Reconciliation

After about an hour, you stumble down to the living room and drop onto the couch. Almost immediately, Lynn leaps into your arms.

“You’re ok! I was so scared, Josh! Please don’t ever do that again!”

You hug the trembling goblin as she clings to you. Maya sits down beside you, cuddling against one side as Anna quickly snuggles on the other. Elys sits in a chair nearby, smiling with obvious relief, and Sadie stands behind the couch, hugging you from behind.

“Thanks, girls. That was...an experience. I don’t think Kali will be a problem any more. My question to you is this. What do we do with her. For my opinion...we take her in. Give her a chance to redeem herself.”

Maya nods. “I heard her story. After what I heard and saw...I can’t give her over to the AWIO or abandon her.”

Anna speaks quietly, “I agree with master and Miss Maya, but...we should hear her thoughts too.”

Elys leans forward. “I will wait until I hear what Kali hasss to sssay.”

Lynn hugs you tighter. “I think she should explain what her goals are now, but I have no burning need for vengeance or anything, as long as Josh is safe.”

Finally, Sadie giggles and says, “She’s super cute now, too! And did you see those pretty wings?”

You chuckle, “Sadie, you really can’t be serious very often, can you.”

“Nope! I’ll let you handle the serious, I’ll handle the fun!”

A new voice enters the discussion, quietly. “I...I’ve been listening. I thank you all for your kindness, even if I don’t deserve it.” Kali steps into the room, wings folded behind her and her head bowed.

“I’ve been a vile person. I’ve killed, I’ve hurt people. I plotted to do horrible things to people in this room. And when you have me at your mercy... you let me rest in your home.”

Kali drops to her knees, looking up at the gathering watching her. “I can’t even begin to apologize for what I’ve done. All I can do is give my life to you, all of you. I...I don’t know how to be what I need to be, I need your help. I will do anything you ask of me. I accept whatever judgment you decide.”

You stare at her for a long time, long enough that you feel the eyes of the rest of the girls on you, awaiting your decision.

“Kali. If you want to learn to be the mender rather than the destroyer, we can help you. I ask for one thing in return, however.”

The girls look at you curiously, and Kali looks at you with wide eyes. “Anything. Just ask and it’s yours.”

“Take me to your portal before your father destroys it. I want to try absorbing it.”