One push is all it takes

Chapter 1

Jafar strolled down the usual path he took around the palace's garden. It was a surreal place to be, especially at night with all the lights from the torches dancing around, making the flowers colors flow naturally. He always liked it here. It was peaceful, a good way to release any thoughts in his head from the day. Soon enough, however, he'd have to return to his bedroom and let his mind drift away into sleep. That was the hardest part of his days. Never mind that, this place is to make him forget about the troubles of tomorrow, and be caught in the peacefulness of today. As today, he got his work done. As today, he ate good. As today, he was happy. It was a chance to cherish the good times, he supposed. The reason the garden was so special to him, uncertain, until he felt the good of the days.

That was until a thud erupted his calmed thoughts, startling him into a series of troubled ones. He turned around swiftly, holding his darts in both hands. Even with the light of the torches, it was hard to see. Thankfully, having lived in darkness for most of his childhood, that wasn't that big of an issue. When the attacker came into view, it was clear they were not trying to conceal themselves.

"You are?" Jafar asked, darts at the ready.

The person merely walked closer. Jafar felt his body tense, and he quickly shut down any thoughts of fear. It's okay to be fearful, fear keeps you alive. However, it also makes you scared. Being fearful is like having your senses on-point. Being scared is like your senses are shutting down.

"I am surprised you don't remember me." The person said, coming within range of one of the torches. It illuminated their face for Jafar to see.

He almost gasped. Well, he did, but not loud enough- he hoped.

"V-Vittel?" The scared notion in his voice must have gotten to them, as they walked a little closer.

"Yes, dear brother." He said with all the grace of a toad. Jafar felt nauseous almost.

"You're alive? But how? You died with Mahad when-" Jafar was cut off when Vittel wrapped him up with a big hug. It wasn't warm like Sin's, nor was it comforting like Rurumu's. It was... sad.

"You are not dreaming, but I am dead." Vittel admitted, keeping his hold.

"Then why are you here." Jafar rushed the sentence out before he felt like crying.

"That is something I cannot explain," Vittel then got down on his knees, either to get a better look at Jafar or to be at eye-level with him. Was he still that short? "But I can assure you, anything that happens after tonight, I promise- Ngh!" Vittel grabbed his head, groaning.

"Vittel, what's wrong?" Jafar grabbed Vittel's arm, helping him steady.

"Ugh! Go, Jafar- go!"

"What? We must get you to Yamuriaha. Come on." When Jafar tried to help Vittel to his feet, the latter shoved him down.

"I-I'm s-sorry, bro- ugh! Jafar, hurry and go! Argh!" Vittel's eyes then became dead-like. Not a thought behind them. Jafar felt scared, but knew to not let it consume him. He pushed Vittel to the ground, knowing something was wrong. This was no longer Vittel.

"Whoever is controlling you, come out where I can see you!" He yelled, turning around to face the true attacker.

His eyes widened.

His breath hitched.

His fear subsided, and the scared feeling he had consumed.

And for once in years, he let himself swear.

"Shit."

"So nice to see you again, my dear pupil."

...