The Light of Hope
Chapter 2
Disclaimer: I sadly do not own Zelda. Need I say more?
A/N: Thanks to you who have reviewed! I'm glad you like it so far, and I hope it will remain that way! As always, please review!
*~*~*~*
Night. It was his best companion these days. Link shifted with a sigh, gazing across the star spattered sky, day dreaming. His only company was the fire colored mare that was grazing nearby. Usually, this would have been enough for the Hylian youth, but not these days. He found himself longing for companionship, such as his little fairy friend Navi. But Navi had a life of her own, she couldn't tag along after him for the rest of her life.
As much as he tried to repress the thoughts, they drifted to her. Link sat up, annoyed with himself for these imaginings. What possible thing could come of them? She was in a far away land, fulfilling her duties as a symbol of hope for her people. He ran his fingers distractedly through his blond hair, picturing her as he had last seen her. There had been tears in her bright sapphire eyes, though she had not let them fall. Though her words said he had to go, that it was the right thing to do, her eyes told another story.
Link gave a groan, flopping back in the grass. The only reason he was even thinking of her was because of those blasted dreams. He frowned slightly, knowing now that he had gotten to the root of what was really bothering him.
Each night for the past week, strange dreams had come to him. The land of Hyrule, that he loosely referred to as his home, completely shrouded in darkness. Then a familiar lithe figure would appear, her eyes filled with fear and desperation. Come back to me. . .'
He couldn't deny that he wanted to go back, but was not sure if the dreams were truly a call for help, or simply his longing for the beloved Princess. Link mused to himself for several moments. It had been exactly seven years and eight months since he had last seen Hyrule. Yet the evil had been sealed away, and Hyrule was at peace. So why was he worrying?
Because of who he was. The Hero of Time, savior of all Hyrule. He was more sensitive to stirrings of evil than most. He could still remember the awful dreams that had come to him before he had ever even heard of a Princess Zelda of Hyrule. Meeting her had changed his life forever.
He stood, walking to his faithful horse. Epona razed her head, nuzzling his chest before going back to her grazing. What do you think girl? Should we return? He rubbed her velvety nose affectionately, staring into her dark eyes.
She bobbed her head up and down as if she understood. Link managed a smile, but it faded as a sharp feeling of foreboding surged through him. Looking down, he realized that the Triforce symbol on his hand was glowing. His dusky cobalt eyes narrowed as he raised his hand for closer inspection. Though Zelda and Ganondorf seemed to have at least small measures of control over theirs, he had never figured out how the Triforce of Courage was supposed to work. But suddenly, without warning, an image filled his mind.
The Kokiri forest in flames. Evil creatures stalked the forest children, sending them scampering frantically towards the Lost Woods where none would dare follow them. Amongst all the chaos and destruction stood a lone figure, a figure that caused rage to burn within the young Hylian. The figure threw back his head and laughed, a sound that Link knew all too well. Stay here and keep them in line,' the wraithlike person intoned to a large dodongo. I was too easy on them last time. This time they won't be so lucky.'
Link howled, enraged, but the vision ended as quickly as it had come. Link stared down at his hand, the Triforce symbol now still and dormant. Though he warned himself it was foolhardy, the youth reacted the only way he knew how. He untied Epona, leaped onto her back, and spurred her towards Hyrule.
*~*~*~*
A horrified little girl sobbed as the huge monster stood menacingly over her. It had cornered her, standing between her and the Lost Woods. Had she been able to flee, she would have. She could only cower in terror as the dodongo came nearer.
Run Marlia! squeaked her tiny pink fairy.
But Marlia couldn't, locked in place by her fear. She could feel the monster's putrid breath, smelling like brimstone. The Kokiri girl wailed in fear, her bright green eyes snapping shut. She knew this was it for her. She could hear her fairy's cry, and the calls of the other forest children, but they seemed so far away. . .
There was a deafening roar, then Marlia found herself in the strong embrace of a much larger person. Together they rolled across the grass, then the forest girl found herself released. She raised her blond head, eyes widening as they found her rescuer. He held a glittering blade, tall, blue eyed, and clad in Kokiri green.
she whispered in astonishment, recognizing the boy she had not seen for so long.
He didn't answer her, his eyes fixed on the monster before him. Link took up the prowl, knowing what to expect. He had fought a dodongo before and knew how they could be defeated. The monster regarded the boy through beady black eyes, then roared, sending flames streaming across the distance separating them. Unfortunately for the beast, this was what Link had been awaiting.
He dodged the fire with fluid grace, then struck quickly, burying his blade into the soft unprotected flesh of its back. A cry of rage erupted from the dodongo as it spun to attack him once more. But yet again Link was too quick, once again striking the weak spot. This time it was effective. It collapsed, then began to glow with a pulsing red light. Link scooped up the forest girl, and ran across the meadow as the dodongo exploded like a bomb.
For several seconds there was silence, the only sound was that of Link's heaving breathing, and Marlia's soft gasps. Then the blond girl pulled away from him, studying him with her large emerald eyes.
You sure got big Linky, was the first thing she said to him.
He grinned in response, which caused her to burst into giggles. They were joined in their laughter as the other forest children came streaming out of the Lost Woods to surround the two. There was much confusion for several minutes, but at last it was clear that everyone wanted to know what had befallen Link since they had last seen him.
The Koriri were a good audience, listening with shining eyes. They loved to hear of Link's travels, for they could not leave the forest themselves and knew little of the outside world. The whole group of them sat in a large circle, enthralled by the images Link wove for them.
Why did you come back when you did? The speaker was Mido, the unofficial leader of the Kokiri. He had changed much though since Saria had left their number to become the Forest Sage. He was quieter, less boastful and bossy as he had once been.
I came to visit, Link replied steadily. I have not been home for quiet some time, and I figured I should check in on you all.
Yet Mido heard the hesitation in his answer, and knew that something else bothered their friend. He let it go, deciding that Link should know who had brought the dodongo to the Kokiri Forest. You should know who brought that monster here, he began, it was-
Speak not his name, I already know, the youth interrupted gently, seeing the fear in the eyes of them all. In truth, that is partially the reason I have returned. I sensed that all was not well, so I came back. He sighed deeply, shaking his head as if trying to dislodge nightmares that had crept into his mind. You needn't fear him any more though. It is me he wants, not you. It's past all your bed times, he said in a mocking tone.
They all laughed, acknowledging the joke. Though young in body and eternally youthful, the Kokiri were not truly children with bed times. But there was sense to the Hylian boy's words. The forest children began to drift off to their little cottages where they would dream peacefully, untroubled by the concerns of the outside world.
Link watched them go, them turned and whistled for Epona. She came at once, snorting softly in greeting. He patted her, then guided the mare to the stable he had built for her just off from his tree house. He rubbed her down gently, allowing himself to think of nothing but his task. It could be a mistake, he thought as he worked. Maybe it is not who I think it is. Perhaps I am just being paranoid.
Epona taken care of, he headed towards his house, weary and in need of rest. But a small slim figure stood there, her green eyes glittering uncertainly in the darkness.
What is it Marlia? he inquired, kneeling so that he was at eye level with her.
She blinked, her face so childlike, but great wisdom in her eyes. Thank you for rescuing me today, she whispered softly.
You're welcome, he answered, knowing that this was just her way of opening up to the true topic of her conversation, her reason for coming to him. Is there something you'd like to tell me?
The Deku Tree Sprout has had bad dreams, promotions. I think that is why you have come. Her gaze was steady as she stared at him. You too I think have had them. Navi said you would. Marlia bowed her head, seeming deep in thought, then raised her blond head. I don't know if you ever knew, but Navi is one of the high fairies. That's why she couldn't stay with you. She said to tell you these words. The little girl leaned closer to him and whispered a string of words into his ear, so that only he could hear. Then she stepped back. Navi told me that when you have need, to use these words and she will come. Marlia sighed, then hugged him tightly. I'm glad you have come home brother Link.
Without a further word, Marlia hurried off into the night, leaving Link with much to ponder. He watched her until she had vanished into her cottage, then quickly climbed the ladder into his own house. It was cool inside, dim with the night. He placed his pack on the table, then hung his sword and shield on pegs he had fashioned long ago.
Link's fingers lingered on the sword, but his memories were of a different blade. One that now was at rest behind a door of stone. Ever since that sword, no other had been quite right for him. He shook his head, blocking such thoughts. They caused him pain; to remember the sword was to remember her, something he did naturally despite his efforts to stop. To him, everything reminded him of her.
With a soft sigh, he wearily crossed the room to drop onto his bed and stare up into the rafters of his house. A smile crept across his face, remembering when he had found that he had long since outgrown his old bed and had to craft a new one. Link rolled over, trying to get comfortable and to ignore the thoughts that hovered in his mind like tiny fireflies, teasing and darting through his thoughts.
It was quite sometime before his eyes closed. The small house was quiet except for the sounds of his deep even breathing as he dreamed. Yet his brow was furrowed, indicating that his dreams were not simple and sweet.
*~*~*~*
Link. . .
He jerked at the sound of his name, whirling about. At first all he could see was the whiteness of the thick mists that enveloped him. Then a familiar slim figure moved towards him, her eyes despairing. Somehow, Link found his voice.
He hesitated, then asked the question that burned within him, filling him with suspicion, doubt, and a faint glimmer of hope. Is this a dream?
His heart fell at these words, but then the girl stepped nearer to him, placing one cool hand against his cheek, a sad smile playing across her face. And yet not so. This is the best way for me to contact you without fear of being overheard. In a sense you are dreaming, and in a sense you are not.
Link raised his hand, touching her fingers, clasping them tightly in his own. Her expression grew serious then, and she continued. He noticed the fear and weariness in her eyes, things that had not been present when they had parted what seemed another life ago.
I do not have much time Link. I need you for there is no other who can come to the aid of the land of Hyrule that once more teeters on the edge of destruction. Only you can help us. She broke away from him then, backing away into the swirling mists. Come to the Temple of Time.
Link called out desperately as the dream began to fade around him.
Despite his cry, the vision continued to fade, until he could only just barely hear her last call.
Come back to me. . .
*~*~*~*
Link shouted, sitting bolt upright as his cerulean eyes snapped open. His body was soaked with sweat, and he shivered despite the warmth of the early morning. The youth ran his trembling fingers through his blond hair, trying to calm himself.
He rose after a space of time, picking up his equipment and leaping down off the porch to the forest below. Link went to the stables, saddling Epona and leading her out into the bright morning sun. He raised his head to the light, closing his eyes as he spoke soft words.
Navi, Navi, where art thou? Fly quickly, the fate of the world depends upon thee!
*~*~*~
It hasn't changed, Link whispered, staring up at the towering white building.
A bright ball of blue light at his shoulder bobbed up and down in agreement. Yes. Strange, isn't it, how time has flown for us?
Yes.
Link swallowed hard as he gazed at the Temple of Time. It was exactly as he had left it seven years and eight months ago. It sat alone, still and silent in its majestic white splendor. Yet the area around it was burned, dead and lifeless, something that startled Link considerably. He had assumed that all would have been repaired after he had returned to his original time, but it seemed as if the town had been destroyed yet again. The only evidence of any change was Hyrule Castle that sat once more upon it's hillside. But it was shrouded in a pulsing blue light, as if it were a shield to guard against entry.
Are we going in? Navi demanded in his ear.
At least somethings never change, Link thought ruefully as he slowly mounted the great steps of the Temple. Quiet. That was the sound that met his ears after he had shut the great wooden doors. It wasn't what he had been expecting, but then nothing ever was. He moved noiselessly down the aisle, heading towards the alter at the far end. Beyond was the Door of Time that guarded the entrance to the Sacred Realm.
Link halted in front of the alter, hesitating, unsure if it was right to do what he was considering. At last he withdrew a smooth cool object from his pocket, lifting it slowly to his lips. It was the Ocarina of Time, one of his most precious possessions. Hesitantly he closed his eyes and began to play the haunting melody of the Song of Time.
The notes echoed in the air, lingering as the three Spiritual Stones flew from within his pack, coming to hover over the hollows in the alter. The triangle over the stone wall at the far end glowed, turning gold as the last notes faded away and the Door of Time slid open.
He lowered the Ocarina, placing safely back in his tunic. The boy began to move up the steps, to walk through the door. His body tensed, his warrior's instincts picking up the fact that he was not alone.
Startled, he whirled to face the person to whom the soft voice belonged. It was then that he laid eyes on Princess Zelda for the first time in a lengthy seven years. She was exactly as he remembered her, long sunshine colored hair hanging loosely down her slender shoulders, tall and slimly built, moving with a fluid easy grace. Yet there were differences. The dirt streaks that arrayed her gown were new for one, and the way she seemed to be carrying a heavy load. Flickering within her deep sapphire eyes were traces of fear, exhaustion, worry, and a deep sadness.
he answered softly in greeting. Seeing her again brought a sudden surge of emotions, feelings he never knew he had. He did not realize until that very moment how deeply he had missed the Princess of Hyrule.
There was silence between them for several moments as they regarded each other. When Zelda spoke, it was in a quiet, tired way. I hoped that you would come back. She hesitated, then continued in an even lower voice. I missed you Link.
I promised to return, he replied simply, drinking in the sight of her, as if to plant her image forever in his mind, fearing that once again they would have to part.
She was startled by his words, but did not remark on them. I am afraid there is much evil loose within our land again, but surely you knew that from the Town Market.
Yes, I did, though it was the Kokiri's plight that made me aware of the evil, he answered, a faint trace of bitterness in his voice. I had to help them before coming to you. Briefly he explained what had happened.
Zelda gasped, her hands flying to her mouth. I had no idea, she whispered despairingly. Link, had I known-
He shook his head, cutting her off. It doesn't matter. What matters now is the danger at hand. Princess, tell me.
In answer, the Princess came closer, taking him by the arm and leading him into the depths of the Temple of Time. They proceeded up the steps, to the pedestal at the center of the raised platform. There, glittering in the ray of moonlight that streamed in from the high window, was the Master Sword.
It's yours, Zelda murmured in his ear as they stood staring down at it. It has always been meant for you. Now the time has come for you to reclaim it. She released his arm, stepping back, waiting for him to draw the blade.
Link took another step closer, slowly curving his hand around the sliver blade. It was warm, and slid upward effortlessly at his tug, the way a needle slipped through silk. The Master Sword felt right in his hand, like something he had been born to carry, which he had. He turned to look at Navi and the silent Princess.
What now? he asked as they walked out of the room, towards the entrance of the Temple.
We must leave at once, Zelda said quickly,
The doors of the Temple burst open, and Link and Zelda whirled to see a tall dark figure standing there. Behind him were shorter figures, all clad in black. Zelda gave a muffled gasp that only Link heard. He tightened his grip on the sword, standing protectively before her.
Well, well. So, she has you doing her bidding once more Link? The tall figure stepped further inside, and then laughed, a chilling sound that made Zelda cringe and Link feel enraged. When will you learn?
He drew back his hood, revealing a green skinned man with flaming yellow eyes. He had the look of one who once was handsome, but had lost it to the fires of darkness. There was a strong aura of evil around him that the two Hylians could sense immediately. Neither Hylian needed to see his face to know his identity. He lifted his hand to display a burning yellow Triforce symbol, and they felt their own gleam in response.
Foolish Princess, as long as I have the Triforce of Power, I cannot be defeated. He laughed again, no mercy in his cold depthless eyes. When will you realize that you are no match for me? Haven't you realized that there is no way to defeat me? There is no hope Zelda.
There is always hope Ganondorf, Zelda declared in a clear strong voice that brought a flicker of doubt into the eyes of the Evil King. Yet she did not feel as if there was, her bright eyes taking in the figures behind Ganondorf. Her heart sank as she realized they were impossibly outnumbered. Link couldn't possibly fight so many, even with her help.
He noticed the direction of her eyes and chuckled. They are mine Princess. They will do as I bid them. I shall enjoy watching your futile efforts. He vanished then, his cruel laughter echoing as he went.
The figures stepped into the light, and Zelda realized that they were Gerudo. But their eyes were blank. They had been brainwashed. Apparently they had decided never to serve him willingly again, but yet had been forced to do so. She glanced about frantically, feeling Link and Navi do the same.
Link, suddenly pulled out an object that had been concealed within his tunic, grasping Zelda around the waist as he fired the hookshot at the opposite wall. He and the Princess soared over the heads of the astounded women, landing lightly on the other side.
Link shouted, pushing Zelda in front of him. Navi, lead the way!
She didn't need to be told twice. Quickly she bolted, following the bright blue fairy as she sped across the lifeless gardens. Zelda could hear the Gerudo following them, and the twang of Link's bow as he sent arrows back at them. Once he stumbled, and she heard him give a soft grunt of pain. The Princess whirled to help him, but he urged her onward, following her closely. At the drawbridge, Link shouted, casting a wall of fire to buy them a few precious seconds.
Waiting at the edge of the moat was a fire colored mare who whinnied anxiously at the sight of Link. He patted her nose, then lifted Zelda quickly into the saddle before springing up himself. At that moment, they were surrounded by Gerudo women. The horse snorted in alarm, raining blows on the attackers with her ebony hooves. Zelda screamed as the horse reared back on her hind legs, clutching at Link's waist. Frantically she drew her small dagger, lashing out at her nearest attacker. Suddenly, amidst all the chaos, Zelda heard a quick succession of a familiar melody.
The Gerudo women gasped in shock as the horse, fairy, boy and girl vanished in a stream of bright green sparks, disappearing before they could react.
Midnight*Starfire: Thank you so much! I'm a natural? I don't think so, but thank you for saying so! I feel really special right now! Anyway, I hope you'll continue to review!
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