To AMaeJay: Yeah, but I don't mind :) People don't have to review, I know some are just too busy to read and review. I still find it baffling when people take time out of their day to read the stupid stories I post XD :D Eponaaaaaa! Yeah, writing them playing in the water was fun ^_^ I just feel bad because things will down-hill from here :/ Oh, you read that too? I recently got a new 3DS (my old one broke so I couldn't play any games that needed the Right and Left trigger buttons) so I am going to re-write that one, too, eventually :)
To Person: Thank you :) I like giving myself challenges for writing (like with SC I wanted each chapter to reach the minimum of twenty pages) It helps me increase my writing and lets me have even more fun :D And I like to make everything I write as different and as unique as possible, that way it isn't a carbon-copy of so many other Novelizations :)
Chapter 10: The Start of Awakening
It was the early hours of the morning when, for once, Link got up on her own. Last night she had had no dreams or nightmares, only a peaceful rest after so much heartache. She smiled softly to herself, sitting on the edge of her bed and looking out the window. Kakariko Village was turning orange from the rising sun and the shadows began to hide. She stretched as she stood, walking to the window and leaning her torso out of it. Below stood Epona, still resting from her own exciting adventure.
Link inhaled deeply and crossed her arms on the windowsill, resting her chin on them and closing her eyes. Her mind drifted to Ilia and where she could be. Hyrule was so large and filled with so many people and her best friend was lost in all of that. And now that she had to return to Ordon as a human for the first time since the kidnapping she would have to tell Mayor Bo that Ilia was still out there somewhere.
She turned her head so her cheek rested on her forearm, glancing at her left hand. Before thoughts of self-doubt could surface she heard a whinny outside and lifted her head to see Epona pawing at the dirt outside, looking up at her. She chuckled and waved at her horse, seeing the mare toss her mane in response.
Whether or not I or my name has any significance doesn't matter now. What's important is gettin' the Fused Shadows, findin' Ilia and getting rid of the Twilight. Link turned her gaze to the sky, smiling as clouds began to drift in overhead. Maybe I'll find answers along the way.
Link looked in the corner of the room, where her weapons and tunic sat. Looking at them she began to grow restless. It was still early, but she wouldn't be able to fall back asleep with her busy mind. So she stood, grabbed the items, and left the room while wrestling the tunic on. She walked down the hall barefoot to be quieter and left the Inn, greeting Epona with a pat on the side of her face. She walked over to the Spring and fixed her weapons on, shrugging the shield strap into a more comfortable position.
Once they were on, Link began to construct a dummy to the side of the Spirit Spring. With some rocks and charred wood, which made her look awkwardly up at the cliff where the ruins of a certain house sat, before fitting a rusted bucket on for the 'head'. She pushed it lightly and found it steady enough for hitting.
Link unsheathed the sword in both hands. She stared at them for a moment before taking her right hand away. For the first time since holding the blade it didn't drop onto the ground the moment she let go, although it did tilt. Link grinned, maybe she was finally getting used to it. She bent her arm behind her back to strap on the shield, bending her legs lightly.
And so Link trained. She lost track of the world around her, focusing all her attention on the dummy. The events of the last week had shaken so much of her view on her little corner of the world. Hyrule was being invaded, she was told to fight back by spirits and the Princess herself, she had to find her best friend, she'd ended more lives in seven days than she'd met in her lifetime, and she was supposed to believe she shared a name with a famous Hero, that she was as much worth as him. And to top off the list she had to be a boy for no reason.
Why is everything so confusing? Sparks flew from the dummy as Link slashed the blade across it's torso, knocking it backwards. A surge of adrenaline rushed through her and she jumped forward, pointing her sword tip down. The sword punctured through the bucket into the sand of the Spring. She let her bangs fall over her eyes as she looked at the bucket, panting lightly.
She felt something rub against her back and turned her head. Epona was nuzzling her, nickering quietly in concern. Link smiled and stood, facing her mare and rubbing her nose. 'I'm okay. Really.'
Caught up in her own world it took a moment for Link to register the clapping she heard. Colin sat on a rock near the spring, smiling when she noticed him. Exactly how long had he been there? He hopped off the rock and ran over, beaming. "That was amazing, Link! How did you do that?"
She looked at her sword, then the dummy. She shrugged slowly. I guess from a Stalfos. She was confused about the golden wolf interaction, but knew she would probably stumble across him at some point. She hoped she'd mastered the Final Blow enough to satisfy him.
"Aren't you going soon?" She nods. She had lost track of time, as it was now just after noon. "Here, we wanted to give you this." He handed her a letter. "To tell everyone we're okay. Also, tell Dad and Mom I said hi, please."
Link rolls her eyes, playing with his hair. 'Course I will, doofus.
Watching Colin walk back into the Sanctuary, Link frowned, her gaze turning to the gates leading out of the village. Soon she would confirm the kids' safety to everyone in Ordon and that she couldn't be happier about, but that also meant facing Rusl. She knew he wouldn't harm her, she'd forgiven him the moment it happened, but what she was scared about was her reality finally shattering. Ever since she was turned into a wolf everyone had been telling her she was the descendent of the Hero of Time, that his blood ran through her. The Spirits, Renado, even Zelda seemed to believe she could be someone special. The Princess of all people. But Link could ignore all of that. She could deny it all she liked because she didn't know them. They could be wrong because they have never met her before all this. But Rusl...he was always fascinated by the Hero of Time.
He was the only one in all of Ordon who had an ancient Hylian Shield of the Era of Time. He always told Link the stories and legends of the past, and while she enjoyed them for the sake of storytelling she had never believed them. If Rusl saw her and said the same thing everyone else had been, Link could no longer deny it. She would have to accept that she was a Hero.
And then she could never fool herself into being an Ordonian again. She'd loose the only connection to her only family.
Please, Rusl, just...don't react to me.
A nudge on the back of her head made her turn. She smiled at Epona, who nuzzled the side of her head with a soft whinny. So her mare wouldn't let her to be upset. Link hugged her neck, letting out a sigh. There was a long road to Ordon.
-0-0-0-0-
A Day and a Half Later
Faron Woods
Unspecific Point of View
-0-0-0-0-
The shrubs crunched under his footsteps as he collapsed near the base of a tree. He clenched his side, feeling the blood soaking through his shirt and fingers. He coughed violently, tasting bile and copper as it splatted against the tree bark. There was no hope. It was far too dark to see. Bokoblins were not smart creatures, but other humans? Completely different story.
He looked over his shoulder, shivering in the night. He could hear their footsteps and chatter, their insane, cooing chatter that sent a whole-new shiver through his body. He slunk behind the tree trunk, gripping the beige-white of his shirt. He hoped it would not stand out against the dark woods.
"Come on out, little messenger boy. We only wanna plaaaaaay~" the voice sang, echoing through the silent forest. "We know you got some goods on ya. What's the harm of lettin' us have it, eh?"
He clenched his bag to his chest, determined to not let it go no matter what. He took his job seriously, no matter how quirky and childish he was.
A dull thunk of a blade sinking into the bark above his head sent the boy running blindly through the trees. There were echoes of laughter as the three chased him, brandishing several of their weapons. A trail of blood followed him, giving away his direction. He didn't care. He had to get away. He had to.
A bolt embedded itself in a tree in front of him. The hurt and exhausted boy ran around it, gasping as another bolt struck the ground at his feet. Why did they have to have good aim?
Eventually, he found himself cornered. Up against a rocky bluff he tried fruitlessly to make himself smaller. All he managed to do was fall to the ground in a daze, watching the three bandits come into view. Their leader grinned, bringing out a torch from his belt. With a flick of some flint it sparked alive, showing his malicious and teeth-less mouth.
"Hello, messenger boy. You must have travelled a long way. From Castle Town, aye?"
He tried to speak back, but all that came out was more blood and vomit.
He was dead.
Through his daze he lifted his head, spotting something behind the bandits, just outside of the fire's glow. A tall shadow, as big as a horse even. Moments later a loud whinny alerted the bandits as the massive horse ran forward, ramming down one of them. From its back someone jumped off, landing in front of him with a sword and shield unsheathed. The horse stood by their side, pawing the ground with a lowered head. The remaining two bandits snarled at his saviour as the torch on the ground lit ablaze. He saw the person wore a green tunic and cap.
"Tck, playin' hero, kid? Well you picked the wrong guys t' mess with," the bandit with the crossbow shot a bolt. The person raised their shield and let out a grunt as it pierced through. He saw blood fall to the ground from their arm, but they held the flimsy wooden shield up and ran forward with a snarl. The person smacked the bandit with the flat of their sword, adding a large lump to his collection of scars. This was followed by a swift knee into the groin, which made him wince.
The swordsman was grabbed from behind, taking easily into the air due to their small size. The bandit spun around and tossed them into the cliff, causing cracks to snake along it. The person crouched on their hands and knees, locking the bandit in a dangerous gaze. He gulped, finding their eyes glowed slightly in the darkness. The horse galloped at the bandit who threw its master, rearing up and giving them a swift strike with its front hooves. The man went down, his skull imploded.
His saviour clambered to their feet as the crossbowmen picked up his weapon. He aimed and shot, grazing their shoulder. They let out a cry, clenching their shoulder as their back slammed into the cliff from the force. The jolt caused their sword to fall to the ground.
But almost as if someone spoke to them, the person's eyes fixated on the bandits and they picked up their blade. They took at look at him, a determined fire lighting their animal-like eyes, and with a deep breath ran towards the bandits. Instead of a simple kick, like they were both expecting, the swordsman ran the tip of their blade through the crossbowman's abdomen. With a sputter of blood and a gurgle, they fell back twitching.
In the blaze of fire, the person turned to him clenching their shoulder. The horse nudged them gently before trotting to the torch, stomping on it several times to put it out. He shakily got to his feet, nervously stepping around the three dead bodies. He went to thank the person who helped him, but they turned away and emptied their stomach beside a tree. He winced, having a good guess this person didn't kill people often.
"Uh...thanks," he winced, holding his side as he put a hand on the warrior's shoulder. It was now hard to see again and the scent of smoke still hung in the air, stinging his lungs. "I don't know why they were so focused on me. All I have are some letters."
His small talk did not seem to amuse the swordsman, as they made no reply and simply turned their gaze up at him. He grinned awkwardly, looking away from the bolts and splintered wood. "I, uh, guess I'd better get to the nearby village. You should come, too. They're super friendly."
The horse stepped up as he spoke, allowing the swordsman to lean on its shoulder. He was surprised by the massive size difference between the two and wondered how someone so small could get on the horse, let alone ride it with no saddle. He watched silently as they began to walk, the swordsman waving at him to follow.
He dug the letter he had out of his bag, tracing it with his thumb. The curved letters and signature were enough to make him stand without limp and follow the warrior. This was, perhaps, his most important delivery. He would not mess it up.
-0-0-0-0-
Link's Third Point of View
-0-0-0-0-
Great Golden Goddesses that hurt. Link held her bleeding shoulder awkwardly, grimacing as the splinters in her right arm made the action hurt more than it should have. So much for that shield's protection. Now she had to explain why the Ordon sword was on her back and why she had the remains of the Ordon Shield. And just explaining why she had them in the first place would be difficult.
She glanced at the postman she had met a few days before, then over her shoulder at the bodies. She winced, feeling her stomach twist. How could it be so easy to kill humans? Even ones as despicable as bandits. The only solace she got from killing them was that she protected an injured traveller.
She inhaled slowly, leading Maverick down the path leading to Ordon. It scared her how it was getting easier to kill living beings, monster or not. It shouldn't be easy to drive a sword through someones stomach or watch as a colossal horse implode their heads. Link shuttered, prompting Epona to nuzzle her face gently. She side-hugged the mare's head, sighing.
"Hey, aren't you that Link fella who Bo asked me to deliver to?" She nodded. "I thought so. It explains why you were going this way in the first place. Excited to see your family again?"
She smiled, thinking of her guardians. Even if she wasn't ready to confirm whether or not she was anything special, she just wanted to see them. To show them Colin's letter. To relax. Link can't remember the last time she wanted so desperately to be in Ordon. She had spent her whole life dreaming about leaving it.
When the closed gates rose in front of them, she let out a groan. Of course Rusl would be sure they were secure, he wouldn't want anything unwelcome inside. But she knew he kept a secret key on this side, should any human need shelter for the night. Trouble was it was so small and it was currently so dark she wouldn't be able to find it.
No point in not trying. Getting to her knees, she crouched in front of the unassuming bush beside the gate. Pushing the leaves aside she began to pat the ground, muttering curses in her head. Dumb Hylian eyesight. I can't listen for an object. And it ain't like Midna can risk coming out now-
She stopped her rant when she spotted something. It glinted in the sliver of moonlight and she tilted her head, picking it up to bring it to her eyes. She blinked, astonished when the gate key sat in her palm. She looked from it to the sky and back. While she tried to figure out how she found it, she gave up after a few seconds. It was too late and her mind was foggy. She just accepted finding the key and stood, playing with the lock for a few seconds.
Link jerked her head to the bridge for Maverick, who walked by first with a small smile. Once Epona was on the bridge as well she followed, closing the gate behind them and awkwardly locking it. She tossed the key back into the bush, swearing she could see where it landed.
Maverick was the one to bring her out of her stupor. "I've never been to Ordon before. I only learned about it because a hawk sent me the last letter. I thought Kakariko was the only human village in Hyrule. Shows me what I know."
Link just followed, only slightly annoyed. She knew from Rusl that not a lot of people in Castle Town even new Ordon existed. To them it was just a speck on the map.
"Whoa, you guys have a Spirit Spring? You must be more important than I thought."
Well that was uncalled for.
Epona nudged Link with her nose, snorting lightly. She smiled and stroked her nose, falling back into step behind Maverick. However his perkiness began to fade as they stepped into the yard before Link's tree house. He leaned on the ladder, clenching his side. Link grimaced at the gash. It looked a lot deeper than she had originally thought. He must have been moving from pure adrenaline.
"Those bandits really got me. I didn't even hear them stalking me. Hard to listen for an ambush," he laughed weakly, slowly lowering to his knees. Link put her hands on his shoulders, trying to give him a little support.
I don't get it. Why would bandits be so interested in a postman? All he's got are some letters. Are they really that interestin'?
"Please don't tell me this is it," he looked desperately around the yard, making Link huff and turn her head to the gates. They were locked, but short enough for them to climb over. It would be difficult, the both of them had a number of injures, but it was possible. She tugged his sleeve softly and guided him to the gate, climbing to the top and sitting on it. She offered her hand and, with a helpful nudge from Epona, got Maverick over as well. Link dug into her breech pocket and pulled out an apple, which she had gotten from Calon when she visited the Ranch.
She had never seen Epona flaunt attention as she had around the red-head.
Before they could enter the village, Maverick stumbled. Link was able to catch him, but was quick to find him falling unconscious. He let out a quiet mumble, unable to move. He was heavy, even if he was lanky, and it would be hard getting him to Rusl and Uli's. But she could do this. She knew, deep down, Rusl and Uli had to see her first.
So she half-carried, half-dragged Maverick through the silent village, lit only by the dancing fireflies. Not an owl hooted and barely a cricket chirped, making Link's ears pin down nervously. Ordon was small, but it was always filled with noise. Fish in the stream, wind through the trees, brash bleats from the goats. Not even candles were lit in the homes. It felt abandoned.
Link hoped the green creatures did not return to finish what they started.
When she rounded the large tree blocking her sight from Rusl and Uli's, she let out a sigh. A small candle sat on the top windowsill, the flame small but burning. She saw a shadow move inside the house and hoped it wasn't her imagination. She helped Maverick forward. When she got to the door she faltered for a moment. But her fears weren't important. So she knocked on the door with her foot, almost falling over in the process. She fixed herself and stepped back, feeling her legs starting to shake.
A few moments passed in silence. Link bit her lip and glanced at the postman. For a moment she considered turning back and going to her tree house, when the door swung open. A tall figure stood in the frame, elbows up as they held a sword at her eye-level. There was no light inside the house.
"Who are you? No one should be getting past the gate."
Link gulped, glancing from the shadowed sword tip to Rusl's face. If only there was a light, he would see it was her. But there was none so she did the next best thing. She eased Maverick off her shoulder and ducked under the sword, hugging Rusl around the middle.
Had Rusl been healthy, she would have been run through.
There were a few tense moments, then she heard the sword clatter to the ground before arms wrapped around her. She felt Rusl's hand rest on the back of her head, gently brushing it as he mumbled softly. "You're alive...Thank the Goddesses, you're alive..."
It never occurred to Link that they thought she was dead.
"Come in. Both of you."
"Thank you, sir," Maverick grinned, walking in behind them. Rusl guided them in front of the fire and lit it up, smiling at the two of them. With the light, Link could see tears streaking her guardian's cheeks.
"I'll get Uli. She can tend your wounds."
Unlike the last time they met, Link saw a small hop in Rusl's steps. She smiled tiredly, leaning her neck on the chair. She was home. It felt so good to be home. Her eyes drifted to the fireplace, where a metal shield sat above. It was a strong metal, coated with a blue field and red bird. Above the decorative bird was a familiar symbol of a triangle, with a fourth single triangle upside down under the bird's talons. She rested her right hand on her left, tracing the hidden mark. She had always wondered why a random shield in Rusl's home had the same mark she had.
Or was she the one who had the same mark it had?
The flames danced along the wooden walls, creating shadows in the corners and offering a pleasant warmth. When she looked to the roof to watch the shadows, she saw someone step out from the upstairs room. With a soft gasp, Uli rushed down the stairs as fast as her pregnant body would allow her. Link, with a smile, stood and was brought into another hug.
"We found your torn clothes in the woods. We thought you were killed," she whispered, kissing the top of Link's head. Normally Link didn't like being affectionate in the presence of others, but to Din's Hell with embarrassment. "Oh, look at you," she cupped Link's cheek, no shame in the tears falling down her own. "You look so grown up. Sit down, now. I need to fix you two up. What were you doing out there so late?"
"I was delivering a letter," Maverick said as Uli soaked his side in hot water. She had a needle and some thread beside a Potion, which she would use to sew the wound closed. "It was very important that I get it to Ordon. It was very cryptic, though. All it says to find is a 'heroic youth'. I take a lot of letters and I don't recognize the hand writing."
He let out a soft grunt as Uli pressed the Potion-soaked cloth into his side.
"Heroic youth, eh?" Rusl said from his spot by the fireplace. Link felt a shiver down her spine when he glanced directly at her, making eye contact.
No. Please, for the Love of Nayru, no...
"Those are hard to come by. Not many people are willing to risk their lives to save others."
"Heh, well don't you fit that Rupee," Maverick smiled at Link, to her horror. "Link here saved me from some bandits who ambushed me. I don't know why they were after me, but if it weren't for you I'd be dead."
Link rubbed the back of her head as Uli began to sew Maverick's side closed. She did it because he was defenceless. Any decent human being would.
"I know a lot of soldiers who would have run away or taken the lives of those bandits then left me behind. Worse, they wouldn't have felt any worse than if they killed a bug," Maverick frowned. "I'm aware bandits aren't really people anymore. They're so warped and detached from civilization that they're more like animals. But to butcher them and be proud of it isn't any better. You only did enough to kill them, it was quick. Only one of them seemed to suffer from that horse of yours."
Yeah, Epona wouldn't let that guy hurt me and get away with it.
"I'm just happy to see you both alive," Uli said, smiling gently as she tightened the stitches, making Maverick wince. "You shouldn't leave Ordon until that is healed, but it shouldn't be more than a few days. It wasn't as deep as it was long. Drink some of this Potion and you'll be fine in no time."
"Thank you. Oh, I never said my name. Sorry, I'm a little scatterbrained," he laughed. "I'm Maverick. I work at Castle Town as a postman. And I think this is for you, Link," he handed her a small brown bag with a letter tied around the neck. "I can't think of anyone else who's a brave teenager living in Ordon."
Well it would be Ilia if she were here, Link thought bitterly as Uli sat down beside her, rolling up her sleeve to check her arm. Luckily it wasn't broken, just grazed and bruised. Most of the damage was from the splintered shield.
Reluctantly she took the item, placing it inside her satchel lying on the arm of the chair. She really didn't want to open it.
"Link, is that the sword you were going to deliver?" Link could feel her face turn paler as Uli spotted the blade still on her back. "It was stolen by a wolf a few days ago. How did you find it?"
For once Link was grateful she was mute. Let her just shrug and not have to explain anything. Hopefully they would think she just found it or, at the very least, scared off the 'wolf' that stole it. As long as they didn't think she killed the wolf.
If she could talk, she felt like she would have told them everything right then and there.
"It stole the shield Jangle was working on, too. Though I see you weren't able to salvage that," Rusl pat her shoulder with a chuckle, then became somber. "Link, do you know what happened to the children?"
At the change of topic Link perked up, digging into her satchel and pulling out the letter. Uli took it, just finishing applying bandages to Link's arm and shoulder. Her hand flew to her mouth when she saw the writing on the front. She tore it open and quickly began to read it. Link smiled softly when she saw tears fall from her eyes. She hadn't seen someone so purely happy for a while.
"Rusl," she breathed, pulling him over the back of the couch. She showed him the letter and his face lit up like fireflies. With a shaking hand he read the letter beside her, their heads bumping together affectionately. They seemed to read it over several times, their eyes glancing to Link twice or so, before Uli folded it in her lap. "They're okay..."
"So the children are resting in Kakariko. That's great. I can trust Renado will take care of them until this blows over. It will be safer for them to remain there. Thank you, Link. You've brought a real smile to us. But I have a few questions," Rusl gently takes the letter and leans beside Link. She saw him point to a part in the letter where Colin told them about her disguise. She hoped he wouldn't talk about it with Maverick in the room. "We'll talk about this later, but why didn't Colin mention Ilia? Was she not with them?"
Link gulped heavily, looking down in her lap with a shake. Rusl swore under his breath, rubbing his hand over his forehead. "I'll tell Bo in the morning before telling the others about the children. I don't want to get his hopes up. But she'll be fine. I promise you."
No, I promise you.
"You two must be exhausted," Uli stood, smiling kindly. "I'll show you to our extra room. It was actually were Link used to sleep when he lived here."
Both Link and Rusl looked at Uli in surprise as she so easily fell into the act. She winked at them as she took Maverick's arm, talking softy as he began to get dozy. "He would climb out the window all the time, nearly gave me a heart attack. I hope you won't be so reckless."
"She's very clever," Rusl said fondly, sitting down beside Link as they left. "I agree with your choice. Only Bo and I have been to Castle Town, we know a woman walking around with a sword is bound to catch attention. And not all of it would be friendly. You need to be hardy and willing to take whatever it throws at you. I know you'll get there one day, you are as stubborn as they come, but until then I think this is a good idea. Not that you wouldn't have to live with this anyway."
Link rolled her eyes. She just had to look boyish didn't she?
"Thank you for bringing this letter. It truly eases our hearts. Uli hasn't been able to sleep with worry and I've been on the lookout for anything hostile since. I was just about to do so when you arrived. I see you're putting the sword to good use. I don't think less of you for what you had to do," he put a hand on her shoulder when she sunk into the chair. "Sometimes you have to kill others to protect. Not everyone in Hyrule is a good person. Using a sword as intended doesn't make you one of them. How does it feel, anyway? I made that sword with the intention a grown soldier could handle it. I wasn't sure if you'd be able to use it."
Link blushed and shrugged sheepishly. 'Use' was a loose term. More like 'swing and hope for the best.'
"You can't, eh? I'll help you with that tomorrow if you're up to it. We can also talk to Bo about the Gorons. He has a little trick even you could use to get past them. Colin told us everything, so you won't have to worry about explaining details."
Thanks, Colin.
"Now, about the shield. If you are to go up Death Mountain you can't just use a new wooden one. It would burn up and could get you hurt. No, what you need is a real shield," Rusl stood and walked to the fireplace. He pulling the shield off and sat back down, running a hand over the crimson bird. "This was a gift from Renado when I met him. He said that this old shield needed to be used again after so long. I never felt that it was for me to use, however. This is a very old style of the Hylian Shield, possibly the last one. I didn't believe it was my place to bring this back into battle. So when I retired I hung it up, hoping for it to one day be used for a greater purpose. When you came to us, I knew it was meant for you."
Link balked, paling drastically. No, he couldn't be confirming it all! He couldn't!
Rusl gently took Link's hand, running a thumb over the back. He wore a grim smile, knowing what he would say would crush Link's denial and dreams of returning to Ordon with a normal life. She tensed, but he ran a hand down her back for comfort. "Contrariety to what you believe, you are a very important individual, Link. You were born to be great. This mark proves that. I assume Renado shed some light onto what this 'birthmark' means?"
Reluctantly, Link nodded slowly.
"Whatever he told you is the truth. You have pure Courage in your blood and soul, the spirit of the Hero lives inside you. It always has. You were always an adventurous and free spirit, just as the stories told. You did what you had to do protect others, which you have shown on many occasions. Link," he pulled her into a hug as she began to shake, "you have the Triforce. It has been with you since you were born. I knew one day you would have to face the truth, and that you wouldn't like it. But to be honest, you never really belonged in Ordon. I wish it weren't so, I wish you could fit in here like the rest of us, but you can't. You're too different. This shield, the clothes you are now wearing, I believe they are the remains of the Hero of Time, your ancestor. You bare such a resemblance to him. And I have one piece of evidence." He stood, taking a book off the shelf beside the fire. He took Link's hand as he sat down again, opening the book on his lap. Once he found what he was looking for he passed it to Link, who froze.
It was a black-and-white picture from the old Photograph technology. In it was a man standing beside a horse, a woman to his right. The man was tall, with messy light hair sticking out from under a strange, long cap. His face was a little round, almost childish, but with a long nose and Hylian ears. He wore a tunic, painted dark from the picture, and white breeches. His left leg was bent slightly as he held the reins of his horse, who was a lean chestnut with light socks and mane. The woman to his right wore a long light dress and light hair she wore in a horsetail. She had very sharp features and Hylian ears as well, looking far too pale beside the man. In the background was a field, with a castle and mountain in the distance. The mountain had a familiar halo of smoke around the top.
Shakily, Link looked up to Rusl. He offered a comforting smile. "Yes. This is a very old book passed down in my family, with entries and photos about the Hero of Time and other old stories. There's nothing about the woman next to him, though. It's believed she was a close friend or perhaps lover of the Hero. You see it too, don't you?"
It's impossible not to. His hair was lighter and he was much denser and taller, but the Hero of Time looked too much like her to deny it. She could even see a hint of beast-like eyes in his rounder ones. So it's all true. The Hero's blood runs through me,' she ran a hand over the photo, feeling her world crashing down around her. 'How could his blood pass down to someone like me?
"I apologize for the forwardness. This has been a long time coming and I never knew how to tell it to you. Here," he passed the shield into her lap. She put the photo aside and traced the Triforce, her eye falling on the back of her hand. "This belongs to you. It always had."
When she had been a kid she fantasized about picking up this shield and using it to defeat enemies. Back then it could fit on her back like a shell. Now she dreaded it. Not only for what it meant, but for how heavy it would be beside the already too-heavy sword.
"You should rest, you've been through a lot," Rusl hugged her and kissed her forehead. "We'll tell everyone tomorrow, okay? Everything will be fine."
If you say so...
Link's eyes fell to the second letter, the one in the unfamiliar handwriting. She picked it up tenderly, reading the 'name' on the front. She flipped it over and choked on her own saliva, seeing a Triforce pressed into the wax. Why was it everywhere?!
It was as if it were taunting her.
After several moments she sighed and used her thumb to open the seal. Taking out the parchment inside, her eyes widened. She stopped reading when she felt a smack on her head. She looked up to see Midna floating beside her, having remained quiet for so long she forgot about the Imp. Now she nodded at the letter. "Read it aloud. I can't read your language."
'Oh. Uh, 'kay.
Dear, Link
You may be surprised to hear from me. If this reaches you, you are not the only one. I was able to bypass the Wall of Twilight for a scarce few moments to deliver this letter from my hawk. But now is not the time for details. First off, I must thank you. I have felt the air become much lighter and I can only believe you have gotten rid of a fair share of the Twilight. I've been trying to work out a way to present you with the bag you see with this letter. It is called a Dimensional Bag, it can carry an unlimited amount of weapons and items without gaining any extra weight. I figured you could use some help in your travels. Be aware that the enchantments placed on the bag can fail, so be sure to have a Mage or someone similar check on them every now and then. You may not hear from me for some time, but it is for the best. If Zant ever finds out I sent this letter, he may harm my people further.
You have done amazing things, and you will do many more. I cannot explain everything here, but know that you will have my up-most support in your endeavours. On behalf of all of Hyrule, I thank you.
Sincerely,
Zelda.
P.S
Burn this letter once you are done with it. I want no one but you (and Midna) to know of this.'
"She...sent you a letter?" Midna asked, shocked. "How could she? The Twilight is thickest around the Castle."
'You're askin' the wrong person, Midna,' Link shrugged, at last lying down.
The Imp looked between the room upstairs, the photo and Link with a quiet hum. Link perked up curiously. When Midna noticed she didn't scowl, instead she seemed confused. "You know, you don't look like your parents."
Link raised an eyebrow at Midna, then looked up the stairs. 'Par-oh. You think I'm related to Rusl and Uli?'
"Really? Where are your parents?"
'Don't know 'em.'
"So...you're an orphan?" Was it just Link or did Midna actually have sympathy in her voice?
'Yeah. Never met my real parents. My dad left me with Rusl and Uli when I was just a baby. Rusl never knew why. He died some time later, he had to have.' Link never knew how to feel when talking about her parents. Sad? Angry? Honestly she always felt numb and unfeeling. 'What made ya think they were more than my guardians?'
"Don't know. You just seem so close to them."
'Even if they aren't my real parents, I consider them my mum and dad,' Link smiled, yawning. 'They raised me here in Ordon and were always there to make me feel better. And when Colin came around, well, I'll tell you I was happy to be a big sister. Ilia just adds to that. We've always been close, being the only ones in Ordon around the same age. I hope she's okay.'
Midna remained silent, choosing to simply merge back into Link's shadow. Link rolled to her side to sleep.
-0-0-0-0-
The Next Day
-0-0-0-0-
"So that's it, is it? There were no signs of her?" Link shook her head, ears pinned down as she watched Bo turn solemn and hopeless. They had spent all morning telling the other families that the children were safe in Kakariko and she had dreaded giving Bo the bad news. While he was thrilled they were safe, his worries for Ilia only grew.
"She will turn up, Bo. I promise you."
You ain't the only one.
"I trust she can handle herself. But what if the worst has happened? What if she was killed?"
She isn't dead. She can't be.
"I know you're scared, but someone in Hyrule must have found her. I believe she is safe and sound."
"I suppose right now all we can do is hope," Bo sighed, eyes fixing on Link. "So Rusl told me you're fixin' to climb Death Mountain and confront the Gorons. A noble move, but they would break every bone in your body. The Gorons are the strongest race in Hyrule. Even full grown men have trouble moving their stubborn hides. If they aren't inclined to let humans past, then I'm afraid you just can't go up."
"But you've wrestled against them, Bo. Perhaps you could help her?"
"What is so important about all this anyway?"
"Colin didn't say. His letter only said that it is urgent for Link to go talk to the Gorons. He believes Hyrule's fate lies in it."
Link blinked. She hadn't read the letter addressed to Rusl and Uli, it felt like prying into something personal. Did Colin really believe she was fated to save Hyrule, too?
"...Fate, eh?" Link fidgeted as Bo took a long look at her ears, then glanced at her hand. She tucked it into her lap, ears twitching back. "I see...Very well. I will train you in the arts of wrestling, Link. But it won't be easy. Especially for you. I can give you a trick that could help you, but unless you can knock me from the Ring I won't allow you to try against the Gorons. They can't always control their own strength, they might kill you by accident."
"Hmm, we might be on the same boat there, Bo," Rusl turned to her with a smile. "You need time to calm down after everything you've been through. I doubt Colin's letter even shed an inkling of light on the situation. During this time, Bo and I will train you. He will teach you wrestling and I will help master your skills with your current sword and shield. Understand?"
Link looked at the door. What of the kids? What of Ilia? Or the Fused Shadow? There were so many things that had to be done, that had to be found. How could she just sit back in Ordon safe and sound while Hyrule fell into deeper ruin on the outside?
"You want to help them all, don't you?" Rusl pat her shoulder. "But you won't save anybody if you fail to lift a sword correctly. That will be the difference in a safe Hyrule. Never rush a healing process, no matter how big or small."
With luck, maybe it will only take a few days... Link mused, nodding slowly. A few days, then she'd go back to Kakariko and face the Gorons. How bad could she be at wrestling, anyway?
Her arrogance was payed for a mere ten minutes later as she lay on the floor of the wrestling ring, stripped down to her breeches and chest-bindings. Bo stood in the center of the ring, arms crossed and shaking his head knowingly. Rusl stood to the side, chuckling lightly as he helped Link stand. She had mild bruises on her arms and back.
This was going to be more than a few days...
-0-0-0-0-
Slowly, Over the Course of a Month...
-0-0-0-0-
Link was reminded of her childhood. She had always wanted to be a solider, just like Rusl. She constantly tried to drag the family sword outside to use it, but was always caught by Rusl due to the loud dragging sounds. When she turned seven, the same year she began to spend more time in the tree house, Rusl gave her a small wooden sword she could use. He began to train her in the arts of swordplay, always telling her that even if she was never as strong as he was, she was quick.
Year after year Rusl would make a new wooden sword, slowly increasing Link's ability to use bigger or heavier weapons. But they didn't have time on their side. Every day they took would put Ilia and Hyrule into further danger, risking a re-bound by Zant. Midna was always quick to point this out every night, pushing Link to leave and go back for the Fused Shadow. As much as she didn't want to, Link refused and continued training.
Every other day she would wrestle with Bo, learning different fighting styles that she could take advantage of. Bo would give tips and his own knowledge of the Gorons as they practised, saying that the Gorons were slow and had a hard time turning. They were faster than anything in Hyrule when going in a straight line, but any signs of a turn and they slow down to move their massive bulk. Link, with no compact muscle or strength by her side, would have to fall back to her old style of fighting, being quick and not getting caught.
In between these lessons Link would go out to the Spring on her own, just sitting and thinking on the situation. She didn't want to be a hero. She didn't want what she knew would come of it. But if she didn't do anything and just sat around, all of Hyrule would fall into Twilight. Could she really stand up to Zant should the time come for it? She would pull out the letter Zelda gave her and read it over. She knew Zelda asked for it to be burned, but she couldn't bring herself to. If she did burn it, it would be the final step she took before committing to everything everyone has said since the Twilight arrived. That she was a Hero, descendant of the Hero of Time, and had the Triforce in her blood.
At night, before falling asleep, Link would meditate. Midna had thought it would be more useful than just thinking to herself over and hoping for the best. Whatever 'wall' Link had pushed back against in Kakariko seemed to have helped. Her mind was clearer, feeling more open but at the same time more in control. She received less headaches from 'talking' to Midna and while she couldn't hold conversations, she could retort several times against the Imp's constant degrading. Although, if Link were to be honest, it almost felt playful and less mean-spirited. She didn't consider Midna a friend, but she was slowly beginning to get used to her better.
And she would write constantly to Colin. Maverick, who recovered quickly, was more than happy to deliver their letters back and forth. Said it gave him something to do, rather than just stand around bored. Link understood completely.
One night, with her sword and shield in her hands, she went to Ordona's Spring. She looked at the runes on the stones and took a deep breath. She unsheathed the weapons. The Ordon Sword didn't sag as she held it straight and the Hylian Shield, although still heavy, felt more comfortable on her arm.
When she was about to do some practice swings, she heard a growl behind her. She only had enough time to turn before the Golden Wolf pounced on her.
She woke to see the strange white world, a little dazed but alert. She pushed herself to her feet, looking up to meet Hero's Shade once more. He stood as a Stalfos again, the moss-covered shield and sword in his hands. His single eye seemed to stare through her, assessing her worth. She fidgeted, ears flicking.
"So we do meet again. I do not agree with the Goddesses' choice in choosing you, but I must fulfil their wish. Have you attempted the Final Blow?"
'Yeah.'
"Then show me," Hero's Shade readied himself. Link unsheathed her weapons, wondering why they were re-sheathed in the first place, and copied. She didn't feel ready to face him again, but she had no choice now.
Unlike before, Link waited for Hero's Shade to make the first move. At the sight of this the Stalfos smirked, his eye flashing before we swung the blade in an arc. Link ducked around it, side-stepping to his side and thrusting the sword forward with both hands. It clattered against his ribs. He swung his shield into her side, knocking her to the ground. She rolled back up and bent her knees, managing a back-flip over his next swing. When she landed she shot forward, swinging the blade in an upwards strike as he brought his down. His hilt banged on her head and she struck up, managing to put him off balance for a second.
He regained footing and kicked her away, chuckling as she landed with a grunt a few meters away. "You hold a sword properly, you have a real shield, you still wear the Hero's Clothes, but you are no closer to proving yourself worthy. Why should I give you the dignity of showing the next Hidden Skill for you if you cannot even knock me down to preform the previous Skill."
Link rose to her knees, head hung low making her hair fall into her face. Whispers of the last few weeks sang in her ears, whispers of praise, hope and belittling. Shadows of nightmares and dreams. Echoes of a sword clashing with earth, trees, dummies and flesh. Hero's Shade made it all return. She felt sick, unable to think straight as the events she had piled up resurfaced. She tried forgetting it all while in Ordon. Tried to forget the trials she faced for a better hope of going home as normal.
Through the haze of events, she saw the faces of three distinct people. One was a fun-loving and shy boy with bright blonde hair and light blue eyes, who was kind, smart and had big dreams. Who, despite all odds, believed in her to the end. A stubborn girl with short brown hair and green eyes, who had been by her side since they were children. Who was everything she could ask for in a friend and sister, a faithful companion who she would protect to the ends of Hyrule. The other, a woman with long chestnut hair and sapphire eyes. A woman who, despite never meeting her before, she felt she knew personally. A woman who shouldn't know of her existence, who risked her safety sending a letter. A woman so strong she allowed herself to suffer so her people could live, forced to watch them all afraid with no way of stopping it.
Colin, Ilia, and even Zelda, were the three people she felt so close to. She didn't understand why she felt she and Zelda were close, let alone like a sister, but she couldn't shake it off. Instead of trying, she clung onto the feeling. Colin was safe, but far from home, Ilia was lost in the kingdom, and Zelda a prisoner of her own castle. In a way, each of them was trapped, but all believed in her.
Why was she worthy? Was she worthy of wearing the Hero's Clothes? Of holding the Hero of Time's shield?
Despite the fight against it all, against what even Gods had said to her, Link knew the answer.
She looked Hero's Shade in the eye.
'You keep askin' the wrong question.'
He didn't speak, he only raised a bony brow.
'Worth, worth, worth. As if you know my worth. I ain't keen on bein' a Hero, but I sure as Din's Hell have worth. Maybe I ain't a prophesied Hero, maybe I am. At the moment, all I wanna do is save those helpless people in the Twilight. I don't gotta be a Hero to do that. I ain't strong, but I'm far from weak. I ain't smart, but I'm far from stupid. My name's Link, and whether or not you deem me 'worthy' will not stop me from saving innocent people.'
Link didn't believe a word she said. She was spouting out goat shit and she knew it. It was more like she was trying to convince herself of all this.
The Hero's Shade remained silent as Link stood to her feet, unsheathing her sword. She pointed the tip at him, her face emotionless but feeling like she would break into a crying fit.
Hero's Shade parried the gesture, before swinging with all his strength. Link jerked her head to the left, her feet planted as she dug her sword into his shin. It latched between the bones, twisting his leg. She rammed her shoulder into his middle, pushing him off balance a second time. This time she kicked out behind his leg and he fell back with a loud crash. Before her mind could catch up to her body, Link was seated in the center of his stomach, the sword sunk into his hollowed chest. The Stalfos allowed himself a few moments of stunned silence before standing, prompting Link to slide off. He pulled the sword out, tossing it to Link. She caught it clumsily, hugging it in her arms.
"...Very well. You have shown me your mastery of the Final Blow. Now, I will teach you how to use your shield effectively," he spoke nothing of the defeat, if not acting like it hadn't happened. "This is a simple trick, but simple suits you. When your shield is raised, bring it close to your body. This gives you enough room to jab your arm forward, catching an opponent off guard with a useful Shield Bash. I will strike at you, lift your shield and prepare for the blow."
She barely had enough time. Still dazed, she brought the shield up in front of her face. There was a ring of metal and sparks flew past her ears, her arm jerking into her nose painfully. Hero's Shade shook his head. "No, don't just block yourself. Use your shield as a weapon. Again."
He swung out again, this time Link, as if by instinct, rammed her shield forward. It took her a moment of silence before she realized she had closed her eyes. She blinked sheepishly at Hero's Shade, who now stood back. He didn't look unhappy, but he certainly wasn't impressed. "Good enough. Another useful way to use the Shield Bash is on projectiles. Good timing and space will allow you to send whatever is coming at you right back. Ready yourself."
Hero's Shade raised the sword, the tip now covered in a yellow-white light. Link felt her heart race at the show of magic, but forced the confusing reaction back as Hero's Shade shot it at her. The shield grew hot as it made contact, but it was sent back with just enough force to shock Hero's Shade.
Link smiled.
-0-0-0-0-
A Week Later
-0-0-0-0-
"Well I'll say you have a chance now," Bo said as he dusted himself off. Link stood at the edge of the ring, stunned to the spot. She had managed to, at last, knock Bo off the ring. Well, okay she didn't 'knock' him off. More-so she tripped him up by ducking around rapidly and trying not to get grabbed. He chuckled, clapping her arm to wake her out of her thoughts. "Good job, Link. You've improved heavily. I think you're finally ready to go back to Kakariko. Come with me, I have something for you."
She followed him to the storage area. "Even with all this training, you will need one more thing to stand against the Gorons. Even I needed this when I wrestled one of them." He came to a dusty chest, smiling softly as he forced it open. He ducked inside for a moment and turned, holding leather boots with iron soles. He passed them to Link, who gasped as they brought her half-down to the ground. They were so heavy!
"These Iron Boots will help. Don't worry, they're easy to use. Believe it or not I had them enchanted to put on easier. This enchantment is connected once you step into them. Go on, put them on. You don't have to take off your own boots."
Sceptical and confused, Link stepped into the boots. She felt a jolt course through her, making her dizzy when it reached her head. She swayed on the spot, but was unable to move or fall over due to the weight of the boots. When the dizzy spell passed she could feel the boots latching onto her shins tightly.
"Now that it's connected, it works through brain waves. An interesting technology, if a bit hard to copy. The old Shaman of Kakariko, Renado's father, enchanted them for me when I said I wanted to wrestle one of the Gorons. Now clear your mind and imagine stepping out of the boots."
Even if she was confused, Link did what Bo said and cleared her mind. A moment later she was on the ground with the iron boots in her hands, pulled so suddenly she swore her spine broke. She stepped back, surprised at seeing the heavy boots now off her feet. "Good. Although unlike me I know you can't just carry them around and putting it in your satchel will hurt you."
Link remembered the Dimensional Bag Zelda had sent her. Problem was the Princess didn't explain how to use it and Midna didn't know either. Midna just used her magic to put items into a similar dimension, but wasn't sure how it could be used on an old-looking pouch.
"I'll keep them here for now. If you can't find a way to carry them on your own you could get Epona to help. For a mare like her it shouldn't be a problem."
Link nodded, contemplating how she could ever fully utilize the boots. Even if she had finally beaten Bo, it didn't mean she was ready for the trials ahead. She left Bo's house with her arms behind her head, looking at the sun setting over the hills. After the last month, she began to feel restless again. Her mind wanted her to stay in Ordon, but her spirit itself felt like it was going mad staying cooped up in this village after just seeing more of Hyrule. Why did she always have a desire to leave, even when she knew this might be the last time she came for a visit?
That night Link sat sideways in the chair close to the fire. Her legs hung over the arm as she read through the book Rusl had shown her. Midna was leaning over her shoulder, deciding to use this time to learn the Hylian language a little. She wasn't completely invested, more curious. This was also helping Link with her 'mental walls' and such, as she had to read it to Midna to help. She always stopped at the photo of the Hero with the horse and woman and stared at his face for a few minutes, sometimes an hour. She couldn't shake off an odd feeling that had begun lately: Déjà Vu. It was if she could picture herself standing where he was, looking at whoever was taking the photo and enjoying the time with his companions.
"Are we going back soon or what? We've been wasting too much time here. Soon Zant will try to re-take the Eldin Province and we won't be able to stop it a second time."
'I understand your worry, but nothin's happened yet. I gotta letter from Colin just the other day. If it was back he wouldn't be able to.'
"Which only makes me concerned. Zant already took over almost all the Kingdom. All that was left was your Province and he would have all of Hyrule in his grasp. So why, when almost all of it is defeated, has he not attempted to reclaim it? You'd think clearing just the Faron Province would encourage him to send more Twilight Messengers after us."
'Ya sure we can't count this as a blessin'?'
"No. We can't. This isn't how Zant operates. He's always been one to be on the offensive and strike at any opportune moment, not wait and do nothing. I think he might be torturing those in Castle Town by now, and by extension-"
'Zelda,' Link leaned her head back, the book now on her stomach. 'He must know she asked for someone's help. Great Nayru, Midna what if he's hurting her now? What if he's tryin' to get her to tell 'im who's been gettin' rid of his work?'
"Well she'd better not rat us out. If Zant finds out I'm alive he'll make sure I won't be."
'What does he gain from killin' you?' Link tilted her head.
Midna stayed silent, choosing not to look at Link but instead go inside her shadow. "We leave tomorrow. We can't waste anymore time with your mental break down. Buck up and be a Lord Dammit hero. We have no one else to rely on."
Link frowned and looked back into the fire. Great, now she was worrying for Zelda's safety, too. If Zant is anything like she heard, he wouldn't let all this go to waste and not punish somebody for it.
Link's eyes grew steely and unfocused the longer she stared into the fire.
The next morning she was mounting Epona, bidding farewell to the villagers properly this time. The iron boots were strapped to Epona's saddle, barely noticeable by the Clydesdale. She reared back with a neigh before galloping off, Link rubbing her eye lightly.
Back in Rusl's home, the fire slowly died, the remains of a charred piece of parchment fluttering to the ground.
-0-0-0-0-
Two Days Later
In Kakariko
-0-0-0-0-
Talo and Beth sat by the Spirit Spring, enjoying lunch and talking about nothing in particular. In the distance they heard the sound of hoof beats and perked up, smiling at each other before running towards the south entrance of the village. It had to be Link returning!
Colin, walking out of the Sanctuary, also heard the steps. He smiled but stayed in the shadows, still unable to be around the others even after so long. His own guilt wouldn't let him.
All three of the children grew cold when it wasn't a horse that rounded the bend, but a giant blue boar with a giant green rider. The same rider who kidnapped them all and almost crushed Link. The Bulblin, as Renado had called them, charged down the center of the dirt road, directly at Talo and Beth. While Talo was able to move his legs and run the other way, Beth was paralysed to the spot in fear. Colin turned to warn Renado, but paused and turned back to Beth. He wouldn't get Renado in time to save her. So instead he ran passed Talo, who yelled at him for being an idiot, and reached Beth. With no hesitation he pushed her aside, safely into some dead bushes.
He had no time to move before the creature rammed into him.
The large Bulblin snorted, picking up Colin by the collar and smirking. As he and his three other Bulblins began riding off Barnes walked out of his shop, stunned to the spot at the sight. The large Bulblin raised the visor on his helmet to look the man in the eyes. Barnes, without a kilogram of bravery, pulled down the mask of his welding helmet.
The creatures rode off towards the north gate when their was a loud cry of a horse. Talo and Beth, both horrified, saw a blur of chestnut and green.
Epona charged through the village at full speed, Link looking ahead with pure anger as the large kidnapper disappeared from sight. She took a glance at Barnes and glared at him as she passed, then fixed her eyes forward. She had found the kids safe, she had told all of Ordon that they were fine. She would not lose them again!
Epona jumped the locked fence, galloping into a large field covered in barbed fences, ruined cobblestone and dead grass. A ravine stretched around the perimeter and to the north a daunting Wall of Twilight shone, the silhouette of a Castle hidden in the shadow. On the crest of a hill, Link saw the green creature standing. Tied to a large mast on the boar's saddle was Colin, unconscious and still. Link saw white blur on the edges of her vision, feeling a red-hot hatred burn through her.
The creature took this as a challenge. He pulled out a horn and blew into it, calling three more boars to his side. Two of the Bokoblin-like creatures sat on each, a rider and a bowman. Link didn't stop her charge, instead Epona sped up with little encouragement. Part way up the hill the big creature turned away, running off while the smaller ones continued towards Link. She unsheathed her sword, leaning low on Epona's neck in preparation. She had never fought on her mare's back before, but now was as good a time as any for practice.
Whatever bond they shared grew stronger as Link passed the first boar-riders. She stood on Epona's back, holding the sword in both hands and swinging in a down-ward arc. The blade slashed across the boar's face, between its ears. This sent it crashing into the ground crushing both riders. An arrow was shot at her but without missing a beat she flipped over it, landing in a sit on Epona, although backwards. She swung her sword to the right, the rider unable to stop the boar in time to avoid being decapitated. The blood sprayed onto Link's cheek, but she didn't flinch as she flipped herself to sit properly on her mare.
The final boar riders circled around them, coming up behind. An arrow ricocheted off her shield with a spark, implanting into a stone ruin Epona jumped. The boar rider followed, the boar getting bucked under the chin as Epona kicked back. Its face imploded and it fell, but the riders lived.
Before them the leader was still running. Link's eyes narrowed, glowing at the corners as Epona broke into a burst of new speed. This allowed them to catch up to its side. Link slashed at the armour coating its body, surprised when it fell off in only a few blows. Whatever metal it was made of was flimsy and rusted, exposing flesh. The leader struck out with a large spear. It hit Link in the chest, knocking her off Epona's back and into some mud. The large creature turned and charged at her but Epona intercepted, standing over Link and rearing up with a cry. Her front hoof missed the boar's snout, but made it panic and run away. Link clambered to her feet and jumped onto Epona's back, stroking her mane.
More of the boar riders came when the leader blew the horn. This time there were five sets, two charging at her in unison. She brought the shield off her back and the first arrow bounced off, the second grazing Epona's neck. She let out a cry and tossed her neck, prompting Link to hug her neck to hang on. While she didn't go into a frenzy like the last time she saw these creatures, she did rear back dangerously. Link slipped off onto a wired fence. She wasn't hurt, but her breeches got caught on the wire and turned her upside-down.
She saw a boar charging at her and braced herself, grunting as it rammed into her. The force broke the flimsy fence but left her trampled. She groaned, pushing herself to her knees. A shadow fell over her and a creature brought down a club, but she brought up her shield. Awkwardly she pushed back against it, standing as she did so. The strike left her arm aching, but she was saved. When the boar tried to run over her again she flipped forward, landing on the boar's head and bringing her sword down through the Bokoblin-like creature's skull. It fell off and the boar lost control, falling to its side. Link jumped off in time as Epona ran by, a deep gash in her neck from the arrow.
'Hang in there, girl. You'll be fine,' she promised.
The rider paired with the first ran at her from the side. Before it got to her she pulled the Gale Boomerang out of her satchel. It circled around them, throwing the riders off and confusing the boar. She repaid them for being trampled as Epona ran over them. Two more boar riders came at her from the front and back. She put her shield on her back and stood once more on Epona. Her mare didn't break speed, instead galloping faster. She heard arrows whizz past them both. As she came up to the on-coming rider she jumped off Epona, leaving the mare to come to a sudden halt and buck the one rearing them. Link landed between the two creatures, stabbing the bowman in the chest before striking the rider with her shield. The force sent it tumbling over the boar's head to get trampled underneath.
'It hurts, don't it, asshole?'
She gripped the boar's reigns and pulled, but this only made the boar charge forward. She could barely hold on as it ran wild, running into fences. She cringed as it rammed into a ruined stone pillar, vaulting her forward to land at the hooves of the leader. Its blue boar stomped down heavily, but not quick enough when Link rolled to the side and sprung to her feet. One glance at Colin on the pole made her eyes become more animalistic than human, the white at the corners spreading to create a ring around her eyes. She jumped, pushing off the boar's snout and letting out an anger-filled cry as her sword impaled the leader's armour. It let out a roar, grabbing her neck and throwing her off. Her sword held firm in her hand, tearing sideways through the armour before she was dislodged.
Epona was quickly by her side, sporting a few bruises on her legs but otherwise fine. She nudged Link's head as the Hylian sat up, dizzy from hitting her head. With her mare's help she stood and mounted her, her knuckles turning white around the hilt. When she looked up she saw the leader fleeing beyond a bridge in the distance. She urged Epona to go after him. He somehow got his boar to jump a stack of barrels and straw and she followed, the barricade not giving Epona a moment of trouble.
Past the barricade however, a bowman shot it with a fire arrow. It burst into flames at their backs, making Link glance back to look at it, and saw the same had happened on the other end of the long bridge. There, the leader stood clenching its stomach, no armour but its helmet on.
The two of them sat on their mounts, panting and awaiting for what would happen next. Then the leader reared his boar and charged forward, lowering his spear horizontal like a lance. Link's eyes narrowed and Epona reared before charging at it. Link held her sword behind her, gripping the hilt with both hands. Epona didn't need to be lead here.
They passed each other, her sword grazing his arm and his spear slashing across Epona's side. She let out an angry whinny, but ran to the end of the bridge and turned, pawing the ground and snorting. Link brushed the new scar, clicking her tongue in worry. Epona tossed her mane, fixing her rider with a confident look in her intelligent brown eyes. Link smiled, nodding and bringing her gaze up to the leader. It was already charging at her.
Link and Epona met the opposing rider in the center of the bridge. At the last possible second Epona turned to its right, allowing Link to strike first this time. She got its side, adding to the long scar across its stomach. It grunted, lowering its spear and holding its side. The boar stopped only out of fear of the fire on the other side.
Epona turned on her hind hooves and galloped, the leader had only enough time to look up before, with all her strength, Link slashed its other side. With a grunt and a great roar, it fell off the boar. It hit the bridge, but with no side to stop it rolled off into the dark ravine below, the roars echoing over the hills.
Link stood where he fell, holding Epona's mane as her mare reared up and kicked her front hooves in victory. With the Twilight behind her, Link held out her blade, her face looking down on the ravine with relief and fading anger. On the back of her left hand the Triforce glowed, shining through even her gauntlet.
She did not realize, but that moment marked the beginning of Link's true awakening.
Gery: Okay, so Link has the Hylian Shield now, yay! And she's (grudgingly) accepted her role as 'Hero'. Also, I find the real way you get the Hylian Shield to be pretty lame in TP. It's just...there. Sure in Ocarina you can buy it, but you can also find it in the Kakariko Graveyard for a bit more awesomeness. So I changed it that Rusl had one, and yes it is the exact same Shield Time had : D It has a few minor enchantments to keep it sturdy and undamaged, similar to the enchantments on the Hero's Clothes. Also, writing pissed off Link is so much fun.