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BLADES OF CHAOS
By The Infiniator
Disclaimer:
I do not own any of the following characters, or anything else relating to either The Legend Of Zelda or Samurai Jack. All rights reserved.
Author's Note:
Okay, this is my attempt at a second fanfic. Overall, I think this one will be great, but I don't expect it to be as long as my first FanFic. Then again, I still don't know.
Blades of Chaos starts out in Hyrule, seven years after Ocarina of Time. Link has grown up into the Hero of Time, and now serves under the king himself. He's living a pretty decent life, but he's still bummed out about Navi's disappearance. He and Zelda have yet to develop a relationship, mostly because of her status, and also because the two of them are hesitant.
The first chapter is just basically introducing you to the characters, the environment, and exactly what's going on. No action yet, so bare with me. Also, when I started this story, I was basing Hyrule the way it appears in Ocarina of Time. But I just recently played Twilight Princess (amazing game by the way) and I was impressed with the Hyrule in that game. So I decided to incorporate both portrayals of the land in this story. And on a final note, I will also be describing Ganondorf as he appears in Twilight Princess.
Please ladies and gentlemen, feel free to leave feedback, either positive or negative. Thanks, and enjoy.
- CHAPTER 1 -
Hyrule Castle
Training Grounds
It was mid-afternoon in the land of Hyrule, and the sun was shimmering brightly. As usual, the birds were chirping, the water was clean and running, and everything was as it should be. The people had lived in peace for seven years now, and they maintained their lives carefree and upright. Kakariko Village was booming in terms of economy and population, and the once small town had almost tripled in size. The Gorons were once again free to enter the Dodongo's Cavern and Death Mountain without having to worry about being eaten by an evil dragon. The Great Deku Tree was as big and happy as ever, and he kept the children of the forest healthy and safe. King Zora was still the ruler of the Zora race and was doing a fine job of keeping his matters intact. The Gerudo were still the number one thieves in Hyrule, but ever since the death of Ganandorf, Nabooru had made it law that stealth, not violence was the way to go.
All in all, everything was going great. Especially for the Hero of Time. For tonight he was to recieve an award of commemoration during the annual Festival of Time. Not only that, but Princess Zelda would be the one presenting him the award. At the current moment, he was on top of the world, and he wasn't going to let anyone, especially not his archery rival Brandol, ruin his day.
"You're through Link." boasted Captain Brandol of the Hylian Army. "That's my best shot yet."
"You say that after each shot," remarked another soldier from his right.
The cleancut, blonde-haired Captain turned to face the man. "What can I say, I just keep getting better and better."
Brandol was well built, and dark-eyed. Since they had met, almost seven months ago, he and Link had become the best of friends, and the biggest of rivals.
"C'mon Link," he said, moving away from the pedestal. "Show me what you got."
The blue-eyed, pointy-eared Hylian teenager obliged him. "Am I gonna have to put you in your place again Brandol?"
Brandol grinned. "Quit talkin' and get to shootin'." Then he turned to the large red bullseye situated fifty yards away from the pedestal. "Or is the distance too much for you?"
"He's calling you out Link!" yelled someone from the large group of soldiers who had begun to crowd them.
Link returned a smile. "Hold this," he said, removing his floppy green hat and tossing it over to Brandol. He approached the pedestal and picked up the bow that was lying on top of it and checked the string. "Its a little too loose, don't you think?"
"Oh, you're not getting out of this one," replied Brandol, handing him an arrow. "I used it no problem."
Link accepted the arrow. "I wasn't backing down, just pointing out how amateur this is." And with that he armed the bow.
"Link, put him away!" came another cry from the crowd.
I got him, I got him, he told himself. He took aim and closed his right eye. "Is that your arrow there near the center?"
Brandol chuckled. "You're damn right it is."
Link took a moment to register his shot. "This one's for you Brandol."
The arrow darted across the grass field and pierced right through Brandol's arrow, hitting the bullseye dead center. The small crowd let out a cheer. Brandol just smiled.
"You got me again you little punk." He walked over and patted Link on the back. "I guess you do deserve that award."
"Thanks Brandol, but are you getting soft on me?" Link teased.
"Yeah right. Don't think this changes anything," he said, matter of factly. "You still owe me another sparring session."
"You name the time," answered Link.
Another voice interrupted them. "Captain!"
The ranks of men quickly fell into line, with Brandol in front.
"Commander Briggs sir," replied Brandol, with a solid salute.
Approaching them from the Castle was the Commander of the Hylian Army himself, Commander Briggs. He had short, dark hair and matching eyes. Unlike the other soliders whose uniforms were lined with a silver streak, his was gold. He strode towards them with his hands behind his back and his head held high.
"Captain, I see that you've been bested by Link once again." The commander eyed Brandol sharply.
"No sir, I let him win," stated Brandol.
Briggs raised his eyebrow. "Is that right?"
"Yes sir, I always let him win."
From behind him the other soldiers, along with Link, were stifling a laugh.
"Is that so? That's your excuse?"
Brandol nodded. "Yes sir."
The commander smiled. "Holding your ground again. Good, I like that."
"Thank you sir."
Briggs now took a step back to address the entire squad. "As you all know, tonight is the annual Festival of Time. As royal guards, it is your duty to protect the Royal Family and make sure that they are safe at all times." He paced back and forth in front of them. "I expect you all to be constantly aware of your surroundings, because tonight will be unlike any other previous festivals."
From where he was standing, Link could just barely hear Epona whining for food from her stable. Hang on girl, I'll be right there.
The commander continued his speech. "Joining us tonight are the six Sages of Hyrule, as well as travellers from other parts. Not only that, but the king himself will be toasting the crowd. I don't want some idiot trying something stupid, so during the festivities, you can mingle, but do not stray away from your duties." He surveyed his men thoroughly. "We've done this before men, I want tonight to go flawlessly. Do you understand me?"
"Sir yes sir!" replied the squad in unision.
The commander nodded approvingly. "Good, dismissed."
The men broke rank and scattered along the training grounds. Before Link could go anywhere, the commander stopped him.
"Link, wait a moment.."
"Sir?"
Briggs spoke now in a different tone than he had before. It was his 'people' voice. "Congratulations on your award Link. I'm sure you know how high of an honor it is."
Link nodded. "I do sir."
"I just wanted to ask you if you could just keep your eyes peeled tonight. You'll be pretty close to the king and queen, and of course Princess Zelda, so I just wanted you to make sure they're alright."
"Of course, that's my number one priority commander." Link eyed him warily. "Is something wrong?"
Briggs turned to make sure no one was eavesdropping. "No one but Brandol and I know about this, so don't go spreading it around." He hesitated before going on. "Do you remember the scouting party I stationed over at Lake Hylia?"
Link nodded once again.
"Well two days ago, we received a message from the officer in charge there that they had recently spotted large groups of monsters in that area."
Link was confused. "There are always monsters by the lake. Why is that strange?"
"Are you aware of the disappearances that have been occuring lately?"
Link was lost. "Disappearances?"
The commander nodded. "Yes. Over the past few weeks there have been reports of over thirty missing persons from both the Castle Town Market and Kakariko Village. My men have connected these disappearances to the excess number of creatures near the lake."
"How?" inquired Link. The commander's story was beginning to worry him.
"They found a hidden tomb somewhere close to the lake, and upon further inspection they confirmed that at least twelve of the missing persons were in that tomb, dead."
Link was wide-eyed. "I don't recall any sort of tomb in that area Commander."
"The report specifically mentioned the discovery of it."
"None of this makes any sense. I mean there have always been a few injuries here and there, but overall the monsters normally leave people alone."
There was a moment of silence between them, then Link spoke again. "Which creatures were they?"
"Stalfos from what I heard, but that's about all I know. The scouting team has yet to arrive, and they were due back yesterday."
The news was startling, but Link kept his cool. "Commander I think you're right. There's definitely something going on. I'll be on my guard."
"Thank you Link. It feels good to know I've got you there to back us up."
"Anytime sir."
He patted Link on the back. "I'll see you tonight then." And with that he walked away.
Link stood there a moment longer before Brandol arrived again.
"He told you?" asked Brandol, a look of seriousness replacing his usual cocky demeanor.
"Yeah, and I don't think we should overlook this. The commander's right, this is strange. I mean Stalfos at Lake Hylia? I've never once seen those things outdoors before."
"Yeah, and the worst part is, if the team doesn't show up soon, he's gonna have to tell the king. And you know how he gets with these things."
Link nodded. "It might cause a panic."
"The commander's sending a search party to go find them tonight. If they don't find anything, he's gonna have to inform the king."
"Let's hope it doesn't come to that," answered Link. He heard Epona whine again. "Listen Brandol, I'm gonna go check the lake out. You think you could do me a favor and feed Epona for me?"
Brandol eyed him warily. "You're not gonna take her with you?"
Link shook his head. "I'll be fine. I wanna see for myself exactly what's happening over there. If anyone asks, tell them I'm at the ranch, Malon will vouch for me."
"Okay, but just make it back before tonight. And watch yourself out there."
Link shook his hand. "I will. And thanks, you just got yourself a rematch tomorrow."
Brandol grinned. "I'll be ready."
With that Link took off.
Dusk fell upon Hyrule the same way it did everyday, with one exception. The Hyrule Castle Town drawbridge was left down in order to allow the guests to arrive. Of course, security at the gate was doubled. By around eight-thirty, the festivities had begun.
Link had returned earlier and had just enough time to prepare. He was wearing his typical green Kokiri tunic, only this one was made by the Great Fairy herself, for an event such as this one. At the lake, Link had found absolutely nothing to point him towards a solution. There were no signs whatsoever of the scouting party, nor the tomb they had discovered. Link had returned disappointed. But then he remembered that tonight was a special night. He was receiving his award, and while he did not particularly enjoy large crowds, it didn't matter, because tonight he would be seeing Zelda.
He hadn't seen her in nearly three days, but that meant a lifetime to Link. He was constantly thinking about her, and he was anxious to see her tonight. So for now he put aside the ominous news that Commander Briggs had relayed to him. Spotting Brandol, he moved through the hordes of party goers towards him.
"Hey Link, you find anything?" he asked, excusing himself from a previous conversation.
"Nothing, its exactly as its always been. I even checked the Water Temple. Its all clear."
"Well, Briggs just deployed his search team. They should be headed for the lake now."
"Hopefully they can get to the bottom of this," said Link, accepting a small glass bottle of water from a waiter. He gulped it down quickly.
Brandol looked towards the gate. "We've got some pretty heavy security over there, and men posted at all the alley entrances. So far so good."
Let's hope it stays that way, thought Link.
"So, where are your friends, the Sages?"
Link looked around. "I don't know, I'm sure they're here somewhere." Then he took the time to notice Brandol's uniform. "Nice uniform."
"Thanks, you don't look so bad yourself. I see you lost the earring."
"Just for tonight, I thought it would be appropriate."
Suddenly, the music ceased and the people hushed. From the back of the marketplace approached a large group of Royal Guards, most of which were on horses, followed by two beautifully decorated carriages. They were each being hauled by four snow white horses, whose hair had been combed to shimmering perfection. From where they were standing, Brandol and Link watched as the Royal Family arrived. A soldier approached the first carriage and opened the door. Out came the king's advisors and other trusted friends. They all waved at the cheering crowd, and took their seats on the stage.
When they were all seated, another soldier approached the second carriage and opened the door. The man bowed and held out his hand to help the Queen of Hyrule out of the car. Everyone bowed in a similar fashion, before cheering. Next came the king, cheerful as ever. He waved at the people of Hyrule with the same smile he always had. When he was out of the carriage, he turned to help his daughter. Link saw her hand extend from the car, and he got chills. Stepping out of the carriage was Princess Zelda herself. Link couldn't help but to notice her beauty.
Her hair was golden, and it fell long behind hair back with the exception of two tied strands that fell on her shoulders. She was wearing a white dress with a pink top, all decorated in gold jewlery. She had on her formal long white gloves, and her gold crown which was embedded with a sapphire.
Brandol leaned over towards Link. "Hey, you're drooling."
Link snapped out of his mesmerism and looked down at his shoulder. Brandol was just messing around, and he nudged him on the shoulder.
Brandol laughed. "Listen, I've got to get back to the commander. I'll see you in a bit."
"Don't miss my award ceremony!" yelled Link as Brandol took off.
Brandol waved back. "I won't!"
Link returned his attention to the stage. Zelda was just taking her seat, and was speaking to one of the advisors. He wished Navi were there with him, he could always count on her when he needed advice. He wanted to speak to her, but he was too nervous.
Dammit, it was so much easier when we were kids.
He had a brief flashback of his first encounter with her. That day in the courtyard had been one of the happiest moments of his life. To his left, he saw Impa speaking to Brandol in a low tone.
So the Sages are here, he told himself.
That meant that the ceremony would begin shortly. He wanted to spend some time with Zelda before the ceremony began. With his eyes, he followed Impa to the stage, where she took her place at Zelda's side.
Screw it! He took a deep breath and approached the stage.
"You look troubled, what's wrong?"
Zelda looked up into the eyes of her bodyguard Impa and smiled. "I'm fine, just a little nervous that's all."
Impa nodded. "I see. And it has nothing to do with Link correct?"
Blushing, Zelda replied, "You read me like a book Impa."
The dark skinned woman crossed her arms and smiled. "Its my job." Then she bent down next to her. "He's going to ask you to dance, I hope you've been practicing." Before Zelda could say another word, Impa stood up and walked towards the end of the stage. At the same time, Link arrived.
"Let him through," she commanded to the guards stationed around the stage.
They moved their spears and allowed him to pass.
"Thanks Impa," said Link, gratefully.
"She's waiting for you," she declared, and took a step back to let him climb up.
He nodded and strode towards Zelda. A moment later, they were in the middle of the crowd dancing hand in hand.
"Its good to see you again Link," she said as they moved to the music.
"Its only been a few days," he responded, knowing very well that the time he was away from her was killing him.
They chatted a bit more as they danced.
"So are you nervous about the award ceremony?" she inquired.
"I'll admit I'm a little nervous."
She laughed. "You've fought dragons and monsters and yet standing on a stage intimidates you."
"I'm sure I'll be fine, I've got the Triforce of Courage after all."
When the music stopped, and they were informed that the ceremony was beginning, Link held her hand all the way to the stage. She took her seat, and he remained on the side of the stage, where he was accompanied by Commander Briggs and Brandol.
The crowd became silent as the king prepared to deliver his speech.
Brandol kept his face towards the people, but whispered to Link, "Nice moves out there buddy."
Link looked amused. "Thanks, I still haven't seen you on the dance floor."
Brandol murmured, "Dancing isn't really my thing."
The commander scowled. "Will you two hush up?"
"Sorry sir," they apologized in unision.
Link faced the stage, just as the king began.
"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the tenth annual Festival of Time!"
The crowd roared with applause. He waited for them to settle down before continuing. "As you all know, Hyrule has survived centuries upon centuries, and yet still it stands. That is what tonight is about. Celebrating our perserverance throughout any crisis and issues that we have encountered." He surveyed the crowd. "We have endured much in the past, and yet here we are, stronger than ever before. I speak to you today, people of Hyrule, not as a king, and not as royalty, but as an inhabitant of this land that we love so much. And to help give our thanks, may I introduce to you now, the six Sages of Hyrule!"
The people applauded again, as Darunia, Impa, Princess Ruto, Saria, Nabooru, and Rauru all made their way next to him. They bowed before they waved at the crowd.
"You see, this is not a celebration for Hylians alone, but for all of Hyrule and the land beyond it!"
The applause was much greater this time.
"But, if we are to celebrate the survival of Hyrule, we must thank of course, its savior. Ladies and gentlemen, without further adieu, let me welcome to you, the Hero of Time himself, Link!"
"Good luck," muttered Brandol as Link made his way up towards the king.
Link found himself staring back at seven smiling faces, the king and the Sages. He greeted them all, some with a simple 'Hello', or others (like Darunia) with a brotherly hug. Then he bowed to the king, and waved to the crowd.
"Congratulations Link," stated Saria from behind him.
He turned and hugged her. "Thanks Saria."
He noticed the crowd hush up, and realized it was because Zelda had just appeared holding a bright silver necklace.
"Link," said the king aloud. "This is a gift not from us, but from everyone."
Zelda walked towards him and he looked into her eyes. They smiled together, and she placed it over his head and around his neck. Then she kissed him on the cheek. The crowd went insane.
He waved to the people below, and felt pats on his back. He shook the king's hand, and laughed with his friends. He was floating in the clouds, and everything was going great.
Before he could speak to Zelda again, his vision began to go black. He started to panic and scream, but no one else seemed to notice. He was being swallowed up, and he couldn't move. Just as he thought the darkness would consume him, he awoke with a start, covered in sweat.
He was wide-eyed and terror stricken, and had no idea what had just happened. He looked around, and noticed he was no longer on the stage, but in a dense forest. His shield was on the ground next to him, as well as his sword. There was a small fire burning next to him, and realized it was still night. Hearing footsteps from behind him, he jumped up and grabbed his sword. A figure emerged from the trees wielding his own sword, a type that Link had never seen before. The man had short black hair which was tied back into a small ponytail. He had on a white robe andwoodensandles.
Link felt extremely weak, and could barely lift his sword. He felt nauseous, and dropped his weapon, and a moment later, he fell to the ground as well. The man in the robe rushed towards him, lifted him up, and placed him back down on a makeshift bed.
"Who...who are you?" asked Link, barely uttering words.
He couldn't see anymore, but he still managed to hear "They call me Jack," before he knocked out.