Shadows over Termina

by HylianWolfos94

Three years passed since Jace and Iris defeated the Dragalfos. Now they live life in peace. So peaceful, Jace decides to turn a new page in their life. However, just as his plans unfold, a new terrifying darkness starts consuming the land. They must travel farther to more dangerous heights and places with a new ally to overcome this evil that threatens the very future of existence.

23. Eventide

CHAPTER 23

DAWN OF THE SEVENTH DAY

Eventide...

The morning sun peeked over the horizon through the field of Termina, gently brushing sleeping eyes to wake. In the dense jungle-esque land of the south, the sun was still behind the trees, leaking golden rays and blots onto the ground where the flaming orb may be able to see through. The crew was up early and already on their way further south with Iris still leading the pack. She looked up through the trees to admire the morning haze.

The sleepy-eyed heroes traveled across the crunchy stick-and-leaf bathed earth. Ilye especially was still trying to wake, given she didn't sleep much the night before. She glanced over to her keaton companion hoping he wasn't upset about her telling Iko and Leif the truth about herself- even though he had already assured her that she was fine and that Iko and Leif were reliable with the information. Especially Leif, given his kind. The girl thought back on last night, praying to the gods and goddesses that her actions hadn't damaged anything... So far, things seemed fine at least.

Between Ilye, Iko, and Leif, Jace walked with his arms rested behind his head in a long stretch. He yawned before finally dropping his arms to his side and looking to Ilye, noticing how oddly quiet she was. "Ilye, is something bothering you?"

Her response was a startled low exclamation before turning her view to him. She leaned back for a little before calming down.

"I'm fine, just had a restless night is all. I couldn't sleep well."

He gave a small understanding nod. "Ah, yeah... Those kinds of nights suck. I know how those go."

Their new companions looked to Ilye with thought. Leif was worried that the Goddess of Time may not have completely thought this through. Sure, she's a goddess- and she probably knows what she's doing. It didn't stop Leif from wondering if they chose the right person for the job... But still, given the ruined future's circumstances, it was probably all that could be done.

As for Iko, she just met Ilye. And suddenly, she finds she's going to be gone probably within a few days? Surely Ilye would have a better ending than that? It was true that there are consequences with messing with time. The fact that Iko was traveling with her nineteen year old engaged friends and their seventeen year old daughter felt rather strange to say at once. She tried not to think too much on what the end of this will be like and decided to think on nicer things. Maybe later today, Ilye and her can practice with their bows? It'd be fun to show Ilye some of her tricks. She grinned at the thought and was just about to ask Ilye about it when Ilye spoke up.

"I've never seen mornings like these." the girl commented. Jace looked over to Ilye with a cock of the head.

"You haven't?" he queried.

With a shake of the head, Ilye replied. "No... The wildlands are just far too deep in the woods, it's all trees. It's so pretty seeing the light soak in through the foliage and vines like this. It looks like someone melted gold and poured it onto the ground from the sky."

Iris and Skits looked up into the trees, agreeing with Ilye on her compliment to the lovely morning. Ilye's opinion on the morning reminded Jace of an old story he once read at the Clocktown library and gave a thoughtful hum.

"You ever heard the story of the man who could make gold out of sun rays?"

Keaton had known this story, seeing as he was quite old... Everyone brought their attention to Jace, Ilye answering with a curious, "No."

He smiled as he held his hand out under a sun ray. "There once was a poor man who lived by himself on the outskirt of the woods. He was so poor, he had only a torn up rag to keep him warm at night and one pair of age-worn clothes. One day, a kind elderly woman got lost in the woods. She was cold and scared with nowhere to go. This poor homeless man found her in dire need of help. He came to her, asking her what was wrong. She told him her story... But soon as he was to offer help, she turned him down- for she lacked anything to repay him with. Regardless, he gave her his only raggy blanket to keep her warm and lead her from the woods."

He paused to take out his canteen and get a drink. Once his thirst was quenched, he continued his story. "She was amazed by this man's selflessness. He lost his only means of staying warm. Once he lead her where she needed to go, she revealed to him her true form. She was the Great Fairy of Kindness in search of her new fountain home. Feeling pitty for his poverty, and appreciation for the man's heart and spirit of gold, she gifted him the power of wealth- to turn the god's gold into mortal gold. She instructed that it'd only work in the morning light however. So once at the beginning of every month, he'd go into the woods in the early morning. He'd swipe his hand through the golden morning light- the gold of the gods, and what he cut off would fall to the ground in a pile of gleaming precious metal."

Ilye smiled big and brought her hands to her chest. "That's so cool!"

Jace gave a small, "Mm-hmm." and went about his tale- "Over time, he was able to build a small house by the woods. Why not a mansion? Why, he didn't want a big, luxurious house. He was not selfish with his wealth at all, and only used his money to get himself what he absolutely needed. He was very generous. He would often give to the poor and offered hospitality to those who were lost on their way to the far towns. It wasn't until a greedy demon from the East heard of this man's gift. The monster was outraged that this useless man had such an amazing power, but he himself did not. Angered that this man was teaching humility throughout the land, the demon left to smite him. He wanted the land to stay in fear of the darkness- for people to tear each other down with greed and pride. For it made the demon's job that much easier when people destroyed themselves."

Jace looked off a ways when he heard the sound of water. They were passing by a small flow of water that lead to the swamp. "In the dead of night, the demon broke into the man's house and smote him. Next, he was to steal the gold. But as he touched it, they transformed from their golden light and turned into rocks of multiple color. They became an object of no use to the creature. Disgusted by what he thought to be fake money, he left- leaving the man laying by his ruined wealth under the light of the moon's glow through the window. The celestial god of the night blessed the man's last night with a moonlit veil and that hope would ring true when the goddess of the sun would kiss him in the morn... Upon the morning's light seeping in through the window, he was found by loved ones. He was blanketed by the god's gold. They mourned, for the man who brought smiles and happiness had been slain in the dark of night. What they didn't know, was the second chance he was given. The light kissed his face, and he awoke... However, his gift of gold had been forever changed. No longer could he make gold from just the morning light. But even with the struggle, he was happy- for he had the love of his people to keep him standing. He lost his gift, but he had everything he needed anyway. His humility saved him, and that was all he cared about."

Iko leaned over and nudged Jace, commenting with a chuckle. "So, was that how rupees came to be here in Termina?"

He replied with a raise of the hand. "Not really, but according to the fairy tale? Apparently!"

Having been thinking on the story, Ilye soon added- "Odd, I'd never heard that story before. I was sure I would've heard of that one at some point and time."

"Well, now you've heard it. Humility can be rewarding. Even in the end, the man ended up with everything he needed. It's a neat story. A bit sad, though. But y'know, I'd lose the ability to make gold any day if it just meant living and loving."

Walking with them was Keaton- quiet as a mouse till now. The keaton made a small scoff and replied, "Heh, you have no idea."

"So where we going right now?" Iko asked with a yawn. Iris looked back to them all and replied to Iko.

"We're heading up to Minami's Spring. Seeing Minami is our top priority today. After that, we're heading back to the house to check up on things and wash up." she looked back at Jace especially, "You especially need it. You smell horrible."

"Oh, and you smell like a basket of flowers?" He jabbed with a cocky grin in his eyes. Ilye shoved her way into the conversation and added- "I probably smell worse than the both of you combined."

Skits made loud caws and grunts, and everyone fell silent. It was then Iris, Ilye, and Keaton chuckled for having understood the bird.

The fox gave his signature grin and cackled. "Yes, indeed so Skits."

"I do not smell of bird po-..." the boy froze in the middle of his reply before groaning and looking up a slight. "Ah great, I'm starting to understand the bird!" Skits gave a loud cackle at him before flying off. Iris giggled and eyed Jace from the corner of her sight.

"Well, it certainly isn't your clothes stinking anymore." his 'other replied.

The group rambled amongst themselves and joked the way up Woodfall. Iris and Jace very much remembered the way, since Jace proposed to Iris up near the spring. It was always a long hike, but Iko and Ilye did not mind at all. The two explorers were excited- regardless of how irritated Iko felt for having to be up and around in the early morning. Neither of them had ever been up this way, so this was quite a treat. And Ilye could finally actually meet Minami! The trail lead into a hidden forest as Iris remembered. Walking down the down-sloping overgrown trail, passing through the cave with the neon mushrooms- it looked much different compared to the common swamp area. Hours had wiled away since they first left that early morning. The sun was bright in the morning sky and the above yonder was turning a lovely baby blue by the time they had reached the spring.

Iko and Leif looked over this large field, seeing its odd and prehistoric plant life covering every inch. Fairies floated about and bobbed through the air and around the spring. Trees of massive proportion surrounded the spring and went on deep behind said area. One thing that truly caught Ilye's attention were lovely large flowers just closing up. Further under the shade of the trees, some were still open. She walked up to them and looked them over, gasping and reaching to feel of them.

"Oh my lands, these are Southern Bells. I thought these things were gone? I've only read about these."

The flowers were white and kissed with a pale moonlit blue inside. Flowing off right under the blooms were ribbon-like leaves curling and dragging the ground. The blossoms were about as big as Ilye's face.

A fairy landed on Iko's snout and she gently poked the thing to make it move. Leif finally zipped into his alternate standing form and gave a small hum.

"This is certainly a Light Spirit's spring." he commented. "The fairies are quite abundant here."

"So Hyrule has Light Spirits as well, Leif?" Ilye asked. The life spirit nodded to her without answer, seeing as he was watching a young fairy fly around him curiously, as if wondering what he was. He soon went to follow Iko once she began moving farther through the field to overlook the ledge, seeing over the swamp. She liked it up here!

"Woo! Check out this view! You can see a good portion of the swamp up here!"

In the middle of the other's explorations, Iris glanced at Jace and whispered something to him. His eyes widened a little before he chuckled. He just flicked a leaf at her in response. Skits rolled his eyes and flew off into a nearby tree. The couple nudged each other before laughing and moving on into the field toward the spring. Keaton was already ahead of them waiting at the spring. Iris was just thinking on when Jace proposed to her... She remembered being here that night. She recalled their sword fight and them falling over into the spring together, and them laying and watching the stars as they dried off. And tackling Jace after he proposed and how happy they both were. She looked him in the eyes as they made their way toward the spring and she whispered a small "I love you" to him. His heart fluttered and he returned it with a nudge of the snout to the side of hers.

Still staring and looking over the ledge, Leif caught Iko's attention and told Iko to head over to the spring- seeing as everyone was gathering over there. She twirled herself around quickly and made her way over with excitement! Getting to meet a Light Spirit? Now that's not something everyone gets the chance to do! Her and Ilye stopped next to Keaton with Leif halting by Iko's side. A gold light began forming over the water before them with glowing runes wrapping around. This orb of light grew till it exploded in a flash.

As the brightness faded, a divine creature emerged from the light and slowly descended down to stand on the top of the water. Its delicately-sized golden cloven hooves barely tapped the water's surface. And from the creature's head, long swirling antlers formed and hung above and down, each side grasping spheres of golden light. A flowing mane hung off its neck and down to the base of its long slender tail. The divine swamp deer towered above the group- even Leif. It took a few steps forward, runes of light spreading through the water for a few moments before they vanished, pulsing like veins.

"My heroes, you have arrived... I have made contact with Nishi of the West, he says you have returned his light to full power and have secured the western seas from darkness."

"Well, they did... The party poopers didn't invite me." Iko laughed. Leif nudged her in the shoulder for being rude. Minami didn't seem to mind however. Though he expressed great interest in Iko and Leif, for they were new faces. The great beast craned his neck out to examine the two. Especially Leif!

"You are a being of spirit. You hail from Hyrule, do you not?

"I do, great beast. Both she and I." Leif replied respectfully.

Minami seemed a little puzzled. Why did Hylia send more? Though by looking to them, he saw something within that was proof enough that they were good for the task. He looked to Iko and spoke. "Great archer, your skill may well be of use. Her Grace's Terminian archer is still blooming with her gifts. No offense to she." he finished, looking to Ilye. Ilye didn't take any offense at all, for he had a point- no pun intended.

Iko grinned, feeling flattered by the beast's words. Leif simply rolled his eyes at her, however...

"And Keaton, I am surprised to see you traveling with them. Did you get bored in the village?"

"No, my old friend. The Great Fairy had me run an errand, and I decided to stick around. Might as well."

The deer gave a soft chuckle before standing up straight and looking to Iris and Jace. "I see you both have gained great scars, but also have grown a lot in such short time. You all truly begun to find yourselves with Nishi's test. I can see a light awakening from within. I know the challenge was tremendous, but you all should be proud."

Iko crossed her arms and grunted. She didn't know what he was talking about at all, given she wasn't there for the journey. Keaton sat down and chuckled.

"My friend, you are monologuing."

"Oh hush now, Silver. But... I guess you are right. Let me begin. Since Silver Keaton has already explained some of Ikana's legend to you, I will tell you the smaller details... You must know these things before you leave for Ikana..."

Keaton laid down, knowing well this was going to be long. Minami continued on.

"You have one last spirit to save, but he will be... A little different. For you see, brother Higashi has been shattered."

Jace rose a hand and spoke up... "Wait... Are you saying we were too late?"

"Leavance, you misunderstand. Higashi has been shattered for generations... Since the great Ikanian War."

A startled, "What?" sounded from Iris and Jace both. He's been gone for that long? By the lords, no wonder Termina is pretty much doomed- especially the East!

"You can revive him, but you will need our help. Now that the rest of us are awake and protected, we can offer you a power that will let you find his shattered remains. Not all of them are in Termina anymore, but what remains scattered across Ikana will be enough to bring him to form."

"Wait, but how did Higashi shatter? And why couldn't you just save him? Clearly you and the spirits together are strong. Come to think of it, you guys don't do much as a team." Iris questioned.

The deer looked down, almost in shame. "I cannot step foot in Ikana. I must remain here. Us spirits have fallen away from each other. Brother Higashi was a victim of pride... During the war, he threw himself into the human's affairs. He was a weapon of their war, and thought highly of himself for his strength. They worshipped him as a great god, and saw him as the higher spirit. Many years ago, Termina was a land of unity. Gorons, zoras, humans- and even some creatures that no longer walk these lands. They all were brought together in harmony, while those seen as monsters were shoved away. Igos Du Ikana- the leader of this country back in those days, banished some of these monstrous races, for they were too different. It was this that began to break the unity of Termina."

Minami created a vision on the water's surface. It was Ikana during its days of livelihood. The land was alive. Plant life and water poured from the canyon sides and the canyons were rich.

"Us Light Spirits and the four giants were sent here to uphold light and harmony for the land. But as the country began to split and began pouring over with sin, the spirits began to fall victim to this destruction. The banished races waged war on Termina, and Ikana took advantage of Higashi. He began to lose himself so much, that he was becoming no different from the mortals. They used one of the very creatures that protected the land's population to destroy and devour the banished war wagers. Nishi and I wanted to stop the war, but Hokubu saw the punishment as fair, to let these people tear themselves apart. We were not put here to watch the people destroy each other, but that is what we had to do..."

The image in the water showed the humans fighting massive monsters. Wolves in armor and lion-horse centaurs. Some were dragalfos as well. The massive Light Spirit brought death upon them all, left to lay in their own blood or left with nothing at all. But among them all, human-esque people hid among the crowds. Disfigured and discolored, wearing robes of mages.

"Hidden within, were people known as the Interlopers. They specialized in dark magic and encouraged the war. They cried wolf, claiming they were against the decision to wrongly banish the monsters. In truth, they used the war to get close with Ikana. Once they were in, they watched the war. They brought in more warriors for Higashi to slay. They saw how fast he was to hold himself with pride. It was his weakness. Higashi was so blind in thinking he was helping his people and was drowning in his wealth and worship, he never saw the Interlopers. In the end, it was his pride that killed him."

In the vision, these robed mages were seen approaching the Ikanian king. They bowed and offered a great piece of armor, kneeling.

"The Interlopers finally came to Igos Du Ikana, claiming surrender. Higashi was at the peak of his pride by now. They came to Igos with a gift! The Interlopers offered an enchanted armor. It was said that it could grant any wish that one so desired. And it were to change its form to change size to fit any wearer. In addition, some of the Interlopers offered to add to Higashi's temple and make it mighty and tall. Peace fell upon the land after this, and the Interlopers helped build a tower atop the temple, turning it into the Stone Tower Temple. They explained that the tower was also built to commemorate their giant deities."

The group all watched the water in wonder as it changed once more. It showed the tower, in pristine condition and brand new. People brought offerings, tossing money into the deep abyss beneath the temple as thanks. It was a sacred place for the people of Ikana. Little did they know, it was built tall for a dark purpose.

"The Interlopers built it high in hopes of reaching the gods through a portal. It was the perfect disguise for their dark intentions. The tower held a cloak of unity, but would soon cause the separation and destruction of the land. After faking harmony with the Ikanians, the Interlopers told the banished monsters that the king was planning a secret attack, and that they'd kill the monsters! We tried to warn Higashi, planned to intervene, and threatened to destroy the tower, but he told Nishi and I that if we even touch his temple or his people, that he'd destroy us. I was not able to go to Ikana and Higashi would not listen to me... And if that armor stayed there, it would spell the end. There was one person I could turn to, and he was an unawakened Guardian of Termina. I told him to find Higashi and talk sense into him and bring that armor to me so I could destroy it. Sadly, he was quickly stopped... We had no other choice than to let things fall and pray the gods had a plan. If Higashi was going to destroy himself, then let him learn... Hokubu never forgave us for letting him fall, but it was all we could have done. We did not fear Higashi... We feared the Interlopers. Their armor and magic was capable of destroying light. In the end, war waged once more, and the Interlopers watched from the tower. Igos had the armor placed on Higashi, but that was his greatest mistake. The armor locked away his light, filling him with a bloodlust and a power far too great. In the end, the armor destroyed both armies once it was doned by the great tainted spirit."

Jace seemed deeply intrigued by the story... He soon asked, "What happened to Higashi and the Interlopers?"

"As the Interlopers attempted to reach the heavens, the gods turned the tower upside down. Instead of leading them to the Sacred Realm, the portal was flipped, taking them to a land where time ne'er move- a sea of heat and sand, where they would eventually die. What Interlopers survived and escaped were caught and banished by the Light Spirits and the Spirit Seekers and banished to what would become the Twilight Realm in years pass. And Higashi was sealed away in the wasteland below the tower- where the first Interlopers met their fates. Since then, Termina has lost its unity and separated off into four regions entirely. And us spirits? We were forgotten in time, for it was our own kind that was recorded to have destroyed Termina's peace. We are thrown to the wind as fairy tales and myths among families now. Nishi and I are the only ones who stand strong. Hokubu hasn't been able to forgive us till now... And now there's a chance for Higashi to be returned. Surely he has learned by now."

Leif gave a worried hum after hearing the story. Termina's light was truly out of whack compared to Hyrule's.

"It is prophesied among us spirits that the hero and the guardians would return light once more. The prophesy today is a little different, but you all have made it work."

"That's right! You mentioned those guardian people too! Who were they? Keaton didn't tell us much about them!" Ilye called out. "Please tell us, do we need to find any of them? I mean, if they were part of the prophesy, then surely..."

Minami looked over the group before giving a soft smile. "No need for me to explain. You best find the Spirit Seeker- he is the one who will be able to tell you about them. You will find the Spirit Seeker in Ikana, and it is fact you will meet him. Find the Spirit Seeker and find Higashi- it will be then that you will find the first awakened Guardian. The Guardian of Spirit. They can only be awakened if light has returned and if they truly see the light within. And sure enough, it will come to them... For now my child, just keep going. It will all unfold."

Ilye looked super confused, but she didn't pry... Iko finally decided to make a comment now that Minami was done. She leaned a fist on her hip leaned sideways a little. "So are these Guardian guys like Hylia's Knights?"

"Hylia's Knights?" Ilye repeated. Minami nodded, "Yes, they mirror Hylia's Knights over in Hyrule. I'm afraid the Guardians aren't as abundant, however..."

Leif seemed deeply concerned. "How has Termina survived this long? I know the goddesses have been keeping a close eye on this place, but defying destiny and fate? They have their hands pretty full."

"And what of the giants? It's been told throughout history that they were Termina's deities..." Jace added.

The divine deer sighed. "The humans have been blind to this world's true gods. The true gods created this place and quickly saw it falling apart. They wanted to destroy it, but the goddesses rebelled against it and sent the Light Spirits here. The giants were agents of the old gods, but turned to the goddesses sides to fight for Termina. They were merely agents, not alpha deities."

"Dang... That's confusing..." Jace growled. "This place really is messed up... And you're sure this land can be saved by us...?"

The beast stepped out of the spring and onto the grass, walking out into the field. Light-bathed flowers grew in his wake with each step before they fell and became common plant-life.

"You all look down on yourselves."

"Well... Everyone kind of does." Iris scoffed. The Hyrulean stopped by Minami and looked up to him.

He craned his head down, motioning Iris to crawl onto his massive low antler. She hesitated, but did so after she examined the thing. She climbed up onto his head and he looked over the cliffside. Iko and Leif were right by Minami's side, Iko looking at the massive creature. She'd ask if she could hop on up there if she knew it wouldn't be rude. Jace and Ilye looked over the cliffside with them.

"Existence is a clock. You can have the shape of the clock, and it can look fine. But inside are the tiny gears that make the machine work. Without those little gears, that massive thing would not tick. As such, even the small pieces of the world's existence helps life tick onward. One little gear wont look like much, but it is one of the most vital pieces. Iris my child, you and everyone else are parts of this giant clockwork. You and the others have always been vital to Termina's ongoing life, just like those before you."

"I think you forget that Iko, Leif, and I are from Hyrule." Iris reminded. Iko chimed in- "Hey, you saying Leif and I haven't made a difference?"

"Termina is a parallel to Hyrule- the mirror. They are part of each other. And once upon a time, they connected and were traveled between in ancient times. From Hyrule or no, you are part of Termina's circle just as Jace and Keaton are part of Hyrule's circle. One way or another, history will repeat somehow, and those worlds will connect over and over again." Minami looked down to Iko and actually winked at her, adding- "Even if you sometimes have to pester Hyrule's portal keeper to let you pass between the two worlds."

Iris and Jace glanced at Iko, and she chuckled. "Don't expect me to tell you guys anything."

Minami sighed sadly. "This land can be just as beautiful as Hyrule, and that is what the goddesses want for this land's people. One day, people will be brought together once more in Termina and perhaps the world's roads will be open for everyone once again..."

"Wow..." Iris sighed softly... She looked to Jace, and he was smiling at her. Iko leaned against Minami's massive leg and looked out across the land.

"That'd be nice!" Iko replied, "It wouldn't be such a hassle getting here, haha."

Leif glanced down to Iko and responded to her comment. "But for now, we need to mind our distance unless we are needed here, you know that."

"Oh please, coming over here can't hurt anything." Iko grunted as she motioned her hand out over the cliffside.

Minami lowered his head down to Jace, allowing Iris off. He rose his head up again and looked between the group. "I will bid you all farewell. Ilye, let me see your bow."

"My bow? Okay..." she pulled her bow from around herself and held it up to him. The massive deer blew gently onto the bow and a pulse of light covered it for a brief second. Ilye pulled her bow back to herself, wondering what he did to it.

"When you get to Ikana, use your bow to guide you. Load an arrow and said arrow will show you the way."

"Um... Okay. Thank you, Minami." Ilye bowed. The deer turned to Iris and Jace and said to them, "Keep the gift that Nishi gave you, you will need it when you get to Ikana. Ilye here will have to open a path for you first, and I'm sure she already knows what she must do."

The girl was looked at by the rest of the group, and she scratched the back of her head. "Yeah, I think so. I learn as I go."

"Haha... Very well. Please, help my brother of the East. He will surely reward you greatly. And Iko... When you go back to Hyrule, tell Farona I said hello."

Minami knew her? Iko gave a quick nod and laughed. "You know that old dragon? Sure thing!"

"And... Keep a close eye on my knights here... They are being hunted as you know. But with your archer's eyes, I'm sure you'll have their backs. Farewell, heroes..."

Minami vanished in a flash of light, going back into his sphere form and flying back into the spring... The group was left at the cliffside by themselves to contemplate what they must do next. Ikana was a for sure thing, but they were still very lost- especially Leif and Iko. The poor things were still trying to understand what they were getting into!

Iko turned to the group with a question on her mind. "So with 'ol Bambi's story... What I'm getting is that we use Ilye's bow to somehow get rid of that black stuff all over the East?"

Jace shrugged before leaning sideways a bit. "I guess? Ilye, do you know what he was talking about?" he questioned, hoping she actually knew something he didn't. Ilye felt all eyes on her and practically shrugged into her shirt.

"Well... Would you guys believe me if I told you I can go into the Twilight...?"

Questions fell silent before they could be spoken. Iris and Jace mirrored their stares at Ilye. Iko, Leif, and Keaton all did not seem phased however, since Ilye mentioned that to Leif and Iko last night. However, the two latter mentioned didn't know why they couldn't just walk through the stuff in the first place...

"Wait... You mean to tell me that you can actually walk into that stuff and not be effected?" Iris replied in disbelief. "What do you have that we don't?"

Ilye looked sidelong and inhaled. "I... Can't really say. It's... Light... Stuff... It's complicated..." her mind automatically went to the timeshift stone in her bag. It was a blessed stone by the goddess herself. So long as Ilye had that on her person at all times, the Goddess of Time can protect her. Sadly, the stone is only set to respond to Ilye or anyone in contact with her. It wouldn't be able to protect more than two people. Her deceased partner, Olivier, had to be within contact of Ilye for it work on him.

Jace got up in Ilye's face and cut his eyes with his hands on his hips. "This'd have been useful to know before! We could've tried tackling Ikana early!"

"You idiot, we still needed Minami and other spirit's help..." Iris groaned, promptly smacking Jace in the back of the head. His leaves stiffened upward and he shrieked a quick "Ow!" before he rubbed the back of his head.

"You didn't need to hit me, geez."

"Sometimes, you do need to be hit." Iris corrected.

Iko laughed, "Yes, yes you do!"

Leif soon smacked her and added right after- "So do you, it is the only way to keep people like you in check."

The archer pushed Leif's arm away from herself and finished her snickering. "So, what's up with the Twilight? Can't you just walk through it?"

"Not exactly..." Iris grumbled. "Anyone from the light realm cannot pass through. We'll get turned into spirits. Jace and I almost got pulled in completely, but Minami saved us... I believe it was Minami?"

Jace seemed a bit confused now that he was thinking back... "I believe it was his vessel? You had the vessel with some of his tears still in them, and I came in contact with you and shared the light with me? Or something like that."

Thinking back on the day it happened, Iris came to a realization and her eyes widened a little. "Come to think of it, you were keeping your spirit even before you came in contact with me."

"I was?" Jace mused. "Huh... That's odd... Well, maybe it was Minami just helping us out?"

Iris shrugged. "Possibly, but I guess it's not important since we don't plan on getting sucked in there again. So... Should we head back to the house?"

The young man gave a soft nod. "Yes, then we can head out and finish up our things here in the swamp. Then we head out to Ikana."

Skits came down and landed on Iris' head, yawning as he listened to everyone chat idly... It wasn't until he felt a yank that he cawed surprisedly. Iris had begun moving and Skits wobbled to keep his balance.

"Well then, shall we go? We got things to do." Iris chirped. Iko added in with zest.

"I don't know about you guys, but I'm itching to get moving! This is getting exciting!"

Leif would have rolled his eyes at her had he not now been in orb form- which he'd just reverted to as Iris mentioned them leaving. "Yes, let us be on our way. Sounds as though we mustn't dilly-dally much longer."

It was then they all agreed with Leif. They continued their conversations as they hustled out of the area and backtracked the trail that lead back to the temple. However, Iko and Leif had no knowledge of the temple being there since it was under the swamp water. They moved on through the swamp and through the usual route around the palace. And even as they passed through the shrine.

The town was bustling with forest folk per norm, however the group kept moving right on through. As much as Iko and Ilye wanted to stop and look around, they kept going to make sure they weren't needed where they were all headed. But even as they passed through the village and traversed the woods, all was well. Over time they made it to Jace and Iris' burrow in the clearing. Iko and Leif had been in their yard before, but not in their house. Jace double checked the area to make sure things were okay and that there had been no one here... He then uncovered the door to the burrow and motioned everyone in with him. Of course, he was careful given that people had been after Jace and Iris. The fella was a bit worried what all their pursuers may know about them. Last thing they need is to walk in and find Skreemin waiting for them in the living room!

"Everyone wait here..." Jace spoke, stopping everyone just as they entered the living room. Keaton rolled his eyes lightly, knowing already that no one was here... He proceeded to let Jace look through the house however. The fox sat on his bum and waited, giving Leif a humorous look. The Life Spirit returned the look in agreement. The girls gave the two odd looks. Iris herself could actually smell something odd, but she couldn't put her finger on what it was. Clearly, she was not worried, for it wasn't anything too foreign... If anything, it was familiar somehow. She pondered on the smell for a while before it finally hit her. And by the time she realized what it was, Iris and Ilye were startled when Jace made a sudden aggravated shout from the bedroom hallway. Iko furrowed her brows, offering a look of confusion. However, Leif and Keaton had tiny smiles- well, Keaton's was actually a big smile. The fox snickered with a paw raised to his face.

"Get out you blasted thing!" Jace shouted from the hall. Before they could do much, a ball of fur came blasting out of the hallway about as big as Skits himself. The animal chittered frantically as Jace came skidding out of the hall to chase the animal- It was a squirrel. Iko and Keaton began to laugh, and Leif chuckled a little himself. Ilye was trying not to laugh- suppressing the sound with her hand to her face. Iris of course was laughing without any attempt at holding it back with Skits trying hard to balance on her head. Jace continued chasing the animal as it ran everywhere but outside.

"Go store your food somewhere else!" he growled, batting the squirrel lightly toward the tunnel entrance with his boot. Enough to push it, but not enough to send it flying. This crazy critter took a left and found himself faced with a wall, quickly turning and finding Jace's leg to climb when he was the closest thing. The blond scrub gave a surprised shout and jumped back. The squirrel flew through Jace's leaves and tried to hide under the thicker leaves on his head- which was clearly unwelcome by Jace's responding high-toned "Ah!" of discomfort. The animal was fast to leap off his head before he could swipe it off. It finally bolted toward the exit with Jace following. Everyone stepped aside as the tunnel scrub chased it out. The squirrel flew out of the hole and Jace's head popped out with dust flying everywhere.

"And don't come back in here, you fluffy-tailed rat!" he finished with a growl. He went back inside to find his fiance and friends laughing.

"Alright, all taken care of." he said cooly, clearing his throat. He wiped off his clothes while looking to his fiance. "Breathe."

"I'm breathing, I'm breathing." she giggled. "What on earth happened?"

Iko snickered, leaning on Leif as she did so. Leif and Keaton could sense the animal, so they were aware that it was in the house. Iko commented, "I didn't know you guys had pest problems."

"We normally don't... Must've squeezed in under the log..." he looked outside. Iris was quick to reply soon after.

"Maybe if we actually got a hatch-door for the burrow instead of that old log, we wouldn't be seeing it again."

The boy chuckled sheepishly. "Yeah, I know... Haven't had the time to make one..."

The boy rubbed his head and gave a weak smile. "Once this is all over, I'll install a door. That darn squirrel chewed into your pillow and started stashing food and nuts in it. So uhh... Guess I'll get you a new pillow too, haha."

"Don't worry about it," she began with a hint of jest in her tone. "I have a new storage compartment now when I'm laying in bed. I'll make use of it." she finished, chuckling soon after. She walked in and tossed her sword onto the couch, rubbing her shoulder now that the weight was off it. Unlike Iris, Jace was very caring with his blade and leaned it nicely against the wall. He removed the sheathes for his daggers from his belt and hung them on the sides of his sword's hilt.

Those standing at the doorway stepped further into the living room. Keaton didn't show much care for the place, given he knew what it looked like via Jace and Iris' memories- as creepy as that is. But he found himself looking to Ilye when some curious thoughts arose in her mind, and Leif could just feel the joy resonating off Ilye. Her eyes were wide in wonder as she looked through the house... She'd been told of this home, but she never thought she'd see it. She always imagined a simple hole in the ground, but it was built like a little house. She didn't live in a tunnel home in the future. Her father having only one arm made that a little hard... She could see just how much work went into it, and it amazed her. Her eyes were just sparkling in interest.

"This home is more beautiful than I imagined." she uttered. Keaton quickly nudged Ilye to get her to stop talking. She swiftly realized what she said and cleared her throat. Jace turned to her, giving her a strange look.

"Than you imagined?" he questioned while removing his gloves, flexing his fingers to give them a chance to breathe... Ilye's face would be sweating right now if it could be. Iko quickly added on-

"Well yeah, you're such a nerd about tunnels. I wouldd think it'd be pretty obvious to her that you lived in a tunnel. She has a great interest in tunnel work, as she told me last night. Right, Braidy?"

Ilye quickly recovered, "Yes! I have always wanted to see how tunnel deku homes looked. You've done beautifully on this place!"

Leif slowly brought his palm to his face. The Life Spirit momentarily groaned upon Ilye's words earlier. But he had to admit, they made a nice save.

Iris gave Jace a raised eyebrow for their behavior. Jace just returned the look before momentarily glancing at Skits on her head. He softened his confused look and smiled at Ilye. "Well, I'm honored. You could've just said so. If you want, go ahead and look around." he gave Iko a glance before adding. "Both of you, if you feel like it."

Iko and Ilye gave each other looks, ones of agreement. Ilye was practically jumping in place, however, replying with- "Thanks! I-I promise I wont touch anything."

"Pfft- I don't care if you touch anything. Only thing I wouldn't want touched is my knife collection and the few swords. But you know blades and I trust you, so no bother... OH! But don't touch the tapestry in the storage room! That thing is ages old, it'd rip very easily. Aside from that, make yourself at home." He waved at them.

The braided girl wanted to squeal, but she just gave him a delighted look of the eyes. "O-okay-!"

Ilye and Iko soon left the room to look around, leaving Keaton and Leif in the living room with Jace and Iris. However, Keaton found himself a place on the couch and laid down with Leif resting on his back in orb form. Skits soon flew over to sit on Keaton's rump. Keaton glanced back contently before turning to Jace and Iris.

"You two best get done what needs to be done. We can't sit around too long."

Iris finished taking off her gloves and replied. "I know. We need to wash up and make sure things are good here."

"I am also going to sharpen our swords and the daggers while we're here. I'll try to make it quick."

Keaton rested his head on the arm of the couch and gave an approving nod. "Alright then young ones, just keep our situation in mind."

As the others conversed in the living room, Iko and Ilye had wandered to the storage room. Ilye kept giving amazed "Ooh"s and "Ahh"s over all the items Jace had collected in here. Along the walls, his collection of mounted knives had grown quite a bit, and his swords were of many as well. There were some that he couldn't use because they were just a little too big to swing in battle. But hey! Made nice decoration, right? Ilye picked one of the knives from the wall and looked at it's pristine blade, sharp enough that it could even cut a deku's skin pretty easily. The hilt was a lovely silver marked with gray-blue silver runes. The blade itself was actually slightly pale yellow or gold. He clearly only had this one for show, because it looked to have never been used.

Iko placed her hands on her hips and went, "Hm," before turning to Jace in the living room. "You got quite a collection here. I like it!"

"Thanks!" Jace chirped while digging through a basket of laundry sitting lazily thrown in the living room. It was then he froze and stared at the basket. "... Iris."

"Yeah?" She replied.

"Did... Did you move this basket before we left last time? I sure thought it was by the back tunnel when we left..." he mused.

Iris shrugged, quickly grabbing a towel out of it. "I think you were seeing things. No one's been here since we left."

He raised a brow before furrowing them both at the basket. "... But I clearly remember it... Being back there..." he grumbled. He finally decided to shrug it off and walked to the bedroom hall in an attempt to find a towel since Iris had just stolen the one he had his eyes on.

Iko was still looking over all the neat items Jace had in the storage room when she found the tapestry he mentioned earlier. "Hey, this thing's pretty neat. Old as dirt!" she began, looking over it's weak, worn surface. "That is one majestic beast."

Upon the tapestry in it's center was a golden draconic beast in a rugged, ancient style, posed fiercely as if in the middle of battle. The outline of the tapestry was decorated in a golden frame with many golden flower and rune markings. Ilye gave it a close look, wondering where exactly this tapestry came from. The Hyrulean archer gave some final looks before her attention was caught by a nearby bookcase filled with journals and notebooks.

"Hey, what're these over here? I didn't know he collected books." Iko began. Upon closer inspection after walking toward it, she could see these were written in journals that spanned over many, many years. Ilye ran over and gasped.

Ilye replied in a whisper so Jace and Iris wouldn't hear her. "Oh my gods! These are my grandfather's journals! I was told about these! He wrote journals throughout his entire life. Each one of these documents all he learned, all the monsters he'd seen and studied, and the stories of his travels."

"Dang! All of this?" Iko questioned, taking one off the shelf. She kept in mind to remember where it came from. Upon looking at it, the journal was clearly very old. She made sure she was careful with handling it if it held so much value to Jace. "That's impressive! Aaaannndddd, I can't read any of this." she finished upon flipping it open. "There's some good drawings in here though!"

She stopped on one page that had drawings of some animals with info by them. Off on the other page looked to be a fun noodle-doodle of a nicely shaded young lady-deku with grass-hair. Ilye was looking at the drawings as well and found herself wondering if this woman was her grandmother? She sure had a full head Jace's feather-grass leaves; which he only had a ponytail of. Ilye gave a soft "Aw..." at the drawing upon realization. Iko then placed the journal back when Ilye was done looking. They moved down the bookcase list to the newer journals and found a separated list of started mementos. Ilye reached for one, and it was the first on the row. Though, the number it had on it was out of place for where it sat- which is what interested her.

Ilye read Jace's name on the front. "Oh! This is one of Jace's!" Upon flipping the book open, Iko leaned over to gaze at it as well. The notebook was much newer than all of Geroh's obviously. On the first page was a wall of words written in surprisingly nice handwriting. Ilye began to read it quietly since Iko couldn't read it.

"Ah man... Today, I left home to start another travel. The forest has been dying and I heard that there was a blizzard at the Snowhead Mountains. Why, I had to get down to the bottom of this! There's too many odd things going on for it to be a coincidence. I may be putting my nose where it doesn't belong, but what else do I have to do? I left and went straight to town. I snagged some info on the northern land's blizzard and also nabbed up a lovely Moon's Tear (I have no idea what I'm going to do with now that I think on it...). I left Clocktown to make my way up the northern mountains when I saw something unbelievable! Walking down from the mountains was this beautiful dame. Gosh dang, is she beautiful!" Ilye stopped to giggle, before she continued.

"I HAD to meet her! I tried talking to her (I actually really regret that pickup line... I don't know what was wrong with me), but she shot me down right away! But I refused to give up on this angel. I talked to her again- making better conversation this time around, and learned she has been kidnapped from her home! I can't help but feel bad for her, lost and alone in a new place... I told her I'd help her get home, which I think she was grateful for? Regardless... I'm traveling with her! I'm traveling with her! I've never traveled with anyone before. Not to mention... By the gods, she is gorgeous... Right now, I'm at the zora pool. Low and behold, the great fairy at the swamp asked for our help! So, uh, here we are, trying to find her sister. Amazing, right? Iris gets a bit frustrated with me every now and then. Iris can be rude sometimes, and maybe a little hurtful, but I can't help but look past it. I think it's kind of cute (Kind of...). Maybe something good will come of me helping her get home? She clearly doesn't have any interest in me, but maybe I'll gain a friend in this... It is nice traveling with someone, but I kind of hope she'll see that I'm not a total idiot like she says I am... Anyway, I'll wrap this up and write down the rest of today's specifics tomorrow (or later tonight if I can?). I have SO much going on in my head right now, I think I just need a nap."

Ilye stopped by the second page and was grinning and WOULD be sucking her face in if she had a mouth. Iko sniggered and sunk into her shoulders, saying lowly and teasingly- "Ooooohhhhh, someone was in loovvee..."

"He was so crazy for her, hehe..." Ilye finished with a snicker. "This is so cute..."

She turned the page and found a very quick sketch of Iris among some other things. There was a little sketch of someone that looked like Jace off in the corner, though it clearly was not him. They looked very kind however. The drawing was clearly drawn in a rush and probably by memory. Though Iris filled a lot of the pages- both in writing and drawing... Ilye and Iko just chuckled and snickered. As pages went on, Ilye would skim over more writing. She read just how sad he sometimes was when he found out he'd never see her again when she left. Ilye could see how alone Jace was on his travels. Yet, he was willing to let Iris go back home and help her- even if it left him alone with a broken heart. Regardless of how much of a flirtatious dork Jace was as a younger teenager, he was still very selfless and sweet. Ilye just gave a soft smile at this.

"My dad was such an adorable dweeb, oh my lands."

She flipped through pages, seeing many drawings and things beyond the end of their journey three years ago. After all the pages of their journey had ended, it looked like Jace just used it for drawing and practice sketches. Some animals much like his father did, a few plants here and there. Some faces Ilye wasn't familiar with even. Though there were always sketches of him and Iris every few pages. It looked like he tried to draw a portrait of them together, but it was scribbled out- as if he felt it wasn't that good.

"Heh, this looks like some of my stuff." Iko joked, pointing at a scribble. Ilye giggled and she turned the page again.

On the next page, it appeared to be slightly newer. This was obvious by the date on it and by how much better he was. This page had a bunch of little sketches and one big sketch across from it on the neighboring page. The little sketches consisted of still-life practices and animals. Again, there was a bit of Iris on here with some other things he probably made up off the top of his head. The sketches of Iris were all little and of her doing different things. Holding a sword, doing a flip, leaning on a wall. One was her with her bare back turned toward the viewer- scars and everything whilst she messed with her leaves. Looked as though he may have had a reference for this at the time, it was very specific. Ilye kinda shifted her gaze to Iris in the living room- whom was sitting on a chair laid back, taking a small breather from their adventure. Jace was nowhere to be seen as of yet. Ilye then looked to the page across from the many sketches and saw a beautiful shaded drawing of Iris just sleeping. She looked very content, laying half on her side and a little turned over with belly-down. The drawing was not full body however. The covers were pulled softly just below her shoulders with a hand near her face, the other under the pillow. The blanket had a silky shading that looked as if you could reach in and feel it. This was clearly not a noodle-doodle, but something he put a lot of his heart into.

Jace poked his head around the corner and saw Ilye and Iko sitting on the floor. "Ilye, didn't you say you were wanting to wash u-... Oh, you found my father's journal chronicles! These are really cool, you reading one?"

Ilye giggled and looked to him. "I believe this is one of yours."

The Hyrulean archer grinned at Jace. "Oh yes, it is definitely one of yours..."

He walked over with a curious look on his face. "Oh, which one? I have some pretty neat things written in mine as well. Definitely not as good as my father's, but I'm working on it." he casually leaned over to see what page Ilye was on, and his curious expression fell. "Ohhh." they were looking at some rather personal sketches from what became his personal notebook. His face grew red and he politely snatched up the notebook before Ilye could turn the page. The girls looked up to him, seeing his clearly embarrassed face.

"That... One wasn't supposed to be there, haha..." he replied lowly, looking at the page they were on for a moment before glancing at the girls. "This is my personal journal... Feel free to look at the others, but uhh... I'm just going to take this one." on the inside, he was complaining. Though, he couldn't say anything since he DID say they could do whatever they wanted aside from messing with the tapestry. Jace thought this one was still in their bedroom, but apparently not.

While leaning on her hand, Iko glanced up at Jace with a raised brow. "Where ya gonna put it, under your mattress?"

He paused while staring before rolling his eyes and replying. "Pfft- no..."

It was then Iris came over to see what the deal was. She caught a peek at the drawings. "I remember those little sketches, but when did you do that big one?"

Jace momentarily pulled the book away as if he were startled before he realized that it was Iris. He chuckled softly and relaxed. "Well, it was an early morning and you were still sleeping, haha... I wanted to catch that moment."

She peeked closer at it and smiled. She then smirked at Jace and gave him a raised brow. "Drawing me sleeping? Ain't that a little creepy?"

"No! You're beautiful when you sleep! Give me some slack." he joked in return. Iris just giggled and continued to look at it.

"Nice shading, I wish you'd have shown me this one."

"I kinda forgot, haha." he let her finish looking at it before he closed it up. He then turned to Ilye. "Well, if you still wanna wash up, the spring is down the left hall. Just keep going straight and it'll take you there."

Ilye stood up and wiped off her skirt. "Thanks! Hehe, love your drawings!" Ilye commented as she walked by, giggling as she said so. Jace's head sunk a tad into his shoulders. The lad chuckled, blushing a tad at the complement. He then put the journal under his arm, contemplating on where to put it. Iko walked up and poked his shoulder with a casual grin. "Iris- the light of my eyes... She makes my whole world light abloom and fills my heart with songs..."

He just nonchalantly shoved her with a soft grin. "Oh shush, no one wants to hear it from you..."

She just cackled a little, returning to exploring the house to see what other cool or fun things she can find.

Within the hour, Ilye came back from having bathed. When she got back, Keaton and Leif were still resting on the couch, looking to be taking naps. That probably wasn't the case however. Jace was on a chair in front of the table by the couch, sharpening a dagger with a whetstone. Iris was nowhere to be seen, nor was Iko. Skits was also gone, so he was probably where ever the girls were. Ilye was making sure her braid was secured before she stepped into the livingroom. The burrow's den was so quiet, the only thing that could be heard was Jace scraping the whetstone against the dagger's blade. Ilye stopped, looking around the room before putting her attention back on Jace. He was so into caring for the blade that he hadn't even noticed Ilye. His leaves were low and his eyes were focused on the serrated weapon with care. Ilye was pretty sure he was purring, but she couldn't tell from where she was standing. He was obviously very content and relaxed. Ilye leaned over with a hand on her hip, softly chuckling at the sight. He still loved his blades, that hadn't changed.

The girl cleared her throat, finally catching his attention. His eyes grew slightly and he peeked upward through his leaves- though not moving his head up all the way. He gave a quick, "Huh?" before looking up completely. "Oh! How long have you been standing there?" he asked casually, flicking a leaf and smiling faintly through the eyes.

"For the last minute or so I guess." Ilye replied back, tossing the strap of her bag over her shoulder. Jace placed the whetstone on his dagger, which was laying across his lap.

"I'm sorry. I tend to get a bit lost when I'm sharpening and cleaning a blade. I guess you could say it can be somewhat therapeutic in a way. I know, it's a little weird, haha."

She just smiled back with a reply. "Not at all! No different from someone finding relaxation in, say, gardening or carving. So where are the girls and Skits at?"

"They're out in the yard. I think Iko's shooting targets. Iris said she wanted to practice too while I sharpened our blades. If you hand me yours, I'll sharpen it up, as well."

Her eyes grew, giving a soft, "Oh!" before pulling her sword from around herself. She handed him the sheath and he placed it by his chair. Ilye just stared at his dagger for a moment before looking him in the face. "Thank you!"

"Not a problem!" his cheeks puffed under his eyes delightedly. "I'll get to yours after this one."

"Alrighty!" she then began walking outside, still admiring the burrow even as she walked through the exit hall and up the stairs. As she popped her head out of the burrow, she glanced around to see Iko and Iris off on the side of the yard with many wooden planks set up by the trees. Skits was sitting perched in a tree watching. He momentarily spotted Ilye before directing his attention back down to Iris. Iko had an arrow loaded, looking as if she were showing Iris how to properly load the bow. The braided girl reached around herself and pulled her bow around. She figured now that she was out here, she'd get in on this information as well!

"Just make sure you keep it steady and keep your eye on the target. And-" Iko released the arrow, hitting a wooden plank dead-center of the target drawn on it. "Let it go."

"Hang on, let me try something!" Iris waved at Iko to cease firing another. Seeing Iko make that shot, Iris shot a deku nut pin-point onto the tip of the arrow. She then glanced over at Iko, and the archer smirked at Iris.

"Not too bad!" Iko replied, "See if you can hit... That loose hanging branch!" she pointed to a high branch above the targets. It was barely on there, dead and dried. Iris tilted her head a little before inhaling heavily and firing the deku nut upward. It smacked the branch, crashing right through it and onto the mothering branch it was hooked to. The dead piece came loose and began falling- which Iko hit in mid-air with another loaded arrow. Ilye's eyes grew, her brows lifted high from her eyes. Did Iko just hit that tiny falling branch precisely? Ilye rubbed the smooth edge of her bow, definitely not being that good of an aim. And Iris as well was a deadly shot! She had seen some of her mother's skill before, but she thought she gained that over the time they were stuck in Yuriko. Iris just gave Iko a half-eyed grin. For once, she was showing off.

"Dang! That was a small target!" Iko began, complementing Iris' aim. "If you trained a little with a bow, you'd be a dead-shot."

"I've been wanting to pick up archery. Jace works with me from time-to-time at the shooting galleries, but he's not proficient in it."

"Pfft- you should be learning from an expert archer! I'd get you shooting a bow in no time!"

"H-hey guys! I saw you shooting targets out here, thought I'd join you." Ilye finally spoke up, though feeling that she didn't quite belong in the ranks they were in.

"Certainly! I've been wanting to see your arching skills!" Iko replied. Iris chimed in, "Me too!"

Ilye gave a nervous laugh, reaching back for an arrow. Luckily she'd restocked in Clocktown yesterday. "Alright... Let's see..." but she was only thinking 'Time to make a fool of yourself, Ilye...'

She brought herself to aim at a neighboring target, sitting with it loaded for a bit. She closed one eye, focusing the other on the target. She was shaking a bit, before she released the arrow. It flew a bit off-course from where she was aiming, which became way off course, hitting the very side of the target. She hunkered down into her shoulders, chuckling as she did. "Haha, I think the arrow may have been a bit bent, let me try another." she lamely recovered.

Iris and Iko glanced at each other, before turning back to watch Ilye fire another arrow. It was a bit closer to the center, but not exactly. She flopped her bow to her side, shrugging her shoulders up. "If I'm honest, I... I never got to finish my training. I'm still working on it. Besides, this bow is a little different than my bow back home."

Iko placed her hand on Ilye's shoulder, patting it as she did. "Hey, don't worry about it! You're just rusty. You and I can work at it before we leave, right? Iris, you still wanting to hang around?"

"I'll try for a few more, but then I gotta go wash up." she paused to look around the targets, before spotting one she wanted to try for. She clapped her hands together and cleared her throat. "I'm going to try that acid thing again..."

"Acid?" Iko repeated. Ilye chuckled and nudge Iko in the shoulder, saying- "Watch this!"

She stood firm, placing her feet and body in shooting position. Then Iris inhaled, as if she were preparing a bubble. She dug deep, trying to figure out how to pull up the acid. She knew it was in there now! She just needed to draw it out! With exhaling, she blew a bubble, but she internally groaned when she saw that it had a normal somewhat clear coat, meaning it was a plain one. She spat it at the ground before digging deep and blowing another. It had a few pale green splotches falling inside its walls, and she shot it at the target. Her eyes sparkled when she saw it sizzling on the surface of the target.

"Whoa, you can spit acid! Why didn't you tell me about this before? Do you know how useful this would've been last year?" Iko commented, examining the damage on the target. It was still mostly regular bubble, but there were little spots where the acid had exploded against it. Iris chuckled, proudly examining the target with her and Ilye.

"I'd have used the acid back then had I known I could do it. I just figured this out a few days ago." Iris replied before running back to shooting distance. "Move aside, I don't want to hit you all!"

Iko and Ilye ran back to her as Iris charged up another. It was difficult per norm, but she managed and shot another. Iko was practically vibrating as an idea hit her. She pulled out an arrow and held it to Iris. "Spit on this!"

"Um... Okay!" Iris grabbed the arrow, charging up a bubble shortly after. Curious as to what Iko was planning exactly, Ilye leaned over to the other archer with a raised brow before bringing her attention to the arrow. "Are you planning what I think you're planning?" Ilye asked.

Iko just chuckled as Iris spat what acid she could muster onto the arrow tip. Then Iko quickly loaded it into her bow and shot it at the target Iris spat acid at before. It jabbed into the near-center- given Iko was lazily aiming just to see what would happen, and the area where the arrow had jabbed was sizzling grossly for a few seconds. The girls all stared before all at once exclaiming in wonder.

"Ahh yeeeaahhhh..." Iko smoothly replied, looking to Iris with smirky eyes.

"Haha, yeeahh..." Iris added. Ilye had never seen Iris like this. Iris really enjoyed shooting targets, and she found the acid arrow trick to be cool. Ilye herself thought it to be a clever trick! And very painful, ouch! The girls are chuckled to each other as Iris repeated the acid arrow with Iko. Again, they nerded out over it, but quickly learned not to get the acid on the shaft of the arrow or it'd quickly weaken it- oops!

Once she was finally comfortable, Ilye continued firing arrows for practice with Iko as Iris sat and watched on the ground. She was tired from spitting so many strained bubbles. Besides, she enjoyed watching the archers practice. It made Ilye happy as well, for she never had an experienced archer to teach her before. Ilye's mother had self-taught herself, but it wasn't the right kind of training Ilye needed. So maybe now she could get that chance?

It was then Iris finally got up after watching long enough. Iko and Ilye turned to her upon hearing the shift in the grass, and Skits flew down to a closer branch.

"You girls have fun, I'm going to go wash up." Iris spoke as she wiped grass off her new garbs.

"Okay!" Iko chirped. "Hey, when you go inside, tell Leif to get his butt out here, instead of being an antisocial poop."

With a clear roll of the eyes, Iris began walking back to the burrow entrance. "Will do."

She stepped inside, doing as requested and letting Leif know that Iko wanted him to come outside- in a nicer way. The Life Spirit simply nodded before floating out to the yard. Keaton popped his head up for a moment before laying it back down to relax. He didn't say a word to Iris, which was odd. And Jace was no longer sharpening the swords. The only ones left to sharpen was his own sword. She quickly shrugged his absence off, thinking he may be off looking for another whetstone or something... She walked right on through the livingroom and down the left hall. She slipped past their bedroom, not even looking in there as she did. She finally made her way to the exiting "back door" and climbed the ladder leading out. It lead out to an area far off from the yard. When she popped out, one could see what looked to be a backyard with a giant body of water through the trees. Jace had recently built a fence around it, basically saying "HA! This is my property now!". Luckily for them, they didn't have to buy the property! Finders keepers anyone?

She came out of the tunnel hole, given it was the only way into this backyard. Upon walking out further, she was startled by a voice. This startling was quickly halted when she realized who it was. Leaning on the stone step into the small spring was a blond-headed scrub whose name I don't even have to mention. He sat up straight in surprise and smiled, "Why, hello there!"

"Oh yay..." she began, groaning with a tease. "Had I known, I'd have waited."

"What? Figured I'd hop in and get it out of the way." he laughed, "Saving time, y'know?"

Iris placed a hand on her hip and chuckled, "I guess so. You almost done?"

"No, I just got in!" Jace answered. "I don't have to almost be done for you to get in."

"Jace, not now." she remarked, "We don't have time for thi-"

"Which is why you should go ahead and get in! Kill two birds with one stone." he finished, leaning on the rock. "Besides, I'm a little lonely..." he leaned over more, giving her puppy-dog eyes. She was preparing to throw a towel at his face, but she held back and deemed it an unworthy waste of a dry towel. She just continued to give him a hard time and remained where she stood. He leveled his eyelids across from each other in a cool fashion and tried being suave. "Why don't you come and take a dip with me...?" he then wriggled his eyebrows at her.

Upon her remark back, she kept a hand on her hip and leaned sideways. "You're just asking for me to hit you." she gave him the same level-eyed look.

He leaned out a bit with his hands under the chin of his snout. "How about you hit me with a kiss, you sweet thing?"

She chuckled before rolling her eyes. She teased as she shot back at him. "Oh, I'll hit you alright! With my fist."

"Always playing hard to get." he laughed. He tried to think of some other way to poke and prod at her. But then suddenly, he came out with a smooth reply. His eyes were angled and his eyebrows lowered in a saucy manner. His tone dropped lowly as he spoke, "Come, care to join me, my queen?"

Surprise hit her and she stood up straight and raised her eyebrows at him, her visual-furnaces widening at her fiance. Her leaves bristled without her notice, "My queen...?" Her expression softened and she narrowed her eyes at him, replying smoothly. "Hmm... I like that..."

"W-wait, what?" he sat up straight. What did he say? He wasn't even paying attention! "Did I say that?"

"I don't care who said it, now move over." she finished as she placed her towel down by his. He just stared as she prepared to get in, bearing in mind that they couldn't stand there and tease each other all day. But he kept pondering on what he said. He said that? Obviously she liked it, but where did it come from? He just spat it off the top of his head, apparently.

She undressed and stepped into the spring. His expression fell to a small grin and he gave a confused chuckle. She just gave him a look that said, "What?"

"Well, haha, I won you over, huh?" he recovered semi-cooly. His eyes momentarily fell to her scarred shoulder as she sat down by him, given her shoulder was nearly touching his. She leaned against him and nudged the side of her snout to his face.

"You could say that." she replied with angled eyes and a flirtatious tone. His face ran red, but he didn't know why... Wasn't the first time she relaxed in the spring with him. Normally it took more teasing and prodding, however. Part of him felt very victorious. He watched her dip her leaves into the water as she began cleaning them, and he shook off his surprise and leaned back with his arm up on land and around her. No loss. If anything, it was more of a gain, so he just gave a casual grin that said, "Yeah, yeah... I did this..." and he gave a small, "Huh."

Meanwhile, over time, Iko and Ilye remained out in the yard shooting targets and talking. Leif was out there now with Skits, floating above Iko as he watched the girls practice.

"You're being too hasty and you're not calm. Relax, take a deep breath, and just let go. Keep yourself cool and try not to tremble." Iko spoke. She was leaning back on a tree as Ilye stood up front and fired an arrow at a target. It was a little off-center again.

"Crap!" she scolded herself. She loaded another and tried again. It was a little closer, but not on the mark. "I'm not sure I can aim that precisely."

"Sure you can! You just gotta keep practicing. No one is just naturally good right away! How long have you been working with a bow?" Iko was walking over, pulling Ilye's arrows from the targets. She walked back over and placed the arrows in Ilye's outreached hand.

"I had been practicing for a few years now on and off. Had I known I'd need my bow when I came here, I would have grabbed it."

The Hyrulean archer moved some of her "hair" out of her face as she answered. "Oh well, you got an awesome bow from the Light Spirits! I bet that thing is much better than your original. It's a nice bow!"

"Thank you! I like it myself, it's really pretty." she looked over its smooth white surface, running her hand along it. Iko readied an arrow and began shooting at a blank target. It cut the air and smacked the target dead-center yet again. It made Ilye feel just a little inferior and she looked at her bow.

"Just keep working at it. And you'll get it right on the mark!" Iko loaded another and fired it. But due to a rude blow of wind, the arrow's course was thrown off and missed the center. "Eh-?"

Ilye's head popped up, shocked that Iko had actually missed the center. The archer tried once more, but the wind came by again. This ushered fourth a frustrated growl from Iko. One more try lead to another off center shot. "Agh, so long as the stupid wind isn't blowing the shot off target!" Iko finished with another growl. Ilye giggled softly, before firing another. It caught the wind and hit the center, and she gave a delighted, "Ah!"

"Heh, lucky shot." Iko blew a raspberry- at least, made the sound. Leif hovered off of Iko's head and to Ilye.

"It was a splendid shot. It is about time someone beat Iko at her own game- even if it was by the wind's deciding." he finished with a small chuckle.

"Like I said- lucky shot." Iko teased. Ilye didn't take the joking to heart and she laughed.

She walked over and retrieved the arrow, chuckling as she walked back over to Iko. "I probably wont be very lucky again, haha!"

They fiddled away with their bows, tossing arrows as they bantered back and forth. Ilye became more acquainted with Leif and Iko as they did, and vice-versa. Safe to say, Iko was still having a hard time accepting that Ilye was from the future. It was still a lot to swallow, but she tried hard not to talk about it out loud- having not known if Jace or Iris were near. Of course, unknown to her, they were both at the spring having well-needed alone time. Keaton was practically tapping his claws from how long it seemed to take for everyone to get prepared for the road. He could hear the thoughts of everyone on all parts of the property, and he eventually had to shut off all connections. But he did end up getting tired of Jace and Iris specifically taking so long. Without a word, he hopped off the couch and trotted off into the back hall and disappeared into the dark- literally.

He reappeared in the fenced spring yard by the exit hole. The two were joking around and tossing each other about, tackling and rough housing. Jace attempted to pick Iris up, but she tossed his sopping wet orange scrunchy in his face, making him step back and guffaw. The fox simply shook his head before speaking up.

"Hey, children!"

Iris squeaked and shrieked- "Keaton!" and pushed Jace over by accident, as she was preparing to tackle him. He fell over backwards into the water after stumbling a few steps with a surprised, "Ahhh!", which prompted Iris to turn around and say a quick, "Oh, I'm sorry!"

Jace then sits up, his brows furrowed and his eyes wide angrily. "Excuse me! Privacy not a thing in fox? What kind of person interrupts private matters like that!? Get out!"

"I'm glad you both are feeling the love, but how about we get going before Twilight eats everything? Need I remind you both that you are being hunted? Right now isn't exactly a good time to be out in the open alone. You bunch of twitter-pated fools, save the rough housing for less dangerous times."

Jace sat up straight, rubbing the back of his head. Iris felt incredibly awkward, sitting down and sinking into the water given it was the only thing she could think of doing.

"Geez old man, give us a break. We haven't been home in a while... We were just having a little fun, c'mon now. And couldn't you have just, I don't know... Talked through the fence?!"

"Fun should be had on the road. Having personal time and banter will be far more rewarding once everything is back to normal." The fox replied simply. "Get geared up and let's go. You were still planning on seeing the royal family after all, and daylight is only burning."

Jace cut his eyes and wrung out his feather grass-leaves before also wringing out his scrunchy. He fastened his grass-hair back into his typical ponytail before tossing his gaze back to the old fox. "Fine, fine... Sheesh. Now do you mind?"

"I'll be waiting out front." it was then he vanished in a puff. Iris just stared in that direction before sinking down into the water again.

"Ah geez." She mumbled. "We got carried away didn't we?"

"Eh, forget him." Jace threw his hand out and growled. "But... He does make a point. Sorry, I started it, haha."

"I-It's fine." she rubbed her arm and stood. "I'll, uh... I'll get the towels."

"Thanks, babe." he replied softly. He then growled at Keaton under his tone. What a way to ruin something... He stepped out and Iris handed him a towel. He grabbed the towel and proceeded to shake his head of the water in his leaves, throwing droplets everywhere. He tossed the towel over his head and gently ran it back over his leaves. "Who does he think he is!? I'm going to have me a new pretty pelt soon..." he grumbled with a straight face as he continued running the towel over his head.

"That was..." Iris began, thought Jace finished for her.

"Rude?"

"It was, erm... Yes, and embarrassing." she cleared her throat soon after, having tossed the towel around herself. Her fiance dried off his back as he continued on.

"Hmpf... Could've been a bit more respectful... Why does he have to be along for this adventure? Of all the no good, disrespectful dogs I've ever seen!" He still rambled on even as he was putting his pants on. He hopped to stick a leg through, still going on. "Do you know anyone who would do that? I don't! Especially not at their own home! Even Auran has more common sense than that- and he has zero street smarts and knows nothing about social cues!"

She wasted no time to start getting dressed, putting her skirt back on. She cut in on Jace's ranting. Keaton made a good point, though yes he could've been a bit less... Intrusive. "We should be heading back. The others are probably all waiting for us..." Iris answered sheepishly. She turned away to pick up her top with the towel around her shoulders. Before she could do much else, Jace wrapped his arms around her and placed his head next to hers. He had his cheek pressed to hers.

"We'll pick up on part two later I guess." he said lowly. She tossed his vest over to him. He quickly let go of her and caught it before it could hit the ground.

"Yeah, we'll pick up on part two later." she giggled with a sheepish smile in her eyes.

He pulled his gaze away to put his vest on and then his shoes. As he finished up, Iris was also finishing up. He ran his hand down her arm till his hand met hers. He grasped her hand and softly pulled her to himself to peck his snout against hers. "Love you, my queen."

She laughed at him and rubbed her finders over his. "Love you, too... My handsome knight." she replied with a tone of slight tease. They slipped their hands away from each other so Iris could put her gloves on.

Jace still didn't know where he came up with that, but he just chuckled and was reminded that he left his gloves inside. So he'd just get them on their way out. And they did soon leave to head inside, pass through, grab their stuff, and popped out into the front yard. Jace had grabbed his whetstone so he could finish sharpening his sword later.

"So you finally decided to join us?" Keaton commented with a grin. He was very aware of how mad Jace was. The lad squinted his eyes into a glare and he pointed at Keaton.

"I'll deal with you later... Careless fox..." he growled.

"Hylia is my witness, they live." Leif added in. Iko was just putting her bow around herself, as was Ilye. Skits flew down to Iris, landing on her head. He cawed at her with question, and Iris just shook her head.

"It was nothing, just took some extra time." she replied. Keaton chuckled, replying with- "Took some extra time alright..."

"Anyway." Jace cut in to change the subject. "Let's go so we can get this stupid thing over with. I hope you all don't mind if we stop by the palace for a short while to check on the royals?"

"Not at all! I'd love to meet them actually since I never got the chance to last time!" Iko exclaimed excitedly.

From there they left for the woods after Jace and Iko put away the training boards and covered the hole to the burrow. They passed through the woods and into the village. There wasn't much going on here today, but one could tell there was still panic going on about the Twilight. People were talking amongst themselves, and they overheard folk talking about the dark wall that came and went recently in concern. Jace himself hoped they could prevent it from happening again... In the middle of his curious gawking, he ended up bumping his shoulder into someone on the opposite side of where he was looking. This startled him and he saw this other scrub stumble forward a bit.

"Oh! I'm sor-r-eyy..." his apology drooped in tone as he realized that whom he'd bumped into was Gewl. She had been walking through holding a bag with something in it- probably some groceries. She glared at Jace before her eyes went wide. She chuckled, crossing her arms as she did. "What? Finally came back and realized you made a mistake after the last few years?" she commented shortly.

With a tilt of the head, he then laughed. "What?" he then stuck his chest out and placed his hands on his hips. "Nope."

She gave a mocking expression, and this attitude only worsened as she saw Iris approach. She cut her eyes at Jace just before her sight was caught on a gleam across his scarred chest. Her eyes widened and she uttered a small, "What?" before she looked to Iris to see that they were wearing twin necklaces- expensive necklaces! Her eyes continue to widen before her brows furrowed.

"What? Y-you-" Gewl reeled back, spotting a slight content look on Iris' face. Jace held a smug look upon Gewl's realization.

He replied, "Yeah, we're engaged."

"You... You-!" She growled at Iris. "A wild scrub like you doesn't deserve such a thing! Why, a mad scrub like yourself has no business parading around with such an expensive necklace! You'd just break it! Besides, you probably don't even understand the value of it. Last I checked, you didn't even know what marriage was!"

Iko came up, getting between them rather quickly. "Hey, lay off little miss rich britches. So you best take your whining and beat it- before she beats you!"

Gewl snarled the top of her snout down at Iko. "The heck is this guy?"

Iris and Jace heard a small, audible- "Oh no..." from Leif. It sounded like the voice of a ten or eleven year old child. Of course, that didn't really register for them- they were too busy watching Iko wind up. Iko's eyes grew before they were cut sharply at Gewl. She brought her shoulders up and growled. "What did you just call me-!?" guy? Guy? GUY!? Iko's rush leaves began to puff up- which Jace and Iris noticed up-front. "Okay, now I'm going to beat you!" she slung her bow around, startling Gewl to some degree. Jace was just about to step in, but Iris stuck her her arm out in front of him, before reaching and grabbing Iko. Iris actually picked up Iko to move her out of the way.

"I'll beat your gaudy leaves straight off of your face!" Iko flailed about, throwing her bow around toward Gewl. Luckily she could not reach the lass due to Iris holding her.

Iris chimed in and commented softly, "Back down Iko, I'll handle this." She placed Iko off to the side and faced Gewl. Iko grumbled, "Fine..." as she put the bow back around herself. Leif plopped onto Iko's head as if trying to calm her by patting has tail on her head.

"Gewl, this has gone on long enough. Can't we just be at peace?" Iris said calmly. Though Gewl didn't seem to be very interested in making peace.

"No, you all are crazy! Keep that short friend of yours on a leash, take your weird family, and just beat it already! I've been sick of your garbage ever since you showed up here! It's because of you this village has been changing so much. Not only that, but you took him away! I had everything! So no, there is no way in this swamp that I'd ever be friends with a baba like you! So j-"

Iko was practically vibrating from anger, and one could see by the look on Iris' face that she was quickly losing her patience. She finally just balled up her fist and let it fly right at Gewl's face! Jace jumped from the audible collision, his eyes bugging out. Gewl reeled back and placed her hand to her face with a squeak. Keaton walked over, having been watching the scene the whole time. Skits' jaw dropped and Iko made a VERY audible, "OOHHHHH DAANG!"

Ilye had her hands to her snout. She'd never seen Iris do such a thing! Though Iris' temper bubbled over to the point that she couldn't help it anymore. Iris pulled her fist back to herself, rubbing it as she huffed a snort. "C'mon guys."

Iris began walking away, not even checking to see if Gewl was okay. She was still standing, so that was all the assuring she needed. Jace hastily followed, running up next to Iris. He kept looking back and forth between Iris and Gewl before he spoke to Iris. "You just punched her in the face!"

"Yeah, and?" Iris quickly answered. Iko pattered up next to her, exclaiming indistinctly with Leif following her closely. Ilye was not far behind with Keaton, wincing as she passed Gewl by. The girl was still holding her face, groaning lowly.

"You... Punched Gewl in the face..." Jace wasn't sure if he was proud of Iris handling the issue, or a bit worried about what backlash will come from it. "There could've been a more civil way to handle that. Like, I don't know... Walking away and ignoring her?"

"You want civil? How about she tries it? She'll get over it. It was a soft punch anyway. If she can't handle that, then that's her problem. Besides, she was wasting our time anyway." she answered cooly. Her tone did not match her previous fired up action. It was very clear she had a better handle on her tone than usual. Iko's brows rose and she looked to Iris curiously.

"That was a soft punch? Daannnggg!"

Jace just shook his head, placing his arm around her.

"I really hope that doesn't come back to bite you later."

"You tend to forget that I bite back, so who cares." She finished.

Keaton trotted up next to Iris, chuckling as he did. "Iris can clearly handle herself, I see."

"Pft- Clearly." Ilye added with a small nervous smile. Even as they left the area, Iris never looked back. Gewl just glared, holding her face as she did. It was no secret that Iris was done being bullied and was through listening to Gewl hate on everything Iris held close...

Iris continued with leading the pack with wide steps and pride with everyone not far behind. The gang made the trip quick given the daylight they'd been burning. And even as they walked on through the woods, through the shrine, and by the palace walls, all was peaceful. Until of course Jace spotted a familiar someone... Sitting a ways from the shrine doorway was a fellow sitting on a lily pad over the swamp water, staying out of the way of the palace gate guards. He was leaned over with his hand rubbing his leafy goatee in contemplation. He was a slender guy, not too intimidating. He was very regal looking with his natural leaves. He even had branches on his head which stuck upward in a crown-esque shape.

"Haha, Auran? What're you doing out here?" Jace chuckled. The regal scrub jolted stiff like a board and made a rather pathetic sound of surprise before whipping his head to look at Jace, only to make a quick "SHHHUUSSHH!"

Jace motioned everyone to follow and he hopped across the water's surface to get to Auran's lily pad. Iris stopped on a nearby one with Ilye. Iko could not water hop- strangely enough. She jumped from the shrine entry, landing on a nearby lily pad and just used her bow to push herself along till she reached everyone. Skits of course was just flying about. And Keaton? He was mocking the water hopping, but was just floating. Auran stared bug-eyed at this for a moment, then looked to Iko- pondering over the stranger. His eyes momentarily fell on Leif, uttering a small "What the-?"... Was he some weird type of fairy? He didn't see any wings, and the orb had a little more than just a typical round shape. Rather, a round... Thing... With three protrusions along the back.

"What? You a tour guide now? You have quite a party with you." Auran mused.

Jace laughed, "Nope, just a bunch of oddballs trying to save Termina. Again." his finishing word fell flat, before he continued. "I'll tell you about it later. So what're you doing out here? Aren't you supposed to be in the palace?"

"Well..." Auran's face puffed up, his face running red. "I... Needed some fresh air..."

"... Unattended by guards?" Jace added. "For what reason?" he began prying teasingly. Auran looked away toward the front palace yard before clearing his throat.

"Reasons." he chirped.

The blond lad gave his typical smirk toward the others before he poked Auran in the shoulder. "What was your reason? Hmmm, was it a commoner?"

"No! ... Yes... Maybe... I'm not supposed to be mingling with commoners y'know, so just get off my case bro."

"Hhmmmmmm, Rosana?" Jace teased once more, leaning down to Auran's level.

"SHUSH! My dad would have my head if he heard you say that! ... Yeah... I've been checking in on her and her family after that black wall went away... I'm trying to get back into the palace, but the guards are back on duty early. If they catch me out here, they'll tell my dad. Oh man, he'd be steamed..."

"Alright, leave this to us... Iko, you mind helping us out here?" Jace asked. She pushed her lily pad over and rubbed her hands together.

"Will do!"

Keaton sat up on his bum while floating, groaning lowly. "I wanted to toy with them... Oh well."

"Thank you guys! So uhh, who's Iko...?" Auran questioned as he watched Iko row herself to the front palace yard. "I've never seen her before..."

"Just a good friend of ours. We'll have to introduce you to her, haha." Jace replied with his hands behind his back. Ilye came up by Jace and Iris called out lowly, "Is this a good idea?"

"She can handle this..." He snickered.

Leif hovered above her, having a two-way connection with Iko as he spoke to her. "I am not sure we should be doing this."

"Nope, but I'm doing it anyway." she replied with a smirk. Leif groaned at the expression...

She stopped the lily pad by the docks and hopped up onto the path. The guards stood stiffly even as she drew near. She had a casual expression on her face, one that said she had a question. Just before she spoke however, she was very quick to notice the guard on the left. He was a peculiar fellow with a blocky-shaped body, little legs, and little feet. He had an oval head with a beautiful mane of leaves all along his head down his back. He'd have been intimidating had he not been just around Iko's size. He had fairly long arms though, which looked a bit funny. And right at the bottom of his snout, on the ring still no less, was a tiny patch of itty bitty leaves. She found a way to start the distraction. Leif bouncing in the air caught their eyes, and they had the same expression and inner questioning that Auran had...

"I-..." she paused, as if she actually had something to ask. Her continuation consisted of something else. "Huh... What a strange soul patch you have there." she finished, placing a hand under her own snout. This odd fellow's completely round eyes widened before he got up in her face.

"Hey... Hey... You makin' fun of my flavor saver?"

Lief was dreading her reply, and a reply she gave. She placed a fist on her hip and leaned forward and poked him lightly. "Only if there was anything about it to make fun of."

The guard's leaves bristled and he puffed up. "C'mere you little punk!"

Jace was peeking over from the side of the palace walls, as was everyone else. Iris and Skits slowly glanced at Jace and he slowly glanced back at them with his eyes wide. He'd be biting his lip if he had one.

"Oh no, what did I do?" he uttered. Auran was snickering and trying very hard not to laugh. Jace just added, "What is she doing? Is she picking a fight with a guard?"

Keaton floated by him and casually replied. "You didn't specify how she were to distract them, soooo..."

"Haha, I like your new friend!" Auran chortled. Ilye had absolutely no idea what to think. She just mumbled, "Ooohhh my gosh..."

The guard to the right of the gate looked back and forth between the two, before calling out to the other guard as he began running out after Iko. "Tulio, no! Get back in position!"

"No, Miguel! I'm gonna put this shortstack in his place!" Tulio exclaimed. Iko ran out across the docs, with Leif thinking "Oh, here we go again!" to himself. Iko sniggered and replied, "Tulio... Isn't that another variation of Tulip?"

"When I get my hands on you-!"

She dodged him whilst he lunged to grab her. "What? With those mittens of yours?"

"Tulio!" Miguel called again, "You were given an order!" he then roared at Iko- "Sir, I demand you leave the vicinity this instant!"

The lass had no a care in the world, laughing as she did just as she was told. Rather, more rudely than Jace intended... Miguel finally ran out to chase the two, giving everyone enough time to run inside the palace without anyone's notice. And now that they were inside, Auran shoved everyone off to the garden and ran to the palace gates. He cleared his throat, straightened his leaves, and stood straight.

"Guards, what is the ruckus? Quit playing around in get back in position!" he demanded. He had a surprisingly ordering tone, one that did not seem to match his typical tone of voice. The guards both jolted in place before hastily scurrying back to their posts.

"My prince, we did not see you there! There is a trouble maker amongst us!" Tulio replied, bowing as he did.

Iko stood out on the docks. She had her fists to her hips, waiting for Auran's reply. He glared, making yet another order. "You common heathen, I demand your presence at once!"

"Blast, I've been caught." she faked surrender and entered the palace hall, passing the guards by as she did. They just glared before Auran promptly ordered them to advert their eyes and pay attention- and they did.

"I'm going to have a word with you..." Auran growled. He then winked at her, and she returned with her typical smirk. He walked her to the garden with everyone else. Once they were far enough in, Auran began laughing.

"That was priceless!" he guffawed. He nudged Iko in the shoulder, "I like you already!"

"I like you too, Princely! You're crafty for royalty!" she answered cockily. "The name's Iko Vipin! And you're Auurraann..." she waited to see if he had a last name. He shook her hand and replied- "Auran! Just Auran."

In the middle of their greeting, Iris cut in and crossed her arms at Iko. "You could've gotten in serious trouble! What were you thinking?"

The archer replied with a nod of the head. "I offered a distraction. You're welcome."

"She did as she was asked," Ilye added, "So we should be thankful for that much I guess." She finished with a nervous chuckle.

"See! Braidy over here gets me!" Iko exclaimed, "At least two of you appreciate it." she was clearly joking around per usual.

Leif said something to Iko, but Auran could not hear his telepathic words, for he was not easy for Leif to connect with. Iko turned to Leif and replied, "What? I do that to the Hyrulean guards all the time. What makes these guys any different? Aside from their temper, that is."

The prince glanced between the two, before he leaned over to Jace and whispered to him. "You're friend is talking to a soundless puffball..."

"Oh no, he's talking. You just can't hear him. It's... Hard to explain." Jace replied, rubbing the back of his head.

"This is Leif! In short-" Iko replied, "He's got trust issues."

She prompted Leif to bap her on the the head. "What? You know I'm just joking around." this was followed by another bap.

"You all are a truly strange bunch." Auran answered with a curious smile. He looked at Leif, causing the orb of energy to move back a little from how close Auran got. "Are you some type of fairy?"

"Yes aanndd nooo... That's a story best left for another time." The lass answered for her friend. The orb gave a soft nod, as if agreeing with her reply.

"Ah man, I'd love to hear more..." Auran pried. Keaton was very fast to cut in.

"I'm afraid we can't sit around and visit too long, your highness. If you could take us to your parents, we'd be happy to explain. And we were aiming to make sure things were okay, as well."

"Sure thing! Mom'll be happy to see that you guys are doing alright anyway! She was recently wondering where Jace, Iris, and Skits had been."

The bird cawed as he landed atop Iris' head. He had his chest out with a smile on his beak, as if saying "Hey, they remembered me!"

Iris was quick to reach for him, picking him up and holding him to herself. The bird brought his head up to her palm, prompting a pet while she cuddled him close. Auran proceeded to lead them all into the palace and right into the throne room. Acacia was watering a potted flower by her throne, and Barum remained seated where he usually was. He snarled once he saw Jace and his band of misfits, and that it had gotten quite large.

"Leavance, why do you bring all these strangers into my throne room?" he growled to Jace. The lad just leaned back, looking elsewhere and sighing before bringing his attention back to the king. He was politely sarcastic- which was bold. "I'm glad to see you too, your highness."

He was huge deku built very strongly. He had a mane of leaves around his neck, head, and back. His eyebrows formed back into amazing branch-antlers. His hands had to be as big as Jace's head, holding a staff nearly as tall as himself. He had a long, slender face with a curved snout and sharp angled eyes. He just snorted at the reply, seeing as Acacia held her hand up to shush him. She walked down and hugged Jace and Iris.

"My children, I have been worried about you! My my, there was a terrifying occurrence quite recently. The whole kingdom got covered in darkness. It left soon after, but there were colossal black monsters everywhere! I had feared the worst..."

Jace and Iris returned the hug, before Jace answered. "We're fine, ma'am. Are all of you okay? No one hurt? And where's Aritha...?"

"Aritha is up in her room, she is fine. As are all of us, thank the heavens."

The blond boy offered a relieved sigh. "That's good. I'm sorry we didn't visit sooner, we've been very busy..."

"So I had hoped. My, when the land was attacked, I didn't know what to think! What was it?"

Conversation was made and Jace spoke with the queen. But all Ilye could do was gawk... She never met the royals before. It was such an honor! When she heard Acacia ask about the Twilight however, Ilye snapped out of her stare and answered for Jace.

"That was the Twilight, your majesty."

Acacia's lovely eyes grew and she brought her sights to their friend. "Twilight?"

The girl's face flushed- she did NOT feel worthy of talking to someone of such high status. "Y-yes. It's been attempting to surround all the borders of Termina. We've been off fighting it by awakening the Light Spirits."

"What a load of rubbish!" Barum called. He got up from his throne and stepped over to them. He towered above them all, glaring down to Ilye specifically. "The Great Spirits are only a myth. A legend!"

"But it's true, your highness! And they are the only ones who can bring light back to the country." Ilye argued. "Minami came to us and told us to help his brothers, so we have."

The rather large deku stamped his staff and growled, "If this is all true, then where is that fabled hero from the Moonfall days? Why get such puny commoners such as yourself to do a hero's job?"

"Parden me," Iko added. "Does it really matter? I can assure you, your whiney-highney, that what they say is true."

"Iko! Respect!" Leif scolded. Of course, Barum and Auran did not catch this. Acacia did, however, due to her kind heart. She was pure enough, it was easy for Leif to connect well with her.

"W-what did you just call me?" Barum reeled back. He was too shocked that she would talk to him in such a way, that he didn't know how to respond to this short little clothes-wearing scrub. Acacia placed her hand to her snout and giggled, eyeing Barum from the side of her sight. Acacia then responded for Barum, given she could communicate with them better.

"My, my... Off saving the land again?" she mused.

Jace rubbed the back of his head and chortled softly. "Haha, yup... What timing."

The queen just shook her head. "The gods seem to not be giving you poor things any breaks. Clearly you're doing well! We haven't seen this Twilight return yet, so I have faith that you all can do it! By the way, your group seems to have grown." She turned to glanced over the group, specifically between Iko, Leif, and Ilye.

Ilye bowed shakily, unsure of how she should be talking to Acacia. "Your majesty, I am Ilye."

It was then Acacia rose Ilye to her feet- much to Barum's grumbling. "Please, hold your formalities and bowing. You may call me by my name, Acacia. Not sure my husband feels the same, but I am fine with it."

"A-alright, yo- I mean, Acacia." Ilye stumbled on her words, standing up a little too straight. Skits cackled at her behavior, causing Ilye to glance at him.

Iko gave a quick nod, smiling as she did. "You got it ma'am. You may call me Iko, Iko Vipin."

"Ahh, you remind me much of my son here." She gestured to Jace. "Hmm, both in dress and name. Not many have last names around here. What a lovely name it is."

Leif gave a respectful nod, speaking kindly, waiting after he was sure she was finished. "Excuse my friend. My name is Leif. It is an honor to be in your presence."

"It has been lovely meeting you all. Would you kids like to stay for a while? Perhaps we can all talk over a cup of tea?" Acacia asked, fixing her leaves as she did.

"I'm sorry, but we can't hang around too long. We have one more place to go before we're all done." Iris answered. "But we'll definitely come back for some tea after."

Barum finally got bored with conversation. He excused himself and returned to his throne. Acacia merely shook her head at her husband before turning to the others. "Tell me, where might you be heading next?"

Jace was on the verge of replying, but a scream from a guard outside cut his reply off. His leaves stiffened back and he reeled around to glare wide-eyed outside. A commotion grew and guards began running in from all sides of the gardens and outside. They were standing at the entrance, barricading the door.

"What's the meaning of this!?" Acacia exclaimed. A guard came running inside, gasping for breath.

"Your majesties! We must call in more guards! We are under attack!"

"Barum!" Acacia called, "We are under attack!"

He flew from his seat and roared. "From what!?"

The guard trembled and answered hastily. "W-we don't know! Something large flew overhead very fast, taking out several guards around the gardens already! One of our gate guards have already fallen as well! The large creature swooped in and took off with one. We can't tell if it is more than one or not!"

"Don't just stand around! Gather the others!" Barum ordered.

It was all so fast, not much action could be taken before the group caught sight of guards outside being shot with arrows from above. But from what could not be seen! Jace instantly knew however and he gruffly exclaimed a swear before turning to the royals. "Run and hide, now!"

Iko removed her bow and wasted not a moment to run outside with Leif and Keaton following. Three fighters out front and leaving three fighters inside. Guards began pouring in from the hall as workers ran through screaming in terror from outside.

"There's a monster!" a maid cried.

"We're under attack!" a gardener warned.

Outside, Leif had taken to his physical form- startling many guards in the process. They were quickly assured that he was not the monster, and this was soon proven when the monster showed up again, flying overhead. It breathed a stream of fire down in front of a line of guards, catching many on fire. This lead to the loss of a few when they dove into the swamp to douse themselves. Iko turned to Leif, and he glanced off into the sky. She didn't have to say a word for him to understand what she was asking him to do.

Using his senses, he tried to feel for any kind of presence in the sky. Among the silence and the mumbling guards- or injured guards, the air grew deafening and eerie. And it was hard to get a reading among the many, many guards also present. There was clearly a presence, but no one knew where. However Leif was quickly picking up on something coming in from the left. He also heard whooshing with his sensitive ears, like wings riding the wind at an incredibly fast pace. Keaton was off on the side in the gardens, also trying to listen in on what ever it was. He was quickly made aware of the foe they were fighting however by reading the thoughts, and he growled. He could sense something very different, something evil... And it was a familiar evil... Leif could feel this, but it definitely wasn't familiar. His ear flicked and he glared off into the sky.

"There is dark energy nearby..." Leif uttered to Iko. "It's coming in from the left..."

Iko glanced up at him for a second, saying "Why is it always the left with Terminians?"

"Now!" Leif called to her. She aimed up, and sure enough a large shadow began bolting over the hall. With the release of an arrow, it jabbed the beast's chest, causing it to roar out and swoop away. It was gone for a long time, before it came swooping back in. From a far distance, arrows came flying from the monster and pierced two guards, killing them on spot. But Iko got in another shot as well with Leif's help, hitting it again in the wing. After this, it vanished once more sloppily... And it remained gone... But the archer never let up, for she still noticed that Leif was not at ease. Guards clamored and scrambled for their injured or fallen comrades. The hall was filled with noise, making it hard for Keaton and Leif to listen in. And there were far too many deku around for Leif to pinpoint the monster's presence, and far too many thoughts for Keaton to read.

The dark energy had vanished, leaving Leif and Keaton to ease up slightly finally. Iko finally put her bow around herself, now taking the chance to help Keaton get some guards to their feet. Leif stood still though, still looking for the presence. All seemed quiet for him. His ears shifted and he listened upward, but he didn't hear a thing skyward.

"Leif, a little help!" Iko exclaimed, attempting to help move a guard. He had an arrow in his leg and was having difficulty walking.

Inside, Jace, Iris, and Ilye were standing with their weapons drawn. Skits had flown off to safety, resting up on a root nearby. He attempted to use his senses as well, but there was too much for the poor bird to really focus on. The royal family- minus Aritha, who was still in the safety of her bedroom presumably, were being surrounded by guards. Jace and his family were up front, facing the doorway in case something came busting in. He let up his position however when all he heard were guards needing help. The sound of battle was no longer present. His eyes fell to Iris, and she gave him a small shrug. Ilye was trembling, unsure of what was going on... But something was clearly amiss.

Crash!

rubble came falling in from the ceiling. There wasn't much room for reaction when the giant beast came crashing down into the throne room, right next to the thrones. It made a somewhat stumbled landing before throwing its arm out at part of the guard-made shield to rid its presence of the scrubs. The guards exclaimed and cried out as they were sent rolling and flying. The dragon held its other arm out forward, glaring directly at Jace and his crew. A few guards began approaching with their spears out and ready to attack, but another scrub had climbed up to stand on the monster's outreached arm. The deku had a bow with an arrow already loaded, sending it flying at an incoming guard. It was a kill-shot. He was soon to make another at a guard coming in from the opposite direction.

Jace growled under his breath, preparing to run in and fight alongside Iris and Ilye. He took off, not wasting a moment more. He was seeing red. This man not only broke in and harmed and killed people, but put his family in danger. He wasn't going to stand for Skreemin's attacks any longer!

"It's you! You traitor- so you return!? Skr-" Barum roared. He stood and was beginning to move, but he was quickly stopped with an arrow piercing his chest. "Ach-!" and there he fell.

"Dad!" Auran cried. Acacia fell to catch the king as he rested against her arms and grunted in pain. He was little bigger and thicker skinned, so it wasn't a kill shot. But it definitely could have been had it been moved just a little more to the side.

Skreemin hopped off Drigos' arm, and was quickly met with Jace's blade not far from him.

"What, not happy to see me?" Skreemin growled, quickly moving to allow Drigos to slam his arm down to Jace. The boy was sent rolling off, though he kept a grip on his sword.

"What have you done!?" Jace roared. "No more! I'm not letting you get away, not today!"

"Quit trying to be a hero!" Skreemin replied. "I could say the same to you!"

It didn't take long for a fight to break out. Jace kept his fight with Skreemin, especially since Skreemin had now made it far more personal than before. Drigos attempted to attack Jace as well, but Iris and Ilye weren't going to make that easy for him. Iris used her method in tossing deku nuts to blind Drigos, but he was far more prepared and used his wings to block the attacks.

"It's about time we got you cornered!" Drigos growled. "We'll make this quick, so don't count on a long dance."

"Ew, a dance with you? No thank you!" she sliced her sword at his arm as he attempted to slash his claws at her. Drigos' claws raked against her sword and sent sparks off it. Ilye quickly hopped up Drigos' back, attempting to jab the blade into his back. She'd be using her bow on him, but it would be a waste of arrows. He was so thick skinned, and she could tell it wouldn't do much damage given he was still fighting with some of Iko's arrow penetrating him. Drigos threw himself sideways as he attempted to throw her off, but she held onto the shoulder of one of his wings. She sliced her sword at part of his wing, causing him to roar in pain. He finally shook her off shortly after, before standing on top of her while trying to keep Iris off him.

Most of the remaining guards were still staying close to the royals, while a few had disbanded to fight alongside Jace. Skreemin definitely had his hands full, but did not mind one bit to put arrows in the guards. Luckily there weren't many, so it wasn't hard to get them all off his case. What made it hard was Jace mercilessly slashing his sword at Skreemin. The lad yelled angrily, attempting to stay within a close distance to Skreemin so he couldn't use any arrows with his bow.

"What do you have against me!?" Jace growled. "If you know what's good for you, you'll go back to where you came and leave well enough alone!"

"I have plenty of reasons to put an arrow between your eyes, kid!" Skreemin jabbed an arrow into a nearby guard before hastily smacking Jace's sword away with the thick side of his bow. He used this moment to slash an arrow over Jace's chest. It ripped at one of his chest scars and he cried out and coiled away to hold his chest. And now with no guards brave enough to leave the king and queen's side, Skreemin had no one else to defend against. His and Drigos' attack was so sudden, that no one had time to prepare. Jace's chest was bleeding sap and he was panting heavily. He shot his head up, his eyes sharpened and full of rage. But his retaliation was halted when he saw Skreemin aiming an arrow at Acacia.

"... N-no..." Jace uttered.

"Oh? You care for this one?" Skreemin replied lowly. He kept his aim even as he added. "Would be a shame to lose the queen, wouldn't it?"

"Please stop this, Skreemin..." Acacia pleaded sadly. "I-It doesn't have to be this way-"

"Shut up, Acacia!" he exclaimed, only glancing at Acacia for a second. He mainly kept his eyes on Jace to make sure the boy didn't do anything funny.

"If you harm a leaf on the queen, you wont be leaving this place alive." Jace threatened.

Skreemin pulled the arrow back, "I don't think you have any place threatening me right now..."

In that moment, Drigos could no longer take the double assault of Ilye and Iris. Ilye had escaped him during Jace and Skreemin's scuffle, and Iris and her had been teaming up against the massive lizard. In a flash, Ilye had been surrounded by a large hand. Drigos gripped her whole body and tightened his grip to suffocate her.

Jace's eyes darted to Ilye when he heard her yelp. Jace was stuck, what could he do!? If he didn't stop Skreemin, he might kill Acacia! But if he didn't stop Drigos, Ilye would surely die.

Iris took it upon herself. She dashed toward the draconic offender. She ran up the back of Drigos, bringing shock to the beast. She aimed her sword for the soft spot between his horns as a final blow. Drigos was very quick to respond and he ducked down, causing Iris to lose her footing! She fell off Drigos before she could make the stab. The dragon made a final blow himself and balled up his fist. As if swatting a fly through midair, he full-force thwacked the falling young deku-woman across the room. She collided with the wall giving a shrill squeak in agony.

"N-no, stop this!" Jace cried out. The attack was too much for him to watch. His instinct of protection was causing him grief, for he could not do a thing for anyone- not all at once. His mind was not on the battle anymore, but was with his comrades and family. Jace was turned facing Iris now. She rested unconscious on the floor, and Jace couldn't tell if she was breathing. He then turned to the queen- his mother figure, whom had an arrow pointed to her. Ilye squirmed and wheezed. She tried desperately to warn Jace to keep his head in the battle, but she could not speak. As she struggled, Skreemin reached behind himself and drew one of his last three arrows... The Shadow Arrow. Jace was distracted and not paying attention, giving Skreemin an opportunity.

"Aghh, J-J-Ja-!" Ilye wheezed. She finally squeaked out a warning shrill enough for Jace's attention to be caught just as Skreemin pulled back his bowstring- "Jaacee!"

The silence of the room was eminent. The cry forced the boy to turn around and he heard the strings of a bow strain. At this moment, Iko and Leif were making their way up to the throne room. Leif zoomed ahead of her, for he felt the unease and distress and he knew something was going down. And they could now that they'd helped those outside, but it was too late. Just as Jace faced Skreemin, just as Iko stepped into the throne room, just as Leif could comprehend what was happening, and just as Iris was coming to; it was too late.

It was like slow motion... Jace's final view was a deep darkness flying toward him. He had visions of the portal from the island suddenly. He had visions of an ancient room surrounded in stone pillars with a pedestal at the center. He had visions of being judged and tormented, taunted and punished. But punished for what? What crime did the boy commit? His eyes grew full of fear- for only darkness overtook his field of view from all he was seeing. For him, it was all ages slow. For everyone watching, it was all in a split second... Jace's life flashed before his eyes- No. A life of another. The sins, the crimes, the tragedy; A tragedy that took away this person's own sanity and life. Yet, was it Jace himself? Or someone he once knew? Someone he blamed perhaps? Someone who made him suffer? Did he do this to himself?

"NO!" Ilye screeched in horror. Iko was frozen in place, horrified and in shock. The arrow transformed into a pointed ray of darkness and pierced into the side of Jace's head. Auran whimpered in terror and backed up to his mother, shielding his father and mother. The blond boy screamed in pure agony as darkness overtook him. Even as the evil aura devoured him, he cried out and exclaimed in pain. Drigos took a step back and growled and Ilye was to tears, screaming in devastation at the enemies.

"You monsters, what have you done!? WHAT HAVE YOU DONE!? All eternity, the world! All of Termina! Have you no care!?" Ilye screamed. "No!"

Skreemin watched the destruction he orchestrated with that arrow. The Leavance lad soon fell to the ground, trembling and shaking in pain as he struggled to hold himself up on his hands and knees. What little movement he made, he reached out as if wanting someone to help him, for someone to take away his suffering and agony. Before long, he just stopped... He stopped, before falling to the ground. In Drigos' grip, Ilye sobbed and huffed. Drigos wasn't sure what he had just witnessed, but Skreemin completely missed the dragon's expression of horror. Just what happened? Why did Drigos suddenly feel like he made a mistake? An ominous feeling fell over the beast and he dropped Ilye. She did nothing to help upon landing, for it was too late. She sat back up on her hands and knees and sobbed at the floor. By now, Jace had laid where he had fallen, devoid of movement. Ilye looked upon her left hand, and her eyes grew. Part of her hand had a small transparent hole through it! She was disappearing!

The only one standing and willing to fight back had a fire in her eyes that no one could put out. A rage so deadly and so horrible that she could not contain. Iko's hand twitched in rage and the next thing she knew, her bow was in her grasp. She was witness to the crime that Skreemin had committed- and she wouldn't let him get away with it. Skreemin was drawing his second-to-last arrow now to put Ilye down.

"The prize will be mine..." The sniper uttered. Drigos moved aside, not bothering to put a stop to it. However he no longer wanted a part in this either...

The arrow was set free, but the arrow snapped clean in half upon impact with another flying object. Ilye's head flew up to find Iko running in front of her. Skreemin grunted in surprise and then growled lowly. Iko deflected his arrow with one of her own! It was a battle of archers now.

"It's a pity such skill is going to waste." Iko spoke with acid in her tone.

Iris was trying to stand up now, doing everything in her power to make sure her fiance was okay. She saw Jace's lifeless body on the floor and this terrified her. Seeing that Iris was struggling to get to him due to how weak she was from being unconscious, Leif assisted her by carrying her. He too was worried that Jace was no longer with them... They caught Skreemin's attention for a few seconds.

"I thought you were dead?" he uttered about Iris before looking back at Iko. "Don't bother standing in front of her. You're asking to be killed as well and making yourself free game, kid."

The archers stared each other in the eyes. A darkness drew over Iko's face, her glowing eyes peering out at Skreemin intensely.

"You've brought harm to my friends, thus you have stepped over the line. You involved me the moment you made the first shot. What's worse, you've harmed and killed innocent people! I wont let you get out of this without consequence." Iko's tone dragged angrily like rocks. Tears rolled down Ilye's face as she remained on the ground. She was hiding her hand with her other and was crouched over watching the scene.

Drigos soon began... "Snipe, I think we best retre-"

"Shut it, Scales! I'm not leaving till every one of these brats are gone!"

"That's enough! We'll return when we are better armed!" Drigos roared.

Skreemin ignored Drigos' words and gripped his bow. He reached back for his final arrow, and Iko mirrored this action. Skreemin set the arrow in place. He was so close! He could take them all out! Just kill this archer and use her arrows to finish the rest- nothing to it! The Hyrulean archer had also placed her arrow in her bow. The two stared each other down. A countdown could be heard through the silence. There was tension in the air and acid in their stares. A showdown of archer's mastery.

In a flash, the archers released their arrows at a matched speed!

Shink!

An arrow had lodged into Iko's right shoulder!

Shink!

Iko's arrow pierced Skreemin's shoulder all the same!

Though hit, he still held the pride that he managed to pierce Iko's supposed dominant shoulder. She grunted in pain before tearing the arrow out. Normally, this would not be such a wise action. Any archer would normally know this, thus is why it surprised Skreemin that she would risk further damage by doing so. He could tell she was shaken, but was she truly that mad? Yes, she was. She kept an acid glare on her target. With the arrow she had previously been hit with, she loaded it into her own bow with intent on using it against it's own master.

Now realizing that he had no ammo and was at the end of his rope, Skreemin deemed the fight over. He grunted a clear swear for having to leave without finishing them all off, but pride filled him upon seeing Jace laying dead across from them.

"...Fine... I've done my work here today. Scales, take us out of here."

Drigos turned for the exit with Skreemin, but Iko wouldn't allow it.

"You're not going anywhere!" She exclaimed promptly before letting the arrow fly. Calls for Jace to wake up from Iris pulled at Iko's attention and she missed her target. It still slit through the side of Skreemin's suit and raked his side heavily at the least. Iko went about chasing them out, but sobs from Iris caused her to freeze during her chase. She looked back at Iris as she hung over Jace, then flapping of wings stole Iko's attention again. Drigos took flight with Skreemin atop his back. Though Skreemin left wounded, he still had a proud smirk in his eyes... He managed to get a lot done. Sinking some arrows into some guards and the king felt rewarding. And even if the death of Jace doesn't tear the group apart over time, then Skreemin will finish the job another day, that much he was sure.

"Jace, Jace wake up! WAKE UP! Please, open your eyes! Look at me! Please, please!" Iris screamed. "Not again, not again... Not again!"

"Iris..." Leif spoke softly while placing a hand on her shoulder. Her pain was causing him pain, but given the situation it was understandable. Skits flew down to her, staring at Jace and nudging his hand with his head. He cawed at him before looking to Iris with heartbroken eyes. She continued hanging over Jace and weeping. Ilye remained laying on the floor staring at her hand and hiding from the room's eyes. Her hand slowly began dissipating into nothing as the hole spread. Jace was truly gone, he was dead. Not a lick of breath weaved through him any longer. Iko ran over to Jace and stared in horror. She didn't believe he was dead, he just couldn't be... But Lief could confirm that Jace was not there anymore. What he was seeing was an empty shell... He saw no soul...

"C'mon, Goldilocks, you're tougher than that." she spoke up, hoping somewhere in there he could hear her. But to no avail, Jace did not answer.

Iris lifted his limp form and gently shook him as she held her hand behind his head. He remained limp in her arms, lifeless and empty. Tears eased from her eyes and she sobbed over his body. "Jace, no... P-please..."

Palace guards were piling around the injured king, the queen, and the prince. Auran finally stood and pushed the guards away to walk near to the group, standing over them to look at Jace. Tears welled in the prince's eyes, for his brother was laying dead before him, limp in his own fiance's arms.

"Why!... NO! No... N-oo..." Iris' heart snapped and she laid herself over Jace, nuzzling her snout under his. There were no fatal wounds on his head or anywhere else, but he was gone. She didn't understand how and she didn't understand why he was taken from them, but he was. She snarled her face, giving a momentary angry growl as she pulled him to herself, and she looked up and exclaimed with a sobbing shout skyward. This scream melted into more crying and she fell apart to lean down and burry her face down against his.

Realization of this hit Iko at last, and she was stricken with horror as she watched Iris try to wake him, to no avail. Her eyes were wide and becoming glassy. And with this, Leif could feel a darkness in Iko. She didn't know what to think, but she could only see Skreemin with an arrow penetrating him. Iko had never lost a friend this way, but it woke up a dark, vengeful side of herself. She stared in horror and watched her friend sob over Jace's limp form. It was not hard to see that Iris lost a piece of her heart today. This enraged the Hyrulean Deku Archer to witness the destruction of this bond. Among those gathered around them, Iko finally became the last to fully realize that Jace was dead.

She finally dropped to the ground and gave an infuriated shout, pounding her fist down on the dirt. The noise startled Leif, Skits, and Iris- given she was right next to Iko. Iris remained holding Jace to herself, eyeing Iko from the corner. Iris' vision was blurred with tears and she was huffing. Iko continued pounding her fist on the ground for having not been on time. She was emotionally compromised, not knowing what else to do. She balled herself up to hide her face, and rage could be heard in her tone as she exclaimed indistinct things. Her shouts finally died down into small words, however no one could hear them. If anyone could see her face, they'd see that she was crying, though quietly. She was not willing to show her tears...

Iris' broken sobs had calmed, though she herself could not comprehend anything that was going on around herself- she was beside herself... She just stared at Iko blankly before looking back down to Jace's face- that was the only thing she could really register. He had clearly died in pain, for his face still looked miserable and sad. His leaves were not held up and spiked back proudly, and they were not twitching with life. They just hung over his face, hanging low toward the ground. The curtains were down, and all was over. It was like the sad hanging of the foliage from a weeping willow. She brought her hand up to his cheek and caressed it softly, which normally would have instigated a smile from his eyes. But alas, they just remained motionless.

This lack of response just brought more pain to her heart. This wasn't like three years ago when she thought he was dead after fighting the dragalfos... No matter how many times she could say "I love you...", he would not return it this time. Another tear trickled down her cheek, landing on her hand and rolling down onto him to disappear into the fabrics of his new vest. She just kept staring at him as if waiting to see his eyes open again, petting her hand down the side of his face longingly.

Within the emotional circle, Leif was having a hard time staying around... It was hurting him greatly. The Life Spirit watched as Iris cradled her significant other, before turning to Iko and seeing her hiding from the scene. Leif was shaken by what he saw in Iko... He turned his attention to those around them, and everyone just either stared in disbelief or had their head bowed. Acacia was crying, as was Auran. The king was even saddened, but he was hurting too much to really respond. Leif placed his hand on Iris' back but he had no words. No one did anymore. And out of respect, much remained unsaid. Eventually, Leif could no longer handle the emotional pain. He had to move away. For his sake, he had to get out of that circle of emotion, or it would do him more damage than good. He immediately left the vicinity, heading out to the gardens where he could take in less of the tense emotions... There was just too much. As Jace's loved ones mourned over him, other guards were bringing in the injured and killed, taking them to the palace's infirmary. Jace was the only one not being taken care of, for Iris would not let him go.

Keaton was standing in the palace doorway, having been watching since everyone gathered around. The fox had his eyes cracked open and his mouth open slightly, not even speaking as Leif hurried past him. He finally crept up next to Ilye- whom was just sitting on the ground with her back turned to everyone. Her eyes were hot with tears and a burden of failure was crushing her. She looked to Keaton, her destroyed expression clearly asking for help... But the fox could not do a thing. Given no one else was, he walked over and cuddled next to her, wrapping his tails around her in a hug and laying his head against the side of hers. He saw her hand had vanished by now and it was going up her arm. She'd probably be gone by the time everyone were to finally attempt to figure out what must be done.

"I-I... I-I l-love... Y-ou..." Iris' voice cracked.

Jacon did not respond, but she was finally starting to understand that he wouldn't. But she wasn't going to let go of him- she just couldn't. He never let her go, so why should she? She cradled him and turned her face sideways to nuzzle into his leaves- her nose half-buried in his golden leaves. She just cried while running her fingers through his leaves as she would when they were usually alone. "I wont live without you. I can't... I waited so long... To... Be with you..." her voice softened like silk, and she continued to nestle her snout to his leaves. She closed her eyes, taking in his scent simply as she took in a stuttering breath- refusing to accept that it'd be the last time she'd be able to.

Silently, Iris just whispered to him... Uttering prayers and wishing life to come back to him. But even as time passed and they mourned, he just remained as he was.

He didn't shoot back up. He didn't open his eyes. There was no spirit anymore. Eventide had cascaded outside and the sky grew dark- and with the leaving sun, was the departure of Iris' ray of light. The last Leavance son has now faded... Fate has won and the final leaf has fallen.

As they mourned, Iris finally let it set in... But she could not accept it. A few guards kept offering to take Jace, but she still refused to let him go. Iko by now was moments away from snapping. She had her eyes open toward the ground, cut into angry glares. Her eyes burned with tears, but her hands burned to put an arrow between Skreemin's eyes. And soon, she would set out to do so. Skits hopped up onto Iris' arm, climbing up and cuddled next to her face. She leaned her head toward him, not being able to look into Jace's face any longer. She couldn't stand the thought of him being gone, but he was... The moonlight peered in over everyone as it had risen into an early night sky through the hole in the roof that Drigos had made. It was a rare early moon, here to blanket the moment with its soothing gleam. The gleam of Jace's necklace made Iris look at it, and she placed her hand onto his bleeding chest to hold the promise of their marriage in her hand.

As if lightening struck, Jace's body jolted in Iris' arms! Her eyes flicked open wide and everyone exclaimed from the movement. Skits gave a startled caw and flew back. Her glassy furnaces were open wide as she gawked at him. A choked, broken, long breath steadily filled him. He struggled for breath for a moment and choked and wheezed.

"Ah, J-Jacon-!" Auran called. Iko's head shot up upon hearing him cough for breath, and her Hyrulean spirits stared at him in disbelief. She had no words, for words were lost on her. He was just dead!

Iris continued supporting him. For sure, he was dead seconds ago. Iris was mortified, he was just dead, yet he's breathing again. Not only that, he seems to have forgotten how to take in air for a minute... Iris helped him lean up and he continued wheezing hoarsely. He cracked his eyes open as they stared into Iris' face. It was the first thing he could've seen. His eyes were glazed over and everything was blurred. His voice cracked and he reached up to her before attempting to look around. He couldn't see anything and he was in severe pain.

Ilye stared with eyes like dinner plates at the scene. Keaton himself was astonished. How in the god's name is he still alive?! Keaton was quick to leave Ilye's side to retrieve Leif. Ilye kept staring before she looked to her hand, and it was returning to normal.

Emphasis on was. The hole stopped healing once it was a tiny speck... But why? She looked to Jace from afar before stumbling to her feet to run to him.

Jace quit struggling for air, but quickly returned to trembling in pain and exclaimed. Iris' concern never wavered and she took in deep breaths. Iko finally dropped her bow beside herself and scooted over to pull Jace into a hug, much to his surprise. He wanted to say something, but he couldn't find the words. She just held him silently in a hug, before Iris leaned over to hug him with Iko. This resulted in her hugging Iko as well. Ilye came to skid and stopped by them.

"Thank the goddesses, you're alive!" Ilye cried.

Jace was wheezing and he shut his eyes. It was concerning that he wasn't speaking. Iris let him go to give him room to breathe, and Iko eventually released him. She just continued to look down. A mixture of relief and terror had washed over her. But she was mostly still shaken... Everyone was. Iris was almost tempted to ask if something was possessing him, given the last time something like this happened. But she wouldn't...

"We need to get him to the infirmary with father... He doesn't look well." Auran commented.

Iris gave a small shaky nod and helped her once-dead lover to his feet. He struggled due to the pain and cried out upon moving too much. It was due to this that Iris and him never moved beyond standing. Keaton and Leif darted into the throne room, only for Leif to freeze half on the way. His sharp golden eyes adjusted to what he was seeing... Jace was standing and moving. He was breathing! But something was different about him, but what? Leif could sense something growing from him. A vibe or aura of some kind... As could Silver Keaton. It was still Jace, so they knew not to worry, but it didn't give off a good sign. He finally forced himself to run the rest of the way and he stopped by Iris.

"What's wrong with him?"

"I-I don't know! He's hurting really bad, but he's having trouble talking!" she exclaimed in pure fear.

All she knew was that he was hurting very badly. Jace kept his eyes squinted shut and he whimpered in pain even now. A word hadn't left his snout since he'd been awake, which worried not only Iris, but everyone else. No sass remark on him being alive nor jokes.

Iris, though having trouble keeping herself standing, she let Jace use her as a crutch and tried walking him to the back room. Eventually, Leif offered to carry him and Iris allowed him. Guards who were fine gave Leif scared looks. What was he? Leif also gave his assistance to the king, whom really needed help. Guards didn't like it, but the queen assured them everything was fine. Auran gave assistance to his father from the other side.

Iris walked next to the group when she heard Jace mutter something. Leif and Iris looked to him in question, and he repeated.

"Make it... Make it... Stop... Make it stop... I-It... Hurts..."

The duo were unsettled by Jace's whispering.

The ex-hyrulean reached for Jace's head and gently stroked his forehead. "What's wrong? What hurts, baby...? Where are you hurting?"

They were turning into the room as Jace tried answering. It came out as a forced grunt however and he tensed up. "It... Hurts..."

Down the room of cots, guards among other palace people were rested in there. The room was full of tense, sad air. Leif rested Jace on one of the cots and Iko walked up next to said cot. She placed a hand on the bed and glanced at Iris across from it before bringing her eyes down to take a deep sigh. Iris kept her hand rested on Jace's forehead before momentarily seeing the king rested on a cot a few beds down. He seemed fine, thankfully, aside from having a arrow shoved in him. Auran placed his hand over his father's hand and the queen stood by his side. She placed her hand over his face and sighed. Auran groaned and he looked down. "I'm sorry, father..."

"My son, I'll be fine..." Barum groaned. He was obviously hurting, but he smiled regardless. "Just let the men do their work and I'll be around in no time."

"Barum... You'll be okay, I promise..." Acacia whispered. She and Auran glanced across to Jace, showing concern for him as well... Especially for his odd behavior.

Jace had his head turned to look at them. He had his eyes squinted open. The lad seemed to be having trouble focusing on them, but he worried for his adoptive father- even if Barum didn't care much for him. "Y-your hi-ghness..."

"Don't worry about me." Barum said lowly in pain. "Just focus on yourself..."

Auran stared with unease at Jace. It was weird for him to say his brother was alive, still.

At least two palace doctors entered and were shocked upon seeing just how many beds were taken with injured workers and guards... Not counting those who had been killed that day. The two started with Barum and Jace. The king was examined and being taken care of while the other moved Iris, Iko, and Leif away. Skits flew over to Iris and sat on her head, watching as this caretaker looked Jace over. Ilye remained looking through the doorway as Keaton held his paw on her shoulder sadly. The caretaker was female and knew Jace at least, and was kind and gentle.

"It has been a while since I've taken care of you. The last I had to, you were a little boy." she said in a comforting way. She could tell he'd been through a lot and tried to calm him. He squinted and groaned.

"What am I even doing back here...?"

"You don't remember lad? You... You took a bad hit from what I was told. You were assumed dead."

Jace's eyes widened as if he remembered... He saw himself leaving them, he remembered seeing a light. He even recalled some faces after he lost sight of Iris and them. He never reached that light fully, but he had the memory. He assumed it was all a dream. He recalled Iris screaming his name, and he called to mind everyone piled around him. He remembered seeing everything before it all went black from above... Next thing he knew, he was near a light with a few others he recognized... He thought he saw his parents, with someone else he didn't recognize at all... Pain was no more and he felt enlightened. Then suddenly, he was waking up in agonizing pain and wheezing desperately for air as if he hadn't tasted a breath in ages, it was horrible. He looked to Iris with pain-watered eyes, shock taking hold of his expression.

"Was... Was I dead?"

His significant other took a deep breath. Her worry-filled spirit-lit orbs looked into his and she gave a sincere but slow shake of the head yes.

His caretaker seemed disturbed. She took a moment to look at the king's cot, but he was being veiled by a curtain so his own caretaker could do work and remove the arrow. Jace's caretaker looked upon him and examined him even more. Regardless of how Jace acted, there weren't any fatal wounds on him. Aside from older cuts and scrapes, nothing indicated anything broken or horribly damaged. He had his chest scar torn open, but it wasn't fatal.

"Sonny, where ya hurting?" she asked.

Jace groaned, "Kinda everywhere, but my head is killing me."

She placed her hand on Jace's cheeks then felt of his forehead. She gave a small "Hmm..." then finished up her exam on the lad. "You seem fine. Nothing that needs to be fixed or tended. How peculiar... You got some cuts, scuffs, and the lot. And the same old scar you've always had. You're free to rest here till you're back on your feet."

Jace's heart felt as if it stopped and his eyes bugged open. Same old scar? She must be talking about his chest scars, given he's had those since three years ago. Though, he doesn't remember this specific caretaker tending to him then, so she wouldn't have ever seen them. But there was a period where he was knocked out back then, so perhaps then. Iris had the same expression he did, though Leif and Iko were a bit lost as to why. Ilye peered into the room upon Iris and Jace's silence. He was proven to be fine, so why so quiet?

Breaths increased and worry amplified, before Jace just couldn't sit there any longer. He flung his legs over the bed and tried to get up in a rush.

"Jace, stop! You need rest!" Iris exclaimed over his rushed behavior.

Iris' hands fidgeted and went to help him. He stumbled over to his belongings and rushed for his sheathed daggers. Scrambling in behavior, he pulled out one of the blades with hurried gasps. All went still upon looking at his face in it's scuffed reflection. Scuffed regardless, it was clear enough. Was it relief or dread? Iris couldn't tell. He stared and stared. After the moment, he tossed the dagger away and into a nearby puddle of water as if the blade had burned him. Iris was frantic in trying to calm him. He rested on his hands and knees, gasping as if he'd seen an image unimaginable.

"No- no! No!" he exclaimed over and over. Iris couldn't take it anymore- she grabbed his arm and pulled him up gently.

"What is the matter!?" she cried.

He was breathing hard and tears welled up in his widened eyes. His eyes trembled and he stuttered. Iko and Leif darted over to see why he was panicking. Iris read his face and knew something was wrong. She reached for his face and tried to calmingly shush him. Her hand caressed over his right cheek.

"Calm down and tell me what's wrong..." she said quietly. Skits had flown over to check out the commotion and tilted his head worriedly. Jace gave no answer and Iris continued petting her hand along his cheek. It moved up next to his eye and she tried hard to get an answer out of him. Her questions stopped once she saw a slightly miss-colored something under her hand. Her heart dropped and she didn't want to move her hand. But... She did. And under it, by his eye and beneath his right covering leaf... Was an X.

To Be Continued...

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All credit goes to their rightful owners...