solopostings

[solopostings]

Here's the whole rundown of Ravii's Elden Ring AU so people are on the same level.

Just as Millicent is a part of Malenia without knowing for the longest time, Rav is apart of Radagon in a sense. While he was shattered and taken over by the Greater Will, a piece of him was left behind. Taking it's own form, perhaps pieces of him that he wished to still let live. Still loved, still lived as he used to. Let him live while he cannot.

Without a memory, Rav was set on his own to find who he was. Upon waking, a voice spoke to him. A name, "Ravii" and another distant voice saying to "fix it."

They were two different voices.

Salem in this AU, is Death itself once again. A god of Death who becomes more ill and chained to fixing the unbalance of death since it's in chaos. He blames Marika and Radagon for it. He loathes them with his entire being.

Knowing who Rav really is, he wiped his memory, trying to replace it with another man's memory.

AKA, Ravii's memory from a whole different universe. This Salem is all-knowing. Knowing connections with different worlds than his very own. Gods are cunning, after all. Making it easier to control him, or to lure him away from discovering who he truly is.

A bit ironic how two mighty gods control the redhaired ones in the end. oops.

While Salem messes with the light of grace, Marika or even a slight piece of what's left of Radagon tries to lure Rav into the path of discovering who he is.

Salem gave him his name.

The other voice set him on a path of discovery.

Rav does have the same strength as Radagon and even beyond. Back before the shattering. He just doesn't realize it just yet. Slowly, with each piece of the land he remembers something. A distant memory of himself, or another person that he was close to. Even the land before the shattering.

Demigods can split certain emotions apart of themselves, their love for instance.

Rav carries the love that his true self once had for Rennala once. It's deep and pure. When he met her, it was immediate. Dropping his weapons, remembering a vow from long ago not to harm her. He doesn't understand why he loves her so, and why she loves him back.

One day he'll remember, though.

Long story short, Rav is a piece of Radagon that he wants to let live freely. If that piece of him ends up a whole different person, so be it. But he hopes he will not fall in the same place as he did, then it was all for naught.

[solopostings]

The Ancient Hero and the Lost Warrior.

Ravii had barely any memory of why he was here. What his entire purpose was — only that a golden light of Grace showed him from place to place. To where he needed to go, apparently. Even then... he still didn't know exactly where he was going.

All he knew was he was some sort of warrior, perhaps. His blades soaked in blood of monsters, unspoken creatures, and even... people.

However... the worst part of this was that he has died to many as well. Whenever he died, he felt their blades stab through his chest. slice his back. burned. poisoned. anything at all, he always came back. a curse.

They called him a tarnished, whatever that meant. People who did not throw their weapons at him, and actually wished to speak.

Holding two blades in his hands, he had some strange memory of his past. He remembered something, a distant memory of sand, spinning with two swords such as these ones. He knew how to use these weapons from a past memory.

Shaking his head, he continued his search. If becoming this "Elden Lord" as some claimed to get his memory back, he would try.

No matter how many times he would die trying.

--

Ravii made his way to a circular area; the Weeping Evergoal. surrounded by strange rock monsters crawling about.

He has been to one of these before while hunting down Bloodhound Knight Darriwil for Blaidd, though the fact this needed a key to unlock its portal was... odd. Shrugging it off, the red haired warrior collected a few on his travels.

Placing the key in, a portal appeared. that same blue from before. Walking closer to it, something felt different. a wave of... nostalgia?

no, how could that be?

He has no memory of this place.

Preparing his weapons, he walked into the portal.

Opening his eyes, he looked around for whatever enemy he was about to face. Holding up his curved blade, gliding his left hand upon it.

A red glow followed — whoever was unlucky to hit his blade would face the loss of blood quickly. In his other hand, fire burned his fingertips. trembling. the anticipation to burn whoever would appear. just another enemy. he felt numb to it now.

Walking closer to an area of blue, a taller figure slowly appeared, walking towards him. Their blade was far more curved than his. His skeletal look nearly took him aback. He faced corpse like monsters and skeletons. But something about this one...

Why... Why was this enemy any different?

They felt... familiar.

With a sudden sprint, the taller figure swung their sword in almost a dance like motion. slicing Ravii, pushing him down onto his back.

Get your head into it!

Ravii muttered to himself.

Gripping his sword, he ran towards them until they suddenly kneeled down. An opening for an attack.

... until he felt a familiar chill hit him.

Ravii's eyes widened — a memory of a kingdom engulfed in snow appeared in his mind. A blizzard such as this was common...

Suddenly, another slash woke him from the thought. He looked up at the tall figure closely.

They looked back down and swung again, Ravii quickly dodging just in time before he would have been turned to dust.

"Who are you?" Ravii yelled as he braced himself for another attack.

The tall man dashed towards Ravii without a word, slamming the blade next to him. His face close to Ravii's.

Finally a closer look. He too, had long hair just as Ravii. Shackles on his wrists...

"... You've become weak." They spoke behind their mask. A low, hoarse voice back at him.

Ravii gritted his teeth, slicing the other with his bloodied sword.

The taller jumped back, pushing Ravii far back with a wave of ice.

He was... freezing.

He remembered now. never felt cold before.

The taller walked towards Ravii. Mirroring him. While Ravii eyed him, walking with caution to the left, the other did the same.

Grinning, Ravii mixed it up by throwing fire at them, only for them to dodge and sprint at him again. Another slice of the cold blade hitting him and sending him backwards.

With his final strength, he reached for his flask of crimson, only for the taller to step on his wrist. Kneeling down again, he slowly removed his mask.

Ravii's eyes widened, looking back at what looked to be... him.

"Wake up, Ravii." The other him spoke, slamming the cold blade by his head. Leaning down, he whispered.

"... You have become weak. How can you rule while so weak?"

Rising up, he lifts his cold, curled blade, slamming it down on Ravii's neck.

... slice.

Gasping, Ravii sits up outside the portal. Dropping his head to his hands.

Coming back to life was always so... scary. Remembering the final moments. Some scarier than others. Some he didn't even know how he died, it went by so quick.

Ravii rubbed his neck where the... other him beheaded him.

Taking a deep breath, he slowly stands back up.

... Back into the portal again.

The other him waited for him. Again and again, he cut Ravii down. Freezing him. Cutting him.

However, he did not give up.

Was this some test? Facing himself?

Was it actually him?

Dodging each move, the other him laughed, "You're learning again. Remembering how you used to be."

Ravii held out his right blade and furrowed his eyebrows, "What are you talking about? I have no memory of who I am... only my name and nothing more."

He eyed him like a hawk as he walks around him. like an animal watching their pray.

"... you are Ravii. The heir of the throne..." the older spoke, ice surrounding him, "You are so much more than this..."

As he stopped talking, another quick sprint as he spun, Ravii dodged. with a quick movement, he stabbed his sword into the other's stomach.

A gasp left them, falling limp. he chuckled under his breath as he leaned against the smaller.

"... wake up, Ravii. Your kingdom needs you..."

Fading to dust, Ravii stood still in shock. Everything around him turned back to normal back in the center of the portal.

His hands shook as he held his blades. a heavy feeling in his chest.

... wake up?

What did he mean by wake up?

[solopostings]

The King and the Mage.

“Do I have to go?” Ravii clicked his tongue as he stood in front of the mirror. Dima – his right-hand man; his Sword – fixed up his cape. It was lighter than he was used to since Isla was a much, much warmer kingdom than Glacia. The young King hated wearing such light clothing ... but he had to do it.  

“You must go as the new king of Glacia. Make some sort of peace offering. Join the festivities and look... good.” Dima sighed. He, too, hated going there. But it was to make Glacia look good, after all. 

Ravii waved Dima away, fixing his own outfit. Taking a step away from the mirror he spun around, holding his arms out. 

“How do I look? Be honest with me, Dima.” Ravii grumbled, he was very much out of his comfort zone in this outfit. 

“... you look great.” Dima places his hands behind his back, scanning up and down. “Different, but good.” 

“Good enough. Let’s get this festival over with.” 

The Glacian walked past Dima, leading the way. Dima immediately followed behind him. Walking out into the streets of Isla. 

Just as Glacia in its own way – music was everywhere. The dance and music were different, but overall, it was still something Ravii enjoyed. This festival was meant for The Oracle. It was his birthday, one of the biggest events of the entire kingdom of Isla. 

The King of Isla, Amir Zaquatis, invited King Ravii to join in the festivities. Perhaps the last act of peace he could manage after the death of the late King and Queen. 

Everyone cheered when the royal Zaquatis siblings walked into the main square. The youngest son, Salem Zaquatis, waved at the crowd and eyed Ravii from where he stood. 

“Let us not forget our guest... the King of Glacia himself, Ravii Dominis.” Salem gracefully motions his hand, making the crowd all look at the Glacian.  

Ravii blinked. Unable to make a good move with such a callout. Of course he would put the spotlight on him. He didn't want to be noticed here at all. 

All Ravii could do in return was bow slightly with a nod. 

“Well, let’s not just stand there... start the music!” Layla – the second oldest royal sibling – clapped her hands. With a pink mist flowing around the square, a giant explosion of pink and gold appeared. Revealing a bunch of mage dancers – Layla's personal crew to dance and perform with.  

Some began to sing along with the princess of Isla. Bards and other townsfolk played music on instruments to play along with their singing and dancing. 

Ravii stood with the crowd who only watched. Dima behind him just in case of some secret attack – who knew what would happen. They were in enemy territory whether they liked it or not. 

Layla’s dancers began to pull some people that were in the crown into the main square. Making them dance along to the music. A smaller, blue haired woman dressed in pink and green made her way to Ravii.  

She held out her hand to him, gently smiling at him. She looked like a little fairy compared to how giant the Glacian was. 

“You’re making a mistake.” Ravii cackled, moving his head away, “There are better people to choose from here.” 

“I heard you’re quite the dancer, Your Majesty.” the woman replied, her hand still out for him to take.  

Crossing his arms, he glanced up at Dima. In return he only shrugged his shoulders, “... you should have some fun, Your Majesty. That’s why you’re here...” 

Ravii sighed, rolling his eyes and took the woman’s hand, “Okay, fine. Just one dance.” 

The dancer smiled brightly, holding his hand tightly as she brought him into the middle of the dancing people. 

The Zaquatis siblings immediately eyed the Glacian when seeing him of all people dancing along. Valerian – the third oldest – glanced at Layla. Sharing the glance, she smirked. Her song was upbeat in Islean tongue. 

Salem sat back, smiling and laughing as he clapped along the beat. He was good at dancing himself, however... he was keeping an eye on that Ice King. 

The whole Kingdom had their eyes on the Glacian and that one dancer. 

“My name is Rhea, by the way.” The dancer spoke while they were closer together, “Zahira. Rhea Zahira.” 

Ravii spun her around, easily keeping pace to her dancing. Letting her draw away, they did not draw their eyes away from each other. Locked on.  

“You know who I am already.” Ravii chuckled softly as he motioned around her, holding out his hand for her to take.  

“I’d still like you to proper introduce yourself to me.” Rhea mused as she took his hand, “I’ve never met you before, how would I know who you are?” 

He laughed in return, pulling her close to him as he took both her hands, “Ravii Dominis. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Rhea Zahira.” 

Dima watched them from where he stood, his eyes slowly widening a bit. He had never seen his King smile this long and laugh. 

. . . He was laughing. He was happy. 

As the song ended, Layla stopped singing and twirled her finger. A slower melody began to play, and she went to sit down with her siblings. 

Sahel – the oldest Zquatis sibling – leaned over, whispering in Layla’s ear as he glared at Ravii. 

“Who is the girl? She is a part of your damn crew.” 

Layla hums as she twirled the hair that dangled over her face with her finger, “I think that is my newest recruit. She has incredible magic, she used to be a priestess or something like that.” 

Layla turned her head to look at Sahel, “Why are you asking?” 

The older sibling huffed, leaning back in his seat, “She’s flirting with the Ice King. How is it your useless magic did nothing, but this random person...” 

“Hey!” Layla huffed, “My magic has limitations, it’s not useless.” 

“I don’t like how he is smiling back at her.” Valerian mutters under his breath, glaring at Rhea. “Can you fire her?” 

“Boys, boys...” Layla smacked Valerian’s and Sahel’s shoulder as she leans forward, “... We know better than anyone how strict Glacia’s rules are. They can’t go anywhere anyway. She’s just a magician. A dancer. No royal blood in her. Don’t worry about a thing.” 

Salem watched silently. Not blinking whatsoever. His cheek rested on his palm as his legs were crossed. Gently kicking his dangling foot to the music. 

Everyone saw two people dancing. He witnessed two souls burning brightly. Never in his life has he seen such a phenomenon. They out brightened the entire kingdom with their souls alone. 

... Interesting, Salem thought to himself.  

Is that what souls look like while they are in love? 

The music ended and the people cheered for the two lone dancers taking the spotlight. Ravii and Rhea held hands and bowed to the crowd. Finally letting go, the two shared one last glance and walked back to their spots. 

Dima coughed, clearing his throat as he looked back at Ravii, “One dance.” 

Ravii clicked his tongue as he crossed his arms, “I haven’t gotten to dance in quite some time, Dima. The winter festival is only once a year.” 

The Glacian glanced at the people, then began eyeing Rhea once again as she was speaking to another person. Taking a deep breath, he narrowed his eyes away. 

If only he could dance with her alone.

Just one dance. That’s all he wanted. 

The festivities continued throughout the entire day, people making their prayers and blessing towards the Oracle. Rhea stood in front of a statue of the Oracle by herself. Her hands cupped together as she held her head down. 

Finally, Ravii thought.

Ravii walked beside her, looking up at the statue of Salem. Personally, he hated it. He loathed Salem, hated the entire family... but he would behave. Keeping his mouth shut for the sake of "peace."

“You danced beautifully. No one has ever been able to keep up with me like that.” Ravii spoke up softly. Rhea gasped, flinching at his sudden presence.  

“Sorry, didn’t mean to scare you.” Ravii frowns as he looks down at her.  

She shook her head, laughing a bit, “No, it’s okay... I was so focused on my prayers to our Oracle.” Turning her head to look up at Ravii, she smiled gently.  

“You’re fun to dance with... I’m glad you joined me.” Rhea began to walk away from the statue, motioning her head to make Ravii follow her.  

Without any hesitation, the Glacian King followed her down an alleyway. More music was playing even in the alley, Rhea took Ravii’s hand and dragged him along. 

There they danced without the kingdom’s eyes on them until nightfall. Sneaking away further and further away from the people. 

Talking on equal terms, learning about one another. His smile never left the entire time, listening to all her stories, her tales. Her likes and dislikes. How she came to be one of the mages for Layla herself. 

After hours, Dima spots the silhouette of the Glacian. He began to panic seeing he had lost the King within mere moments hours ago.

... however, when he drew closer to the shore of this isle, he paused. 

There he was; the King and the woman he danced with before sitting by the shore, hand in hand. Their heads resting against each other. 

Dima took a step back and grinned.

Leaving the two alone. 

[solopostings]

Sealing the Phantom Away.

a collab short story w/ @robbietech !

- - -

"This is the area... underneath our feet." Salem kneeled down, his hand flat against the hot desert sand.

Behind him were Dima and Amadeus. Weapons in hand ready to protect him with their lives.

"Down below... like where my guardian is?" Amadeus raised his eyebrow, resting against his ancient spear.

"Yes... he hides in the depths filled with that dark... malice, you called it?" Salem stood back up, dusting off the sand from his robe.

Dima remained silent, dreading the heat quietly to himself.

"How do we get down there? I can get one of my guardians and—"

"Won't be necessary." Salem hummed, "I can warp us straight down... but we must go through a strategy first."

Salem sat down in the air, levitating as he opens a book that appeared out of thin air.

"You two will have to keep him busy while I draw the seal." Salem flipped the book to show the other two.

"Well damn, how long is that gonna take ya? Y'know Ravii isn't the weakest enemy." Amadeus titled his head. irritation lacing his words.

"We will do what we can." Dima finally spoke up, "For as long as it takes."

Salem closed the book, waving his hand to make it disappear.

"I'll remain hidden with a cloaking spell. As for you two. Sneak up behind him and strike. I'll be fast... I'm quite the quick spell caster, you know." A smirk arched Salem's lips. mischief in that smile.

"So, we distract him and... then what?"

Salem looked at Amadeus, "When you see me disappear in the shadows once again... that is the signal to get him within the circle.

... But we will need something to hold him down. Something powerful to hold him..."

The three remained silent in thought.

Dima bit his cheek.

He knew what would do the job.

"His sword. It was meant to kill a Dominis. But with the strength he has now, it would only stun him... you can leave that part to me."

Salem's eyes widened at the Zephyr; he was known as the Sword of the Dominis. The Protector. Their Shield. Generations of protecting that family.

... would he truly be up to the task at hand?

"Are you sure about it? Deus could—"

"No." Dima turned his head away, "I am the one who should do it."

Amadeus and Salem glanced at each other. Salem nodded in return, drawing his attention back to Dima.

"The Kingdom will be counting on you, Dima. You realize this, right? We have one chance to do this... if you fail..."

"I won't fail. You put your trust in me. Let me do it."

Amadeus bit his cheek — apart of him was relieved he didn't have to do the final blow. He couldn't live with that guilt.

As much as he hated him, a part of him was still a friend for quite some time now. Amadeus knew this was the only way. There was no saving Ravii from Ganondorf's clutches.

He was too far gone.

Sighing, the Yiga moved his spear from the sand, "Auuugh! Let's get this over with before it gets dark."

Before he had a change of heart.

Salem nodded, "All ready?"

The other two nodded.

That was all the sign he needed.

Salem muttered a spell, holding his index and middle finger up to his forehead. Opening his eyes wide, they turned a bright orange.

Sending the three deep, deep down below.

- - -

Below the surface, deep down under the harsh heat of the Gerudo Desert... where the giant Dark Skelton was, that is where he hid.

Salem placed his finger to his mouth, waving his free hand to cast a cloaking spell on all of them. He then made his move to hide away.

Far from them to begin drawing the sealing circle.

Ravii's final resting place.

Then that is where they found the king...

Without warning, the two ran into battle. Fighting under the skeleton of what most likely used to be a leviathan below.

A surprise attack by Amadeus was first. Jumping into the air and slamming his ancient spear next to the Glacian. Dima was quick on his feet — seconds behind as he attacked Ravii from the other side.

Ravii suddenly jumped up, turning on his heel to look at them both. Opening his hand — two blades formed in his grasp.

The Sword of the Goddesses and a curved Gerudo scimitar. Similar to what Urbosa wielded. Yet the tip was edged. A stab from this one would hurt much, much more.

"So you found me after all... traitors." Ravii clenched his jaw, glaring at both.

Amadeus ; once he could call him a true friend. He saved his life, Ravii always returned the favor after that.

Dima ; his sword Sword. His protector. His right hand. His Knight. Now fighting against him. As a Fierce Deity, no less.

Ravii recognized the markings on both of them...

Meaning Salem was nearby... but where?

"Where is he hiding? That vile man..." Ravii ran towards Dima first, slamming his swords down at the knight's blade.

Amadeus rushed on the other side, but with a quick movement, Ravii spun around to dodge the Yiga's attack.

Perhaps it was not smart to fight with the techniques he showed him a long time ago.

The two Champions fought against the Phantom for a while. Taking turns trying to tire him out. But each attack seemed to be all in vain. The Phantom was fast on his feet. Returning attacks and dodging with ease.

He knew them. How they moved. How they attacked.

Ravii was good. too good. He fought like a Gerudo warrior with two blades. One in each hand. He was quick and almost too elegant the way he moved.

Truly trained by the Gerudo in his younger years.

Amadeus struck his spear against one blade as Dima slammed his own sword against the other in Ravii's grip.

"Is that all you two have? I'm growing bored." Ravii laughed as he spun again, causing the tip of his blades to hit the ground. A spark was casted. a sign of something.

"Run!" Amadeus yelled — he knew that move.

Dima jumped back as lightning struck down inches away from the Zephyr and the Yiga. Amadeus slammed his spear on the ground, swinging himself away from the strike. Grumbling as he wiped his mouth.

"You're not makin' it easy, huh?" Amadeus growled.

Ravii held up both blades in a familiar manner. His Sword of the Goddesses in one hand over his forehead and the Gerudo scimitar by his mouth. tainted by his own gloom — making it nearly impossible to break while he wields it.

Hiding the wide smile he had.

despite it all... Ravii was having fun.

Salem was nearly done drawing the seal circle as the other two kept the king busy. The Islean looked at the book in his hand, back to the ground. Taking a deep breath, Salem stood up. Checking it one last time.

... It was done.

All he needed now was Ravii to stay within this circle.

Amadeus glanced quickly at Salem, seeing him hiding back within the shadows.

Ah! That was the sign.

With his Sheikah like speed, Amadeus ran toward Ravii, kicking the scimitar out of his hand. Ravii growled, losing his momentum. Swinging the sword a bit too madly.

Amadeus dodged every swing, jumping backwards closer and closer to the sealing circle. Ravii, blind with rage, followed him without even realizing.

Dima stayed behind Amadeus until ready.

"Now!" Amadeus yelled as he quickly tripped Ravii with his ancient spear. Grabbing the Sword of the Goddesses from his hand... throwing it up into the air.

Dima ran quickly behind him and leaped into the air, grabbing the sword and slamming it down.

Ravii gasped, suddenly freezing into place. His head slowly narrowed down at the sight. His own sword stabbed his chest.

It was as if time stopped — everything went silent.

Ravii tried to pull it out. However, Dima kept a firm grip, making sure the blade stayed put.

There, out of the shadows, slowly emerged the Zaquatis. His eyes glowed a bright orange within the darkness.

Salem waved his free hand, and the other was making the old ancient book hover in the air. a familiar green and purple aura surrounded the book.

It was Salem's turn to shine.

The circle drawn by the Islean himself began to glow around Ravii. Green mist emerged from it, sinking deep within Ravii's wound from the sword.

This is how he was going to be sealed away.

"All of you will regret your actions!" Ravii screeched as Dima pushed the sword deeper, "I was going to make Hyrule better!"

Dima's hands trembled as he had to keep hold while the mage from afar held out his hand. Muttering a spell in his own tongue whilst green magic came from the sword now. Sealing the Glacian's fate before their eyes.

Ravii's eyes widened, unable to move his limbs any longer. Frozen. His back arched back, standing on his feet. Feeling he was going to fall backward, yet something felt to hold him up.

The pain of his own blade pierced through his chest by the man who swore to protect him. He eyed him one last time — seeing Dima's face. Marks of the Fierce Deity.

How awful it was having everyone against him.

... he couldn't understand why. he was only making Hyrule better. he was promised by Ganondorf himself.

Salem waved his hand and clapped loudly. His spell was casted — Ravii was sealed to the sword.

... Stuck there for all eternity.

"When I.... awaken again..." Ravii slowly moved his hands away from the sword.

"... I will.... hunt you all down and..." His words faded. falling silent as he stood there frozen in time.

Dima stumbled backward and slumped next to Ravii, his head in his hands as he clenched his jaw.

"I swore to protect the Dominis..." Dima whispered to himself, "... not kill them."

Amadeus took a long, deep breath, leaning against his ancient spear, "Is it over?"

Salem closed his eyes to take a moment to rest. This magic was not his everyday spells — this took a lot out of him, "Yes... it should be over now."

The three remained silent.

Until the earth began to rumble.

Shaking under their feet.

"He's trying to kill us with his last breath!" Salem gasped, looking up at the rocks from above beginning to fall.

"Dammit, we need to leave now." Amadeus grabbed Salem's arm and started running. Salem's life was the most important in the Champion's eyes. His instinct to protect shining through.

Dima, still in shock of what he has done, stayed sitting down. His hands still cover his face.

Salem skid to a stop, turning to look at Dima, "We must leave! You will be taken out if we stay any longer!"

Dima didn't budge. Slowly glancing at Ravii's frozen stance of him screaming in pain. That expression of betrayal. anger... was stuck there for all eternity... because of him.

"I can't leave his side..." Dima whispered under his breath.

Salem shook his head, muttering another spell. He shouldn't have done this again after that last one, but...

As he waved his hand, the three disappeared in green mist. Quickly flying up back to the surface.

If they were any later, they would have been crushed by the falling rocks. Everything was shut in.

Ravii was not reachable now in the depths no matter where one went.

When back on the surface, Salem stumbled against the stone wall. Amadeus immediately rushed to his side, helping him stand.

"Ya should have left him!" Amadeus gritted his teeth as he glared at Dima. The knight stood there staring at his shaking hands.

"No... I will not leave anyone who has helped me behind, Champion." Salem smiled weakly as he glanced at the Zephyr.

Truthfully, Salem could feel the sorrow deep within Dima's soul. It cried. Begged to be forgiven.

Salem slowly walked to Dima, placing his hand on his shoulder, "... go home. Your family needs you just as you need them."

The knight slowly drew his saddened gaze to Salem. tears building up in his eyes.

"She will not forgive me for doing what I have done..."

"Yeah, she will. Her damn brother nearly killed us all... again." Amadeus walked over and kicked the desert sand. a small fit of rage still within him.

"We saved the kingdom, Dima! What's your damn problem?!"

"You're hurt too, Deus." Salem chimed in as he pointed at him. Amadeus was taken aback. His eyes widened slightly.

"You saw him as a friend. someone to trust and take care of... you felt betrayed." The Zaquatis spoke softly. "He betrayed all of our trust. We are all hurting today... not just Dima."

Amadeus clicked his tongue, turning his head away.

... he wasn't wrong. by hylia above, Amadeus was hurt the most. Months prior, he was laughing, having drinks with the man, enjoying the time they had. He was the best friend he never thought he could have.

He even trusted him with Suki and Imara;

... his own daughters.

It was the sudden shift in everything. That grip Ganondorf still had of him that got Ravii to turn on all of them.

Amadeus was the first to get the worst of it, as always.

Salem places his hand over his heart, closing his eyes, "We must make a promise to speak of this to no one... not even our little ones. For their safety."

Amadeus sighs, ".... Suki is gonna wonder where he went. Imara is too young to remember him anyway." The look in his eye was no longer anger — rather, the look of heartbreak.

"Say he went back home for good. She is still young, after all... she may forget with time." Sighing, Salem shook his head.

"... we should head back home now. Thank you both for your help."

Dima and Amadeus nodded.

The three walked their separate ways.

The weight of dread all felt heavy on their shoulders.

Dima killed his own king.

Amadeus helped seal away one of his best friends.

Salem... he felt too guilty of truly killing him. His good nature took the best of him; he could admit that. only to himself.

Leaving Ravii in a frozen state of pain instead.

Perhaps... perhaps death was a better choice.

Either way, it mattered not. No one could break that spell, seeing he was the only person who could read the spell anyway.

No one else could read Islean, after all...

He would stay sealed forever.

[solopostings]

For years. He has seen them. following him wherever he went. It was something Dimitri was good with to keep to himself for nearly five years of his life. He had his own small slip-ups here and there. Only very few saw his true struggle with the weight of his own mind.

It was not easy, but it was much easier when he was younger. He kept his mouth shut when seeing the bodies of the dead standing in the distance. even standing in his own dorm while he tried to sleep.

Dimitri could feel their presence.

those eyes staring at him.

Lighting a candle to look at who was there, gripping it tightly as he bit his cheek to cease himself from the shriek he wanted to do.

but no. he held it in.

this was his punishment for surviving, after all.

Now... for five years — no. further than that.

Nearly ten years now after the tragedy.

it has gotten worse.

Years have passed since the school days. war has broken out, things are in chaos. all in such a short amount of time. the young prince was no longer good at keeping up any longer, trying to ignore their presence.

Speaking back to the dead.

Looking at them.

Noticing.

Reacting.

Even while others were around at times. Mostly Dedue, however. He saw the full descend into his own madness this entire time. Even so, he always brought him back out. Even for a little while — Dedue was always there even at his darkest of times.

He knew him best — since he was there by his side the day Dimitri saved his life.

- - -

Restless nights were finally getting to him. Dimitri barely eats, drinks and sleeps. Standing in the same spot staring at the rubble left of what was left of the cathedral.

Truthfully, many feared to speak up over it.

"Do something about it." Felix muttered under his breath watching from the distance. Yet... nothing could be done.

Even their dear professor Byleth couldn't do a thing as much as he tried. No one could break through Dimitri's struggled state.

That was, until one night while everyone was asleep in their old rooms from five years ago.

Except for two that stayed in the same area.

Dimitri stayed in the same spot as usual, barely able to stay focused. Dedue took it upon him to at last speak up.

"You should rest, Your Highness."

Dimitri slowly turned his head, hearing his voice. Finally, there are some actual signs of consciousness from the blond.

"I'd rather not. I have to stay awake." Dimitri replied, turning his head back towards the rubble once more.

"Why not sleep on the bench? It's not the best of places, but it'll do for now."

Dimitri slowly glanced at the benches. Remembering when there were many who would sit there and pray daily. Now, it was practically empty. Some were even broken now.

He was exhausted. Dimitri knew it was inevitable at this rate — he was practically stumbling over just standing. Dedue helped him towards the closest bench, sitting him down. Watching the blond lay down on his side.

It wasn't a bed, nor that much room at all. But it beat sleeping on the ground.

"I'll be here if you need me."

Dimitri couldn't refuse. He was too tired to argue. So, he only nodded and drifted off.

For awhile, it was nice to finally sleep at last. He barely could these days of torment. Though, it was over quickly before he knew it.

A sudden feeling of something — someone — grabbing his ankle jerked him awake. Dimitri immediately woke up, looking straight at a figure staring at him.

Inches from his face — dead, cold eyes staring back.

Dimitri sat up, kicking his foot to get the hand off his ankle. His panic set in as familiar faces from his past were looming over him. Hands reaching over towards him, begging for help.

Rolling off the bench, he made his way back to the rubble once more, his back pressed against it as he looked at the benches. Dimitri trembled as his focus was fixated on the figures.

Knights with arrows pierced through their heads. swords and spears sticking out of some of them. some on the ground crawling towards him with their arms reaching out, then the worst... those he called family staring at him with those eyes.

Those eyes. those judging eyes staring without even blinking. soulless. cold. dead.

Suddenly a hand was placed on Dimitri's shoulder. gasping, Dimitri's attention snapped towards the hand — only meeting Dedue's concerned look.

Dimitri let out a shaking breath, "Can't you see them, Dedue?"

Dedue looked out to the benches — nothing was there. His glance narrowed back to Dimitri.

"No... I don't."

Dimitri clenched his jaw, staring at the dead, looking back at him. Slowly, his hand gripped Dedue's arm.

He held back a sob, showing weakness.

"... You're real, right?"

Dedue was almost taken back by such a comment. nodding, he sat beside Dimitri.

"I am real, Your Highness. I am right here."

Dimitri's head slowly turns to the other. focusing on him only. trying to reel back to what was real. Deep down, he knew they weren't real — but his guilt and dread made it difficult to realize.

it was hard for him to see what was real and what wasn't during moments of panic and weakness.

"I'm sorry, Dedue. I can't sleep." Dimitri shook his head tiredly, "Not there... I can't over there. They are over there."

"Then rest here. Wherever you feel most safe." As Dedue replied, he sat down more comfortably. He wasn't going to leave Dimitri's side. especially not now during his clear struggle.

"But—" Dimitri paused, feeling the wave of exhaustion almost slam his down completely. again, he just couldn't fight back.

How would he bring justice to the dead this exhausted? They had to agree on this once. he couldn't fight it either way.

Dimitri lowered his head, closing his eyes as he sat beside the other. Slowly drifting off again and slumping against Dedue's shoulder.

This time, he felt almost... safer to get a good night's rest. even if he could still feel their scornful eyes upon him every moment.

[solopostings]

Doppelgangers.

A collab with @robbietech !

---

Holding his phone up, Rex taps on the screen to record himself speak.

"Subject 0719 seems to be quite aggressive. Drawing his blood melts all our equipment... what could possibly be so corrosive in his blood?

How can he survive with such dangers within him?"

Taking a step back, the CEO of Silph Neo smirked as he watched the animalistic man clawing at the glass. Tapping the screen to end the recording.

While staring right at him.

His eyes couldn't draw away.

The fangs, the same lost eye... he truly looked like him, if he lived out in the wilds for twenty years, maybe.

A chuckle left the leader as he remained silent.

"Rex, sir... the subject is close to breaking the glass. It can't take anymore beatings." A worker in a Team Galactic outfit spoke, looking over at him.

Rex grinned slightly, "This glass was meant to hold the strength of a Groudon. He is he stronger than a deity?" He glanced at the workers, "Bring the Mewtwo armor in. Let's restraint the beast."

The worker nodded, looking over at other members of different teams. Flare and even Magma were there. Aqua. Snagem, Cipher even down to Rocket — bits and parts of every team around the globe were working for him.

He took loyal workers from other teams. People who were amazing at their work and were treated lowly from their past leaders. They enjoyed working for Silph Neo. Seeing it grow more powerful each passing day with the technology that was built here. They were paid respectively. They worked to the bone.

Suddenly, robotic arms quickly held down the wild man, putting armor on his that was meant for a Pokémon; Mewtwo. A Pokémon made by scientists long ago, now.

Rex leaned against the glass, watching the other man bite and claw to try to get away. He got a slip, leaning close to Rex. Growling loudly, baring his teeth at him. Slamming on the glass until the arm grabs one of his arms.

"My, what big fangs you have..." Rex snickered — not afraid of the other. Other grunts shook a bit seeing the man so close to the glass.

... Crack.

The glass cracked slightly where the man's face was.

Rex's brow rose in surprise, and the workers all gasped. Fearing for their life.

They worked with godly Pokémon. Legendary beasts ranging from Entei to Ultra Beasts all the way down to Dialga. Yet somehow, this one person was the first to ever crack this glass.

Impressive power he must have had.

Rex wanted it for himself.

"Dos, pin him down away from the glass, will you?" Rex hummed as he clicked his pen, taking out a notepad to write something down.

A young man in armor, his face covered by a mask, stood up. Slightly raising his hand, the beast flew back into the wall, pinned by an invisible force.

Finally, the man spoke. However, it was in a language no one could understand.

"And he finally speaks!" Rex pressed the record button once more, not wanting to miss a thing.

The subject in question glared at Rex, yelling directly at him. Trying to move his body from whatever was pinning him down. He paused, looking at "Dos."

Dos, a quiet man, looked back at the subject. A strange sense of familiarity struck. It was beyond how he looked like Rex. This felt ... otherworldly.

"What is your name?" Rex asked the man behind the glass, "I know you can hear me. What. Is. Your. Name?"

The other man slowly turned his head back at Rex's direction. Remaining quiet.

"Dos, do that psychic thing in his head. Maybe you'll get a better answer." Rex sighed, rubbing his temple. irritated.

A quiet nod as he looks back at the other man, focusing his power on him.

"... Amadeus... Korsh? No. Tech. Korsh was a disregarded name..." Dos spoke, "He wants to go home."

Rex clicked his tongue. Of course, they would have the same first name.

"Tell him he isn't going anywhere if he refuses to get along."

Dos turned his head, looking back at Amadeus. In response, he spoke once again, screeching at Rex in particular. Dos leaned against the wall, tapping his arm with his finger.

Rex waved his hand, "What is the beast saying now?"

Dos cleared his throat, "... really crude things, Sir."

Rex sighed and put on goggles, whistling for his grunts to start a machine up. The grunts all nodded, flipping a switch watching the man fully be put into armor until he could no longer move.

A robotic arm with a needle stuck inside the armor, drawing out blood again. Hoping this time, it wouldn't corrode his equipment.

Amadeus screamed, trying hard to move and tear everything apart — but with the unknown force pinning him down — he was stuck. having to let whatever this other man wanted to do.

Steal his blood? His DNA? Have it, Amadeus thought. He just wanted to break free and destroy everything and everyone in this place.

---

Hours later, the grunts did their work and were sent off to break. Rex and Dos stayed in the room, watching Amadeus stare back at them with a tired expression.

"Imagine the power Pokémon could gain with that blood of his?" Rex snickered, "Shadow Pokémon would scurry in fear compared to this power."

Rex sat down, looking at the vial with the black blood from Amadeus. It was as dark as tar, but as corrosive as acid. Such a strange substance.

Dos finally took off his mask — seeing no one was around. Amadeus looked at him with almost an expression of familiarity.

The young man had long red hair that was tied up in a ponytail. Blue eyes and many scars all over his face.

Dos took a deep breath, looking back at Amadeus, "... Alaric? No, that isn't my name."

Rex rose an eyebrow, "What? Did he say something?"

Dos shook his head, "No, his thoughts were loud, he said I was someone named Alaric."

Rex looked at Amadeus, "Seems you may have a doppelganger in his world as well. Wonder if... oh, nevermind."

Putting the vial back in a rack of many others, he takes out his phone, "Gotta make sure Mel is doin' alright. I'll be right back."

Rex smiled and walked out of the room — leaving Amadeus and Dos alone.

Amadeus breathed heavily, clenching his teeth, "Let me out of here, Alaric. I have a family at home too, y'know. They are worried about me."

Dos didn't move, glancing away from the other.

"I am not supposed to talk to my Boss's subjects. Last time I did... I let the subject go free."

A strange Pokémon warped beside him — its eyes piercing through Amadeus. Knowing his ill intent of wanting to escape.

"... Deoxys, it's okay. He can't move." Dos yawns as he slides his back against the wall, sitting down on the floor.

The Deoxys makes a strange sound, kneeling down to look at Dos closer. Scanning him from head to toe.

"I am not hurt. Just tired from holding him down." Dos pointed at Amadeus. His psychic abilities were put to the test with this one.

Deoxys slowly looked at Amadeus once more, teleporting closer to the glass. Titling his head, Amadeus is crushed further, wincing.

"Get me out of here!" Finally it settles in. The small spaces. feeling crushed. Amadeus suddenly struggles more to break out. Screaming, trying to take the armor off.

Dos slowly stood back up, watching.

"... he is scared—"

Loud beeping and a red light turns on and off. A warning.

Rex runs back inside with his workers, looking directly at Amadeus slowly ripping off the armor. Clawing at the glass again.

"Dos, hold him down!" Rex ordered, waving his hand in panic.

Deoxys warped beside Dos, quickly putting his helmet back on.

"... he has claustrophobia. He is panicking."

"I don't care what he has, someone get him to settle down. Put him to sleep, anything at all!"

Amadeus grabs the robotic arm that was going to put something in him to sleep. Immediately swinging it to at last, break the glass.

Everyone gasped and ducked, trying to avoid the glass.

Rex gulped, slowly looking up at the beast standing in front of him. Just as Amadeus was about to claw at Rex, Dos holds out his hand, freezing him in place.

Amadeus clenches his teeth, unable to move any of his limbs, however he moves his eye slightly. Seeing the boy in the corner of his eye.

"What should I do with him now, Boss?" Dos spoke.

Rex backed away slightly, trying to fix his collar — trying to remain calm.

"... send him back to his world. I got enough of his DNA that I can make copies. He is... no longer useful."

Dos nods, looking at Deoxys. His Pokémon grabs Amadeus, transforming into his speed form and rushes out of the room.

Going to fast, that Amadeus suddenly opens his eyes and he is back in his own world.

When Deoxys is back beside Dos' side, Rex shook his head.

"I placed a chip in him. He will be easy to find if we need him again..." Rex snickered then looked back at the broken glass.

"... we will need something stronger for that... thing."

[solopostings]

Din's Chosen .

- - -

If that beast wasn't going to end her, then he had to do it himself. It was fairly easy to lure Senka out to the desert with the excuse of alcohol involved.

Seeing as the Gerudo of this timeline were known for their... strong drinks. Ravii was cunning — he could easily get his sister out and about if he really wanted to. With the simple topic of "free alcohol."

Taking a deep breath, he stood in front of her. Few feet away as the scorching sun blazed over them.

"I didn't think you'd fall for that note so easily." Ravii chuckled as he placed his hand on the handle of his sword. his hand clutched around it. trembling in anticipation to draw it.

Senka waves her hand to fan her face, groaning at the desert heat, "Well, I came here for the drinks. I thought I was meeting Impa here... I guess you fooled me good."

Truthfully, she was off her game after taking care of triplets. She should have known it was Ravii just luring her out.

"Your life ends here. No one can do this except for me."

"You've been saying that for years, Vii." Senka sighs, "You exiled me to the Shadow Temple because you couldn't kill me yourself. You've had so many chances yet... I'm still here."

A snicker followed, "You can't kill me because I'm still standing right here. Now stop this act and let's get drinks—"

Lightning suddenly struck down beside Senka, causing her to jump back and fall. Blinking in surprise, she looked back at Ravii.

   That was... new.

"I'm not going to sit down and have drinks with you of all people." Finally, he drew out his blade, walking towards her.

Clouds covered the sun as he drew closer to the older woman. The feeling of dread rising quickly.

"I'm growing tired, Senka. You have the power I need and you use if for nothing. You barely use it at all... how can you be so useless? Din's chosen? Pitiful." Ravii stops, holding the tip of the Goddess' sword to her throat.

Senka tilted her head, still smirking a bit.

"You are still the same after all these years. Jealous of me. Jealous of everyone. But here's the thing..."

Another bolt of light struck down behind Senka — causing flames to arise from the cactus it struck.

Senka's thought vanished as she heard the cackling of the flames behind her. Eyes slowly widened at the faint glow coming from Ravii's hand.

"... you made fire." She whispered under her breath.

It all came to it. The power of fire. The ability to make a flame is what started this war between Ravii and Senka. Between him and Din.

Din's Fire.

  Or as Hyrule called it, The Triforce of Power.

Ravii was Farore's Chosen. He had the power of wind — Farore's Wind.

    The Triforce of Courage.

He never saw it as a gift, rather a burden. The only one who thought of him as useful or even worthy was Ganondorf.

The man he watched die in the hands of Link and Zelda back in his old timeline.

The man he saw as his own father.

"Vii..." Senka spoke a bit louder, "I can sense it. You... you have my power already."

"Stop lying. You can not weasel your way out of this one. I will end you and gain Din's power."

He was so driven with taking her life he didn't notice the fire in front of him.

That was until another loud crack of the flames snapped him out of his craze. He looked at the fire behind Senka.

slowly, his eyes drew to his hand. A light glow of a triangle on his hand.

"You are worthy..." Senka crawled backwards, getting away from the sword.

"No, that's can't be. This was my father's power..." Ravii slowly raised his hand, looking at the glow fading in and out slightly. It was faint — but it was there.

"You know what that means... he must have seen you worthy to—"

"He isn't dead! I spoke to him!" Ravii yelled, causing strong winds to blow around them. Sand picking up around them.

"But you know as well as I do that when powers like this are passed down, it means they are —"

Another lightning strike by Senka struck down, causing the winds to rage stronger. Ravii's hand trembled as he stared at the light growing stronger.

"Ravii, he saw you worthy enough to give you the last of his chosen power. You have Din's blessing, too!" Senka finally managed to yell as she held onto a rock wall tightly.

The wind only got stronger as lightning flashed in the dark clouds. Barely seen from the sandstorm created by Ravii without realizing.

The younger Glacian dropped his sword, falling to his knees as he gripped his wrist. Tucking himself down into the sand as he screamed in horror.

Chosen Royal Glacians passed down their blessing if they were to die. It was well known. That's the whole reason Ravii wanted Senka to die — he wanted to take Din's blessing.

Knowing he had the Triforce of Power with him, he didn't want to believe it.

  No. It wasn't true. It couldn't be.

He knew Ganondorf was still alive. There was no way he wasn't. He could always feel his presence alongside him. Guiding him in a path he made for him. Following the way Ganondorf would want him to go.

How could he be dead if Ravii was so close to prevailing?

The wind grew stronger, causing a sandstorm throughout the entire desert from his rage alone. Senka covered her face with her arm, slowly making her way to Ravii.

No matter how old they were, he was still her little brother. Still that lost little boy from when they were kids.

She made her way beside him, falling to her knees.

"Vii, you're going to ruin the whole Gerudo Desert if you keep this up!" Senka yelled, shaking Ravii's shoulder.

Ravii didn't budge. His focus was purely on his hand — the glow of the same Triforce he once saw on his father's hand.

   He wasn't worthy of this.

   He didn't want this.

He wanted his father back. To show him everything he has done to continue his work. Everything he has done was for him. to bring him back to a Hyrule fit for him on the throne.

  ... was it all for naught?

Ravii's head suddenly looked up at the sandstorm around him he was causing. Slowly, he stood up and took a deep, slow, shakey breath.

Fixing his cape for comfort, the wind slowly calms. The sandstorm subsided.

Senka picked up the sword, looking at it in her grasp. Her eyes slowly drew to Ravii standing with his back facing her.

A sigh left her as she walked beside him.

"... I'm sorry." Senka frowned, "I want you to know that I am always —"

"I don't need your comfort." Ravii snapped, taking the sword back from her. putting it back in its scabbard on his hip.

"He isn't dead. Stop acting like he is." Ravii looked around the desert, taking it all in.

It wasn't his Gerudo Desert, the one he belonged to, but it was close enough.

"... I'll show you all he isn't gone. I just need to find him." Ravii turned to look down at Senka, "As for you... get out of my sight."

Senka placed her hands on her hips, "Thought you were going to kill me."

Ravii spun around on his heel, walking away from her, "... changed my mind. Lucky you."

Senka crossed her arms and smirked a bit as she watched him walk away. However... her smirk faded as she glanced to the burned cactus.

Ravii having both Farore's and Din's power in his grasp... he was very well stronger than Ganondorf now. But she knew deep down, Ravii would never admit it.

She will have to keep an eye on him when she can.

Who knows what he can do with this new power?

  ... her eyes drew back to Gerudo Town.

Well, she was here after all.

Might as well get a drink or two first!

[solopostings]

A Cursed Bloodline.

- - -

Echoing steps in the long hallway as Amir walked to his father's chambers. Still steaming from their last conversation.

Since then, he met Mija.

She was nice — too nice. Clearly meant for someone else, not for him. But alas, he had no choice. He understood the reasoning.

The Zaquatis — or rather his ancestors of Majora — never liked the Great Fairy tribes. As they were always in the way. But this was a time of change.

Amir liked change — it was always a step in the greater future. But he did not want to be a part of this change himself.

He wanted to reunite the two kingdoms that were in war with each other.

He wanted peace with Glacia.

He wanted to be with the one he belonged to.

Opening the door, his father slowly turned his head. Looking down at Amir over his own shoulder; a look of belittling all over his face.

It wouldn't last long, however.

"Father... I met with the fairy." Amir spoke, "She was... just as you said. Powerful. Perfect to lead Isla."

How cruel... how Amir's soul weeps with each word he spoke lately.

"Excellent... I'm glad you saw the brighter view." The King snickered as he walks beside Amir, placing his hand on his shoulder.

"When do you plan to marry her, hm?"

Amir bit his cheek.

"I'll marry her soon on one condition, Father." Amir held up his hand, one finger drawn.

"You surrender to Glacia. End this senseless war upon them."

The King immediately began to laugh, patting his son's shoulder. Walking away he moved his hand to wipe a single tear.

"You really think I'd do that? Amir... The Glacians are ruining everything they touch. The royals are absolutely mad. Thinking they are blessed by goddesses... they need to be taken out."

The King slowly looked back at Amir, "You should know this. Glacia killed your mother and all."

Amir's tongue clicked, "You are blind by hatred. You very much know she was ill and —"

A slap to the face stopped Amir's thought.

"Glacia killed her. Simple as that." The King slowly put his hand down.

Amir slowly raised his hand, gently rubbing his cheek. A stinging feeling washed over it quickly. Anger began to bubble down within him.

Amir glanced at the mirror, looking at frost slowly appearing over it.

A dimension to the Fierce Deity graveyard.

The champions that were banished to a realm when they disobeyed. Fighting against their own leaders. fighting against the curse that was put on them.

Amir looked back at his father, an idea slowly gripping his skull. A very, very bad one.

But change was always good if it was to get rid of a problem. Especially if the problem was hurting others.

Change must be made.

Amir took off the gem from his circlet off, waving his hand.

"Amir, what are you doing? You know you cannot handle your magic." Amir's father glared at him, not noticing the distorted, twisted hands coming from the mirror behind him.

The younger Zaquatis walked up to the King, "I can handle my magic just fine. One thing I realized as of late with you... is you love control. Especially of things you are terrified of."

Amir waves his hand, making his father flinch back enough for the hands to grip him. Pulling him within the mirror.

The King gasped, and his eyes grew wide as he tried to fight off the hands. His cloak ripped, but he ended up breaking free.

Only for Amir to keep pushing him within the mirror — helping the hands drag him down. Their dark, cold to the touch flesh gripping King Nasir tightly.

The champions of old has faint glowing veins, cursed by the family lines' corrupted, dark magics. All left to be forgotten in a realm to die as the mistakes they were titled to be for simply fighting against the ones who made them.

As the King fell into what looked to be a room, the only light was from the mirror ; like a window passing light through.

Amir stood and watched as the other slammed his fists against the mirror.

"Amir, please. I promise to bring peace to Glacia if you let me out." The King pleaded desperately.

Amir just stared silently. The glow of orange from his own eyes luring out the other twisted creatures out of the dark. All of them towards the light.

Towards the King of Isla.

"Why not come back in?" Amir tilted his head, "It's easy for a king like you. So powerful. So mighty..."

"I can't, okay?" His father yelled, slamming the mirror. His hands frozen already from the temperature of the realm. Every second he was there, the more he could feel his body freezing up.

"Only true chosen ones can get in and out — Amir, my son... please. I am sorry for everything. Now get me out!"

Amir glanced at all the hands clawing at the ground towards the light. creatures dragging themselves towards his father. a giant smile appeared on his face when a human looking champion finally walked behind Nasir.

The recent Champion he threw in here — the Glacian King's own brother to use against him. However, it did not work very well at all. The old king drew out a sword as he walked towards the Islean King.

Amir leaned against the mirror. His smile wide.

"... Glory to Glacia."

His father gasped as he looked back at Amir for a moment, only to watch the mirror shatter.

It became pitch black once more. Only the glow of all the champions were seen. All of them inching closer to him.

He was left to die here like the rest of them.

Amir took a step back as he looked down at all the broken mirror shards. A quick spin on his heels as he placed the gem back on the circlet.

Walking out of the room, the sorcerers that guard the room nodded at him and followed.

He was King.

They understood what had to be done.

Amir was set on unite Glacia and Isla as best he could. And he tried. He truly did.

Until King Ravii fought back — ordered by his own wife — came into the picture.

Queen Natasha of Harkos.

Amir knew nothing could be done now.

... thus started a war once again.

A war Amir did not want to continue. The pattern never stopped. Even with his own children, they hated Glacia as Ravii's children hated Isla.

His worst nightmare crept in. Nothing changed.

... until his last son was born.

Salem; meaning peace.

His final hope.

Just as Amir — Salem, too, was a true chosen one of his bloodline. Unstable, powerful magic. Hopefully, one day, he could use it for good, unlike he ever could.

[solopostings]

Reunited.

- - -

It did not take very long to connect the dots for the young Zaquatis.

Sitting by the fairy fountain, his chin resting in his palm, he glanced by his side as a woman smiled back. The Great Fairy's magic could do wonders — even go back to human size if she so chooses.

Taking Salem's hand, Mija patted it gently.

"I knew one day you would do great things." Mija smiled, "No matter what you do, I know you'll make the right choice."

Salem slowly moved his hand from under his chin, placing it over his mother's hand.

"I just do not understand it..." Salem spoke, "Why did my father cut you from the history of Isla? A fairy such as you would be an amazing queen... what happened? Why... why was I the only one who never got to know?"

Mija sighed softly listening to her son's troubles. Perhaps it was time to explain everything she knew.

"... Do you have someone special, Salem?" The fairy placed her hand over her heart, "Someone very special that you love with all your heart and soul?"

Immediately, Salem nods. His smile grew warm at the thought of her. Mija could tell even from the look of his eyes that it was true.

"... So did your father, you see." She chuckles, "I am more of a free soul. I wanted to bring peace to Isla in any way I could... and I did for awhile."

Mija blew some fairy dust in the air — it swirled around and showed a scene from the past before their eyes. Salem gasps as he saw a man who looked... almost just like him with —

Salem's eyes widened as he turned to Mija in shock. She could only smile back with a brow raised. Nodding her head to keep watching.

Salem's father was shown holding hands with what looked to be a Glacian.

"Your father's heart belonged to another person. I found out..."

The scene changed to a younger Mija, looking at old letters in a drawer, quickly placing them back as fast she could. However, behind her was Salem's father. The look of fear on his face.

Mija looked upset, heartbroken. But her expression turned into an expression of understanding.

The Zaquatis shook his head, pointing out the door.

  The scene fades.

Salem looked back at his mother, his voice almost breaking, "... you left on your own?"

"He threatened me to leave after I found out. He was so scared that I would tell the whole kingdom he loved the King. That was the first time I saw him for who he really was.

I was... heartbroken, yes. But... I felt free again. Plus, you think I am a good queen? No way." Mija laughed, poking Salem's nose.

"He wanted to erase my existence in hoping King Ravii would come back to him. There was a spark of hope that kept him going... But from the looks of it..."

Mija's smile fades, "... he never got that ending he wanted, did he?"

Looking away, Salem frowned, "Father died recently. I let him go while everyone wanted to keep him alive..."

Suddenly Salem perked up. Looking back at the great fairy, "I think... I know what I can do. To truly unite Glacia and Isla once and for all."

"Oh?" Mija smiled — he definitely got that peace mindset from her. She was proud of the person he has become.

Salem stood up, "The old Glacian King... he wanders the realm of the dead as we speak. Just as my father. I think..." He looked down at his hand, "I know what to do now. My magic can be used for good."

Mija stood up along with him, "What are you waiting for? I'll be right here whenever you want to see me. You got things to do." Mija shooed him playfully as little fairies gently pushed him away.

Salem laughed, spinning around to run back and hug her, "Thanks mother... I am glad I finally met you."

"I'm happy to finally have spoke to you..." Mija hugged him for a moment, only to move back. Fading into small fairies as they all went back into the fairy fountain.

Her voice echoed, "Now go help him. It's about time he gets that happiness he wanted."

Salem nods, waving his finger slightly. Green mist forms around him to warp him away from the area.

  Down to the realm he controls.

• • •

"Father, there you are." Salem hums as he walks to a ghostly, tired figure of his father. He is sitting with his back against the wall.

"Here to bring me back to the world of the living?" The older Zaquatis spoke, "I have nothing there for me. Tell Sahel I taught him all I know. He needs to let me go."

Salem kneeled down beside him, "I'm not here to bring you back."

"... torture me, then?" He glanced away, tugging at the chain that came from his chest. Chained to his soul — chained to never pass on.

Salem gently took the soul chain in his hand, then another appeared in the other. His father slowly looked at the other chain.

"What are you doing?" Amir spoke, looking back at his son.

With a light tug of the other chain, another ghostly presence was among them. An old, tired man kneeling on one knee. Frozen in time, almost.

Until Salem took hold of the chain, breaking it.

The man gasped, looking up at Salem... only for his eyes to draw to Amir.

Salem stood back up, breaking the chain connected to Amir.

"You've been in pain all this time. I always felt it but never knew why. I thought it was because of me. Because I wished to heal rather than cause harm..." Salem glanced at the red haired man.

"Then I found out what you've been missing..."

Amir slowly stood up, looking at the old Glacian king in front of him. He hesitated to reach out to him at first — until the Glacian immediately pulled him into a tight embrace.

Salem took a step back, snapping his fingers.

Behind him stood his own siblings and the Dominis siblings.

Watching what was in front of them. They were all quiet — in shock of what they were seeing.

"You still have the earring I gave you?" Rav gently moved Amir's hair to look at the matching gold earring on his ear.

"I never took it off..." Amir spoke, his voice saddened, "Ravii, about those letters..."

Rav shook his head, "Forget it. It doesn't matter now..."

The old king turned around, looking at the younger ones, "They are the future of Glacia and Isla. Let us be a better example now."

Amir glanced at Salem at first, then his eyes widened at the sight of his older kids.

   ... Ah.

Thankfully, he was dead and didn't have to hear them complaining.

"... You're right." Amir chuckled lightly, holding the old Glacian's hand.

Salem hummed, waving his hand.

A bright light shined behind them.

"It's your time to move on — the both of you." Salem bowed at the two kings of old.

Amir looked behind him, then back at Rav. He started to walk towards it.

Both of them are walking towards it now.

Amir nudged Rav's shoulder as they walked, "You look good with a beard, Scruffy."

"Scruffy? You still have a baby face!"

Amir's and Rav's laughter echoed as they disappeared in the light.

Salem spun around to look at the others, "... We can not let Isla and Glacia be enemies any longer."

Senka bit her cheek in thought, glaring at Valerian and Sahel, "Tell them that."

Valerian growled as he pointed at Senka, "I wanted to make peace but you burned my face!"

Ravii stood there, taking a long, deep breath.

"Everyone shut up." Ravii placed his hands on his hips, "... My father wanted to make peace a long time ago. And so did yours."

They all fell silent, listening.

"As much as I want to see your kingdom burn to the ground... We need to move on."

Salem nods and claps, "I agree. Well, except the burning part."

Ravii snickered as he crossed his arms, "As the new King of Glacia... I say we end this senseless war."

"... I never liked hating Isleans..." Alaric chimed in, "Salem was always nice to me."

Salem smiled, "Well, it was thanks to you I found a new was to use my magic. Helping others."

"Alright, alright..." Sahel spoke up, "As the ruler of Isla... I'll..." A sigh followed, "... I'll TRY to make peace with you all."

"It's a start." Layla hums, "All I want is our father to be proud of us. If that's what he wants, then I'll follow that."

Everyone fell silent again.

Salem grins, "Well, we can discuss this on the flipside. All this yelling is disturbing the dead." Salem chuckles as he waves his finger again — making the others disappear.

Sighing, the Zaquatis sits down to relax for a moment. to breathe.

He smiled to himself. Remembering the life returning to his father the moment the old Glacian king hugged him. He didn't need a chain connected to him to feel how his soul sang. He understood how it felt, too.

He, too, had someone who made him feel the same way. Finally, his abilities are not that bad after all.

 Well...

It was a start.

[solopostings]

The Letter.

- - -

Amir hums as he skips down the hall of the castle. Watching as the walls warp and paintings move along with him. His magic free — feeling more alive.

Until he got to the throne room. Amir took a deep breath, and his magic calmed down. Opening the door, he was met with his father sitting on the throne.

"Amir... you sure took your time." The King grumbled as he slowly sat up.

"... I am sorry. I was lost in thought." Amir shrugged with a slight, careless grin.

The King glared down at his son, only to turn away and look out the window as he spoke.

"I know what you've been up to... spending time with the Glacian prince." The King clicked his tongue as he glanced at Amir with disgust.

Amir's heart suddenly dropped to his stomach. A slow, nervous swallow followed, "Father... it's not what you think —"

"Then explain to me what it is, Amir!" His voice roared as he turned around. His eyes glowed a bright red and orange.

Amir flinched, trying to stand his ground best he could.

"If I see you around him again, I will personally kill him."

"You can't—"

As Amir spoke, he was cut off by a long spike coming from inside the King's sleeve.

The power of Majora against him.

"... so, I found someone from the fairy tribe for you to marry instead, my son. And if you refuse..."

The King inched the spike closer to Amir's chin.

"I will kill that little Glacian prince in front of you. For all to see. You should know better than to befriend those goddess worshipping heathens."

Amir swallowed nervously as his eyes looked down at the spike. He was left in a rough place.

"Fine... I'll do what you say, father." Amir's voice was low, shakey. defeated.

"Just... don't hurt him." Amir whispered under his breath.

His father smirked, "Excellent. Her name is Mija. You'll meet her tomorrow morning. Plans are already made."

The King snickered as the spike turned back to his arm and hand. Cracking his neck, he turns back around.

"If you dare to run, Amir... I will always find you. The moon will always follow you. Always watches."

Amir bit his cheek, "... permission to leave?"

"Permission granted."

With that, Amir spun around on his heel to leave the room. Clenching his fists, he immediately walked to his room, slamming the door.

Pacing back and forth, his breathing became heavy. shortened. He couldn't calm down.

... he had to do this. to protect him.

Amir's heart ached as he sat down, taking the swan feathered pen in his grasp. Sliding paper over it.

Taking a deep breath, he dipped the tip with ink and began to write.

This was his last letter to his beloved prince.

Amir's hand shook as he had to lie with each pen stroke. Lying. Lying. Lying.

It was only to protect him — as much as it hurt.

After he signed it, Amir opened his window and whistled. A bird swooped, gently landing on Amir's arm.

"... this will be the last letter you'll send to him." He spoke as he tied the letter to the dove's leg. Apart of him did not want to send it. He knew it would break Ravii's heart.

But he had no choice.

The Zaquatis holds out his arm to let the dove fly to the wintery kingdom. Amir watched until the dove was out of his sight.

Slowly he closed his window, resting his head against it.

This was not what he wanted.

"I'm sorry, Ravii.

Please know that I'll always love you."

- - -

Hearing the pecking at the window, Ravii gasped and hopped out of his bed immediately. Smiling as he opened the window to let the letter carrier in. Giving them a gently head pat as he untied the string to let the letter loose.

He knew that sigil on the letter; the Zaquatis.

Ravii sat down at his desk to open the letter. Amir's handwriting was always so pretty compared to his own. The way he wrote cursive was so pleasing on the eyes.

... but this was rough. messy. Ravii's eyebrows furrowed.

Something was wrong.

"Dear Ravii,

I've thought about it and have come to the conclusion we cannot be seen together. I was such a fool to think we could unite the kingdoms.

Our relationship is over by the time you get this letter. Never do I want to see you again — it is for the best of both of us.

I am getting married to someone else.

She's a nice woman. Strong.

Perfect to be queen someday.

It's better for Isla, after all.

May you continue to live happily without me. Please do not mess with the affairs of Isla. I do not want to see you again.

Please promise me you'll be safe.

Never write to me again, Ravii.

— Amir Zaquatis. "

The Glacian's smile faded. Tears building up as he read through it again and again. Trying to understand the sudden shift.

Was it his father? No, he has seen that man's handwriting. This was written by Amir.

His hands shook, feeling sick to his stomach.

Placing his hand to his ear — he already gave Amir one of his earrings ; the proposal of Glacia. He was the one he wanted.

Perhaps it was a fool's choice, after all.

Ravii, filled with sudden anger held the letter, watching it burn in his grasp. Digging through his drawer, he grabbed every letter Amir has ever written to him.

Throwing it in the fireplace. His eyes turned a burning red as he clenched his fist harder until his own nails dug into his skin.

The fire bursts within the fireplace — burning all the letters instantly. Ravii stood in front of the fire, watching every letter turn into ashes.

Watching the ashes gently float away, the Glacian slowly dropped to his knees to sob to himself.

Realization hit him and he slammed his hand on the ground to stop the fire, looking for any remains to the letters.

everything was gone. burned up. destroyed.

Except one picture of them.

It was still somewhat alright. Slowly, he took it, looking at it with a small wobbly smile.

A small painting he cherished. Quietly he placed it back in the drawer.

Maybe it was time to move on.

Even of he didn't want to.

Their futures would intertwine again — he could feel it.

Until then, he would wait for him.

[solopostings]

The Two Princes.

* side note. The Ravii here is Ravii Dominis I. Aka, Senka, Ravii (II)'s and Alaric's father.

- - -

"There you are!" The Zaquatis pokes his head from behind the tree, smiling at the fellow prince looking back at him.

The other couldn't help but smile a bit, seeing Amir's bright expression as he walked closer. Every time Ravii saw him, his heart skipped a beat —

"You got my letter after all..." Amir hummed, holding out his hand for the young Glacian prince to hold. As he held Amir's hand, Ravii gently smiled.

"I did... I had to hide your letter from my father again, he almost saw it." Ravii frowned, squeezing Amir's hand tightly, "If he ever found out—"

Frowning slightly, the Isla prince gently raised his hand to place on his lover's cheek. Softly stroking his thumb on his cheek as he tilted his head.

"He won't find out. My own parents don't even know I'm here..." The Zaquatis chuckled as he tapped the small gem on his forehead.

"Another illusion? How long can you do that until they find out, hm?" Ravii laughed softly as he nudged Amir's shoulder, "I can't do things like that... If I am found out, I cannot blame it on illusions."

"..." Amir sighs as he gently drags the other young man down with him. Letting him lay his head down on his lap as he stringed his fingers through the Glacian's short red hair.

"... why don't we run away?" Amir spoke, looking down at him, "We run away together. Leave this so-called royal life. Be free."

"I can't do that... as my father's chosen son—"

"And I am my father's only son. Who cares." Amir spoke, "I don't care if I am. I hate this life..."

The Zaquatis shook his head, sighing as he glanced up at the sky, "Isla is a nice kingdom... but I do not want to be the king. Living to meet my parent's expectations... it's tiring."

Ravii slowly sat back up only to lean against Amir's shoulder. A tired sigh left him, "... I get what you mean. Maybe when we are kings, we can stop this war against our kingdoms."

The two fell silent for a while.

The thought of reuniting the kingdoms...

"... want to get married?" Amir chimed in, his smile ear to ear as he placed a kiss on Ravii's cheek.

The Glacian immediately flushed, looking back at Amir, "I mean...I..."

Laughing, Amir cupped Ravii's face, dragging him closer to kiss him.

"We should get married, then." Amir grinned.

"I... I would love that." Ravii smiled back.

- - -

"Father?" A voice chimed in as the old Zaquatis king woke up. A low, tired sigh followed as he rubbed the temples of his head.

He must have fallen asleep on the throne again.

"Yes, Sahel?" King Amir grumbled.

"Sorry if I disturbed you... but there's great news!" Sahel smiled as he bowed down. Slowly he looked up, "The King and Queen of Glacia are dead."

Amir sat up from the throne, his eyes widened, "Where did you hear this?"

That woke him up.

Sahel slowly stood up, "We did it, Father. I planned the whole thing."

King Amir slowly sunk back down on the throne with a thump. Looking down at the ground.

"... I see. Does the public know of what you've done?"

"No. They see it as an accident while visiting Hyrule. Salem has claimed their souls, too. They are our puppets to control... even their Sword, too."

Amir tapped his finger on the armrest of the throne.

"You are truly something, Sahel... why don't you take over as King?" Amir slowly stood up from the throne, walking down to his oldest son. Taking the crown off his own head and placed it on Sahel's head.

"... what?" Sahel gasped, looking up at his father, "So... suddenly?"

"You truly showed me you are ready to be king... and I am getting too old for this."

Amir smiled slightly at his son as he continued to walk out of the throne room into his own. Locking the door behind him, Amir opened up a drawer with old letters within it.

Dragging a chair close to it, he sat down, looking at each neatly written letter.

Every one was a love letter. Some of the ink was fading from age.

All signed by the Prince of Glacia, Ravii Dominis.

"Oh, Ravii..." Amir frowned, his hand shaking while holding the last letter written by the Glacian. His other hand on his face, trying to hide tears already rolling down.

"... We should have run away."

[solopostings]

Ravii's Reveal.

- - -

Running outside, Zelda gasped for air. It was truly getting harder to move in this form — [ he ] needed to stop. But [ he ] couldn't.

Not now!

Not after all this work!

Dima may have given [ him ] a fright, but that will not stop this... nothing will.

Nothing.

Nothing.

"Good day, false monarch." Salem pokes his head from behind the wall.

His smile is bright as ever.

"Excuse me, you shouldn't be here." Zelda straightened herself, "This is trespassing."

Wait.

What did he just say ... ?

Zelda shook her head, "False monarch? You are mistaken, also... that is very rude of you."

Salem walked closer to Zelda, "You've met with a terrible fate haven't you..." He lowers his head, his eyes not moving from Zelda.

"... Dominis."

"I am Zelda. You are truly mistaken..." She spoke, tilting her chin up slightly.

[ He ] was good at acting,

however, if Salem knew who [ he ] really was ...

Salem hums, slowly taking off the circlet, "Why don't we play a little game then." His voice laced with a hint of amusement. Placing the circlet in his pouch, he closed his eyes.

Slowly levitating in the air, he paused to cross his legs, looking like he was sitting in the air now. The people all around pointed and gasped at the sight from the balcony where he and Zelda were.

Until Salem opens his eyes.

The moon began to turn red and bright — a blood moon in the middle of the day. Not only that, but the moon looked closer than usual.

The Zaquatis smiled, his orange eyes shining bright within the red lit sky.

The princess swallowed nervously, "What are you doing? You are going to harm the people!"

Salem crosses his arms, still gently floating in the air, "Now, tell me who you really are or your so-called loyal subjects, your kingdom..."

A finger snap as the entire kingdom began to shake. People screamed as the sight of the moon getting closer was upon them.

"... and you, yourself, will be crushed. Not that this kingdom was yours to begin with." Salem giggled — his voice echoed.

Zelda bit her lip, "I am Zelda—"

"You're lying!" Salem interrupted. The moon was giant now from how close it was.

"Tell everyone who you really are!"

"Salem, stop this at once!" Zelda yelled, throwing her hand to her side, "You are a danger to my kingdom!"

Another laugh as the Zaquatis moved to look like he was lying on his stomach. Kicking his feet in the air with a smile on his face.

"How does Her Highness know my name? Truth be told... we never met before."

Zelda was taken aback, shaking her head, "Purah told me about you... but now I see how truly dangerous you really are!"

"Me? A danger? You are the one who has been placing your own people in the dungeons to rot... now, let me ask one more time."

"Salem!" She yelled once more.

"... who. are. you. Tell your people! Go on... tell them."

Zelda turned to face everyone, her pupils shrunk as everyone was staring back at her.

Salem places his hands on his chin, still kicking his feet, "tell. them."

The moon was falling faster. The people cried and screamed, begging for mercy. begging for their princess to save them.

But she couldn't.

Not against Majora.

"Fine!" Zelda screamed and fell to her knees. A red and black mist swirled around her to reveal Ravii — practically a rotting corpse at this rate.

His hands placed on the balcony stone, leaning down as his deep, hoarse breathing was echoing the area. Ravii slowly turned his head at Salem — a slight bone crack followed.

"There we go." Salem snickered as he waved his hand to halt the moon from falling.

The earth stopped shaking.

Salem moved his arms up and laughed, twirling around whilst still in the air. The sky faded back to normal, the moon was back in place.

Ravii gasped as he looked around, looking where Salem was — he was no longer there. Looking to his side, Salem shrugged as he tilted his head towards the people. He was right beside him all this time.

Ravii was caught in an illusion.

All of that. The moon falling. The red sky ...

All of it was just an illusion, that meant...

Ravii gasped, realizing what he had done.

All the people saw was him transform back to his true form.

"You are truly evil. You Zaquatis are all terrible like the Hylians." Ravii wheezed, struggling to find strength to stand.

The people below all gasped, whispering to one another. Some screamed in horror, others grabbing their pitchforks.

Demanding for their real princess to come back.

"Oh, shut up!" Ravii yelled, causing the malice like hands to immediately emerge from the castle walls. Malice began to ooze from the castle's cracks. Dripping onto the ground, spreading all around the area.

The people all stopped screaming from anger to fear real quick. Running away from the horror upon them.

"The Calamity!" People screamed, running in the streets as a wave of gloom lingered everywhere from the castle.

Ravii finally stood up, looking down at all the people scurrying around like frightened mice. The tyrant son couldn't help but grin a bit.

Ah... right.

... Fear.

Fear was always the way to control the Hylians. His father taught him that long, long ago ...

"you will pay." Ravii slowly glanced back at Salem, who was sitting on the balcony railing.

"Me? Oh, I don't think so." Salem hums as he points behind Ravii. There stood Dima with the blade that could end it all, pointing against his back.

Ravii growled under his breath — Oh, by the Three, he was so tired. Slowly, he looked at Dima, turning around with his hands to his sides.

"Oh, you got me. Just go ahead and end it... I know the Dominis blood on your hands will haunt you."

Dima swallowed nervously. His grip on the sword felt weak.

Could he really go through with this?

Ravii was right.

Zephirs are supposed to protect the Dominis, not kill them.

Dima's glance met with Salem's for a moment ; doubt plagued his mind. He was determined to put an end to Ravii's madness, but now...

... He couldn't finish it.

"You are still forever loyal, Dima." Ravii chuckles under his breath, with a slight bow, the gloom hands drag the corrupted king down fast.

Salem's smirk immediately dropped as he moved to try to stop him from escaping.

Dima returned his sword, swearing under his breath, "I'm sorry, I saw his eyes and saw him as a child again. I couldn't... I couldn't kill him."

Salem shook his head, looking out into the balcony ; the gloom started to disappear completely. Even the malice within the walls — all disappeared without a trace along with Ravii.

This was more concerning to the Zaquatis than anything else.

Salem looked at Dima, "You are forgiven... I am not angry with you for that."

With a sigh, he looked back down, "Ravii's presence... and that vile, dark magic are all gone. I wonder where he went."

How can someone just disappear like that?

Salem felt more uncomfortable about this now that he had no idea where he went.

"I'll send my Champion to hunt him down. He always had a talent for finding him..."

- - -

Wheezing as he limped, Ravii slowly moved sluggishly into the forest. He knew the way in — like music from the lost woods of old. He could hear the song of the ocarina if he just listened.

Closing his eyes, he drags his feet slowly in the foggy forest — gloom following him with every step. Killing the grass and greenery around him.

Holding out his hand, he breathed heavily as he rested against a tree. His touch quickly decayed the tree within seconds — struggling to sap any life around him to stay breathing.

He was dying.

Oh, by the three goddesses —

. . . He was actually dying.

Dragging his feet once more, Ravii finally found his way to the middle of the forest. The children of the forest all around him. Finally... he felt like he was safe here.

The koroks all stared at the horrific sight as the corpse dragged himself closer to where the Master Sword once rested.

The koroks tried to get away, but the gloom was too powerful to avoid. Everywhere the man went, the gloom followed.

Ravii slowly looked up at the giant tree in front of him, his vision blurring slightly.

There. That is where he would rest.

No one could find him in the lost woods.

He was safe here.

He felt at peace here.

Ravii drew out his sword letting it scrape the ground with a loud screech noise, as he stumbled towards the Great Deku Tree. Dragging the blade across the platform of where the pedestal stood.

The koroks tried to run as fast as they could.

As he walked past them, they all froze in time. The life from the trees, plants and now the koroks were drained to keep Ravii alive.

Walking inside the giant tree, he hopped down into the depths. Landing flat onto his feet — the hands emerged from the ground to help him stay still. Infecting the Deku Tree and draining all the life from the entire forest.

... Farore gave life to the world.

and as her chosen descendant,

Ravii could take it all back to stay alive.

[solopostings]

"There is something wrong with that boy." The woman whispered as she sat at the table. Her head tilted down at the plate in front of her.

"He is just shaken up from the disaster that took place. He is a savior to our kingdom, you know." The elder shrugged as she placed food on the woman's plate.

"... Mom, I'm serious." The woman spoke again, "I saw him with the king out in the square... and he was just staring at me. He didn't even blink."

The mother sighed, taking a clean spoon and lightly hit the other's head.

"He is just a child, dear. You stared at people, too, despite how rude it was."

"No." She mumbled as she rubbed her head, "His eyes weren't normal, mom. They were a bright orange and green — it was unnatural."

The mother fell silent as she sat down beside the other, "Rose... we are all shaken up from that disaster. Believe me. Maybe some rest will do you some good after you eat."

Rose frowned as she took a small bite of her food, "... You're right. Maybe I'm seeing things."

Rose's mother sighed softly, "That Prince Salem is a savior. Never speak ill of him again, you hear? Not in my house."

"Yeah, yeah... I won't."

- - -

No.

There was something wrong with that boy.

The next day in the square once more, the Prince was there. Staring again. Rose bit her cheek — this had to stop.

She walked forward to the boy, "You know staring is rude, my Prince..."

Salem stares at her quietly.

Listening.

Rose sighed, crossing her arms — growing irritated with this boy.

"If you don't stop staring, I'll—"

The color on her face drained as she slowly glanced behind her — eyes locked with someone staring right back at her from the crowd.

"There is someone following you." Salem spoke quietly, his eyes drifting to the right and back at her again, "He has been following you for a while."

Slowly looking back, Salem was gone. Rose stood by the square water fountain in silence. Feeling suddenly terrified. Quickly she gathered fruits and vegetables in her basket and head back home.

Every step she made, she could hear someone following her. If she stopped — they stopped. Oh, by the Oracle.

She was terrified.

Taking a deep breath, as she was about to turn she heard the man behind her suddenly scream. A bloodcurdling scream.

She did not want to turn around yet her body couldn't stop.

There was the Prince again, holding what looked to be the man's... hand.

The man was on the ground, his other hand clenched around his wrist — hand missing. Salem slowly looked back at Rose.

"You're safe now. He won't steal anymore."

After that, she ran back home and locked the door.

Rose did not speak ill of the Prince anymore. But the image of those glowing eyes in the night holding that man's cut hand was burned into her memory.

Since then, the crime rate in Isla went down — thieves and criminals feared the youngest prince and gave him a new name amongst themselves.

The Reaper.

Rosa was right; there was something wrong with that boy. But she didn't say a word and took it to her grave.

Salem was the Savior ; the Oracle to the people and the Reaper to the criminals.

All in all, he was feared by everyone in Isla.

[solopostings]

"The Princess wanted to meet with you." A maid spoke as she opened the door slightly. Senka bit her cheek as she placed her hand on her own stomach.

"Am I getting kicked out? Better not." The Glacian clicked her tongue as she went to sit back down.

The maid frowned, "I highly doubt her Highness would treat a mother to be so harshly... even saying such a thing sounds awful. Have faith." As the maid bowed and walked away, Senka sighed to herself.

Just great. She didn't want to meet with anyone else. She wanted peace and quiet.

"Knock knock." Zelda smiled and poked her head in the room, eyes locked on Senka. Walking in fully, she closed the door behind her.

"So... you are truly here, after all." Zelda spoke as she locked the door behind her. The Glacian's eyebrows furrowed, "Yeah. Been here for a while now. Thought Dima talked about it."

Looking closely at Zelda's earrings, Senka stood up, "Who are you? You are not Zelda. There is no way she would..."

"That was fast. Even faster than Dima..." Zelda snickered as she walked closer to a chair. Placing her hand down and hunched over. Red and black mist swirled around her, revealing a much taller, sickly looking man. He looked like death as he stood there, staring at Senka.

The older sibling's eyes widened at the horrific sight, "Ravii... what happened to you? Better yet, why are you pretending to be..."

"Shut up and just listen to me for a moment." Ravii's tone shifted, now speaking in their own Glacian tongue at last with her.

So others wouldn't understand if they were to listen from afar.

"I'm scared, Senka." Ravii's hand clutched the seat as he felt a wave of weakness hit him, "I'm in something deep that I cannot escape from. Ganondorf has me... he has me do his bidding, help bring him back, and sometimes I... sometimes..."

Ravii's eyes drew back to his free hand, shaking as he saw the mummy—like flesh on him hand. No longer what it used to be.

"... sometimes, I cannot control myself. It was his fault that Dima left. I almost killed him, and I couldn't stop. I could only watch."

Senka slowly sat back down on the bed. She felt ill just listening to his hoarseness. He truly dug himself a deep grave this time. The worst part was that Senka couldn't do anything but watch the horror play out.

"... Where is Dima's sword, Vii? If you can tell me, maybe we can kill Ganondorf and set you free."

Ravii's eyes widened, "No, no... don't kill him. Please..."

"What if it's the only way?"

"... He is my father, Senka. I couldn't let you."

Senka sighs as she shook her head. Looking away from the other, "Do you really think he loves you like a son? Look at yourself, you look like the definition for decay."

Not the time for jokes.

"... If he loved you, he wouldn't be doing this to you. And is sounds like you barely have any control to..." Senka's words faded as she looked down at the floor.

Malice like substance slowly spread from under Ravii's feet as he finally sat down on the chair. Resting his head on the back of the chair as he stared up at the ceiling.

Senka swallowed nervously as she moved more onto the bed, making sure to stay away from whatever that was.

Her gaze drew back to Ravii with a frown — he truly looked like he was dead on that chair. Her heart shattered looking at him.

That was her little brother.

And he was suffering —

Lost. Scared and confused.

And he came to her needing help once again... and she didn't know how to help him this time.

"Why are pretending to be Zelda, anyway? Did Ganondorf make you do it?"

Ravii didn't move as he listened to Senka, "Apart of it yes... but then I realized something..."

A small frown followed after his thought, "The way people look at me when I was her... the care and admiration. The respect and loyalty... I want it so badly from the people here."

Ravii closed his eyes, sighing, "Ever since I came here, I've been mocked. No matter what I did for the people here — I even saved lives, once. Yet... I still was hated. And do not get me started on the disrespect for us as the Goddesses' chosen."

Senka shook her head as she looked away, her hand rubbing her stomach for her own comfort, "... people here don't know who Din, Farore and Nayru are, Vii. Maybe it's better that way."

Ravii's bones snapped as he looked in her direction — a glare followed, "We deserve to be respected. Worshipped as the gods we are. This is why I'm doing this."

Slowly, he sat up with more bones snapping, his eyes still locked on Senka, "If they see Zelda as a complete menace, they will lose respect for her. They will loathe her... and we can finally have the spotlight of the better ones."

"That is wrong, Vii." Senka sighed, "How long will you do this? If you want to be saved, the first step is to stop doing his bidding."

"... what if I want this, too?"

Senka glanced at Ravii, disappointment in her expression, "No, you don't. Ganondorf wants this, you want to break free."

He clicked his tongue as he leaned back down against the chair, "I want... to rule this place and show them a real king. Not..." He paused, wincing as he closed his eyes.

The gloom began to spread around the room — avoiding Senka's bed and away from her.

Keeping her safe from it.

Ravii sighed. Falling silent in thought.

Finally, he spoke once more, "... The sword. I put the sword in deep down in Gerudo Desert's depths somewhere." Ravii's voice barely a whisper, "I cannot get it... it's far down... under a giant skeleton."

Senka nodded. Finally she had an idea of where Dima's sword was.

"... Thank you, Vii. Dima and I will think of something to help you."

"No..." Ravii slowly pointed at her, "You focus on those things."

... The triplets.

His hand trembled as it dropped to his side, "Don't. Don't do anything stupid for me."

The older Glacian gasped for a moment — slowly she smiled, "I wouldn't do anything stupid for you. You were always the stupid one."

The brother slowly smirked, "... I am the very stupid one, yes."

Slowly, he stood back up, and the gloom quickly moved back under Ravii's soles. Disappearing completely.

Taking a deep breath, he waved his hands and transformed back into Zelda.

It was back to work.

"I'll be checking on you more as this form..." Ravii walked to the door, unlocking it.

He spoke back in the typical Hylian language once again as he opened the door, "I'll be seeing you again, Senka. Please take care of yourself... and the little ones."

With a deep breath, "Zelda" walked back out into the hallway and shuts the door.

Senka watched quietly with a sigh. Frowning as her gaze drew back to where Ravii sat.

The image of how he looked now burned into her skull.

He looked... terrifying.

She had to find that sword somehow. But where to even start... she had no idea

[solopostings]

The Oracle of Isla.

- - -

"It's too soon." The King of Isla spoke as he peeked through the blinds. Watching his own youngest child twirling in the streets of the market.

His eyes glance back at his oldest, "Are you sure you saw him?"

"Yes. His eyes were orange for a moment. Ever since then, he has been acting strangely." Sahel spoke, swallowing nervously.

With the click of his tongue, the king moved away the blinds, putting his head into his hands. A groan followed.

Sahel watched quietly, trying not to be too obviously nervous.

The curse of being Zaquatis — the bloodline of Majora. Sometimes it was too much to control. For Sahel, it was wrathful. Luckily the gem on his circlet helped with the wrathful magic of Majora.

Layla and Valerie were never as bad. However, it awakened their magic abilities. Salem was still very young — too young. The youngest by far for a Zaquatis for their magic to awaken.

Or rather, for Majora's blood to take over.

"We need to make him a seal soon. Without scaring him, either..." The King sighed, running his hands down his face, "I need you and the other two to keep an eye on him. Don't lose sight of him."

Sahel nodded, rubbing his arm slightly, "How long will this seal take?" Not that it would be hard to watch their chaotic sibling... just the fear Salem has given him lately made the hair on the back of Sahel's neck stand.

"Three days." Sahel's father spoke from his throne, "... as it did for your gem and your sisters."

"That's a long time..." Sahel's eyes narrowed away — fear lacing his voice. A small sigh left the other as he stood up again.

"Just watch him. It'll go by fast."

"...Yes Sir."

- - -

"So, what did dad say?" Layla watched Sahel walk out as her arms were crossed.

"Three days... but this isn't normal, and he knows it." Sahel gritted his teeth, "just look at Salem. He was a quiet kid and now look at him."

The two older siblings fell silent, watching their younger brother spin around the market still, laughing to himself as water, sand, leaves, and other things fly around him as he spun on one foot. Controlling everything around him without even realizing it.

His eyes glowing a bright orange — just at they feared.

"Val even tried talking to him. She was totally ignored." Layla placed her hand on her hip, "Dad isn't taking this seriously."

"No, he isn't. That's the problem. If he isn't sealed soon, he could destroy Isla without even realizing it."

The two siblings paused again to watch Salem stop and glance at them. He smiled widely and made his way over.

The two older siblings sighed, Sahel even muttering, "Oh boy..." under his breath.

"Look what I can do..." The ten year old Zaquatis looked up at the sky and opened his arms.

Layla and Sahel shared glances at each other and snickered a bit, "Wow, so cool, Sal...."

"The moon!" A woman screamed immediately after, causing the older siblings to look up. The moon was larger than what it was supposed to be, a super moon during the day?

Salem giggles and looked back at the two, moving his hand as the moon moved along with it.

... Now blocking the sun.

"S-Salem..." Sahel looked down at the youngest sibling, "That is really neat! Could you put the moon back where it belongs, please?"

"No." Salem glared back at Sahel and ran from them.

The people all walked outside, gasping and pointing at the moon that was blocking out the sun. Casting a shadow over the kingdom.

The King walked out of the castle, looking up at the sky — this was worse than he thought after all. Looking down at Layla and Sahel, there was fear in his eyes.

"Find him." The King ordered as he waved his arm.

Screams were heard as skeleton hands were coming from the ground, grabbing people's ankles. Dragging them down.

Magic was casted immediately by the Islean magicians — protectors of Isla. Destroying the hands coming from the ground. One thing after another — Salem's magic was out of control.

Three days wasn't fast enough.

Within an hour of the moon covering the sun, the dead walked amongst the living. The magician soldiers surrounded the kingdom to protect the people.

Even warriors from Harkos were called to help with this mess. The King was truly... embarrassed yet covered this up with a strange phenomenon.

He couldn't tell the public his own son was Majora reborn, could he?

For three days, Isla was outrun by the dead and the ever lasting eclipse.

The seal was done, however. The Zaquatis family feared even a usual gem was not strong enough to keep Majora at bay.

Sahel drew a circle on the ground with white paint as one of the strongest magic users in their army drew in the sealing symbols. They had to work as fast as they could.

Layla and Valerie came in with Salem, holding his hands. Trying to act as normal and calm as they could. Wearing a circlet on his forehead. Proud and happy — just like his siblings at last.

Tricking him into thinking it was just a game.

"Bet you can't go in that circle, Salem." Valerie pointed at the circle of the ground, Salem immediately ran in.

As he was about to speak, a wave a shock entered his whole body, causing him to scream loudly. Shaking the entire castle — the chandeliers swayed back and forth violently. Paintings on the walls fell, vases and statues tumbled over, breaking upon impact.

People covered their ears, clenching their teeth.

"Now!" The King yelled as multiple sorcerers warped around Salem, all saying a spell at the same time.

"Let me out!" Salem screeches as he slammed his fists against the walls of the strong magic.

The entire kingdom began to shake now as the moon began to drop towards Isla.

"We are running out of time. Can this go faster?" Valerie screamed as she looked outside and pointed at the sky.

"We are going to die aren't we?" Layla looked outside, tears running down her face, "I am too young to!"

"Everyone remain calm." Their father spoke, waving his hand, "We will make it, don't doubt."

When the spell was finished, a green mist flowed around the screaming child. He fell silent.

The shaking stopped.

The moon suddenly halted.

The entire kingdom fell dead silent watching the sky now.

Sweat dripped down the King's brow as his eyes were locked on the magic barrier.

The sorcerers all took a step back as the barrier shattered. There stood Salem ; eyes bright green as he quietly walked past everyone.

... Walking towards the window.

Everyone watched quietly as the child poked his head out the window. He held out his hand, waving it gently.

The same green mist from before surrounded the moon, pushing it back further into the sky. Back where it was meant to be.

The dead that was walking around all screeched, turning into dust as the sun burned them with ease.

The sun shined down back upon the kingdom of Isla and the entire kingdom cheered as they looked up at the small boy from the window.

"The savior!"

"He is an oracle! A blessing!"

Salem slowly turned around — quiet again. Just as he was before.

Everyone in the room froze. Fear? Amazement? A mixture. He was more powerful than everyone in the room.

"Hey, Sal...?" Layla finally spoke, "Are you feeling alright?"

Salem nodded as he walked to the door, "... can I go see the swans now?"

Layla glanced at their father, who was still speechless from what he had just witnessed.

"... of course, Salem. Just come back here before dark..."

The child smiled and ran outside, meeting up with a thankful crowd.

That was the day he was crowned as their Oracle — their Savior.

[solopostings]

The Seal to the Depths.

- - -

Disregarding the suspicious staring as he walked into the training ground, Salem kept to himself. Knights all stopped and glanced at the Zaquatis as he made his way to the altar made in the fallen Captain's honor.

A knight was already kneeling down by it when the Islean quietly walked over. The other slowly stood up, wiping their eyes.

Noticing the other, he quickly cleared his throat. Standing proper once more, "Paying respects to him?" The knight smiled slightly at Salem, "We don't allow others here, but... if you knew him..."

"I did, yes." Salem smiled very faintly with a nod, "I came here to pay my respects." A light hum as he placed his hands behind his back, his eye narrowing down at the altar.

Looking for Dima's belongings.

"He was my Captain... the first one who believed in me when bringing me out of the ranch." The knight rubbed the back of his neck.

"I just wish... He would have told us where he was going, you know?" The young brunette swallowed nervously, his voice lowering. Covering a sob that was creeping in.

Salem frowned as he listened — Dima was a part of the Glacian army. Deep down, he shouldn't have cared. He should not have even bothered. Salem should be celebrating the death of the Glacian's Sword now dead.

... He couldn't.

This was the second time he had to look down at an altar made for a Zephir. This time it was not by his own hands as last time from his own family's orders.

Taking a deep breath, he looked at the knight.

"Do you have anything that was Dima's? Perhaps a sword he used, a charm of some sort... anything at all?" His blue hues slowly drawing to the knight beside him.

The other tilting his head in thought, slowly looking back down at the many swords and flowers set there. He pointed at one sword neatly placed above the picture of Dima.

"That was his sword that he used for training us."

Salem's head narrowed down.

Excellent — that was all he needed.

"... what is your name?" Salem hummed, smiling slightly once more.

"Sash Lyle, sir." Sash replied, "I come from the ranch nearby here... it's not hard to miss."

"Ah... so that's your home." Salem smiled brightly, "My name is Salem... and I come here to tell you a little secret, if you can keep it that is."

The Islean placed his finger over his mouth with a resting smile, "If you hand me that sword of Dima's... I can perhaps find and bring Dima back."

Sash blinked in silence. His eyes draw to Dima's picture again — his heart aching. It wasn't possible to bring him back if he was dead, was it?

No.

It wasn't.

Sash swallowed nervously as he drew his brown eyes back to Salem.

"What do you mean by bringing him back...?" Sash crossed his arms.

Salem shrugged his shoulders as his attention was drawn to Dima's sword, "I just need an item that his soul is drawn to to find him. I am... a bit of a magician, you see."

He waves his hands slightly, a spark of green light dancing around his hand turning into mist. Sash's eyes widened as it fades away.

"... I came here to bring him back. His death was not justified — he deserves another chance."

Sash looked around, biting his cheek, "... take the sword if you promise to bring him back."

Salem places his hand over his chest, holding his head down, "I promise with my life I can bring your Captain back."

Sash takes a deep breath. His hands trembled as he took the sword that was wrapped with cloth to Salem.

Sash looked at Salem with pleading eyes.

Salem understood — with a nod, he took the sword gently from the knight. A gentle smile followed.

"Thank you, Sash. I promise to return the sword and your Captain."

"... please. We need him back." Sash nodded slowly as he turned away from both the altar and the other. Quickly walking back to his room.

Watching the knight leave for a moment, Salem slowly looked down at the sword. Taking a deep breath, he exhales.

He had work to do.

- - -

Humming to himself — the Islean placed the sword on the ground in the middle of a circle. Strange signs drawn around it from his own Islean language — a spell to find him and bring him back to the realm of the living.

Salem drew the letters with the heel of his boot. This was not the first time he had done this. It became second nature to bring the dead to life once again.

Singing a bit now, the circle began to glow as Dima's sword gently levitates into the air. Slowly the cloth began to unravel itself, showing the blade.

The blade turned straight up and slammed back down to the ground — stabbing the middle of the seal on the ground.

Opening the door to the depths where Dima was frozen in time.

Salem took a deep breath, his hand turning a bright green as he waved his hand. Walking towards the portal, he looked down.

Salem grinned widely.

There he was — Dima's haunting form floating on top of a rock with a claymore gently floating above his hands. His soul locked in place — frozen to stay like this forevermore.

Usually souls did not keep their forms unless they were clinging onto something even after death. Dima's soul was determined for something — clinging onto what looked to be that claymore.

Fighting to stay alive — his soul couldn't rest.

Salem kneeled down, reaching out to Dima with his glowing green hand.

"Dima... it is not your time." Salem spoke, "You have a job to do and you know it..."

His hand hovered close to Dima's face. The glow of the necromancer's hand slightly lighting up Dima's frozen expression of what looked to be...

... sadness. guilt. regret.

"Wake up, Dima. It's time to come back home." Salem reached futher, his hand going through the ghostly presence as he grabbed something within the knight.

Touching his soul — Dima's eyes widened with a loud gasp. Without any control, one hand gripping the claymore.

The other hand grabbed Salem's hand as he dragged him back to the surface.

As Salem pulled the Zephir out of the Depths, Dima falls to his knees. Breathing deeply. His eyes locked to the dirt below him.

Salem slowly stood up, dusting his hands with a smile, "Welcome back, Dima. You were missed."

Dima slowly glanced at Salem, his heart racing quickly —— Salem was an enemy. That was what he was supposed to be...

...

"... why did you save me?" Dima whispered under his breath. His throat was dry — he couldn't remember the last time he spoke. How long was he wandering around down there?

"Because I wanted to." The Zaquatis hummed, "I am not chained by my brother's rules anymore. I am not an enemy... I do things by my own rules."

Dima glanced away, "... You're not any trouble for the Dominis?"

Salem chuckled slightly, covering his mouth with his hand, "Well, most. Ravii is still out there being quite the menace. He is stuck on a bad path..."

Dima shook his head, looking back down at the dirt below him, "I have to save him. It's my duty to..."

Salem snapped his fingers — there it was. His reasoning to why he stayed in his own silhouette as a ghost.

"You alone cannot save him. No matter what you do or say... cannot save Ravii. He has to break free himself... but we all know he would never stray far from Ganondorf."

Salem sighed as he started to dust away the drawn seal on the ground with he boots, still talking, "People need you, Dima. Your disappearance took a toll on those knights. See for yourself the tribute they put up..."

Salem pauses, picking up the sword that was given. He hands it to Dima, "... go back there, Dima. They need you."

Dima slowly nodded, standing back up with a wobble as he took the sword.

Placing it to his side. The claymore on his back. Before he made his way back to the castle, he turned back to Salem.

"... thank you. For bringing me back."

Salem smiles, a light laugh that echoed around them followed, "Of course. No need to thank me."

Dima's eyes scanned Salem one last time. Turning around, Dima ran straight for Hyrule Castle

[solopostings]

The Phantom and the Oracle.

( cw. death, violence. the with these two.)

- - -

Taking a breather, Valerian sits down under a tree. Far from the crowds, far from that blasted citadel. Far from that monster who stole his precious jewel.

Rubbing his face he felt... odd. This was his real self. He felt exposed — violated. He hated not being able to use his magic anymore.

He felt regret even attempting to kill Ravii in the first place.

"Finally some peace and ..." Valerian pauses as he looks at the sky. The clouds began to move quickly across the sky. His skin started to crawl.

  He has seen this before.

    He has felt this before.

Valerian stood up fast, his panic rocketing.

"S-Salem..." Valerian called out, "Is that you?"

The sky turned a blood red. The clouds turned black.

Salem slowly walked beside Valerian, looking up at the sky, his brows furrowed.

"No... this isn't me. I'm not too fond of red skies..." Salem rubs his chin as he studies the sky.

Valerian's eyes widened as he tugged on Salem's sleeve frantically. Sighing, Salem shook his head.

"Valerian... I can't focus while you...Hm?" Salem glances at Valerian cowering as he pointed over at a hill far from them.

Looking ahead, Salem glances at a tall, red figure in the distance as something black and red spreads down the hill.

   How did... did he not sense this person so close?

"It's... it's him." Valerian fell backward, crawling away from pure fear clear on his face.

Salem turned back at the figure on top of the hill. Squinting, it made sense. The long red hair, the glowing circlet... yet, he was much taller. Taking a form that wasn't his own.

The power of Valerian's magic must have taken effect.

"What a form he has taken... such a vile form." Salem frowned as he watched Ravii raise his hand up, forming a bow within his hand.

"Run, Valerian. I'll take care of him..." Salem swayed his hand, smiling at Valerian.

"No." Valerian grabbed Salem's arm, his eyes wide, "You need to run too. You have to."

Salem shook his head, gently moving Valerian's hand from his arm, "I can handle this..."

Valerian gasped as the malice drew closer, he knew what was going to happen. Before he could speak, hands came out of the malice quickly.

The hands shrieked loudly and grabbed Salem's arms. Valerian screamed, scrambling onto his feet and ran off — leaving Salem behind.

Salem clenched his teeth, struggling to get the hand to let go. Another hand grabbed his other arm as the two slammed him against the tree — pinning him against it.

Ravii drew his bow from the hilltop, slowly aiming for Salem.

"Ravii...I don't know what is going on, but I can help you." Salem yelled, a sudden wave of weakness hit him.

  Were the hands... draining his life force?

Ravii let go. An arrow flew right over Salem's head, sticking into the tree deeply.

  The Zaquatis looked back at Ravii, "Let me just —"

As he goes to speak, Ravii shot another arrow. This time it struck Salem's shoulder. Salem winced, clenching his teeth as tears started to form.

He wasn't very good with pain. Not like this.

"Come over here and let me speak to you face to face, Ravii!"

Ravii lowered the bow. Within a moment, he vanished into black and red smoke. It quickly rushed towards Salem — the smoke stops, and Ravii reappeared.

Salem's head slowly tilted up as he looked at Ravii's new form he has taken. Now that he was much closer, he was thinner. Sickly. The same color as the strange substance spreading all over. Glancing down, he saw it was coming from him.

As his eyes drew back up, he saw a bracelet that was all too familiar around Ravii's wrist. Salem's heart dropped— that was Akari's.

   His cloaking spell...

"Where did you get that bracelet?" Salem's usual kind tone faded. His reasoning to help Ravii ended at that moment.

"Ravii, you steal my brother's gem... but that wasn't enough, was it?"

Ravii cackled as he gripped Salem's throat, "She gave it to me, Salem."

Another wince from the Zaquatis followed.

"She was kind enough to let me in your home. I truly love that painting of the crimson lake... the blood moon."

He felt sick as his heart sunk deeper and deeper. He was supposed to protect her from harm — that is why he put that protection spell in the first place.

The gloom hands gripped Salem's arms tighter, almost to the point of breaking them.

"I'll make sure Akari is safe..." Ravii took the arrow that was over Salem's head, pulling it out. Slowly he placed the arrowhead against the jewel on Salem's forehead with his free hand.

"... I'll keep an eye on her." Ravii slowly shifted into Salem, smiling back wickedly, "It will be like you never left at all..."

His voice was almost as Salem's. Slightly more eerie— something wrong. He was not as good as Valerian could ever be. The exact copy.

Ravii, however, his tone was off. It would be easy to place something strange.

Salem took a deep breath, "Stay away from her."

Without any hesitation, Ravii slams the arrow against Salem's gem on his forehead, shattering it.

Shifting back into his normal, phantom form.

Salem just looked back at Ravii. A small smile on his face as he felt blood slowly roll down his forehead.

"Why are you smiling? You're going to die here." Ravii clenched his teeth as he wrapped his hand around the Zaquatis' throat once again. The smile irritating him — angering him further.

Salem chuckled under his breath, sucking air through his teeth. The sting of the arrow lodged in his forehead hurt. However, Salem did not let Ravii take this as a win.

No.

Now, it was Salem's turn to shine.

Green mist began to flow from the gem as it swirled around the arrow. His hands clenched into fists as he let out another laugh.

Ravii stood his guard — he knew how the Zaquatis worded. All illusions. Nothing more but a silly magic trick.

That was... Until Salem leans forward.

His hands turned into the green mist all around. His screech pierced Ravii's ears. Making the phantom let go of the other to cover his ears.

The hands from the gloom tried to grip tighter ; however, Salem's form turned into mist with one last screech. His clothes gently fell onto the ground along with his broken circlet.

Slowly, Ravii knelt down and picked up the broken circlet first. Looking at it closer. As his eyes narrowed down, it looked like... he evaporated.

"... it's finally over." The Glacian spoke under his breath — at last. The Zaquatis were all gone.

For the most part. Valerian and Layla were the last two. Easy to take down.

Nodding his head, the hands sunk back down into the gloom on the ground on command.

       "I found you."

Ravii spun around at the whisper behind his back. Chills ran down his spine — he didn't have enough time to react.

White, rotting hands suddenly grabbed his ankles, dragging him down into the ground. Ravii screamed as he clawed the ground, trying to pull himself up from the grip of the other hands.

Those were not the ones he had control of. The ones dragging him down were rotting flesh — the living dead.

More of the dead hands grabbed Ravii, pulling him down underground. As he held out his own hand for something — someone to help him — it was too late.

It was dark.

So dark —

- - -

Upon waking, it was... bright.

    Too bright.

Ravii squinted his eyes as he let up his arm to block the bright sunlight.

Looking around, he was in a grassy field. Gentle wind blew, swaying the grass ever so slightly. In the middle of this field was a large tree.

  He swore he was dragged down...

     ... how did he get here?

"Hey!" Ravii yelled as he decided to walk to the tree. It was quiet here. Not another soul around.

He had no reach to the hands that helped him. Gloom did not spread from his feet — looking down, he noticed his hands.

Clenching them and loosening the grip... he was healthy again. Was this a dream? Taking a deep breath, he sighed.

He needed to get out of here. This wasn't a good sign — he knows what he saw drag him down.

  The deadhands from...

"Salem! I know you are out there somewhere." Ravii clicked his tongue as he finally reached the lone, giant tree. Sitting under it to get out of the sun, he looked around.

There was no houses. No other trees. No animals. Not even a castle in the distance. Just this one tree, a grassy field and a clear sky.

It was almost... too peaceful.

Ravii gasped; a dreadful thought in his head,

"...did I die?"

He fell silent — this place was too peaceful. A heavenly place.

  He couldn't have...?

Shaking the thought away, he stood up again.

"I can not stay here, I have a job to do...Hm?" A pause, seeing something in the distance. One thing led to another. People moving strangely on the horizon.

Slowly Ravii stood up, squinting at who they could be.

  His face went pale as he saw who they were.

The suits of armor were his own soldiers that were killed many years ago. As the sudden chills came back, Ravii backed up against the tree. Fear taking over again.

The skies suddenly shifted, turning into a purple and green mix. The familiar green mist surrounding him.

In front of him appeared Salem. His eyes were wide open ; they glew an orange and red color in the dark. Far different from the usual green Ravii was used to.

"They came back for their king..." Salem spun around, light on his feet. Appearing behind Ravii, grabbing his shoulders. Leaning close to Ravii's ear, "They are angry with you. Leaving them here to rot..."

The Glacian turned around and shoved Salem out of the way, "Why won't you die? I thought I killed you!"

Hitting his back against the tree, Salem just sprung back closer to Ravii's face, tilting his head.

... Staring at him.

He lunges forward with a laugh as he grabs the Glacian and swings around with him. Letting him go to slam hard against the tree again.

Ravii clenched his teeth as he slowly got back up. His energy was weakening quickly as before — however this wasn't ... this wasn't his sickness.

It was the world he was in.

This was Salem's Realm.

"What do you want? You want me dead, is that it?" Ravii leaned against the tree, glaring at the other.

Salem giggled, covering his mouth, "You are already dead, Ravii."

The Glacian swallowed nervously, "You're lying."

Salem floated a bit from the ground, crossing his arms and legs as if sitting in mid-air. The Zaquatis shrugs with another giggle — it echoed in this realm.

"I never lie. That was something I couldn't do and still can't."

Ravii was taken aback. There was no way... Salem killed him, was there?

"Now that you are here..." Salem snapped his finger, a scythe appeared in his grasp as he landed back on his feet.

"I am taking your hands. You stole Akari's bracelet, Valerian's gem, and Sahel's life..." Without a second to think it over, Salem ran towards Ravii. Swinging the scythe towards him.

Ravii drew out his sword, stopping the scythe's blade inches from his own head.

"Salem, what is wrong with you?" Ravii clenched his teeth, struggling to keep the sword up.

  He felt so... weak here.

"I am free!" The other spoke, leaning his weight against the scythe. The closer he got, the more Ravii looked at the eyes again.

  Those eyes... they were so still.

He didn't blink once.

"I almost forgot what I can do when I'm free. I have to thank you for breaking that seal, by the way..." Salem smiled as he jumped back and swung the scythe again towards the Glacian — cutting a bit of his arm.

The emerald bracelet drops onto the ground with the slice.

Salem hums as he walks over to pick it up. As he placed it in his pocket, he smiled widely at Ravii.

"That's one thing back, now..." Salem glances at Ravii's forehead.

The Glacian followed Salem's eyes, looking up at... oh.

Ravii immediately held up his sword ready to perry any attack that was given. Salem, however, stood still.

  Salem just stared at Ravii. Quietly.

"Come on! Attack me!" Ravii screamed — the nerves getting under his skin.

"Okay." Salem rushed towards Ravii once more, scythe in hand, and swung hard again. As Ravii blocked with his sword, the power of the force given made him fall backward.

Salem slammed his foot against Ravii's chest, holding the scythe up in the air.

  The eyes glowing in the darkness...

"Majora—" a voice spoke, Salem's stare drifted to the side as they spoke. Freezing in place.

"We found Sahel and even... Dima. They are in a strange place underneath the surface. They are souls frozen in place."

Salem's head tilted back down to Ravii, "You've been playing with souls too, it seems. That's interesting."

The Glacian glanced at the one speaking, a tall, red haired man. His throat went dry.

Dead man walking — the old king of Glacia ; working for ...

Glancing around, all the soldiers were around them.

   Watching them.

His old army he sent to die in their last war. In front of them was his mother as well. Staring back at him with unfamiliarity. His father beside him — not even paying any mind that Salem was about to kill his own son.

Ravii's teeth clenched. Salem was the one who did it. He ended their lives to puppet them around.

  Those damn Zaquatis —

Anger bubbled down as he felt his power return to him again. Gripping Salem's ankle, he pulled him to the side, rolling over him to aim his blade to the other's throat.

"Oh, look at that, you moved." Salem laughed as he looked back at Ravii, "Try it. You cannot do a thing in my realm."

The Glacian just clicked his tongue, leaning down again, "Bring me back to the surface."

"And be Ganondorf's puppet? I know what you've been up to..." Salem hums, "You willingly give him your body and soul to control. You never fight back."

He points at Ravii, showing a green like flame that is floating beside them. Wrapped by something that looks like a hand gripping at it.

"Your soul is bound to him. I can break it..." Salem reached his hand close to Ravii's soul.

The Glacian's eyes widened and slammed his sword against the other's hand — cutting it right off.

Salem's head turns back to Ravii, giggling again, "My, you truly are dedicated. I cannot save you from him, then."

White hands grab Ravii once again, dragging him off of Salem — he kicks and fights them off as best he can. Salem holds up his arm, watching as mist forms his hand that was just chopped off. Moving his fingers.

Crossing his arms and legs again, he sits in mid-air, "I know where you hid my brother. I have no use for you anymore... but I will come back to get that gem from your forehead eventually."

Since that bracelet was back in Salem's hand... That cloaking spell was now back in his possession. Back to protecting his home.

"When I take you back, you will be a slave to that man time and time again. You do know this, yes?"

Bound like the Hero and Princess are to the servant of Demise. He, too, was bound to Ganondorf as his warrior — his accomplice.

   A curse.

"He is my father. I made him a promise." Ravii spoke hoarse, he felt his body weakening again. Back to what he was used to.

Salem's eyes stared back at him.

  His expression cold.

"Then suffer time and time again. I will always be watching you." Salem flicked the green flame in the air back towards Ravii. The soul returning to him.

"I have work to do.... and if I see you near Akari again..." Salem tilted his head, "I will drag that blood moon you love so much down to crush you and your father for good."

The Blood Moon slowly appeared in the sky, coming closer down at a quick rate.

Ravii's heart beated quick in his chest as he witnessed the moon crash down.

Closing his eyes, he felt the weight of the moon crushing him and heard the scream of Ganondorf in pain.

Opening his eyes, he slowly sat up back on the surface. The gloom hands scream from joy to see him awake.

Ravii rolled over, gasping for air — the feeling of the moon crushed on him still lingering.

He was alive.

  He was alive.

He had to keep reminding himself that.

Salem walked beside Ravii. His gem was fixed — eyes were normal again.

The Zaquatis just smiled with a shrug. The same giggle from the other realm left him as he walked away in green mist.

Disappearing from the area.

... That was a sign for Ravii to leave, too. Walking back towards the citadel. Gloom under his soles again and the hands by his side.

Thanking his blessings that he was spared by Death.

As he was meant to be, the Phantom of Ganon.