Breath of Life

By DarkBlacknoid

Author's Note: Thank you Terri and SilverCrystal for reviewing my story! I am so very glad you enjoyed it and I hope you will continue to enjoy it. : ) And also, I don't own any Legend of Zelda characters and I think it's a good thing too b/c then I don't think they would be as cool. : ) I only own what little creativity I could muster into this fic. : ) Dedicated to those who have a dream.

Chapter Three:

The Pyre Soul

The sun was just coming up when Eron made it out of the Wastelands between the Colossus and the Gerudo Fortress. He was weary, in pain and that was just the easy part. Now came the hard part: getting through Gerudo territory without being seen. He knew he'd be imprisoned if he was found and that could not happen. The faster he made it to Hyrule Castle, the better things would be. There were some rocky ledges around the gate that was the only easy entrance. A few guards stood behind its closed gate with watchful yellow eyes. If he didn't know better, Eron might have thought it was Nabooru. The best route would be up the ledges and going around the Fortress and to the Valley.

Eron crept up to the ledges making sure to keep out of sight of the guards. Once it was clear, he inspected the rock for the best way to climb up. After a few minutes, he found it and slowly began his ascent. It was harder with a hurt leg, but Nabooru had done well with the bandage.

A few hours passed without incident. Now going along near the tops of the ledges, Eron made more progress towards the bridge that spanned across the deep gorge that long ago had been carved by the water. He carefully watched all the activity below. It would be easy for him to be seen however, it would be hard for them to reach him at this distance. The ledges became steeper the further east you went and it became more difficult for Eron to navigate with a limp and what made it worse, his body fought with him for rest.

Soon, the bridge was in sight, but two Gerudos were standing there watching for whoever might approach the Valley from the other side. Their backs were to Eron, if he were quiet and safe enough, he might be able to sneak up to them. He didn't want to hurt either of them, so he'd have to be swift or just lucky to get past them. Picking a good way down, Eron took a deep breath and prepared himself. Anything could happen at this point. Quiet like the shadows, Eron half slid, half climbed down to the path that led to the bridge. The two women had not noticed him yet.

"Good," he thought as he used the few shadows to hide in to creep closer. It had to have been noon by this time and the Valley was full of light not good for trespassers like him. In good range of the bridge, Eron hid in a small cleft to the Gerudos right. Grabbing a dusty rock, he pitched it into the rocky cliffside back to the path leading to the Fortress. The guards twisted around with their long bladed spears thrust forward. Their suspicious eyes were the only features of their faces he could see. One that was taller than the other and had shorter hair told the other that she was going to check it out. A little dust had lifted from the ground where the rock had fallen and the guard made her way to it. When she was a good distance from him, Eron took a deep breath. "This is it."

Starting out on his good leg, Eron ran out towards the Gerudo left at the bridge that saw him right away. She yelled at him to stop as she raised her spear to meet him if he came any closer. Eron expected this and already had a plan to disarm her. Now in range, the Gerudo stabbed at him but he leapt up out of the way grabbing hold of the spear in the process. He yanked it free and by this time the Gerudo he had led away was hot to get to the battle. Normally, Eron would have no problem with these women, but with his injuries his body begged for him to stop. The disarmed Gerudo noticed him in bad shape and came at him with her skills with fists. Eron dodged taking her outstretched arm, twisting it around and flipping her on the ground. The bridge was right there. He could just make a run for it. In a great effort he leaped forward onto the bridge grunting as he tried running as fast as his leg would permit. Barely into the run, something caught his cloak from behind. It nearly choked him and he instantly reached up to detach it but he did not have time to. The Gerudo women were on him. One had pinned his cloak to the bridge with her spear and the other slammed her knee into his face. Eron's head spun as he lost control. The world turned dark for a moment and he clutched at his chest fighting to keep control. "No…it burns…" The taller Gerudo took a hold of his hair and pulled on it to make him look at her.

"Who are you? Why did you attack us?" She ordered her eyes an angry haze. Eron, who was now barely holding onto control over his body, pushed backward with his good leg until nothing else was there. He hung over the edge of the bridge with the water rushing far below him. His cloak still pinned to the bridge the only thing keeping him from plummeting. The Gerudos tried to pull him back up but Eron untied his cloak giving way to the free fall. It felt like falling forever, into the bottomless pit. With his last bit of strength, Eron put his hands out before hitting the water.

* * * *

"There's the bridge!" Kotare had ridden in front for she was anxious to see the Valley first. She had missed her home greatly and wished to return and the bridge was a reminder of how close they were. If only they really were going home, she thought. But instead, they were only searching for a worthless wanderer that Nabooru had met. Kotare trusted her leader, but it didn't mean she always agreed with her.

Nabooru caught up to Kotare and drove her horse forward to cross the bridge. Four Gerudos were now on the other side and they stiffened when they heard horses' hooves. When they saw four of their own kind, they hailed to them.

"Hail Nabooru! Leader and Sage of the Gerudos! What brings you back to Gerudo Valley? Is the Castle finished already?" The tall one greeted Nabooru with honor. Nabooru stayed on her horse and told the other three to do the same.

"No, the Castle is not done yet but we've come here on another errand. We've come looking for someone…and I'm sure he will come or has already passed this way. He goes by Eron and he's a wanderer. He looks somewhat like a Gerudo but without red hair…have you seen anyone as such?" The Gerudo guards murmured amongst each other in surprise before answering.

"We did. But I'm afraid he's dead…or most likely dead," the tall one stated with a smug smile without any notion of remorse. However, it changed when she saw her leader's face--of concern.

"What do you mean most likely dead?" Nabooru's voice inched towards being furious but she had to find out what happened to Eron.

"He had attacked us and we fought with him on this bridge until he jumped off," the Gerudo guard reached inside a pack nearby and pulled out Eron's blue cloak and gave it to Nabooru. She clutched at the worn, shredded material trying to keep her emotions down. "His body is probably in Lake Hylia by now, Nabooru…I'm sorry if we did something wrong." Nabooru shook her head.

"No, you were doing what you were told to do and I honor you for protecting our home." Sadly, she turned to the three behind her. "Let's return our borrowed horses to the Lon Lon Ranch before we become hunted." The four Gerudo guards watched silently as their leader mournfully rode down the path back to Hyrule Field.

* * * *

Princess Ruto sighed as she sat on the island in the middle of Lake Hylia. She had made many rounds at Lake Hylia and no one had seen any man of Eron's description. The day was becoming longer and still nothing came up. She and her group of Zoras communicated with the other group that had gone to the Gerudos Falls but they had not seen or heard anything either. She began to wonder if this man Nabooru talked about even existed at all. Perhaps the Spirit Sage had witnessed a mirage or had a fantastic dream? Whatever it was, the Princess of the Zoras was starting to get impatient with it.

Soon, noon rolled around with its hot rays and little shadow to shade in. Ruto was about ready to call in her Zoras and head back to the Castle when a Zora with a large, proud fins popped out of the water and called to her.

"Princess Ruto! Princess! Come quickly!" He called with exasperated breath. Ruto jumped to her webbed feet and swan dived into the Lake following her messenger.

"What is it? Have you found something?" She asked, her attention roused.

"Yes, Lady. I think we found the man, Eron. But we must hurry! He is not well. The group at the Falls saw him fall into the water from a great height and they think he has most likely been drowned." This report disturbed Ruto and she hurriedly swam after her officer. Coming to the shore near the old Laboratory, Ruto saw her group and also the group from the Falls. They were huddled around something but she could not make it out yet. She bid them move aside as she walked up so she could get a better look. Before her on the ground was a motionless dark-skinned man with sandy brown hair and tattoos around his closed eyes.

"He's not breathing, Princess," One of her people told her as she knelt by Eron touching his face, which was strangely hot.

"And many injuries, Lady," said another. Ruto looked at Eron, dying and had to think quickly. She did not know why Link wanted him to be found so badly or why he would think he was dangerous, but she was sure Link didn't want him to be found dead. She stood up and turned to the nearest Zora.

"Go to the old man in the Lab, he might have something that can help him. Tell him it's an emergency!" The Zora ran up the hill quickly to the Lab's door going inside in a hurry. While he talked to the old man, Ruto told the Zoras to get Eron in a sitting position and then to give him some hard slaps on his back. They did as commanded slapping Eron's back with open palms. A gurgling sound came out of his mouth and suddenly he threw up the water he had swallowed. Eron sucked the air in as fast as his body would permit between the coughing and sputtering. The Zora rushed back to the bottom of the rise from the Lab to Princess Ruto with a bottle of some kind of potion. She took it and thanked him quickly. Kneeling by Eron again, who now was lying in the short grass with glazed dark eyes. She took his head in her hand and tried to get him to look at her.

"Eron, Eron…if you can drink this. It will make you feel better," Ruto popped the cork when his eyes finally met hers and she helped him drink the red potion down. He coughed a little but drank it up taking large breaths afterwards.

"Th-thank you," he stuttered but now he could see the many faces around him more clearly and remarkably life was coming back to his limbs. Ruto smiled at him and suddenly realized why Nabooru had been kind to him. He was very polite.

"Are you feeling better now?" she asked. Eron looked at her still a little weary but now the pain in his body had disappeared after drinking the red liquid. He subconsciously reached down to his side and ribs removing the loose bandages. The wounds he had were gone and he wondered about his leg as well for it did not hurt any longer.

"Yes…I am…thank you. You are kind," he said stretching his legs and attempting to stand. Ruto helped him up.

"You gave us a little scare but I'm glad we found you in time. If we hadn't been looking for you, surely you would have died," the Princess blinked her large violet eyes with concern. Eron agreed with her a grave look on his face.

"Why were you looking for me?" He asked.

"Nabooru told us about you and Link, the Steward of Hyrule wanted you to be found. We can lead you back to Hyrule Castle Town, that is where you intended to go, right?" Eron nodded but he couldn't help feeling cautious. How does this creature know Nabooru?

"Yes…Hyrule Castle was my destination, but how do you know Nabooru?"

"I am Princess Ruto of the Zoras and I know Nabooru well. Better than you, I would guess," Ruto giggled at him. He certainly wasn't that smart, she thought. "But come now, since you're feeling better we should get moving if we want to be there before dark."

"Thank you, Princess Ruto…I'm sorry if I've offended you," Eron bowed to her showing his respect and gratitude the only way he could.

"Not at all, Eron," she pardoned him with a laugh. "Come on now, into the Lake. We'll take the short cut to Zora's Domain."

* * * *

The Forest was always a peaceful place. Whenever Link would visit here, he would always be refreshed and a sense of home was always about it. The trees were always singing in the breeze with the melody of Saria's song, but not this time. Deep down in his soul he had a restless, unsettling feeling as it started to sprinkle there. No sound could be heard as he approached with Epona. He hopped down and immediately made for Saria's house when suddenly Mido stopped him.

"Where are you going?" the little Kokiri leader ordered in his usual belittling tone. Even though Link was an adult and Hero of Time, Mido still could not entirely give him respect. He did apologize once and Link accepted it but Mido still held onto his pompous attitude.

"Where's Saria? She didn't show up this morning at the Castle and I was worried. Do you know where she is, Mido?"

"Why do you want to know? She's busy! Come back when she's not," he ordered and turned his back. Link, not in the mood for Mido's petty quips, grabbed his shoulder and turned him around.

"This is an emergency!" Link was in Mido's face now and he could see the Kokiri's face drop into fear.

"She-she's talking to the Deku Sprout!" Link let him go and ran off to the path that led to the new Deku Sprout. He could not help thinking that every time his day started out going through this path something bad was about to happen. Coming around the bend, he saw the remains of the Great Deku Tree and underneath its broad span of branches was the Deku Sprout that was to take his place. Near him, was Saria, sitting with her legs clutched up under her chin. Link's heart jumped with joy seeing her safe but when he came closer, the feeling of danger darkened his soul again.

"Saria!" he called and the Kokiri Sage turned to look at him a bit surprised as he ran up to them.

"Hello, Link! We weren't expecting to see you about the Forest," the Deku Sprout grinned at him with his usual light-hearted character.

"Hi Link," Saria's face was solemn but glad to see her best friend. Link gave her a tight hug and kneeled down.

"Are you alright, Saria?" She looked down and frowned with her hands behind her back.

"I don't think so, Link. I'm afraid…Something is going to happen. I had a terrible vision…"

Saria recounted the horrifying events to Link as he sat listening and asking questions with the rain drenching them. Now he was more convinced than ever some new threat was coming to Hyrule and it meant to destroy everything. He then told Saria and the Deku Sprout about Nabooru's find. Saria didn't know anything about him, but the Sprout had something to say.

"A man from the west you say? Like a shadow he is this man from the west…like smoke. I almost would say I remember him, but it's a memory I can't seem to grasp. Strange and dangerous tidings have been happening and this man of the west knows about them."

"Then he is dangerous," Link said with a frown. The Deku Sprout ruffled the few leaves he had in response as he thought.

"Yes…and no," he said.

"What does that mean?" Saria asked, breaking her silence.

"I'm not sure. There is little I can sense…" the Sprout paused in deep thought. His usual smile gone with the thought. "But caution should be applied to a burning soul." Link nodded then stood.

"I think it's a good idea if you stay here in the Forest, Saria. It's safer. I'm going back to Hyrule Castle to see if anyone has found him yet." Link bid a goodbye and be careful to Saria and the Deku Sprout before leaving. He hated leaving Saria behind when she was so frightened but Link felt some confidence. If they could catch this problem before it really started then they would not have to worry about anything. The Deku Sprout's words troubled him. Everything he said was a riddle and it would have done him no good to sit and prod the Sprout for more direct answers because it seemed the Sprout himself could not really tell what he was meaning.

The Kokiri twin, Breia stood by Epona, petting her soft nuzzle giggling as Link approached. "Oh, hi Link! I thought you were here since this BIG horse was here. None of us Kokiri can ride a horse like this…in fact, I don't think any Kokiri has ever ridden a horse!"

"Unfortunately, she can't really stay though…I've got to check back at the Castle and find Zelda. Some bad things might be happening and I don't want to be late in stopping it." Link was grave and the little Kokiri girl looked scared.

"Does it have something to do with Saria's vision?" She asked.

"I think it does…but don't worry, I'll get to the bottom of this." He climbed up onto Epona's back with determination written in his face. Breia watched him in wonder. She had always thought Link was special but she felt sorry for him too. Why did all these terrible things always have to land on his shoulders? Or did he make it that way so others would not have to burden under them? She backed away so he could have a clear way to the exit out of Kokiri Forest. His horse, Epona was like lightning, and in awe, Breia watched them race out of the Forest in the rain. Her only wish was to leave Kokiri Forest and to help with Link's difficult tasks.

* * * *

Unknowing of the dangers and events happening outside, Impa sat cross-legged in the darkness of the inner rooms of the Shadow Temple with only one small torch lit to mark her exit out of the deep dark. Here was where the voices of the shadows were the strongest and even then sometimes Impa could barely hear them. And rare was it she could decipher what they said but she was determined to find something out that was helpful. The voices were very active at this moment and it made her curious. What was all the buzz about? Maybe Link was right and their dreams had something to do with her. Impa drew in a deep breath letting her guesses and questions fade so that she could just listen. A great scrambling of voices hit her at once and she tried vainly to pick out one voice to listen but it was impossible. The voices were angry, crying and insulting. Her brow furrowed as she tried to make sense of it all.

"Please…one at a time. I cannot hear you all at once," she whispered out loud hoping to catch the shadows' attention. Suddenly, it grew quiet and the torch by the door flickered and went out. It was completely dark. Impa opened her eyes thinking she might still have them closed. She could not even see her hand in front of her face. Even though this was her Temple and she was the Sage of Shadow, this frightened her somewhat but she did not feel alone.

"It was too bright! It hurts us!"

Impa sucked in a breath. A shadow was speaking to her roughly about her torch. She guessed it was the shadows that blew it out.

"I'm sorry," she ventured. "But it is out now…and I'm searching for answers. Can any shadow tell me anything helpful about my dream?" She felt something brush by her making her shiver.

"Ha, your dreams, what do your dreams matter to us? The matter is we're safe and you're not!"

"We are not safe! If the Sages die we will die out as well!" Another voice from behind her yelled and it sounded female.

"So Hyrule is in danger? But what is the danger? Do you know it?" Impa asked, trying to deal with these voices.

"We know the danger all to well!" A third cried in a woeful voice. "All is suffering and soon all of Hyrule will suffer with us."

"Finally, we'll have some more interesting people to talk to!" A fourth voice laughed in a strange, twisted joy. Impa could not tell what they were all talking about.

"How can Hyrule stop this evil? What must I do to preserve Hyrule and you?" She tried a different tactic at getting them to speak; perhaps the female voice would talk again. That voice seemed to be more sympathetic but the female voice did not speak.

"Ha, ha, ha! Stop THIS evil! Ha! It would be like trying to stop the Great Goddesses from ever creating this world!" the first one laughed at her but Impa kept at it.

"So you would rather me try nothing? I am the Sage of Shadow, YOUR Sage. I will not abandon you or Hyrule. I am the last Sheikah and it's my duty to protect this land. Now, listen to me and answer my questions! Please!" There was a silence then some faint whispering as if the four of them were deciding on what to tell Impa. Finally, the woman spoke up.

"We are afraid to tell you…no one can stop the events coming. No one ever has before, why would you or anyone else in Hyrule be different?"

"You mean someone has tried to stop this evil before? Other Sages?"

"Of course! Who would NOT want to stop this evil? When you see it, you will tremble in fear and woe to you! May Nayru have mercy on your soul! Then you would pray to join us, Sage of Shadow!" The third voice moaned in the dark and Impa felt helpless.

"Don't worry, Impa. When the evil is satisfied, perhaps your wish for companionship with your people again will come true. Then you will be happy," the female voice was very close to Impa and the Sage almost thought she could see a face, but it was gone in an instant.

"Just except the fate of the world, Sage of Shadow," the fourth voice said without any emotion. "All will come together." Impa wanted to push further on these new riddles when suddenly she felt alone and her torch came alive again. Taking a deep breath, Impa blinked her eyes and looked around the room. The shadows were now quiet meaning she would get no more information about the end of Hyrule. Even though, the shadows made it clear nothing could stop this evil from coming, Impa was not the Sheikah that would not fight with all her might for that smallest bit of hope that maybe they could defeat it.

Rising to her feet, Impa walked to her torch taking it in her left hand. A deep sadness filled her heart as she reflected on the old days of Hyrule when she was still a child. It was so peaceful and some Sheikahs still lived in Kakariko Village. Until one day, she was alone as the lone Sheikah destined to become Princess Zelda's caregiver and then a Sage over the Temple of Shadow. Finally, Impa turned from that deep inner chamber of her Temple and made the slow treading out of it. She used this time to sort out what she should do when she met with Link and Zelda.

* * * *

After a short dive into Lake Hylia, Eron, Princess Ruto and her groups of Zoras ended up inside Zora's Domain. Eron took in every detail with respect and awe with the little time he was there. Soon, after climbing a ladder on the side of waterfall pool, the group was by an opening with another roaring waterfall rushing past it. Ruto jumped into it, letting it take her to the bottom of Zora's River and she called up for everyone else to join her. Eron went next, though a little weary but he leapt into the crushing water. It wasn't as bad as he thought when he soon was by Ruto. Two male Zoras followed after then they headed down the River. It was raining here so the air was thick with humidity.

"We're much closer to the Castle now then we were at Lake Hylia. Those portals surely do help!" Ruto claimed as she swam above water next to Eron. "We should get there soon."

"I would be much grateful for that," Eron breathed. He did not know if Ruto or the other Zoras noticed, but he was tired. Though the magic potion Ruto gave him earlier had healed his body, he felt very fatigued. But he was so close now! He could not quit now, especially not now. He had met some amazing people on this journey. Nabooru and Princess Ruto with her Zoras came to mind. He could not fail them.

"So, are you and Nabooru friends?" He asked, curiously and trying to keep himself occupied. Ruto sliced through the water with ease, doing a flip onto her back then looked at Eron.

"Well, I've never really become 'friends' with Nabooru, but we do know each other fairly well, since you know we ARE Sages. We have to talk to each other," Ruto giggled in her usual girlish laugh when Eron gaped at her.

"Sages? You mean, you and Nabooru are Sages? What kind of Sages?" Eron's words were quick and almost stumbling over each other. Ruto laughed at him even more.

"What? Nabooru didn't mention to you that she was a Sage? She's usually quick to point that out to anyone and everyone. She's the Sage of Spirit and I'm the Sage of Water. I can't believe she didn't tell you that," the Zora Princess did a small dive into the water then came out with a spray of water. She appeared to be thoroughly enjoying herself.

"Sage of Spirit…and Water…" Eron spoke quietly, not really to anyone in particular.

"Yes, silly." Ruto grabbed hold of him as they went over a small waterfall. Eron had just had the biggest surprise of his life. He couldn't believe that he had visited with the Sage of Spirit and not know it! And not only that, why did Nabooru not realize his nature from the beginning?

The journey through the swift Zora's River passed quickly and Eron stayed quiet mostly. He tried keeping his senses alert and it helped but he could feel himself losing control. They were on Hyrule Field now, just outside of the walls of Castle Town. Looking around, Eron could see a few boulders placed around the walls in the mushy ground. He was curious about these and when he and the Zoras approached, the biggest one rolled up and revealed himself.

"Princess Ruto!" Darunia exclaimed. "You're back, what is the word?" Eron stood back behind Ruto a bit intimidated by this massive creature. Unlike the Zoras, this one seemed rough and tough. He also felt warmth from him.

"I found the missing man!" Ruto said, stepping back for Darunia to see Eron. "It's a good thing Link wanted us to find him or he would be dead now." Darunia frowned looking Eron up and down. He certainly didn't look dangerous. Maybe Link was just jumping to conclusions! The Sage of Fire laughed.

"You look like you haven't eaten in weeks, lad! Come in quickly, there's someone that wants to meet you first," With Eron and the Zoras following, Darunia led them into Castle Town. He felt awkward and the feeling of caution was in the air. He felt like there were Sages all around him and soon they would find him out. Darunia gave him quick suspicious glances but shook his head and smiled. Ruto seemed a little bit oblivious but even she was keeping something from him.

Eron observed the newly built homes and buildings all around the town. He saw a path up ahead where some foundations had been built. Most likely for Hyrule Castle, he thought. Soon, Darunia took them to a building on the right of the path that was a magnificent sight. Eron took a deep breath as he viewed the Temple of Time. He knew this place.

"In we go, Eron," Darunia let Eron go into the Temple first. Ruto and her Zoras stayed outside in wait. Inside the tall elaborate doors, Eron entered into an empty, yet beautifully quiet room. Scanning along the rich red carpet, Eron's eyes beheld an altar and three gleaming stones. All too familiar…

Exploring more with his eyes, Eron spotted a figure behind the altar sitting quietly, waiting for something. Darunia motioned for him to approach the altar and he did so with all his senses stretched forward to this figure sitting in the shadow of an open doorway.

"Normally…" a deep masculine voice started. "We welcome guests from outside of Hyrule with more respect but I'm sorry to say that things have happened and we're not so sure about our visitors anymore." The figure stepped out of the shadow showing himself to Eron, who watched in secret surprise. The figure was a Sheikah man in a casual fitted blue outfit. The symbol of the Eye of Truth that all Sheikahs wore covered his chest proudly. He had blonde hair that hung out between a wrap around his head and around his mouth. His red eyes were piercing but Eron did not feel intimidated. More like…at home.

"I understand. Your land has been through a lot…and my heart comes out to Hyrule and its people. I had come seeking Princess Zelda. I was told she was the ruler and I wanted to seek her permission to dwell in this land for a time to help Hyrule to its feet again." Nervousness nudged at Eron as he talked to this Sheikah. Why was he brought to see him? Why would this Sheikah want to meet him specifically?

"Princess Zelda is inaccessible, I'm afraid," Sheik answered in a short tone. "Anything you have to say to her will have to be approved through me first, her advisor, Sheik." A small inclination of confusion passed Eron's face. A Sheikah named Sheik? That did not sound right but he did not want to offend.

"I am alright with that. I come not to intrude on anything that might be happening here," he looked over his shoulder, seeing Darunia still standing by the door listening to them with arms crossed over his massive chest. Sheik slowly walked down the steps and stopped in front of Eron and shivered noticeably. Eron tried not to look nervous. It was he that made the room feel cold.

"We shall talk a little while. Tell me about where you come from." The Sheikah's voice seemed softer and more willing to listen to Eron's story. And he would tell Sheik Eron's story but he hoped it would not take long, he needed to find a place away from all the people so he could finally rest. He was so tired…

* * * *

Link let out a long breath of relief. He was on the home stretch to Hyrule Castle and he could not wait. His meeting with Saria needed to be told to Zelda and the other Sages. He was more convinced then ever now that the man from the west was the person in all the dreams. Though, this man did not really fit Saria's vision Link felt really sure he knew something about it. Epona huffed when they came around the hill and suddenly she reared.

"Easy! Easy, Epona!" Link patted her neck and sat up in the saddle to see what she was bucking about. At the bottom of the hill, he saw something move and then turn towards him.

"Oh, Link! Link! Down here quickly!" It was Malon, soaked to the bone, and in a horrible mood. He urged Epona down the hill quickly and when he was close enough, hopped down beside Malon.

"Malon, what is it? What are you doing out here in the rain?"

"Link! I'm so glad you're here! It was terrible! I've never been so angry in my life! Those Gerudos! They stole our horses!" Malon's cheeks were red with frustration. She had been trying to reach the Castle to tell Link about the incident but she luckily ran into him on his way there.

"What do you mean? What Gerudos?"

"Nabooru and three others. They came to the Ranch, tied Ingo up then stole four of our horses! They rode off west and I was going to the Castle to get you to help us," she cried. Link sighed and shook his head. Why in the world would Nabooru pull something like this? Now was the worst time ever, but he'd have to deal with it later. The matter of Malon's stolen horses paled to the problem he was already trying to address. But at least, he needed to get Malon out of the rain.

"Come on, Malon. I'll handle Nabooru and get your horses back, but for now let's get to Castle Town. You'll get sick out here," Link put his hand on her quivering shoulder and she nodded reluctantly to him. Quickly, he helped her onto Epona's back then climbed up behind her. With a slap and word of command, Link, Malon and Epona sped off to the Castle. He felt the rains lighten up, but the clouds still hung tightly together in the sky.

Approaching the gate, a Goron to his left hailed to him.

"Link! Wait Link!" Link stopped Epona and backed up.

"What is it? Where is Princess Zelda?" He asked quickly, anxious to find her.

"Well, uh, she's talking with the stranger from the west in the Temple of Time…but not as Zelda. But don't worry! She's perfectly safe, Darunia is watching and so is Princess Ruto," the Goron replied. Link swallowed hard. Hearing that the stranger was with Princess Zelda did not comfort him in the least. Even though he trusted Darunia's strength and Ruto's ability to defend herself, Link did not want that man anywhere near Zelda. Racing into Castle Town, Link strode up to his house and jumped down, then helped Malon off.

"You can stay here at my house until I figure out what happened to Nabooru, but for now, I HAVE to talk to Zelda. You'll be safe here, I promise." Giving her a reassuring grasp around her shoulders, Link headed off to the Temple of Time. He only hoped he was not too late. Malon watched him leave pitifully.

Going up the steps he saw Ruto and the two Zoras. He didn't want to be rude but he wanted to just bypass her and reach Zelda. He didn't like this at all but against what his emotions were screaming at him to do, he stopped.

"Link, there you are! It took you forever at Kokiri Forest. What kept you?" Ruto asked in her scolding manner but Link knew she did not mean it. However, he felt rushed and there was no time for these silly things.

"Sorry Princess, I don't have time for this. I need you to help me…I have a feeling this might not be easy. I know that guy Nabooru met is in there talking to Zelda or Sheik but I have reason to believe he's dangerous and out to destroy us. Come with me, quickly." Ruto blinked not understanding Link's trouble with Eron but the look in his eyes told her not to ask about it. She motioned for her Zoras to follow her in with Link.

Eron was leaning against the altar with Sheik, talking about the war with Ganondorf when Link and Ruto entered. Link looked about ready to start fighting now but he kept that urge down when he saw the man. Eron was taller than he by about five inches but he was nowhere near built like a warrior, like Link thought he would be. But this made him more suspicious and he took out his fairy bow and placed an arrow in it ready to pierce Eron if need be. Sheik stepped up to Link with alarm in her eyes. If ever Eron was truly relaxed, his whole body now bunched up in alertness. He was ruined. He had been found out. They would not help him.

"What's going on?" the Sheikah asked blocking Link's shot a bit.

"I don't have time to explain it all right now, Sheik. But I have reason to believe this man dangerous." Link nodded to Darunia, who approached Eron and pinned his arms tightly behind him. He grunted, trying desperately not to seem threatening but his emotions were running wild. "Take him to the cell block that we just finished the other day." Darunia nodded to Link as he put his bow away and the Fire Sage marched Eron out of the Temple. Ruto fell silent, watching Eron leave sadly.

"Wait! No, you don't understand! You mustn't imprison me here, you mustn't!" Eron tried to plead with Darunia but the Goron's grip just became tighter.

"We had special help from the Gerudos with the Castle's new dungeon. I don't think you'll be getting out of it. Sorry this had to happen so suddenly, lad," he said.

"No, I tell you! You don't understand!" Eron struggled trying to drag his feet but it was useless. Finally, he stopped, pinching his eyes shut. "Nayru, Nayru…please forgive me…"

Inside the Temple of Time, Link took Sheik by the shoulders. He knew that it was really Zelda and so did everyone else, so why was she disguising herself as Sheik again? "Zelda…what's going on? What did you find out that made you feel like you needed to be hidden?" Sheik turned her eyes away and looked at Ruto and the two Zoras. Ruto got the hint and left.

"When I told Rauru about Impa's dream, he did not have much more insight on it than we did. So, he pushed me to be cautious. I told him I could take care of myself, but he insisted that I be careful…therefore, I am Sheik once more."

"Frankly, I think it was a very good idea. The man is dangerous, I'm sure of it," Link stated firmly.

"What makes you so sure?"

"I had a visit with Saria. She had a vision too…but I'd like to tell everyone at once if we get a chance. Could you use the Ocarina of Time to summon all the Sages? Tell them to get here as fast as they can," Sheik nodded slowly taking her precious possession from her pouch. Link tried to relax as Sheik beautifully played the instrument with grace. He would need all the Sages to figure out what they should do with this Western man and in the meantime, he wanted to speak with him.

* * * *

It seemed to become dark earlier this day since the clouds of rain blocked out the sunlight. Just the perfect touch to a completely miserable day, Nabooru thought to herself. She had not said a word since leaving Gerudo Valley. Her heart fluttered helplessly against the pain and sorrow she felt for Eron losing his life. But then again, she couldn't help feeling angry with him. Why didn't he wait for her? She was more than willing to help! Did he not trust her? The fool! Now, she felt even worse since she had stolen horses from Talon for that no-good bum just to be rewarded with his death. Surely, Link would be furious with her but she didn't care. Nothing could make her feel better now. She wished to retreat to the Chamber of Sages and kick Rauru out so that she could be alone forever and no one would bother her.

Nabooru led her small group along the muddy path back to Lon Lon Ranch. She hoped Talon would be forgiving for their actions. It was, at first, for a good cause after all. She slowed her horse in front of the house and barn with the others following suit. Climbing down, Nabooru tapped on the door to the house.

"Hello, in there! We brought back--" she stopped when a thumping sound came from inside and the door opened quickly. Talon stood there with an angry yet confused look on his face.

"You've come back," he said in a disbelieving tone. Nabooru rolled her eyes.

"Of course we did. I told that idiot, Ingo we only needed to borrow them but he refused to let any 'Gerudos' ride his horses so I just had to help myself." Talon scrutinized her wondering if her story was true. "Just take your silly horses back and there will be no more of it." Nabooru spun around on her heel. "Let's go girls," she ordered with icy barbs in her voice.

"Wait!" Talon called to them. "If you see Malon on the way to Hyrule Castle, uh…tell her to come back home please." Nabooru stared at him a moment then sighed roughly. Of course they would tell on them to Link. "I tried to tell her to wait, but Malon's very insistent," he added quickly. The Gerudos heard Talon, but walked off without talking to him any longer.

When they were all out on the Field again, heading towards Hyrule Castle, Ryut stepped up beside Nabooru. She put her hand on her leader's shoulder. "Are you alright, Nabooru? You haven't talked much since we left Gerudo Valley." Kotare and Taunooru followed closely behind to hear the words of their leader.

"I guess I'll be fine. I just…really hoped to see Eron again. You all would have liked him. He was sweet and polite…and certainly not a Hylian." She smiled a bit with the girls.

"We'd like to hear everything you knew about him. He sounds like someone to remember," Taunooru said.

"Yes, someone to remember…" Nabooru breathed looking up to see a few lonesome stars shining through a break in the clouds. She only wished Eron were at peace. She closed her eyes when a familiar voice passed over her. It was Zelda asking her to return to Hyrule Castle immediately for a Sage meeting. Nabooru almost felt like blowing it off and not caring because of the mood she was in, but Link was her friend and she had to care.

Shoving her mood and unhappiness away, Nabooru began to run with Ryut, Kotare and Taunooru. She told them the reason for the sudden urgency as the dark walls of the Castle loomed up ahead of them.

* * * *

Eron laid his head back on the cold stone with a heavy heart. He knew it was cold, but it did not effect him like it might a normal person. His wrists were chained up against the wall, which he guessed this trap was of Gerudo design. It was effective, but only for people that came unprepared. His eyelids were coming so close to shutting for slumber and his control over his body was slipping with each minute that passed by. The two male Zoras Ruto had come with her watched him but did not speak to him. He wished they would so he would not drift away when he heard a door open and they stood ready to greet someone. The Hylian, that Eron guessed was Link, stood in the hallway leading to his lonely cell. It was the only one they had finished before his unfortunate arrival. Link looked very unhappy and suspicious. He walked up to the bars, careful not to get too close but close enough to see Eron's face.

"Why have you really come?" Link asked in a demanding voice. Eron sighed and shook his head, not really sure what to say first. Link stood watching him intently.

"Like I told Sheik, I came originally looking for a Princess Zelda--"

"Why Princess Zelda?" Link cut him off with anger in his voice. He didn't trust Eron in the least. He couldn't figure out why Nabooru had helped him in the first place. This guy was screaming 'dangerous'.

"I heard she was a Sage and the ruler of Hyrule," he looked up into Link's uncompassionate eyes. "I wanted to live here for awhile and help with Hyrule's rebuilding."

"Why do I not believe that?" Link asked out loud, not really asking Eron in general. "Some prophetic dreams have been told that synchronize with your arrival and I don't think that's a coincidence. Now tell me the truth. Why have you come?"

"I told you," Eron tried.

"You're lying! I have a source that told me you know what these dreams mean," Link had had enough of this liar and his patience was wearing thin. Normally, he would be disgusted with himself by how he was treating Eron but he had some much to lose. Link wasn't about to let this man march right in and take everything that he fought so hard for.

Eron sighed heavily again, his weariness pushing to take over his tired body. He had hoped to gain the trust of the people of Hyrule before revealing an ulterior motive for coming. But if he kept it hidden, nothing would ever be done and it would be too late. Hyrule's fate rested upon Eron now.

He prayed quietly to Nayru to give him strength and forgiveness again. Link listening quietly not sure what to make of this but he held his bow ready, just in case.

"All right, Link, Steward of Hyrule, I will tell you a story," Eron said trying to focus on old haunting memories. They were so faded with his exhaustion. Link watched closely with his ears wide open so as not to lose one word. "Over three hundred years ago, I was born. In those days Hyrule was in a time of great tension with all the other races that you are friends with now. The Zoras, the Gerudos, the Sheikahs, the Gorons, and the Hylians were all fighting for land and power, politically at first. I know that sounds selfish and unlike the way things are now in Hyrule, but before lands can be peaceful a war must ravage them to make people realize how precious the things they already have. Unfortunately, for most races, they do not realize that until they've lost them." Eron paused, scanning his mind again and focusing. He noticed Link listening carefully.

"The War broke out a few years before I was born, and many people were killed in that short period of time. However, the Hylians and Sheikahs were partners in the war against the Zoras, Gerudos and Gorons. It was normal after a battle, they would take prisoners, unlike the Gerudos. One such night, a Sheikah teenager found a young dying Gerudo after a major battle. He took pity on her and saved her. Back then, it was a shameful thing to be seen with the other races unless they were your allies. But this Sheikah boy and Gerudo girl did not care. A few years past with many secret meetings between the two, until I was born and their secret was found out. The elders of the Sheikah claimed me to be an evil spirit sent to destroy Hyrule and that I should be destroyed. Using the skills of a Sheikah, my father hid me away in a far away land then returned to Hyrule without me. I guess his sense of duty to my mother and Hyrule was more important. I found out later they were both killed for being 'traitors'." Eron stopped. The memory of his parents still lingered in his mind, even though he did not understand anything then. He was only a child.

"What does any of this have to do with why you're in Hyrule now, looking for Zelda?" Link was impatient, and he didn't believe a word Eron was telling him. Eron sat collecting his thoughts again before answering. He did not care much that Link was impatient.

"When I was still a young child living in a place that's far from here, I remember seeing many people coming from every place on the world, claiming that a Great Fire was eating the world and that no realm was safe. I did not understand it then, but now I know it too well." He took a breath wanting to reach out to his chest, but his arms were bound.

"One day, some ancient Sages came to me…it was a Light Sage, a Fire Sage and a Shadow Sage. They took me from my home to a place I will never forget. It was the Sacred Realm. It seemed like years, but the Sages claimed it had only been a few hours when they finally returned for me. They said I was to be punished by the great Goddess of Wisdom, Farore. I was afraid, and I didn't know why they were punishing me but it was done. A saw another Sage with them, which they named as the Spirit Sage. It was a man who looked like he was in dire pain when suddenly he wretched out Fire. It horrified me…what came out of him, it was a woman…or what looked like a woman…it was really what I can only call…a Pyre Soul…" Link looked up when Eron stopped. Why did he stop? He stepped up closer and saw Eron's eyes closed. Suddenly, the room began to feel very warm and an anxious feeling stung him. Reaching between the bars of Eron's cell, Link poked him hard enough to get his attention. Eron shook his head and looked around with a glassy look but in a panic.

"Oh Nayru! I'm sorry! Oh, Goddesses, I almost lost it…please give me strength." Eron panted, looking at Link. "Please forgive me, Link. Do not let me fall asleep!" Link nodded, wondering why, but he had a feeling he might find out soon if Eron finished his story.

"What about this…Pyre Soul?" He asked.

"Yes, yes…that's where I was." Eron took a few deep breaths, and Link noticed some beads of sweat along his brow. "They made me carry the Pyre Soul. I am bound to the Pyre Soul with all her tormenting words and furies. I fight for control over my body constantly. I fear to even sleep for she can over power me in dreams! I have come here, seeking help from your Sages to find a way to be rid of her! She will surely take over, for I am weak…I cannot fight her for much longer…because with her came an immortal life. I cannot die from the slow aging of my body, for I do not age. Only can I be killed, but if I am killed she will be freed and then no one can stop her…"

"This Pyre Soul you have must be the fire that burns Hyrule in all of the dreams and visions," Link said, putting the pieces together. "Now I understand what the shadow is in the dreams…I'm guessing it's you. But since you're here and I know now what the danger is, we can take care of it and Hyrule will be safe again." Eron only looked at Link pitifully from his uncomfortable position in the cell.

"It may sound easy, but you do not know the Pyre Soul like I do," he said. "She will try anything and everything to take control of me and not be captive or destroyed." Link pondered on this for a moment trying to take in everything he had heard. He still wasn't entirely sure if he should trust Eron's story but it was not solely up to him. He needed to discuss it all with the Sages.

"I'm glad you told me all of this, Kiad'Eron. I think it will help everyone, including you in the end. What you've just told me will be related to the Sages then we'll decide on what to do. We will probably come back to question you but you will not attend. If this Pyre Soul is dangerous, then that means you are too and I think it's best you stay here," Link stated, turning from Eron. "However, you won't be left alone. There will be someone here to watch over you at all times…to make sure you won't fall asleep, like you requested. I'll have someone get you a blue potion and a cucco. They might be able to help."

"Thank you, Sir. You are kind," Eron hung his head, trying not to let his weariness get the best of him. Link disregarded his remark asking the Zora guards to watch Eron carefully then headed out. This was an amazing story, and it needed to be told to the others. Its accountability needed to be checked.

As Link walked to the Temple of Time, he couldn't help feeling that Eron's story was somehow anti-climatic. It seemed so easy to fix his problem. Why didn't any other Sages try to help? And why, in the first place, would the ancient Sages punish him in this way? What did he, a child at the time, do to deserve a horrible sentence directly given to him from the Goddess Farore? Link wasn't sure about those questions but he wouldn't know unless he confided with his friends and neighbors--and especially Zelda. She always had a way of explaining these kinds of things. Hopefully, the away Sages would come soon so that this problem could be addressed and fixed. He did not want this Pyre Soul roaming freely about burning Hyrule to the ground. And that would not happen. Link subconsciously touched his Triforce piece. He wondered if it was really the source of his courage or merely gave him the illusion of being courageous. Whatever it did for him, Link was certain that with the help of the Sages and Goddesses, they would prevail and the world would be safe once more.

* Whew, that was long. Hopefully it didn't kill the interest. But a lot has happened and now we know about Eron…or do we? Next chapter, we get an up close encounter with the Pyre Soul, but luckily for Hyrule, its watchers are ready for her! But will they be successful? Read and find out! * ^_^