Talim had thought it was a bad idea to allow Sophitia in, but things were
turning out better than she thought. The woman named Sophita was not
disgusted with the hideous transformation that had disfigured Siegfried.
Maybe she was surprised, but more than anything she was happy for his well
being. Did she already know the pain he suffered already? Did she sense the
deep remorse he held for everything he did? Did she see the desire
Siegfried had to right everything he had wronged and atone for the people
he so mindlessly slaughtered, even if it took a lifetime?
She must have, for she cried at the sight of his haunted eyes, and the scars he bore from the unspeakable torture that no human would wish upon anyone. And when Talim realized this, she knew that Sophitia could be trusted. Truthfully, it was very hard NOT to trust her, for she spoke clearly and without fear.
Talim stood watching the two speak quietly to each other, Siegfried was recounting the story and their situation to the beautiful Greek female. Siegfried, she saw, had a slight smile upon his face and he seemed more at ease than she'd ever seen him before. Talim was really curious as to what his relationship with Sophitia was earlier, but this seemed to answer it. But there was still something that bothered her, and she could see it whenever Siegfried stared at Sophitia.
Did he still love her?
But Talim didn't have long to ponder this over when she heard a groan from the other bed. The other two were also made aware and they turned to look to see Link awaken finally. The blond elf slowly opened his eyes and pushed himself onto his side using his elbows. He looked around obviously confused at his surroundings.
Though Sophitia had accepted Siegfried so easily, Talim wasn't sure how she would take to Link and instinctively made her way over to him and tried to stand in front of him blocking Sophitia's view.
This must of surprised Link as he still did not understand what was going on or where he was.
"Please Lady Sophitia, look away!" Talim ordered shrilly.
The woman looked back to Siegfried bewildered, and Siegfried didn't seem to know what to do. Would Sophitia accept Link as easily? It was stupid of him to forget that Link was also in the room.
Link was finally beginning to realize what was going on as he looked to himself and found his wounds bandaged, and with out thinking, he spoke in his own dialect questioningly. Talim shot Siegfried a terrified look.
"Siegfried? Who is that?" Sophitia asked calmly, though her voice shook slightly.
The knight took hold of her hand (with his normal hand), his face pleading. "Please Milady, do not be alarmed, and do not judge him too harshly for he is no more demon than anybody here in Athens."
This little warning seemed to still make Sophitia somewhat uneasy, but she began to brace herself immediately before she gave him a nod agreeing.
Talim didn't have to look to Siegfried to know what she was to do and stepped away reveling the elf that was now fully aware of what was happening. Link had seen Sophitia from behind Talim and had turned away covering his ears in an attempt to hide them. His small ponytail, which was always obscured because of his long green hat, was now visible, but did little to draw attention away from his most distinguishing features, and his blushing face.
Siegfried spoke to him then in his own language,( Which of course got Sophitia to look at him rather strangely, but she said nothing) and Link turned ever so carefully back. With more coaxing from Siegfried, Link lowered his hands to reveal the long and pointed ears.
"Sophitia, this is our friend Link," Siegfried introduced and then he spoke to Link also introducing the elf to the girl.
Sophitia let out a cry in surprise as she saw them causing Link to flinch. Talim noticed the look upon Link's (blushing) face and realized that this couldn't be easy for the young man, and he was still half-dressed, so she quickly retrieved his tunic and green shirt from a chair in the corner of the room. The elf took them with much gratitude (thankfully, he still had on his trousers.) As he dressed, Siegfried to Sophitia explaining as best as he could about Link to draw the unwanted attention away from him (There was a few yelps of pain as Talim swatted Link when he tried to remove his bandage.). By the time Link was dressed, Siegfried was done catching Sophitia up to speed and was getting reproachful looks from Link, who replaced his green hat upon his head forcefully.
"I see, that's quite amazing." Sophitia breathed still staring at the elf. "Do you suppose he was sent by the Gods?"
"I don't know, like I've said before, he doesn't talk about his past or about himself. But we came here in hopes you would help us because." Siegfried trailed off hopefully.
Sophitia's expression went from awe to regret then and she shook her head tucking a lock of hair away behind her ear.
"I'm sorry Siegfried but I've lost that ability a long time ago. I would have been more than happy to help and I'm sure the Gods could help you."
"So there is nothing that you can do?"
The Greek woman looked thoughtful then and said; "Well no there is nothing that I can do, but I know someone who may be able to help you."
"Siegfried!" Talim interrupted, "I hear the others awakening, I'm taking Link downstairs to get something to eat, I shall bring some something up for you." Siegfried nodded and thanked the girl. When Link had put on his boots that were set beside his bed, she handed him his tattered gray cloak for cover. He left his sword and shield and other such belongings in the corner and followed Talim out the door to allow the two privacy.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Link still felt really annoyed of the sudden intrusion this morning and figured he would have a word or two with Siegfried about how it felt to wake up half dressed and be pointed at like some freak first thing in the morning.
Thankfully this came to pass as he joined some of the members of the group that were already downstairs at various tables. It was like a small indoor restaurant that opened up on to the streets outside. It was fairly nice as there were small tables that could only fit two people, Xianghua and Yun Sung were still missing but Kilik and Raphael were sitting at separate tables eating fruits and pastries seemingly lost in their own thoughts.
When Link and Talim came down, Kilik noticed and was the first to rise and meet them. He heard his name spoken as Kilik spoke to Talim, and Talim turned to Link and motioned to the elf that Kilik had taken care of his wounds. He bowed (as Talim had done earlier) in gratitude and Kilik did the same. Link had learned then that they understood this motion as thanks. He also learned from Talim that Raphael had also helped but the French Man didn't seem as though he wanted anyone near him at the moment.
The trio settled down and had breakfast then, Kilik and Talim talking earnestly. Link could only guess it was about the woman Sophitia. Because of breakfast, Link wasn't as mad as he first was, but he was still going to have a talk with Siegfried to vent out the rest of his steam.
*Link*
Link's long ears twitched causing the elf to his fruits upon the table suddenly. Kilik and Talim shot him strange looks as they were obviously asking him what was wrong. It was the same voice as yesterday! But it was louder now.like it had come from behind him. It was noticeably a female's voice.
Was it that white witch again? Link looked behind him but he saw no one except open streets with a few people who had rose with the sun to start the day early. He sat for a second allowing himself to calm down. Perhaps he just imagined it.
*Link* No, no he hadn't imagined it. Link jumped up suddenly alarmed bumping the table painfully with his leg. Right about now he knew Kilik and Talim were wondering what the hell was going on, and even Raphael was giving him strange looks from where he sat. Link didn't care, he had heard his name being called. He looked once more to the streets for it seemed as if that's where the voice was coming from. But once again there didn't seem to be anyone suspicious or obvious enough that he could see.
*Link noble Hero of Time*
Link's eyes widen as he heard this, now he really wanted to know who was calling him. How did they know..? How could he understand them..? His gaze darted frantic trying to find the voice, and it was then he saw a faint flash emanating from a small dancing ball of light, it floated away towards a certain structure that was straight ahead. Link didn't know why he hadn't noticed it before, but the main road branched off straight ahead and led to this large building that stood alone and apart from the other small clustered buildings. Of course this only served to show how much more important it was, as it was much more grander and beautiful than the other small buildings. As he stared, he saw the light growing fainter than before, flash beckoning him to follow it to this temple.
Was it a fairy?
Link didn't stand long enough to ponder this and he suddenly took off.
*Link*
The voice came again and seemed to echo from the ball of light! He could hear the surprised voices of his comrades, but he didn't slow and kept on running eyes never leaving the small floating ball of light. Link noticed while he ran that like the voice, no one except himself seemed to see this light. Aside from Siegfried, this voice was the only other being that he could understand easily, who was calling him?
Before long he stood at the temple's grand flight of stairs panting lightly. Up close, the temple was much, much larger than what Link thought. There were many high white columns and a large double door entrance. The light, which he had been chasing thus far had disappeared inside. He didn't hear the voice anymore, but he knew that he was to go inside. Wearily, he made his way up the white stairs, cautious. He realized too late that in his haste, he had left his weapons back at the inn, and had nothing to protect himself with.
Though he doubted it was the witch woman of yesterday, he still had to be careful. Inside was even larger and more beautiful than what the outside showed, there were frescos that decorated the walls and marble floors that reflected him upon its shiny surface. There was a large sky light from above to allow pure sunlight to fall inside and light the temple. There was a mysterious air about the place and seemed to stir as if alive. Link thought he heard more whispering but he couldn't make out what was being said. He kept his gaze ahead of him still, and at the end of the temple sat a large bronze statue of a man that Link did not recognize. There was an alter that sat in front of this peculiar statue, it was white like it's surroundings and seemed to serve a purpose that was lost to Link. He stood before this altar unsure of what was to happen next, when he felt a sudden breeze pick up around him. Link's heart began to pound in anticipation, and the light all around him began to glow brighter and he had to shield his eyes.
Link didn't know what was happening but when he lowered his hand, he found an owl standing upon the alter as if appearing from nowhere. At it's feet were a pair of earrings that glinted a mysteriously prism color.
*Link.*
It was a male's voice now, the elf looked around, but there was no one else around the temple except him and the owl.
*Link.Noble Hero of Time.* Link slowly looked back to the Owl that was staring at him with large yellow eyes. The Owl was speaking to him, or rather it seemed as if it were speaking inside his mind!
*Link this is a treasure from the gods who have watched over you since your arrival here.*
Link picked up the earrings that glinted and gleamed in the light. They were just like his own. He gripped them tightly and looked back to the owl that stood there watching him.
"Who are you? How do you know who I am?" Link asked. The Owl blinked inclining it's head. In Link's mind he heard the owl's voice.
*I am a messenger of the gods. I have been sent to give you a few items that may aid you and your friends in this quest.*
"What..what am I doing here? How did I get here?" Link asked rather uncertainly. It had been the one question that plagued his mind since the first day he found himself upon this world.
The great brown and white spotted owl hooted and fluffed it's feathers.
*I'm sure that you've figured out by now that you had stumbled into a warp hole and what your role here is.* The owl replied.
"To go after this so-called sword Soul Edge, right?" The elf said. "But why me? I come from a completely different world, and from what I've seen so far this world has it's own heroes who are perfectly capable of this task."
*Perfectly capable, but not perfectly equipped* The owl said soundly. *I suppose the current owner of the Soul Edge hasn't told you the entire story..*
As this sunk in, Link remembered all the conversations he had had with Siegfried. He had not said anything about the past battles with the Soul Edge, but spoke of only the battles to come. Yes, that was why Siegfried had asked Link to remain by his side. The moment he saw the glow of the Master Sword, Siegfried had regained hope that he had lost when the Soul Edge was stolen from him. The blade that could repel evil had a great effect upon the Soul Edge shards and seemed to purify it.But Siegfried never explained.
The Owl was still watching Link as he thought of this and it seemed to understand Link's thoughts.
*Yes, That is correct, it all revolves around the Master Sword, the sword that was born from your world. You do remember what happened that fateful night, as you rode across the plains of Hyrule..*
Link nodded automatically, and the Owl continued.
*The battle that ensued upon this world between the Soul Edge and it's polar opposite the Soul Caliber, resulted in the Soul Edge being shattered into many pieces. But what the warriors Xianghua and Kilik didn't realize was that the evil swords tried to create a portal to escape and hide. That intended refuge was your world, weather it was intended or by adverse chance we are uncertain.* The Owl noticed the tension in Link's body but continued. *Fortunately the Sword was very weak and only managed to drop just a shard there. The sword was quickly repelled by a dimensional barrier set up to keep such outside forces from ever entering that realm.*
Link let out a breath he didn't know he was holding. So that would explain what he saw that night. At least his world wasn't contaminated further by such evil filth (maybe a shard but that was easily taken care of), the three goddesses be praised. But the owl wasn't done.
*But when it passed by your realm, we who have been watching over the events took noticed of a power that was similar to the Soul Caliber's energy. The gods quickly met with the goddesses of your realm, and it was decided that the Soul Edge was a threat to all worlds and they agreed to aid the warriors upon this world.*
"So..I'm, I was." Link tried to speak. The messenger owl nodded.
*You as the owner of the Master Sword was unknowingly granted safe passage to this world to help it's warriors. In the absence of the spirit sword Soul Caliber that was lost in the void, the Master Sword was to take it's place and help fashion a new spirit sword.*
"But what about my world? It has it's own problems doesn't it? What if.?"
The owl blinked as if pleased. *You need not worry about your world, through sheer divine will; the goddesses have sealed your realm. It does not move, does not change. You should be familiar with this type of process.*
Indeed he was, Link realized that the goddesses must of stopped time. As he thought of these things, the Owl continued to explain how he was the missing piece of that world and it would not be set in back into motion until he returned. So his world was sealed away just as he'd been sealed away to wait.
*Link we have spoken of many things, and by now you must realize what you need to do to ever return. Right?*
Link nodded.
*Before I leave, I have two more things I was tasked to accomplish.* With this the owl turned it's head so that it reached behind it's wings and seemed to prune it's feather, but it turned back with a shard in it's mouth. At first, Link thought that it was another Soul Edge shard, but it rang with a clear and pure sound Link could hear. The shard shone as if made of liquid silver.
It set the shard upon the alter before Link.
*This is if you haven't already guessed; a shard of what the Soul Caliber was made of. Keep it safe with you, do not worry about what it does, when the time comes, you will know what to do with it.* This was said with a bit of amusement that got Link wondering. *Now it's time for the second part*
The owl spread it's wings grandly and pushed off from the alter taking to the air. Link stared after it wondering what it was talking about. *Link, these treasures were not intended to be given as gifts, they were meant to be exchanged.*
"What? Exchanged?" Link asked. The owl circled around him as it spoke.
*Yes, there is a power with in you must give up.* As the Owl said this, Link immediately lifted his right hand and gazed at it uncertainly.
"You want the Triforce? But I can't, I was told to protect it." Link said shaking his head.
*The Soul Edge will sense this power and would want it. We can't risk foreign power assimilating with the Soul Edge the results could be disastrous. Please allow us to watch over it for you.*
Even though the owl had told him the risks, that keeping the Triforce would impede his mission, Link was reluctant to give it up.
But the elf didn't have a chance to argue as he felt a sudden unseen force take hold of his arm and raise it sky wards. The Symbol hidden upon his hand revealed itself glowing fiercely as if answering a call and it pulsed with power and clear sound. Before he knew it the Triforce of courage piece levitated a few inches above his hand. In a flash the golden triangle disappeared and so had the owl. Link stood standing there at the alter. He felt different, like he had lost one of his senses. Link surmised that he had gotten so used to the Triforce of Courage dwelling within him, in his very blood, that he wasn't the same with out it. He used to hear it's song from deep with in, and it would give him hope, but now it was silent.
Link shook his head it just didn't feel right but he knew he had no choice but to deal with it. Besides the Gods of this world were watching over the sacred treasure and it was safer with them. The elf sighed almost miserably and raised a hand to run through his hair when he realized it was still gripping the earrings the messenger owl had given him. He examined them more closely and they still gave off a shine that seemed dreamlike and unreal.
It was then that the voice of the owl came again.
*Link, do not be upset, we will return the Triforce to you in time, but it would behoove you to use these items bestowed upon you, especially the earrings. Good luck, Link of Hyrule.*
It's voice lingered a bit in Link's mind before he exchanged the earrings unsure what help it would do, in fact he never did ask the owl what it was used for. Was it to give him some unnatural power? The elf stood there expecting something to happen but nothing did. He didn't even feel any different. Maybe there was a way to activate them.
"Hey you!"
At the voice the elf jumped and immediately checked to see if his hood was on (which it was.) and turned around to face the individual.
A girl stood in before him hands upon her hips expectant. She had soft gold blond hair that was cut short above her shoulders. Her sapphire eyes pierced his accusingly. Her outfit that was blue white and gold was sharp and very stylish looking, to top it off she had beautiful long legs that went into white ankle high boots.
Link was glad he had the hood on because he could feel himself blushing. The girl seemed angry when he did not respond and she stepped closer aggressively.
"You didn't answer my question! Who are you? What are you doing here?"
It was then that Link realized something. He could understand her! With out thinking he gripped the girl by the shoulders.
"You know Hylian? How is that possible?" Link asked. The girl was startled and jerked free from his grasp.
"What do you think you're doing? Hylian? What are you talking about?" She asked angrily. "Did you bump your head or are you just another weirdo?"
He was beginning to understand what was going on when he heard a few other voices calling him at the other end of the Temple, their footsteps rang out and echoed of it's high walls.
"Link!!"
The elf turned to see Talim and Kilik run up to him.
"Link what's wrong? Why did you run here?" The priestess asked. Link smiled widely as he understood every word. It was taking everything he got from bursting out laughing.
Kilik had noticed the girl he was with and spoke to her. "I'm sorry, but are you a friend of his?"
"I should be asking you the same!" The blond shot back. "What is he always weird like this?"
Talim and Kilik exchanged looks that Link faintly recognized.
"I'm sorry if he caused you any trouble, but he's a foreigner to this land and he doesn't speak so well." Talim explained. Kilik put a hand upon his shoulder and motioned that they were to leave now, Link was about to follow when he remembered the shard. He quickly reached behind and pocketed the precious item with out anyone's notice.
"I can see that he's foreign with the cloak and all, but he speaks well enough." Link heard the girl reply to Talim. The priestess was rather shocked at this statement and looked to Link.
"What? You can understand him?" She asked.
"As much as you can understand me." The girl said strangely. "My, you all are quite strange." Talim bowed and apologized once more not understanding entirely what the blond girl was talking about and joined her two friends who were making a hasty retreat.
Link was already making his way out trying to avoid Kilik's and Talim's faces. It was such a novelty for him. The earrings the owl gave him must have granted him the ability to understand and speak Kilik and Talim's language! Link wanted so much to just start talking to them and see the looks upon their faces, but he decided it was best to see how long he could play it out before he told them. Even now he could hear the two talking behind him. It was rather sneaky of him but it was the most fun he'd had in a long time!
"Did you hear how that girl carried on?" Talim asked Kilik.
"Yeah, I thought perhaps she knew Link or something. I wonder though what he was doing in the temple." Kilik replied.
"Perhaps he sensed something.Link is a very strange individual who knows what he can do."
Link raised a brow questioningly. What? Strange? That wasn't very nice! If anything THEY were the strange ones to him. Link kept quite as he and his two unknowing companions made their way through the milling crowds reaching the public house. The other fighters were waiting there excluding Siegfried and Sophitia that is. Yun Sung and Xianghua and Raphael came out to greet them.
"You found him! Thank god! Is he okay?" Xianghua gushed worriedly.
Link smiled to himself. Xianghua seemed a whole lot prettier now that he could understand her.
"So you were able to retrieve our little friend." Raphael said looking upon Link like an errant child.
Yun Sung stormed up to him and jabbed a finger into his chest. "You stupid freak! What are you trying to do start a nation wide panic?! You could have been killed!"
Link decided he hated Yun Sung's guts even more and wished that he couldn't understand him.
Talim swatted Yun's hand away from a thoroughly annoyed Link.
"Yun Sung!" Talim scolded. "Don't talk to Link like that, it isn't very polite!"
The Korean seemed very indignant at being scolded by Talim so he thrust he turned away fuming. "Yeah, well it's not like he understands. The stupid freak.." He muttered. Link clenched a tight fist.
Stupid freak?!
Raphael raised a hand to his chin as if in thought. "So where did you find him?"
Kilik motioned with a chin; "He was at the Temple down there. It's a good thing we found him when we did though; there was this girl that was talking to him. I don't know what Link did, but he got her believing that he could speak our language. I wonder how he pulled that off?"
Yun suddenly laughed folding his hands behind his head. "Maybe she understands grunts and snorts."
"Yun Sung!" Xianghua said angrily, Talim was also giving him a disgusted look. However, Yun Sung's laughing was brought up short when a piece of fruit collided with the side of his face. All eyes turned in the direction the fruit had come from to see Link standing defiantly with another fruit in hand. There was a rather satisfied look upon his face.
Xianghua crossed her slender arms. "Oh well, now you see Yun Sung? Even Link seems to know when you're insulting him. He isn't an idiot."
Kilik wasn't so fast as to assume things, he had been watching Link and had noticed that one who seemed too attentive to everything being said replaced the usual blank clueless face. Something was definitely different.
"Now that was too much of a coincide for Link to do that." Kilik said. "It was as if he actually understood what Yun Sung was saying."
Talim shook her head. "No that can't be, we all know Link can't speak our language, and even if he began to understand it would be impossible to believe that he's learned that much." The priestess reasoned.
"Then do you believe in miracles?" Link asked suddenly causing everyone's attention to snap back to him
She must have, for she cried at the sight of his haunted eyes, and the scars he bore from the unspeakable torture that no human would wish upon anyone. And when Talim realized this, she knew that Sophitia could be trusted. Truthfully, it was very hard NOT to trust her, for she spoke clearly and without fear.
Talim stood watching the two speak quietly to each other, Siegfried was recounting the story and their situation to the beautiful Greek female. Siegfried, she saw, had a slight smile upon his face and he seemed more at ease than she'd ever seen him before. Talim was really curious as to what his relationship with Sophitia was earlier, but this seemed to answer it. But there was still something that bothered her, and she could see it whenever Siegfried stared at Sophitia.
Did he still love her?
But Talim didn't have long to ponder this over when she heard a groan from the other bed. The other two were also made aware and they turned to look to see Link awaken finally. The blond elf slowly opened his eyes and pushed himself onto his side using his elbows. He looked around obviously confused at his surroundings.
Though Sophitia had accepted Siegfried so easily, Talim wasn't sure how she would take to Link and instinctively made her way over to him and tried to stand in front of him blocking Sophitia's view.
This must of surprised Link as he still did not understand what was going on or where he was.
"Please Lady Sophitia, look away!" Talim ordered shrilly.
The woman looked back to Siegfried bewildered, and Siegfried didn't seem to know what to do. Would Sophitia accept Link as easily? It was stupid of him to forget that Link was also in the room.
Link was finally beginning to realize what was going on as he looked to himself and found his wounds bandaged, and with out thinking, he spoke in his own dialect questioningly. Talim shot Siegfried a terrified look.
"Siegfried? Who is that?" Sophitia asked calmly, though her voice shook slightly.
The knight took hold of her hand (with his normal hand), his face pleading. "Please Milady, do not be alarmed, and do not judge him too harshly for he is no more demon than anybody here in Athens."
This little warning seemed to still make Sophitia somewhat uneasy, but she began to brace herself immediately before she gave him a nod agreeing.
Talim didn't have to look to Siegfried to know what she was to do and stepped away reveling the elf that was now fully aware of what was happening. Link had seen Sophitia from behind Talim and had turned away covering his ears in an attempt to hide them. His small ponytail, which was always obscured because of his long green hat, was now visible, but did little to draw attention away from his most distinguishing features, and his blushing face.
Siegfried spoke to him then in his own language,( Which of course got Sophitia to look at him rather strangely, but she said nothing) and Link turned ever so carefully back. With more coaxing from Siegfried, Link lowered his hands to reveal the long and pointed ears.
"Sophitia, this is our friend Link," Siegfried introduced and then he spoke to Link also introducing the elf to the girl.
Sophitia let out a cry in surprise as she saw them causing Link to flinch. Talim noticed the look upon Link's (blushing) face and realized that this couldn't be easy for the young man, and he was still half-dressed, so she quickly retrieved his tunic and green shirt from a chair in the corner of the room. The elf took them with much gratitude (thankfully, he still had on his trousers.) As he dressed, Siegfried to Sophitia explaining as best as he could about Link to draw the unwanted attention away from him (There was a few yelps of pain as Talim swatted Link when he tried to remove his bandage.). By the time Link was dressed, Siegfried was done catching Sophitia up to speed and was getting reproachful looks from Link, who replaced his green hat upon his head forcefully.
"I see, that's quite amazing." Sophitia breathed still staring at the elf. "Do you suppose he was sent by the Gods?"
"I don't know, like I've said before, he doesn't talk about his past or about himself. But we came here in hopes you would help us because." Siegfried trailed off hopefully.
Sophitia's expression went from awe to regret then and she shook her head tucking a lock of hair away behind her ear.
"I'm sorry Siegfried but I've lost that ability a long time ago. I would have been more than happy to help and I'm sure the Gods could help you."
"So there is nothing that you can do?"
The Greek woman looked thoughtful then and said; "Well no there is nothing that I can do, but I know someone who may be able to help you."
"Siegfried!" Talim interrupted, "I hear the others awakening, I'm taking Link downstairs to get something to eat, I shall bring some something up for you." Siegfried nodded and thanked the girl. When Link had put on his boots that were set beside his bed, she handed him his tattered gray cloak for cover. He left his sword and shield and other such belongings in the corner and followed Talim out the door to allow the two privacy.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Link still felt really annoyed of the sudden intrusion this morning and figured he would have a word or two with Siegfried about how it felt to wake up half dressed and be pointed at like some freak first thing in the morning.
Thankfully this came to pass as he joined some of the members of the group that were already downstairs at various tables. It was like a small indoor restaurant that opened up on to the streets outside. It was fairly nice as there were small tables that could only fit two people, Xianghua and Yun Sung were still missing but Kilik and Raphael were sitting at separate tables eating fruits and pastries seemingly lost in their own thoughts.
When Link and Talim came down, Kilik noticed and was the first to rise and meet them. He heard his name spoken as Kilik spoke to Talim, and Talim turned to Link and motioned to the elf that Kilik had taken care of his wounds. He bowed (as Talim had done earlier) in gratitude and Kilik did the same. Link had learned then that they understood this motion as thanks. He also learned from Talim that Raphael had also helped but the French Man didn't seem as though he wanted anyone near him at the moment.
The trio settled down and had breakfast then, Kilik and Talim talking earnestly. Link could only guess it was about the woman Sophitia. Because of breakfast, Link wasn't as mad as he first was, but he was still going to have a talk with Siegfried to vent out the rest of his steam.
*Link*
Link's long ears twitched causing the elf to his fruits upon the table suddenly. Kilik and Talim shot him strange looks as they were obviously asking him what was wrong. It was the same voice as yesterday! But it was louder now.like it had come from behind him. It was noticeably a female's voice.
Was it that white witch again? Link looked behind him but he saw no one except open streets with a few people who had rose with the sun to start the day early. He sat for a second allowing himself to calm down. Perhaps he just imagined it.
*Link* No, no he hadn't imagined it. Link jumped up suddenly alarmed bumping the table painfully with his leg. Right about now he knew Kilik and Talim were wondering what the hell was going on, and even Raphael was giving him strange looks from where he sat. Link didn't care, he had heard his name being called. He looked once more to the streets for it seemed as if that's where the voice was coming from. But once again there didn't seem to be anyone suspicious or obvious enough that he could see.
*Link noble Hero of Time*
Link's eyes widen as he heard this, now he really wanted to know who was calling him. How did they know..? How could he understand them..? His gaze darted frantic trying to find the voice, and it was then he saw a faint flash emanating from a small dancing ball of light, it floated away towards a certain structure that was straight ahead. Link didn't know why he hadn't noticed it before, but the main road branched off straight ahead and led to this large building that stood alone and apart from the other small clustered buildings. Of course this only served to show how much more important it was, as it was much more grander and beautiful than the other small buildings. As he stared, he saw the light growing fainter than before, flash beckoning him to follow it to this temple.
Was it a fairy?
Link didn't stand long enough to ponder this and he suddenly took off.
*Link*
The voice came again and seemed to echo from the ball of light! He could hear the surprised voices of his comrades, but he didn't slow and kept on running eyes never leaving the small floating ball of light. Link noticed while he ran that like the voice, no one except himself seemed to see this light. Aside from Siegfried, this voice was the only other being that he could understand easily, who was calling him?
Before long he stood at the temple's grand flight of stairs panting lightly. Up close, the temple was much, much larger than what Link thought. There were many high white columns and a large double door entrance. The light, which he had been chasing thus far had disappeared inside. He didn't hear the voice anymore, but he knew that he was to go inside. Wearily, he made his way up the white stairs, cautious. He realized too late that in his haste, he had left his weapons back at the inn, and had nothing to protect himself with.
Though he doubted it was the witch woman of yesterday, he still had to be careful. Inside was even larger and more beautiful than what the outside showed, there were frescos that decorated the walls and marble floors that reflected him upon its shiny surface. There was a large sky light from above to allow pure sunlight to fall inside and light the temple. There was a mysterious air about the place and seemed to stir as if alive. Link thought he heard more whispering but he couldn't make out what was being said. He kept his gaze ahead of him still, and at the end of the temple sat a large bronze statue of a man that Link did not recognize. There was an alter that sat in front of this peculiar statue, it was white like it's surroundings and seemed to serve a purpose that was lost to Link. He stood before this altar unsure of what was to happen next, when he felt a sudden breeze pick up around him. Link's heart began to pound in anticipation, and the light all around him began to glow brighter and he had to shield his eyes.
Link didn't know what was happening but when he lowered his hand, he found an owl standing upon the alter as if appearing from nowhere. At it's feet were a pair of earrings that glinted a mysteriously prism color.
*Link.*
It was a male's voice now, the elf looked around, but there was no one else around the temple except him and the owl.
*Link.Noble Hero of Time.* Link slowly looked back to the Owl that was staring at him with large yellow eyes. The Owl was speaking to him, or rather it seemed as if it were speaking inside his mind!
*Link this is a treasure from the gods who have watched over you since your arrival here.*
Link picked up the earrings that glinted and gleamed in the light. They were just like his own. He gripped them tightly and looked back to the owl that stood there watching him.
"Who are you? How do you know who I am?" Link asked. The Owl blinked inclining it's head. In Link's mind he heard the owl's voice.
*I am a messenger of the gods. I have been sent to give you a few items that may aid you and your friends in this quest.*
"What..what am I doing here? How did I get here?" Link asked rather uncertainly. It had been the one question that plagued his mind since the first day he found himself upon this world.
The great brown and white spotted owl hooted and fluffed it's feathers.
*I'm sure that you've figured out by now that you had stumbled into a warp hole and what your role here is.* The owl replied.
"To go after this so-called sword Soul Edge, right?" The elf said. "But why me? I come from a completely different world, and from what I've seen so far this world has it's own heroes who are perfectly capable of this task."
*Perfectly capable, but not perfectly equipped* The owl said soundly. *I suppose the current owner of the Soul Edge hasn't told you the entire story..*
As this sunk in, Link remembered all the conversations he had had with Siegfried. He had not said anything about the past battles with the Soul Edge, but spoke of only the battles to come. Yes, that was why Siegfried had asked Link to remain by his side. The moment he saw the glow of the Master Sword, Siegfried had regained hope that he had lost when the Soul Edge was stolen from him. The blade that could repel evil had a great effect upon the Soul Edge shards and seemed to purify it.But Siegfried never explained.
The Owl was still watching Link as he thought of this and it seemed to understand Link's thoughts.
*Yes, That is correct, it all revolves around the Master Sword, the sword that was born from your world. You do remember what happened that fateful night, as you rode across the plains of Hyrule..*
Link nodded automatically, and the Owl continued.
*The battle that ensued upon this world between the Soul Edge and it's polar opposite the Soul Caliber, resulted in the Soul Edge being shattered into many pieces. But what the warriors Xianghua and Kilik didn't realize was that the evil swords tried to create a portal to escape and hide. That intended refuge was your world, weather it was intended or by adverse chance we are uncertain.* The Owl noticed the tension in Link's body but continued. *Fortunately the Sword was very weak and only managed to drop just a shard there. The sword was quickly repelled by a dimensional barrier set up to keep such outside forces from ever entering that realm.*
Link let out a breath he didn't know he was holding. So that would explain what he saw that night. At least his world wasn't contaminated further by such evil filth (maybe a shard but that was easily taken care of), the three goddesses be praised. But the owl wasn't done.
*But when it passed by your realm, we who have been watching over the events took noticed of a power that was similar to the Soul Caliber's energy. The gods quickly met with the goddesses of your realm, and it was decided that the Soul Edge was a threat to all worlds and they agreed to aid the warriors upon this world.*
"So..I'm, I was." Link tried to speak. The messenger owl nodded.
*You as the owner of the Master Sword was unknowingly granted safe passage to this world to help it's warriors. In the absence of the spirit sword Soul Caliber that was lost in the void, the Master Sword was to take it's place and help fashion a new spirit sword.*
"But what about my world? It has it's own problems doesn't it? What if.?"
The owl blinked as if pleased. *You need not worry about your world, through sheer divine will; the goddesses have sealed your realm. It does not move, does not change. You should be familiar with this type of process.*
Indeed he was, Link realized that the goddesses must of stopped time. As he thought of these things, the Owl continued to explain how he was the missing piece of that world and it would not be set in back into motion until he returned. So his world was sealed away just as he'd been sealed away to wait.
*Link we have spoken of many things, and by now you must realize what you need to do to ever return. Right?*
Link nodded.
*Before I leave, I have two more things I was tasked to accomplish.* With this the owl turned it's head so that it reached behind it's wings and seemed to prune it's feather, but it turned back with a shard in it's mouth. At first, Link thought that it was another Soul Edge shard, but it rang with a clear and pure sound Link could hear. The shard shone as if made of liquid silver.
It set the shard upon the alter before Link.
*This is if you haven't already guessed; a shard of what the Soul Caliber was made of. Keep it safe with you, do not worry about what it does, when the time comes, you will know what to do with it.* This was said with a bit of amusement that got Link wondering. *Now it's time for the second part*
The owl spread it's wings grandly and pushed off from the alter taking to the air. Link stared after it wondering what it was talking about. *Link, these treasures were not intended to be given as gifts, they were meant to be exchanged.*
"What? Exchanged?" Link asked. The owl circled around him as it spoke.
*Yes, there is a power with in you must give up.* As the Owl said this, Link immediately lifted his right hand and gazed at it uncertainly.
"You want the Triforce? But I can't, I was told to protect it." Link said shaking his head.
*The Soul Edge will sense this power and would want it. We can't risk foreign power assimilating with the Soul Edge the results could be disastrous. Please allow us to watch over it for you.*
Even though the owl had told him the risks, that keeping the Triforce would impede his mission, Link was reluctant to give it up.
But the elf didn't have a chance to argue as he felt a sudden unseen force take hold of his arm and raise it sky wards. The Symbol hidden upon his hand revealed itself glowing fiercely as if answering a call and it pulsed with power and clear sound. Before he knew it the Triforce of courage piece levitated a few inches above his hand. In a flash the golden triangle disappeared and so had the owl. Link stood standing there at the alter. He felt different, like he had lost one of his senses. Link surmised that he had gotten so used to the Triforce of Courage dwelling within him, in his very blood, that he wasn't the same with out it. He used to hear it's song from deep with in, and it would give him hope, but now it was silent.
Link shook his head it just didn't feel right but he knew he had no choice but to deal with it. Besides the Gods of this world were watching over the sacred treasure and it was safer with them. The elf sighed almost miserably and raised a hand to run through his hair when he realized it was still gripping the earrings the messenger owl had given him. He examined them more closely and they still gave off a shine that seemed dreamlike and unreal.
It was then that the voice of the owl came again.
*Link, do not be upset, we will return the Triforce to you in time, but it would behoove you to use these items bestowed upon you, especially the earrings. Good luck, Link of Hyrule.*
It's voice lingered a bit in Link's mind before he exchanged the earrings unsure what help it would do, in fact he never did ask the owl what it was used for. Was it to give him some unnatural power? The elf stood there expecting something to happen but nothing did. He didn't even feel any different. Maybe there was a way to activate them.
"Hey you!"
At the voice the elf jumped and immediately checked to see if his hood was on (which it was.) and turned around to face the individual.
A girl stood in before him hands upon her hips expectant. She had soft gold blond hair that was cut short above her shoulders. Her sapphire eyes pierced his accusingly. Her outfit that was blue white and gold was sharp and very stylish looking, to top it off she had beautiful long legs that went into white ankle high boots.
Link was glad he had the hood on because he could feel himself blushing. The girl seemed angry when he did not respond and she stepped closer aggressively.
"You didn't answer my question! Who are you? What are you doing here?"
It was then that Link realized something. He could understand her! With out thinking he gripped the girl by the shoulders.
"You know Hylian? How is that possible?" Link asked. The girl was startled and jerked free from his grasp.
"What do you think you're doing? Hylian? What are you talking about?" She asked angrily. "Did you bump your head or are you just another weirdo?"
He was beginning to understand what was going on when he heard a few other voices calling him at the other end of the Temple, their footsteps rang out and echoed of it's high walls.
"Link!!"
The elf turned to see Talim and Kilik run up to him.
"Link what's wrong? Why did you run here?" The priestess asked. Link smiled widely as he understood every word. It was taking everything he got from bursting out laughing.
Kilik had noticed the girl he was with and spoke to her. "I'm sorry, but are you a friend of his?"
"I should be asking you the same!" The blond shot back. "What is he always weird like this?"
Talim and Kilik exchanged looks that Link faintly recognized.
"I'm sorry if he caused you any trouble, but he's a foreigner to this land and he doesn't speak so well." Talim explained. Kilik put a hand upon his shoulder and motioned that they were to leave now, Link was about to follow when he remembered the shard. He quickly reached behind and pocketed the precious item with out anyone's notice.
"I can see that he's foreign with the cloak and all, but he speaks well enough." Link heard the girl reply to Talim. The priestess was rather shocked at this statement and looked to Link.
"What? You can understand him?" She asked.
"As much as you can understand me." The girl said strangely. "My, you all are quite strange." Talim bowed and apologized once more not understanding entirely what the blond girl was talking about and joined her two friends who were making a hasty retreat.
Link was already making his way out trying to avoid Kilik's and Talim's faces. It was such a novelty for him. The earrings the owl gave him must have granted him the ability to understand and speak Kilik and Talim's language! Link wanted so much to just start talking to them and see the looks upon their faces, but he decided it was best to see how long he could play it out before he told them. Even now he could hear the two talking behind him. It was rather sneaky of him but it was the most fun he'd had in a long time!
"Did you hear how that girl carried on?" Talim asked Kilik.
"Yeah, I thought perhaps she knew Link or something. I wonder though what he was doing in the temple." Kilik replied.
"Perhaps he sensed something.Link is a very strange individual who knows what he can do."
Link raised a brow questioningly. What? Strange? That wasn't very nice! If anything THEY were the strange ones to him. Link kept quite as he and his two unknowing companions made their way through the milling crowds reaching the public house. The other fighters were waiting there excluding Siegfried and Sophitia that is. Yun Sung and Xianghua and Raphael came out to greet them.
"You found him! Thank god! Is he okay?" Xianghua gushed worriedly.
Link smiled to himself. Xianghua seemed a whole lot prettier now that he could understand her.
"So you were able to retrieve our little friend." Raphael said looking upon Link like an errant child.
Yun Sung stormed up to him and jabbed a finger into his chest. "You stupid freak! What are you trying to do start a nation wide panic?! You could have been killed!"
Link decided he hated Yun Sung's guts even more and wished that he couldn't understand him.
Talim swatted Yun's hand away from a thoroughly annoyed Link.
"Yun Sung!" Talim scolded. "Don't talk to Link like that, it isn't very polite!"
The Korean seemed very indignant at being scolded by Talim so he thrust he turned away fuming. "Yeah, well it's not like he understands. The stupid freak.." He muttered. Link clenched a tight fist.
Stupid freak?!
Raphael raised a hand to his chin as if in thought. "So where did you find him?"
Kilik motioned with a chin; "He was at the Temple down there. It's a good thing we found him when we did though; there was this girl that was talking to him. I don't know what Link did, but he got her believing that he could speak our language. I wonder how he pulled that off?"
Yun suddenly laughed folding his hands behind his head. "Maybe she understands grunts and snorts."
"Yun Sung!" Xianghua said angrily, Talim was also giving him a disgusted look. However, Yun Sung's laughing was brought up short when a piece of fruit collided with the side of his face. All eyes turned in the direction the fruit had come from to see Link standing defiantly with another fruit in hand. There was a rather satisfied look upon his face.
Xianghua crossed her slender arms. "Oh well, now you see Yun Sung? Even Link seems to know when you're insulting him. He isn't an idiot."
Kilik wasn't so fast as to assume things, he had been watching Link and had noticed that one who seemed too attentive to everything being said replaced the usual blank clueless face. Something was definitely different.
"Now that was too much of a coincide for Link to do that." Kilik said. "It was as if he actually understood what Yun Sung was saying."
Talim shook her head. "No that can't be, we all know Link can't speak our language, and even if he began to understand it would be impossible to believe that he's learned that much." The priestess reasoned.
"Then do you believe in miracles?" Link asked suddenly causing everyone's attention to snap back to him