Tales of the wild
a X-over between
Breath of the wild/Tales of Symphonia
Disclaimer: I do not own Tales of Symphonia or Breath of the wild.
Before you start: please note that English isnt my first language. It is possible that there are mistakes in this story. That said, have fun reading :)
"Are you sure we should do this, little angel?"
Zelos eyed the thing before them warily. It was almost like a claw had ripped the air to pieces and left this black tear behind.
Sheena looked uneasy as well, holding her upper arms as if to shield herself. She always did this when she was uncomfortable.
"Maybe we should wait just a little longer, Colette."
"It has already been close to a week since Lloyd disappeared. And a couple of days since I last heard of Kratos. This bad feeling...I do not like it. What if Lloyd is in there? What if he's in real trouble? He is our friend, we need to help him, as he helped us!"
Passionate and worried, Colette clutched her hands, looking at the tear and to her two friends. This was all she was able to gather. Well...she'd feel a bit guilty, taking Raine and Genis of their mission to help out half elves. Or Regal and Presea, who were sorting things out with the Lazerano company and their involvement with Exspheres.
"Aren't you worried?" Her big, blue eyes looked at the both of them, practically begging them.
"Well, yeah. He is my bud. Lloyd can also fend for himself, however."
"Have you looked at this?" Sheena gestured to the tear. "I don't like the look of it and you want to step through this? We do not even know what this does."
"I get your concern, Sheena. But then, you should also understand mine. If this is connected to Lloyd's disappearance..."
"But you don't know that, do you doll?"
"I can feel it. It is faint, but still." The blond turned to the tear. "I owe him this much at least. If you don't want to come, that is fine. I'll be okay."
"Heeeell no, sweet cheeks. I'm not letting ya go alone." Zelos laid a hand on her shoulder.
"And someone needs to keep him on a leash." Sheena went to stand next to Colette, glaring at the redhead.
Colette smiled widely. "Thanks, you guys! I knew I could count on you two."
Oh, where did they get roped in to? Well, they would see soon enough, while they stepped through the tear together. A mix of purple and black shortly engulfed them, and then they were in a whole different environment. From lush green grass field to hard, sand like ground, completely enclosed by stone slabs that rose up, but left an opening to the bright blue sky. All be it a bit obscured by a sandstorm that seemed to be going on.
In the middle, there was a big, round pit. Zelos stepped closer to it, but not to close, leaning in a little.
"Best keep away, Sheena. Don't want you falling in this one. It seems pretty deep ."
The ninja put her hands on her hips. "What's that supposed to mean?"
Colette looked further around, finding a room that was slightly hidden away in a crevasse. There was a stone table in the middle, with some chairs and little tables on the side made of wood.
It seemed like someone went through this recently; some chairs were knocked over and there was a mess of papers on the ground. She picked up some of them, but it was written in a langue she didn't recognize.
"Huh, can't make head or tails of this." Zelos also picked up a paper and turned it in all directions.
There was not much else in the little cave room, so they walked back out. Zelos looked up to the sky.
"That almost seems the only way in, or out."
"That is strange, don't you think?" Colette leaned against the wall, trying to understand. "Waah!"
The wall suddenly moved as Colette fell on her behind. It turned out to be a stone slab, made to blend in, but it was actually a secret doorway.
"You okay, little angel?" Zelos offered her a hand.
"Yes, I'm alright." Thankful, Colette took the help offered.
"Another typical lucky Colette moment. You seem to have found a hidden passageway."
Sheena walked up to them and smiled. The blond in question giggled. Together, they stepped passed the fake wall, entering a square room.
It had stands, almost like it used to be a market place. But it looked to be abandoned for a while now, judging by the dust that was gathering. Now, there were a lot of things just lying around. Parts of armor, helmets and even weapons, were scattered all over the place.
"Strange. No bodies, no blood, no real sign of struggle."
Sheena remarked while she walked around and studied the room.
"So, if there was no fight, what happened here?" Colette was curious to know.
"To me, it looks like whomever were here, left in a hurry, dropping any extra weight in order to travel light."
"Hey, there's a ladder here. Wanna check it out?"
Zelos already had walked ahead, passed another hidden wall. However, with this one, the people hadn't bothered closing it.
"You do that. We'll follow this way."
He nodded to what Sheena said and climbed up the ladder. The two ladies followed the way around the corner.
What they found was a big room, totally lit up with lanterns and torches. Big block buildings were placed all around and above them was a lot of wood, rope and tarps.
Sheena figured this was to make sure no stones from the cave's ceiling would fall on someone's head.
"What is this place?" Colette marveled.
"Hm. This almost looks like a town. But situated underground. But with all those weapons, it could be a kind of hide out."
"That could mean baddies, right?" The Chosen asked a little scared.
"Could very well be."
"Yoehoe! Up here!"
Zelos' voice sounded from above. He was standing on one of the buildings, an opening was in the wood, offering a clear view. He jumped down with grace, throwing in a flip for good measure, before landing on his feet.
Show off, Sheena thought to herself, rolling her eyes.
"I know what you are thinking, Yubblies. And you would have done the exact same!" The red head pointed an accusatory finger at her.
He was not wrong. But in straight denial, she shook her head.
"Oeh, what you got there, Zelos?"
"Ah, my dear little angel. I found this up in a shack along with a large number of bananas. Didn't really bother with those."
Zelos showed the item that was shimmering gold. It seemed to be a very extravagant helmet, set with jewels and an almost divine headpiece.
"This is getting stranger and stranger. You wouldn't leave something this valuable behind." Sheena remarked.
The other two nodded in agreement, being just as puzzled.
"Well, we won't find answers standing around. Let's keep going and find more clues. Or a way out."
So Zelos took the lead, following down the next tunnel. Even with the fact that this was in a cave, the ceilings were up high, so it didn't feel as cramped. Maybe at one point, there used to be a civilization here, long ago. Sheena was curious about this as well.
"Next to the mess, it seems like this place is empty. You think Lloyd or Kratos went through?" Zelos folded his arms behind his head while they walked on.
"Zelos! You aren't suggesting either of them did something to the people who were here?" Colette asked in shock.
"Well, Lloyd wouldn't do such a thing. Kratos, I'm not too sure."
"What..."
"Hello! Anyone? Please, help me!"
A female voice called out, even though it sounded weak, they could still hear it. It seemed to come from above the trio. They soon found a ladder that led up to a small platform. There was a jail cell, and behind the bars was a woman with red hair and tanned skin. She looked very dehydrated and starved.
"Oh no, who dares to put such a beauty behind bars? You poor dear."
Zelos stepped closer, but Sheena quickly pulled him back. "You're not going to wonder why she's in there in the first place?"
The two shared a look, while Colette stepped closer, grabbing her bag and taking out bread with a field bottle of water.
"It isn't much, but I hope it helps," she said while she offered this to the lady.
The red haired woman very thankfully took it, and started eating, drinking in between.
"Thank you. I thought I was done for."
"Colette, you really have to good of a heart." Sheena remarked, shaking her head. But she and Zelos joined by the Chosen's side.
"So, why are you in here?" Sheena asked, crossing her arms.
"I am from the near city Gerudo, and one of the chief's guards. My name is Barta. I was here for an artifact, but I got caught."
The woman looked ashamed and she sighed. She continued with trouble. "They really didn't care for my welfare. But then suddenly, they left in a real hurry. I have no clue why or exactly how long ago this was. Can you please help me out of here?"
Colette looked at Sheena for this. "She doesn't seem to have ill intent."
"'Sides, she's weakened because of dehydration." Zelos added.
Barta looked angry at that comment, but she couldn't really deny. These strangely dressed people did give her food and water and were probably her way out.
"Fine then. Stand back. Zelos, with me."
Sheena took a couple of steps back and Zelos knew right away what she wanted to do. Barta backed away while a countdown from three started. They both took a small running start and kicked at the lock of the door. It cracked and broke open.
Zelos then stepped in and offered the woman his hand. "Can you stand?"
"I think I need a shoulder." Barta took the hand offered and let herself be pulled up.
It was almost funny to see two redheads next to each other, Colette couldn't help but smile. Zelos let Barta rest mostly on his shoulder as they stepped out.
"Is there any where we can bring you, where you can get the right help and care?"
"Gerudo town would be best. It's quit a walk. But we can go the fast way. We will need some shields for that."
The three frowned at this, but decided not to ask. This world was foreign to them after all. This woman would know better.
"Well, the... Who was it who left you in here?" Zelos asked.
"Yiga. They are a gang of masked people in red. They are very sneaky, dirty fighters."
"I see. It does seem they have left enough stuff behind."
Sheena already went ahead, back down the ladder. They helped Barta to the ground and collected a couple of shields.
"This was their base, a very good one. It was well populated and guarded. I do not understand what made them leave."
"You should save your energy, beautiful. Now, where do we go? Just follow the way?"
Barta decided to nod to this, not in a ways to argue. They walked on through the tall hall, but it got lower, like an actual cave. This was supposed to be the way in, it seemed. It lead to a hall way with a big torch in the middle and a lot of flags hung up against the walls.
The red haired woman looked at the red flag with the upside-down crying eye with a certain hatred and disgust.
"The way out, or in? Seems pretty clear. Is this really a hide out?" Sheena tilted her head, looking around.
"It was very well guarded." Barta said again, while Zelos helped her along outside.
The heat hit hard, along with all the sand blowing around, even though they were surrounded by cliff walls.
"Oh, are we in a desert?" Colette marveled, picking at the sand at her feet.
"How could you not notice that if you got to this base?" Barta was confused now, still having trouble talking. The heat didn't help the situation.
"The shields, what are they for?"
Zelos deliberately dodged the question, but also hurried things along.
"Seal surfing sandseals. Use the ropes as lassos. Approach them carefully." She was literally feeling the heat, pointing at two figures up ahead.
Sheena decided to take a closer look, and looked back, surprised.
"They really are like big seals. Well, maybe more like a walrus. In the sand."
"We are surfing behind them on the shields, in the sand? That is awesome!" Zelos was in right away.
"Keep it down, don't chase them away. I guess two will have to do."
The ninja took the ropes, spinning them, ready to lasso the seals. Of course, she had no trouble and the seals seemed fairly alright with it, staying put as long as the ropes were tugging them back.
"Right. I'll hold on to Barta. I think she's gonna pass out any minute."
"As long as you keep just one arm around her, in one place."
"Honey, just what do you take me for?" Zelos put up a hurt face.
"Which way, Barta?"
"East." The woman muttered before she indeed passed out.
So Zelos had to hold her with one arm, while he used his free hand to steer the seal with. It was a rough start and all the sand certainly made it worse, because of poor sight. But once they got the hang of it, it was pretty great. They were surfing, on a shield, in a desert, with a seal!
Wait until Lloyd hears about this! This thought glomed Zelos immediately. Of course, he was worried about his best bud. If he really was here, who knows what kind of trouble he was in? Sure, he can fend for himself, but still!
When they passed by stone structures that seemed to be a really beat up ruin, a place showed up in the distance. A mostly square shape. Out of it, different shapes stuck out, like domes and towers. It clearly a city, protected by walls. They all wanted to bet this was the place Barta had talked about.
The seals thankfully were fast and they got there in a good time. Zelos his arms were getting tired. At the front of the wall, there was one open way in, guarded by two big muscled, red haired women. They were armed with long spears, which they crossed when the small group came closer.
"State your business, strangers," one of the guards ordered.
"Uhm, well. We found this woman," Colette gestured to Barta, who now kind of hang off Zelos' shoulder, "in a hideout cell. She isn't doing well and asked us to bring her here."
The guards exchanged a look. One stepped closer to have a better look.
"Yes. This is Barta. One of the guards' guild that went missing almost a week ago."
"Should I inform the chief?" The other guard asked.
"Hm, then you might as well take her along. She seems in a bad way."
The guard closest to them, eyed Colette and Sheena. "You two are allowed to come with. I am sure the chief would like to thank you personally and will also have some questions for you."
"Eh, what about me? Hey!"
The other guard had come closer and just picked Barta away from Zelos, gently laying her over her own shoulder with little effort. A not so kind look was aimed at the man.
"No Voe allowed in Gerudo town."
Both guards studied him for a moment.
"You think he's...?"
"Can't be, not the right skin or eye colour."
They debated with each other without really lowering their voices.
"What does 'voe' mean? I carried her you know. I deserve a thank you as well!" Zelos didn't like to be ignored.
"No men are allowed in. No exceptions."
"What kind of weird rule is that?"
This remark, got him a scary look from Sheena. "Be quiet, Zelos! We must respect their rules, this is their place. Just stay here, don't get yourself or us into trouble!"
Zelos pouted at this, but nodded.
"We promise not to take too long, okay? You take a bit of well-deserved rest."
These kind words came from Colette, bless her soul. Her kind smile and words would brighten up anyone.
"I will." He smiled back at her with a nod.
The guard carrying Barta walked on, waving the girls along. The other guard went back to her position, giving Zelos a 'back off' glare. So, he just did, taking a couple of steps away. He decided to walk along the wall, to investigate.
A couple of men were taking cover from the sandy winds and harsh sun under a tarp.
"Hey there, traveler. Couldn't get in either, ey? Join the club. We got some drinks to forget about our troubles."
A man said, handing Zelos a mug, which contents smelled like mead. He just accepted it and took a small sip. Jup, it was mead. Nothing special really.
"What's up with that dumb rule?" Zelos asked.
The man shrugged, clearly having had one to many already. "Something superstitious. I just...well, we all just came here to check the town full of ladies, you know."
By Martel! I didn't even realize. I must get in! Zelos grabbed the man by the shoulders.
"Pleaseee tell me there is a way in there!"
Gerudo town seemed pretty busy with people. Well, woman. Although some figures didn't seem human at all. Colette and Sheena shared a look because of this. They dared not to ask, but clearly, they were out of their element so to say.
It seemed pretty peaceful, even if there were worried expressions on most faces, there was no panic. They tried to let life go on, still running their stores on the big market place.
Colette looked up to the guard guiding them (she was truly towering above the both of them).
"Is there something going on?"
"Hmf, apart from the sandstorms, the Divine Beast, Molduga, the Yiga and a new mass murderer?" The guard grunted, still sternly looking ahead and moving on.
Colette hardly understood any of that, but it didn't sound good. She could feel the fear and the desperation in the people. But they still tried to keep a brave face, not willing to give in, even in the face of all those bad things.
This hit really close to home. Immediately, she felt compelled to help these people, to take away those fears and give them hope again. It was just how she was.
A couple of stairs led them to the big, main building which seemed to be built like a palace. Some more guards stood on several posts. They were all female, and all the same, red hair, darker skin and strong build.
Their guiding guard stopped by one at the entrance and handed over Barta, asking her to take her to the back for healthcare. When this was done, they were gestured further, to come inside. Well, the palace was a very open concept, so not there weren't many doors. With the heat of the desert, this was needed.
Before they could really move on though, a really big woman blocked their path. She was more adorned then the guard with them, wearing more gold, jewels and sorts.
"What is the meaning of this, Atra? Why did you bring two strangers inside?"
"Captain Buliara, my apologies. These strangers were the ones who found Barta. She was not in great shape, so she is being treated right now. You know what this means, captain. I am sure you and the chief have questions."
Captain Buliara nodded while looking at Coletta and Sheena. Talk about a terrifying presence. Sheena had only felt this when around her master.
"Very well. Thank you, Atra. You can go back to your post. I'll take it from here."
"Yes, ma'am!" Atra saluted and walked of, not greeting the two in the process.
Rude. Then again, she was just doing her job.
"What's going on, Buliara? I would like to be involved."
A young, female voice chimed somewhere behind the big woman. She turned, revealing a red carpet going up a few steps, to a golden throne with a green seat and a very high back. In it was a girl, around Colette's age, or maybe even younger. She was coolly dressed in mostly red and was wearing a golden adornment in her hair that seemed very much like a crown.
Right away, Sheena and Colette bowed, to show their respect.
"Oh, please. No need for that. I'm not a queen, just the chief. Name's Riju. Tell me what brings you here?"
Sheena took it on her to give a quick recap. Of course, she didn't mention how they got in the hideout in the first place. She thought it would be wise to keep quiet about being from another world for now.
"We also have another companion. His name is Zelos, but I understand you don't allow men here. He found something gold and fancy there."
Riju's eyes widened at these last words that came from Colette. She leaned forward, eager it seemed.
"Was it a big helmet, set with stones and an ornament at the front shaped like little bolts of lightning?"
Sheena was unsure, looking at her friend. She put a finger on her chin, thinking about this.
"I believe so. If he was here, he could show you. But we of course respect your rules."
"We will make an exception. Bul, let someone fetch this Zelos guy."
"But chief..."
"He could have the Thunder Helm."
The fierce look in the young girl's eyes, made Buliara shut up. She knew how much this meant for their oh so young chief. It was more than good protection, it had real sentimental value. So, the captain bowed her head and ordered one of the guards to fetch this so called Zelos.
"You already did us a great service bringing Barta back to us. For this, I thank you. And if you really found the Thunder Helm, we really owe you."
"Oh, we just kind of stumbled upon it. Don't think too much of it." Colette said, humble as ever. "And my name is Colette, by the way."
"And I am Sheena. I do have a question, if I may."
"Of course, go ahead."
Riju made a welcoming gesture. It released a bit of the tension.
"We are looking for a friend of ours. His name is Lloyd...Wait, I just realized you do not allow guys in here." The ninja's face fell.
"We do not. But we do keep a record of every face that stands before our walls. Maybe your friend was turned away. What did he look like?"
Buliara made a gesture to a far guard, who came to her immediately and presented a book to her.
"Also, how long ago could this have been?"
"Well, we've been missing him for about eight days now. He's got brown hair that is in a messy style. Light brown eyes and he mostly wears red, together with his duel wield swords."
"Don't forget about his goofy smile, Colette."
"It's not goofy. Its kind."
The blond said softly, looking to the ground. By Martel, did she miss that smile. She missed everything about him.
With a slight frown, Buliara browsed the latest pages of the book.
"I'm fairly sure no one was seen with that description."
"I'm sorry, girls." Riju gave them an apologetic look.
"That is okay. We will keep looking. We won't stop until we find him." The Chosen said.
"Of course not! Bud will be found!"
Zelos was brought in, held by each arm by a guard. This made Sheena narrow her eyes at him.
"What did you do?"
"He started romancing woman the moment we allowed him in the town," one of the guards answered, clearly not amused.
"Don't look at me like that, honey. This is a place full of women. How can I possibly contain myself?"
"How about respecting the rules and personal space of others?" Sheena gave him an earful and the guards let go of the redhead, only setting one step back.
"Please, can you show me what you have found?" Riju was keen and so inpatient.
"Well, look at you. Ah, the beauty of youth." Zelos cooed.
When he was met with cold stares, he mumbled and got out the golden ornament out his pack. Starry eyed, Riju reached out. Her captain took the helmet from Zelos' hands and studied it for a moment, before handing it to her chief.
"It seems to be real."
Riju had her eyes glued to the helmet, turning it around, up and down, holding it at angles. And then releasing a sound of happiness and relief.
"It's finally back. The Thunder Helmet is back where it belongs! I was almost afraid it would be lost forever..."
A tear glinted in her eye, and she pressed the helmet against her chest like it was a well cherished stuffed animal.
Buliara cleared her throat as she turned to the three. "We truly owe you. A treasured heirloom has been brought back safely. You have our deepest gratitude."
The captain bowed her head. It was clear this was important to them, for more than one reason. "Is there anything we can do in return?"
"Well, after all that heat, I could use a good place to rest and some nice food." Zelos remarked.
"You don't say that, you idiot." Sheena glared at him.
"Stay, for dinner and the night." The young chief offered very kindly. It was clear the gears in her head were turning, but there was no knowing what she was thinking about.
"Chief Riju..."
"We have the room. And we owe them this little in return. Make the arrangements with our people."
Zelos noted the girl said 'our people' instead of servants. He respected and appreciated that. The captain bowed her head and did she was told.
"Not that we don't appreciate the kind gesture, but..."
"The desert is too dangerous at night," Riju interrupted Sheena. "Not only for the cold, but also the monsters lurking around. If you don't know the way, you'll be lost forever."
A lady came to them and bowed lightly.
"Honored guest, will you please follow me to your rooms for tonight?"
"See you later."
Riju smiled and waved while the trio was ushered to come along. When they were out of sight, she sighed, looking down at the helmet.
"One step closer, and yet, still so far away. Link, where are you? Why is someone posing as you, trying to spread disappear?"
She leaned back in the giant chair and looked up to the sandstone ceiling. Like the chair, she had big shoes to fill. The people depended on their chief, but their chief was just a child. How could she life up to her mother, in these great times of turmoil?
With a sigh, Riju got out of the chair and started walking, deep in thought and still holding on to the helmet.
Zelos looked around the room he was brought to. It kind of reminded him of home, only a lot more open. Of course, Sheena and Colette were impressed with their own rooms and felt like they didn't really deserve such good treatment.
The lady that had showed them to their rooms, bowed once again. "You are now free to roam the building. Just please do not leave it. Is there anything I can do for you now?"
"I got a question. Why does it look like a palace, yet you only have a chief and not a queen?" Zelos was curious to know, while he dropped himself on the grand couch. The two ladies took a seat more decently.
"That is out of respect for the late king of Hyrule. Even though he was sadly lost, we will honor him still."
The three shared a look, they were just at the start of understanding everything here.
"If there is anything else, you can speak to any of our people. I will go help with dinner, which will be in about an hour." She nodded in greeting and left the room.
"So... now what?" Sheena asked the question that was on everyone's mind.
No one really had an answer. Zelos' eye fell on the map that was hung on the wall in a fancy list. They all gathered around it and finally saw the whole world they ended up in.
"We really are in a different world." Sheena said softly.
"You saw the strange creatures among the people while coming to this place, right? Thought that was proof enough."
"Of course, Zelos. But this not like Theta'alla and Sylvarant," Colette remarked.
"Because of the lack of mana?" The ninja leaned against the wall. "I mean, I've been in the world where it was lacking. But here, it is..."
"None existent."
The girls nodded to Zelos his definition. It was a really weird feeling. Like a piece of yourself was missing. Luckily, it wasn't like air; they didn't need it to stay alive. It was more the world itself that did.
"We can't do much now. We know Lloyd isn't here. That opens up a whole lot more possibilities."
Sheena glanced at the map. "It is a pretty big world, but where we are now seems pretty enclosed. I think we need to leave this desert."
Nodding, Colette studied the map again. She noted there were not many towns on it. Was this with intend or was there something else going on? From what the guard said to them earlier, even though it mostly were things she didn't understand, she'd say so.
"Let us keep a low profile. We already stand out. But I don't think they should know where we came from."
"Alright, little Angel."
"Also, no flirting, Zelos Wilder!" Sheena pointed a finger at the red head.
"That's like telling me not the breath! This place is full of woman. C'mon!"
"We are here for Lloyd."
This remark from Colette, made him back down. Of course, he was worried about his bud. The sooner he knew he was alright, the better.
"I'm gonna walk around a bit. Maybe gather some information. You both should do the same."
Sheena stood up straight and they all nodded to each other, after which they all went a different direction.
The ninja herself was in her element, eavesdropping on people was something she was good at. But when you are a guest of honor and you don't fit into the surroundings, it made things harder.
She did hear mention this strange Divine Beast again, and how it was causing thunder and sandstorms and outright made a part of the desert hard to reach. Was it a sort of monster? Riju did mention monsters before, so they weren't strange in this world. But no doubt different, thinking back to the boulder creature they saw at the market. It walked and talked like a normal person would. Very strange indeed.
Walking past an arch to a big balcony, Sheena stopped herself and stepped back. Riju was standing there, near the stone balustrade of the balcony, looking out absentmindedly, while still holding on to the golden helmet.
With a very deliberate loud step, Sheena approached her, not wanting to startle the girl. She looked back for moment, showed a sad smile and turned back her gaze.
"I love the view up here," she said softly.
It did give a great overlook of the town, and the desert beyond. Sheena nodded while she went to stand next to her, looking out for a moment as well. Then, she turned her gaze to the chief.
"That helmet means a lot to you, don't it?"
Riju looked down to it and caressed it for a moment. "It will help a great deal with getting down the Divine Beast. But I am just happy to have back this heirloom. The one thing my mother left for me when she passed away."
"That is why you are such a young chief. I am sorry for your loss."
She smiled a sad smile again. "She was a good chief and a great mother. It was bad enough to lose her. But to lose this..." Riju tapped the helmet, "just showed how incompetent I am."
"Hey, don't be so hard on yourself. You were forced into this position. There's no way you were prepared for it at your age. And still all the responsibilities are put on you. People expect you to just do it without a sweat. And you don't want to disappoint your people. That's a lot of pressure on a young girl like you. So, don't punish yourself if something goes wrong. Instead, you can always ask for help. There's no shame in doing that and no one will think less of you."
Riju looked at Sheena for this unexpected speech. It clearly came from the heart. Heck, she spoke out of her own experience. Sheena remembered how it was, being a summoner at such a young age, and having to go to Volt.
The thought still made her shiver and close to crying every time. It was a failure she could never make up for. And she was to ashamed to ask for help. All she ever did after that was in hopes to make amends, desperately so.
"I really appreciate you saying that. And thank you again, for bringing the helmet back here. This brings us a step closer to claiming the desert back."
"Only a step?"
Riju sighed and nodded. "We need the hero to show up still. He is the only one that can stop the Divine Beast. But with the Pass still closed off... Wait a minute."
The girl perked up, looking at Sheena again. "You said the hide out was deserted, right?"
"Yes, completely."
"Bulaira, come here."
It seemed the captain was never far away, because the giant woman was there within seconds.
"Yes, my chief?"
"How big is the chance that the Yiga also left their post at the Pass?"
Bulaira had to think about this, cupping her chin in thought. "There is a good chance, yes. We can send scouts tomorrow morning to investigate."
"Yes, please do that."
Sheena remembered something called a pass on the map. It seemed to be the only road out of this desert.
"Can we come along?"
At this request, the both of them looked at her with a frown.
"We need to leave the desert, to look further. And your scouts know the best way through it to get there. I promise you we won't be an inconvenience. We can fight if it comes down to that."
"I am not certain..."
"Let them join the scouts. There is no harm in it. We have enough sandseals, don't we?" Riju interrupted the captain's doubts.
"I suppose. You can join as you like."
"Again, we won't be a burden, I promise."
Bulaira nodded to Sheena's words and left to make arrangements. Such a busy lady.
Zelos more or less strolled through the palace, feeling kind of at home. Aside from all the female guards of course.
No flirting, puh! How could he resist? The ladies were very exposed. The muscles were just a plus in his book. Sure, he didn't mind saving damsels in distress, a woman who can fight for herself was attractive as well. So, he gingerly approached a guard.
"I don't know what is hotter; you or the sun above this desert, but I'm betting on the first," he said winking. It was a little awkward having to look up to her, but that wouldn't back him down.
Zelos had good reflexes and it proved useful. The woman went for a punch in his ribs, but he jumped aside just in time.
"Whoa, easy there! I am an honored guest here, you know."
"That doesn't mean you can do what you please. It is disrespectful, scrawny."
"Scrawny? Hold on, I aint weak. I can fight just as well, you know!"
She narrowed her eyes at him. "Proof it."
Oh, wait until Sheena hears about this. Zelos grinned at the thought while he followed the guard to a place that was clearly meant as a training ground. A lot of guards were there, sparring with each other or with dolls.
They all looked his way when Zelos entered their domain. He did note that his red locks drew a lot of attention, so he waved them around. Everyone seemed to be a redhead, clearly, they had good taste and knew what was very attractive. But the ladies looked not amused, to say the least. Just what was their deal, Zelos wondered.
They entered a slightly raised square, meant as an arena. The guard threw aside her big glaive.
"No weapons."
"Fine with me."
Zelos shrugged. He pulled his short sword and threw it out the ring. It slightly sunk into the sandstone floor.
Both raised their fists, looking ready as ever. Another member took it upon herself to count down for them. Zelos will not hold back. The woman requested this, so he was determent to show all of his strength. Countdown reached one and they both went in, going for a punch.
It wasn't her first time in a palace. But still, one of the rare times Colette could roam freely. In Meltokio, she never really got that chance.
It seemed all royals were a fan of gold. There were hints if it all around. But at least it was not excessive.
Well raised as she was, Colette wasn't opening any closed doors. There weren't to many, only to the private chambers, like the rooms they were allowed to stay.
There was even a small spa, and that had no door! Hopefully Zelos won't come across this. There were guards standing close, which Colette suspected were put there just for that reason. She smiled and nodded kindly at them, after taking a curious look, but not going inside.
There was no way she could relax right now. She was too worried about the whole situation. A guilty feeling was at the pit of her stomach. After all, she dragged Zelos and Sheena into this. Into a whole different world they knew nothing about.
Just asking, that seemed to her as too risky. Besides, it seemed the people here had enough on their mind. So, Colette was hoping to find a library, or at least some books with some needed information.
She passed another door-less room, but halted and stepped back. The little room was full of candles and cushions in warm, calm color schemes. On its own small alter, stood a statue about as big as a small dog.
It was a woman without real facial features, but long hair and angel wings. Quietly Colette stepped closer to the alter. She studied the writing alongside it.
'Offer prayer to the Goddess Hylia.' Hylia, huh? There was not much to go off on, but the angel wings surely made this seem at least heavenly. It actually gave Colette a peace of mind. They knew gods here, and maybe angels as well.
Like the statue, Colette folded her hands together, bowed her head and started her prayer.
{ Oh Goddess Hylia, please hear me. I know you do not know me. I am new to this world. I am at your mercy, together with my friends. I beg of you to grant us protection. And also to our lost friend, Lloyd. }
{ Did you say Lloyd? } A faint, female voice sounded in her head. She sounded weak however.
Colette kept herself collected. It wasn't the first time she was spoken to in prayer.
{ I did. Lloyd is a good friend of mine. Am I addressing Hylia? }
{ What? No... } A moment of silence set in.
An image then started to form in her mind. Well, it was a lot of darkness, with only a young woman in the midst of it. Just like Colette, she had long, blond hair and wore white. However, her dress was torn and filthy, and her eyes had a dull green color that looked very tired. She took a breath and spoke again.
"I am Zelda. I have spoken to Lloyd. I saw him, pictured in your mind. I am sure he is...the same."
"Really?" Colette was relieved and happy to hear this. But the state of this girl, who didn't look much older than herself, made her worry.
"Do you need help?"
Zelda closed her eyes for a moment. She was using a lot of extra resource here, but she felt she owed this girl an explanation at the very least.
"I do not have much time. Our hero was taken from us. Lloyd was chosen for his replacement. He is our last hope, to stop Ganon."
Colette realized this was not the time ask questions about all of this.
"So, is he alright? Is there anything we can do to help?"
"Find him...find Link."
The scene faded. Or rather, Zelda seemed to be swallowed up in the darkness. With a jolt, Colette raised her head and looked around. But she was alone in this little chapel. Well, at the very least she now was sure Lloyd was in this world. But there were still a lot of unanswered questions.
Just what was this Zelda caught by? It seemed so much like the scene she herself was in when in angel mode. But in this case, it was sheer darkness. It felt the same as what she felt together with Kratos, what he chased after. So, it was for certain he was here as well.
What was this Link that she mentioned? A link to what? Confused and in thought, Colette walked on, no longer really paying attention to her surroundings.
"Hey Colette. Hellooo."
Sheena spotted the blond Chosen when she had her talk with Riju. But it seemed she was pretty deep in thought, so she waved her hand before her eyes.
"Huh?" Colette tripped over her own feet, and she took Sheena with her, toppling into a balcony.
Their view was a big muscled guard fighting with Zelos, who just went for punch.
"Zelos!" Both girls yelled in shock at the same time.
The redhead Chosen looked up at this, which left him wide open for the upcoming punch. It threw him right out of the ring.
"Auchie..." Zelos rubbed his upper arm where he'd been hit as he stood up. Not looking happy, he picked his sword back up and put this back on his belt.
"You did good."
The female guard smiled widely as she stepped towards him and held out her hand.
"Yeah well, you too." He wanted to shake her hand, but she took hold of his wrist to shake that way.
Zelos then directed his gaze up, to spot the two girls that broke his concentration. Sheena helped Colette back up from their combined tumble. Such clumsy girls.
"Hey girls, what's up?" he grinned at them.
"What's up? Why are you fighting a guard, a woman even?" Sheena called out upset.
The redhead shrugged. "She asked me herself."
Sheena opened her mouth to retort, but the sound of a gong rang through the building.
"Ah, time to go home."
The guard just smiled and nodded to Zelos. She and most of the others there, left the raining area. The woman that showed them the guest rooms, come up behind the girls on the balcony.
"Dinner is ready. If you please follow me?"
Zelos waited and joined them, following the lady to another big room, with a long table set full of food. A lot of woman were already seated, most seem in their twenties or thirties.
Riju was standing at the head, smiling kindly. On a special stand, the Thunder helmet was displayed close by.
"Please, take a seat, guests of honor. Thanks to you, a new hope has sparked. The least we can do in return is share a meal with you."
As requested, the three took a seat; three seats close to Riju were kept free for them. On her other side, set a young girl, maybe around ten years old. But she was shaking like a leaf, just staring at her plate absentmindedly.
Riju picked up a cup and raised it. "Cheers, to our guests."
The rest cheered to this as asked, which made the three a little shy. The food standing ready was varied; from rise to potatoes and small pieces of meat. There was enough choice, but all in proportion. No over abundance of food, but just enough.
Sheena suspected this was so there was no waste of food. The drink they were given was fruit like and a little sweet. All in all, a good dinner, filled with small talk. Luckily, no one really asked questions the three could not really answer.
The women all were part of the staff, but it was clear Riju didn't see them as such. She treated them as friends, equals.
When all was done, they cleaned up the table, but Riju gestured to her guests to stay seated. The young girl did so as well. She hadn't moved much and hardly eaten anything. The woman with her had to feed her.
"Still no real progress then?" Riju looked at the woman caring for the girl.
"It is slow, chief. At least, I got her to eat, even if it's very little. Just with everything else. Poor thing went through a lot."
Riju nodded to this, with all the compassion in the world. "You can take her back to her room."
The woman bowed her head and very carefully took the girl by the hand to guide her along. No sudden movements, no force involved.
"What's wrong with that girl?" Colette asked softly, even though they were out of earshot.
The young chief sighed. "A very traumatic experience. She came to the town a little over a week ago. A crying, broken mess. Through her nightmare terrors and what little words she can muster, we pieced it together, bit by bit. She was living in the Oasis, just having a normal day. But when darkness crept in, so did something else. It tortured and murdered all the people there in cold blood, all the while it made her watch."
"That is terrible."
"And that's not even all. This...thing was made to look like the hero, but a very dark representation of him. Of course, in hopes to make people despair even more."
Riju clenched her fist and slammed it on the table. "I might not have known him personally, but Link would not do such a thing!"
"Oh...that's a name." Colette realized.
"Huh? Link is a very well-known name. He is the one we are waiting for. He is the one that can free the Divine Beast and defeat Ganon. Lady Urbosa had faith in him, so will I."
Sheena and Zelos had a look of confusion and concern on their face. Colette was more sorrow and pity.
"I'm sorry you are having such troubling times."
"It's not something you can really help. We just have to stay strong. We Gerudo are a strong race. We will keep standing and endure!"
"That is good to hear." A slow, still somewhat sad nod came from Sheena.
"Oh, and the scouts have been arranged. They will leave after breakfast, so you should ready yourselves for that. I have arranged some previsions for you and you'll be traveling by sandseal."
"Hold on, what?" Zelos looked confused, as well as Colette. They both looked at Sheena, who was mostly addressed here.
"Well, some scouts are going to see if the exit of the desert is still blocked by Yiga and I figured we should join since we won't be finding Lloyd here."
"Again, you should ready yourself for that. I have some things to attend to myself. I will see you all tomorrow morning. Have a good night."
The chief stood up, nodded to them in greeting and walked off, taking along the helmet with her. As if she was afraid that if she lost sight of it, she'd lose it again.
"Alright, let's talk in my room." Sheena already went ahead, so the other two just followed.
Colette took a seat on the couch, as did Sheena, but Zelos just leaned against the back of a chair. He glared at the ninja.
"Why did you volunteer us to go with some scouts?"
"Look, we are in the middle of a desert. At the only place where people live. And they haven't seen anyone with Lloyd's description. Those scouts are going to the only way out of here. It's our safest and best bet. They know the save way there."
"We need to go to another place where people life, to get more information." Colette softly realized.
"Yeah, you got it."
"Would at least be nice to first talk it over with us."
"It was a spur of the moment, Zelos. I'm sure you would have done the same thing."
He made 'hmf' face at this, both of them looking displeased with each other.
"Uhm, I offered a prayer to the goddess of this world, Hylia." Colette started softly. They both looked at her, expecting her to continue. "I spoke to someone, in my mind. She called herself Zelda. She seemed to be trapped in very dark surroundings."
The blond Chosen embraced herself at this. The thought gave her chills, a very unsettling feeling. Zelos came to stand next to her, looking concerned and laying a hand on her shoulder.
"Are you okay?"
"It was just very...recognizable, yet different. She seemed to be in her own sort of prison. Because of this, she was not able to tell me much."
And Colette told them what she was told. At least now, the name of the hero was known. But it was still confusing. Zelos scratched the back of his head.
"Man, I wish we knew more of this place. Why is bud playing the hero anyway?"
"You've heard how the people are clearly in trouble. Something is going on that makes them distort. And you know how Lloyd is about people being in trouble."
"Leave no people in a bad place. Yeah, I know Jubblies." He sighed and sat on the armrest of the couch.
"I did find some books, you know. I don't know how helpful they will be. But it's all about history."
Sheena gestured to three books that were set on the table. Their titles were: 'Rulers of Hyrule,' 'How places came to be,' and 'Legends and Gods.' all of the books were counting loads of pages and Zelos groaned at this.
"We should've brought the professor and twerp along. They at least are fast readers. For us, this is surely gonna be an all-nighter."
"It cannot be helped." Sheena shrugged and picked up the book about places.
Zelos went for the rulers and that left Colette with legends. The quiet set in for some time, as they were all reading. Zelos was the first to go from reading to leafing through.
"All about the monarchy of this place. Not really interesting or useful. What about you, Jubblies?"
"Stop calling me that." Sheena knew that was never going to happen and sighed. "It's about all the towns and cities. how they were built, how some fell and others thrived. The mention of other races is interesting though."
They learned about the Goron, Zora, Rito Hyrulians and Gerudo.
"So, there are bird people here, that are friendly. They are not like harpies. Keep that in mind," warned Sheena.
"We will. Are there any dangerous ones out there?" Colette wanted to know.
And yes, the book did mention all the creatures walking around, including the variations.
"Under the sand, there possibly can be a lizard creature? That's not a nice thought." The red-haired Chosen made a face.
"And there is even a sand monster. It's the one we heard mentioned before." Colette shivered. It was described like a whale in the sand, but as dangerous as a shark. Luckily it kept to specific area's and they'd seen the map; it won't be on route of getting out of the desert.
"What's in your book, little angel?"
"Well, it is a bit confusing. It mentions these are legends, but they are also true. And a hero is mentioned. The strangest part is that it's a constant repeat, like a vicious circle."
And so, the blond Chosen told them the legend she read about. Was Lloyd dragged into this? So yes, why and how? What happened to the real hero what someone from a completely different world was needed?
"My guess is, that the bad energy Kratos and I felt, was this Ganon, the evil entity that is mentioned. It's the mean thing the people here fear. But I can't find any mention of these Divine Beast things and what kind of influence Ganon has at the moment."
"Maybe that is something recent. From what you told us, it happens every so often and then the good guys have to jump in to stop it. It's almost like how the Chosen ritual went."
"Not really, Zelos." Sheena remarked with a frown. "I get that you want to relate it to something, but..."
"Hey, there is even a wish involved if you put all three pieces together. Just like with the eternal sword."
The ninja just shook her head at this. "At the very least we know more. We just have ask the right people about this Link guy."
"Don't forget Lloyd!"
"No, of course not, Colette. Come on, lets get some shut eye while we still can."
They all went to their own rooms to do just that.