Ages ago, there was a young pupil
who wanted to become a mage.
Her name was Kali-Baleenand she had just come of age.
Her master, the wise old mage,loved her like a daughter.
Every morning, before work,magic he taught her.
She was a sharp studentand a promising apprentice.
Though at times,she could be quite pretentious.
Still, the old mage smiledand instructed her with pleasure,
For her thurst for knowledge,it seemed, had no measure.
There was only one thingthe old mage forbid Kali from doing.
His great book of spells,she was kept from viewing.
She wished she could seewhat secrets lay inside.
She swore never to open the book,but she lied.
When the old mage was away,she pretended to sleep,
but she got up,instead of counting sheep.
Kali found the book locked awayin the old mage's study.
She managed to get to itthough the lock was sturdy.
Finally, the book was in her handsand she would uncover it's mysteries.
She opened the book of spellsand began her inquiries.
Upon the old mage's return,she had read most of the book.
But the power was too greatand Kali was shook.
The old mage found her at his desk,in a state of utter shock.
Her hair was a messand she was missing a sock.
He quickly brewed her a potionto save her from insanity.
Though he still loved her,he cursed her audacity.
After a handful of long days,she recovered from the trauma.
When she was finally well,the old mage began the drama.
He scolded her,yelling that she could have died.
Of her apprenticeshipshe would have to be denied.
The book granted not only knowledge,but great power.
If Kali were to learn any more,her mind would not last another hour.
And so, with a heavy heart,the old mage banished Kali.
She went to the portand got on a ship, lamenting her folly.
She shed many tears,for the life she was leaving behind.
Her kind master would always bein her heart and her mind.
Kali had many adventures thereafter,she made friends and some enemies too.
Everywhere she went,people thought she was missing a screw.
In taverns across the land,bards sung of Kali-Baleen's travels.
With each passing year,her legend further unravels.
Tales arose of her dancing with fatesand fooling death itself.
Truth or myth,many drunks toasted her health.
It is said she eventually became a master,with pupils and all.The irony of thatis by no means small.
Of course, one has to wonder,if she had a book of spells as well.
And if to temptationsher apprentices also fell.