*******************************
Link and Ruto.
*******************************
Link blinked.
Once again, he was cast into the streams of time. He was filled with a deep sense of dread and fear, as he recognised where he was.
The Zoran caverns. A remarkably beautiful world, home to an exotic race called the Zora. The caverns were pleasantly peaceful, a serenade of music made the interior washed with the crystal clarity of water.
He noticed he was dressed in the blue tunic. It seems whoever he was here, he did a lot of swimming. He sat in the caverns, overlooking the great pool. His arms felt sore, probably from swimming in the watery environment. He also noticed a waxy balm of some kind on his skin. It was apparent it protected him from overexposure to water.
"I love you Link," said Ruto.
Link jumped wide-eyed. "No..." was all he could whisper, as he realised his fate. What happened? Why in the world was this Link here, with Ruto of all people? The Zora touched his arm fondly, but all he did was cringe at the touch of her hand.
Ruto was put off-guard by Link's reaction. "W-What's the matter?" she asked fearfully.
It was Link's turn to be shocked, and even ashamed. Ruto looked visibly shaken by how he had reacted. He could see her eyes, holding back her tears. He didn't want to know how he must have looked to her. "I- I'm sorry Ruto" he said. "You just surprised me, that's all." This situation would take some getting used to.
"Oh. Sorry about that," she replied sighing, sitting next to him.
Ruto had learned Link was on occasion a little moody. The most impossible situation, her wildest dreams, had come true. Link loved her. Somehow, he had seen pass her appearance, and became very close friends. That friendship bloomed into what they have now. She had cast away her jealousy and fear that Link would be driven away.
But then, why did he look so afraid? Did he hate her?
"I know this probably wasn't the home you pictured," said Ruto.
*You could say that again,* Link thought silently.
They stood together, none of the other Zora paid attention to the odd couple. They were used to it by now.
"Can I ask you something?" Ruto asked, breaking the silence.
"Of course," his short smile hid how nervous he really was.
"Why Link?" she asked softly.
"W-Why?" he asked back confused.
"Why... did you decide, to be with me?"
Link fell silent. He would like to know the answer to that question himself. Ruto watched him, expecting an answer. But no matter how much he racked his brain, he couldn't think of one. There was not one reason why she and him could possibly be together. It went against all his instincts.
In his possession, the mirror of Time gave a small glow, instantly giving him memories that this Link shared with her.
He now understood.
In an instant, The mirror made him glimpse at the small events of this universe's past, all of which added to the present situation. Each moment and fragment was a memory, shared with the Zora princess. He couldn't recall them all, but the time they spent in each other's company was a joy, not a nightmare.
He wouldn't believe it if he hadn't just witnessed it himself. This Link... was happy. Happy with Ruto! Unbelievable. He himself liked being friends with her... but anything more just wouldn't work. Certainly not love.
He then witnessed _the_ moment. The moment when friendship became love. The moment he admitted to himself, and later on to her, how he loved her. He got so caught up in the memory he became a part of it. "I love you..."
"Oh Link!" She hugged him tightly.
"R-Ruto!" Link strained from her strong grip. He just said that out-loud! Ruto released him, looking at him again. Link looked back, now very uncertain. He wasn't sure what to feel. Should he be happy for this Link? What in the world could have happened to make this future?
Ruto was still smiling as she gazed lovingly into the Hylian. She could tell he was bothered about something. "I know, things will be difficult for you. For us," she continued. "Zoras and Hylians are not prone to mixing... But let's find out what happens!" she felt excited at the prospect and challenge they would face.
Link didn't share the prospect, though he wore himself like a mask, hiding his feelings. Perhaps it was the mirror of Time itself. It played him like a puppet, it wouldn't let him ruin the happiness for this Link.
"The Royal quarters are being set up for us," said Ruto. "I know it's just a cave to you, but..."
"I'm sure it will be fine," said Link as nicely as he could. He thought it best to proceed carefully, until he could figure out this place.
"Do you really think so?" said Ruto.
"I'm sure," he said quickly. What was he supposed to do here?
"We will rule as King and Queen one day," sighed Ruto. "It will be perfect, you'll see. I'm going to check on some things. I'll see you in a little while."
"Okay," Link nodded as Ruto stood up ready to dive into the pool. Link started to wonder how this life would work?
King of this watery domain?
As Ruto dove into the pool, he felt an icy splash covering him, making him shiver slightly. The droplets cascaded though his fingers in small drops, feeding back to the pool.
The balm on his skin was indeed waterproof, protecting him from the effects of over exposure. It was a sensible precaution, but how long could he live like this? Was it possible for him to live like this indefinitly?
He guessed that to Ruto, this all seemed so simple. Love conquered all. But could it conquer the differences between them? She was a Zora and he was a Hylian. They both had different needs. Here, he was (and pardon the pun) a fish out of water. At best he was an alien King among the subjects.
He remembered the Zora mask he had acquired in Termina. Wouldn't it make sense that this mask is on him now? He wondered why this wasn't the case. Surly, it would be far easier for this couple if he used it now.
He needed some time alone to ponder this.
*********
Link walked to a discreet area of the caverns, unseen by any of the Zora. He crouched in a nook of the cave, hidden in the shadows.
He needed answers.
The same question was still burning inside him. He and Ruto?
Such a world was so difficult to imagine. He never really liked Ruto. She was possessive and bossy, to say nothing of the fact that she was a Zora anyway. For some reason, this Link was with her, in love. Could it be magic? A spell of some sort, cast by Ruto? Would she really do that? He didn't think so. What ever happened, he knew from the mirror, this Link felt genuine love for the Zora.
Stranger things have happened. "At least, 'some' stranger things." He was warned with this mirror, that all possibilities were played out.
He brought up the mirror of Time. "Show me the past, please" he asked politely. He was starting to get the impression that this item might actually be alive. It probably made him say he loved Ruto, when he really didn't. It wasn't very honourable to be untrue to anyone. Still, the memories of the past lingered and teased him, making him feel strange whenever he pictured Ruto. If he didn't see those images objectively, he might go crazy and really love her.
In an instant, the mirror glowed blue. Images started moving towards the past, centring on Link became visible.
The mirror started to explain the story.
*******
Link couldn't take life anymore. Nobody would believe his stories.
He went into the palace, to see Zelda that one last time. Although he did get to see her, a guard surprised him from behind. He was instantly thrown out of the palace, like an urchin. He pleaded to see her; certain she would recognise him. He wasn't even sure if Zelda would remember him anyway, but she was his only hope.
"Who are you?" said the princess shocked at his intrusion. "I've never seen you in my life!"
He was tossed away, unrecognised.
He was always alone.
The boy, who saved all of Hyrule, did not have much of a welcome. He had no more money, even after defeating monsters. In this world, monsters were less likely to have money on them. Thieves, who watched him all the time, often snatched any wealth on him.
Link could defeat those scrupulous individuals easily, though he still had a conscience and didn't kill fellow Hylians. However, without Navi, even he now required sleep. Not that he slept much anyway.
He rested in the deserted market place, huddled in the alleyways. The dogs that roamed at night served to protect him, the animal senses knew on some level of his past. It was strange that they alone were partially immune to the effects of time. But they did not provide the companionship he desired.
Cold and alone, without a home or any friends, he left Hyrule.
********
"But why didn't he go to Malon? And why didn't Zelda recognise him?" Malon was always there when he needed her. He remembered he spent a few nights there when things got rough. She was a lifesaver for things like that. In his universe, Zelda did remember him. Why not here?
*Time is as random as the events it carries,* the mirror somehow conveyed its message.
That explained Zelda. Some people had their memories erased, others knew more then others... Link hated to think what this Link would have gone though. "He could still have gone to Malon though. She was kind to me, even before knowing about me."
*Malon... became the sage of the forest.*
"Huh?" said Link shocked. "Malon? But what about Saria?"
*Keep watching* the mirror reflected to him.
*******
The past...
How could he do it?
There was a void in the world, and only one person had the empathy required to fill it. Malon, the rancher and farmer. Daughter to Talon, loved by all who knew her, she had a deep respect for nature. It was a necessity for her job. However, she was hard-pressed to become the sage of the Forest.
She loved the ranch, not the woods. She was one with space, not solitude in shades.
Still, fate had seen her as the only alternative.
In the future, Link had ensured she would be received as the sage of the forest. He had taken her away from all her friends and family. The world she knew, was gone forever, to be replaced by the lost woods.
She cried to Link all that night. She didn't want to do it. She didn't.
But he had to let it happen.
It did not matter that everything was reset.
This Malon would indeed continue her life, as if she did not know him, but that did not matter. In the end, he did take the sage herself away form what should of been her life.
She was locked away forever, and nobody would even miss her.
He swore to never interfere with Malon's life, for as long as he could help it.
********
This didn't make sense.
"Why? What happened to Saria?"
Link watched the images intently though the mirror. He felt a great sadness fill him from this world. He had on occasion complained how things turned out for him. But this Link had many things that should not have happen, actually happen.
He turned his attention back to the mirror.
*********
The only home he had was in the Lost woods.
However, when he tried to go back... he was repelled. A field had been enacted, preventing any Hylian from entering the domain of the Kokiri. He shouted the name of his friends on the other side, nobody answering him. Saria! Fado! Anyone! Mido!
He had one possession, which he treated as more important to him then anything in the world. A wooden ocarina. It had suffered greatly, nearly worn out and requiring more then just polish.
He tried to remember the song of Saria. He played the Ocarina, over and over, uncertainty growing with every gasp of breath as he completed the song.
He received nothing.
******
Link shook his head as he watched though the mirror. He was playing Saria's song fine. It was just that the Ocarina was damaged. It was important for the sounds to be pin sharp. It was also important for his mind to be in perfect condition to cover the distance. This Link was not 'in tune' for telepathy.
The Mirror seemed to disagree with his thoughts.
"Why? Why can't he hear Saria?" Link thought to it.
*Saria... is gone.*
Link fell back, stunned. "Gone? S-She's... gone?" He started to feel sick at the idea. "B-but the Kokiri are immortal!" He exclaimed. Covering his mouth, he looked around. Nobody heard him. he started to whisper harshly. "She can't be gone. She just can't!"
The mirror glowed a lighter blue, waiting for his next question.
"What happened to her? Is this why Malon became the sage of the forest?" Link started to feel more words pour out from the mirror.
*Gannondorf...*
******
The King of Evil. The leader of the Gerudo.
Gannondorf.
He found the Deku tree, symbol of balance for Hyrule. One of the protectorate of the three stones, the path to the Triforce. The most powerful relic of the Goddesses.
What he did not expect, was to find a race of children.
Still, it was apparent to the Evil King that these children were somehow born of the Deku tree. They were a part of the balance to the world as well. The balance that prevented him from acquiring the power he craved.
They too, had to be destroyed.
The spell he unleashed corrupted their being, as sure as it did the Deku tree. It was all done in one instant...
*****
The mirror no longer glowed blue. Instead it was a fiery red. Link wept at the destruction he saw. It was not the peaceful adventure he woke up to in his world. This Link woke to his home destroyed, the Kokiri village in ashes.
His friend, Saria... He could not bear to watch anymore.
To think such a thing could have happened... It made him appreciate the way things had turned out even more.
The mirror glowed a gentle blue, sensing his distress. *Watch more...*
Link turned his watered eyes back to the mirror, keeping himself distant from the despair he felt.
Still, he had to know more.
*******
The Deku tree had crumbled to ash. Still, with its dying breath, he had told Link all he needed to know. He provided him with the ultimate symbol of power from the woods. The Kokiri Emerald.
There was not much time. Link left the ruins of his home, intent to prevent such a thing from happening to others.
But as soon as he left, things started to happen. Something Link could not have known.
The fairies of the forest were sworn to protect the Kokiri, at all costs. However, with the destruction of the Deku tree, even their powers were limited.
They started to prepare.
The Kokiri all started to appear as if like ghosts behind a curtain.
Each one had had their magical essence removed, due to the curse of Gannondorf. However, the fairies would persevere. In time, they will all live again.
The Deku tree had planted a new seed.
Time was all that was required. A lot of time.
But they had eternity.
They sealed their domain, to prevent anyone from disturbing their re-creation.
********
Link stared at the mirror, his despair suddenly changed to optimism. So, there was hope. Even if he knew, it may be a long time before this Link could see his old friends again. "So, what happened to Link? The past Link," he clarified. This was getting confusing.
*Watch...*
********
Link decided to stay around Hylia Lake uncertain of what to do.
He skipped a rock, getting better with each throw. He didn't care anymore. What happened to him? The child, who was really a man, trapped with nowhere to go and nobody to turn to.
That was when he met Ruto.
"Hey! You shouldn't throw things into the water. You could hurt someone," said the Zora princess annoyed. "Don't you have any respect?"
Link skipped another rock. "I'm careful," he said indifferently.
Ruto fell quiet for a second, as she heard his voice. "Do... Do I know you?" she said confused.
Link smiled a little. "Maybe. I don't know."
"My name is Ruto. I am princess of all you see before you, and beyond," she said proudly.
"My name is Link. Unknown hero of all you see, and beyond."
"Linky the Hero!" smiled the Zora at the joke. "So how's things on dry land?"
"I wouldn't know. I don't live there."
"Huh? You must live there, you're a Hylian. Where do you live?"
"I don't live anywhere," he sighed. Nobody could understand how he felt. He was a wondering spirit, nothing tied him. But he wished he did have a place he could go. A real home.
Something unnerved the Zora. She wasn't sure what it was, but there was something she had to do. "Link, I- um thank you" she mumbled.
"Link raised an eyebrow. "For what?"
Ruto was put off by what she just said. "I don't know. Sorry, forget it."
Link smiled for what seemed like a long time. It was the first thank you he had got since being forced back in time. And he got it from Ruto. "Your welcome," he said graciously.
Ruto didn't know what it was about. She just thanked someone! The princess of the Zora said thanks to some stranger. Why in the world would she do that? But the moment had passed, but she still felt it was the right thing, at the time.
"So, why the sad face? I've been watching you, just staying here. Why don't you come to our place?"
"I don't have a blue tunic," he said a bit bitter. Why did he have to go back? He had nothing here. Nothing.
"No blue tunic? Well, that's not right! Stay right there, I'll get one just your size. You'll see." she dived back into the water.
********
"And that was their first meeting," thought Link.
He started to see the quick glimpses. He stayed with her, since there was nowhere else to go. But more then that, he enjoyed his time with her. He broke the surface of Ruto's façade, to find the gentle and dynamic person beneath. In return, Ruto helped him forget his loneliness. He let go of the memories he had, and became a child again.
They grew up together.
So, Link and Ruto were happy.
Weird.
Very, very weird.
But, in this place, understandable.
He got up from the shadows. He had his answers, and he felt truly happy for this Link. He had found happiness in a place he could never have imagined. Still, there was nothing he could do here.
He most certainly didn't want to stay.
He decided it was time to pull out of here, to find another time-line.
"There you are Link!" said Ruto. "Where have you been?"
Link put the mirror back in his pocket surprised. "Um I was just-"
Ruto spotted something was in his hands. "What do you have there? Let me see!"
"It's nothing," he said quickly.
"Why have you been hiding here? You know the ceremony starts now. You're not getting scared are you?"
"C-ceremony?" said Link shocked.
"Come on! We don't have much time."
Ruto dragged link, pass the caverns and the throne room, to the pool of Lord Jabu-Jabu. "What's going on?" he said to himself.
*********
Link found himself side by side to Ruto, in front of him stood Lord Jabu-Jabu.
Ruto took a deep breath, ready to recite the prayer. "Great Lord Jabu-Jabu, we offer you this piece of fish, in hope you will bless the union of me and my mate."
Link nearly collapsed. *I'm getting married!?!* Ruto elbowed him.
"Don't you have the fish?" she said angrily.
"F-fish?"
"Don't tell me you forgot the offering!" Ruto screamed.
Link had an old preserved fish in a magic bottle. "Here. Is this okay?"
"Well go on! Place it in front of him."
Link placed the fish in front of Lord Jabu-Jabu.
Instantly, Lord Jabu-Jabu awakened. He inhaled deeply, making a huge wind encompass the couple. The fish got sucked into his stomach.
Link and Ruto strained against the force, to stop themselves being sucked in. He nearly lost his footing, but Ruto held him down.
"RUUUTTOOO," Lord Jabu-Jabu spoke, fully alert.
"Yes," said the princess. She was smiling as happy as anyone would on her wedding day.
"Are you certain? You wish a union with one who is not of your kind?" Lord Jabu-Jabu spoke neutrally but kindly to her.
"Yes. I love him." she said sincerely.
"And you Link, you love this Zora?"
Link felt himself sweat. He couldn't spoil it for the other Link. "Well-I-uh-"
Ruto glared at him.
"Yes..." he said weekly.
"Very well," said Lord Jabu-Jabu satisfied. "Step forward."
The two step forward.
Jabu-Jabu unleashed another wind. It coalesced between them, before vanishing. A fragrance of flowers and freshness hanged in the air for longer, before it too dissipated. "Your union is blessed by my powers."
"Thanks," said Ruto.
"You may kiss the bride," said Lord Jabu-Jabu.
"Oh no." Link fell back shocked as Ruto kissed him deeply. He wanted to scream. It was an eternity before she let go. He started breathing heavily, thinking he could do with a mouthwash.
"And now... time for our honeymoon." said Ruto.
He froze. "That's it," said Link bringing out the mirror of time. He could only take so much. "I'm getting out of here! I wish you and Link a happy marriage, but I don't want to be around for it! Get me out of here! For the love of the Triforce! Get me out of here!"
The mirror started to fuzz around the reflection. It didn't like that Link wanted to leave now. Still.... It supposed he couldn't take it here for long. It pegged him for leaving a lot sooner then now. But there was still so much for him to see....
*********************************************************************************************
Choose what happens.
1) Why the **** am I reading this? Link and Ruto? Please pass the sick bag! (Choose something else, go to the beginning.)
2) The Mirror of Time decides to run out of batteries, and let Link suffer the humiliation of a honeymoon. Are you sure you want this? O_o (Choice 5)
3) Link and Ruto? For some reason, I am intrigued. Go on! Show a little more. Please? (choice 6)
*********************************************************************************************
Link and Ruto.
*******************************
Link blinked.
Once again, he was cast into the streams of time. He was filled with a deep sense of dread and fear, as he recognised where he was.
The Zoran caverns. A remarkably beautiful world, home to an exotic race called the Zora. The caverns were pleasantly peaceful, a serenade of music made the interior washed with the crystal clarity of water.
He noticed he was dressed in the blue tunic. It seems whoever he was here, he did a lot of swimming. He sat in the caverns, overlooking the great pool. His arms felt sore, probably from swimming in the watery environment. He also noticed a waxy balm of some kind on his skin. It was apparent it protected him from overexposure to water.
"I love you Link," said Ruto.
Link jumped wide-eyed. "No..." was all he could whisper, as he realised his fate. What happened? Why in the world was this Link here, with Ruto of all people? The Zora touched his arm fondly, but all he did was cringe at the touch of her hand.
Ruto was put off-guard by Link's reaction. "W-What's the matter?" she asked fearfully.
It was Link's turn to be shocked, and even ashamed. Ruto looked visibly shaken by how he had reacted. He could see her eyes, holding back her tears. He didn't want to know how he must have looked to her. "I- I'm sorry Ruto" he said. "You just surprised me, that's all." This situation would take some getting used to.
"Oh. Sorry about that," she replied sighing, sitting next to him.
Ruto had learned Link was on occasion a little moody. The most impossible situation, her wildest dreams, had come true. Link loved her. Somehow, he had seen pass her appearance, and became very close friends. That friendship bloomed into what they have now. She had cast away her jealousy and fear that Link would be driven away.
But then, why did he look so afraid? Did he hate her?
"I know this probably wasn't the home you pictured," said Ruto.
*You could say that again,* Link thought silently.
They stood together, none of the other Zora paid attention to the odd couple. They were used to it by now.
"Can I ask you something?" Ruto asked, breaking the silence.
"Of course," his short smile hid how nervous he really was.
"Why Link?" she asked softly.
"W-Why?" he asked back confused.
"Why... did you decide, to be with me?"
Link fell silent. He would like to know the answer to that question himself. Ruto watched him, expecting an answer. But no matter how much he racked his brain, he couldn't think of one. There was not one reason why she and him could possibly be together. It went against all his instincts.
In his possession, the mirror of Time gave a small glow, instantly giving him memories that this Link shared with her.
He now understood.
In an instant, The mirror made him glimpse at the small events of this universe's past, all of which added to the present situation. Each moment and fragment was a memory, shared with the Zora princess. He couldn't recall them all, but the time they spent in each other's company was a joy, not a nightmare.
He wouldn't believe it if he hadn't just witnessed it himself. This Link... was happy. Happy with Ruto! Unbelievable. He himself liked being friends with her... but anything more just wouldn't work. Certainly not love.
He then witnessed _the_ moment. The moment when friendship became love. The moment he admitted to himself, and later on to her, how he loved her. He got so caught up in the memory he became a part of it. "I love you..."
"Oh Link!" She hugged him tightly.
"R-Ruto!" Link strained from her strong grip. He just said that out-loud! Ruto released him, looking at him again. Link looked back, now very uncertain. He wasn't sure what to feel. Should he be happy for this Link? What in the world could have happened to make this future?
Ruto was still smiling as she gazed lovingly into the Hylian. She could tell he was bothered about something. "I know, things will be difficult for you. For us," she continued. "Zoras and Hylians are not prone to mixing... But let's find out what happens!" she felt excited at the prospect and challenge they would face.
Link didn't share the prospect, though he wore himself like a mask, hiding his feelings. Perhaps it was the mirror of Time itself. It played him like a puppet, it wouldn't let him ruin the happiness for this Link.
"The Royal quarters are being set up for us," said Ruto. "I know it's just a cave to you, but..."
"I'm sure it will be fine," said Link as nicely as he could. He thought it best to proceed carefully, until he could figure out this place.
"Do you really think so?" said Ruto.
"I'm sure," he said quickly. What was he supposed to do here?
"We will rule as King and Queen one day," sighed Ruto. "It will be perfect, you'll see. I'm going to check on some things. I'll see you in a little while."
"Okay," Link nodded as Ruto stood up ready to dive into the pool. Link started to wonder how this life would work?
King of this watery domain?
As Ruto dove into the pool, he felt an icy splash covering him, making him shiver slightly. The droplets cascaded though his fingers in small drops, feeding back to the pool.
The balm on his skin was indeed waterproof, protecting him from the effects of over exposure. It was a sensible precaution, but how long could he live like this? Was it possible for him to live like this indefinitly?
He guessed that to Ruto, this all seemed so simple. Love conquered all. But could it conquer the differences between them? She was a Zora and he was a Hylian. They both had different needs. Here, he was (and pardon the pun) a fish out of water. At best he was an alien King among the subjects.
He remembered the Zora mask he had acquired in Termina. Wouldn't it make sense that this mask is on him now? He wondered why this wasn't the case. Surly, it would be far easier for this couple if he used it now.
He needed some time alone to ponder this.
*********
Link walked to a discreet area of the caverns, unseen by any of the Zora. He crouched in a nook of the cave, hidden in the shadows.
He needed answers.
The same question was still burning inside him. He and Ruto?
Such a world was so difficult to imagine. He never really liked Ruto. She was possessive and bossy, to say nothing of the fact that she was a Zora anyway. For some reason, this Link was with her, in love. Could it be magic? A spell of some sort, cast by Ruto? Would she really do that? He didn't think so. What ever happened, he knew from the mirror, this Link felt genuine love for the Zora.
Stranger things have happened. "At least, 'some' stranger things." He was warned with this mirror, that all possibilities were played out.
He brought up the mirror of Time. "Show me the past, please" he asked politely. He was starting to get the impression that this item might actually be alive. It probably made him say he loved Ruto, when he really didn't. It wasn't very honourable to be untrue to anyone. Still, the memories of the past lingered and teased him, making him feel strange whenever he pictured Ruto. If he didn't see those images objectively, he might go crazy and really love her.
In an instant, the mirror glowed blue. Images started moving towards the past, centring on Link became visible.
The mirror started to explain the story.
*******
Link couldn't take life anymore. Nobody would believe his stories.
He went into the palace, to see Zelda that one last time. Although he did get to see her, a guard surprised him from behind. He was instantly thrown out of the palace, like an urchin. He pleaded to see her; certain she would recognise him. He wasn't even sure if Zelda would remember him anyway, but she was his only hope.
"Who are you?" said the princess shocked at his intrusion. "I've never seen you in my life!"
He was tossed away, unrecognised.
He was always alone.
The boy, who saved all of Hyrule, did not have much of a welcome. He had no more money, even after defeating monsters. In this world, monsters were less likely to have money on them. Thieves, who watched him all the time, often snatched any wealth on him.
Link could defeat those scrupulous individuals easily, though he still had a conscience and didn't kill fellow Hylians. However, without Navi, even he now required sleep. Not that he slept much anyway.
He rested in the deserted market place, huddled in the alleyways. The dogs that roamed at night served to protect him, the animal senses knew on some level of his past. It was strange that they alone were partially immune to the effects of time. But they did not provide the companionship he desired.
Cold and alone, without a home or any friends, he left Hyrule.
********
"But why didn't he go to Malon? And why didn't Zelda recognise him?" Malon was always there when he needed her. He remembered he spent a few nights there when things got rough. She was a lifesaver for things like that. In his universe, Zelda did remember him. Why not here?
*Time is as random as the events it carries,* the mirror somehow conveyed its message.
That explained Zelda. Some people had their memories erased, others knew more then others... Link hated to think what this Link would have gone though. "He could still have gone to Malon though. She was kind to me, even before knowing about me."
*Malon... became the sage of the forest.*
"Huh?" said Link shocked. "Malon? But what about Saria?"
*Keep watching* the mirror reflected to him.
*******
The past...
How could he do it?
There was a void in the world, and only one person had the empathy required to fill it. Malon, the rancher and farmer. Daughter to Talon, loved by all who knew her, she had a deep respect for nature. It was a necessity for her job. However, she was hard-pressed to become the sage of the Forest.
She loved the ranch, not the woods. She was one with space, not solitude in shades.
Still, fate had seen her as the only alternative.
In the future, Link had ensured she would be received as the sage of the forest. He had taken her away from all her friends and family. The world she knew, was gone forever, to be replaced by the lost woods.
She cried to Link all that night. She didn't want to do it. She didn't.
But he had to let it happen.
It did not matter that everything was reset.
This Malon would indeed continue her life, as if she did not know him, but that did not matter. In the end, he did take the sage herself away form what should of been her life.
She was locked away forever, and nobody would even miss her.
He swore to never interfere with Malon's life, for as long as he could help it.
********
This didn't make sense.
"Why? What happened to Saria?"
Link watched the images intently though the mirror. He felt a great sadness fill him from this world. He had on occasion complained how things turned out for him. But this Link had many things that should not have happen, actually happen.
He turned his attention back to the mirror.
*********
The only home he had was in the Lost woods.
However, when he tried to go back... he was repelled. A field had been enacted, preventing any Hylian from entering the domain of the Kokiri. He shouted the name of his friends on the other side, nobody answering him. Saria! Fado! Anyone! Mido!
He had one possession, which he treated as more important to him then anything in the world. A wooden ocarina. It had suffered greatly, nearly worn out and requiring more then just polish.
He tried to remember the song of Saria. He played the Ocarina, over and over, uncertainty growing with every gasp of breath as he completed the song.
He received nothing.
******
Link shook his head as he watched though the mirror. He was playing Saria's song fine. It was just that the Ocarina was damaged. It was important for the sounds to be pin sharp. It was also important for his mind to be in perfect condition to cover the distance. This Link was not 'in tune' for telepathy.
The Mirror seemed to disagree with his thoughts.
"Why? Why can't he hear Saria?" Link thought to it.
*Saria... is gone.*
Link fell back, stunned. "Gone? S-She's... gone?" He started to feel sick at the idea. "B-but the Kokiri are immortal!" He exclaimed. Covering his mouth, he looked around. Nobody heard him. he started to whisper harshly. "She can't be gone. She just can't!"
The mirror glowed a lighter blue, waiting for his next question.
"What happened to her? Is this why Malon became the sage of the forest?" Link started to feel more words pour out from the mirror.
*Gannondorf...*
******
The King of Evil. The leader of the Gerudo.
Gannondorf.
He found the Deku tree, symbol of balance for Hyrule. One of the protectorate of the three stones, the path to the Triforce. The most powerful relic of the Goddesses.
What he did not expect, was to find a race of children.
Still, it was apparent to the Evil King that these children were somehow born of the Deku tree. They were a part of the balance to the world as well. The balance that prevented him from acquiring the power he craved.
They too, had to be destroyed.
The spell he unleashed corrupted their being, as sure as it did the Deku tree. It was all done in one instant...
*****
The mirror no longer glowed blue. Instead it was a fiery red. Link wept at the destruction he saw. It was not the peaceful adventure he woke up to in his world. This Link woke to his home destroyed, the Kokiri village in ashes.
His friend, Saria... He could not bear to watch anymore.
To think such a thing could have happened... It made him appreciate the way things had turned out even more.
The mirror glowed a gentle blue, sensing his distress. *Watch more...*
Link turned his watered eyes back to the mirror, keeping himself distant from the despair he felt.
Still, he had to know more.
*******
The Deku tree had crumbled to ash. Still, with its dying breath, he had told Link all he needed to know. He provided him with the ultimate symbol of power from the woods. The Kokiri Emerald.
There was not much time. Link left the ruins of his home, intent to prevent such a thing from happening to others.
But as soon as he left, things started to happen. Something Link could not have known.
The fairies of the forest were sworn to protect the Kokiri, at all costs. However, with the destruction of the Deku tree, even their powers were limited.
They started to prepare.
The Kokiri all started to appear as if like ghosts behind a curtain.
Each one had had their magical essence removed, due to the curse of Gannondorf. However, the fairies would persevere. In time, they will all live again.
The Deku tree had planted a new seed.
Time was all that was required. A lot of time.
But they had eternity.
They sealed their domain, to prevent anyone from disturbing their re-creation.
********
Link stared at the mirror, his despair suddenly changed to optimism. So, there was hope. Even if he knew, it may be a long time before this Link could see his old friends again. "So, what happened to Link? The past Link," he clarified. This was getting confusing.
*Watch...*
********
Link decided to stay around Hylia Lake uncertain of what to do.
He skipped a rock, getting better with each throw. He didn't care anymore. What happened to him? The child, who was really a man, trapped with nowhere to go and nobody to turn to.
That was when he met Ruto.
"Hey! You shouldn't throw things into the water. You could hurt someone," said the Zora princess annoyed. "Don't you have any respect?"
Link skipped another rock. "I'm careful," he said indifferently.
Ruto fell quiet for a second, as she heard his voice. "Do... Do I know you?" she said confused.
Link smiled a little. "Maybe. I don't know."
"My name is Ruto. I am princess of all you see before you, and beyond," she said proudly.
"My name is Link. Unknown hero of all you see, and beyond."
"Linky the Hero!" smiled the Zora at the joke. "So how's things on dry land?"
"I wouldn't know. I don't live there."
"Huh? You must live there, you're a Hylian. Where do you live?"
"I don't live anywhere," he sighed. Nobody could understand how he felt. He was a wondering spirit, nothing tied him. But he wished he did have a place he could go. A real home.
Something unnerved the Zora. She wasn't sure what it was, but there was something she had to do. "Link, I- um thank you" she mumbled.
"Link raised an eyebrow. "For what?"
Ruto was put off by what she just said. "I don't know. Sorry, forget it."
Link smiled for what seemed like a long time. It was the first thank you he had got since being forced back in time. And he got it from Ruto. "Your welcome," he said graciously.
Ruto didn't know what it was about. She just thanked someone! The princess of the Zora said thanks to some stranger. Why in the world would she do that? But the moment had passed, but she still felt it was the right thing, at the time.
"So, why the sad face? I've been watching you, just staying here. Why don't you come to our place?"
"I don't have a blue tunic," he said a bit bitter. Why did he have to go back? He had nothing here. Nothing.
"No blue tunic? Well, that's not right! Stay right there, I'll get one just your size. You'll see." she dived back into the water.
********
"And that was their first meeting," thought Link.
He started to see the quick glimpses. He stayed with her, since there was nowhere else to go. But more then that, he enjoyed his time with her. He broke the surface of Ruto's façade, to find the gentle and dynamic person beneath. In return, Ruto helped him forget his loneliness. He let go of the memories he had, and became a child again.
They grew up together.
So, Link and Ruto were happy.
Weird.
Very, very weird.
But, in this place, understandable.
He got up from the shadows. He had his answers, and he felt truly happy for this Link. He had found happiness in a place he could never have imagined. Still, there was nothing he could do here.
He most certainly didn't want to stay.
He decided it was time to pull out of here, to find another time-line.
"There you are Link!" said Ruto. "Where have you been?"
Link put the mirror back in his pocket surprised. "Um I was just-"
Ruto spotted something was in his hands. "What do you have there? Let me see!"
"It's nothing," he said quickly.
"Why have you been hiding here? You know the ceremony starts now. You're not getting scared are you?"
"C-ceremony?" said Link shocked.
"Come on! We don't have much time."
Ruto dragged link, pass the caverns and the throne room, to the pool of Lord Jabu-Jabu. "What's going on?" he said to himself.
*********
Link found himself side by side to Ruto, in front of him stood Lord Jabu-Jabu.
Ruto took a deep breath, ready to recite the prayer. "Great Lord Jabu-Jabu, we offer you this piece of fish, in hope you will bless the union of me and my mate."
Link nearly collapsed. *I'm getting married!?!* Ruto elbowed him.
"Don't you have the fish?" she said angrily.
"F-fish?"
"Don't tell me you forgot the offering!" Ruto screamed.
Link had an old preserved fish in a magic bottle. "Here. Is this okay?"
"Well go on! Place it in front of him."
Link placed the fish in front of Lord Jabu-Jabu.
Instantly, Lord Jabu-Jabu awakened. He inhaled deeply, making a huge wind encompass the couple. The fish got sucked into his stomach.
Link and Ruto strained against the force, to stop themselves being sucked in. He nearly lost his footing, but Ruto held him down.
"RUUUTTOOO," Lord Jabu-Jabu spoke, fully alert.
"Yes," said the princess. She was smiling as happy as anyone would on her wedding day.
"Are you certain? You wish a union with one who is not of your kind?" Lord Jabu-Jabu spoke neutrally but kindly to her.
"Yes. I love him." she said sincerely.
"And you Link, you love this Zora?"
Link felt himself sweat. He couldn't spoil it for the other Link. "Well-I-uh-"
Ruto glared at him.
"Yes..." he said weekly.
"Very well," said Lord Jabu-Jabu satisfied. "Step forward."
The two step forward.
Jabu-Jabu unleashed another wind. It coalesced between them, before vanishing. A fragrance of flowers and freshness hanged in the air for longer, before it too dissipated. "Your union is blessed by my powers."
"Thanks," said Ruto.
"You may kiss the bride," said Lord Jabu-Jabu.
"Oh no." Link fell back shocked as Ruto kissed him deeply. He wanted to scream. It was an eternity before she let go. He started breathing heavily, thinking he could do with a mouthwash.
"And now... time for our honeymoon." said Ruto.
He froze. "That's it," said Link bringing out the mirror of time. He could only take so much. "I'm getting out of here! I wish you and Link a happy marriage, but I don't want to be around for it! Get me out of here! For the love of the Triforce! Get me out of here!"
The mirror started to fuzz around the reflection. It didn't like that Link wanted to leave now. Still.... It supposed he couldn't take it here for long. It pegged him for leaving a lot sooner then now. But there was still so much for him to see....
*********************************************************************************************
Choose what happens.
1) Why the **** am I reading this? Link and Ruto? Please pass the sick bag! (Choose something else, go to the beginning.)
2) The Mirror of Time decides to run out of batteries, and let Link suffer the humiliation of a honeymoon. Are you sure you want this? O_o (Choice 5)
3) Link and Ruto? For some reason, I am intrigued. Go on! Show a little more. Please? (choice 6)
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