Hellooooooooooooooooooo my friends! Here is chapter seven!
Disclaimer: I do not own anything related to Legend of Zelda or God of War, only my OCs.
Also, I should have addressed this earlier. I am sure you guys are wondering what form the Blades of Chaos bear, and so, I have chosen the their level five appearance from GOW Ascension, as well as the sound effects from said game.
ENJOY!
Campsite
Link was surprised that Zelda was back so soon, which concerned him. As soon as the carriage came to a halt, Link rushed over and flung the carriage door open, startling its only occupant. Seeing the tear streaks on Zelda's face only added to Link's concern. "Zelda?"
Zelda dropped the banner and quickly moved toward the door, taking her husband's offering hand as she stepped down. Her shaking legs gave out and Link caught her as she stumbled forward. Zelda clung to her husband.
"What happened? What has Seth done?" Link breathed, pulling away to check her over.
"See for yourself." Kratos said before tossing Link the parchment.
The Hero of Twilight barely caught it, then unfolded it. After he read it, Link's eyes widened in horror. "A declaration of war." He murmured, then passed the parchment to Felix. Link then turned his attention back to Zelda. "What happened at the rendezvous? Why is Seth doing this?"
More tears slid down Zelda's face as she lifted her head up to meet Link's gaze. "He's out of his mind, Link." She choked. "He claims our soldiers attacked his people… that they left a banner behind. It's far worse then I feared, Link. He said if I won't agree to unite our kingdoms through marriage, he'll… he'll take us by force."
Link's eyes widened in anger. How dare that Seth demands Zelda to marry him. "By Hyila." He murmured.
"I didn't know what to do." Zelda wept. "He wouldn't listen to reason."
"Shhh." Link soothed before pulling Zelda into an embrace, stroking her hair.
Kratos, on the other hand, was thinking of what happened at the rendezvous, one question burning in his mind.
Why?
Why didn't he kill Seth? He could have just pushed Zelda aside, butchered the Searitian guards like they were nothing, and then swat Seth like the sniveling little insect that he no doubt is. So why didn't he?
Kratos wasn't sure what made him cease his murderous intention, but he was determined to ensure it would not happen again. If, and when, he cross paths with Seth, Kratos will give the King of Searitia a most horrible death.
Also, another thing was on the Ghost of Sparta's mind. While he was waiting for Zelda outside the tent, Kratos knew he was being watched. Not just by the Searitian guards, but by someone else, someone hidden nearby. He came to the immediate conclusion that this mysterious stalker, whoever it was, is a coward, hiding in the shadows instead of coming out into the open like a true warrior. How pathetic. If there's one thing Kratos hates just as much as being backstabbed, it's cowards.
"Gentlemen." Felix announced to the guards, getting their attention. "According to this parchment, we are at war with Searitia." The captain watched as the color drained from his men's faces. "Ready the horses, we ride for Castletown at once. And take only essential equipment, leave everything else behind. The sooner we get back, the better." Felix then turned his attention to Link and Zelda. "I think it would be best if you two travel ahead by horse. The council will need to know about this. We'll catch up."
"I will accompany them." Kratos declared. Before Felix could speak his opposition aloud, the Ghost of Sparta shot him an intense glare. Wisely, the captain held back his retort.
Within moments, Link, Zelda, and Kratos had mounted and rode for Castletown at high speed. War is upon them. But what they didn't know, is that there are other forces at play.
Unknown Location
A dragon with red scales, tan underbelly, metallic silver head, large black obsidian like wings, and four legs soared through the air, flapping its wings when it suddenly dive down. An ominous temple like structure came into view. The dragon landed, causing the earth beneath its feet to tremble. It took a few steps forward before its form shifted, now being humanoid.
Volga.
The Dragon Knight pushed open the temple doors and strode inside. Torches lit up the spacious hallways, as well as the drapes placed in random spots. But Volga had no time to take in his surroundings. She was waiting for his report.
And so, Volga entered a large chamber, which was decorated with rather frightening objects, such as skulls, human and animal skulls. Instantly, he spotted her.
A teal skinned woman wearing a lightly armored dark purple and white dress. Her shoulders were spiked, her blue cape was attached to the spikes on her elbow armor. But the most unique feature are her eyes. They were orange.
Veran, the Sorceress of Shadows.
"And?" She bluntly asked the Dragon Knight.
Volga scowled. How he hated working for her. "It's done. The rendezvous went just as planned. War between Searitia and Hyrule is now under way." He informed her.
"Excellent." Veran purred sinisterly, a matching smirk on her face. "After two years of meticulous planning, the fun can begin."
"However." Volga began, cutting her preening short. "I think you should be aware of something."
Veran frowned. "What?" She demanded.
"During my observation of the rendezvous, I noticed that Link and Zelda have a new warrior among them." Volga enlightened her.
Veran's frown deepened. "And this concerns me… how?" She asked in a bored tone.
Volga gave his own frown. "I would not have bothered to tell you this if I did not deem it a concern. Even the most dim witted of creatures can tell from first glance that this man is a formidable warrior."
"Who is he then?" Veran demanded.
"I do not know." Volga began. "I have never seen him before. All I know is that his skin is as white as ash and he has a red tattoo."
"Well, whoever he is, he will be dealt with along with Link and his whore of a wife." Veran shrugged. "We will wait for Seth to mobilize his forces, then we will proceed from there. Now, unless you have anything else to tell me, you can see yourself out." She then waved a dismissive hand.
Volga was more than happy to leave. He turned and briskly made his way toward the double stone doors leading out of Veran's chamber. However, he stopped short and turned back to the Sorceress of Shadows. "You would be wise to keep your arrogance in check, Veran. Otherwise, it just might be your undoing." He warned.
Veran shot him a dangerous look. "Mind your place, Volga." She growled in a matching tone. "Or do I need to remind you of our little… agreement?"
The Dragon Knight glared at her. "No, you need not to." With that said, he pushed opened the double stone doors and walked out, glancing back not once.
Veran watched as the doors closed, then rolled her eyes. "A man with ash white skin." She scoffed. "Like such a thing should bother me. I have spent too much time preparing this. I will not be faltered. I will achieve my goal."
Hyrule Castle
Link, Zelda, and Kratos reached the castle on the second night of their journey, two of them tired. Their arrival had caused quite the uproar. The people had insisted that their king and queen have a nice, lavish meal. They humbly declined, since they had far more pressing matters to discuss with the council.
At the moment, Link, Zelda, and the ministers were gathered in the Royal Council Chamber. Kratos had gone back to his chamber. All the ministers had noticed the seriousness in Link's face, and the sorrow in Zelda's.
"I will not grind words." Zelda began. "Something horrible and most unexpected happened. Before negotiations could begin, Seth had informed me that a village near the western border of Searitia was attacked shortly before the rendezvous. Those who had survived identified the attackers as Hylian soldiers. They had planted evidence of our alleged involvement." Link spread the signed banner across the stone table, earning cries of shock and anger from the ministers. "Seth has an undying thirst to reclaim Hyrule's throne, and he used this mysterious attack to act on it." She took a deep breath before saying the next words. "Ministers, we are at war with Searitia."
She tossed the parchment onto the table, and the councilors took it to see for themselves. Their shock was unanimous.
"Outrageous!" Troy exclaimed.
"How did it come to this?!" Kayla demanded.
"That warmongering son of a bitch." Shaun snarled.
"I had attempted to find a peaceful solution, but it was no use." Zelda continued. "I offered an investigation of the attack, but Seth refused to discuss it. He had only one demand, something I could not accept." The ministers paused, waiting for her to continue. "He demanded that we unite our kingdoms… through marriage."
Silence fell upon the chamber, becoming as quiet as a graveyard. Then, Sarah broke it. "Seems like the years have made him more delusional." She spat.
"What right does Seth have to demand an annulment?" Troy sneered.
"We have much to discuss." Link spoke, earning everyone's attention. "But we must prepare the troops. Seth is no doubt doing the same as we speak."
"The men should be ready by nightfall." Kayla stated. "But they should be allowed a good night's rest."
"I concur." Zack said. "But we should send out a small squadron of scouts. The rest of the troops will follow at dawn, if their Majesties approve."
Link and Zelda both nodded. "Preparations should be begin immediately." Link announced.
After the meeting was adjourned, Link and Zelda had returned to their chamber, where they had bathed and dressed in their night gowns before retiring to bed. An hour later, Zelda awoke in bed, and instantly realized that Link was not lying beside her. Concerned, she pulled the covers aside and rose from bed.
Instantly, she spotted her husband on the balcony. How long he had been there, Zelda could not tell. She approached. "You should be in bed." She said to him.
"I can't really sleep knowing what's on the horizon." Link said.
Zelda let out a trembling sigh as she rested her head on Link's shoulder, and he rested his head on top of her own head. "Please, Link, don't go. I don't know how I could go on if I lost you."
Link turned so he could wrap his arms around his wife. "I don't know what I'd do if I lost you, Zelda. But you know that I can't back down from leading our soldiers into battle."
Zelda shook her head. "No, plea-" She was cut off when Link planted his lips on her own.
Slowly he pulled away. "You won't lose me. I promise."
"That is a promise you can't keep." She countered.
"I will. You'll see."
Zelda let out another trembling sigh. "Just, just… come back to me."
Link smiled again before leaning in to kiss her. She returned the affection, wrapping her arms around his neck. Link hoisted her into his arms and headed for the bed. "You are so beautiful." He whispered. Soon enough, they collapsed onto the bed, where their remaining time together will be spent in pleasure until the call of duty would pry them from each other.
At the same time in his chamber, Kratos sat on the king sized bed, his right blade in hand as he took in the features he would recognize anywhere. A decently sized deep silver colored curved and jagged blade jutting out of the screaming maw of some deformed creature that serves as the hilt. Slowly, he ran his fingers along the blade, feeling its unnatural metal beneath his skin. His weapons had not lost any sharpness over the years, being how they were forged by a god, still able to tear and rip their way into flesh, bone, and armor.
As he inspected his demonic weapon, Kratos inadvertently took a trip down memory lane to the day he received them. How long ago had it been since he and his Spartan brothers were almost defeated by the barbarians? Since he was about to fall at the hands of their king, right before he made the decision that he would forever regret? Thirty two years? It may as well felt like an eternity since that day.
Kratos' thoughts then changed over to the impending war with Searitia. Link and Zelda were no doubt preparing Hyrule's military forces. From what he can understand, they will be departing at morning. Knowing that he should get some rest, Kratos unsheathed his other blade and placed them both down on the nightstand next to the bed. After getting comfortable, Kratos slowly closed his eyes. Soon he will be on the battlefield, and his fierce wrath and the terrifyingly lethal capabilities of the Blades of Chaos will be mercilessly unleashed upon the Searitians, and their sniveling king.
Searitian Castle
Seth sat alone in his chamber, staring into the fireplace with a wine glass in hand. He had spent the last several hours preparing his army for war. He thought such an endeavor would leave him exhausted. But alas, he wasn't. He knew the reason why he couldn't sleep.
Her.
Eight years have passed since he last saw Zelda, and the changes in her appearance had left him utterly astounded. His lust for her revived itself the moment she came into the tent. He desired to run his hands over her mature body, the body that was promised to him.
Ever since the engagement was severed, Seth had long dreaded someone else claiming Zelda and the throne. Imagine his shock, and anger, when he learned that Zelda had taken in a commoner, a goat herder no less, to be her husband. This only added fuel to Seth's boiling rage and he revived his efforts to have Zelda back in his grasp.
For eight years, Seth had awaited an opportunity to take back what was promised to him. That moment came the day his father passed away, the day he inherited the throne of Searitia. Seth knew that Zelda was untouchable without some valid reason to arrange an audience with her, so he used the only thing he had, the peace treaty that was signed by Roy and Daphnes, a treaty that Seth declared expired. Knowing that Zelda would want to keep the peace, he had invited her to Searitia. Of course, he knew she would never come to his castle, so he planned to accept her counter offer.
In preparation for the rendezvous, Seth reviewed the treaties, scanning for any weakness he could use to his advantage. He had hoped by explaining the absurdity of Zelda's marriage to a commoner, he could force her cooperation.
Seth knew it was a horribly weak plan, and he would have more than likely returned to his land empty handed…
If it weren't for a golden opportunity.
Shortly before he left to rendezvous with Zelda, Seth had received urgent news that a village near the western border had been attacked. He also had an unexpected visitor that very same night.
Seth flinched in his chair, startled by a knock on his chamber doors. "What is it?" He barked, voice sharp with annoyance. The doors opened and an armored man stepped inside. He took off his helmet, revealing a brown haired man with a scar between his eyes. "I hope this is important, Locus." Seth sneered, eyeing his Captain of the Guards.
"Yes my Lord." Locus said with a deep bow. "Forgive my late disturbance, but I think you should know that we've caught an intruder, Lord Nick Danithan of Hyrule."
Both of Seth's eyebrows shot up. "Nick Danithan?" He repeated, rising from his chair. "Here in Searitia?"
"Yes, my Lord. He's requested an audience with you. Should we throw him into the dungeons?" Locus asked.
Seth shook his head. "No, bring him in here." Locus bowed and ordered the other guards to enter. They did so, pushing their prisoner forward and forced him on his knees. Seth crossed his arms over his chest, eyeing the prisoner with interest. "Nick Danithan. You have some nerve showing your face here."
Nick scowled. "If you would be so kind to call off your attack dogs."
Seth titled his head, eyeing the man with suspicion. "And why would I do such a thing? I should have you fed to the crocodiles for trespassing here in Searitia."
"I come with an opportunity." Nick began. "A chance for you to take back what was once promised to you."
Seth was briefly taken aback. "And why should I believe you? What you offer is impossible."
"Do you really think I would come all this way to lie to you? Call off your men, and I will help you."
Seth studied Nick, the only sound being emitted was the fireplace cackling. Finally, Seth turned to Locus and his men. "Leave us." They bowed before taking their leave, closing the chamber door on their way out. Seth lowered himself into a nearby armchair. "Sit." He ordered Nick, gesturing to the chair across from him. Nick complied, not fazed by the Searitian King's tone. "Speak, Danithan. Astonish me."
Nick made himself comfortable before meeting Seth's gaze. "I know about the attack." He said simply.
Seth gripped the armrests of his chair as he leaned forward, a dangerous gleam in his eyes. "Are you saying you had something to do with that?" He growled.
"I did not arrange the attack, I come on behalf of the one who did."
Seth shot up from his seat. "Your king did this?"
"Would you sit down?" Nick said with an exasperated look. "King Lincoln is many things, but he's no warmonger. This was the work of Veran, the Sorceress of Shadows."
Slowly, Seth sank back into his seat. "Are you telling me that… Veran attacked my village?"
"Yes."
"Outrageous! How dare she attack my people!?" Seth exclaimed.
"You've wanted a conflict with Hyrule for years. Some way to reinsert yourself. Don't bother trying to deny it." Nick replied, eying him.
Seth glowered at him. "I never should have left. Zelda's father was a sentimental fool for breaking the engagement."
"King Daphnes had every right to banish you." Nick retorted. "You acted like a spoiled child. I only hope the years have made you more mature."
"Choose your next words carefully, Danithan." Seth snapped dangerously. "You're in my castle, and you're no guest. Now, getting back on track, you said you can help me reclaim Hyrule's throne. How does Veran attacking my people help?"
"You've agreed to rendezvous with Queen Zelda. The attack is enough to declare war." Nick explained.
Seth briefly considered it, then shook his head and waved a dismissive hand. "My Council won't approve of it. Searitia is still recovering from the Fatrium War."
"And Hyrule is recovering from Zant's invasion." Nick countered. "But Veran is willing to aid you, if you agree to her terms."
Seth frowned. "And what, pray tell, are these terms?"
Nick sighed. "I don't understand her plans, but she wants the king, alive. You must capture him and deliver him to her."
Seth paused. Ever since he had learned of Hyrule Royal Wedding, Seth had longed to run a blade through Link. To capture him alive would require immense restraint. "Tell me, what can you gain from this? What grudge do you bear against your king?"
Nick shook his head. "It's nothing personal. I merely recognize him of a common background, and a direct threat to Hyrule's prosperity. The way I see it, to allow him to remain king is the true treason."
Seth scoffed and rolled his eyes. "Tell me, why is Veran so interested in him?"
"She didn't explain her reasons. In all honesty, I really don't care, as long as she takes the King out of the Queen's life." Nick started, then paused. "So, in short, you give what Veran wants, and she will help you. Do we have an accord?"
Seth gazed at him, obviously contemplating. After eight years of waiting, the perfect opportunity has now presented itself. And he intends to use it. "Take me to Veran. I want to see what she has to offer."
Nick had visited again the following night with a mysterious stone, which allowed Seth to teleport to the Sorceress of Shadows herself. She addressed Seth with bold words, clearly unfazed by his status. She reviewed the terms Nick had explained before presenting what she had to offer. Volga, the Dragon Knight, and his army of Lizalflos and Dinoflos. Ixea, the Sorceress of Ice. And lastly, Cia, the Dark Sorceress.
Impressed, Seth agreed to Veran's terms and went back to Searitia. He had informed the council that he had made powerful allies. The names he had given unnerved the council and they had objected to his plan. Seth was prepared for their response and dismissed their concern, ordering a declaration of war to be ready before he went to rendezvous with Zelda.
But Seth was willing to avoid a conflict. He had gave Zelda a simple choice, unite the kingdoms through marriage, or face war.
And she disappointed him.
A sinister smile slowly crept across Seth's face. With the help he has now, his army will easily crush Hyrule's military forces, and at long last, Zelda will be his.
I have failed to convince you, my dear Zelda. Now, I have no choice but to conquer you.
But little did Seth know, Hyrule had gained its own ally, one who is far more formidable then all of his new allies combined.
Thank you for reading! Please leave a review, and until next time, have an awesome day!