~ Disclaimer ~ I don't own any of the characters under the title of Zelda
but I do own the others, such as Kohachan. Hmm . . . Whatever happened to
Shekro? ^_^
Kohachan: You are hiding something, Shadow Girl . . .
Awe, is it that obvious? lol Well, not just yet but sometime, neh? Anyway, as I said I'm updating on the first of December but writing whenever I am willed to. That is the way it should be, right? What is interesting is to find that I really was out of it when writing the last chapter. I never said what Matt and Cait were doing. Well, they are with Andrake right now. See, the ship they were on had to dock for a while, thus why the Sheikah took Crystal and they left on the Evening Star.
*takes a deep breath* I hope you guys can forgive my having to explain that. But now I'm all rested so there will be less needing to be explained. ^_^
Well, let us see how this chapter shall go, eh?
The dedications for this go out to CrysSton16 (never again will I let myself forget!), Jelie36 (indeed, that sounds okay but why move her again? Have faith -_^), and Angle1.
. . . Awe heck. This also goes out to MonoChronos, and Shadow Knight.
Kohachan: You just couldn't resist now, could you? *grins*
NOPE! =^_^= Besides, This is getting posted tonight because it is MonoChronos birthday today!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY MONOCHRONOS!!! Now, onto the chapter!
~~~~~~~
~ Resolutions ~
The Evening Star sped its way through the water. Wind pushed at the sail continually as Zolaris took to making sure the sail remained on course. Toloran and the captain kept their eyes out for the land of Hyrule.
Kohachan kept his hand on Crystal's forehead, trying all he could to keep her awake, despite the distracting Tarawen on his back, her front paws on his head as she too looked over Crystal. Link held onto Crystal's hand, gripping it in pulses to keep her aware of him as she returned the grip every once in a while.
Navi rested in the back of Crystal's mind as Crystal had rested and took over for a bit. Only one thing to keep up was consciousness, as Toloran had stressed earlier.
Finally the silence had to be broken. The captain spoke out, "So, how is it all four of you came into this situation in the fist place?" Toloran looked to the other three and decided to tell the story himself.
"It would be a good six years ago that we three Sheikah were sent to the Shadow Island, south of the one we just docked at. Kohachan there had to leave and was gone for those six years but we still are a trinity, of sorts.
"Link and Crystal are fairly new to us but still friends. Kohachan knew of Link far before either Zolaris or I did. And Navi helped Link out a lot in his travels, if what Kohachan tells me is accurate."
Kohachan nodded and lifted his hand away, setting a cold cloth in its place, trying to keep her temperature down as he looked to the bandaged arm once again, "Navi was Link's partner longer than you can possibly know. Somehow, Navi fused her spirit with Crystal. Now that they both are poisoned, only one can be so easily healed." He wiped his hands and finally looked away from Crystal to see the captain's reaction.
He rubbed his beard in thought once again. It was an unusual crew he had that day, indeed. Finally he looked to Link, "And you, lad. How is it that you know this lassie, Crystal?"
Link was silent for a long time, never letting his eyes loose Crystal's. The words spoken meant nothing to him. He would not let Crystal or Navi go. Not again.
With a shrug, the captain decided to ask later. The boy was fairly intent on whatever he was doing. He thought it wise to let him be for the moment. "Well, then, how does this young lassie tie in with the murderous we left behind?"
Zolaris snapped out of his silence, a bit of flames seen in his eyes as his contemplation was made open, "She was lonely and wanted the knight to stay with her. When left forsaken by the knight, she wanted revenge. The darkness within her took control! She couldn't know what she was doing."
Link finally clenched Crystal's hand with a painful grip and spoke in a deep, threatening tone, "Oh, she knew, Zolaris. She knew exactly what she was doing!" He released his grip before harming Crystal then continued, "Everyone has a darkness within him or her. The choice to let that darkness take control is the free will of the person. Katie knew exactly what she did. And she didn't care. That is true evil, Zolaris."
The captain whistles with impression, "You speak like you know all about it, lad. Now how can that be?"
"Long story." Link replied flatly then fell to silence and focused on Crystal once again.
Toloran nodded, "What you said is true, though, Link. Free will plays an important part." He looked meaningfully to Zolaris but the silver-haired Sheikah looked away, refusing such a concept, the thoughts of his own darker side tearing him apart again.
He knew that Katie hadn't a choice in her actions. Even if Toloran and Link would deny that. Kohachan watched with interest, not speaking his own comment and steadfastly tended to keeping the temperature down on Crystal and keeping her awake.
The thought of Hyrule distracted him as a familiar feeling seemed to come awake within him. An old darkness he thought he had gotten rid of. With the return to Hyrule, Kohachan knew it would be a return of an old and unwanted side of him. He kept himself constant to tend to Crystal even as the feeling of foreboding rose within him.
~~~~~
Back on the island where the Percheron, the ship that had brought Link and crew, was still harbored, Matt looked out at the sea where the Evening Star had taken to sail with half their group. A little more than half, perhaps. Well, at least he still had Cait with him. Cait, ever-present by his side, was throwing rocks out at the water in the hopes they would hop like Matt made them.
Ruffling her hair in affection, Matt reminded her, "Now, one can only skip rocks on a flat surface of water. The sea has swells so it can't be skipped on. At least not by rocks. And the rock has to be flat. I'll show you again if we ever find a lake again." She nodded as a large, callused hand settled on Matt's shoulder.
He turned stiffly as Cait also faced the new person. The large sailor signaled them to follow him and he led the way down the cobblestone street. It was time for Katie's judgment.
News had passed all too quickly as most everyone on the docks had found out and many had literally run to spread the news. Like wildfire, the news- thirsty town soaked this up and everyone was determined to see the girl who would dare try such a terrible feat.
Matt quickly followed as several of the islanders also were gathering. News had traveled fast, as it tends to do. This proved that there would be a nice, big crowd to see Katie suffers for her injustice. As a witness, he would have the rights to a seat near the judge. This was going to be an interesting experience indeed!
Yet something still wasn't quite right. He couldn't put his finger on it but something in the air didn't feel right. This feeling caused Matt's hand to touch his Silver dragon medallion quite a few times as the large building came into sight.
Two small hands tugged his sleeve and pulled his hand away from the medallion. He looked down at Cait and smiled lightly, "It'll be fine." Cait frowned a bit and said, "Tell that to yourself. You seem uptight!" Matt laughed a bit but had to agree with her as they followed the sailor to the back of the building.
They carefully moved around people trying to get into the front. After much apologies and squeezing, they managed a way safely through. Matt knew he was uptight but nothing there was helping him to relax including the growing throng of people and with it, the growing noise. He longed once more for the quiet open spaces he ad Cait traveled alone. It seemed to be so long ago that they went exploring last yet was only a seven-day span in the past.
~~~~~
In the cells near the courthouse, Katie stood near the corner, shrouded in darkness, and hugged herself. She knew her death was soon, so why should she worry so? No lie or pout would save her. Not with Andrake and Matt both testifying against her. They would send her to her death and gladly. Well, at least then she could stop worrying about everything. Since her pets have died, she had to fend for herself against those who would look down upon her. Right then, that seemed like everyone.
Soon, she would be surrounded by such people looking down upon her but she wouldn't even be able to speak in her own defense. In the past, she would have demanded to be treated with more respect but she didn't care about the crowd anymore. In the end, she would be able to escape them. Then she could find peace. But would it be swift? Again, she didn't care. So long as it was soon.
Even through the darkness and chill surrounding her, the peace was broken as the crowd to watch her downfall arrived. The noise, dull at first but growing, was getting to her nerves and she soon shook by the feel of it more than any cold penetrating her. Finally, the door down the corridor of cells was opened and pale sun light streamed in.
"Aright, time to go, young lady. The courts await you. And so does the decision."
Wordlessly, she watched the bar door open and the guard, a young, fit man in his mid-twenties, took her away, leading her by her arm in escort and he brought her out into the light. She didn't struggle or even weep but her soul cried out, pleading for peace.
As she was brought into the sunlight, though, she changed herself. She decided to stop caring then. Hardening her heart, she glared out at the people around the building though they held back, there only to observe her.
She met a few eyes but they turned away from her quickly. She felt as though she was with Shast and Kelty once again. As though their spirits were still with her to command respect for her.
She smiled at the thought of having them with her again. Regaining her composure, she was led the rest of the way to the courthouse, her imagination playing that the two white wolves led the way, promising safety for her, no matter who would challenge her honor.
~~~~~
Andrake stood with firm resolve, looking at the platform where Katie would stand on trial. He would give his story, then Matt would probably back him up. The fact that Matt was also inadvertently attacked would help in getting Katie what she deserved. He stood at relaxed attention, both hands behind his back, the sword secured in its sheath beside him, and his feet slightly spread.
The noise began to lull down, much to Cait's relief, as more people entered from the back of the building. One guard held the door as finally two more entered the main room from the back rooms. Katie came into the light streaming through the windows. Andrake could see a familiar look in her eyes. A look of control. What was she planning?
He studied her appearance, noting that her wrists were bound in rope, and couldn't make out what she was thinking. Despite her appearance being soiled and being towered over by the guard, she held herself with dignity boarding on arrogance.
Did she live to irritate him? Andrake wanted to wipe the look of smug confidence off her face. A small, deep growl near him brought his attention to Matt, who stood near him.
Andrake grinned a bit at the kid's agreed irritation but then became serious again and watched Katie as she took her place on the platform. She was glancing about slightly and even winking at Andrake before turning her focus on the podium where the judge would soon stand.
Cait, who sat at the front of the audience and as close to Matt as she could, stuck her tongue out at Katie and wished the worse on the woman. She could see that Katie was going to talk her way through. She wondered if even Matt could bring the truth to light through the woman's determination.
Finally, a hush ran through the crowd as the judge entered. He wore a hat of authority as he stood before everyone and looked out at the scene. He had been told of this only shortly before being called to the building and wondered still why the rush.
The guard near the podium announced the judge and finally everyone but the guards, Katie, Matt, and Andrake were seated. The case was announced as well. He was rather well unconcerned with what the young woman did in the place where she came from, but at the end of the testimony, and the judges eyes flashed in anger of the incident. Murder was a crime not tolerated upon the island.
"Young lady, did you or did you not attempt to murder an innocent?"
"Your honor, I am not guilty of such a crime."
Andrake's hand twitched for his sword as a wave of murmurs ran through the crowd. How could she deny what had happened?!? Swallowing his anger, Andrake let himself relax again, both hands behind his back and finally the judge called for order in the court.
Everyone was settled and silenced once again as Katie smiled in amusement for how one little statement could upset everyone so much. Finally the judge addressed her again, "How is it then, that you find yourself here?"
"I was unjustly accused. Can you believe I am capable of such a heinous act?" She let her smile become a sad one and held herself with humble pride.
The judge did not buy her story yet he had to let her have her say. Then the knight spoke up, "I object! This young man and I are eyewitnesses to the crime. She had used a poison guaranteeing death and the only reason Matt is here today is for a stroke of luck." Matt showed the judge the shirt and the tear in the center of it then he showed them his silver dragon medallion.
Katie looked at them without concern, "Your honor-"
"Young lady, we can argue all day but the facts remain that you have two eyewitnesses testifying that you did indeed bear arms of a poison dagger. Proof or no proof, it stands that you did unless you can prove that you did not."
Katie's smile slipped away as she ran thoughts of excuses through her mind. Finally she held her hands open though in their bonds and spoke in a pitiful tone, "I ask again. Do I seem capable of such an act?"
Again Andrake stepped in, asking permission to speak freely. "Your honor, I have countless stories that in the past, Katie had been meddling in the affairs of nature itself. In the end she became the cause of a war between Wolfos and the people of Dondoran."
Another lot of murmurs ran through the audience. Katie stiffened at Andrake's remark. Yet the judge was growing weary of the trial. "Katie, this island will not tolerate such acts. You are herewith condemned to slavery for life." Two guards came to Katie's side as the judge finished, "Under pain of death. You will be shipped off to the markets of Indary tomorrow morning." Katie's eyes grew wide in disbelief of the sentence.
Her mind screamed in agony as her air of confidence was blown away. She hardly heard his next words. "Unless by some chance someone of this court will speak for you." With a light of opportunity before her, she looked back at Andrake. All façade was gone as she looked pleadingly into his eyes, seeking mercy there.
Andrake felt the battle within him again. There she was, looking just as she had on the boat as she asked for his company and forgiveness, just before she attacked his sister just before him. He closed his eyes to her, a firm scowl set on his face. Katie felt a pang like a mortal wound at the gesture and glanced to Matt and Cait. They looked back, Matt wearing a smug smile as Cait waved bye-bye.
The judge finally spoke up with a voice of authority, "Very well then. The guards will escort you back to your cell. Case dismissed."
The crowd began talking amongst themselves but no sound was heard for Katie. Her anger brimmed as she swore revenge at least one more time. Somehow, the knight would pay for denying her once again. She let herself be led away but looked over her shoulder at Andrake. He glared straight back without backing down or flinching.
Even after Katie was gone, Andrake could see her enraged eyes burning into his. He snorted and muttered under his breath even as Matt crossed his arms over his chest and said pointedly, "I say that is a fitting punishment. I hope she gets a cruel slave owner!"
Andrake nodded quietly as they too started for the doors to leave. They had to get back to Dondoran then to Hyrule and soon. The Percheron would take them, of course, but still it had to be reloaded with the cargo heading to Dondoran first. Matt, Andrake, and even Cait aided in hurrying the loading of the ship. Soon, even before the day was gone, they would be able to set sail. The sooner, the better.
~~~~~
A soft voice carried on the nightly breeze of the Morning Star. The poem was spoken to the wind though no instrument played with the voice. The sound of the bold, young speaker was the only thing to pierce the night and hold unsettling silence at bay.
"In the darkest of the nights, a light will shine bright.
In the brightest of nights, a darkness will hold tight.
Balance reigns in the center of the Triforce.
A forgotten power, A treacherous course.
Bright god of the light moon will set its light within the shade.
Dark god of a black moon will strive to make that light to fade."
Zolaris kept his eyes on the horizon as he softly spoke the words to the song. The ancient song to an equally ancient legend. The legend of the Moon Gods and the fourth Triforce piece. He stretched, trying to shake off his fatigue. Night was rolling in.
With a light sigh as he closed his eyes, he tried to recall the feeling he gained whenever he knew the demon was about to come out. A cold, hollow feeling fell into him and he lightly shuddered but then let the feeling go and leaned his back to the side of the boat.
The sail was secure and everyone else was too busy to pay attention to him. Or so he thought. The small, usually unnoticeable tiny fox came near him then, speaking to his mind directly.
{What is that poem from?} Zolaris opened one eye to find Tarawen on the side of the boat, staring at him intently, her nose nearly touching his. He pulled himself away from her in a moment of surprise then registered her question in his mind and answered, "It is a song about the two Moon Gods. One of the light moon, one of the dark."
Tarawen settled in his lap as he continued, "They are of two opposing sides yet they are one. A balance is established through the blades they sent to this realm. There is never ultimate darkness as the light warrior comes out when the moon is black. Then there is never ultimate light as the dark warrior comes out then.
"Supposedly, the gods of the moon constantly seek supremacy over each other. It is destiny that on the night that both warriors walk the earth, they will fight to find whose is the greater power to rule over the other. To determine the greater power, the victor will gain the ultimate blade. The Moon Blade. On the night of the lunar eclipse, that is when both warriors are destined to battle.
"Odd that they would both be demons . . ." He trailed off as the sun set and the first few stars became visible. They would arrive in Hyrule by dawn if the winds kept up.
Tarawen curled her tail around her paws {It is a beautiful song. Thank you for clearing it up.} She sauntered to the front of the boat and Zolaris watched her go. He knew for a fact that her Kitsune curiosity was getting the best of her.
He grinned and began to rest again when a sudden impact came to his chest, toppled him over and a voice demanded in his mind {You are one of the demons, aren't you?! That was why you left on that full moon night! You became one of the warriors that the legend speaks about!!}
Kohachan laughed at the pounce attack. Tarawen shot a glare at him before turning again to berate Zolaris {If you are the dark warrior, then who is the light? When is the lunar eclipse? What is this Moon Blade and how powerful is it?}
"Tarawen, That is enough. We all can hear you and it is becoming too distracting. We can answer your questions later, okay?" Toloran spoke loudly enough to stop her barrage of questions and slowly Tarawen got off of Zolaris and went to the bow of the boat.
Looking up at Toloran briefly, she jumped up to his belt and climbed up to his shoulder before sitting on his head and keeping an ear out for the sign of land. The sound of birds wings, an animal's sound, a human speaking, even fire burning even as her eyes pierced the shadows like day. Even as the Sheikah could see through the shadows as well, Tarawen's eyes were best at night.
They would find the land eventually. They would help Crystal and then find what to do of this oddity of a legend. Until then, they waited and were pushed with all speed by the wind. The next stop: Hyrule.
~~~~~~~
Whoo . . . That was just a bit harder to finish than I thought it would be. Well, I hope this is a fair "coming back" chapter.
Weeeeeee!!!!! *Spins quickly in the spinny chair* I need to get back in the habit of typing all the time! But that is good. I do enjoy writing this stuff and love your appreciation of it. =^_^= Yeah.a bit tired. Give me a break. Just not so long of one. lol
More than likely, there will be a new chapter very soon to follow this. Hey, figures that there would be a quick update only when it is not a cliffhanger for once. ^_^;;
So, the legend is finally in the open. I wonder, who can guess who the wielder of the Light Moon Blade is? Shadow Knight, I know you know so you'd best keep quiet. And that goes for your characters too! Don't spoil it!
Till next time!
Kohachan: You are hiding something, Shadow Girl . . .
Awe, is it that obvious? lol Well, not just yet but sometime, neh? Anyway, as I said I'm updating on the first of December but writing whenever I am willed to. That is the way it should be, right? What is interesting is to find that I really was out of it when writing the last chapter. I never said what Matt and Cait were doing. Well, they are with Andrake right now. See, the ship they were on had to dock for a while, thus why the Sheikah took Crystal and they left on the Evening Star.
*takes a deep breath* I hope you guys can forgive my having to explain that. But now I'm all rested so there will be less needing to be explained. ^_^
Well, let us see how this chapter shall go, eh?
The dedications for this go out to CrysSton16 (never again will I let myself forget!), Jelie36 (indeed, that sounds okay but why move her again? Have faith -_^), and Angle1.
. . . Awe heck. This also goes out to MonoChronos, and Shadow Knight.
Kohachan: You just couldn't resist now, could you? *grins*
NOPE! =^_^= Besides, This is getting posted tonight because it is MonoChronos birthday today!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY MONOCHRONOS!!! Now, onto the chapter!
~~~~~~~
~ Resolutions ~
The Evening Star sped its way through the water. Wind pushed at the sail continually as Zolaris took to making sure the sail remained on course. Toloran and the captain kept their eyes out for the land of Hyrule.
Kohachan kept his hand on Crystal's forehead, trying all he could to keep her awake, despite the distracting Tarawen on his back, her front paws on his head as she too looked over Crystal. Link held onto Crystal's hand, gripping it in pulses to keep her aware of him as she returned the grip every once in a while.
Navi rested in the back of Crystal's mind as Crystal had rested and took over for a bit. Only one thing to keep up was consciousness, as Toloran had stressed earlier.
Finally the silence had to be broken. The captain spoke out, "So, how is it all four of you came into this situation in the fist place?" Toloran looked to the other three and decided to tell the story himself.
"It would be a good six years ago that we three Sheikah were sent to the Shadow Island, south of the one we just docked at. Kohachan there had to leave and was gone for those six years but we still are a trinity, of sorts.
"Link and Crystal are fairly new to us but still friends. Kohachan knew of Link far before either Zolaris or I did. And Navi helped Link out a lot in his travels, if what Kohachan tells me is accurate."
Kohachan nodded and lifted his hand away, setting a cold cloth in its place, trying to keep her temperature down as he looked to the bandaged arm once again, "Navi was Link's partner longer than you can possibly know. Somehow, Navi fused her spirit with Crystal. Now that they both are poisoned, only one can be so easily healed." He wiped his hands and finally looked away from Crystal to see the captain's reaction.
He rubbed his beard in thought once again. It was an unusual crew he had that day, indeed. Finally he looked to Link, "And you, lad. How is it that you know this lassie, Crystal?"
Link was silent for a long time, never letting his eyes loose Crystal's. The words spoken meant nothing to him. He would not let Crystal or Navi go. Not again.
With a shrug, the captain decided to ask later. The boy was fairly intent on whatever he was doing. He thought it wise to let him be for the moment. "Well, then, how does this young lassie tie in with the murderous we left behind?"
Zolaris snapped out of his silence, a bit of flames seen in his eyes as his contemplation was made open, "She was lonely and wanted the knight to stay with her. When left forsaken by the knight, she wanted revenge. The darkness within her took control! She couldn't know what she was doing."
Link finally clenched Crystal's hand with a painful grip and spoke in a deep, threatening tone, "Oh, she knew, Zolaris. She knew exactly what she was doing!" He released his grip before harming Crystal then continued, "Everyone has a darkness within him or her. The choice to let that darkness take control is the free will of the person. Katie knew exactly what she did. And she didn't care. That is true evil, Zolaris."
The captain whistles with impression, "You speak like you know all about it, lad. Now how can that be?"
"Long story." Link replied flatly then fell to silence and focused on Crystal once again.
Toloran nodded, "What you said is true, though, Link. Free will plays an important part." He looked meaningfully to Zolaris but the silver-haired Sheikah looked away, refusing such a concept, the thoughts of his own darker side tearing him apart again.
He knew that Katie hadn't a choice in her actions. Even if Toloran and Link would deny that. Kohachan watched with interest, not speaking his own comment and steadfastly tended to keeping the temperature down on Crystal and keeping her awake.
The thought of Hyrule distracted him as a familiar feeling seemed to come awake within him. An old darkness he thought he had gotten rid of. With the return to Hyrule, Kohachan knew it would be a return of an old and unwanted side of him. He kept himself constant to tend to Crystal even as the feeling of foreboding rose within him.
~~~~~
Back on the island where the Percheron, the ship that had brought Link and crew, was still harbored, Matt looked out at the sea where the Evening Star had taken to sail with half their group. A little more than half, perhaps. Well, at least he still had Cait with him. Cait, ever-present by his side, was throwing rocks out at the water in the hopes they would hop like Matt made them.
Ruffling her hair in affection, Matt reminded her, "Now, one can only skip rocks on a flat surface of water. The sea has swells so it can't be skipped on. At least not by rocks. And the rock has to be flat. I'll show you again if we ever find a lake again." She nodded as a large, callused hand settled on Matt's shoulder.
He turned stiffly as Cait also faced the new person. The large sailor signaled them to follow him and he led the way down the cobblestone street. It was time for Katie's judgment.
News had passed all too quickly as most everyone on the docks had found out and many had literally run to spread the news. Like wildfire, the news- thirsty town soaked this up and everyone was determined to see the girl who would dare try such a terrible feat.
Matt quickly followed as several of the islanders also were gathering. News had traveled fast, as it tends to do. This proved that there would be a nice, big crowd to see Katie suffers for her injustice. As a witness, he would have the rights to a seat near the judge. This was going to be an interesting experience indeed!
Yet something still wasn't quite right. He couldn't put his finger on it but something in the air didn't feel right. This feeling caused Matt's hand to touch his Silver dragon medallion quite a few times as the large building came into sight.
Two small hands tugged his sleeve and pulled his hand away from the medallion. He looked down at Cait and smiled lightly, "It'll be fine." Cait frowned a bit and said, "Tell that to yourself. You seem uptight!" Matt laughed a bit but had to agree with her as they followed the sailor to the back of the building.
They carefully moved around people trying to get into the front. After much apologies and squeezing, they managed a way safely through. Matt knew he was uptight but nothing there was helping him to relax including the growing throng of people and with it, the growing noise. He longed once more for the quiet open spaces he ad Cait traveled alone. It seemed to be so long ago that they went exploring last yet was only a seven-day span in the past.
~~~~~
In the cells near the courthouse, Katie stood near the corner, shrouded in darkness, and hugged herself. She knew her death was soon, so why should she worry so? No lie or pout would save her. Not with Andrake and Matt both testifying against her. They would send her to her death and gladly. Well, at least then she could stop worrying about everything. Since her pets have died, she had to fend for herself against those who would look down upon her. Right then, that seemed like everyone.
Soon, she would be surrounded by such people looking down upon her but she wouldn't even be able to speak in her own defense. In the past, she would have demanded to be treated with more respect but she didn't care about the crowd anymore. In the end, she would be able to escape them. Then she could find peace. But would it be swift? Again, she didn't care. So long as it was soon.
Even through the darkness and chill surrounding her, the peace was broken as the crowd to watch her downfall arrived. The noise, dull at first but growing, was getting to her nerves and she soon shook by the feel of it more than any cold penetrating her. Finally, the door down the corridor of cells was opened and pale sun light streamed in.
"Aright, time to go, young lady. The courts await you. And so does the decision."
Wordlessly, she watched the bar door open and the guard, a young, fit man in his mid-twenties, took her away, leading her by her arm in escort and he brought her out into the light. She didn't struggle or even weep but her soul cried out, pleading for peace.
As she was brought into the sunlight, though, she changed herself. She decided to stop caring then. Hardening her heart, she glared out at the people around the building though they held back, there only to observe her.
She met a few eyes but they turned away from her quickly. She felt as though she was with Shast and Kelty once again. As though their spirits were still with her to command respect for her.
She smiled at the thought of having them with her again. Regaining her composure, she was led the rest of the way to the courthouse, her imagination playing that the two white wolves led the way, promising safety for her, no matter who would challenge her honor.
~~~~~
Andrake stood with firm resolve, looking at the platform where Katie would stand on trial. He would give his story, then Matt would probably back him up. The fact that Matt was also inadvertently attacked would help in getting Katie what she deserved. He stood at relaxed attention, both hands behind his back, the sword secured in its sheath beside him, and his feet slightly spread.
The noise began to lull down, much to Cait's relief, as more people entered from the back of the building. One guard held the door as finally two more entered the main room from the back rooms. Katie came into the light streaming through the windows. Andrake could see a familiar look in her eyes. A look of control. What was she planning?
He studied her appearance, noting that her wrists were bound in rope, and couldn't make out what she was thinking. Despite her appearance being soiled and being towered over by the guard, she held herself with dignity boarding on arrogance.
Did she live to irritate him? Andrake wanted to wipe the look of smug confidence off her face. A small, deep growl near him brought his attention to Matt, who stood near him.
Andrake grinned a bit at the kid's agreed irritation but then became serious again and watched Katie as she took her place on the platform. She was glancing about slightly and even winking at Andrake before turning her focus on the podium where the judge would soon stand.
Cait, who sat at the front of the audience and as close to Matt as she could, stuck her tongue out at Katie and wished the worse on the woman. She could see that Katie was going to talk her way through. She wondered if even Matt could bring the truth to light through the woman's determination.
Finally, a hush ran through the crowd as the judge entered. He wore a hat of authority as he stood before everyone and looked out at the scene. He had been told of this only shortly before being called to the building and wondered still why the rush.
The guard near the podium announced the judge and finally everyone but the guards, Katie, Matt, and Andrake were seated. The case was announced as well. He was rather well unconcerned with what the young woman did in the place where she came from, but at the end of the testimony, and the judges eyes flashed in anger of the incident. Murder was a crime not tolerated upon the island.
"Young lady, did you or did you not attempt to murder an innocent?"
"Your honor, I am not guilty of such a crime."
Andrake's hand twitched for his sword as a wave of murmurs ran through the crowd. How could she deny what had happened?!? Swallowing his anger, Andrake let himself relax again, both hands behind his back and finally the judge called for order in the court.
Everyone was settled and silenced once again as Katie smiled in amusement for how one little statement could upset everyone so much. Finally the judge addressed her again, "How is it then, that you find yourself here?"
"I was unjustly accused. Can you believe I am capable of such a heinous act?" She let her smile become a sad one and held herself with humble pride.
The judge did not buy her story yet he had to let her have her say. Then the knight spoke up, "I object! This young man and I are eyewitnesses to the crime. She had used a poison guaranteeing death and the only reason Matt is here today is for a stroke of luck." Matt showed the judge the shirt and the tear in the center of it then he showed them his silver dragon medallion.
Katie looked at them without concern, "Your honor-"
"Young lady, we can argue all day but the facts remain that you have two eyewitnesses testifying that you did indeed bear arms of a poison dagger. Proof or no proof, it stands that you did unless you can prove that you did not."
Katie's smile slipped away as she ran thoughts of excuses through her mind. Finally she held her hands open though in their bonds and spoke in a pitiful tone, "I ask again. Do I seem capable of such an act?"
Again Andrake stepped in, asking permission to speak freely. "Your honor, I have countless stories that in the past, Katie had been meddling in the affairs of nature itself. In the end she became the cause of a war between Wolfos and the people of Dondoran."
Another lot of murmurs ran through the audience. Katie stiffened at Andrake's remark. Yet the judge was growing weary of the trial. "Katie, this island will not tolerate such acts. You are herewith condemned to slavery for life." Two guards came to Katie's side as the judge finished, "Under pain of death. You will be shipped off to the markets of Indary tomorrow morning." Katie's eyes grew wide in disbelief of the sentence.
Her mind screamed in agony as her air of confidence was blown away. She hardly heard his next words. "Unless by some chance someone of this court will speak for you." With a light of opportunity before her, she looked back at Andrake. All façade was gone as she looked pleadingly into his eyes, seeking mercy there.
Andrake felt the battle within him again. There she was, looking just as she had on the boat as she asked for his company and forgiveness, just before she attacked his sister just before him. He closed his eyes to her, a firm scowl set on his face. Katie felt a pang like a mortal wound at the gesture and glanced to Matt and Cait. They looked back, Matt wearing a smug smile as Cait waved bye-bye.
The judge finally spoke up with a voice of authority, "Very well then. The guards will escort you back to your cell. Case dismissed."
The crowd began talking amongst themselves but no sound was heard for Katie. Her anger brimmed as she swore revenge at least one more time. Somehow, the knight would pay for denying her once again. She let herself be led away but looked over her shoulder at Andrake. He glared straight back without backing down or flinching.
Even after Katie was gone, Andrake could see her enraged eyes burning into his. He snorted and muttered under his breath even as Matt crossed his arms over his chest and said pointedly, "I say that is a fitting punishment. I hope she gets a cruel slave owner!"
Andrake nodded quietly as they too started for the doors to leave. They had to get back to Dondoran then to Hyrule and soon. The Percheron would take them, of course, but still it had to be reloaded with the cargo heading to Dondoran first. Matt, Andrake, and even Cait aided in hurrying the loading of the ship. Soon, even before the day was gone, they would be able to set sail. The sooner, the better.
~~~~~
A soft voice carried on the nightly breeze of the Morning Star. The poem was spoken to the wind though no instrument played with the voice. The sound of the bold, young speaker was the only thing to pierce the night and hold unsettling silence at bay.
"In the darkest of the nights, a light will shine bright.
In the brightest of nights, a darkness will hold tight.
Balance reigns in the center of the Triforce.
A forgotten power, A treacherous course.
Bright god of the light moon will set its light within the shade.
Dark god of a black moon will strive to make that light to fade."
Zolaris kept his eyes on the horizon as he softly spoke the words to the song. The ancient song to an equally ancient legend. The legend of the Moon Gods and the fourth Triforce piece. He stretched, trying to shake off his fatigue. Night was rolling in.
With a light sigh as he closed his eyes, he tried to recall the feeling he gained whenever he knew the demon was about to come out. A cold, hollow feeling fell into him and he lightly shuddered but then let the feeling go and leaned his back to the side of the boat.
The sail was secure and everyone else was too busy to pay attention to him. Or so he thought. The small, usually unnoticeable tiny fox came near him then, speaking to his mind directly.
{What is that poem from?} Zolaris opened one eye to find Tarawen on the side of the boat, staring at him intently, her nose nearly touching his. He pulled himself away from her in a moment of surprise then registered her question in his mind and answered, "It is a song about the two Moon Gods. One of the light moon, one of the dark."
Tarawen settled in his lap as he continued, "They are of two opposing sides yet they are one. A balance is established through the blades they sent to this realm. There is never ultimate darkness as the light warrior comes out when the moon is black. Then there is never ultimate light as the dark warrior comes out then.
"Supposedly, the gods of the moon constantly seek supremacy over each other. It is destiny that on the night that both warriors walk the earth, they will fight to find whose is the greater power to rule over the other. To determine the greater power, the victor will gain the ultimate blade. The Moon Blade. On the night of the lunar eclipse, that is when both warriors are destined to battle.
"Odd that they would both be demons . . ." He trailed off as the sun set and the first few stars became visible. They would arrive in Hyrule by dawn if the winds kept up.
Tarawen curled her tail around her paws {It is a beautiful song. Thank you for clearing it up.} She sauntered to the front of the boat and Zolaris watched her go. He knew for a fact that her Kitsune curiosity was getting the best of her.
He grinned and began to rest again when a sudden impact came to his chest, toppled him over and a voice demanded in his mind {You are one of the demons, aren't you?! That was why you left on that full moon night! You became one of the warriors that the legend speaks about!!}
Kohachan laughed at the pounce attack. Tarawen shot a glare at him before turning again to berate Zolaris {If you are the dark warrior, then who is the light? When is the lunar eclipse? What is this Moon Blade and how powerful is it?}
"Tarawen, That is enough. We all can hear you and it is becoming too distracting. We can answer your questions later, okay?" Toloran spoke loudly enough to stop her barrage of questions and slowly Tarawen got off of Zolaris and went to the bow of the boat.
Looking up at Toloran briefly, she jumped up to his belt and climbed up to his shoulder before sitting on his head and keeping an ear out for the sign of land. The sound of birds wings, an animal's sound, a human speaking, even fire burning even as her eyes pierced the shadows like day. Even as the Sheikah could see through the shadows as well, Tarawen's eyes were best at night.
They would find the land eventually. They would help Crystal and then find what to do of this oddity of a legend. Until then, they waited and were pushed with all speed by the wind. The next stop: Hyrule.
~~~~~~~
Whoo . . . That was just a bit harder to finish than I thought it would be. Well, I hope this is a fair "coming back" chapter.
Weeeeeee!!!!! *Spins quickly in the spinny chair* I need to get back in the habit of typing all the time! But that is good. I do enjoy writing this stuff and love your appreciation of it. =^_^= Yeah.a bit tired. Give me a break. Just not so long of one. lol
More than likely, there will be a new chapter very soon to follow this. Hey, figures that there would be a quick update only when it is not a cliffhanger for once. ^_^;;
So, the legend is finally in the open. I wonder, who can guess who the wielder of the Light Moon Blade is? Shadow Knight, I know you know so you'd best keep quiet. And that goes for your characters too! Don't spoil it!
Till next time!