Author's Note Well this is it – the mysterious alternate chapter has
been posted! Remember this is the ALTERNATE chapter, which means I could
continue the other one or this one. Actually I made this one here first but
thought it was a bit too rushed...maybe...I have no idea, so to make up for it
I redid it with the chapter you read last (or hopefully read last, if not
re-read it). To clarify some things, you might want to read this note
before you begin.
There are some similarities between these chapters, mostly at the beginning and such, but as it progresses the changes get bigger and a rather 'minor' character (you will find out who) gets an unexpectedly large role. There is also an explanation as to why the water serpent awakened in the first place...and perhaps...there may be more than one enemy for Ruto to deal with now...? A longer chapter than the last so sit back, and enjoy.
REALLY IMPORTANT! Don't forget to mention in your review whether or not you like this one better, because if you don't then it will be removed and I will continue from where I left off in the other chapter. If you do then I will remove the other chapter and continue on this one. However, there may be some unexplained stuff but it would be too difficult to cram it all into one chapter, so give it a chance to develop...
Rainer Aquarias – Sage of Time: welcome back! Yay! Glad you're here to update again, and here's some stuff for you to read and review!
Flaminchica: I please return! You wouldn't want to miss this latest crazy change in my story! I miss your review for my previous chapter!
Thunder Moon Dragon Wolf: welcome to my story, I'm glad to be able to read something from a new reviewer and it would seem you have some catching up to do if you haven't caught up yet. I hope you enjoy what you have read thus far though, and you can expect many more updates and appreciation for your praise from me!
Upset by everything that had happened to her in such a short amount of time, Ruto stomped off to her room to relax and ease her tension for a while. She wasn't worried about where Link went since it was obvious he was a solitary person and preferred to go off by himself and she had no doubt he was probably somewhere. Doing what she had no idea, nor was she very curious anymore to find out.
As Ruto made her way through the throne room, she did everything to look as unaffected and casual as possible so her father wouldn't ask questions. Carefully she hid the anger on her face and replaced it with a false smile, though her eyes burned with hidden rage. As she walked she put in all the effort she could muster to appear graceful and at ease. When she went down the stairs leading back to the passageways of Zoras Domain, her father had taken no notice of her and said nothing, though a pleased smile was spread across his fish like lips. It was a good thing he didn't want to find out what was going on, Ruto thought to herself as she continued on her way. The female Zora's smile vanished the instant she was removed from her father's watchful gaze, and as she passed the main area of Zoras Domain, her careful amethyst colored eyes locked on to her husband.
Misu was standing on a dry rocky platform in the middle of the pool of water, and in front of him on the same platform was none other than Zale. In comparison to her husband, Zale was a lot shorter and less muscular, though his fins were powerfully sharp and his eyes darker and blacker than the night. Ruto stopped near the ledge of the pathway that looked over the water and watched silently. Her mood had soured and she had no desire to go over and actually find out what was going on, but by the looks on Zale and Misu's faces they appeared to be in a heated argument. Ruto's fin like ears listened carefully as she heard Misu's smooth yet cool voice carry faintly over the rushing waterfall as his lips moved rapidly.
"Zale, you have no right to insult my wife!"
A pang of shock hit her to hear such strong words used in her defense, though Ruto had no idea what he was talking about. Misu's fins flared angrily and he took a step closer to Zale, who in turn flared his fins and flashed his silver scales in defiance before saying mockingly.
"I have no right? Ha! Who are you to say such a thing to me! If I am not mistaken, I have heard from various sources that you and Ruto don't even have the competence to bond yet, even though you know if you wait much longer-"
To her surprise again, Ruto saw Misu bear his teeth at Zale and he looked as if he might lash out at the other Zora and rip him to shreds. Instead, he remained where he stood, but it was evident he was doing everything in his power to restrain himself. Ruto was frozen in place watching, and knew better than to intrude in affairs that were not her own. Misu cut Zale's words off before he spat angrily.
"My affairs with my wife are mine alone, and you are not to speak about them to anyone for any reason! And if I am not mistaken, you have failed to realize I am the heir to the throne, which means you are to respect me because of that if not for anything else."
Zale emitted a harsh laugh that sent a rush of anger through the Zora princess, and for a second Ruto was considering doing what her husband could not – rip Zale to shreds herself. It seemed Zale didn't care what anyone said, and it made Ruto furious to know he was going so far as to disrespect them both to the point where it was almost certain he would be banished if he went any further. The slightly smaller male shook his head and smirked remorselessly until his sharp words cut through the air like a sword.
"You have quite the temper Misu when someone tries hard enough to break through your concealed feelings. Nevertheless I know you're angry, so if you feel that strongly toward me why not try to take it out on me? I dare you, but I suppose a coward never fights..."
"I am not a coward, but I am not foolish enough to waste my time with you. To think that all of this animosity began over a stupid diving tournament when we were merely children, why not let it go and move on?"
Misu asked heatedly, though Ruto knew her husband was probably asking himself why he was showing such patience with someone so arrogant and self centered. Ruto couldn't hear it because she was too far away, but she could see Zale scoff in despise before saying dismissively.
"Stupid? I hardly call the gold scale tournament stupid, when it is one of the largest and most important and protégés diving tournaments that happens every five years! It was your fault I lost in the first place, since you couldn't take the fact I'm a better diver than you'll ever be!"
"You know that's wrong Zale because I have defeated you in every tournament and I am a faster more agile swimmer than you are. I am not being arrogant in saying that, nor did I cause you to lose in the gold scale tournament. I tried to tell you-"
"I don't care what you tried to tell me! Your lying and I have no desire to hear your 'story' as to what happened. Your worthless, and you will never amount to being a good ruler of Zoras Domain. If I had won that tournament, it would be I who would have wed Princess Ruto and claimed the throne and not you! You only have that position because that tournament helped you gain King Zora's favor."
"So that is what this is about and why you constantly insult the princess! How could you Zale? Is that all you wanted, to be King of Zoras Domain and nothing more? To you princess Ruto was just an object for you to use to rule our home, and when you see me with her you are jealous!"
Zale's eyes flashed in anger and Misu frowned in disgust before turning his back on the fellow Zora. Ruto was shocked all the more to find herself wound up in their turmoil, and watched her husband walk away until he reached the edge of the platform and stood listening to Zale's reply. The silver scaled male raised his hands slightly and formed fists, but since Misu was facing the other direction he hadn't noticed the other male's rage was slowly building.
"Jealous? I wouldn't call it that. I know if it had been me King Zora had chosen to wed Princess Ruto, by now she would already be with child and I would soon be the most powerful Zora to have ever ruled Zoras Domain! You will only lead our home into a fate of disaster and fear, which you and your princess have already caused with that water serpent in Lake Hylia."
Misu gave no immediate response, and the longer the silence lasted the angrier Zale seemed to become. When Misu finally responded, Ruto felt chills run up her spine to hear his voice so cold and aggravated.
"I have nothing to say to you Zale. You cannot change what has already happened. Ruto is my beloved wife, even if we do argue frequently over personal matters, but together we are destined to rule this place and are bound by so much more than marriage..."
Finally, Zale cracked and his temper ignited beyond reconciliation. The male shook with rage until his words came out in a shout as his eyes glared at Misu uncontrollably.
"Yes I can change what has happened – by killing you and taking the throne and Ruto for myself! I will need a female to continue my generation, but you shall have no hope now of continuing yours!"
His words caused Misu to spin around in alarm but he was too late to protect himself. Within seconds Zale used his speed and slammed into Misu ruthlessly, which caused the two to fall off the platform and into the water. Ruto dropped the Zoras Sapphire on the ground, and plunged into the water after them, her mind reeling over Misu and in fright over what was happening. Other Zoras who were watching did nothing to intervene, and angrily Ruto wondered why until she realized their culture was so sheltered and peaceful that any act of violence was ignored unless it affected other Zoras besides those fighting.
She didn't care if trying to help Misu was frowned upon, she had to make sure he was all right and protect him. Why had things gotten so out of control? The Zora princess had no idea the hatred Zale had for Misu was strong enough to want to kill him, and the decision to do so had been so instantaneous no one was expecting it – especially Misu himself. She felt as if she was involved in some sort of strange Zora drama that was slowly unfolding, but the fact was she had no idea what the full story was or why such violence had suddenly exploded when it never had before...
All along Zale's anger must have been boiling and slowly escalating, and it wasn't until now he decided to act upon it. Murder was pretty much non- existent in Zora culture, though Ruto knew if two males battled to seek the throne the one who hadn't originally been chosen could take it if he won. Ruto only heard of such an occurrence once, and the Zora later became corrupted and almost caused their race to become extinct. She would not let history repeat itself. She was afraid their anger would make them blind and she would get hurt in the process – but she had no choice. Zale must have had his eye on the throne since the day he met her, and now that Misu was in his way he would do anything to get it. However, for this to suddenly occur out of nowhere? It didn't make sense!
When Misu and Zale became within sight range underwater, the two males were wrestling furiously. Their bodies twisted and turned, their teeth bared and fins flared as clouds of bubbles floated around them as they kicked and slashed at one another. Ruto swam swiftly toward them, just as Zale kicked Misu in the side, which caused him to careen toward the rocky bottom. Before Misu hit the rocks though, he managed to change his direction and pull away until he lunged forward in the water at Zale and hit the other male with one of his fists. Zale floated backward for a moment though still had a maddening glint in his eyes as his arms thrashed at Misu repeatedly. Ruto would arrive at the scene within seconds, but she was still afraid of what could happen if they noticed her presence...
Misu tried to gain some distance from Zale, but the opposing male wouldn't allow him to do so and grabbed him by both arms while kicking him with his powerful legs. Ruto saw Misu wince in pain, until he seemingly could take no more and slashed at his face with his sharp fingers. The impact sent Zale flying backward in the water, as blood poured from a gash in his cheek, though he wasn't finished yet. Misu soon after sensed Ruto's presence, and she watched his head turn in her direction as a look of sheer surprise and fear swept across his face.
"Ruto! Get out of here! This is between Zale and I, if you don't leave Zale could do something irrational and even kill you! Please just-"
He cried desperately, and Ruto screamed when Zale suddenly shot forward in the water and darted behind him, wrapping one arm around his neck and pulling him back in a strangled position. It was her fault Misu had become distracted and for a second time she was putting him in danger – but this time she would not stand by. Ruto couldn't bear to watch her husband thrash furiously while Zale strangled the life out of him, and instead she moved forward until she came up behind Zale and jumped on his back, trying to pry him away from her husband with all her strength. Zale seemed to have immense strength though despite his smaller stature than Misu, and his eyes turned and pierced into hers until he twisted his body slightly before swinging his free arm at her and knocking her away. Though he succeeded in forcing Ruto away, his distraction caused his hold around Misu's neck to loosen so he could force his way free.
Misu shoved Zale's arm away from his neck before spinning around as swift as lightning and striking the other male by thrashing his arms at him so his sharp flared fins cut into his chest. Zale screamed in horrified rage, and looked wildly from Ruto to Misu, as if deciding which to attack first. The blood in the water was thickening, and Ruto was afraid not only would she die because she stayed to fight, but Misu would as well either because she died before he did and he fought to the death to avenge it, or to protect her as much as he could before either of them perished. Even if Zale was outnumbered two to one, that didn't mean both of them could withstand his immense strength that resulted from his intensifying rage. Zale may not have been as skillful as Misu when it came to diving, but he did have a reputation for his strength.
"So now you've come to play the heroine again? Why am I not surprised? Even so, if I have to kill your husband and take his place I won't be so kind to you by giving you death as I did Misu."
Zale said vengefully, and for a second his eyes darted to Ruto and shone maliciously. Ruto glared at him but didn't feel intimidated by his arrogance in the least, and instead she held her head high before saying in pride.
"I will not allow you to win, and if it comes to that then I will join my true husband in death if it would mean a life without you. There is still time for you to stop and think about what you're doing, I don't want to harm you because it doesn't have to be this way...not in front of the other Zoras...not for something so pointless!"
She knew he wouldn't listen to her, but she had to try anyway. When Zale looked as if he dropped his guard for a moment, Ruto moved toward him slightly to see if he would give up after all, but instead he darted toward her swiftly with his teeth bared viciously. She expected a harsh impact, to be hurt badly or even killed from his wrath, but instead she felt nothing because Zale was being dragged away by Misu himself. Her husband had his arms wrapped around Zale's chest from behind and he was pulling him backward in the water while Zale kicked and thrashed with his arms. Misu was hit repeatedly by Zale's flying fists and cut deeply from the Zora's fins, but he refused to release his grasp.
Enraged that Zale was still refusing to give up such a foolish battle, Ruto swam forward and kicked Zale harshly in his chest while Misu restrained him. She was so confused over why Zale was putting up such a strong fight. Why did he suddenly lose his mind and want to kill her and her husband? She had no time to contemplate that, especially when Zale managed to thrash his way out of Misu's grasp. Zale knocked Misu away with his powerful feet by kicking Misu in the chest, and then turned to Ruto. When he came at her a second time, Ruto was more prepared.
She thrashed at him in the water when he neared but it wasn't enough and soon both Zoras were twisting and turning and thrashing at one another. Ruto dodged Zale's kicks and even a few of his flying fists, but it wasn't enough. Within seconds she was sent hurtling down to the rocky bottom, and sprawled out looking up in the water. Ruto thought Zale would come after her and finish her off, but he was quickly preoccupied with Misu. The males were fighting once more, and Misu managed to gracefully move his body away when the other Zora aimed to knock him down.
Finally Zale's thrashing gave way just enough for Misu to strike back. The other Zora's rage was overtaking him and blinding his judgment, and it was finally proving to be somewhat of an advantage for Misu. Ruto watched as her husband managed to slip one of his fists toward Zale and hit him in his gashed cheek. Zale cried out in pain, which became louder as Misu knocked him back and then grabbed onto him forcefully. Precariously Misu dragged Zale down with him in the water but kept Zale below him so when they crashed into the rocks at the bottom Zale took the full impact of the blow.
Within seconds Zale was seemingly knocked unconscious, and before Ruto knew it she was looking up at the face of her husband. His dark eyes looked into hers silently, but he said nothing. Ruto felt obligated to give him an explanation for her actions that nearly cost both of them their lives, and she said regretfully, trying to hold back her shame.
"Misu...I'm so sorry...I should have listened to you."
For a moment he said nothing, and Ruto waited quietly despite her pain, expecting him to shake his head and lecture her about why she should be more responsible and think before she acts, but instead he brushed one hand against her cheek before saying softly.
"I know. It's the way you are, and I can't prevent it even if I want to. Your fiery nature is what makes me so attracted to you, but it's not just that Ruto...its also because I care about you even though we fight sometimes."
Ruto tried to move but by the look he was giving her she knew it was best to stay still. She was surprised by his voice, so soft and gentle, which made her ask hopefully.
"Does that mean you believe what I say about Link?"
There was a long pause, and Ruto wondered if she had gone too far bringing something so ridiculous up at such an awkward time. Misu didn't even bat an eyelid at her, though he appeared to be contemplating his thoughts and feelings in regards to that matter. Reassuringly, Ruto spoke to him with equal gentleness.
"I have caused you a great amount of difficulty, but answer this for me then if you cannot answer my other question right now: why did you and Zale start arguing?"
Misu's lips pursed for a moment, and it was then Ruto's eyes caught sight of someone coming toward Misu from behind – it was Zale! For a second she saw the look of fury on the Zora's face, and instantly she tried to cry out.
"Misu! Look out-"
It was too late. The second she did, Zale revealed a rock in his hand as he raised it above him and slammed it down on Misu's back. Her husband didn't even have time to cry out, and he fell forward to the rocky floor – unconscious. Ruto couldn't move, but she saw Zale's eyes flash when he dropped the rock and said mockingly.
"You were always a fool Misu, and this time it will cost you..."
Then he turned and a smirk crossed his lips, his eyes narrowing and piercing into hers. Ruto screamed but it did no good, no words would help her now. She watched him approach her slowly and then felt her body lighten as he lifted her up and into his arms.
"Misu!!! Why? Zale!!! Where are you taking me?"
Ruto yelled but it seemed to have fallen on deaf ears. Ruto couldn't stop looking at her unconscious husband lying on the rocky floor. She had to survive, and she had to get away. Furiously she kicked and thrashed, trying with all her might but it succeeded in nothing because she was too weak not only from her battles in the serpent's lair but also because of her beating from Zale. When she couldn't get away, Ruto saw Zale frown before a sudden burst of pain hit her and then...blackness.
Ruto awoke to find herself lying on the shore of Lake Hylia. How long had she been out? She estimated it had not been for a long amount of time, because the sun was still shining brightly in the sky. However, standing over her was Zale. A rush of fury flooded through her to even look at him, but she still wasn't strong enough to do anything about it yet.
"So you've finally woken up. I'm surprised you have lasted this long princess, but I suppose that's the reason why I've chosen you to help me continue my generation."
Ruto wanted to lunge at him and strike him down with all her power, but she was helpless. Anger continued to swell inside her as she said between gritted teeth.
"Never. What have you done with my husband? You won't last very long now, the other Zoras have seen what you did-"
"And they will do nothing about it, and neither will you.'
Zale interrupted arrogantly, while smiling at Ruto as though he were speaking to a small child who didn't understand.
"The other Zoras have seen my power now, and at last I am finally able to prove I am stronger and more worthy for ruling Zoras Domain than anyone else – even your precious husband."
Ruto couldn't believe what she was hearing. He really was as arrogant as she thought, but she wasn't quick to believe that was all he was – there had to be something else, something he wasn't telling her. Simply attacking her and Misu over a mere squabble that happened years ago just didn't seem like a good enough reason, or was just wanting the throne and to rule Zoras Domain. What would that achieve? It was something greater...
"Why Zale? You know I'm not that stupid as to believe that is your whole reason for this, what more do you want from taking over Zoras Domain?"
"What do I want?"
Zale asked, his face looking at her as if she should have known all along.
"I want the Zoras to become the most powerful race in Hyrule. It has been a long time of listening to others bicker about how we descended from fish, to hear them call us names...but now."
"Now?"
Ruto asked, not understanding and hearing him continue.
"Now that seems like a possibility. I had hoped to eliminate you and then your husband in order to take control of Zoras Domain myself, but I suppose you are not as pathetic as I once thought you were..."
Ruto struggled to sit up, but Zale quickly moved forward and pushed her back easily with one of his hands. His face moved so close to hers that she couldn't bear looking into his dark orbs another time, and so she turned her head to one side and shut her eyes tightly. Zale's hand was pressed onto her chest, and she had no choice but to cease her struggling and remain where she lay – it was more important for her to seek information out of him than anything else. Despite her pain, and her fears over her husband and wonderings as to where in Hyrule's name Link was, she inquired desperately, unable to hide the confusion and surprise in her voice.
"What are you talking about? You have surely gone mad Zale! No Zora in their right mind would care about being 'superior' to any other race in Hyrule, its unheard of! Our people are already respected by the royal family and-"
She stopped abruptly when he brought a finger to her lips and hushed her. Ruto was disgusted he was even trying to calm her down, and if ever given the opportunity to rise up and kill him, she would have done it without question if she hadn't needed to find out what was going on. Zale smirked disrespectfully at her until his words pierced the air, in a tone that appeared to be gratifying himself for something he had done, something she would soon hear.
"You always spoke your mind too often Ruto, so instead listen to what I have to say before you go on babbling again. Your supposed 'heroic' efforts to save everyone from that water serpent were for nothing. In fact, you have only tried to prevent the inevitable – my rise to power in our home as well as in all of Hyrule!"
Ruto's heart pounded in her chest. All for nothing? She had risked so much and thought she had done her duty, but instead he was saying she had wasted her time? What was he talking about? She wouldn't believe him, he had to be lying to try and corrupt her mind or for some other purpose beyond comprehension. He was mad after all, and that was all there was too it. Or was it? Maybe he was telling the truth...
"I'm so sorry you had to find out this way, but being you I suppose you always needed the hard way for everything. My original plan was to awaken the water serpent and unleash it in Zoras Domain to frighten everyone into submission, but before I had the chance you came and tried to destroy it. Although at first I thought my plan would be ruined, I remembered the legend...and you ended up helping me instead of hindering me!"
Ruto gasped and shook her head, not wanting to fall to his words so easily. He was lying! Her father told her the legend and the chosen one who would have the power of the trident bestowed for their use would destroy the serpent, and she had done that to its full extent. How was he even aware of the legend of the water serpent in the first place if he wasn't of royal blood? Before she could withhold her words, she cried out angrily while shaking in rage.
"You're lying! I have heard the legend, and I destroyed the water serpent, which means it will not return! You are not royalty either, which means you could have made anything up and twisted the story around as much as you saw fit!"
Ruto moved her head back to look at him and saw him smile, but it was not a pleasant smile. The male's eyes flashed as he lowered himself down to her and dug his knees uncomfortably into her lower waist before placing one arm on either side of her head while saying maliciously.
"You really don't want to believe me do you? I almost want to pity you, but what I have to say next will be far from words of sympathy. By defeating the water serpent once, it will return to the dark world where it can be empowered to become stronger and more terrifying than ever before! Which will result in its fully...changed form...a final form and a final chance for it to destroy all in its path. All those weakling Zoras of the past did was merely seal it for a time before it could move into its final stage, thus only delaying the inevitable. Once it emerges again, I will control it so that I might use it to control the water sources of Hyrule and eventually not only will Zoras Domain fall before my whim, but so will Hyrule itself!"
Her eyes widened at his words, and she couldn't believe what she was hearing. Zale had lost his mind! What was she to do? If she didn't stop him, then he could carry out what he was telling her about and destroy everything in his quest for the ultimate power. She wondered why he was even taking the risk to tell her such things, and how he could possibly control the water serpent...and like everything else, her questions would be answered as if Zale had read her mind. Zale's eyes shone when he paused for a moment to rectify his own glory, until his words came heavily into Ruto's ears.
"Don't look at me that way Ruto. I have not lost my senses, but have regained them! With the water serpent at my command, no one will be able to access any of the water in Hyrule's lakes and rivers. People will die of dehydration and the land will dry up unless I say otherwise. It won't be long until everything falls before me and I am able to take over as Hyrule's new ruler, and nothing will stand in my way! I suppose you wonder how I am able to control such a mythical creature, and I would guess your brainless father did not know the other half of the legend."
Ruto tried to move her face away when he reached out to her, but it was of no use. Swiftly Zale took hold of her chin and forced her to look at his face, a face that Ruto wanted to spit on for all that he had done and crush in her fists.
"One day while I was reading through some of our hidden and ancient texts I stumbled across a particularly old looking book. The writings were faint, but inside was the legend of the water serpent. I read the first paragraph that rambled about its sealing, but there was more to it than that. I noticed a suspiciously empty space below it, and realized it was caked in an ancient dust. It took hours for me to remove it, but underneath was the other part of the legend, which read: the one who awakens the serpent shall be given its undying loyalty, which enables them its full power."
She was too overwhelmed by anger and fear for words. So that was what Zale was up to...he must have snuck into the archives and found the legend. She listened to him as he continued eagerly, spilling all he had done from his mouth and for her listening.
"So with this in mind, and to get back at your husband, I decided to figure out where the serpent had been sealed. As I read on in the book, it gave me enough clues to suspect the rocky underwater wall at the back of lake Hylia, and to remember Zoras were told never to go back there. When I did go there, the first thing I did was dig at some of the lighter rocks near the top until I made a big enough space for me to get inside. Once there, it was easy for me to make my way though and if you hadn't realized it, the 'underwater lair' is actually an ancient Zora temple that must have been built before the Water Temple. There were no creatures to attack me because I had not unleashed the evil in the temple, but once I stepped into the final chamber..."
Then he stopped, leaving Ruto screaming inside for him to tell her the rest, and her urgency was reflected clearly within the shocked expression on her face. Zale shook his head, apparently amused by it all, before he said tauntingly.
"I'll leave the rest to your imagination Ruto, as it doesn't matter now. What counts is that when that water serpent emerges again – which could be at any time – I will be given my full power. Until then, I have other things in mind that I must do first..."
He looked her in the eyes and Ruto was transfixed by how dark and sinister his were, so deep...so black. Finally she could contain her words no longer, and responded to him defiantly, though knowing there wasn't much she could do at the present moment...
"You're a fool Zale! The water serpent responds to no one, not even you. If my efforts have been wasted, then I will have to try harder when it comes back – and by then I will show no mercy or hesitation toward anything!"
When her words filled the air, Zale put his face close to hers and brushed one hand roughly against her cheek. In disgust Ruto shrank away but he held fast, not allowing her to get away from his grasp. His face was so near that their lips nearly touched, and she knew if he even tried to kiss her she would tear his lips apart as quickly as lightning because kissing him would be like kissing death itself. Zale smirked once more before leaning even closer and whispering into her ear as if trying to keep it from anyone else although there was no one else around to listen.
"Struggle all you wish Ruto, but you are too weak to escape from me. I must tell you the side part of what I wish to do. If I am to rule over all of Hyrule, then I will need an heir to my throne – which is where you must help me. You have proven yourself worthy enough of such an honor by trying to kill the water serpent and risking your life for everyone, even if it was in vain, I am slightly impressed by that. Now, whether you wish it or not, you will do as I have asked...it would be better if I didn't have to force you, but you leave me no option if you try to resist."
Ruto struggled against his hold but no matter how hard she tried it was of little difference. Then to her surprise, she felt his lips brush against hers and in shock and utter fury she clamped her teeth around his lips and bit into them as hard as she could. Instantly Zale recoiled in pain as blood spurted from the bite marks Ruto left as her warning never to touch her, but it seemed to only make him angrier. Zale bared his teeth furiously and Ruto cried out when she saw one of his hands fly into the air and then...blackness.
Minutes later she woke, as his blow had not been hard to knock her out for a long period of time. Ruto found herself drifting in the water of Lake Hylia, her body feeling numb and too weak to move. Although the water was comforting, she soon found she was not alone. Before she could pull away, Zale appeared from behind her and wrapped his body around hers, trying to immobilize her again. Ruto screamed with all the power inside her and thrashed at him viciously despite her weakened body, knowing if she didn't fight he would overtake her and have his way. With a quick blow she managed to scratch him across his left arm, but it did little to stop him.
Instead, Zale pulled her closer to him so that he could prevent her from fighting back in order to do what he kept her alive for. Ruto could feel his torso pushing into her back and knew within seconds it would all be over once he moved slightly lower and into place. Why didn't she just give up and realize she had no choice? What kept her fighting so desperately and endlessly? It was because though most of her life she had done things she had no choice in – becoming the water sage, marrying, fighting the serpent, withstanding every possible thing in her path. She would not allow him to overtake her now, not ever. With the last of her strength, Ruto struggled as hard as she could before giving Zale a swift kick that surprised him so much he froze and gave her enough time to get away.
Ruto swam forward in the water, with the only intent of getting as far away from him as she could. When she turned back to look at Zale, his eyes burned of an untold savagery and his body floated upward in the water, and when it seemed he would move and try to catch her again, the unexpected happened.
Out of nowhere, Link appeared from behind Zale with his sword drawn. The master sword's glimmering metallic surface reflected the sun's shining rays that flooded underwater and seemed to glow of a mysterious power. With unbelievable speed Link glided forward, his eyes colder than ice, and without warning he drove the blade into Zale. Blood filled the water, making it turn a gruesome red color, as Ruto looked upon the horrific sight.
Link had driven the blade of the master sword completely through Zale's middle waist, and its sharp pointed end stuck out clearly as Link held it there for a few moments. Then, emotionlessly, the hero of time withdrew the blade and slid it out of him. Zale's eyes appeared to be frozen in extreme pain and death, and Ruto watched his body slump forward in the water before sinking down into the depths of the lake and landing on the rocky floor. Zale couldn't even cry out because of his pain, but she felt no pity for him after all the selfish and terrible things he caused. The water was so thick with blood that Ruto could barely see Link, though she quickly caught sight of the glimmering sword and then his stone cold face as he floated for a moment motionlessly before rising to the surface to breathe. She wasn't sure whether to be grateful for what he did or to be completely shocked, as Link's face did not change once when he drove the sword into Zale and mercilessly killed him.
Not wishing to look upon Zale's lifeless body again, Ruto headed for the surface to meet Link. It was then as she kicked for the world above her watery realm that she heard an unearthly rumbling shake the lake's floor and ripple the waters. Frightened, Ruto swam faster and splashed to the surface where she saw Link looking around as his legs kicked hard below the water. His eyes were slightly widened in sudden fright, but his fright was still concealed under his cold expression.
The tremors gradually grew more intense and frightening, and by that time the waters of the Lake became violent as giant waves erupted and swelled, which thrashed Link and even Ruto around in the water. Ruto was less concerned about herself and more about Link, because if the waves became too violent he could drown. She cried out to him but a large wave caused them both to separate, and by that time Ruto knew exactly what was coming...
There are some similarities between these chapters, mostly at the beginning and such, but as it progresses the changes get bigger and a rather 'minor' character (you will find out who) gets an unexpectedly large role. There is also an explanation as to why the water serpent awakened in the first place...and perhaps...there may be more than one enemy for Ruto to deal with now...? A longer chapter than the last so sit back, and enjoy.
REALLY IMPORTANT! Don't forget to mention in your review whether or not you like this one better, because if you don't then it will be removed and I will continue from where I left off in the other chapter. If you do then I will remove the other chapter and continue on this one. However, there may be some unexplained stuff but it would be too difficult to cram it all into one chapter, so give it a chance to develop...
Rainer Aquarias – Sage of Time: welcome back! Yay! Glad you're here to update again, and here's some stuff for you to read and review!
Flaminchica: I please return! You wouldn't want to miss this latest crazy change in my story! I miss your review for my previous chapter!
Thunder Moon Dragon Wolf: welcome to my story, I'm glad to be able to read something from a new reviewer and it would seem you have some catching up to do if you haven't caught up yet. I hope you enjoy what you have read thus far though, and you can expect many more updates and appreciation for your praise from me!
Upset by everything that had happened to her in such a short amount of time, Ruto stomped off to her room to relax and ease her tension for a while. She wasn't worried about where Link went since it was obvious he was a solitary person and preferred to go off by himself and she had no doubt he was probably somewhere. Doing what she had no idea, nor was she very curious anymore to find out.
As Ruto made her way through the throne room, she did everything to look as unaffected and casual as possible so her father wouldn't ask questions. Carefully she hid the anger on her face and replaced it with a false smile, though her eyes burned with hidden rage. As she walked she put in all the effort she could muster to appear graceful and at ease. When she went down the stairs leading back to the passageways of Zoras Domain, her father had taken no notice of her and said nothing, though a pleased smile was spread across his fish like lips. It was a good thing he didn't want to find out what was going on, Ruto thought to herself as she continued on her way. The female Zora's smile vanished the instant she was removed from her father's watchful gaze, and as she passed the main area of Zoras Domain, her careful amethyst colored eyes locked on to her husband.
Misu was standing on a dry rocky platform in the middle of the pool of water, and in front of him on the same platform was none other than Zale. In comparison to her husband, Zale was a lot shorter and less muscular, though his fins were powerfully sharp and his eyes darker and blacker than the night. Ruto stopped near the ledge of the pathway that looked over the water and watched silently. Her mood had soured and she had no desire to go over and actually find out what was going on, but by the looks on Zale and Misu's faces they appeared to be in a heated argument. Ruto's fin like ears listened carefully as she heard Misu's smooth yet cool voice carry faintly over the rushing waterfall as his lips moved rapidly.
"Zale, you have no right to insult my wife!"
A pang of shock hit her to hear such strong words used in her defense, though Ruto had no idea what he was talking about. Misu's fins flared angrily and he took a step closer to Zale, who in turn flared his fins and flashed his silver scales in defiance before saying mockingly.
"I have no right? Ha! Who are you to say such a thing to me! If I am not mistaken, I have heard from various sources that you and Ruto don't even have the competence to bond yet, even though you know if you wait much longer-"
To her surprise again, Ruto saw Misu bear his teeth at Zale and he looked as if he might lash out at the other Zora and rip him to shreds. Instead, he remained where he stood, but it was evident he was doing everything in his power to restrain himself. Ruto was frozen in place watching, and knew better than to intrude in affairs that were not her own. Misu cut Zale's words off before he spat angrily.
"My affairs with my wife are mine alone, and you are not to speak about them to anyone for any reason! And if I am not mistaken, you have failed to realize I am the heir to the throne, which means you are to respect me because of that if not for anything else."
Zale emitted a harsh laugh that sent a rush of anger through the Zora princess, and for a second Ruto was considering doing what her husband could not – rip Zale to shreds herself. It seemed Zale didn't care what anyone said, and it made Ruto furious to know he was going so far as to disrespect them both to the point where it was almost certain he would be banished if he went any further. The slightly smaller male shook his head and smirked remorselessly until his sharp words cut through the air like a sword.
"You have quite the temper Misu when someone tries hard enough to break through your concealed feelings. Nevertheless I know you're angry, so if you feel that strongly toward me why not try to take it out on me? I dare you, but I suppose a coward never fights..."
"I am not a coward, but I am not foolish enough to waste my time with you. To think that all of this animosity began over a stupid diving tournament when we were merely children, why not let it go and move on?"
Misu asked heatedly, though Ruto knew her husband was probably asking himself why he was showing such patience with someone so arrogant and self centered. Ruto couldn't hear it because she was too far away, but she could see Zale scoff in despise before saying dismissively.
"Stupid? I hardly call the gold scale tournament stupid, when it is one of the largest and most important and protégés diving tournaments that happens every five years! It was your fault I lost in the first place, since you couldn't take the fact I'm a better diver than you'll ever be!"
"You know that's wrong Zale because I have defeated you in every tournament and I am a faster more agile swimmer than you are. I am not being arrogant in saying that, nor did I cause you to lose in the gold scale tournament. I tried to tell you-"
"I don't care what you tried to tell me! Your lying and I have no desire to hear your 'story' as to what happened. Your worthless, and you will never amount to being a good ruler of Zoras Domain. If I had won that tournament, it would be I who would have wed Princess Ruto and claimed the throne and not you! You only have that position because that tournament helped you gain King Zora's favor."
"So that is what this is about and why you constantly insult the princess! How could you Zale? Is that all you wanted, to be King of Zoras Domain and nothing more? To you princess Ruto was just an object for you to use to rule our home, and when you see me with her you are jealous!"
Zale's eyes flashed in anger and Misu frowned in disgust before turning his back on the fellow Zora. Ruto was shocked all the more to find herself wound up in their turmoil, and watched her husband walk away until he reached the edge of the platform and stood listening to Zale's reply. The silver scaled male raised his hands slightly and formed fists, but since Misu was facing the other direction he hadn't noticed the other male's rage was slowly building.
"Jealous? I wouldn't call it that. I know if it had been me King Zora had chosen to wed Princess Ruto, by now she would already be with child and I would soon be the most powerful Zora to have ever ruled Zoras Domain! You will only lead our home into a fate of disaster and fear, which you and your princess have already caused with that water serpent in Lake Hylia."
Misu gave no immediate response, and the longer the silence lasted the angrier Zale seemed to become. When Misu finally responded, Ruto felt chills run up her spine to hear his voice so cold and aggravated.
"I have nothing to say to you Zale. You cannot change what has already happened. Ruto is my beloved wife, even if we do argue frequently over personal matters, but together we are destined to rule this place and are bound by so much more than marriage..."
Finally, Zale cracked and his temper ignited beyond reconciliation. The male shook with rage until his words came out in a shout as his eyes glared at Misu uncontrollably.
"Yes I can change what has happened – by killing you and taking the throne and Ruto for myself! I will need a female to continue my generation, but you shall have no hope now of continuing yours!"
His words caused Misu to spin around in alarm but he was too late to protect himself. Within seconds Zale used his speed and slammed into Misu ruthlessly, which caused the two to fall off the platform and into the water. Ruto dropped the Zoras Sapphire on the ground, and plunged into the water after them, her mind reeling over Misu and in fright over what was happening. Other Zoras who were watching did nothing to intervene, and angrily Ruto wondered why until she realized their culture was so sheltered and peaceful that any act of violence was ignored unless it affected other Zoras besides those fighting.
She didn't care if trying to help Misu was frowned upon, she had to make sure he was all right and protect him. Why had things gotten so out of control? The Zora princess had no idea the hatred Zale had for Misu was strong enough to want to kill him, and the decision to do so had been so instantaneous no one was expecting it – especially Misu himself. She felt as if she was involved in some sort of strange Zora drama that was slowly unfolding, but the fact was she had no idea what the full story was or why such violence had suddenly exploded when it never had before...
All along Zale's anger must have been boiling and slowly escalating, and it wasn't until now he decided to act upon it. Murder was pretty much non- existent in Zora culture, though Ruto knew if two males battled to seek the throne the one who hadn't originally been chosen could take it if he won. Ruto only heard of such an occurrence once, and the Zora later became corrupted and almost caused their race to become extinct. She would not let history repeat itself. She was afraid their anger would make them blind and she would get hurt in the process – but she had no choice. Zale must have had his eye on the throne since the day he met her, and now that Misu was in his way he would do anything to get it. However, for this to suddenly occur out of nowhere? It didn't make sense!
When Misu and Zale became within sight range underwater, the two males were wrestling furiously. Their bodies twisted and turned, their teeth bared and fins flared as clouds of bubbles floated around them as they kicked and slashed at one another. Ruto swam swiftly toward them, just as Zale kicked Misu in the side, which caused him to careen toward the rocky bottom. Before Misu hit the rocks though, he managed to change his direction and pull away until he lunged forward in the water at Zale and hit the other male with one of his fists. Zale floated backward for a moment though still had a maddening glint in his eyes as his arms thrashed at Misu repeatedly. Ruto would arrive at the scene within seconds, but she was still afraid of what could happen if they noticed her presence...
Misu tried to gain some distance from Zale, but the opposing male wouldn't allow him to do so and grabbed him by both arms while kicking him with his powerful legs. Ruto saw Misu wince in pain, until he seemingly could take no more and slashed at his face with his sharp fingers. The impact sent Zale flying backward in the water, as blood poured from a gash in his cheek, though he wasn't finished yet. Misu soon after sensed Ruto's presence, and she watched his head turn in her direction as a look of sheer surprise and fear swept across his face.
"Ruto! Get out of here! This is between Zale and I, if you don't leave Zale could do something irrational and even kill you! Please just-"
He cried desperately, and Ruto screamed when Zale suddenly shot forward in the water and darted behind him, wrapping one arm around his neck and pulling him back in a strangled position. It was her fault Misu had become distracted and for a second time she was putting him in danger – but this time she would not stand by. Ruto couldn't bear to watch her husband thrash furiously while Zale strangled the life out of him, and instead she moved forward until she came up behind Zale and jumped on his back, trying to pry him away from her husband with all her strength. Zale seemed to have immense strength though despite his smaller stature than Misu, and his eyes turned and pierced into hers until he twisted his body slightly before swinging his free arm at her and knocking her away. Though he succeeded in forcing Ruto away, his distraction caused his hold around Misu's neck to loosen so he could force his way free.
Misu shoved Zale's arm away from his neck before spinning around as swift as lightning and striking the other male by thrashing his arms at him so his sharp flared fins cut into his chest. Zale screamed in horrified rage, and looked wildly from Ruto to Misu, as if deciding which to attack first. The blood in the water was thickening, and Ruto was afraid not only would she die because she stayed to fight, but Misu would as well either because she died before he did and he fought to the death to avenge it, or to protect her as much as he could before either of them perished. Even if Zale was outnumbered two to one, that didn't mean both of them could withstand his immense strength that resulted from his intensifying rage. Zale may not have been as skillful as Misu when it came to diving, but he did have a reputation for his strength.
"So now you've come to play the heroine again? Why am I not surprised? Even so, if I have to kill your husband and take his place I won't be so kind to you by giving you death as I did Misu."
Zale said vengefully, and for a second his eyes darted to Ruto and shone maliciously. Ruto glared at him but didn't feel intimidated by his arrogance in the least, and instead she held her head high before saying in pride.
"I will not allow you to win, and if it comes to that then I will join my true husband in death if it would mean a life without you. There is still time for you to stop and think about what you're doing, I don't want to harm you because it doesn't have to be this way...not in front of the other Zoras...not for something so pointless!"
She knew he wouldn't listen to her, but she had to try anyway. When Zale looked as if he dropped his guard for a moment, Ruto moved toward him slightly to see if he would give up after all, but instead he darted toward her swiftly with his teeth bared viciously. She expected a harsh impact, to be hurt badly or even killed from his wrath, but instead she felt nothing because Zale was being dragged away by Misu himself. Her husband had his arms wrapped around Zale's chest from behind and he was pulling him backward in the water while Zale kicked and thrashed with his arms. Misu was hit repeatedly by Zale's flying fists and cut deeply from the Zora's fins, but he refused to release his grasp.
Enraged that Zale was still refusing to give up such a foolish battle, Ruto swam forward and kicked Zale harshly in his chest while Misu restrained him. She was so confused over why Zale was putting up such a strong fight. Why did he suddenly lose his mind and want to kill her and her husband? She had no time to contemplate that, especially when Zale managed to thrash his way out of Misu's grasp. Zale knocked Misu away with his powerful feet by kicking Misu in the chest, and then turned to Ruto. When he came at her a second time, Ruto was more prepared.
She thrashed at him in the water when he neared but it wasn't enough and soon both Zoras were twisting and turning and thrashing at one another. Ruto dodged Zale's kicks and even a few of his flying fists, but it wasn't enough. Within seconds she was sent hurtling down to the rocky bottom, and sprawled out looking up in the water. Ruto thought Zale would come after her and finish her off, but he was quickly preoccupied with Misu. The males were fighting once more, and Misu managed to gracefully move his body away when the other Zora aimed to knock him down.
Finally Zale's thrashing gave way just enough for Misu to strike back. The other Zora's rage was overtaking him and blinding his judgment, and it was finally proving to be somewhat of an advantage for Misu. Ruto watched as her husband managed to slip one of his fists toward Zale and hit him in his gashed cheek. Zale cried out in pain, which became louder as Misu knocked him back and then grabbed onto him forcefully. Precariously Misu dragged Zale down with him in the water but kept Zale below him so when they crashed into the rocks at the bottom Zale took the full impact of the blow.
Within seconds Zale was seemingly knocked unconscious, and before Ruto knew it she was looking up at the face of her husband. His dark eyes looked into hers silently, but he said nothing. Ruto felt obligated to give him an explanation for her actions that nearly cost both of them their lives, and she said regretfully, trying to hold back her shame.
"Misu...I'm so sorry...I should have listened to you."
For a moment he said nothing, and Ruto waited quietly despite her pain, expecting him to shake his head and lecture her about why she should be more responsible and think before she acts, but instead he brushed one hand against her cheek before saying softly.
"I know. It's the way you are, and I can't prevent it even if I want to. Your fiery nature is what makes me so attracted to you, but it's not just that Ruto...its also because I care about you even though we fight sometimes."
Ruto tried to move but by the look he was giving her she knew it was best to stay still. She was surprised by his voice, so soft and gentle, which made her ask hopefully.
"Does that mean you believe what I say about Link?"
There was a long pause, and Ruto wondered if she had gone too far bringing something so ridiculous up at such an awkward time. Misu didn't even bat an eyelid at her, though he appeared to be contemplating his thoughts and feelings in regards to that matter. Reassuringly, Ruto spoke to him with equal gentleness.
"I have caused you a great amount of difficulty, but answer this for me then if you cannot answer my other question right now: why did you and Zale start arguing?"
Misu's lips pursed for a moment, and it was then Ruto's eyes caught sight of someone coming toward Misu from behind – it was Zale! For a second she saw the look of fury on the Zora's face, and instantly she tried to cry out.
"Misu! Look out-"
It was too late. The second she did, Zale revealed a rock in his hand as he raised it above him and slammed it down on Misu's back. Her husband didn't even have time to cry out, and he fell forward to the rocky floor – unconscious. Ruto couldn't move, but she saw Zale's eyes flash when he dropped the rock and said mockingly.
"You were always a fool Misu, and this time it will cost you..."
Then he turned and a smirk crossed his lips, his eyes narrowing and piercing into hers. Ruto screamed but it did no good, no words would help her now. She watched him approach her slowly and then felt her body lighten as he lifted her up and into his arms.
"Misu!!! Why? Zale!!! Where are you taking me?"
Ruto yelled but it seemed to have fallen on deaf ears. Ruto couldn't stop looking at her unconscious husband lying on the rocky floor. She had to survive, and she had to get away. Furiously she kicked and thrashed, trying with all her might but it succeeded in nothing because she was too weak not only from her battles in the serpent's lair but also because of her beating from Zale. When she couldn't get away, Ruto saw Zale frown before a sudden burst of pain hit her and then...blackness.
Ruto awoke to find herself lying on the shore of Lake Hylia. How long had she been out? She estimated it had not been for a long amount of time, because the sun was still shining brightly in the sky. However, standing over her was Zale. A rush of fury flooded through her to even look at him, but she still wasn't strong enough to do anything about it yet.
"So you've finally woken up. I'm surprised you have lasted this long princess, but I suppose that's the reason why I've chosen you to help me continue my generation."
Ruto wanted to lunge at him and strike him down with all her power, but she was helpless. Anger continued to swell inside her as she said between gritted teeth.
"Never. What have you done with my husband? You won't last very long now, the other Zoras have seen what you did-"
"And they will do nothing about it, and neither will you.'
Zale interrupted arrogantly, while smiling at Ruto as though he were speaking to a small child who didn't understand.
"The other Zoras have seen my power now, and at last I am finally able to prove I am stronger and more worthy for ruling Zoras Domain than anyone else – even your precious husband."
Ruto couldn't believe what she was hearing. He really was as arrogant as she thought, but she wasn't quick to believe that was all he was – there had to be something else, something he wasn't telling her. Simply attacking her and Misu over a mere squabble that happened years ago just didn't seem like a good enough reason, or was just wanting the throne and to rule Zoras Domain. What would that achieve? It was something greater...
"Why Zale? You know I'm not that stupid as to believe that is your whole reason for this, what more do you want from taking over Zoras Domain?"
"What do I want?"
Zale asked, his face looking at her as if she should have known all along.
"I want the Zoras to become the most powerful race in Hyrule. It has been a long time of listening to others bicker about how we descended from fish, to hear them call us names...but now."
"Now?"
Ruto asked, not understanding and hearing him continue.
"Now that seems like a possibility. I had hoped to eliminate you and then your husband in order to take control of Zoras Domain myself, but I suppose you are not as pathetic as I once thought you were..."
Ruto struggled to sit up, but Zale quickly moved forward and pushed her back easily with one of his hands. His face moved so close to hers that she couldn't bear looking into his dark orbs another time, and so she turned her head to one side and shut her eyes tightly. Zale's hand was pressed onto her chest, and she had no choice but to cease her struggling and remain where she lay – it was more important for her to seek information out of him than anything else. Despite her pain, and her fears over her husband and wonderings as to where in Hyrule's name Link was, she inquired desperately, unable to hide the confusion and surprise in her voice.
"What are you talking about? You have surely gone mad Zale! No Zora in their right mind would care about being 'superior' to any other race in Hyrule, its unheard of! Our people are already respected by the royal family and-"
She stopped abruptly when he brought a finger to her lips and hushed her. Ruto was disgusted he was even trying to calm her down, and if ever given the opportunity to rise up and kill him, she would have done it without question if she hadn't needed to find out what was going on. Zale smirked disrespectfully at her until his words pierced the air, in a tone that appeared to be gratifying himself for something he had done, something she would soon hear.
"You always spoke your mind too often Ruto, so instead listen to what I have to say before you go on babbling again. Your supposed 'heroic' efforts to save everyone from that water serpent were for nothing. In fact, you have only tried to prevent the inevitable – my rise to power in our home as well as in all of Hyrule!"
Ruto's heart pounded in her chest. All for nothing? She had risked so much and thought she had done her duty, but instead he was saying she had wasted her time? What was he talking about? She wouldn't believe him, he had to be lying to try and corrupt her mind or for some other purpose beyond comprehension. He was mad after all, and that was all there was too it. Or was it? Maybe he was telling the truth...
"I'm so sorry you had to find out this way, but being you I suppose you always needed the hard way for everything. My original plan was to awaken the water serpent and unleash it in Zoras Domain to frighten everyone into submission, but before I had the chance you came and tried to destroy it. Although at first I thought my plan would be ruined, I remembered the legend...and you ended up helping me instead of hindering me!"
Ruto gasped and shook her head, not wanting to fall to his words so easily. He was lying! Her father told her the legend and the chosen one who would have the power of the trident bestowed for their use would destroy the serpent, and she had done that to its full extent. How was he even aware of the legend of the water serpent in the first place if he wasn't of royal blood? Before she could withhold her words, she cried out angrily while shaking in rage.
"You're lying! I have heard the legend, and I destroyed the water serpent, which means it will not return! You are not royalty either, which means you could have made anything up and twisted the story around as much as you saw fit!"
Ruto moved her head back to look at him and saw him smile, but it was not a pleasant smile. The male's eyes flashed as he lowered himself down to her and dug his knees uncomfortably into her lower waist before placing one arm on either side of her head while saying maliciously.
"You really don't want to believe me do you? I almost want to pity you, but what I have to say next will be far from words of sympathy. By defeating the water serpent once, it will return to the dark world where it can be empowered to become stronger and more terrifying than ever before! Which will result in its fully...changed form...a final form and a final chance for it to destroy all in its path. All those weakling Zoras of the past did was merely seal it for a time before it could move into its final stage, thus only delaying the inevitable. Once it emerges again, I will control it so that I might use it to control the water sources of Hyrule and eventually not only will Zoras Domain fall before my whim, but so will Hyrule itself!"
Her eyes widened at his words, and she couldn't believe what she was hearing. Zale had lost his mind! What was she to do? If she didn't stop him, then he could carry out what he was telling her about and destroy everything in his quest for the ultimate power. She wondered why he was even taking the risk to tell her such things, and how he could possibly control the water serpent...and like everything else, her questions would be answered as if Zale had read her mind. Zale's eyes shone when he paused for a moment to rectify his own glory, until his words came heavily into Ruto's ears.
"Don't look at me that way Ruto. I have not lost my senses, but have regained them! With the water serpent at my command, no one will be able to access any of the water in Hyrule's lakes and rivers. People will die of dehydration and the land will dry up unless I say otherwise. It won't be long until everything falls before me and I am able to take over as Hyrule's new ruler, and nothing will stand in my way! I suppose you wonder how I am able to control such a mythical creature, and I would guess your brainless father did not know the other half of the legend."
Ruto tried to move her face away when he reached out to her, but it was of no use. Swiftly Zale took hold of her chin and forced her to look at his face, a face that Ruto wanted to spit on for all that he had done and crush in her fists.
"One day while I was reading through some of our hidden and ancient texts I stumbled across a particularly old looking book. The writings were faint, but inside was the legend of the water serpent. I read the first paragraph that rambled about its sealing, but there was more to it than that. I noticed a suspiciously empty space below it, and realized it was caked in an ancient dust. It took hours for me to remove it, but underneath was the other part of the legend, which read: the one who awakens the serpent shall be given its undying loyalty, which enables them its full power."
She was too overwhelmed by anger and fear for words. So that was what Zale was up to...he must have snuck into the archives and found the legend. She listened to him as he continued eagerly, spilling all he had done from his mouth and for her listening.
"So with this in mind, and to get back at your husband, I decided to figure out where the serpent had been sealed. As I read on in the book, it gave me enough clues to suspect the rocky underwater wall at the back of lake Hylia, and to remember Zoras were told never to go back there. When I did go there, the first thing I did was dig at some of the lighter rocks near the top until I made a big enough space for me to get inside. Once there, it was easy for me to make my way though and if you hadn't realized it, the 'underwater lair' is actually an ancient Zora temple that must have been built before the Water Temple. There were no creatures to attack me because I had not unleashed the evil in the temple, but once I stepped into the final chamber..."
Then he stopped, leaving Ruto screaming inside for him to tell her the rest, and her urgency was reflected clearly within the shocked expression on her face. Zale shook his head, apparently amused by it all, before he said tauntingly.
"I'll leave the rest to your imagination Ruto, as it doesn't matter now. What counts is that when that water serpent emerges again – which could be at any time – I will be given my full power. Until then, I have other things in mind that I must do first..."
He looked her in the eyes and Ruto was transfixed by how dark and sinister his were, so deep...so black. Finally she could contain her words no longer, and responded to him defiantly, though knowing there wasn't much she could do at the present moment...
"You're a fool Zale! The water serpent responds to no one, not even you. If my efforts have been wasted, then I will have to try harder when it comes back – and by then I will show no mercy or hesitation toward anything!"
When her words filled the air, Zale put his face close to hers and brushed one hand roughly against her cheek. In disgust Ruto shrank away but he held fast, not allowing her to get away from his grasp. His face was so near that their lips nearly touched, and she knew if he even tried to kiss her she would tear his lips apart as quickly as lightning because kissing him would be like kissing death itself. Zale smirked once more before leaning even closer and whispering into her ear as if trying to keep it from anyone else although there was no one else around to listen.
"Struggle all you wish Ruto, but you are too weak to escape from me. I must tell you the side part of what I wish to do. If I am to rule over all of Hyrule, then I will need an heir to my throne – which is where you must help me. You have proven yourself worthy enough of such an honor by trying to kill the water serpent and risking your life for everyone, even if it was in vain, I am slightly impressed by that. Now, whether you wish it or not, you will do as I have asked...it would be better if I didn't have to force you, but you leave me no option if you try to resist."
Ruto struggled against his hold but no matter how hard she tried it was of little difference. Then to her surprise, she felt his lips brush against hers and in shock and utter fury she clamped her teeth around his lips and bit into them as hard as she could. Instantly Zale recoiled in pain as blood spurted from the bite marks Ruto left as her warning never to touch her, but it seemed to only make him angrier. Zale bared his teeth furiously and Ruto cried out when she saw one of his hands fly into the air and then...blackness.
Minutes later she woke, as his blow had not been hard to knock her out for a long period of time. Ruto found herself drifting in the water of Lake Hylia, her body feeling numb and too weak to move. Although the water was comforting, she soon found she was not alone. Before she could pull away, Zale appeared from behind her and wrapped his body around hers, trying to immobilize her again. Ruto screamed with all the power inside her and thrashed at him viciously despite her weakened body, knowing if she didn't fight he would overtake her and have his way. With a quick blow she managed to scratch him across his left arm, but it did little to stop him.
Instead, Zale pulled her closer to him so that he could prevent her from fighting back in order to do what he kept her alive for. Ruto could feel his torso pushing into her back and knew within seconds it would all be over once he moved slightly lower and into place. Why didn't she just give up and realize she had no choice? What kept her fighting so desperately and endlessly? It was because though most of her life she had done things she had no choice in – becoming the water sage, marrying, fighting the serpent, withstanding every possible thing in her path. She would not allow him to overtake her now, not ever. With the last of her strength, Ruto struggled as hard as she could before giving Zale a swift kick that surprised him so much he froze and gave her enough time to get away.
Ruto swam forward in the water, with the only intent of getting as far away from him as she could. When she turned back to look at Zale, his eyes burned of an untold savagery and his body floated upward in the water, and when it seemed he would move and try to catch her again, the unexpected happened.
Out of nowhere, Link appeared from behind Zale with his sword drawn. The master sword's glimmering metallic surface reflected the sun's shining rays that flooded underwater and seemed to glow of a mysterious power. With unbelievable speed Link glided forward, his eyes colder than ice, and without warning he drove the blade into Zale. Blood filled the water, making it turn a gruesome red color, as Ruto looked upon the horrific sight.
Link had driven the blade of the master sword completely through Zale's middle waist, and its sharp pointed end stuck out clearly as Link held it there for a few moments. Then, emotionlessly, the hero of time withdrew the blade and slid it out of him. Zale's eyes appeared to be frozen in extreme pain and death, and Ruto watched his body slump forward in the water before sinking down into the depths of the lake and landing on the rocky floor. Zale couldn't even cry out because of his pain, but she felt no pity for him after all the selfish and terrible things he caused. The water was so thick with blood that Ruto could barely see Link, though she quickly caught sight of the glimmering sword and then his stone cold face as he floated for a moment motionlessly before rising to the surface to breathe. She wasn't sure whether to be grateful for what he did or to be completely shocked, as Link's face did not change once when he drove the sword into Zale and mercilessly killed him.
Not wishing to look upon Zale's lifeless body again, Ruto headed for the surface to meet Link. It was then as she kicked for the world above her watery realm that she heard an unearthly rumbling shake the lake's floor and ripple the waters. Frightened, Ruto swam faster and splashed to the surface where she saw Link looking around as his legs kicked hard below the water. His eyes were slightly widened in sudden fright, but his fright was still concealed under his cold expression.
The tremors gradually grew more intense and frightening, and by that time the waters of the Lake became violent as giant waves erupted and swelled, which thrashed Link and even Ruto around in the water. Ruto was less concerned about herself and more about Link, because if the waves became too violent he could drown. She cried out to him but a large wave caused them both to separate, and by that time Ruto knew exactly what was coming...