~ Disclaimer ~ OK, for old times sake, I don't own Zelda!
In all honesty, a friend who chose to be anonymous told me this chapter was too rushed. Here I am now reading and re-posting it so, please be patient with me.
This chapter is going away from the whole Wolfos deal so that means it's a whole different story, right? So, here it is, what we've all been waiting for (sort of): Quest for a Friend the Sequel.
Anyway, this story is going to get involved. Also, most all the characters wherever are real and will be sticking around for a good long while. Ok, the characters are not but real reviewers from the original story did make them up.
~~~~~~~
~ Adventures on the Shadowed Islands ~
Link was tired. He had helped out on deck and the rhythmic rocking of the ship wasn't helping a bit. Crystal enjoyed the sea breeze as she leaned leisurely over the side. Link doubled over the side near her to which she inched away, "Are you going to be okay, Link?" He looked up at her, grunted, then stared at the foaming sea again. Bile was rising in the back of his throat and he knew better than to try to stop it.
Crystal groaned aloud and left the wooden side to find Kohachan. He was enjoying his time up in the crow's nest with his post of watchman. Although when she looked up at the sky where the tower of a wooden pole seemed to scrape against the sky, she saw him, a crimson and light tan figure with a light brown cloak whipping about him like a small banner. She shook her head and heard Navi mutter, "Show off". She laughed with agreement before starting up a rope ladder to the crow's nest.
Though she never was afraid of heights, the crow's nest was a far way up. A little too far for her liking but she continued higher and higher until she finally reached the circular plank of wood and hauled herself up into it. Kohachan looked down but did not descend, not just yet.
He pulled a spyglass from his belt once again and searched the storm on the horizon then at the island they were closing in on. It wasn't the island they were destined for but it was a place to whether out the storm. Yet, he recognized the island. Knew she would be on it. And with her would quite possibly be her mortal enemies. But he couldn't think about them, not just yet.
He breathed deeply in thought and set the spyglass back in his belt before looking down at Crystal once again. But she was easily climbing up to him. He laughed in his throat and squatted down as she reached the top of the post, her daggers serving as hand holds.
"Well?" She asked as she looked up at his amused face. He looked at the storm clouds without aid of the lens then said, "We'll have to push it if we're to make it to that island. Those storm clouds are looking more ominous by the minute." Crystal nodded with a frown and dislodged one of her daggers, preparing for a quick descent to the nest. Kohachan leaped down past her, deciding to report the storm's status to the captain of the vessel.
Crystal sighed lightly. It was much more peaceful up there than on deck. She settled into the crow's nest, keeping it occupied until Kohachan returned. Looking down to the deck, she saw a green clad figure still miserably doubled over the side. It was going to be a long trip for him after the stop.
A heavy gust picked up, the start of the storm swiftly approaching. Crystal grabbed onto the mast easily as the ship lurched with the wind, the sails snapping for the sudden change. She decided that Kohachan wasn't going to return and quickly made her way down, out of the wind.
~~~~~
Already, Katie and Andrake were below deck where Link had joined them and laid in his berth, his face tinged green to match his tunic. Crystal closed the door behind her as the first drops of rain fell from the sky behind her. The sailors could take care of the stormy winds just until they reached port.
Kohachan, behind the door, caught it and let himself in saying accusingly, "You almost forgot about me." before closing and locking it behind him. Crystal gave him a friendly punch in the shoulder, "If you were faster then you'd already be in here. At least faster than Link." The winds and rocking of the boat threatened to open it once again if not for the bolt.
He went to the center of the rather tight room and sat in the middle. Katie was still comatose in one of the other berths while Andrake was drinking a warm concoction over a crate of cargo set in the corner. Crystal leaned against the wall beside him and waited while listening to the unnerving creaking of the wood.
Link groaned to equal the ship and turned over. Crystal finally sighed aloud, breaking the silence, "What are we going to find when we reach the shore anyway?" Andrake shrugged and held onto the crate before it could slide over. What he did not consider was that when the ship rocked the other way, Katie also slid over.
A sudden, loud "thunk" brought everyone's attention to her. Crystal did all she could to stifle her laughter but it was a losing battle as she looked at Katie sprawled face to the deck, her curly hair strewn all around her head and her dress folded over to her calves. Laughter broke from an unfamiliar voice and she soon joined it. She broke out as well, sliding to the floor, breathless from laughter even as Kohachan calmly rose and went to the source of the first break of laughter.
He reached to the floor, under the light but tied up crate and lifted the lid of a secret door. Under it, crouched down in the cramped space, was a young man. He stopped laughing and looked up through his curly black bangs and grinned sheepishly. Kohachan sighed lightly and brought the boy out by the collar of his vest.
He set the boy on the deck, never letting go of the collar. Andrake finally rose to take care of Katie, picking her up, settling her back and set her on the floor before looking over the stowaway. His skin was well tanned, suggesting he had been in the sun quite a lot. His boots were well worn as well, proving he had traveled long distances. His rounded ears gave away the fact that he was Dondorian or suggested it anyway. His vest was sleeveless but dark blue over a black shirt. Unlike a tunic, his shirt tucked into his pants lined with a brown belt over equally black, loose fitting pants. The pants also tucked into his boots which here the same brown as the belt. He wore finger-less black gloves on his hands as he waved at everyone, sweating for nervousness at being caught.
Andrake looked back into the hide out and reached in bringing out with a bit of effort a pack, a sheathed sword and a staff of plain wood. He set the things beside the boy as he glared at Andrake warningly. Kohachan gave him a light shake, reminding him who was in control. "Well, hello everyone!" He said finally. Andrake came around and began his interrogation but he answered each question with practiced confidence admitting he was a cabin boy though Kohachan could easily see through the lie. Crystal calmly nibbled on some bread while they talked about what to do with the boy. As they chatted, he had slipped out of their sight and sat beside Crystal, dragging his things with him.
"Hello, there. How goes the trip, are we almost there?" Crystal started a bit at his sudden appearance but relaxed a bit and said, "A storm is on its way to us. We are docking on a nearby island." He looked at the wall for a moment and said mostly to himself, "That would explain the sudden lurches. They woke me up-" With a bit of a squeak, he was hauled up by two strong hands and said to with a dangerous tone, "Leave her alone, Matt. Remember, you are still in trouble."
Matt looked down at Andrake, not a sign of fear in his eyes, defiance if anything and said, "Geeze, what is she under protection? Is she like a princess or something?" Then he grinned as he said, "Or is it you're protecting your lady fair?" Andrake growled deep in his throat, his fists tightened on the boy's vest until a hand landed and gripped his shoulder firmly, shaking him out of his anger. Kohachan shook his head quickly, letting Andrake know Matt wasn't worth the irritation.
Andrake set the boy on his feet but said coldly, and quiet enough to where Crystal wouldn't hear, "Just don't bother her, okay? I'll be keeping my eye on you." Matt shrugged and carried his stuff across the room to the berths and laid down in one, claiming it as his own. He suddenly said loudly, "Cait, you can come out now, we're caught." Andrake looked back at the boy as he reclined in the bed and stretched his hands behind his head. Andrake stared untrustingly at the boy before a small knock came from the chest Andrake had used as a table. "What?" he asked before returning to it and helping to lift it and free the person inside.
A small girl looked up at him, a look of fear tinged her eyes but she forced a small smile nonetheless as Andrake carefully helped her out. Matt snorted, "Sure, he's gentle with her." But he was smiling nonetheless. She was set easily out of the crate and Andrake got a look at her as well. She only came up to his shoulder but looked up at him with large, blue eyes sparkling beneath brown bangs forming a heart on her forehead. Andrake felt his hard resolve weakening as her lip trembled in fear despite her shining eyes. He saw her ears. They were not rounded. They were just like Link's ears but slightly smaller.
Her outfit was not too different from Matt's except she carried no obvious weapons and while her shirt was a deep green, her pants were black and the same style brown boots as Matt's own. They too seemed just as well often used.
Kohachan decided to take over the situation once again and said to them both, "So, you are both stowaways. Where are you going?" Cait wouldn't reply but Matt said with enough ease for the both of them, "Heading on out to find new shores, don't care where so long as there is an adventure awaiting us there.
"Been all over back that way including Hyrule where I found this young, blue-eyed angel. She's an orphan and needed protection. What else could I do? I took her under my wing. She's a bit shy as you can see but she's willing enough to go anywhere I would go. So, brave Sheikah warrior, are you going to turn us in or not?" The smoothness gave way to fiercely protective sarcasm on the last line but it didn't cause Kohachan's resolve even to flinch.
He replied without emotion, "I wasn't going to turn you in anyway. Why would you steal your board aboard a ship anyway? If you have enough money to maintain your traveling clothes and shoes, not to mention your well kept leather scabbard and staff, why would you lack money to book passage?" His words scored deeply and Matt sat up, hand inching toward his staff. Kohachan kept himself from his own weapon if only for the sake of the others in the room.
Finally Matt smirked and gave a half shrug before answering, "I try to keep what money we have if we should ever need food or medicines. We are going to strange lands and who knows what kinds of diseases they have that we aren't used to? Don't underestimate me, I know what I'm in for and I know what I'm dragging her into!" She slightly cringed at his mentioning her but then stood her ground more resolutely, her young voice ringing out with a spirit one would not expect, "I make my own choices, Matt. You know how I survived in Hyrule! I have my own strengths, you know."
Matt nodded while Crystal, Andrake, and even Kohachan were all surprised by her sudden out-speaking. She looked at all the eyes on her and went over to Matt, to which Kohachan smiled slightly with a shrug, "Very well then, if you feel you cannot pay for passage, I will." Then it was both Matt's and Cait's turn to be shocked. He turned away from them, a satisfied smile playing across his face as from above the heaving deck, one sailor shouted. He called for attention to begin docking.
~~~~~
Nope, the captain wasn't happy with hearing about the two stowaways as his crew ran about, weighing anchor, closing sails, ect. Kohachan made good on his promise and assured he'd be responsible for them both. They stood near him, trying to look innocent as the captain scrutinized the trio dubiously. Finally he agreed, muttering something about justice, and started taking care of his ship and overseeing the sailors work.
Kohachan gestured the two weary kids get to shore and find the nearest tavern. Matt grabbed Cait's hand and hurried to the shore as large, chill droplets of rain began to fall, thunder rumbled in the distance. Kohachan pulled his cloak around him to defend against the cold and saw Crystal carefully leading Link across the tipping deck as Andrake followed behind carrying Katie once again. The ship had been deemed unsafe to stay on for "land-lubbers".
He sighed slightly at the captain's pompous outlook on others and began following Andrake off the ship, the hem of his cloak flapped loudly and wildly. But just as he turned to look at the darkened, wind-whipped, and soaking shore, a small, red figure was dashing fast enough to become a blur and was heading straight to the loading dock. She zipping agilely between legs as Crystal danced aside, nearly toppling Link and Andrake stood his ground. He knew who she was and wasn't too surprised to see her. The fact she was in a hurry and coming out despite so many strangers, however, did surprise him.
The small fox leaped up, into his arms, with such force that he rocked back on his heels. The small fox was covered with cold water and shivered, a small wet ball to his chest. He whispered a few words with the same language he had used with Navi and slowly, her shivering stopped. He set her on his shoulder, ignored the various stares, and went on shore, quickening his pace with purpose and carefully passed the others to get onto the land.
Link set boot on shore and shook out of his nauseated state. He shook his head violently, re-orienting himself with solid ground in time to see Kohachan dashing toward the jungle. He followed, easily pulling out of Crystal's guiding hands. She shouted at him a moment and took off after him.
Soon, they came upon a clearing. Trees were leveled to stumps in the once lush, tropical jungle. A black-clad figure stood in the center of the obviously newly made destruction. His face was masked by a tight scarf about his mouth and nose as well as a black cap hiding his hair to where only his shining gold eyes were visible of his face. Even his hands were bound in black cloth as they gripped the black katanas. His belt was a black cloth wrapped about his midsection with a loose length as long as to his knee flapped in the wind.
The vixen hissed and her fur stood out on end as Kohachan, his eyes ablaze with recognition and hate for the intruder, drew his sword and settled into a fighting stance. The black-clad figure laughed out loud at them then drew forth his own weapons. The two shadowy blades, smoking from the recent attack, were leveled at his opponents as Link and Crystal came to a skidding halt at the edge of the circle of destruction.
He said loudly over the wind using the same language, which Link could not understand but Kohachan knew too well, "So, it is just as three years ago, eh? You really want to face me again? This time, I know how to fight you, Sheikah. I've gotten faster." Kohachan answered, his voice smooth with the rage that swept through him, preparing to kill, "Well, good for you. Too bad I've gotten faster since then. You won't live through this. I'll finish what I started so long ago!"
The shadowed fighter growled dangerously in his throat but didn't say anything more. Instead, he aimed one blade straight up, chanting a few words of magic. A black shield formed about the perimeter, making sure those outside could not enter and those inside could not get out. The wind was blocked as was the rain. Kohachan's hair settled from his face finally as did the fighters' loose length of belt. Kohachan glanced warily at the shield only for a moment. This fight was going to be to the death. That was for certain. He steadied himself again as the vixen leaped from his shoulder, letting him fight without distraction. He noted where she went before a thunder clap sent both fighters into attack.
They both leaped at each other at the same time, yelling as their blades came forward to meet. A flash of lightning blinded the observers only for a moment before they could see both the figure and Kohachan fighting for control on one of the thicker stumps, their blades matched in power. The black figure slightly leaned back, overpowered.
He hissed in rage, eyes glowing golden, and leaped backward away. Kohachan leaned down, ready to follow after him when a small throwing star came at him. Crystal gasped as the blade seemed to fly through the Sheikah's head. Suddenly, it flew at them, bouncing off the shield to fly away and eventually land in the earth. Kohachan knelt near where the blade had flown, a few strands of red hair slowly drifting to the ground, cut by the razor edges of the star.
He didn't smirk at the small victory of speed, neither of them were even slightly moved by the small contest. Kohachan closed his eyes when another attack didn't follow immediately. His ears could hear the sounds all about him. Including the sound of whispered words of magic.
Clenching his teeth in concentration, he leaped as high as he could just in time. One shadow blade came down to touch the ground sending a wave of power tearing through the earth. Kohachan reached the side of the dark shield, it was like iced glass even through his boots but he coiled his leg muscled and went diving at the figure as he recovered from the magic assault.
Kohachan knew it wasn't going to be that easy and indeed it wasn't. The figure seemed to vanish with his speed but Kohachan caught himself with his hands and did a few front flips to kill his momentum before following the movements of his opponent and matching him in battle once again. Blades flashed several times over as they met and scraped. Not a drop of blood was shed just yet. Both fighters were already breathing herd but that match was equal to a warm up. Now that it was over, the fight to see who survived was going to begin.
The black-clad figure found his back against the barrier, pushed back by Kohachan's faster sword attacks. Kohachan met him with his own blade once more. The opposing fighter stopped his blade with both shadow swords. There was a sharp crack as the closest blade was chipped by the force of Kohachan's attack. The fighter leered in anger but spoke a few quick, deadly words. The cracked blade began to glow but before Kohachan could leap away to safety, the blade exploded at him, throwing him, burned, into the air.
Kohachan had covered his face with his free arm, saving his eyes though his forearm was burned with the power. He fell onto his feet and was stopped by a stump at his heel. He looked up, pumping the burned fist to numb the arm of the pain that threatened to subdue him. He could not stop so early in the fight.
The shadow fighter smirked, a grin that showed through his black mask and shown in his eyes. He balanced on one foot and began tapping the other toe against the ground.
The tapping was rhythmic, heard by Kohachan ever through the howling of the wind all around the shield. Kohachan knew this attack as the tapping continued. He knew it was the attack that could only be met dead on. To avoid it was to meet worse an injury than by matching it speed with speed. So, it was the attack the fighter gloated about earlier. Had he become too fast? Kohachan doubted that.
He crouched to the ground, fitting his foot against the stump behind him, ready to push off of it in the hopes to match the shadow fighters' speed.
The tapping continued and Kohachan's head was flooded with the sound of his own heart to accompany the tapping. He forced his body to be still though he felt he would be trembling all over had he released his self-control. The adrenaline in his blood was not suited for just sitting in the calm before the storm. He had to attack and soon but this was a waiting game. The only way to succeed was to let the opposing fighter attack first. He breathed deeply, forcing his heart to calm. His thoughts clear, he focused completely on the tapping toe, waiting for the moment to attack.
There it was! The tapping stopped as the fighter sprang lightly a few inches off the ground and landed with a dash. Kohachan pushed off of the stump and leaped forward, sword edge tucked beside him, ready to be thrust for a killing blow.
But there he was. The shadow fighter raised his sword against Kohachan's side in an unexpected move. Pain flared in his arm before he could bring the sword forward. The opposing shadow blade cut along Kohachan's arm and into his hand, catching the bright, steel blade hilt and keeping it at bay. Even then, when they made their pass, the fighter turned to throw a few more stars at the shocked and wounded Sheikah. A blur of red flew over the stars as well as the sound of a screech followed by the sharp sounds of metal against metal.
The fox landed on one of the stump, a metal star shining in her teeth, which she spat to the side before growling at the fighter. Kohachan had turned about despite his cut sword arm and had blocked the other two blades after the pass as well. He glanced sharply at the fox but then turned back to his opponent.
Another flash of lightning and the fighter sprang forward, his speed greatly reduced yet still deadly. However, Kohachan easily parried the next blow and delivered a hard punch into the fighter's abdomen, doubling the figure over. He followed through by bringing his knee up against the fighters' chest in a powerful impact then finished it by shoving the man off with his sword arm, throwing him through the air and into the wall of the shield.
Kohachan spoke fiercely to the fox and she flew behind a random stump as the fighter regained himself, holding his injured stomach only for a moment. His burning eyes closed, he stopped and stood straight.
He spoke the same language as before, "Sheikah, you haven't gotten any worse, I'll give you that much. However," He glared at Kohachan, eyes shining gold and continued, "I cannot lose this fight. I will make that perfectly clear to you NOW!"
He leaped forward once again but Kohachan didn't move. The shadow blade flew forward but was dodged as Kohachan pivoted, ducked under the blade and with a yell, sprang up beside the fighter, delivering a sharp blow to the fighter's neck. The fighter gasped, his eyes bulged slightly before he groaned, lost the battle against the darkness and began to fall. Before he did, he gave one final effort. Facing the Sheikah with pure rage, he thrust his blade upward into Kohachan's shoulder.
Kohachan's eyes widened in shock of the pain but the blade twisted before it was freed, pulled out by the dead weight of the shadow fighter. Kohachan fell to his knees, the battle had taken more out of him than he had planned. The fox was at his side in a moment, purring encouragement even as blood stained the Sheikah's lips.
Link shouted loudly over the booming thunder, telling Crystal to get help and he went to Kohachan and the unconscious fighter. Kohachan felt Link set a hand on his shoulder and captured the hand with his own, pulling Link closer to listen as the wind howled around them once again. Link knelt closer as Kohachan breathed, "Find my friend. He will be here. He'll be able to help. Find . . . Toloran." Link nodded as Kohachan felt the blood leaving his body and fell to peaceful sleep.
~~~~~~~
HE'S ALIVE!!! I promise that right here and now! T_T I couldn't bring myself to kill my favorite guy! I'm weak . . .
Okay, this ending is going to get a little more complicated, isn't it? I hope none of you mind but you're going to get wrapped up in a whole huge case before Link and crew leaves this island.
Well, questions? Comments? Flames? I'd accept any and all after what I almost did . . .
Till next time!
In all honesty, a friend who chose to be anonymous told me this chapter was too rushed. Here I am now reading and re-posting it so, please be patient with me.
This chapter is going away from the whole Wolfos deal so that means it's a whole different story, right? So, here it is, what we've all been waiting for (sort of): Quest for a Friend the Sequel.
Anyway, this story is going to get involved. Also, most all the characters wherever are real and will be sticking around for a good long while. Ok, the characters are not but real reviewers from the original story did make them up.
~~~~~~~
~ Adventures on the Shadowed Islands ~
Link was tired. He had helped out on deck and the rhythmic rocking of the ship wasn't helping a bit. Crystal enjoyed the sea breeze as she leaned leisurely over the side. Link doubled over the side near her to which she inched away, "Are you going to be okay, Link?" He looked up at her, grunted, then stared at the foaming sea again. Bile was rising in the back of his throat and he knew better than to try to stop it.
Crystal groaned aloud and left the wooden side to find Kohachan. He was enjoying his time up in the crow's nest with his post of watchman. Although when she looked up at the sky where the tower of a wooden pole seemed to scrape against the sky, she saw him, a crimson and light tan figure with a light brown cloak whipping about him like a small banner. She shook her head and heard Navi mutter, "Show off". She laughed with agreement before starting up a rope ladder to the crow's nest.
Though she never was afraid of heights, the crow's nest was a far way up. A little too far for her liking but she continued higher and higher until she finally reached the circular plank of wood and hauled herself up into it. Kohachan looked down but did not descend, not just yet.
He pulled a spyglass from his belt once again and searched the storm on the horizon then at the island they were closing in on. It wasn't the island they were destined for but it was a place to whether out the storm. Yet, he recognized the island. Knew she would be on it. And with her would quite possibly be her mortal enemies. But he couldn't think about them, not just yet.
He breathed deeply in thought and set the spyglass back in his belt before looking down at Crystal once again. But she was easily climbing up to him. He laughed in his throat and squatted down as she reached the top of the post, her daggers serving as hand holds.
"Well?" She asked as she looked up at his amused face. He looked at the storm clouds without aid of the lens then said, "We'll have to push it if we're to make it to that island. Those storm clouds are looking more ominous by the minute." Crystal nodded with a frown and dislodged one of her daggers, preparing for a quick descent to the nest. Kohachan leaped down past her, deciding to report the storm's status to the captain of the vessel.
Crystal sighed lightly. It was much more peaceful up there than on deck. She settled into the crow's nest, keeping it occupied until Kohachan returned. Looking down to the deck, she saw a green clad figure still miserably doubled over the side. It was going to be a long trip for him after the stop.
A heavy gust picked up, the start of the storm swiftly approaching. Crystal grabbed onto the mast easily as the ship lurched with the wind, the sails snapping for the sudden change. She decided that Kohachan wasn't going to return and quickly made her way down, out of the wind.
~~~~~
Already, Katie and Andrake were below deck where Link had joined them and laid in his berth, his face tinged green to match his tunic. Crystal closed the door behind her as the first drops of rain fell from the sky behind her. The sailors could take care of the stormy winds just until they reached port.
Kohachan, behind the door, caught it and let himself in saying accusingly, "You almost forgot about me." before closing and locking it behind him. Crystal gave him a friendly punch in the shoulder, "If you were faster then you'd already be in here. At least faster than Link." The winds and rocking of the boat threatened to open it once again if not for the bolt.
He went to the center of the rather tight room and sat in the middle. Katie was still comatose in one of the other berths while Andrake was drinking a warm concoction over a crate of cargo set in the corner. Crystal leaned against the wall beside him and waited while listening to the unnerving creaking of the wood.
Link groaned to equal the ship and turned over. Crystal finally sighed aloud, breaking the silence, "What are we going to find when we reach the shore anyway?" Andrake shrugged and held onto the crate before it could slide over. What he did not consider was that when the ship rocked the other way, Katie also slid over.
A sudden, loud "thunk" brought everyone's attention to her. Crystal did all she could to stifle her laughter but it was a losing battle as she looked at Katie sprawled face to the deck, her curly hair strewn all around her head and her dress folded over to her calves. Laughter broke from an unfamiliar voice and she soon joined it. She broke out as well, sliding to the floor, breathless from laughter even as Kohachan calmly rose and went to the source of the first break of laughter.
He reached to the floor, under the light but tied up crate and lifted the lid of a secret door. Under it, crouched down in the cramped space, was a young man. He stopped laughing and looked up through his curly black bangs and grinned sheepishly. Kohachan sighed lightly and brought the boy out by the collar of his vest.
He set the boy on the deck, never letting go of the collar. Andrake finally rose to take care of Katie, picking her up, settling her back and set her on the floor before looking over the stowaway. His skin was well tanned, suggesting he had been in the sun quite a lot. His boots were well worn as well, proving he had traveled long distances. His rounded ears gave away the fact that he was Dondorian or suggested it anyway. His vest was sleeveless but dark blue over a black shirt. Unlike a tunic, his shirt tucked into his pants lined with a brown belt over equally black, loose fitting pants. The pants also tucked into his boots which here the same brown as the belt. He wore finger-less black gloves on his hands as he waved at everyone, sweating for nervousness at being caught.
Andrake looked back into the hide out and reached in bringing out with a bit of effort a pack, a sheathed sword and a staff of plain wood. He set the things beside the boy as he glared at Andrake warningly. Kohachan gave him a light shake, reminding him who was in control. "Well, hello everyone!" He said finally. Andrake came around and began his interrogation but he answered each question with practiced confidence admitting he was a cabin boy though Kohachan could easily see through the lie. Crystal calmly nibbled on some bread while they talked about what to do with the boy. As they chatted, he had slipped out of their sight and sat beside Crystal, dragging his things with him.
"Hello, there. How goes the trip, are we almost there?" Crystal started a bit at his sudden appearance but relaxed a bit and said, "A storm is on its way to us. We are docking on a nearby island." He looked at the wall for a moment and said mostly to himself, "That would explain the sudden lurches. They woke me up-" With a bit of a squeak, he was hauled up by two strong hands and said to with a dangerous tone, "Leave her alone, Matt. Remember, you are still in trouble."
Matt looked down at Andrake, not a sign of fear in his eyes, defiance if anything and said, "Geeze, what is she under protection? Is she like a princess or something?" Then he grinned as he said, "Or is it you're protecting your lady fair?" Andrake growled deep in his throat, his fists tightened on the boy's vest until a hand landed and gripped his shoulder firmly, shaking him out of his anger. Kohachan shook his head quickly, letting Andrake know Matt wasn't worth the irritation.
Andrake set the boy on his feet but said coldly, and quiet enough to where Crystal wouldn't hear, "Just don't bother her, okay? I'll be keeping my eye on you." Matt shrugged and carried his stuff across the room to the berths and laid down in one, claiming it as his own. He suddenly said loudly, "Cait, you can come out now, we're caught." Andrake looked back at the boy as he reclined in the bed and stretched his hands behind his head. Andrake stared untrustingly at the boy before a small knock came from the chest Andrake had used as a table. "What?" he asked before returning to it and helping to lift it and free the person inside.
A small girl looked up at him, a look of fear tinged her eyes but she forced a small smile nonetheless as Andrake carefully helped her out. Matt snorted, "Sure, he's gentle with her." But he was smiling nonetheless. She was set easily out of the crate and Andrake got a look at her as well. She only came up to his shoulder but looked up at him with large, blue eyes sparkling beneath brown bangs forming a heart on her forehead. Andrake felt his hard resolve weakening as her lip trembled in fear despite her shining eyes. He saw her ears. They were not rounded. They were just like Link's ears but slightly smaller.
Her outfit was not too different from Matt's except she carried no obvious weapons and while her shirt was a deep green, her pants were black and the same style brown boots as Matt's own. They too seemed just as well often used.
Kohachan decided to take over the situation once again and said to them both, "So, you are both stowaways. Where are you going?" Cait wouldn't reply but Matt said with enough ease for the both of them, "Heading on out to find new shores, don't care where so long as there is an adventure awaiting us there.
"Been all over back that way including Hyrule where I found this young, blue-eyed angel. She's an orphan and needed protection. What else could I do? I took her under my wing. She's a bit shy as you can see but she's willing enough to go anywhere I would go. So, brave Sheikah warrior, are you going to turn us in or not?" The smoothness gave way to fiercely protective sarcasm on the last line but it didn't cause Kohachan's resolve even to flinch.
He replied without emotion, "I wasn't going to turn you in anyway. Why would you steal your board aboard a ship anyway? If you have enough money to maintain your traveling clothes and shoes, not to mention your well kept leather scabbard and staff, why would you lack money to book passage?" His words scored deeply and Matt sat up, hand inching toward his staff. Kohachan kept himself from his own weapon if only for the sake of the others in the room.
Finally Matt smirked and gave a half shrug before answering, "I try to keep what money we have if we should ever need food or medicines. We are going to strange lands and who knows what kinds of diseases they have that we aren't used to? Don't underestimate me, I know what I'm in for and I know what I'm dragging her into!" She slightly cringed at his mentioning her but then stood her ground more resolutely, her young voice ringing out with a spirit one would not expect, "I make my own choices, Matt. You know how I survived in Hyrule! I have my own strengths, you know."
Matt nodded while Crystal, Andrake, and even Kohachan were all surprised by her sudden out-speaking. She looked at all the eyes on her and went over to Matt, to which Kohachan smiled slightly with a shrug, "Very well then, if you feel you cannot pay for passage, I will." Then it was both Matt's and Cait's turn to be shocked. He turned away from them, a satisfied smile playing across his face as from above the heaving deck, one sailor shouted. He called for attention to begin docking.
~~~~~
Nope, the captain wasn't happy with hearing about the two stowaways as his crew ran about, weighing anchor, closing sails, ect. Kohachan made good on his promise and assured he'd be responsible for them both. They stood near him, trying to look innocent as the captain scrutinized the trio dubiously. Finally he agreed, muttering something about justice, and started taking care of his ship and overseeing the sailors work.
Kohachan gestured the two weary kids get to shore and find the nearest tavern. Matt grabbed Cait's hand and hurried to the shore as large, chill droplets of rain began to fall, thunder rumbled in the distance. Kohachan pulled his cloak around him to defend against the cold and saw Crystal carefully leading Link across the tipping deck as Andrake followed behind carrying Katie once again. The ship had been deemed unsafe to stay on for "land-lubbers".
He sighed slightly at the captain's pompous outlook on others and began following Andrake off the ship, the hem of his cloak flapped loudly and wildly. But just as he turned to look at the darkened, wind-whipped, and soaking shore, a small, red figure was dashing fast enough to become a blur and was heading straight to the loading dock. She zipping agilely between legs as Crystal danced aside, nearly toppling Link and Andrake stood his ground. He knew who she was and wasn't too surprised to see her. The fact she was in a hurry and coming out despite so many strangers, however, did surprise him.
The small fox leaped up, into his arms, with such force that he rocked back on his heels. The small fox was covered with cold water and shivered, a small wet ball to his chest. He whispered a few words with the same language he had used with Navi and slowly, her shivering stopped. He set her on his shoulder, ignored the various stares, and went on shore, quickening his pace with purpose and carefully passed the others to get onto the land.
Link set boot on shore and shook out of his nauseated state. He shook his head violently, re-orienting himself with solid ground in time to see Kohachan dashing toward the jungle. He followed, easily pulling out of Crystal's guiding hands. She shouted at him a moment and took off after him.
Soon, they came upon a clearing. Trees were leveled to stumps in the once lush, tropical jungle. A black-clad figure stood in the center of the obviously newly made destruction. His face was masked by a tight scarf about his mouth and nose as well as a black cap hiding his hair to where only his shining gold eyes were visible of his face. Even his hands were bound in black cloth as they gripped the black katanas. His belt was a black cloth wrapped about his midsection with a loose length as long as to his knee flapped in the wind.
The vixen hissed and her fur stood out on end as Kohachan, his eyes ablaze with recognition and hate for the intruder, drew his sword and settled into a fighting stance. The black-clad figure laughed out loud at them then drew forth his own weapons. The two shadowy blades, smoking from the recent attack, were leveled at his opponents as Link and Crystal came to a skidding halt at the edge of the circle of destruction.
He said loudly over the wind using the same language, which Link could not understand but Kohachan knew too well, "So, it is just as three years ago, eh? You really want to face me again? This time, I know how to fight you, Sheikah. I've gotten faster." Kohachan answered, his voice smooth with the rage that swept through him, preparing to kill, "Well, good for you. Too bad I've gotten faster since then. You won't live through this. I'll finish what I started so long ago!"
The shadowed fighter growled dangerously in his throat but didn't say anything more. Instead, he aimed one blade straight up, chanting a few words of magic. A black shield formed about the perimeter, making sure those outside could not enter and those inside could not get out. The wind was blocked as was the rain. Kohachan's hair settled from his face finally as did the fighters' loose length of belt. Kohachan glanced warily at the shield only for a moment. This fight was going to be to the death. That was for certain. He steadied himself again as the vixen leaped from his shoulder, letting him fight without distraction. He noted where she went before a thunder clap sent both fighters into attack.
They both leaped at each other at the same time, yelling as their blades came forward to meet. A flash of lightning blinded the observers only for a moment before they could see both the figure and Kohachan fighting for control on one of the thicker stumps, their blades matched in power. The black figure slightly leaned back, overpowered.
He hissed in rage, eyes glowing golden, and leaped backward away. Kohachan leaned down, ready to follow after him when a small throwing star came at him. Crystal gasped as the blade seemed to fly through the Sheikah's head. Suddenly, it flew at them, bouncing off the shield to fly away and eventually land in the earth. Kohachan knelt near where the blade had flown, a few strands of red hair slowly drifting to the ground, cut by the razor edges of the star.
He didn't smirk at the small victory of speed, neither of them were even slightly moved by the small contest. Kohachan closed his eyes when another attack didn't follow immediately. His ears could hear the sounds all about him. Including the sound of whispered words of magic.
Clenching his teeth in concentration, he leaped as high as he could just in time. One shadow blade came down to touch the ground sending a wave of power tearing through the earth. Kohachan reached the side of the dark shield, it was like iced glass even through his boots but he coiled his leg muscled and went diving at the figure as he recovered from the magic assault.
Kohachan knew it wasn't going to be that easy and indeed it wasn't. The figure seemed to vanish with his speed but Kohachan caught himself with his hands and did a few front flips to kill his momentum before following the movements of his opponent and matching him in battle once again. Blades flashed several times over as they met and scraped. Not a drop of blood was shed just yet. Both fighters were already breathing herd but that match was equal to a warm up. Now that it was over, the fight to see who survived was going to begin.
The black-clad figure found his back against the barrier, pushed back by Kohachan's faster sword attacks. Kohachan met him with his own blade once more. The opposing fighter stopped his blade with both shadow swords. There was a sharp crack as the closest blade was chipped by the force of Kohachan's attack. The fighter leered in anger but spoke a few quick, deadly words. The cracked blade began to glow but before Kohachan could leap away to safety, the blade exploded at him, throwing him, burned, into the air.
Kohachan had covered his face with his free arm, saving his eyes though his forearm was burned with the power. He fell onto his feet and was stopped by a stump at his heel. He looked up, pumping the burned fist to numb the arm of the pain that threatened to subdue him. He could not stop so early in the fight.
The shadow fighter smirked, a grin that showed through his black mask and shown in his eyes. He balanced on one foot and began tapping the other toe against the ground.
The tapping was rhythmic, heard by Kohachan ever through the howling of the wind all around the shield. Kohachan knew this attack as the tapping continued. He knew it was the attack that could only be met dead on. To avoid it was to meet worse an injury than by matching it speed with speed. So, it was the attack the fighter gloated about earlier. Had he become too fast? Kohachan doubted that.
He crouched to the ground, fitting his foot against the stump behind him, ready to push off of it in the hopes to match the shadow fighters' speed.
The tapping continued and Kohachan's head was flooded with the sound of his own heart to accompany the tapping. He forced his body to be still though he felt he would be trembling all over had he released his self-control. The adrenaline in his blood was not suited for just sitting in the calm before the storm. He had to attack and soon but this was a waiting game. The only way to succeed was to let the opposing fighter attack first. He breathed deeply, forcing his heart to calm. His thoughts clear, he focused completely on the tapping toe, waiting for the moment to attack.
There it was! The tapping stopped as the fighter sprang lightly a few inches off the ground and landed with a dash. Kohachan pushed off of the stump and leaped forward, sword edge tucked beside him, ready to be thrust for a killing blow.
But there he was. The shadow fighter raised his sword against Kohachan's side in an unexpected move. Pain flared in his arm before he could bring the sword forward. The opposing shadow blade cut along Kohachan's arm and into his hand, catching the bright, steel blade hilt and keeping it at bay. Even then, when they made their pass, the fighter turned to throw a few more stars at the shocked and wounded Sheikah. A blur of red flew over the stars as well as the sound of a screech followed by the sharp sounds of metal against metal.
The fox landed on one of the stump, a metal star shining in her teeth, which she spat to the side before growling at the fighter. Kohachan had turned about despite his cut sword arm and had blocked the other two blades after the pass as well. He glanced sharply at the fox but then turned back to his opponent.
Another flash of lightning and the fighter sprang forward, his speed greatly reduced yet still deadly. However, Kohachan easily parried the next blow and delivered a hard punch into the fighter's abdomen, doubling the figure over. He followed through by bringing his knee up against the fighters' chest in a powerful impact then finished it by shoving the man off with his sword arm, throwing him through the air and into the wall of the shield.
Kohachan spoke fiercely to the fox and she flew behind a random stump as the fighter regained himself, holding his injured stomach only for a moment. His burning eyes closed, he stopped and stood straight.
He spoke the same language as before, "Sheikah, you haven't gotten any worse, I'll give you that much. However," He glared at Kohachan, eyes shining gold and continued, "I cannot lose this fight. I will make that perfectly clear to you NOW!"
He leaped forward once again but Kohachan didn't move. The shadow blade flew forward but was dodged as Kohachan pivoted, ducked under the blade and with a yell, sprang up beside the fighter, delivering a sharp blow to the fighter's neck. The fighter gasped, his eyes bulged slightly before he groaned, lost the battle against the darkness and began to fall. Before he did, he gave one final effort. Facing the Sheikah with pure rage, he thrust his blade upward into Kohachan's shoulder.
Kohachan's eyes widened in shock of the pain but the blade twisted before it was freed, pulled out by the dead weight of the shadow fighter. Kohachan fell to his knees, the battle had taken more out of him than he had planned. The fox was at his side in a moment, purring encouragement even as blood stained the Sheikah's lips.
Link shouted loudly over the booming thunder, telling Crystal to get help and he went to Kohachan and the unconscious fighter. Kohachan felt Link set a hand on his shoulder and captured the hand with his own, pulling Link closer to listen as the wind howled around them once again. Link knelt closer as Kohachan breathed, "Find my friend. He will be here. He'll be able to help. Find . . . Toloran." Link nodded as Kohachan felt the blood leaving his body and fell to peaceful sleep.
~~~~~~~
HE'S ALIVE!!! I promise that right here and now! T_T I couldn't bring myself to kill my favorite guy! I'm weak . . .
Okay, this ending is going to get a little more complicated, isn't it? I hope none of you mind but you're going to get wrapped up in a whole huge case before Link and crew leaves this island.
Well, questions? Comments? Flames? I'd accept any and all after what I almost did . . .
Till next time!