Wow. Nice _long_ chapter for you all to enjoy!

Things go a little different then what I planned, but... I have it on good authority that it is fine. (Thanks Stacie Hawking!) :)

*****************
Chapter 15

The salesman floated on the surface of the sea in a horizontal position, staring through the surface of the water. His sharp eyes scanned though the fishes and algae that dominated this aquatic world, until he found three Zora figures. Good. They had made it! That was a very lucky jump; it's a good thing Ruto was with them. Being a real Zora, she should be able to guide them safely.

Still, something did not feel right. There was something... something dangerous brewing. Not ahead, but behind them. He was so preoccupied with what was going to happen, he wasn't looking at what had already happened. He drove his attention back, past the sea and into Hyrule,
lightly probing all life he had touched.

He felt a power there... a familiar power... Too much! He sharply pulled back. "Zelda..." he grimaced. The rabbit mask had taken a life of it's own and was becoming too powerful. So powerful in fact, he could not direct it anymore. What had Link done to it for this to happen? No basic mask should have this kind of power this quickly.

Could Link have surpassed the limitations of the rabbit mask and somehow... give it life?

He had already brought out the happiness in the other masks to make them 'true' transformation masks, but to give a mask life required a lot of time and effort. It takes a lifetime of work and dedication, and is not often met with success.

He checked all the others. Darunia was none the worse for his transformation. His energy was perfect. Nabooru was well within safety limits too; their powers were growing nice and steady. He felt satisfied that they were in no danger. His link to the masks remained firm.

However Zelda was in trouble, far more then she knew. The rabbit spirit would overwhelm her with its power, before she could fully comprehend how to control it. She required immediate customer support, and fast.

"I have no time for this!" he shouted angrily, as if somone actually cared. If he left Link now, all this would be for nothing. There was nothing he could do. "I can't allow this.... casualty... but... and it was all going so well. Why Link, did you have to be so good!"

He wasn't even sure if he _could_ help her. Not even he could remove it, not without Sam'kemesa. Even then, it would be tricky now that his control was gone. Zelda might not have enough time for him to get it.

"There must be... some way... some way to... help... just once more."

He started to think. If he can't go there, very simply, someone else would need to. He rummaged into his fragmented memories, memories that he didn't realise he possessed.

"Someone... else... but... who?"

It needed to be someone who knew enough about magic as well as Zelda's... extremely unique affliction.

The weak and pathetic wizards of this world wouldn't do.

And he just used up all his IOUs! All favours were taken. Nobody was indebted to him anymore, aside from Link. Did he know anyone that could help her? Realisation dawned on him.

"Perhaps..."

He started to recall one person, with the knowledge and power that might be able to help.

Best of all, she may even do it freely.

Free agents were such a rarity, in all the cosmos.

But to do this neutrally... he had to be careful. *I have someone that might interest you,* he described telepathically. His voice echoed across the multitude of universes, finally reaching an impossibly tiny space. A universe so small it is unnoticed by many, though not by him.

Several minutes later, he got a message back.

He nodded, thankful.

************

Saria tumbled and turned in the ocean, unable to breathe. *I'm going to drown* she thought, already the air in her lungs was burning for release. She started to struggle, propelling herself to get back to the precious air she needed. She tried to rise, but her body was like a dead weight, staying in the same position. She was still holding her breath, too weak to struggle anymore.

Ruto swam to her. "What's with you? Snap out of it!" She had never seen a Zora act like this.

Saria was starting to feel faint now from the lack of oxygen. Her sight was getting hazy around the edges of her vision.

Link rose to eye level with her, placing his hands on each of her shoulder. He locked his eyes on to her fearful expression. "Breathe Saria. Look at me, see? We are now Zora and you can breathe it just like me. You can let the water inside... Just relax... relax..."

She heard his voice but it was getting difficult to understand.

*Link* Saria tried to mouth, but panicked as water filled into her. *I need air Link* she continually thought to herself in a daze.

"Trust me," Link said.

Saria let in herself a large gulp of water, finally unable to hold her breath anymore. She then breathed it out... and in again... her vision cleared up. "I- I'm breathing," she said surprised.

"You had me scared there for a minute," said Link relieved.

"How do you get used to this? I feel so strange," she said, further surprised that they can talk underwater too.

To think, she had now become a Zora. She was already getting used to being a Hylian and even a fairy at one point. She flexed her new bladed fins in all directions; as they propelled her as swift as any other creature of the sea.

"Being in a three day loop helps you get used to it," he said keeping to the same relative position as her.

"You make a neat Zora Link!" said Ruto enthusiastically. With the danger now behind them, she could now appreciate what an interesting Zora he made. "Now we really can be together forever! Nothing can hold us apart..."

"It's just a mask Ruto," said Link disengaging from her. "It doesn't change who or what you really are."

"Oh come on!" Why couldn't he accept his fate with her? Link always used some excuse. It made absolutly no sense to her to waste this opertunity.

"I think I've got it now," said Saria after experimenting with her new form. She used her arms to move the fins in the correct direction. Surprisingly, it was much harder then flying as a fairy. Perhaps because fairies used magic to aide them in their flight.

"Ha! You think you can learn that quickly?" said Ruto. "I'll have you know it would take you weeks of practice to get perfect. You're not even using all your fins! You're like a baby!"

"I'm a fast learner. I'll get it right soon," she said with determination.

"Oh really? You couldn't even breathe without Link's help! You make a poor Zora, unlike Link-y..."

"I'm not even trying to be a Zora! And neither is Link!"

"There's no need for this," said Link breaking the argument. He glanced up towards the surface. "How far underwater are we anyway?"

"I would say just below one thousand meters," estimated Ruto. That dive took them quite deep, even by Zora standards. "I hate the deep sea," she commented. "Such an unruly neighbourhood."

"We need to go on to the Island of Time," he thought. "Navi? Are you alright too?" He had not seen her since the storm started. He was used to knowing the she always stood by him even when things got difficult, like now.

"We're fine Link," The fairy assured telepathically under his hat. Being underwater was tolerable for the fairies, as long as they were near their companion.

Sayl was also with Saria, silent as usual.

"Why do you hate the sea Ruto?" asked Saria. She thought the Zora princess would be right at home in this place.

Ruto looked around. "Can't you tell? It's yucky murky water. I've heard parts are so dark, you can get lost forever. The worse water is called-"

"Misty water?" asked Link thinking about the coastal bay in Termina.

Ruto nodded. "That's right, I'm surprised you know about it. We Zora have not seen something like that in a long time. Nobody goes very far out to sea anymore because of it."

"Anything else?" wondered Saria, looking at all the moving shadows in this aquatic world. Each one was seemingly innocent, yet could hide anything in it.

Ruto noticed her uneasiness. "Well, I suppose there are rumours of... sea monsters."

"Sea monsters?" Link said sarcastically, not in the least bit surprised. It would be their luck to find one in this huge ocean.

"Just rumours," repeated Ruto.

Link groaned.

Saria shuddered. "Any idea which direction we go Link?" She didn't want to stay in the open like this. The sooner they got moving, the better.

"That dive threw off my bearings," he said frustrated. Without the sun in full view, he couldn't even tell north or south, so he didn't know which way they had to go.

Saria looked at him. "So... we're lost."

"Seems that way," he admitted. If only they had a compass.

She sighed. "Well, what do you do in a situation like this Link?" In the forest, he mentioned he often got lost in his adventures, but he somehow managed to go where he was needed.

Link looked embarrassed. "Well, I either warp myself back to a place I know or… I wonder around." It wasn't much of a plan, but it worked for him. Unfortunately, they didn't have time to explore the _entire_ Sea.

Navi had the answer. "I can tell you the direction we were going on the ship," she said. "We fairies don't get lost as easily... I believe the ship was travelling this way." She used her light to indicate where the Isle of time might be.

"Yay!" said Ruto happily. "We have our direction! Come on Link, this is going to be so much fun!"

An underwater swim with Link... Fate took strange turns indeed.

************

Zelda felt she had to stay within Shusar's lab from now on, since it was the most isolated area of the castle. Also, she wanted to be around him, should her change go further. Being part rabbit was certainly an adjustment. She wondered if Darunia or Nabooru also had it this bad with their respected masks.

She hoped Link would fix everything soon.

She was lying down on a very comfortable couch. She guessed the wizard used it. He didn't ask for much in his lifetime of service, so as long as he could work the magic he loved.

"What have you found so far?" she asked, after realising she had nodded for an indefinite amount of time.

Shusar raised an eyebrow at the rabbit princess. "Nothing definite so far," he replied.

The main problem to him was this was such a new thing. Almost no one has any idea of mask magic. His colleagues sent everthing to him, but they were of little or no help. He was starting to learn more though, mostly through observation of Zelda and a mix of his own theories and intuition. Like any worthy scholar he noted every thought and idea he had, no matter how far-fetched.

He guessed that by now, he was probably the only 'expert' in Hyrule on this matter. if only there was somebody around to check his theories.

"Where's Impa?" asked Zelda. She was almost always at her side.

"She went to get something for you to eat. It's morning now."

Zelda sat up surprised. "Morning? Already? You mean I slept here?"

"Very soundly," said the wizard, still reading.

Zelda stretched herself. "What about you?"

"I have a little nod now and then," he replied. In truth, he had not had a full nights sleep in a while.

"Shusar, you really should get some sleep" she spoke matter of factually.

"I am only doing my job, princess. Don't worry, unsolved mysteries keep me awake anyway. Now this mystery is... more then interesting."

She knew the wizard always took his duties seriously, just like most of the people around her. Then again, most wizards don't expect trouble of this kind. Who could have guessed a princess to fall under some curse? It's so... cliché.

A few minutes later, Impa came into the lab. "I brought you some breakfast," she said carrying a tray. It was Zelda's usual; pure white bread, with cottage cheese. She also had a hot glass of expensive Lon-lon milk to complete the course.

"Thank you Impa," said Zelda sitting up. She took a mouthful of the cheese and bread, but it tasted funny to her. She chewed it carefully, testing the new sensation. Finally, she swallowed.

"Is something wrong?" asked Impa.

"No, it just tastes a bit different."

"That is to be expected," said Shusar listening. "I took the liberty of finding out about rabbits. Such interesting creatures, a pity they were driven to extinction. I have a book just for you, if you like. It might come in handy."

"Thanks Shusar," said Zelda. "I- ow!" She now felt a slight dull ache in her mouth. She felt something different with her tongue.

"What is it?" asked Impa alarmed.

"Nothing, just my teeth." The ache was now subsiding anyway.

"Let me see," said Shusar.

Zelda opened her mouth. Her front teeth were much larger then normal now.

The wizard prodded them out of curiosity, noticing that they were quite strong. "Hmm, I expected this," he mumbled. "Nothing to worry about Zelda, nothing at all."

"Nothing to worry about?" Impa said angrily. "If you expected this, why did you not say something!"

"Please Impa, it's just her teeth. Compared to everything else, this is quite minor." He soothed. He had to write this new development down.

Impa also didn't like the way Shusar just cast this aside. "I... see. Wizard, may I have a word with you in private," she said.

"Uh, but of course," he said, feeling he was walking into the lion's den.

Zelda sighed. It Looks like Shusar would feel the wrath of Impa's temper. She did not envy him. Then again, she would also like to have been told in advance too. She didn't plan on being an object of ridicule and curiosity for the rest of her life. She was still the princess, for goodness sake!

Impa and Shusar stepped outside.

********

"Okay wizard, what more can we expect? And don't side step me anymore," said Impa cross-armed.

"No need to be angry Impa..."

"I'm not angry! It's just- every change she undergoes takes her further away from me- from us. Can you understand?"

"Yes, I know," said Shusar feeling very fatigued. He felt he had always been honest with the attendant, when he was certain about the answer to the question. She demanded to know anything and everything he knew or suspected. He hoped she was prepared for this.

"Tell me Impa, How much do you know about rabbits?"

"Enough to know we might have a problem if she is not cured," she said back.

"Problem is a bit of an understatement," he admitted. He was certain Impa knew what he was getting at. "You know why they were rendered extinct I suppose?"

Impa put on a thoughtful pose. "They were a menace to farmers. They ate crops in huge numbers, destroying an entire field within a week. The farmers used a new magic potion to control them, but it worked too well. They all died."

"Quite so," he nodded. "Now, I can tell you that she might suffer from all kinds of things, becoming more rabbit like... I don't have all the answers though, I can only guess. Of course, she still retains her humanoid shape so far, but..." Now here was the tricky part. "You do know what makes rabbits special?"

"I have a feeling you are about to tell me," said Impa.

"They... breed in huge numbers. Two Hyrulian rabbits could destroy a field after several generations. Do you see what I'm getting at?"

"She will start eating crops?" she said a little weakly. This was something she would rather not talk about. She was certainly not ignorant about these creatures.

He sighed again. "You know what I mean. Rabbits... have a tendency towards being a trifle... energetic?"

There. He said it.

"Well... yes," said Impa only slightly blushing.

"Of course, that is only with the adult rabbits," added Shusar.

"Well... good."

"But.... The rabbits of Hyrule become adult within two years. She might... anyway, you can handle that," he summed up quickly, his voice of reason completely depleted. It was her responsibility after all to deal with this, as the attendant to the princess.

"Should... Zelda be informed?" this was a difficult subject, to say the least.

"No!" He exclaimed, then gave a cough of embarrassment. "Umm no. I think it's best for Zelda not to know about this. It would only make it worse. Ignorance is bliss, especially in this case."

"I… see."

There was an awkward pause, but Shusar was not done. "I have everything in this book I was going to give to you. It's a bit more in depth then the one I'm giving Zelda. I've highlighted problem areas we may face... ones you might need to know."

"R-Right!" said Impa hesitantly taking the book. "Is there anything else?"

"I... think that book covers everything. Now, I must get back to work. Oh, the book also shows that she might find a change in diet better. There is a list of things which should be healthier for her."

"I will take it up with the chef," said Impa. "In fact... I will do that right now. Please excuse me." Impa hurried away.

Shusar blinked. It wasn't often he could make anyone leave like that, especially Impa. He felt had just accomplished the impossible. Perhaps he did have a chance to restore the princess.

That task could only be easier.

*****

Inside the lab, Zelda blushed. Her new ears could easily hear their conversation, even if they were talking outside. She could hear so many things now. She didn't think there was anything to worry about, certainly not _that_. She was and still is a princess of Hyrule, and was in complete control of her emotions at all times.

No one would tell her otherwise.

Shusar promptly came back, carrying himself like he had won a great battle. He went straight back to his reading.

"Isn't Impa coming?" asked Zelda.

"She's... taking care of things."

"Okay," said Zelda. "Can I have that book now?"

"Hmm? Oh of course, the book." he got up and handed a basic book about rabbits to her from his pockets.

Zelda flipped though it. It showed things like what rabbits ate, what shapes and sizes they came in, where they were common... not very interesting to her. "Some pages are missing," said Zelda.

"It is an old book," said the wizard neutrally. "It tends to happen."

Zelda flipped though it some more. "Have we got anything more... detailed?"

"Uh- I- well- once you finish that," said Shusar. *She couldn't have heard us, could she?* he wondered, looking at her large ears. It was said that the Hyrulian rabbits were quite adept at hearing. One wizard long ago suggested that they could hear a pin drop from a mountain peak.

Zelda just looked at him completely innocently.

Shrugging, he went back to his writing. *Surly, It must be a rumour.*

********

The three Zoras swam through the ocean. They were uncertain how much their position had changed, relative to the ship from the storm. Still, it was better then nothing. At least they were not going in circles.

"Should we rise back to the surface now?" asked Ruto. Her instincts were warning her that danger resided at this depth. Either that or it was her imagination. Still, she always trusted her instincts.

"I think we are safer here then up there," reasoned Link. He wondered what was so special that this island had to have all these defences? Any surface travellers would find themselves destroyed by the magic storm. Hopefully, judging by the shoals of fish around, things should be calmer down here.

Ruto nodded. "Alright, but don't say I didn't warn you."

Saria struggled to keep up with them. Ruto was right about her. She still didn't know how to use what the mask had given her efficiently. In the forest, there wasn't much use for swimming, so she was learning from scratch. The fins were extremely foreign to her, sometimes making involuntary movements by themselves. She had all but given up trusting them, favouring the use of her familiar arms and legs alone.

She was starting to wonder, perhaps it was a mistake to come in the first place. She was not a warrior. She could barely fight, or swim, and was slowing them down all the time. Her fairy continued to whisper encouraging words to her, that she was doing well under the circumstances, but it didn't matter.

In the end she was just a child, with no idea about how things worked outside her own world.

Link fell back, letting Saria catch up with him.

"Are you alright?" he asked concerned.

"Just... fine," Saria replied, grateful she could now slow down.

"We can rest for a little while if you like," offered Link. He could see that she was exhausted.

"What's the hold up?" said Ruto coming back to them.

"We're just taking a little break," responded Link.

"But we've only been swimming for an hour!" Ruto felt they could go much further then this, in half the time. This was nothing to her.

"We could use a rest Ruto," said Link with some tiredness in his voice. "I'm not exactly used to swimming for this long."

Saria had a feeling he was just saying that to make her feel better. She knew Link was far fitter then he was leading on. Still, she appreciated the thought.

"Oh all right," said Ruto grudgingly coming to a stop with them.

Saria let out a sigh, allowing herself this chance to catch her breath.

"You know," thought Ruto. "You all would swim a lot better without all those clothes. Why don't you take them off?"

"Huh? We're keeping our clothes!" said Saria appalled at the suggestion.

"But it would be so much easier," she thought simply.

"I don't think so," said Link flatly.

"You Hylians," Ruto shook her head. "Those clothes won't help protect you from the cold water anyway, so why bother with them?"

"It's not just that," Link tried to explain.

"Then why?"

"Well... to cover ourselves up of course," said Saria obviously. She may not know much about the outside world, but she did know everyone else wore clothes for the same reason. Even though she did notice that Ruto didn't, she had ignored it since Link also did.

Ruto still didn't understand. It didn't seem necessary, especially in hot weather. The Zorans did use clothes on occasion, usually to show elevated position in their society. But Hylians seemed to have some need for them beyond this.

"Why in the world would you want to cover yourselves up all the time?" she asked. "Are Hylians ashamed with the way they look?"

"Of course not!" said Saria, although technically she wasn't a Hylian either.

"That's not it at all!" Link backed.

"We can't all be beautiful I suppose," Ruto sighed. She, like all Zora, was taught to be prideful of the way they looked. Who were they trying to kid anyway? Everyday, the clothes the Hylians wore got more and more complex. Sometimes, it looked as if they were becoming their clothes. It was like they had no pride in themselves.

Still, it did give an air of mystery to what Link looked like to her.

Before they could say anything more, the Mask Salesman made his grand appearance again. He tried to talk, but only bubbles came out of his mouth.

Ruto smiled, slightly amused by his antics. "We can't understand you," she pointed out, genuinely glad to see him.

The Salesman grinned sheepishly. He then clicked his fingers. The snapping sound was strong and audible to them, despite being in the water.

"Much better," said the Salesman. "I am so glad I found you! And before you ask, yes. You are going the correct direction. Just keep going... you should reach the island of Time in half a day or so of swimming, if you push it."

"You're a big help," said Link sarcastically.

"I know," he said missing his tone. "Now Link, I need to ask you about something. A simple, curious question, nothing more."

"What? Me?" Link crossed his arms. Still, he did owe him something for helping Saria. How much he wasn't sure, but this might be a start.

"This is very embarrassing..." the Salesman said scratching his hands nervously. "Your mask, actually your rabbit mask. How long did you wear it in Termina?"

"The rabbit mask? Well, it was my best mask" he remembered, of all his non-transformation masks. The only thing better was the stone mask.

"You... appreciated the power more then the others? You coaxed it out and nurtured it? Used it to it's highest potential?"

"I suppose," replied Link uncertain of what he was getting at. "It helped me move all across Termina at twice my normal speed, and I could do things that were otherwise impossible. I wore it during a lot of the loops, almost every day after I got it."

"How long Link?" the Salesman pressed urgently. Even he lost track of the number of times Link looped in Termina. It felt like a very long time.

"I don't know... I used it repeatedly in fighting and running across Hyrule. It must have been weeks... maybe months non-stop. I also used it against the spirits attacking the ranch for more then a week. Once, I even forgot I had it on, because I got so used to it. Why do you ask?" He said suspicious.

"Oh nothing... nothing. You are a brilliant customer, you know that?"

"Should I take that as a compliment?"

"Perhaps..." said the salesman. "In any case, we- that is, you, have all made a lot of progress."

"We have?" said Saria surprised. "The ship got destroyed, we nearly drown and we have not even made it to this island." It seemed to her that they nearly failed, let alone made progress.

"True... but you survived everything so far. That's a lot more then anyone else managed." His eyes then became very distant. "Very soon... all will be well... the balance... very soon... The power... My power... Oh... Zelda," he cried out.

"What's Zelda got to do with this?" said Link catching him out.

"Oh! Did I mention Zelda?" He laughed nervously. "Forget it Link. You know, I've never been under the sea before... Never had the chance to... appreciate, the little things. Look around, beautiful isn't it? I can admire the beauty of life... any and all life... the many faces of life all around, especially under the sea... if only... Under the sea..." he mumbled, his voice becoming quieter.

"Is he alright?" whispered Saria.

Link didn't know. "Hey! Mask Salesman?"

The salesman looked up startled. "Hmm? Oh… Yes. The Isle of Time awaits." He started to vanish, his appearance ghostly. "Go... now... and... take care."

He disappeared completely.

"Something's going on," said Saria extremely suspicious. "I can feel it."

"You're right," said Link having the same feeling. But what could it be? Zelda... the rabbit mask.

He hoped Zelda was all right.

*************

Zelda was really enjoying herself now.

"I could get used to this," she thought. Okay, so being part rabbit made her look odd, but it was starting to have another benefit she would never have guessed. Who needed super speed, when the mask made you hear everything as if you were already there?

Right now, in Shusar's tower, she was listening to the conversations her father was having with chancellors and representatives of the public. She was even listening to the private conversations they had amongst themselves.

--

*I hope Zelda is feeling better, Your highness.*

*Rest assured she is fine. Now let us get to the business. The Tax on Lon-lon milk... *

*Don't get me wrong... I love our King, but we should move to the future. A republic... It is for the best. Where do you stand?*

*Zelda has been absent a lot lately... has anyone seen her at all?*

*I heard an odd rumour regarding Zelda. Do you want to hear?*

*I never trusted the Gerudo... I'll tell you, I'm sleeping with a dagger under my pillow tonight.*

*Such words are dangerous my friend... but why not speak about it to the King himself? He has already made representatives of the people, a true republic would be the next logical step.*

*I tell you, that chancellor was bribed-*
--

Zelda suppressed a laugh. Technically, it wasn't spying... Well okay maybe a little. She moved her ears at another angle. She could now hear the guards at the front gate.

--

*I hate this job. It's so boring... why do I get stuck with it?*

*I swear, I smell a rabbit here somewhere. My instincts never lie. I remember my father cooking them when I was a lad. Mmmmm..."

*Do I look menacing enough in this uniform? I'm not really by my nature. Can you tell?*

*Is it true that Zelda has a curse?*

*You shouldn't have joined the army then.*

*Don't know. A few nights ago, something came pass our gates... The elite guard was chasing someone. It might have been a robber.*

*I hate my life.*

*Have you heard the dinner Impa asked be prepared? If I didn't know better-*

*Join the army they said. Makes a man out of you they said...*

--

She turned her head a little more.

She could now hear a really nice song. A girl was singing it. It was so beautiful, and made her think of a simple life she may have once longed for. She could hear cows and chickens around, and the galloping of horses, as clear as if she was really there.

Cows and chickens? But there weren't any around Hyrule castle... the closest place was the ranch.

That was very, very far.

It started to register to her, that this power might be dangerous. Perhaps it was time she stopped this. She concentrated in her mind, now hearing the scratching sound of Shusar's feathered pen in her immediate surroundings.

"I think I'd better not do that anymore," she decided.

Something inside her tinged in disappointed. So, she couldn't run, and now she couldn't hear? These were special gifts, unique to this world. They were given to her to be enjoyed and she couldn't even do that?

Why were they being rejected?

Perhaps... if it gave it all. She was now in the correct form, a moment it had been waiting forever since it understood it had enough power to surpass the normal constraints.

So it did.

**********

"You almost have it Saria," Link encouraged in the swim. "See? Try not to use your arms on their own. Trust in the Zora body to know what it needs to do."

"I can't Link," said Saria feeling defeated. Every time she used her fins, they would push her in the wrong direction she wanted then to go. She also had a habit of rotating when she didn't want to.

"Don't try too hard, it will come naturally," he advised.

"We could go a lot faster then this you know," said Ruto impatient.

"We are not used to swimming like a real Zora Ruto!" Link snapped.

Ruto fell silent at Link's outburst. He was extremely defensive of Saria's shortcomings, even if they were true. "But Link... you swim as if you were one of us," she observed. Link's swim form was far from 'completely' perfect like hers, but it would pass in her society.

"Well, I've had practice in Termina" said Link being modest. "Also, I think Mikau had something to do with it. But I don't have him anymore to guide me. I need to re-learn some things too."

"How's this Link?" asked Saria doing a slow swim. Her fins pulsed outward, making her swim gently. She was almost synchronised.

"Yes, You're doing great! Now try a little faster," Link knew she would get it now.

"You're not just saying that?" asked Saria, wondering if he was just trying to protect her feelings.

"Of course not," Link said sincerely. "Like I said, I had a Zora spirit with me to teach me everything. You're learning much faster then I might have alone."

"I suppose," she said. She then laughed a little as she got a good look into his face. "You know, you look really funny as a Zora, Link!" At least this situation had its moments. She got to see Link as a Zora.

"You think I look funny? You should see yourself," said Link.

Ruto snorted. Saria's appearance was... okay. Her blue skin was extremely shiny, and even glittered green around her neck and part of her legs. Unusually, for a Zora anyway, she had green eyes. It gave her a very exotic appearance. Still, being the princess of the Zora, Saria was no contest.

Saria stopped laughing, as she remembered something she wanted to ask. "Link... where did you get this mask anyway? I thought you only had one."

"I was also wondering," said Ruto.

The way Link looked, it seemed he didn't know about the second mask until it was in his hand. He would have sacrificed himself for no reason at all to save Saria.

Link bit his lip. "I did only have one, but the salesman gave another to me. You have a 'feminine Zora mask, Saria. That's what he called it."

"He just gave it to you? Just like that?" Said Saria a bit surprised. Unconsciously, she touched the face that did not belong to her and yet was her.

"I told you he was an okay guy," said Ruto satisfied. She knew she was always right about people. The salesman reminded her of an entertainer, uncertain about his role. He might even be lonely. And he 'did' say he was going to help her with her chance with Link. He has done very well on this.

"Actually, there was something else." admitted Link. "He wants me to do a favour for him in return."

He knew it was not something he could get out of. His honour was at stake, and possibly more, if he didn't repay when asked. He hoped it wouldn't be anything too difficult.

"A favour? That's it?" asked Ruto.

"A big favour," said Link.

"So he can ask you to do anything?" said Saria. These kinds of deals seemed extremely serious. Kokiri were always true to their word, even Mido.

Link gave a nod. "I suppose... But I had to! If I didn't, you wouldn't be here now."

He knew, if he had to, he would do it again. The salesman offered a lifeline to help Saria, and he took it. What else was he supposed to do? Let his best friend drown?

Saria fell back feeling hurt at the deal Link had to make on her behalf. "I'm nothing but trouble, aren't I?" She was starting to feel as if she really had no place in Link's life outside the woods.

"Come on Saria, you know you're not," said Link.

"Yes I am," she said upset. "Are you sure you still don't mind me here?" Everyone else was right. Being around Link was to put him in danger. What would the salesman ask of him because of her?

"Saria... I-"

"I want to learn!" she said quickly. "I want to know how you do it. Please show me, Link."

"What do you mean?" he asked.

"Everything! I know absolutely nothing about anything. I don't even know what I'm doing half the time out here! I can't fight monsters so I am no use to you at all... I can't even swim. You would probably be better off without me..." She poured her heart out in anguish. It was her worst nightmare, to know it was wrong to be with him.

"Saria," Link said tenderly, feeling worried for her. She was usually so calm and collected, nothing affected her at her core. Right now though, she really had lost her confidence. It wasn't like her to be this upset.

Ruto was also surprised, and was feeling ashamed of the way she had treated her when she was around. At every turn she tried to erode any hope the girl had, all to get Link.

Zoras do not have tears like Hylians, but Link could see Saria brushed her eyes, as if she was crying. He had never seen her cry before.

"You know, there are more ways to help then just fighting," he said to her.

Saria wished that were true. "It seems to be the only thing people care about out here."

"I know," said Link. "But it's not your fault, it's the world's. Do you know the things I... like... about you more then anything, are your innocence, your determination and your will. You see things in a particular way, a way others should see as well. That is how you help me. Having you near me stops me from becoming..." he trailed of, uncertain on his next word.

"Becoming... what Link?" asked Saria concerned.

"I'm not sure, but I have seen people, people who have fought for what they believe in their entire life. When you look into their eyes, something has been taken away. They look like they have lost a part of themselves. You are a part of me Saria, the most important part."

Saria paused, letting his words lift her soul. "I think I understand," she said at last. "You are the most important part of me too, Link."

"Ahem," Ruto coughed. "You guys, I think we have company."

"Company?" Link and Saria turned.

"I detect something approaching," said Navi.

"Swim for you life!" Ruto shouted.

*************************
*************************

*The taxes are too high.*
*You got to admit, I look more dangerous with this helmet. It hides my eyes.*
*Zelda's curse is-*
*You realise you are quite mad to think this up don't you?*
*You don't say! Really?*
*I am looking for someone. He or she may look a little odd, you could say-"
*I'm bored. Wanna play?*
*Lon-lon milk is still very popular, it is too good an income-*
"So nothing unusual then-*
*That windmill guy is crazy. He doesn't even know his own name. Have you heard his song?*
*Come one come all! Hyrulian shields going cheap! Only 250 rupees.*
*Mum I wish I could get to see Zelda one day. Can we go see the castle?*
*I give you twenty rupee! Deal?*

*Zelda...*

*Zelda...*

*Zelda...*

******

"Zelda!" Shusar shouted shaking her.

"Huh? Oh Sorry," she apologised. The voices had stopped.

The wizard was relieved. "Are you alright? You seemed gone for a second." He could see that the princess was very distracted and decided to check her. But she had not heard his calls, until now.

"I'm fine," she assured. "It's just that I heard-" she stopped.

"Hear what Zelda?" he asked looking at her.

Zelda covered her rabbit ears, her headache was starting to come back. "I can hear them," she tried to explain.

"Who princess? Forgive me, my hearing is not what it once was."

"Everyone! They are all talking and-" Zelda fell back onto the couch, burring herself on a pillow. "Why won't everyone just.... SHUT UP!"

"Princess!" The wizard said shocked at her language. "There is no one here," he insisted, hoping she wasn't becoming mad from the mask.

Zelda covered her head even more; nobody paid her any heed. They continued to chat, relentlessly whispering into her mind. "Outside. The castle... the market place... the fields.... So many people... I can't take much more of this!"

"Are you saying you can hear that far?" It seemed impossible. Then again, everything he had seen should be impossible. Perhaps those rumours about their abilities were true.

"So many people..." Zelda moaned.

"Is it really that bad Zelda?" He placed his hand on her head to see if she had a fever, just in case.

" Please... just make them quiet...Just stop... stop them," Zelda cried to herself.

Shusar brought out a yellow potion from his inter-dimensional space. "Drink this Zelda, just one sip. It will make you relax."

Zelda saw the potion the wizard held, though the clouds of people that pressed against her. Perhaps it was her salvation. She started drinking it, taking a large gulp.

"That should be enough," said Shusar satisfied.

Zelda suddenly felt tired. She fell back onto the couch again, her eyelids unable to stay open anymore. She fell asleep.

"Sweet dreams," whispered the wizard.

It seemed there was now a 'new' problem he had to explain.

*****

Kakariko village was peaceful as usual. The inhabitants went about their daily lives, unaware of anything different today then any other day. However, they did get an unexpected visitor.

She was a small lady, dressed in black garments. On top, she wore a plain pointed black hat, with a small red band around its base. Her hair was tied into two white masses behind her, but was not very long. She also had a thin yellow clothing around her, although most of it was hidden underneath.

She was quite old judging by her appearance, probably seventy-five. Most people avoided the unknown person if they could help it but she didn't seem sinister, despite her occult appearance.

She had a smile about her that spoke goodness to others. Of course, a smile naturally made the Hylians even more suspicious. It was obvious she must be some kind of potion maker, but there was something odd about her. Something that made her appear as if she did not belong here.

She wondered about, asking the people unusual questions. Finally, she went to the appointed guard of Kakariko village.

"Excuse me but has anything... strange happened around here?" the small lady asked.

The guard looked at her. "No, my good lady. In what way?"

She sighed. "I wish I could have been told more... Can you tell me if absolutely anything out of the ordinary occurred? You would know it if you heard."

"Kakariko has had no trouble lately, I can assure you." The guard replied.

"No strange... disappearances or... sickness?"

"Sickness?" The guard questioned, a little alarmed. "No ma'am, just a little cold usual for the season. You're not a messenger from Hyrule castle are you?"

"No," the lady sighed. "Thank you. I will be off now," she said hurriedly.

******

She left though the entrance, onto the fields of Hyrule. Nobody inside the village had what she was looking for. She was told of someone here that needed her help, but she was not told who or where. She must be close though.

"You can hear me can't you," she said while walking.

Distance would not matter, not if she really had the uncontrolled power. She did not envy anyone who had mastered their ancient powers without any control. Hopefully, she will find this individual in time.

"I am coming to help you. Ignore the voices as best you can I know it will be difficult, but do your best. Hopefully, I will find you soon."

She could see Hyrule castle now. She promptly walked as fast as she could.

*********

Impa and the King were called to Shusar's lab immediately. The wizard explained to them, that Zelda's hearing was becoming more powerful by the minute. He could not use magic to induce sleep, since the mask seemed to counter it. Instead, he used chemical potions, but they did not last as long as they should either and were less safe.

Zelda herself tossed and turned, she was starting to come out of the sleep again.

"What will happen to her?" asked the king extremely concerned for his daughter.

Shusar looked sadly to him. "I think this is a side effect of the mask, since Link said nothing about it. If we can not stop this... I don't know. Hopefully, this spell will buy us some time."

Zelda started to stir. She existed in complete silence. It was the greatest relief she had ever felt. "They... are gone. Where did they go?" Even in her sleep, she could hear them. Little snippets of conversation resided in her memory, and came into her dreams.

"You can thank your father for that," said Impa. "He decreed that for the whole day, nobody is to talk above a whisper in the castle."

"Really? They agreed to that?" said Zelda surprised.

"If they know what's good for them," said the King firmly.

There were likely to be a few... deviants, but he had closed off the castle already, aside from the most trusted and loyal guards. They were sworn to obey any order, including this one. It was a shame he couldn't order the whole of Hyrule to be quiet. People loved their right to make a noise, after all.

Shusar nodded. "I also made a spell... a sound field, if you will. My master usually used it for peace and quiet, but-"

Zelda darted her eyes. "I can still hear... Outside the castle. The market place... Kakariko... I can hear the wind... the volcano...the forest... " All theses sounds made her feel afraid as they filtered into her. She breathed deeply, trying her best to ignore it. She buried herself in sheets, suppressing herself from crying in pain.

"Damn you wizard do something!" shouted the King, seeing his daughter in pain was too much for him.

Zelda cringed at her father's voice. It rang into her like a thousand bells. "Can we talk a little quieter please?"

"Sorry my dear," the King whispered. He really had to keep his cool. Perhaps it was a mistake to entrust Link with getting this cure alone.

"The fact that she can still hear that far across the barrier is quite disturbing," Shusar thought. "Let me try making the spell a little stronger." He waved his hand, letting his power flourish. Instantly, he thickened the barrier around his tower with a quick gesture. "Is that any better?"

"Yes, a little," said Zelda. To her, the voices seemed like crickets now. Still, she could hear them steadily get even loader. But at least they were tolerable, for now.

"Alright wizard, what can you do to make her better?" asked the King.

"Don't you think I would if I could? Every time the same thing! I can't alright!" He was stating to get angry with himself, but he refused to relent to this power, no matter how insidious it appeared.

"Shusar..." said Zelda. "There is someone in the market place... she is asking things... I hear her-"

"Try to ignore it," said Impa. "Try to hear only us. It will be easier for you."

"No... I think she is here... for me."

"A kidnapper?" Shusar wondered, as if they didn't have enough problems by now.

"I have already tripled the guards outside the castle," said the King confidently. "Nobody will enter."

"No... It's not that. She-" Zelda clutched her head in agony. She couldn't keep her mind directed to one place. Already, other conversations were distracting her. "Someone... help me..."

********

The lady looked about the market place. "Absolutely typical," she thought at the scene. With everyone so busy, she easily blended in. Someone here had better have seen something.

"So... did anything strange happen here?" She asked at the bazaar. The question was getting repetitive to her now.

The man considered her question. "Actually, it's funny you should say that. There was something a week ago or so. Someone broke into the palace. I saw the guards chase whoever it was right across the Hyrule fields. Man, did that thief run!"

"Run? The thief ran extremely fast?"

"Like the wind," he said in awe. "I saw it all myself. I swear nobody should have run that fast. It must have been magic, there could be no other explanation."

"Tell me, did you see this thief? Did you get a good look at the face?" She was excited now. It must be here.

"No Miss, I didn't. It was over in a flash, and happened in the middle of the night."

"I see," The lady became disapointed.

"However, I did hear that the thief was taken back to the castle," he said.

"The castle you say," she thought looking at the building. That would have to be her next stop.

"Are you a witch of some sort?" the Bazaar keeper asked carefully. He had nothing against people who used magic, even if they did give him the creeps.

"Of some sort," she smiled to him. "I don't usually do this type of thing."

"Your job must pay well though," he thought.

"You would think so, wouldn't you." The old lady went away, heading towards the castle gate.

"She's a strange one," he shrugged. At least she was a good witch. They usually were, even though far too many abuse their powers. Forgetting his encounter, he went back to work.

*******

"What do you mean I can't go in?" she said to the guard.

"The castle is closed. I am under orders to let no one in." he replied apologetically.

"But you see I need to- Why... are you whispering?" asked the lady confused.

"My orders. None of us are allowed to speak above a whisper, I really have no idea why." The guard felt like a complete idiot doing it but, if those were the orders, he would carry them out.

The lady sighed. This was the best they could do? No wonder she was needed here. "Surely, you can make an exception? I must get in urgently."

"Have you brought any official papers?" he enquired.

"Well... no. But please, it's extremely important."

"Then I can't let you in. we've had a lot of break-ins lately, I could lose my job."

The witch's eyes glittered around the castle. "Very interesting," she thought. She could see a shimmering field around one of the towers. Scanning deeper, she could see it was a sound barrier. So that was why she couldn't find the 'rabbit'. Still, it must have brought great relief to the unfortunate individual.

"I will have to congratulate whoever made that," she said. At least not everyone was clueless in this world. "Tell me, what is in that tower over there?" she pointed.

"That wing is the province of Shusar, Master Wizard of Hyrule." the guard answered.

"A wizard huh? I wish to take my business with him," she declared.

"He is not really the type that takes visitors."

"Perhaps, but he will see me," she said confidently.

"But I can't let you in!" the guard repeated.

The witch sighed. She really didn't want to make a fight of it. "Any chance you could send a message to them then?"

"I… suppose."

"Very well. Tell this wizard of yours, I am a witch who has travelled _extremely_ far, and that I can help someone who is... hearing voices?"

The guard looked at her oddly. "You mean crazy?"

"No. Hearing _real_ voices." the lady explained.

"Well... okay." The guard was about to leave, when he thought of something. "If you're a witch, can't you break in here like everyone else seems too?" It seemed as if security was becoming a joke to everyone in the castle.

"Maybe," she replied looking at the gate.

"I-I will send that message," he replied. "But please, don't break in" he begged.

The guard left the entrance closed, as he went away.

"This is so tiresome," she thought placing her hands on the closed gate. The iron in them were strong and sturdy, not the kind that can be broken by herself. She looked around to find another way in, just in case. Unfortunately, she wouldn't get very far. The guards were everywhere and in full force.

"Don't worry little rabbit, I am here now," she said aloud, knowing she was heard this time.

********

Shusar followed though the stairs of his tower. Could someone have found a way to help Zelda? He knew of a few witches, but none are really 'that' powerful. The most powerful might be Kourume and Kotake, the dark sisters of the desert. He doubted that they would be willing to lend their services to him.

Soon, the old lady was before him.

"Let her through," he said to the gatekeeper.

"It is about time," she said annoyed at the wait.

"Hello," he greeted. "I don't believe I know you-"

"Where is the thief?" she asked hastily.

"Thief?" said Shusar confused.

"Yes. The one with the rabb-"

"Uh- I think we should talk privately Miss," the wizard's said silencing her. The King still wanted this to be kept secret. "Please come with me."

"Hmm, Very well" said the witch, feeling slightly more annoyed that she was cut off like that.

As they walked back, Shusar tried to find out more about her. She seemed so strange, though she 'did' wear the typical witches' robes, even if they were outlandish to him. She seemed to enjoy looking around the place, despite the negative atmosphere she must have felt.

"So who are you? How do you know about this?" he enquired.

"I was told about someone, who has uncontrolled access to an ancient power similar to my world. I came to help."

"Your world?" questioned the wizard.

"Yes. I am not from Hyrule. I come from... somewhere else."

"Termina? Or the sacred realm?" he was starting to understand there were indeed other places other then Hyrule... Perhaps there were even more, all layered together. It would be wondrous to travel between them, a great adventure.

"It is not a world nearby here," she replied. "In fact, it is a very small universe from what I understand."

"What is your name?" Asked Shusar realising she had not said.

"My name? Oh, sorry, my name is May," she introduced.

"May? That is certainly an unusual name," he thought.

"Yes, well I am an unusual person," she replied. "Now, let me hurry to this- who is it that is... cursed?"

"Zelda, Princess of Hyrule" said Shusar.

"And she was a thief?" She asked. "How could that have happen?"

Shusar realised she had heard some misinformation. "No, She's not a thief, that's just a rumour going on. She couldn't help it; the mask made her run all by herself out of the palace. People made up the rest."

"I see," she said understanding.

They eventually came to the stairs of the tower.

"A very impressive spell you put up here," May commented. "It might have worked completely, if her abilities were completely physical in nature."

"You can see the field?"

She nodded. "Ah, you also combined a reflection spell... that might have kept her alright."

Shusar glanced at his work, unused to getting praise. "Well, It was the only thing I had. I suspected that her powers could not be stopped completely by it, although I did try. She says she can hear all across Hyrule, I still can't believe it."

"She is telling the truth. Perhaps she hears further then even your world alone. Power such as this is extremely dangerous untamed. At its peak, it is believed one could hear the echoes of the past and future together. It is too much for someone to bear."

"So do you know about this rabbit mask? Can you remove it?"

"A mask? So that's how she was changed... I know nothing about this mask though," she said.

"But then, what can you do?"

"My clan knows a little something about spirits... and what she has become."

"There is a spirit in her? From the mask?"

"Perhaps the mask is the key to the spirit. I have to see her to guess more."

"I see," he started to wonder how powerful is this person exactly. "You must be extremely powerful, to actually do a dimension jump. I don't suppose you can show me how it is done?"

"Sorry, I didn't come here under my own power. Someone else brought me here. It was quite strange," she thought thinking about it.

"Someone else?" Suspicion started to fall into his mind.

"Yes. I do not know whom, but he arranged this. He said as soon as I had done all I could, I will be sent home straight away."

"I see. Well, this is my home," he said at the base of the tower. "Follow me."

********

May observed the mess that was Shusar's lab. It reminded her of her own home. "So this is the princess?" she asked after being let in.

Zelda was lying down, tossing and turning. Occasionally, she mumbled something incoherent, but it was lost to them what it was.

May went quietly too her. "Poor dear," she whispered.

"Who are you?" asked the King. Was this the help Shusar got?

"My name is May. Now then, let me see..." she put her hand into the air above her. Moments later, she gave a brief nod. "I think I can help. Might I request that I be left alone with her?"

"Out of the question!" said Impa. "I have not heard anything about you, and I certainly won't leave you alone when she is sick like this!"

"But... I need to work some rather... unusual magic. I need this place to myself to do it. It's the only way, I'm sorry."

Neither Impa nor the King budged.

The witch sighed. "Very well, I will allow your wizard Shusar to watch. Will that be acceptable?"

The King mulled it over. "Very well. Shusar, she is in your trust, as always."

"I will be fine, highness," he said in return.

********

"They are certainly protective of her," May thought approvingly.

"Yes," said Shusar. I suppose it is the nature of parents. I wouldn't know."

"I can understand it," said the witch. "I have one granddaughter in my world. She is a bit younger then Zelda though," she said. "As soon as this is over, I must get back to her. She is quite a handful."

"I can sympathise," Shusar smirked thinking about Zelda during her younger days. "So what will you do? I am curious about your kind of magic."

"It might be a little strange to you," she said bringing out a single coin from her clothes.

Shusar looked at the coin, he could see all kinds of symbols were drawn on it. "Is that how you cast magic?" He had never seen such a thing, although he was familiar with charms. None of them contained real magic, in his experience.

"One way. Now, I need you to remove the sound field."

"But that will kill her!"

"It has to be done. Your field isn't exactly helping much right now anyway, her powers have now become too strong for that. Still, try to do it as gently as possible."

"Alright," agreed the wizard. He called back to the field, picturing it like a huge eggshell containing his room. He tapped it slightly in his mind's eye, letting cracks appear.

Zelda strained against the voices, as they became even louder.

"It's alright dear," said May. She placed the coin on the air above her, where it levitated. "Now, open your eyes..."

Zelda opened them, seeing May for the first time. "I recognise... your voice. You were the one talking to me," she said. "Who are you? Are you here to help me?" She also saw the coin above her head, rotating around its circumference.

"Yes child. Do not fear me, we have some work to do. Shusar, remove your spell a completely now. And from here on, do not interfere with anything you see. It might be dangerous."

"Very well," nodded the wizard, feeling a little out of his league. He started to dispel it completely, letting it shatter in an invisible light.

Zelda clutched her head in agony, as the voices came unbound.

"Do not flinch child," said May. "They are only people, places, elements, things you know about already. You have heard them before, without realising it. Now, stand up with me."

Zelda took May's hand, reaching against the voices that tried to consume her. As soon as contact was made, the voices stopped. No, not stopped; they were still there, she just wasn't listening to them. The coin now floated to her field of vision.

"What's happening?" she asked.

May had her eyes closed. "Talk to it..."

"To who?"

"You know who. You must have felt it stirring in you. See inwards, to that part of you where the rabbit resides in. It is the only way."

"How...." said Zelda feeling lost.

"The coin will guide you. Stare into it, never take your eyes away from it." May now opened her eyes, looking calmly to the coin, waiting for Zelda to do the same.

As Zelda stared, the coin started to rotate even faster, flipping madly in its stationary position. In an instant, a giant pentagram-like drawing glowed on the floor where Zelda and May stood.

Shusar looked alarmed at the glowing circle. This was no ordinary pentagram. He kept to the side of the room watching everything, daring not to break into this spell. A chilling wind started to blow.

"You are almost their child," said May.

"I.. am looking..."

"Good..." encouraged the witch.

"I found it... but I don't understand."

May now looked into her eyes, speaking telepathically. *You will, in time. Be patient Zelda. You must learn balance. Balance yourself with the spirit. Learn how, from... me.*

************

Link looked around. Below, he could see shining eyes, all directed at them. He tried to see their bodies, but they were hidden in darkness. "What are they, Navi? Can you analyse them?"

"I will try," said the fairy using Z-targeting. "I can't get a lock Link. They are too far away."

"Don't just stand there!" Ruto shouted. "We have to get out of here right now! Follow me," She started swimming away.

Link and Saria swam just behind her.

"What are they Ruto? What are we dealing with?" said Link alongside her.

Saria turned her head, to get a look. There were thousands of them. Pairs of eyes, belonging to shadowy bodies.

"Don't look just swim!" said Ruto.

Suddenly, the creatures were in front of them. They were now completely blocked in all directions.

"No!" said Ruto backing away. "They've got us."

"Who are they?" said Saria.

"They are called the Mist-bringers. They create the mist that makes anyone lost in the sea. These things will then use the opportunity to tear you apart."

"Why aren't they attacking?" said Link, turning his head to get a good look at them all. They all seemed to keep distant from them. More came, filling the gaps between them.

"It's the way they work. First they surround you, then they release the mist," Ruto's voice quivered a little. "Then they will all converge on us..."

Saria tried to look for a way out, but all she could see was their eyes, above, below, and on all sides. They were completely boxed inside a sphere.

Link realised he couldn't use much of his equipment in Zora form. But there had to be a way out of this.

Suddenly, everything went dark as the Mist was released.

Quickly, Link grabbed both Ruto and Saria so as not to get separated as the dark mist enveloped them. None of them could see anything, anymore. His first instinct was for them to make a break for it, but Ruto stopped him.

"Don't move Link," she said. "Movement encourages them... if we stay still, we'll get more time."

They floated completely still, being pulled slightly by the currents alone.

Saria felt something brush against her. She twitched against it, but Link held her tighter.

"I can't see a thing," she said fearfully, not letting herself panic.

"What will we do Link?" said Ruto worried. She had heard of only a handful of survivors when her people still existed in the sea. She prayed to get through this.

Link slowly brought out the eye of truth. It helped a little but he couldn't see beyond ten meters in the mist, even with the magical item.

That was when he saw one of the creatures up close. Most were not approching, making up the sphere that confined them. Each was about the size of his arm, and was scaled orange. It was a lot like a piranha, accept for the mist it released around it. Its eyes were completely dark and unmoving. It was chasing a bit of plant, which it grabbed and spat out disgusted as it searched for them. Ruto was right, it only detected movement.

They knew they were trapped though. It was only a matter of time.

Link dared not make a move yet, as he formed a plan.

"We're surrounded Link," said Saria afraid.

Link concentrated, suddenly releasing electricity from his Zora body. "Listen, get ready to follow me exactly. Stay directly behind me."

"Okay," said Sara and Ruto, uncertain at what he had planned.

"Ready... NOW!"

Link filled the electric shield around himself, becoming invulnerable to the Mist bringers. He may not be able to see anything, but it didn't matter now. He twirled around, letting them get impacted to the shield, shocking them.

Ruto and Saria could see him light up at each impact. The mist lost some of its effectiveness at each flash. They watched as the creatures converge on his electrified body, leaving them untouched as they followed.

In a short second, Link reached the perimeter of the swarm. Mustering his power, he punched though the living wall, leaving a gaping hole in his wake for Saria and Ruto to follow though. He was out now, and could finally see around him.

He turned around to see Saria trailing behind, nearly caught as the hole closed behind her. She made it through, just by an inch.

"We made it!" said Ruto.

The massive ball of Mist bringers started to change, opening itself out. The creatures became separate, attempting to redetect their prey. Instantly, they followed their trail.

"Swim!" Link shouted desperately.

It was not over yet.

*********

"I... did it!" said Zelda happily, a light around her started to fade away.

May fell back completely exhausted. "Well done," she congratulated.

"I feel incredible..."

"I know. Now, do not misuse these abilities. It could lead to trouble, mostly for others, she said in amusement.

"I won't" said the princess.

Shusar looked as the magic circle dissipated to nothing. He approached cautiously, and picked up the magic coin that had fallen to the floor. "How in the world did this coin do all that?"

"Magic exists in everything," explained May. "We just need to bring it out. It's quite easy to learn, actually."

The wizard gave the coin back to its owner. "Perhaps, but I am too old to learn this," he sighed.

"Nonsense. The older you get, the more likely you can understand the impossible."

"And you Zelda? Are you alright?" He realised her face looked like it had turned slightly back to normal. She still had the rabbit ears, but he took it as a good sign anyway.

"Never better," said the princess.

"There should be no more transformation," said May. "Her balance has been found. I'm afraid I can not remove those rabbit ears, though."

"Don't worry, I am certain Link will succeed to get them removed," replied the wizard confidently.

"I don't see how," sighed May. "Still, it is _only_ a mask. But it was real enough to me. Very real."

"I have to see father and tell him the news," Zelda beamed.

"But like that?" said Shusar sceptical.

"It's okay, I understand now. See you later!" she ran out of the lab using a little super speed.

May chuckled a little. "So much like my granddaughter," she smiled.

"Well, we are in your debt, May." Shusar thanked.

"Thank you," she blushed a little. "Now, I must be going home."

"What? Just like that?" The wizard felt as if she was leaving too soon. "It would be nice to get to know you a little. In the past week, I have seen magic I never knew existed, Worlds that I never knew-"

"We are not so different," replied the witch. "I only knew of my world as well. There are countless others, I suppose, all intermingled. One day, perhaps we could seek them out. Oh, I forgot something," She reached out of her clothes, into inter-dimensional space, and brought out a box of carrots.

"These are for Zelda," explained May. "I sense something a little... dangerous for rabbits in the crops of this world. She would do better to eat these from my world."

"Dangerous?" thought Shusar taking the box.

"Yes, though I can't pin point why," she said uncertain.

Shusar realised what it could be. "It might be a little bit of the potion we used to destroy the rabbits long ago. I can't believe you can detect it, after all this time. I was sure it had deteriorated by now."

May suddenly felt ill. "You... killed them all?" her eyes widened.

"Yes... rabbits are extinct in our world. It was a terrible mistake. It happened a long time ago, when we knew less about potions. Still..."

May looked down. "No wonder the rabbit spirit is so powerful here... It gave literally all it was to Zelda to be accepted again... the power she must have had, being the only manifestation. If I did not come..."

"Are you alright?"

May glanced up again. "Yes. Take care Shusar, Wizard of Hyrule." she said getting ready to leave.

"How... will you get back to your world?" asked Shusar.

"I appeared on your great field out there. If I return, the portal will open."

"We can arrange a horse or something, if you like," he offered.

"No thank you. I'd rather walk," she said while adjusting her hat.

Shusar still felt indebted to her kindness. "Wait. Perhaps I can... accompany you?"

"Well, if you like" replied the Witch indifferently.

********

Every time Link looked back the ball of Mist bringers closed in on them, relentless in their pursuit. They had been swimming for everything they had, but they couldn't go on for much longer. There were too many of them to attack individually. Escape was their best solution.

Saria was the first to get tired.

Instantly, Link grabbed her hand, dragging her alongside him under his own power.

"Wait Link!" said Saria. "I think I saw something over there. Sayl, Z-target that area for me."

The fairy complied hurriedly. "There is a very strong current, I believe it leads to the direction of the Island."

"A warp stream?" said Ruto surprised to see it. "Link those are dangerous. We would go so fast, we could get killed if we impact something." She had no time to explain how many times a Zora lost their lives to these strange eddies, they tended to be very erratic and unsafe for every day use.

"There's no choice," said Link looking back. The creatures were trying to get them surrounded again in their sphere, already they were being cut off. "Swim for it!" Link dived into the direction, trailed by the two.

Ruto had to advise one last thing. "What ever you do, don't get turned around! That's a sure to-"

They all entered the warp stream.

********

"I haven't had a walk like this in some years," said Shusar slightly exhausted.

"You should remember to get out more," replied May.

As they walked, they exchanged information on one another.

"So, your world only has three elemental spirits?" asked Shusar.

"Indeed, three forces in concert to another. The earth we live on, the wind of the heavens, and the aquatic world of water. All three are very powerful, especially when combined."

"Very interesting," he thought. "It is reminiscent of our three goddesses."

"Perhaps, but it is not as interesting as your Triforce. Can it truly grant any wish like you say?"

"If it is real," he guessed.

"I have no doubt it is real," said May. "Well, here is the place I appeared. Now we wait."

They only waited a few minutes.

May looked up, alerted by something. She smiled mysteriously. "It won't be long now."

"How can you tell-" then he heard it too. There was a sound, music he had never heard of before. It twinkled and chimed in a slow rhythm. "What is that music?"

"It is the music... of a friend. Part of the gate way to my world."

"Travelling music," he thought, as he felt himself moved by the tune. "But why does it sound so sad May?"

"Keep listening," she insisted. "Very few do..."

Shusar listened as the sound went though many changes and crescendos. He experienced happiness, sadness, moments of joy, a moment of regret, and a final feeling of triumph. He could almost see the world she came from, yet it was so mysterious and vague.

"I am going now," said May as the music drew to a close.

Shusar heard a voice call out. Like the music, it had no definite direction. The voice repeated something over and over.

*V-May... Go home... V-May... reveal yourself...*

"I'm coming," she said. She then calmly took off her hat in anticipation.

Shusar blinked as he looked at her. "Uh who… what- are you?" he asked in surprise and curiosity. With her hat removed, he could see rabbit ears, exactly like Zelda had.

May smilled slighly at his surprise. "Goodbye Shusar," She waved her hand, as she disappeared from his sight completely.

"But hold on! I- you- uh-" he paused uncertain what to think. He wasn't even sure anymore of 'what' he saw.

He stood alone for a moment, still remembering her. "Hmm, I wish I could have got to know you better," he sighed to himself. He tried to remember the song, but it was starting to fade from his memory. He was able to recall pieces of it though.

Still in thought, he headed back to the castle.

*******

The Salesman smiled. Another event, masterfully manipulated. They thought it couldn't be done! Sometimes, he amazed even himself. He wished he could thank the witch for her assistance, of course to do so would lend his favour to her and admit his own involvement. An unnecessary risk, considering all he had planned.

Using just an ounce of power from Majora, he started to close away the tiny dimension away, sealing it so that no more 'accidents' like Termina would occur. A simple task considering the portal was healing itself anyway, unused to being opened.

Link and his friends were approaching the Island of Time, much quicker then he anticipated. Through sheer luck they had found a warp stream. He knew they would escape the Mist bringers somehow, but had no idea that warp point existed.

It was interesting that Saria helped in this course, very interesting indeed.

But there was another trap, one that takes no prisoners. It will happen when they sets foot on the Island and would take his friends one by one. It would even destroy himself, if they were not careful.

However, Link was the Hero of Time. If he can't battle this force, nobody could.

"Time will be our enemy... Our only enemy, now."

So close... The voice... No. _His_ voice, and now only his voice.

He was becoming real, A truly real being. However he was not whole, not yet. With Link he will be.

Very soon.

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To be continued.


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A/N - Well... I guess you might be wondering, who is May? *cough* Umm well... it wasn't planned to bring her of all people here. Unlike Shusar, who was created by me, May does exist elsewhere. From the most dificult-to-recall areas of my memories.

Anyway, someone like her fits really nicely and I couldn't pass the oportunity to cast someone extremely obscure, just to see what happens.

Don't worry, I am not turning this into a crossover or anything, it was a strict one off. ^_^

Things should rap themselves up soon anyway. Thanks for reading.

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