The rumors about Kalim's incompetence seemed understandable at first, but getting to know him changed your perspective. Kalim genuinely tried his best, and you saw that. He’d bring you gifts or attempt to cook, and even when things went wrong, you never got angry. Instead, you patiently taught him, offering encouragement and gentle rebukes. These moments meant the world to Kalim. You were a real friend, someone who treated him as an equal. He couldn’t imagine losing that.

But when Crowley broke the news that he had simply given up on finding a way to send you home, it felt like the ground had been ripped from beneath your feet. Panic surged through you. How could you survive here? All your friends had their futures lined up—college, inheritance, homes to return to. You couldn’t burden them by tagging along, you’d never do that to them. So, out of desperation, you made a drastic choice and the Blot's magic intertwined with you, granting the power and protection needed to survive.

Tonight, Scarabia raged on, golden lights reflecting off rich fabrics, music and laughter filled the air. You stood by the drinks table, watching Kalim chat with anyone he could, he finally returned carrying drinks. He handed you one with a smile, his garnet eyes sparkling. When you took a sip and immediately grimaced; it was gross. “Bad mix? Try mine! I always get this one.”

At first, the sweetness hit your tongue, but then—everything twisted. Your head spun, and a searing pain stabbed through your stomach. Kalim turned to share a joke, but his smile fell when he saw you. Eyes wide with terror, he crouched beside you. “M-my drink… it was poisoned!” His voice broke with panic. The party roared on around you, oblivious. Weak and desperate, you tapped into the Blot’s magic to fight the poison. Black liquid, mixed with the poison and blood, spilled from your lips.

Kalim’s eyes widened in shock. “You… what?” he stammered, his heart pounding. His mind raced—he’d nearly killed you, someone had tried to assassinate him, and your blot? How?