Chapter 12

Sunrise is moments away from the land as Resistance members chosen to go to lake Hylia were making final preparations before departing with Impa. Those accompanying her included the likes of Link, Zelda, Sheik, Ahsei, Shad, and Auru. They were finishing packing items needed for their mission as they wait for Impa to give the word.

Link was just about done with saddling up Epona for the trip, with Navi flying around his head.

"Is that fairy of yours coming with us," Ashei noticed when she approaches Link

"Seems like it, but I don't mind."

"Anyways, Sheik wanted me to tell you we leave in about five."

He responded with a small nod. After he was sure to have gotten everything, Link made his way towards Zelda to see if she needed any assistance. She's stroking her horse's snout as her eyes were glued towards the opposite direction.

"Need any help, Zel?"

"No, I'm good. I was waiting to see if Ilia would come by. She wasn't in bed so I assumed she's in the training yard but no one was there. It's not like her to not say goodbye."

"I'm sure she has her reasons."

"I guess…" Zelda replied, disappointment clear in her voice.

"C'mon, Sheik said were leaving in a few minutes."

Zelda gathered her materials, including her golden bow and light arrows and guided her horse to the exit of the hideout alongside Link.

"Everyone, listen up!" I want to remind you that now is the time to back out if you want. This mission could change its course, meaning if you could be put in a life or death situation. If you wish to not participate, you will not be judged." No one had spoken up. "Then let's get moving

Hours had passed since leaving the camp. The hour of twilight was not to far away since the group had arrived at the meetup spot for Makos a little earlier than expected. As they wait, several people decided to take that moment to relax and stretch their legs after a long trip. The group had to take a long route through a series of forests to stay hidden. Among those people is Zelda. She is a little away from the group to get some moments of solitude and admire the scenery. It was a peaceful area, which is welcoming to see after all the hecticness she had to endure for the past several months.

A bright white color caught the corner of her eye. In her full view is an owl sitting on a branch in a nearby tree. Zelda found it odd to see an owl in the daytime as they're usually nocturnal creatures. She concluded since it was close to evening the owl decided to get an early start. Her eyes gaze upon with great interest, since they are her favorite animal before the creature turns it's head towards her and stared with its big blue eyes. Something about looking into its eyes made Zelda felt...safe.

"There you are. I thought you ran off on us for a moment." Auru approached Zelda from behind.

"Sorry, I just needed space." She said to him. "Being on a horse all day can make your legs feel funny."

"No need to fret. Din knows how many trips I've made throughout the years. I Imagine this is the furthest you've ever been from your village. It's only natural that you want to look around," Auru took notice of the white owl. "A beauty, isn't it?"

"Owls has always been my favorite. They have a sense of mystery that always draws me to them. Not to mention a good sense of wisdom." she glances towards him. "What about you?"

"I prefer hawks, but I have great respect for owls." The man's eyes downcast. "They...remind me of my brother."

"You have a brother?"

"He was killed many years ago."

"Oh...I'm sorry."

"Thank you. I've long moved past it." He straightened his posture. "We probably should head back. Makos may be coming at any moment now."

Not too far from the pair, Link rests on a log with a canteen of water in his hand. Sitting on the log with his is Shad, who is looking through a huge bag that he brought with him throughout the trip.

"Need a drink?" Link offered.

"Oh, thanks." He took the canteen and drank out of it. "The trip has left me quite parched. How 'bout you?"

"Feeling tired. I've never traveled this far on horseback before."

"I think I may have help remedy that." Shad reached into a small satchel he carried with him and pulled out a small bottle with a green substance.

"What is it?" Link grabbed the bottle.

"An Energizing Elixir. Drink it and you'll feel energized again in a short time."

Link look at the bottle before decided to drink it. The taste wasn't half bad and he started to feel energized. "Wow, this stuff really works."

"It's my special recipe. It's more effective, has more natural ingredients, and mines free, unlike the standard ones you would find in shops. I also know how to make other types as well."

"You two holding up alright?" Sheik approached.

"I believe were alright," Link replied. "So what's this Makos guy like?"

"He's rather...expressive."

"And likes to flirt with every woman he meets," the sound of Ashei's voice orotund spoke as she walked by.

"That is true but he does a good heart," Shad said.

"He sure likes taking his time. Wasn't he supposed to be here now?"

"He sometimes likes to make an entrance." Sheik begins to walk away. "His kind is known for that."

"Kind?" Link look at his questioningly..

"You'll see," Sheik said with a glance over his shoulder as he walked out of view.

At that moment, Shad pulled out a small dagger from a small sheath on his hip. Link had seen it before but this is the first he got an up-close look. The handle is elegantly crafted and the blade appears to be in pristine condition.

"Nice dagger," Link commented.

"Thank you. It was a gift from my father when I turned sixteen. Had it specially made for me."

"I never took you for a fighter. No offense or anything." Link tried to correct himself.

"I get it. I don't look like a fighter and wouldn't be the first to think that. My life before The Resistance, my family were members of Hyrule's upper class. Unlike most of the nobles, they never worshiped the ground Ganondorf walked upon. Despite our wealth, we lived a humble life in Kakariko Village. You heard of it?"

"Zelda's father mentioned going there sometimes. It's near Death Mountain, right?"

The scholar nodded. "Anyways, since we lived away from Castle Town unlike all of the Hylian nobles our lives were peaceful. They encourage my love for knowledge but kept me isolated from what was going on outside Kakariko, which looking back I understand why. One day Ganondorf invited them to some sort of event. While they were returning home there was an accident...they didn't make it. I was only seventeen."

"That's awful."

"I couldn't believe it. My parents were very generous people. I couldn't fathom why they deserve to die like that, but what was more chilling was Ganondorf's reaction. He gave his condolences in person on the day of my parent's funeral. At that time the thought of him being a monster never crossed my mind. He was THAT sincere. Of course, now I know it was only an act."

He took a drink out of the canteen.

"Several weeks later I was cleaning my parent's study when I stumble upon notes and letters directed to 'The Resistance.' Our village mayor was the only one who knew about that since he and my parents were close friends, and he confirmed to me that my parents were allies to them and told me about Ganondorf's true nature. I didn't want to believe it but I put the pieces together. Why my parents died, and why Ganondorf came to me. I can't prove it, but I believe he arranged the accident. After thinking about I decided to finish what parents started and joined the rebels. Though it was a bit of a rough start..."

"How so?" Link plop an elbow on his knee and placed his head on his hand.

"While trying find the base some bandits tried to rob me. I tried to run but it is no match for them. Just when I thought I was done for, Ashei swooped out of nowhere and cut them down. She saved my life." Shad rubbed the back of his neck. "...Not exactly what I call a good first impression."

Link chuckles. "I'll say."

"For a while, she didn't believe I could make an effective member of the rebels. Then we started to get to know each other quite a lot and here we are today." Shad glances over towards Ashei tending to a horse. The raven-haired woman notice and gave a smile before turning away."

"You two are pretty close."

"Yeah…Interesting that you can find companionship despite the circumstances that brought you together." Shad handed the canteen back. "Thank you again for the drink."

"No problem."

They bid farewell as Link decided to see if anyone could use his assistance since there is still no sign of Makos. Impa is just about several feet away so he decided to ask her. As he just about passed by a small wagon covered by a tarp he heard an 'Achoo' coming from sounds like a female.

"Bless you," he said when he noticed Zelda nearby.

She gave Link an odd look "That wasn't me. I thought it was Ashei."

"That wasn't me either."

"Then...who did?" The green-clad warrior asks.

They all looked around trying to find the source of the noise. Soon, the two sheikah took notice of the three's behavior and decided to see herself.

"Everything alright over here?"

"I thought I heard a woman sneeze but it wasn't Zelda or Ashei."

"Well, it certainly wasn't me."

Just then, Navi quickly flew out of Link's pouch, making loud tinkle sounds. Once everyone's attention is on her she flew above the wagon with the tarp. They gather around the wagon, drawing their weapons as a precaution. Sheik slowly put his hand on the tarp and waited a bit before yanking the tarp off. What was in the wagon surprised all of them, especially Zelda. The sources of the mystery sneeze was none other than Zelda's little sister, Ilia.

Ilia gave a nervous smile. "Hehe...Hi guys."

Zelda paced left to right with her fingers on her head trying to conceal her anger as Ilia sat on a tree stump waiting for her sister to speak. Everyone else stood watching to see what was about to occur.

"Are you...mad?" Ilia spoke to Zelda to break the painful silence.

"Mad?" A 'Are you kidding me' expression drew across Zelda's face. "I'm beyond furious. I gave you instructions and you disobeyed me!" Her eyes suddenly widen in horror. "Oh Nayru...I told Rusl & Uli to watch over you. They must be worried!"

"Don't worry. They're not…"

"And what makes you say that?"

Ilia was hesitant to answer. "I...might've told them that you...changed your mind and let me tag...along…"

"Oh, wonderful!" Zelda yelled out sarcastically. "You not only deliberately disobeyed me, but you also lied to Rusl & Uli. How many other lies told me recently?"

"You act like the first time I lied to you."

"I'm your sister!"

"That just makes you more gullible."

"It's moments like these where I'm glad to be an only child," Shad whispered to Ashei, who slightly nod in agreement as they both watch the exchange go on.

The sister continue to exchange more words for several more moments until Auru grew bold enough to walk to Zelda and places his hand on her shoulder.

"Zelda, I think you should calm down now…"

"Oh, I'll be calm. Once I take my sister back to the camp!"

"No!" Ilia stood from the tree stump

"Excuse me?"

"Our people have spent months in that camp suffering. I'm not gonna sit by while more innocent lives are lost. Also, I want to prove to you that I can be a big help. Link told me that I just needed an opportunity."

All eyes turned to the green-clad hero, including the stink eye from Zelda. All Link could do is hide his embarrassment.

"Do you have any idea of the danger you could be placed in. This isn't going to be a smash and grab operation. I'm taking you back to the camp."

"You can't, Zel. These guys need you. The longer we delay, the longer those people suffer. We've already lost Damon & Talia. What about Sera, Hanch, Jaggle, Pergie, or everyone else that were captured? How long it'll be before we lose them as well?"

"I-"

"Enough!" Impa's voice bellowed out which silenced the sisters. "As much as I agree with you Zelda, Ilia is right."

"What?"

"We can't delay this any further. We need to get there, figure out a plan, take out that camp and free those prisoners. I don't condone Ilia's actions, but what's done is done."

Before Zelda could protest, even more, a sudden arrow hit the tree stump Ilia was sitting just moments ago. Everyone quickly went on guard before a few more arrows fired at them. S series of loud squeals emerge as a small group of monsters charged towards the group. The monsters had a pig-like appearance, armed with large clubs, and large blue eyes. Most of them were crimson save for one of whom that's blue.

"Bokoblins!" Impa shouted before striking one in its head with her naginata.

Zelda shot several arrows at a few who charged to her. "Find cover!" She shouted to Ilia, who was dragged away by Shad.

Everyone stood their ground against the creatures. Unlike the Bulblins, Bokoblins are not as intelligent as their cousins. However, that made them even more dangerous. They are said to have great cravings for meat, including humans as well.

Thankfully though, these monsters were not skilled with combat. Link block a club with shield, using it to knock the monster back before striking its chest with his sword. Another attempt to attack him but Zelda shot it just in time. Both Impa and Sheik manage to take several others with ease thanks to their sheikah training and weapons. Ashei used her quick reflexes to slice at the creatures, whilst Auru used his strength to defend himself.

Meanwhile, Shad and Ilia manage to stay behind the rock hoping to hide. That did not stop several bokoblins from spotting them. Fortunately, Shad's skills with his dagger was enough to defend them. Ilia suddenly remembered that she had brought her crossbow along. Problem is that is in the wagon on the other side of the Bokoblins. She couldn't sit around any longer.

She quickly ran to the other side, ignoring Shad calling her name. Both her legs moved quickly as she musters. A large force knocked her down on the side when she was just a few steps away. Towering above her is a blue bokoblin that's armed with a sword. It attempted to strike at her before she quickly rolled away. The monster's hand wrapped around her ankle but Ilia gave it a kick to the shin, causing it to squeal in pain. With the blue bokoblin distracted Ilia ran straight to the wagon. She pulls her weapon out and pointed at the creature, only to discover she did not load it.

The blue bokoblin seem to notice that her prey had escaped and he started charging towards her. Ilia quickly scrambled to find the crossbow bolts as she hears the footsteps getting closer. The monster gave a loud squeal before he pounced into the air. It never got the chance to land as Ilia manage to load her weapon and shot a blot right in the middle of its forehead, with small drops of blood getting on her.

The horde realize that they were no match for the Hylians. They all fled from them, letting out squeals signifying their retreat.

"Run, you spineless cuccos!" Auru shouted at the horde.

"Is everyone else alright?" Impa asked.

"I believe so." Shad dusted himself for a bit and wipe the bokoblin blood off of his dagger. "Bloody hell, they really are all over the place these days..."

Zelda quickly went to her sister's side. "Are you okay. Ilia?" Her voice wobbles as she saw the drops of blood on Ilia.

"I-I'm fine."

"I told you to stay where you are! That monster almost killed you!"

"But I got him before he did. See, I'm still fine."

All Zelda could hug her. "Just stay put next time, please"

The silence only lasted for several moments before a slow clap broke it.

"I must say, that was quite an impressive battle you and your group put, Impa." A voice that is filled with pride, but still has traces of humbleness echoed out.

The sound of a branch shaking and a thud had occurred, spooking Link, Zelda, and Ilia while the rest didn't seem unphased as they turned to the distraction of the sound. A figure then jumped from the nearby tree and landed near them. He looked humanoid, but he didn't look human nor Hylian for the matter. This person is taller than everyone else, fins coming out of his limbs, have webbed feet, and a tail attached to the back of his head, and his body is purple with traces of a blue hue mixed in.

What they're encountering is a Zora.

"I was hoping I wasn't running late," said the Zora.

Impa smiled at the Zora. "You weren't Makos."

So this Zora is their mysterious contact, Makos. The Zora made his way around the group, greeting everyone he encounters.

"Good to see you again Sheik."

"Likewise, Makos," the sheikah gave a bow.

"I don't intend to," Auru replied jokingly.

"Hello, Ashei. Still lovely as always."

"Yes, of course," Ashei replied rather playfully annoyingly.

"And Shad, I hope you're still treating Ashei well."

"No need to worry. I don't intend to change that in the future."

"Good." The Zora took notice of Ilia. "Who's this young lady right here?"

"I'm Ilia...I'm a last-minute addition." What she managed to say, avoiding the uneasy stares of the group, including an unimpressed glare from Zelda.

"Well, welcome aboard, Ilia."

The Zora made his way to Link and Zelda.

"Let me guess. You must be Link."

"Yes," Link said. "Your Makos? I've heard a lot about"

"I certainly hope it wasn't too much." The Zora chuckle. "And I take this is the lovely lady Zelda."

"Uh yes," Zelda said.

"Impa mentioned a lot of details about you, but forgot to mention your beauty."

A slight blush grew on her cheeks. As she had gotten older, Zelda had gotten used to people, mostly guys, complimenting her looks. Link decided to change the subject.

"So you're a Zora?"

"Of course. Do you know any other species in Hyrule that have fins on their limbs, or tails on their heads?" Makos replied while pretended to sound offended.

"Well it's just that...I've never seen a Zora before."

"I suppose you do have a point. My kind hasn't active these past several years."

"Zora's aren't part of the rebellion?" Ilia brought up.

"I'm here on my own accord," Makos stated. "Though I do hope that one day my kind will come around."

Makos looked away for a brief moment as he looked at the dead bokoblins. "We probably should clean this up. Soldiers patrol this area during the night. We don't want them getting suspicious.

"Oh, that's perfect!" Shad quickly ran to the nearest bokoblin. "I've been meaning to look for more parts." He used his dagger to cut off one of the horns and stuffed it in his satchel.

The three Ordonians stood in bafflement as they watch.

"What is he doing?" Ilia asked.

"Shad likes to collect monster parts for our elixirs," Ashei answered.

"Elixirs?" Link exclaimed, remembering the energy potion Shad gave him earlier. "Why?"

"Monster parts have the right components perfect for our potions. They can enhance certain abilities, and helps withstand any type of environment in Hyrule." Shad explained as he pulled out a bokoblin fang. "It also has good amounts of nutrients for our bodies as well."

"Are all Elixirs you made from monster parts?"

"No, some of which have certain bugs as well."

Link did not say another word.

"If it makes you feel better, he made me eat a frog once," Ashei said to him. "Long story."

Link looked at the bottle that contains the potion he drank. He didn't know whether to be disgusted or impressed. Though while the ingredients were not that desirable, the effects were as accurate as Shad claimed, and it didn't taste bad. Link suppose he'll just have to get over it, but that thought will never escape him. Right now he just needs help clear the bokoblins bodies so they get one with saving his fellow villagers.

Hey guys I've got good news. I recently found copies of Skyward Sword for the Wii and the Wii U version of Twilight Princess. I've finished the former but still working on the latter. So my experience in the the franchise has expanded has increased beyond Breath of the Wild since the last chapter (Now if only Nintendo will release a Switch version of Ocarina of Time, that'll be great).

Any who, for those curious, the Bokoblins & Zora's look in this fic are based of the BotW versions.

I still kept in reference from The Mummy movie (the 1999 version) in here.

Spoiler alert! Makos is not an OC. That's all I'm saying.

Also I might've put several traits of Wild!Zelda into my version of Shad. I feel as if his canon counterpart would've gotten along with her so well had they lived in the same time period (along with canon Pipit as well since they have a love for birds).

One more I want to ask. Would you guys be interested if I wrote bios for the characters in this fic?

Favs, Follows, and Reviews are appreciated.