A/N: And I thought the last chapter was busy. This one seemed to drag me along. I had fun writing it.
Thank you FallenAngel2298 for helping me with military terms. I changed Roualt's rank from colonel to captain, and regiment to platoon. Hope that works better.
As usual, a big thanks to all my reviewers: Guest reviewer for April 29, ObscurityProject, allyssagrace16, Flik98, Yukiame, Death Waltz, Bloodspire, No name guest, FallenAngel2298, and ShadowQueenMidna!
Chapter 11
Link rarely paced, and when he did it was in times of great stress or when he was particularly deep in thought about something. For this instance, it was because he was anxious to head out. He stalked the room as he waited impatiently for the others who were to be joining him.
The night before he'd packed everything that would be needed for the excursion. He'd risen early in the morning and double-checked his gear before heading to the drawing room where they were supposed to meet. It had been decided that he and three others would be going after the Augurer, their objective to rescue the Labrynnian duke.
He stopped his pacing and paused to look out the window, silently musing, a grim air about him.
Brula had cautioned him against it, and every single bit of reasoning within him told him not to, but he couldn't help but think…why not? Why not take this chance presented to him, grasp it by the handle, and use it as an opportunity to stop Ganondorf? If the Evil King was only lurking about then that had to mean that he was not yet at full power. Even Ganondorf had to build himself up before he attacked. This was a chance too good to pass up. Should he disregard Brula's orders and seek out Ganondorf once they reached the camp?
In a way he was glad he'd be accompanied this time. Usually he liked to do things himself without the hindrance, but here he could let his companions take care of the rescuing while he snuck off and properly challenged Ganondorf.
Foolhardy, Brula would call him. But if it would relieve all the future suffering that the Augurer was no doubt going to enact against the people of Hyrule, and most definitely the other nations as well, then it would be worth the lecture.
There was just one little problem… He didn't have the Master Sword. And there was no time to go fetch it. He believed it to be in the lost woods where he always put it to rest at the end of its use, but reaching the forest and navigating through it would take time. Ample enough time for something dastardly to happen to the duke and for Ganondorf once again to conceal his tracks and slip into hiding.
He'd have to forgo the sword if he wanted to end it all before it began. Perhaps in his weaker state an ordinary sword would work to fell him?
Leaning an arm against the side of the window, Link gazed out the glass and sighed. What a complex predicament he was in.
He heard the others approaching long before they reached the chamber, his pointed Hylian ears twitching in alertness. The door opened and he looked over his shoulder then turned fully and clasped his hands behind his back as Commander Deb and Byron entered.
Deb spotted him in his shadowed little corner and quirked an eyebrow. "Ready and early, such fine qualities. You do yourself more credit the longer I know you."
Link couldn't help but give a small smile then cocked his head curiously at the Zora. "Byron? What are you doing here?"
Byron replied with a smile of his own. "I've just completed and sent my report to Queen Helerra. I wanted to see you off and wish you luck."
Commander Deb scoffed, "It's not luck that will see him through this. Depending on something so insubstantial as luck is impractical and is sure to lead to failure. If you must rely on something then let it be on your own wit and skill."
"No need to go overboard. It was just courtesy," said Byron, shrugging.
"It is appreciated," said Link, giving the Zora a short nod, which Byron reciprocated, smiling thankfully. He looked back at Deb. "Will his highness be coming as well?"
"If he somehow manages to wake up while it's still dark outside and get himself out of bed," said Deb, placing her hands on her hips. "But I'd be surprised if he didn't come. From what I've witnessed of the prince, he'd do anything to avoid or delay attending a council meeting, but if a predicament is serious enough then he is all over it."
Link had seen the prince's seriousness for himself just yesterday, but still his curiosity was piqued. "Really? How so?"
There was a long pause in which Commander Deb furrowed her eyebrows, her thoughts travelling to someplace far away. Suddenly she appeared almost perplexed. Her eyes filled with uncertainty.
One look at Byron informed him that he was just as at a loss as Link was to the Commander's sudden mood. Link watched her fold an arm over her abdomen to support the elbow of her other arm as the hand came to cup her chin, pondering.
"There was something…" Deb grated her teeth and started over again. "Apologies, I seem to have lost my train of thought. What I meant to say was that there was an issue a few years ago, again regarding a miscreant at the borders. But this time he was from Termina. He employed mercenaries to do his bidding. At the time Termina was is a poor state. A blight had swept through their lands and the economy crashed. They couldn't handle the problem on their own so Hyrule took care of it. Again this was a sorcerer, much like our Augurer, and the prince was the only one who had power enough to stop him. He along with a few other sorcerers utilized their magic to destroy the miscreant."
Link believed he now knew the cause for her concern, why she hesitated and delved on the issue.
"So you believe that this Augurer may be a copycat?" he asked, his spirits sinking. Ganondorf would have never bothered to imitate another's tactics. Then could the Augurer be someone else entirely? A general of his?
Deb frowned, her eyes sliding to his. "It could be… But that is not what has me bothered. The man named Briant was defeated a little over four years ago. What puzzles me is that the prince at the time would have been too young to deal with him. I also remember him in two parts, being ordered to remain in the castle, and yet his is the face I see when I recall the battlefield…" She grunted and gnashed her teeth. "Idiotic prince, must have ignored the order and gone anyways. But I've never once seen a child look so severe as the prince did then."
A memory tugged at Link's mind, emerging from the multitude of images stored away in his head. He faintly remembered that time as a period of panic. Some of the soldiers had travelled through Heron Falls on their way to the border to wage battle against Bryant. Link had been a boy of twelve, too young to do anything to help or to be properly informed of what was happening. That time resembled this situation closely, but without the increase of monsters roaming about.
"What's taking them so long? I've trained my soldiers better than this," muttered Deb tersely, changing the subject.
With her current mood he didn't want to point out that they still had a quarter hour to arrive.
Link entered into a light conversation with Byron until finally the door once again opened and in strode Zellandus looking more awake then Link thought possible at such an early hour. Brula was close on his heels, followed by three others all wearing dark shades of blue or green over their skin-tight aegis suits. Although it would do no good to defend in a real battle, the aegis suit was comfortable and pliable, easy to fight in.
He glanced over his new cohorts and his eyes flashed back, alighting on one in particular with a sudden surge of surprise.
"Amy?!"
Amy was decked out in a blue so deep it could almost be considered black. A short scarf was tied loosely around her neck and her long normally bouncy locks of dark hair were bound together in a tail high on her head. She grinned at him and placed a gloved hand on the hilt of the sword that was belted at her waist.
"Surprised Link?" she asked gleefully.
"You're part of the mission?" exclaimed Link bewildered.
Her smile faded and was replaced by a frown, quite obviously displeased with the remark. "Is there a problem?"
It's just that he didn't think the nobility much cared for any sort of grunt work. Even among those that did join the military they preferred positions of command and most were quickly promoted. Also not many noblewomen opted to pursue a military career due to lack of interest. Many would jump at the chance to learn the sword, but not many would delve to put their knowledge to good use. The number of women in the army amounted to less than six percent, so to that extent it was considered mainly a man's realm.
Link then remembered that Amy had been called a tomboy and thought that perhaps explained it better.
He blinked at her sharp tone then smiled softly. "Not at all. Actually, you've just increased my confidence that this mission will go smoothly."
At least there'd be someone with him who he knew personally and who was more down to Hyrule than most.
Brula touched the wall and set a barrier around the room then filled it with her wizened voice. "I'll give you all a quick overview of your mission before you leave. You depart immediately after this."
Link perked up as the others listened with rapt attention. A wave of seriousness washed over the room. It seemed that even Zellandus' eyes had hardened. A few locks of his blonde hair fell over his right eye and he didn't make a move to push them back. His ears flicked in anticipation.
Seeing as she held their eyes and ears, she went on. "First introductions," she said, gesturing a hand at the three lined up before him. "Link, this is Aiden Rivers." The young man smiled and bowed. Brula then indicated the next. "And I'm sure you're already acquainted with lady Amy Delage." Amy flashed him a beaming smile. "Our final member shall be lord Wist Perth. These three are part of Hyrule's secret stealth division, headed by myself. They are among the best."
Link once again found himself surprised. "Lord Perth?"
Wist was virtually unrecognizable the way he was dressed now in his dark clothing when usually in court he wore bright colors. Seeing him out of context was a strange thing to Link.
Wist was smiling as he nodded at Link, giving a short greeting. "Link, good to see you again."
Link curtly nodded back, wondering how Commander Deb could have chosen such a person - a dainty lord - to accompany them for such an important task. Obviously he was more than he seemed. As with James, Link hadn't thought much of him.
"Link is to be leader of this squad," Burla carried on, looking at them all sternly. "If he gives an order, you shall do as told without question. All of you have been informed of what's at stake and are aware of how this infiltration is to proceed." Her tone lowered to something more somber as she gave them all a hard look from behind red irises. "I give you this chance to pull out if you wish. What you're about to do is dangerous and could cost you your lives. If you do not have the spine for it then you will do no good out there. You shall be excused and another will be chosen to replace you."
Link kept silent, features steeled in fierce determination. There was little chance that he was not going. He'd faced countless dangers, had slinked through the Gerudo Fortress and survived, had braved every temple and dungeon in Hyrule over and over again, had wandered through haunted woods, had even played sniper in bulblin camps, and all this he'd done by himself. With his experience he could probably accomplish this task on his own as well, if not for the fact that there was a life at stake. He'd done his fair share of rescuing in his lives, but this adversary was quite possibly Ganondorf and the duke wasn't as important as Zelda so it was truly unpredictable what he would do with him.
They all stood still, none giving any indication that they'd refuse the mission.
Brula smiled grimly. "Very well. Four horses have been readied and saddled for your use. Be sure to leave them with Joachim when you arrive at Kakariko."
"May the Goddesses watch over you," said Zellandus with utter severity.
The men and woman all muttered their thanks and departed after Commander Deb as she led them out the door.
A hand grasped Link's shoulder as he made to leave and he twisted around to see Zellandus, a somber look about him.
"Your highness?" Link queried lowly, eyes shifting to the rest of the squad as they left the room.
Zellandus sighed and swept a hand through his unruly hair, only further musing it. "I don't know if this really is the evil King of Thieves, the same as I don't know if you really are the Hero of Legends… but if you are then I do know what this may come to. If you do encounter this loathsome Augurer fellow, promise me that you'll win. I have no desire to see my country immersed in darkness and suffering."
Link inclined his head subtly, a fierce glint in his eyes. "Do not worry, your highness. I have no intention of losing."
The prince chuckled. "With confidence like that I'm sure you'd persist even if every limb was torn from your body." His face then became a sickly shade and he shuddered. "What a ghastly thought. Do return in one piece, will you?"
"I shall strive to," Link replied idly.
This seemed to content Zellandus as he pat Link on the shoulder a few times. "Good man."
"Goddess speed, Link," said Byron.
Link nodded. "Thank you." Then hurried out to find the others.
When Link caught up to them in the stables he was instantly met with Amy's raised eyebrow and slight grin. Link at once deciphered the reason for it and scowled. She must have seen in part what had gone on between the prince and himself.
"It was nothing," he said coldly then walked up, claiming a chestnut stallion, its mane trimmed short and its tail cut so that the hairs were even. It snorted and trudged forward as Link pulled on its bridle.
Amy smiled as she pet her own dark coated stallion. "I know, just friends."
"Can we go now? We're supposed to reach Kakariko before dark," said Wist, mounted on his black mare, which was scuffing the ground impatiently.
Link hooked his foot in the stirrup and expertly swung his leg around to straddle the horse. He nudged it into a walk and headed towards the open stable doors. Deb awaited him at the threshold, arms crossed and chin tucked.
"I don't like this. Get it over with as quickly as possible then come home. I do not think the ambassador of Labrynna will be inclined to wait long, and I pray to the Goddesses that the duke has not been harmed, otherwise I fear the Labrynnians' reactions…" she said quietly.
He stopped his mount and it padded its hoof on the ground. "If any harm does befall the duke, I shall see it paid back tenfold as recompense. Perhaps the Labrynnians would be sated with the perpetrator's blood."
"Not just them," Deb grumbled. "This Augurer has been a prick in my side ever since he first appeared. Too much council time has been centered on him. It will be good to have him gone."
Link smirked. "Consider it done."
The Commander briefly smiled before it turned sour. "Remember what lady Brula said. Do not go looking to take this Augurer head on. To my knowledge, you are magically inept, and the Augurer has vast stores of it. Unless you find some sword or other tool that can slice through raw power then you would be horribly disadvantaged."
He averted his head and muttered to himself. "Not yet, but soon…" Link straightened and grasped the reigns firmly. "Watch over his highness for me."
He then kicked his horse into a canter and steered him out onto the castle yard, followed closely by the rest of his squad. The guards allowed them to pass through the gates unhindered and they were soon making their way through the streets of Castle Town, silent so as not to alert any of the citizens. They saw very few people at this time and went unbothered for the most part. At the final set of gates leading out to the fields, Link handed Brula's note to the guards, who quickly perused it then allowed them to exit.
And soon they were racing across Hyrule's open Western Field.
It was at times like this that he missed having a horse of his own. In many of his lives he'd encounter a horse that had usually been reared for farm work, but grew to become formidable warhorses. In other instances where there were no chance encounters and he had to purchase his own, he always picked a strong mare, and he always named her Epona. Sometimes he liked to think that each of his Eponas were the descendants of the previous ones.
He'd have to see about getting a horse sometime in the near future. He'd find one that matched his standards and train her to become a charger.
They rode fast, only pausing to eat their midday meal as the sun arched high in the sky. A few times they came upon a lone bokoblin, but the beasts were left in the dust in their futile attempts to run after the mounted steads, and some they mercilessly trampled over.
Link had his team pull over as they reached a trickling stream and dismounted to rest their legs and water their horses.
Going over to the stream, Link bent down and took a handful of water to splash it over his face. He wiped his eyes and flattened his hair back then sat comfortably on the ground.
"I take it you've done this before?" asked Amy as she leaned against the flank of her stallion. The horse had his nose dipped in the cool water and did not seem to mind the extra weight.
Link considered her idly, cheeks stinging as a cold wind hit them. "What makes you say that?"
Amy scoffed, "Lady Brula appears to have confidence in your abilities. She trusts you in a way that she trusts no other. You must have been acquainted with her before to have formed such a bond. I find it hardly believable that a complete stranger would have earned it so easily. Not only that, but she confides in you and places the prince's wellbeing in your hands."
Smiling, Link looked out over the field. "You'd be correct to assume that. I have been friends with the Sheikahs for years." My, he was getting good at this lying business. At least this time it was only a white lie. He knew the Sheikah, had known them for ages, just not Brula in particular. He was omitting the specifics, and luckily Amy didn't catch that.
Abruptly Wist came over and plopped down on the grass between them and motioned for Amy and Aiden to huddle closer. He spread a map over his crossed legs and set about marking certain locations.
"Commander Shira explained as far as this," he began, finger tracing over a path. "Hyrule's patrols have been notified via messenger hawk about the Augurer's whereabouts and a number of them have gathered and set up camp right here." He indicated a spot on the map. "Where they were informed to keep watch and wait for our arrival. They are the distractors in a sense, while we, under cover of darkness, sneak across the field from Kakariko village on foot to avoid detection from monster scouts. We have to reach our camp before daylight for this to go off without a hitch. After a short rest, we ready for infiltration the following night. Am I missing anything, Captain?"
Link was momentarily taken aback at the address then nodded in affirmation. "That is the gist of it. Our actual planning for the infiltration will start once we convene with the captain in charge of the platoon."
Aiden got to his feet and brushed himself off. "Well we'd best be off. With just a little over a day to reach the camp we shouldn't be wasting any time."
There was a round of agreement before they mounted their horses, once again en route to Kakariko.
They arrived late evening and were greeted at the entrance by the man named Joachim. He took them to his house where he had his son and two daughters take care of their tack and horses. He led them quickly inside.
"Work for lady Brula, eh? Well I don't know what sort of scheme she has you doing, but I'm not so ignorant that I don't know it has something to do with that sorcerer fellow that everyone's been raving about," said Joachim as he served them all a warm supper of carrot soup and rolls.
The soup was spiced with coriander and nutmeg, and Link near grimaced at the taste. He forced himself to eat it out of politeness.
Joachim stood over him suddenly and Link looked up at his watery eyes.
"Please get rid of him. He's done these parts no good. His monsters drive away all the game and merchants are too afraid to be travelling these parts."
Link seriously considered him then, placing his spoon down slowly. "Has he been here that long?"
His question drew stares from the other members of his party. Amy and Wist pricked their pointed ears with interest, while Aiden craned his head, a frown on his face.
The man continued on pleadingly. "For a couple of weeks now. Didn't you know? He has a base near the canyon o'er yonder. We've been pleading to Hyrule Castle for help but none answer until now."
"Aren't there soldiers that patrol this area?" asked Link abruptly.
Joachim merely shook his head in sadness. "All of them are either too afraid or ignore it. The one's that tried to do something have gone missing. Murdered by those beasts I say."
The news made the cogs in his mind shift and grind. He exchanged glances with the rest of his squad, all with looks of puzzlement or dour thought on their faces.
Why had Deb not been informed of this? And if she had, why hadn't she taken measures? She could have used it as a vice against the rest of the council to target the Augurer.
Link frowned. Something's not right about this…
Abruptly he pushed away from the table and got up. He ignored the stares of his comrades and went outside. He made his way to the back in a relatively secluded area and leaned against the outside of the house. They'd only have a few hours of rest before they had to move out again under the cover of darkness, and Link meant to use that time to take a small nap, but first he had to get a better understanding of what was going on.
Once he was certain that no one was around he spoke quietly.
"Well, what have you to say about this?"
His Sheikah responded with an air of irritation in his voice.
We did not know of this. Neither the lady Brula nor the prince are aware of it.
Link grit his teeth. "How could you not? Haven't you Sheikah have been following this Augurer around? To not even know where one of his bases is…" It bothered him considerably that the Sheikah had not known. Was something protecting the Augurer or was this his own magic at work?
We only come when he is sighted.
"So you have not investigated him further?"
Other things have taken precedence. But it appears lady Brula was right in her assumptions. This Augurer is indeed more than he appears.
Link growled. "You don't think that he's really Ganondorf, do you?" he accused heatedly.
Although it does seem probable, I am not yet convinced. Nevertheless the threat he poses has heightened. I shall inform my kin of this occurrence.
He reclined against the wall and crossed his arms, gazing skyward. His Sheikah wasn't taking this as seriously as he should be. Did he doubt in the evil king's resurrection or Link's own? Or did he simply believe that this Augurer was not he? Was the Augurer then a low account mage trying to gain infamy…? Perhaps. It could not be overlooked in any case.
"How is it that Kakariko pleads for help and yet Hyrule has not answered?" said Link, newly perplexed. But then it came to him.
Interception. Said the Sheikah, wording his thoughts. Someone must be stealing letters from the postman.
"No, he's too reliable, and he'd have to be bewitched not to notice someone raiding from his pouch. Which leaves us with the receivers…" Link held his chin and mused. "Tell me, who oversees the letters from outside villages? Regarding requests, that is."
One of the council members. The Minister of Provincial Affairs.
Link's eyes narrowed into slits as anger shot through him. "Lord Perrington…"
That big oaf of a minister was responsible for filtering out Kakariko's pleas to Hyrule? How despicable. Yet it was only a supposition. He couldn't accuse the man with no proof. No matter that he disliked him, there were others that could have just as easily rifled through the letters and confiscated them.
Link was about to address his Sheikah when it came to him that after all this time he still had no idea what the his name was. He'd not been told, nor had the Sheikah deigned to mention it. He felt sudden guilt for not asking. He'd rectify that now.
"What are you called? I can't simply address you as Sheikah for the remainder of our partnership."
Laval…
Link grimaced. "Laval? Is that your real name?"
It is what I am called.
Smart ass.
"Fine then, Laval," he drawled. "Go to Brula and inform her of all that we've found out. And also tell her to have one of the Sheikah keep a close watch over lord Perrington. I don't trust him."
I cannot.
He blinked. Link's voice became deeper with irritation. "Was that a question or a statement? Now go."
I cannot go. Lady Brula has entrusted your safety to me and this rescue mission will place you in untold danger. I must remain close to you. I shall inform lady Brula once we've returned to the castle, for now it matters not whether we delay telling her for a few days more.
A serious threat he would have used back in the day would have been 'when I am king!', he'd let that hang, along with a shaking fist. Generally it worked on everyone, even the Sheikah to an extent. For obvious reasons he could not use that now.
He pushed off the wall and spoke lowly, "Very well. Once this is over with."
On reentering the house he saw that his team had not waited up for him and had all gone to rest in the living room, splayed across the couches and armchair in various comfortable position. Link sighed upon seeing that they hogged all the furniture and resigned himself to sleep on the floor.
It seemed as if he'd merely closed his eyes for a minute before they were compelled to open as someone shook his shoulder.
"Mister Link, time to rise," said Joachim, hovering over him.
Link stretched and rubbed his eyes, then forced himself to his feet, rubbing his neck, which had been in an awkward position.
"Help me wake the others," he said, before starting over to Wist and shaking him awake.
In a few minutes they were all up and ready. They were still tired, but adrenaline driven by the situation gave them the extra boost of energy they needed to keep on going.
It felt to Link like old times, snatching a little respite here or there in between battles and challenges before he continued with his journey. He'd be always on the go and forever busy.
He was glad to hear not a word of complaint from his companions. Of course, with Deb as their Commander, and Brula as the head of their division, they weren't afforded any.
"Alright," he said after making certain they were all sufficiently alert. "Let's head out."
"Be careful," said Joachim, anxiously.
Wist grasped the man's arm. "We will. And we'll get rid of this menace for you. We'll tell the prince and he'll post a new company of soldiers at your village as soon as he hears of this."
Their host bowed gratefully. "Oh thank you, sir."
Link took one last look at the man then hurried along out the door.
There was little to no chat as they trekked, keeping at a steady pace so they wouldn't tire out. They stayed low and avoided any and all signs of life in the field. Bulblins and bokoblins may not have good night vision, but there were plenty of other beasts out there that did.
Laval also prowled the darkness, warning Link with slight pulls to his conscious of any impending dangers and indicating which areas to steer clear of. They came upon the canyon soon and Link's eyes fought to penetrate its deep depths, shrouded in total darkness.
"According to the map the camp can't be more than a few miles away. We should be able to see some campfires soon," said Wist, who had assured them that he'd memorized the map before they'd headed out.
Link was beginning to see him more and more as an asset to this team.
The ground suddenly sloped downwards as they ventured over a hillock, making headway more cumbersome. They treaded cautiously as they descended, climbing down at some points, being careful not to slip and fall.
As the terrain leveled out they were met with more lush grass, which helped to muffle their steps. They spotted the camp in the distance. They could just make out the flickering fires and the shadowed outlines of tents in the dark.
Link ordered them to halt a good twenty yards away, motioning for them to keep down.
"Why are we stopping," hissed Aiden precariously. "We're almost there."
Link eyed the camp and explained, "It is never wise to just rush in blindly. Someone has to scout ahead and make sure that it really is our people there, not some monsters waiting to ambush us."
"Why would there be monsters in our own camp? That's preposterous," said Aiden.
Wist gave Link a look and jerked his head. "New recruit," he informed him. "There's talent there, but he hasn't had the full experience yet."
Like any good leader, Link decided to educate him. "For one we have to make sure that we're not about to just waltz into the enemy camp, and secondly we can't be certain that our camp hasn't been taken over by the beasts. Also we have to alert the captain quietly. Our whole objective is not to be seen or heard by anyone."
"I'll go," said Amy straightaway.
He nodded at her. "Be quick and be cautious."
In a flash she was gone, rushing through the field before soon she was lost to sight. Link couldn't even pinpoint her form. She was too well camouflaged in the dark.
They waited in silence for what seemed like hours. Wist had to constantly stop Aiden from fidgeting with nervousness. At last both he and Wist caught the faint sounds of approaching footsteps. Amy revealed herself to them and motioned for them to follow.
"It is safe. Captain Roualt awaits us in his tent."
Silently they slipped through the night and cut across the stretch of field to the cluster of tents. They hurried past the sentry, who nodded at them then went back to searching the landscape, and were brought to a larger tent in the center of the encampment. Amy pulled the flap aside and they all slithered in.
Captain Roualt was a stout man with a well-trimmed beard and moustache and a monocle over his left eye. His ears were rounded, indicating that he was not full Hylian, and his bearing was stiff and strict. He stood at-ease, military stile.
"You've come in the nick of time. A half-hour more until morning and you'd have been sighted," he said gruffly.
Link stepped forward as spokesman for his squad. "What's the situation like?"
The captain frowned in the lamplight with a look of disbelief. "You've travelled from the castle to Kakariko to here practically nonstop and with virtually no rest and you still think you're ready for more? I say not. No. You shall rest for now. Later on, when you awaken I shall debrief you."
Gratefully they all conceded, or grudgingly in Link's case. The travel had clear worn them out and a rest would help revitalize them for their mission.
Link found it difficult to 'stay put', as the captain ordered. The most important factor of their mission involved them to remain hidden from the enemy. The Hylian platoon was being watched just as closely as the bulblin force was. The bulblins knew their numbers and the addition of Link and his crew would not go unnoticed if they were to wander beyond the tent. So here they were hidden away, canvas surrounding them on all sides. Link found it stifling.
Trapped with him, Wist perused his map, jotting down pen marks and other little notes while Amy and Aiden played a round of cards.
Link crossed his arms and tapped a finger on his bicep. A female soldier had informed them upon waking that the captain was currently occupied with overseeing the boundaries and would see to them shortly. Link didn't like the wait. Sundown was only a few hours away and they had yet to be briefed.
When the captain did arrive he looked to be in a very irritable mood. The others flinched when he narrowed his gaze on them while Link held it steadfast.
"Let's get this over with, we may have less time than we thought. You'll have to move out tonight," he said gruffly and adjusted his monocle.
Aiden stood, abandoning the game of cards. "What do you mean, 'less time'?"
"Precisely that," inserted one of the officers, a sergeant who'd entered after the captain. He cleared his throat and went on, "Just yesterday the captain proposed a bargain with the bulblins to release the duke of Lynna and his retinue. Today we received word that our offer was denied. That does not worry us, it was only intended to delay whatever they may have planed for him, but that they replied so quickly only means that they do in fact have something in store for our unfortunate duke and that the Augurer means to carry on with whatever it is soon."
"Troublesome," mumbled Captain Roualt. "Now down to business." He held his hand out and the officer promptly place a rolled up parchment in it. The captain then bent over the table and spread it out, using four stones to hold down the corners.
Link was greeted with a crudely drawn sketch with labels scattered all over and a legend displayed at the bottom with various military terms, some of which were new to him. He scrutinized it with interest, filing the information in his mind, committing it to memory.
"It's a fortress," said Wist breathlessly. "They built a fortress."
The captain snorted. "And beneath our notice too. I can understand how we haven't located it before, it is in a secluded area and not many people travel out here. The patrols have checked it before weeks ago, but never since. Slowly the Augurer has been expanding his territory."
"Are you certain that the Augurer is actually here? Have you seen him?" asked Link.
"Our spies report seeing a great hulking figure in black armor with a horned helm," said the captain somberly. "Trust me, he's here."
"You've had your men enter the fortress?" asked Amy, alarmed.
"Unfortunately, no. The closest we've come to was a ridge overlooking the fortress and from there we were able to see down into it. However we've been unable to use the ridge ever since a group of bulblins moved in on it. As we were still in the bartering stage we couldn't outright attack them. I've requested to speak with the Augurer personally, so hopefully that should hold them until tomorrow. "
Link stared at the map, mind already concocting a strategy.
"This part here, is it made out of stone or wood?" asked Wist, pointing to a pair of circles that were indicated as turrets.
"Wood," said Link at once. "Bulblins aren't any good at stonework. Actually, I wouldn't be surprised if the entire fortress was wooden."
The captain stared at him then looked back down at the map. "That is correct. And it's the most oddly designed structure I've ever seen. I'm surprised it stands."
"Where do you believe the prisoners are held?" asked Link.
It was the sergeant who answered. "We were unable to detect where they may be hidden. Remember, we've only been here for a few days, we didn't have much time to do a proper recon. We suspect though that they aren't all locked up together. The duke especially will be heavily guarded somewhere away from the others."
"So essentially we are running in blind?" murmured Amy softly, before her face broke out in a grin. "Well, I don't know about you boys, but I find there's no fun in a mission without some sort of handicap to overcome."
Link looked up from the map at his team and folded his hands behind his back. This was no different than a war council. He devised strategies and his soldiers would execute them.
"Aiden, you carry a bow, how good are you with it?" he asked.
Aiden grinned and hefted it over his shoulder. It had been strung the night before in case they'd come upon any monsters. "If you're talking about accuracy, then I'm a one-hundred percent shot with no distractions, maybe eighty percent with distractions. Same with precision."
"Are you able to shoot well in the dark?"
He shrugged. "As long as I have a target."
Link nodded assuredly. "Bulblin's eyes shine in the night, you'll be able to spot them." Indeed, that feature had helped him in many predicaments before. He smiled. "I have everything worked out. Captain, you and your men just have to act normally."
The captain removed his monocle and wiped it with a kerchief. "As I expected. Very well."
Link's grin broadened almost sinisterly. "If all goes well, we'll be enjoying a nice bonfire tonight."
Link had never had trouble sneaking into an enemy's stronghold before, and he certainly didn't have trouble this time. Of course, things would have been much more difficult without his hookshot. He silently thanked Queen Helerra for having it upgraded. The reach was just enough to latch onto the top ramparts.
He turned to Aiden who was looking up at the fortress steadily. "You ready?"
"No one is ever truly ready for these things," said Aiden quietly, before awkwardly placing his arms around Link's shoulders.
"Hold tighter lest you fall off. Once I release the latch we'll shoot up fast."
Wist and Amy chuckled at Aiden's discomfort, but he was good-natured enough to only roll his eyes at them. He firmed his hold around Link and Link grasped the back of the other man's tunic in his free hand as a precaution.
Once he let go of the latch they zoomed through the air then came to an abrupt stop. Link clutched the edge of the ramparts and hauled both of them over. Aiden released him and they both crouched low behind a couple of barrels.
Link sniffed the air then inspected the barrels, pleasantly surprised.
"What is it?" asked Aiden with some confusion.
"Oil," said Link, eyes flitting around to count the number of barrels. "The ground slopes downward on the outside of the fortress. Those beasts mean to toss these over, let them roll for a bit, before lighting them with fire arrows. Since the camp is too far away they'd only be put to use if our men ever decided to attack. Bulblins may be imbecilic at the best of times, but they are knowledgeable in methods of killing."
Aiden visibly shivered and peeked out from behind his barrel. "Let's get on with this. This whole place reeks of rotted meat."
Inching forward, Link hissed to Aiden. "Cover for me, and take out the sentries while you're at it. Make sure you don't shoot them off their perches or else it will notify the other monsters."
Aiden drew his bow and notched an arrow, seeking out those shiny beady eyes in the darkness. Link withdrew a rope from his pouch and fastened one end to a pike. He uncoiled the rest and tossed it over the wall down to Amy and Wist. He saw it go taught and knew they'd begun climbing.
They were given enough light from the moon that night to see the different shapes of the structures below them, as well as the darker shadows that moved around as the bulblins patrolled.
Link edged away as Aiden bent to his task, and whispered beneath his breath, "Laval, find all the prisoners as quickly as you can then report back to me."
He sensed his Sheikah shadow detaching from him and sink into the darkness around them. He waited anxiously, watching as Aiden took care of four sentinels with his bow. Link hoped there wouldn't be any shift changes for a few hours.
A minor scuffling at the wall alerted him to Amy's presence. She slid easily over the side and joined him, bending low in a crouch. Wist came soon after and untied the rope, pulling it up to be used for later.
"Aiden, you'll be our rearguard. Watch our backs," said Link, before heading off.
They made their way to the lower level of the fortress, descending down a short stretch of rickety stairs. Their eyes peeled and bodies tense in readiness. Link could feel the blood pumping in his veins, the rush of adrenaline spreading to all parts of his being.
Now on ground level the putrid smell that Aiden had pointed out was heightened further, causing them all to grimace while Wist very near gagged. Link scrunched his nose in distaste. It did smell like rotted meat. He didn't want to list all the things it might be. Bulblins normally had a less then pleasant odor, foul one might say, but this was too strong for just them. It could very well be the remains of a fellow Hylian they scented.
It was not a pleasant thought. Ganondorf may be in the process of turning them into redeads. It was a dark technique derived from the Sheikah, but that Ganondorf had stolen and used as his own. From what he had learned, the process of becoming a redead was painful and torturous wherein a soul was pulled back from beyond the grave, sliced and torn, then sealed to their decaying bodies, left with no intelligence of their own, knowing nothing but the need to kill. If there was one beast that he despised above others it was the redead. Them and their shrill shrieks and deadly embraces. He'd known many a good man and woman who had fallen to them, but Link had learned how to overcome them and found what their weaknesses were. It was never pleasant to have to face them though, especially knowing that they had once been ordinary people.
The prospect of there actually being redeads in the fortress, however, was nil. Not unless there was a cold dank space somewhere below ground where they could dwell. But since not even other monsters would go near them, that theory was void as well. The bulblins wouldn't be so at ease if there were redeads about.
Link didn't know what was worse. Coming across mobile dead corpses, or immobile ones. From the rank smell, it couldn't be anything but.
A sharp twang of the bow indicated that Aiden had shot another bulblin. The bublin gurgled then fell. An instant later all that was left was the arrow and smoke.
Link took a few seconds to look over at it then looked blandly at Aiden, who merely grumbled nervously. That bulblin hadn't even been near enough to be a problem.
"It was freaking me out," Aiden whined.
Link rolled his eyes and continued on. They all flattened themselves against a wall as a bulblin patrol walked past. The beast swaggered slowly, occasionally twisting its head to peer around. The minutes were eating away before finally it had gone.
"Link!" Amy hissed at him.
He regarded her to see her motioning at the wall behind her and at the knob sticking out. She had been leaning against a door.
Until Laval returned they were blind. They'd have to check everywhere for the prisoners. He nodded to her and Amy closed her hand on the knob and twisted slowly. She inched the door open and took a peek inside. She must have seen that it was empty, for she went in and indicated them all to follow her.
It was a storage room. More barrels were lined up against the wall, labeled as either water or oil, pots were stacked on shelves, and to one side a pile of rotting poultry had been left to fester.
Their hands immediately went to cover their breathing orifices. Well, at least now they knew where the Goddess awful smell came from. He felt profound relief that it wasn't Hylians.
"I don't think they check this shed regularly. This might be a good place to regroup if we split up," said Amy, voice muffled by her hand and eyes watering.
Aiden was eyeing the shelves with the pots, expression curious. "You think that they have rupees stored in those?"
"Let's not find out," said Link. "We don't need the noise to attract unwanted attention to us."
The man shifted his bow in his hand. "I didn't mean break them, I meant we could just look inside and see if they store anything valuable in there."
Link could reminisce on all the times he'd broken vases and pots for rupees, and quipped harshly. "Well, we didn't come here to raid. Our objective is to rescue the duke and his men. We don't need you laden down with spoils. You'd only burden yourself."
"Ah, you're right. So sorry," Aiden brushed off, smiling abashed.
"Returning to matters of importance," said Wist, whose whole arm was flung over the bottom half of his face to stifle the stench. "Amy may have the right of it. We might have to split up."
"Precisely what I was thinking," said Link. "I don't think it matters who goes with who. We're all stealth masters here, and we all have both long and short range weapons." He'd seen the miniature crossbow devices attached to Wist and Amy's arms. It would take longer to load and launch them than if they had bows and arrows, but they were not as cumbersome to carry. "The buildings are mostly lined up along the walls. I'll take Aiden and we'll start on the left and work our way around, you two do the same on the right. We'll meet up in the middle. You all saw the larger and sturdier hold at the back? That will be the Augurer's personal quarters. Whatever you do, avoid that area, and if you do meet up with the Augurer, then run and make noise to alert the other group. Stealth won't matter at that point. Am I clear?"
They all muttered their assent and Link adjusted his shield on his arm and pulled his sword out. "If something goes wrong, meet back here, and bring whatever prisoners you find here as well. Captain Roualt said they might not be locked up together, and we don't need extra people following us around while we go rescue the others."
"Right," said Amy.
Wist sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I'm not fond of the prospect of dealing with Labrynnians."
Link had already moved towards the door and was watching both ways beyond it. "Let's get started."
As he had ordered it, Amy and Wist snuck out to the right, and he and Aiden went left. He'd mainly chosen Aiden to pair off with because it seemed that he was the most inexperienced and liable to make mistakes. He trusted Commander Deb's judgment, but just in case, he would act as a buffer in case Aiden did mess up.
A familiar dark aura neared and then sunk into his shadow. Link moved cautiously as Laval filled him in.
Including the duke, there are five prisoners total, all locked in separate cages.
Link felt a heavy sense of nostalgia. Why did they never only have one holding cell for their prisoners? It was a nuisance, really.
You shall come upon two of them soon. The duke, however, is in the Augurer's hold.
Link mentally cursed. Shifting his gaze to Aiden who looked ahead intent, hand gripping his bow tightly, an arrow nocked in readiness.
Certainly Ganondorf would want to keep his prize catch nearby. It would be trouble trying to sneak him out…
Link's ears suddenly perked up. But wait…
This would give him the ultimate excuse to face the Augurer. There'd be no need to sneak off on his own, they'd have to check the main hold anyways, and by then he could have the others free the duke and take him to safety while he remained to 'distract' the Augurer.
It could work. He only needed to execute it properly.
He and Aiden hid behind a stack of wooden crates, barely avoiding another bulblin patrol.
"Where do you think the prisoners are kept?" Link asked lowly.
Aiden had tensed his shoulders, peeking around the edges warily. "My guess is as good as yours. I'd say wherever is the most guarded."
Enter through the third door you come across, that building will have a stack of logs beside it. From there, take the first corridor to your left before turning right. The first prisoner will be there. The other is within the building beneath the stairs to the ramparts. There are not many on guard here. I do not think they expected anyone to attempt an infiltration and rescue.
How fortunate for them. This was going to be cake.
"On my signal we run to that stack of logs over there. Try to run crouched and stick to the shadows," said Link.
Aiden snapped his head at him. "But we'll be passing buildings on the way. They could be places where the prisoners are kept."
"Put some faith in me," said Link, with a reassuring smile. "I know their ways. I've done this before, if you haven't heard."
"Very well," Aiden relented, although doubtfully.
Link gave the signal and they hurried to the logs, low and unobtrusive. They took a moment to pause behind the woodpile in order to gather their bearings before Link ushered them into the building. He winced as the door creaked upon opening, but Laval's unwavering silence gave him confidence that there were no bulblins nearby. He shut it quickly behind them.
He followed Laval's directions and traveled down the corridors without pause or hesitance. Aiden was blustering in confusion.
"Shouldn't we be checking the other halls as well?"
Link was fast becoming irritated at all his questions. At this rate Aiden was likely to suspect him of being a spy for the enemy, the way he knew where to go an what to do. He'd have to convince him otherwise.
"Have you ever heard of an ability called dousing?" asked Link as he swiveled his head, listening for danger.
Aiden seemed taken aback then muttered. "I've heard of it, but I'm not entirely sure what it does."
They paused as they reached the next corridor and Link angled to peer around the corner. "It is a way of finding things. It can be used to locate people or inanimate objects. It doesn't work for everything though, so you can't always count on it."
"I didn't know you could use magic."
Link peered at Aiden from over his shoulder. "Not magic per se, I can only use magical items. I can't cast my own spells."
"That is still very impressive," said Aiden.
Link suddenly motioned him to be quiet. Around the next corner he saw a wooden door with a small barred window at the top. The door was guarded by a pair of bulblins, one of which possessed a short glinting piece of metal dangling from a ring fastened at its waist.
"Stay here and watch the corridor. Shoot any monster that comes near. I'll handle these ones," said Link, striding into the open. He grinned and gave his sword an idle twirl.
The bulblins noticed him at once and screeched before raising their clubs to attack. Link caught the blows with his shield and released a round of combos on one, sending it flying back. He did the same to the other and they both poofed out of existence. In no time at all the fight was done. All that was left was the key that had clattered to the floor.
He picked it up and bounced it a few times on his palm before inserting it in the keyhole and twisting. The door came open with a heavy groan and out came a man still wearing his travel attire, their first prisoner.
"You're not Labrynnian," the man said snappishly.
"We're Hylian. We've come to help you," Link responded carefully.
The Labrynnian nodded and spat, "I saw the whole thing. Filthy vermin. They only have any real power when in a gang. On their own they're nothing."
"Come," said Link, rushed. "Let's get you out of here. Aiden, take him back to the meeting place. I'll go on ahead. Catch up to me when you're done."
Aiden saluted with a broad grin, morale bolstered by their success. "Yes Captain, sir! Right away!"
It looked like Commander Deb didn't need to promote him. His underlings were doing it for her. That made him think. He hadn't really been given a rank for this mission had he? He'd let them call him captain for now, at least until someone of higher station corrected them.
The Labrynnian gave him one last look of gratitude, before hurrying away after Aiden. Link ventured down the corridor in the opposite direction to find the next prisoner.
"Laval, I want you to keep an eye on the Augurer. Inform me if he finds out we're here and if he makes a move."
That will leave you alone and unguarded.
"The only real danger to me is the Augurer. I've faced hordes of bulblins before, they do not faze me," he said stolidly.
He felt Laval leave his shadow and sighed. Did he really have to fight him at every order? It made him think that Ganondorf had it right to employ relatively mindless obedient beings. They made for less hassle. He supposed there was a trade off there. At least Link's squad could think for themselves and make their own judgments in erratic situations.
He exited the building and went on to the wooden hut beneath the rampart stairs, just as Laval had told him. But as he rounded the next bend he felt the air rush out of his lungs as he collided with someone.
A/N: If you haven't noticed, I have a thing for French names. They sound so elegant, I can't help but use them. Even Dasril's name is from the name D'Asril or just Asril.
Thanks for reading everybody!