Lunarian :.

A Review would be exceedingly welcome, thank you.
I can't begin to say how ashamed I am it took me this long to update, sorry.
I blame it on losing my sounding board :P

Key
Text Narration
"Text" Dialogue
'Text' Sarcasm, Saying's, and/or so-called... quotes
Text Character Thoughts, and/or Character Tittle
Text Sound Effects

--Chapter Thirteen--

- Enough Kindness To Kill A Person -

Having just finished the trial of Wisdom the day's events started to take it's toll on Link. After blinking away a rather loud yawn he realized that he was quickly getting sleepy. "Yawn, I don't know about you Tatl but a nice bed would really hit the spot about now." He told his ever faithful fairy friend.

The mentioned fairy wasn't as tired as she might have been otherwise because of the long periods of rest she had during the last trial. She didn't feel the slightest bit sleepy up until that moment when the overly exaggerated yawning of her partner took on a contagious property. After only a few times hearing Link yawn and seeing his mouth open wide with a sleepy look she was soon in agreement with him. Darn him and those yawns. She thought fondly. "Now that you mention it I could use forty winks as well." She said just before landing on his cap and leaning back in relaxation.

Taking on a imperious tone she ordered him like a slave. "Go on now, take us back to the Inn." Kicking the brim of his hat she urged him on. "Mush."

Tatl was starting to get on his nerves again. He usually didn't mind having her use himself as transportation but treating him like a mule was pushing things. "Will you quit that?" He pathetically asked. That's no good, she'll just use that as more ammo. Putting more confidence into his words he added. "Or would you like to fly back on your own? I could leave you behind you know." Pulling out his ocarina he signified how his threat could be carried out.

Weighing the options of flying home or not all dependent on a short apology was a no brainer to her so Tatl said in her best 'calm the hero down' voice. " Easy Link, you know I'm just kidding with you I'm sorry."

Satisfied for the moment he put the ocarina to his lips playing the 'Song of Soaring.' One quick magical whisk away and a few steps, they once more walked through the door to their rest house.

Sitting at her desk in the front of the Inn Anju was bored. When there is nothing of significance going on in the town a quiet little place like this gets so little business. She already finished going over all the paper work there was to do, and her shift still had another hour before her husband got back.

As newlyweds she wouldn't let Kafei start off their lives together by lazing around while she took care of the Inn. After some forceful encouragement Anju was able to get him to go out looking for a job. He hadn't found one yet, but she could understand the difficulty since finding a job while looking like a little kid is bound to be very troublesome. I'm really glad that Link helped us get together but I wish he found a way to make Kafei his age again.

Hearing the front door open she looked up and is if summoned by her very thoughts there was Link walking in. At a glance she could tell he wouldn't be in the mood for any meals, a mixed blessing. It was good that she did not need to fix his dinner but at the same time she couldn't help but want to nurture the poor boy. His facial expression just screamed exhaustion and that fairy he had following him around looked to be as tired as he if the lightened glow it gave off was any indication.

"Good evening Link, I trust things are well?" Anju asked him with a genuine note of concern.

Responding to the kind tone Link found himself smiling back without thought. "Hi Anju, we're fine, only very tired." He said, letting out a loud yawn that he tried to cover up with his hands while stretching.

I wonder if he knows how cute he looks wearing that bunny hood all the time. Resisting the urge to coo over how adorable her youthful friend just looked, the young red haired woman asked. "Sorry to keep you but will you be wanting dinner?" Just because she assumed he wouldn't didn't mean she could refrain from asking. The last thing her family's inn needed was to gain an unfavorable reputation for rudeness, even if she couldn't see someone of Link's caring nature to take such offense. Still it doesn't hurt to be careful.She thought practically.

Inwardly blanching at the thought of enduring another long torture session disguised as eating, he begged off. "No, no thanks we're good. We're gonna turn in now." Putting action to word he walked across the lobby to the stairs.

Rethinking over her own words Anju felt there was something she was leaving out. Some way she wasn't being courteous, and if anyone deserved the highest level of courtesy she could give it was these two. That's it, I keep talking to Link only and not asking his companion. Feeling mortified at the notion of unwittingly ignoring a patron she blurted out. "Wait, Link!."

Nooo.. so close.. He thought rather mournfully as he was stopped a single step away from the stairs up. "Yes?" He asked her, trying his best not to snap.

Tatl could practically feel her partner's ire. She could relate, here they were just wanting to go to sleep and that annoying girl kept stopping them. She had better get to the point and quick or suffer the rage of an irate fairy. Might actually be fun. She thought to herself remembering how she protected Link from handing over his sword to that thief Sakon.

Lost in her own thoughts of how to recover the situation and make amends Anju didn't realize the insult was all in her head, nor did she recognize the irritation directed at her. "Would either of you like to have a breakfast prepared for you in the morning before you leave?"

Link was about to decline when Tatl spoke up for the first time in the conversation.

Seeing as how the question was directed at herself more or less Tatl answered quick before Link could. "That does sound nice, what do you serve?" Personally she didn't see where her friends aversion to eating here came from and would enjoy a hearty mean for a change.

"Fresh scrambled eggs, sausage and toast." She answered the fairy. A moment's pause then she asked embarassed. "By the way, I'm sorry, but I never got your name miss?" After hearing the fairy talk she was sure it was a female.

In Tatl's eyes this young woman was seen as a cut above the rest. Most of the people they encountered focused all of their attention solely on Link, in general the poor fairy was often overlooked. To be acknowledged enough to be asked for a name made her feel nice. "My name is Tatl, and we would love some breakfast tomorrow." She sweetly said to the polite hostess.

Left out of the conversation Link chose to remain quiet so he could get it over with faster. He didn't appreciate being signed up for something like that without being asked but really was too tired to care.

Glad that her appeasement was so gracefully accepted Anju gave the two a pleased smile. "Great, I'll have it ready for you in the morning at 8. Please have a nice rest." With a final wave she bid them both goodnight.

No sooner had they reached the room and lain down had they both fallen deep asleep. That night Link and Tatl spent what was hopefully their last night in the stockpot Inn.

The next morning they were awakened by a steady yet gentle knocking on the door. knock knock knock. Followed by a female voice saying. "Link, Tatl. Time to get up, your breakfast is ready."

On the otherside of the door Anju stifled a giggle when the reply from within sounded like a Redead. A sort of 'auuuun' sound that she figured was what Link sounds like on waking up. Satisfied of getting her message through she went downstairs.

Roughly a half hour later Link and Tatl waved good-bye to Anju after eating their fill. Walking out through the eastern gate they soon had a view of the scenery.

Straight ahead just off of the marble foundation of the towns street the ground quickly turns to rock as it leads up into the mountain. Large stone pillars stand on either side forming a straight path. Off in the distance the impressive Stone Tower can be seen and below on the ground running around numerous Real Bombchu's make their homes.

Without delay Link took out his ocarina and called out Epona from whatever pastures she was erstwhile grazing. A short greeting between the two later and he once again rode off into the mountain path. Up they galloped past all the emerging Bombchu's and over the gated fences. Soon he arrived at the seeming dead end, a high unclimbable wall.

Getting off Epona he gave her another affectionate pat before sending her on her way. Luckily he knew the secret to getting up, not much a secret really, thanks to some mysterious character he simply uses the hookshot on the small tree to keep going.

Continuing up the rocky trail two more dangers were still present. First there was a seemingly endless supply of falling boulders rain down on any unsuspecting traveler. Secondly this particular stretch of land is home to the Nejiron, a huge boulder like enemy resembling a rolling goron that charges ruthlessly into its victims and explodes like a bomb when attacked. They emit a very low constant grunting noise when trying to surround prey then quickly unburrow from the ground and attack.

It wasn't long before Link stood before the last great fairy, this one of kindness. She began speaking to Link immediately upon his entering.

"Greetings Link. You have done marvelously in proving your magical prowess, your masterful skill in battle, your courage when faced with true terror, and both you wisdom and patience. Now it is time for your final trial Hero, to see if you truly have what separates a warrior from a hero. Prepare yourself now for the Trial Of Kindness. Now Link it is time to see if you possess real kindness or if it is merely a means to and end for you. During all your journeys as you helped the many people you met out... was this because you genuinely cared for their well-being and happiness, or was it all done in the hopes of being given a reward for your efforts as was almost always the case?"

Link could not decide whether to be angry and insulted by the Great Fairy's condescending tone, or worried of what was going to happen next. These trials that he had been doing these last few days were unlike anything he had ever faced before, and this being the final one it instilled a certain amount of dread. He thought to himself, hesitating visibly.

Tatl understood Link's hesitant stance, she could tell things were not likely to resolve fast. In her experience with Link so far, nothing had ever finished simply. Whether the GF's got a twisted sense of enjoyment by tormenting poor Link or if they were really supposed to be so rough and arduous she couldn't say. She still remembers her startlement when hearing Link say it was harder then saving all of Termina. This is the last trial too... If Link succeeds here then he will be returning to his own world, leaving me behind. The thought of never seeing Link again brought sadness to her tiny heart.

When Link showed no signs of ending his silence the GF floated down to eye level with him and said. "Do you accept the trial of Kindness?" Staring fiercely into his blue eyes she voicelessly dared him to speak.

As Link could take the oppressive silence and unnerving blank stare from the GF no longer he spoke clearing his throat. "I have faith that I don't do things just for myself, I accept."

Laughing gaily the GF flew up to the top of her fountain cave, spinning and twirling in delight. "Yay excellent, it has been so long since I got to test someone!" She shouted in joy, causing her words to echo loudly in the cavern. Smiling happily she flitted through the air like a five year old on a candy overdose. "Sorry for acting all ominous and cold to you at first Link, I had to be sure you were serious."

"Heh no problem." He chuckled, whom laughed at the GF's crazy unexpected antics.

"She is a few heart pieces shy of a container, if you know what I mean." Tatl said to her hylian friend, surreptitciously rolling her eyes while moving a finger around in circles on the side of her head.

They were laughing even harder then before when suddenly a blinding light issued forth from the GF and they saw no more.

Overhead the warm sun shined down on Termina with its midday rays. Link spurred Epona onward toward clocktown, tearing up dirt and grass, with Tatl trailing straight behind.

Finally it is all over, I finished the four trials and can now go back to Hyrule. Looking back at his fairy friend he said in a satisfied way. "We did it Tatl, we beat the tests." When he didn't get a response from her he got a little worried since it wasn't like her to not join in celebrating. "Are you okay?"

Lost in her own world of thoughts Tatl did not hear her partner calling out to her in concern. She was far too occupied in her thoughts contemplating what was going to happen now that her part in Link's journey was done. I suppose now he is going home to this land of Hyrule he always speaks of so fondly. To return from whence he came and never be seen by all of Termina again, disappearing into the sands of time like a myth. Her mood degenerated into a melancholic fancy. But what about me, Tatl who has stood by his side and serving as guide, friend and partner throughout everything? Me, who has together with the hero faced undead, ghosts, monsters, magic and annihilation. What is to be my reward... to go back to the way things were before with just the Skull Kid Tael and I? Tatl was so intent on finally reaching a conclusion to her thoughts and a definite action to take that even after Link stopped Epona and yelled out her name, trying to to rouse her unresponsive self, still she was silent.

Further onward past her emotional barriers and denial she inwardly sought to unravel how she really felt. No, I could not simply go back to what I once was, traveling with Link has changed me, tempered my naughtiness and awakened my adventurous side. I now yearn to go off into the unknown and explore, to put solid use use to my intelligence and obtain new skills and insights. So what now is my path to take... do I wish Link off with a tearful farewell and then scour Termina for new excitement? Or, do I dare consider forever leaving behind all I have known to accompany my dear friend Link to this land called Hyrule?

Link was now of two sides to the matter. His mind was telling him to just wait and be patient for Tatl to wake from her stupor on her own. His heart on the otherhand worried over her fearing the worst. After some consideration a compromise was reached between his two parts. Link decided to wait a few more minutes and if Tatl remained in her blank state then steps would be taken to arouse her to consciousness.

Now, felt Tatl, she had arrived at the real heart of the matter. The complicated knot of emotions that is her feelings towards Link. Here in this confusing jungle of worries, thoughts, hopes and dreams is where finally she would reach a decision. To go with Link or remain behind.

As he passed over the last hill before coming to the town's entrance something happened that distracted Link from his thoughts of getting Tatl's attention.

Coming out of the town gate's rode several figures dressed in heavily concealing clothes on horses. One of the riders was holding a person over it's shoulder, tied up and squirming in fear, it was a young girl.

Left with no time to think out a plan of action the Hero had no choice but to jump after the fleeing riders leaving Tatl behind. She'll be fine, this is more important. He thought to himself having already urged Epona on in the direction they fled before he could lose sight.

It took only a few seconds of heavy riding for the far more experienced Epona to catch up with the other horses. Unfortunately for Link one of the riders turned around and saw him.

Before Link was able to get a good look at what sort of being the rider was it let out a loud wailing shriek.

"That can't be good." He said to himself as the noise seemed to serve as a signal for the enemy. Suddenly all but one of the horse riders he was pursuing, the one carrying the girl he noted displeased, broke off formation to hang back coming between Link and his target. Drawing out sharp looking blades their intentions were clear. "Damn they spotted us girl, be careful." He told Epona trusting her to be intelligent enough that she would avoid any danger. If these would-be kidnappers thought that a little thing like eight armed riders could scare him off they obviously didn't know who they were messing with. Somehow he felt he would delight in showing them that error.

Quickly Link pulled out his bow and notched an arrow to it. Taking happy note at the surprised reaction his attackers gave, a significant reduction in approach and a more wary countenance. It was too late for them however because by the time that they reacted two of them had already been shot off their horses, struck dead from the precision head shot's of the champion archer. The rest quickly fell victim to Link's rapid arrows leaving him with just the one enemy left still visible in the distance.

"Hyah! Let's go." He yelled to Epona spurring her on to her full running speed. "We need to get next to them." Proficient as he was with the bow and arrow even he would not dare risk shooting it at someone carrying a hostage. Putting his bow back away he thought up the next course of action in the few minutes it would take to catch up to them.

It suddenly occurred to him that he had never really been in a situation like this. Link had extensive experience in fighting enemies and taking down foes in a chase but only ever when worrying for his own protection. In this case there was a vulnerable innocent in the equation and he needed a way to rescue the girl without endangering her. If I pull up next to him and try to knock him off the girl could be hurt. I need some way to shield her and get her to safety at the same time. He could now make out the scared face on the girl as she continued to struggle and cry for help. Her assailant had a surprisingly strong grip since despite all the squirming her position never changed. Got it. He thought in a moment of insight.

A moment later he had pulled out his bow again and charged up an ice arrow. Link pressed Epona on having her pull up to the side of the enemy. Gotta do this fast. Before the enemy had a chance to make a hostile move he let fly the arrow, hitting its target, temporarily solidifying the rider in a magical block of ice. Now that the enemy couldn't move he jumped off his horse sideways onto the other, with a skillful display of balance he managed to stand on the galloping horse without falling. Securing the terrified little girl safely in his arms the acrobatic hero nimbly leapt off the horse. In midair he cast Naryu's Love, creating a magical protection barrier around them both ensuring a gentle landing despite the speed of the impact.

The bundle in his arms had never stopped her frightened wailing and Link at this point would like almost nothing more then to calm her down. Unfortunately he had to finish off that last enemy before he unfroze. Finally something going my way. He thought as he looked ahead.

Epona had stopped running along the other horse and after Link was safely on the ground she set off at a casual trot back to where he was standing. The other horse had likewise stopped running once it's rider ceased to command and was following the chestnut mare back towards Link docilely.

Not taking the time to question how his horse managed to enthrall the stallion so simply, Link kept his grateful words to himself and shot the thawing rider as he was brought within several feet. The foe fell off the horse heavily with a pained squeal before laying still in silence dead.

From the sudden firing of the bow straight in the direction of the approaching horse, the stallion reared in agitation preparing to run before he was calmed down again by Epona's presence.

I knew Epona was special but I never knew she could have such a calming effect. Link thought in slight awe of his horse soothing a fierce beast in only seconds. Putting aside his wonder for now he turned to the girl he rescued.

Finally getting a good look at her now she seemed to be around 10 years of age, close to what he himself looks like. He didn't recognize her and assumed that there was less people around during that whole meteor disaster, so now that it was over the town's population would be returning. All this thinking seemed to give the girl enough time to come to her senses realizing she was no longer being hauled away and now safe on the ground.

She looked around warily before zeroing in on Link. "You saved me from them." She said in a breathless voice. "Thank you, thank you so much mister."

Hoping to get the matter settled before she could keep thanking him Link asked the girl. "Are you okay, why were those men kidnapping you?" He also wondered why the little girl didn't express any surprised reaction at being rescued by what must look like to her a boy no older then her. Strange land indeed.

Her face took on a repulsed look as the girl answered him. "Those aren't men, they're nasty lizard things. They took Roselle, you gotta get her back, please!"

Lizard things? Could she mean a Lizalfos? Link thought that strange since they wore concealing clothes when usually they would wear just loincloth or armor. "Who's Roselle?' He asked her trying to calm the girl down more. I don't even know this girl's name.

"Sis, they took her away. They took away my big sister Rose." The girl repeated as she started to get worked up again. "Please you gotta get her back."

"Who's got Rose? Start at the beginning." Link told her in hopes of working it out.

Talking really fast the girl babbled out her story full of agitation. "We were walking around town and we just got back from where we went away and going to look at the alleys. Me and Rose were playing along the side of the road and then these lizard men jumped out at us and they put a sack over sisters head and ran away. They left a letter behind and when I took it to momma she said it was a ransom note. When I asked her what that was she told me it means they won't let her go unless we pay them, but we don't have any money, we have nothing. I snuck out this morn' and went back to where they were and they were there again. I heard them say where Rose was but then they found me and you saved me."

Doing his best Link muddled through her words to get the message. Where's Tatl when you need her, she could get this kid to make more sense. From what he could gather the girl's sister was kidnapped and she was able to find out where the lizardmen's camp was before she was captured as well. A lucky break in itself. "Okay okay, easy. I'll help. Where are they keeping your sister?" He asked her gently before she could work herself into a panic.

The face of the girl changed from sad to ecstatic in an instant. It seemed that in her eyes her sister was now as good as saved. " I heard them say that they were up in the mountains at the top. There's a secret entrance near the Ikana graveyard."

Intimately familiar with the Ikana graveyard from when he would pose as the captain of the now undead army of Ikana, Link was sure that there was no hidden passageway there. Perplexed he asked the girl who looked so sure of herself. " Are you sure you heard right, the Ikana graveyard? "

The girl just looked at Link blankly and for moment he was afraid she was going to start crying again. Luckily that was not so.

"Oh." She said suddenly. "Now I remember, one of the lizards were yelling at the other cuz' he lost his special 'dallion and he said you can't get in without it." She smiled at Link brightly as if that was an amazing thing for her to remember.

Now that made more sense to the frequent quest go'er, if the entry had a magic defending it then he could be excused for not finding it. "Did you see what it looks like?" He asked her patiently, although inside he was relieved that things were shaping to a more recognizable situation.

"It was a necklace they wore around the neck." She answered him readily still looking proud of herself.

If the girl was hoping for some praise from the nice boy with the amazing powers then she was out of luck. Link's mind was lands away planning his next move and not paying anymore attention to the girl beyond knowing she was there. Even if he wasn't busy however it would still not be likely for him to realize the young child was searching for some reassurance and only holding back her fright by a thread.

A necklace worn around the neck... you don't say. Link thought to himself rolling his eyes mentally. Now he was glad Tatl wasn't here at the moment, he could just imagine how that spitfire of a fairy would tear into this kids words.

Link then started to search over the closest dead lizalfos with the little girl watching over close by. It didn't take long to find a simple coin sized piece of gold plated metal hung loosely around it's neck by a sturdy thread. Turning it over both ways and inspecting it closely revealed no further clue as to its function. Had he not been just told by the girl what to be looking for it never would have occurred that it was something of value.

"Alright let's get you back to town and then I'll help your sister." He said to the girl while pocketing the magic item.

Surprisingly the girl took on a self assured pose and told him with a voice that was obviously trying to sound mature. "I'm okay, I can get back. You don't have to come." Putting her words to action she started to walk back in the towns direction.

Maybe she finally noticed how old I look. Thought Link to himself. It would make sense if she thought since he can do it so can she. He quickly got up to catch up to her knowing unless he was sure she made it back safe he wouldn't be able to focus. "Hold up there." He said putting his hand on her shoulder, making her stop. "We'll ride back on my horse it'll be faster."

"But you got to save my sister." She argued insistently.

Quick on the take as ever Link smoothly interjected. "The town is on the way to graveyard, I'll just drop you off on the way there." Seeing her resistance soften he added. "Besides the sooner we get on my horse the sooner I'll save your sister."

That did the trick. In moments he had her holding onto him from behind as Epona galloped to town.

Now with the lull in the action Link just had to ask. "So what's your name?" It was driving him nuts only knowing her as girl. He lost count of the number of times he referred to her as girl in his mind. Without Tatl here he was really off his game doing things all disjointed.

"My name's Equicendra but everyone calls me Cendra. Except when mom's angry at me then she calls me Equicendra but she always yells out the end of my name really loudly. This one time I put a fish down my sisters back and she and mom both yelled my name out. They sounded exactly the same and I couldn't stop laughing it was so funny, but then I had to stare at a wall for a really long time it must have been hundreds of hours!"

"..." Link really did not have a reply to such a response. His brain was struck blind sided by this suddenly hyper little girl named Cendra. "Really?" He deadpanned. "That's uh, nice." Subtly he urged Epona on to go faster. C'mon girl hurry this is torture.

If Cendra noticed Link's lack of enthusiasm or how they were suddenly riding much much faster, she didn't comment on it. Instead she asked. "Hey so what's your name? Mother always says it's rude to not say your name first but you asked me my name and still didn't tell me yours. C'mon is it a secret? Or maybe you got a really embarrassing name hehehe. Come on, tell me tell me tell me!" Jumping up and down she shook him to answer.

Almost feeling like crying Link had to answer to make her stop. They were only less than a minute from town but she just wouldn't stop. "Alright!" He barked out a tad rougher then he meant since Cendra shrunk back from him leaning on Epona's far back. Worried she might fall off he took a deep breath to calm himself. "Sorry for snapping." He cajoled her back to hold on. "My name's Link."

Coincidentally by this time he had arrived to the town entrance. Helping her off his horse Link waved off and told her. "Don't worry Cendra, I'll save your sister. You go back to your mother now." Setting path for the hill he left Tatl at Link rode away.

"Bye Mr. Link. Thank you fo-" Was the last he heard from her as he got out of speaking distance.

"Tatl!" Shouted Link when he came upon an empty hill. "Where are you?" After several more tries to get her attention from wherever she was he gave up. There just wasn't the time to spare in a search.

A short ride later and the partnerless young hero was standing at the entrance to the graveyard.

"Epona." Link spoke softly as he affectionately stroked her mane after climbing off. "If you run into Tatl try and keep her around so we can find each other again, okay?" He didn't feel odd to talk to her like this, she had proven time and again how much more intelligent she was then most animals. Proven again as she answered his words with a whinny and a shake of her head before running out of the canyon and back to the fields. I could really use Tatl's help right now but there's nothing to help it I guess, gotta do it solo.

Looking around the deserted area Link still could not see anything that might conceal a secret entryway. With nothing to do but put his trust in Cendra's words he slipped the pilfered medallion around his neck. The magic began working immediately, where once all the rocky edges were walls now he could see a cave outline overlapping the cliff face. "Interesting." He remarked to no one in particular. "That magic is powerful. I would hate for Ganon to have gotten his hands on these spells, I might have never found him.

Putting the matter behind him Link entered through the wall with no resistance. Beyond the entrance was a long cave, dark with no torches to light the way. After following the winding pathway, lit by a dose of light magic, for several minutes he came to another hole in the wall similar to the one he entered through. Immediately on stepping through he had to duck behind a nearby boulder when his eyes took in the sight.

The cave opened up into a spacious plateau at least twice the size of the graveyard. Solid rocks made up unscalable cliffs on all sides but one, where the ground drops drastically into a black depth. It could be seen from his position because the area had a very gradual slant to it creating just enough of a slope to lend an overview from the entrance. Scattered all over the clearing were more lizard men in groups of three's and five's next to tents and small fire pits. They were sleeping, carousing, eating and just plain acting like the gang of ruffians they appeared to be.

Feeling blessed with luck that he wasn't spotted when he first entered in full view of this bandit camp Link knew he had to do something before that good fortune dropped out beneath him. Taking out the Stone Mask he set it on over his face and stepped out from behind the rocks as the magic began to take effect rendering him beneath the notice of the common being and for all intents invisible. Now under the cover of obscurity he darted from tent to tent carefully searching for Rose, knowing she was held somewhere nearby just unable to spot her yet.

There was a few close calls where Link almost slipped up and got caught. His most grievous mistake happened almost right away and pretty near cost the whole charade.

Bursting with confidence since he only had to sneak by a few stupid monsters he almost casually opened the first tent flap only to be forced to rapidly backtrack as one of the bandits stepped out of the opening at that very minute. It was only due to it being opened from inside at the same time that saved the careless youth from detection. The small incident succeeded in deflating his ego before it grew too large, reminding Link of the seriousness of the situation and to stop underestimating the enemy. It's funny, without Tatl here to undermine everything I do, I started to get too cocky. I would be dead by now if I acted like that all the time. I can't believe I actually owe that crazy fairy for shooting me with her sarcastic quips all the time.

It took a few more minutes of much more careful searching before the sneak's efforts paid off. There you are. He found the captive girl Rose on the otherside of a tent near the far side of the cliffs edge. She was tied to a post staked into the ground with a guard dozing off several feet away against a log. That would have been ideal but for the problem of several lizardmen constantly walking around the place in a rough patrol. No, of course not, that would be too easy. Thought Link sarcastically.

Waiting until there was a distinct break in the patrol he hurried to behind the girl and whispered. "Psst behind you."

With a gasp of startlement the bound girl tried to yelled out. "Who's there?", but all that came out was a muffled sound as there was something covering her mouth.

With watchful eyes Link breathed a sigh of relief as his hand covered her mouth before she alerted the guards. "Quiet or they'll hear you." He hissed in her ear.

A shiver ran down Rose's spine as some invisible guy held her softly whispering in her ear. If she weren't still terrified to her fate in the hands of these savages her thoughts would have turned to a much naughtier direction playing out some of those risque fantasies she'd had lately. Turning her head while constricted she was just able to glance a shock of blonde hair out of the corner of her eye. Dreamy She thought to herself, conjuring an image of a musclebound adonis with pearly white teeth and flowing hair you could run hands through for days in. No. Stopping that fantasy before it could get too far she focused once more on the present. "Who are you?" She asked huskily, unconsciously dropping into a deep throaty voice in hopes of seduction.

Don't think about it. Don't think about it. Don't think about it. Repeating these words to himself in rapid succession Link was able to push any thoughts or feelings evoked from the suspiciously weird older girl. Keeping his voice at a whisper he said. "My name is Link, your sister Cendra told me about you, I'm here to rescue you. Keep quiet and you'll be free in a minute.". Removing his hand he worked on cutting the rope with his sword.

Rose was happy to hear that her sister was okay and had apparently arranged a rescue for her. Before she was able to voice that thought however one of the lizardmen came running straight to her stopping right in front of her face.

Link froze in place as soon as the creature came running. He didn't know what could have happened to tip off the lizard that something was up but it was becoming clear that it suspected something. As it stood directly in front of Link's masked face, looking right at him yet not seeing him, he could see its forked tongue darting out over the girl's shoulder at him. Not good. The lizard appeared to be persistent and Link knew his magical camouflage would no longer continue to work now that he was being so focused on.

Suddenly the guard stared right into the space Link was occupying. For a moment there was a total silence as the girl and Link held their breath staying perfectly still. Then the lizards eye shifted focus before letting out a loud shrill alerting every creature in the camp. Every being in the small area looked to Link's position before charging forwards in an angry surge.

"Shit". Link deadpanned as his mask's obscurity failed leaving him in plain view of a mass of oncoming lizard warriors. "Run away Rose, quick, I'll hold them off." Luckily he had freed her from the ropes already. Stepping forward he took stance in front of the scared girl and focused some magic into his swords blade.

Frozen into non-movement from terror Rose remained where she was staring ahead in dread. As a bright light suddenly took form in front of her she was amazed to see her savior standing perfectly calm with a glowing sword. "I said run, Now!". Shaken from her daze by his barking order she finally found the strength to obey.

Satisfied that the only noncombatant was now out of the immediate danger Link gripped his sword tight waiting for the moment to start. The stalemate had only lasted so long already as the lizard men waited until there was a sizable force ready.

A swarm of scaled enemy attacked Link at once from all direction but behind. Just as they were within reach he unleashed the power built up in his gilded edge performing an impressive spin attack. His blade tempered to near perfection aided by magic sliced effortlessly through the meager armors of the attacking force. As the first wave fell to the might of his skills he immediately leapt into the melee with reckless abandon. "Yhgraaa!"

Time passed slowly as Link expertly engaged the enemy. He lost himself in the movements of battle, deflecting their crude weapons with his shield and striking with precision in the openings left behind. Suddenly a voice cried out in distress, "Help me Link", causing him to dash out of the thick of the skirmish to reassess things.

He didn't have time to count them but Link could now say with certainty that he had made a sizable dent into the enemy forces. When he turned in the direction the yell came from he saw the scene he dreaded. Running up to her he saw Rose surrounded by a group of lizards closing in on her at the cliffs edge. Each second that passed she came closer to a fatal fall.

Worried for the girl's immediate safety Link put away his shield so he could fully devote himself to offense. With no thought to his own defense the reckless youth cleaved his way though the waiting enemy creating an open range straight through the center to the trapped occupant within.

In his mad dash to reach Rose and protect her Link was stabbed by a sword on his left side. Luckily the wound was only a shallow cut and hardly worth any worry. Unfortunately the attack also managed to somehow cut loose his hookshot. He could only watch helplessly as a much fancier outfitted warrior picked up his prized possession.

Once more in position to defend Rose, Link was readying himself for the last accompaniment. He could tell right away that the ones still remaining were of a higher cut then the countless grunts already slaughtered. There was only roughly a dozen left but their armor and weapons were high quality and there was a visible intelligence to the eyes. Link was confident that he would prevail regardless, which was why he was startled when the lizard warrior who now held his hookshot spoke.

It's voice was a strangled rasp of breathe as it slowly hissed. "Man-boy, release our property or no more trinket". Demonstrating the seriousness of the demand it held the scale-less freak's toy over the side of the bottomless ravine.

My hookshot!, Link lamented to himself. He knew if it was dropped down there that he would never be able to get it back. The enemy was too far away to trustfully reach in time to stop it, and worse still he had to keep his focus split to keep the girl safe. Just where has Tatl been all day?, he cursed the luck that at a time like now where she could really help out, she was strangely absent. If only she was here he could ask her to either distract the lead guy or retrieve the hookshot. Link knew that when it comes down to it there was no choice, he had to help the innocent girl even at the expense of one of his most treasured artifacts. Damnit

It was with heavy trepidation that Link answered the demand. "I am returning this girl to her family." His voice revealed nothing of his thoughts. His answering tone was strong and firm and his countenance unyielding.

The answer was not what the lizard wanted to hear. It let out a thunderous shriek as it threw the item over into the pit before joining together with the remnants in a desperate attack. "Trinket no more. Now man-boy die!" It hissed with hate.

Link's blood boiled in anger as he watched helplessly as his hookshot vanished in the dark abyss. His thoughts were in turmoil. This sub-creature dared to taunt him and threaten innocent girls, and if that wasn't bad enough now it had stolen and thrown away his belongings. The fury thundered in his head, drowning out the calm of logic and reason. He wanted these vermin to suffer, he wanted to crush them with his own hands. The elegant cut of the sword would no longer suffice, he needed pure brutal damage. A split second after this revelation, Link swapped his Stone mask for his Goron mask, trading speed for power.

When Rose saw the young man who was saving her crouch down in a pained scream before expanding rapidly into a large rock creature, she did what only seemed natural. Holding in a scream she ran in the opposite direction and hid behind a boulder. Peeking overhead she kept watch on the proceeding action.

Now as a Goron, Link turned his anger to liquid strength pumping through his veins. The lizard that was in the lead abruptly stopped moving and looked as if it was having second thoughts about attacking. Link didn't care about the enemies state of mind. Quickly he performed a goron pound creating minor tremors through the terrain, causing the enemy to lose its momentum and balance. Staggering in a daze the leader was helpless.

Before it could react Link grabbed it by the neck with one hand and used it as a club against the rest. With one swipe of his monstrous strength all were knocked over as grain to the sickle. Crushing its windpipe in his vicious grip Link glared into the pain filled eyes of the leader, before with a mighty grunt he threw it into the chasm to die an ironic death. Throw away what's mine will you? I'll throw you away instead!

With the most potentially dangerous target eliminated and the edge of his anger dulled from revenge, Link proceeded to take care of the rest in true Goron style. Throwing his full weight behind each punch, he lay waste to every foe. Some tried blocked his fists with their shields, but they lacked the power to back it up and crumpled regardless. In a matter of moments the battle field lay desolate as every last adversary lay broken and defeated.

With a sigh of relief Link took off his mask and returned to his normal self. He only had a moment for his thoughts to catch up before the girl, Rose, came running out from behind her safe spot pelting him with praise.

"Oh Link!" She sang, "That was so marvelous. How can I ever repay you, my handsome hero?" With a hopeful smile she continued. "Would you like to come back to our home where I could cook you a dinner?" After a beat she batted her eyelashes at him and smiled suggestively saying, "Or take me with you?" Blushing deeply she darted her eyes to the floor in embarrassment.

Poor Link's face had progressively gotten more and more flush as the excited girl went on. Tatl, where are you? He lamented. He could take the imminent teasing she would undoubtedly unleash if only for a distraction. Resolving himself he answered her best he could trying to keep from voicing his thoughts. "No, really. I couldn't accept anything, I couldn't just let you suffer and was glad to help."

"Let me take you home now, okay?" Link said. When no reply came he turned around only to see a fuzzy gray haze everywhere. Spinning in place looking around all he could see was an endless white void. Before he had time to panic, there was a flash of light and suddenly he was standing in front of the GF of kindness once again. Wait, what? Link suddenly realized there was a fifth trial again. As he worked things through his head to rearrange his perceptions of what just happened, the great fairy began to speak in a happy voice.

"You did it Link! Hurray you really are a hero. My sister weren't just gossiping you do have what it takes." The GF started to skip along the stone pieces while hugging herself in joy. "Finally someone got to take my test and actually pass! Hee hee hee." Seeing Link's face take on a mixed realization of annoyance and confusion, she decided to explain things quickly.

Coming to rest in front of the victor, the Great Fairy of Kindness spoke again. More subdued now and calm she said. "The test of kindness was to test the strength of your heart. To pit the challenger against fierce odds and force a choice between selfish gain and selfless kindness. I created a grand illusion and temporarily altered your memories to lead into such a judgment and you passed proving that you are the genuine thing."

By this time Link had reconciled his memories into a more sensible design. He realized that that whole deal of rescuing the girl on horseback, sneaking in the camp, saving the older girl, and fighting his way out, it was all like a dream. Wait does that mean? Reaching into his possessions his fingers brushed against the familiar grip of his hookshot and a wave of relief passed through him. Oh thank you merciful Din, I didn't lose it afterall.

Now looking around with a more aware feeling Link noticed Tatl was back. I wonder if she was there with me, then what happened to her? Something had to have gone on because the usually loud and energetic fairy was staying in the air rather lazily. Her glow seemed to be dimmer as well as if she wasn't even aware of those around.

The Great Fairy looked at the young man before her in contemplation. He reached here at least to challenge her which was amazing in itself, but to think he beat her test. Observing him for a moment she realized that to him it wasn't even that strange an occurrence and the only thing that brought distress was the momentary thought of still losing that intricate little device he had. Yes, she decided, he is indeed worthy of the struggles ahead. There is no way he would be satisfied to stay here.

Now the GF turned her sight to the fairy companion of Link. The properties of the magic involved with the masterful illusion spell enabled her to read the mind's of those she cast it on. She had split her attention between Link and Tatl observing them both. Another surprise hit her when the little fairy resolved to follow her partner into the unknown. The pure friendship and caring between the two of them gave her surges of joy all over.

Ready to impart the boon of kindness upon them now, the GF held out both of her hands. A light green flame blazed to glory upon each palm as they opened upwards. The suddenness of the action caught the attention of both her guests.

Link was harshly drawn from his thoughts as balls of flame appeared in the Great Fairy's hands. Out of the corner of his eye he noticed that Tatl was aware as well, her glow was once more as usual and she started flying closer to himself. What's going on now? It almost seemed as if the big fairy woman planned to attack him. He tried to assure himself it was just his paranoia, but a little extra caution never hurt so he readied himself incase he had to act quickly.

Jolted from her deep reflection by the green fire Tatl shoved her last thoughts to the back of her mind and got into her battle mindset for now. Seeing Link she suppressed the tearful reunion that cried out from within. There would be time later, right now her friend needed her.

"Be at ease Hero." The GF hoped to put them in a calmer state of mind. Her earlier wondering that everything was accepted simply, appeared to have been a hasty observation. "You have demonstrated that within your heart great kindness lives. Your capacity for genuine selfless compassion is great indeed. I bestow upon you, who have passed my trial, the gift of understanding."

"What kind of lame treasure is that?" Tatl spoke up in obvious annoyance. "Is this some kind of joke here? Understanding what?" The nerve of this supposed great fairy was really far too much. She wished she could shrink that bimbo down or match her size, then after unleashing the mother of all bitch slaps maybe they would get a real prize.

As usual Link let Tatl speak her mind. Something she does very well, especially when her thoughts are mirroring his own so closely. He was as aggrieved about this so called gift as her. Being a more soft spoken and taciturn individual around others however, he was content to let her handle the loud complaints. It's great to have her back.

With a worry that the situation might escalate out of control, the Great Fairy released her hold on the magic flames. They crossed the distance to the two in the blink of an eye and before any reaction could be made they covered Link and Tatl in a green light. Honestly, I never get to have any fun here. The first time some hero actually gets to pass my test and I'm not even allowed a little grandstanding. It's just not fair. Determined to pout about it later she discerned their reactions.

Link wasn't sure what that strange magic was doing to him. He felt just fine and couldn't tell of any difference in anything, and yet there was a strange sense of kinship with all living things. He didn't know how or why, but that was the sense this feeling gave him.

Tatl was a being more attuned to magic, all a part of being a fairy. There was no sense of malice or trickery in the spell, only an overwhelming kindness. It was somewhat redundant when she thought about it. Redundant and oh, so, cliché. Ooh look at me. I'm the great fairy of kindness and watch me shoot rays of kindness at you. It certainly didn't raise her opinion of this fop of a fairy. Looking at Link she really wondered what he was thinking because he had a very peculiar smile forming.

It seemed that Link was beginning to get a small idea of what her gift was. Tatl on the other hand was unsurprisingly still in the dark. It would make sense that a fairy would be affected differently then a Hylian, and since the main recipient of her boon was the boy ... understandable. After everything she had been casting an element of tiredness began to creep up. It was time to end this so she could get some rest. "The Gift of Understanding I have given to you is the complete comprehension of all creature's language. No matter where or how you meet new beings, I give you both the ability to realize what they say and for them to follow your words as well. As long as a living thing has sentience you will be able to communicate freely." She hoped that was enough of an explanation, if more had to be said she was sure that she would start yawning in fatigue. "Thank's once again for playing with me, goodnight." Spent, she retreated to her home in the waters.

"Well this was different wasn't it Tatl?" Link asked his friend. He figured he could ask where she was later, also why they were both given the gift. Since she was staying behind ... wasn't she?

To Be Cont'D:

Review Replies

Greki: I was happy you liked my story. You said you were going to R/R the other chapters later but never got around to it, hope you're still out there.

Lunatic Pandora1: Thanks again for reviewing my story so nicely as you do. I got plans for the FD mask later.

Jedi SSJ: If your still out there, I updated ... yeah it surprises me too. Next chapter Link hits the WW world. Now I just need my brother to get the game back from where he leant it. I had beaten the game not long ago from the last time I updated, I would also generally go and play parts again to refresh my memory while writing.

BlackRose: I really want to know where you vanished off too. Several months ago you said you'd be getting broadband soon, yet no word still. Please if you are out there, give me a way to communicate with ya. Thank you for reviewing still.

Xerac: I wonder if you will read this again, eh we'll find out. Thanks for letting me know you liked it. I still go on gaia very rarely.

Arvel: I do appreciate that little grammar watchdog routine there. I fixed my spelling accordingly this time. Discussion is my hardest thing to write so I'm glad you liked it. If all goes according to plan Link will arrive in his old homeworld next chapter and recieve the biggest shock of his life. Hehe.

CrystalC: I wonder if there any stories of the 'link comes back to hyrule and finds it waterlogged' variety out there by now. To be honest most evertything is Twilight princess these days, I hope fans of Majora and WW are still around and bear with my glacial writing speed.

Trevylan: I'll hold you to your promise. Thnx.

Blahman: Eeek I have angered people by updating so slow. Sorry, sorry. Can't help it though. Must have done something right to invoke that feeling though, that pleases me.

Freedom: You and me both.

Lunarian: Go get a day job you bum.