TALE OF HEROES
Chapter II
He plunged the tip of the evil sword into the dirt, having just finished a short skirmish with its minions prior. Their blood flowed over the vile metal and meat of its core, staining the ground. It was a good thing the minions of Soul Edge held no souls to consume, he would not have brandished the dark blade against them otherwise.
Link stood on the edge of a cliff over viewing the forests below. The slain remains of a Lizardman and a Berserker behind him bleeding in the morning sun. He had been followed by those foul beasts when he entered this secret wooded path which lied by a field far south of Rome. Mountains surrounded his hideout, perfect for keeping hidden from prying eyes.
It had been a few months since his encounter with the Wolfkronian soldiers in the desert, and the sighting of his former companion. Link had retreated to a place he felt was secure enough and likely the last place the others would find him to plan his next move. He knew they were searching for him now. He only hoped this hidden forest was secluded enough to evade the cunning ninja and her allies.
His memories of the Fu-Ma ninja was as such, that he knew she would come. She had seen him, and the sword they all sought to destroy in his hand. He realized no matter how long it took, or where he went, she would hunt him now.
Taki always got her mark. She was renowned for never letting her prey escape her for long.
He remembered she was a fierce hunter, among the best in this world. She was raised to be the best at it, and ensured her skill was up to par with her rumored greatness. He personally could attest to that fact, as memory recalls. Nothing stood between her and a target she was after, and she would stop at nothing to reach her goal.
A frustrated sigh escaped him. Having Japan's deadliest ninja on the hunt was a stressful thought. And it was made worse when he noticed she had a group with her, no doubt willing to follow her after him.
And she would make her case well against him, with Soul Edge to thank for.
Caww... Caww...
His eyes turned to the air above. Watching as the ravens circled around his presence, occasionally calling to him, and to each other. Witnessing all. Remembering everything they see.
A sigh escaped him as he returned to his pondering of this predicament.
Truly, he wished he was elsewhere months ago. The secret that he was alive and mostly well, one he tried his all to keep, was shattered instantly when she spotted him that fateful night in the sands.
Seven years of hiding had been undone. Seeing Taki – and knowing she likely had Sophitia and Mitsurugi with her – brought a degree of anxiety to him. If ever he planned on reuniting with them, he had hoped it was after Soul Edge was vanquished, not still in his possession.
All three were accomplished warriors, and he respected them each. Their skills were great, and their experience dispatching Soul Edge's servants over the years had earned them plenty of glory in his eyes. But his fears lied in how relentless they had been known to be regarding the demonic weapon, and the merciless pursuit that would no doubt be aimed at him now.
Sophitia had mothered him almost to death after meeting him the first time, she was a natural parental figure. Kind and gentle, she cared for him and the others dearly. However, her maternal side also held a sense of duty to keep the others on a morally just path. No doubt she would be cross with him if she ever caught up to the Hylian.
And Mitsurugi... Link shuddered. He was the strictest of the lot. Even more than Taki had been, which was a feat in of itself. Being drilled by the samurai was pure hell, the Hylian could only imagine how their first meeting after so long could go under these circumstances...
It was already difficult to remain hidden, and shield the world from Soul Edge's energy. But now it seemed his struggles will only increase.
His mind had grown weary over these long years. His soul was tiring. Deep down, he knew he wouldn't be able to last forever. Nor did he believe he could successfully vanish without a trace again, not when the others knew he lived still.
His magic was fading slowly, years of suppressing Soul Edge's power and influence from the world around him. He could not replenish faster than his magic was being absorbed. Too long had he been from his homeland, he would be able to recover and persist if this world held even a tiny amount of the energy his own had.
Suddenly, voices mocked him for his apprehension. Whispers permeated his thoughts with patronizing language, as if to soothe a child in fear. Link willed the voices quiet, Not wanting to deal with this now, but his vision began to change regardless of his will.
The landscape morphed to green fields, vast and hilly. Tall and majestic mountains in the east and a castle of pearly white marble to the north, deserts bright and hot to the west, and the borders of an ancient forest to the south. A tall plateau sat near the center, a ranch built on its axis surrounded by tall fences.
Trees covered the fields around him, shading the earth from the sunlight.
A boy in green, a short sword and a shield on his back, rushed by in the direction of the castle. A carefree demeanor and childish energy exuded from his running figure.
For the moment, Link was at peace. Until he caught sight of the boy turning to face him, holding a red glowing shard in his hand. A beaming smile plastered on his face, as if all was well in the world.
'No...'
Lies. All of it!
No longer was he the child in green, innocent and naive of the world around him, or the world he came from.
With all his will, he revolted from the visions. The mark on his hand glowing bright again, melting the illusion before him. The young Link scowled darkly at him, his eyes becoming abyssal orbs filled with hateful venom, and his mouth snarling with teeth bared.
The vision dissipated soon after, leaving him in the secluded wood he currently stood in.
He gazed out again at the distance. This constant battle of wills was becoming tiresome.
However, something had been tickling the back of his mind throughout the day. Something was approaching, of that he was certain. But what, he was oblivious to. With most of his energy being tuned to seal Soul Edge's power within the blade and mask its scent, he was mostly blinded to other auras.
'Perhaps... More monsters?'
He could remain hidden from whatever Soul Edge had summoned. While they could be a handful when they found him, the servants of Nightmare and Soul Edge were constantly beat back by his hand. Other times, they were too inept to properly track him as he was able to manipulate the signals the evil sword could send out by disrupting them with the holy aura of the Master Sword.
Another thought occurred to him. Hopefully, Taki was not what he had been sensing.
He didn't want to be found by them just yet. Though he suppressed the power of the evil blade and kept it weak, he was fighting on losing ground. Without one piece of the grand puzzle, he could not in good conscious reunite with allies. He needed the elusive Soul Calibur.
Without the other opposite of Soul Edge, he would take no risk lightly.
The sun was setting, the hour of twilight was upon him.
Caww... Caww...
Link turned around and locked eyes with the black raven. Perched on the hilt of Soul Edge, it stared intently at him with its one piercing red eye, a shard that glowed red in its beak. Its brethren hovered in the skies above, ever watchful.
He raised his arm aloft.
"Come." His voice, deep and somber, commanded.
Obediently, the grizzled watcher flew up and perched itself on the armored gauntlet of Link's arm, awaiting its master's next order.
Petting the one-eyed bird briefly in thought, he recalled one who cherished them dearly for a brief moment. Such a memory of earlier days in his new, secret life would often come back to him. Back when he had to make difficult decisions, and relied on others to further his goal.
He shook his head, now was not the time to reminisce.
Opening his left hand to the old watcher on his arm, it dropped the mysterious shard into his waiting palm.
He brought his gaze down to the shard. Clenching his fist around it, a surge of energy rushed into his mind's eye. Images, memories, all containing information about the missing shards of Soul Edge. Of the information he was given, there was a specific location to one.
The Holy Roman Empire in the north. He would make his move there when he was ready.
Opening his fist, the shard was glowing green now. He raised it high, where it shattered into smaller pieces before shooting into the other watchers flying above. The ravens absorbed the metal shards as if it were part of their being, stored in their conscious.
"Seek the shards of Soul Edge." He commanded of the one-eyed watcher atop his arm, before launching it skyward.
With the boost of momentum, the dark corvidae took flight and disappeared into the clouds. The rest of the flock soon followed suit, leaving in many different directions. The sunlight was obscured by the brewing storm clouds that approached, hiding their shapes as they departed their master.
Reaching into the neck cavity of his chest plate, he pulled out a slim object secured by a simple silver chain. A pocket watch he had picked up from home. He analyzed the time, humming to himself in thought, before placing the trinket back behind his chest plate.
A thought occurred to him. Perhaps, it would pay to be even extra cautious this time.
Focusing his magic, he opened his left palm in front of him. Energy began to gather into an orb. His eyes began to glow an emerald green as he spoke the name of the spell, his voice distorted by the magic,
"Farore's Wind..."
A gust of green energy encircled him and the wind rushed about his figure in a cyclone. The orb grew brighter for a moment as he raised his palm above his head, before releasing it. Letting his hand fall back down, he noted with satisfaction that his spell was successfully cast.
He had learned long ago that being prepared for the worst case scenario had often been rewarding. And this ominous feeling in the back of his mind warranted concern.
With that done, he turned and grabbed the hilt of Soul Edge. Its unholy energy washed over him briefly, only for the mark on his left hand to flare with holy power, repelling the sick waves pulsing from the sword.
Taking a breath, he hoisted the sword up, allowing the dull side to rest against his left pauldron before trekking down the mountain. He would travel eastward, hoping to use the back trails to then head north. He reasoned with himself that it would be wise to avoid the main roads for now.
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It had been a few days of walking before Link spotted a walled village in the distance. Just as he remembered from the last dozen times he took this path to the north.
He generally avoided settlements as much as possible, things just never seemed to go right when he entered one. When he had no choice, he usually wore a full-body cloak to conceal his features, but learned quick that when you try to hide something; often you find more attention drawn to yourself. It was a lose-lose situation for him in particular.
And with Soul Edge's random attacks, it only worsened the situation. It was also extremely difficult to hide the sword under his cloak. Keeping it in his hammerspace was what he did often times, until it whispered to someone and got their attention on the Hylian.
A fair amount of fights involving the long-eared knight started that way. Unless he was physically touching the blade, he could no longer restrict its power effectively of late. There was a time in the earlier years that his magic was strong enough to suppress Inferno's will in the sword, but as those years dragged on, Link grew steadily weaker. This uphill battle had taken its toll on his reserves.
Though, it didn't mean he could completely avoid settlements. At times, he needed supplies.
This was one of those times.
Grunting with annoyance, he began moving in the direction of the quaint little village. As he walked, he pulled a full-body cloak from his hammerspace and began the annoying task of donning it over his armor and the hilt of the Master Sword strapped to his back.
No easy feat, especially with the Darknut armor's large pauldrons.
He took a look at himself, and in a brief moment of humor, thought:
'I must look like an enforcer of some evil cult...'
He chuckled at the silly idea.
After a brief amount of time walking, he stood at the outskirts of the busy village. Upon entering the opened gateway between the defensive walls, he noticed the occupants bustling to-and-fro, untouched by outside matters. Fairly quickly, he spotted the tiny market place setup in the village's center.
Food stands, bakeries, clothing shops, armories, and general bazaars made up the market. It almost reminded him of a place back home, despite there being no marble castle on the other side of the village. Regardless, the settlement had all the necessities a vagabond like himself could need to continue his journey.
The village kept two guardsmen in armor, wielding halberds. Despite his occasional visits and lack of incidents here, they watched him warily. Rightfully, they did not trust someone who had something to hide.
But he ignored them. So long as he didn't bother them, they would leave him to his own. If it was one thing the guards and the townsfolk knew about him, was he always went straight to the market, and left town when he finished purchasing goods.
It satisfied them enough to not question his dealings beyond the village boundaries. So long as he brought gold, they paid him little mind and offered him any wares he would have.
And so, per his usual routine here, Link approached the bakery and placed an order for bread. He purchased arrows from the armory, and picked up a satchel of assorted foods from the food stands. After, he stopped at the bazaar to see if he could hear of any rumors regarding shards and Soul Edge. Perhaps even of Nightmare, who survived their encounter years ago.
Needless to say, there were no such rumors today. On one hand, Link was glad. On the other, it worried him. Why had he heard nothing of the Azure Knight in months? Had he gone into hiding to consolidate power?
"Hello again!"
Link stiffened slightly, the voice was definitely directed at him. He turned to the source, a beautiful young lady stood behind him, holding a bundle of bread up to him.
"Your order is ready, sir! You looked busy, so I thought I would bring it to you!" She beamed at him.
He couldn't stop a small smile at her generosity.
"How kind of you. Thank you." Came his reply.
He took the bread gently, taking note of how her large brown eyes grew wider in awe when his heavily armored gauntlets reached out from his cloak to grab the paper wrapping. He gave her a few extra gold pieces for her trouble. She seemed to notice her own staring, earning a sheepish grin from the maiden and a carefree wave.
"Buon appetito, signore knight!" She exclaimed before she turned and left for the bakery.
Watching her back until she maneuvered herself behind the stand again, he analyzed the bread before taking a piece in his mouth and placing the rest in his cloak pocket. He would add it to his hammerspace when he left the village, so as not to attract attention.
'Delicious...'
Absentmindedly, he munched as he made his way to the north gate, preparing to depart the little village peacefully.
Caww...
Link froze. He thought he heard-
Caww... Caww...
'No... It can't be.'
He looked up, his eyes hardening into their usual, stoic warrior gaze.
On the roof of the house across the path from him, a watcher stared down at his figure. Quickly, he averted his eyes skyward, searching for the rest of his flock...but saw none.
For a moment, he breathed a sigh in relief. Rumors had spread that when a flock of ravens were near, It meant Soul Edge was near. And he being the only outsider in the village – that he could immediately see – and dressed in a black cloak... Well, he feared the villagers would figure it out that he possessed the sword.
And they would be right.
Gazing back at the lone raven, he recognized it. The unmistakable missing eye and tattered, almost graying feathers in some spots – specifically the wings and around the neck – confirming its identity. This was indeed his own personal raven. The one who led his flock when he received their company.
If it was here with him, and not hunting for shards like he instructed-
A horn bellowed nearby.
Link took notice that his watcher turned to the source, before he also looked. South of the village, a large force of monsters gathered. Lizardmen, Berserkers, and even a few large humanoid golems holding crude clubs made of wood or large metal maces.
The horde of minions, he noticed, seemed to consist mostly of Lizardmen. Their vanguard was made up by a Berserker here and there in the ranks, with the rear being brought up by the giant golems.
The villagers all turned and looked as well. Upon seeing the large horde amassing in the fields, chaos erupted.
Women and children fled for the safety of their homes while the men began to build barricades at the main entrances. Both gates were about to be shut and the guardsmen bolted for the lookout towers to grab bows and an assortment of arrows.
Link frowned darkly, turning to his raven and noting it did not remove its one remaining eye from the horde. That confirmed to him, a shard was nearby. And judging by his watcher's interest in the group, they possessed it.
With a growl, Link turned to the south gate and rushed it. Just as a villager was about to seal it shut, Link shoved past him
"Move." He growled as he pushed past the man, pulling the gate shut behind him.
"Che cosa stai facendo?! What are you doing?!" Came the surprised shout from the villager, but Link ignored his protests.
Now outside, Link reached behind his cloak and pulled a large metal bow free. It was a strange looking bow. Each end had bladed tips with three prongs, like serrated knifes. Deep ridges lined the main metal body, and a thick metal string ran from a ring on both sides. Another larger ring encased the center grip, protecting his hand from attack. It looked savage, yet somewhat advanced.
Link drew an arrow with a lit fuse coming out of a bag at the tip across the heavy metal bow, a feat that seemed impossible, but the metal bent to his strength with a hushed metallic whine. Briefly, he scanned the approaching group for a suitable target, before elevating his trajectory above them and loosening his bomb arrow.
The single arrow split into three, and each one struck a pair of Lizardmen. The group of minions stopped as the arrows exploded on impact, killing several Lizardmen in range of the blast.
The savage army gave a roaring battle cry at his attack, and charged in his direction. He had hoped to divert their attention solely on him, and it seemed to work.
Taking off into a hard and long sprint of his own, Link ran in a different direction; one that was away from both the village and the group of minions. Keeping his eyes on them from the corner, he watched with satisfaction as they changed course to follow.
He would lead them away from the village and engage them in the hills nearby, away from the villagers' sights.
As he ran, he occasionally would turn and let loose another shot from his bow, making sure their attention remained on him.
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*Nearby*
A few months had passed since the desert. The group trekked on in their search for the now missing keeper of Soul Edge, Link. The ever elusive knight had evaded their hunt without a trace. It seemed that no matter what direction they traveled, no sign of the dark armored man existed.
They had been through numerous settlements, villages, and a few cities around the African deserts where he was spotted, but none had seen him. It was as if he somehow vanished from thin air.
It irked Ivy greatly, they were only a kilometer from the battle in the sands at the time, the closest some in the group had been to Soul Edge in years. Including the white-haired alchemist.
A small gust of wind rushed through them from the north. In the distance, a strong storm appeared to be brewing to quench the earth of its thirst. Lightning shot out, striking the mountains in the distance. And Ivy felt a gnawing feeling in the back of her head.
Something told her to look up.
Caww...
Of course. A raven.
'Where is your master, I wonder.' Ivy thought sarcastically to the bird, briefly entertaining the idea that this was one of the ravens created by Soul Edge to serve as spies.
From the angle, Ivy couldn't tell if its eyes were glowing or normal. She watched the raven as it flew high into the sky above, disappearing into the sunlight. The British noblewoman was surprised when no one else noticed it.
Apparently not even Taki had seen it.
She brought her armored gauntlet to her chin in thought, wondering how she was able to notice the lone raven, and no one else. They had always done so before, because of the species association with the evil blade.
It was common knowledge in the group, a red eyed raven was a servant of the one who holds Soul Edge. In the past, whenever the black-feathered birds of the common variety were present, everyone would become on edge. Naturally, suspecting Nightmare or whomever possessed the sword would be nearby until they realized it was merely ordinary birds.
But normally, one could feel Soul Edge's energy, even if it lied a few days away from them. But she couldn't detect it even a little. Perhaps it was just a coincidence, or the raven she spotted was a normal member of the species and not the construct of Soul Edge's power. Or, perhaps it was a watcher, but the others were blinded to its presence.
"Yeah right, a kid that young taking down a Berserker."
She turned her gaze to the Athenian sisters. Cassandra seemingly in disbelief while Sophitia merely nodded in confirmation.
"It's true. Link held his own in that fight. Taki and I didn't have to help at all."
Ivy tuned them out, not wanting to think of this Link as having grown any stronger if the stories Sophitia told were true. If he truly was as powerful as the older blonde insisted, her plans may be in jeopardy. She would need to begin developing back-up plans if that were the case. But not until she tested him personally.
It was they who convinced her to join them. Having encountered them not long after her second journey a few months ago. She was getting no where with her goals when they approached her near Egypt. She was researching the history of the soul swords at the time.
Cassandra had argued that if she joined them, they all stood a better chance at destroying Soul Edge. They could gather information faster as a unit, and rely on their numbers advantage to take down Soul Edge's servants.
Sophitia's approach was more altruistic. Though Ivy was impure by blood, they may yet find a cure for her if she lent them her alchemist skills on occasion.
It was helped when Sophitia was able to prove that she could heal impure souls slightly. It gave the British noblewoman hope. On occasion, Sophitia would attempt to pray and heal Ivy's soul, and Isabella could not deny feeling purer after each session. Little as it was, it was more than she could achieve on her own in recent years.
Taki was less receptive to her, though. Having encountered her before when she was deceived into serving Nightmare by feeding him souls.
A fact that still pained the alchemist.
Despite her reservations, the ninja did not argue against her usefulness. Ivy had since been able to devise medicines to help with injuries, and was also able to lend her expertise in ancient knowledge regarding the swords that she picked up from extensive research.
However, if they could capture this Link, she may no longer need to recount most of that knowledge.
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The wind rushed from the north, bringing with it the smell of rain. The clip clop of her mare's hooves on the dirt below just barely heard over the idle chatter from the others behind her. She paid little mind to them.
It had been seven long years since last Taki saw him, and assumed him dead this entire time. It was so strange to see him alive, even more so with Soul Edge in his hands.
Her thoughts had occasionally been on his fate in the years before, wondering what had happened to him when he disappeared. She and a few others from their original party had made a search of the surrounding areas the night he first disappeared, but came up with no trace. As if he vanished, much like he did in the desert that night a few months ago.
She recalled the night he disappeared. It was only a few days before when Rock departed to return to the land beyond the seas to be with his foster son. Then, Raphael Sorel, the French nobleman and Link departed to gather supplies, with only Link returning.
He had told them that Raphael had abandoned the quest to go protect the child who saved him, the young girl he called Amy. The nobleman would often praise her bravery in turning away the French soldiers that had been hunting him the night he met her.
It came as no surprise, he had openly entertained the idea for a while at the time.
The surprise came the night after, however, when it was Link's turn. Without warning, he simply vanished during a skirmish with Nightmare's forces. No tracks, no body, no trace.
A month after, their original party dispersed to return home. Taki left for Japan to attend unfinished business regarding her clan, Sophitia returned to Athens to be with her family, and Mitsurugi traveled abroad in search of a worthy opponent before returning to Japan as well. While they had all agreed that they could no longer sense Soul Edge, Taki suspected Link's disappearance had broken their spirits at the time. Warrior, or not, he was still so young. A child had gone missing on their watch.
Because they all believed he had died that night, or soon after his disappearance, she was sure the tragedy had broken their desire to remain as a group. Even Mitsurugi, who had long been tough and gruff with everyone was affected. The memory was too painful amongst them, leaving no choice but to disperse. It wasn't until shortly before the dissolving of their group that Soul Edge's power vanished, allowing the remaining four to believe the lie.
For some time, she entertained the idea that he was alive. He had a strange aura to him, and so the theories that he survived had plagued her. How could he have done it, if he lived? Did he know a spell? If he was alive, why did he abruptly leave?
Four years after the fact, her mind always thought back before she finally decided to let go.
Not knowing his fate had bothered her. The Fu-Ma ninja knew of no such trick to allow someone to vanish. If Link did, he did not reveal it to them, as he did not with many other details about himself. Like his strange magic, using a spell to create a burning dome of flames that nearly burned a forest down in Japan.
Or like how he had long, pointed ears.
That discovery was accidental during a friendly spar between Sophitia and Link, who had been trying to gain the young lad's confidence. The Grecian had taken a shine to Link, he was young but strong, yet reclusive and independent. Though, Taki wagered Link's distant nature and reluctance to let anyone close did nothing but harden Sophitia's resolve to befriend and protect him. To the Grecian, he was still a child.
Or so she was led to believe by Rock and Raphael, who were there when Link was found near Athens. That was before Taki herself joined with them, though at the time, it was mostly to keep an eye on Mitsurugi.
Prior to that, she had not known the boy for very long. Having joined Sophitia's group months after the Athenian had met Link. He seemed a gentle soul, kindhearted and brave, but she knew nothing else beyond that. At first, she thought he was a mute.
In retrospect, Taki regretted her reaction to the revelation of Link's long ears. So accustomed was she to demon culture, and knowing their tendency to child-like deceptions, she believed Link a demon disguised as a young boy. At the time, it explained his incredible skill in combat and very distant nature.
When Sophitia left to gather more firewood, she noticed how distant Link grew without the Athenian. Confirming he was reluctant to be alone with the demon huntress. Something that she felt at the time was confirmation enough that he was demonic and knew she hunted his kind.
As if on reflex, she lunged for his throat with her sword. Intending the blow to be quick.
He had surprised her when he defended himself against the onslaught she wrought, despite his own surprise. Having been aware of his description of 'self-taught' and briefly trained by an expert in his homeland, Link had still been able to keep up with her attacks. Amidst their battle, Sophitia intervened on his behalf when she heard the fighting, standing between her and the boy and ready to defend him despite being unarmed.
Taki, being trained to do whatever it took to destroy evil in any of its forms, was ready to strike Sophitia aside despite her pleas for peace. They had argued back and forth, with Taki claiming him a demon disguised as a boy, and Sophitia asserting that he was just a boy, not a demon. It was then that Link revealed the mark on the back of his left hand.
She recalled how the radiant, pure energy emanated from it, showering her in golden light. This power was part of him, and it was enough to convince her that such holy power could not exist in a demon. Link had used that power to seal her behind an energy plate that resembled the mark on his hand, though it was temporary. She had noted how she couldn't move, yet he did not attack her. At that, she realized her mistake, and apologized to both of them afterward.
It was a few months before he began trusting her again in some capacity.
Truly, she regretted it.
She was only glad that the others were not present to see that misunderstanding. To this day, as far as she was aware, only three people knew of this; herself, Sophitia, and Link. Whether he ever forgave her for nearly killing him that night, she had not got the chance to find out before he vanished.
It didn't seem like destiny would allow them to keep from fighting one another, however. Having no choice but to hunt him down and attempt to confront him regarding the evil sword in his possession weighed heavily on her mind. This reunion – if it could be allowed to happen – would likely not go without conflict.
That fact weighed heavier. Fate had been so cruel to them all.
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He had reached the battlefield of his choosing, far from the village. The monsters ceased their charging across the field, seemingly to ensure there was no trick to this. After brief glances around, they resumed their charge, intent on destroying the knight.
Pulling the Master Sword and his Hylian shield free, Link stood ready for them. Pushing the drapes of his cloak to the side of his large pauldrons to allow him easier reach, he took a stance with his shield raised and the Master Sword's edge resting on the rim of his shield.
Within seconds, the first Lizardmen had reached him. They screeched as they swung their swords, Link blocking the blows with his shield quickly and parrying with the Master Sword. Slashing into their hides, cleaving them in two, he moved to counter another blow from the others.
Having to jump to the side, and noting how they were attempting to surround him, Link pulled his sword free from a Berserker and swung at two more Lizardmen. They fell quick. He took notice of another Berserker charging at him.
Raising his shield, he felt the impact of a large ax strike him. The resounding clang could be heard through great distances. He pressed forward, throwing his attacker off balance before plunging his sword deep into their chest.
A short sword clanged off his left pauldron. He grunted as sparks flashed into his face. The Lizardman responsible attempted to take a bite from his head, but Link punched the reptilian with the pommel of the Master Sword. He watched as it flew into the others behind it.
He was being surrounded by the inhuman monsters. The Master Sword glowed as he swung it left, letting the blade remain behind him as he focused.
They came for him, swinging swords and axes alike. But he released his holy weapon and allowed it to spin around him. In an instant, seven beasts lay dead, their weapons broken from the onslaught of the spin attack.
Blocking another stab, he pushed his shield into his attacker until he struck their head. A hiss of pain came from behind his defense, allowing him to throw a kick into his assailant while swinging the Master Sword at another to his side.
Two more fell from his parry.
A large golem charged him now. Link narrowed his eyes at the beast from beneath the cover of his hood. Charging at it, he jumped as it swung its mace, landing on its arm before jumping again.
The creature watched, a confused and stupefied look on its hideous features as Link plunged the blade of Evil's Bane into its forehead. It stumbled briefly, the nerves in its grotesque legs stiffening the muscles and keeping the now brain-dead beast standing.
The Lizardmen below hissed at him, two trying to climb the dead beast's legs to reach him.
Link released his weapon, jumping over its head but grabbing its cranium. With his weight and momentum pulling on the giant's head, the beast toppled down on its backside. The Lizardmen screamed in surprise as the heavy body slammed down on them.
He however, landed on his feet and rolled into a defensive stance.
Another Berserker came for him, throwing a kick at his abdomen. Link waited, at the right moment, he pushed into the kick with his shield, batting away the brute's large boot with the impact causing dust to fly from his shield.
With his opponent stumbling and trying to regain balance, Link threw his own kick into its exposed belly. The ax-wielder doubled over from the force, allowing Link to encircle the Berserker's exposed neck with his blade. Its blood spewed in cascading rivers from the deeply slit throat, whilst Link used the moment to shift to meet his next target.
He sidestepped another Berserker's attack before leaping into a jump strike. In panic, the Berserker raised its unprotected arm to shield itself, but the Master Sword cleaved through the monster's arm. It fell onto its back, writhing in pain as the Master Sword's holy energy burned it to its core.
The knight landed and used his shield to backhand another Lizardman from his side. The force of his blow resounding a loud CLANG.
Loud thuds came at him from the side. He looked up, eyes widening with surprise as one of the golems swung its crude mace. He raised his shield to absorb it, but the impact was more than he was ready for with his footing not able to withstand the force.
He grunted loudly as he was thrown a fair distance, rushing through the air before his back struck a tree. The force was such, the tree was uprooted and fell over. When Link landed on hard ground with another grunt, he turned and watched as the tree rolled on top of him.
His vision spun, objects seemed to blur before him as he tried to regain his breath. He grunted loudly, his armor was pinned and several pointed branches cut his unprotected face.
The whispers called to him once more, Soul Edge's many voices permeating in his mind. He felt pain from within now, red tendrils of power coursed across his armor. He growled, the sword beckoned him.
Blood lusting, craving battle and mayhem.
His eyes snapped open, a tinge of red swirling within before the mark on his hand flared, sealing the power away once more before it could take hold.
His gauntlets glowed with a silver hue, his strength growing tenfold. With his right hand, he lifted the large trunk from his chest, holding it up and using his left hand to help him stand.
Still holding the trunk, Link's blue eyes scanned the horde before him as they all seemed to roar at him. They hadn't thought he'd survive. The light hit his eyes, making them flare white in reflection.
It was an unsettling image to behold.
Growling, Link gripped the tree with both hands adorned in the legendary Silver Gauntlets and tore it free of the remaining roots.
The horde began to charge at him again. Narrowing his eyes, Link began to spin with the tree clutched in his grasp. Once he completed two rotations, he swung with all his might and released the downed tree.
It hurled into the air at the mass, a missile of wood and sharp branches. With a great crash, a group of Lizardmen and a single Berserker were struck and crushed. Seeing this, Link sheathed his sword and shield. He had enough of this battle.
He summoned Soul Edge, wielding the sword to his left hand as its eyes opened in anticipation. His fury unintentionally fueling its unholy will to corrupt him further.
The sickly energy engulfed him once more, pushing with all its strength to consume the knight. So powerful was the assault, Link's armor was engulfed in flames as he fell to a knee. The Hylian's face twisted in both pain and rage, eyes flaring red briefly as he struggled with the sword.
The Triforce flared to silence the blade's will, but the power remained at his command.
These beasts had no souls to consume, but they would feel the bite of their master in the demonic weapon regardless. With monsters, Link had no qualms in invoking the slaughter to come.
They were nearly to him.
Slowly, he brought the tip of the sword around before raising the unholy weapon before him. Then he brought its hilt down to his chest plate, his aura an unholy red glow becoming brighter as he poured energy into the hilt.
Turning the sword upside down, he plunged its jagged tip into the soil.
The horde was upon him now. Seconds before the first of their renewed assault struck him, he released the pent up energy he had been charging with his grip clenching harder on the hilt.
BOOM!
Energy burst from his form, cracking the ground around him in a large radius. The creatures that had been too close were crushed by the force, their limp bodies spiraling through the air to land in piles.
More came still, as if the horde had somehow summoned reinforcements.
With a venomous, wolf-like snarl, Link ripped the evil sword free of the dirt and charged at his enemies.
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The village loomed in the distance, the dark clouds moving to the east. The knight gazed at the darkness above, something felt familiar about it.
Their goal at the moment was to retrieve supplies for their trip north, but something just felt off about the area. He couldn't put his finger on it, but it was as if a void of energy was nearby.
To his side, the Wind Priestess was also perplexed. Her brow furrowed at the clouds, he distinctly heard her whisper "Wind..." as she chanted quietly to herself.
With a thoughtful grunt, Siegfried turned to the villagers at the top of the wall.
He took notice that most of them were armed with a bow and watching the area beneath the clouds. His eyes traveled to the gates, only to see how they had been closed to all outside.
They could hear shouts from men and crying children behind the walls as doors slammed shut. As their group approached the gates, Taki called to the guardsman at the top of the wall.
"What is going on in there?"
The guardsman pointed to the storm in the east.
"A horde of monsters attacked us, but a lone traveler led them away!"
An earthquake, followed by the faint sound of a deafening crack drew their attention back to the land where the dark storm clouds were gathering. Lightning struck in the distance, lashing at the earth.
The knight quickly turned to look back where the dark clouds had gathered. The sound of the explosion startling his stallion and forcing him to hold the reigns tightly as he struggled to keep on the beast's back.
With the rest of the group behind him, Siegfried pulled up next to Taki who was wrestling her own animal.
"That power... Did you feel it?" She asked.
Siegfried gave a slow nod, gazing in the distance.
"Soul Edge..." Came his hushed, but steeled voice, eyes holding a stoney glare.
That was all their leader needed.
"Enter the gates if you value life, travelers!" The guardsman called.
"Ride North!" She yelled, ignoring the village and spurring her horse into a full charge.
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It wasn't long before they all reached the apparent battlefield. Sophitia's gaze shifting left and right, observing the carnage.
She scanned the bodies of the Lizardmen and Berserkers. Even taking note of the dead golem with a gaping hole in its hideous head, lying in a puddle of blood. The sounds of battle still waged on before her and the others.
A large group remained of the once sizable horde of creatures, all converging onto a single spot.
"Taki, if there's someone in the middle of that, they might not survive for much longer!" Kilik spoke up, brandishing his staff.
"They saved the village, maybe we can save them." Cassandra added, drawing her sword and shield.
Taki nodded in agreement. "Move in!" She shouted, kicking her heels into her horse, the beast rearing back before charging at full speed.
Sophitia and the others followed suit, their horses forming a wide line with the intent to cut through the remaining monsters in the field.
She began to cut through the horde, trampling down Lizardmen and beheading others as her companions followed. There were many between them and the warrior who seemed to be holding them off. Sophitia cleaved another Lizardman's head from its shoulders, kicking a second that had jumped towards her and bashed a third across the face with her shield.
Scanning the monsters, the Athenian spotted the person at the center of the horde, swinging wide and cleaving several monsters in two or shattering shields with each strike.
The cloak hid his features, but she could see the black armor, large pauldrons and bottom of his face. Pale skin surrounding his bloodied lips, curled into a snarl. Just faintly, over the clanging of the great sword crushing and cutting through shields and hide, his voice grunted with exertion.
The sword, held in his left hand, glowed with a sickly red aura.
Taki had told her and the others who she saw that night in the desert, holding Soul Edge. How he had held off the army that marched through the sands that night. He was here. Fighting for his life before them all.
"Link!" Sophitia suddenly shouted, recognizing the swordsman currently holding off the horde's remaining members.
They all turned to her, before realizing who was at the center of the beasts. The Hylian was still unaware of their presence.
With a roar, Link slashed wide at several Lizardmen and a Berserker, Soul Edge throwing all of them to the side from the force of his attack. He was panting, exerting himself to maintain his hold over the blade's will while unleashing its power against his opponents.
The group continued to cut a path, tearing easily through the horde's remaining members as their attention was still focused solely on the Hylian.
Again, Link swung Soul Edge; bodies flying as the blade cut through them. The eye of the sword shifting its gaze in numerous directions, searching for a body that had a soul as it bathed in the blood of the beasts. It was waiting for any chance to consume a soul and regain some strength.
Sophitia pulled her stead to the side, avoiding a crushing vertical strike of a golem's club. Siegfried used his sword to take one of its legs off before Ivy pierced its skull with Valentine's whip form.
The Grecian baker turned her gaze back to Link.
Several Lizardmen managed to jump on his back when he swung Soul Edge at a Berserker, panting for breath. Immediately after, two more Berserkers piled onto him. She could hear his pained shout as he was forced to the ground under the weight on his back.
"No!" She spurred her horse on, intent on saving him.
A sudden light emanated from the bottom, fire spewed forth and erupted in a dome of flames that expanded rapidly. Link's attackers rolled off of him with pained screams, their bodies flailing as they burned to death.
Taki gasped when she saw the light. She knew that spell all too well, and knew the destruction it would cause. Sophitia never saw that spell, because Link only brandished it once when he had traveled with them. Only Taki had seen it used.
Sophitia's eyes widened at the fire that was approaching, but Taki's horse rammed into hers, forcing her mare to change direction while the ninja slashed the throat of a Berserker that readied to swing at them.
"Get away!" Taki shouted as she kept using her mare to steer the Athenian's ride away. They could hear the steadily growing roar of the fire spell behind them, flames lashing out and igniting flesh and cloth.
With a loud hiss, the wall of flame dispersed, leaving burning fires that slowly consumed the corpses of the fallen monsters.
Link stood on one knee, panting hard. Another Lizardman swung at him, but Link's free hand shot out, catching the assailant's arm. He pulled it in, twisting its wrist until a crack was heard, before his hand slammed into the serpent's stomach. Without missing a step, the knight lifted the creature up and slammed it down on its back before once more dropping to a knee in exhaustion.
Sophitia raised her shield as a Berserker's foot shot towards her, intending to kick her head off. Her steed was galloping towards the fading Hylian, she wasn't able to adjust course in time. When the big boot struck her shield, she was pushed hard from her saddle. A shout of pain left her as she hit the ground hard.
The Hylian heard her voice over the roars of his enemies. His eyes widened as he turned to the source. He knew that voice well, its owner having been dear to him as a child. As he mustered strength, he watched as Sophitia rolled sideways as the Berserker who attacked her brought down its sword where she lay moments before.
Forcing his exhaustion down, Link tore off towards her with a grunt. The Athenian's shield protected her from the same boot that dismounted her from her ride, and she yelled in pain as she felt the Berserker's weight on her chest. Her own sword had cut into her arm while she braced it against her shield.
He watched with horror as Berserker heaved its sword over its head, intent on cleaving his former partner in two.
As she put her all into holding the giant's weight above her, Sophitia could hear metal clinking and heavy boot steps moving towards her. She looked up and watched with eyes widened as Link roared, the sound drawing the Berserker's attention before tackling her attacker, allowing her to recover.
The Athenian baker watched as Link and the Berserker slammed into the ground with the evil beast on the bottom. Link wasted no time in raising Soul Edge's tip up and viciously stabbing the great blade into the monster's chest plate. He breathed heavily for a moment before ripping the dark sword free.
Sophitia had gotten to her feet, sword arm clutching her shield arm tightly as it stung from a gash. Her hand had become moist with blood from the wound. Link had stood shakily, his armor weighing him down. He turned to her, their eyes meeting for the first time in years.
"Link!" She called, voice full of worry as she began to jog towards him, watching as the boy-turned-knight struggled to intake air. Her eyes widened, "Behind you!"
Link turned, a Lizardman lunging at him with its jaw opened wide, intent on taking a chunk out of his neck. He roared a wordless battle cry as he brought Soul Edge up in defense, feeling the creature's weight strike the flat of the blade. Link lashed out with a hard hook, catching the beast in the jaw and forcing it from its feet.
A hideous cry came from behind her. Sophitia turned in time to slash at another Lizardman, cutting its head off before her shield was raised to deflect another Berserker's sword from striking her chest. Her arm stung from the impact, causing her to give a pained shout as she fell back from the blow. She quickly got to her feet, intending to keep from being broadsided again.
Before she could lunge at the beast, the tip of Soul Edge ripped through the monster's chest, causing it to gurgle as it died. With the behemoth collapsing, she saw Link standing behind it, pulling Soul Edge free of the corpse. He looked up to her, his hood hiding most of his features.
"Get down!"
He shouted, his voice guttural and gruff. She ducked as a Lizardman's sword cleaved the air where her neck had been a moment before. She watched as Link slashed at the creature, cleaving its sword arm off before plunging the tip of the blade into the dirt. He kicked its shield away as it lunged at him with its teeth.
Another hard kick to the abdomen had stopped the Lizardman's advance, allowing Link to finish it off. He grabbed its head and bottom jaw, using raw strength to pull the jaw down. Under the pressure, Sophitia watched as the creature's neck broke under Link's strength, and as he pulled its jaw from its hinges, tearing skin and muscle apart. Horrid green blood spilled out, staining the ground and Link's armored gauntlets.
She had never seen a brutal display of that caliber before. Especially, from him.
Link stumbled, his strength all but gone. The Athenian sheathed her sword and shield, grabbing hold of his right arm as he fell back to a knee.
"Come on, Link! You have to get up!"
The Hylian's head lowered, still panting hard as he leaned heavily on Soul Edge's hilt. She noticed how the eyes were closed on the wicked blade, she wondered briefly if it was somehow asleep.
"I can't..."
She turned back to him, her worried eyes combing his armored figure for any injuries. She could see blood dripping from his hood, a few cuts along his cheek were visible. She reached over, pulling his hood back.
She gasped.
He had grown, his hair was a little longer, but still parted between his eyes perfectly. His jawline was thicker, yet still held the handsome shape she remembered from his early days. The elegant, long ears sprang loose as the fabric of the cloak released them. But her eyes widened when he looked up to her, having felt his hood pulled back.
She stared at his eyes. They were familiar, she could still see that endless blue sea that was once filled with a child's energy, but it was wrought with the storm of a tired warrior on his last legs.
Hardened, battle worn and weary sea blue eyes peered at her. As she tilted her head, the sun's rays hit his eyes, and they faintly glowed with a ghostly gray light. She could just make out small particles that seemed to reflect light embedded in his eyes.
"What happened to you...?" She whispered.
Before he could answer, an arrow struck him in his arm, missing her by a hair. He gave a loud, pained grunt as the arrowhead pierced the spot of his lower arm where his chain mail had been damaged.
Sophitia shouted in surprise as Link released his grip on Soul Edge to grab at the shaft in his arm. She stepped in front of him, raising her shield to provide him cover. She could see the Lizardman that had shot him with a bow, scrambling to grab another arrow. A group of them were in the middle of trying to shoot at Mitsurugi, who had taken note of their presence. He was in the midst of charging them.
The Lizardman that had fired at Link turned its attention on the Samurai. Link's pained grunting brought her attention back to him as she watched him pull the arrow from his arm. Blood began to drip from his armor. Movement from the evil blade caught her attention. She watched as the sword's eye opened, and glared at its wielder before turning to her.
Immediately, the whispers began in her head. They spoke of power to protect her family and loved ones, if she killed the Hylian now. But she glared back at the unholy weapon, hearing a dark cackle at the back of her mind. She turned back to the archer that was about to notch another arrow, but before Mitsurugi could reach it, a sudden rush of air came from behind her and she witnessed three arrows pierce the Lizardman and one of its companions.
She turned, Link was holding a giant metal bow in his hand with his left having been pulled behind him. The Athenian couldn't help but wonder where he had been keeping the bow at. She watched in silent awe as the bow rapidly dematerialized into particles, vanishing from view.
"Come... let me see the wound." She forgot about her questions for now, seeing him on the edge of unconsciousness. Though, she somehow had a feeling the battle itself had not worn him out, but the strain of wielding Soul Edge. She shot the sword another glare.
"I'm fine, go help the others. I just need to catch my breath." He replied wearily. She leveled a mother's frown upon him that made him flinch. He recalled that look all too well.
"I will not!" She sounded absolutely furious for a moment, making Link flinch again, "They can handle themselves, it's you I'm worried about. You're still as reckless as ever!" Came her chastising.
Without another word, she began to pull a cloth from her own pouch secured on her belt to wrap his arm in, ignoring how he shook his head in defeat.
It was amazing how little had changed between them, they found themselves reminiscing about the times spent at the various camps they shared, and how she would fuss over him. His assuring her he was fine even when he had been hurt, and her scolding him for lying and being stubborn. They both felt nostalgic, and wished for the simpler days.
The ground began to shake and the sound of heavy steps rushing towards them caused both to look for the source. Behind Sophitia, a golem was rushing towards them, winding up a horizontal blow with a giant mace. The creature gave a roar.
Link jumped to his feet, pushing the Athenian off to the side while grabbing the evil blade's hilt. Sophitia gave a surprised shout as she fell, landing on her back. Taki and the others turned to the source of the beastly roar and watched as Link had pushed the baker away from the gigantic behemoth's path.
The Hylian pulled Soul Edge free, but he was too late. Before he could jump to the side, or raise Soul Edge to defend against the attack, the golem swung with considerable might.
They all watched as the iron mace struck Link's chest plate. The force of the blow causing a gust of wind to bellow from the impact. Small shards of metal flew away from the Hylian as he hurled through the air with a loud, pained shout.
"No!" Sophitia screamed, her eyes wide as she scrambled to her feet.
Link traveled a fair distance in the air, his body limp from the blow. He finally crashed into the ground, sliding through the dirt on his back and leaving a long trench in his wake. He did not move upon stopping, though his hand still tightly gripped Soul Edge's hilt.
With fury in her eyes, the baker launched herself at the golem, shortly joined by the others who had finally destroyed the rest of the horde.
All but Ivy.
The alchemist had been busy with the battle, but she did not once lose sight of the Hylian. Though Sophitia had obscured her view near the end, she did see the attack that no doubt killed him.
She approached his body, intent on destroying Soul Edge and ridding this world and herself of its accursed presence, once and for all. As she came near, she stopped. She could faintly hear pained haggard breathing, groaning and pitiful. She couldn't help but feel her heartstrings tug at the sound.
He was still alive. He was suffering dearly for that blow he spared the older Grecian. But how? A strike that powerful should have killed him, armored or not! Despite that initial shock, her eyes caught sight of Soul Edge, its eyes closed as his grip held tight on its hilt. She steeled herself, no matter how valiant his sacrifice, he still held the wicked blade.
And he will die for it by her hand.
She continued closing the distance, her heels stepping across the slain bodies of the Lizardmen and Berserkers that once made up the bulk of the horde. She walked through the small trench left by his body after striking the earth, and she was standing over his form. Her shadow cast down over his face as she raised Valentine up.
But she stopped.
Her eyes met his. Deep blues, a shade so unique; she wasn't sure it existed in this world. They weren't the eyes of an evil creature. Ivy continued her gazing, not sensing the evil stench of Soul Edge, despite the sword lying beside him, all she could see was the pain in his gaze. So powerful, his eyes almost looked as if they were fogging over.
The noblewoman looked to his chest. She couldn't help but grimace deeply at the shattered metal, several shards embedded in his chest and blood bleeding from his form. The blow must have bruised his sternum considerably, he seemed to be unable to breathe.
His pained voice reached her ears as she watched him bleed, helpless beneath her but still attempting to keep his voice in. Without realizing it, her sword lowered to her side. Ivy lowered herself to her knees next to him, examining his wound. Some of the shards had gone deep, penetrating his ribcage. She wasn't sure if one of his lungs was pierced, though. His breathing was beginning to improve, though it was obviously still very difficult for him to get any air.
She reached out with her armored hand, gently wrapping her fingers around a large shard. As soon as she touched it, Link grunted beneath her with his eyes widening in pain.
"Shh..." She shushed. Taking a breath, she pulled hard on the shard until it came free.
Link growled with such volume, she thought he had shouted. Ivy dropped the metal piece to the side, and grabbed another. They weren't as deep, nor as big. Link made little noise as she pulled them free.
She looked at her hands, seeing his blood on them. Unable to help it, she wondered if this was somehow symbolic in a way. Though, she had slain many in the past, it seemed even though she tried to change that; her hands were still covered with blood.
Something caught her eye. She let her gaze trail from her hands to his head. The cloak he had worn had fallen, and he seemed in too much pain to have noticed. She stifled a gasp, 'An Elf?', his ears were long and pointed; like daggers of flesh that protruded from the sides of his head. They were enchanting, in a way. They fit his handsome features quite nicely, giving him a timeless look that added to his mystique.
Still, she did not sense Soul Edge's aura on him.
Discarding the thought, she pressed her palms into his wounds. Feeling him squirm at her touch as she applied pressure to keep the bleeding to a minimum.
She could hear Sophitia's voice calling in the distance, and watched as the others slain the golem at last. The Athenian had begun to approach with all haste.
"Oh good, she can play nurse better than I." Ivy spoke to him, keeping the pressure.
Link's only response was another pained grunt, as he sucked in air through gritted teeth. The alchemist peered at him with a single eye, her left being obscured by a silver bang.
"Is that painful?" She asked sarcastically.
Link stared back, not sure what to make of the woman. She was dressed in a battle suit that left plenty of her skin exposed and wore a long silver cape on her back. Her purple suit seemed to be made of some kind of thin leather, a see-through mesh of fabric covering her athletic stomach.
Her suit's breastplate bore some wicked design where it cupped her chest snugly, reminding him of two snakes with fangs barred as they faced each other at her center. And her entire left arm was clad in a golden gauntlet with clawed fingers.
Strange choice of attire, indeed.
Something else caught his attention, he could sense Soul Edge's presence within her, as if she bore some kind of curse on her soul. It made him curious, she didn't seem to be deformed in any way, aside from the silver hair, which seemed out of place considering her youthful beauty. Her icy blues were not a common eye color, either. He had not run into another who reminded him of the Sheikah in appearance. She was the first of this world he had encountered with silver hair.
She was tall, too. Almost as tall as himself. If he had met her after his seven year slumber in Hyrule, she would of dwarfed him by a several inches. However, now that he had been given time to grow naturally, and his body nourished properly, he was much taller and stronger than his previous adult body.
It gave him a height advantage over most, something he used to great effect in the years after he claimed Soul Edge. Despite that, her presence unsettled him in a way that he wagered if he could stand, she would still be able to look down on him, as if she was somehow superior. But the pain in his chest did not allow him to dwell on it much longer.
If nothing else, she was "attempting" to help him at the moment.
Unfortunately, the Hylian was becoming more aware of his surroundings. He could see now the others were making their way towards him. Although, he landed beyond the battlefield, and had seconds to act, there was the problem of the white-haired woman immobilizing him.
He had to act fast, the others were dashing in his direction. He could not allow Soul Edge to be near any of them.
The feeling in his limbs gradually were returning to him. He could move his legs and arms again. His lungs were beginning to fill with air once more. And though his chest was badly hurt and his armor damaged significantly, he must retreat.
"Link!" Sophitia called.
While Ivy's attention was on the others, Link reached up suddenly and shoved her away with his right hand. She was momentarily stunned, caught off guard as she assumed he was utterly immobilized. Falling on her backside, slightly disorientated from the strength the injured knight somehow retained, she couldn't help but stare at him dumbfounded.
Link remained motionless after, a white searing pain screaming through his torso. He couldn't move.
He had no choice now. Summoning his magic, he focused on Farore's Wind. A green whirlwind of energy rapidly began to encircle the injured hero, causing Taki's eyes to widen. She had seen the same spell used by him in the desert before. He was making a run for it.
"Don't let him escape!" Taki called almost frantically, quickening her run.
The Fu-Ma ninja's voice broke the British noblewoman from her trance, realizing that Link was somehow going to disappear. She grabbed Valentine and all but threw herself at the motionless Hylian. What she didn't expect, was to feel the magic that cocooned Link rapidly swallow her as well.
"No!" Taki yelled.
Ivy's eyes widened, she gave a surprised shout as she felt herself being pulled somewhere. The experience was heavily distorting for her, she had never felt this kind of magic in her life. It was otherworldly, despite a brief moment of calm befalling her thoughts.
The magic increased in intensity for a brief moment, and then the pair were gone.
-To Be Continued-