The Light of Hope
Chapter 6
Disclaimer: I do not own Zelda. . . blah blah blah. Do people really care if you write your own little dumb stories about the characters? Yeah, if you're making money! I can assure you all that I am not making anything off of this. Hey. . . don't forget to send in your payments! Just kidding everyone!
A/N: Can you believe it? We're at Chapter 6! Whoo hoo! Okay, this is about the scariest temple. . . the Shadow Temple! Dun dun dun! Heh, actually I don't know how scary this will be. And, yes it will have a bit more action in this one. Last time I kinda wasn't in a violent mood, so I didn't describe the boss fight very well. My apologies to those who complained, and you know who you are! As always, I'll post replies to you in my bio, so don't forget to check! And, if you are reading this and haven't reviewed, DO IT!!!!!! I just might go on strike and stop writing if those of you who haven't reviewed don't do so at once! Heh, actually I'm not really angry. Most of you seem to do an excellent job with reviewing. I love to get reviews, that's all. So once again, thank you for reviewing!
There was a ominous roll of thunder, combined with the rain making for a very scary way to enter the Shadow Temple. Zelda didn't like to admit that she was afraid, but she was. The darkness from the temple seemed to reach out, ready to grab her and pull her in. She shivered unconsciously, hugging herself tightly.
It's not so bad, Navi whispered in her ear. We won't be going through the real scary places. There's a short cut to the boss room, so we can avoid most of the temple.
That's a relief, Zelda returned as they started into the temple. Almost at once though, she began to feel frightened from the sense of evil she felt there.
Princess, you can wait for me, Link spoke up, glancing at her sideways. I can handle it just fine.
No way, she shot back, immediately hiding her true feelings. It would be worse to wait out there all alone. I'd rather come with.
Link didn't argue the point. He was sick of arguing with her about her being with him. There was no way that he could convince her to stay behind. But he had to admit that it was nice to have her with him, he liked her company. She had a way of brightening up the darkest places, even ones like these. Link wasn't any happier that she was about being here, but he didn't have much choice.
They climbed down the metal webbing on the wall to find the strange ship waiting for them. Zelda stared up at it, a apprehensive expression on her face.
What's wrong? Link inquired, startling her slightly.
Oh, it's just that this ship is one from legend. The young woman paused, remembering the old tales. They say that when someone dies, they board the ship that floats on the river of souls. It was described exactly like this, Zelda remarked, gesturing up at it. It floats along, bells ringing until it reaches a dead end, then falls down to the underworld. The cursed souls are the only ones who take this ship.
I guess then that we're cursed, Link stated grimly, helping her onto it and moving to the center of the boat.
He pulled out his Ocarina, and played the sweet notes that composed Zelda's Lullaby. The tiny golden bells on the front of the ship suddenly rang, and with a lurch the ship started to sail forward. Zelda almost toppled over from the sudden movement, but Link caught her before she fell. Her cheeks flamed at the strange fluttery feeling in the pit of her stomach, righting herself with his help.
Just then, two Stalfos landed on the ship. Link drew the Master Sword, going into his fighter's crouch. Zelda pulled out her own dagger, knowing that it was a pitiful weapon against such creatures, yet wasn't worried about it. She had other weapons at her command.
The ship will sink when we reach the end, so be ready to jump, Link called to her, watching his own Stalfos warily. Without waiting for her answer, he struck lightning fast, slashing the Stalfos and backing nimbly away.
Zelda had to focus on her own battle, unable to watch him fight. The skeleton lurched towards her, surprisingly fast for something that looked so frail. She dodged it easily, sending a little jolt of magic at it. The Stalfos roared, and did the worst possible thing: it lowered it's shield. The Princess hit it head on with a surge of purple light that burned through the creature as if it was made of paper. She straightened just in time to watch Link defeat his Stalfos. But then the ship started trembling, and she looked down, realizing that they had stopped.
Zelda, move! Navi shouted. The ship's sinking!
She ran for the edge, reaching it the same time Link did. He grabbed her, then they jumped. They hit the ground, Link taking the full brunt of the blow, rolling a few times before coming to a stop. The Hylians lay still together for several moments, their breathing deep. Zelda, realizing their awkward situation, hurriedly scrambled off of him, blushing furiously.
Thanks for breaking my fall, she offered quietly.
It was my pleasure Princess, he assured her, grinning at her as she turned even redder. Then he rose, dusting himself off and they set off over the toppled pillar.
They crossed carefully to the opposite side, then opened the door. Zelda started, seeing the boss door, but between them and the door was nothing but a deep dark pit. She stared nervously at the edge, wondering how they were going to cross. Then she noticed that Link had sat down and was removing his boots.
What are you doing? she asked, wondering what crazy thing he was going to do now.
I'm putting on my Hover Boots, he explained patiently, taking them out of his pack. Seeing her blank look, he tossed her the Eye of Truth.
Zelda stared at it uncertainly, but lifted it to her eyes and gasped. She could suddenly see sections of floor that had been invisible before. Yet they were still far apart, not close enough to jump. She vaguely noted that Link would get across by his boots, but how was she to get to the other side?
Link stood up, walking over to her. I'm going to have to carry you, but you'll have to hold the Eye of Truth for me. Is that all right with you?
Her face burned, and she heard Navi snigger in her ear, but she just tossed her hair. Yes, that will work just fine.
Her tone sounded uncertain, but Link lifted her easily into his arms, cradling her close against his body. She slipped on arm around his neck, raising her other hand to hold the Eye of Truth up so that he could see. He took a deep breath, and ran across the wide empty space. He relaxed slightly when his feet touched solid ground again, but then he had to do it several more times. At last they reached the boss door safely. Link set Zelda gently on her feet, taking back the Eye of Truth she offered him.
They entered the next room only to find the deep dark hole in the center. Navi floated over to it, peering down. Yep, that's where the boss is hiding all right. You gotta jump.
Glancing at each other, they walked to the edge of the hole, then jumped. It seemed as if they fell forever before they finally landed on something soft. The chamber was pitch black, and they rose slowly to their feet, being cautious. There was no sign of any monsters.
Link glanced at Zelda, puzzled, when he felt an icy breeze on his neck. Instantly he drew his sword, eyes darting about. I don't see anything, he muttered to her. He pulled out his fire arrows and was ready to shoot when there came a swishing sound. Zelda pushed him out of the way, falling beside him.
Light the torches! she hissed, pointing to the dim outline of one on the wall.
Before he could argue, Zelda had leapt to her feet, sending a wave of purple light spiraling through the darkness. There came an ear piercing shriek, like a call to the dead. Gritting his teeth, Link fired an arrow at the torch, lending light to the room. He then rapidly fired at the others, and gasped at the sight that was revealed.
The creature that Zelda was facing was at least seven feet tall, wrapped in robes the color of ashes stained by blood. It's face couldn't be seen because its head was hooded, but what you could see was bad enough. It held a scythe in a hand that looked as if it were decaying. The hand was gray, scabbed and slimy looking, causing Link to flinch at the sight. But then the creature gave a high pitched shriek, causing a wave of cold to wash over them, setting their hair on end.
It's a Banshee Reaper, Navi moaned, fluttering to hide at the youth's neck. They drive you mad with their cries, then rip you to pieces!
Link shouted, starting forward with the intent to help her, but her voice stopped him cold.
No Link! You have to keep the torches lit! Zelda cried, gesturing to one that had just gone out. We can't fight it if we can't see it!
She was forced to dodge another attack from the Reaper, raising her hands to send a stream of lavender sparks at it. It shrieked, wheeling on her again. Navi flew out of hiding to target the Reaper for the Princess. Torn, wanting to rush to her aid, Link kept relighting the torches that kept going out within minutes. He kept glancing frantically at Zelda, afraid that she would fall at any moment.
Her sapphire eyes flashed like blue flames, determination in them as she continued to play with the Reaper. It was almost as if she were taunting it, both of them engaged in a deadly dance. But then the Reaper screamed, it's tone ear-shattering. Zelda cried out in pain, clapping her hands over her ears. Still wailing, the Reaper lunged at her. She barely managed to dodge it, the scythe whistling past her, so close she felt the breeze it made through the air. The unearthly cry breaking through her defenses and into her mind; she couldn't concentrate long enough to fight back.
Navi, realizing the danger, flew at once to Link who also had his hands over his ears. She buzzed frantically to get his attention, and launched into speech when he lifted his hands. You gotta play the Ocarina! Give Zelda something else to listen to!
He fumbled in his tunic, wincing as the full blast of the cry hit him. Raising the Ocarina to his lips, he played the first melody that entered his mind: the calm, cool notes of Zelda's Lullaby. The sweet tone seemed to break through, shattering the spell of the Reaper's cry. Though it still shrieked, the sound wasn't as hurtful as it was. He prayed that Zelda could finish it off fast.
Her ears no longer ringing, Zelda was ready for battle once more. She stepped back to avoid another blow from the scythe, then called forth all the power she could muster. The Princess raised her hands, pointing them straight at the monster, her eyes burning with her magic's power. Then the violet light burst from her, and the Reaper let out a wail of pain before it was cut off, completely incinerated by the magic.
Drained from her effort, Zelda sank to her knees. Link raced across the room to gather her in his arms. Are you hurt?
She shook her head slightly. She managed a grin, then pointed at the portal that had just appeared. We need to go.
He shook his head, but managed to smile in return. Helping her to her feet, the two Hylians walked across the room, stepping into the light.
Welcome Princess Zelda, Link.
They opened their eyes to find themselves standing before a tall solemn Sheikah with white hair and brown eyes. Both bowed slightly in greeting, catching sight of the torch with an amethyst flame.
Oh Impa, I've missed you, Zelda said impulsively.
And I you, little one. But now is not the time for this. You have work to do. Impa gestured to the Flame that stood beside her. I'm sure you know what to do by now. She watched as they did as they were supposed to then began to speak once more. The danger is great Princess, even greater than you realize.
Zelda bowed her head with a sigh. It always is Impa. She lifted her head, eyes shining with unshed tears. You don't have to tell me what you want to say, I already know. I must save my land and take my place as Princess.
Impa nodded gravely. I raised you to be the ruler of Hyrule, and I know you shall do a fine job. And remember Zelda, there is always hope. She turned her gaze on Link. And you, Hero of Time, I only ask that you still keep the promise you made to me when we first met after you defeated the Shadow Temple.
Her words rung clearly in his memory. Please, protect the Princess! I shall Impa, he responded gravely.
She looked at him approvingly, then sighed. Time grows short. You must move quickly. May the Goddesses protect you.
They left Kakariko Village in silence, heading to where Epona waited for them. Where are we gonna go now? Navi demande to know.
We're stopping at Lon Lon Ranch, Link informed her. Then we go to the Spirit Temple.The Ranch? Instantly Navi became worried. Are you sure that's a good idea? she murmured in undertone to him.
He looked at her bewildered. Why wouldn't it be?
Inwardly Navi groaned. Men could be so stupid! What did he think was going to happen when two girls who liked him got together? Or maybe he was just really dense and didn't realize that they had feelings for him. Navi could have screamed and chewed him out, but couldn't because Zelda was still there. Instead she settled for sullen silence the entire ride to the ranch. Her heart sank though as they rode through the gates and heard a happy call.
Link the fairy boy!
Zelda, who had just dismounted, looked up startled to see a red haired girl running towards them. She looked to be about the Princess's own age, though a bit taller. Her eyes were an azure color, clothing simple. Who is she? Zelda wondered.
Link strode forward, enveloping the girl in a tight embrace, lifting her off her feet and swinging her around in a circle. It's great to see you again! He set her down, beaming happily. There's someone I want you to meet.
He turned around, taking Malon by the arm. Link was startled to see that Zelda had gone quite pale, her expression unreadable. What's wrong with her? He wondered, but decided to introduce them anyway. Malon, this is Princess Zelda. Princess, this is my good friend Malon.Nice to meet you, Malon replied cheerfully, bobbing her red head in greeting.
You too, Zelda answered, but inwardly she was feeling angry. Her lips tightened slightly, but she fought to keep control of herself, wondering why she was suddenly so enraged.
She trailed behind Link and Malon as they wandered around the ranch, finding herself in a very bad mood. Yet she managed just fine until the conversation turned again. They began talking about Malon's father and how he was doing.
Papa's been sick, the ranch girl said sadly. It's been really hard. I don't know if he's going to get better.I'm so sorry Malon, Link replied, his face growing concerned. Is there anything I can do?
Tears sprang in Malon's eyes, and she began to tremble. You do enough for me just by being here.
She began to cry silently, her shoulders shaking from the effort of trying to suppress her sorrow. Link moved forward half a step an took her in his arms, holding her close against him as the girl sobbed.
Suddenly Zelda felt something break inside herself. She mumbled something under her breath to them to excuse herself, then fled. The Princess didn't stop until she was back at the entrance where Epona was tethered. The fire colored mare raised her head from her grazing, giving a soft wicker as the girl approached. Zelda went to her, wrapping her arms around the horse's neck, burying her face in the silky softness of her mane. She didn't understand why the sight of Link and Malon hugging should affect her like this. She didn't care; she hated them both. Cursing softly, she began to cry, angry for being so selfish just like a spoiled little girl.
It was Navi, the little fairy floating around the girl's head, her tone concerned. Do you want to talk?Not really, the Princess snapped, then immediately felt bad. Sorry Navi. I don't know what's wrong with me. She leaned against Epona's side, playing with the ends of her hair.
You don't need to be upset, the fairy soothed. Link can't help being an air head.
It wasn't really funny, but Zelda chuckled anyway. Then she turned serious, her expression sad. I shouldn't be feeling this way; what's wrong with me?
He doesn't like Malon that way, Navi said suddenly.
Zelda looked at her, not sure what point the fairy was trying to make. How do you know? Why would I care if he did?
Navi buzzed in annoyance. Oh, I'm not stupid Zelda. I know Link better than anyone, including you and Saria. And don't act like you don't care, cause I know you do. If you didn't care, you wouldn't be so angry right now.
She didn't answer, knowing that Navi was right.
Malon sighed, wiping away her tears as she straightened. Sorry Link. I usually don't break down like that.It's okay, he assured her. Everyone needs to let their feelings out.
She smiled wryly, sitting down beneath the tree. That includes you fairy boy.
Link stared at her blankly. What are you talking about Malon? he inquired as he joined her on the soft waving grass.
She shook her red head, rolling her azure eyes. Boys can be so dense sometimes, she teased, but then became serious. I know you could never feel the way about me that I do about you Link. I've accepted that, and I'll move on and get over it. Let me finish, she replied calmly, seeing him about to speak. But Link, whether you know your own feelings or not, you've got to let them out. You need to figure out what it is that you feel.
He was a taken back by her words, not sure how to respond, not even sure what it was that she was implying. Malon, what are you trying to tell me?
She leaned closer to him, locking him in her gaze. You need to figure it out on your own Link. Malon sighed, but grinned, bouncing to her feet. Where's the Princess? Then with an even wider grin, she whispered. She didn't seem to happy when you hugged me. And I noticed that you saw how unhappy she looked. I hope she's not too angry with you.She's mad at me? Link clambered hurriedly to his feet, but stopped when he heard Malon burst out laughing. What's so funny? he demanded.
I was right, she said simply. I knew it was her all along.
Link thought about asking her what she meant, but decided he'd only end up more confused. He started forward, but Malon stopped him.
Can you move that horse into the barn for me Link? I hate moving him cause he's a fighter, but you should be able to take care of it.
Feeling even more bewildered, Link nodded and walked across the field. Malon watched him go, than hurried to where she knew Zelda was. Sure enough the Princess was beside Epona, talking to Navi.
Princess, can I talk to you? Malon asked her politely.
Zelda fought back the urge to yell at the ranch girl and tell her to go away, nodding slightly.
Okay, first things first, I suppose you should know I do have feelings for Link. She saw Zelda's eyes flash, then hastened to explain. But the thing is, it wouldn't work Princess. I know it, and he wouldn't stay with me anyway.I appreciate you trying to cover for him, but I don't believe it, Zelda answered, hating herself for being so mean.
Malon sighed. You're free to believe or disbelieve as you choose. But Princess, I don't own his heart and I never will. She stepped closer, wanting to make peace with the young woman who looked so miserable. Princess, I think very highly of you, so please understand that I wouldn't lie to you.
Zelda sighed too, telling herself she was behaving like a spoiled pampered Princess. Malon, you do not need to justify yourself to me. I'm sorry for the way I've been behaving.You're under a lot of stress, Malon replied knowingly. But know that all of Hyrule believes in you and Link.
At that moment Link came towards them, eyes narrowed at Malon. I don't know what you were talking about. That horse was the gentlest, laziest creature I've ever met.
Malon met Zelda's eyes, and saw that the Princess understood. She began to giggle, shaking her head. Well, thanks anyway fairy boy. She hugged him quickly, then stepped back. Get a move on, you need to save Hyrule.
The ranch girl watched as Epona grew smaller and smaller, bearing away her riders swiftly. She shivered from the cold breeze, suddenly apprehensive. Malon couldn't comprehend the fact that the fate of Hyrule rested in the hands of Link and Zelda. Dropping to her knees, she offered up a prayer to the Goddesses.
Oh please, don't let them loose. Din, I beg you to give them strength. Nayru, I request that you shall bless them with wisdom. Farore, I pled that you might give them courage.
Malon stayed on her knees for a long time before rising. When she did, her eyes turned to the west, and felt her blood chill in her veins. Dark storm clouds were gathering there, and she knew it was a sign of the power of the Evil King. Malon hugged herself tightly. May the Goddesses protect you, Link and Zelda, she whispered to the coming storm.