Chapter 23
Lower Castle Town was completely…different from the Castle Town above. The only source of light were lanterns & small holes from above shining sunlight, and the buildings were on a smaller scale. The physical aspects of this place was not the only thing that made it different. Positive energy radiated around the Resistance group as Linebeck lead them through the city.
Unlike those above who gave skeptical & weary glances, the Hylians here smiled and happily greeted them as they went about their lives. Adults chatted with one another happily whilst children played in the equivalent of the streets. The biggest surprise that struck the group was when they spotted several Gerudo and those who may be Sheikah since they had crimson eyes. The number of Sheikah seen here was high. This was the largest gathering of the tribe the Ordon Trio had seen in their lifetime. As for the Gerudo, the ones seen in Castle Town tended to be older, stern, armed, and heavily dressed in armor as if battle could break out at any moment. The ones down here were younger, ranging around to Malo's age at least, and to Ashei's age at most, dressed in either casual garb, or clothing that the Ordon Trio did not recognize. These Gerudo, just like everyone else here, seemed more happier & relaxed.
The biggest contrast is how the Gerudo interacted with the people down here.
In the streets above, the mere presence of a Gerudo soldier was enough to send people scampering away from their path. Down here, they were mingling with Hylians, and Sheikah with no issues. There was no fear. Just unity.
"How are you small fries doing?" Linebeck spoke to them after a while.
"Alright, I think." Link let out a small groan as he soothes his jaw with his hand.
"You okay?"
"Ingo punched him in the jaw," Shad noted.
"Ingo? That little prick?" Linebeck exclaimed with shock.
"You know him?" Link questioned.
"Who doesn't know him? That asshole owes me rupees and he deliberately avoids me. Though I have to ask, what did you do to make him punch you?"
"He inappropriately touched me and called me & my sister horrible words. Link called him out on it," Zelda explained.
Linebeck let out a sigh. "Somehow, I'm not surprised. Tell me someone hit him back at least."
"Don't worry, Shad & I took care of him," Ashei replied with a bit of an evil grin.
"Should I even ask how you did it?" Linebeck eyed her & Shad.
"Probably not. It was a bit intense," Shad insisted with a blush.
"...I'll take your word for it."
Linebeck continued leading the group through the streets of the underground city. The Ordon Trio of course continues taking in the sites.
"This place is so…impressive," Zelda remarked as she glanced around the plaza.
"This was built centuries ago for citizens of the city to hunker down in the event of Castle Town falling under a siege during some old war." Linebeck disclosed eagerly to Zelda. "It was eventually forgotten by the…previous royal family. Only a select few kept the knowledge of this place a secret, which makes it perfect to hide from Ganondorf and his forces. I bet the people who built this place never anticipated that it would be used to hide by Hyrule's King."
"It's better than the actual Castle Town above. It's more lively and…less depressing," Ilia added.
"I appreciate the enthusiasm, little lady." Linebeck beamed.
"There seems to be more Gerudo than last time I was here..." Sheik glanced at a Gerudo talking to some Hylians.
"It has been a while since you've been here, kid." Linebeck rubs his chin with his fingers. "Like…several years. Wow, it's been that long. Anyways, since you last been here we've had a small increase in Gerudo defecting from Ganondorf. It's not a high number but better than nothing."
"I thought all Gerudo were loyal to Ganondorf," Ilia expressed with confusion.
"The Gerudo are not a hivemind. They have minds of their own just as much as we do. Most of them just suffer from blind loyalty. Ganondorf was the King of Gerudo before he took over Hyrule. I don't know what their circumstances were like before they all came here, but from what I know about the desert they came from, I can only guess it wasn't easy. Understandable that they would praise him. This makes it harder for them to see any false givings in him, and Ganondorf is fully aware of this. Any Gerudo who does have any negative opinions regarding their king often…disappears. The Gerudo you see here are the lucky ones. They can't even go back to their homeland in the desert out of fear of being turned in. Ganondorf doesn't take kindly to deserters. They can't even hide in the kingdom due to the stigma of being associated with Ganondorf so no one would be willing to help them. For a time I used to be one of those people…Because of this some of them choose to leave the country entirely. Most others remain here in the city since they have family still loyal to Ganondorf. Sisters, cousins, mothers, grandmothers even. I'm happy to provide them that safe space."
They eventually arrived at a section where the buildings circle a plaza of sorts. This is more than likely the Town Square of Lower Castle Town. There were more Hylians, Sheikah, and Gerudo hanging around here than on the streets. In the center of the square is a statue that depicts the wings of a bird and a triforce on the top. It resembled the symbol of Hyrule.
"Here we are. The Town Square I'd like to call it. My place is just over there."
Linebeck directed the group to a large building. A woman around his age was leaning on her back against the door. The woman had black hair tied in a ponytail, brown skin, had one a white tank top, green puffy pants, and brown sandals. Attached to her hip is a small sword. The woman had crimson eyes like a Sheikah and even had a tattoo of the Sheikah's eye on her shoulder.
"Hey, hun." Linebeck gave a kiss on her cheek. "Hope I didn't keep you waiting."
"Not at all." Jolene brings her attention to the Resistance members. "These are the small fires you kept on mentioning?"
"Yes. This hers is Link, and these two sisters are Zelda & Ilia."
"Nice to meet you three."
"You're a Sheikah!" Ilia observed with shock.
Jolene gave an amused smile. "That I am. Reckon you haven't seen a lot of them."
"Sheik, and Impa are the only ones we've met." Zelda shared.
"Ganondorf hasn't gotten gotten all of us. A good portion of us were wiped out but there are still some that remain." Jolene put her attention to the rest of the Resistance group. "How you're doing, Auru?"
"I'm doing good, thank you," he greeted back
"[And greetings to you, young Sheik. You've grown since I saw you last!]" Jolene spoke to him in some different language.
"[Greetings to you as well, Jolene]," Sheik responded in the same language.
"What are they saying?" Link uttered quietly, somewhat annoyed that he couldn't understand.
"They're speaking in their own language that the Sheikah speak," Ilia answered almost immediately.
"How do you know that?"
"Sheik...taught me some words." Zelda took note of the slight blush that painted on Ilia's cheeks.
"[You can change your eyes back. This is a sanctuary for Sheikah]." Jolene suggested to Sheik.
"[Thank you. But may I suggest that we should speak in Hylian since most of my group can't understand our language]."
"Will do but first the eyes."
Sheik quietly muttered a chant in his language. After several minutes his crimson eyes returned.
"Much better. That spell gives me a headache." Sheik breathes in relief.
"Your magic has improved, along with your Sheikah dialect. You're closer to becoming a full-fledged Sheikah warrior like me. Impa is teaching you well," Jolene praised the teen Sheikah.
"Speaking of which, how is the old girl anyway?" Linebeck piped in.
"Doing her best to keep those safe from Ganondorf's Wrath," Auru responded happily.
"Still sounds like the same Impa I tried to bring in all those years ago."
"Bring in?" Link gave a puzzled look.
"Long story but I'll tell you on my own time. Right now I want to get to business." Linebeck straightened himself out. "What's this about a rescue mission? Who needs our help?"
"Mayor Bo from Ordon Village," Auru answered. "These three were from there. And these two young ladies are Bo's daughters."
Linebeck's expression went somber. "Ah, Ordon Village…Heard about that stuff. Must've been hard for you all. I'm guessing this Bo guy survived. Not that I'm complaining of course, but why do you need to come here? I know you're capable of pulling off a rescue mission, Auru."
"Here's the thing…Bo's not being held in a prison camp."
"Then where is he being held? Out with it already!" Jolene insisted in a demanding tone.
"My father is being held in the castle!" Zelda blurted out loud.
The color drained from Linebeck & Jolene as they stood wide-eyed with horror. Those words caught the attention of bystanders, with the majority collectively gasped. Coming back to his senses, Linebeck ushered the rest of the group inside the place he called home. The interior was decorated with weapons of all kinds, maps of various regions, posters, and various other collectibles. Linebeck assured the crowd outside that everything was fine and what was going on didn't concern them. Then he slammed the door closed.
"You're breaking him out of WHERE NOW?!" Linebeck addressed them group, the volume of his voice raised a bit higher.
"The girl said you were breaking into the Castle. Is that true?" Jolene demanded.
"It's true". Auru confessed to her.
Linebeck rubs his temple, sucking in a deep breath. "Okay, I know your group has pulled a lot of impossible feats over the years. Some of which I will admit was impressive. But I say this with no disrespect but as a concerned friend…ARE YOU FREAKING CRAZY?! You know what happens to anyone who enters the castle without permission from Ganondorf! Even I'm not bold enough to pull off something like that!"
"We're fully aware of the risks. We're not stupid," Ashei contended.
"I understand, Mr. Linebeck, but this could be the only chance we get to save my father. Maybe mother as well," Zelda implored.
"Ganondorf took the best of his army as his security detail, more than likely not expecting any attack on the castle while he's in Termina," Shad explained.
Linebeck could only give a sympathetic expression. "Look. I get it. You want to save your family. Goddesses know I would do anything to get mine back…But I've seen many good people, some of which who were close friends go in there, even with the most well-crafted plan, and they never came back out. Even with the best guards gone, that castle is heavily fortified. How on earth do you plan to infiltrate the castle without at least a good portion of you guys getting captured or…you know."
"Unlike those other people who tried to break in, we will have someone on the inside helping us this time around," Auru noted. "The informant has offered to help us get through the castle. Believe me, we're aware of the risks and we're taking every precaution we can think of. As Zelda said, this could be the only opportunity that we have."
"I'm not going to talk you out of this, am I?" Linebeck let out a defeated breath once he realized the group were set with their decision. "Well, since you're dead set on this I won't stop you. Besides, knowing you, I'm positive you and your people will miraculously pull it off. And I'll try to help you in whatever way we can."
"Thank you."
"Who is our inside person?" Link wondered.
"Are they here now?" Zelda questioned more eagerly.
"Our contacts name is Shiro," Jolene answered. "He has been getting us helpful information for a while now. But he is not here, and might not be here for several more days."
"Why is that?"
"Shiro is a member of the royal guard," Auru revealed.
"Woah, seriously?" Ilia muttered not expecting that answer.
"That he is, little lady," Linebeck responded. "Since Ganondorf took a portion of his army, whatevers left of his forces have been working around the clock to keep the city in check. It might be a couple of days before Shiro gets the spare time to come here to discuss whatever you guys have planned."
"Which means a few more days of dad, and maybe mom, still imprisoned," Zelda remarked with a disappointed tone.
Link gave her a comforting pat. "Hey, if they're still alive right now, I'm sure they can hold on for a few more days." Zelda let out a tired breath, though she agree with him.
"In the meantime, you guys are more than happy to hang with us for as long as you need to!" Linebeck happily told. "We're here to help provide you in whatever way we can. And maybe you could help me if I need it. Especially from the ones who help liberate Lake Hylia."
"Uh, sure of course," Link responded back. "Um, where will we be sleeping in the meantime?"
"Auru will be sleeping here unless you want to sleep somewhere else."
"Here is fine," Auru confirmed to the man.
"You small fries and the rest of the youngsters that came with will be staying with one of best people. He and his companions are around your guy's age. They may come across as odd but I think you'll like them."
A knock echoed off from Linebeck's door.
"That must be him." Jolene went on over to the door, letting in the visitor. "About time you got here, Groose."
"Sorry, Jolene. Was busy with...stuff."
"And that 'stuff' wouldn't happen to be Midna, right?" Jolene gave a mischievous smirk.
Groose tried his best to hide his flush. Then he put his attention to Linebeck. "Hey, boss."
"Hello, Groose. You're right on time. Our guests have arrived." Linebeck gestures to Auru's group.
"Auru! Nice to see you, old man! Good to see you as well, Ashei. You as well Shad." Groose greeted each of them them warmly. "Sheik? That you? You've grown since I last saw you."
"I could say the same for you," Sheik responded bluntly.
Groose flexes his muscles. "Isn't it obvious? I've been working out a lot these past several years. I can knock down guards with one hit."
"Your hair is still as ridiculous as ever."
"You better not be dissing my 'do now. Everyone knows I've got the slickest pompadour in town!" Groose defended playfully, pointing to his hair.
"Is his hair always styled like that?" Ilia whispered so that Groose could not hear.
"It's practically his pride and joy," Shad told her. "I know everyone has their taste, but frankly, I don't understand the appeal of it..."
"I tell 'ya, he's compensating for something," Ashei insisted, which made Ilia let out a small snort whilst Shad softly scolded her.
"Who are these three?" Groose glances at the Ordon Trio.
"This is Link, Zelda, and her Ilia." Linebeck introduced. "These are the small fries Auru brought."
"Oh right! Nice to met ya" Groose offered a handshake.
"Likewise." Groose gave it a hard shake on Link's hand before releasing it. "Wow. You have a strong grip…"
"Groose is letting you youngsters stay at his space for as long as you're here," Linebeck disclosed.
"Yep. My place had always had the place for Ashei, Shad, and even Sheik. We have room for you small fries. We'll make sure you guys are comfy."
"If there's nothing else to bring up, best you youngsters go get settled down with Groose."
"Before we go I do want to ask you this, Linebeck." Shad voiced. "A friend of mine arrived in Castle Town a few months back and he hasn't been heard from since. Is there anyone around here that goes by Kafei? He's my age and has purple hair."
"Hmm…I don't think so." Linebeck responded after a minute. "What about you, Jolene?"
"I would've remembered a person like that. Sorry."
"I see…" Shad brought her gaze downwards with a disappointed look.
"If you want we'll ask around here, and our contacts in the city to see if they heard anything. It's the least I could do," Linebeck offered to the scholar
"Thank you…That means a lot."
"If there's nothing else to discuss, I'll take you guys to my place. I'll even give you small fries a tour of this fine city," Groose expressed eagerly.
"Is that okay, Auru?" Sheik asked.
"It is. We don't know what's in store for us these next few days. Best to get as much rest as you can."
"And until our contact makes time to get down here, I'll have jobs ready for you guys to help out on if want so that you won't get bored," Linebeck shared. "I take the old man's suggestion."
"Alright."
"Come you guys."
Groose led the younger members of The Resistance out of the building. This left the three adults.
"The small fries seem like an interesting bunch," Jolene spoke several seconds later.
"They're much…younger than I imagine them to be, especially Link & Zelda," Linbeck commented skeptically. "Not how I imagine the goddesses chosen heroes to be."
"They're more capable than you realize. They played a big part in our success in liberating Lake Hylia," Auru defended.
"I'm more concerned about their capability in taking down Ganondorf as Impa claims. What makes them different from that assassin that failed last month, or all of the others before him?"
Auru crossed his arms as eyes glued onto the man. "You trust Impa, don't you?"
"What kind of a question is that? 'Course I do! She helped me get back on my feet after what Ganondorf did to my family and their name." A tired breath escaped out of Linebeck. "Sorry it's just, the cynical side of me doesn't want me to get my hopes up. Eighteen years of this does that to you."
"We Sheikah relationship to the goddesses is closer than any other race in this land. I trust Impa's words. She is not one to lie," Jolene insisted.
"I know…I'm only wondering how it's gonna play out."
"Trust me. Link and Zelda have a big role in all of this." Auru reassures them. "In time everyone, including themselves, will see."
Just like he promised, Groose gave a tour of the secret city on the way to his residence to the Ordon Trio. Groose was more than happy to answer any question they had. Ashei & Shad kept quiet through the whole thing since they've been here enough times to know everything is. Sheik listened since it has been a long while since he had been here.
"This section right here is our marketplace," Groose announced when they arrived at a street reminiscent of stalls, consisting of Hylians of all types. "We have a variety of goods here. Most of which you would not find in the markets here or anywhere in Hyrule. That stall right there is run by Luv and her husband Bertie. They make the best potions around. And for the best price. Erm, no offense to you, Shad."
"None taken." Shad took a glance at the stall. "Is that a baby on Bertie's back?"
"Oh yeah! They had him a few months back."
"Aw, he looks so cute!" Ilia cooed.
The baby suddenly started crying very loudly. Loud enough to pierce some of the group's eardrums.
"He's loud." Link winced at the crying. The baby's cry was soon calmed down by his father.
"Yeah, he has strong longs but Bertie knows how to calm him down."
Groose continued with the tour. "That stall is run by Gondo. He'll fix up and upgrade any weapon and shield you have."
"I don't think I will be needing that," Link affirmed.
"That stall over there is usually run by a person who calls himself. Mr. Grizz." Groose pointed over to a closed-off stall with a symbol of a fish. There was also a wooden carving of a bear with a fish in its mouth.
"It looks closed. Why is that?" Zelda questioned curiously.
"He only comes by every few months. The jobs he has pays well, though they can be on the rough side."
Groose continued with the tour, happily showing the various locations. Through their interactions with him, the Ordon Trio deduced that Groose seems like a nice enough person to befriend. Every person they passed by always gave Groose warm greetings, meaning he is somewhat of a popular figure in this community.
Eventually, Groose led the group to an area that had identical-looking building structures. Though each one was decorated in its unique way. Most of each one had several different colors. Some had many types of unique decorations plastered on them.
"This place here is what we call our 'residential neighborhood', " Groose informed the group. "Though it's not typical like the one in Castle Town or other villages. The buildings here are more similar to Boarding Homes."
"Boarding Homes? What are those?" Ilia inquired.
"They're designed to house several people and provide for them," Sheik shared with her. "Though, unlike these houses, normal Boarding Homes require a fee from the people staying here. Its similar to an Inn in certain ways if I'm right."
"Kinda like that. The people who made this secret city designed for the citizens to hide in the event of a prolonged siege. They wanted to give a sense of normalcy for them. These houses can house up to ten families. It's perfect for those who lost everything from Ganondorf's reign, or life that gave them the rough end of the stick, including me and my housemates. Speaking of which, here we are."
Groose gestured over to another one of the boarding homes. It was the same as the others though there were touches of painted birds and even some bugs.
"Welcome to my crib!" Groose knocked on the door. "Hey, guys I'm back!"
A small slot slides open in the middle of the door. A pair of brown eyes peeked out. "What's the password?" A nasal feminine voice emitted.
"What?" Groose gave a bewildered look.
"Nope!"
"Open the door!"
"Not even close!"
"Knock it off, Peatrice!" Groose bellowed in a annoyed voice.
The door opened, revealing a young Hylian woman around most of the group's age. She had a slender face, a long nose, and a beauty mark just left of her nose. Her blonde hair was styled in pigtails and was covered with a bandana.
"You know I was only messing with you, Groose."
"Yeah, well, no more of that. Our guests are here."
Peatrice glances at the group behind Groose. "Oh shit. I forgot that it was today."
"We have Ashei & Shad like usual. You remember Sheik?"
"Huh, I figure he looked familiar. You're talleer than last time."
"Um, thanks," Sheik responded.
"Who are those three?"
"These are the small fries that Linebeck has been talking about. Link, Zelda, and Ilia," Groose introduces.
Peatrice took several minutes to check out the Ordon Trio. She took a few extra seconds to check out Link in particular. "They're a pretty bunch, especially him."
Link glance to Zelda, not sure how to respond to that. Granted, Zelda figures that Peatrice found Link attractive. Not that she blamed her. Link is…pretty handsome. Especially with that firm jaw, good body structure, and those sapphire eyes... Those thoughts were quickly pushed down in her head before they got out of control.
"Alright, let them in before you scare them away," Groose advised. "Is everyone in the main room?"
"Fledge & Orielle were last I checked. Dunno about everyone else," Peatrice answered.
"Go and check then. I think it would be courteous for the newbies to get to know their housemates."
"Yeah, yeah. In the meantime, all of you step right in and make yourselves at home."
Peatrice steps aside from the entryway, allowing Groose, and the others to step inside. The entryway had a stairwell leading up to the upper floor. In the middle was a small hallway. For a boarding station in an underground city, it did look pretty decent.
"Nice little place you have here," Link complimented.
"I know it may not look like much but it is very comfy," Groose responded.
"Smells a little different than I remember," Sheik casually commented.
"Probably because you're not surrounded by trees. Come on. Let's get you to the main room."
Groose led everyone down the hall. They entered a large room with several cushion chairs and a large sofa. A small single candle-lit chandelier hung above. There was also a large round table on one end of the room next to a doorway that had a sign labeled 'kitchen'. On the sofa were a girl and a boy, both looking to be sixteen at least, maybe a little older. The girl had brown hair styled with two cute braids. The boy has sand-colored hair, a set of dimples on his cheeks, and a blue scarf around his shoulders.
The girl immediately notices the group. "Back already, Groose?"
"Yep. Our guests are here. I'm sure you remember these folks. They even brought Sheik this time."
"Oh hey. Nice to see you all again!"
"They even brought along some new faces." Groose gestured to the Ordon Trio.
"Nice to meet you three." She gave a welcoming smile. "I'm Orielle."
"I'm Fledge." The boy gave a small wave.
Shad looks around. "Where is everyone else?
Groose didn't get the chance to respond when the sounds of little footsteps echoed off the walls. A small, blonde pigtail, little girl looking to be about eight years old scampered into the room. The girl had a blue & white dress with butterflies decorated on it. A pair of butterfly wings were on her back, and she had messy purple & blue eyeshadow. She wrapped her arms around Groose's legs.
"Groosy, you're back!"
"Here's one of them." Groose patted the child's head. "Hey, Agitha. Where's your big brother, Strich?"
As if on cue, Strich arrives out of breath. "I'm right here. She wanted to greet the visitors."
"Hi!" Agitha waved to the group.
"So that only leaves Cawlin, I'm guessing," Ashei stated. "Hard to miss him with that loudmouth of his."
Groose looks around the room. "Where is that lazy sack of sh-"
Strich cut off Groose's sentence by loudly clearing his throat. Strich hastily side glances towards Agitha. Indicating that he was not fond of swears being said in front of the child.
"-Sack of….trash?" Groose finished with a nervous smile
"Getting better," Strich muttered.
"Cawlin's right here!" Peatrice walked in, dragging Cawlin by his arm. "His lazy butt was still sleeping."
"I have a hangover. Cut me some slack!"
"You say that every time!"
"Enough of the squabbling you two. We got guests here, remember? Try to behave yourselves now." Groose scolded. "Now that's taken care of, let's get through the introductions."
The Ordon Trio each introduced themselves. From that point, everyone then spent the next while simply chatting. It was a good opportunity for the Trio to get to know the occupants in this building well, and learn what they can.
Groose is most certainly the leader of this band of teens/young adults, plus a small child. Despite some ego issues, it's clear that he cares for them. Strich seemed to be his right hand or at least the voice of reason of the group. Agitha was a sweet girl who was very interested in talking to the Ordon Trio. It's probably safe to assume that this girl had spent most of her life here. Both she and her brother seem to have a huge interest in bugs. Everyone looks after her as if she was their sister as well. Cawlin, as Ashei mentioned, was indeed a loudmouth. Groose jokingly stated that what Cawlin lacks in his height he makes up with it in his voice, which earned a punch to the arm from the shorter Hylian. Despite that, Cawlin does seem to care for his friends. Peatrice seems to be nice as well, though she keeps making glances at Link. Orielle is a very friendly girl and had some knowledge of medicine. Fledge, though a bit on the timid side, clearly has a big heart. This City Group, as the trio decided to call, we're an interesting set of friendly people.
"Can I ask you both something?" Strich looks in Link & Zelda's direction.
"What is it?" Link pondered.
"Are you really the ones that freed Lake Hylia from Ganondorf's clutches?"
Link glanced at Zelda briefly before saying his answer. "We are."
The City Group seems to revel in that piece of information being revealed.
"You're the Liberators of Lake Hylia?" Fledge asked excitedly.
"Liberators?" Zelda questioned.
"That's what everyone here calls you guys. What you guys did there was amazing. You both freed all those slaves!"
"We didn't do it alone. We were only part of the effort," Link softly insisted.
"Yeah but the stories…They say you took out one of Vaatti's weapons with just a single arrow! And that you cut another one in half with just a sword!" Orielle expressed excitedly.
"People also say that you're not simple mortals. That you were hand selected by the goddesses themselves," Fledge added.
"That's just a bunch of bullcrap," Cawlin argued. "No way anyone can destroy a weapon like that with a simple sword and bow."
"We can assure you that it's true," Sheik asserts. "Link possesses the Master Sword. A weapon that was forged by the goddesses themselves. And Zelda's Bow of Light was gifted by them as well. And Farore herself told them the truth of their destiny."
Several gasps echoed in the room by that revelation. Cawlin however, remained unconvinced.
"And how do I know this is just not some cheap propaganda your leader came up with."
"Seriously? You think Impa would stoop that low?" Ashei said accusingly.
"Hey, it works for Ganondorf. The obscure things he says about you guys. I wouldn't be surprised if she gave him a taste of his own medicine," Cawlin defended.
"The purpose of Propaganda is to give out information that is often shared by a biased group to make one side look good and the other bad. Most of that information tends to be exaggerated and false. It's the perfect tool for Ganondorf to use," Shad informed.
"And unlike Ganondorf, Impa tells the truth," Sheik argued back
"Look, Cawlin right, I know it's hard to believe but take it from us when we say what we shared is true," Zelda maintained.
"If you are telling the truth, then where are these special weapons? All I see on them is a normal arrow on you, and a normal sword for blondie over there."
"Mind helping us out, Sheik?" Link said to the Sheikah teen.
Sheik pulled out his magic bag, handing it over to Link who then pulled out the large Master Sword. Zelda did the same by pulling out her Bow of Light & Light Arrows. The City Group stood in utter silence. Observing the weapons, they could see the dim unnatural glow surrounding the sword & bow. It was enough to convince everyone.
"Believe us now?" Ashei pressed with an irritated tone.
"I…I do," Cawlin uttered with his face flushed.
"Looks like you guys are the real deal after all," Groose commented.
"I'll say. Never seen any weapons like those before," Peatrice stated.
"They're so pretty!" Agitha commented.
"These are authentic, right?" Strich clarified.
"Very much real," Shad responded.
"Now that we got that cleared, I think we should ask you guys some questions of our own." Link lowers The Master Sword. "To start: What do you guys do for Linebeck?"
"That depends on who you ask," Groose responded back. "For someone like me, Strich, and Cawlin, we got out pulling out tough jobs, doing the heavy lifting, get as many resources as we can to keep this place afloat."
"Kinda like what you and Link do back at the camp, big sis," Ilia responded.
"Though not everyone is cut for the heavy lifting," Peatrice spoke up. "People like me, Orielle, and Fledge also help out in another way. Either we pickpocket what we can, or find good intel. Everyone has a role to play."
"What about me? You never let me help you guys," Agitha protested.
"You're not old enough. When you're bigger than you can help out bugaboo." Strich rubs his little sister's hair.
"Plus you help us out by making all of us smile. I say that's better than nothing, kid," Groose encouraged.
"I hate to ditch but I would like to go back to bed," Cawlin groaned as he places his hand on his head. "I'm still feeling the effects of my hangover."
"Maybe if you didn't stay up late and get into drinking contests you wouldn't have them," Orielle scolded him.
"At least I know how to have fun!"
"Go on, Cawlin. If it means I don't have to hear your cranky butt for a few hours."
Cawlin could only respond by giving Groose the middle finger before leaving the room. Strich tried to black Agitha's view of the gesture, while the girl seemed oblivious to the whole thing.
"Why don't we go back to your room, Bugaboo?" Strich suggested it to his sister.
"Okay, big brother! Can we play 'butterflies & dragonflies?'"
"Sounds good." Agitha excitedly runs out of the room, practically dragging her brother along.
"Well, Cawlin is certainly…pleasant," Zelda commented unsurely.
"You get used to it," Ashei promised in a casual tone.
"He is nicer than how he acts. It's just how he is," Fledge defended.
"Well he's nicer than that Ingo guy, I'll give him that," Link deadpanned.
"You've already met Ingo?" Groose questioned.
"Unfortunately. You know him?"
"Everyone down here does," Fledge responded in an annoyed tone. "He doesn't have a fond view of people he considers to be below him."
"I'll say…He punched my jaw," Link revealed.
"What'd you do to piss him off might I ask?" Groose asked inquisitively.
"Asshole tried to feel up Zelda and called her & Ilia horrible names. I called him out on it." Link massages his jaw. "He didn't take that kindly."
"Sounds like him alright. Damn, pervert," Peatrice expressed in a disgusted tone.
"People like that deserve the worst. I'll punch him in the face next time I see him. That'll teach him some manners," Groose swore.
"I can assure Ashei and I taught him a lesson which, hopefully, he won't forget," Shad told Groose in assurance.
"Eh, I'd still do it anyway to an asshole like him," Groose responded with a shrug.
"Say, why don't we get these guys to their rooms?" Orielle stated. "Fledge and I got them all ready. I imagine all of you guys are pretty tired."
"Alright then," Groose agreed. "Ashei, Shad, you got your usual room. Peatrice will take you there. Zelda, Orielle will take you and your sister to yours. Fledge and I will take Link & Sheik to their room. Sound good?"
With everything cleared, everyone stood up and went to their assigned person to be shown to their rooms. Everyone followed their guides to the upper part of the house. The women and Shad went to one side of the hall, while the rest went to the opposite end. This was a small hall of doors. Indicating this is where the bedrooms are.
"This is one side of the house that has the bedrooms. We dub it the men's end. The other one is obviously for the woman." Groose explained to Link & Sheik as they all walked down the hall. They stopped by a door. "This room is yours, Link. Sheik, yours is just further down. Care to show him, Fledge."
"Of course. C'mon Sheik!" Fledge urged.
"Thank you. I'll see you later, Link." Sheik followed Fledge down the hall.
Groose opened the door showing the room Link is staying in. There was nothing spectacular about it. It appeared to be a standard room with a desk and an average size bed that looked comfortable.
"Sorry if it doesn't look like much."
"It's fine." Link walked inside. The first thing he did was sit on the bed. "This bed is at least comfy so that's something at least."
"How do you like it here so far?"
"It's…different. It's different from living at the base camp with Impa. And it's different from my home before…"
"Ganondorf destroyed it." Link glanced at Groose inquisitively. "I can put two and two together about what happened to you and your friends."
"I'm guessing you're speaking from experience?"
"Would I be down here if I didn't? A Lot of folks down here have been affected by our dear king in various ways. Me and my group included."
Groose stared into space in silence for several moments. Link could see the grim expression on his face.
"My folks didn't have popular opinions about the king. One moment they were there. The next thing I know, their heads we're gone and I was left orphaned & homeless. I was around Agitha's age. Maybe even younger. Cawlin was like me. So was Strich and his sister. Poor Agitha was only an infant when I met her brother. Peatrice's father was in debt to some corrupt Lord under Ganondorf's payroll. When her dad couldn't pay off the debt, the Lord took her as payment and threated to have Ganondorf kill him if she resisted. Peatrice killed the bastard in self-defense when he tried to take advantage of her. Orielle watched her older brother die. They cut off both of his hands and let him bleed to death. The crime he did to warrant such punishment: Stealing a loaf of bread to feed himself and her. He was the only family she had. And Fledge…If you thought he was skinny now, you should've seen him when I first met him. He was practically skin & bone. Death was pretty much embracing him. I don't think he ever had a home."
Groose went silent again for several moments. "Linebeck & Jolene took us all under their wings. They gave us, and everyone in this city here home, and a purpose."
"I'm sorry…" Link uttered sympathetically.
"We're all in a much better place now. Doing our part to help others that are unfortunate. And I do anything to keep my friends safe. That's what you do as well, right?"
"Yeah. I guess we're not that different."
"You have your ways, and I have mine. In the end, we have the same goal," Groose declared. "Anyways, I'm sure you're getting tired of my blabbing. I'll leave you to rest up. The bathroom is down the hall if you need it. Dinner will be later. If you need anything, don't hesitate to go to me or anyone else here."
"Thank you. For all of this."
"Don't mention it. I'm always happy to help out those in need. Especially those who hate Ganondorf."
Groose closed the door behind him. Link was left alone on his bed. He decided to lie down to get comfortable. Thoughts went through his mind regarding days events. The days ahead have Link curious, wondering how they will play out. That's not even including when the rescue operation will take place. A yawn cut his thoughts short. Today was pretty interesting, to say the least. For the time being, Link's main priority is to nap.
When he opened his eyes, all he could see was the color black. It was dark that much he was certain. No matter how far he walked, each step echoing throughout the air, he was still in the dark void surrounding him. Link had no idea where he was. Knowing that walking would get him nowhere, he stops. Then his eyes darts around the void.
"Hello?"
Link heard the echo of his voice. There was no response for several, painfully long, seconds. He was starting to believe nothing, nor no would ever. Then a familiar voice caught his ears.
"Link..."
"Dad?" Link searches around trying to find his lost father.
The dark void transports Link to another location. There was a corridor. Lined up on both sides were large wooden doors each with a small window decorated with metal bars to peek into the room. This location was dimly lit by a few torches. The cold air made Link shiver a bit. The loud shrieks of rats scurrying by his feet startled him. Link had a good guess that he was in a prison of sorts. Why was he here, he wonders.
"Link."
Leal's voice called out again. It came from the end of the prison corridor. Link walked down until he reaches the end. To his side was another corridor, but there were no doors. Only a pathway leads to another location.
"Link!"
Leal's voice sounded more desperate, prompting Link to sprint down the pathway. He kept going up until he reaches the end. Up ahead was a heavy-duty door made of steel with no window to peek into. A voice in Link told him to open the door. Working through the machinations of the door, Link manages to get it open. A white light envelop him, marking the end of this dream, but not before he heard his father's voice calling for him.
Been a while hasn't it? This was surely one heck of a year (especially as a US Citizen...). On another note, I have finally graduated from university so thats a plus. And I'm looking forward to 'Tears of the Kingdom.'
I made some edits (grammar, and minor story tweaks) to ALL of the previous chapters. I also decided to label this story under the 'Twilight Princess' label. I did it so that this story would be easier to find. I chose Twilight Princess because hat game has influenced me the most when it comes this fic (Breath of the Wild coming in at a close second).
Favs, Follows, and Reviews are appreciated