The Light of Hope
Chapter 3
A/N: Okay! I've had a bit of trouble writing this chapter, so let me know how you like it! I don't really like this one very much, but what matters is your opinion! I'm gonna try and write a chapter a week, but I don't know how well that will work out! Thank you so much for those of you who have reviewed, please continue to do so! I love hearing from you!
The stream of green sparks spiraled through the air, finally coming together and condensing to make the forms of a fire colored horse bearing two riders. The mare snorted, pawing at the grassy ground with her ebony hooves, seeming startled by her present surroundings.
Link chuckled affectionately, patting her on the neck to calm her. Just then Navi came fluttering out of his pack, buzzing in irritation.
You could have gotten us all killed! Her voice was indignant, her tiny wings an angry blur.
Well I didn't, Link snapped, wondering why he had missed such antagonizing. We're alive, aren't we?
I don't know! the little blue fairy shot back. Maybe you should check on the Princess!
Instantly Link's anger was forgotten in his concern for the Princess. He half turned, a worried expression on his face.
Zelda was still clinging tightly to his waist, her blond head pressed against his back. At the sound of him speaking her name, she lifted her head, blinking in the sudden light. I'm fine, she assured them, though her voice trembled a bit.
For the first time she took notice of their surroundings. They were completely surrounded by greenery, lush trees and bushes everywhere. Twisting in the saddle, Zelda saw the Forest Temple looming over them. She then returned her gaze to Link. Are we in the Kokiri Forest?
He nodded, seeming relieved that she was all right. Yes. I figured that this was the best place to come.
Navi made a sound of disgust. Can we go to the village now Link? she demanded.
The Hylian youth rolled his eyes, spurring Epona into a trot. The fairy, done with her criticizing, was now floating before them to light the way through the darkened woods. Periodically, Link would glance back to check on Zelda. Her arms were still locked loosely about his waist, her head resting against his back. She was asleep, apparently exhausted.
She doesn't look so good, Navi piped up, seeing the direction of his eyes. It looks as if she's been hiding from Ganondorf a long time.
Link nodded, frowning slightly. He couldn't fathom why Zelda would be like this though. The state of her gown was enough to suggest that something bad had happened to her. It was torn and soiled, looking as if it had been through a month's worth of hiding, not a mear week. That had been about the time he had started having the dreams from her.
*~*~*~*
Zelda jerked away, at first startled that something was wrong. She relaxed at once, however, her instincts telling her to that there was no danger. Then she spied the small cottages that were around her, and she looked about curiously. A flood of children all clad in green came rushing forward to greet them.
After making sure that Zelda was properly awake, Link swung down off the horse to greet them. Some hugged him around the waist, others grabbed happily at his arms. They were all chattering excitedly, apparently pleased to see him. Zelda watched them with amusement, admiring the way Link was so patient with them. He looked like a big brother amongst his younger siblings.
Whatcha seen lately Linky? one small red headed boy asked, tugging on his hand. Have you been fighting more?
Link chuckled, tousling the youngster's flaming locks. I suppose you could say that, he admitted ruefully, shooting a smile at the Princess.
She allowed herself to return the grin, feeling her heart give an odd jerk. Suddenly she felt a gentle tugging on her gown. Startled, Zelda looked down to see a small blond girl staring up at her with large solemn green eyes.
You're pretty lady, she whispered shyly. Are you Link's girlfriend?
Zelda felt her face flush, unsure of how to answer the question. Um, well-
This is Zelda, the Princess of Hyrule, Link put in. He grinned at the little girl. Is that enough information for you Marlia? He straightened up, addressing the assembled group again. She's a good friend of mine.
Hello Princess Zelda! the Kokiri chorused loudly, breaking off into giggles.
she returned, unsure as to what was so amusing. She had to stifle a yawn, and immediately cursed herself for showing her exhaustion.
Link's dusky blue eyes flickered with concern, and he offered her his hand to help her down off of the mare. She accepted gratefully, but swayed slightly, dizzy from her lack of sleep. Link slipped an arm around her waist to support her, then spoke to the Kokiri again.
Princess Zelda is tired and needs rest. You'll get to know her later. Link glanced down at her in concern, wondering what she had gone through to make her like this.
The little girl named Marlia looked up at him, her bright eyes shining. Okie doky, she chirped, and the others burst into laughter.
Oh behave, the Hylian warrior admonished, rolling his eyes. Go back to bed.
Still giggling the Kokiri scattered, moving to their various homes. Zelda watched them go, but was startled when Link swept her off the ground, cradling her in his strong arms.
What are you doing? she managed to say, feeling her cheeks flame. I'm quite capable of walking. Zelda felt most awkward to be in such an unlady-like position, but then she had never been much of a lady.
Princess, don't lie to me, Link returned, still bearing her down a small hill. You can barely stand, let alone walk. And you're going to tell me why.
Zelda bit her lip, adverting her eyes. She had been wanting to avoid this conversation, but to her relief Link did not pursue the topic at that point. Her bright sapphire eyes instead focused on the stout tree they were now approaching. It was tall and sturdy, its green leaves lush. A small wooden ladder led up to a snug looking cottage nestled within the boughs.
Is this where you live?
Link nodded, setting her on her feet at the ladder's foot. When I'm here in Hyrule. It's not much, but it's home. He gazed upward at the house with obvious fondness, then returned his attention to her. Do you think you can manage to climb the ladder?
The young Princess nodded quickly. I can manage just fine.
You go up then. I have to take care of Epona, then I'll come back, all right?
She nodded again, then slowly began to climb the ladder. Link stood there watching her, not stirring until she had safely reached the top. Then he strode off into the shadows. Zelda watched him go before going inside. The door was low, so she had to duck her head before entering. It was simple, yet cozy, far different from anything Zelda had lived in as a child. During the seven horrible years, she had spent time in places far worse. With a soft sigh, she settled herself in a small chair, her weary body gratefully relaxing.
For a brief moment she allowed herself to block all thoughts of the impending danger from her mind, but they soon loomed up again, causing her to give a little cry of sadness. Zelda rested her head in her hands, afraid as she had not been for three months. She questioned involving Link, arguing that he had done enough for the kingdom of Hyrule, and had paid a terrible price for it. She was still deep in thought when Link returned. He moved silently, but she still heard him, lifting her head to look at him.
I would have thought you would have gone to bed, he said at last, still not quite believing that she was really here. He feared it might be a dream, that he would wake up and find her gone.
Zelda sighed, brushing back strands of her golden hair. I thought you wanted to talk.
That could have waited until tomorrow, Link replied gently, still worried about her health.
She shook her head wearily, her blue eyes filled with something he couldn't name. I feel that you deserve to have your questions answered now.
Link moved to sit in the chair opposite her, and Navi fluttered to sit on his shoulder. He hesitated, unsure of where to begin, but spoke at last. Tell me when he escaped.
Zelda winced. Of course he would choose that as his first question. She stared at her hands, then answered in a soft faint whisper. The Evil King broke the seal three months ago.
Link stared at her in horror. Three months? Princess, why did you wait so long to call me?
The young woman sighed, lifting her head to meet his eyes. At first we weren't sure where he was. Even with use of our magic, we couldn't locate Ganondorf. We did about two and a half months ago. I had hoped that we could reseal him without your help. She gave him a soft, sad smile. I felt you had suffered enough, and had no wish to drag you into this fight once more. Zelda again looked away for a moment, seeming to gather herself. Sadly, there seemed to be no other choice but to call you. For that, I beg of you to forgive me.
He reached across the table, gently taking her hands in his. Startled, the Princess lifted her gaze. Princess, there is no need to apologize. I bear you no ill will for what has happened to me. You should have called me sooner.
I know, I know, she whispered in anguish. But I couldn't bring myself to make you suffer again. There is no reason you should have to pay for the mistakes I made seven years ago.
Princess, I am just as much to blame as you.
She jerked her head up, eyes filling with tears. Who was it who set you on the quest? Me. Who asked you to gather the Spiritual Stones? Me. Who threw the Ocarina of Time and commanded you to open the Door in the Temple? Me. There is no one to blame but me Link. Zelda blinked, refusing to let the tears fall.
Seven years she's carried this, Link realized with sadness.
At the sound of him speaking her name, not calling her Princess, she began to cry, letting the tears roll freely down her face. All of her shame, all of her anger was finally in the open.
Zelda, we all make choices. I chose to do as you asked. I was not bound to do so, I chose to do so. It was the Deku Tree who sent me to you. I was sent because of Ganondorf. All of this is his doing, not ours. He reached up, lightly brushing the tears from her face. In all the time he had known her, he had never seen Zelda cry.
No. We made it possible for him to enter the Sacred Realm, you at my bidding. It is my falt.
Link inhaled deeply, trying to find the right words to speak. Do you not realize that he would have found another way? Zelda, even if we had done nothing, he still would have found a way into the Sacred Realm.
Zelda turned her head, angry at herself for being so weak. She remained silent, not wishing to say anymore on the subject. Despite his words, she did not seem convinced.
What is his goal this time? Link inquired, anxious to to change to topic.
To gather the two lost Triforce parts, she answered. It will always be his goal. But his time we cannot simply seal him away. He must be destroyed for good.
But how? Link asked, perplexed. He cannot be killed, he's already proven that to us.
I'm not sure. Zelda looked up at him, her dusky cobalt eyes locking with his. I know where we begin however. We need the Flames of the Lands.
The Light of the Lands? Link repeated, frowning. He glanced at Navi, but the little fairy gave no sign that she knew about it. What are the Flames of the Lands?
Zelda straightened in her seat, her eyes having the look they always got when she launched into a legend. The Flames of the Lands are very powerful objects Link. Within each of the lands surrounding Hyrule, there is a Temple as you know. You have already claimed the power of the Sages from these Temples, but not the Flame that dwells there. She paused, gathering her thoughts. Each land that is connected to Hyrule has one of theses Flames. The Flame is the source of energy, the life force, of the area it is in. They appear as fire burning within special torches.
Does Ganondorf know about them?
I'm afraid so. He will once again try and prevent you from succeeding. Of course, you won't have to defeat the entire Temple again, just the boss he has placed there to stop you. She yawned, then continued, her eyes becoming sleepy. There are six. The Flames of Fire, Forest, Water, Shadow, Light, and Desert.
Link nodded, drawing her to her feet. I shall gather them. You must rest Princess. He led her tenderly over to his bed, helping her lay down.
I-I shall go. . .with you. . . Zelda murmured, her words drifting off as sleep claimed her at last.
He pulled the covers over her, tucking them in gently around her. Link straightened, staring down at her as she dozed. She looked at peace, her face smooth and relaxed, not drawn with fear and worry. Forgive me Princess, but I am afraid I cannot allow that, he whispered to he sleeping form.
She's not going to be happy if you leave without her, Navi warned, fluttering over his shoulder.
I know. But I'm afraid she won't have much choice.
The fairy stared at him in disbelief. Zelda's going to be angry if you just leave. You can't do that.
Link managed a grin, walking out onto his porch so that they wouldn't wake her with their talk. It stands to reason Navi. Ganondorf will be looking specifically for her. She'll be safer if she remains here.
No offense Link, but Zelda can pretty much take care of herself, for the most part. And besides, he wants you too. Navi became quiet, a rare thing for her. Well, anyway, we'd better get some shut eye if you wanna get up before her.
He smiled at her affectionately. Navi, you're a pain, but you can be sweet when you want to. With a huge yawn, the Hylian warrior retreated to the stables to spend the night with Epona.
Navi watched him go, waiting until all was silent once more. I don't like this, she thought to herself, glancing in at the sleeping Princess. There was a bad smell in the air that only a fairy could smell. There were sounds, cries of agony that only a fairy could hear. Not only the people of the land were in danger, but the very land of Hyrule itself was being threatened. She shivered, remembering all that the Great Deku Tree had told her before he had died. The fate of the Forest, nay, the world depends upon thee! The little blue fairy knew now that it was true. Her only problem was she didn't know when to act, when that pivotal moment would come.
She floated quietly into the house, coming to rest on the pillow by the sleeping Princess, as if to protect Zelda as she slept. Navi couldn't shake the kinship she felt with Zelda. Both of them had terrible choices to make, decisions that could alter all. What the small blue fairy wondered was if when the time came, would she make the right choice?
*~*~*~*
Zelda stirred slowly, feeling refreshed and restored to her old strength. It took her a moment to remember where she was, then she stood and went to the porch. To her astonishment, Link was already up, Epona saddled and ready for a journey. The Kokiri were clustered around, talking to him anxiously. The Princess hurridly climbed down the ladder, coming to join them.
Good morning Princess Zelda! the children chorused happily as she approached, moving aside so that she could move to Link.
She smiled at them, suddenly understanding why Link loved them so much. Good morning, she returned before turning to the amused looking warrior who stood behind her.
They've sure taken a liking to you, her remarked, clearly pleased.
I suppose. Are we leaving now?
Link looked uneasy for a moment, then began to talk in a slow voice. Princess, I'm not taking you with me.
she gasped, suddenly seeing red. Why not? Link, I'm not some defenseless air head! I can look after myself perfectly fine!
Told ya she wouldn't be happy, Navi whispered in Link's ear.
I know, he muttered back in undertone. Princess, it stands to reason. Ganondorf will be looking for you. This is the safest place for you to be. Besides, I need someone to look after the Kokiri while I'm gone. Can I ask this of you?
Zelda's shoulders slumped, knowing in her heart that he was right. Yes, but I'd much rather come with you.
He smiled, his eyes soft and understanding. I know. Tell you what, I'll save the Forest Temple for last and take you with me, okay?
She nodded sadly, watching as he pulled on his golden gauntlets. On the right hand one, he winced slightly. Before Link could even blink, she had taken his hand, pulling up his sleeve. she gasped, seeing the deep cut there. Her fingers ran over in gently, causing him to flinch. When did this happen?
he admitted.
Zelda sighed, continuing to let her fingers touch the wound. She closed her eyes, gathering her magic within herself, then let it flow slowly into the wound. There was a soft purple glow, then a flash of light as the wound healed. Zelda then pulled his sleeve back down, raising her head to meet his gaze. As she had done what seemed so long ago, she whispered, Be safe.
Link touched her chin lightly, staring deeply into her eyes. I will Zelda. He mounted Epona, waved to them all, then galloped off towards the exit of the forest.
*~*~*~*
Midnight Starfire: Once more, I'm flattered! I appreciate your comments so much! Such a confidence boost! I'm glad you didn't think the part with Ganondorf coming back was bad. I was a bit worried about it. Anyway, thank you so much!
Greki: Thank you! I'm pleased that you are enjoying it so far! Hopefully it'll keep your attention!
Lizai: Are you still brain dead? Hee hee! Well, I'll keep writing if you'll keep reading! Glad you like it!
Mornie: Thank a bunch! It's really hard to stick to the true story while still being original. I'm so happy you like it! So... are you going to write one too now? Hehehe. . .
LainieG304: Heehee! Yes, a cliffie! It's the only way to keep people interested! I have talent? Gee, thanks! I'm so humbled that you would put this on your favs! Thank you!!!