Chapter 155 - Hyrule Invasion - Part 3
Summary: Battles continue across Hyrule as forces work to contain attacks originating from corrupted shrines. A massive group of monsters moving south from the Hebra Region poses a future threat to Rito Village and beyond. Link and a contingent of Zora guards reach the shrine in Ulria Grotto, freeing Ruta for other tasks. Linky takes center stage as he makes an ill-advised trip to help liberate Hateno Village that goes awry.
After finishing his review of the list of shrines Zelda had sent him, Link had gone back into the water and fell into a deep sleep as he floated alongside Mipha inside Divine Beast Vah Ruta. His mind drifted off into a strange dream.
Link was floating in a large body of water alongside Mipha, but she looked different: her skin was a brighter shade of red than he remembered. She also looked incredibly beautiful, even more so than before. How could he not have noticed that? He couldn't take his eyes off her!
"You're staring, sweetheart, like you don't remember me," said Mipha. "Again, I might add."
"It's just that you're so breathtakingly beautiful!" said Link.
"What a funny Hylian expression, but thank you!" Mipha laughed as she extended her hand. "Come, join me."
Link took her hand, and Mipha pulled him underwater with her. He started to panic that he couldn't breathe. Then he suddenly stopped worrying. He didn't need to breathe somehow. The water was cold, clear, rejuvenating even, and felt perfect to be in. Sunlight filtered through the waves above them as a small school of Hyrule Bass scattered upon their approach. He could hear everything in the water now, the click of crab claws, the splash of fish breaking the surface to snare an unwary insect, the scraping of sand along the lakebed. Mipha looked over at him and smiled. Her smile had changed a bit too. It was still the same sweet smile he couldn't resist since their first kiss, but it was more confident now. She knew he loved her, that he was all hers, and he certainly was. And he knew that she was all his, and knowing that felt incredible. Her eyes glowed gold in the sunlight, and it gave him a warm feeling that grew inside him as he gazed into them. They both coasted to a stop underwater as if they could read each other's thoughts. Then they pulled each other close, embraced, and as they closed their eyes, their lips met. She caressed his cheek lightly as they held their mouths pressed together, their kiss seemingly endless. He felt his desire for her growing with each moment, his pleasure kissing her similar to what he remembered but different too. He pulled her tighter and caressed her impossibly soft, smooth skin.
Then Link gasped and woke up. He was floating in the water inside Ruta, and Mipha was awake and looking over at him, smiling. She brushed his hair back from his forehead.
"You were dreaming, weren't you?" said Mipha.
"Yes, and it was a very sweet dream," said Link.
"Did it involve water?"
"We were together underwater," said Link. "Like we were once upon a time."
"Ruta can have that effect on you," said Mipha. "Maybe we should sleep in Ruta more often. I'm glad we slept, though. We both needed it. But we should get up now."
"Yes," said Link. "Zelda called while you were asleep. She wanted me to remember what the trials were for some shrines. Have you been up long?"
"Not long," said Mipha. "Sidon said our defenses are holding, and we are being attacked only from those two shrines. But the continual combat is putting a strain on everyone, and he has to rotate forces often, letting guards rest. He's also worried that stronger monsters might start appearing, which will take even more guards to contain and risk casualties. Fortunately, Ruta has been able to bottle up the Ulria Grotto shrine, at least. But Sidon needs to rest too. I will need to take over from him for a while."
"Yes, that's fortunate, and I understand," said Link. "If stronger monsters appear here, I can help out. In the meantime, I can lead a contingent of guards to the shrine in the Ulria Grotto if the forces in our way have been thinned out by now. That would free up Ruta. By the way, Zelda said there were fifteen shrines in all where attacks are originating. I should probably also check in with her to see what's new."
Meanwhile, it was mid-day in the Hebra Region as two Rito warriors named Tebra and Makon flew high toward the Hia Miu Shrine in the Icefall Foothills situated at the very northwest corner of Hyrule. Not that you could really tell it was mid-day, as clouds blanketed the entire sky and a steady heavy snowfall made visibility poor. The two Rito warriors banked with the air current, using the wind to glide.
"We're going to have to fly lower," said Tebra as he shook his head. "I can't see a thing from this high up with all this snow."
Makon nodded, and they both did a graceful dive to a lower elevation. From there, you could make out the silhouettes of the barren birch trees that dotted the landscape, as well as the odd shrub and cluster of rocks that jutted through the snow. Looking down, they could now see hundreds of Lizalfos who had been invisible from higher up, blending in as they did with the snow. The Lizalfos seemed to be making their way south along the western edge of Hyrule.
Just then, there was a whirring noise.
"Look out!" shouted Makon, and both jerked to the right as a Lizalfos Forked Boomerang sliced through the air.
Tebra cried out in pain as the weapon grazed him in the leg, then returned to the Icy Breath Lizalfos, who had thrown it from below.
"I'm hit!" Tebra cried. "It got me in the leg!"
"Climb!" shouted Makon, and they both flapped their wings and flew higher as quickly as possible.
"Can you make it back?" Makon asked once they were safely out of range.
"Yes, I think so," winced Tebra. "It's not too bad. Thank Hylia, their weapons are not poisoned."
Just then, they heard a voice from their Tabs.
"Both of you return at once," said a Rito warrior at headquarters. "We got the video feed from your Tabs."
"Understood," said Makon as they both steered a course for home.
Meanwhile, a somewhat similar scenario was playing out near Hebra Peak as two Rito warriors named Hudd and Lafton flew toward the mountain.
"Holy, Hylia!" Hudd exclaimed as they neared the mountain slope.
He and Lafton could make out dozens of four-legged creatures that seemed a mix of horse and beast. Several stopped to look up at them, staring defiantly, as if daring them to approach.
"Do you know what they are?" Lafton asked.
"No, but Master Revali should," said Hudd. "I'm told creatures like these once roamed the land."
One of the creatures took out a bow and launched three Ice Arrows in one shot. The arrows arced toward them, barely missing them wide, then fell harmlessly into the snow.
"Let's get back!" said Lafton. "Those arrows were a lot closer than I would like, and our mission was to observe and report."
Three more Ice Arrows flew by them as the two Rito banked to the left and headed toward Rito Village. They, too, had captured video from their Tabs.
Another pair of Rito had captured enemy movements by the Biron Snowfield shrine, recording a mix of Lizalfos and Moblins heading toward Rito Village. Their surveillance was interrupted by a cloud of Keese that headed their way until they scattered them with a Bomb Arrow. At headquarters, Revali and the Captain of the Rito forces looked over the video streams as they were received.
"There is an enormous number of enemies approaching!" said the Captain in alarm. "We need to discuss our defense plans before they get too close."
"Yes, we will in a moment, but Lynels?" exclaimed Revali, as he examined the video from Hebra Peak. "That's interesting. Do we know if Lynels have been spotted anywhere else in Hyrule?"
"No, Master Revali, at least not so far," said the officer monitoring communications. "Why do you ask?"
"I just wanted to confirm what I should have expected all along," said Revali proudly. "Ganon knows his enemies. Naturally, he would reserve his most powerful monsters to battle his strongest adversary."
"Strongest adversary?" said the officer, looking puzzled and missing Revali's point.
"Me!" said Revali as he gloated a bit. "Please forward our findings to Hyrule Command. Captain, now let's discuss our battle plans."
The Captain nodded as he and Revali stepped aside to confer.
Meanwhile, in North Hyrule, Linky awoke to Tara sleeping in his arms in a slumber pool and Tila watching them. Linky rubbed his eyes as he eased out of the water. He and Tila kissed, then moved away from the slumber pool to talk.
"Any news?" said Linky.
"Yes, Faray and I are receiving regular reports from Zelda," said Tila. "There are monsters emerging from fifteen Hyrule shrines. Faray dispatched a squad from here to deal with the Lizalfos approaching Hateno Village from Tenoko Island. They have the island contained and are seeking out any Lizalfos that left the shrine before they arrived."
"I should have gone with them," said Linky, shaking his head. "I'm still a knight in the service of Hyrule, and I have combat skills. I have a duty to Hyrule, and I should be helping."
Tila looked at him and took his hand.
"I'm not surprised to hear you say that," said Tila. "I hope you won't go, and I'm not sure you're combat skills are up to date. But I won't try to stop you if you feel it's your sworn duty. There is another squad leaving here soon to spell the first squad. You can ride with them if you feel you must go."
"You do understand, don't you, sweetheart?" said Linky.
"I understand your loyalty," said Tila as she took out her Tab. "I just hope you understand how much you mean to Tara and me, how much we want to live our lives with you. I'll let the Lieutenant in charge of the squad know that you will be traveling with them. They are leaving in less than an hour, so you should head for the pier soon."
"It might be best not to mention this to my parents or siblings," said Linky.
Just then, Tara woke up.
"Daddy fell asleep with me again, Mommy!" said Tara.
"That I did," said Linky as he came over to the slumber pool, picked Tara up, and kissed her. "Daddy has to go somewhere to help some people. I'll be back as soon as I can. I love you, you little cutie!"
Linky tweaked her on the cheek, and she giggled, then hugged him back.
"I love you too, Daddy," said Tara.
Then Linky put Tara down and embraced Tila.
"Don't do anything reckless," said Tila as she held him.
"I won't, and I know how to take care of myself," said Linky. "I just can't do nothing for Hyrule. Hateno Village needs help."
Then they kissed.
"My heart goes with you, sweetheart," said Tila. "Return it in one piece."
"I will," said Linky. "Take good care of mine in the meantime."
With that, Linky blew Tara a kiss, then left and headed for the pier. When he arrived, he was greeted by Lieutenant Kalon.
"Ah, Prince Link, Mistress Tila said to expect you," said Kalon. "We're ready if you are."
Three watercraft waited by the pier, and all but the one he was boarding contained five Zora guards. The one he was boarding had three guards. The Lieutenant boarded first and helped Linky to a seat.
"I've never been on one of these," said Linky as he sat down along the port side of the small ship.
"We only built a few of them and only for military purposes, which have been fortunately rare here," said Kalon. "You should hold on when we get past the channel. We go pretty fast, a lot faster than commercial vehicles."
"Can you drop me off onshore near Hateno Village?" said Linky. "I think I can be of most use there."
"Yes, of course, some of us are going there as well," said Kalon. "We have Tenoko Island contained and are eliminating any Lizalfos we find in the water or along the shore."
Link held on as the craft propulsion system started. They slipped quietly out of the harbor and then picked up speed in the channel that led to the Akkala Sea. When they neared where the channel met the sea, Kalon reminded him again to hold on. Then the craft surged forward and began skimming across the water at a speed Linky could not believe. He had never traveled so fast in his life and held on tightly, turning his head to the side to keep the wind from his face.
"Wow!" Linky exclaimed. "Fast indeed!"
Kalon just smiled and nodded as they sped south.
It was only a short time before Linky saw one of the craft veer off and approach Tenoko Island to relieve the guards already there, while his and the other craft headed toward Hateno Beach.
"By the way, the villagers and tourists at Lurelin Village all safely evacuated to the sea," said Kalon. "We're making sure no Lizalfos head their way, and the Bokoblins and Moblins who planned to attack them haven't been able to venture to sea. The villagers took all their boats with them."
One boat veered off again and began patrolling the water while the one Linky was on slowed and coasted into shore. When they reached the beach, everyone got out. Three guards immediately began searching the beach.
"Stay alert," said Kalon. "We don't know for sure how many Lizalfos made it to shore before our first guards arrived. The villagers are largely hiding in their homes now, though some evacuated to the hilltop. There are some Hylian knights guarding the path to the hilltop, and that area seems safe for now."
"Thanks, I will be careful," said Linky as he felt for his sword and bow.
Then, as he prepared to head up the hill toward Hateno Village, Kalon began to accompany him.
"Wait? Are you coming with me?" Linky asked.
"Forgive me, but Mistress Tila told me if I let you out of my sight not to bother returning at all," laughed Kalon. "I think she was sarcastic, but some of my fellow guards have heard her lose her temper with Her Majesty, her sister, and I am reluctant to test the waters."
"Funny, she's never lost her temper with me," laughed Linky. "At least not yet. But I'm glad for the company."
"I think it might be best to avoid the path and reach the village by climbing up the cliffside over here," said Kalon.
They spoke as they climbed the cliff.
"I meant to ask," said Linky. "What weaponry do you use, Kalon? You're not carrying a spear or bow as far as I can see."
"Well, I can always use my Tab to create a spear or bow if I need one. But we're using something more advanced for this mission," said Kalon. "I'll show you when we finish our climb if you like, or later. It's a two-handed weapon that fires a pulse of Ancient Energy wherever you aim it. The device is personalized, matched to each person given one, so I'm the only one who can fire mine. Each guard on this mission has one issued to them. It was developed by the North Hyrule Sheikah to protect our land, and they have restricted its use to special situations such as this."
"I can understand that, I guess," said Linky. "Tila told me you had more advanced weaponry but didn't get into specifics."
"You have to understand that our military is designed around the defense of our land, not the ability to conquer others," said Kalon. "We are small compared to Hyrule, and our forces are not large in number. We rely on technology to defend ourselves. Her Majesty is using a good deal of our forces on these missions. This is the first time in history that an armed military force from North Hyrule has entered Hyrule to engage in combat. Only security guards have traveled here in the past."
"I see," said Linky. "Tila has told me some of what you said, and I am sure Queen Zelda is grateful for any help we can provide. As for weaponry, I'm pretty comfortable with a sword and a bow."
"A sword or spear can certainly be handy when fighting at close quarters," said Kalon. "And I heard how skilled you are with a blade, that you won the swordsmanship competition and served as the Princess of Hyrule's personal knight for a time."
"Yes, I inherited some of my father's combat ability," said Linky.
When they reached a flat area near the top, they decided to approach the village through the Retsam Forest.
"If you haven't yet, you should silence your Tab," said Kalon, and Linky did so after sending a quick message to Tila that he loved her and Tara, and all was well.
Kalon pulled out his Tab and showed the screen to Linky.
"This is a map of the area," said Kalon. "The green dots are Hylians and Zoras. The blue dots are larger animals, such as sheep or cows. The red dots are anything else. We need to investigate those."
Linky looked at the map of the nearby area. It showed numerous green dots clustered inside various buildings, blue dots scattered near a sheep farm, and six red dots in three groups of two each at various locations. None of the dots were significantly moving at the moment.
"This is a valuable technology. Shouldn't we share something like this?" said Linky.
"That's above my rank to decide," said Kalon. "Perhaps you should discuss it with Mistress Tila. There are privacy concerns about using it. Our former Queen, Sopha, was fond of technology like this, using it to keep track of people she distrusted. So, like our weaponry, its use is limited to extraordinary situations like the one we find ourselves in. We should still be careful, though, as it's not infallible. Terrain and surroundings can impact the range and accuracy. But those two red dots over there by Zelkoa Pond should be our first destination."
They moved quietly through the woods, Kalon's weapon over his shoulder and holding his Tab now. The wind from the sea rustled the tree leaves, but the forest was still, the only activity the dash of a Hightail Lizard that scampered away into the foliage. They followed along the shore of small Lake Sumac, confirming no enemies were hidden there, and frightening a Hot Footed Frog into the water and a group of four Bright Chested Ducks into taking flight.
A Sheep Farm lay at the end of the Lake. Kalon's Tab indicated it was unoccupied, but Linky opened the door and entered to make sure while Kalon waited outside. The house was indeed empty, but the unfinished remains of a meal for three lay on the table, indicating their evacuation had been sudden. Linky checked the bedroom upstairs, but there was nothing to see there either.
"I hope whoever was here made it to safety," said Linky as he closed the front door behind him.
"It's likely they did so, given the warning came early," said Kalon. "From reports I received, any Lizalfos that attacked the village did so from the main road. Their path would not have brought them this way. Let's go."
They moved through the pasture, where a number of Highland Sheep and Hateno Cows grazed peacefully. The thick grass blew in the wind, and both Linky and Kalon moved more stealthily now. They hopped over a low fence at the edge of the pasture and paused at the edge of an elevated ridge. From there, you could see Zelkoa Pond and the ancient furnace of blue energy beyond it. They moved forward, hugging the cliff face north of the pond as Kalon kept checking his Tab to assure the red dots hadn't moved.
Finally, Kalon stopped and pointed. The Lizalfos were apparently on the far side of a large tree, still unseen from their vantage point. The skeleton of a partly eaten sheep lay near the tree. Kalon pointed to an area on the cliff that would give them the high ground. Linky nodded, and they both crept up the slope. From there, you could see two Lizalfos laying silently on the ground, their green coloring blending in with the grass and camouflaging them to a casual observer.
They were about to take the Lizalfos by surprise when Linky's foot touched a rock, dislodging it from the high ground they were on and rolling it toward the Lizalfos, awakening both of them. Kalon fired his weapon at one Lizalfos, vaporizing it instantly, but the other jumped up onto the ground next to Linky, brandishing a spear. The Lizalfos hissed and spit, danced left and right several times, then charged with its spear. Linky dodged aside, but his timing was not perfect, and he did not get in any blows, though neither did the Lizalfos. The Lizalfos jumped back, then repeated its charge. This time Linky was ready and timed his sidestep perfectly, allowing him to perform a flurry rush. He landed six blows with his sword in rapid succession, sending the Lizalfos tumbling to the ground. Before it could get up, Kalon vaporized it as well.
"Nice sword work," said Kalon. "That was a bit sloppy, but we got away with it."
"Yes, I should have seen that loose rock," said Linky, shaking his head. "Where to next?"
"The next two red dots are across town, by Firly Pond," said Kalon.
They made their way past some wheat fields toward the village itself, reaching it a few moments later. It was daytime, yet the village seemed deserted, like a ghost town. Shops were closed, and streets were empty, everyone hiding behind locked doors. Kalon kept glancing at his Tab every so often to keep track of where enemies were located, while Linky used his eyes and ears. A light sun shower started to fall as they climbed on top of the hill overlooking Firly Pond, where the village banner waved in the breeze. They could both see where the two Lizalfos were hiding on the far side of the pond behind a large tree, again doing their best to blend in with the grass. This time Kalon had a clear shot at both of them and vaporized them before they could do any more harm.
"Two more to go, and the village should be secure," said Kalon as he shouldered his weapon and consulted his Tab. "These last two are between Camphor Pond and Lake Jarrah."
Linky nodded, then they descended from the hill overlooking Firly Pond.
"How is the rest of your squad doing?" said Linky as they walked through the empty village street.
"Fine," said Kalon. "They eliminated several more Lizalfos on the beach and six more in the water. And of course, we are destroying any that attempt to exit the shrine on Tenoko Island. Stay alert, now. As I said, this map rune is not perfect."
They followed the path out of town and toward Ginner Woods. The scene was otherwise quite picturesque with its rolling grassland interspersed with rock outcroppings and a small waterfall flowing into Nirvata Lake to the north. They paused as the road curved north above Camphor Pond and looked down, Kalon hoping he could spot the enemy from there. But there was no sign of them, and they needed to proceed further. Instead of following the road, they veered to the south and climbed down the slope east of Lake Jarrah.
"I recommend we approach from the side near Lake Jarrah," said Kalon.
"Lead on," said Linky.
They maneuvered along the northern shore of Lake Jarrah, then Kalon again consulted his Tab and pointed towards an area further north where some ruins lay. They made their way quietly, weapons ready, past a vacant cabin. Suddenly there was a movement by one of the trees, and Linky tensed, then relaxed as the cause revealed itself to be a Mountain Goat that scampered away. They approached some old stone walls that dated back to ancient times, and it appeared the enemy was hiding there. Kalon kept glancing at his Tab relative to their location when suddenly the two red dots split into four and began moving their way. The Lizalfos had apparently been hiding in pairs, one on top of the other.
"Watch out, Link!" Kalon cried as he mentally messaged his squad. "It's a trap."
Four Lizalfos had sprung up from behind a wall and rushed toward them. Kalon managed to vaporize one but had no time for a second shot as the second Lizalfos swung its tail, knocking the weapon from Kalon's hand. A moment later, a spear appeared in Kalon's hands, and the battle was on, spear against spear.
Meanwhile, the other two Lizalfos had rushed toward Linky. He backed up against a wall to keep from being surrounded and took out his bow. He had time to freeze one Lizalfos with an Ice Arrow, but the second one charged, and the spear caught him in the side, knocking him down and badly wounding him. Linky clutched his side as he lay on the ground, and the Lizalfos sensed it was time for the kill.
But seeing Linky fall to the ground, Kalon hurled his spear at the Lizalfos about to attack Linky, spearing it in the chest and killing it. The Lizalfos attacking Kalon was surprised by this and watched what happened, hesitating for a moment. This allowed Kalon time to create another spear, and they battled again, spear against spear. Kalon was quite skilled with a spear, however. When the Lizalfos missed a thrust, Kalon spun and speared it through the chest. The Lizalfos vanished in a puff of purple smoke. Kalon then retrieved his fallen weapon, finished off the frozen Lizalfos, and then rushed to Linky's side.
Linky lay on the ground, his hand pressed against the side of his chest.
"Let me see," said Kalon.
Kalon winced as Linky lifted his hand. It was a deep wound and bleeding. Kalon produced a bandage and wrapped it about his body and across the wound.
"Press the wound to try to slow the blood loss," said Kalon. "You need medical attention. Some of my squad are already on the way."
"Tell Tila and Tara, I love them," groaned Linky. "And tell them I'm sorry."
"You can tell them you're sorry yourself, Link," said Kalon. "We're not giving up. But don't talk now. Save your strength."
It was almost half an hour before two guards from Kalon's squad arrived.
"Link is badly hurt. Carry him to the boat as fast as possible," said Kalon. "I'll notify his wife, Mistress Tila, while we're on our way."
They produced a stretcher, placed Linky on it, then began making their way back to Hateno Beach. Kalon took a deep breath, then called Tila.
"Yes, Lieutenant Kalon?" Tila answered at once.
"Mistress, Link has been wounded in a Lizalfos ambush, and we are rushing him back for medical attention," said Kalon.
Tila gasped and was quiet for a moment. Then she recovered her composure.
"How badly is he hurt?" Tila asked.
"It's bad, Mistress, I won't pretend otherwise," said Kalon. "He's losing a good deal of blood. We're on our way to the boat now to return home as quickly as possible for medical attention."
"Wait, don't take him back here," said Tila. "His mother and sister have healing magic. Rush him to their Domain instead."
"As you wish, Mistress," said Kalon as they ended the call.
Tila paused to control her breathing, and then she called Mila.
"Mila, are you at home now?" said Tila.
"Tila? Yes, but what's the matter?"
"It's Link, my husband," said Tila. "They tell me he's been badly wounded at Hateno Village, and they are rushing him to your Domain by boat. Please do whatever you can for him, Mila. It sounds very serious."
"Oh, Nayru! I thought he was safe there with you. Of course, Tila. If they are coming by boat, they will bring him to Lanayru Bay. Send me the number of the officer on the boat, and I will tell them where to meet me."
Mila ended the call, and a moment later, the message from Tila arrived.
Tila put down her Tab, then started to cry.
"Mommy, are you okay?" Tara asked as she stopped playing.
Tila picked Tara up and hugged her.
"Mommy is okay," said Tila, wiping her eyes and holding onto Tara, not wanting to put her down.
Meanwhile, back in Zora's Domain, Lapha and Midon had heard enough to infer the call was about Linky.
"What is it?" Lapha asked.
"Linky's been badly wounded," said Mila. "They're rushing him here from Hateno Village."
"What in Nayru's name was Linky doing in Hateno Village?" Midon exclaimed.
"I don't know," said Mila. "What difference does that make now, Midon? I need to go at once to meet the boat."
"We're all going, Mi," said Lapha.
"Don't say anything to Mom or Dad," said Mila. "I'll take the blame if that turns out to be the wrong decision."
The guards at the entrance to their house by Mikau Lake tried to prevent them from leaving, but Mila insisted this was an emergency, and they could accompany them if they wanted, but nobody was going to stop her from going. The two guards acquiesced but said they would have to report it to Prince Sidon as they followed along. They all rushed to East Reservoir Lake, swam across to the southern end, then dove off the Rutala Dam and swam to the inlet in the Samasa Plain that led to the Lanayru Bay pier.
"Let's keep going," said Mila after reaching the pier. "Minutes matter."
They dove into Lanayru Bay and began swimming to Wintre Island, where the Bay met the Lanayru Sea. When they arrived there, Mila called the number Tila had given her.
"This is Princess Mila," said Mila. "Please meet us by Wintre Island."
"Understood, Mistress Mila," said Kalon.
"How is he?" Mila asked.
"Not good. He's lapsing into unconsciousness," said Kalon. "But we will be there soon."
Mila ended the call, and then they waited.
Kalon and the two Zora guards had earlier reached the shore and carried Linky on board. Then they immediately launched their boat and headed toward Lanayru Bay at full speed.
"Stay with me, Link," said Kalon as he knelt by Linky, and Linky blinked his eyes.
Linky's breathing was labored, and he was still losing blood. He kept closing his eyes, but Kalon kept talking to him, urging him to stay awake, to fight it.
The boat was skimming rapidly across the sea as Mila, and the rest stood on the highest point of the small island and peered to the south. Finally, they saw the small boat speeding toward them, and then the boat slowed as it approached Wintre Island.
"Stay here, we're fine now, and there's no room for so many in the boat," said Mila to the two guards who had accompanied them from their house. They bowed in acknowledgment.
Then Mila, Lapha, and Midon swam out to the boat as it slowed to a stop and boarded it, the two North Hyrule guards jumping off to make room.
"Linky, it's Mila, you're going to be okay," said Mila as she knelt beside him, felt his forehead, then lifted his hand that was pressed against the wound and gently removed the bandage.
Mila closed her eyes for a moment when she saw the injury. It was deep, and he must have already lost a lot of blood. In any case, the first step was healing the wound itself to stop further blood loss. Mila concentrated, and a bright white glow emanated from her hand. She hovered her hand over the wound, and after a few moments, the wound closed and disappeared.
"Linky, stay with me," said Mila as Linky kept nodding off.
"What about his blood loss?" Midon asked. "We can't give him any of our blood. He needs a Hylian. Maybe we need to tell Dad, after all, Mila."
"Let me think," said Mila. "Lapha, you're the scientist here and studied disease. How does the body make blood?"
"From the tissue inside the body's bones," said Lapha.
"Maybe I can stimulate the tissue to produce blood more quickly," said Mila.
"Have you ever done something like that before, Mila?" Midon asked. "You're risking his life! I say we get Dad here as fast as possible for a blood transfusion."
"There's no time, Midon," said Mila. "Look at how Linky is nodding off again."
Linky had closed his eyes and was not responding to their efforts to awaken him. His skin felt cold, and his breathing was labored.
"We're losing him, Mila," said Midon.
"Will you clam up and let me concentrate!" Mila cried out in frustration, then wiped some tears from her eyes.
Lapha put her hand on Mila's shoulder.
"Just do what you can, Mi," said Lapha. "We know you're trying your best."
Mila took a deep breath, then her hand glowed again, and she began running it up, down, and over Linky's inert body as everyone anxiously looked on, and Mila wiped away tears every few minutes.
Just then, Kalon received a call, and he moved away to take it. It was from the Captain of the Guards.
"Yes, Hateno Village is secure, Sir, and you can inform Hyrule Command," said Kalon.
There was a pause.
"One serious injury," said Kalon lowering his voice. "It's Her Majesty's brother-in-law, Link. He's being treated now."
There was another pause.
"I don't know. Yes, it might be a good idea if Her Majesty stayed with Mistress Tila," said Kalon. "She shouldn't be alone with their small daughter at a time like this."
There was another pause.
"Of course, as soon as I know," said Kalon, and the call ended.
Meanwhile, earlier that day, Link stood at the top of the waterfall northwest of Tal Tal Peak and assessed the situation. Since Ruta had eliminated the replenishment of monsters from the shrine in Ulria Grotto, Zora archers had greatly reduced the number of enemies as they attempted to float up using Sky Octoroks.
"I think we can make it to the shrine now," said Link. "I'll take two guards to leave behind at the shrine, and that will free up Ruta."
The officer in charge nodded, and two guards volunteered to accompany Link. When everyone was ready, they dove off the top of the waterfall, landing in the small body of water below. The water was littered with the debris from fallen platforms, but they ignored it and proceeded across the grassy area beyond.
"Stay alert," said Link. "There may be more Lizalfos around."
The shrine was in a cave within the cliff face on the far side of two chasms that could be reached by paragliding across or by circling around on land. Below the first chasm was a small body of water along with a thermal vent, and peering down from above, they noticed five Lizalfos there.
"I can handle these," said Link. "You two go on ahead toward the shrine."
"What? All five?" exclaimed one of the guards.
"Don't worry," said Link. "I'm not going to use my sword. I have Ice Arrows and can get off quite a few shots in a short amount of time."
The guards seemed dubious, so Link told them to watch. Link readied his bow and then jumped off the cliff using his paraglider. When he was low enough, he used his ability to slow time for himself to get off three headshots each on three of the Lizalfos and two on the other two with Ice Arrows before he landed. The first three were destroyed at once, and the last two Link handled with his sword after landing. Then he used his paraglider to ascend the air rising from the thermal vent there.
"See?" said Link as he rejoined the guards.
"Amazing!" one guard said. "I can see how you earned your reputation."
The rest of the trip was uneventful, and as they prepared to take up their position at the shrine, Link called Mipha, who was still inside Ruta.
"You can shut off Ruta's beam now," said Link. "We're ready."
"I'm doing it now," said Mipha as the beam suddenly stopped.
The two Zora guards positioned themselves at the shrine entrance.
"We can handle it from here, Your Highness," said one of the guards.
"Great," said Link. "Your relief will be here when it's time now that the way here is clear."
With that, Link made his way down from the shrine and began to head home, letting Mipha know he was on his way.
Having shut down Ruta, Mipha piloted Ruta back down to East Reservoir Lake, then patted her gently, sealed Ruta's entrance shut, and swam to the northwest pier intending to relieve Sidon and allow him to rest. But when she arrived at the throne room, Sidon was visibly upset and rushed over to her.
"Guards told me Mila, Midon, and Lapha all left in a hurry to Wintre Island," said Sidon. "Nobody is answering their Tabs, and the guards can't see what's happening from where they are."
"Wintre Island?" Mipha exclaimed. "All of them rushed there? I think you can relax for a bit now, Sidon, and let the Captain of the Guards manage things. Everything here is under control for the time being. I'll head for Wintre Island now and learn what's happening."
Mipha left at once and contacted Link on the way.
"Meet me at Wintre Island," said Mipha when Link answered. "Mila, Midon, and Lapha all rushed there. Something is clearly wrong, and nobody is answering their Tab."
"On my way," said Link as he puzzled over what it could be.
Meanwhile, on the North Hyrule military vessel, Mila continued to use her healing magic in an attempt to restore Linky's low blood level. Whenever she healed someone, she thought of her love of all living things and specifically the wound to be healed. In this case, her mind was thinking of the tissue within the bones and imagining that it would produce blood cells faster. As Midon had pointed out, she had never done this before, but it seemed his only hope. He can't die! Please, Nayru, he can't die, Mila silently prayed as she continued to work.
"I think it's working, Mi," cried Lapha, who noticed some color returning to Linky's face.
Encouraged, Mila concentrated even harder. After several more minutes, suddenly Linky coughed up some blood, then coughed again and opened his eyes.
"Mila?" Linky mumbled.
"Stay still. I'm not done yet," said Mila wiping away tears, but tears of relief now. Lapha and Midon were wiping their eyes as well.
Kalon took out his Tab and moved away again.
"Tell Mistress Tila he's recovering," said Kalon. "I think he will be all right. Yes, I'll let him know."
Mila worked for a few more minutes, then stopped. Linky's breathing was back to normal, and his color had returned.
"I'm feeling a lot better. I need to get back to be with my wife and daughter," said Linky, about to get up, when Mila held him down.
"You're not going anywhere but home with us until we're sure you're all right," said Mila.
"Link, I was told to let you know that Mistress Tila and Tara will be meeting you at the Domain here soon," said Kalon. "They are traveling here on one of our fast watercraft. And Her Majesty, Queen Faray, said she wants you to remain here for now as well. Um, she added that it was not a request."
"Fine," said Linky in a resigned voice. "I was hoping to leave so as not to worry anyone, especially Mom and Dad."
"It's a little late for that now, Linky," said Lapha. "You already worried the heck out of all of us."
Linky sighed and closed his eyes for a moment, then opened them again.
"I'm sorry," said Linky. "I wasn't as smooth in combat as I used to be. But I learned my lesson. It won't happen again."
"You should have done more combat practice in the simulator before going into battle," said Midon. "That's what it's for."
"You're right," said Linky.
"Okay, let's get home," said Mila.
Mila finally took out her Tab, saw the list of unanswered messages, then messaged her parents that they were on their way home.
"Another few minutes and Mom and Dad would have been here to see how serious this was," said Mila.
"Speaking of that, can you at least play down the severity of what happened?" said Linky.
"Not a chance," said Mila. "You don't know what you put me through. I want you to remember this and learn your lesson, and the more people who remind you of it, the better."
Linky shook his head, then lay back down.
"We'll pilot the boat to the Lanayru Bay pier now," said Kalon.
The boat began making its way down Lanayru Bay, stopping at the pier. They all said farewell to Kalon, and since Linky felt well enough to get up, they helped him the rest of the way home. When they arrived home, they entered the house with Mila and Midon supporting Linky, holding him around the shoulders from each side, Lapha following behind. Mipha and Link were already there.
"Hi, Mom, Dad," said Linky.
"We can explain everything later," said Mila quickly before anyone could say anything. "Linky needs to rest."
They helped Linky into his room, and then into the slumber pool there.
"I'll stay with him until Tila arrives," said Lapha as she joined Linky in the pool and put her arm around him.
"Okay, good night," said Mila and Midon as they left the room.
"I'm glad you're okay, Linky," said Lapha as she held him. "You nearly broke a lot of hearts today."
"I know," said Linky. "I should have trained more first, as Midon said."
"Now, don't worry and rest," said Lapha. "Your body still needs to get back to normal."
"I love you, Laff," said Linky.
"I love you, too," said Lapha as she kissed him on the forehead.
Linky closed his eyes and soon fell asleep. It was an hour or so later that Tila and Tara arrived, Tila holding Tara's hand. Lapha climbed out of the pool.
"He's fine, just tired," whispered Lapha. "He'll be thrilled to see you both when he wakes up."
"Thanks for staying with him," said Tila. "You always were the best at looking out for him."
"I know, but now it's your turn," said Lapha. "Good night."
Lapha hugged Tila and kissed Tara goodnight. Then she turned to leave but paused at the door as she watched Tila and Tara climb into the pool with Linky, and both put their arms around him. Tara rested her head on Linky's shoulder. Lapha smiled, then turned and closed the door behind her. Everything would be okay now.
