#Little Evil Manta

[tampire]

The Evil Manta’s first and last appearance in The Little Mermaid Series

[dim-draws]

Characters from the 90s "The Little Mermaid" tv series!!! <3

Gabriella & Ollie, Pearl, Urchin, Prince Thor and the Evil Manta!

Email me at dimitrigr35@gmail.com to get your commission sketch!! <3

[misterbaritone]

Aquaman 2 is like… Thor Ragnarok crossed with a Step Brothers/Rush Hour fusion spliced with the first Aquaman movie. Could’ve been worse but it could’ve been a lot better too. Solid 7/10. 6/10 on its worst day.

[princess-ibri]

What is your opinion of The Evil Manta from the Little Mermaid tv series as a villain?

Well, part of me goes " Heck Yeah Tim Curry :D!"

And part of me goes "You know for an eldritch monster his plan is kinda really basic, and the episode with his son really brings down any menace he had"

And part of me goes "OH MY GOSH TRITON ARIEL SAVES ATLANTICA ON A WEEKLY BASIS FROM INVASIONS AND DISEASE AND ELDRITCH DEMON MANTAS OF LEGEND LET HER GO TO THE FREAKIN' SURFACE!"

😅😅😅

Soooo I think in my DisneyVerse there was an 'Evil Manta' who was like an ocean demon and actually as terrible as they made him out to be, but was defeated at some point and no longer exists

Basically the mood evoked in this shot of him being this giant being, brooding over the city, Chernabog like is what I'd like to go for

(I actually did have the thought at one point that the OG Sea Witch from my version of the OG Little Mermaid story that takes place in Atlantica's past was related to the Evil Manta, as she has a manta design, and I may still keep that)

[harrierttv]

I just watched ever single episode of the Little Mermaid series with a friend, and let me tell you when we simped *hard* for this villian. His name is Evil Manta, and the little tike at the bottom is his son Little Evil.

Now this isn’t to say I don’t love his design, but obviously it had to be simpler so it was easier to animate, so my friend and I took it upon ourselves to redesign him~

Let me know if you remember this guy! Cause I swear all of the Disney villains were a 1000 times more recognisable than the protagonists, I mean what about an evil manta ray, who’s voiced by Tim Curry, doesn’t demand a rent free room on the brain? 

[celaenaeiln]

.

.

.

Really, Dick? You want to know why?

I just love how much fun he has with his opponents. Dick, that man literally just threw you overboard, tied up, and ready to be eaten by sharks. He will slice your guts open and leave you screaming in pain if he catches you, and you're playing "hop scotch" with him??

You can't kick people in the ass and then tell them that they're being rude 🤣🤣🤣

Three on one sword fighting with unrestrained glee on his face

These comics, every single one, make me so happy to read.

He's clicking his tongue at someone far older them!

"f"

Black Manta just became fish flounder for Robin.

SOLID BURN. That's a heatstroke actually.

If I were a Gotham villain, I wouldn't care about being evil anymore. I would care more about this giggling little shit who barely comes up to my hip who just decked me and mocked my outfit I spent 7 months designing.

I can't post a Robin Dick post without including the Joker of course. "A smash-hit". I'll never un-hear this now.

[corspepointvision]

A New Pelle Interview from Death Power!!! From DeadFromMayhem.ru Dark Hel

Interview with Dead, done by Scottis Kriss-Toff.

LITTLE STORY ?

It’s always the same hard to give a brief history and to shrunk down about 6 years. So, I tell of the line-up of MAYHEM. After that MANIAC (ex-vocalist) and MANHEIM (ex-drums) left (straight after the recording of "DEATHCRUSH"), I joined MAYHEM in the early spring 1988 and HELLHAMMER joined about a month later. We’ve got terribly hassles with rehearsal places, somewhere to live, money, etc etc... But we don’t feel for give up only to continue when the band is the reason of our existence.(We would be dead without MAYHEM, eh ! ! !) We’re still trying to get enough of material together for the L.P. We do only songs that will last for years, not the shit songs that becomes a short-time trends,...I hate trends !

STYLE ?

We’re a Black Metal band!!

INSPIRATION ?

We're trying not to copy other styles, but every band has got inspirations even if they don’t think so by themselves. We’re still VENOM Heads (old VENOM of course) and VENOM created the music. I’ve got personal influences by different singers of course and to mention some: MANTAS/early DEATH, SARCOFAGO, POISON (german of course), PARABELLUM (the first demo) and early SEPULTURA.

PRODUCTION ?

By all these years, it has not been much of discocraphy.There have been "PURE FUCKING ARMAGEDDON" in 1986 limited to 100 copies, DEATHCRUSH in 1987, our second demo, our mini-L.P. DEATHCRUSH in 1987 limited to 1000 copies + some rehearsals tapes given out by MANIAC’s "MANIAC PROD".

ACTUAL LINE-UP ?

-DEAD (but still not buried) (vocals)

-EURONYMOUS (greek name for prince of death) (lead guitar)

-NECROBUTCHER (bass)

-HELLHAMMER (drums)

ACTIVITIES OUT OF THE BAND ?

-DEAD : immigrate to Transylvania, castle mania, cut deeply in myself and others, torture humans and animals.

-EURONYMOUS : dangerous expriments with chemicals, weird science.

-NECROBUTCHER : guru and pot-smooker.

-HELLHAMMER : hellish drunks always and then sings sailor songs.

REASONS OF THE NAME MAYHEM ?

It sound cruel enough we think. But as the most people who’re reading this now, there has been lots of other "MAYHEMS" all over the world, but we were the first ! The name is from 1982 when EURONYMOUS had a band then.

CAN YOU SPEAK ME ABOUT YOUR LYRICS ?

At "PURE FUCKING ARMAGEDDON" the lyrics were pretty VENOM clones. "DEATHCRUSH" had more slaughter, insanity, Eating corpses style over it. As for the new ones, I make them far and I’m possessed of transylvanian legends and its castles, satanic coven meetings, black art and nice animals as vultures, bats and goats. So that, I write of Evil ! I’m inspired by evil in everything I do. When I make a drawing, it’s to express evil, when I talk, when I dream, when I’m thinking... and when I create lyrics.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IF I TELL YOU THE FOLLOWING WORDS ?

Alcohol : Nothing left. Drug : Against. Cigarette : No smoking. Sexe : Violence and death. Politic : Crap! Religion : Evil, ancient, Satanic! Money : Broke always... A.I.D.S. : Marcin Wawreynzak (of "ETERNAL TORMENT"). Torture : Nice to do. Noise : Children’s bands!!! Dream (hope) : Transylvania, Immortality. Death : Peace. Life : Stupid mortals! Rain : By the night. Wind : In the dark forest. Thunder : At the darkened sky. Evil : Evil weather, castle. NAPALM DEATH : Trend! Earth : No hope. Wizard : Black arts. The end : Crossover, straight edge and Grind. You : The superstitious mortals in Transylvania’s dreams came true...

YOUR TEN FAVORITS BANDS ?

(this is not in order) PARABELLUM (R.I.P.) from Colombia, SARCOFAGO from Brazil, MASACRE from Colombia, DEATHPEED (R.I.P.) from Japan, POISON (R.I.P.) from Germany, DAMNATION (R.I.P.) from Canada, TORMENTOR from Hungary, IMPERATOR from Poland, GROTESQUE from SWEDEN, REENCARNACTION from Colombia.

Do you know MAYHEM, the MAYHEM from U.S.A. ? What do you think about what they do.

I hate them !!! How can a records company releases such crap, even if they are a commercial label !?! We gave out our mini-L.P. "DEATHCRUSH" a half year before they released their excrement compilation ! I suppose you’ve heard the Brazilian MAYHEM (?). They’re now splitted up but that was at least a Death Metal band and I liked their music. There has been also other MAYHEM’s in the history but they don’t exist no longer. I know of two other still existing MAYHEM’s : from Hungary and from Uruguay.

HAVE YOU ALWAYS PLAYED IN DEATH/BLACK/EVIL/ FROM THE DOOM BANDS ?

The two bands I’ve singing in are MORBID and MAYHEM, the both of them are Black Metal.

WHY DID YOU LEAVE MORBID ?

‘Cause the original guitarist of the line-up left the band and the others didn’t know if they wanted to continue like before and to remain a dirty and a Black/Satanic band. There had been too many hassles of the gigs and between the members, so, after my opinion, that band didn’t exist after the first demo "DECEMBER MOON". Later, they recorded a second demo with another line-up, new logo and completly different style than before. Something I think I have to add here is that we’re thinking of having one, just one more MORBID gig of the old style as MORBID was (and also should be) and we also think of the finish song "DEATH EXECUTION" that the "DECEMBER MOON" ends with (on the demo it’s only the la-la version slowly of the refrain and the opening riff). It was a whole song but a not finished such coz we were changing it the time during MORBID’s existence and then, have one or two more songs and then, give it out as a demo… some dark day.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT WHITE METAL (METAL FOR THE BIBLE, METAL FOR JESUS) ?

First of all, I don’t think it’s Metal. Then, I think as long as it can be called Metal it comes originally from VENOM… Even if there is Grindcore, fun-noise, straight edge-anti-everything or yucky white metal. To me, only Black is true and only death is real !!!

THEY ALWAYS SAY THEY WANTS TO MAKE GIGS WITH BANDS LIKE VENOM OR SLAYER. WOULD YOU LIKE TO MAKE A GIG WITH STRYPER, VENGEANCE OR HOLY SOLDIERS ? WHY ?

It seems like the white « bands » believe Black Metal is only for fun… We’re a serious black band. We take this mortually serious! The « white » bands don’t deserve to exist.

HAVE YOU EVER HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE CHURCH OR ANYONE WHO FOLLOWS A RELIGION ?

Well, the chritians, new-boru christians, the mormons, hare-krishnas, Jehovas witnesses and more have tried lots of their methods of turn me into it, without success of course. The most of them, especially the christians and fanaticals but do not believe in it cos so many of them have been forced by their parents and their family to « believe » and, after that, they’re going out trying to make others join them… of the more limited believers who chose it by themselves and have got a belief in it, I use to scare them up (and to them it works almost every time) most of the cases. The all I have to do is to talk with them and they’re getting corpse pale in their faces and then realize I’m lost and impossible to turn over. One guy even tried an exorcism on me......

WHAT DO YOUR MOTHER THINK ABOUT MAYHEM ?

She (and also my dad) thinks it’s good for me that I’m in a band, so I don’t start with something stupid instead. It’s hell a work to play in a band, whatever someone might think. Only the letter writing is a full-day job. What she do not like is when I sometimes gets ideas of cutting myself up and when I lived at my parents home, none of them liked when I had parts of animals in my room (from some animals they used to start to rot already at the second day).

CAN YOU SAY A FEW WORDS ABOUT THE SONG « BURIED BY TIME AND DUST »

Not the best lyrics I’ve done.

YOU SEEM TO LIKE BLACK SIDES OF THINGS, WHY ?

It simply is my way of thinking. The only that feels as the possible right to me. I search for the Evil and Black in all matters and I don’t give a dawn of what others are saying of that !

WHAT IS OCCULTISM FOR YOU ?

It sounds too mystical only, to me... I’m into the pure Evil and right on Black ! But with that I don’t mean I’m a great sorcerer. I mean of a though and a style of living.

I just don’t really know why I’ve hated all the fucking christans the whole life of mine and I’d search for the Evil darkness. I totally ignore those who are telling me I sicking my head I better go to hospital. Occult can be just anything that people think sounds strange to them. There is no actual limits of what is the occult… Yes mystic, it can be anything from practice. After my opinion, that word occult doesn’t say anything !

IF i TELL YOU "SATAN",WOULD YOU LIKE 95% OF THE TRASHERS, RUNNING AWAY DO A STRANGE FACE, SHIT ON YOURSELF, SAY "NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NOT SATAN",AND GET ANGRY AFTER HAVING CALLED YOUR MOTHER ? WHY ?

Of course, I won’t run nor put shit on you. Mainstream people of clone bands used to fuck with the very few existing anti trend Black Metal bands when crossover-straight-edge-vegetarians ruled the trends… then grindcore was "in" and people used to refuse listen to anythong else than NAPALM DEATH, and so on... It’s not actually NAPALM DEATH who created this awful fashion actually, it was the children who then had to try playing fast. How I hated all the demos with hundred of second-sings and lyrics talking of how many animals that get killed coz of hamburgers and do not vegetables either coz they’re also living. AAAAARRGH !!! As what happens sooner or later with all trends they’re vanishing completly and everybody forget about it really fast. Even Death Metal became trend. At least, it’s on its way. So, what did happen to all the "important" lyrics bands that blamed all the others for not been "in". Did they went designing new fashions that everyone had to follow ? Hell no ! AAAAAAARRRHHHHGGHH-death, the mother fuckers jumped on Death Metal !!! How dared they make Death Metal to something normal that wimps are starting to play to await something new to appear… Next trend ! I will guess the most of the true BM heads (who’ve been into it since Venom) can understand what I mean here. It feels like something is really wrong when serious bands that wanna create something own musically are in ‘zines that also feature noise bands that have been existing for a week but already have released 3 demo’s or something like that and are playing in 25 differents "bands" only for fun. Bands that are sending picture of theselves who are supposed to be funny, strange glasses, toilet paper and a shirt on the head and so much other childish and above it all boring bullshit, I think those have misunderstood humour completely! I refuse to laugh of this! I cannot understand why everything has to be so fucking funny and how people can laugh at this, and if someone might laugh of this interview, I can tell him that he has misunderstood the whole point of this and the rest of this interview, read it again more carefully and he won’t find this funny at all! It’s not funny and I refuse to say something funny or laugh, everybody would misunderstand everything only. There’s so much that stupid people only seek for a good time, so they can laugh don’t understand by the music so I should even refuse listen to music... But that would be too hard to do and it needs more self control for that. The most of the new demo’s sound all the same, the originally is gone it seems. I can’t see why so many self-condemned bands have to exist. One weird thing is that when a band almost is formed they have to record a demo and straight after that, they "have to" give out something on vinyl... and then only after a few weeks they can’t understand how they could record this when they’re sounding much better now if they haven’t already forgot it.

DO YOU LIKE BLACK SABBATH (OLD ONES, WITH DIO AND OZZY) ?

Only with Ozzy! By dio I can listen to « Holy Driver » but nothing else.

DO YOU REMEMBER WHEN YOU WERE A HEAVY METAL KIDS ?

Hey, I’m lucky I’m not a NAPALM DEATH/CARCASS kid. Well, then the most Evil, "Occult", dirty and the worst are BLACK SABBATH, KISS,IRON MAIDEN, AC/DC and MOTORHEAD, they were my faves. When I heard VENOM and MERCYFUL FATE, it felt like I lost an important part of my brain and I worshipped them.

WHY ARE YOU ANTI-MOSH ?

Cos I hate that word !!! I wanna hear an explanation of what the moshers actually do when they’re moshing...

LAST WORD...

"Antiquus Malum Cruentus Scriptum De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas" : It’s a book I recommend.

CREDITS:

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[cloudninetonine]

Hey so as you guys know I've been playing Tears

So I finally decided to write something for it!

WARNING TO EVERYONE, MAJOR TEARS OF THE KINGDOMS SPOILERS DO NOT READ IF YOU DON'T WANT TO BE SPOILED!!!

“I need to reach my friend!”

The world that was once Wild’s Hyrule had changed- drastically. Not anymore did the guardians lay dormant, nor did the Sheikah towers stand tall- the Divine Beasts had been laid to rest and while the lands stayed the same, the skies seemed to become home to more than the native Islander hawk.

Changed for better or for worse, you didn’t quite know. The growling patches of gloom circling chasms to a world beneath the surface wasn’t really all that fun to you- nor were the claws of concentrated evil that crept up from nowhere to try and snatch you without a second thought. But to see how Hyrule seemed to prosper with more life. The settlement by the castle was bigger now, a fort that stood proud to the floating pinnacle that was Hyrule castle and with more warriors seasoned to fight for the place that was their home.

Purah was amazed to see you again and you didn’t know how to feel about being smaller than her now.

Felt wrong in the more comedic sense.

All across the land you had come to find new people, make new friends! Tulin had grown so much! As had Riju! Sidon’s finacée, Yona her name, was a beautiful and cute manta ray! (Never in your life had you been jealous about both partners of a relationship that badly) Paya was now chief! Yunobo had a beard! And you had met the most amazing Rito reporter named Penn! A man who had named your new best friend in these trying times.

And trying times they were- you had no idea how you were keeping up with Wild. A little older now, an inch or two taller with a stronger build and more of an mature edge to him- well, that’s what you thought when you first woke up here in Lookout Landing, a teary eyed Wild looking down at you before he near crushed you underneath his weight, Flora just as teared and happily embracing you once you were finally stood.

You had no idea what happened, not how you got here nor where the rest of the Chain were- but you were glad you at least had the Champion by your side.

Sometimes.

This time was one of those times you were ready to toss him.

“If you connect that fucking rocket to that baby’s backpack I will shove a bomb flower down your throat.” Rauru’s hand was glowing with power, frozen along with the Zonai rocket it was lifting as you stood just a few paces away. “I mean it, Link, if you send them flying we’re duking it out.”

You looked so intimidating with the Glide suit, you just knew it. (Oh internal dialogue, how sarcastic you could be)

The korok shook, little sniffles catching your ears as they gazed at the device just inches away from being glued to the material of their rucksack before sighing in relief as the rocket was dropped with a heavy thud just beside them, Wild turning with an ‘oh-so-innocent’ smile. 

“They need to reach their friend-” He pointed a thumb behind him, “A few hills over- I was just helping.”

You frowned “I don’t know what happened while you were away but you’ve become more sadistic.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“You never do.” Both sharing a look, you shook your head. “Hand them over to me, I’ll get them to their buddy.”

Wild’s hand fell to his hip, watching you waddle over excitedly as he side stepped, your hands out in a grabby motion as the small forest child threw their little stubby hands up with an excited “Guide!” that made your heart soar as you hauled them into the air with a similar excited “Forest baby!”

“You know we still need to get to Rito village- it’ll get dark by the time we arrive if we do this.”

“Don’t care, forest babies come first.”

He smirked, “Koroks are older than you.”

“Your mum.”

“Very mature.”

“Who are you, Twilight?” A pang went through your heart. “Ah, no, sorry that was rude-”

Wild’s face had curled in a more comedic way when you turned to look at him, sour and betrayed in the way the skin folded. “Am I really turning into him?”

Pausing, you looked him up and down- “I mean…you kinda do remind me of him right now.”

Wild raised a brow; you grinned. “You remember when Wolfie fell into that bush?”

When you burst into laughter he rolled his eyes, letting out a “hardy-har” while the korok still wiggled happily in the confines of your arms, it’s bag now over your shoulder to relieve some of the weight. (You focused on the spirit and missed the way the Champion desperately pawed at the sticks in his flowing hair)

“I’m not going with you this time- we’ve already lost a lot of hours.” Crossing his arms, the blonde continued. “If you go I’ll head towards the village.”

You shurgged. “Alright, I’ll see you there.”

The Champion narrowed his eyes. “I’m serious, (Name).”

“I’m sure you are.”

“...I don’t like your tone.”

Clearing your throat, you raised it an octave. “I’m sure you are!”

Wild did not laugh when you did.

If there was one thing you knew about the Champion it was that he was attached to your side. Stuck stronger than the fuse of the Zonai magic, the blonde followed you around like a Hylian retriever followed those that held food towards them. If you strayed too far, he would get you, if you paused mid journey, he paused, there was so many occasion that something had caught your eye mid ride on one of the many vehicles he had created and the man would slow down to let you go study it- lest you hop off, something you had almost done once when he refused to stop.

You really did appreciate all he did, you knew he had a lot on his mind, but with all that was happening didn’t you both deserve to have some moments not caught up the drama of the end of the fucking world???

“I’ll see you in a little bit!” Daylight was falling and it would be harder to find the campfire smoke in the night. “Keep the bed in the inn warm for me, pretty boy!”

And thus began your hike. Your little companion happily chattering your ear off as you walked away from the hero, hearing his heavy sigh and impatient foot tapping loose volume the further and further you got.

You had made it past the first hill, Wild’s form out of your sight as you glanced back when the sound out wheels caught your attention. The korok let out a noise of confusion at the strange noise but you merely spared a giggle, standing aside as the beam cycle (minus the beam) slowed to a stop beside you- your hero refusing to look your way as he waited.

“Get on.”

“Aren’t you gonna ask me on a date first?”

He grunted and you gave him the grace to leave him be, being careful balancing the korok in your grasp as you hopped onto the odd bike and wrapped an arm around the man’s waist, another still holding the forest spirit tight. 

“You ready?”

“Aye, aye, captain.”

You missed the small smile that grew on his face, the Zonai devices lighting up with its phantom green glow as the hero started the machine back up and headed towards the direction of the smoke. Without a second thought, you gently kissed his nape, unable to reach his cheek and nuzzled into his back with a relaxed hum.

Wild straightened proudly.

“You still have sticks in your hair.”

“Don’t ruin this for me.”

[vynnarts]

I'm interested, go yap abt ur pressure oc based off Manta Ray

yippeee!! rant impending, you have been warned lmao

here he is!!!

sorry for the annoying watermarks! hate ai, having to cover my art is watermarks to keep it away is annoying lol :(

anyways! this is Z-1102! His codename is Snakebite, but I haven't finished deciding their actual name.

They use they/he pronouns, but i might change that to they/it/he! we'll see

they are my silly silly goober and i loved designing him so much (i watched evil dead rise and locked in lmao)

they're based off of a polkadot stingray, an angler fish, a tiger shark, a banded sea snake i think its called, and the eyefestation!!

his snake fangs are so incredibly venomous that a mask was surgically attached to his face to stop him from constantly killing the idiots experimenting on them. it can be opened a little to allow them to eat, but they are unable to take it off as if they did, a sizeable part of their jaw and face would come with it

i dont looove the outfit i gave him but ill decide on something better soon! this is just my first stab and getting a feel for them!

asking questions about him is welcome i have so much more lore i could ramble about!!!!

hope everyone likes him!!!

[koszmarnybudyn]

Decided to post these seperetly so i can rant on each one. Hope you like it :) i really do

Rant and alt backround version behing the read more:

So the full backround ended up accidentely bisexual lol. Now on to the rant, these are meant as the final forms in my magical girl au, that's why they are so extra. This design has a lot more red than usual because being the final battle theres a lot more rage and hate (i think late season Scary in mg au has a lot more blue accents to symbolize love), and her hair is blue to show the love side as well as her fire (plus blue fire is much hotter than normal fire). I wanted her shoes to have a lava/lava lamp effectvand i initially made them a more purple pink but i think the magenta is better (the more pinkish then reddish tones also symbolize how she has come to accept her past as a more girly girl). Her coat has the coat from the previous design but i also added doodler like eyes (as i did in all the final forms) as a nod to them parting with D00d but them still being influential and important. The tentacles on her came, ger shoes and her arms are also a dodler refrence. I think with these designs i went more dnd like so she looks like a fantasy warlock a bit or at least that was my intention. The metal on her top is black parade inspired. And her whole silhouette is inspired by manta rays. I also added a lot of spikes and chains (mostly cause I think they're cool), i really enjoy outting her into more "evil" looking costumes in this au, but also generally (a big pet peeve of mine is charakter healing and losing their alt-ness) so yeah hope you like this little rant :) as always i put a lott of thought and symbolism of these outfits lol.

Btw if you want to support me financially and get some cool art out of it my commissions are open :)

[tampire]

The Little Mermaid villains wielding Triton's Trident

[black-suns-rim]

The Child

This is part two of the Ethereal Star AU story. You can find part one here

Word count: about 10,100

The soft chirping of birds echoed off the walls of the temple. A cool breeze blew through the stone pillars and the long cloth banners that hung from the wall gently swung back and forth. As the sun slowly rose over the mountain of clouds that overcast the village below, slowly, the villagers woke.

Daleth rolled to his side, being woken up by a ray of light shining on his face. Stiffly, he sat up while sighing. He reached his hand out to his night stand, feeling around for his mask but he couldn’t find it. He stood up and walked to the curtains that were holding back the sun’s warm rays and opened up a flood of light that illuminated his whole room. He went back to his night stand but didn’t find his mask. He realized his staff was missing too.

“Alef!” Daleth shouted as he left his room. He went to the remaining windows, opening the curtains of the small hut. “Alef!” he shouted again. He almost tripped over when the small child ran past his legs, “I am the light protector!” Alef giggled as he swung around Daleth’s oversized staff, trying to keep the large mask from falling off of his face. Daleth smiled, “Light protector, may I have my staff and mask back?”

“The light protector needs the staff and mask to fight the evil light snatchers!” Alef swung the staff around more before losing his balance and falling on his butt.

“Well, light protector, the light guider needs the staff and mask for his daily duties.” Daleth spoke softly as he squatted down and held out his hand. “Fine..” Alef handed the mask and staff to Daleth.

“Wash up Little Ember, a full day is ahead of you.”

“Aw, but I thought today I wasn't going to do anything.” Alef pouted.

“Tomorrow is your day of rest.” He sat down on a nearby chair, of which had his shoes under it, “I need you to do your daily chores. Once you are done with those, come to me and I'll give you something else to do if you complete them before it's time for your lessons at the prairie temple.” He places his shoes on.

Alef sighed, “fine..” He washed his face and prepared for the day. As usual, he had breakfast with Daleth at the village's small café. Once he was done, he went off on his own to do his chores in the village.

Help the merchants open their stands, clean out the manta stables and many other smaller tasks around the village that the residents needed help with. Once he was all done, it was about mid morning. He sat at a bench, eating a snack he got from one of the vendors he helped.

“Alef!��� Kizuna ran over to him, “Good morning!” She gave him a hug and sat right next to him on the bench, “where'd you get that?” She gestured to his snack.

“I got it from one of the vendors. I helped him and he gave me this.” He handed her a piece and she took it.

“I got all my chores done, how about you?” She swung her legs back and forth as she ate the snack.

“Yeah, all of mine are done. I'm just taking a break. Daleth said I need to go to him after I'm done though.”

“Me and Veluboga are gonna sneak into the caves when she's done with her chores. You wanna come with us?”

“What? But we aren't supposed to go in them.” alef looked at her. She had a big smile on her face.

“But do you ever wonder what they look like inside? My big brother said there's murals all over the walls in the deepest parts of the cave where they rest before going into the trials.”

“I mean yeah, I do wonder, but we will see how they look eventually.” He finished eating his snack.

“C'mon, you're not a coward, are you? It will be fun!” She hopped off the bench and pulled on his arm, “c'mon, c'mon! I wanna see if Veluboga is done yet!” Alef hopped off the bench so he wouldn't fall from Kizuna tugging on him. They ran to Veluboga's place and knocked on the door. A chubby and tired looking father opened the door.

“Is Veluboga done with her chores?” Kizuna asked.

“Yeah,” He yawned, “she's just helping me feed her brother right now.” He stepped out of the way of the door to let Alef and Kizuna in. The two of them entered the home as the father closed the door behind them. They walked over to Veluboga who was giggling at how her baby brother was eating his porridge. It covered his face and was dripping down his chin. The father walked over, grabbing a cloth and wiped it all off, “your friends are here.”

Veluboga looked over to where her dad gestured. She ran over to Kizuna and Alef, giving them both hugs, “Hi guys!”

“Are you ready for an adventure today?” Kizuna couldn't keep still.

“Yeah!” Veluboga grabbed a small brown bag. It held various items in it. Kizuna grabbed her hand and started to head out.

“Don't get too far from the village. Be safe and be back by sundown.” Her dad said as he was feeding the baby.

“Ok, love you daddy!”

“Love you too, my little flower petal.”

They left the home and began their little journey to the camp outside of the trial caves. It was about a mile from the village, but still in sight of the residents. They stopped at a large boulder to take a break from walking. Veluboga was out of breath. She was a bit on the chunky side, but she had been losing weight ever since Alef arrived to the village.

“Did you bring water? I'm thirsty.” She asked both Alef and Kizuna.

“no…” Kizuna looked at her bag, “what did you bring with you?”

“uh, some sweet buns and toys.” She pulled out a bun from her bag. It wasn't wrapped or anything, “You guys want one?”

Alef made a slightly disgusted expression under his mask as Kizuna took it, “You didn't wrap them up? They're gonna get stale and covered in hair.”

Veluboga shrugged and Kizuna ate the bread, “Do you have water Alef?” Veluboga asked.

“No, I'm not even carrying anything on me.”

“oh…” She looked through her bag, “Bun?” She pulled one out.

“I'm good.” Alef turned his gaze to the camp outside of the cave and got an idea, “You know, they might have water.” He pointed at the camp.

“But what if there are people there?” Kizuna was worried about being caught.

“They are usually up and training in the caves by now. Daleth has taken me to the camp before, but he's never taken me inside of the caves.” Kizuna trusted Alef's words, “Alright.”

The three of them headed towards the camp, and like Alef had said, no one was there. The morning camp fire that was used for cooking breakfast was still trailing out smoke had just recently been put out. Alef snuck around the tents, looking for where some water might be stashed. His two friends trailed close behind him. He snuck into one of the large tents while Kizuna and Veluboga stayed outside of it, not daring to go in.

Alef came out with a large stone carved bottle and handed it to Veluboga, “Here's your water.” She took it and began to chug the water down. Once she was done, Alef placed the stone bottle back where he found it.

“Alright, back to our main mission: the caves!” Kizuna grabbed both Alef's and Veluboga's hands, almost dragging them. Once they got to the large entrance of the cave, they stood in front of it for a while.

“Well… are we gonna go in?” Alef stared into the dark cave.

“Yeah… but… I don't like how I can't see in it.” Kizuna was still holding their hands. Her's was getting sweaty which made Alef cringe.

“I don't like the dark Kizuna…” Veluboga wanted to stay back from the creeping darkness.

Alef sighed, “We came all this way out here. I'm not gonna just stand here and look at the cave entrance.” He let go of Kizuna's hand and went into the pitch dark of the cave. Kizuna and Veluboga watched as the dark swallowed him. Suddenly, the cave entrance lit up. The two girls gasp, “Whoa!”

Alef was in awe, “Cool.” He looked back at Kizuna and Veluboga, “Well, aren't you two coming?” He said with a little sass. They both ran to catch up with him. The cave got colder the further in they ventured and it felt uncomfortably moist, as if there was a constant mist. Alef stopped When they got to a stone bridge that was surrounded by clouds on either side.

“I can't see the end of that bridge… and it's not lit up.” He was skeptical of it.

“It's probably fine to walk across it.” Veluboga took a couple of steps towards it before Alef stopped her.

“No, I have a feeling. Hold on…” He grabbed a large rock and threw it at the bridge but it phased right through the bridge as if the bridge didn't exist.

“Uh…” Kizuna was confused, “What-?”

“The bridge must be an illusion.” Alef sat on the floor.

“Wait, how? Why? Why would there be a fake bridge?” Kizuna sat with him and Veluboga did the same.

“I don't know.”

“There has to be another way to get to the other side… if there is one. I can't see anything with those clouds.”

Alef thought for a while, “illusion magic is one of the most simple magics out of the others. I remember a lesson from my teacher, saying how to create an illusion and to break one. I failed at creating one during the lesson, but maybe I can break this one.” He stood up.

“I keep forgetting you have lessons. You're so lucky.” Kizuna and Veluboga kept seated on the floor.

Alef was sloppy with his stance, but he was doing his best from memory. He concentrated on the bridge illusion as he moved his hands from side to side. Kizuna and Veluboga started to chuckle which broke Alef's concentration.

“What's so funny?” He looked back at them.

“You. You look like you have a wedgie.” Kizuna laughed.

“I'm trying my best here!” Alef was a little embarrassed. He sighed and tried again but Veluboga and Kizuna busted out laughing.

“Can you just look away from me while I try to do this!?” He was getting a little frustrated.

“Alright, alright.” Kizuna and Veluboga were still chuckling as they turned their backs to Alef. Once more he tried. He took a deep breath in and then out. He moved his hands from side to side with his feet following the movement of his hands, trying to build up energy - a trick for students who are new to magic use.

Slowly, his hands began to glow yellow. It was very dim but still noticeable. He held his hands out in front of himself and then put them together. He pulled them in towards his chest and then quickly put them out. The dim yellow light that was coming from his hands brightened rapidly as it was forced away from his body and towards the illusion. The illusion broke along with the clouds that were surrounding the bridge, revealing they too were fake. It was like watching golden sparkles fall from the sky.

“Whoa! I actually did it!” Alef smiled under his mask. Veluboga and Kizuna turned around, “Whoa!”

All three of them stared at what was revealed. The bridge illusion led to a deep pit filled with clouds. Alef's heart sank at the sight, his mind raced thinking of what could've happened to Veluboga if she had tried to walk on the bridge. Or any of them. But he also saw a small path that followed the cave's wall.

“Look, a path there!” Alef pointed out, “and it leads further Into the cave.”

The three of them took the path. When they reached the end of it, lights in the cave had already been lit and they could hear faint voices.

“We must be getting close!” Kizuna was excited.

“Shh! They might hear us now.” Alef hushed and she quickly quieted down.

The walls of the cave grew more narrow as they headed towards the voices. They stopped when they saw light murals appear on the walls.

“Whoa!” They all said in unison. Smiles grew on their faces but only Veluboga's was visible since she hasn't been given her mask yet, being the youngest of the three. They pointed, stared and giggled as they ran down the narrow cave hallway, triggering the light murals as they passed. They stopped when they came across a large stone door that was open. They could hear the voices more clearly now, so they became quiet. What they didn't realize was how loud their giggling had been while they were walking down the narrow hallway.

They slowly went towards the open doorway, looking down a ledge that led to a huge open cavern below. The cavern walls were covered in light murals from top to bottom. And on the ground, there were 4 different groups of young adults. They were all being trained by the different elemental prophets. They watched the groups being trained, giggling and whispering in the process. Some of the young adults had noticed the three little kids at the top of the entrance to the cavern but didn't mention anything to the prophets since they didn't want to interrupt their teaching.

They watched for about 15 minutes before mimicking what the students were doing. They played for a while, not noticing how the giant stone door closed, “What are young embers like you doing here?”

The kids immediately stopped their playing and looked to where the voice came from. They saw a very tall, slender and intimidating figure. They fell silent and held still, slightly frightened.

“I'm surprised you got past my illusion.” He began to walk towards the kids before realizing they were scared of him. He stopped and then squatted down to try to seem less intimidating.

“You know you little embers shouldn't be in my trials just yet, right?” Anubis tried to sound more light hearted and gave a faint smile which was barely visible.

“It was my idea! I just wanted to see the murals I heard about.” Alef spoke up to take the blame for Kizuna since it was her idea originally.

“You, you broke my illusion?” Anubis already knew the answer to the question, but he wanted to hear it from Alef.

“y-yeah…” He sheeply answered, “Am I in trouble?...”

“No, not at all.” The elder prophet stood up, “I'm just surprised someone as young as you was able to break that large of an illusion. I'm more so impressed. You must take lessons, yes?”

Alef nodded.

“How about this, I give all three of you a lesson and you head back to the village afterwards? And you young embers don't come back here until it is your time, yeah?”

All three of them nodded. They just didn't want to get in trouble. They were still intimidated by him.

“Good. Come along, the cave hall isn't wide enough for what I have in mind.” He held his hands behind his back as he walked past the three. They looked at each other and then followed the tall and slender prophet. He was leading them to the outside of the cave.

“Um, I have a question…” Alef spoke up.

“Yes?” Anubis answered, not turning his head.

“Why did you make a fake bridge over a cliff?”

“So it would keep curious embers, like you, out. At the bottom, under the clouds, there's a waypoint I created that will send you back to the outside of the cave, unharmed.”

“A waypoint?” Alef wanted to know more.

“Yes.. it's advanced magic. A waypoint can be used for many things. I use it as a safety net. Some use it as a way to keep others out of places.”

“Whoa.. cool.” Alef thought for a little bit before speaking up again, “Are you a teacher or a prophet?”

“I'm both. Though, I do more teaching.”

“How long have you been teaching?”

“Centuries. Before the realms were formed.”

“You must be really old!” Veluboga blurted out. Alef elbowed her, “ow!”

Anubis chuckled, “Yes, I am really old.”

“You don't look old though.” Veluboga was rubbing her arm and glaring at Alef.

“My prophets and I don't age like most people do.”

“Why?” The three kids asked.

“Well, I'm not all too sure actually. But I assume it's because we have a higher purpose given to us by the star mother. She decides our path, but it's our will to fulfill it.”

The kids were starting to become less afraid of him and began to ask more questions. He didn't mind answering what he could. Once they were outside of the cave, he led the kids to the camp.

“Have you three eaten anything recently?” Anubis entered one of the tents and the kids followed.

“We've only had breakfast.” Kizuna stared at all the masks that were hanging from the tent's support beams.

“Then you must be hungry by now. It's almost noon.” He levitated some baskets around to get to a large crate. He levitated a couple of fruits from the crate and then placed the baskets back where they previously were. He handed them the fruit.

They thanked him and ate. When they were done, they followed him out of the tent. He had pulled out a couple of mats and placed them on the ground.

“So, what are you going to teach us?” Kizuna asked as she looked up at Anubis.

“Physical balance.” He sat on one of the mats, “But first, we stretch. Mirror what I do.”

The kids sat in front of him on the mats. He directed them on what stretches to do while showing them. He also explained how to properly stretch. After they were warmed up, he began his little lesson on balance. Kizuna had incredible balance while Alef and Veluboga were wobbly. They fell over a few times while trying to copy Anubis.

By the time he was done teaching them, the sun was high in the sky and it was beginning to get hot. He handed the kids some water as they rested in the cool tents.

“You young embers did good.” Anubis placed the mats back where he pulled them from.

“We kept falling down.” Alef sighed.

“Yes, but you got back up and tried again, didn't you? A good student isn't one who succeeds all the time. A good student is one who keeps trying even after they fail. It's what helps you grow. If you aren't failing, you aren't being challenged. And if you're not challenged, you won't be able to grow.”

Alef thought about that for a bit, “yeah.. I guess that makes sense. Wait, what time is it?” Alef almost forgot about his lessons he needed to go to.

“Noon. So, about 12pm.” Anubis drank some water.

“Oh no! I have to go! I'll see you guys later.” He quickly hugged his friends and ran to the village as fast as he could. Anubis chuckled as he watched Alef run off.

Once he reached the village, Alef looked for Daleth. He saw him at the boat docs and ran over to him. He was out of breath as he reached Daleth.

“Alef! Where have you been? You are late!” Daleth scolded.

“I'm sorry…” He looked down at his feet. Daleth sighed, “Get on the boat.” He gestured to a small stone boat. Alef got on. Daleth handed him a bag that held his school items in it, “Behave yourself. I'll see you later tonight.”

“Wait, will I be in trouble?..”

“No. You just need to be more aware of your time next time Alef.”

“Okay…”

Daleth set the boat to its course - the prairie light temple. Alef sat alone on the small boat. He took off his mask and wiped away the sweat from his face. His once happy mood turned to sadness. Not because of Daleth's scolding. He sat on the boat's floor, pulling his knees to his chest and hugged his legs. He rested his face on his knees.

“I miss you momma…” He whispered to himself.

𓆩✧𓆪

The sun was beginning to set on Prairie. The air was rapidly growing colder and the animals retreated to their homes. Alef held a small lantern in his hands that kept him warm as he tried not to fall asleep. His lessons from today were more active compared to the others he’s had in the past and with what he did this morning, he was so ready to go to bed. He didn’t want to pass out on the boat while on his way back home to the village since he knew Daleth wouldn’t be able to carry him back to the small hut they shared.

His eyelids were heavy and slowly they were weighing down. Alef shook his head and smacked his face to try and get rid of the sleepiness. He looked at the hills of prairie as his boat passed by them. The setting sun was creeping behind the horizon which made the outline of the hills glow a bright yellow. The last bit of mantas were flying towards their nests high up in the cliffs and floating islands. He watched as the sun vanished from sight, leaving its warm remnants on the clouds.

Alef’s mind began to drift to memories of his mother and all the stories she would tell…

𓆩✧𓆪

𓆩✧𓆪

𓆩✧𓆪

“Can you tell me about the story of the manta and butterfly again?”

“Again? Don’t you have this story memorized by now, my little star?” she picked up the small child and tickled his side. He giggled and squealed.

“I wanna hear it again!”

“Alright.” She sat down and grabbed out a small stone carved manta and butterfly from a bag after placing the child down.

“There once was a manta who would soar up high in the clouds. She would race with her friends and play all day where the stars met the clouds.” she handed the child the carved manta, “One day, she found a butterfly high up in the clouds. ‘What are you doing here little butterfly?’ the manta asked, and the butterfly replied, ‘I wanted to explore! But I don't know where to go.’ “

“And the manta said, ‘follow me! I can show you many cool places!’ “ the child held up the manta in the air. The mother chuckled.

“And so, the manta led the butterfly through all the realms, showing them all the cool places where her friends often visited.” the mother held up the butterfly and waved it in the air, “As the sun began to set, the manta and the butterfly rested on the floating islands of the green prairie. ‘Thank you manta for showing me all these places.’ the butterfly said to their new friend.”

“ ‘you’re welcome little butterfly!’ “ the child giggled. He held out his hand for the carved butterfly and his mother gave it to him, “And now I eat you! Raaah!” He hit the two carved toys together.

“That’s not how the story ends.” She chuckled.

“Yes it is! That's how it ends tonight!” he laughed. She shook her head, “you’re so silly.” she began coughing hard and held her side.

“Momma!” He dropped his toys and immediately grabbed her bag. He pulled out a small jar and handed it to her. She took off her mask and grabbed the jar, opening it while she coughed. She scooped out a small portion of thick paste and put it in her mouth. Her coughing became less and less until she had completely stopped.

“Thank you my little Alef.” she put her mask back on. Alef hugged his mother and she hugged him back, “Everything is going to be okay.” she tried to reassure him.

“Is everything good back there?” A deep voice asked. Alef’s mother stood up, moving the cloth curtains out of her way as Alef clung to her side.

“Yes, everything’s fine.” She looked at the birostrian and then at the dark night sky.

“We are almost to our next stop. We have maybe two more hours of travel to go. You and your little ember should get some rest while you can.”

Alef looked at the sandy dunes. He noticed some small glowing embers off in the distance. He then looked at the lanterns that were hung from the decorated caravan. The same embers that flew around freely in the sandy dunes were the same embers that were trapped within those lanterns that lit up their dark path. He then looked up to his mother, “I'm not tired yet.” He quietly said.

“I am. We can stay up a little longer, but we need to sleep soon Alef…

Alef…

Alef…

Alef!”

Alef woke up and rubbed his eyes. Daleth had his hand on his shoulder, “Tiring day?” he chuckled.

“I fell asleep?” Alef put his mask on and groggily grabbed his bag.

“Yep. And you were out cold. I would’ve carried you if I were able to.” He helped Alef out of the boat. It was completely dark in the village except for some lanterns lighting in the pathways. Clouds were starting to roll in, “It’s gonna rain tonight.” Daleth held Alef’s hand as he walked him to their hut, “Are you hungry at all?”

“No. I ate before I left the temple.” he yawned.

“Okay, good. You should bathe before you sleep tonight. You seem like you have sweated a lot.”

“Yeah…”

As they entered the hut, Alef could smell what Daleth had cooked earlier. It smelled like the spicy stew he would always prepare the night before Alef had a day of rest. Daleth helped the tired kid prepare a warm bath. He left the bathing room once the bath was ready. Alef took off all of his clothes and stepped into the warm bath tub. He sat down and splashed the water on his face, making sure to remove all of the dried sweat and dirt from himself.

He washed his short hair and scrubbed his whole body. Once he was done cleaning himself, he laid back in the water. Alef sighed. He noticed some embers fluttering around in the bathroom. He reached out his hand towards them and they fluttered near him. He watched as they danced in the air. A smile creeped onto his face as he moved his hand around - the embers followed. They fluttered away after a while.

Alef got out of the bathtub once his hands began to prune up. He dried himself off with the towel Daleth left for him and he changed into his night clothes. He picked up all his dirty clothes and carried them out of the bathroom. He went to his small room and placed the dirty clothes in the corner of his room. Walking out of his room, he peeked into Daleth’s room to see if he was in there. Daleth had fallen asleep while Alef was taking his bath.

The child walked outside of the small hut and sat on the porch. He wished he was still tired but now he was wide awake. He looked up at the sky that was now covered in clouds. He shivered as the wind blew. He went back inside to grab his cloak and went outside again. He pulled his hood over his head as the wind blew gently. He pulled his legs up to his chest, hugging his legs. As he was thinking about the day, it began to rain.

Alef held his hand out, letting the rain droplets touch his skin. He didn’t want to stay at the hut, but he also knew he shouldn’t roam the village at night by himself. He couldn’t wake Daleth up, he knew he would get mad that he wasn’t in bed. Alef’s eyes began to water up, he tried holding back the tears but once they started to fall down his cheeks, he couldn’t stop them. Sniffling, he wiped away the tears from his face as he tried not to cry too loudly.

“I want you mommy…” He whimpered quietly to himself. Soon, his sleeves became covered in snot from him wiping his nose and tears, “I want you back… I miss you so much.” He stood up. He couldn’t stand to be at the hut right now. Alef ran out of the village as the rain poured heavily. He ran and ran, having no destination in mind but his legs led him to the prophecy cave where he and his friend had been earlier in the day.

He didn't go too far into the cave before his legs gave out and he collapsed onto the floor, crying and out of breath. He sat with his back towards the wall, his face was buried in his knees while he hugged his legs tightly. He sobbed loudly as he hyperventilated. He didn't realize how loud he was since he thought he was alone. A cloaked and slender being slowly approached the crying child and kneeled down in front of him.

“Little ember?” the voice spoke softly but with concern. Alef looked up with blurry vision but he recognized the voice. It was the teacher of the trials. Alef leapt forward and clung to the slender prophet. Anubis didn’t know what to do besides hug the child. He slightly cringed, feeling the snot and tears seep through his clothes. Once alef calmed down, he let go of the prophet.

“What has you so troubled little ember?”

Alef sniffled, “I- I miss my m-mommy… I w-want her back…” he wiped his face.

“I see…”

“I don't want to be here. I want to go home to my old village with my old friends. But I'm stuck here…” his cheeks were sore from the salty tears running down his face. He hugged Anubis again without saying anything. The prophet patted his back as Alef continued to sniffle. When Alef completely stopped, Anubis noticed his hug weakened.

“Little ember?” Anubis nudged. Then he realized the child had cried so much that it had tired him out to the point he passed out.

“Oh boy…” He didn't know who was in charge of this child, but he knew he shouldn’t leave him all by himself in the cave. He picked up the child and kept him safe from the rain under his cloak as he walked out of the cave. Anubis headed to the camp, walking into the tent he shared with the other four prophets.

“So, who was crying?” the prophet of water looked up from a card game she was playing with the prophet of fire.

“This little guy.” Anubis took off his cloak, revealing the small child who was sleeping in his arm.

“Oh sweet star mother, a kid?” she got up, “Hand that poor thing to me.” Anubis handed Alef to her.

“I believe his mother was the traveler that had passed away in the village nearby just a couple weeks ago. He told me he missed her, and I don’t blame him.” Anubis sat down.

“Aw, poor little ember.” The fire prophet assumed the water prophet was done playing cards since she was occupied with holding Alef.

“He must be having a hard time adjusting if he came all the way out here in the rain, crying. Oh you poor baby.” The water prophet sat down gently, making sure she wouldn’t wake up Alef.

“Wow, I haven't seen you this motherly in a long time.” the fire prophet chuckled as he put the cards away.

“Hush you.” she playfully smacked him.

“So, what are we gonna do with the kid? I mean, we can’t just wake up that entire village.” The fire prophet stretched his arms and back.

“We wait until the morning. Either he wakes up and leaves on his own or we will hear a panicked guardian looking for him.” Anubis took off his mask and placed it right by his sleeping mat.

“Yeah, that sounds reasonable.” the fire prophet laid on his sleeping mat, “well, I’m gonna sleep now. Night guys.”

“Good night.” Anubis and water prophet said.

“We might as well sleep too.” Anubis laid back on his mat.

“Yeah…” the water prophet gently placed Alef on her sleeping mat and pulled a blanket over him.

“You wouldn't mind if I laid right next to you, Anubis?” The water prophet took off her mask and dimmed the light in the tent.

“No. You know we’ve been friends for long enough that you don’t have to ask, right?” he chuckled.

“I know, but I still like to make sure.” she placed her mask right next to his and laid right next to him, “I hope this kid can find peace. It always makes my heart ache to see a little ember hurt from loss.”

“I hope he can find peace too… Goodnight.”

“Goodnight.”

As the rain pelted the tent’s roof, all the prophets fell asleep to its soothing sound.

𓆩✧𓆪

Before the sun rose, Alef woke up to the sweet smell of burning incense. He rubbed his eyes and sat up, a little confused on where he was. He glanced around, realizing he was in a tent. It was oddly warm in the tent...

“Sleep well, young ember?” A familiar voice asked. Alef quickly turned his head to where the voice came from. The slender Prophet was tending to a small fire that had a pot hanging over it. Alef got up to sit right next to Anubis. They sat in silence for a while before Alef spoke up.

“I don't want to go back…”

Anubis looked down at the kid, “You can't stay here forever. You'll worry your guardian.”

Alef sighed. He looked up at Anubis who didn't have his mask on. His face had a large scar across it that went from the left side of his forehead down to the right side of his cheek. His eyes looked tired but relaxed. Alef looked around the tent, seeing all the other Prophets were still asleep.

“If it is your wish to stay here a little longer, you may. But when the people of that little village come looking for you, you must return to them. I will not hide you here.”

“okay.” Alef spoke quietly. He watched the flames of the fire dance around, swaying and flickering.

“Will I ever stop missing my momma?..”

Anubis frowned, “No. A part of you will always miss her. But that doesn't mean you'll always feel like how you do now. Over time, the pain will fade, but it will never leave.” He patted Alef's head to try and comfort him.

“That doesn't mean you won't find someone else to look up to like you did for her. No one can replace her, but someone can fill her parental role.”

Alef scooted right next to Anubis and leaned against him. He just wanted to be held… he wanted someone to hold him. And badly. Anubis put an arm around him. He could tell Alef was hurting.

They sat in silence while Anubis waited for the breakfast to cook. Once it was ready, the other prophets were already awake. Anubis gave Alef a bowl of the hot grainy paste that had been cooking. It didn't look too appetizing, but it smelt really good. He tried it and was surprised by how sweet it was. As the prophets ate, they chatted while Alef kept quiet.

“A new day, a new headache.” The fire prophet said as he opened up the tent door to the rising sun.

“Oh come on, the students aren't that bad.” The air prophet was finishing up their breakfast.

“Try having my group. They are so immature.”

“Aren't all young adults immature?” Anubis chuckled.

“I swear they are worse than the last batch you assigned to me.” The fire prophet took the flames from the firepit in their tent and used his magic to light the other fire pits around the camp without having to move too far from their tent.

“Well today is the last day of their training before they start the sacred trials tomorrow. You won't have to deal with them much longer.” The water prophet said as she was cleaning out the pot the breakfast was cooked in.

“And thank the great star mother for that. You'll have to deal with them.” He chuckled.

She sighed, “Don't remind me.”

The other prophets laughed. Alef's gaze went from one prophet to the next as they spoke to each other. He finished up his bowl and handed it to the water prophet. Without saying anything, Alef walked up to Anubis and hugged his leg. He looked down and placed a hand on Alef's head. The other prophets glanced over at them.

Alef let go and walked out of the tent. He was ready to head back to the village, and so, he left.

“That little guy really likes you.” The water prophet observed.

“I noticed… Usually, young embers are afraid of me. Most likely because of the mask, right?”

“Yeah, the mask will do it.” The earth prophet walked past him, “I know mine's pretty terrifying to young embers.”

The prophets and the overseer began to start their day in the camp. The last bit of lessons they were about to provide their students was the key in helping them to succeed in the ritualistic trials.

When Alef got back to the village, the village residents were just starting to wake up. He entered the small hut quietly, hoping Daleth was still asleep. He was relieved when he heard the old man snoring in his room. Alef changed out from his night clothes into his day clothes. He sat on his bed and pulled out the stone carved manta and butterfly his mother had made for him from the bag she used to carry around with her. He held the stone toys in his hands and sighed.

Alef heard Daleth opening the curtains in the hut. He put his two toys away and walked out of his small room.

“Oh, you're already up.” Daleth sounded a little surprised.

“I've been up for a while..”

“Aw, I thought you would've slept well after that bath last night.” Daleth walked to the little kitchen and pulled out a loaf of bread.

“Are you still having nightmares?”

“Yeah…”

Daleth cut the bread and handed him a slice but Alef shook his head, “I'm not hungry.”

Daleth frowned. He ate the slice of bread and put the loaf away.

“Can I go play with my friends?”

“Yes. Be back before sundown.”

Alef nodded and left the hut. Daleth placed a hand on the back of his neck and huffed. He got ready for the day.

Alef kept himself busy with his friends all day, and by nightfall, he was able to sleep.

𓆩✧𓆪

“Last night, before I went to bed, I saw a small group set up their tents right by the trial cave’s camp.” Kizuna was eating a rather large fruit.

“Ok, and? Travelers are common.” Alef yawned as he followed her. They were on their way to get Veluboga.

“They were different! I saw these really huge guys! Bigger than the cave teacher!”

“Do you mean the teacher with the jackal mask?”

“Yeah. From what I could tell, those guys were probably three times the size of him!” Kizuna handed Alef the fruit she had been eating, now full from it. He didn’t really want it, but kept it in his hands.

Knocking on Vel’s door, Kizuna rocked back and forth from her heels to her toes. Vel opened the door, greeted them and said goodbye to her dad as she left with her friends. Alef handed Vel the fruit Kizuna handed to him.

“So what are we doing today?” Veluboga began to eat the fruit.

“I want to see who camped far out over there.” Kiz gestured and the two looked where she was pointing.

“I don’t think we should bother travelers… we might get in trouble.” Alef sighed. He felt like he was always the voice of reason with her.

“We won’t get in trouble if we’re just looking. Now let's go!” She grabbed both Alef’s and Vel’s arm.

The three of them crept closer to the strange traveler's camp and hid behind a rock that was nearby. They saw a huge figure laying right next to a fire pit with charcoaled logs.

“See, I told you. Bigger than the cave teacher.” Kizuna whispered.

“Whoa… they are a giant.” Veluboga stared.

“Huh… they are huge.” Alef has never seen anyone quite that large before, even when he had traveled from his original village to here.

“I wonder where they are from?...” Kiz noticed how the large guy was dressed, “They look so different. Their tents look very fancy too. Way too fancy to be normal travelers.” She observed.

“What if they are rich travelers?” Vel asked.

“Why would anyone rich wanna come here? No offense, but this place isn't exactly screaming ‘rich people come here.’ ” Alef remarked in a sassy tone.

“Are you saying our village isn't interesting enough for rich people?” Kizuna got a little offended.

“Basically, yeah. I haven't seen anyone rich come here in the 4 weeks I've been here.” Alef kept his sassy tone.

Kizuna was about to argue with Alef until Veluboga pushed Kizuna forward, “You go touch them.” Vel gestured to the large traveler sleeping by the dead campfire as she giggled. Her tone was daring.

“No! I'm not gonna! What if they get angry?” Kizuna was distracted from Alef's snarky comments.

“You go and touch them. You suggested it!” Kiz shoved Veluboga, “What? No!”

Alef watched them bicker back and forth for a bit, sighing, “Out of my way, cowards.” He said as he pushed them off to the side. He would rather be the one to get in trouble than them.

He slowly crept up towards the massive, sleeping traveler as Kizuna and Veluboga hid behind the large rock. Alef noticed how they only had a cloak over themselves instead of a blanket. He froze in place when they rolled over to their side. Alef looked towards where his friends were hiding. Veluboga and Kizuna peaked out from behind the rock, frantically gesturing for him to come back. He shook his head, doubling down on the harmless dare Veluboga made.

He looked at the giant traveler once more, creeping closer and closer until he was standing over them. He didn't realize he was holding his breath as he realized just how massive they were… Kizuna was right, they were so much bigger than the jackal masked teacher of the caves. He looked back at his friends again before quickly poking the sleeping traveler on the face. He ran and hid behind one of the nearest tents, not daring to look back just in case they woke up.

After a few seconds of nothing happening, he peaked out from behind the tent and saw that the large traveler didn’t wake up. He looked over to vel and kiz again. They motioned for him to come back again, but he ignored them, feeling a little more confident now. He picked up a small stone and crept back over to them.

“Is he insane?!” Kizuna whispered loudly to Vel. Veluboga was just intensely watching Alef.

Alef placed the small stone on the large traveler's face and snickered. He turned his back to the traveler to look at his friends once more with a smug grin under his mask. Veluboga and Kizuna stared in horror as the large traveler sat up behind Alef. They ran away from behind the large rock when the large traveler stood up. Alef was confused why they suddenly ran.

He turned around just to see the massive traveler standing over him. Alef gasped and then bolted as fast as he could to catch up with Kizuna and Veluboga. It felt like his soul had left his body with the way the traveler had looked at him. When the three of them got back to the village, they were all out of breath.

“THEY ALMOST GOT YOU! DID YOU SEE THAT?!” Veluboga said as she was trying to catch her breath.

“THEY WERE ABOUT TO GRAB YOU!” Kizuna exaggerated.

Alef sat on the ground, panting. Alef took off his mask and wiped the sweat off from his face. He began to laugh, “You should've seen the look on your face Vel! It looked like you were about to crap yourself!” Alef put his mask back on, still chuckling.

“You're crazy!” Veluboga was embarrassed.

“You're the one who wanted someone to touch them. You got your wish.” Alef remarked in a snarky tone.

“You didn't have to go back a second time!” Kizuna still couldn't believe he did that.

“You two are just cowards.” He teased as he got up from the ground, not panting as hard now.

“You're just insane.” Kizuna shook her head. Veluboga patted Alef on the arm and pointed. He looked over to where she was pointing.

“Where did you run off too, young ember? I was looking for you.” Daleth said as he approached the three.

Veluboga was about to speak but Alef cut her off, “We were just playing tag on the outskirts of the village.”

“Ah, I see.” Daleth knew something was up, but he didnt feel like confronting them about it right now, “Come with me Alef, I need your help with a few things. Then you can return to playing with your friends afterwards.”

Alef sighed, “Alright…” He waved goodbye to Kiz and Vel as he followed Daleth.

“What do you need my help with?” He walked right besides Daleth.

“Just some small tasks.”

They went to the boat docks and Daleth had Alef paint over some of the old fading paint on the doc. It didn't take him too long since the doc was small. He also had Alef help him pick out a new cloth for the light temple's decoration. After that, Daleth wanted to head to the village's café to socialize for a bit.

“Why do I have to come along for this?” Alef complained.

“Because, it's good for you to socialize with new people. Plus, you can learn many things from the travelers.” Daleth entered the Café while Alef trailed behind him, slightly pouting.

“Good morning!” Daleth greeted the staff of the café with a cheerful tone. They greeted him back while politely bowing.

“The café smells wonderful as usual.” The old man walked up to the counter.

“We just got done baking this morning's pastries. And they're your favorites.” The café owner matched Daleth's upbeat attitude. She handed Daleth a small plate with 2 large pastries on them, still warm.

“Oh my sweet dear, thank you.” He reached for his pouch to pay her, but she refused.

“Take them.” She insisted.

“You know I feel guilty if I don't, I have to pay you for your hard work.” He placed the currency on the counter.

“Oh would you look at that!” She quickly distracted Daleth and gestured for Alef to put the currency back in his pouch, which he did.

“What is it?”

“The birds. Aren't they just gorgeous?” She pointed to the small birds that were perched outside. She looked down to Alef and winked at him. Alef giggled.

“Oh, they are. Very gorgeous indeed.” Daleth was unaware of what Alef did while he admired the birds. He turned his attention back to the café owner and chatted with her for a while after handing Alef one of the pastries.

Alef ate the warm pastry while Daleth talked. He went around the café, talking to the other people inside. Locals and travelers. He then walked over to a very large stranger in a cloak who was sitting at one of the tables, “Greetings. You seem like you're far from home.” He observed with an upbeat tone. Alef recognized the large stranger from the one he had pranked earlier. He shyly hid behind Daleth.

“I am.” The traveler replied. His voice was incredibly deep which threw Alef off and slightly intimidated him.

“Where are you from?” Daleth was curious.

“Golden city, in the golden dunes.”

“Oh, the golden dunes. I've heard many things about it, but I've never been. I must know, is It true that enforcement there is brutal? I've heard about how harsh they can be.”

The stranger shifted in his seat, almost seeming as if the question bothered them, “Yeah… the enforcers can be brutal at times, but that's only with the newer recruits. More seasoned enforcers are often relaxed after being in the position for so long.”

“I see. Must be all the energy they have. Oh! I almost forgot, how rude of me. I'm Daleth, and you are?” He reached out his hand.

“Tsadi.” He shook Daleth's hand.

“And this here is Alef.” He gestured to the child who was hiding behind him.

Tsadi chuckled, “Your kid is a prankster. He woke me this morning at my camp.”

Alef's face grew red under his mask and he could feel his body heating up from embarrassment.

“Oh! I'm so sorry-” Daleth bowed apologetically.

“It's fine.” One of the waiters brought Tsadi's food to the table and he thanked them. Daleth knew this was his cue to leave.

“It was nice to meet you. Again, I'm so sorry.” Daleth apologized again.

“It's alright.” He said genuinely as he took off his mask to eat.

Daleth headed out of the Café but held Alef by the arm, “Why were you messing with this traveler? Is that why I couldn't find you earlier?” He scolded. Alef looked away from Daleth in shame.

“And you lied to me where you were! Some travelers aren't as forgiving as they were, Alef.” He sounded upset. Alef said nothing. He couldn't bring himself to say anything. Daleth kept a grip on his arm.

“I'm sorry…” He said very quietly. He still couldn't look Daleth in the face. He was too embarrassed and shameful.

“You should be apologizing to that traveler.” His tone was a little more soft now, “Some of these people come a long way, and being rudely woken up like that, it's not fair to them.”Alef looked at his feet while they walked. The silence felt intense.

“I need you to do one more thing for me… then I'll let you go back with your friends.” Daleth stopped, let go of Alef's arm and slowly bent down with the aid of his staff to be at eye level with the child.

“Promise me, you'll behave yourself better?”

Alef bowed his head, “I promise.” He still felt shameful, but tried to speak louder than he did before. Daleth put a hand on his shoulder and he looked at him.

“Your friends may want to get into trouble, but you can always be the responsible one and back away after warning them if they do not listen to you.” Daleth slowly stood back up.

“Now go, play.”

Alef bowed quickly and ran off to find his friends. He found them in the center of the village, playing with the other village kids. He joined them in the game they were playing - sky ball. The oldest kid that was playing with them was about 13. They were showing off their tricks to the younger kids and trying to teach some of their tricks as well. The youngest kid in the group was probably 5. For a few hours, they played with the ball, trying their best to not make it touch the ground while using only their feet and hips to move the ball. The kid who owned the ball eventually had to leave the group, which left them with nothing much to do afterwards.

Alef, Kizuna and Veluboga sat down, slightly tired after playing. After they got their second wind, Kizuna tapped Alef's shoulder, “Look.” She gestured to someone who was sitting on a bench nearby and eating.

“They look really pretty. They also look rich.” She admired the stranger.

Alef stared at the stranger, “They look like a vault worker, but fancier.” He observed.

“How do you know what a vault worker looks like?... and what's a vault worker?” Kizuna asked.

“My mom told me stories about them and she painted small pictures of them. She said they are the keepers of all knowledge and they work in a giant vault that stores it. But they all are dressed the same.” Alef tried to explain.

“Then why did you call that one fancy if they all dress the same?” Vel asked.

“Because they are dressed fancier than what a vault worker looks like, duh.” Alef rolled his eyes.

“If they all dress the same, then a fancy vault worker shouldn't exist.” Kiz copied Alef's attitude.

Alef growled, “Then what would make them?” He gestured to the stranger.

“Rich.” Kizuna sassed.

Alef sighed, “You know what, I'm gonna ask them and prove you wrong.”

Kizuna mocked him as he left. He looked up at the stranger as he approached them, “are you some kind of fancy vault worker?” He asked sheepishly. The stranger gave a soft smile, “Something like that, yeah.” They spoke in a gentle tone that reminded him of his mother. He looked down at his feet and then back up at them, “My friends said there's no such thing as a fancy vault worker because they all dress the same.”

“Well, my job is different from the other vault workers. That's why I'm dressed differently.” They ate the last bit of their food and placed their mask back onto their face.

“What's your job?” He was feeling a bit less shy.

“I'm a soothsayer.”

“What's that?”

“Someone who can foresee the future.”

“Whoa… so you can see the future?” He wanted to make sure he understood them correctly.

“Yes.”

“So can you tell that I'm gonna do this?” Alef kicked his feet in the air, pretending to hit something. The stranger chuckled.

“My ability doesn't work like that. I have to meditate and focus on what is calling to me.” They explained.

“Oh.” Alef suddenly noticed a large stranger standing nearby the bench the other stranger was sitting at. They looked just like the traveler he pranked this morning. He assumed they knew each other.

“Who's that?” He pointed at the large stranger.

They looked at who he was pointing to, “That's my bodyguard.”

“Why do you have a bodyguard?”

“Because my job is so important that I don't often travel. And when I do, I tend to attract attention. So they keep me safe.”

“Oh.” Alef looked back to his friends. They were getting tired of him taking so long, so they walked over to join him.

“They are a fancy vault worker, I was right.” Alef said snarkily to Kizuna. She mocked him again.

“Are you rich?” Kizuna wanted to know.

“Considering my job title… I guess I am.” They had to think about the answer to that question for a bit.

The three of them asked the stranger a few more questions before they had none left to ask. Then Alef remembered he never introduced himself to the stranger.

“I'm Alef, that's Veluboga and this is Kizuna.” He pointed to his friends.

“It's nice to meet all of you. I'm Lamed and this is Anumoh.” She gestured to the guard.

“They're big!” Kizuna stared at the guard, “Why are you so big?”

“I ate my vegetables.” Anumoh said with a straight face. Lamed chuckled at their response.

The three kids chatted with the travelers a little longer before they decided to go do something else. They said goodbye to Lamed and Anumoh before running off.

“See, I told you they were a fancy vault worker.”

“But they also said they were rich.”

“Both of you were right. So stop fighting.” Veluboga spoke up.

The three of them went to the boat docs to bother Daleth and tell him about the “fancy” vault worker that was in the village.

𓆩✧𓆪

Throughout the week, Alef and his friends saw the fancy vault worker and three other vault workers in the village and around in the markets. They also saw those large body guards with them.

At the end of the week, Daleth had Alef help him in the light temple. A wave of new travelers had been coming in for the ceremonial trials and Daleth wanted to greet as many of them as he could. Alef was placing new white candles up at alters when he noticed a small group approaching Daleth. He recognized them - the group he's been seeing all week.

He continued to place the white candles down, but he also watched. He couldn't tell what they were saying, but he noticed how Daleth bowed. A long and deep bow, which he's never seen Daleth do. He quickly finished placing the white candles down, wanting to know what they were talking about. He walked up to Daleth and looked up at Lamed and her group. One of them had handed Daleth a stone tablet, of which was engraved with light.

“Keep this in your temple and let the travelers who pass by see it.” Lamed said.

Daleth nodded, “I will.”

Alef tugged on Daleth's robe, trying to get his attention, “What's that?” He gestured to the stone tablet. Daleth waved his hand at Alef, signaling for him to wait as he talked to Lamed.

“With this new knowledge, my village… we will have many travelers coming to it for the trials, yes?”

“Your village will most definitely have a large increase of travelers. Prepare what you can, for your village is the first to receive my word. You may see an increase as soon as this week.”

“I will keep this in mind. Thank you.” Daleth bowed and they left.

Alef tugged on Daleth's robe again, “What were you talking about and why were you bowing at them like that?”

“That was the oracle. She came here to bring us a prophecy.” Daleth walked over to one of the altars in the temple and placed the stone tablet at the center of it.

“The oracle?..” Alef followed him.

“Yes… she's highly respected across the realms, young ember. She has prophesied many things in the past and they came true. Though, no one ever sees her outside of the vault's doors. Her coming here- it's a very big deal, child.” Daleth seemed like he was excited. Alef’s never seen him this excited.

“Is she like… a realm leader?” He was trying to understand her importance.

“She is more than a realm leader.” Daleth pointed to the stone tablet, “This. She has foretold of a child completing all four trials and becoming our king, making a kingdom out of the scattered realms and unifying us all.”

Alef looked at the stone tablet. He felt unsure about the prophecy, “But, aren't kids not allowed in the trials?...”

“They aren't… but if she says a child will rise up from all four trials, then that's what's going to happen.” Daleth tried to explain.

“I don't wanna go to the trials…” Alef looked up at Daleth.

“Well, you don't have to until you feel you are ready. You are still very young.” He gestured for Alef to follow, “We must let the village know of this. We must arrange for a gathering tonight and plan for what's to come.”

Alef nodded as Daleth led him out of the light temple.

𓆩✧𓆪

For the following weeks after the prophecy spread throughout all the realms, the village of Isle became over overwhelmed with travelers from all corners of each realm. The village grew in population over the span of 3 years. Of the 3 years, Alef wanted to learn as much as he could about the trials with his friends on top of his studies in the realm of prairie. He didn't want to go to the trials, but his friends convinced him that they would go together.

𓆩✧𓆪

[gemwing1988]

It’s the May 1st and that time again: MerMay. To celebrate, I have officially done my very first MerMay outwork.

To start off, I have done one of the Devil from the Cuphead game a couple of days back in April just in time for it. Not only that, but it’s also my visual of what he would look like in a future Cuphead fanfic AU I’m doing with @akluthor1998 and @nataliepthatsme called “A Cupful of the Ocean”.

The Devil’s mer-form is basically based off from the giant devil ray or devilfish as it’s often called. It’s also inspired by the Evil Manta, a villain from The Little Mermaid TV series way back on the Disney Channel somewhere back in the late 90s. It’s on Disney+ if you all like to check it out. Did I forget to mention that the Evil Manta is also voiced by Tim Curry?

In the AU, the Devil is often referred as the “Sea Devil” but he will still be called as just Devil to keep some things sort. I’ve also done an old headcannon about him last year if you wanna check it out some time.

I’ll have to see if I can do another one for the TCS version someday.

Please enjoy, happy MerMay and may your dreams shine. ✨

[aquaburst3]

List of Ideas for Villainous Characters for Your Yuusona / Ocs in Twisted Wonderland

Since I'm bored and this might be helpful for writers/artists in the fandom, I want to make a list of ideas of villains/items tied to the Great Seven that you can create characters from. Saw @violetlunette do something like this, so credit for this idea goes to them. There are a lot of characters that I feel like a lot of people aren't utilizing. I might do another post with some ideas for TWST characters from other movies/tv shows for the various houses/dorms.

Alice in Wonderland

The King of Hearts

The Walrus

The Carpenter

Any of the Flowers

March Hare

Mad Hatter

Dormouse

The White Rabbit

Dodo

Bill the Lizard

The Duchess

The White Knight

Red King & Queen

Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum

The Lion King

Hyena extras

Ushari (The Lion Guard)

Makucha (The Lion Guard)

Chuluun (The Lion Guard)

Kenge (The Lion Guard)

Makuu (The Lion Guard)

Janja (The Lion Guard)

Quint (Timon & Pumbaa TV series)

Zira (The Lion King 2)

Nuka (The Lion King 2)

Vitani (The Lion King 2)

The Little Mermaid

Glut the Shark

Chef Louis

Vanessa (Ursula's alter ego)

The necklace that held Ariel’s voice

Morgana, aka Ursula's younger sister (The Little Mermaid 2)

Cloak and Dagger (The Little Mermaid 2)

Undertow (The Little Mermaid 2)

Marina Del Rey (The Little Mermaid 3)

Ben (The Little Mermaid 3)

Manta (The Little Mermaid TV series)

Aladdin

The Guards

The Cave of Wonders

The Scarab

Prince Achmed

Jasmine's other suitors

Iago

Gazeem (the thief at the start)

Bakhtawar (the brothel owner)

Naji, Taji and Maji (the girls who work at the brothel)

Mozenrath (Aladdin TV Series)

Mirage (Aladdin TV Series)

Sadira (Aladdin TV Series)

Abis Mal (Aladdin TV Series)

Amin Damoola (Aladdin TV Series)

Al Muddy (Aladdin TV Series)

Mechanicles (Aladdin TV Series)

Ayam Aghoul (Aladdin TV Series)

Wahid (Aladdin TV Series)

Amal (Aladdin TV Series)

Saleen (Aladdin TV Series)

Hassan (Aladdin comics)

Queen Tatiana (Aladdin comics)

Sa'Luk (Aladdin 3)

Cassim, aka Aladdin's father (Aladdin 3)

Snow White

The Vultures

The Heart Box

The Evil Queen's Twin Brother (Snow White Comics) ((As a side note, considering Vil knows nothing about his mother and seems like he's the product of a fling according to the JP version, it's completely possible that this could be a long lost sibling that even he's unaware of, even if we're only talking about canon!Vil.))

Witch Empress Mammona (Snow White Comics)

Hercules

Pain & Panic

The Three Fates

Meg

The Hydra

Cerberus

Nemean Lion

Persephone (Yes, she doesn't show up in the movies, but she's tied to Hades if we're being mythologically accurate. Bonus, a TWST version of her could be Idia's love interest if you decide to go in that direction)

Thanatos (Same as above)

Sleeping Beauty

Any of Maleficent’s other minions

The Spinning Wheel

The Thorns

Maleficent’s Fire

King Stefan (If you go by the Maleficent movies)

[garthofshayeris]

What’s your opinion on Garth possibly being Orms son?

I think it’d be interesting if Garth’s mom had an affair with Orm and they had a doomed love story where it could never work out. And it could make for interesting drama where Orm isn’t sure if he wants to drop the bomb on Garth or if he’s sure he’s really his.

There could also be an instance of Orm trying to get Garth to leave aquaman and join him.

Like...in the current comics? You mean Greg of Atlantis™? I think that guy is just some dude who got a scholarship from the king...

Obviously, it wouldn't work with preboot canon, considering Orm is either half- or fully-human depending on that continuity. And Garth being the son of Thar, a sorcerer and brother of Slizzath, is kinda his whole thing. Garth's magic is passed on from his father's side (not that magic can ONLY be from a father, but in the case of Garth that just is his canon) I don't think inserting Orm into the storyline of Garth that I like would do anything for the story tbh. I really love Garth's backstory involving Slizzath and Thar, I think it's very meaningful and complete.

THAT SAID I feel like you mean, if DC re-wrote everything, would I like a brand new version of Garth who is related to Orm. I guess my answer is...not really? We already have Jackson as the son of Manta (something that I feel is underwhelming, it's a cool concept that they never really do anything interesting with it) and it would be weird if that happened twice, you know? Since Garth would not have been raised by Orm and Orm in the current comics is arguably not really that evil, it wouldn't have the same punch as preboot "your dad was murdered by his people because he want homicidal and crazy"/"your dad's brother went homicidal and crazy and he died protecting the world from him". If this is about how animated DC stuff gives Orm purple eyes for some reason, I think that might just be something they do to make me angry, specifically /j

All that to say, I don't think it would add anything very meaningful to the current story dynamics. Saying Greg is related to Orm has the exact same punch as when they say every 5 years that Garth was totally raised by Arthur it just never came up and we never see it happen and he's never invited to any family events.

HOWEVER, the New 52 could have actually VERY easily made Garth Orm's son when they fucking BROUGHT HIM UP EARLY ON AND THEN DIDN'T FOLLOW THAT FUCKING STORY THREAD THROUGH I HATE YOU DC COMICS I HATE YOU I HATE YOU. They could have had Orm defending Garth from people who want to kill him, knowing DAMN WELL he fucked Berra and that kid might be his. Then after Orm is sent to Land Jail they could have killed off Berra and saddled Arthur with a young child that Orm was for some reason really defensive of but nobody knew why. And then they do the Atlanna story, blah blah blah... anyway fuck you dc comics

I actually think I posted about this years ago, but what they SHOULD have done with the Throne of Atlantis storyline is have Orm escape and return to Atlantis and start a group of outcast/terrorists that included (child) Garth and returned years later with a very powerful "child solider" because THAT would actually be a fun callback to Garth's preboot vibe but ALSO do what they try to do with Jackson. They're always like "omg is Jackson like his father, the evil Black Manta?!" but like.......Jackson was not raised by Manta, and being evil is not genetically passed down so it's lacking a little punch...anyway, this would be more like Damian, Cass, etc where there is an element of unlearning behaviors. Arthur would have to be like, this is a child and children are not evil, my brother is not evil, we need to help them.

I'm not saying it couldn't work, but I do think it would work better in a complete overhaul of the entire franchise. And I already posted my ideal overhaul of the entire franchise (dc pls hire me)

anyway it's a shame Garth hasn't been seen in DC comics since his death in Blackest Night (2009).

[disneydarlin]

The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea, Morgana —Aesthetic

Morgana's Character & Personality

Morgana is a cecaelia octopus who's the younger sister of Ursula. She works alongside her pet tiger shark, Undertow, as well as her two pet manta rays, Cloak and Dagger. Morgana is deceitful, baleful and ruthless. Although she isn't as talented at magic or potions as her older sister, much to her embarrassment, she's equally evil. Unfortunately, Morgana lacks her sister's subtlety and deviousness. More than anything, she hates being criticized. Morgana has a massive inferiority complex relating to her sister as she also hates being compared to her. Due to all this, she's driven to do what Ursula could not: rule the ocean to prove her superiority over her sister. Beyond this, Morgana has a funny but malicious sense of humor. She's even cannibalistic as she'll eat a plate of dead sea animals containing her own species. Morgana is arguably more evil than her sister because her plans couldn't be easily foiled by loopholes. In addition, she's more cunning as she's able to easily manipulate others with her motherly-like charm into doing her work for her.