~ Disclaimer ~ Nope, I don't own Zelda or anything related . . . I have
worse things to worry about!
CrysSton16: WHERE IS HE?!?!? *Is wielding Tarawen's long knife*
Calm down, eh? ^_^;;
Matt: No, we won't calm down! Join me, CrysSton and we will find this Dragonkiller together!!
CrysSton16: Yea, I agree with him. This Dragonkiller has gone on too long and too far. It ends now!
GUYS!! Please listen!! *Considers tapping into Authoress powers*
Merrick: No, we will not listen to you this time. We ARE going to find this Dragonkiller and teach him not to mess with you, Shadow Girl-Chan! You just stay put and leave this to us. *Ties Shadow Girl into the computer chair* And no authoress powers are going to get you out of that!
SunMoonKnight: As much as I would like to join them, I think I'll stay and make sure you're kept safe, Shadow Girl. But, if all else fails, I WILL go after Dragonkiller as well.
*All three are huddled to make a plan of attack*
Umm . . . Dragonkiller. I think you ought to apologize before these three actually do come up with a way to get at ya. *Sigh* Well, while they're at that, I'll just give the dedications, eh?
This chapter is for Shadow Knight (who is also plotting my vengeance), SunMoonKnight (who seems to want to stay here), Farmerboy (Wow, been a while. I can't wait to read one of your updates), Dream] [Walker (I won't give up so easily. It seems I have to write like I have to breathe but not as constantly), Angle1 (Well, should I leave you hanging? You're leaving me hanging by not typing on your story! Oh . . . sorry, long story there ^_^; ), Jelie36 (So much for not being spirited! I'm glad you back me up as well), and (yes even you) Dragonkiller.
I admit you did rather well upset me on first being rude but I hold no grudges. Still, you are being quite rude not to me but to my story by venting your anger on it. I would ask that you change your attitude somewhat and stop acting like such a child.
~~~~~~~
~ A Morning Departure ~
As the nightly festivities slowly came to a close, Link, Matt, and Crystal were shown to their own room. Link finally asked them what they wanted to talk about. "Well, we'll be leaving tomorrow if all goes according to schedule. Where do you think we will go to?" Crystal asked as she spread the sheets that were her bed out on the floor.
Matt shrugged, "I highly doubt that wherever we are going, it will be for too long. Probably just a night or so. Plus, what about the trip just getting there? Katie is up and about and there will be no living with her even for a short time."
Link nodded his agreement with a sigh, "Yeah, you're right. But wherever we leave her off at, that will be the last time we get to see her. So, if we can just stand the trip there, then that trouble will be over. All we have to do is endure." He then set his begging out along with Matt until all three beds were set in a bit of a circle, their heads close together to talk quietly.
Crystal sighed intolerantly, "Well, if she gets in my face again, I WILL be introducing her to my brand new twin daggers!"
"You still consider them new?" Link moved to turn out the candles but turned back to her for an answer.
"Well, yeah. They haven't really seen battle yet so when they do, then I'll consider them less than brand new but still new nonetheless. Understand?" She turned over in the bed to lay on her stomach as Matt relaxed on his back and Link sat on his knees on his.
Matt cocked his head to look up at Crystal, "Technically, they would be brand new for just a couple days, right? So, those aren't brand new. Exactly, how long have you had them?" Crystal glanced at him but closed her eyes and answered, "I would guess about a week. Wow, it hasn't been that long but it still feels like it has! I do miss Roland."
"Roland?" Matt rolled over to listen clearly. Link provided, "Roland is the blacksmith from Crystal's homeland. The town called Dondoran." Matt gasped lightly then quickly inquired, "You mean a big guy, kind of squinty, wears a heavy black leather apron, big callused hands, and is actually really nice despite his looks?"
Crystal picked herself up on her elbows then, "You know him?! How?" Matt simply grinned while Link smiled at the coincidence, "I told you, Crystal, that I wander all over the place. When I was a stowaway with Cait aboard the ship, where do you think we came from?" Crystal slapped her forehead though her smile broadened as he finished, "Besides, that is my hometown as well. Heh, Roland is one of the individuals who makes himself known and is hard to forget!"
Link nodded with a bigger grin than before, his thoughts going to Darunia and his spine-crushing Goron hugs. He had to admit, he did miss them all. All his friends including the Gorons. And the one named after him.
Perhaps going back to Hyrule wasn't so bad an idea after all. He set himself down on his back then, sliding under the covers and set his hands behind his head on the pillow. He'd talk to Kohachan the next day about it while Crystal and Matt stayed awake to talk of the old land.
~~~~~
Tarawen tried to rest but found herself unable to. She laid back on her own sleeping bed, staring up at the ceiling, her eyes glittery emeralds in the night. "Stupid Sheikah" She muttered softly as no matter what he thought of, her thoughts returned to him. Annoying indeed. She turned onto her side and forced her eyes closed
Images of the sea and of the waves coming to her mind. She couldn't help but smile at the scene but then it became darker as a ship was sailing away. She found herself unable to get away from the image as the ship was tossed through the water and a strange whirlpool opened near it. Near enough that the helpless vessel was pulled into it and sent into wide circles only to be pulled onto its side and pulled under.
She threw the covers off, sweat beaded on her forehead, and set a hand to her forehead. Kohachan and the foreigners were leaving the next day by ship. What if those images . . .
Resolutely, she got up from her bed and left her room. Sneaking past her fathers' room, she escaped the entire home altogether and started toward the Sheikah headquarters not too far away. Just as soon as she was just outside the room, she regretted ever leaving her bed. Hugging herself against the chill ocean wind, she finally swallowed her fear and slipped inside.
As expected, all three Sheikah were resting. Zolaris seemed to have developed an odd habit of resting in the rafters while Toloran was in his own mat near the window and Kohachan, one hand resting gingerly over his stomach, rested peacefully in his hammock.
She slightly grimaced seeing the scar formed over his brow near his hairline. Again she approached him, ready to set a hand over his and wake him up. He gave a small sigh then, one eye slightly twitching almost in irritation. She drew back, her fingers only slightly trembling. Convincing herself that the scene of the sinking ship was just her imagination, she turned around and quietly began to stalk out.
"You can stay . . . if that is what you want." She froze. The voice, soft as the wind, had sounded like Kohachan. She turned to glance over her shoulder only to find that he hadn't moved. Swaying closer to the door, she paused, with one hand in on the wall near it. When no more was said, she decidedly went out. Leaning against the wall on the outside, she listened intently, wanting to know if he was really awake or not.
She didn't hear anything more from that room. Not even the sound of any of the Sheikah breathing. Finally she knew she wouldn't rest with the thoughts of the sinking vessel sailing through her mind. She calmly became her red fox form and sauntered just as quietly back into the room. She leaped up to Kohachan perfectly carefree even as he flinched from her landing on his very sore stomach. She moved under his chin and curled on his chest.
With a deep sigh, she curled up, the warmth of his body comforting her. She didn't expect but was delighted when two fingers were behind her ears, messaging her into pure Heaven before she drifted off to perfect, peaceful rest.
~~~~~
The morning proved to be a busy one. Kohachan grinned with pure mischief as he parted the screens over the room where his friends rested. Link flinched while Crystal covered her head with the pillows and Matt laid one arm over his closed eyes. Such was what Kohachan expected. He grinned and shook Crystal's shoulder to wake her up before pulling the covers off of Link, revealing his vest gone and the shoes but he still wore the pants given to him. Matt seemed to be the same as one leg was poking out of the side of his bed.
Link pulled the covers back while Crystal turned over in annoyance and Matt blissfully rested. Kohachan stood up, deciding to go with the hard way. He took a deep breath, "GOOD MOOORRRNNNIIINNNGGG!!!!"
Link shrieked in pain and shock while Matt swatted at the unknown enemy and Crystal groaned from under the pillow. Kohachan beamed and kept the shades aside as he left. Perhaps a more direct approach would rouse them better.
His thoughts went to Tarawen. She was still asleep. He stopped on that thought, and firmly decided against it. His tendencies got her angry quite often. It would be best to leave with better terms rather than give her a reason to hate him when he left. He shrugged, pocketing his hands and whistled lightly the tune the Kitsune played the night previous. The music had been loud enough to easily reach him until he lightly sang the words, "It's my life."
Toloran clapped him sharply on the shoulder, causing even him to jump slightly. He grabbed the hand and flipped the slightly taller Sheikah over his shoulder. Toloran caught himself if only barely then attacked Kohachan back, Kohachan caught the knee before it could strike then threw it off and began kick boxing with the blonde haired Sheikah.
They went into a quick series of kicks, shin to shin, until both stopped and began rubbing the newly sore area rapidly. Yeah, there was a bruise for them both. Toloran jumped back then, landing in a new stance but not drawing the blade on his back. Kohachan drew back into a ready stance as well, slightly bouncing on his toes, ready for the attack.
Toloran jumped high into the air, coming down on Kohachan, kicking. Kohachan held his forearms in defensive as Toloran fell away by gravity and landed to try a few quick punches. Kohachan dodges, blocked or even met the punched with his own. Both were smiling with challenge as the spar continued.
Kohachan threw another punch, aiming for Toloran's jaw when Toloran drew back. Kohachan moved himself closer than went into another high kick that managed to connect with Toloran's stomach. He grinned but the grin died as Toloran caught the foot and held Kohachan still. With a low growl, Kohachan jumped off the ground and kicked with the other foot into Toloran's chest. Both fell to the ground.
In the odd moment of silence, the same trio of Kitsune crawled past, jumping over Kohachan and going around Toloran, heading off to find breakfast. Kohachan shrugged and got up, offering a hand to Toloran. They grabbed each other's wrist as Kohachan hauled Toloran from the floor and both went off to find something to eat.
"You know, sometime, Toloran, I'm going to have to face you blade-to- blade." Toloran laughed at his younger friend, "Believe me, you do not want to face the power of this blade anytime soon, okay? Now, how about some sweet bread?" Toloran smiled brightly, as though Kohachan was a child wanting a sweet snack. Kohachan decided to teach him better than that.
Giving the older Sheikah a firm thump with his center knuckle in the shoulder, he countered, "Well, you can have sweet bread but I was thinking more along the lines of fried fish and pedackle eggs. Neh?" He invited him.
Toloran shrugged, sowing no pain from the sharp jab, though it was there, and returned, "Well, today we will need a bit of extra energy, no?" Kohachan regarded him a moment then decided, "Perhaps a slice but I'm going to miss those pedackle eggs . . ." Toloran laughed semi-sympathetically as they came unto the serving area.
"So, what of the trio travelers? Not to mention the rest of the company . . . How are they?" Kohachan mentally slapped himself for forgetting. He grinned, "They had their wake up call but I'll need to find a better way to get them up and about if they fall back asleep."
"Indeed. Try the early shower routine if you can carry them all to the falls. That'll get them up. So, what of Tarawen? I saw her with you before I left the room."
"She still sleeps. I'm not going to disturb her . . . this time." Toloran nodded, trying his best to hide a grin. He busied himself with slicing off a fair piece of the honey and berry filled bread and placing the serving on a wooden platter. Kohachan helped himself to the eggs then a couple thin slices of fish meat. With their breakfast in hand, they both found a grassy area to settle in and eat peacefully.
Toloran broke the silence after clearing his mouth, "Exactly, where do you plan to go now?" Kohachan finished slicing the eggs then told Toloran the wholes story about Katie and the mission as well as Zelda's request. Toloran lightly scowled at the mention of Zelda demanding further services from Kohachan.
Kohachan forcefully swallowed a half chewed piece of bread and quickly waved off Toloran's , "It's not bad at all. I'm treated well now among them but I won't deny that I was happy to leave. My latest mission, as I've mentioned, is to bring Link home but with these . . . complications dealing with Zolaris demon and the legend. Well, you can imagine we have reasonable cause of delay."
Toloran nodded honestly but they both settled into silence while eating once again.
~~~~~
Tarawen slowly opened her eyes, rest well and done, she could smell breakfast in the air. Realizing where she was, she snapped her eyes open and pulled her tail from her nose, uncurling from the sleeping position.
Leaping to her paws, she noticed that she was still in the hammock but instead of a Sheikah's chest, she was sleeping on a bundle of cloths. How did he do that?!
She yawned and stretched, shaking off the last of her sleep. Well-rested, she decided to find where the redheaded scoundrel went off to. Upon seeing the light shining through the window from the east, it was fairly early still but breakfast would be served by then.
Jumping from the hammock, Tarawen went into a quick walk, her tail flowing behind her as she lazily regarded the cover and crawled under it into the dawn air. The morning, as she expected, was a beautiful one. Only a few pure white clouds were floating gently along in the crisp blue sky. It was such a nice day that just breathing was enough to gain energy and stamina.
Tarawen found the Sheikah with Toloran. Now, where was Zolaris? The room was empty. She shrugged slightly and began sneaking up behind Kohachan. Leaping from the high walk, she landed silently and signaled Toloran to keep quiet. She saw him slightly smile and go back to pinching off a piece of bread to chew on. She crept closer then crouched. Kohachan was busy with his breakfast and his thoughts. She crept closer, inching through the grass. Finally, she was holding her breath, just half a foot from behind his back. With a high jump, she landed triumphantly on his head.
With a light laugh, Kohachan lifted the piece of fish higher, "Care for a bite?" Tarawen gave a small fox-shrug and took up the offer but tried to steady herself as Kohachan rose. He took her from the top of his head and set her on the ground, taking up his empty platter.
He did have to rush eating if only to find out about Link and the other two. Growing oddly serious, Kohachan sauntered away to give his dish to those responsible to clean them then jogged towards the room where Link and then slept. Hopefully, they would be awake by then.
A feeling in the back of his neck boded unwell with him. Something was happening elsewhere. Finally reaching the room, he found no one there. Narrowing his eyes, he knew somehow that the three didn't go of their own accord. He left the room, going into a sprint toward the jungle, his senses pulling him in that direction.
It was not long before he heard three loud cries. They could have been from pain but sounded more of shock. He came to a sudden stop, fear clutching him. He fell forward into a dash, redoubling his efforts only to hear Zolaris laughter after the three yells.
He stopped on the edge of a familiar clearing to find Zolaris nearly well doubled over with laughter, three familiar figures sitting dumbfounded in the water, shivering with the cold. With a smirk, Kohachan came up behind Zolaris. Unable to help himself, he gave the laughing boy a good shove into the water as well. "Okay, you four, dry up soon. We're going to join the others."
~~~~~
Link rubbed the towel over his head once more, wishing the water in his ears would get out. He had two rude awakenings that morning ad was missing Navi's simple pulling on his hair. With a sigh, he pulled the actual soft tunic over his head then buckled the belt.
It was a paler green than he was used to with the collar, sleeves, and hem of it embroidered with gold. As well as pants to match. So much for shorts but he could get used to them. He only longed for one item. His boots. And they were the new boots Crystal had bought him so long ago.
He'd need to find another pair or something but then he wasn't alone in that department. All three of them needed to go shopping sometime. Perhaps when they got to the land where they would drop off Katie and look for something fair to wear there. But how would they get there with what they had?
Before he knew it, Kohachan returned, rounding them up with only what they were wearing and was shuffling them out the door. Matt shook his head, a few small drops of water flew around to which Crystal shielded herself.
Link demanded, "Why are you hurrying us? We're going to need time to pack, right? We need provisions to last the trip." Kohachan lightly laughed and continued pressuring them out of the tribe. "Actually, it won't be near as long as you would like to believe but I want to leave before high noon, eh? Come on."
With a fair shove on his shoulder, he fell through the door to land into Toloran. Toloran steadied him then looked to each of them. All seemed ready to leave. He nodded to them with a fair smile then turned to Kohachan, "Ready for a bit of a treck? We'll pass through that clearing you and that fighter made-"
"Wait, we?" Kohachan glanced at the three then switched smoothly to Kitsune language, "There is no we. You and Zolaris are staying, right? Or you're going off to other lands. I'll just accompany Link to this new island then take him back to Hyrule. I've decided that much anyway. I'll obey Zelda if not immediately."
"No, not really. We'll go with you, if you don't mind the company. The fighters are losing now and that one powerful Shaman of theirs is gone so there is no need for Zolaris and I to stay. Besides," He grew slightly darker only when Link, Matt, and Crystal fell out of earshot, "this legend of the Moon Gods has caught my attention. You know what will happen in only thirteen more days. Then another fifteen days after that . . ." Kohachan nodded with a weary sigh. There was no escape from this madness.
Packing only a bit of water and making sure he had all his regular red potions, Kohachan gathered the rest of his belongings that he carried to the tribe. Namely, his cloak and items. His mind hanging on the concept of Toloran's joining him. But what of Zolaris? Would he agree as well?
Wiping his mind of the matter, Kohachan sent off to join Link, Matt, Crystal, and even Tarawen as well as a small departure group of Kitsune including the three mischievous ones, Malth, and even Kyou along with others who he didn't have the pleasure of meeting. The leader wasn't there, for some reason or other but Kohachan decided not to wonder about that.
"Tarawen, what in Farore's Wind are you doing here?" He asked flatly, his fair spirit from the morning gone. She shrugged, "You think I'm letting you go this easily? Kohachan, you underestimate me." He shook his head with a small sigh but then forced himself to perk up, "Well, now. It seems we have a going away party of a sort. Are you three ready?" He looked to Link and them when a sound of swift running was heard behind him.
"You are not leaving without us!" Zolaris yelled as Toloran was close behind him, both had their trademark weapons, the items at their sides, and cloaks over their shoulders, hoods pulled back.
Kohachan had to admit, he wasn't displeased with seeing them, though this would make the cabin much more crowded. He got hold of Zolaris forearm in friendly welcome as Zolaris returned the grip then he nodded to Toloran. Malth announced one final cheer for the victory. A cheer that echoed through the trees while all being cheered for turned red with a flush.
Tarawen finally spoke up, "Ah, Malth, that is enough. We won't be gone forever. Just a couple of weeks or so." She held her voice casual though she knew that she wasn't going to come back for a long time. She needed more adventure and this was the perfect opportunity. Malth shrugged but grinned happily as the four young ones had gladly joined him in his cheer.
At long last, the travelers simultaneously began their walk through the jungle, Tarawen quickly changing to her fox-form, knowing she would have to stay that way most of the time. She didn't complain, though, since it wasn't the worst way to get around at all. It was even pleasant as she rode on Kohachan's shoulder then jumped to Toloran for the height he provided.
Link watched the fox's antics happily, his thoughts going to Navi. He looked to Crystal almost before he caught himself then looked ahead once again, busying his mind with other problems to face. This included Oni who was quickly regaining energy within him.
With a languid stretch, Crystal yawned the last of her fatigue away and walked between Matt and Zolaris. Somehow, she realized she was attached to the both of them through the dilemma they faced together after that demon subsided. Glancing at Zolaris, she could see in his eye only the faint memory of being shaken after the incident. He was fine now if only temporarily. She wished he could be free of his fear, though, as well as Link, for that matter. In a moment of thought, she wondered why Navi was being so quiet for so long. When she reached for Navi, there was no answer, though the fairies' presence was there nonetheless. She decided to ask Link about it later.
Matt kept his feet up, despite the rather ridiculous slippers he was provided. At least they gripped his feet a bit more than boots and they seemed to last a bit more than he had anticipated. He didn't care about going off once again, so long as the first thing he did when he joined the others near the ship was give Cait a hug and gain his medallion back. Then he would be protected from any troubles and harm once more.
Toloran took up rear guard, though there was no need of it. At least he could keep an eye on everyone except the fox atop his head. Every once in a while, she would let her tail fall around his ear, tickling it to no end before he slapped it away. With a quick murmured purr of an apology, she would let it behind his head once again. He kept pace easily with the ones in front with his long stride though Kohachan seemed to want to pick up the pace again.
With a quick sigh, Kohachan forced himself to settle again. He tried to keep his own pace from pressing the others but it was no secret that he wanted to get there quickly. Why, even he didn't know. He set one hand over the katana hilt, the feel of the weapon comforting him fairly well. He forced himself to calm down and wonder for the sudden bad feeling welling within him. He didn't eat anything bad, to his knowledge. Nor did that spar get him worked up but that was even before eating. He took a long pull at his water carrier then corked it again, forcing himself to ignore the anxiety.
Zolaris slightly grinned as he hummed a tune to himself. It was all he could do to focus off of the feeling of darkness within him. The demon within him had free reign over what Zolaris did. What had happened fully this time around anyway? He could never remember anything, but this was even worse than last time. That demon was ready to kill Matt in only a few more moments' time. The legend was coming true for him. The Hydra sword proved that. But where was the enemy? Where was the fighter representing the Light Moon God and wielding the blade to oppose the Dark Moon Blade?
He lowered his eyes in thought, the humming dying in his mind as he too was flooded with thoughts. Wherever the enemy was, Zolaris hoped they would remain separated for a nice long time. The enemies and the blades.
~~~~~~~
Okay, that enough. I stopped where I want and it really isn't too late so . . . yeah. No good night but a small goodbye. The story's going to move quickly-
CrysSton16: Darn you, Dragonkiller, you threw her off track! Look, she was having a hugely hard time just writing this thing so you had better apologize and be sincere about it! *Breathes heavily while wielding Toloran's broadsword*
Matt: 0.o When did you get that, Crys?
Merrick: Who cares?! I agree with her! Let's go off to find wherever this authoress killer lives and pound him to a pulp! *Holds up his black katana in preparation to attack*
SunMoonKnight: Shadow Girl, are you well so far?
-_-;; A headache but other than that, I'm fine. Thanks.
*CrysSton, Matt, and Merrick start for the door and try to open it to find it locked* (all three) What's the deal?!
*Whistling innocently* You have one last chance to save yourself, Dragonkiller. Then I hand the key over to them.
Till next time!
CrysSton16: WHERE IS HE?!?!? *Is wielding Tarawen's long knife*
Calm down, eh? ^_^;;
Matt: No, we won't calm down! Join me, CrysSton and we will find this Dragonkiller together!!
CrysSton16: Yea, I agree with him. This Dragonkiller has gone on too long and too far. It ends now!
GUYS!! Please listen!! *Considers tapping into Authoress powers*
Merrick: No, we will not listen to you this time. We ARE going to find this Dragonkiller and teach him not to mess with you, Shadow Girl-Chan! You just stay put and leave this to us. *Ties Shadow Girl into the computer chair* And no authoress powers are going to get you out of that!
SunMoonKnight: As much as I would like to join them, I think I'll stay and make sure you're kept safe, Shadow Girl. But, if all else fails, I WILL go after Dragonkiller as well.
*All three are huddled to make a plan of attack*
Umm . . . Dragonkiller. I think you ought to apologize before these three actually do come up with a way to get at ya. *Sigh* Well, while they're at that, I'll just give the dedications, eh?
This chapter is for Shadow Knight (who is also plotting my vengeance), SunMoonKnight (who seems to want to stay here), Farmerboy (Wow, been a while. I can't wait to read one of your updates), Dream] [Walker (I won't give up so easily. It seems I have to write like I have to breathe but not as constantly), Angle1 (Well, should I leave you hanging? You're leaving me hanging by not typing on your story! Oh . . . sorry, long story there ^_^; ), Jelie36 (So much for not being spirited! I'm glad you back me up as well), and (yes even you) Dragonkiller.
I admit you did rather well upset me on first being rude but I hold no grudges. Still, you are being quite rude not to me but to my story by venting your anger on it. I would ask that you change your attitude somewhat and stop acting like such a child.
~~~~~~~
~ A Morning Departure ~
As the nightly festivities slowly came to a close, Link, Matt, and Crystal were shown to their own room. Link finally asked them what they wanted to talk about. "Well, we'll be leaving tomorrow if all goes according to schedule. Where do you think we will go to?" Crystal asked as she spread the sheets that were her bed out on the floor.
Matt shrugged, "I highly doubt that wherever we are going, it will be for too long. Probably just a night or so. Plus, what about the trip just getting there? Katie is up and about and there will be no living with her even for a short time."
Link nodded his agreement with a sigh, "Yeah, you're right. But wherever we leave her off at, that will be the last time we get to see her. So, if we can just stand the trip there, then that trouble will be over. All we have to do is endure." He then set his begging out along with Matt until all three beds were set in a bit of a circle, their heads close together to talk quietly.
Crystal sighed intolerantly, "Well, if she gets in my face again, I WILL be introducing her to my brand new twin daggers!"
"You still consider them new?" Link moved to turn out the candles but turned back to her for an answer.
"Well, yeah. They haven't really seen battle yet so when they do, then I'll consider them less than brand new but still new nonetheless. Understand?" She turned over in the bed to lay on her stomach as Matt relaxed on his back and Link sat on his knees on his.
Matt cocked his head to look up at Crystal, "Technically, they would be brand new for just a couple days, right? So, those aren't brand new. Exactly, how long have you had them?" Crystal glanced at him but closed her eyes and answered, "I would guess about a week. Wow, it hasn't been that long but it still feels like it has! I do miss Roland."
"Roland?" Matt rolled over to listen clearly. Link provided, "Roland is the blacksmith from Crystal's homeland. The town called Dondoran." Matt gasped lightly then quickly inquired, "You mean a big guy, kind of squinty, wears a heavy black leather apron, big callused hands, and is actually really nice despite his looks?"
Crystal picked herself up on her elbows then, "You know him?! How?" Matt simply grinned while Link smiled at the coincidence, "I told you, Crystal, that I wander all over the place. When I was a stowaway with Cait aboard the ship, where do you think we came from?" Crystal slapped her forehead though her smile broadened as he finished, "Besides, that is my hometown as well. Heh, Roland is one of the individuals who makes himself known and is hard to forget!"
Link nodded with a bigger grin than before, his thoughts going to Darunia and his spine-crushing Goron hugs. He had to admit, he did miss them all. All his friends including the Gorons. And the one named after him.
Perhaps going back to Hyrule wasn't so bad an idea after all. He set himself down on his back then, sliding under the covers and set his hands behind his head on the pillow. He'd talk to Kohachan the next day about it while Crystal and Matt stayed awake to talk of the old land.
~~~~~
Tarawen tried to rest but found herself unable to. She laid back on her own sleeping bed, staring up at the ceiling, her eyes glittery emeralds in the night. "Stupid Sheikah" She muttered softly as no matter what he thought of, her thoughts returned to him. Annoying indeed. She turned onto her side and forced her eyes closed
Images of the sea and of the waves coming to her mind. She couldn't help but smile at the scene but then it became darker as a ship was sailing away. She found herself unable to get away from the image as the ship was tossed through the water and a strange whirlpool opened near it. Near enough that the helpless vessel was pulled into it and sent into wide circles only to be pulled onto its side and pulled under.
She threw the covers off, sweat beaded on her forehead, and set a hand to her forehead. Kohachan and the foreigners were leaving the next day by ship. What if those images . . .
Resolutely, she got up from her bed and left her room. Sneaking past her fathers' room, she escaped the entire home altogether and started toward the Sheikah headquarters not too far away. Just as soon as she was just outside the room, she regretted ever leaving her bed. Hugging herself against the chill ocean wind, she finally swallowed her fear and slipped inside.
As expected, all three Sheikah were resting. Zolaris seemed to have developed an odd habit of resting in the rafters while Toloran was in his own mat near the window and Kohachan, one hand resting gingerly over his stomach, rested peacefully in his hammock.
She slightly grimaced seeing the scar formed over his brow near his hairline. Again she approached him, ready to set a hand over his and wake him up. He gave a small sigh then, one eye slightly twitching almost in irritation. She drew back, her fingers only slightly trembling. Convincing herself that the scene of the sinking ship was just her imagination, she turned around and quietly began to stalk out.
"You can stay . . . if that is what you want." She froze. The voice, soft as the wind, had sounded like Kohachan. She turned to glance over her shoulder only to find that he hadn't moved. Swaying closer to the door, she paused, with one hand in on the wall near it. When no more was said, she decidedly went out. Leaning against the wall on the outside, she listened intently, wanting to know if he was really awake or not.
She didn't hear anything more from that room. Not even the sound of any of the Sheikah breathing. Finally she knew she wouldn't rest with the thoughts of the sinking vessel sailing through her mind. She calmly became her red fox form and sauntered just as quietly back into the room. She leaped up to Kohachan perfectly carefree even as he flinched from her landing on his very sore stomach. She moved under his chin and curled on his chest.
With a deep sigh, she curled up, the warmth of his body comforting her. She didn't expect but was delighted when two fingers were behind her ears, messaging her into pure Heaven before she drifted off to perfect, peaceful rest.
~~~~~
The morning proved to be a busy one. Kohachan grinned with pure mischief as he parted the screens over the room where his friends rested. Link flinched while Crystal covered her head with the pillows and Matt laid one arm over his closed eyes. Such was what Kohachan expected. He grinned and shook Crystal's shoulder to wake her up before pulling the covers off of Link, revealing his vest gone and the shoes but he still wore the pants given to him. Matt seemed to be the same as one leg was poking out of the side of his bed.
Link pulled the covers back while Crystal turned over in annoyance and Matt blissfully rested. Kohachan stood up, deciding to go with the hard way. He took a deep breath, "GOOD MOOORRRNNNIIINNNGGG!!!!"
Link shrieked in pain and shock while Matt swatted at the unknown enemy and Crystal groaned from under the pillow. Kohachan beamed and kept the shades aside as he left. Perhaps a more direct approach would rouse them better.
His thoughts went to Tarawen. She was still asleep. He stopped on that thought, and firmly decided against it. His tendencies got her angry quite often. It would be best to leave with better terms rather than give her a reason to hate him when he left. He shrugged, pocketing his hands and whistled lightly the tune the Kitsune played the night previous. The music had been loud enough to easily reach him until he lightly sang the words, "It's my life."
Toloran clapped him sharply on the shoulder, causing even him to jump slightly. He grabbed the hand and flipped the slightly taller Sheikah over his shoulder. Toloran caught himself if only barely then attacked Kohachan back, Kohachan caught the knee before it could strike then threw it off and began kick boxing with the blonde haired Sheikah.
They went into a quick series of kicks, shin to shin, until both stopped and began rubbing the newly sore area rapidly. Yeah, there was a bruise for them both. Toloran jumped back then, landing in a new stance but not drawing the blade on his back. Kohachan drew back into a ready stance as well, slightly bouncing on his toes, ready for the attack.
Toloran jumped high into the air, coming down on Kohachan, kicking. Kohachan held his forearms in defensive as Toloran fell away by gravity and landed to try a few quick punches. Kohachan dodges, blocked or even met the punched with his own. Both were smiling with challenge as the spar continued.
Kohachan threw another punch, aiming for Toloran's jaw when Toloran drew back. Kohachan moved himself closer than went into another high kick that managed to connect with Toloran's stomach. He grinned but the grin died as Toloran caught the foot and held Kohachan still. With a low growl, Kohachan jumped off the ground and kicked with the other foot into Toloran's chest. Both fell to the ground.
In the odd moment of silence, the same trio of Kitsune crawled past, jumping over Kohachan and going around Toloran, heading off to find breakfast. Kohachan shrugged and got up, offering a hand to Toloran. They grabbed each other's wrist as Kohachan hauled Toloran from the floor and both went off to find something to eat.
"You know, sometime, Toloran, I'm going to have to face you blade-to- blade." Toloran laughed at his younger friend, "Believe me, you do not want to face the power of this blade anytime soon, okay? Now, how about some sweet bread?" Toloran smiled brightly, as though Kohachan was a child wanting a sweet snack. Kohachan decided to teach him better than that.
Giving the older Sheikah a firm thump with his center knuckle in the shoulder, he countered, "Well, you can have sweet bread but I was thinking more along the lines of fried fish and pedackle eggs. Neh?" He invited him.
Toloran shrugged, sowing no pain from the sharp jab, though it was there, and returned, "Well, today we will need a bit of extra energy, no?" Kohachan regarded him a moment then decided, "Perhaps a slice but I'm going to miss those pedackle eggs . . ." Toloran laughed semi-sympathetically as they came unto the serving area.
"So, what of the trio travelers? Not to mention the rest of the company . . . How are they?" Kohachan mentally slapped himself for forgetting. He grinned, "They had their wake up call but I'll need to find a better way to get them up and about if they fall back asleep."
"Indeed. Try the early shower routine if you can carry them all to the falls. That'll get them up. So, what of Tarawen? I saw her with you before I left the room."
"She still sleeps. I'm not going to disturb her . . . this time." Toloran nodded, trying his best to hide a grin. He busied himself with slicing off a fair piece of the honey and berry filled bread and placing the serving on a wooden platter. Kohachan helped himself to the eggs then a couple thin slices of fish meat. With their breakfast in hand, they both found a grassy area to settle in and eat peacefully.
Toloran broke the silence after clearing his mouth, "Exactly, where do you plan to go now?" Kohachan finished slicing the eggs then told Toloran the wholes story about Katie and the mission as well as Zelda's request. Toloran lightly scowled at the mention of Zelda demanding further services from Kohachan.
Kohachan forcefully swallowed a half chewed piece of bread and quickly waved off Toloran's , "It's not bad at all. I'm treated well now among them but I won't deny that I was happy to leave. My latest mission, as I've mentioned, is to bring Link home but with these . . . complications dealing with Zolaris demon and the legend. Well, you can imagine we have reasonable cause of delay."
Toloran nodded honestly but they both settled into silence while eating once again.
~~~~~
Tarawen slowly opened her eyes, rest well and done, she could smell breakfast in the air. Realizing where she was, she snapped her eyes open and pulled her tail from her nose, uncurling from the sleeping position.
Leaping to her paws, she noticed that she was still in the hammock but instead of a Sheikah's chest, she was sleeping on a bundle of cloths. How did he do that?!
She yawned and stretched, shaking off the last of her sleep. Well-rested, she decided to find where the redheaded scoundrel went off to. Upon seeing the light shining through the window from the east, it was fairly early still but breakfast would be served by then.
Jumping from the hammock, Tarawen went into a quick walk, her tail flowing behind her as she lazily regarded the cover and crawled under it into the dawn air. The morning, as she expected, was a beautiful one. Only a few pure white clouds were floating gently along in the crisp blue sky. It was such a nice day that just breathing was enough to gain energy and stamina.
Tarawen found the Sheikah with Toloran. Now, where was Zolaris? The room was empty. She shrugged slightly and began sneaking up behind Kohachan. Leaping from the high walk, she landed silently and signaled Toloran to keep quiet. She saw him slightly smile and go back to pinching off a piece of bread to chew on. She crept closer then crouched. Kohachan was busy with his breakfast and his thoughts. She crept closer, inching through the grass. Finally, she was holding her breath, just half a foot from behind his back. With a high jump, she landed triumphantly on his head.
With a light laugh, Kohachan lifted the piece of fish higher, "Care for a bite?" Tarawen gave a small fox-shrug and took up the offer but tried to steady herself as Kohachan rose. He took her from the top of his head and set her on the ground, taking up his empty platter.
He did have to rush eating if only to find out about Link and the other two. Growing oddly serious, Kohachan sauntered away to give his dish to those responsible to clean them then jogged towards the room where Link and then slept. Hopefully, they would be awake by then.
A feeling in the back of his neck boded unwell with him. Something was happening elsewhere. Finally reaching the room, he found no one there. Narrowing his eyes, he knew somehow that the three didn't go of their own accord. He left the room, going into a sprint toward the jungle, his senses pulling him in that direction.
It was not long before he heard three loud cries. They could have been from pain but sounded more of shock. He came to a sudden stop, fear clutching him. He fell forward into a dash, redoubling his efforts only to hear Zolaris laughter after the three yells.
He stopped on the edge of a familiar clearing to find Zolaris nearly well doubled over with laughter, three familiar figures sitting dumbfounded in the water, shivering with the cold. With a smirk, Kohachan came up behind Zolaris. Unable to help himself, he gave the laughing boy a good shove into the water as well. "Okay, you four, dry up soon. We're going to join the others."
~~~~~
Link rubbed the towel over his head once more, wishing the water in his ears would get out. He had two rude awakenings that morning ad was missing Navi's simple pulling on his hair. With a sigh, he pulled the actual soft tunic over his head then buckled the belt.
It was a paler green than he was used to with the collar, sleeves, and hem of it embroidered with gold. As well as pants to match. So much for shorts but he could get used to them. He only longed for one item. His boots. And they were the new boots Crystal had bought him so long ago.
He'd need to find another pair or something but then he wasn't alone in that department. All three of them needed to go shopping sometime. Perhaps when they got to the land where they would drop off Katie and look for something fair to wear there. But how would they get there with what they had?
Before he knew it, Kohachan returned, rounding them up with only what they were wearing and was shuffling them out the door. Matt shook his head, a few small drops of water flew around to which Crystal shielded herself.
Link demanded, "Why are you hurrying us? We're going to need time to pack, right? We need provisions to last the trip." Kohachan lightly laughed and continued pressuring them out of the tribe. "Actually, it won't be near as long as you would like to believe but I want to leave before high noon, eh? Come on."
With a fair shove on his shoulder, he fell through the door to land into Toloran. Toloran steadied him then looked to each of them. All seemed ready to leave. He nodded to them with a fair smile then turned to Kohachan, "Ready for a bit of a treck? We'll pass through that clearing you and that fighter made-"
"Wait, we?" Kohachan glanced at the three then switched smoothly to Kitsune language, "There is no we. You and Zolaris are staying, right? Or you're going off to other lands. I'll just accompany Link to this new island then take him back to Hyrule. I've decided that much anyway. I'll obey Zelda if not immediately."
"No, not really. We'll go with you, if you don't mind the company. The fighters are losing now and that one powerful Shaman of theirs is gone so there is no need for Zolaris and I to stay. Besides," He grew slightly darker only when Link, Matt, and Crystal fell out of earshot, "this legend of the Moon Gods has caught my attention. You know what will happen in only thirteen more days. Then another fifteen days after that . . ." Kohachan nodded with a weary sigh. There was no escape from this madness.
Packing only a bit of water and making sure he had all his regular red potions, Kohachan gathered the rest of his belongings that he carried to the tribe. Namely, his cloak and items. His mind hanging on the concept of Toloran's joining him. But what of Zolaris? Would he agree as well?
Wiping his mind of the matter, Kohachan sent off to join Link, Matt, Crystal, and even Tarawen as well as a small departure group of Kitsune including the three mischievous ones, Malth, and even Kyou along with others who he didn't have the pleasure of meeting. The leader wasn't there, for some reason or other but Kohachan decided not to wonder about that.
"Tarawen, what in Farore's Wind are you doing here?" He asked flatly, his fair spirit from the morning gone. She shrugged, "You think I'm letting you go this easily? Kohachan, you underestimate me." He shook his head with a small sigh but then forced himself to perk up, "Well, now. It seems we have a going away party of a sort. Are you three ready?" He looked to Link and them when a sound of swift running was heard behind him.
"You are not leaving without us!" Zolaris yelled as Toloran was close behind him, both had their trademark weapons, the items at their sides, and cloaks over their shoulders, hoods pulled back.
Kohachan had to admit, he wasn't displeased with seeing them, though this would make the cabin much more crowded. He got hold of Zolaris forearm in friendly welcome as Zolaris returned the grip then he nodded to Toloran. Malth announced one final cheer for the victory. A cheer that echoed through the trees while all being cheered for turned red with a flush.
Tarawen finally spoke up, "Ah, Malth, that is enough. We won't be gone forever. Just a couple of weeks or so." She held her voice casual though she knew that she wasn't going to come back for a long time. She needed more adventure and this was the perfect opportunity. Malth shrugged but grinned happily as the four young ones had gladly joined him in his cheer.
At long last, the travelers simultaneously began their walk through the jungle, Tarawen quickly changing to her fox-form, knowing she would have to stay that way most of the time. She didn't complain, though, since it wasn't the worst way to get around at all. It was even pleasant as she rode on Kohachan's shoulder then jumped to Toloran for the height he provided.
Link watched the fox's antics happily, his thoughts going to Navi. He looked to Crystal almost before he caught himself then looked ahead once again, busying his mind with other problems to face. This included Oni who was quickly regaining energy within him.
With a languid stretch, Crystal yawned the last of her fatigue away and walked between Matt and Zolaris. Somehow, she realized she was attached to the both of them through the dilemma they faced together after that demon subsided. Glancing at Zolaris, she could see in his eye only the faint memory of being shaken after the incident. He was fine now if only temporarily. She wished he could be free of his fear, though, as well as Link, for that matter. In a moment of thought, she wondered why Navi was being so quiet for so long. When she reached for Navi, there was no answer, though the fairies' presence was there nonetheless. She decided to ask Link about it later.
Matt kept his feet up, despite the rather ridiculous slippers he was provided. At least they gripped his feet a bit more than boots and they seemed to last a bit more than he had anticipated. He didn't care about going off once again, so long as the first thing he did when he joined the others near the ship was give Cait a hug and gain his medallion back. Then he would be protected from any troubles and harm once more.
Toloran took up rear guard, though there was no need of it. At least he could keep an eye on everyone except the fox atop his head. Every once in a while, she would let her tail fall around his ear, tickling it to no end before he slapped it away. With a quick murmured purr of an apology, she would let it behind his head once again. He kept pace easily with the ones in front with his long stride though Kohachan seemed to want to pick up the pace again.
With a quick sigh, Kohachan forced himself to settle again. He tried to keep his own pace from pressing the others but it was no secret that he wanted to get there quickly. Why, even he didn't know. He set one hand over the katana hilt, the feel of the weapon comforting him fairly well. He forced himself to calm down and wonder for the sudden bad feeling welling within him. He didn't eat anything bad, to his knowledge. Nor did that spar get him worked up but that was even before eating. He took a long pull at his water carrier then corked it again, forcing himself to ignore the anxiety.
Zolaris slightly grinned as he hummed a tune to himself. It was all he could do to focus off of the feeling of darkness within him. The demon within him had free reign over what Zolaris did. What had happened fully this time around anyway? He could never remember anything, but this was even worse than last time. That demon was ready to kill Matt in only a few more moments' time. The legend was coming true for him. The Hydra sword proved that. But where was the enemy? Where was the fighter representing the Light Moon God and wielding the blade to oppose the Dark Moon Blade?
He lowered his eyes in thought, the humming dying in his mind as he too was flooded with thoughts. Wherever the enemy was, Zolaris hoped they would remain separated for a nice long time. The enemies and the blades.
~~~~~~~
Okay, that enough. I stopped where I want and it really isn't too late so . . . yeah. No good night but a small goodbye. The story's going to move quickly-
CrysSton16: Darn you, Dragonkiller, you threw her off track! Look, she was having a hugely hard time just writing this thing so you had better apologize and be sincere about it! *Breathes heavily while wielding Toloran's broadsword*
Matt: 0.o When did you get that, Crys?
Merrick: Who cares?! I agree with her! Let's go off to find wherever this authoress killer lives and pound him to a pulp! *Holds up his black katana in preparation to attack*
SunMoonKnight: Shadow Girl, are you well so far?
-_-;; A headache but other than that, I'm fine. Thanks.
*CrysSton, Matt, and Merrick start for the door and try to open it to find it locked* (all three) What's the deal?!
*Whistling innocently* You have one last chance to save yourself, Dragonkiller. Then I hand the key over to them.
Till next time!