arching pillar draped in vines as her feet hung over the edge of the building.

"There are moments like this," Muu shifted, one hand resting on his sword, at ease as he looked up to the moon. "When I catch you staring off into space, this thoughtful, strange expression on your face, and I wonder what goes on in your head."

The Fanalis turned towards her with a charming smile, eyes shining warmly. "And I see you bathed in the moonlight and it makes me wonder," his fingers stretched outwards, catching a strand and curling it towards him, "if you're really here."

Kali's eyes shone in amusement and Muu smiled as she grinned. "You're touching me, aren't you?"

"I could be fooled by one of your illusions," he nodded toward the newly conquered Asmodeé resting against her ankles and he let his shoulders relax, slipping down and taking a seat beside her as the two of them gazed upwards toward the moon. "Though I'd like to think you wouldn't be so cruel."

"No, I'm not one for leading things on," Kali's lips tugged upwards in a bitter smile. "I would cut you off clean and simple."

Muu winced. "I pray I will never see the day."

There was a loud crash and the sound of screeching and shouts as the two of them glanced back to the hall where the Fanalis Corps was celebrating. The rambunctious cheers and joyful bellows echoed in Kali's ears and a small smile touched her lips as she leaned back on her palms, shoulders relaxing ever so slightly as her eyes grew warm and she gazed up at the sky, reveling in the peace if only for a moment.

"Kali."

Kali paused, glancing back to a thoughtful Muu. "Yes, Muu?"

"Don't you ever get tired?" Muu turned to her, an earnest glimmer of concern in his eyes as the general frowned. "Of all of this... Moving around from place to place... Why not stop somewhere?"

Why not stop somewhere?

Kali looked thoughtful for a moment, a silence falling over them until her lips curled upwards and she beamed. "Because that would be to boring."

"I could protest to that." Muu winced, thinking of countless wars and struggles and the constant battle he must face to protect his country and his loved ones.

"Besides," Kali's eyes grew warm, flickering, the dim moonlight turning gray eyes silver, and Muu found himself growing lost in the shifting eyes.

"I love the world too much to stay in one place."


"And then you move—" Kali ducked to the side, sliding her foot along the ground and bringing her arm up in a wide arch above her. Alibaba's eyes went wide and he ducked to the side, rolling across the floor as Raum came crashing down beside him. "Like this!"

Sooty locks flew about her from the force of the collision, and Alibaba ducked to the side, bringing his own sword upwards as Kali tipped her body sideways and swung Raum in a fluid arch round her once more. The two blades collided with a resounding echo and Alibaba grit his teeth, steadying himself with one hand on the hilt and another tucked behind his back. Kali flashed him a grin and slid her foot backwards, dipping downwards as she swung her blade upwards.

"Keep your stance wide, body lowered!" Sharrkan called from the side, walking around the two as he watched Alibaba closely. "Tuck your arm in otherwise—"

"Dead." Kali pronounced, her tip brushing against Alibaba's side. The blonde blinked in surprise and Kali offered him a small smile, sliding back and twirling Raum in her hands.

"And watch for openings."

Alibaba slumped slightly, letting out a heavy breath as he stepped back and Kali offered him a bright grin. "Not bad though, Ali. To be honest, you could really give me a run for my own money when it comes to sword fighting; you have a nice style to it."

"I learned when I was younger." Alibaba admitted, smiling slightly when he stumbled, a heavy hand slapping him in the back.

"But just that little dance won't due." Sharrkan crossed his arms over his chest, eyeing him in amusement. "You've got skills, without a doubt, but you won't get anywhere on that alone."

Alibaba sighed but nodded determinedly. Kali smiled, settling back against a pillar and shrugging her shoulders. "If anyone would know it's this guy—he taught me some of what I know too."

"But you don't fight fair," Sharrkan smirked, ruffling Kali's head affectionately as she simply grinned without remorse. "You fight with all kinds of styles and you throw in dirty tricks too, otherwise I would've beaten you before."

"In plain sword fighting you do." Kali tugged at a lock of white hair and grinned. "In simple fighting...well, I think we know who would win in that."

Sharrkan pouted and Alibaba gazed at Kali curiously. "Kali, you must actually be pretty strong then..."

"Of course," Kali's eyes brightened and she patted the metal feather resting against her chest. "I have to obtain power to complete my own goals too."

"But you must not forget that even you have limits." Kali's eyes softened and she let her fingers drift down the feather before resting at her side. Of course.

Alibaba looked thoughtful, a wondering look on his face as he tipped his head back, rubbing at his chin. "I wonder who would be stronger then... Sinbad or you?"

Sharrkan paused, paling slightly at the notion, an uncertain look on his face as he glanced to Kali. A calm expression had settled over her features, unaffected. But the swordsman seemed to grow hesitant at the sudden topic, something that made Alibaba's brows furrow while Kali simply sighed, holding her hands up. "In terms of raw power Sinbad's got me beat. We would have one hell of a fight though for sure, and even we aren't quite sure who would really win, but I would definitely put my money on Sinbad."

But if it were life and death. Kali's eyes narrowed, recalling the horror in those golden irises and the pain she'd felt in her chest, raw, horrifying, and so terribly painful all those years ago. Sinbad simply has more to lose.

"And that puts him at a disadvantage."

"But if I couldn't at least somewhat hold my own on the battlefield, Sinbad wouldn't have recommended I help you out in your training." Kali grinned, stepping forward and ruffling Alibaba's head fondly. Her eyes dipped to the broken sword pressed to his chest and she added. "And you won't be improving much until you get that fixed."

Alibaba frowned, sliding Amon from his sash and gazing at it with slight sadness, golden eyes flickering. Kali's eyes softened and she patted him once more on the back. "It's fine. I've broken a metal vessel once, you just need to replace the vessel and it'll be fine."

But of course, that didn't mean the experience hadn't been horrifying. Kali grimaced, fondly running her fingers over the leather and metal bracelets on her wrist, metal flowers strung through. The moment it had fallen apart she'd remembered the fear, the unwavering, horrifying fear and pain as if she'd lost a part of her. And the overwhelming relief when it'd turned out to all be okay.

"We will always be with you." Camio promised, and Kali smiled, reaching up and gripping the feather tightly. Not that I would even let you guys get into such danger ever again. You're all too precious for me too lose.

"Something I think can be fixed." A new voice chimed in. Kali blinked as a presence appeared beside her, powerful and painfully bright as Sinbad beamed beside her, crossing his arms over his chest.

Alibaba looked at Sinbad with wide eyes, Morgiana appearing at his side. Sinbad spared Kali a glance, amusement flickering through when Kali simply yawned, idly playing with the sash tied over her hips. His golden gazed returned to the blonde and he smiled, eyes warm.

"Come with me."


The wave of familiarity, of warmth and memories all washed over her in a gentle light.

Her eyes left Sinbad, Alibaba and Morgiana, straying to the vast treasures and weapons, jewels and ornaments all polished and glinting in the warm light from the glass ceiling above them. Her eyes strayed over the weapons, fingers running along polished, glistening metals, and she felt the memories flicker through her head, flashing so vividly and full of life her heart swelled.

The memories of a fisherman's son looking for change and a wandering child looking for power.

Kali's lips pulled upwards at them, tucking those images so fondly into a part of her mind. Never forgotten, always remembered. She let the essence fill her and she couldn't help the small sigh that left her lips, fingers straying to her sword as a rush of excitement filled her, the desire to set out and explore.

Beside her Sinbad stood, taking in all the vast treasures they'd collected over the years, eyes flickering for the briefest moment in fond recognition before he turned with a wide smile to an awestruck Alibaba. "But the question with your djinn is what kind of metal you should transfer him to."

Alibaba looked up curiously and Sinbad's gaze soared across the room, taking in the rows of treasure chests and items gathered over the years before returning to him. "A djinn unleashes his power when he's one with his master. For that reason, the ideal metal vessel would be something that you've worn for a long time, or that you have a strong connection to. That knife of yours was important to you too, wasn't it?"

"Well, it's not really much..." Alibaba opened his mouth before he smiled somewhat sheepishly, gazing at the sword with fondness. "But not long after I went to live in the palace, there was a negotiation practice the former king of Balbadd... That my father came to observe, just once. That day I closed a deal for the first time, and with the money I made I bought this knife."

"It's better than me," Kali offered, crossing her arms over her chest as she patted her necklace fondly. "I just picked these up along the way."

"Our desire to be with you was enough." Camio murmured, and Kali beamed, fingers curling over the metal feather.

Alibaba's eyes softened and he smiled. "Though it's just a cheap knife, I'm a little bummed that it broke."

There was a soft look on Sinbad's face as he smiled. Kali stilled, taking in the expression with the faintest look of wonder. "I see. So it's a knife with a connection to the previous king." Reaching back into a drawer Sinbad set a small sword down onto the table before them, a sleek black sheathe and a golden handle resembling a dragon. "This is the sword that was given to me years ago by the former king of Balbadd."

"By my father..." Alibaba started.

Kali had gone silent, eyes turning downwards. Morgiana glanced to the young woman from the corner of her eye, a curious expression covering her features at Kali's oddly somber mood. Sinbad smiled, eyes flickering. "He gave me this when I'd lost my way after my country was suffering after a certain battle, telling me to brace myself. And now I'm intrusting it to you."

Alibaba's eyes went wide and Sinbad gripped the sword, offering it to the boy before him as light bathed the two of them in an almost ethereal glow. "If you have a reason to take up your sword again and a goal that you must strive for..."

"In moments like these," Kali began softly, and Morgiana turned to the woman beside her as Kali's lips turned upwards, eyes impossibly warm. "They kind of seem far away, don't they?"

Their eyes strayed to the two before them, bathed in a golden light as Alibaba took the sword from Sinbad with a bow of his head, a look of pure determination coloring his features. Morgiana looked on in awe and Kali smiled. "And all you want to do is follow behind."

"You seem oddly nostalgic today, my king."

I feel nostalgic. Kali admitted, eyes brightening as Alibaba drew forth the sword, his eyes growing wide as a warm; golden light began to shine from Amon's seal. When I look back at all these things and I see some of the ones we even got together... I can't help but remember.

"That is not a bad thing," Camio murmured warmly and Kali smiled, leaning back.

No. It isn't. With a great burst of flames Amon's seal disappeared from Alibaba's knife, a warmth filling the room as flames surrounded them, blowing her hair away from her face as the seal appeared on Alibaba's new sword. "Amon moved!"

"For a djinn to transfer himself so soon..." Sinbad's eyes widened in slight surprise. "It might be due to your father's guidance."

But it is dangerous.

"Now then, Morgiana," the Fanalis girl looked up in surprise and Sinbad offered her a charming grin. "It's your turn. Take a look at these and pick out the metal item you like the most."

"Y-You mean me?" Morgiana's eyes went wide and Kali grinned.

"Sinbad loves to spoil women, so be careful around this one."

"I love treating women right," Sinbad corrected, his eyes shifting to Kali's grinning form as he smirked. "But I've never heard you complain when it came to food."

"He does speak the truth, my king."

I know, don't remind me, Cam. Kali looked away with a small laugh and Sinbad turned to Morgiana. "If you're going to fight alongside Alibaba and the others, you could become his Household member."

That's right. Kali blinked, a curious look on her face. I forgot about those.

"Household member?"

"A powerful warrior drawn by the King's Candidate, who gains the power of his king's magoi as well as the skills of that king's djinn." Sinbad gestured to the array of jewelry and gems displayed before them. "To become one, he or she needs a vessel, called a Household vessel, to store that power. It can be any metal item, as long as you wear it on your person."

Sinbad offered the stunned girl a charming smile. "I think you'd look good in any of these, Morgiana."

Morgiana's eyes widened and she looked down with a small frown. "But I've never worn anything like them in my life..."

"Hey, Morgiana!" Alibaba held up a large golden claw, an excited look on his face. "I think this would look crazy good on you!"

Kali's lips curled upwards and she snorted, turning her head and laughing slightly at Sinbad's dumbfounded look. Morgiana looked surprisingly content with the weapons as Alibaba grinned beside her. Kali grinned, nudging Sinbad with her elbow. "Still think you know women well?"

Sinbad rose from his dumbfounded surprise and turned his head downwards to the woman beside him, a coy grin touching his lips. "I know that I know you well enough."

Kali's grin turned to a sour pout as she crossed her arms over her chest, rolling her eyes at Sinbad as he grinned, turning back to Morgiana. "Actually, Morgiana, something you've always worn would be better."

Morgiana paused, a thoughtful look on her face before her eyes grew wide. "Can it be anything as long as it's metal?"

"Yes."

Morgiana took of in a flash, mumbling out a hurried 'one moment' as she sprinted from the room. The three of them looked on with a look of curiosity before Alibaba blinked, looking at Kali. "Kali, do you have any household members?"

Sinbad glanced to Kali at that. Though he was well aware for all the time that he'd known her Kali seemed to be rather averse to taking on any household members. There had been times when those who had known her had come to offer assistance, and each time, though flattered by the offer, Kali would warmly, but ever so firmly shut them down. But after discovering her relations to Kou, Sinbad somewhat feared that there was much more hidden from him then he would have liked.

And the very thought was horribly infuriating as well as thrilling.

"Nope." Alibaba blinked and Kali offered the former prince a small smile. "I don't have any."

Alibaba's eyes went wide as Sinbad eyed the woman beside him thoughtfully. "Eh? But surely with the way you are, there are people who would want—"

"Ah, it's a bit of a pain." Kali admitted, rubbing the back of her head with a small laugh. "Especially since I'm always moving around, it's hard for anyone to keep up. Besides," a faint glow illuminated the pieces of metal adorning her body and Kali grinned. "My vessels are all I really need."

It would be too much trouble, anyway. Kali simply grinned. "Besides, I'm not as active as Sinbad when it comes to things like this."

"Of course, I did hope Kali would have become one of my own vessels when I found out about it," Sinbad began. "But I realized she was already a metal vessel user so that was impossible."

"Even if I wasn't, I doubt I'd ever be one of your household members."

"Why not? I think Focalor or perhaps Valefor would have suited you fine."

"Isn't it better for the household members to stay close by?"

"Something that could always be fixed."

Alibaba blinked, looking slightly mystified as Kali simply beamed up at a smiling Sinbad, the two of them locked in some silent stare down. There was a clatter and heavy breathing and Kali turned, Sinbad's gaze lingering on her for a moment before they faced Morgiana, the young girl quickly stepping forward and setting a wrapped up bag onto the table.

The cloth fell open, revealing broken shackles, rusted and worn down. Kali stiffened, gazing at the old shackles with hardened eyes as Alibaba looked up in alarm, a look of slight surprise on Sinbad's face. "Hey, those are..."

Chains.

"Yes. These are the shackles that I used to wear all the time." Morgiana gripped the front of her dress, the barest hint of a smile on her face despite the horrible memories that should've come with the metal pieces in front of them. "I could never bring myself to throw them out, so I've kept them all this time. These shackles are the ones that Aladdin spoke to, that Goltas severed, and that Alibaba removed for me."

"Fond memories to horrid things." Camio observed while Kali remained silent, her stomach churning at the sight of rusted chains and broken shackles. "But we are bound by nothing but our fates, my king."

"They carry the obligations that I received from my precious friends. They are my pride, and they are dear to me." Morgiana's eyes glistened with determination and Kali gazed at the young girl in a moment of awe before she smiled.

"Then I'm sure we can find someone to make them into something better." Kali murmured, a wide grin splitting her lips. "Better than wearing chains all day."

Never again.

"For as long as I am with you, no chains will ever bind you."

"Lord Sin," Kali perked up at the voice, turning with a cheeky smile as Ja'far and Masrur appeared before them. "The delegates from the Kou Empire have arrived."

Kali blinked.

"I see." Sinbad nodded. "Send for the rest of the generals as well."

Delegates...from Kou?

"We will greet them—K-Kali?" Sinbad turned in surprise at the suddenly ghostly expression that had settled over his friend. "Are you alright—"

"I didn't know...you had people from Kou coming," Kali began shakily, laughing nervously as she idly began to take a few steps back. "T-They wouldn't happen to be...princes...right?"

"A prince and princess from Kou." Ja'far explained calmly, a wary expression on his features as Sinbad blinked in surprise at Kali's behavior. Ja'far's eyes narrowed and he blinked. "Don't tell me you've obtained a bad relationship with—"

"N-Not bad, per say." Kali grinned, her entire body trembling. If it's Kouen here for a meeting than I'm screwed. Koumei and Kouha are bound to tell him. And after Judal and Kougyoku, he must be aware that I was hanging around in Balbadd... "I already told you guys they were rather...persistent on me joining them. And if I can, I would rather avoid meeting with their more dominant powers."

Sinbad eyed her quizzically. "You seemed to have had a good relationship with that princess. They're not out to harm you—"

"Not her." Kali swallowed, looking away nervously as she recalled crimson eyes and scarlet goatee. "More like a him really..."

"The fourth prince and eighth princess of Kou will be the ones joining us today."

Kali instantly perked up, a hopeful look on her face. "Then that means Kougyoku and..." Kali quickly counted her fingers. Kouen is first, Koumei is second, Kouha is third... Hakuryuu! Kali slumped, letting out a sigh of relief. I'm saved.

"But you do realize if they become aware of your presence here, surely Kouen will be informed at some point and be made aware of your connections to Sindria." Camio reminded, and Kali simply grinned.

We just have to convince them not to talk about me then.

"...I see."


The salty sea air offered a light breeze today beside the port. Soldiers from Kou remained close to the ship, heads bowed and hands clasped in the familiar motion as a single figure made his way down the ramp and toward Sinbad and the generals behind him.

Familiar black locks border lining a gray-blue tint shifted with the breeze. Pale but deep blue eyes focused on the single man before him as Hakuryuu clasped his hands together, bowing his head slightly. "I am the fourth prince of Kou, Ren Hakuryuu."

Sinbad offered an open smile. "His majesty spoke of you to me. Welcome to Sindria."

Hakuryuu lowered his head. "Even without the words of my stepfather, I have long wished to meet with you, sir."

Sinbad smiled, holding his arms out. "I'm honored."

Hakuryuu raised his eyes and paused, a look of surprise settling over his face as he noticed the grinning figure behind Sinbad, waving wildly to him. "...K-Kali?"

"Hakuryuu!" Kali disappeared and reappeared in front of the prince, causing the soldiers to shoot up in alarm. Kali noted their reaction with pleased glee—if they were surprised that meant they weren't aware of whom she was. "It's been ages! How have you been? Have you been eating well? We need to spar again once you get the chance—"

"Kali!" Hakuryuu stepped forward, eyes brightening for a moment as his mouth twitched upwards before it settled and he straightened himself, gazing at her curiously. "What are you doing here in Sindria?"

"Well, you know how I travel." Kali began warmly. "I came across this lot some time ago and I tend to visit every now and then. I was informed some people from Kou would be coming and I was hoping it wouldn't be you-know-who."

Hakuryuu blinked. "I would understand your concern then... But I, myself, don't approve of his methods. If you wish, I won't speak a word of your presence here—"

"That would be wonderful." Kali added hurriedly, grinning widely as she clasped Hakuryuu's hands and beamed. "Thanks, Hakuryuu! If you need anything while you're here feel free to ask!"

"It seems she was much closer to the royalty over there than we suspected." Ja'far observed, his hands pressed together beneath his sleeves as Sinbad watched the interaction before him curiously.

"But at the same time she seems oddly fearful of them..." Sinbad frowned. "I do hope that fiancée joke of hers was only that."

"You and I both know she isn't the type to settle down so easily." Ja'far sighed. "The day she makes such a commitment I expect her to be in chains and bound to a chair."

"Who cares?" Sharrkan muttered, crossing his arms over his chest as he sniffed. "She comes back to us at the end of the day... or month."

"She's just being kind." Yamraiha agreed, shrugging at the display as if it didn't affect her. "Kali's that kind of a person."

Sinbad offered Hakuryuu a smile. "As a delegate of Kou and a friend of a friend, you are gladly welcome here in Sindria." Sinbad's smile widened and he added. "By the way, who is that lady behind you, Lord Hakuryuu?"

Hakuryuu blinked, turning around as Ja'far let out a cry of surprise. Kali's lips turned upwards into a warm smile before she blinked, noticing the strange atmosphere that followed Kougyoku. "Lady Ren Kougyoku?"

Hinahoho let out a noise of interest. "Oh, she's the one who has the hots for Sinbad!"

"She followed him here!" Pisti began dreamily, and Yamraiha nodded. But the two women paused, uncertain looks coloring their features as they paused. "But if she is in love with our king..."

The generals' gazes turned to a worried looking Kali as she gazed at Kougyoku and they all blinked. Won't this be a problem...?

Instead, Kougyoku stepped forward, offering a warm smile towards Sinbad. Kali shifted, a nervous look on her face as she wondered what was weighing on her friend's mind. "Thank you for the other day. It's a pleasure to see you again."

"Likewise." Sinbad smiled.

The generals looked on in surprise as Pisti spoke up. "Hey, they're acting like normal."

"Thank goodness, it looks like nothing happened." Ja'far let out a sigh of relief and Sharrkan sighed.

"Boring~"

Sinbad beamed. "It's been awhile hasn't it? We never got the chance to meet while I was at the Kou Empire, did we?" Kali frowned as Kougyoku seemed to twitch. "Well! I'm truly happy to be reunited with you now."

Kougyoku's shoulders began to tremble. "Did he say 'never got the chance to meet'?"

Sinbad blinked. "Eh?"

There was a faint whoosh through the air as Sinbad dodged to the side, wisps of purple locks scattering in the wind as the king blinked in disbelief. Kali's eyes went wide, mouth falling open in surprise as Kougyoku grit her teeth, gripping a sword between her hands.

...what?

"Curse you Sinbad. I'd resolved to swallow my tears and endure it for the sake of my country if you apologized, but I can't forgive you after all!" Kali's eyes went wide as Kougyoku drew forth Vinea, baring her sword in front of her. "Duel me, Sinbad!"

Kali blinked. "What?" Her eyes shot to an alarmed Sinbad and she blinked once more. "Sinbad, what did you—"

"For the barbarous act of violating the body of a maiden, you deserve to die ten thousand deaths!"

Violating the body of a maiden...? Kali gazed forward, dumbfounded.

Gasps of surprise filled the area and Ja'far let out a cry of frustration and horror as he turned to Sinbad. "W-What did you do to her?"

"I-I didn't do anything!" Sinbad snapped. Kougyoku's eyes went wide and a blush touched her cheeks as tears began to form in her eyes and Ja'far turned to her.

"What's the meaning of this, your highness?"

Kougyoku's lips began to tremble and she paused, eyes snapping to the side when Kali stepped forward, a worried look on her face as her brows furrowed. "Kougyoku...? Are you all right?"

Kougyoku blinked, tears forming in her eyes before she let out a wail, lunging forward and into Kali's arms. Kali blinked in surprise, toppling over with a grunt as she stared, dumbfounded at Kougyoku as the young girl sobbed into her chest, arms clutched tight around her. "K-Kali!"

"Is she... all right?" Camio inquired awkwardly and Kali blinked, completely at a lost as she idly patted Kougyoku's back. "I-I don't know?"

"Ja'far made her cry!"

Ja'far eyes went wide with horror and he stepped forward. "Uh, um, I—"

"Excuse me!" Kali's eyes shot upwards and she frowned, brows furrowing as she tried to remember the name of the man before her, the one who always hung around Kougyoku and yelled at her from time to time... "It would be cruel to force the princess to describe what happened herself. Please allow me to continue."

What was it again? Ka... Ka Koubo?

"No, my king."

"According to the princess this is what happened... On the last night of King Sinbad's visit to the Kou Empire, a farewell banquet was held. When morning broke and Princess Kougyoku awoke in bed..."

Kali gazed forward in disbelief, stroking Kougyoku's hair as she sobbed into her chest, crying out things like 'stupid king' and 'idiot'. Ja'far slumped, disbelief striking his features as the rest of the generals slumped, and even Alibaba blinked in disbelief as well. "If, after all this, you insist that nothing happened, I would very much like to hear your explanation! King Sinbad!"

So Sinbad is... Kali blinked once before a blank emotion settled over her face. This is somehow...

Expected.

Kougyoku whipped around, clutching onto Kali as she glared at Sinbad. "Curse you, Sinbad, for defiling the body of a Kou Empire princess! Duel me right now!"

Kali's eyes went wide in alarm, blanching as Kougyoku sobbed, tears streaming down her face as she held a sword to her throat. "Should you refuse I will kill you and then myself!"

Kali quickly gripped the sword and gently pried it from Kougyoku's hands as Ka Koubun let out a cry. "Ah, my poor princess! What a huge scandal!"

Sinbad gazed on, dumbfounded as amber eyes took in the scene before him in muddled silence, obviously trying to piece together everything he'd just heard and make some sense of the situation at hand. A tranquil silence seemed to fall over him as he paused, pressing his hand to his head in thought. Did I do it?

"Surely despite his reputation, he wouldn't be foolish enough to make such a mistake with an empire like Kou now...would he?" Camio inquired and Kali blinked.

Without a doubt, Sinbad was a handsome man. Throw alongside the fact that he was charming and charismatic, over the years Kali had noticed in breezy indifference that many sought after the handsome king. That in mind, there were many times where Sinbad's own actions were vastly...questionable. And considering the fact that she herself had been subject to some unfortunate circumstances whether intoxicated or helplessly desperate—Sinbad was a formidable man when drunk—and she knew he wasn't the purest of people out there. Despite his charming nature he could be quite cunning when he wanted to be. But it's Sinbad.

Kali blinked, realizing she'd just answered her own doubts.

It was Sinbad they were talking about.

"A lewd act by the King of Sindria," Sinbad stiffened as Ja'far seemed to grow closer. "Followed by the princess' suicide." Sinbad's eyes went wide with horror. "Leading further to war with the Kou Empire!" Sinbad froze, as if struck through the heart.

Sinbad gripped his head in panic, searching through his mind for any possibility or memory that he had done such a deed. Whether good or bad, if something had happened, he should have remembered it. Besides, with the way things were as of late, even if he did slip into bed with someone else, it never stopped his mind from wandering to the face he found himself wanting to wake up to in the morning. The only pair of eyes he wanted to see gazing up at him as he—

"Come to think of it, the king wasn't drunk at all that night." Sharrkan commented. Sinbad perked up as Spartos nodded.

"Yeah."

"Right?" Sinbad began hurriedly. "I only had a sip or two as a courtesy. Afterwards I headed straight to my bedroom."

"And we definitely saw that you did." Spartos confirmed.

"That's it! I just went right to sleep." Sinbad grinned, holding a thumb up with a bright shine to his eyes. "Like I said, nothing happened between the princess and me."

"Then tell me, why was I in your room?" Kougyoku sniffled and Kali blinked, idly rubbing her head in an attempt at comfort.

Sinbad recoiled for a moment before shaking his head. "Your highness, I unfortunately have no memory of that..."

"Then tell me, why were you naked?" Kougyoku sobbed. "Did you have some reason to remove your clothing while asleep?"

Sinbad nodded without hesitation. "That is not an infrequent occurrence."

"I can attest to that..." Kali mumbled, grimacing at the memory as Sinbad's eyes darted to her, a frown touching his lips.

"Surely that wasn't unpleasant to recall—" A blade slashed through the air, dangerously close to his face and Sinbad paled as Kougyoku sobbed furiously.

"Don't mock me!" Kougyoku pressed the blade close to him. "If you're going to insist on playing innocent, then why don't you hear my version of what happened?"

Sinbad blinked and Kougyoku steadied herself. "That night, I stayed in the corner of the room at the banquet. But the festivities were over before I got the chance to speak to you... And after that... I was assaulted by some unknown person and lost consciousness. The next thing I knew I had woken up in Lord Sinbad's room!"

The generals blinked, Ja'far's hands lowering slightly. "Meaning what?"

"Meaning," Ka Koubun began hurriedly, and Kali blinked, her eyes growing wide as she snapped her fingers. "This is most likely what happened!"

Ka Koubun, right?

"Nicely recalled, my king. Good job."

"In order to satire his own twisted desire, he knocked the princess unconscious and committed the deed."

"Eh?"

"How heinous!"

"That's why I've been telling him to take a wife!"

"But if it had to be someone, I thought it would be Kal—"

"He got desperate?"

"Guys! Have faith in your own king, will you?" Sinbad snapped, whirling around to face his trusted companions. "For crying out loud, do you really believe that I'd get drunk and act so disgracefully in the middle of a diplomatic mission?"

The blank stares that met his statement caused Sinbad to blink as Ja'far spoke up. "I do. As far as your drinking habits are concerned, I have no trust whatsoever."

"It's always the same story." Masrur said.

"There's an endless stream of complaints from the women you've hit on." Spartos added.

"The other day you were hitting on a really old lady!" Pisti piped up.

"Although we did take preemptive measures..." Hinahoho sighed.

"Actually, even I was once..." Yamraiha began and Sharrkan stiffened, looking at her in disbelief.

"W-What?"

"You guys..." Sinbad began, a look of betrayal and disbelief coloring his features as he gripped his fist. "Why would you guys—"

"As if we'd just take in the ramblings of a drunkard!"

"Although he usually is a good king..."

Sinbad stiffened, eyes hardening as he whirled around. Then at least... "Kali! Surely you don't believe that I would—"

Sinbad blinked. "...Kali?"

Kali simply stared at the man before her, a blank, unmoving expression lining her features. Sinbad's shoulders slumped and he blinked in disbelief as Kali's flickered into one of disgust. "K-Kali..."

"Do you truly believe he did it?" Camio inquired and Kali inwardly laughed. Nope. This is probably some misunderstanding. Sinbad's bad, but he's not...that bad. How often do I get the chance to push him around a bit?

"My king, you are far too cruel."

Ah, I'll make it up to him. Kali simply blinked once at Sinbad. "Anyone else and maybe... But to do this to Kougyoku..."

Sinbad's eyes went wide, shoulders slumping downwards. "To take responsibility for your actions, you have no other choice but to marry the princess!"

"Marry her?" Sinbad exclaimed and Kali blinked in mild surprise at the suggestion.

"But of course, if you had done such a thing as her betrothed, the princess's honor would remain unscathed. Our emperor would surely be willing to offer her to such a man as you!" Ka Koubun said swiftly.

Kali found herself gazing in slight disbelief as she patted Kougyoku's back. What is it with Kou and marriage? Honestly...

"Hold up! Who are you to—"

"It can't be helped." Ja'far murmured, looking down with furrowed brows as Yamraiha frowned.

"A political marriage with the Kou Empire though?"

"If it's a matter of either war or goodwill, he probably doesn't have a choice..." Ja'far began, and Kali's ears perked up at that.

No choice, huh...

"To share the fate of a disgraced master..."

"As his comrades we must shoulder the burden..."

"King Sinbad, please come to a decision!"

Sinbad stiffened, a hunch to his shoulders as he grimaced. His hands curled into fists at his side until it seemed he'd finally snapped as he let out a furious cry. "Enough! Yamraiha! Use you magic to prove my innocence!"

"Are you sure? My magic can only show the truth, you know."

"That's fine!"

Yamraiha sighed. "All right, then please come with me. You too, your highness." Kougyoku and Sinbad stepped forward, and Kali noted Ka Koubun's look of alarm as Yamraiha raised her staff. "I shall show you what truly transpired."

A stream of water left Yamraiha's fingertips, Rukh fluttering about her as she raised her hands. Ka Koubun stepped forward. "You mustn't, princess!"

"Sharrar rakesa!"

The two orbs of water shot upwards before slamming into the ground. The water began to tremble, slowly curling upwards and taking the form of a mini Kougyoku and Sinbad. Kali watched in interest as the water around them began to morph into a copy of the palace. "W-What is that?"

"I'm going to have their Rukh tell us what happened that night." Yamraiha explained as Alibaba and Aladdin gazed on in awe.

"This particular magic cannot lie."

The smaller version of Sinbad settled down onto a bed. Yamraiha blinked. "Hmm? Where's the princess?"

"There!" Aladdin pointed to a rather dejected looking version of Kougyoku traveling down the halls. Her figure suddenly lurched, knocked unconscious as it appeared someone began to carry her. Everyone grew silent, watching tensely as Kougyoku's body was laid down beside Sinbad's.

"So Mr. Sinbad didn't do anything," Aladdin observed. The older people present stiffened, looking at Aladdin uncertainly as Yamraiha swallowed.

"H-He might start doing something now!"

"Children shouldn't watch such things!" Ja'far exclaimed, placing his hands over Aladdin's eyes as Kali blinked, turning back to the water display before her. I don't think anything is going to happen...

...right?

A few minutes passed, the water versions of the two remaining still as they slept. Yamraiha blushed. "I-I'm going to fast-forward, all right?"

The water began to shift, unchanging until daylight seemed to stream through the water and Alibaba blinked. "It's morning."

"They're just sleeping..."

"So nothing happened after all..." Ja'far murmured.

Sinbad whirled around with an air of triumph. "See, I told you I didn't do anything, right? Really! Do you realize how much grief you caused me?"

"It's not their fault." Kali shrugged, offering Sinbad a cheeky grin. "You do have a bad habit of doing things like that anyways."

Sinbad shot Kali a partially irritated glare while Kali simply continued to smile. The king turned toward Kougyoku with a small smile then, eager to bring this case to a close. "As you can see, nothing happened. Neither your body nor your honor have been defiled."

"Y-You're right..."

"Don't let him deceive you, princess! Such dubious magic proves nothing." Ka Koubun snapped. "Just be a man and admit your guilt, Sinbad! Take responsibility and marry—"

Kali eyed the scene before her for a moment before sighing, patting Kougyoku's back and turning the princess' head to face her. "Kougyoku, is that what you would want?"

Kougyoku's eyes widened and she sniffled. "I-I—"

"Marriage is awful if you ask me." Kali began simply. "It's just a legally binding contract that chains two people together, if they're in love, fine enough, for some it is a set of chains forcing them together for political gain—honestly, who needs some words or contracts to state whether or not they love someone?"

"M-My king..."

"Marriage is just a set of chains." Kali said finally. "Something you shouldn't have to worry about until you see the world and you've experienced everything you want to."

"Princess, do not let this vixen fool you—"

"Vixen?" Kali turned with a feral grin, eyes glittering at Ka Koubun somewhat deviously. "Eh? I'm a little insulted. Surely someone like your great first prince wouldn't want to hear such things about the woman he—"

Ka Koubun spluttered, looking uncertain for a moment and Kali inwardly snickered, turning her eyes away innocently. Well, I guess there are just a few perks about having someone like Kouen hunting you down.

Kali thought over what she'd just said and grimaced, paling slightly. Never mind, there are no perks worth being hunted down by someone like him.

"That's enough, Ka Koubun!" Kougyoku began hurriedly, gripping her sleeves as she shook her head. "To be honest, even I thought it was strange. Neither my clothes nor my hair were out of place...But I was so confused and scared that I made a commotion..."

Kali patted Kougyoku's back and the princess turned, bowing her head. "I'm sorry!"

"Well, but this means that someone else is the culprit." Sharrkan spoke up, and people began to stir, uncertain looks on their faces as they glanced about.

"Such a terrible thing as this..."

"Who would..."

Kali rubbed Kougyoku's back the best way she could, switching off from patting her shoulder to rubbing her head as the soldiers beside her hovered around her worriedly. "Your highness..."

"Forgive us!" Kali blinked as a soldier hit the floor, and the other one beside her did the same.

"It was Ka Koubun who did it!"

"We helped him."

Ka Koubun let out something similar to a squawk, stumbling backwards in disbelief. "What? What are you, idiots?"

Kali blinked in disbelief, slight disgust churning through her as Camio scoffed, mumbling something about politics and weeds as the soldiers frowned, shaking their heads. "But we felt bad for the princess!"

"Why would he..." Kali blinked, mystified as she tried to wrap her head over what he would gain from a marriage with Sinbad as Ja'far stepped forward, eyes narrowed.

"Seize the renegades who tried to frame King Sinbad!"

Sindrian soldiers rushed forward, forming a defensive line against Ka Koubun as he scowled, pulling forth his own sword from his sheath. "I can't allow myself to be caught now!"

Even if he were to fight back, he wouldn't be able to get very far...

"Fool."

There was a shift in the air and Kali's eyes darted to the side as a firm hand came down onto Ka Koubun's hands, smacking the sword away with ease. Kali's eyes rose, taking in Hakuryuu's frame as he stood firm, eyes hardened. "I think we've had enough of this farce. King Sinbad, this uproar was caused by the immorality of my countrymen."

Hakuryuu stepped forward and knelt down on one knee. "We also have clairvoyance magic in my country. I see your water magic showed us the truth. Am I wrong, Ka Koubun?"

Ka Koubun opened his mouth to protest before his shoulders slumped downwards, a dejected look on his face. "No..."

Hakuryuu glanced, upwards, eyes firm. "On behalf of the Kou Empire, I apologize for my companions' disrespectful behavior. However, as I have other reasons for studying here, I ask for your permission to remain."

Sinbad sighed, smiling well naturedly as he held a hand out. "Permission granted."

"Thank you."

Do you think... Kali watched in faint bemusement as well as annoyance as Ka Koubun hit the floor, crying about how he didn't have a choice and attacking himself for being awful when Kougyoku stepped in and quickly bent down beside him, refusing to let her friend think such things. Do you think Kouen would have gotten on his knees like that?

When she imagined the crimson haired prince, proud, undaunted, burning brightly and dangerously against the world and placed Hakuryuu by his side, the younger prince's softer, calmer features one of gentle determination and dangerous resolve, she saw water and fire. Kouen was strong, but Hakuryuu possessed this feeling about him that made Kali far more drawn to him and more at ease. And not to mention the fact that she knew with how things were, she could never leave Hakuryuu on his own.

"I believe that Kouen would not allow himself to arrive in such a situation in the first place."

Kali's lips curled upwards. Yeah, you're right. Her eyes strayed to the people before her and she grinned as Ja'far spat onto Ka Koubun's face, a look of disgust lining the vizier's features.

But it seems a little more interesting this way, doesn't it?


The sunset was lovely.

Kali smiled softly, leaning back against the rooftop of the palace as she gazed outwards toward the sky. Long, wispy trails of clouds tinted to a gentle orange hue. It grew to a dark amber the closer it was to the sun, lightening up to a pale sort of peachy tone. Kali felt a breeze play with her hair, tugging the sooty locks and splaying it out across the sky like embers and soot.

"You're lying."

He definitely got straight to the point. Kali sighed, leaning forward and resting her elbows on her knees as she listened to the conversation below her. She could imagine the silent gaze Sinbad would have taken on from Hakuryuu's accusation.

"I do faintly recall you once reprimanding Sinbad for eavesdropping, no?" Camio mused, and Kali grinned.

I'm not eavesdropping. Kali shrugged, leaning back with a cheeky smile. I just happened to be here when they started talking and I don't feel like moving.

"So you say, my king."

"It's not as though I wish to be antagonistic towards you." Hakuryuu began again, and Kali felt her gaze travel upwards, a thoughtful expression on her face. "I have something important to tell you."

Sinbad remained silent, and Kali waited, already on set on what it is she would most likely hear.

"The organization that inhabits the Kou Empire has set its sights on Sindria. And it is already on the move."

Kali stilled at that. Camio grew silent, mindful of the gentle storm in the furthest corners of her mind. Kali shut her eyes, inhaling as she felt her fingers curl into fists, biting into her palms. I'll never let them touch Sindria.

Not here.

Not ever.

"Assuming that you speak the truth," Sinbad began calmly. "Why would a prince of the Kou Empire be telling me this?"

Kali's mind flashed to that sickening smile and glistening eyes and she felt her lips curl into a scowl, fingers biting so hard into her palms she felt blood drip until soft vines curled over her hands.

"What is your purpose here?"

The wind stirred, tugging at her hair. But Kali's eyes stayed forward, gazing intensely into the sky as if she could somehow find the answers to all her problems within it. The Rukh fluttered about her, shifting, taut, and she breathed.

"To destroy the Kou Empire."

Kali let the words sink in. Her eyes slid shut and she let the wind play with her hair, the world shifting around her as she quietly thought over Hakuryuu's decision.

Then again... Her gaze turned upwards. It's not like I didn't see this coming.

But in the moment the he had confronted her himself, Kali had not known what to do. She had not expected such words to come from Hakuryuu of all people, but when it became clear why and what his reasons were, Kali could only wonder why she hadn't seen it sooner.

She liked Hakuryuu. A lot. The kind of fondness she felt for him was the kind she felt when she first met Alibaba, this warm, fluttering gentleness that made her curse herself for getting drawn to people and at the same time made her happy because she knew somehow, some way, she could do something for them—help them. And from the looks of how things were, she would need to stay close to Hakuryuu.

"To destroy the Kou Empire... How will he go about such a feat?"

Gaining allies seems to be his first bet. Kali grew silent, thoughtful. With allies, if he were to start an uprising they would come to help him rebel should a civil war break out in Kou. But then again, if that's really what he wants...he'd be up against Kouen. And everyone else would follow under Kouen without a doubt.

She didn't know Hakuei well enough, but even if she were to side with her brother, they'd be up against the rest of the Rens.

Hakuryuu was alone.

And loneliness was dangerous.

"Now then," Kali blinked once; slowly inching forward as she peered down to the balcony below her were Sinbad stood, arms crossed over his chest as he arched a brow at her. "When did you plan on coming down?"

"After you left." Kali answered honestly. "I was enjoying the sunset when you and Hakuryuu started talking. Big plans, huh?"

"Very." Sinbad agreed.

Kali's lips curled upwards and she disappeared, reappearing beside him as she perched herself on the balcony railing, bare feet pressing against the rails as she stood silhouetted against the sunset. Her hair whipped out behind her and Sinbad remained silent, gazing at her for a moment before he rested his elbows against the railing and looked outwards, following her gaze as they took in the whole of Sindria before them.

"What do you think?"

Kali tipped her head his way, waiting for him to continue. Sinbad turned his gaze forward, thoughtful. "You know him better than I do. What do you think?"

"Is the great conqueror of the seven seas asking a simple traveler for help?" Kali teased, eyes glittering as Sinbad simply smirked.

"I would always ask for your advice." Golden eyes turned her way and Sinbad continued to smile. "I trust you."

Kali kept her gaze forward, refusing to allow him to see the flicker of warmth through her eyes as she sighed, slumping downwards and taking a seat on the railing beside him. "Hakuryuu is a good guy, don't ever think him bad. I like him a lot, actually. But what he wants to do with Kou..." Kali frowned. "It's going to be hard."

"If it involves destroying that certain organization then—"

"But it also involves civil war should they have the other half of Kou on their side." Kali sighed. "No one wants war."

Sinbad grew silent. Kali gazed outwards, the two of them gazing out at the country before them—hard work, Kali realized. All of this accomplished thanks to the man beside her pushing and pushing as hard as he could against the walls binding the world in an attempt to accomplish his goals.

"Kali."

"Sinbad."

Sinbad paused, a wry grin turning upwards on his lips. "Kali."

Kali blinked, realizing what he meant.

"Sin."

"Why did I do all of this again?"

Kali answered without an ounce of hesitation. "To change the world."

Sinbad shut his eyes and smiled at that. Kali watched him from the corner of her eye carefully as the king let out a sigh, letting the breeze play with his hair.

"It has to be you."

"I...Sinbad, I—"

"You, and only you."

"...you don't need me too."

"Then just in case. It doesn't hurt to be prepared right?"

"Sin, I—"

"Kali."

"...okay. Always. It'll always be me."

"You know, even though here I am asking you for advice, I'm offended that you didn't even believe me earlier." Sinbad said suddenly. Kali paused, looking at him in surprise as he shot her a hurt look. "You know me better."

"What are you talking about? I never thought you did it for a second."

"Really? And what was that stare you were giving me earlier?"

"I was just playing around. How often do you get flustered like that?"

"You're cruel, Kali."

"You're sly, Sinbad."

Sinbad's lips curled upwards and he crossed his arms over his chest. "I am sly, aren't I? Well, then I demand that you apologize to me somehow for even thinking I would be so disgraceful on a diplomatic mission."

"What about that time we went back to Artemyra and you let me—"

"This is different."

Kali pouted, eyeing Sinbad warily as the king remained firm with his statement. Kali sighed, rolling her eyes as she looked thoughtful for a moment, thinking of what to do when her gaze turned toward the sky. A small smile split her lips and she turned, extending a hand Sinbad's way.

Sinbad turned to her and Kali's lips quirked upwards. "How about I let you go star gazing with me then? The rooftop of the palace in Sindria has a rather wonderful view."

Sinbad's eyes glittered and his lips curled upwards into a grin. The image of the two of them, years younger, standing atop rubble and sand as he flashed her that same boyish grin flashed through her mind and Kali reached forward unconsciously, her fingers curling around his as if to prevent that boy from disappearing.

Sinbad's hand gripped hers and Kali was suddenly struck with the irony of the situation as her lips turned upwards. Stop him from disappearing, huh?

And with a glance, the two disappeared.


Plot is moving.

:D

I sit here and think about all the things I have in store and the stuff I still need to reveal to you guys and I get so excited and at the same time I feel so guilty because I'm sitting here with all the knowledge and you guys are just waiting.

I'm evil.

:D

But I can promise some big reveals and changes will be happening soon. I've been playing around with the storyline to figure out when I want these parts of Kali to be revealed and happen so that it slides right in and hopefully won't confuse you all too much.

I LOVE YOU GUYS SO MUCH YOU HAVE NO IDEA YOU WONDERFUL PEOPLE WITH YOUR WONDERFUL WORDS AND WONDERFULNESS.

I also plan to have a flashback arc between Sinbad and Kali before Sindria was founded taking place around the events of the Adventures of Sinbad, but I've been waiting for the manga to go a little further because I really want to know why Sinbad is half fallen and what the event was that hurt Sindria so bad.

Because to those of you who are reading the series, you guys are all aware of Mystras and Vittel and everyone else that is in the manga.

But they're not in the magi manga now.

SO THAT MEANS SHIT HAPPENS AND I AM SCARED.

Especially considering what went down in the Alma Torran arc, I no longer hope for the best and prepare myself for the worst.

Just like you guys should do for this story! :D

Just kidding.

...maybe.

THANK YOU ALL FOR READING YOU WONDERFUL PEOPLE.

Marshmellow-

-OUT!