The Light of Hope
Chapter 4
Disclaimer: I'm starting to hate writing this. I do NOT own Zelda, however much I wish I did. If I did, then Link would be MINE! ( I seem to have a strange liking for blond haired men with pointed ears. Hee hee! grinning happily )
A/N: I guess as of now I'm not supposed to answer responses here. So, that means you should look at my bio, and I'll thank you there! I appreciate your comments SO much! I can't thank you all enough! To keep you all in suspense, someone is going to die soon. Gasp! Now you're all wondering who, but you can relax. It's not going to happen in this chapter. When is it going to happen? You'll just have to wait! Mwahaha! Enjoy!
The laughter of the Kokiri children floated up to where Zelda sat on the hill. She watched them play hide and seek, smiling at their carefree, happy attitudes. She envied them for that. In an instant, Zelda felt another flash of anger. Link had left only a few hours ago, but it felt like it had been ages ago.
How could he leave me? She thought furiously. Helpless, that was how she felt. Even though Link had told her he wanted her to look after the Kokiri, Zelda knew it was just an excuse to keep her from harm. The Princess wanted to be out there fighting to save her people, not hiding yet again. Physically she was much better, especially after the forest girls had let her take a bath in addition to fixing and cleaning her gown. Emotionally, well that was another story. Her shoulders slumped, wondering how her people could have hope from a person who had none for herself.
Princess Zelda! Marlia had come up the hill, her jade green eyes sparkling with a bright youthfulness. She tugged on Zelda's hands. Come play with us!
A short red haired girl gasped, looking appalled. Not in her gown! She'll get it all dirty!
The boys laughed at this, and Mido spoke up, looking amused. Then the Princess can wear one of the Kokiri tunics.
Rolling her eyes, Marlia once more pulled at Zelda. she asked imploringly, blinking her large green eyes. It's really, really, really fun. Please?
Zelda nodded in consent, allowing herself to be pulled to her feet. How could she refuse after a request like that? Marlia took her to the Kokiri store, ignoring the counter, leading the taller girl around the back. There the forest girl began pulling out tunics and holding them up, glancing at Zelda, then tossing them aside.
she exclaimed happily, handing Zelda a more feminin tunic. I knew we'd have one for you. Try it on.
It was far different from anything Zelda was accustomed to, yet not unpleasant. The material was soft but durable, perfect for playing hide and seek with the Kokiri. She examined her reflection in the mirror. She now looked like an overgrown Kokiri, exactly the way Link looked. She smiled, grateful to shed her responsibilities as Princess, even if it were only for a short time.
The two girls went back outside to join the game. It was a bit difficult for Zelda at first, being so much taller than the forest children. She had to look longer and harder for good places to hide while they could be almost anywhere. Yet it didn't take long for her to feel right at home, and soon she was laughing as loudly as they were.
I found you! she cried, startling Mido considerably.
He yelped, sprinting away for the safe tree. Zelda dashed after him, catching him easily.
No fair! You're bigger than me! he cried, launching himself at her.
The other children followed suite, joyfully tackling the Princess. They all lay there in a tangled heap, giggling happily as they tickled Zelda. She laughed until tears ran down her cheeks, not able to remember when she had had so much fun.
Princess Zelda, What's wrong?
She glanced over at Marlia who had just climbed the tree to sit beside her. Zelda stared up at the stars, knowing that the forest girl wouldn't buy her lie.
The little girl cocked her head, suddenly seeming older and wiser than she looked. Are you scared for Link? He can take care of himself Princess. Marlia snuggled closer to Zelda, resting her blond head against the girl's shoulder.
Zelda was touched by these actions, feeling like she had found the sibling she had never had. I suppose that's part of the reason Marlia. But I think the real reason is that I feel lost. I feel like I should be doing something, but I don't know what.
Marlia absently fingered the sleeve of Zelda's gown, liking the feel of the silky material. Maybe you should be out there with Link, she suggested, craning her head to look up at Zelda. Maybe you're supposed to be with him. she replied softly, stroking the girl's long blond locks.
They were both quiet again, lost in their own thoughts. It was Marlia who broke the silence again. Tell me what it means to be Princess.
Zelda was taken back by this question. She knew the Kokiri had little contact with the outside world, but she had assumed they knew about things like Princesses. I suppose being Princess is like being a big sister, she stated slowly, trying to put it terms the girl could understand. You have to look out for the well being of your people, to protect them from harm. It's up to you to make the right choices for them. But I have whole lands to make decisions for, millions of people to keep from harm. I didn't ask to be Princess, but I am.
Marlia was quiet, absorbing this information. Is that why you're so afraid? You're worried you're not making the right choices?
The Princess nodded, feeling sudden tears rise. Yes. That and-You're afraid Link's the one who'll pay for your mistakes, Marlia put in, her voice a soft whisper.
How do you know that? Zelda whispered, wondering if the Kokiri could read minds.
The small child rested her head against Zelda's shoulder once more. Link told us all about his adventures. He always spoke much of you. I got the feeling that he cares for you deeply, and I feel that you feel the same for him. So naturally you wouldn't want him to be in danger.Maybe you're right, Zelda murmured, drawing the girl closer, holding her tightly. Maybe you're right.Why are we climbing this stupid mountain instead of warping? Navi whined as she bounced above Link's shoulder. Zelda gave us those warping songs so that we could get places quicker.
Link sighed, straightening as he came out of the Goron city. Because I wanted to check on them, all right? We can warp now.Jeez, thanks, the fairy muttered as Link pulled out the Ocarina of Time.
He caressed it lightly with his fingertips, suddenly awash with memories. The awful day that Zelda had fled the castle, the day she had sent him back to his proper time. His reminiscing was interrupted however by Navi yet again.
Don't forget to put on your Goron tunic.
Link flicked his fingers at her, rolling his eyes in irritation. You sound like my mother or something.You need a mother! she exclaimed heatedly. You get into trouble more than anyone else I've ever known!
She then began muttering to herself under her breath. Link ignored her, changing into the Goron tunic, then straightening. I can't believe I ever missed her, he thought shaking his head. Navi stopped mumbling and fluttered to his shoulder as he played the Bolero of Fire. Their bodies dissolved into a flurry of scarlet sparks that flew through the air.
Within mere seconds they were in the crater, standing before the temple entrance. Link strode forward purposefully, keeping his ears open for any unusual sounds. He climbed down the ladder, Navi lighting his way down. He landed lightly on his feet, walking soundlessly into the Fire Temple.
Where do you think I'm supposed to go? Link muttered to Navi.
The fairy fluttered in the air in silence for a moment before responding. I think you need to go to the boss room again. I sense an evil force in that direction, so be careful.
He nodded in answer, moving stealthily past the fire bats that flapped around the ceiling. So far the temple was exactly as he remembered. The pillar was stuck in the ground, enabling him to cross to the boss door easily. At the door he hesitated momentarily, taking a couple of deep breaths. Then he slowly pushed the door open and stepped inside.
It was quiet within the chamber, with no sign of anyone or anything. Yet Link did not drop his guard, knowing that Ganondorf was tricky when it came to picking bosses. He had drawn the Master Sword, holding it ready in his hand. Navi was also tense, her fairy intuition buzzing like an alarm. Link jumped catlike to the mound of rock in the center of the room that was riddled with holes that were filled with boiling lava. He walked slowly to the center, his warrior's instincts in place.
Link! Watch out! Navi cried in alarm.
Without a second thought, Link threw himself to the side, feeling a sudden rush of heat. He landed on his feet, whirling to face his attacker. Or, more correctly, his attackers. There wer two of them, huge spirit like creatures that seemed to be made of nothing but flames and darkness.
What are they Nav? he gasped, stepping back.
Helios! Spirits of fire!
One raised a fiery arm, sending a ribbon of fire at Link. He deflected it with his mirror shield, protected for the moment. He heard them wail in rage, continuing to fling handfuls of flames at him.
How do I defeat them? he hissed at Navi who hovered beside him.
Try cooling them down, then shattering them with your sword.Not going to be easy with two of them, Link muttered, pulling out his ice arrows.
He rolled again, trying to gain a few seconds to fire at them, but they were quick, the two of them cleverly working together to fight him. One was always ready for his next assault, no matter how fast he moved.
Finally Link managed to hit one with an ice arrow. The Helios hissed, its body crusting over with a black, rocklike covering. But before Link could attack, the other one threw a fire ball at him. He ducked, turning his attention to the one that was free. He aimed with his arrow, when he heard the crack of rock. Somewhere in the hazy mist of his brain he registered that the other had broken free, but was too slow to react. He heard it shriek, and felt a rush of heat come spiraling towards him. Somewhere too he heard Navi cry out, but it held no words as he awaited the attack.
It never connected. Link felt something plow into him, sending him sprawling as a stream of flames shot over his body. Startled, Link raised his head and found himself staring into a pair of deep sapphire eyes, eyes that he knew too well.
he gasped, managing to sit up. What are you doing here? Terror rushed through him, fear for her safety.
Before she could answer, the fire spirits attacked again. Link grabbed her around the waist, raising his shield to block the onslaught. Both hunched behind it as the Helios continued to spray it with flames. Zelda pressed close to Link, stretching up to whisper in his ear.
I can hit them with the ice arrows, then you can destroy them. She reached for the bow, taking it gently from his hands. She could see the horror in his eyes, seeing him about to protest. Her fingers pressed against his lips to silence him. Trust me, she whispered.
Zelda darted out from behind Link, the bow ready. The Helios were startled by her sudden appearance and did not react fast enough. Before they could attack, she unleashed an ice arrow. It pierced one, and the other howled in rage, coming after the girl. She dodged it nimbly, giving Link the opportunity he needed.
Without its fellow to protect it, the crusted Helios was a sitting duck. Link's sword flashed, piercing through it. It's dying cry caused the other to turn, momentarily distracted, forgetting Zelda, which became its last mistake. There was a blast of ice, then Link leapt, plunging his blade deep into the Helios.
It's cries echoed through the room as it burst into dust, joining its fellow fire spirit. There was silence for a moment. Link stood still, his sword still held ready. Zelda had lowered the bow, her face unreadable. Then there came a flash of white light as a swirling portal appeared.
C'mon, we gotta go into the portal, Navi said impatiently to the two of them.
Both Hylians walked across to the center of the room, stepping into the light. Navi quickly joined them, mumbling under her breath again. As they were lifted up, Zelda silently handed Link his bow.
The Chamber of Sages. Both had been here before. Link and Zelda stood on the Triforce symbol, waiting. Darunia, the Sage of Fire, suddenly appeared, standing beside a torch. The flame that glowed within it was a bright scarlet color.
Well done Sister Zelda and Brother Link, he rumbled, gesturing for them to come forward. It is good to see you again. Link replied as he and Zelda moved closer. He extended his hand to the Goron that he had known so long ago.
Darunia took it solemnly, nodding to the Princess who inclined her head in turn. Well, you have earned the Flame of the Fire lands, he replied, gesturing to the torch. It was well done. A fantastic battle! His eyes brightened at the memory, then shook himself with a grunt. Anyway, you have earned it, so take it. Link inquired, perplexed.
Put the Master Sword into the Flame.
Link moved closer to the torch, slowly raising the Master Sword. He passed it through the Flame carefully, making sure to keep his hands away from it. The sword glowed bright blue briefly before becoming shiny and silver once more. He then sheathed it with a sigh. One down, five to go.
The Goron suddenly grinned fiercely. Oh, it's not that easy Link. Now you and Zelda must put your hands in the Flame.
The warrior started, staring at his friend as if he were insane. He turned to Zelda who shrugged her shoulders, then raised her hand. Link noted that it was the one with the Triforce symbol, so he did the same. Both moved their hands slowly into the Flame. To Link's surprise, it did not burn him, at least not in the normal sense. It felt more as if his spirit was on fire, and he could not hold back a gasp, hearing Zelda do the same. They withdrew their hands from the Flame, both slightly in awe of what had just happened.
Brother Link, I have things I would say only to you, Darunia spoke up, glancing at the Princess. She smiled in understanding, backing away out of earshot. Once he was certain the Princess was no longer listening, Darunia turned to Link. So it has begun again Brother.Sadly yes, Link replied, feeling true sorrow. But fear not, I'll protect the Gorons.
The Fire Sage nodded, but then continued. You are no longer a boy, but a real man. I have always wanted to have a man to man talk with you, but there is not enough time, so I must speak my piece quickly. Be true to your heart Link. No matter what, your heart knows what's best for you.
Before Link could respond, Darunia gestured Zelda back over. He stared at the two of them intensely, his fierce purple eyes gleaming. Defeat the Evil King, Brother and Sister.
The familiar white light rose around them, and Zelda and Link felt their bodies lifting up. When the light faded, they were standing on the top of Death Mountain. There was a cool breeze that ruffled their hair as they gazed out over the land of Hyrule.
Weee! One down, five to go! Navi chirped, flying around their heads happily. You two were great!
Zelda grinned up at the fairy, her eyes sparkling. But then her heart dropped when Link spoke her name. She prepared herself for his wrath, knowing he was not happy with her.
Zelda, what did you think you were doing? Link fought hard to keep anger from his voice, but his tone was hard even to his ears.
She winced, lowering her head. I know you told me to stay, but Link, I just couldn't. I felt my place was with you, so I came. Zelda stared at him. His back was to her as he gazed out across the mountain. Her voice was timid when she spoke again. Are you angry with me? Link sighed heavily, turning to face her. Zelda, I worry about you. I know you can take care of yourself, but I don't want you to have to go through the pain and suffering I have. I-I don't want anything to happen to you.
His tender words warmed her, and she felt her cheeks flush slightly. I know. She stepped closer to him, keeping her sapphire gaze locked on him. But there is no other place I'd rather be than with you.
Link's heart leapt at her words, wondering what she meant. He shook himself, telling himself that he couldn't allow himself to be distracted right now. Besides, if the Evil King were ever to suspect. . . it was best not to go there. So, that means the next stop is the Water Temple. He made a face, looking as if he had just swallowed a lemon.
Zelda stared at him in puzzlement. What's wrong with the Water Temple?Oh, its not so much the Water Temple as it is Ruto, Navi butted in, her tone cheerful. Ruto is in love with Link and wants to marry him. Luckily though for him, she's a Sage so that's impossible.Aren't you ever quiet? Link hissed at her in annoyance. He saw a strange look flutter over Zelda's face and hastened to explain. Seven years ago when I went to get the Spiritual Stone of Water from the Zoras, and it turned out that Ruto had it. I defeated a monster and saved her. She offered me a reward, and I told her I wanted the stone. Ruto claimed her mother told her only to give it to the man who would be her husband.
Zelda felt slightly awkward, hearing about someone who was in love with Link. She wondered how many other young girls were smitten with him. For some reason the very thought made her feel angry and jealous, but she banished those thoughts immediately, telling herself she was being silly. And you agreed?
Link stared at her in shock. Are you insane? Of course not! She just assumed I agreed; she never asked me! Link shuddered, causing Navi to giggle. He glared at her, then continued. I needed the Spiritual Stone for you, so I didn't bother to argue with her. As Navi put it, Ruto became a Sage, so there wasn't any way for her to marry me.
The Princess couldn't help but laugh at the look on Link's face. All's well that ends well I suppose, she said lightly, trying not to sound as if she was truly bothered by the subject.
Somewhere far away in the depths of the desert, a man watched them. He cursed in rage, causing his slaves to cringe in fear. The Evil King ignored them, useless as they were. They were nothing but tools for his plans.
Ganondorf glared furiously at the image. The Princess had spoiled everything! If she hadn't have appeared, Link would have been finished! It was always her fault, all of his plans thwarted because of her! He shook his head, trying to calm himself. A slow smile flittered across his face. It did not matter anyway. Even with the power of the Flames they couldn't beat him.
Slowly he raised his left hand, seeing the gleam of the small triangle shape. Ganondorf savored the power, loving the thrill of it as it coursed through his body. Yet he knew it was only a small taste of what was to come. Once more his darkness was covering the land of Hyrule, and this time there was nothing to stop it.