Rukal led the two of them to their quarters- through gallant hallways furnished with quartz and gold. Link was regret to admit that shiny things caught his attention… But they really did. His eyes were flickering about in interest at every glint of the chandelier on the pure gold mastheads or the light reflected off the small holographic shards in the quartz floors as they walked. Ghirahim watched the boy with mild amusement. Always so curious, wasn't he? Not unlike a remlit pouncing at a string toy. Though, he supposed he had lived quite a sheltered life on a floating sky rock. He himself had been very interested when he first arrived on the surface, after all.

Surprisingly perhaps to some, Ghirahim was an avid reader before the war. Between combat training, polishing his weapons and keeping his non-sword form beautiful, Ghirahim loved nothing more than to curl into his plush bed and delve into the world of literature. Being knowledgeable was second only to being gorgeous, after all. All manners of books caught his fancy- fiction, non-fiction, war stories, mysteries, fantasies.. All of them compounded into a knowledge that guided him through trying times. While he was a sword at heart and fighting came naturally, reading battle stratagems through the ages helped him garner tactical prestige. Sifting through old tomes and deciphering glyphs helped him to hone his magical abilities. Likewise, reading medicinal books actually helped him pinpoint which flower was just right to use for his eye shadow pigmentation (among knowledge of basic first aid treatments, but that was hardly as important).

Point being, new things tended to interest the demon sword. They were ripe for scrutiny and study, such was the surface world. After so much time, his initial wonder had long since worn off-and though he was unlikely to admit it- there were still some sights on the surface that took his breath away.

Upon entering a large set of doors into the wing of the castle that Rukal called his own, the young mage guided them to the common room. It was more like a separate home, with a very open concept. Large stairs wound up to an upper level, while the center room housed seating and a table with books and papers strewn across it. Peeking to the right, there was a quaint eating and food prep area.

Rukal gave a sheepish laugh as he addressed them. "I-I greatly apologize for the mess.. I don't have many visitors, you see.. Er, this is the common living space here, and the dining area is that way" He acknowledged the places with a swipe of his claws as he listed them off.

"Down that hallway there is the bathing room, and up those stairs are the bedrooms.. I-In my wing there are three spare bedrooms which go unused, so you're welcome to take your pick.. I also have a spell room up there, so be wary of that.."

Link, who had been looking around in awe, piped up. "You have all of this space to yourself? There doesn't seem to be a reason to leave.." He had figured it would be something like his set up at the academy, not like it's own home. Though, he supposed the use of the word 'wing' now made more sense. It was like it's own building, but within the castle.. Gods, were there others like it here? What must the king's quarters look like? Thinking about it made Link's head hurt.

Rukal gave a soft laugh. "A-Ah, you're right. I don't often leave, unless I'm called off for work, meetings, or schooling. I'm.. Certainly what you would call an introvert.."

Links gaze was drawn to the large window off the side of the living room, which he worked his way over to. The room overlooked a large courtyard garden, though it was really unlike any 'garden' Link had ever seen. Due to the terrain, the courtyard was mostly large rocks, rich dark ash, lava channels and flowering branches that seemed to glow with a soft magical touch. Statues were placed in each of the four corners, one of which Link recognized as the king. The others must be of the remaining royal family. Rukal went to join him by the window and one look at each other had them both giggling.

"I-I can understand your awe.. I've only been here a few months, and It's still a surreal feeling; to live in the castle you've been dreaming about for most of your young life.." The mage leaned onto the window sill, propping his chin on his hand. "All the kids used sit and imagine that they would suddenly get whisked away to live with the royalty in lavish luxury.. For me, it became a reality…" With a bittersweet smile, Rukal straightened himself out. His demeanor said it all-A story for another time.

Deciding not to dwell on it, Rukal gave a shining smile. "S-So! Would you two like to get settled In your rooms, then perhaps see the city?" Link felt that if he had a tail, it would be wagging at the prospect. He was inwardly vibrating with excitement to explore the place. Ghirahim was already striding up the stairs.

Rukal called after him "Ah, my spell room is the first-"

"First door on the left, yes yes."

When Rukal paused his speech in surprise, Ghirahim turned to him from over the banister, a smirk plastered on his face.

"The room reeks of potions and magic, I could practically sense it from the throne room. It's a fairly strong aura though, so it seems your title isn't just for show..." With a flip of his hair he was gone.

Rukal tilted his head, unsure if he should take the observation as a compliment or not. Link rested a hand on his shoulder, and gave the mage a look that said 'sorry, he's often like that'. The mage gave a light smile and nudged him toward the stairs.

"Go find a room.. I-I'll begin preparations to get you guys out to see the city. We'll have to wait until the king finishes his address, but he never speaks for too long. Especially since he wants to keep the fact that the, ah… Assailant… Is still here a secret."

Link nodded in affirmation, following Ghirahim's lead up to the second level. Moving into the rightmost hallway, the first door he came to was already open,as it seemed the demon lord had already claimed his quarters. This was evident in the fact that he was sprawled across the large bed on the center of the room, his face buried in the comforter. He heard an airy moan from the demon, as well as mumblings along the line of "finally, an adequate bed". Link shook his head at the behavior, though his lips twitched up in amusement. His sword really was quite spoiled. He himself was fine with the bed he had on skyloft, and even the mattress back at the centaur village made of only hay and shredded cotton was sufficient. Seeing Ghirahim's bed back at the stronghold.. It wasn't hard to believe the demon lord had been pampered and spoiled beyond belief.

He moved to the next door and opened it. The room was almost identical to the one Ghirahim had chosen. A bed large enough to fit two people (or perhaps one ifrit) sat in the middle of the room. There was a window over the bed that allowed light in and kept the room from feeling like a prison, what with the stone walls. There was an end table by the bedside, and a trunk on the side wall to hold belongings. Torches were mounted to the walls to be lit at night time to provide light. Seeing as to how they were underground with only sparse skylights letting in the sun, Link had to imagine that at night, it got dark down here.

Link detached his sword and shield; setting it down at the foot of the bed along with his pouch. He took the opportunity stretch out any kinks and knots from his muscles. He was grateful for these small reprieves, for they brought with them calm and rest for his weary body. Early on in his adventure, he didn't understand the meaning of patience and downtime. He was practically jittering with nerves at all hours; how could he rest? Zelda could be dead somewhere and he was lying about uselessly. He came to realize with time though that progress wouldn't be made if he wasn't in his top condition and he was of no use to anyone tired and weak. From this, he was able to find solace in the small bit of time between temples.

Link took off his cap and shook his hair out, plopping himself on the bed in a similar fashion to his sword. Alright, now he could understand the fuss. While the bedding material was a bit stiff and no doubt fire resistant, it was still incredibly comfortable and breathable in the thick air. He allowed his muscles to relax and his eyes to slip shut. The bed smelled clean and vaguely like cinders and dirt. It was a very earthen and relaxing scent. He heard Rukals voice drift up the stairs.

"I-Im stepping out to see about the situation! Please make yourself at home! I won't be gone long!"

He heard the sound of the front door click and lock. Whether it was to keep unwanted visitors out or to keep the two of them in, he didn't know. Probably both. Links eyelids began to feel heavy. From where he was strewn across the bed he could hear the vague murmur of an authoritative voice carried by the wind; no doubt the king giving his address. He found his consciousness slipping. A nap wouldn't hurt, would it? The prolonged heat was giving him a bit of a headache.. Perhaps a brief rest would mend the problem. He allowed the feeling to overtake his body; washing over him in cool waves until he had been lulled to sleep.

The air was heavy with the smell of metal and magic. The intensity was almost enough to choke him; filling up his lungs and thrusting him into a state of sensory overload. He ran, bobbing and weaving through the pathways and rooms lain with traps. The sound of his broken shackles reverberated through the area; carelessly alerting any and all to his position. Let them come. He wanted them to.

Iron hunting traps snapped at his bare feet as he danced out of their grasp. Hot metal spikes shot up from the stone floor, so naturally he vaulted to crawl across the walls. It was dark save for sparsely placed torches.. But he could see. He could see everything. All was crystal clear before his goddess forsaken eyes; as everything gave off a glowing aura. Inanimate objects gave off dull auras of anywhere from yellow to purple, depending on composition. He didn't care. He'd stuffed some valuable looking trinkets away for later already, he didn't need to be weighed down.

His eyes flickered about as he moved and practically vibrated in excitement when through the walls he saw it. His favorite aura color. He felt his cheeks split into a grin as giddiness just bubbled inside him. Clattering metal armor assaulted his hearing. Fools. Idiots! It's no use. Even trying to use stealth to mount a sneak attack, he could still hear them. He twitched and snarled, coming to a halt from his breakneck pace with a skid across the floor. The soldiers halted with fear and surprise. He grinned and turned to stare at them with wide eyes. Oh… They were glowing such a pure and flickering shade of white. He felt a shudder work through his body. He wanted to rip their skin apart and watch that white aura seep out of their very innards. His tongue lolled out of his mouth as they moved their weapons up to take aim at him. Oh… This was so fun… He couldn't wait to kill them! Hahahah!

He was shaking with euphoria. Ifrit blood was so hot. So thick. It coated his hands and arms. How many had he killed? He lost count. So much blood. It was spilled across the walls and floor and even the ceiling; forming small rivers and flowing in the cracks of stone. All of the white aura was gone; replaced with the tepid black glow of dead bodies. He brought his dripping hand to his mouth, tasting the ambrosia of his conquests. He felt the hot metallic liquid slide down his throat and his eyes rolled back in satisfaction. His legs threatened to give out under the pleasure shooting through his body. His soaked hands gripped at the stone wall, claws digging in. It was so good. He needed more...

He was broken from his lusty reverie by the nagging at the back of his mind; a familiar presence in the vicinity. Huh? Oh…. They were here. He shook with restraint. He wanted to run to them now. He wanted to eat them; dig his fangs into their flesh and devour them whole. He had to wait. He didn't want more of the Ifrits interfering. No. They had to have a real fight. A real test of strength. He ran his tongue over his sharp and bloody teeth. He could wait. He grinned again, barking out loud laughter. Oh, He could wait. It wouldn't be long. His red swirling eyes shone with malice.

Link was jolted awake by a fear and panic the likes of which he hadn't felt since he was likely a toddler. Those swirling red eyes still bore into his mind as his hands shot up to fist in his hair. His body felt separate from his consciousness. It felt foreign and wrong. There was just hallways.. And blood.. So much of it. He could still feel it in his throat. He choked on his next rapid intake of breath. His eyes snapped open, frantically taking in his surroundings. He was enveloped in soft blankets. Yes… the castle. That's where he was. He sat up and looked around in a still panicked daze. His heart felt like it was trying to jump out of his ribcage. He found his body was not covered in blood, but it was trembling and drenched in sweat. His fingers twitched against the sheets. It must have just been a nightmare…. Or maybe a premonition dream? Those eyes..

He took a few steadying breaths, trying to gather himself. Why couldn't he have dreams like normal people when he slept? It was either excruciating glimpses into the demon world, whatever the hell he just had, or…. He cleared his throat. Let's not revisit about what he dreamed about back at the centaur village right now.

He moved to stand up from the bed and groaned at the intense head rush that came with it. He swallowed down his sudden vertigo and made for the still open door, seeking the comfort of being in another's presence. He didn't want to be alone right now. He still could feel slight trembles of bloodlust shooting down his spine. His body was sluggish as he peeked out into the hall. How much time had passed? He moved down to Ghirahim's room to find it empty. His brows furrowed in confusion and concern. He moved to the top of the stairs; peering down into the living area. Rukal was nowhere in sight, which means he must have not been asleep too long. He noticed steam bubbling out from under the bathroom door. Relief washed through him in a soothing wave. He wouldn't admit it, but he felt much like a little kid crawling to a loved one after a bad dream.

He gingerly made his down the stairs toward the source of the steam. He reached to about halfway across the living room before the sound of loud, boisterous laughter startled him into stillness. He recognized it as Ghirahim's. Before he could open his mouth to call to him, the bathroom door flew open in a grandiose spectacle of steam and diamonds. The smell of heated metal flooded his nostrils. Link squinted his still weary eyes at the brightness as the silhouette of his sword emerged.

"...Ghirahim?" He mumbled, still not completely tethered to his body.

He heard a pleased hum as his sword stepped forward.

"Oh, awake are you? I didn't care to disturb you so I set off to find something to do…~" His voice held the metallic and echoed quality Link knew all too well. The steam dispersed to show the demon in his true form; a good few heads taller and smirking confidently in his lean, metal muscles which Link must say are shining and shimmering more than he had ever seen.

"And low and behold I find that Ifrits bathe with magma! While at first I was stymied by this, I soon realized I could do some maintenance on my sword form.. Oh, aren't I just lovely?"

That same laughter bubbled up from his lips again as he ran his hands over his own arms.

"I can't remember the last time I've been this polished and sleek! Why, it must have been before the war!"

Link felt the tension slipping out of his body at just the sound of his voice. How strange. The antics of this preening man were comforting him. He rubbed at his eyes, trying to will his grogginess away. As Ghirahim's chuckles died down, he allowed his white eyes to fall on the boy; giving him a pitying scrunch of the face.

'My, you sure look awful. Bad dream?"

Link glanced up at the demon to give him a dry look, but his vision flickered. For a hot moment everything in his sightlines turned red. Ghirahim was surrounded by this pure white light and all Link could picture was wrapping his hands around the demon's throat and choking the air out of him; throwing him down and stomping on his face until the light was gone- he grunted and griped the side of his head in a vain attempt to try to stop the intrusive thoughts. As soon as it had happened it was gone, replaced by Ghirahim giving him a bit more of a serious and confused look. He breathed out through clenched teeth.

"...S-Something like that. I saw some things.." His mind was already blanking on the details, damnit. Ghirahim for once didn't speak, waiting for him to elaborate. Perhaps he could sense his distress.

"All I remember... is that there was so much blood. So much malice and death and blood. I could feel it going down my throat.." He swallowed before trying to offer more, as if reassuring himself that all that was there was his saliva.

"I- ..Someone was killing so many soldiers and it smelled so heavily like metal and magic. I can still hear the sound of chains and those swirling red eyes still feel like they're on me…"

Ghirahim's face screwed up in distaste at the description. He put his hands on his hips.

"That sounds like him, the bloody cur. I must say your dreams are unusual.. Did you have dreams like this before, when I was your enemy? Perhaps that's how you always knew where I was.." He gave a dry laugh.

Link shook his head slowly "Never. But this wasn't like the other dreams.. Ghirahim, I saw everything through his eyes. I felt like I was inside his head.."

At this, Ghirahim visibly cringed. His voice was surprising earnest. "Eugh.. You poor boy. I wouldn't wish that on anyone. That beast is psychotic."

With a cluck of his tongue he made the walk into the kitchen area; opening the ice cooler with the kind of ease that you would think he lived there. Ghirahim pulled out a clear canteen of water and tossed it to the sky boy, who caught it.

"Here, drink. You look like you need a pick me up." Ghirahim moved to the living area and sat on one of the large couches; glancing over his shoulder in unspoken invitation to join him.

Link shuffled over and settled himself down on the couch opposite him; uncapping the water and sipping the cold liquid. It tasted pure and clean, almost like the water from Skyloft. There must be a natural spring nearby somewhere. The crisp feeling on his pallet brought him back to a state with more clarity.

He gave a thankful look to the demon who was still in his sword form for some reason or another. He piped up after a moment.

"How long was I asleep for?"

Ghirahim gave a thoughtful hum "Mm.. Not long. Perhaps almost an hour?"

Link nodded slowly, sipping at his water as his eyes moved to the front doors.

Ghirahim, without even looking, seemed to follow his line of inquiry.

"Wondering when the mage will be back?"

Link furrowed his eyebrows a bit. Was he that obvious? He nodded. "I'm surprised he left two strangers in his home alone.."

Ghirahim mindlessly thumbed at a smudge on the shiny veneer of his forearm, answering without much thought. "It would seem that way wouldn't it? In truth, he put up seals on the front door and windows.. So he would know in a moments notice if we broke them and tried to leave. A basic trick, but effective nonetheless. I could dispel them easily if I desired.. "

Did he? Link.. Hadn't sensed anything. That wasn't saying much though, as he was certain Ghirahim's magical abilities and sensitivity to the craft was far superior to his.

Said sword had tipped his head back toward the ceiling, most likely relishing in some feeling Link could never understand due to the fact he was made of flesh and not metal. His dark skin still gave off wisps of steam as it cooled; small diamond shapes dancing over the polished metal. Link noted the gem at the center of his chest- his very core; pulsing with a glowing content yellow. The outside was visibly mended, but he could see the inside was lain with hairline cracks. He felt guilt seat itself in his gut.

Ghirahim was a bad man. He knew this firsthand as the demon had dealt wounds to him and laughed heartily while doing so; threats spilling from his lips at their every meeting. The sword had no doubt killed more people in his lifetime than Link ever would- stepped on and used everyone and anyone to crawl higher and higher for his own selfish needs. He was an evil, flamboyant and violent being at his core. He oozed bloodlust and if given the opportunity, Link had no doubt he would stab him in the back. He had put Zelda through so much distress, not to mention himself...

And yet, here they were. Link was watching his former(?) enemy cool off his muscular metal skin after polishing it to a lustrous sheen. The demon didn't seem to be the slightest bit concerned a dangerous adversary could come bursting in to eviscerate them at any moment. In fact, he looked more carefree than Link had ever seen, almost as if his guard was completely down. His eyes were closed in reverence and Link could swear that if he listened closely enough, he could hear almost a purr like noise rumbling his throat. He wasn't saying anything, but at that moment it didn't feel like words were needed. Perhaps he was giving Link some time to sort out his thoughts.

The silence that swirled between them was a relatively comfortable one. Sitting here like this, with a sword spirit who in all technicalities belonged to him.. It didn't feel wrong. Different, certainly. Yet not wrong. It felt.. Surprisingly domestic. The goddess truly worked in mysterious ways, it seemed.

After a few minutes of this silence Ghirahim stirred, his eyes opening slowly. He spoke, in a softer more conversational tone.

"Hmm.. You know Sky Child, I've been pondering the origins of the dreams you've been having, but they don't seem to be tethered to one place.. For example, the throne room of Demises castle. I thought it may have something to do with that place in particular… But..."

Link, who had just finished off his water, turned his head back to look at the sword. He gave a slow nod.

"I really can't put my finger on what could be the cause. It's quite the quandary, hm? If you didn't have them before, I wonder what could be the cause now.. "

Ghirahim rolled his shoulders back and Link watched as the metal sinews flexed with surprising ease and fluidity. Ghirahim's white eyes caught his stare, a playful grin coming over his face. Link forgot he had sizable fangs in this form, that is until they were bared at him in a lazy grin.

"Admiring the view? I'm stunning, I know.."

At this, Link pointedly drew his gaze to the window, his cheeks puffing out a bit. Yes, Ghirahim was stunning. Stunningly conceited. Not to mention pompous, spoiled and downright evil. ...So why then did he feel flustered at the fact that his eyes were still trained so intently on him?

Ghirahim gave an amused chuckle at this. "Mm, it's quite alright, you needn't answer. I know you think so too."

Link turned a suspicious and questioning eye over toward the demon. What did he mean by that? Although the demon had no pupils in this form for him to read, the smarmy smirk plastered on his face conveyed his sudden ego boost. Link felt a bit like a piece of meat being sized up under his gaze. His eyebrows dipped down in mild concern.

"Why do you say that?"

Ghirahim chuckled and licked his lips with that damned tongue of his. Oh, teasing Link could be one of his new favorite past times. He didn't answer, opting to see if the boy could figured out his meaning himself. When the sword stayed silent except for taunting looks, Link was getting a little frustrated. What did he mean he knew that Link thought he was-... Hm? No, that couldn't be it.. But what if…

The rising panic must have been visible on his face, as Ghirahim began to laugh in earnest. Link felt his face heat up in shame. Did Ghirahim find out about that.. That unfortunate dream? Could he read his mind or something? Oh Goddesses no..

Ghirahim said nothing to deny or confirm his rising concerns as his laughter died down. Instead, he took a mental picture of the flustered sky boy, who was most likely too afraid to ask what he already knew. He would definitely tease him more later. Instead, he turned his head toward the door.

"It seems as though the mage is approaching.."

Link was trying to dial down his panic. That didn't answer his question! Did he even verbally ask one? He couldn't remember anymore. He took calming breaths through his nose. Okay, maybe he doesn't know that you had a dream like.. like that about him. That would be great. Maybe he does know. While that would ensure Link's face would burn shamefully for the next decade, it wouldn't be the end of the world. Right? He'd inquire about it more later. He too could hear hooves approaching, as well as muffled voices. Was Rukal with someone?

After a moment the shuffling reached the front door; which opened to reveal a rather frazzled looking Rukal.

"I-I apologize you two, I didn't mean to be gone nearly as long as I was." Rukal shuffled into the room hastily "The king c-called me up to speak you see and it was very unexpected and rather terrifying- Eek!"

The ifrit jumped in surprise and though Link couldn't see where his eyes lay through his hair, he had his head turned toward Ghirahim. Ah, right… He did look rather different didn't he? Said Demon gave a smirk, offering a half wave. Link squinted his eyes at him in distaste; now understanding why he had stayed like this for so long. Not just to dry off and cool down, but to show off.

"It's fine, these things happen. I hope you don't mind, I took use of your bathing facilities…" Ghirahim stood himself up off the couch and ran his hands over his arms. In his sword form, he appeared only slightly shorter than Rukal. "And I must say it has done wonders on me~"

Rukal had his mouth hanging open in surprise and possibly awe. The ifrit had probably never seen a sword spirit before, nevermind one in this living was movement from the doorway and another Ifrit moved into the room beside the mage.

"What's the matter Ru? Did something happen?" Even asking this, his voice sounded rather uninterested.

This new Ifrit was taller than Rukal by a good foot or so; his long hair tied in a low braid that slung over his shoulder and reached down to his hip. Large horns jutted from his head, at the base of which rested a gold headpiece. His features were handsome by Ifrit standards by what Link had seen; adorned with a curved nose, thick brows and bored looking red and red and gold eyes. He had two diamond shapes painted on each cheek, each a soft yellow color. He wore nothing save for a fur wrapped around his hips for modesty and a shawl like wrapping over his shoulders. This seemed to be commonplace, from what he saw in the city. When he placed a protective hand on the mage's shoulder, Link could see solid gold battle bracers over his arms.

Rukal nodded a bit "A-Ah, yes.. Sorry ahaha.. He just uhm.. Didn't look like that when I left. I was surprised is all…"

Link shot Ghirahim a look and the demon relinquished with a roll of his eyes; changing himself back to his normal self in a torrent of diamonds that Link still wondered if were really necessary. Rukal looked even more impressed at this display and even the Ifrit with him rose his eyebrows. Ghirahim fixed his clothes properly and Link smiled at the two ifrits.

"Sorry.. So, can we go see the city…?" Rukal snapped himself out of his surprise and offered a smile. "Ah! Ye-yes, I got it cleared with the King. As long as I accompany you, we can depart. Of course, when I said I was going to do it alone, someone wouldn't hear it.." The mage turned his head up to his taller counterpart.

The man looked down at him and shrugged "I'm not gonna let you go around with two strangers alone, Ru. I know you can handle yourself, Hell you whip my ass in training all the time.. But after what happened to Dad, I don't want you getting hurt."

Rukal seemed a bit flustered for a moment, his posture becoming visibly shy as his face turned a darker red. He cleared his throat and spoke in a more quiet voice.

"Kyu, I can take care of myself…"

"Don't care"

A little huff of breath came from the mage as he turned back to his guests.

"I-Im sorry.. I hope you don't mind him joining us.. This is Prince Kunil, King Elums son.. But there's no need to be overly formal with him. He's.. Not much of a prince type, really.."

Kunil puffed his cheeks out, though his entire demeanor was lazy and apathetic. "I resent that Ru.. I'm not gonna be King anyway, so what's it matter how I act?"

Rukal gave a sigh, one that told Link they had most likely had this discussion many times before. "I-I'll tell you later why you should act like a proper prince… But I don't want to keep these two waiting any longer. It's going to be dark out in a few hours, and.." He quieted for a moment "I don't think we should be out after dark. Not with that beast still here."

Link furrowed his brows at this. He felt pity for these people, having few visitors for centuries and suddenly something like this happens. They couldn't even feel safe in their own home. Rukal wrung his hands together, biting at his lip.

"I.. I heard King Elum speaking to Berul. The situation is… Not good. The demon seems to be heading further inside, so they've sent wave after wave of our best soldiers into the Citadel… But.." His voice dipped softer "None of them have come out."

Link felt a wave of nausea overtake him as he was hit with vibrant flashbacks. The sound of the soldiers armor trembling in trepidation. The expressions on their faces as they were eviscerated and ripped apart. The scalding heat of their blood on his hands and down his throat. He gripped the sofa to keep himself stable. So it was true then. What he saw had happened, and wasn't just a fear-fueled projection. He put a hand on his head, suddenly a bit dizzy.

Rukal made a soft sound of concern, moving across the room toward Link as he took notice of his plight. "A-Are you alright?"

Before Link could respond, Ghirahim chimed in "Yes, he's fine. He woke up from a nap not to long ago and I doubt he's fully awake. I think he's rather hungry as well.."

Rukal jolted, as if shocked. "Ahh! I-I never offered you food, I'm very sorry! Let me get you something! Do you eat meat? I know a place out in the city that has very nutritious stew.."

Link blinked as the malaise passed him with the subject change. When his stomach settled, Ghirahim was right it had seemed. He didn't remember the last time he ate. Back with the Centaurs most likely? Link gave a nod signaling that was alright, standing up straighter.

Kunil, lounging against the door frame, glanced out the large window. "If we're going, we should go now. Not long until sundown."

Rukal nodded "Yes.. Get everything you need to go out and we'll depart."

Link headed for his supplies upstairs immediately. He didn't feel safe, not after what he had seen. He was almost certain that demon would wait for them.. But what of he got bored? His bloodlust was still palpable to Link. He needed to be ready for anything he told himself, reattaching his weapons and adorning his cap. Not wanting to keep everyone waiting, he headed back downstairs.

The doors were shut and locked when they stepped out in the hall, for safety measures. Rukal walked in front and Kunil walked behind him, off to the side a bit so he could keep an eye on the two newcomers. Link wasn't at all surprised he didn't trust them, he doubt he would either.

The prince made a rumble in the back of his throat. "Ru, I don't trust these guys.."

Alright then. Link wouldn't have been that upfront about it, though. Rukal turned his head up to look at the tall prince, frowning. "Kyu, Y-you know they can hear you right? That's a rather rude thing to say within earshot.."

The prince looked back at them, squinting a little. Link offered a sheepish smile in return.

"...Eh. I mean they should know right? The little ones okay, he seems harmless and squishy. I don't like the creepy one though." His eyes narrowed at Ghirahim.

Ghirahim simply smiled, seemingly amused. "Prince, that's certainly not the first time I've been called that.. And dare I say it won't be the last."

Link had tilted his head a bit. Squishy? He looked down at himself as they walked. Hmm.. He supposed he was.

Rukal sighed as they rounded the halls toward the entrance. "Kyu, you can't just c-call people creepy. Or squishy for that matter. I'm sorry you two.."

Link offered another smile and Ghirahim gave a dismissive wave of the hand. Perhaps a subject change was in order? The young hero spoke up.

"Rukal, why do you call the prince Kyu?"

Both the mage and the prince smiled at this question. Rukal emitted a flustered sigh.

"Well, ah, it's a n-nickname you see. Me and the prince have known each other since childhood. We didn't see each other often, as the royal children were k-kept to their own schooling.. but we did on holidays, and during meetings and festivals. He would call me Ru back then, and I had a bit of a lisp you see, so his name c-came out a bit like 'Kyunil'..."

Kunil gave a soft laugh "I thought it was kinda cute. So I told him to keep calling me that."

Rukal cleared his throat, though his face looked a bit warm. Link smiled at the story, as it was a very pure one that brought back memories. Even he used to call Zelda 'Zel' when he was little. His name didn't really have a shortened form. They fell into a comfortable silence as they continued on.

They reached the grand front doors to the castle and exited out onto the courtyard, Rukal nodding to the few guards on duty as the bowed to him and the prince. Walking down to the main stairwell that led to the road to the city, Link looked up at the large rock ceiling that hung over their heads. There were vents that circulated the air and let in light. The sky above told Link it was about an hour away from sundown. It pays to have been raised among the clouds all his life, huh? Even with the traces of volcanic smoke in the air, he could still tell the time of day by the shade of the sky.

He then drew his eyes almost reluctantly over to the Citadel of Cinders. It looked just the same as it did before really.. But the thought of what could await them inside brought malaise. Thanks to his Triforce of Courage, he was rarely hindered by fear. Yes, he did experience fear; the same as anyone. He has felt the Fight or Flight mentality, the same instinct as every frightened living creature. The Triforce of Courage helped ensure that even if he wanted to run on the inside, he would have the resolve to fight.

As they descended into the city, Link kept his eyes on the Citadel. Let the demon wait and anticipate their 'momentous battle'... Because when Link and Ghirahim went in there after him, they would be ready.

Hey all~ Thanks to everyone that's joined the story since I last updated 3 Your support keeps me going!

So here we have a slightly different kind of dream from the others. What could be causing them? Also featuring: Ghirahim being a conceited assbag like always, buffing himself to a glimmering shine and jut laying around so people will look at him. What a ham.
Also, in comes Prince Kunil! He's very goodlooking, but far from princely. He's a lazy, apathetic boy who's prone to bouts of blood thirst and living in his sisters shadow.

Thankyou all for your support and love. Reviews and Input is much appreciated!