Previously...
Link experiences first hand what the true affects of what this strange Malice can do. Strung around like a puppet, he injured many of his knights and tried to kill Sidon.
It takes three days before Link awakes, drowning in guilt and anger as he remembers everything. Sidon is there for him.
A simple council meeting attempting to go over the incident proves to be more as Link is shown what his unknown enemy is capable of, that Link's actions have not gone unnoticed. Link realizes that he must pick his next actions very carefully and that he may be running out of time. He Informs Sidon of the situation going on at the camp and ties to the members of the castle.
After the ordered 'month of recovery', Link sets out and in the process of making sure no one follows him, he follows platoon forty-eight. But the unexpected happens when Link's fever is triggered early by Ingo.
-Only obvious key points will be summarized. There are likely moments of an Unreliable Narrator or Sneaky Foreshadowing.-
CHAPTER WARNINGS: Sado is a huge fucking creep and is the cause for most of the following; Torture. Threats of Physical and Psychological harm. Animal Sacrifice. Blood and Gore (mild). Non-Sexual Non-Consensual elements, Bonding and Blood drinking. [This is the darkest point of the whole story]
"Misko? Am I saying that right?" Ingo asked as he awkwardly tried to eat around his mask. A simple, yet hearty stew Link had made them after the long and heavy conversation.
One Link had taken a huge risk with.
He told them everything, how Link found out about his body, these hidden and rare types of people. The months of work it took to make two forms of prototype suppressants. Of the truth behind the camp and that one of the council members was behind it all, along with an unknown number of knights. That the night at the barracks; when Link lost control of himself, was a warning, a display of what they could do.
Which also led into explaining the mass fear of those like himself and Ingo that has been going on for hundreds; if not thousands, of years. Of what he remembered, what the small village had done to Judo, to someone just like Link.
Yet right of this moment; with good food and the topic now on Link's family, the mood began to lift and become usual chatter, no longer tense or uncomfortable. Currently, they spoke about his feisty, crybaby, little sister, Misko.
"I feel like I've heard that name somewhere before." Mused Ingo.
Shad was quick to pipe up as it dawned on him, snapping his fingers. "The stories of the Great Bandit Misko! That's probably why it sounds so familiar."
"But all tales of 'im, are about a man. Not some wee girl." Madas added, having heard the stories as well, famous and popular among young and adventurous souls.
"You never know," Senza said between sips of her drink. "given the time of the crimes, it could have been a woman disguised as a man. Makes hiding from any pursuers easier if they don't know the truth."
Link smiled behind his mask, his little sister a tale of legend? A master thief was not something he could picture her becoming, but she might have turned out different with the Calamity looming over Hyrule for a century. [I'd like to hear more about this bandit, whether or not they are possibly my sister. It will make the ride go much faster.]
"Right... we're goin' to see these other allies to help Ingo with his little problem." Madas glanced to his youngest teammate.
Whom curled in on himself while glaring daggers at his team leader. Guilt still weighed heavy on his conscious, even if Link had reassured him many times that it wasn't his fault. "Come on, Madas, lay off. How do you think I feel about it?"
"Could be worse, ya could be in the Cap's shoes." He retorted, but then quickly realized that could have been taken as an insult and turned Link's way. "No offence, Cap, this doesn't change a thing for us. But you bein' able to... ya, know... It's got to be hella weird bein' a man an' all."
Link quickly shrugged it off as he finished his meal. Become pregnant? It was complicated, but this was getting too personal and Link didn't wish to share anything he didn't feel was necessary. Then he opened his vial case to grab the only two remaining suppressants and held one out to Ingo.
"Ugh... Is this going to taste as bad as the last one?" Taking the offered orange liquid, it sucked, but he wasn't going to refuse.
Link shook his head and shot back the elixir. [This one is a little sweet and it sort of burns going down. It will suppress the fever for about six to eight hours, longer if we're lucky, but it takes time to kick in. While the purple is instant relief, it will begin to wear off soon. Granted it lasts longer than before, which use to be twenty minutes. Both recipes are still lacking.]
As Ingo drank the thick, sandstone liquid, Shad couldn't help but express his concern. "Will it last long enough until we arrive, until you can get more medicine?"
[Let's hope, I know that even if mine wears off, I still have periods where I can think straight. But I don't know how he will fair.]
~~~~~~ ҉ ~~~~~~
The snowfall had been heavy well after sunset and Link had forbidden any torches in the darkness. The only light among them came dimly from the Sheikah slate as Link followed their position on the map. None of the Hylians could see each other, but they still talked quietly among themselves. The horses saw better at night than they did anyway and Link's horse was very familiar with night rides. It was the best way to avoid being followed, especially since the allies were civilians.
When they arrived at the small home hidden in the mountain's forest, Link was the first to dismount. The light coming from the porch lantern and the windows gave enough visibility for Link to speak. [You can dismount, but wait here and let me do the talking.] All the knights then acknowledged with a nod.
After giving the door a soft knock, he was surprised at who came to greet him. Link hadn't seen her in two months, but she was looking much better. Her curly, brown hair had gotten a proper cut and she had put on some healthy weight. The young Hylian woman's eyes lit up and she jumped the unprepared man, a hug that sent them both into the snow.
[Sorry.] She signed; again, surprising Link as she sat up atop his legs. But when she saw the four knights standing at the light's edge, she screamed and scurried back inside, leaving the door wide open. Link could hear R asking her what happened and something about weapons.
As Link stood, dusting the snow off and readying himself for the confrontation that was expected of him bringing company. An all too familiar voice called out to him. "You've got three seconds, voe." The Gerudo woman was glaring at him with an axe in one hand and a bundle of logs in the other.
[Allies and we weren't followed.] He explained just as the other two women popped out of the doorway, armed with a bow and sword.
At least R was happy to see him, her serious expression fading into a relieved smile and she lowered her blade slightly. "Oh, Sir Link, I didn't know you were here." Nervously she glanced to her wife and then to the four knights. "Are... they friends of yours?"
Link nodded, but M was not satisfied. "Quite the horrible habit you've got. You bring nothing but trouble to my home and now the Hylian Guard!"
The little Sheikah woman gave M an unamused look at first. Though after putting the blade back in its sheath, she wore a more understanding expression. "Dearest, Sir Link has proven himself to be trustworthy and only wants to help those in need. A little trouble here and there is something we can handle. I know it's hard for you, so at the very least trust in me."
M glared at each of the knights before setting her eyes on Link for a long moment, then she huffed and reluctantly set the axe against the house.
"Now," R turned her attention back to the group. "why don't you all come in out of the cold and I'll put on some tea. We'll do introductions then."
[Thank you and I'm sorry for the suddenness of this all. Things happened and I ran out of elixirs-] Link didn't get to finish as the Hylian woman rushed back inside once more.
"Don't mind her, now get in here before I turn you all into frogs." R teased with a cheerful smile as she too, returned inside.
Link was the first one through the door. Followed by M, she only paused long enough to slip out of her boots and to announce to the group adding up in the entrance. "Leave your gear and weapons here. Don't make a mess."
It took a bit of time for the four to disarm and shed their gambesons, as it was too hot for it inside. While Link had already taken off the upper layers of the heavy Snowquill tunic and left it with his boots, he was now joining the others in the kitchen.
M was adding more cups to the table, when she snapped her head up, frozen as she looked to Link with a mix of anger and concern. But Link pretended not to notice and ignored whatever sort of taunt she was trying.
The very nervous and worried Hylian suddenly came running up to Link with two vials of suppressants. Honestly, he hadn't expected her to grab these. [Are you fluent in hands?] He asked slowly.
[A little.] She said, her expression falling as she bit her lip. She looked ashamed. [Learning.]
[Deaf?] He guessed and she shook her head before pointing to the bandage around her neck. Link then nodded in understanding, he remembers the wounds she had suffered and how the Malice affected him. He had only suffered for a few minutes at best, but her… it could have been hours, days, weeks. Her voice must not have been able to recover. [What's your name? You can call me Link.]
[Kattan.] She spelled out slowly and carefully as she started to smile a little in return. [Thank you, Link. For helping me.]
[You're welcome and thank you for these.] Link said as he took the offered vials and drank one. Just to be safe, and handed the other to Ingo as he entered the kitchen. Kattan actually hissed at him before hiding behind Link.
"I get it, don't worry, I'll be sure to give you lots of space. Both you and the Captain." Ingo ducked away as he double checked that his mask was still secure. It wasn't until he sat down at the far end of the table did he finally drink the suppressant.
M scowled down at Ingo as she sat on the table in front of him. "What are you drinking that shit for?"
"Um, so I don't lose control again? Capt-... Link said that I'm like you so-"
The Gerudo woman then whipped her head around to Link. "You. Down the hall. Right now."
R groaned, becoming agitated. "Dearest, please. No fighting, our bean is sleeping." She reminded her as she finished setting the extra chairs around the table.
M stood up and brushed past the other platoon members. "I ain't going to fight, but we need to talk alone before I start anything else."
Link held back a sigh and followed after her down the hallway. They ended up at the back door before the Gerudo woman turned to face him.
In a swift motion, she quickly tore off his mask and tossed it aside. Link didn't even get a moment to demand what her problem was before M grabbed his shirt, lifting him off his feet. Twice in one day, Link has someone scenting his neck.
Her scent overwhelmed any remaining trace of mint and for a second, he feared that he would be triggered into a fever once more. Forgetting that he had just taken another round of suppressants and that M was bonded. Yet, M's scent was strangely... comforting, soothing, but there was something about it that didn't sit right with him. This felt far different than before.
Frantic, Link shoves her away, but stumbles into the wall when he's dropped. Link braces himself against the wood surface and low enough that she would have to lean to grasp hold of him again, but not enough that he would be at any sort of huge disadvantage. His nerves firing off and muscles tight, readying for a fight or to run.
M's gaze was tense, but not malicious. "I thought I had been mistaken. With you being as cautious as you are and your progress on a suppressant medicine. But there's no mistake."
Link hesitated a long moment before he brought his hands up to speak. [I don't know what you are talking about.]
"No need to deny it, this isn't something you can lie to someone like me about." She looked away from him, back down the hall. And then to their feet, before she could meet his eye once more. Link had never seen her hesitate like this before, M preferred to snap first and sort things out after. Her familiar bitter expression almost seemed remorseful. "It's that boy's, isn't it?"
Ingo? Was she talking about the accident? Could M have found his scent on Link, was that something a person like her was capable of? [He may have lost to the fever, but he didn't do anything.] That was simple to clear up.
"Someone else suffered a fever with you?"
That was a weird way of putting it. Link shook his head, this was the first time something like this had happened. Ingo was the only one that triggered a premature fever in Link.
"Oh?" M honestly looked surprised. "I see, that's... that's relieving to hear." She relaxed a bit, but appeared to be worrying over something. "So... that boy. Is he here just to confide in someone else just like him or... are you here for my wife's help?"
Tired of M's odd phrasing and the unsettling vibe building in this situation. Link felt on edge; cornered almost. Like a deep long forgotten reflex waiting for the opportunity to strike. Link inquired, [Why would I need her help? Just what do you think is going on to ask such strange questions?]
Looking him over, she was expecting a joke or sarcasm, but she didn't receive any such thing. And thankfully, M went straight to the point, even if she now looked uncomfortable. "You're pregnant."
With an amused huff and a smirk, Link shook his head. Relaxing, he stood up straighter and stepped forward from the wall. [That's ridiculous.]
"No, it's not." M did not take kindly to Link's reaction and thus, dropped any built-up concern for the young man. The edge returning to her voice and gestures. Prodding him in the shoulder with a finger, she continued. "You know what your body is capable of. I even double checked your neck in case it was just a scent lingering on your clothes. You're likely more than a few weeks along if I can smell it, you possibly missed a fever already."
[I haven't,] Then Link paused and his expression fell, because he just realized that he had no way of knowing for sure. After all, he was more careful now to take his elixirs in a timely matter and added mint to his clothing accordingly. He hasn't experienced a fever since today, since... all those months ago. [But my fever was triggered early.]
"Look, Link," Even if she was becoming frustrated, she made sure to keep her voice down. "I've already told you I don't really know much about your kin. Maybe I'm wrong. I'm just saying, your scent has changed drastically. You smell like my wife did when she was pregnant."
The young man still denied any of this. He had to. It was absurd, unbelievable, impossible. Right? Sidon was too different; a Zora, a race that laid eggs. If Link was a Rito, maybe there could have been a possibility. But that clearly wasn't the case.
"I'm not saying this to be cruel, Link. If I wanted to make you feel like a fool, I would have made a scene back there. The only thing I ask of you, is that if you want to get rid of it, please ask someone else. Don't ask my wife."
Get rid of it? He couldn't. Could he? Link thought about the possibility, about his duty, about his purpose. If there really was something growing in his belly, what should he do? What was right? What was more important?
Then the memory of that awkward, yet tender moment when they laid hands over one another, came back to him. Sidon's gentle and warm touch over Link's bandages, that bashful joy across his lips.
But...perhaps, some part of me hoped that there was a chance.
Link grabbed his stomach defensively at the thought. If there was...
He acted out of impulse. Unstrapping the Sheikah slate was easily done in one motion, a reflex built up over time. He selected the Zora's Domain and tapped the confirmation box. However, the tablet slipped out of his hand and clattered along the floor.
Link's hands didn't shake, his body didn't so much as tremble. There was no frustration, anger nor grief, there didn't feel like there was anything. Just stillness and silence.
In the faint candle light of the hall, the slate felt like a beacon with the faded map of Zora's Domain still open.
Across the screen stated: Action rejected. Instant transportation cannot be done with more than one person.
~~~~~~ ҉ ~~~~~~
"-, any more questions?" M grumbled as she poured herself another cup of tea. Wanting this ordeal to be over with, she didn't enjoy this personal of a topic and with an audience no less. But she supposed it was worth something educating Hylians that were willing to try and understand.
"No, I think I got everything, thank you." Ingo finished adding the last of the notes to his journal.
"Actually, I have a question." Senza raised her hand to further her insistence. "Not so much about my teammate, but something important none the less."
"And what might that be?"
"Will you be assisting the Captain in the rescue mission?"
Both M and R glanced to Link at the other end of the table. He hadn't spoken much during this debrief, both deep in thought and pestered by Kattan. She wasn't comfortable with the knights and sat right next to Link so she could press against him or hang onto him as a safety net of sorts.
"No." M stated flatly and sipped her tea.
"Now, now." R quickly piped up and addressed the question properly. "The truth is, Sir Link hasn't shared any interest in either of us joining in on something so dangerous. It has only been recently that I have been given the suppressant recipe to help refine it. While effective, there are still some flaws, as the goal is blocking the drastic change in the body from effecting the person's decisions. This includes the scent factor, as consistently wearing masks of mint are unrealistic."
Ingo fidgeted with his own mask from the remark and nervously glanced to Link as he no longer had one. But the captain had simply taken a seat after he returned without any proper explanation. Only briefly stating that he 'didn't need it right now'. Whatever that meant.
Senza then continued. "I see, and how close are you to perfecting this medicine?"
R smiled proudly and hooked an arm around Kattan, pulling her in close. Though she still refused to let go of Link completely, fingers pinching at his sleeve. "Thanks to my lovely helper and volunteer here, I believe I'm just about there! I think this next batch will be the one."
Link snapped to attention and looked to the Hylian woman in concern. She's testing the new elixirs? I should be the one testing them. That's dangerous!
Kattan took notice of his quick reaction. She gave a timid smile, not wanting to cause any trouble and reassured him. [I'm okay. I want to help. Like you did for me.]
"So..." Shad began as he helped himself to another biscuit. "Are there any others that are a part of this secret operation?"
The Gerudo woman clicked her tongue in irritation. "Thank Hylia, no."
Link tapped the table to draw in everyone's attention. [The head of the Sheikah is aware of my investigation and will give me aid. I plan to bring forth my findings within the next two days.]
"Lady Impa?" R beamed with excitement. "If she's backing you up, you'll have elite warriors at your side! That's wonderful!"
"I'd expect nothing less from you Captain." Senza sat up a little straighter, a rare smile on her lips.
"Ya, well. That's not all!" Madas stood up abruptly with both hands on his hips. "The best knights of Hyrule will fight at his side! Myself and platoon forty-eight!"
"Hey! You're hogging the spotlight again, Madas!" Ingo pouted and threatened to throw a half-eaten biscuit at him.
"Wait, would it be safe for you to go, Ingo?" Shad questioned, worried as he remembered what happened this morning. As Ingo was about to defend his worth, he stopped and looked to Link. So did the other team members.
[No more dangerous than it will be for me.] Was the answer and everyone seemed to be all the more encouraged to take on the mission. All but M who cast a knowing look to Link, then to the table blocking the view of his lower torso and back up at him.
~~~~~~ ҉ ~~~~~~
They were all grateful to the married couple for the hospitality, even if it had began with a rocky start. The night ended with warm food in their bellies from a late supper and more casual topics.
While it was cramped, R managed to find a place for everyone to sleep. Everyone was in agreeance that Link and Ingo shouldn't share a close space for the night. With the boys; Shad, Madas and Ingo set up in R's apothecary and study. Senza and Link would share a room with Kattan, but that had been an awkward situation in of itself.
Originally Kattan was completely against Senza being in the room, because she still didn't trust any of the knights. Even with Senza offering to be tied up for the night, it was still a no. M; of course, threw Link under the wagon. Suggesting that she snuggles up with him for safety and Senza sleeps on the floor.
So, here was Link, sharing the single bed with Kattan. He felt like her oversized teddy bear as she hugged him tightly and used his chest as a pillow, while she snored like an old dog. Quiet, mostly groans, but had the irregular whistle every couple minutes. How she was comfortable like this was beyond him, her right arm had to be packed with pins and needles by now.
A shared sleeping space was nothing new to him, nor was this position particularly unique. More than once, camping during missions turned into dog piles, whether due to lack of space or warmth. Sometimes it was for the feeling of safety for the one that was gravely injured. Link never once had an issue with any of the situations and this one was no different.
But of all the recollections passing through his mind, there was this one time that lingered. It had been such a deep, restful sleep and yet, there was a strange feeling of awareness. The occasional drop of weight across him; whether it be limb or tail. The night he had been caught up in Sidon's sleeping embrace. As the hero, a life full of struggle and fighting, Link had never felt as secure and relaxed as he did then.
This however, this was uncomfortable. A little painful even. With one of Kattan's arms underneath him, low down on his spine too, his back was arched at an odd angle. After about three hours of not moving, it was beginning to ache. And somehow it felt like he was being pinched by her head. Maybe if the bed had more pillows or the bed was soft enough to sink into, it wouldn't be so bad.
Not that Link was in any place to complain. He had slept in worse conditions; had dealt with far worse pain or irritations, and this was to help out someone in need. Facing knights that still hunted her thoughts, even if forty-eight meant no harm, was none the less a terrifying experience. The least he could do was offer Kattan some form of peace.
Kattan shifted and gave a small stretch, mumbling nonsense. However, when her arms returned to wrap around him, her hand went under his shirt and rested at the end of his rib cage. Link was not sensitive to contact, certainly not under normal means, manhandling came with the job on a daily basis. Be it knights, civilians or monsters. But the brief skin to skin contact over his stomach made Link flinch and his heart pound as his body seized up. If not for that, he was certain that he would have done something he would have regretted.
Because he was very familiar with what this feeling was. Such a highly defensive reaction normally occurred in combat. All he could do was picture every way he could get out of her hold or render Kattan unable to fight back. To hurt her or kill her, if need be. It was more startling than anything. Though the feeling did not last long nor did Link wake her up from the situation.
As Link took slow and even breaths to calm his racing heart. He chose to ignore any other thought and tried to pick something that would help him focus. My will and mind is of the people, the innocent. My body-
But his thoughts are interrupted by Sidon's voice. You matter, Link! Not as a hero, not as a warrior, not as a weapon. You matter as a person.
That was not helping right now. But try as he might, the prince and his words continued to run wild in his mind. Link's pulse wouldn't come down and he couldn't keep his breathing regular. So, he opted for a visual distraction and pulled the slate from under his pillow.
When the screen lit up the dark room, that message was the first thing he saw. He had forgotten that he had not closed anything and that the screen had simply turned off to standby. Link's mind was silent now and he wished for anything but. Because anything at this moment would be better than the reminder of these words.
Action rejected. Instant transportation cannot be done with more than one person.
Enough! Link told himself as he shut everything down and put the slate back. In all these months, all this time, not once had he suddenly felt nauseous as he did now. His heart thundered uncontrollably as he fought to keep his breathing silent and the rising bile of his stomach down.
Enough! Link draped an arm over his eyes as everything was starting to sting, every tiny movement hurt all over. Yet it did not stop him from using his free hand to press into his agitated abdomen. The slightly defined muscle was still firm as ever and while the pressure hurt, it brought some relief to reframe from being sick.
Enough. Link tried to will himself to pass out, but he could settle for a sleepless night if it meant his body wouldn't force him to purge dinner. So, he focused on the discomfort, the ache that rolled around his body and waited for dawn.
Rested or restless.
Link was going to leave for the Domain first thing, the moment everyone woke up.
~~~~~~ ҉ ~~~~~~
In the hours before dawn, the waters are pleasantly cool around the shrine. The elegant luminous stonework that made up this cavern glowed softly and rang ever so gently with hums. The pink Zora mother sat at the edge of the pool, tenderly rocking her egg as if it was lulled by a current. But her eyes were set on the shrine and not her unborn child, aware that she was being watched.
"Little one keeping you up?"
She was not the least bit surprised by Rivan's attempt to approach discreetly or his comment, he wasn't necessarily wrong. Now looking down at her egg, Gaddison spoke somewhat awkwardly. "You could say that."
Rivan moved to sit next to her before he replied. "Something on your mind then?" The brown Zora was already armed and ready for the rotation of the guard. With time to spare, he had gone on an aimless stroll and wound up at the shrine. To find Gaddison here of all places, it was quite the coincidence.
"Do you remember when your magic awakened?" Gaddison asked, looking back at the shrine.
Rivan followed suit as he chuckled and gave an awkward smile. "I don't think Bazz will ever let me forget the time I thought I killed my mate just as their labour began." That was so long ago and he couldn't recall the last time any of them had talked about it. It was certainly funny in the aftermath of the event; a pair of bonded younglings having a typical maternal spat and then suddenly the baby decides to break up the fight. Only for Rivan's magic to surge during the moment of panic and make everything worse.
"No, I mean do you remember what it felt like? Did you know right from the start or did it take time to notice it was there?"
The man was quiet for a moment and then stared down at his feet as they waded in the pool. "It's difficult to say... I remember the moment our souls merged and the feeling of our bond becoming whole. But the power I gained from it? It could have been lost in the new experience for all I know; even as months passed, I was still overwhelmed by it from time to time. Feeling my mate's pain, their joy from across the Domain. The way their soul could pull on mine like a leash. The weight of their soul on mine when I so much as touched their hand. So, I can't say that I noticed a difference from before and when I used it for the first time."
"Do you still feel your bond as you once did?"
"Since we ended our relationship? No. However, I do think that we're one of the luckier ones. We can still go to each other to restore our strength without any problems, unlike so many other former couples." They may not be lovers anymore, not even the closest of friends, but they clearly still care and respect one another. "It has grown weak, it has made my magic weak, but it will still forever be a part of me."
Gaddison sighed. "I guess it wouldn't be called a soul bond if it was possible for it to be destroyed."
"And why is this bothering you exactly? It's not like you've got one." Rivan teased her with a bit of a smirk, yet when he saw her lips twitch into a frown; even for a second, he knew that something bad was coming.
"I think I might." She said quietly, as if she was worried someone might be listening in on them.
His tone quickly intensifies. "You think? Gad!" He wasn't trying to freak out, but with her not showing much interest in romance. Heck, he had never known her to have eyes for anyone. Rivan couldn't help but fear for his friend. It had him jumping to a horrible possible outcome, that Gaddison had an unwanted soul bond.
There was more than just one method to make one.
The most common being practically instinctual, a deep bite along the shoulders or neck when the soul is visible, where the light is the strongest. Drinking the rich energy, the mana, the life force of another person and stoking your own soul. With this method so powerful, it does not require the other person to return the bite to complete the binding of souls.
As for the second form, it isn't for the faint of heart. Even if it is used often in weddings. The person's soul doesn't need to be showing and it doesn't require a bite either. All that is needed is an exchange of blood, as small as a glass of wine.
Less likely and least expected, is one forming due to strong reciprocating emotions. Whether it be joy or anger. However, it can take years to complete a bond this way. Making it unfavourable for those wanting it and unfortunate to those wanting anything but.
But as much as these soul bonds are a blessing; they could be just as much as a curse. They can be made with ill intent. As bonds are magical in nature and magic does not have emotion; it does not feel. No good or bad, right or wrong; only existence.
"Gad, are you sure?" Rivan pressed.
"I don't know. I get a feeling every now and then, like I need to be somewhere. I've tried to follow it... I think? I can't remember if I have, but it doesn't seem like something I would just ignore." Gaddison expressed her confusion with uncertain hand gestures and then curling up around the egg with her forehead on her knees. Groaning in frustration over her inability to put everything into words. "I don't feel right, nothing feels right! I'm doubting myself, my sanity with every day that brings this egg closer to hatching."
"The fear of becoming a parent I under-"
"Rivan!" She finally snapped, tensing up as her voice began to waver. Vulnerability breaking out with weak hysterical laughter as she lifted her head. "I don't even know whose child this is. I barely remember giving birth and honestly, it's the only piece of evidence that the egg is mine at all. Yet despite how frightening and messed up this is; I never once told anyone!? Not Bazz, not you? And to keep it to myself for over two years!? Does that sound like something I would do?"
Of course it doesn't, it sounded like this was right out of a nightmare. Rivan grabbed her by the shoulder. "There is only one explanation, someone is manipulating your memories with magic. Is there anyone that you can think of that would want to hurt you?"
"No."
If not to hurt her, maybe this was out of jealousy. Of her and whoever the sire of their egg is, of not being the one to have her. "Has anyone been trying to get close to you or your egg?"
Though he did not get an answer from Gaddison, her eyes seemed to become unfocused as she became very still. Like time had stopped.
"Something on your mind then?" The brown Zora was already armed and ready for the rotation of the guard. With time to spare, he had gone on an aimless stroll and wound up at the shrine. To find Gaddison here of all places, it was quite the coincidence.
"Do you remember when your magic awakened?" Gaddison asked, looking back at the shrine.
"You mean when Rivan became a living sponge?" Bazz burst out laughing, making the pair turn on him in surprise. Though he flinched when he realized Gaddison had already grabbed Rivan's weapon. "Woah! Hold on!"
"Hylia, Captain, you scared the scales right off me!" Rivan quickly took his weapon back before Gaddison attacked Bazz with it.
"I wasn't trying too! You two must have been having one deep conversation if you didn't hear me." Irritated at first, only for it to turn into smug pride. "Though, points for me for sneaking up on you, Gaddy! So much for your keen senses."
"Jump off Shatterback Point, you over grown guppy."
Bazz just laughed at her insults and continued to smile as he teased them. "So, what were you two really talking about? Love stories? Royal gossip? Or planning naughty things?"
"Nothing." Gaddison answered flatly. "The conversation had barely begun before you rudely interrupted." She just wanted to know...
Something.
But she couldn't remember, so it probably was nothing important.
~~~~~~ ҉ ~~~~~~
"Captain Bazz?" The prince's voice brought him out of his thoughts.
"Yes, Prince Sidon?"
The knight had been escorting him all about this morning in complete silence and was becoming greatly concerning. Sidon worried that there had been a fight between him and another, possibly a silver Zora. "You seem troubled, is everything alright?"
"Merely questioning what the future holds for us." Bazz answered simply.
Sidon chuckled. "Quite the heavy topic. That's unusual for you."
"What is that supposed to mean? Are you suggesting that I lack the mind for such things?"
"No, no, not at all what I meant by it. It is just unlike you to be so... serious and tense. You tend to stay on the lighter, more joyful side of things."
The Zora guard hummed in reply before opening the door to the hall that Sidon would be attending the next meeting in. A gathering of elders, with a rather sensitive subject, Hylians; among other races, wanting to live in the Domain. "Well, let's leave it at that. I am sure the elders will be arriving shortly and I wish you the best of luck. At least you have my father on your side."
"With the Demon Sargent, I am certain of victory!" Sidon did his signature pose as he had no doubt that this would all end well. As a bonus, he managed to earn a smile out of his friend.
"Only you," Bazz scoffed in amusement and rolled his eyes. "only you, my Prince, could have complete confidence in facing such horrible odds of encouraging the elders into opening up to such change."
As expected, the sounds of bitter voices could be heard coming around the corner. Bazz continued to hold the door open, while their prince happily welcomed them and addressed everyone by name. However, as he was greeting the last pair, someone completely unexpected came speeding around the corner.
"Link!?" Sidon shouted in shock as the familiar blond Hylian rushed towards him. "What are you doing here?"
When he came to a stop, Link nearly stumbled over, but despite the clear fatigue, he still managed to sign clearly. [You were right.]
Bazz glanced from Link to Sidon, but it would seem that he wasn't the only one that didn't understand what was going on.
"I'm-?" The red Zora had intended to say more, however the elders were already glowering at the intrusion of Link. Possibly the worst timing for this right now. So he held his tongue for a moment and changed the question. "Is this urgent?"
Sidon did not like the expression of uncertainty and unease Link gave him before looking to the other Zora still waiting at the door, as well as those already inside. When Sidon did not receive an answer, he had little choice but to accept it as minimum concern at the moment. The prince's smile returned, ushering the remaining guests inside and followed along afterwards. "I'm truly sorry, Link, I am currently attending to a prior engagement."
When Sidon turned around to reassure him, that they would not be brushed off. It might have just been them still catching their breath, but the Hylian seemed to be shaking a bit. It was alarming to see the state his dear friend was in.
"I promise to speak to you the moment this meeting is over, it should only be a few hours. Please, feel free to use that room if you do not wish to wait here." Sidon did his best to remain optimistic and smile, before looking to his guard. "Captain Bazz, if you please."
The black Zora simply nodded and began to close the door. But in the last second of the door closing, Link seemed to panic and repeat himself. [You were right!] He said with wide eyes before grabbing a fist full of his tunic over his stomach.
Sidon did not misinterpret the suggestion. His heart sunk and with frightful eyes, his hand snapped over his mouth. And as he stared at the door, the prince didn't feel so confident anymore.
~~~~~~ ҉ ~~~~~~
Bazz placed a hand on Link's shoulder, startling him and redirecting his anxiety. The Zora pulled away quickly, as it seemed to only make this circumstance worse. "Link, has something happened? Are you okay?"
[I'm fine.] He replied quickly and then slapped his cheeks, as if to help snap himself out of whatever was bothering him.
"You don't look fine. Is there something I can do to help?" Bazz offered gently, unsure of how to handle Link with him like this. "Or would you prefer to wait for Prince Sidon?"
[No. No, thank you, I'll wait in the study.] Link shook his head and took a step back. [Let him know for me, would you?]
"Sure, I can pass that on. But, which study?" There were more than three within the surface half of the palace. But he was not at all expecting Link to say it was the one that was made of wood. Bazz visibly stiffened, he knew exactly which room and he had to swallow a lump in his throat before he could speak again. "That... that is not a study."
[What else could it be?]
There was no way that Bazz could tell him and certainly not like this. It should be Sidon who tells him, after all, he was the one that gave Link permission to be there. The room that had been made specially for Sidon and his... uniqueness. Yet another thing that was best told from the man himself. It had been built at the request of late Queen Shiel and it was also the very same room in which she died in.
"I know which room and I'll inform Sidon when he is finished." He redirected and took up his post at the door. "I'll personally make sure he gets there as soon as possible. Take care, alright?"
With a nod and a wave, Link left.
~~~~~~ ҉ ~~~~~~
The door opened so slowly that Link didn't realize that it was moving until it softly creaked to a stop. He merely glanced to acknowledge the movement, before tending back to the fire. Link could understand his hesitation or the unusual lack of enthusiasm. Sitting here and waiting, with only his thoughts, it had made him even more nervous and worried. Link even had to toss the Sheikah slate aside to stop himself from attempting other locations, as if expecting it to suddenly change.
So, he waited for Sidon to enter.
"Oh my." A slow and amused voice spoke out, making the Hylian jump to his feet at the ready. The grip on the Master Sword was tighter than necessary; sparking, zapping pain shot up through his hand and his hair stood on end. Their eyes met and Sado purred with delight. "I was wondering what was taking you so long, but this is quite the interesting room."
Link glared and released the weapon quickly; this was not a fight worth risking the blade's backlash. [Get out!] Infuriated that the tall Zora would even dare come near him after what happened last time, let alone enter Sidon's study. [You are not allowed in this place.]
The silver chuckled and stepped away from the entrance, his freakishly long head fin slithering along behind him. "I can't understand your weird hand thing, little one."
Refusing to give this man any sort of gratification, Link approached and shoos Sado with a simple gesture. [Did you get that or are you going to fake ignorance?]
"You know, I was lucky to overhear that you had unexpectedly arrived today. And I just couldn't pass up the opportunity. I've been following you ever since you left that clever, little black. Always knows when something is amiss that one." Sado grinned and offered a hand out towards the door. "Why don't you come with me, little one? There is much to prepare."
Link's glare intensified as he shook his head in reply and crossed his arms. With another soft chuckle, Sado crouched down and while he still towered over Link, it was closer to eye level. He reached out to put a hand on the smaller man's shoulder, but they were faster to retaliate and grab Sado's neck. Link's hand was far too small to wrap around entirely, but he could still get a good grip on their larynx and dig his fingers into the major arteries below the jaw.
"Oh, yes! Don't stop fighting, little one." Sado's eye widened with glee, even if it was difficult to talk around the pressure and pain. "You're too perfect to let this end quickly."
With a snap, a rush of heat, of nerves going haywire; Sado's surprised expression is the last thing Link sees before everything fades away to darkness.
~~~~~~ ҉ ~~~~~~
Link is only vaguely aware, fluttering between a dream like state and numbness. He feels cool and wet, with his hair and clothing hugging his skin. While something seems to be moving around on the inside. A strange weight almost, swimming around his organs. Link flinches when it brushes past something in his chest, it didn't hurt necessarily, but it wasn't welcome, it was wrong. He relaxes once more when it moves away, but whatever it was, now grabs at his insides and begins to tear it from his body.
Link screams, shocked into consciousness as he tries to flee from whatever is attacking. Realizing that his arms are restrained above his head and his feet are bound together. He can feel a hand wrapped around his calf keeping him still.
Fighting through the pain, vision beginning to focus on his surroundings. Link discovers that he's in a cavern or dungeon from the looks of the smooth, carved stone room. Placed sitting upright with his back against a wall, on his left is a strange silver Zora he's not sure he recognizes and an unusual, green haired Hylian on the right. They don't so much as bat an eye at him waking, struggling and shouting. While the Zora holds him steady, the Hylian appears to be almost elbow deep through Link's snow tunic and just below his sternum.
"That was quite the strange room you were in." Sado's voice snaps Link's attention away, he couldn't be far off, but is out of Link's sight. "I didn't intend to inflict that much on you, but it felt like I couldn't... disperse... like I normally could. So, most of it actually went to you. Ops!" Sado sounded like he was more impressed than regretful. But the anger it brought Link only aided his will to push aside the pain and fight back.
The Zora at Link's side grabbed hold of his shoulder and shoved him back against the wall. "Oh, please do continue speaking. I enjoy it when I have to work harder to block out your arrogance." Hine spoke dryly and added more force to her grip on the blond. He was indeed stronger than he looked, it was like she was trying to pin down someone closer to her size. That's even with the man shackled to the wall.
Within that moment a green glow began to emit from Link, more accurately, from where the Hylian had their hand digging around inside him. The torture only got worse, like barb wire was being threaded through his skin. A sensation like that of fabric tearing apart ghosted over his whole body. Link was screaming again, till his lungs ran empty, trailing off into strangled breaths. Even with Link's vision turning hazy, he could see that a mass was being pulled from his torso. There was no wound nor blood. It was almost smoke-like or perhaps closer to fire? When the last strands finally left him, so did the pain. Leaving Link gasping and trembling in relief.
"This one was more difficult than the last." The Hylian finally spoke, but his voice was vacant of emotion. He held the lively, shifting mass in one hand and a chunk of black rock in the other. He then brought them together like one would clap their hands and the wisps dissipated in a flash. When they open their hands there now sat a glowing emerald; the two had become one. "It is better to harvest the source."
Sado groaned, likely rolling his eyes as well. "Yes, that would be just dandy, wouldn't it? Well, tough. Finish the job, Kuu. There should be two more."
"What if he dies?" Hine asked simply, like it would be a small mishap.
"He won't~." Came the purr of a reply.
Kuu didn't say another word and as the emerald's light flickered out, he set it aside. It was then that Link realized what they were taking from him, what was being so ruthlessly torn out. He could already recognize the lack of connection, just like before, he couldn't feel her anymore. Urbosa was gone.
Link couldn't think of a single word worthy of his wrath. It was you! You're the one that hurt Mipha! You took her from me! Now, Urbosa!?
Before they could attempt to take the remaining two souls of the champions from him. A blast of wind was summoned forth, the gale twisting within the small room. Revali's power expelled the two away from Link with greater might than usual, as if the Rito's spirit was sharing his rage through their connection.
Kuu gave a small pained yelp as he landed on his shoulder and tumbled back in a few bad rolls. Hine, though, was heavier and only landed roughly on her back. However, she was quick to scramble over to the Hylian, as distressed whines reached her ears. So quiet, it was something only she would be able to recognize in the scuffle. "Kuu!"
"Ah, shit…" Even with the torches threatening to go out from the wind, Link could now see Sado from where he stood in the corner. But now the tall man seemed to be preparing to jump into a fight with Hine. And Link did not hesitate to bring up Daruk's barrier before the gift of wind ran its course.
As Hine looked over her claim for damage, Kuu trailed his hand over the small swell of his middle. While his face still wore no expression, his hands had a slight tremble to them. Kuu's voice was smaller than before. "I didn't land on your pup. They are fine, my warlord. I can continue, I will finish the task."
Then Link's eyes widened, shocked at what he was hearing and dreading the meaning of those words. Tempted to pray that he was misunderstanding the situation. As for Sado, he relaxed and sank back into his corner. Though he gave a small smirk when he realized Link that was now glaring at him. "Don't break on me now, little hero."
Bastard! Damn you to hell! Link gave his best snarl. The silver freak knew Link wouldn't just give them what they wanted. But Link also wouldn't knowingly put an innocent life in danger.
Defend the champions within him and fight back?
Or stop resisting and keep an unborn child from harm?
Link's resentful eyes fell on the pregnant Hylian, a sickening feeling of guilt and fear settled within him. Unable to stop himself, he could now see Judo in Kuu and…himself. Link lowered his head in defeat and the ruby shield crumbled away.
Sado's deep, maniacal laughter echoed around the room. "Excellent! Marvellous!"
The next time Link lifted his gaze, it was to face the Hylian. He did not care that Hine threatened to kill him or watched his every move with a monstrous expression. What mattered was that he remained fixed on Kuu, a wordless promise that this wasn't over, that he wasn't simply giving in.
Kuu's hand slipped into his chest like he was playing with a bowl of water. The clothing even seemed to ripple around the other's hand. Watching how he did it and feeling this all happen at the same time made Link nauseous.
Try as he might to keep himself composed, to stay strong and prove he could take it. That they would have to do better to break him. And while it was true that it would take more than physical pain. The moment Kuu caught one of the souls he was fishing for. Link writhed and wailed once more. The brief minutes it took for the champion to be torn out felt so much longer than in actuality.
This soul was twilight blue, creating a deep sapphire.
Daruk... It was only the second extraction and it was already taking a huge toll on him. It was as though his strength had been cut in half with each loss. Feeling weaker, as though he was losing more than just their powers, their connection. Link didn't know if he could stay awake through the last one. Forgive me. Everyone. I promise, I will save you all and set you free.
As Kuu resumed and reached in to take Revali, Link readied himself for the pain, but felt none this time. Even before the light of the soul could emerge, Kuu stopped.
"What is it?" Hine asked, noticing his pause and that it meant more than something as simple as a break.
"He's not screaming."
Sado titters in amusement. "Having fun, are we?"
Not giving him any form of satisfaction by playing along, Kuu stated his find and ignored the question. "This soul is not tied to his. There aren't only four souls in this body."
Now this was a surprise. "A secret? With the records, there should only be three left as we took one months ago." Sado approached to have a look, even if there wasn't much to see.
"No. Unlike you, Sado, his body works." Hine groaned in irritation, as this was just adding to her souse's workload. "Though, I doubt you would have use for a premature soul."
Link tensed up, but tried not to give any visual indication of how it affected him that they now knew he was carrying. The sickening amusement on Sado's face was enough cause for alarm.
"My, isn't this just precious! I could smell your building heat when we had that tiff in the square. Such a delicious taste lingered on my tongue for days." He practically moaned with delight, voice rumbling in his throat. "I don't doubt that he could have kept his hands off you. I dare well say, I nearly lost my mind. Little prince fucked you good, like a proper souse and even managed to pup you. Didn't he?"
Still, Link managed to suppress any outward response, however no matter how he tried to ignore the vulgarity and keep his thoughts from wandering to Sidon. Sado was beginning to get under his skin; as much as he wishes to deny it, feelings of distress and shame were already on the rise. Not for what Sidon and he had done, but because he had got caught in possibly the worst situation right now.
"How long has he been mounting you, I wonder? It's not common; even for a primal, to bring a souse of a different species to pup after just one heat or even a couple. Is that why you were in that room? His nest to routinely attempt to breed pups out of you."
"A reason to challenge for the right of their pups would be problematic for your plans." Kuu offered, bringing an end to the horrible ramble Sado was making before he could utter another word. "Fastest and easiest solution; removal of rival pups."
Such a drastic suggestion caught Link off guard and irrationally tried to flee from Kuu's reach, but Hine was expecting it. With one hand snapping around his neck, the force caused Link to hit the back of his head on the wall and left his vision swaying. Hine's other hand grasping his thigh so roughly that he could feel her claws digging into his skin through his trousers. Trembling; from fear or exertion, the war of denial only aided his panic, his gaze snapping from the hand still submerged in his belly to Kuu himself.
Sado hummed dramatically in thought and paced about the small space, delighted over the idea, over the control he had in this very moment. "Just what are we dealing with?"
"I can't tell what race without seeing the soul. Separating it even slightly will result in immediate death."
"Numbers?"
"Unsure, I can only trap one soul at a time."
"Surprises, surprises!"
Hine took her eyes off Link for a moment to glare up at the man. "Enough, Sado. Make a decision. If we're caught by Yanun when she's looking for you to start the ceremony, we're all dead."
"Fine, fine." He sighed, annoyed that he couldn't continue playing. Regardless if Hine was right. "I'll let him keep it-them-whatever, if it even survives. Saves me some face if he is at least seen as bred in the first few months. Just get that other soul out and I'll be on my way to prepare."
Relief is not something he given much time to experience before Kuu releases the child's soul to continue their task. Link barely manages to cling to consciousness after the last of the champions is turned into a gem. Peridot this time. He tried to embed the size, shape and colour into his memory, just like the others. Who knew if there was a way to tell them apart from normal gems so as far as he was concerned, every little detail was critical.
Sado took his trophy of jewels and left, though Hine would not be far behind. After she fixed Kuu's black garments and hair, preening him so she was satisfied that he was perfect. She then pressed him against her, a trill growl came from Hine; protective and possessive. When Hine turned her gaze on Link, she flashed her teeth and tightened her hold on Kuu for a second, then she released him and left. Leaving just the two Hylians alone.
A minute hadn't even gone by before Kuu asked an unusual question. "Does the primal treasure you." Well, the words suggested one, but his voice remained hollow and almost ghostly.
When Link didn't answer, Kuu placed his hand on Link's stomach. It was unsettling, to feel such normal contact after all that. "Do you want to do this."
Link struggled to lift his gaze to give Kuu a hard look. Was this some pathetic attempt to make amends? After baiting Sado like that? After turning the souls of the champions into trinkets!? This man would have to beg Hylia for forgiveness and mercy, because they wouldn't get any from Link. But being left unable to answer, through the ache and exhaustion Link shifted as far away as his shackled wrists would allow. Curling his bound legs up to his chest and turning so his back now faced Kuu.
~~~~~~ ҉ ~~~~~~
"Aw, don't tell me you've gotten all shy on me now." Sado teased softly and roughly yanked Link's legs towards him. Link struggled, being hard to deal with, but not putting up a real fight. Some energy for resistance had returned to the Hylian, but from the feel of things, Sado guessed he had an hour or so before Link became problematic to handle.
Hine didn't even look at Link, dropping a lump of black cloth within arm's reach and procured her souse. Cupping Kuu in her arm like one would hold a house cat. She was in and out under a minute.
As the silver Zora set Link's bound feet on his lap, he began to click a pair of shackles together just above the rope. "Wouldn't want you to get cold feet." He said with a smirk and then sliced the rope with his claws.
With his ankles no longer crossed and tightly bounded together, it was far more comfortable. Link swiftly drew his legs back and kicked Sado in the gills with his heels. His back braced against the wall only aided his limited strength. As Sado gasped and wheezed in pain, Link rolled away.
Had tried to roll away, before the other caught him by the hip. "That… that was a dirty trick!" He was pissed, but also smiling with glee. "But." Sado dug his claws into the thick snow trousers, eyeing Link carefully. Not that he was worried about what Link was up to next, on the contrary, he loved it. Mere moments from the ceremony, after all the suffering they put him through, and Link was still resisting.
"What now, little one? Wasted energy, I say. You should have saved it for a better opportunity." His voice rumbled on the borderline of a growl and Link did nothing other than keep a firm glare. "How about we just focus on getting you ready, hmm? Yanun is particular about these ridiculous things."
Sado effortlessly ripped Link's clothing to ribbons, rather than even try to remove them properly. As it was being destroyed, Link was no longer protected by its abilities and the sudden drop in temperature made him tremble.
"Hmmm." Sado paused to fiddle with the trinkets braided into the blond's hair, eyeing the feathers in particular. "I think I'll leave this alone. It might make her uncomfortable."
The Rito headdress was the only thing that Link believed kept him from freezing to death, and it was also the only thing Sado left him. If the Zora's plan was to humiliate him, he was failing, Link could care less if anyone saw him naked. What Link still didn't know or understand was why his clothing had been soaked to begin with. It wasn't to wake him up. None of them clearly cared about waking after he was brought to wherever here was.
The contact of honed points jolts Link into focusing back on Sado, on his clawed fingers, slowly going over the expanse of his stomach. Even if his instincts screamed and all Link wanted to do was get away or fight back again. Link knew better not to. "Tell me, as a warrior, do you still feel like a souse? Do you feel the joy and thrill in being bred?" Sado asked with great amusement and Link felt an ever so slight change in pressure. Sado's roaming claws did not break the skin, but left a trail of stinging, white marks. "Does your body still sing with felicity in knowing you bear fruit for a primal, for the little Prince?"
Something horrible stirred inside Link, he felt sick, his nerves hummed in confused fear and excitement. Helpless in this twisted man's hands, helpless in Link's own darkening mind, for giving into this very feeling. But if it weren't for them, for what was festering in his guts. This wouldn't be happening. None of this would have led to this. Any words from today would hold no bite, no affect, he could fight back without having to second guess anything. This… this is why I-!
"First lesson."
Link gasped in pain as Sado sliced diagonally across his stomach with one claw. Blood spreading like a thick brush stroke over his cold, pale skin.
"If I ask you a question, you answer. I don't care that you're mute, you nod or shake your head." He held the Hylian's ankles in a bruising grip, preventing Link from fleeing or guarding himself. Link maybe had another second; he barely was even able to reply with a scowl, before Sado cut him again. Creating a lopsided, bright red X.
Stop! He thrashed in Sado's hold, Link wasn't thinking clearly, he wasn't able to. Danger, escape, protect, at any cost, at any risk. Another pained noise made it past Link's lips as all five claws pierced into the flesh of his lower belly. He was going to be gutted! No, no! Link shook his head frantically.
The claws withdrew and Sado's smile returned in mock sweetness, content with the reply. "There, now that wasn't so hard was it, little one?"
Link shook his head.
"Better. Don't think for a second that I won't hesitate to kill whatever may be in here." He said simply and flicked harshly at the wounds just to make Link wince. Then he leaned in closer, hovering over top of Link, face inches from the other. "Games of the flesh are effortless and offer no challenge for me. Understand this; I would find more pleasure in forcing you to pick which of your friends will get the shell of who you once were, when I'm done with you. Than something as simple as mutilating your body." Sado seemed utterly annoyed and disgusted that the words came from his own mouth. Sitting back up, he reached out with his bloody claws to the bolt fixing Link's shackles to the wall and yanked it free with a few sharp tugs. He let the metal chain fall on Link. "So, play nice and we won't bore ourselves with the barbarous games. Are we in agreeance?"
Swallowing his emotions in effort to regain some semblance of control over this situation, Link nodded.
"Oh, come now, don't be like that. It's not as though I plan to kill you. Where's the fun in that? If I have any say in it, I would prefer that your friend killed you out of pity. So, don't be so quick to jump to conclusions, little one." Sado playfully bopped him on the nose and then yanked Link to his feet by the chains like some dark marionette. "Now, behave and I will reward you with less pain."
For the brief duration of whatever Sado was preparing him for, Link complied and didn't act upon any hasty ideas. The black garment that Hine had brought them didn't give Link much of anything. It wasn't warm, the light fabric barely dried Link off and it didn't cover half of his body. It had a triangular design, hanging from the loose, bone collar piece. The open sides were held together with three ribs each.
"Stop picking at it and clean the blood off yourself." Sado ordered and stood up. Link did what he could and utilized the moment to skim through the remains of his Snowquill tunic. Unsurprising, they had picked him clean before he regained consciousness. For now, he made a temporary bandage from the scraps and then straightened the outfit before the Zora could demand more.
With the chains in hand, Sado led Link out of the room. As they walked down the passageway, Hine was waiting for them at a large door and followed along into a great open space. At its centre was a ten foot ring of water, a faint steam rising from the surface. Link had almost mistaken it for a hot spring, but the light coming up from the depths suggested otherwise. That's when it clicked, he was in an underwater cavern and Link's eyes widened at realizing just how close to home he really was. We're still in the Domain.
Deep beneath the Zora's Domain is a magma chamber linked to Death Mountain. Boiling waterways that the Zora people have learned to direct to their home as needed. It keeps the main lake from ever freezing over and the bottom comfortably warm even in the coldest winters. The surface; and even the waters flowing through the palace, are about as cool as a lake in spring, but no less dangerous for anyone other than a Zora to be swimming in.
"I thought I told you to get rid of that sword." Link heard Sado hiss at Hine and she was quick to snap back.
"Not unless you want to remodel."
With a quick glance up at the confrontation and then around the room, the Hylian spotted what sword they argued over. Resting just shy of the water's edge was the Master Sword.
"My patience is wearing thin with your remarks, Hine!" He warned and loomed over the smaller Zora.
"It cannot be moved! The belt tore- you should have just kept it on the souse!"
Link rushed for it, having forgot about the chains and they gave away his intentions. Sado was quick to yank him back from obtaining the weapon and Link landed harshly on his side.
"Ho oh oh! That was soooo close!" He laughed and began to reel the small man in like some sort of fish on a line. In a last resort, Link kicked his legs out and managed to hit the tail end of the scabbard. It spun and wobbled along the edge before slowly tilting and slipping into the water. "And there it goes. Well, you won't be getting it now, little one."
Sado let the chain go slack and left Link to get back on his feet. It took more effort that necessary, again seemingly wasting what little strength he had regained. Sado may believe that was unfavourable, but with things as they were, Link was going to need backup. There were plenty of Zora in the Domain that knew what the Master Sword looked like and who it belonged to. Hopefully, it would be found and the guard would be informed. Bazz or Rivan would know what to do.
Link's cuffed wrists were harshly tugged as the pair of silver Zora headed for the door on the right. He huffed in irritation, but it didn't matter, now it was a waiting game. All he had to do was survive. Upon entering, Link observed that this hall was vastly different than the corridor he woke up in. Tapestries covered most of the walls and torches spaced out in between. They were all red with erratic, black ink painted images of fearsome shark like creatures. Each design was different, yet held similar characteristics; the head shape of a spear and multiple fins.
"It is unwise to test my patience." A woman informed the approaching group. Link recognized the voice before Hine moved aside, it was the silver princess. She stood on a low platform before a massive statue carved right out of the wall. It was like the tapestries, a monster of the water, only this one's body was mostly bone. Fish were posed swimming out from it's body with strips of flesh in their mouths. The beast's wounds and flesh were adorned with rubies, while the rest was left to be natural rock. Ribs, claws and pointed fins surrounded the beast. Its jaw was rigged to a pair of chains that went through passages in the ceiling and appeared to be keeping the mouth firmly shut.
Sado got down on one knee. "It was not my intentions, but the spirit of this souse put a bit of a delay on his preparations."
Yanun hummed and cast her gaze on Link. Her expression of distaste betrayed the calmness in her voice. "Welcome, blessed one, to our shrine." She then looked to Hine. "You are Sado's witness for his trials of Prima?"
"Yes, Priestess."
"How amusing... First Sado renounces his place," She glares at the man for a moment. "so that you may take his role as my Warlord. And, now," Then her gaze returns to Hine with more ferocity. "you are here to help him obtain a right that belongs to you."
They say nothing and she continues. "For a pair that is known for the hatred between them, you two seem to help each other out in the most monumental of times with little hesitation."
Hine scoffed. "I give no aid to this man. I'm here for my own benefit, as my own conviction is being tested."
"I couldn't agree more." Sado grinned at his witness and then turned to his priestess. "I have prepared all requirements for the ceremony and I declare that my conditions of my trials complete." He said as he gestured to a large barrel sitting nearby with a small bundle resting on top.
Yanun didn't even spare a glance to what was presumably Sado's offerings. She had saw them when she came into the hall to prepare for all of this. Anyone else would have laughed at the mockery. This was it? 'A land of wealth that Prima once had'? Three months was not long enough to complete such a task and the bastard had the guts to call for the ceremony! As she bit back her outrage, she coldly asked. "Are you certain you wish to begin? You are aware that the punishment of failure is death."
"Come, little one." He yanked Link forward. "This will be over shortly, I assure you that."
Without pressing the matter any further, Yanun extended her left hand towards Link. "Souse, your chains are unnecessary. Primals, remove them."
Link was confused as to why they were now setting him free. He wasn't so foolish to believe that he could fight them off, especially in his current state. But he did feel more relaxed with full mobility and for that he was grateful. Though there something clearly messed up going on with these silver Zora; no doubt being hidden from the native Zora, from King Dorephan. The stonework looming over Yanun was setting off not only red flags, but giving him a horrible sense of déjà vu. Link kneeled as Yanun dropped her hand.
"Let us begin." Yanun said and turned to Hine. "Witness to the trials, come forth and give your pledge."
Hine approached, standing on the pedestal as Yanun stepped to the side and faced the statue. At first Link thought she was going to recite a verse, but she dug her claws into her hand with a simple clench of her fist and smeared her blood over the crest. Like a spear dipped in blood. Hine then moved to kneel next to Sado.
"By law of Prima, to earn rights to life, both your lives will be taken at the expense of the primal's failure."
To which Sado answered. "To be unfit to Prima's laws of strength, is to be food." He then stood. "I have not failed. I have proven my trial of strength long ago and my trial of faith; is that Prima will be greatly pleased with me in the wealth of land I offer and my proof."
"Then, primal, bring forth your proof. A land of wealth equal to that of what Prima lost." Yanun watched him as he moved to retrieve the wrapped bundle. She was angry with him. Not only because he blatantly failed, but because he agreed to continue and she was now in a horrible position. With the terms, both Sado and Hine were to be killed. Two of her best warriors! That left her army at less than half the strength! Over what? Some stupid little game, to attempt to make a fool out of her?
Sado stood before her and then kneeled, offering the bundle wrapped in cloth. Yanun was disgusted, he didn't even have the decency to put any effort into presentation. However, she took the item without a word and unwrapped it. Dropping the scraps, all that remained was a flawed amber. "What sort of a joke is this. You failed, but for what means?" She snarled and spat. "For a laugh!?"
He smiled simply at first, though after the clear pause, he put on the theatrics. "Oh, how your words wound me, my Priestess. Does exceeding the requirements count as a failure?" Sado grasped at his heart as he held his head in his other hand. "Had I known that, I would have gone for something smaller, perhaps less useful? Oh, please, I do beg for your forgiveness!"
She scowled, realizing that she was indeed being toyed with and glanced at the amber in her hand. "And what, prey-tell, is this flawed gem meant to be? What worth is it to Prima?"
Dropping the act and still, oh so delighted. "I give you, my Priestess, the key to turning; not just the whole Zora territory or the Kingdom of Hyrule, but this whole damned world into Prima's Domain. The key to Vah Ruta."
Link expressed no reaction. But his mind was whirling in turmoil. Link couldn't believe what he was hearing. What!? Were they planning to overthrow King Dorephan this whole time? Was conquering all of Hyrule their end goal? Regardless, there was no such thing as a key to a divine beast! Each was bound to a champion soul worthy of their power every ten thousand years! There was no way-
Kuu. That Hylian had the magic to make that nightmare a reality and Link had kept all the keys they needed.
Yanun expressed her pleasant surprise with a slight smile and then quirked a brow. The soulstone of Mipha. "Where did you find this?"
"At the bottom of the East Reservoir."
"You are fortunate to have found this key, I am well aware of that weapon's capabilities." She paused for a moment and gave it a test. It was not the first soulstone she had the rare opportunity to play with and was easy for her to channel its power. The amber flickered to life, glowing brightly.
I refuse to be a pawn once more!
Link could hear her voice, Mipha was still conscious and trying to fight back. I have to save her! But his body refused to move, he didn't so much as twitch. At first he thought that it was due to shock or the logical side of his mind holding him back from acting foolish again. But no. Link honestly could not move, not a wiggle of his fingers or even the batting of his eyelids. It was like being in a memory, only this time he was aware. However, it was no memory, this was now. He was trapped within his own body.
When?! When had this happened? Is this Sado's doing- no, he would have done so before hand. As would Hine. Then Link recalled his fight with Sado, how Yanun had punished him by twisting his body. She had done it all with the simple raise of a hand. Raise of a hand. She... she had done this to me the moment before they released me? It frightened him all the more to know he had been under her spell and had not felt anything. Had she been the one to control me at the castle too?
The light vanished and Yanun hummed with curiosity, before looking at Sado still kneeling before her. "While you have merely brought the promise of lands and nothing else. The risk you placed on such an item shows faith. Prima is more than pleased with this offering. You pass both trials."
"As I expected." Sado replied with pride. "Now, may we continue to the final act?"
His attitude normally would have ruined any joy she had at this moment. But with such a wonderful surprise, she couldn't be bothered and also wanted to end this as swiftly as possible. Yanun had other matters to attend to, plans to put into action.
She looked to Hine. "Release Prima's jaws." Then back to Sado. "Bring forth the sacrifice." As Hine walked over to a particular torch, it was revealed to be a lever as she pulled it down. A low whining of gears was heard above and then a rustle of chains as the maw dropped open. It was large enough that Link could have laid across with only his feet sticking out. Rows and rows of sharp, white, real teeth lined the entire mouth.
Just as Sado was cracking the lid off the barrel, Yanun beckoned Link over. "Come, souse." Link wanted to refuse, but his body rose to his feet. His heart didn't even skip a beat, calmly pumping along like all was right in the world. Just how much control did she have.
As he sat under the statue's jaw, facing outward and Yanun sat in front of him.
"Best hurry while she is still kicking." Sado held a plump, black shark by the tail. Yanun looked the flailing animal over with an unamused scowl. "What? I thought her to be fitting, adorned with the proper colouring of a souse and all."
"Set her here." Yanun pointed to the space between her and Link. Sado plopped the shark down with the belly facing the priestess. Kicking and biting aimlessly, Yanun grabbed hold of their head with her sharp claws. With her other hand she then cut open the bottom half of the shark's belly and small pups came flopping about. Yanun sorted through them. "Six pups, a decent number for such a small creature. Let us hope that you can do better in the short years you have, souse."
With that finished, Yanun forced her hand through the shark's gills and ripped out the shark's heart. While the shark finally laid still, the heart remained beating in Yanun's hand as she held it out to Link. "Swallow the heart."
Like the puppet she made him to be, Link's body moved without hesitation to take it and put it in his mouth. It was difficult, even if he was being forced by magic, to swallow it whole. I'm going to be sick. Link thought as he swore that he could still feel the heart moving in his stomach.
Yanun then picked up the shark, leaving the weakly kicking pups at her feet and set the body across the bed of teeth in the statue's maw. At first Link saw Hine set the lever back into place, then the next moment there is a sickening crunch and Link is showered in blood.
"Now that you have been cleansed," Yanun held out her left hand and Link stepped out from under the remaining droplets. She carefully brushed the liquid away from his eyes. "I welcome you into the clan, souse. May Prima have you bless us with many primals."
Sado sighed in irritation, just soft enough to get her attention, but not enough to warrant punishment. Though she still scowled as she turned Link to face him. As the giant sat, he put his forearm in front of Link's face. "Don't hold back now." Sado smirked and looked to Yanun, whom only responded with the flick of her fingers.
Link lurched forward and chomped down on Sado's arm. His teeth and jaw ached from hitting bone, but even his reflex to recoil from the pain had been held back. Warm blood gushed into his mouth, dripping down his chin like a ripe melon's juices. He wanted to spit it all out, but Yanun's control had him swallowing by the mouthful and burning his throat with every gulp. Link's chest sears with pain, like he was suffocating or someone was prying his rib cage open. Like that bastard was digging around inside again. It was disgusting, what they had done, what they were doing to him. Stop, damn you!
When Link let the arm go, all he could focus on was the agony and foul sensation coursing through his body. For a moment he believed his body would purge his stomach regardless of the magic at play. Regrettably, it held.
A dark purple light brought Link to focus again on what was happening before him. Sado's eyes were glowing as his soul seemed to spiral over his skin, like a tornado or whirlpool. No.
Link's gaze is shifted away as his head tilts to the side, baring his neck in offering. Don't you dare. I'll kill you!
Sado grabbed the Hylian's shoulder and a handful of hair, both actions were unnecessary as Link wasn't able to resist anyway. The Zora then whispered into Link's ear with a twisted smile. "This would have been less boring if you had played nice. I did warn you." Sado pulled back far enough for Link to get a good look at his teeth before snapping his jaws down on the smaller man's body. The bite covered from the base of his neck to the shoulder. Link wasn't even able to scream as Sado's pointed teeth marred his flesh and crushed his collar bone. Anguish storms about Link's mind. His skin bursts into blue light as the pain digs its way down to his soul. Sidon!
He can feel his blood being sucked out of him and his vision begins to darken. Link can't take any more, he's pushed himself beyond exhaustion, carried on through too much suffering. First the champions were stripped from his soul and now his soul is being bound to another. Sidon! Please-!
"Now you're mine."
