Wow I never thought I'd get this chapter done. I honestly wasn't sure how I was going to go about this chapter. In the game it's a pretty important part since it introduces Ninian and Nils and the Black Fang. There is a lot of foreshadowing and many key figures meet for the first time. It's a pretty important chapter that I felt needed a lot of explaining to tie things together. I don't think I did a very good job though…some things I kinda just threw together on the fly while others I had thought about in detail beforehand and still other things I realized didn't quite fit together later on and I had to go back and edit. It was a nightmare…

Anyway it took me forever and I apologize for the delay and if this chapter doesn't live up to your expectations please don't shoot me. I'll do better next time, I promise!

Once again a thousand blessings upon all reviewers!

To Infinite Freedom: I thought about having Link Kill Araphen but I realized that would lead to some political problems that would be a bit of a headache so I decided against it. Still I couldn't leave him untouched now could I? As for the Shaman Commander you'll just have to read and find out.

To SmashtoPieces: As I expected your one of the first reviewers again. Man I love that and I'm glad you like the chapter. I'm doubly glad I was able to surprise you a couple of times. In terms of Link's outburst I figure since he's the epitome of courage and heroism he wouldn't have much patience for snobby coward of a noble. I also wanted to give some other people the spotlight for a change and Kent's actions fit nicely with the script in the game. As you can tell I had a lot of fun with that chapter. I hope you like this one too. Your continued support and encouragement is always appreciated.

To Wildfire Dreams: Matthew is one of my favorite characters as well! I love his personality and the way he fights. He's just plain cool. As for the trip to Valor I can't say a bottled fairy will be involved but there's defiantly going to be something happening…You'll just have to wait and see.

To Rini Tsukino: I love your reviews! You always say so much and give me such great encouragement. Without people like you reviewing I'd be a lot sadder writing this. Never fear the ramble! The ramble is good! Yes very good!! I'm so glad you liked the chapter and the name I gave the hawk. That's a great relief for me. As for Serra and Matthew you'd be surprised with what kind of possible connections you can find throughout the game if you pay attention. I find more every time I play. The EliwoodxNinian pairing is one of my favorites as well and it's going to happen for sure and I also have something else in mind way later on in the sequel concerning the two love birds. Hope you're still around to find out!

To Ranma Uzumaki: Haha! Yes Link is sweet…Thanks for the encouragement!

To TheLegendofSoulEmblem: Lyn started dual sword training in chapter 6. I agree that they should have done double swords for an upgrade instead of giving her a bow. 2 swords are just cooler. Link's a seasoned warrior so he needs to be aware of his surroundings and plus he's a Hylian so I'm not quite sure what kind of limits I'm going to put on him compared with normal humans. Maybe pinning down Matthew was a little much but I think he could do it ! And as for Link's outbursts, like I told Infinite Freedom I see Link as having no patience or mercy towards cowardly people who don't know their place. Also there may just be something a little deeper happening with that as well…

To Herr Wozzeck: Yep I'm back! And don't worry about it, college is rough and so is work so I defiantly know how you feel. But I got a brand new laptop now so updating should be a little easier as long as I can find the time to write.

To Shadow Zeranion: Link's a stud, that's for sure. Lol. To tell you the truth I've never really used Rath when I played so I really don't know what he's like. I know that he's good and can become really powerful but I just haven't used him much. I may have to rectify that.

To Crazymallets: I'm glad you like the story and believe me there is reason for Link acting like that! (See responses to Infinite Freedom and LegendofSoulEmblem) As for the interactions between Link and the two girls, let's just say I love both pairings and it's still early in the story…

To Megagamer200: Hey a new reviewer if I'm not mistaken! Welcome! I'm glad you like it! I know Link didn't mention Termina but that doesn't mean he didn't go. In fact later on those adventures in Termina are going to play a big role later. Not saying what though! Lol

To OniKiDD: Steller, eh? Sweet! I love your opinion! I'm glad you're still a reader and I hope you continue to offer your support and opinions! They are greatly appreciated.

To Salemstar: Wow…I'm speechless…welcome to the world of writing fanfic! I'm glad that you got an account and dropped a review but I can't believe you actually advertised my fic in your profile and mentioned it in your first story chapter! I'm honored beyond words!! Seriously that is cool! I give my best wishes to you in your writing endeavors and I hope that my fic will continue to peak your interest and live up to your expectations.

Wow I had some really good reviews this time around and a couple of new reviewers as well. I especially give a warm welcome to Salemstar who advertised my fic in his profile (which is pretty short in itself)! What an honor! Check out his own Fire Emblem fic he just started. He updates way faster than me…

Anyway even though I don't feel as though this is one of my best chapters and may not be a worthy reward; as thanks I hereby dedicate this chapter to him and the rest of my loyal reviewers!

Whom She Found

Chapter 10:

Hunted Siblings

The Lycian League was a large country with a wide variety of terrain and people. Many people traversed its roads to reach the many cities, towns, and villages. Old houses and forts could be found everywhere and many shops and inns were spread throughout the land. At one such inn, two siblings entered into the room they would be spending the night in.

"We're fortunate that the inn master was so kind to us." Ninian, the eldest sister said.

"Yes, if all we have to do is provide some entertainment for his guests in exchange for a room." Nils, the younger brother replied. "It will be good to get a good night's sleep for a change."

His smile was replaced by a weary sigh as he flopped onto his bed. "But do you really think it's safe?"

Ninian's face turned grave and she sat next to her brother. "I don't think we'll be safe anywhere." She replied sadly. "But we don't have the strength to go on much further. We need to rest."

She sighed. "We should be fine as long as we don't sense anything."

"I guess so…" Nils mumbled.

xxx

"You kids are great!" The innkeeper laughed as the two performers finished with their routine to much applause. "I wish you would have come around years ago. You would have made things a lot easier for me."

Ninian bowed to the man. "Thank-you, sir for letting my brother and I stay here for the night."

"Not a problem," he replied with a smile. "Hey, tell you what, I know you said you need to be moving on soon but if you kids perform one more night then I'll give you some gold for your travels as well as the room for another day. What do you say?"

The two siblings looked at each other.

"That's…very kind of you sir." Ninian bowed her head. "But we really should be moving on."

"Are you sure?" The innkeeper was slightly dejected. "I can't stop you if that's your decision but what are you going to do later on? You obviously don't have any money right now. You'll just be in the same situation later."

Nils looked at his sister. "He - he has a point…"

Ninian looked back at him. Truth be told the innkeeper was right. They had been traveling for a while from place to place without any money and they always had to struggle to find a place to stay. Some gold would be very helpful. But still…

"Can we…think about it for bit?" She sighed.

The innkeeper nodded and the two siblings returned to their room.

"What do you think?" Nils asked from his bed.

Ninian sighed again and turned her head to the window. "I don't know. We really shouldn't. We've been hard pressed keeping ahead of them as it is."

"But still, some money would make things easier." Nils replied.

"I know. That's what's tempting about it."

She closed her eyes and concentrated for a moment.

"Do you feel it?" She asked softly.

Nils was quiet as he mirrored her.

"It never goes away." He sighed. "It only weakens or strengthens."

Ninian nodded. "And now?"

There was a long pause between them. "It's weak." Nils said at last.

Ninian nodded again. "They are coming. They always will. Do you think we should take the risk?"

Her brother thought to himself for a bit and then yawned.

"I'm tired." He stretched out on his bed. "We've been running for so long. I know we must, but still…"

"Yes." Ninian nodded in agreement. "I feel the same."

"Perhaps…" Ninian hesitated, still unsure of the words she was about to say. "Perhaps we should…rest one more night. The money would help us."

Nils sat up and looked at her.

"If that is what you think, then I will agree."

With their decision made the two traveling entertainers settled in for the night; little did they know that their decision would change their lives forever.

xxx

The proud screech of Shakkar resonated through the sky as he soared high above the traveling Legion. With his large, regal wings spread wide and his razor sharp eyes surveying the land nothing seemed to escape his vision. Already the members of the Legion had come to rely on him as a scout, often being surprised at his intelligence.

Lyn watched him for a moment with a happy smile on her face, glad to see her friend flying as high and free as he should. In many ways she envied him. His wings allowed him to fly anywhere free from the troubles and cares of the world; his only limits the sky itself. How she longed for that infinite freedom, the wind in her hair and the sun on her back…perhaps that was one reason she loved the plains so much.

As her thoughts drifted back home she wondered if her grandfather would enjoy the plains as well. She was also concerned with the words of Marquess Araphen. His prejudice towards her people stung but she cared not for his opinion; she was more concerned about whether or not her grandfather would feel the same way. She remembered Kent telling her when they first met her that Marquess Caelin declared he had no daughter after she left for Sacae. Was her grandfather just as prejudiced as Araphen?

"Something wrong, Milady?"

Lyn snapped from her daze and turned to Kent.

"Hmm?"

"You seem troubled." Kent spoke with concern. "Are you alright?"

Lyn shook her head to clear her thoughts before smiling at him.

"I'm fine. I was just thinking."

"Is it about the events that happened in Araphen?" Kent asked.

Lyn blinked in surprise and stared at him for a moment before sighing.

"I'm worried about how my grandfather will think of me when I see him."

Kent nodded his head. "That is understandable. But rest assured milady, your grandfather knew full well of your heritage when he sent Sain and I to find you. He told us his greatest wish is to see you before he dies."

"I promise you, Lyndis, any resentment Marquess Caelin may have had towards your people is gone. You need not worry any longer."

Lyn smiled again at the knight. "Thank-you, Kent."

xxx

Towards the back of the Legion Link walked silently by himself deep in thought. He was reflecting heavily on some of his past actions. Twice now, since he had met Lyndis, he had lost his temper. His fight with Glass and his outburst with the Marquess had revealed a side of him that had not come out in a long time. His anger had also been kindled towards Dorcas but that time he had been in control and there was purpose behind his actions. Those other two times he had completely lost it. He did not regret his actions at all but he was slightly concerned as to why it had happened. The Hero of Time closed his eyes and tried to remember previous times that he had felt as he did. Immediately he recalled his quest to defeat Ganondorf and several times when his temper raged. One was when he had found out the conditions Malon was living under when Ingo took over the ranch and how he treated her. Another time was when Ganondorf had captured Zelda. Never before had his rage been stronger than that time. It was as if nothing else in the universe mattered more to him than the total destruction of his nemesis.

Link's quest to defeat Ganondorf had brought out every emotion imaginable in him both positive and negative. This massive and traumatic conflict of feelings caused him great pain, fear, and confusion. Ultimately it was this twist of emotions that led to one of his greatest battles. He remembered vividly entering the Room of Reflection in the Water Temple and the strange sensation he felt from walking in. It was if he had walked into a world he had always known and yet never knew. It was there that he fought his polar reflection Dark Link; a twisted and unholy creature born from all of the young warrior's negative emotions and his equal in every way. That encounter was probably the most difficult one he had ever fought even compared to the titanic clash with the Dark King himself for Link had to face the darkness within his own heart. It wasn't until after the fight did he find out the room reflected what was in his soul and that his emotions were clouding his will and judgment. And just as the mist and eerie atmosphere of the room cleared after Dark Link's defeat to reveal a beautiful and crystal clear sanctum so too was the weight upon his soul lifted and he felt renewed and refreshed. From that point on Link had walked forward with the steeled resolve, determination, and courage that made him legendary.

It had been a long time since that experience and many things had happened since then; Link hoped that his recent outbursts did not mean "Dark Link" was forming once more. He was now much stronger than when he first fought his reflection and he did not relish the thought of facing himself again as such. Sighing to himself Link shook his head clear not wanting to delve too deep into the matter. He withdrew his ocarina and began to play Epona's Song. His mind felt at ease as he let the melody drift effortlessly from the instrument into the air around him. How he missed his beloved mare…it had been so long since they had been separated for this much time. He constantly wondered what had become of her. The last time he had felt this was was when he had lost her in Termina. Was she back in Hyrule or did she end up in this land as well? Since he did not recall anything concerning what he was doing before he came here or anything about how he got here he couldn't even begin to narrow down the possibilities. For now he played on as he walked - hoping and praying...

xxx

Nils played a happy tune on his flute as he and Ninian walked to the inn from the nearby village where they bought a few supplies with the money they had earned the night before. Ninian smiled as she listened to her brother's music and fought the urge to dance along with the beat. She loved to dance; it was something that she felt held wondrous power. She loved to express herself with her movements and the dance had endless possibilities to portray all kinds of feelings. Losing herself in a complex and meaningful routine was one of the few things that brought her true joy and she could forget about all of her troubles and cares even if only for a few moments. The fact that she could also share those feelings with those who watched was just the icing on the cake. Nils felt the same way about his music and both of them were happy when the other was doing what they loved. Things seemed to be looking up for them for once and with their new supplies they would be able to travel much better for a few days. It was only natural that Nils would want to play as they walked.

As they neared the inn they were both so enthralled with the music that they did not notice the growing feeling of unease that welled up inside them until…

"Found you at last."

The siblings froze as a dark figure approached them from behind. They turned to gaze with shock and fear at a sinister hooded man in dark robes.

"No…" Ninian breathed cursing her inattentiveness. How could she not have noticed his presence so close to them? Had they really let their guard down that much? Her heart raced while her senses now flared as she fully felt the danger around them so much so that it hurt. She instinctively moved closer to her brother as the hooded man spoke.

"You've led us on quite the chase but now it's time for you two to end these little games and return with us. Come." He beckoned to them.

"No!" Ninian shook her head defiantly. "We will never go back to Nergal!"

"That's right!" Nils agreed as he stepped protectively in front of Ninian, his hand on the small dagger at his waist.

If they could see the man's eyes from under his hood they would have revealed an expression of something resembling amusement, but with a dark undertone.

"Do you honestly believe that you can run from us forever?" He sneered. "You have nowhere to go and no one to turn to. You children are lucky to have come this far."

With that he raised his arms to his chest and the crackling of energy could be felt in the air as the shaman gathered a ball of dark magic between his hands and hurled it at them. The siblings managed to jump away from the attack but were separated in the process. The blast form the magic sphere impacting the ground sent them both sprawling. Nils rolled a few times and quickly got to his feet just in time to see several larger men coming towards him. Acting fast he stepped away from their grabs and began searching frantically for his sister. Ninian was also on her feet by this time and the shaman's focus was entirely on her. He gathered another ball of magic and struck again but Ninian was ready this time and evaded the attack with the grace and speed granted from her dances.

"Nils!" She called to her brother as she noticed that the shaman had not come alone and several men had made their presence known. The dancer's search for him was cut short when a third dark sphere struck the ground at her feet.

"KYAA!" Ninian screamed as the explosion sent her flying back. She hit the ground hard and was too dazed to move.

"NINIAN!!" Nils shouted and tried to rush to her, however, his path was cut off by the other men.

The dancer groaned as she tried to push herself from the ground but gasped as a sharp pain from her leg halted her process. She craned her neck to see one of her ankles beginning to swell having been hurt from the fall. No sooner had she registered this new fact when a magic emblem appeared beneath her. Her eyes widened in shock as she recognized the spell and turned her eyes to the smirking shaman who spread out his arms.

"Flux."

Dark streams of energy shot from the emblem surrounding Ninian and quickly swirled around her forming a dome of dark magic. Unable to move she could only brace herself as the shaman swiftly brought his hands together triggering the dome to instantly implode upon the hapless girl. Ninian screamed again as the attack ignored her physical body almost completely but ripped at her mind and life energy instead. She twitched and spasmed as the spell ended its assault and she slumped back to the ground unconscious.

Nils screamed his sister's name again and tried to force his way through to her but a large hand grabbed him around the neck.

"Gotcha!" The man sneered.

Nils acted fast and bit the man's arm causing him to drop the boy. The young bard dashed away with tears streaming down his face as he disappeared into the bushes.

"After him!" The shaman commanded. "and bring him back to the keep. You!" he pointed to another man. Grab the girl and come with me. We must ensure she does not escape again, she is more important than the boy."

The men nodded and hastened to fulfill their commands. Most of them chased after Nils while the one man flung the unconscious Ninian over his shoulder and followed after his robed leader.

Meanwhile Nils continued to run being led purely on instinct. He knew that those men wouldn't be far behind and he couldn't do anything by himself. He had to get help. He had to save Ninian.

He pumped his legs as fast as he could and tried desperately to think of something he could do. He wasn't sure what had led him to the inn, he had no specific destination planned, nonetheless it was through the inn's doors that he burst.

"Help! Help! I need help!"

Startled, the innkeeper and the inmates turned to the frantic boy.

"Whoa there, boy! Settle down," the innkeeper walked up to him. "What's wrong?"

"My sister has been kidnapped!" Nils shouted.

Everyone in the room jumped from their seats in surprise.

"What?" the innkeeper demanded. "By whom?!"

There was a big fuss made as everyone waited for his answer. The all liked the boy and his dancing sister and were eager and willing to help. Encouraged by the look on the kind innkeeper and the inmates around him Nils felt a rush of hope and relief, perhaps they could rescue Ninian.

"I think it was a group of men from the Black Fang."

The silence that followed his statement sent a chill down the young boy as he saw everyone's face harden and step away from him.

"The Fang?" the innkeeper glared at him. "You're being pursued by the Fang?"

The larger man shoved Nils back with surprising force.

"Get out!" He demanded. "Out!!"

Nils grunted and fell from the shove, all hope drained from his body as he stared at the man's angry expression and similar expressions around the room.

"Please!" he pleaded to everyone. "Somebody…somebody please help!"

"That's enough!" the innkeeper barked. "Get out now! I want none of your trouble!"

"But sir…why?" Nils fought back the tears welling in his eyes. "You were so kind yesterday…"

The innkeeper snorted. "I thought you were just two kids. A couple of traveling performers…If those men are chasing you, you must be up to no good! The Black Fang doesn't pursue just anybody. Now get up and get out! You're a plague on decent folk!"

"But…." Nils stood up.

"OUT! Before I turn you over to them myself!"

Nils choked back a response before running out the door.

"Whew…" The innkeeper breathed a sigh of relief. "What a mess…"

Behind him, a robed man sitting in the corner of the pub rose to his feet.

xxx

Nils stared around him frantically knowing he had to do something fast before the Fang members caught up to him. But if the innkeeper wouldn't help he didn't think anyone else around would either. His senses also told him that his pursuers were closing in on him quickly. Not knowing what else to do he acted purely on instinct and ran not knowing which direction he chose. As he searched about for any option that he could take he saw a strange group coming towards him in the distance. He strained his eyes to see who they were, afraid that they might be more Black Fang members. He did not see anything that would give them away as such from this distance nor did he see any banners or evidence linking them to local military, but he could tell they were armed. A mercenary group maybe? Hope began to rise up inside him again and he dashed towards the oncoming soldiers.

xxx

"Where are we Kent?" Lyn asked as the legion approached a small group of buildings.

"This is Kathelet, milady." The red knight replied. "Beyond those buildings there is a small village. If we head due south, we'll pass into Caelin."

"From here, I'd say we're about ten days' ride to Castle Caelin." Sain supported his friends reply before adding. "Assuming we don't run into any delays, of course."

Lyn nodded in response.

"Ten days…" She whispered to herself. "Hold on grandfather…"

"What's this?" Kent announced as he saw a figure approaching them.

All eyes looked to see a young boy wearing a dark green tunic and shorts and an olive green scarf running towards them. Curious, Lyn stepped forward to meet him.

Nils panted as he stopped in front of her and tried to catch his breath before he spoke.

"Pardon me, but…"

"Yes?" Lyn asked, examining the young boy. His hair was a turquoise color and he wore a decorative cyan blue glove that was similar to hers but with a different decorative pattern at its cuff on his left hand while his right forearm was wrapped in a bandage. A simple circlet adorned his head but his most striking feature was his eyes, a deep red.

"Can I help you?"

Nils regarded her and her friends for a moment before continuing. "You and your friends…are you mercenaries?"

Lyn quirked an eyebrow. "And if we are?

Nils face lit up once again. "I need your help!"

Lyn gave him a curious expression. The boy's demeanor went from timid to brimming with hope in an instant.

"Milady Lyndis, you mustn't let your guard down." Kent stood next to his liege. "Not even for a child."

Lyn sighed and nodded. "I know."

"Forgive me, but we're in a hurry." She turned back to the boy. "Is there someone else you can ask?"

"There's no time!" He shook his head. "Ninian's been…It's my sister! Some men have taken her away!"

On this note Sain immediately stepped forward.

"Your sister?" He demanded. "Did you say your sister has been accosted?"

"Sain…" Kent eyes him dangerously.

However Nils was not about to let this chance slip by. "That's right! By some cruel awful men! You have to help! Please!" He lowered his head to hide the moisture in his eyes. "I don't know what I'll do without Ninian…"

By now Sain was more than determined to assist. "Milady Lyndis! we must help them!"

"Nonsense!" Kent exclaimed. "We haven't the time! If the marquess is as ill as we've heard, we must proceed!"

"Kent," Lyn spoke softly. " I…I want to help this child."

"Milady?" Kent turned to her, surprised.

"I'm worried about my grandfather, of course." Lyn said quickly before her voice became angry. "But this?! I cannot stand by and let a child be taken from her home!"

Her mind was already made up and any hesitation she felt died with those words.

"It reminds you of your family, doesn't it?" Link who had been watching the whole exchange in silence until now spoke softly.

All eyes turned to the Hylian. Lyn in particular looked right in his eyes and nodded.

"I see…" Kent lowered his head slightly in understanding.

"I'm sorry Kent." Lyn told him but the red cavalier shook his head.

"I am your loyal retainer. You owe me no apologies." He said firmly. "You must do as your heart dictates milady. I will follow you no matter where that may lead."

Lyn smiled at him. "Thank-you."

"Hah!" Sain barked and lightly clapped his forehead. "Such a noble speech! Ever the true knight that one!" Then he grinned and turned back to the boy. "Ah, well. You're in luck, laddie! Let's go get your sister!"

Relief and joy flooded the young bard.

"Yes!" He nodded enthusiastically. "I'm Nils."

"My name is Lyn and these are my friends. Will you lead us to the men who've done this?" Lyn asked.

"Uh-huh." Nils nodded. Again but then paused a moment. He knew the Black Fang were not typical bandits. They were strong and he didn't want these kind people to be unprepared but he also didn't want to run the risk of telling them they were Fang members and have them abandon him. "They're…they're really tough so be careful."

Lyn chuckled lightly.

"Leave them to us." She smiled at him and turned to look at Link and the rest of the Legion. "We're pretty tough ourselves. Right, Link?"

"Everyone who's underestimated us so far has regretted it." Link smirked.

"Alright then," Nils spun around. "Follow me!"

He dashed a few steps forward but stopped abruptly when he saw a couple of Fang's approaching them.

"Ah!" Nils took a step back startled. They had caught up to him! "Oh, no…"

"Heh heh heh…found him!" A swordsman with his face covered chuckled. "C'mon, it's back to Nergal with you! Quiet now and we won't hurt you or your sister."

"No! Let Ninian go!" Nils demanded.

The swordsman laughed in response. "Have it your way. We ain't supposed to kill you, but we sure can rough you up! Let's get'em!"

He lunged forward with his weapon raised. Nils instinctively stumbled back, his eyes wide. Suddenly Lyn was between him and the assassin; her knees bent in a solid stance she whipped her sword from its sheath with blinding speed. The clang of metal on metal startled the attacking man who quickly pulled back.

"Huh?" The man blinked and stared at the defiant woman before him and the other soldiers behind her. "Who do you think you are?!"

"Lyn!" Nils blinked in surprise. She had moved so fast! To his untrained eye it had almost seemed like she teleported in front of him. He suddenly realized that she had been right; she was strong.

"Let the boy's sister go." Lyn said calmly and straightened up.

"Ah… so you want to help the kid, huh?" The Fang member clicked his tongue and shook his head. "What a shame. You're gonna die for something that don't concern you."

Lyn's eyes narrowed.

"You think so do you?" she replied coolly. "Do we look so meek to you?"

She shifted back into a fighting stance, her sword arm bent back and her left hand resting lightly near the end of her blade. The rest of the Legion behind her readying for combat as well.

"I think you're in for a terrible shock!"

"Bah! Stupid girl!" The assassin readied his own stance. "You'll regret those words. Take'em down boys!"

He launched himself at Lyn once more followed closely by two other men. Sain and Kent stepped in to intercept the two wingmen. Both the knights dispatched their opponents with ease while Lyn's battle lasted no longer than a skillful parry followed immediately by a swift counter.

With three men down in a matter of moments the rest of the Fang members in the small search party took up a much more wary vigil. Link's eyes narrowed when he saw this change in them and instantly he went on high alert himself. This group had just lost three of their men and they barely batted an eye; their stances also indicated discipline and training beyond that of mere bandits. Obviously these men were not amateurs.

His attention suddenly focused on two robed men in the group who began to raise their hands. His senses tingled slightly as he felt the energy swirl around them while they gathered their magic power. Link watched with rapt attention, sensing a different form of this world's magic and ready to analyze the threat. Being Hylian and coming from a world where it was everywhere Link was naturally in tune with the flow of magic and his own training and journeys had turned him into a powerful spell caster in his own right. Though not a match yet for Zelda in a magical dual Link could be considered among the top magic users in Hyrule, as demonstrated earlier by his control and power when using Din's Fire. As such Link was eager to learn more about different forms of the arcane arts and this world had an interesting magic system that he was very curious about. The fact that these two mages were preparing an attack with said system made him all the more analytical.

The two dark mages finished their spells and simultaneously launched the spheres of power at Lyn.

"Look out!" Nils shouted recognizing the same spell that he had encountered earlier.

Lyn nimbly dodged to the side as she would one of Erk's fireballs but was thrown back by the unexpected explosion that followed the spheres contact with the ground.

She grunted as her skidding was stopped by Link.

"I see…" She coughed a bit before Link helped her back to her feet. "We're facing shaman, Link, wielders of dark magic."

"Hmm." Link nodded. He thought the energy in that spell felt a little familiar; Goddesses knew he'd been on the receiving end of dark magic more times than he could count.

"I've heard that practitioners of the dark arts are fearsome foes. We'll have to be careful…"

She blinked suddenly when she saw a figure approach through the dust and smoke caused by the explosion. She was about to attack but stopped herself when she saw an unfamiliar face.

"What?!" She stared at him startled. "Who are you?"

"Please forgive me." The man said bowing low. "I never meant to startle you."

The man in question was tall and skinny, about Lyn's height. His features were soft and white and his long blonde hair grew down to his waist. If the blue-eyed man had not spoken to her Lyn would have easily mistaken him for a beautiful woman. It was only after she got past his features did she notice his clothing, a long blue and white robe with matching white sash and cape.

"Your robes…" Lyn thought for a moment. "They look like religious vestiary. Are you an Elimine bishop?"

"Yes…" The man smiled and bowed again before frowning slightly. "Well, no. I'm only an acolyte, an Elimine monk to be specific. My name's Lucius."

"Lucius?" Lyn registered the name. "Do you have business with us?"

She narrowed her eyes indicating she was ready for any surprises.

The monk known as Lucius nodded. "I was at the inn when this child came seeking help."

He indicated Nils and then continued. "The innkeeper was afraid to get involved. He was…unpleasant."

"I wasn't afraid of him!" Nils piped up. "I'm used to being treated that way."

"That's awful…" Lyn felt sorry for the young boy and made her all that more determined to help him.

"May I please lend you my services?" Lucius asked. "I truly wish to help the boy. If only a little…"

Lyn smiled at him. "Of course."

Lucius bowed once again. "Thank-you very much. The blessings of Elimine be upon you."

By this time the dust had settled and they could see the Fang members clearly again. The shaman were nearly finished preparing another spell.

"Your're a follower of Elimine, right?" Lyn spoke to Lucius out of the corner of her mouth. "Can you use light magic?"

Lucius nodded. "You wish for me to attack the shaman? Very well."

He stepped forward raising one arm high as he did so and then lowered his hand to eye level his palm open and his fingers pointing up and chanting softly. Sparkles of light gathered and flashed around his arm while he readied his spell until the monk of Elimine swung his arm out and across his chest.

"Lightning!" He cried and instantly the light gathered around his hand vanished and reappeared around one of the shaman as concentrated balls of golden energy for a fraction of a second before said balls formed brilliant spears of light that pierced through the dark mage simultaneously from all sides.

The shaman fell dead to the ground, his own incomplete spell dissipating. The other shaman finished his spell though and launched it towards Lucius who managed to dodge away surprisingly quickly. The dark spell impacted the ground again throwing up more dust and smoke.

"Fall back!" The shaman shouted to his comrades. "Regroup with the others!"

"They appear to be retreating." Kent commented. "But they'll be back soon. We should press our attack."

Lyndis nodded. "I agree."

She turned to Lucius and was slightly surprised to find him trembling.

"Are you alright, monk?" She asked him concerned.

"Y-yes…" he replied forcing a smile. "I…I have…never taken another's life before…"

Lyn nodded understandably. She had felt horrible after she had first killed someone and she imagined the feeling must be worse for the religious man.

"Thank-you for your help, Lucius." She tried to console him as best she could given the urgent circumstances. "You bought us some valuable time to prepare our strategy; you don't need to come if you do not wish to, we can handle it from here."

"I can help, too!" Nils announced suddenly.

"Nils!" Lyn was surprised by his outburst. "Can you fight?"

"No…" the young boy admitted and withdrew his flute. "But I'm a bard and bards are useful to have around!"

"A bard? Do you mean you're a minstrel?" Lyn raised an eyebrow. "This is no place for a ballad or a saltarello."

"C'mon, trust me!" the bard pleaded. "Here, I'll show you."

He began to play a cheerful tune like he would while performing but this time he began to step, bob and weave with the melody. The notes that he played were empowered by his own life energy and flowed to all those who heard it. Nils directed that energy towards Lucius and as he continued to play the monk's trembling lessoned and then ceased completely allowing him to stand tall and firm again.

"What do you think?" Nils ended his song and grinned.

There was a moment of silence from the Legion and Lucius nodded appreciatively to the young bard.

"That was lovely…invigorating, even." Lyn admitted and then grinned at him. "You ought to play for me sometime, I could use the boost!"

"Everyone could!" Nils laughed. "My music can refresh you all!"

"Well if that's the case then you can certainly help us get back your sister!" Lyn straightened herself up and turned to her friends.

"Alright, now that we know what we're up against we need a plan."

Link nodded in agreement.

"Florina?" the Hylian turned to the Pegasus knight. "Can you fly up and scout the area ahead of us? Find out where they are going and where they are gathered."

Florina nodded and urged her mount into the sky. After a few minutes of flying in circles she returned with her report.

"They're all headed south of here towards the river. I think there's an old military base on the other side of that mountain ridge amongst a large grove of trees. There probably gathering there."

Link nodded when she finished. "What does the river look like?'

"Umm…there are a couple of small bridges that cross at key points and it surrounds the stronghold. I…I also think some of the bridges have defensive buildings around them."

"Ok." Link nodded again, smiling. "Thanks Florina."

"Alright then," He turned to Lyn. "What do you think we should do? I'm sure you noticed this as well but we're not dealing with amateur bandits this time."

Lyndis nodded. "Yes, I know. If we spread ourselves too thin we could be in trouble."

"Kent, Sain." She turned to the two knights. "You two should take point. Rath, back them up."

"Wil, Erk, you two follow them and support from behind. Serra can you offer your healing support from the back?"

The cleric huffed. "Of course!"

Lyn nodded. "Dorcas stay close to Serra and cover her when you need to."

The quiet giant simply nodded his understanding.

"What do you wish for me to do?" Lucius asked.

"Lucius?" Lyn looked at him questioningly. "Are…are you certain you wish to fight? You've already helped us immensely."

The monk nodded. "Yes, I am fine now and my light magic will help you deal with the shamans."

"Alright, can you join with Wil and Erk?"

Lucius nodded and moved to join them.

"Good to have you aboard!" Wil greeted cheerfully.

"Matthew?" Lyn turned to the thief.

"Yes, milady?" Matthew stood up with great flourish and a big grin. "I will be glad to scout on ahead using my incredible stealthiness and avoid as much conflict as possible. During so I will take the opportunity if I see fit to dispose of anyone who passes me by in a most discreet manner."

"Ahh…" Lyn blinked at him. "O..Ok, I guess that sounds good…"

"Bravo!" Matthew clapped. "Cheerio then!"

He dashed away before anyone could say another word.

Link laughed at Lyn's dumbfounded expression as she watched the slippery thief disappear.

Lyn shook her head and then turned to Florina.

"Florina can you carry me further ahead so I can see the area and then join the frontline?"

But before the Pegasus knight could consent Link interjected.

"Actually Lyn I was wondering if I could ride with Florina over the mountain ridge towards the main stronghold."

Lyn and Florina gave him a surprised look.

Link smiled and raised his hands defensively. "Well if that's alright with you that is."

Lyn shared a look with Florina for a moment. Slowly and with rosy cheeks the Pegasus knight nodded.

"Al-alright." Lyn nodded still a little unsure and confused. "If you have something in mind, Link, then I trust your judgment."

"Thanks, Lyn." He hopped up behind the shy Ilian whose face turned a deep crimson when he wrapped his hands around her waist. Lyn had to suppress a giggle at her friend and she was secretly glad that Link couldn't see Florina's flush through her lavender hair; she looked incredibly cute. She watched the two rise into the air and then turned her attention to Nils.

"Will they be ok?" Nils was worried about the two of them heading directly into enemy territory.

Lyn smiled at him. "Don't worry. They'll be fine. Now I want you to stick close to me Nils and try to avoid getting close to the enemy. We'll protect you and get your sister back."

"Yes!" The boy nodded and hurried to catch up to Lyn while the rest of the Legion moved out.

xxx

"We've got her, Beyard." The shaman announced to a gruff looking men in light armor.

"Ah, Heintz. Well done old friend." The swordsman addressed as Beyard smiled at his comrade. Behind Heintz he saw a large brigand carrying a girl over his shoulder. Ninian was still unconscious and her wrists were now bound together.

"The other one managed to slip away, but he won't get far without his sister." The shaman said.

Beyard nodded. "We've finally caught them, this will please Lord Nergal."

"Yes," Heintz agreed. "We can finally stop this wild goose chase."

He strode up to the unconscious girl and gently lifted her chin.

"Such a lovely young woman." Beyard sighed. "It's a shame."

However the two Fangs' pleasure was short lived when a swordsman dashed up to them.

"The boy has enlisted the help of some mercenaries and they are on their way here!" He announced.

"What?!" Beyard frowned. "What happened?"

"The group is small but they've already killed several of our brothers and have forced us to regroup."

"Blast!" Beyard cursed out loud. "We can't risk this getting out of our control."

He turned to Heintz. "I will take the girl to our main base. If we fail to retrieve the boy we will still have her."

Heintz nodded. "Do not worry they will fall before the Black Fang."

The shaman turned away with a swirl of his cape and left to muster his forces. Beyard watched him go then turned to look back at the messenger.

"Ready the horses! We leave at once!"

"Yes sir!" The man moved to leave but then paused. "What about the wild one?"

"What of it? Leave it! The girl is far more important!"

"Yes sir!" the subordinate hastened to carry out his order.

Beyard then turned back to the girl being carried by the larger man. He motioned for the man to follow him and noticed something on her finger.

"A ring?"

xxx

"Hyah!" Sain whooped as he stabbed another assassin with his lance. "That makes three for me!"

"Don't get cocky, Sain!" Kent admonished his comrade while he moved to block off an axeman.

The formation that Lyn had set up was working well. The ranged units were making short work of the enemies that the two knights slowed while Lyn darted around them at high speed dispatching anybody who gave her an opening with her Battojutsu (A/N – for those of you who don't know battojutsu is drawing and striking with a sword in the same movement: look up Rurouni Kenshin or picture Lyn's battle animation).

She lunged towards one of the more skilled assassins who managed to block her attack. Without wasting a moment Lyn spun with her slash and delivered a fast roundhouse kick to his head following through with a final stab through his chest. Lyn blinked in surprise at the combo. She had not thought about her movements at all; they just seemed to flow right out of her automatically. She smiled to herself.

"Training with Link really pays off." She thought before continuing her assault.

The legion made steady progress following Florina's directions towards the Black Fang stronghold. Nils's energy empowered music kept everyone's moral high and helped them push through fatigue. They worked together smoothly and efficiently everyone's individual quirks and weaknesses balanced out by another team member.

Even against these stronger opponents they made rapid progress and before long they could see the bridges and defensive structures that Florina had spotted. It was there that they paused to regroup. The bridges made effective chokepoints and death could be rained from the defensive structures by ranged units.

"Now how should we go about this?" Lyn mumbled.

"The safest way would be to find another route but that possibility seems unlikely." Erk stated. "Even if you were to send those in with strong defensive capabilities they may be overwhelmed."

Lyn nodded in agreement with the mage. "It would take too long for Florina to transport us all over there as well."

"Then it cannot be helped," Kent said. "Sain and I can cover the most distance quickly. We will ride forward and try to distract the men long enough for the rest of you to follow."

"No!" Lyn shook her head. "You can't do that! It is too risky!"

"Then what do you propose we do milady?"

Lyn gritted her teeth. "I…I don't know…"

"I wish Link were here…" she thought to herself.

Then, as if in answer to her thoughts, Florina called out to her.

"Lyn follow me!" the Pegasus knight flew low.

"Florina?" Lyn lifted her head skyward and noticed she was alone. "Where is Link?"

Her friend gestured for her to follow again.

"Link made a way across the river!"

Lyn blinked. "Really? How?"

xxx

Florina carried Link into the clouds and allowed them to survey the ground below. Despite being up in the sky where she loved Florina's nerves were still going about a million miles a minute. This was due to the passenger she was carrying. Link's sharp eyes were scanning the ground below but he sighed to himself when he could literally feel Florina's slender frame trembling.

"Are you alright?" he asked gently.

"Y-yes…" Florina squeaked, nodding her head. In truth she was far from ok. This was the first time she was carrying a man not during dire circumstances. Normally Lyn or her Pegasus Huey was around to shield her from men getting to close but this time she was by herself up in the air with Link's hands at her waist.

"I know you're nervous," Link continued. "And I'm sorry for putting you in this position but there is something that we can do to really help Lyn and the others."

"You…wanted us to go…t-to the stronghold…right? Wh-wh-what are we going to d-do?"

Link smiled. "You're worried about archers aren't you?"

Florina nodded again.

"Huey can deal with magic…b-but arrows…"

Link raised one of his hands and squeezed her shoulder gently causing Florina to flush immensely.

"Don't worry," Link said. "We're not going to attack them ourselves; we just need to help Lyn cross the river."

Florina turned her head to him. "The river?"

The Hylian nodded. "Mm-hmm."

He spoke calmly and gently to the girl making sure to mention Lyn's name as often as he could. He wanted her to feel at ease and to trust him; even though he knew it would be a slow process he did not want this girl to fear him.

"And even if we do get attacked I will protect you."

Link then raised his hands and began to chant softly. Florina watched him as he concentrated his magic forming a glowing ball of blue energy between his hands. The Hero of Time finished his spell and with a flash of light the ball of magic formed an ethereal crystalline shield around them.

Florina gasped. She had seen this shield before when Lyn was at the mercy of the Ganelon. Huey snorted at the sudden appearance of the blue transparent shield.

"This barrier will deflect all attacks - nothing will harm you if you are inside." Link declared.

Florina just stared at him in silence until Huey snorted again wanting direction.

"Oh!" She turned her attention back to her mount. "Sorry Huey!"

Link chuckled lightly to himself. He had felt Florina relax quite a bit in that short time; he was making progress.

With the added protection of Nayru's Love surrounding them Florina safely followed Link's to directions to the trees near the river outside the stronghold. Link quickly dismounted; even though he knew that the shy girl had calmed down considerably he still wanted to lessen Florina's discomfort as soon as possible.

"Thank you Florina," He turned to her with another smile.

"You're welcome…" Florina's cheeks turned red again.

Link looked around and found what he was searching for – a large dead tree near the river's edge. He walked up to it to examine it. After a few minutes of gauging the size of the tree he rapped his knuckle against the trunk. He was rewarded by a solid thunk that indicated that the tree was still strong.

"Good." Link grinned and took a few steps back to look at the trees top. The tree was tall and straight until it branched out at the top.

"Hmm…Need to do something about those branches." Link said aloud.

He turned and walked further away from the tree towards Florina.

"What are you doing?" Florina inquired curiously.

Link chuckled. "Let me show you."

He turned around and withdrew his Hookshot. With that in hand the Hylian dashed towards the tree. As he neared he simultaneously fired into the top of the tree and jumped up. Link flew through the air as the chain drew him up and as he neared the end he pulled hard on the device timing it perfectly with the Hookshots end. The result was a slingshot effect that launched Link high above the treetop. At the peak of his ascent he drew the Master Sword from its sheath and charged it with energy. As the he fell back to the ground Link unleashed his spin attack parallel to the earth and carved all the branches down the side of the tree. Link landed in a crouch, his sword held out to the side. Calmly he stood up to survey his work and nodded with satisfaction. Behind him Florina stared in awe completely at a loss for words.

Link continued on with his project and sheathed his sword before reaching into his magic bag again and withdrawing another way bigger sword. Florina gasped again having forgotten that Link's bag was magic. She watched the Elvin swordsman as he made a show of tapping the trunk of the tree with his Biggoron Sword as if taking aim. Forged by the master smith Biggoron in the fires of Death Mountain the Biggoron Sword did not have the divine properties and strength as the Master Sword but its sheer offensive power was much greater.

"What are you doing?" Florina asked again.

Link hefted the enormous sword to the side gripping it in both hands. "Making a bridge."

He swung the sword with blinding speed at the tree. The goron blade cleaved cleanly through the trunk like a hot knife through butter. The dead tree toppled over across the river and crashed to the ground. When the dust settled the tree had become an effective bridge that even horses could cross easily.

"Perfect." Link stated.

With a smile he turned back to his timid companion. "Now then could you please go and direct Lyn and the others over here?"

Florina blinked, smiled, and nodded before urging her mount back into the sky.

xxx

Matthew smirked to himself while he watched one of the assassins walk towards him completely unaware of his presence. The thief waited patiently until just the right moment and then made his move. He dropped silently from the trees landing behind the Fang member and swiftly cupped a hand around the man's mouth and slit his throat.

"Now that's my way of fighting," Matthew chuckled to himself and darted back into the shadows of the woods. As skilled as he was Matthew hated direct confrontations; in his line of work such moments had ended the careers of many people he knew. He much preferred to catch people unawares and off guard.

He slid silently and quickly through the trees like the shadow he was when he suddenly heard a surprising voice.

"Curses! He's late! At this rate my axe will rust over before I see any action!"

Matthew screeched to a halt and looked to the direction he had heard the voice from and his jaw dropped when he saw a large blue haired man wearing a red cape, blue armor, and hefting a large masterfully crafted axe. He was standing outside of what looked like an abandoned house but was really a secret meeting place for certain nobles of the Lycian League.

"Huh? Milord!" Matthew stepped forward from the shadows in disbelief. "What brings you here?"

The blue haired man turned in surprise at the sudden intrusion.

"Ah, Matthew." The armored man lowered his axe when he recognized the thief. "What a surprise to meet you out here."

"The feeling is mutual, milord. Why are you here?"

"Eliwood and I are here for our monthly bout." The lord replied with a grin.

"Ah," Matthew nodded. "You're still testing one another's fighting prowess, eh? It's a solid friendship that you two share, that you can practice so faithfully."

The Lord smirked. "If you don't sharpen your blade you lose your edge. So tell me what are you doing here? Did my brother send you after me again?"

Matthew shook his head. "Not this time, sir. Milord Uther was curious about the succession issue here."

"Oh, the long-lost granddaughter thing, right?" The man rubbed his chin thoughtfully for a moment as if trying to recall details about an important issue he heard about but didn't bother to remember.

After a moment he asked. "So which way does my brother lean?"

"By my assessment, he will back the granddaughter's claim." Matthew replied. "The marquess's brother, Lundgren is too ambitious by far. Left alone, we might wake to find him at Ostia's door before long."

"Sound advice I think." The lord nodded again. "And what do you think of the girl?"

Matthew laughed nervously and rubbed the back of his neck. "Well actually circumstances have temporarily put me under the command of the marquess's granddaughter."

"What?!" The lord blinked in shock before laughing. "And what pray tell might have led to that?"

"Let's just say that it would be wise not to make an enemy of the soon to be Lady of Caelin and the allies she has."

"Is that so?" The lord raised an eyebrow.

Matthew nodded.

"My return to Ostia is going to be delayed a bit. Would you mind letting Lord Uther know?"

"What?" The man roared. "So the marquess's brother is now your personal messenger?!"

"You always did have a good sense of humor, milord." The slippery thief laughed before darting away. "Don't forget my message!"

"What impudence!" The marquess of Ostia's brother fumed.

xxx

Lyndis's Legion gaped at the fallen tree turned bridge that Link casually stood on.

"What's the matter? Don't you like my new bridge?" The Hylian called. "It's not like I'm charging a toll."

Lyn just stared at her friend in silence.

"I give up…" Lyn sighed to herself. "Every time I think I'm close to figuring him out he just surprises me again."

The other members of the Legion were just as if not more impressed than their leader.

"Top that, Sain." Wil nudged the for once speechless green knight with a grin.

Matthew had joined up with the group again just as they came to this new crossing and his thoughts echoed his earlier statement to his lord.

"Yep. Bad enemy." he thought.

"Well come on then." Link turned and gestured for everyone to follow. "We still have a mission to complete."

Breaking out of their stupor the Legion followed the Hylian across the new bridge that effectively solved the Legion's previous dilemma.

They resumed their formation, now with the addition of Link and Florina, and blazed a trail straight for the stronghold. They soon encountered a myriad of Fang members who were startled to see the Legion behind their defenses. They didn't stand a chance and soon the legion was standing at their gates. Three robed men stood to meet them.

"Who are you supposed to be?" The leading shaman demanded. "Playing the heroes in some foolish knightly romance?"

"Release the boy's sister!" Lyn shouted.

"Hmph!" Heintz snorted. "You honestly believe you can stand up to the Black Fang? You may think you're helping the children, but you're only rushing to your doom!"

At that the three shamans pooled their dark energies together and began the formation of a powerful spell.

"No!" Erk's eyes widened and Lucius gasped. "They're combining their spells! Stop them!"

He quickly threw a fireball in tandem with Lucius's light spell in an attempt to disrupt the three dark magic users. However their magical attacks were nullified by a dark barrier that rose in response. Lyn had lunged forward and Wil and Rath quickly fire arrows all of which glanced harmlessly off the barrier.

"Too late…" Erk gritted his teeth. "Everyone – RUN!!"

"It's useless," Heintz stated. "You're all dead!"

The three shamans raised their arms and a large black sphere of crackling power formed over their heads. The members of the Legion's eyes widened in fear; there would be no escaping a blast that size.

With a cry the dark sphere was launched directly at Lyn who stood foremost in the group.

BOOOOOOOOOOMMMMM!!!!!

Blinding light and fierce winds ripped through the air and engulfed everyone in the Legion.

"Ha." Heintz smirked. "Thus is the fate of all who oppose the Fang."

The wind slowly died down and the shaman waited for the smoke and dust to clear to see if anything remained of the hapless heroes.

His eyes bulged at what he saw.

"What!?" Heitnz stared in disbelief.

Through the smoke he could make out a figure standing before them. He was clad in green and he stood with one hand stretched forth and the other bracing his arm. Behind him Heintz could see other figures and he gasped in shock when he saw every single one of the Legions members alive and unharmed.

"Impossible…what happened?"

Most of the Legion had been blown over and were now rising back to their feet. They looked around them in stunned silence trying to make out what happened. All around them they could see damage done by the shamans spell but the damage trail branched out away from them. The spell had been blocked and dispersed away from like someone taking shelter from a windstorm behind a rock.

"How is that possible…" Erk looked around in disbelief.

"Link…" Lyn spoke slowly, addressing the man who had shielded them and seeing an expression that radiated calm, focus, and seriousness on his normally cheerful face.

The green clad Hylian silently stood up straight and glared at Heintz for a brief moment before his usual demeanor returned.

"Ow…" Link winced slightly as he shook and blew on his hand. "That stung…"

He turned and gave Lyn a casual smile.

"You better let me handle this one."

Lyn was still too stunned to argue and all she could do was nod.

Link turned back to the three robed man and began to walk towards them.

"You call that dark magic?" Link taunted. "I didn't even need to cast a spell to block that. If that was your best shot then you should surrender now and tell us where the girl is."

Heintz managed to recover from his shock when he heard Link addressing him so boldly.

"I don't know how you managed to survive," He began to cast his spell again. "But you won't live through a second time."

"Last chance." Link warned raising his hand to his sword.

"Burn in hell!" Heintz spat before launching another sphere.

Link lunged forward drawing the Master Sword from its sheath. The Blade of Evil's Bane effortlessly dispersed the spell and pierced straight through the dark barrier that shielded the three mages. Lucius gaped at the radiance he felt from the divine weapon as Link struck down the two lower shamans and stabbed Heintz through the gut.

"You first…" Link whispered into the dying mans ear.

Heintz coughed blood as he felt his body grow cold. "You were only… striking at air…" he mumbled. "You are…too late. The girl is already –"

The dark mage went limp and Link withdrew his sword from the carcass, whipped it from side to side and twirled it over his head before replacing it in his sheath.

"Pitiful."

The Hylian turned back to his friends.

"Is everyone alright?"

Lyn nodded. "Thanks to you, again…"

"Good. Let's go!"

He dashed into the stronghold leaving the rest of the Legion to marvel at him once again but he was quickly followed closely by Lyn and Nils.

"Not a word." Sain glared at Wil.

"Oh, my." Lucius spoke with bewilderment.

"Definitely bad enemy." Matthew cringed.

"I'm glad he's on our side." Erk stated and everyone else in the Legion agreed.

xxx

"Nils!" Lyn turned to the boy. "Where's your sister?"

"Ninian!" Nils searched about frantically trying to find some trace of his beloved sister but found none.

"Ninian…She's not here." Tears filled his eyes before he cried out. "Why? Where could she be?"

"They must have split up and fled with her." Kent stated.

"The boy's dear sister…" Sain lowered his head. "Who knows how far they are ahead of us."

"Come!" Lyn spun on her heal. "We must give chase!"

"But…but…we won't make it!" Nils stammered as he tried to follow. "What if they've already…"

"Are you looking for this girl here?" A new voice caught everyone's ears.

The Legion turned to see a man with flaming red hair step out of the shadows. The man wore no visible armor save shoulders protectors and he was garbed in modest but still regal looking blue clothing. A cape blue on the outside and red on the inside covered his back and a gold circlet adorned his head. At his side was a well crafted rapier.

The sudden appearance of the man was offset by the unconscious girl he held in his arms.

Nils gasped in disbelief and worry. "Ninian! Ninian!"

"She'll be fine." The man smiled as he placed Ninian gently on the ground for her brother. "She's just lost consciousness."

"Who are you?" Lyn asked.

The man in question turned to her and bowed. "I'm Eliwood, of Pherae. My father is the marquess."

Lyn blinked. "The marquess's son…"

Eliwood nodded and then indicated Ninian. "She was with a band of ruffians. She seemed upset. She looked in need of rescuing…Was I wrong to involve myself?"

"No you saved her life." Lyndis shook her head and smiled. "Thank you. My name is Lyn. I'm from Sacae…I'm Marquess Caelin's granddaughter."

"Marquess Caelin?" Now it was Eliwood's turn to be surprised.

Lyn nodded and turned her head to Link who gave her an encouraging gesture. Lyn then proceeded to explain to Eliwood everything that had happened since she had met Link.

Eliwood listened with rapt attention and made occasional glances at the other members of the Legion when Lyn mentioned them.

"And that's my story." Lyndis finally concluded. "It's not an easy tale to believe, I know…"

She eyed Link in particular as she said this.

The Lord of Pherae was silent for a moment as he stared at her before he shook his head.

"No. I believe you." He replied.

"What?" Lyn was surprised.

Eliwood continued. "At first glance all I saw was a daughter of the plains folk. Now I can see it though. You have your grandfather's eyes."

"Do you know my grandfather?" Lyn asked.

Eliwood nodded.

"The marquess, Lord Hausen is my father's good friend." He replied before added shrewdly. " I also know that the proud people of Sacae tell no lies. It's true, isn't it?"

"Yes…Thank-you." Lyn smiled. "I would not have expected any Lycian noble to be so courteous to a Sacaean nomad."

Eliwood chuckled at her comment. "Not all of us share Lord Araphen's prejudice."

"At any rate, you seem to be in quite the predicament. May I be of assistance?"

"Thank you for your kind offer." Lyn bowed to him lightly. "But this is my problem, though, and I'll deal with it."

"I see." Eliwood sighed and turned to leave. "I'll be in the area for a few days longer. If you need anything, please let me know. Lyndis, I'm on your side."

"Eliwood...thank you." Lyn smiled at him as the Pheraen noble left.

Eliwood paused in front of Link. "And if what Lyndis says about you is true perhaps we can spar sometime."

Link shrugged. "Perhaps." He grinned and Eliwood bid his leave.

"Well that was certainly unexpected wasn't it?" Link chuckled from the wall he was leaning against.

"Truly a blessing of fortune." Kent agreed.

They were interrupted by a quiet groan from the girl Eliwood had rescued.

"Ninian!" Nils cried. "Are you awake?"

Ninian's eyes fluttered open and she saw her brother kneeling over her. "Nils… is it really you?"

Releif flooded through the young woman when her brother nodded and she embraced her sibling with tears. "Oh, you're safe!"

"Uh-huh." Nils grinned. "These people helped me."

Ninian turned her attention to the strangers. "Who are they?"

"Uh…" Nils looked at Lyn, unsure of what to say.

"I'm Lyn." The Sacaean knelt down beside her. "I'm glad you're feeling better."

"Milady Lyn…Thank you." Ninian nodded politely. "I'm called Ninian. My brother, Nils, and I are traveling performers."

"Both of you?" Lyn blinked. "I know your brother's a musician. But what about you?"

"I dance." Ninian smiled.

"What?" Sain perked up and jumped forward with an idiotic grin. "Oh my…you're a dancer!"

"Sain…" Lyn sighed and waved him off. "Later, please."

The philanderous knight screeched to a halt. "Um, yeah." He replied sheepishly. "Of course."

"A dancer?" Lyn turned back to Ninian.

Like her brother Ninian had piercing red eyes but her long flowing hair was a lighter ethereal blue. A long matching colored dress of fine silk hugged her slender body and a white semitransparent shawl was draped around her porcelain skinned arms. On her head she wore an ornamental circlet with twin silver tails that mingled with her hair on either side. Like a goddess in the flesh she was incredibly beautiful.

"Your clothes don't look like those of a dancer." Lyn raised an eyebrow.

"Ninian dances to honor life." Nils replied. "It's special…Sacred."

"A sacred dance?" Lyn cocked her head to the side. 'What does that mean?"

"I…" Ninian paused as she thought about what to say. "The dance I perform when we travel is just a normal dance. My other dance, though…"

She tried to stand up but winced in pain when she put weight on her ankle.

"Are you alright?' Lyn asked in concern.

"When those men caught me, I twisted my ankle." The dancer replied. "I cannot dance right now… I'm sorry."

Lyn shook her head. "Please don't worry. We're just happy to see that you're out of harm's way."

"Thank you." Ninian put some of her weight on her brother who offered his support.

"But I am concerned about your leg." Lyn said. "You can't travel on it…"

"I've an idea." Nils spoke slowly. "Would it be too much to ask…that we travel with you?"

"Nils!" Ninian gasped.

Lyn, too, replied rather adamantly.

"I can't allow that!" She said. "It's far too dangerous. We're being hunted. We never know when we are going to be attacked."

"We wouldn't be a hindrance." Nils said quickly. We could even help you. Right, Ninian?"

He looked at his sister. A silent conversation seemed to go one between the two for a few seconds before Ninian nodded slowly.

"Yes." She said thoughtfully. "We might be able to repay our debt using our… special talents."

"Special abilities?" Lyn quirked an eye, curious.

"When something poses a threat to us, we can sense its approach." Ninian explained.

"Truly?" Lyn stared at them agape. "That's amazing!"

Nils nodded. "We can feel it coming, but we can't fight so we can't do anything to stop it. You're warriors, though, so we can help warn of danger."

"Hmm…" Lyn thought. "That would be very helpful…"

"What do you think Kent?" She turned to the red knight.

"I think leaving them here would cause Lady Lyndis more worry than having them travel with us." He answered sincerely.

"Sain?" She started to address the other knight but caught herself. "Oh, never mind. I know what your answer is."

Instead she stared towards the man she respected most.

"Link?"

Link merely smiled and nodded.

Sighing Lyn turned back to the siblings.

"Do you really want to travel with us?"

"Of course!" Nils piped.

"Then I suppose that settles it. You may join us if you wish."

Nils whooped at this.

"You have our gratitude milady." Ninian bowed lightly to her but then noticed something startling.

"Oh…" She gasped.

"What's wrong, Ninian?" Nils looked at his sister with concern.

"I've lost my ring." She replied sadly.

"Your ring?" Lyn blinked.

Nils eyes widened. "Not Nini's Grace?!"

Ninian nodded. "They must have…"

"They stole it?" Nils shouted. "Those curs!!!"

"Was it valuable?" Lyn asked surprised by Nils's outburst.

"It was a keepsake from our departed mother." Ninian replied with guilt.

"It was blessed by the spirit of Ninis…There's no other like it in the world." Nils added dejectedly. "And now we have lost it to those villains. It would be suicide to follow them. There's nothing we can do."

"You're right." Ninian nodded. "Come, Nils. I wish to speak with the others."

Together the siblings made their way towards the front of the stronghold to meet and thank the rest of the Legions members who had risked their lives to help them.

Lyn watched them go in silence and then walked up to Link.

"Can I talk to you, Link?" She asked.

"You want to help them right?" Link smiled at her.

She nodded.

"I thought so." Link chuckled. "If you're going to ask for my help or agreement I've already made up my mind to do so."

"You want to help them?" Lyn asked him and smiled with joy. "That's great! I was hoping you'd say that Link."

"We better hurry if we want to catch them. Who knows how far ahead of us they are and we still need to get to Caelin."

Lyn nodded. "Right then let's..."

"Milady Lyndis!" Kent called to his liege. "We found something and…whoa!!"

Link and Lyn turned to the knight just in time to see him jump away from a large wild animal. Link gasped and his eyes bulged at the sight. Galloping towards them at a ferocious pace was a beautiful and powerful fiery red warhorse with a white mane and socks.

"Epona…" Link whispered in disbelief.

Lyn looked at him in surprise and watched as Link took off running towards the wild mare. The horse raced towards him and Lyn gasped when she thought he was about to be trampled but at the last second the horse skidded to a halt and reared back on its hind legs with a loud whinny.

Once she landed Link joyfully wrapped his arms around the horses head and laughed.

"It is you!" Link cried. "Epona!"

The horse whinnied again happily at finding her master.

"I've been worried sick!" Link continued. "Where have you been? I thought I'd never see you again!"

By this time Kent and Sain had both caught up and were panting heavily.

"We found this horse in a pen around the back along with enough horses to supply the rest of the Legion." Kent said. "This one was tied separately from the others and charged right through us as soon as we let her loose. I take it you know this horse, Sir Link?"

The Hero of Time nodded. "Everyone, this is Epona my faithful friend and companion and the finest horse in my land. She's saved my life more times than I can count."

Lyndis beamed. "That's wonderful, Link! We found your horse!"

She had never seen her friend so happy since she had met him and it filled her heart with joy to see him reunited with his lost steed.

"Alright!" Link shouted. "Now I'm really ready to rumble! Let's go Lyn!"

The lady of Caelin grinned again. "Right!"

"Kent! Sain!" She called to the two Knights of Caelin. "Get everyone ready! We're going after those men!"

Kent nodded and immediately set about his order

"Hussah! On your word, milady!" Sain whooped and joined his friend.

"Let's ride!" Lyn yelled enthusiastically.

"With pleasure!" Link responded.

xxx

Author's Note

Whew…another one down. Man this chapter was long. I hope this chapter wasn't too confusing or disappointing for anyone. There was a lot to cover and I didn't even get to how Eliwood rescued Ninian. I'll have to work that in a later chapter I guess. Buahaha! Epona's back! Honestly I was killing myself trying to figure out how to bring Epona back in. I came up with a lot of different scenarios but at the last minute I figured it would be good to bring her in right away to speed up travel and stuff so I kind of made this up on the fly. I hope it worked out… As you can probably guess I took Link's re-sheathing display from Twilight Princess, I just thought it fit well. I also based Link's resistance to magic on the fact that one he's Hylian and two he's the Hero of Time and has been hit by far more powerful spells than a few low level shaman can muster. Plus he's a magic user himself so by the FE standard itself he'd be hard to hurt using magic. I hope that people aren't getting sick of Link's current near-invincibility level – after all we're still in the beginner levels…please be patient. Well that's it for me for now, until next time please Read and Review!