I do not own Magi.

An engagement gift from Kouen to Kali? Why, there was one actually.

But you guys will have to wait to find out what it was. ;)


Enigma

Chapter Seventeen:

The King and the Traveler


"That's not going to do now, is it?"

The young girl halted, staring at the magi before her with wide eyes. She could hear Camio laugh within her mind as Yunan bent down to meet her own gaze evenly, a warm smile on his lips as she stared back.

Rolls of bandages scattered the ground, long strips wrapped up loosely and sloppily around her arms and legs. Large cuts of cloth were wrapped around larger wounds. Kali could only stare, a look of confusion coloring her features as Yunan tipped his large hat back, sitting down and crossing his legs together. "May I?"

Kali looked thoughtful for a moment, hesitant before she idly handed Yunan the bandages and stretched her arm out. Yunan smiled warmly, grasping the bandages and undoing what she'd done to begin his own work. "Why don't you have Camio heal it for you?"

"I'm trying to see how well I can survive without healing," Kali answered quietly. "I have to build up my strength in case Camio can't heal me."

Yunan hummed, wrapping the bandages up along the cuts on her arm. "A wise precaution, but a tad bit depressing to think about, isn't it?"

"I have to be prepared in case something happens," Kali said firmly. "I can't rely on Cam to constantly heal me in a fight—I have to stand pain on my own."

Yunan's smile softened, eyes gazing at the small hands so widely dwarfed by his own. "Fights... You seem to have a large plan before you."

Kali shrugged. "I have to be able to protect myself if something happens."

Yunan's hands continued to move, but his eyes turned upwards, meeting still gray with a small smile. "You expect to be hurt?"

"...I know I will." Kali said finally. "There are a lot of things that can hurt me in this world."

"Tell me, Kali," Yunan pulled the final bandage tight, his eyes warm, gentle, but tinted with the faintest bit of sadness. "What do you plan on doing with this power you have gained?"

Kali's eyes suddenly turned bright, Yunan gazing at her in faint surprise as she smiled eagerly, a look of excitement—determination flickering across her features.

"I'm going to save the world!"

Yunan stopped, looking surprised. Kali's lips turned upwards into a wide smile before she faltered, a curious look flickering across her features as she tipped her head to the side. "Huh, that was the first thing that popped into my head... I'm not sure why..."

Her lips turned into a wry grin and she added, "Well, freedom too. But for some reason, the idea of saving the world is just stuck in my head."

Save the world... Yunan gazed at the small child before him, a curious look flickering across his features as he wondered what fates had intertwined to bring this child to him. His eyes softened and he watched the Rukh flutter lovingly around them, dancing around the young girl before him as she idly swung her feet back and forth, small vines tangling around her ankles almost fondly.

For some odd reason, Yunan was struck with the sudden urge to ask this young girl just who she was. But the question left his mind moments later and he settled back, a curious gaze in his eyes.

"Kali, do you think we will ever live in a peaceful world?"

Kali looked thoughtful, gazing down at her bare feet before her as Yunan waited patiently for her answer. Her brows furrowed and she shook her head. "No, I don't think so."

"Why?"

"Because we're human."

...

...

...

"And Mr. Yunan you wrapped the bandages wrong."

"Hmm? Oh! Oh, no, um, one moment! I'll fix this right up—oof!"

Kali supposed the idea included magis too.


A war was coming.

Simple words far too heavy for any person to bear hung over her head. But she was far to familiar with the phrase, far too familiar with what would come, and all she could do in response was brace herself and do whatever was in her power to ensure that things would turn out the best way possible.

Several soldiers rushed past her, spears and swords at the ready as they ran together, shouting orders and cheerful encouragements despite the heavy air beginning to linger around them. Kali watched as several women and servants rushed by as well, armed and ready to fight shoulder the battle enter the palace premises as the hurried to where they were supposed to be. Gray eyes lingered on the organized bodies, the determined and some fearful faces.

"They look ready for battle," Camio observed, Kali humming in agreement as her body flickered and she disappeared, not wishing to linger and watch the preparations for a battle she didn't want to happen. "What shall we be doing, my king?"

Whatever is necessary to ensure the most lives are protected and Sindria at least is safe. Kali grimaced, her feet landing on the smooth rugs within the palace walls as she made her way to a certain location. She'd long given up ever being able to truly distance herself from the people of Sindria—though she could at least turn away and allow herself to not be drawn in by the warmth and remain here, she could never turn her back when they were in need—in danger. This place had come to hold a special place in her heart, and it was not one she could simply cast away as she would have been able to so many years ago.

Camio was silent, thoughtful as she made her way to the meeting room where everyone would most likely be assembled. Kali had the faint feeling that he was feeling hesitant towards something, but the conversations between them would have to wait for later when Sindria was under threat of an immediate attack.

"Don't over due yourself, my king."

I know my limits. Kali grinned, rounded a corner as her fingers reached upwards and she clasped the feather resting against her chest firmly. I'm not sure what to expect from them, but I at least have faith in everyone's abilities. Sinbad isn't someone they can push over that easily.

"Kali..." Kali turned at the soft, hesitant voice and felt her eyes widen in surprise at Kougyoku's worried face.

"It would appear not all share your confidence." Camio mused quietly and Kali's eyes instantly softened as the young girl opened her mouth to speak before hesitating, looking uncertain as she bit her lip and glanced to the side.

I have to hope that Alibaba and the rest of them will be able to handle themselves in the dungeon. Kali stepped forward softly, coming to stand before Kougyoku. I know Sinbad and everyone else will be all right.

"Kougyoku," Kali's lips turned upwards into a warm smile as Kougyoku's eyes lowered to the ground. "What's wrong?"

"I...I'm sorry," Kougyoku whispered quietly. "I must apologize to King Sinbad as well, but I just... I understand that this place is one close to your heart, perhaps more so than..." Kougyoku quickly shook her head. "I know that you may be able to understand Judal than King Sinbad and everyone else here, but I... Still, I have to apologize for the way he spoke to you and everyone here. They're all very precious people to you, and I know I would never want to see anyone I held dear spoken to in such a manner—"

"Judal is someone precious to me, too," Kali said quietly, her eyes warm as she smiled at Kougyoku. "As are you."

Kougyoku's eyes widened and she pressed her sleeves to her face, turning her head downwards as Kali's smile turned into a small grin. Such a wonderful person you are, Kougyoku. "You don't need to worry. If anything, I should be apologizing to you for causing you such conflictions—I can't thank you enough for keeping quiet about my whereabouts to Kouen..."

"O-Of course!" Kougyoku began hurriedly. "I know how you must feel, and with everything going on, I understand why you wouldn't want to cause such a stir at the moment..." Kougyoku offered her a hesitant smile. "Just do keep brother's feelings in mind."

"Of course."

"More like never." Hush, Cam. Kali's eyes softened and she reached forward, rubbing Kougyoku's head affectionately as she looked upwards in surprise. "Just don't worry too much, okay? You may be surprised, but Sindria's a pretty tough country. Whatever they might throw at them, I'm sure everyone can handle it. None of this is your fault." Or Judal's.

"I'm just not sure..." Kougyoku admitted, clutching her hands tightly into fists at her sides as she reached upwards and gripped her pin, gazing at it firmly. "I'm not sure what I should do. With this power I have... "

A crooked grin touch Kali's lips and she moved her hand to Kougyoku's shoulder, clasping it tightly as gray eyes met magenta and she grinned. "Just do whatever feels right to you."

Someone like you will make good choices. Kougyoku paused, gazing at Kali for a heartbeat before she nodded, eyes flashing in determination as she hurried from where she stood and towards the same room Kali had originally been head towards. "Thank you, Kali!"

Kali smiled, waving to her as she hurried down the hall. Kali's hand slowly fell back to her side and she gazed down the empty hallway for a moment, a thoughtful look on her face as she contemplated what she should do now that Kougyoku was already headed so speak with Sinbad. He'll need to be at the head of things soon enough, and I'm sure everyone is already getting into positions to fight.

Kali's eyes strayed to the window beside her as they turned skywards, a view of the gaping hole left in Yamraiha's barrier glaring back at her. Where will they need the most help when the battle starts?

She doubted Judal would appear in this fight, after all the taunting and threats, he'd step back and watch the scene unfold before him to see how things played out. Hopefully, at least. She could worry about him later. Kali played with the hilt at her side and contemplated the kind of equip she would be needing, if any. Of course, how she responded still depended on the kind of forces they sent towards Sindria.

"Kali."

Kali paused, glancing to the side and letting a smile play on her lips as Ja'far stood before her, a stern look across his features. "Shouldn't you be beside that idiot to make sure everything's ready? Without you, I'm sure he wouldn't even be able too—"

"I figured checking on you would be more important in this matter," Ja'far answered calmly, his quiet gray eyes meeting hers. "Sin can handle himself."

Kali smiled, eyes crinkling slightly as she turned fully to face Ja'far. "Check up on me?"

"Perhaps in another life, I would be delivering the orders that Sin wishes for you to remain here at the palace where it is safest." Ja'far began calmly. "But considering whom you are and what we know you are capable of, I merely wished to understand where you would be taking place in all of this."

"I'm not sure yet," Kali admitted, glancing back to the window and narrowing her eyes. "Depends on what kind of trash they decide to throw into our faces."

Her smile turned wry and she glanced back to Ja'far. "Why? Afraid of what I might do?"

Ja'far let out an exasperated sigh, throwing her a look of disbelief. "It's rather annoying when you keep throwing words like that around. Especially when you know fully well how we feel about you, no matter what you might think."

Kali blinked, her smile turning sheepish as she glanced to the side and idly rubbed the back of her head. "I could never quite mess with you now, could I?"

Ja'far eyes flickered, the memories of a grinning, annoying girl who'd never stay in one place popping around beside him as she fondly ruffled his head or commented on how serious he was for his age flashing through his mind before he offered Kali a rare smile. The ex-assassin was already well aware of the kind of responses that really made her pause, and the startled look on her face at his smile spoke volumes as he turned his head and began to make his way to the next tower where the connections were being established to view all angles of the assault throughout the island.

"Don't do anything stupid."

Kali remained there, frozen for a moment as Ja'far turned, leaving just as quickly as he'd come. An idle flicker of disappointment flashed through her at the fact that it was increasingly harder to get Ja'far to question her motives, even more so with Sinbad nowadays. But the disappointment gave way to warmth as she laughed quietly to herself, running a hand through her hair as she turned, a wide grin on her lips.

"Where to, my king?"

Kali's eyes hardened and a gust of wind flared around her, cracks appearing along the glass window beside her as her grin widened and the sword at her hip burned.

"To war."


"It seems they've just arrived." Sinbad said the moment she appeared beside him, several magicians centered around the room as the broadcasted images of the island where the generals were all located, waiting in position as the enemy came to attack.

A wry smile touched Kali's lips as her gaze flickered to him for the briefest moments, but Sinbad's gazed was focused on the screens set up before him, brows furrowed ever so slightly as he watched to see how the battles turned out.

"It's moments like these that I understand how he became king," Camio murmured, Kali silently agree as she stood beside Sinbad, watching the flickering screens as three dark metal vessel users appeared, facing off against Yamraiha, Sharrkan, and Masrur.

How far can we stretch this magoi link? Kali inquired, Camio growing silent within her mind. Even though I know they can handle a couple of losers like them, I still...

Kali's fingers twitched and she winced, fingers curling tighter along the railing before her as she paused, brows furrowing as she gripped her chest tightly. Who is it? Someone's magoi dipped down so low they needed so a huge amount from me...

"The link appears stable now," Camio reported worriedly, "It seems as though whoever it was is receiving outside help. But the others links are growing strained, my king. Your magoi is slipping into them too fast for you at this rate—"

I can hold it. Kali said firmly. I won't abandon them in the dungeon like that. Whatever is going on in there they need all the help they need.

"...with Alibaba's current state, the darkness slipping through him may leech into you and tip your balance—"

I can do it. Kali's eyes narrowed and her hand grabbed her arm with a sharp jab of pain flickered through it. Right now they're all out there fighting. It's the least I can do. Alibaba can take as much of my magoi as he needs—I trust him.

"You will be of no use to anyone here if you suddenly give way from magoi depletion," Camio said quickly. "Should things take a turn for the worst here, they will need you here at your best."

Even at my worst I'm not that bad. Kali grinned inwardly, wincing as she gripped the railing tighter. I'll be fine, I promise.

A larger hand, warm and worn from years of work slid over hers. Kali paused, gazing at it briefly before following the arm upwards toward Sinbad's calm features, his eyes watching the screens before him carefully. "Don't push yourself."

A small smile touched Kali's lips as she straightened, flashing Sinbad a glance from the corner of her eye. "I'll be fine."

His lips curled upwards briefly, eyes flickering. "You'd say the same thing even if you were dripping blood and on your last legs."

"And you wouldn't?"

Sinbad turned his head towards her, eyes like melted gold as he gazed at her with a faint look of fondness. "No, I suppose I would do the same." A small smile touched his lips and he turned back toward the monitors. "But it's reassuring when you're here with me."

Kali glanced to the king beside her, a far dearer friend than she could ever imagine.

"I might not be around forever, you know."

Sinbad's grip on her hand tightened, his eyes flickering at her words when a magician from below reported the current status of the battle. "Masrur and Sharrkan had dealt with two of the metal vessel users! Lady Yamraiha is currently engaging in battle with the third, and all attempts at forcing the black essence to recede are failing."

"What is that?" Ja'far muttered, eyes narrowed as the impending wave of thick, dark purple continued to make its way toward Sindria, having already devoured Pisti's monsters whole as it continued to advance.

"An ugly, ugly thing." Camio murmured darkly.

Her weapons really reflect her, don't they? Kali mused bitterly. Her eyes narrowed as the purple...creature continued to make its way across the sea, enveloping the deep, shimmering blue in a murky thick cloud. At least Sharrkan and Masrur are all right.

"My king, a new anomaly as appeared above the barrier!" A magician exclaimed, Kali's eyes snapped toward the screen and Sinbad whirled around. "We're detecting an overflowing amount of magoi, but it doesn't appear to be a dark metal vessel user!"

"Can we identify what it is?"

"All we can get is that it's beginning to concentrate a large quantity of magoi," the magician replied hurriedly.

"It looks like some sort of projectile..." Ja'far murmured, his brows furrowing at the thick black mass that was beginning to form above Sindria. "A...canon?"

That witch...She knows Sinbad's got more up his sleeve this time so she's trying to push him out to fight. Kali's lips curled into a bitter grin as her eyes narrowed, Sinbad quickly issuing out orders beside her.

"My king—"

"I'll take care of it." Kali said quickly. Sinbad froze, turning to her in surprise as she glared firmly at the screen, her body flickering. "If it's getting ready to fire straight down into the barrier's opening we need someone to deflect it."

"Kali, you—"

"Everyone's got their hands full," Kali flashed Sinbad a wry grin, reaching up and brushing her fingers along the dark markings coloring his face. "I'm your next best shot."

Sinbad ground his teeth and Kali threw him a smirk, stepping back and letting her hand fall back to her side as she glanced to Ja'far. "Have everyone who's retreated into the main plaza back up into the outer part of the palace. I'll do my best to make sure nothing gets through, but in case something slips by I want the least amount of damage possible."

"Right," Ja'far nodded, his gray eyes clashing into hers as he paused. "Be careful."

Kali smiled, turning around and preparing to disappear when a firm hand clamped down on her wrist. Kali paused, glancing back at Sinbad, looking faintly frustrated before his eyes met hers and he gripped her wrist tightly in his own hand, as if wishing he didn't have to let go. "Don't overwork yourself."

Kali's eyes softened before she threw him a wide smile, ignoring the sharp pain that suddenly exploded in her chest when she felt the link straining. "Have a little more faith in me. You said it's more reassuring to have me around, isn't it?"

"When you're by my side," Sinbad clarified.

"This isn't some death match," Kali added quietly, fingers curling over his hand for a brief moment. "That thing is going to fire once and I'm going to send it right back and then I'll be right here beside you to hold your hand." Kali teased.

Sinbad's eyes flickered and he offered her a small smile. "I wouldn't mind that."

The king paused when he felt Ja'far's eyes boring into the side of his head and Kali gave him a flat look, slipping her hands from his and flapping it slightly in disgust. "You just had to make a joke all weird..."

"H-Hey!"

"I'll be back." Kali promised, and with a final glance at the two beside her she vanished.

Kali reappeared, wind buffeting beneath her feet as she glanced upwards. Directly above her at the center of the gaping whole in the barrier, a large, black mass of swirling fog and fluttering black Rukh gazed down at her. Kali's eyes narrowed at the center of the long beam-like structure, noticing the large gathering of Rukh as the entire floating sphere began to crackle, curling within itself and tensing.

"Spirit of dreams and illusions, I call upon you to dwell within my body, use my magoi and grant me power." The anklets around her grew warm, glistening in a silvery light as the pentagram appeared and a rush of Rukh surrounded her. "Asmodeé."

The air around her tensed, flickering as a thick fog seemed to surround her and her entire body became shielded in a flurry of fog. Kali felt a rush of magoi flow through her as her eyes snapped open, her once sooty locks now a deep, shimmering silver. Her body resembled that of a young child, thick, silver tinted ears flicked back and forth atop her head, the tips looking as if they were dipped white like that of fox's. Her gray eyes shone silver at first, but the colors quickly began to change from every angle, flashing pale blue than dark amber, silver tinted markings streaking outwards from her eyes and long markings curling around her bare stomach. Her hair was pulled into twin pigtails, thin veils of shimmering fabric draped around the top of her head, giving the hair the illusion that it was shifting. A long, thick tail curled from behind her, an outfit similar to a dancer's covering her body as veils hung from the circlet bands around her arms and draped downwards where they connect to the chest piece.

Kali flexed her fingers, pointed like claws and thick with silver fur curled tightly around a glistening mirror sitting in her hands, intricate carvings curling around its sides. Kali felt a canine protrude from her mouth as she smirked, watching the canon above her begin to shine as a flurry of dark Rukh fluttered past her, the air growing thick and heavy as it prepared to fire.

The mirror in her hands began to glow as Kali shot upwards, bracing herself directly beneath the canon as the entire thing began to tremble, the air around her curling to an almost suffocating pressure as she grinned, eyes narrowed as she held her mirror before her in both hands, the canon reflecting back within it.

This won't take long. Kali's eyes narrowed and the mirror shone brightly in her hands as the canon trembled, black lights escaping tendrils of it as it readied itself and aimed. Hopefully.

The thick tendrils around the canon-like weapon stretched outwards, expanding and curling until sharp ends pointed her way. Kali grimaced, a wary smirk touching her lips as she held the mirror so it faced her. Kali pressed her lips against the mirror and spun it outwards, the silver glass shimmering before several copies of herself appeared, flickering momentarily before the shifted upwards.

The thickened black tendrils shot downwards, slamming hard and forcing several of the clones to disappear in puffs of smoke. Kali felt her body flicker, a sheen of invisibility as the clones disappeared into tendrils of fog around her, a sharpened black tendril shot past her body, nicking her arm and her cheek as thick cuts appeared.

The canon trembled, the black Rukh fluttering madly around her and Kali's eyes narrowed as she braced herself.

Imagine this is coming straight back at her. Kali's eyes flared dark silver and her lips curled into a feral smirk.

"Ala khair partheid!"

The mirror in her hands glinted, the entire reflection of the canon before it flickering once as a large beam of thick black light erupted from the mouth of the canon and shot downwards toward her. A flare of light erupted around Kali as the mirror grew in size, expanding and filling the gaping whole between the barrier as Kali held her pawed hands upwards to steady it, teeth grinding against each other as her eyes narrowed in concentration.

The beam slammed with a resounding clap against her mirror. Kali felt the large glass sink slightly against her as she pushed back, the entire beam shooting straight through the mirror and disappearing as if it were being sucked through. Kali's arms trembled, the weight of holding the large mirror upwards causing her muscles to ache as she strained, holding steady with her small hands and surging forward as the mirror sucked into itself the entire beam of dark light. Edges shot outwards and slammed into the barrier. Kali thanked whoever was out there for keeping the people below her safe as she surged upwards with one step, forcing the entire mirror upwards before she snapped her fingers.

The mirror shuddered, glinting once so that a reflection no longer appeared. A thick, swirling mass of black appeared with the mirror's surface as Kali inhaled and exhaled; snapping her clawed fingers together once more.

Within seconds a beam of thick black light shot outwards from her mirror, the attack the canon had directed straight at her slamming right back into itself. Kali's eyes narrowed as she watched the entire collision, the thick piece above her collapsing in on itself as flames erupted in the sky and the entire thing shattered, bits of black Rukh scattering all around them.

There... Kali inhaled sharply, arms trembling at her sides as the mirror flickered and reappeared, small in her hands as she took one step back. I did it...see? Not to bad at all...

"My king, release your equip. They're draining magoi from you at an alarming rate, and Alibaba has—"

They'll be fine. Kali nearly snapped, quickly drawing back and feeling guilty as she gripped the mirror tightly in her hands. Sorry, Cam. I just... if there's anything I can do for them I want to do it.

"But what use will you be if your magoi is depleted? Even though you may have much to flaunt, even you are still weak to such limits," Camio explained calmly, sternly. "And for your condition specifically, going low on magoi is dangerous."

I can feel that there's still enough flowing through me. Kali's claws curled inwards as her equip flashed and she reverted back to her original size and image. I just have to hope that they'll be able to help Alibaba soon.

"My king, toward the sea," Camio spoke up suddenly in alarm. Kali's head quickly turned toward the wide expanse of blue, eyes growing wide as the thick purple substance began to advance upwards along the outside of the barrier, making its way toward the top of the opening. "It seems Yamraiha has been able to destroy a vast majority of it, but it is still clawing its way upwards..."

Sick bastards never give up. Kali's lips curled downwards and she scowled, narrowing her eyes when she spotted Pisti soaring over head as Drakon ordered the troops to retreat back within the barrier as the thick substance continued to advance. We need to take it down all at once, otherwise...

There was a shift in the air, a whisper of Rukh, and Kali's eyes widened as she whirled around, a figure soaring past her and coming to stand above everyone as she raised her sword, glistening blue scales illuminated by the evening sun shining brightly behind her. Kali felt surprise flicker across her features before a wide grin split her lips, something akin to pride swelling tightly in her chest.

"Kali, please stand back." Kougyoku's eyes flashed to hers as she raised her sword upwards, a wide, wicked smile splitting her lips as a pentagram illuminated itself behind her.

"Well, something like this, I can at least offer a little assistance." Kali slipped the dragon pin from her hair, bringing it close to her lips. "Spirit of harmony and chaos, dwell within my body, use my magoi and grant me the power of kings, Ose!"

A flurry of water wrapped tightly around her as Ose's equip enveloped her. Now stormy eyes flickered open as a familiar set of pearl white horns adorned her head and Kali flashed Kougyoku a wide grin, bearing her spear down before her and appearing beside the girl as she touched the tip to her sword.

"It must be fate that you have a water djinn as well," Kougyoku said breathlessly, eyes shining wide with excitement as Kali shrugged, wondering if perhaps it had been fate that she'd stumbled upon Ose in her time there in Kou.

Kali felt a rush of magoi pool from her and into Kougyoku as water enveloped the two weapons, sliding along her sword and enlarging it as Kali inhaled and exhaled, quickly pulling back as the pentagram behind Kougyoku glistened brightly. "All yours."

"With pleasure!" Kougyoku grinned, eyes glinting wildly as she raised her sword, hair whipping out wildly behind her as Kali shifted back to give her room. The massive body of thick, purple substance continued to advance, unaware as Kougyoku's lips curled upwards and she swung her sword upwards into a wide arch as the sea trembled, rising to her whim and arching, higher and higher until it towered in an overbearing wave around them.

"Vaniel Ganezza!"

The towering mass of waves collided, smashing with a resounding clap against the sea itself and enveloping the thick mass whole. The entire sea shifted, waves crashing wildly against each other as it slowly brought itself to a gentle lap against the barrier. Beside her Kougyoku's arms slowly lowered, relief curling around her.

"You did great, Kougyoku." Kougyoku quickly whirled around, a blush touching her cheeks as Kali offered her a wide smile. "You're definitely better suited to a water djinn then I am."

"I-I only have this one weapon," Kougyoku said shyly, reaching upwards and brushing her fingers against the ornament atop her head. "But you—"

"Better to be great with one than okay with a few," Kali smiled, eyes warm as she gazed at Kougyoku. "I'm glad you did what you wanted to do."

A tight, clenching feeling curled around her heart as Kali's eyes narrowed slightly and she glanced to the side.

I just hope it really was your choice.

Her body flickered; the magoi that had been leaving her body at an alarming rate seemed to have begun to recede as Camio quickly reported that all the links to the others were coming back stable. Kali sighed, shoulders sagging slightly in relief as her equip flickered, preparing to leave when she paused.

A dark, quiet whisper, nothing but a raspy murmur against her ears. Kali's eyes narrowed as she followed the trail of black Rukh, slowly making its way against the quickly darkening evening sky as stars glittered faintly in the darkening light. There's still one more thing to take care of.

Kali flickered, disappearing as Kougyoku's eyes went wide. Kali shut her eyes, her entire existence shifting for a moment as she concentrated around her, focusing on the large expanse of black Rukh that began to gather in one sole location several miles before the island, hovering over the sea.

There.

Kali's eyes hardened and she reappeared. Eyes widened beneath a checkered mask as the man before her slid to a halt, quickly bringing his staff upwards as he smirked. "You..."

Kali flashed the man a feral grin, head tipping back slightly as the water beneath her curled, crashing wildly against each other as the evening light glinted of the edge of her coral shaped horns, making the edges look like sharpened fangs.

"You know, when I usually deal with you guys, I don't care much for whom you are," Kali's eyes flickered darkly as her grin widened. "But I suppose I should get the name of the man I'm about to destroy, shouldn't I?"

He gazed at her for a moment, eyes taking in her fluttering figure beneath his mask as his head tipped slightly to the side. A second, a brief passing, but the image before him distorted, memories of a world long forgotten flickering within his mind as a he shut his eyes and tossed those memories aside.

"You foolish woman," the man spat. "You really think that someone like you can put an end to all of this? You try, try, and try again; constantly struggling against us when you know you can't stand against us forever. You alone will never be enough."

Kali felt a jerk in her body, arms curling as she inhaled and exhaled, calming herself. Don't push yourself to hard... Just one more attack to finish this guy for good...

The air tightened and Kali blinked as a firm hand clasped down onto her shoulder, a familiar scent of spices and the sea curling around her as a bright light illuminated the man behind her. A flurry of Rukh fluttered wildly around her as he spoke up, "Then I suppose I should be enough, correct?"

"You—"

"Hey!" Sinbad greeted cheerfully, Kali turning her head around with wide eyes as golden eyes flickered darkly, glinting coldly against the light. "Did you really think I'd let you leave here alive after starting a war in my country?"

The man scowled. Kali gazed at Sinbad in faint surprise, the king's eyes remaining coldly on the Al Thamen member before they flicked down to her. Sinbad's lips pulled into a warm smile and he gently shifted her so she was behind him, the transportation circle flickering around them. "I can still—"

"Don't overwork yourself." Sinbad said simply as he brought his arm upwards, the bracelet around his wrist lighting up as a pentagram appeared.

Kali opened her mouth to protest before she sighed, eyes flashing with exasperated amusement as her equip left her. "I could say the same for you."

"Spirit of domination and submission, Focalor," the golden light shining brightly from Sinbad's wrist flickered as he shut his eyes. "Dwell within my body!"

"At this rate, even he..."

No, he'll be fine. Kali's eyes flickered, something similar to sadness shining in her eyes for the briefest moment before she glanced away as a flurry of wind surrounded her, throwing her hair back and splitting around her as it enveloped Sinbad whole. After all, he's already...

"You fool!" The man sneered, eyes lighting up. "Should you attempt to djinn equip while cursed, the power eating away at you will only grow stronger!"

Sinbad hair fell back against him, the ends curling wildly like tousled feathers. A thick scarlet sash curled around him, silken robes draped over his waist as feathers flanked his arms and legs. Kali tensed when the man before her stiffened, clutching at his head as the thick black markings around his shoulder pulsed, spreading around him as the man laughed. "Perfect! You should submit to our Father as well!"

A flurry of black Rukh shot past, slamming into Sinbad as Kali's eyes narrowed and she took one step forward. Sinbad's hand shot out, warding her back as he clutched at his head, lips curling downwards as the masked man laughed, face contorting into one of triumph before he seemed to falter for a moment, a look of confusion flickering across his face.

The air grew taut, curling, winding tightly around them as Kali watched the flurry of black Rukh come to a halt; the flutter of wings grew rapid as flickers of white appeared throughout the black, the two entities clashing wildly against each other. The black bruises along Sinbad's arm and neck began to disappear, the black Rukh quickly seeping outwards from him and into the center of his body. Kali gazed at the orb flickering wildly before him, golden white clashing against darkened black as it balanced out in chaotic harmony.

"The curse—"

"Unfortunately for you," Sinbad began slowly, a smirk curling upwards on his lips as his eyes flashed, one appearing white as the other half of his body strained. "This body is already cursed. I guess yours wasn't strong enough."

"Don't tell me..."

Sinbad raised his arms, two torrents of wind appearing effortlessly in his palms as the wound up and curled around his hands, twisting and turning wildly in the air, one white, one black, as he grinned. "Well, I would've felt bad towards Alibaba, who went to Zagan in such desperation, and even seeing Kali's concerned face was nice."

"Hey."

"So I wasn't planning to use this power until the very end, but..." Sinbad clasped his hands together, the flurry of white Rukh and black Rukh colliding wildly against each other until they seemed to intertwine together.

"Half...fallen?" The man breathed out, eyes wide with disbelief as Sinbad brought his hands forward, eyes shining darkly as his palms spread outwards.

"Foraz Zora!"

In a wild burst of light, the two cyclones clashed together, light mixing with shadow as it soared outwards and slammed hard into the man, enveloping his entire figure in a mix of darkness and light. Kali watched, eyes narrowed as a wary look flickered across her face, wind buffeting wildly back against her and flinging her hair out behind her. A beam of black light shot outwards from Sinbad's palm, splitting through the furious cyclone he'd created and splitting through the doll that had appeared with a final crack.

"You aren't needed for the future of this world." Sinbad declared finally.

Kali froze, a rush of Rukh suddenly curling wildly around her, the mingling darkness slamming wildly about her. She braced herself for the sudden impact, but the only thing that made it through was the briefest brush of fingers over her shoulder as someone seemed to clasp their hand against her back. Why do I feel so...warm?

"Ithnan." A voice whispered quietly, the words brushing like a breath of wind against her ear before slipping away entirely. "It was Ithnan."

Kali's eyes widened and she whirled around, fingers curling outwards as she stretched her arm. The Rukh slipped harmlessly through her fingers, brushing against her as if in a final farewell.

And then it was gone.

...Ithnan. Kali glanced downwards to her hands, curling her fingers experimentally as if she could still feel the warmth that had surrounded her, wistful, nostalgic.

"Does something disturb you, my king?" Kali paused at Camio's voice, wondering if there was more to his question then he let on, but her eyes softened and she shook her head.

It's strange. Kali's eyes turned skywards, gazing at the darkening sky above her head curiously. When it came to them, there was never any sympathy. No regret or mercy. But for a moment, I almost felt...

Sorry for him.

There was a faint murmur in the air and Kali paused, eyes hardening as she let out a heavy sigh and watched the faint flutter of black Rukh curl around her, battering around mindlessly in the air before her. I guess I should take of this.

"My king—"

I'll be fine. Kali's lips turned upwards in a small smile as she held her hands out, letting her eyes flutter shut. We've done this before, after all.

The air curled tightly around her, the Rukh fluttering madly around her as the black wings beat faster, soaring towards her and disappearing as the curled around her palms, staining the skin black as it began to crawl upwards along her arm. Kali concentrated, drawing within her the remaining black Rukh curling around them until she felt them finally come to a halt. Her eyes snapped open and she ground her teeth, forcing her hands together as a black mass appeared wildly between her palms, growing smaller and smaller as she forced it down, condensing it into a wildly flickering sphere until her palms came together with a resounding clap.

The black curled upwards along her skin disappeared, the familiar feel of black Rukh around her disappearing entirely.

You don't belong in this world.

"You never did explain to me what is that thing you do," Sinbad breathed, his arms wrapping around her neck as he pulled her flush against his chest, feathers tickling the sides of her neck as he leaned over her, golden eyes flashing in interest as Kali tipped her head upwards to gaze at him. Long raven locks pooled over her shoulders from where he leaned above her and her eyes glittered for a moment with mischief.

"I'm gathering up all the black Rukh in the world and storing it in my body," Kali answered simply. "All so I can be half fallen just like you."

Sinbad's eyes flickered, his lips turning downwards into a frown as Kali's lips curled upwards, eyes sparking with life. "Why so curious? Planning on finding a way to use that to your advantage too?"

Sinbad laughed, a short, throaty chuckle that sent vibrations running down her back as it shook through his chest. "Have you no faith in me?"

"Well, you do have awful timing."

"Awful?" Sinbad sounded hurt, his arms winding tightly around her as he tipped his head forward, his bangs brushing against her forehead as he tipped her chin slightly to gaze upwards at him. "I think it's rather fitting."

Kali laughed, light, breezy, and Sinbad's eyes following the upturn curve of her lips as she grinned. "You would think so."

Sinbad hummed, his gaze lingering on her lips for a moment longer before he sighed, pressing his forehead against hers. "We never get a moment to rest, do we?"

"Admit it," Kali reached upwards, winding her fingers through his feather-like hair and offering him a cheeky grin. "If there was no longer any adventure in your life you'd grow fat and bored as king of such a successful country."

"I would never be bored with you by my side," Sinbad murmured, voice almost like a purr as golden eyes bore down into gray and Kali's smile widened.

"I won't be around forever, remember?"

Sinbad's eyes flickered at that, his lips pulling into a distasteful frown as Kali laughed, shaking her head lightly as her fingers began to slip from his hair as she shifted. Sinbad followed the movement before his eyes sparkled and he clasped his arms tightly around her, holding her close as Kali paused, glancing back at him curiously. "Then I'll just never let you go."

"Haha, a funny thought—" Sinbad flickered behind her as a flash of light surrounded them and Kali blinked, turning around to find Sinbad without his equip. "Hey, wait a minute—Sinbad!"

The weight of the man wrapped around her tugged them downwards, Sinbad without his equip as he let out a loud bout of laughter, a wide grin plastered across his lips as Kali's eyes widened as they quickly fell through the air, Sinbad's arms wound tightly around her. "H-Hey! You idiot, we're going to fall!"

"I'd fall for you any day!"

"Not like that, you stupid king—Sin!" Kali quickly gripped Sinbad tightly in her arms, their bodies flickering for a brief moment before they disappeared just minutes before slamming into the ocean.

Kali let out a rush of air as her back collided against something solid and she slid downwards slightly, panting wildly as she gazed with wide eyes at the sparkling night sky above her.

Beside her Sinbad let out a loud laugh, shoulders shaking as he gazed upwards breathlessly. "I always hated that power of yours, but sometimes it feels wonderful!"

"You're an idiot."

Sinbad simply laughed, unfazed by her look of disbelief as he sat up, his eyes taking in the wide scenery around them as he hummed. "The roof?"

Kali blinked, glancing around and realizing she'd taken them to the highest place that came to mind. Her eyes followed Sinbad's gaze as she paused, taking in the sight of Sindria before her, well and alive.

"The war is over." Kali murmured, the final thought settling over them.

Everyone is safe. The link was alive and well, thriving in response to Camio's tugging from their end. Alibaba and the rest would be all right, and for now, Sindria was safe once more.

"It would take much more to bring down a country like this, wouldn't it?"

A lot more. Kali agreed silently. Especially considering the fact that I would never stand around and watch it burn to ashes.

Never again.

"For now," Sinbad agreed quietly as well, gazing out at the country he'd brought forth with his own two hands with a flicker of fondness before he turned to the woman beside him. "But I suppose that calls for a celebration of its own now, doesn't it?"

Kali's eyes flickered, turning to Sinbad in amusement. "Another festival?"

"Being alive is something to always celebrate about," Sinbad replied simply. Kali rolled her eyes and his eyes sparkled as he leaned forward, bangs brushing against her forehead as he grinned. "But for now, you'll just have to make do with our own celebration tonight."

Kali's eyes flickered, wary, but Sinbad pulled back and stood, offering her wide, illuminating smile as her eyes went wide slightly and he held his hand out towards her.

"I hear the stars in Sindria are beautiful from the rooftops."

...this man... Kali shook her head, a look of disbelief flickering across her face as a flurry of Rukh washed over her—warm, enchanting, the same Rukh she'd known all these years and had come across one fateful day as she gazed upwards and he gazed downwards, the two of them in awe of each other all those years ago. Her fingers curled outwards, barely brushing into Sinbad's voice when a voice snapped out into the night air.

"There they are!" Kali and Sinbad blinked, turning as the eight generals peered up at them from the building down below. "They were hiding up here!"

"Hey, Sin!" Ja'far snapped, a look of fury on his features as he glared at his king. "We just finished a war; surely you don't expect to go running off so soon after battle?"

"Well, I was just—"

"Neh, Ja'far, maybe we should let them be! Our king and Kali have been working very hard," Pisti began cheekily. "They could use a moment—"

"There are still matters to be dealt with!"

"Hmm, he is right." Kali stood, hand slipping away from Sinbad's as he shot her a look of disbelief. "To think you were just going to enjoy yourself after all of this..."

"You're wrong! I wasn't—"

"Sin! Get down here right now!"

Kali's eyes softened as she watched Sinbad whirl around, shouting down to Ja'far as the vizier snapped something back, the generals whispering something amongst them as Sinbad gripped his head in frustration. Her fingers curled at her sides and she withheld a grimace, gripping her arm tightly as it trembled, her entire body flickering involuntarily for a moment before she forced it to solidify, refusing to let it slip through.

"My king..."

It's all right, Cam. Kali shut her eyes, inhaling as a breath of relief escaped her, eyes turning upwards toward the glittering stars. Everything is fine for now...

And for a moment, surrounded by the bickering of her friends and Sinbad's warmth beside her, Kali felt at peace.

Even if it's just for a moment.


:D

Have I ever told you guys how much I love you all?

Yes? Well, I'll just say it again. I LOVE YOU GUYS.

YOU WONDERFUL PEOPLE YOU.

I'm glad you all find Kali's interactions and friendship with Judal interesting. :) It's definitely something different for me to write, and quite and interesting challenge considering how complex his character is. But I'm glad you all enjoy it nonetheless.

And on a side note, I do plan to write out the rest of Kali's time in Reim—how could I leave out the Fanalis corps? ;) And expect several more extras regarding some unseen parts of the story.

It's also pretty interesting to see how distressed some of you are between the pairings as well, hahaha. At first I was getting a feel that people were shifting more towards Kouen, but a lot of the Kali/Sinbad shippers have made their cases and I'm thinking it's pretty even between you guys. And there's also a few of you that throw in a Muu/Kali and Judal/Kali too. Out of curiosity, how are you guys standing with the pairings now?

But to answer a few questions...

Guest: Hahaha, you can definitely expect some Kali vs. Gyokuen epicness, perhaps not a large scale amount, but enough. :)

Kimchi759: Kouen did have an engagement gift for Kali actually, one that won't be revealed to later on, I'm afraid. ;) And she normally keeps whatever she needs in pockets or in a little hideout of her own. Kali did not meet Hakuei yet, no. And I'd say Kali is roughly 5'5", maybe 5'6"? Hmm, I wouldn't say that Sinbad is really hiding a side of himself from Kali, per say. We've all seen that Sinbad's character has a more manipulative undertone, while Kouen is far more open with his own, but Kali has been beside Sinbad so long, she is well aware of the kind of person he was, and the kind of person he is now as well. More will be revealed from Sinbad's side as the story progresses, but I can say that it will be a conflict for not only Kali, but for Sinbad as well to decide between the lines he's willing to cross for what it is he wants to protect and keep beside him. Because Sinbad himself is well aware of the kind of person Kali is and what she believes in, and with his own feelings, he can at least earnestly say she is someone precious to him, excluding the fact that she's is strong and would be an asset to Sindria because the two of them knew each other before all that.

Integrity: Thank you for all your reviews by the way! I'm always so touched when you mention how updates for this story really make your day because reviews from any of my readers make mine. :) Hahaha, and the scenes left out from the Kou arc like what happened after Kali fell asleep will be slipped in their own omakes since there will be several more chapters before we see Kou again.

But since I know some of you Kouen/Kali fans are dying, I do plan to throw in another omake very soon. It might be next chapter or the chapter after, but soon. :)

Sinbad/Kali fans rejoice, there is still much to happen for them.

THANK YOU FOR READING AND FOR OVER 800 REVIEWS YOU WONDERFUL PEOPLE.

Marshmellow-

-OUT!