Link continued his set of sit-ups, neither fatigue or the news of the traitorous Chancellor Lawrence's arrest affecting him much...he couldn't let it, fatigue would affect his performance in battle, and well..thinking about the Chancellor would only make him angry, and as Zelda would remind him ever so often, he took unwise actions when angry. It wasn't only these two factors that he was trying to ignore though, after he had left Zelda in the care of the recently recovered Impa, and Audrik had left to attend to the other leaders, he couldn't help but think about his time in the future, or rather the parallel world he had visited, he felt as if it were real even after the moment he woke up sitting in a chair in the Royal Infirmary, with his head rested on Zelda's bed, Audrik asleep in the corner. The thing that bothered him the most though wasn't his fight with the Knight, it wasn't anything the King had said, not even what he said about Zelda had much effect on him, seeing he as back now, back with her...it was Ganondorf, he hadn't seen Ganondorf since their last battle over three centuries ago, Link hoping it would remain that way, Ganon always learned from their bouts, always came more prepared, leaving Link more battered and closer to death every time, with the notable exception of the time Ganon had used his last breath to kill him, and even then it was a dubious draw. This time though, Link felt more disturbed than ever, Ganon hadn't just defeated him, he had done it easily, and even began to remove his Triforce of Courage, something that before this, had never happened. After all of these thoughts, Link couldn't help himself, and seeing as he'd have to do it sooner or later, he drew the White Sword, and came to the alarming realization the battle had actually occurred, it had all been real, with marks along the blade being consistent with his memories of his battle with the other reality's Ganon. Finishing his set of sit-ups, he jumped to his feet, running his fingers over his Triforce mark, feeling it tingle slightly, comforting himself with the fact that it was there, even if he had a strange disembodied stone head to thank for it, for the first time since the battle in the Great Hall, Link smiled to himself, musing that no one would ever believe his story.
Link managed to clean up and get into a new set of clothes when he felt the craving for fresh air, he had gone back to his old bed chamber, not yet having moved completely into Zelda's. He felt guilty about leaving her side, but he knew that if she woke up to find out he was away to be at Audrik's side, she'd be grateful he was defending her younger brother. When Link thought about it, she had never really had a sibling before, always being born an only child, that's why she must be protective of Audrik, he's her first sibling...not just in this life, but ever. Link knew the feeling to an extent, he had had siblings in past lives, but he was never as close to any as he was Nika, he also recalled how few times he had any family at all, having a mother and a sister being a seeming gift from the Goddesses after centuries of servitude, being lonely up until his reunions with Zelda. Link couldn't wait to get back to his village of Oak Hollow, and see his family again, he smiled when he thought about his mother's awe when he would make good on his promise of marrying not just a Princess, but the Princess of Hyrule, he laughed to himself knowing that Nika might hide for a bit, being the shy little thing she was, Link felt dismay though after thinking of bringing Kallil with him, the other villagers would know that they'd never willingly return without Oreck... what would his parents say? and what about Marin? Link felt the familiar sinking feeling in his stomach, last thing he'd need was an emotionally damaged Marin being angry at him...or Goddesses forbid, some kind of fight between her and Zelda, Link thought with a shiver. Zelda never much had to deal with girls getting close to him as he usually would distance himself from those that were, such as Malon, Illia, and Peatrice, but he always had to deal with her suitors, as she was Princess of the realm and bound to attract many with not just her title, but her amazing beauty. Link thought back, Jakob Lirien was her most recent suitor with whom he had a physical altercation with, and that had been more than three-hundred years in the past, Link counted himself as lucky that no one had challenged him to a duel recently, he always won, but took no pleasure in doing so knowing that Zelda objected to it. Link attempted to think back to his time during the Twilight Invasion, recalling how little contact he had with Zelda, he began pondering whether or not he had met any of her attempted suitors in that era. His most recent lifetime was only 291 years prior, with "Twilight Era" as he nicknamed it being 483 years prior, having only been two lifetimes ago. Link rid himself of these thoughts, he wasn't doing himself any good keeping locked up in his chambers.
oOo
Link looked out over the Great Hall, the reconstruction efforts were underway, with many sorcerers using their abilities to regenerate broken masonry, while other workers took a more traditional approach, laying bricks and filling in the small chasms Zelda had created. Link's thoughts returned to Zelda, he thought her incapable of reverting back to Hylia, let alone being able to use her powers again. Link turned his eyes towards the ground, his worry over Zelda's well being growing by the hour, he fully expected her to be recovered by now, but at the moment she was still comatose, the up side being that her wound is sealed and her breathing steady. Link thought about going back and relieving Impa, but Audrik told him to stay close to the first floor, just in case he needed him, he was after all, the "Hero of Legend". Link's ears twitched as he heard two voices drawing near, he glanced to his right to find two Knights striding in his direction, they held their helmets under their arms, revealing their youthful faces, they looked to be around the same age as Link. Link decided it was time he make some friends in the Castle.
He approached the two Knights, locking eyes with them.
"Sir." he said at one.
"Sir." he said, nodding to the other.
"Good morning, Sir." they said in unison, bowing.
Link looked upon them, confused, he wasn't too use to others bowing to him in this era. "You two needn't bow, I am of the same rank as you." Link said, not knowing whether or not what he said was true.
"My apologies, it's just...you're the Hero of Legend." one Knight said.
"Quite famous you are." the other added, exchanging an unsure glance with his companion.
Link wasn't adjusted to this fact being common knowledge quite yet. Over his many lives people usually just saw him as a roaming young man, with no idea of who he actually is and the amazing things he's done.
"Well, it's not as if I'm King." Link remarked, hoping the Knight's may loosen up, so to speak.
"If what we've heard is true, that may not be the truth soon enough." One Knight remarked, followed by a laugh from both of them, with Link joining in.
Relieved they had somewhat adjusted to his presence, Link extended his hand, shaking hands with the knight on the left first, then the one on the right.
"Please, refer to me by my given name, Link Arrethron." he said with a welcoming smile.
The Knight on the left spoke first, "Sir Trystane Halland at your service." he said with a slight bow.
The Knight on the right then stepped forward, "Sir Mathias Elmsworth, also at your service." he said with a bow.
The whole situation felt familiar for Link, in nearly all of his lives he'd become well acquainted with the Knight's of Hyrule, usually finding himself training with them after regaining his memories, and later leading them when he was older.
"It's an honor to meet you." Link said, regarding the two of them,"How long have you been in the service of the Royal Family?"
The Knight's exchanged glances, waiting for the other to speak, with Sir Trystane being the first to speak up. "Three years for the both of us, came here five years ago from the Eldin Province Guard, we were made Knights in two years after our parts in the battle of Snowpeak Fortress.
Link recalled tales he had heard while in the Lanayru Province Guard of the defense against the Bulblin Empire in the mountains, it was said only one 96 Knights and soldiers had fended off a 200 strong force sent to take the Fortress, the winning factor more than likely being the cold environment, as Bulblins generally lived in warmer climates.
"Impressive indeed...tell me, was the Fortress once referred to as the Snowpeak ruins?" Link asked curiously, wondering if they had made the home of his old friends Yeto and Yeta, and one of the most dangerous dungeons he had ever faced into a military base.
"We don't know about that, but the soldiers who had been stationed there said that when they first arrived it seemed something had been living there, but whatever it was is long gone." Sir Mathias answered with Sir Trystane nodding in agreement.
Sir Trystane spoke next, "Why do you ask?"
"I knew the occupants once, very interesting individuals." he said, glancing up at the ceiling above them.
Sir Mathias and Trystane exchanged glances once more, "Do tell." Mathias said, an inquisitive tone in his voice.
Before Link could speak, he felt a presence behind him, spinning around quick to find Oren approaching.
"Perhaps another time." Link said, looking over to his new acquaintances.
"It has been a pleasure meeting you, Sir" the two Knights said in turn, before going on their way.
Oren turned to look at Link, the uneasiness he felt being not betrayed by his face, but the movements of his eyes.
"Is something wrong?" Link asked curiously.
"With Chancellor Lawrence in custody we face the danger that Erris or his servants may return to retrieve him, seeing as he was able to teleport a large Moblin force in through our warding spells he may have the capability to place any of those loyal to him here at any moment, those two Knights could have been loyal to Erris for all you know." Oren said in his usual emotionally flat manner.
"They weren't, I would've known if they were." Link said, trailing off as he and Oren began to walk down the corridor. "Forgive me for arguing, I know that's not the point, it's just...the only individual I've ever known that was able to easily break down Hyrule's magical defenses was-"
Oren cut in suddenly, a severe tone to his voice, "Ganondorf."
Link kept his silence for a moment, but spoke up when Oren remained quiet, his gaze staying straight ahead. "Prince Erris is no Ganondorf, I can tell you that, and as for Ganondorf, I haven't sensed his presence, usually he'd have made a move by now, he doesn't like moving slowly too much, but Erris seems to be taking a long time to develop his plot, I have a feeling that the move he made in the Great Hall wasn't his endgame." Link said, glancing at Oren.
"While that may be true, a large portion of his forces were destroyed by the Princess, he still may be trying to recover from that loss." Oren stated
Link found himself wondering what was going on in her head at the moment, would she be dreaming about him, about them together, or something darker? He recalled Zelda having visions of the future in her previous lives, he began to worry, he wished she'd wake soon, but deep down he knew how much of her own life force she used in that awe inspiring display of magic. He knew all too well, the power of the Gods and Goddesses took a rather massive toll on a human body, with just his Triforce driving him to exhaustion, he couldn't imagine trying to handle the entirety of the Goddesses' power.
"I know your thoughts are with the Princess, but as the Hero of Legend, your purpose is to eliminate the threat to Hyrule, you must focus on the task at hand." Oren said, seemingly knowing what Link was thinking.
Link felt anger well up inside of him, "Don't you think I know that? I've been reborn over and over, retaining my memories of every life, of every evil I've ever faced, I'm all too well acquainted with my Goddess given purpose!" Link shot.
Oren raised an eyebrow at him, and if Link wasn't mistaken, he swear he could see a smile begin to grow on Oren's face, before he shoved it back. The Sheikah came to halt, motioning to the door next to them. "This is our destination." he stated, as he opened the door slowly.
It was a large, room, well lit, but devoid of furniture, it's stone walls cold looking, the floor beneath it cracked and slightly uneven, with a large window high on the wall, in the middle sat the only piece of furniture, a seemingly average wooden chair, chains wrapped around it, in the chains was Chancellor Lawrence. Audrik stood opposite him, staring at him unflinchingly, while the other Sheikah, excluding Oren, who stood behind Link, and Impa and Lemuria who kept watch over Zelda, stood off to the side, staring at the Chancellor. To his surprise Mayor Thaddean Met of Clock Town was present, along with Mikau and Evan of the Indigo-gos, King Laorik himself, and the three Goron Chieftains. Link looked around, noting there were about twenty three Guards of varying race and nationality located around the room, thinking it seemed a bit much for one man.
"You Hylian brat! Are you trying to start an international incident?!" the Chancellor yelled at Audrik.
Audrik simply glanced away casually, "No Chancellor, you see, you've already done that." he stated in a matter of a fact manner, turning his attention to Link. "Ah! Hero! You've arrived, now we can get started!" he said, looking at the Chancellor, his anger obvious. Audrik got to his feet, walking quickly over to Link, while King Laorik took his place, asking questions to which the Chancellor seemed to answer sarcastically.
"He think's we're not going to hurt him." Audrik said as soon as he reached Link.
"Oh really? I'd much like to prove him wrong." Link said aggressively, currently the man was the only connection they had to Erris, Link wanted get at the Prince any way he could, if it meant being violent with the Chancellor, then so be it, the man was far from innocent.
"Mr. Link, I have to disagree for now, the reason I must speak with you is because I have a favor to ask." The Prince said hesitantly.
Link locked eyes with the Prince, feeling uneasy to due the nervousness he so evidently felt.
"What might that be?" he asked.
"This might sound strange, but when the Chancellor was captured he demonstrated magical abilities that seem well...different than that of a normal magic user, it took the combined efforts of a contingent of Guards and Minister Tonbridge himself to bring him down...and the Guards present, they say he had a strange glow to his eyes...your Triforce of Courage...it would sense anything that may be...wrong...correct?" the Prince asked.
"What do you mean when you say his magic was different?" Link asked, his curiosity piqued.
"I'm not sure, Minister Tonbridge himself told me that he sensed a kind of darkness behind it, even the guards could feel it." Audrik responded.
Audrik and Link looked back at the Zora King attempting to interrogate the Chancellor, who had resigned himself to silence.
"His restraints have been magically warded, it seems to be working when it comes to suppressing his magic." Audrik stated, looking up at Link.
Link looked at Audrik, considering his words, "If you think it will achieve something, I'll do it." Link answered, regarding the bound Chancellor.
"Everyone move away." Audrik shouted, with the occupants of the room moving back, King Laorik making his way away from the Chancellor.
The Chancellor looked up as Link started towards him, "What's this now? Are you going to have the "Hero" hurt me?" he said in a sarcastic tone."
Link ignored the man's remarks, making his way closer. To his surprise his Triforce began to tingle slightly as he got close, Link had been sure there was nothing strange about the man, he didn't even believe he was a magic user, when he had met him in the Great Hall during the festival he felt nothing strange, whatever it was that resided in him though, the Chancellor was now not even attempting to hide it. Link finally found himself within arms reach of the Chancellor, his Triforce mark glowing slightly, he then held out his hand, with the Chancellor seemingly becoming nervous at this.
"Wait...what are you doing?" The Chancellor demanded as Link drew closer.
Link held his hand close to the Chancellor, his Triforce mark now glowing bright, the tingling having turned into a full burning sensation. Link couldn't deny the Triforce's reaction to the Chancellor, this was well beyond it's usual reaction to any sorcerer, it felt like it did when he was in the presence of a lower level boss monster. Link suddenly felt an urge, like a voice calling out to him, telling him to dig deeper, without warning he clamped his hand down on the man's shoulder, his Triforce releasing a bright gold flash as everything went black around him. For an instant he could see it, a strange inhuman face that seemed only inches from his. Link stumbled back, forcing his eyes shut, the burning slowly faded away as he let the Triforce of Courage go dormant again. Nearly falling over, only one word kept on crossing his mind, over and over again, and even in head it seemed ever so loud... Druthilidi. The word was Ancient Hylian in origin, Link having lived when it was common tongue, Druthilidi was a word hardly ever spoken though, for it's meaning was dark and considered to be evil...in today's language it roughly translated into "demon".
Oren moved to catch Link as he stumbled back, but the Hero managed to right himself before falling.
"Hero...Mr. Link, what happened? Are you okay?" Link heard Audrik ask.
Link opened his eyes to see all the occupants of the room staring in his direction, some looking confused, others fearful. "He has no power of his own, he sealed a demon inside his body." Link said, his eyes set on the Chancellor.
"A demon?! That's insanity!" Mayor Met shouted.
The groups occupying the room began to speak amongst each other while the Chancellor seemed to be quietly laughing to himself.
"Enough!" Audrik shouted, getting the room's attention. "None of you can deny what's been seen here! The way the Hero's piece of the Triforce reacted, it wouldn't have done so if it wasn't reacting to something evil...something it was created to destroy." Audrik said, his gaze sweeping across the individuals in the room, then swiftly turning to the Chancellor.
"So...planning to "destroy" me are you?" he asked plainly, with a hint of taunting in his tone.
"Why would you seal a demon inside of yourself?" Audrik asked as he approached slowly.
"It's the only path to true power." the Chancellor stated, staring at the ground. "Just ask your father." he added.
Audrik clenched his teeth and made a move to strike the Chancellor across the face, but his arm was intercepted by Oren.
King Laorik stepped forward, "He's just trying to get into your head, in Zora culture we tell tales of a Demon named Bellum, it's said he manipulated his way into the hearts of our people thousands of years ago, corrupting them into the Zola."
Evan of the Terminian Zora was the next to speak, "We have those tales too, seeing as that's the type of information we have when it comes to demons, I suggest we do away with him." he stated, his tone aggressive.
The Sheikah Trokon was the next to speak, "Killing a demon is easier said than done, I suggest we retrieve more information from him."
All eyes in the room settled on Audrik, as the final decision fell to him.
"Oren, your suggestion from earlier, implement it, if you feel confident with it's outcome." the Prince said.
"It never fails." Oren answered, seemingly confident that not even a demon could resist whatever it was he was about to do.
Link began to realize what this "suggestion" was once he saw Oren place his hands on either side of the Minister's head, he had seen it happen before, and knew for a fact that he never wanted it to be done to him.
Oren closed his eyes, silence falling over the room, suddenly Oren's eyes sprang open, a flat black color having invaded both of his eyes completely. His hands twitched on the Chancellor's head, soon enough the Chancellor started twitching quickly, his eyes began to glow a dull orange, seemingly two voices screaming in unison as he and whatever it was inside him resisted Oren, but it was to no avail, the blackness covered his eyes, and soon he made no sound, nor did he move.
Everyone watched as Oren stood behind the Chancellor, hands on his head, the other Sheikah watching closely. Oren's breathing began to slow as the black color in his eyes slowly faded away whilst he removed his hands from the Chancellor's head, the black color in his eyes vanishing as well. The room silently watched as the Chancellor nearly knocked the chair he was restrained in to the ground as he sprang back to awareness, releasing sounds of alarm in between gasps of breath.
It's called the Shadow Immersion, Link had only rarely seen it done, as few Sheikah were capable of it, as he understood it, it blinded it's victim and blocked all sound to such a degree they could hear their own blood rushing, their own heart pounding, it had a tendency to drive it's victims insane if kept up for long enough.
"That demon you have inside of yourself can't save you, tell us everything, if you do not, Oren here will be happy to begin the process anew." Audrik threatened.
The Chancellors eyes shot from Audrik to Oren, sweat forming on his brow.
"Well?" Audrik asked as the Chancellor stared at him, his breathing heavy.
"Fine, just keep him away!" he said nodding at Oren.
"Deal!" Audrik said delightedly, obviously deriving pleasure from the Chancellor's distress.
Link crossed his arms, he was quite glad they were finally getting somewhere with the Chancellor, and was also quite glad Oren had put him through that type of punishment.
The Chancellor looked out across the room nervously, finally being convinced to speak after meeting Audrik's gaze.
"For hundreds of years it's been known by all the lands that Hyrule was the Goddesses' "Chosen Land", you were blessed with seemingly unending good fortune, your harvests bountiful, storms never ravaging your homes, by all means Hyrule was considered to be the most beautiful land in creation." he stated, still hanging his head. "Many have grown envious I'm sure." he added, looking at Mayor Met.
"Termina fell from grace due to Hyrule's rise, I'm surprised you didn't start a war." the Chancellor shot at the Mayor, the remark seemingly leaving him unfazed.
"Just get on with it." Mayor Met said calmly.
"My brother and I grew up hearing tales of the Hyrule's greatness, while in Labrynna our people sometimes had to go without, storms tore through our land, and rebellion was a major concern, when I was just 15 and Erris's father...my brother Lannis 12, our uncle died, leaving the seat of Holodrum's leadership open, as he had no heir I ascended to it, leaving the troubled Labrynna and taking up residence in the more fortunate but still unbalanced country. I regretted leaving my younger brother alone like that, but we were reunited when he took the throne of Labrynna, when he became King, we realized that together we had the power to take what we wanted, we planned to invade Hryule, have Labrynna's forces open the way for those of Holodrum, and after taking Hyrule, Termina and Gamelon would follow, all five lands would become one under the flag of the Ambi Family. That could not just happen though, we needed great power to take a land as magically rich as Hyrule...after years of research, we stumbled upon the old tale of the "Gate of Souls", an ancient and powerful object located in the hidden "Valley of Seers". After 2 more years of research we finally located it, hidden away in the fallen land of Ikana, where only the dead roam, to access it we had to head far east into it's desert, where the sun no longer reaches the ground...where nothing could possibly survive...or so we thought. Upon our arrival with our forces, we were immediately beset by poes, stalfos, redeads, and gibdos, the entirety of our force was nearly lost, if not for the arrival of the last remaining occupant of the Valley, and the last remaining Ikanian citizen, Cia. She said she only allowed us to find the Valley because she knew we were looking for it, and the whole assault on our forces was to test our will. Apparently we passed as she led us and our remaining men further into the Valley, and finally into her Fortress. She opened the Gate of Souls and instructed my brother to think of the realm he wished to reach, this realm is known as the Dark World. When the Gate opened something exited, it looked like smoke, but moved as if it were alive, it attempted to attack but the Sorceress subdued it, she told us it was a demon, calling my brother bold for being so ambitious as to attempt to reach the Dark World. This demon though, it took human form, barely managing to look the part, it looked more like a skeleton wearing human skin, with no muscle or tissue...it's name was Ryos...you may know him." the Chancellor said, slowly smiling up at Audrik.
Audrik's anger was visibly beginning to rise within him, Oren attempting to calm him.
Link walked up to the Chancellor, his frustration visible.
"What are you going to do Hero? Kill me?" the Chancellor said with a laugh, suddenly going silent when Link extended his hand.
Link grabbed the Chancellor by the neck calling in the power of his Triforce, it glowed brightly as Link channeled it's power through his hand, the Chancellor writhing in pain as Link slowly used his Triforce's power to slowly burn the demon within him. After a minute had passed Link released his hand, looking down at the Chancellor.
"Continue."
"Thank you, Mr. Link." Audrik said as Link walked passed him. Audrik narrowed his eyes at the Chancellor, something he said had been bothering him. "When I asked you why you'd seal a demon into your own body, why did you say I should ask my father? Which would be an impossible act, I may add."
Chancellor Lawrence began to laugh, slowly and quietly at first, but then loud enough to startle the other occupants of the room.
"Because he's the one that taught little Erris how to do so! My brother and that Sorceress, Erris's mother, summoned a Demon Lord and bound him within Labrynna Castle's throne room, Mahlik, the Demon Lord of Fear he was! When the invasion failed your father threw all of that honor he boasted away, King Daltus Nohansen Hyrule was a coward! He feared trying to banish a demon as powerful as Mahlik back to the Dark World so much that he sealed him into a scared little boy! Oooooh, but how big a mistake that was!" The Chancellor was now nearly screaming, his voice deranged. "Erris learned to control and contain Mahlik! Your father handed us the key to victory! After this we began binding lesser demons within our elite soldiers, I was born without magical abilities, so I decided I'd have a go myself! With Mahlik's help Erris raised the Garo, adding them to his forces, if you think you can win you are wrong! Oh so wrong! With Mahlik bound inside him, Erris is beyond powerful! Victory was at hand! Then YOU appeared!" The Chancellor roared, looking directly at Link.
"The Goddesses' champion! The HERO OF LEGEND! We had to do away with you! So we had Ryos sneak down to the Ministry of Sorcerers and infuse a part his essence into the Golem, we knew you'd come running, but the incompetent little imp couldn't even get that right." the Chancellor groaned.
Link tensed up, beginning to feel his rage build inside of him, he pushed it away though. Looking the Chancellor in the eyes Link spoke. "He didn't fail, you did, and so will Erris, I will see to that, even if I have to kill him." Link said calmly.
Chancellor Lawrence only smiled, "By the way, how's your Princess?!" he taunted.
Before Link could react, Audrik's fist swung down across the Chancellor's face, knocking him to the floor.
"You little wretch! I will make you pay for that!" he shouted while he lay on the floor, blood dripping out of his mouth.
Audrik stormed out of the room, Oren in pursuit.
"Take him back to the dungeons." Link called to the Guards as he left the room.
Outside Audrik silently tried to control his rage, with Oren standing by, when Link exited the room.
"Mr. Link!" Audrik called as Link came into view.
Link strode over to Audrik, raising and eyebrow. "Yes?"
"Have you ever heard of this demon "Mahlik" before?
Link concentrated, "Only in texts, I've never encountered him myself." Link stated.
"Looks like we're going to have to figure this one out, eh?" Audrik asked looking at Link.
"It would seem so." Link replied, "I'm going to the Royal Infirmary...if anyone needs me." Link added before heading off, leaving Audrik and Oren behind.
oOo
Upon his arrival Impa and Lemuria left him alone with her, Zelda's chest rose and fell steadily, but her eyes remained closed, her sleeping form looking peaceful and serene.
Link placed his head next hers, "You know, before I regained my memories, I was so afraid, afraid you didn't exist. I'd only ever seen you in my dreams, my mind never having given you a name, I fell in love with your image, loving and hating my dreams about you, because I knew that in the end, even after getting to see you, you'd disappear and I'd be left to wake up, I'd be left to go through another day without you, constantly wondering if you were real or not...but here you are, I remember every time my memories of you returned, the joy I felt, the yearning I had for you, the desperate need I had to see you. It was easy in this life, your brother invited me here to wait for you, what were the chances we'd have the same idea at the same time and meet again on the roof like that, near some forgotten balcony that seems to be there for no real reason? I remember the many times I ran off from the place I was raised in to see you, I remember in our most recent lifetime, I was a fisherman's apprentice, I waited until the whole village was asleep until I left, climbing out of the second story window of the home I shared with him, he planned to give his fishing business to me someday, but that was nothing compared to being reunited with you." Link said, holding Zelda's unconscious form close. "I didn't even know fishermen had apprentices." Link remarked mostly to himself. Link rested his head once more, slowly feeling himself drift asleep.
oOo
He was awoken, quite rudely, by the shrill sound of the newly created magical alarm being tripped. something made it in, passed all of the Castle's defenses. Link kissed Zelda on the forehead before running out, nearly colliding with Impa as she ran in, neither having the time to exchange words.
Link sprinted down the corridor towards the stairs, taking note of the fact that the sun was nearly in the same position in the sky, making him realize how little sleep he'd gotten. He leapt down the stairs, joining a contingent of Guards, Link ran ahead of them to where the alarm was the loudest, the intruder being present there.
Upon entering Link found himself in disbelief, a small blue fairy that reminded him greatly...and quite painfully of Navi flew around inside a small magically generated sphere, battering itself against the interior attempting to free itself.
As Link approached he heard the Guards present asking what they should do with it, all going silent as Link walked right up to magically generated sphere that held the small fairy.
"You're going to let it go." Link said, ever since his time as a Kokiri he had a soft spot for fairies, especially after his partnerships with Navi and Tatl.
"But what if...it's evil or something?" Link heard a Guard ask from behind him.
Link turned swiftly and glared at the Guard, "There's no such thing as an evil fairy, they're the closest thing to the Goddesses' children in existence, and if you don't free this fairy, I will, by force!" Link yelled.
"Calm yourself, Hero." Audrik said as he approached. The Prince clapped his hands three times and the bubble surrounding he fairy disappeared, it instantly flew up to Link swirling around him before coming to a halt hovering over his shoulder.
"Thank you, thank you!" The small being said, regarding Link as it hovered above his left shoulder. "I don't like being trapped!" it exclaimed.
"I can understand that." Link said with a smile, "What's your name?"
"Proxi." The small magical entity replied.
"Not to interrupt, but why is this fairy sneaking into my Castle...and how'd it get past our defenses?" Audrik asked inquisitively.
The fairy rose into the air quickly, it's movements quick and panicked looking.
"What's wrong?" he asked as Proxi hovered back down to his eye level.
"The Great Deku tree told me how to get passed the forcefield, he needs your help, Kokiri Village...the lost woods, it's under attack!" the fairy exclaimed as it zipped around.
Link felt a chill go through him, the Great Deku tree raised him in the era he considered to be his most important, being responsible for who he was today. "The Kokiri Village...it still exists?" Link asked. He had looked for it two lifetimes ago during the Twilight Invasion, but couldn't find it, deciding it had been lost to time.
"The Great Deku Tree grew the forest around it's entrance, he was afraid Hylians would come to harm him, the Kokiri, and we fairies, but someone worse has come!" the Fairy cried.
"We have to help!" Link shouted to Audrik.
"And we will." Audrik replied with a smile, "I know it was your home once, we will save it."
By this time a large crowd had gathered, composed mostly of Guards and servants, Link noticed that Sir Ginthorne was present, along with Trystane and Mathias...and to his surprise Master Elgon stood next to Ginthorne.
"It might take a while to get the order out, so we must be patient." Aurdik said, "After the attack in the Great Hall I might have trouble finding the man power."
From behind Audrik heard as Mayor Met called to him, "You always have us." Behind the mayor the forces of Termina, and Gamelon gathered, the Gorons excitedly beating their chests, while the Zora stood in formation.
"I'll allow you use of my personal Guards...as thanks for..well...saving us." Princess Kayala said as she stepped forward.
"Thank you very much Princess, your help is greatly appreciated." Audrik said with a smile, he then turned to the assembled crowd. "Prepare for battle! We leave within the hour!" he shouted as the assembled force spread out.
oOo
Link walked through the corridor briskly, Knights and soldiers hurrying around him. Link had donned a newly forged set of armor, a gift from Castle Town's best smith for saving him during the Battle of the Great Hall. Link held a helmet under his left arm, a Hylian shield on his back, with the White Sword sheathed, Proxi excitedly bouncing around his shoulders.
"Thank you, Hero! I knew you'd come to our aid!"
"Don't thank me yet, the battle still has yet to be won." Link responded.
Link had already been to see Zelda, hoping she'd wake in time for him to speak to her before he went, but he had no such luck.
He walked down the stairs quickly, turning the corner, Audrik's chambers came into sight, Link slowed as he saw a figure slip out, beginning to run upon spotting him. Link broke into a sprint, his heavy armor clanking as he ran after the cloaked figure, it turned corner after corner, with Link in pursuit. Link had devised a plan though, he smiled as Proxi dropped down directly in front of the figure's face, the individual grinding to halt.
"If I go into Prince's chambers, what kind of state would I find him in?" Link asked aggressively.
The figure quickly unsheathed a sword, bringing it down towards Link, with Link fading back, unsheathing his blade, and subsequently releasing a slash vertically downward, meeting the blade of his opponent. To his surprise, there was a loud crack, followed by the unmistakeable sound of wood hitting the floor.
"You have a sword I see...but you'd draw a practice blade against me?" Link asked, confused.
Before he could question further Audrik rounded the corner in full armor. "Mr. Link, please, stay your hand!"
Link, completely baffled, turned to his assailant, being even more confused when the figure dropped it's hood, revealing it's identity...Lemuria.
"She just wanted to see me off." Audrik said with a nervous smile.
"Indeed." Lemuria agreed, the same smile adorning her face.
Link narrowed his eyes, "Do you think me a fool? I know what's going on here...I thought Sheikah and Human relationships were forbidden."
"Don't be so old fashioned, Mr. Link." Audrik said calmly.
"...So you're telling me Impa, Oren, and Zelda all know about this...and approve?" Link asked.
"Please, don't let my parents know of this...or the Princess." Lemuria replied, seeming quite distressed.
"I wasn't planning to, why the sneaking around?" Link asked curiously.
"You were right, Hero...the old law is still in place, the Sheikah, they still wish to keep relationships inside of their race." Audrik answered.
"I'd like to be with someone I love, not someone who's essentially family." Lemuria stated.
"Mr. Link, please do not inform anyone, especially my sister, you know how protective she can be!" Audrik exclaimed.
A smile formed on Link's face, "I do." he said, "I will not inform anyone, and I'm sure Proxi won't tell anyone." he said tilting his head towards the fairy that hung above his shoulder.
"Thank you, Hero." Lemuria said.
"Thank you indeed." agreed Audrik.
The Prince and the young Sheikah woman embraced, with Link taking that as his cue to leave.
Exiting the Great Hall, wagons had been prepared for all those leaving from the Castle, aboard were Sir Ginthorne, Sir Trystrane, Sir Mathias, a few Knights he hadn't been acquainted with, Master Elgon, and even present was Mayor Met, clad in full armor.
"Excited?" Link heard from behind him, turning to find Mikau smiling at him.
"Nervous, this attack on the Kokiri, it's been happening for quite a while now, I'm afraid of what we'll find when we arrive." Link said, with Proxi bobbing up and down nervously. "I forgot to say, thank you for aiding me during the battle in the Great Hall."
"You needn't thank me, it was my duty as a warrior." Mikau answered.
From the furthest wagon a Hylian Zora called to Mikau that they were departing.
"Best of luck!" the Terminian Zora called to Link.
"You too!" Link answered.
As Link walked towards the wagon on which Master Elgon and Ginthorne rode, Kallil ran up to his side, hanging his bow over his back.
"Link! I haven't seen you since the battle in the Great Hall!"
"I had no idea you were still here, Kallil." Link responded.
"You sound like you don't want me here." Kallil said with a laugh.
"I just thought you'd be out looking for Oreck." Link answered.
"Not without you, my friend." Kallil replied, climbing onto the wagon with Link.
The two sat down opposite Master Elgon, with the latter smiling upon seeing his former students.
"Link! Kallil! Two of my favorite students! Where's the other one at?" he asked.
"Master Elgon...what are you doing here?" Kallil asked.
"We haven't seen you since the Battle of Kakariko, we assumed you went back to the Lanayru Province." Link said.
"Link, I always had a feeling about you, when you revealed yourself as the Hero of Legend...I wasn't too surprised, but, with your arrival comes greater implications, I signed back on with the Hylian military, I assumed that if a threat loomed over Hyrule, our people would need their, by other's admission, greatest warrior...a title you're now challenging me for." Elgon said with laugh, indicating Link. "So, where's Oreck?"
Link shifted uncomfortably, "After I left the Castle Town Guard to be at the Castle he apparently ran away." Link said.
"It's true, I woke up in the soldier's quarters one morning and he was gone." Kallil added.
Master Elgon was silent, he had been somewhat of a second father to all of them growing up, to hear Oreck was gone must have been distressing to him. "I assume he'll return eventually." Elgon said, looking off into the distance.
As soon as Audrik and Oren emerged from the Castle and joined the other soldiers, the wagons began to roll out as the loud cracking sound of whips caused the horses to start forward.
oOo
Link looked back, the many wagons behind them were being unloaded, Proxi had lead the way the entire distance from Castle Town deep into the Eldin Province where the Kokiri Village would be. The horses were unhitched as Knights hopped onto them, readying their blades. Link made his way ahead of the group, placing his hand against the giant tree Proxi had led them to, he leaned forward and quietly spoke the Kokiri word for "Open". Stepping back, he and the rest of the company watched in disbelief as vines, trees, rocks, and plants moved aside, parting down the middle to reveal a large rock wall, a circular opening in the center.
Entering the opening, Link found himself on the very bridge that he and Saria had said goodbye on centuries ago. It seemingly hadn't been affected by time at all, but Link was still cautious, he walked quickly to the other end, watching as the others slowly made it across, the Gorons; being living rock were quite nervous as they crossed it, due to their weight, but the bridge held.
As soon as the force had assembled, they charged through the last opening, Link, Elgon, Thaddean Met and Ginthorne leading the charge. Running through the circular doorway they found themselves in the midst of a joint force of Bulblins, Moblins, Garo, and Labrynnian soldiers, all of which turned to notice them immediately.
"Initiate the plan!" Ginthorne called as the attack began. The Gorons leapt forward, curling into their ball forms, they began rolling at unbelievable speeds toward the enemy force in front of them, running down, bulblin, moblin, and Labrynnian soldier alike, with the few Garo there were hopping out of the way. With the path ahead of them clear the rest of the company ran forward, finishing off all that the Gorons had run down. Ahead of them the Gorons had resumed their bipedal forms and began beating their way through the hordes with their bare fists.
Link turned to knock a club away from an attacking Bulblin, stabbing it through the chest after doing so, turning around he brought up his shield to intercept a Moblin's spear, a Zora soldier stabbing his harpoon though it's back while it was distracted. Link nodded to the Zora as he moved on. Ahead of him a giant circle of fire had appeared around Kallil and the group he was with, the soldiers inside slowly being picked off by the four Garo creating it. Link ran forward passed Sir Ginthorne, who with a roar, picked up a Bulblin and through it past the circle of fire, knocking over an unsuspecting Garo Warrior.
Link attempted to make his way inside the circle, with a Garo blocking his way, it jumped into the air, coming toward Link, he raised his shield, taking a step back as the Garo collided with it, lowering his shield, he stabbed the Garo through it's hood, the being disappearing into green flames as it muttered "To die without leaving a corpse, that's the way of us Garo."
Link scanned the scenery, seeing the Prince and Oren take down a Moblin together. Inside the circle, the soldiers had finally defeated the remaining Garo, and were now fanning out. Kallil shot an arrow threw the air, finding it's mark in a Labrynnian soldier's chest. Master Elgon ran to Link and Kallil, making short work of a Bulblin that blocked his path.
"Have either of you spotted their leader?" he asked. The first rule of dealing with the "Blin" races was to take out their commander, ridding them of their direction.
"We'll know soon." Link replied.
Proxi flew down to Link, coming to halt in front of him, "The man who attacked us! He's in there!" the small fairy said, indicating towards the entrance to the Great Deku Tree's meadow, but to Link's frustration, a large stone wall had been erected to block the entrance.
"How are we going to get passed that?" Kallil asked.
Master Elgon extended his hand into their, making a strange hand signal. Before long two Gorons made their way over.
"You need help brother?" one asked, gesturing toward Elgon.
"We need to get through that wall!" Elgon explained, pointing towards the stone slab.
With no time wasted the Gorons curled up, speeding forward, smashing down the stone block. Link, Kallil and Elgon ran forward, Link and Elgon making it into the passage first. Suddenly another stone slab, much thicker and stronger looking emerged from the ground, Kallil being cut off before he could enter.
Link and Elgon exchanged glances, the sounds of battle were couldn't be heard through the new barrier, whatever had created that stone wall wanted them completely alone, with no chance of escape. Link and Elgon moved forward through the narrow passageway, they slowly emerged into the meadow, before them the Great Deku Tree towered, light making it's way through it's branches, in the middle of its' trunk, between what could be described as it's eyes was a massive blade, a strange sphere in it's hilt. Green energy bled from the Great Deku Tree, flowing down the blade, being absorbed into the sphere, said object turning a glowing green.
"What in the five lands?" Elgon asked as he stepped forward.
Link joined him, watching as the blade continued to drain the Great Deku Tree's energy.
Suddenly Link and Elgon were pushed back telekinetically, with Prince Erris appearing at the bottom of the Great Deku Tree, his black armor reflected the light that made it through the leaves, his blood red cape flowing with the wind.
"Hero of Legend, I've been looking forward to meeting you." the Prince said before turning his attention to Elgon, "And you too, Light Sage."
"Light Sage?!" Link exclaimed, "What does he mean?" Link shouted at Elgon.
"Did you not know, this gentleman is the Sage of Light, I thought that was why you came together, the fact you knew each other previously yet were not aware of this fact is...well...amusing." Prince Erris said with a smile.
"Take that sword out of the Great Deku Tree before I put my sword through you!" Link demanded.
The Prince paid no mind to Link continuing to pace back and forth. "Sorry I had to block your friend, he was of no consequence, I wish him luck without you though, he seems capable."
Link again turned his attention to Elgon, "You're the Sage of Light?!"
"Link, now is not the time." Elgon said, keeping his eyes on Erris.
Erris sighed, looking down at the duo. "Oh how right he is." the Prince said as he outstretched his arms, two crimson blades extending.
Link drew his sword and shield, Elgon drawing his weapon too, a long thin, and slightly curved blade.
Erris descended onto them, landing between them, blocking their simultaneous strikes with his swords, he rushed towards Link, slashing vertically down with one blade before swiping horizontally left with the other, Link faded away from the downwards slash, and caught the horizontal slash, pushing the Prince back with a diagonal slash to the right, and a stab. Erris leapt away, catching a downwards slash from Elgon. Erris thrusted his blades in an x shape at Elgon, with the latter catching both blades with his before jumping into the air, bringing his sword down on top of Erris with the Prince quickly diving out from under it.
"Two versus one, not quite fair, I'd say" he said with smile.
Link and Elgon charged, but were thrown backwards via the Prince's telekinesis.
"Hero! You brought me a friend! How generous!" Erris exclaimed suddenly, holding out his hand.
Link felt his pack being tugged away as Erris extended his arm, Link grabbed at it, pulling it back, but as he did so a black clamshell package floated out, with Link figuring that's what the Prince was after. Link readjusted the small pack onto himself. Watching as the package landed in Erris's hand.
"Link, what is that?" Elgon asked.
"This, Light Sage, is an imprisoned demon." Erris answered.
Link cursed himself, for buying the item, and for forgetting to remove it.
Erris tossed aside the clamshell package, his eyes turning a pale blue as the ring hovered between his hands. Suddenly, in a black puff of smoke, a large robed figure appeared, it's one glowing eye a dark purple, the same as the gem on the ring.
"Hello, Wizzro." the Prince said with a smile, turning to face Link and Elgon as they readied themselves.
oOo
To Kokiri forest we've gone! I hope you enjoyed the chapter, some unexpected revelations about Prince Erris, Chancellor Lawrence and Master Elgon have been revealed.
Hopefully that tidbit I left about this story taking place almost five centuries after Twilight Princess helps you situate it within the Zelda timeline! I also hope none of you object to Sheikah/Hylian couples ;)
Onto reviews!
Gerudospirit: I'm glad you liked my portrayal of the big green boss man, and found it accurate! I really liked writing him! I'm also glad you like Erris, I tried to kinda channel a young Ganondorf with him, even if his motivations are different. And that part about Zelda leading her people to the mountains was just a thought of mine, I'm glad it actually connected with the story in such a way, thanks for pointing that out! I'm glad you're enjoying my tale! Thank you for reading and reviewing! :D
Yanner12: I'm not entirely sure what you were expecting but I'm glad I exceeded those expectations! To hear you're excited to read more makes me excited write more! I hope you enjoy what's to come! Thanks for reviewing and reading!
Also, shout out to Glamangel3766, Frozen789, Yanner12, and LilacPheonix for favoriting and following! Thank you!
I hope you all enjoyed the read and look forward to what I've got on the way! Until next time, best of luck!
-Prometheus17