~ Disclaimer ~ Okay, I'm going to pull in my co-writer to help me this
time. *Brings In SunMoonKnight* Okay, you can tell them.
SunMoonKnight: Sadly, I must confess, neither Shadow Girl nor myself own Zelda. Actually, I'm not even the co-writer of this story . . .
Fair enough. But first, this one if for Jelie36 (Oh, I hear you with homework!), Shadow Knight (Mostly it is only Tarawen. But others can do it too to a degree.), Dream] [Walker3 (Sorry for leaving you on your toes. I'm here now) SunMoonKnight-
SunMoonKnight: Yes?
I forgot he is a reviewer as well. Well, this one is for you also.
Dragonkiller, I need to single you out now. Why are you being so rude? It makes me want to quit. So . . . Keep pushing me and I leave, got that? If you have nothing fair to say, then say nothing.
SunMoonKnight: Shadow Girl, is that not a bit harsh?
I don't care anymore! It's the truth. I had a bad day and that review did nothing to help! I hate being like this but I feel I need to do something so that is what I'm doing.
SunMoonKnight: You really should stop letting one person change your mind about this story. Well, ignore the rather ill tempered authoress here. I'll make sure she keeps writing, okay? His chapter should go well so please, esteemed reader, do read on. ^_^
~~~~~~~
~ Revelations and Sorrowful Serenades ~
Sundown was nearly done as the pale yellow horizon was dimming. Zolaris and Matt were both fairly well cleaned up and on the trails again, this time making better time to get back. Zolaris held the ring in his fist as he used his free arm to get up the few boulders in the way. Matt watched the Sheikah from behind, not trusting him to pull that joke again.
Matt could only wonder why the silver haired man kept only one fist clenched. His other hand was relaxed enough and he didn't seem angry. Even then, he wasn't looking at whatever could have been in it.
Wondering how much he could push his luck, Matt watched the pace that the fist swung in. He firmly convinced himself there was something of importance or interest in that fist. The ground was flat for a ways so the pace would hopefully remain steady. If he was fast enough, he could get hold of whatever was in the palm.
His curiosity was too great by then to ignore any more. He counted down in his head then dashed forward only to have the fist lifted away at the last second. He stumbled past, having planned to grab the fist for support. Spinning around, he glared at the grinning Zolaris then he laughed. What was he thinking?
Zolaris kept his fist carefully closed and walked past Matt, wanting nothing but to be back in the tribe. Most fun things came at nightfall after all. Including the scary stories. He grinned with mischief and quickened his pace, making Matt nearly well run to keep up.
"C'mon, Zolaris, what are you holding onto?" Zolaris said over his shoulder after ducking a low vine, "Just a small treasure. It's for Kohachan and you should be less nosy."
"Ouch. What's the harm of asking a simple question? And why are we now running?"
"This thing has me confused. I want to find out its mystery." Matt perked up on the mention of a mystery and shouted, "I'm good with mysteries! Let me take a look! Come on, just show me. I won't even touch!" Zolaris was becoming tired of the assault.
Whirling around, he watched Matt just barely stop from barreling into him and then held the ring between two fingers. Matt swallowed a few surprised remarks and examined the ring, resisting the many temptations to grab it for a closer look.
He looked at the odd, scratch-like markings scribed in blue then the triangle that was either upside-down or right side up depending on how it was worn. The crescent moons intrigued him, though but other than those features, the ring didn't seem to be a mystery at all. He looked quizzically to Zolaris.
Zolaris cocked an eyebrow at the look then explained, "I found this ring only in the tribe a long time ago. It was when I visited Kohachan for the first time in Hyrule when we traveled together to the island where Toloran already awaited us. It was when we became friends so I held onto this, wondering if I should hand it over or not. I will now, since it is obvious he won't stay. He still has a mission to run."
"I couldn't get it to him then but now I will be sure he remembers. This time, I'll give the ring to him if only to remember this place by." Matt was silent for a bit, trying hard to keep his comment to himself but ultimately, he failed, "Isn't that like a wedding ring then?"
Zolaris coughed a bit and turned to keep on walking, trying hard to block his imagination from going to work. Matt started and grabbed hold of Zolaris' shirt to stop him, "Hang on, sorry. I know that's not what you meant. Now what else about the ring?" Zolaris pulled away and waved the question off, "That is not your concern, not really. Come on, we're getting closer and you need new clothes."
Matt slumped his shoulders in defeat but then shrugged. He would simply have to be there when the Sheikah talked about it to another. They continued in silence as the night fully set in and the first torchlights became visible.
~~~~~
Sweat beaded at his forehead and gently rolled down his temple as Kohachan studied the board intently. He couldn't slip again. He had made only one error and that almost cost him badly. He had recovered and now to gain the upper hand again.
He traced the attack pattern in his head as his opponent watched with a confident grin. Kohachan shook his head slightly, forming another plan. He was not experienced enough! How could he have made that challenge? Too much rode on this game!
Almost timidly, he set his fingers on the piece, his eyes wandering sadly to the pile of treasure nearby. With a deep breath, he skipped the carved wood across the board then ended the turn.
His opponent, Malth, shook his head with a laugh and set two quick fingers over another piece, sending Kohachan's move to waste. Kohachan was in trouble.
Tarawen was getting a bit impatient with the boy. She needed to talk with the Sheikah but his thoughts were distracted by the game. Finally, she drifted over his shoulder as he stared intently at the game. It was not a tournament and Malth was allowed to get aid thus so was Kohachan. She would be that aid if only to end the thing.
Calmly, Tarawen reached to the board and moved a single piece just two spaces, despite Kohachan's quick scorn.
Malth's grin dropped and then his mouth fell open. He heaves a sigh and said gracefully, "I give up."
"What? This game isn't over yet!" Kohachan stopped as Malth's words registered in his mind. "Wait, what?" He looked at the board and rubbed his chin in wonder, "Well, by Din's fire . . ."
He quickly collected the prize, knowing full well that he would have to split it with Tarawen. He didn't care, seeing the cocky Kitsune's bubble pop was reward enough.
He looked up at Tarawen in apology for the sharp reprimands but she started speaking first, "Kohachan, we need to talk. Follow me." Now why did Kohachan have a sinking feeling in his gut? This was not going to be good . . .
On the way, he snatched up a wedge of interesting cheese. It was his first time trying it before and he decided then that he liked it. The taste might even help keep any temper down. Tarawen saw the action, wondering why he would grab another snack, but shrugged it off and led him to her father's study.
Kohachan nibbled on the cheese as Tarawen took a deep breath and faced him, "Kohachan, why have you continued to pester me and try my patience." She knew this was not going to end in soft talk. And he proved it to her after clearing his mouth, "What do you mean?"
Tarawen knew it. She stifled her sharp yell then calmly said, "Well even today when you made me lose that fresh loaf of bread."
"That was an accident!" Kohachan refused to admit he was looking for a bit of fun. He took another bite from the cheese and waited her return comment. "Well, you didn't . . . okay, you did apologize." Kohachan grinned at the minor victory, which only made Tarawen even more irritated at him.
She calmed herself, deciding to talk this out rather than throw that nice big vase at him. Though, inflicting injury to him was quite appealing at the moment. She locked eyes with him as he seemed to slightly flinch and demanded, "Tell me the truth, Kohachan. Do you try to get into trouble or not?"
Kohachan felt his stomach knot up. What was going on? Must be the cheese. Had to be the cheese. The pain was growing quickly. He looked to Tarawen. She was the last person he wanted to see witness his pain. He quickly confessed, "Yes, I was looking for trouble. But only for a bit of fun, not harm or any grudge. Just a run around. Now, if you will excuse me."
Before Tarawen could answer, he turned away, a hand going almost spasmodically to his stomach and he started to the walk, nearly staggering to his quarters.
Tarawen watched him go, fear and curiosity replaced her annoyance and suspicion. His face twisted in sudden pain in the quick comment and that had not gone by unnoticed by her. Decidedly, she ignored the treasure won in the game and shifted to fox form to follow him.
Kohachan fell to his knees, one hand in his hammock. His other hand dropped what was left of the wedge of the accursed cheese. This kind of pain, he had never experienced before.
It felt like two hands were grabbing his insides. Or as though something inside was pushing it's way out. He fell to the floor, curling into a fetal position. Why wouldn't it go away? He bit back a cry as the pain grew to a greater height than he anticipated.
Tarawen sat in the doorway, fear in her eyes as she saw the Sheikah on the ground, paralyzed by pain. {Kohachan, what's wrong?!} She went to his side even as he gasped and tried to warn her away.
He didn't want her to see him like this. Even though she was with him earlier as he was injured. When he first got on the island! Yet he couldn't bite back a cry of pain as finally it reached a climax then subsided into a duller pressure.
It was as though his insides had shifted to allow a more comfortable position. Tarawen quickly changed to her normal self and kneeled beside him to help him up when she saw him relax a bit but not move. She set a hand on his forehead. It was not hot though a bit of sweat still clung to it from the board game.
She spoke softly, wanting to know what was wrong, "Kohachan, are you okay? What is it?" He didn't answer but he leaned against her, trying to get up. Setting a firm hand under his shoulder, she helped him to the hammock, his favorite place, and set a cloak over him.
Kohachan breathed deeply, feeling yet another swell of pain coming up. Tarawen's voice held little meaning as she suddenly was grasping his hand, "Please, talk to me. You are conscious so why don't you say anything?"
She sighed lightly, having an idea why he would act this way. It wasn't pain he was in. He was abusing himself for bothering her so often. Soothingly, she held onto him and said, "I don't really care that you did those things. It was even . . . fun to go after you. You and Zolaris, I guess." She looked to him, seeing if her words got a reaction.
When he didn't respond but by a free hand going to his stomach area again, she tried again fervently, "Kohachan, you can't just not talk to me! We are friends after all! Just say something!!"
Finally, Kohachan moaned out, "It's . . . not you." He fell silent as Tarawen slightly sighed in relief, "Well, I just want to say . . . I am sorry for that punch in the face. And the knife cut. And that large book I threw at you. But you know you do get on my nerves." She smiled up at him but Kohachan's eyes were tightly closed.
The pain was swelling by the second, Tarawen's voice drowned out even more as he focused all his will to keep from crying out. He could feel her gripping his hand in urgency, trying to get his attention. Why did she have to be there right then?
Kohachan slowly opened his eyes to see Tarawen looking at him. She was in more distress than he had seen her even when he was injured. He swallowed the pain as best he could, masking it to seem he was fine. Though he knew he was far from it. At least this calmed her down.
"Kohachan, will you speak to me now?" He heard her and nodded, though why she would ask was beyond him. Slowly, carefully as the pain reached a downfall he said with almost a smirk, "Cheese intolerant."
"WHAT?!"
~~~~~
Link looked art his uniform once again, still in the gray/green vest that showed off his abbs and most of his chest as well as his shoulders and arms. This accompanied by the loose fitting pants that led to the slipper style shoes and the gold belt. It was no wonder a lot of the younger Kitsune girls were looking at him.
Then a loud shout followed closely by a loud crash was heard from the room he had woken in. Running away from the fire he had sat near among other young Kitsune and Toloran, he ran to see what it was. He could see Tarawen storming away from the room, he decided perhaps it was better not to find out . . .
He settled back in the circle around the low but warm fire, shrugging to them as Toloran got everyone's attention once more. When all the Kitsune settled and looked at the leader Sheikah, he started darkly in his deep voice, "I wonder. I wonder if any of you have heard of Old Lady Poe. Anyone?"
The hair on the back of Link's neck stood on end at the question as all present around Toloran shook their heads. He grinned and nodded, "Very well then. That is the story I shall tell." The young warrior beside Toloran crossed his arms, a determined and bored look upon his face as Toloran swung into the story.
"Long ago was an old lady who lived all alone. She remembered fondly timed she spent with her mother who passed away before her time. Of her daughter and son who both moved away, leaving her in the care of her brother. Even he went away, determined to find a decent living."
"Her family moved away and her children left her for better lands. She missed them dearly and dreamed of their return until she could dream no more. Each night she sat on her porch and looked out unto the field and gave a piteous cry." He gave his voice a shrill crack and softly imitated the old lady, "'Who will share my company on this cold and lonely night?' she would ask. Yet none would hear her. None would come."
A few Kitsune leaned closer as Toloran continued, "Eventually age caught up with her. Before she died, every night, she would ask time and again 'Who will share my company this cold and lonely night?' Finally, she was silenced by time."
"But even from the grave she would call." He drew out his voice, giving it an eerie whistle as the fire suddenly went out, plunging them in moonlight but Toloran's eyes held theirs. Several Kitsune shivered but remained quiet as Toloran continued, "'Whhooo will share my companyyy thiss cooolld and loonnelyyy niigghhtt?' She would cry. But this time Old Lady Poe got her answer."
The Kitsune held their breath when suddenly, Toloran grabbed the arm of the warrior and shrieked, "YOU WILL!!"
With only a moment to gasp, the warrior leaped up, screamed for his life then fell back down in the lap of the fellow beside him away from Toloran who roared with laughter along with everyone else by the small bonfire.
Kyou hyperventilated a moment and looked for the hand of Old Lady Poe only to realize it was a joke. He growled at the Sheikah but then laughed at himself before crawling back to his place.
Laughter was reduced to chuckles as another form made itself known. Toloran began clapping as Zolaris took a bow for his pyrotechnics. Zolaris stood over the group, a wild grin across his face and a challenging look in his eye, the way he always was after scaring a person near to death by his clever magic.
He brought the flames back to life when suddenly music started from the center of the tribe. A highly lit area where Kitsune had worked through to the sunset to erect a stage. All got up and began to run toward it, two young female Kitsune pulling Link along by either wrist.
Link saw the stage as a band of Kitsune set up various metal and wooden as well as stringed instruments. There were three singers with their own instruments while others only played music and still a couple others played and sang background.
Standing just at the stage beside the silver Kitsune, Malth, was Matt. Matt wore an outfit almost perfectly similar to Link's except it was red instead of gray-green with a deeper gold for a belt. And Matt wore it well.
Beside him was another girl but as she turned, Link easily realized it was Crystal! She wore the same outfit as the other females, which didn't show too much, except her arms and shoulders were bare along with a small part of her slim waist.
Link didn't care. She was alive and safe. Before she could say anything, he pulled her into a tight embrace while the girl Kitsune near Link bristled and Matt just grinned. Crystal froze for a moment before awkwardly returning the embrace as Link slowly backed away, a small blush on his cheeks for the display.
One of the Kitsune went to him and Malth as the band began. Link shouted to Crystal over the sudden burst of attention-seizing music for an explanation but was drowned out as the song began.
This ain't a song for the broken-hearted
No silent prayer for the faith-departed
I ain't gonna be just a face in the crowd
You're gonna hear my voice
When I shout it out loud
The main voices were in unison for the most part and sounded beautiful as well as powerful even through the wild cheers of the quickly growing audience.
It's my life
It's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
It's my life
My heart is like an open skyway
Like my mother said
I did it my way
I just wanna live while I'm alive
It's my life
This is for the ones who stood their ground
For Father and Brother who never backed down
Tomorrow's getting harder make no mistake
Luck ain't even lucky
Got to make your own breaks
Link realized the song was dedicated to the Kitsune who had fought in the long war. Who fought for their freedom and for their loved ones. And fought to live life their way. His heart was taken away as the song reached a crescendo.
It's my life
And it's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
It's my life
My heart is like an open skyway
Like my mother said
I did it my way
I just want to live while I'm alive
'Cause it's my life
Better stand tall when they're calling you out
Don't bend, don't break, no, don't back down
Link smiled in appreciation for the singers as the lead singer seemed to look straight at him in the middle of his dancing and song. Link raised a fist in victory before joining with the cheering as Matt clapped him on the back and Crystal pumped her fist in the air twice in time with the heavy drum beat.
It's my life
And it's now or never
'Cause I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
It's my life
My heart is like an open skyway
Like my mother said
I did it my way
I just want to live while I'm alive
Zolaris grinned, once again it was his turn to turn up the heat. From the two back corners, he summoned a pillar of sparking flames of various colors shooting to the sky as the chorus was sung once more. The audience went into a frenzy when the song finally ended. Breathless, the band took their bows and began the opening to the next song.
Crystal and Matt both grabbed Link and hauled him away to talk in private, though Link stood transfixed in the hyper pace his blood was stirred to by the song.
~~~~~
Zolaris nodded at his finale before glancing at the ring in his hand and headed toward the Sheikah Headquarters. If Kohachan hadn't heard the song, or even been in the band, then that would be where he was.
To his surprise, three young ones had beat him to the room but after stepping into it, the backed out and started in a different direction. Curious . . .
Zolaris quickened his pace to the room, after the three had left and no one else was around, he cautiously stepped into the room, lighting a small fire in his hand to light the way. His magic was merely warmed up for such a minor task. He saw the wreckage before him paled to what his imagination had concocted in the time it took to reach the room around the maze of walks and bridges.
Broken pieces of pottery lay around the hammock where Kohachan lay in misery. His labored breath would seem as though he were dying and the cut over his forehead bleeding over his closed left eye did nothing to change the idea of death.
Calmly, he walked to beside the hammock and regarded Kohachan. "Key, are you still alive?"
"No." Kohachan replied flatly, his voice oddly clear despite the rasps. Zolaris nodded in acknowledgment but pocketed the ring, deciding to take care of the mess first. He sent the ember to light the five torches around the roof but low enough, as always, to keep the roof from catching fire.
"The ship that you arrived in should almost be done if the damage you described earlier is as meek as it sounds." He heard this strike a chord in Kohachan, "Meek?! That damage was extensive if you take into account that the mast was nearly broken in several places!"
Zolaris shrugged, "Whatever. Come on, the music started and your fans wait. Tarawen included, I'm sure." He added a cocky grin and a wink at the last part.
To his surprise, Kohachan fell back from the half sitting position he was in and said weakly, "Just let me die already . . ." The pain was not fully subsided yet. Zolaris rolled his eyes, "Stop being a baby. If you want something to groan about, I'll give you something."
He cracked his knuckles in emphasis but Kohachan shot him a death glare, "Look, old friend. There is no way I'm going out there to sing when it feels like my insides are trying to become my outsides, okay?" He took a deep breath and let his eyes close to relax. Besides, he didn't think even Zolaris would be so heartless.
"If you don't go out there, you will have to face a very ticked Tarawen. Not to mention your friends are here as well. Matt and Crystal as well as Link." When Kohachan didn't respond, Zolaris grew ticked, "Look, I went swamp diving to get that boy out alive and get him here so you had better start moving your butt out of that hammock!!"
Kohachan didn't respond still. Let his friend yell his head off. It would help calm him down, to get rid of the frustrations. So, both Matt and Crystal joined Link. All they needed was a night to relax then . . .
His thoughts ceased with a sudden explosion of pain in his stomach. No. This pain was from the outside, not the inside. He opened his eyes wide in rage to see his friend and what had caused the sudden pain.
Zolaris had punched him in the gut!
Angrily, he responded by leaping from the hammock, tackling Zolaris to the ground, and getting him in a full strangle hold. Neither budged until a familiar figure entered the room and cleared his throat loudly. Toloran glared at the two, "This is a night for playing, not fighting. Though with you two, that could be up for discussion." Kohachan released Zolaris who rubbed his neck.
He set a hand gingerly to his stomach to feel the damage done when he realized it was gone. The cramp and shifting, all of it was gone. He was normal except for a possibly bruise or two on his muscles later.
Toloran then saw the pottery on the floor but Kohachan was quick to point out the blood on his face, revealing it was actual blood, not his own hair falling over one still closed eye. "Tarawen got mad at me for making her worry." That simple explanation was enough to satisfy Toloran. "Well, Kohachan, will you take the stage or not?" Zolaris demanded heatedly. Kohachan nodded but looked at the mess. How much time did they have?
The song in the main center of the tribe was about half done. Toloran swatted Kohachan's shoulder, ushering him to the door, "We'll take care of this, you take care of Tarawen and them, got it? Come back later and we'll talk about the others and how to get off the island." Kohachan nodded briefly before dashing toward the stage.
~~~~~
On the way, Kohachan fervently wiped the blood away. It had dried and the cut stopped bleeding. The dry blood came away easily as he also thought about what had happened and what would happen.
The demon of Zolaris was dormant but only until the next full moon. It seems the old legend is finally coming into effect. Something had to be done to stop the legend from being fulfilled or all kingdoms were doomed. He knew it had something to do with the fourth Triforce piece. The Triforce of chaos.
He knew only a little of it but supposedly as the three golden Triforce pieces were connected to the sacred realm, the fourth black piece was for the Moon Blade. The wielder of the pieces was supposedly able to gain access to that the piece went to.
The one who gained the keys to the Moon Gate could reveal the fourth piece, which would combine two legendary blades into one, granting the wielder of the fourth piece the power to control the blade thus gaining power absolute. However, legend had it, this could only occur on one full moon, and the process was delicate. It could be thwarted quite easily given the proper interference.
Well, he could think more of that later. The night would draw onward and Tarawen standing alone on stage looked none too pleased. He launched himself from the walk and performed a quick front flip followed by a smother, slower one before sticking the landing beside Tarawen and wiping the hair from his eyes with a confident grin that caused most females of the audience to either sigh or scream in delight.
"Show off." Tarawen accused but she grinned at his flashy entrance. She punched his arm but gently and announced the song while Kohachan caught what little breath he lost in the dash and acrobatics.
She stood by him again as the audience went into a hush and the fires lighting the stage area had blue dyed blinds set over them. He blue light fell over the two as the white moonlight highlighted their heads and shoulders and glinted gently off the instruments. Kohachan felt his breath gently caught even after it was back to normal but the two began their duet.
When you love someone - you'll do anything
You'll do all the crazy things that you can't explain
You'll shoot the moon - put out the sun
When you love someone Kohachan held his breath in the pause and couldn't help but think of the words, as he always did. Could he feel something for Tarawen? No, it couldn't be. He did enjoy singing alongside her as their voices mixed to magic but he couldn't feel something for the Kitsune princess. They were just friends. He skillfully took control for his short solo as she let her voice fade from his.
You'll deny the truth - believe a lie
There'll be times that you'll believe you can really fly
But your lonely nights - have just begun
When you love someone Tarawen had to admit, the boy could sing when he wanted to. But after what he went through, did he really want to sing this song with her? The flashy and quick entrance had to have been forced on him. He wouldn't have rushed on his own after her abusing him, would he?
When you love someone - you'll feel it deep inside
And nothing else can ever change your mind
When you want someone - when you need someone
When you love someone... Kohachan couldn't help but admire Tarawen's voice. He swallowed the smile itching to reach his lips at the thought of her voice yelling at him. This was indeed a dramatic change for the better. He knew as her eyes were trained on the audience that there were two possibilities. Either she steadfastly was trying not to look at him or she really didn't care about the fact she was singing the love song with him. Neither was pleasing but he joined her for the final part.
When you love someone - you'll sacrifice
You'd give it everything you got and you won't think twice
You'd risk it all - no matter what may come
When you love someone
You'll shoot the moon - put out the sun
When you love someone
They fell silent and the ending music slowly died away. Tarawen and Kohachan took each others hand and bowed together before nodding to each other as the audience went into a roar of applause and began tossing flowers of all sorts to the stage as the shades were lifted and bright red and orange fire light flooded the stage.
Kohachan began to walk away, deciding to get some rest. Tomorrow would prove to be a long and taxing day, after all. Tarawen felt her throat catch for the first time as she went after him a couple paces, "Kohachan, aren't you going to stay?"
He shook his head and waved over his shoulder, "I'd like just to see friends right now and get tomorrow's agenda in order. We'll be leaving this island soon and things must be put in order for that." Tarawen nodded but sadly, her ears slightly falling but she remained silent. "Good night, Tarawen."
~~~~~~~
The songs are "It's My Life" by John Bov Jovi and "When You Love Someone" by (unavailable . . . sorry)
I still stand by my opening "threat". This could be the end or it will continue. Only if enough people can convince me to go on, okay?
SunMoonKnight: *Teary eyed* That was . . . Beautiful! I forbid you to quit, Shadow Girl!
Tell that to the readers. Then maybe if they agree, I'll go ahead, okay?
Till next time . . .
SunMoonKnight: Sadly, I must confess, neither Shadow Girl nor myself own Zelda. Actually, I'm not even the co-writer of this story . . .
Fair enough. But first, this one if for Jelie36 (Oh, I hear you with homework!), Shadow Knight (Mostly it is only Tarawen. But others can do it too to a degree.), Dream] [Walker3 (Sorry for leaving you on your toes. I'm here now) SunMoonKnight-
SunMoonKnight: Yes?
I forgot he is a reviewer as well. Well, this one is for you also.
Dragonkiller, I need to single you out now. Why are you being so rude? It makes me want to quit. So . . . Keep pushing me and I leave, got that? If you have nothing fair to say, then say nothing.
SunMoonKnight: Shadow Girl, is that not a bit harsh?
I don't care anymore! It's the truth. I had a bad day and that review did nothing to help! I hate being like this but I feel I need to do something so that is what I'm doing.
SunMoonKnight: You really should stop letting one person change your mind about this story. Well, ignore the rather ill tempered authoress here. I'll make sure she keeps writing, okay? His chapter should go well so please, esteemed reader, do read on. ^_^
~~~~~~~
~ Revelations and Sorrowful Serenades ~
Sundown was nearly done as the pale yellow horizon was dimming. Zolaris and Matt were both fairly well cleaned up and on the trails again, this time making better time to get back. Zolaris held the ring in his fist as he used his free arm to get up the few boulders in the way. Matt watched the Sheikah from behind, not trusting him to pull that joke again.
Matt could only wonder why the silver haired man kept only one fist clenched. His other hand was relaxed enough and he didn't seem angry. Even then, he wasn't looking at whatever could have been in it.
Wondering how much he could push his luck, Matt watched the pace that the fist swung in. He firmly convinced himself there was something of importance or interest in that fist. The ground was flat for a ways so the pace would hopefully remain steady. If he was fast enough, he could get hold of whatever was in the palm.
His curiosity was too great by then to ignore any more. He counted down in his head then dashed forward only to have the fist lifted away at the last second. He stumbled past, having planned to grab the fist for support. Spinning around, he glared at the grinning Zolaris then he laughed. What was he thinking?
Zolaris kept his fist carefully closed and walked past Matt, wanting nothing but to be back in the tribe. Most fun things came at nightfall after all. Including the scary stories. He grinned with mischief and quickened his pace, making Matt nearly well run to keep up.
"C'mon, Zolaris, what are you holding onto?" Zolaris said over his shoulder after ducking a low vine, "Just a small treasure. It's for Kohachan and you should be less nosy."
"Ouch. What's the harm of asking a simple question? And why are we now running?"
"This thing has me confused. I want to find out its mystery." Matt perked up on the mention of a mystery and shouted, "I'm good with mysteries! Let me take a look! Come on, just show me. I won't even touch!" Zolaris was becoming tired of the assault.
Whirling around, he watched Matt just barely stop from barreling into him and then held the ring between two fingers. Matt swallowed a few surprised remarks and examined the ring, resisting the many temptations to grab it for a closer look.
He looked at the odd, scratch-like markings scribed in blue then the triangle that was either upside-down or right side up depending on how it was worn. The crescent moons intrigued him, though but other than those features, the ring didn't seem to be a mystery at all. He looked quizzically to Zolaris.
Zolaris cocked an eyebrow at the look then explained, "I found this ring only in the tribe a long time ago. It was when I visited Kohachan for the first time in Hyrule when we traveled together to the island where Toloran already awaited us. It was when we became friends so I held onto this, wondering if I should hand it over or not. I will now, since it is obvious he won't stay. He still has a mission to run."
"I couldn't get it to him then but now I will be sure he remembers. This time, I'll give the ring to him if only to remember this place by." Matt was silent for a bit, trying hard to keep his comment to himself but ultimately, he failed, "Isn't that like a wedding ring then?"
Zolaris coughed a bit and turned to keep on walking, trying hard to block his imagination from going to work. Matt started and grabbed hold of Zolaris' shirt to stop him, "Hang on, sorry. I know that's not what you meant. Now what else about the ring?" Zolaris pulled away and waved the question off, "That is not your concern, not really. Come on, we're getting closer and you need new clothes."
Matt slumped his shoulders in defeat but then shrugged. He would simply have to be there when the Sheikah talked about it to another. They continued in silence as the night fully set in and the first torchlights became visible.
~~~~~
Sweat beaded at his forehead and gently rolled down his temple as Kohachan studied the board intently. He couldn't slip again. He had made only one error and that almost cost him badly. He had recovered and now to gain the upper hand again.
He traced the attack pattern in his head as his opponent watched with a confident grin. Kohachan shook his head slightly, forming another plan. He was not experienced enough! How could he have made that challenge? Too much rode on this game!
Almost timidly, he set his fingers on the piece, his eyes wandering sadly to the pile of treasure nearby. With a deep breath, he skipped the carved wood across the board then ended the turn.
His opponent, Malth, shook his head with a laugh and set two quick fingers over another piece, sending Kohachan's move to waste. Kohachan was in trouble.
Tarawen was getting a bit impatient with the boy. She needed to talk with the Sheikah but his thoughts were distracted by the game. Finally, she drifted over his shoulder as he stared intently at the game. It was not a tournament and Malth was allowed to get aid thus so was Kohachan. She would be that aid if only to end the thing.
Calmly, Tarawen reached to the board and moved a single piece just two spaces, despite Kohachan's quick scorn.
Malth's grin dropped and then his mouth fell open. He heaves a sigh and said gracefully, "I give up."
"What? This game isn't over yet!" Kohachan stopped as Malth's words registered in his mind. "Wait, what?" He looked at the board and rubbed his chin in wonder, "Well, by Din's fire . . ."
He quickly collected the prize, knowing full well that he would have to split it with Tarawen. He didn't care, seeing the cocky Kitsune's bubble pop was reward enough.
He looked up at Tarawen in apology for the sharp reprimands but she started speaking first, "Kohachan, we need to talk. Follow me." Now why did Kohachan have a sinking feeling in his gut? This was not going to be good . . .
On the way, he snatched up a wedge of interesting cheese. It was his first time trying it before and he decided then that he liked it. The taste might even help keep any temper down. Tarawen saw the action, wondering why he would grab another snack, but shrugged it off and led him to her father's study.
Kohachan nibbled on the cheese as Tarawen took a deep breath and faced him, "Kohachan, why have you continued to pester me and try my patience." She knew this was not going to end in soft talk. And he proved it to her after clearing his mouth, "What do you mean?"
Tarawen knew it. She stifled her sharp yell then calmly said, "Well even today when you made me lose that fresh loaf of bread."
"That was an accident!" Kohachan refused to admit he was looking for a bit of fun. He took another bite from the cheese and waited her return comment. "Well, you didn't . . . okay, you did apologize." Kohachan grinned at the minor victory, which only made Tarawen even more irritated at him.
She calmed herself, deciding to talk this out rather than throw that nice big vase at him. Though, inflicting injury to him was quite appealing at the moment. She locked eyes with him as he seemed to slightly flinch and demanded, "Tell me the truth, Kohachan. Do you try to get into trouble or not?"
Kohachan felt his stomach knot up. What was going on? Must be the cheese. Had to be the cheese. The pain was growing quickly. He looked to Tarawen. She was the last person he wanted to see witness his pain. He quickly confessed, "Yes, I was looking for trouble. But only for a bit of fun, not harm or any grudge. Just a run around. Now, if you will excuse me."
Before Tarawen could answer, he turned away, a hand going almost spasmodically to his stomach and he started to the walk, nearly staggering to his quarters.
Tarawen watched him go, fear and curiosity replaced her annoyance and suspicion. His face twisted in sudden pain in the quick comment and that had not gone by unnoticed by her. Decidedly, she ignored the treasure won in the game and shifted to fox form to follow him.
Kohachan fell to his knees, one hand in his hammock. His other hand dropped what was left of the wedge of the accursed cheese. This kind of pain, he had never experienced before.
It felt like two hands were grabbing his insides. Or as though something inside was pushing it's way out. He fell to the floor, curling into a fetal position. Why wouldn't it go away? He bit back a cry as the pain grew to a greater height than he anticipated.
Tarawen sat in the doorway, fear in her eyes as she saw the Sheikah on the ground, paralyzed by pain. {Kohachan, what's wrong?!} She went to his side even as he gasped and tried to warn her away.
He didn't want her to see him like this. Even though she was with him earlier as he was injured. When he first got on the island! Yet he couldn't bite back a cry of pain as finally it reached a climax then subsided into a duller pressure.
It was as though his insides had shifted to allow a more comfortable position. Tarawen quickly changed to her normal self and kneeled beside him to help him up when she saw him relax a bit but not move. She set a hand on his forehead. It was not hot though a bit of sweat still clung to it from the board game.
She spoke softly, wanting to know what was wrong, "Kohachan, are you okay? What is it?" He didn't answer but he leaned against her, trying to get up. Setting a firm hand under his shoulder, she helped him to the hammock, his favorite place, and set a cloak over him.
Kohachan breathed deeply, feeling yet another swell of pain coming up. Tarawen's voice held little meaning as she suddenly was grasping his hand, "Please, talk to me. You are conscious so why don't you say anything?"
She sighed lightly, having an idea why he would act this way. It wasn't pain he was in. He was abusing himself for bothering her so often. Soothingly, she held onto him and said, "I don't really care that you did those things. It was even . . . fun to go after you. You and Zolaris, I guess." She looked to him, seeing if her words got a reaction.
When he didn't respond but by a free hand going to his stomach area again, she tried again fervently, "Kohachan, you can't just not talk to me! We are friends after all! Just say something!!"
Finally, Kohachan moaned out, "It's . . . not you." He fell silent as Tarawen slightly sighed in relief, "Well, I just want to say . . . I am sorry for that punch in the face. And the knife cut. And that large book I threw at you. But you know you do get on my nerves." She smiled up at him but Kohachan's eyes were tightly closed.
The pain was swelling by the second, Tarawen's voice drowned out even more as he focused all his will to keep from crying out. He could feel her gripping his hand in urgency, trying to get his attention. Why did she have to be there right then?
Kohachan slowly opened his eyes to see Tarawen looking at him. She was in more distress than he had seen her even when he was injured. He swallowed the pain as best he could, masking it to seem he was fine. Though he knew he was far from it. At least this calmed her down.
"Kohachan, will you speak to me now?" He heard her and nodded, though why she would ask was beyond him. Slowly, carefully as the pain reached a downfall he said with almost a smirk, "Cheese intolerant."
"WHAT?!"
~~~~~
Link looked art his uniform once again, still in the gray/green vest that showed off his abbs and most of his chest as well as his shoulders and arms. This accompanied by the loose fitting pants that led to the slipper style shoes and the gold belt. It was no wonder a lot of the younger Kitsune girls were looking at him.
Then a loud shout followed closely by a loud crash was heard from the room he had woken in. Running away from the fire he had sat near among other young Kitsune and Toloran, he ran to see what it was. He could see Tarawen storming away from the room, he decided perhaps it was better not to find out . . .
He settled back in the circle around the low but warm fire, shrugging to them as Toloran got everyone's attention once more. When all the Kitsune settled and looked at the leader Sheikah, he started darkly in his deep voice, "I wonder. I wonder if any of you have heard of Old Lady Poe. Anyone?"
The hair on the back of Link's neck stood on end at the question as all present around Toloran shook their heads. He grinned and nodded, "Very well then. That is the story I shall tell." The young warrior beside Toloran crossed his arms, a determined and bored look upon his face as Toloran swung into the story.
"Long ago was an old lady who lived all alone. She remembered fondly timed she spent with her mother who passed away before her time. Of her daughter and son who both moved away, leaving her in the care of her brother. Even he went away, determined to find a decent living."
"Her family moved away and her children left her for better lands. She missed them dearly and dreamed of their return until she could dream no more. Each night she sat on her porch and looked out unto the field and gave a piteous cry." He gave his voice a shrill crack and softly imitated the old lady, "'Who will share my company on this cold and lonely night?' she would ask. Yet none would hear her. None would come."
A few Kitsune leaned closer as Toloran continued, "Eventually age caught up with her. Before she died, every night, she would ask time and again 'Who will share my company this cold and lonely night?' Finally, she was silenced by time."
"But even from the grave she would call." He drew out his voice, giving it an eerie whistle as the fire suddenly went out, plunging them in moonlight but Toloran's eyes held theirs. Several Kitsune shivered but remained quiet as Toloran continued, "'Whhooo will share my companyyy thiss cooolld and loonnelyyy niigghhtt?' She would cry. But this time Old Lady Poe got her answer."
The Kitsune held their breath when suddenly, Toloran grabbed the arm of the warrior and shrieked, "YOU WILL!!"
With only a moment to gasp, the warrior leaped up, screamed for his life then fell back down in the lap of the fellow beside him away from Toloran who roared with laughter along with everyone else by the small bonfire.
Kyou hyperventilated a moment and looked for the hand of Old Lady Poe only to realize it was a joke. He growled at the Sheikah but then laughed at himself before crawling back to his place.
Laughter was reduced to chuckles as another form made itself known. Toloran began clapping as Zolaris took a bow for his pyrotechnics. Zolaris stood over the group, a wild grin across his face and a challenging look in his eye, the way he always was after scaring a person near to death by his clever magic.
He brought the flames back to life when suddenly music started from the center of the tribe. A highly lit area where Kitsune had worked through to the sunset to erect a stage. All got up and began to run toward it, two young female Kitsune pulling Link along by either wrist.
Link saw the stage as a band of Kitsune set up various metal and wooden as well as stringed instruments. There were three singers with their own instruments while others only played music and still a couple others played and sang background.
Standing just at the stage beside the silver Kitsune, Malth, was Matt. Matt wore an outfit almost perfectly similar to Link's except it was red instead of gray-green with a deeper gold for a belt. And Matt wore it well.
Beside him was another girl but as she turned, Link easily realized it was Crystal! She wore the same outfit as the other females, which didn't show too much, except her arms and shoulders were bare along with a small part of her slim waist.
Link didn't care. She was alive and safe. Before she could say anything, he pulled her into a tight embrace while the girl Kitsune near Link bristled and Matt just grinned. Crystal froze for a moment before awkwardly returning the embrace as Link slowly backed away, a small blush on his cheeks for the display.
One of the Kitsune went to him and Malth as the band began. Link shouted to Crystal over the sudden burst of attention-seizing music for an explanation but was drowned out as the song began.
This ain't a song for the broken-hearted
No silent prayer for the faith-departed
I ain't gonna be just a face in the crowd
You're gonna hear my voice
When I shout it out loud
The main voices were in unison for the most part and sounded beautiful as well as powerful even through the wild cheers of the quickly growing audience.
It's my life
It's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
It's my life
My heart is like an open skyway
Like my mother said
I did it my way
I just wanna live while I'm alive
It's my life
This is for the ones who stood their ground
For Father and Brother who never backed down
Tomorrow's getting harder make no mistake
Luck ain't even lucky
Got to make your own breaks
Link realized the song was dedicated to the Kitsune who had fought in the long war. Who fought for their freedom and for their loved ones. And fought to live life their way. His heart was taken away as the song reached a crescendo.
It's my life
And it's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
It's my life
My heart is like an open skyway
Like my mother said
I did it my way
I just want to live while I'm alive
'Cause it's my life
Better stand tall when they're calling you out
Don't bend, don't break, no, don't back down
Link smiled in appreciation for the singers as the lead singer seemed to look straight at him in the middle of his dancing and song. Link raised a fist in victory before joining with the cheering as Matt clapped him on the back and Crystal pumped her fist in the air twice in time with the heavy drum beat.
It's my life
And it's now or never
'Cause I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive
It's my life
My heart is like an open skyway
Like my mother said
I did it my way
I just want to live while I'm alive
Zolaris grinned, once again it was his turn to turn up the heat. From the two back corners, he summoned a pillar of sparking flames of various colors shooting to the sky as the chorus was sung once more. The audience went into a frenzy when the song finally ended. Breathless, the band took their bows and began the opening to the next song.
Crystal and Matt both grabbed Link and hauled him away to talk in private, though Link stood transfixed in the hyper pace his blood was stirred to by the song.
~~~~~
Zolaris nodded at his finale before glancing at the ring in his hand and headed toward the Sheikah Headquarters. If Kohachan hadn't heard the song, or even been in the band, then that would be where he was.
To his surprise, three young ones had beat him to the room but after stepping into it, the backed out and started in a different direction. Curious . . .
Zolaris quickened his pace to the room, after the three had left and no one else was around, he cautiously stepped into the room, lighting a small fire in his hand to light the way. His magic was merely warmed up for such a minor task. He saw the wreckage before him paled to what his imagination had concocted in the time it took to reach the room around the maze of walks and bridges.
Broken pieces of pottery lay around the hammock where Kohachan lay in misery. His labored breath would seem as though he were dying and the cut over his forehead bleeding over his closed left eye did nothing to change the idea of death.
Calmly, he walked to beside the hammock and regarded Kohachan. "Key, are you still alive?"
"No." Kohachan replied flatly, his voice oddly clear despite the rasps. Zolaris nodded in acknowledgment but pocketed the ring, deciding to take care of the mess first. He sent the ember to light the five torches around the roof but low enough, as always, to keep the roof from catching fire.
"The ship that you arrived in should almost be done if the damage you described earlier is as meek as it sounds." He heard this strike a chord in Kohachan, "Meek?! That damage was extensive if you take into account that the mast was nearly broken in several places!"
Zolaris shrugged, "Whatever. Come on, the music started and your fans wait. Tarawen included, I'm sure." He added a cocky grin and a wink at the last part.
To his surprise, Kohachan fell back from the half sitting position he was in and said weakly, "Just let me die already . . ." The pain was not fully subsided yet. Zolaris rolled his eyes, "Stop being a baby. If you want something to groan about, I'll give you something."
He cracked his knuckles in emphasis but Kohachan shot him a death glare, "Look, old friend. There is no way I'm going out there to sing when it feels like my insides are trying to become my outsides, okay?" He took a deep breath and let his eyes close to relax. Besides, he didn't think even Zolaris would be so heartless.
"If you don't go out there, you will have to face a very ticked Tarawen. Not to mention your friends are here as well. Matt and Crystal as well as Link." When Kohachan didn't respond, Zolaris grew ticked, "Look, I went swamp diving to get that boy out alive and get him here so you had better start moving your butt out of that hammock!!"
Kohachan didn't respond still. Let his friend yell his head off. It would help calm him down, to get rid of the frustrations. So, both Matt and Crystal joined Link. All they needed was a night to relax then . . .
His thoughts ceased with a sudden explosion of pain in his stomach. No. This pain was from the outside, not the inside. He opened his eyes wide in rage to see his friend and what had caused the sudden pain.
Zolaris had punched him in the gut!
Angrily, he responded by leaping from the hammock, tackling Zolaris to the ground, and getting him in a full strangle hold. Neither budged until a familiar figure entered the room and cleared his throat loudly. Toloran glared at the two, "This is a night for playing, not fighting. Though with you two, that could be up for discussion." Kohachan released Zolaris who rubbed his neck.
He set a hand gingerly to his stomach to feel the damage done when he realized it was gone. The cramp and shifting, all of it was gone. He was normal except for a possibly bruise or two on his muscles later.
Toloran then saw the pottery on the floor but Kohachan was quick to point out the blood on his face, revealing it was actual blood, not his own hair falling over one still closed eye. "Tarawen got mad at me for making her worry." That simple explanation was enough to satisfy Toloran. "Well, Kohachan, will you take the stage or not?" Zolaris demanded heatedly. Kohachan nodded but looked at the mess. How much time did they have?
The song in the main center of the tribe was about half done. Toloran swatted Kohachan's shoulder, ushering him to the door, "We'll take care of this, you take care of Tarawen and them, got it? Come back later and we'll talk about the others and how to get off the island." Kohachan nodded briefly before dashing toward the stage.
~~~~~
On the way, Kohachan fervently wiped the blood away. It had dried and the cut stopped bleeding. The dry blood came away easily as he also thought about what had happened and what would happen.
The demon of Zolaris was dormant but only until the next full moon. It seems the old legend is finally coming into effect. Something had to be done to stop the legend from being fulfilled or all kingdoms were doomed. He knew it had something to do with the fourth Triforce piece. The Triforce of chaos.
He knew only a little of it but supposedly as the three golden Triforce pieces were connected to the sacred realm, the fourth black piece was for the Moon Blade. The wielder of the pieces was supposedly able to gain access to that the piece went to.
The one who gained the keys to the Moon Gate could reveal the fourth piece, which would combine two legendary blades into one, granting the wielder of the fourth piece the power to control the blade thus gaining power absolute. However, legend had it, this could only occur on one full moon, and the process was delicate. It could be thwarted quite easily given the proper interference.
Well, he could think more of that later. The night would draw onward and Tarawen standing alone on stage looked none too pleased. He launched himself from the walk and performed a quick front flip followed by a smother, slower one before sticking the landing beside Tarawen and wiping the hair from his eyes with a confident grin that caused most females of the audience to either sigh or scream in delight.
"Show off." Tarawen accused but she grinned at his flashy entrance. She punched his arm but gently and announced the song while Kohachan caught what little breath he lost in the dash and acrobatics.
She stood by him again as the audience went into a hush and the fires lighting the stage area had blue dyed blinds set over them. He blue light fell over the two as the white moonlight highlighted their heads and shoulders and glinted gently off the instruments. Kohachan felt his breath gently caught even after it was back to normal but the two began their duet.
When you love someone - you'll do anything
You'll do all the crazy things that you can't explain
You'll shoot the moon - put out the sun
When you love someone Kohachan held his breath in the pause and couldn't help but think of the words, as he always did. Could he feel something for Tarawen? No, it couldn't be. He did enjoy singing alongside her as their voices mixed to magic but he couldn't feel something for the Kitsune princess. They were just friends. He skillfully took control for his short solo as she let her voice fade from his.
You'll deny the truth - believe a lie
There'll be times that you'll believe you can really fly
But your lonely nights - have just begun
When you love someone Tarawen had to admit, the boy could sing when he wanted to. But after what he went through, did he really want to sing this song with her? The flashy and quick entrance had to have been forced on him. He wouldn't have rushed on his own after her abusing him, would he?
When you love someone - you'll feel it deep inside
And nothing else can ever change your mind
When you want someone - when you need someone
When you love someone... Kohachan couldn't help but admire Tarawen's voice. He swallowed the smile itching to reach his lips at the thought of her voice yelling at him. This was indeed a dramatic change for the better. He knew as her eyes were trained on the audience that there were two possibilities. Either she steadfastly was trying not to look at him or she really didn't care about the fact she was singing the love song with him. Neither was pleasing but he joined her for the final part.
When you love someone - you'll sacrifice
You'd give it everything you got and you won't think twice
You'd risk it all - no matter what may come
When you love someone
You'll shoot the moon - put out the sun
When you love someone
They fell silent and the ending music slowly died away. Tarawen and Kohachan took each others hand and bowed together before nodding to each other as the audience went into a roar of applause and began tossing flowers of all sorts to the stage as the shades were lifted and bright red and orange fire light flooded the stage.
Kohachan began to walk away, deciding to get some rest. Tomorrow would prove to be a long and taxing day, after all. Tarawen felt her throat catch for the first time as she went after him a couple paces, "Kohachan, aren't you going to stay?"
He shook his head and waved over his shoulder, "I'd like just to see friends right now and get tomorrow's agenda in order. We'll be leaving this island soon and things must be put in order for that." Tarawen nodded but sadly, her ears slightly falling but she remained silent. "Good night, Tarawen."
~~~~~~~
The songs are "It's My Life" by John Bov Jovi and "When You Love Someone" by (unavailable . . . sorry)
I still stand by my opening "threat". This could be the end or it will continue. Only if enough people can convince me to go on, okay?
SunMoonKnight: *Teary eyed* That was . . . Beautiful! I forbid you to quit, Shadow Girl!
Tell that to the readers. Then maybe if they agree, I'll go ahead, okay?
Till next time . . .