They reappeared next to the spring in Kakariko. Link looked around hesitantly, dreading what he might see but suddenly something shot at him and knocked him to the ground. Sheik chuckled as Link looked down to see Colin wrapped around his middle.
"I was so worried! Did you see all those monsters that trashed the northern gates? We all were climbing up the slope to Death Mountain when a Goron came rolling up to tell everyone that Kakariko had been breached! And we hadn't heard from you in so long!" shouted Colin though his voice was muffled since he had his faced shoved against Link's shirt.
Link sat up then put an arm around the distraught boy. Sheik walked away to give them privacy.
"Hey, you should know by now that it takes way more than a few monsters to take me out. Where is everyone else?" asked Link he looked around for the other children.
"They're in Renado's house. I was with the horses because I didn't want them to get scared when everyone was coming back into town," muttered Colin. Link smiled down at him.
"I'm sure Epona and Maelstrom appreciated that. You think you could tell me what happened?" asked Link as Colin leaned his head against Link chest.
"Well, Beth and I were sitting by the spring while Talo and Malo were standing near the shop arguing about something. All of a sudden a Goron comes rolling into town and says that there was a mass of monsters heading straight for here so he closed the southern gates," said Colin. He looked to his right when he noticed the other children came rushing out of Renado's house to join them.
"Then Renado came over and gathered us all together with everyone else that couldn't fight and told us to go straight toward Death Mountain. There we had Goron's waiting for us and they helped us up the net that covered the cliff, but we didn't get very far before one of them rolled up to us and said that intruders had broken through the northern gate! Then like, right after he said that, another one comes rolling over and says that they were leaving! It was so weird! We all eventually came back down and nothing was out of place…it's like they were just messing with us," said Colin.
Link was startled when all four children formed a tight circle around him. He expected such behavior from Beth and Colin but not Talo and Malo. Beth wrapped her arms around the arm that was loosely hanging around Colin's shoulders while Talo sat on the ground and leaned his back against Link's left side. Malo sat the farthest away but still close enough to fiddle with his left boot. His heart went to these children.
Maybe I should just bring them to Hyrule Castle Town. Who would watch them though…?
"Well, those monsters were lucky that they left! Because I would have given them all a good thrashing!" shouted Talo proudly, feeling more confident with Link there. Malo just gave his brother a dull look.
"Yes…you would have stood up against all sixty or so of them and still have the nerve to…give them a good thrashing. You can't even stand being near cricket for more than a second," said Malo. He quickly turned to talk to Link before his brother could retaliate.
"So, its about time you got here. I assume that you had something to do with the monsters actual disappearance from the town?" asked Malo.
"No, I was actually at Hyrule Castle getting reinforcements. I'm not surprised though. Those monsters fled like the cowards they are before the soldiers could even leave the front gates of the castle," said Link.
"I thought that's why it happened…" muttered Malo. Link blinked confused.
"Why what happened?" asked Link. Malo rolled his eyes.
"Really? You don't see the real reason why they left? Because their target wasn't here anymore," said Malo.
"Are you saying I was their target? I wasn't here when they were attacking Kakariko to begin with Malo," said Link.
"Well, they wouldn't have known that would they? Unless of course their target just happens to come riding up to the front door. I guess you also didn't notice that not a single one of them stayed by the southern gate? Even when it was about a poke away from falling off its hinges? No, they all went after you," said Malo. Link stared at the kid.
Oh Goddesses, could this…shadow really be so desperate that it will send monsters to every place that it thinks I'm going to be at?
"But…how…how would they even know? Sheik had teleported us away!" said Link. Malo raised an eye brow.
"Well, they came busting in here screaming and hollering, not long after you did teleport away. They looked like they wanted nothing more than to burn this whole place to the ground. Everyone stood ready for them near the bomb shop…I know this because, unlike everyone else, I didn't flee when word reached Kakariko about invaders. I stayed near the ledge of the hot spring and watched from my high perch and guess what happened? As soon as your Sheikah friend joined the others, the monsters stopped and this mass confusion seemed to happen and then it looked like they were looking around. Some actually pointing to your friend. Then they just turned around and left," said Malo. Link felt cold.
This place was almost destroyed because of me?…And they associate Sheik with me now? These bastards are not that smart! Or that organized!
"Something doesn't seem right…there's no way they would know that I wasn't here just because I wasn't on the front lines. Why would it matter if Sheik was with you guys? They should at least be used to the image that I go solo," said Link. He frustratingly ran his hand through his hair after taking off his cap.
"Someone has to be giving them orders…these guys are not smart enough to pull off a stunt like this and then not go charging in recklessly," said Link. He stuffed his cap back on his head just when Malo rolled his eyes.
"Well, I could ask around. There's probably someone in the capitol that might have an idea who could be interested enough to risk convincing a horde of monsters to attack a town. If they really aren't that smart then I imagine that it probably isn't that difficult to make some sort of deal," muttered Malo. Link's eyes widened.
"What?! Malo you are not wandering into Hyrule Castle Town asking about shady deals that could involve a horde of monsters! That is incredibly dangerous considering the kind of people you would have to talk to! That is pretty surprising coming from you actually," exclaimed Link. Malo snorted.
"Of course I'm not going to wander around the capitol, especially in a time like this. I'm not an idiot. I have plenty of employees that live there though. Tessy works for me as of a few weeks ago as well. I have ways of finding out without ever leaving Kakariko," said Malo with a frown. Link couldn't help but laugh in surprise.
"Tessy?! The lady that works in the hotel here? Goddess Malo. Once you get going there's no stopping you is there?" said Link with a smirk. Malo shrugged, but Link caught the smug look he hid as he stood up.
"What can I say? I'm just a natural entrepreneur. Anyway, I should get going. I've got people to talk to and my shop won't run itself," said Malo. He then walked toward his shop. Link shook his head as he watched Malo.
I wouldn't be surprised if I came back to this place ten years from now to find that this kid had built his own empire.
"I don't care if they were coming here to get you! You could still beat them all up and keep us safe better than the entire Hylian army!" exclaimed Beth. Link sighed as Talo nodded vigorously to agree.
"I will always watch over you guys, ok? Sometimes I won't be here though, but that is because I'm out there trying to make sure that you don't need me to watch over you anymore. Don't worry. Soon we will be heading back to Ordon to live out our boring lives without a care in the world," said Link with a smile. They all laughed at the image. Even Link couldn't keep a straight face.
"Who am I kidding? We will probably always have some kind of action happening around us. Beth will be an elegant noble lady, complete with fancy dresses and jewelry. Talo will be a famous swordsmen that is known worldwide. Colin will be renowned for his equestrian skills and racing around on his fearless steed. Epona will be so jealous," said Link laughingly as he tickled every child he could get his hands on. They erupted in laughter and pounced on Link.
They eventually settled down and stood up to dust themselves off. Talo smirked before turning to run toward his younger brother's store. Beth and Colin smiled up at him before turning to walk away. Link snickered as he heard Malo yelling at his brother to not touch anything but then raised an eyebrow when suddenly noticed that Colin was holding Beth's hand.
Wow, gotta comment on that next time…finally made a move huh Colin? Good for you.
Link smiled softly as he shook his head and then searched around for his missing guide. He almost missed him but soon spotted him sitting on the edge of the ledge where water was pouring into the spring. He seemed to be just sitting there with his eyes closed. The horses were nearby and Epona lifted her head to neigh at him as he approached her. He ran a hand down her face fondly before walking up to Sheik.
"What are you doing?" asked Link curiously. The Sheikah opened his eyes and turned peer down at him.
"I'm meditating. It helps sharpen my focus and relieves stress," said Sheik. Link nodded thoughtfully.
"Alright, should I come back then? We do have some rather unsettling news, but I can tell you later," said Link. Sheik shook his head and leapt from the ledge to stand in front of Link.
"There's no need. I've got some news of my own though. You first?" asked Sheik. Link frowned.
"Is yours bad? Cause I think I would rather have some good news right now," said Link.
"I'm afraid I don't know if it is good or bad, but it appears that the meeting you interrupted was something important. The princess has decided that you should be present for the rest of it. It will not happen until tomorrow morning though," said Sheik as he petted Icesis as she laid comfortably on Maelstroms back.
"Tomorrow morning? Why not the afternoon, when everyone's not so tired…" Whined Link. He was obviously not liking the fact that he had to get up early for a meeting.
It's probably going to be so boring too…
"Link, not everyone thinks that getting up early is a form of torture. Some people actually enjoy starting off their day when it isn't so hot or just wish to get things done so they have the rest of the day to relax," said Sheik. He chuckled as the hero rolled his eyes.
"Whatever. It's not like we have any leads on where to go next anyway…oh my Goddess!" Link suddenly shouted, making Sheik jump out of his skin.
"I forgot about my teacher! Man! He was right next to Hyrule Castle Town too!…um, hey Sheik…you think you could teleport us to the western entrance to Hyrule Castle Town? Or I could just ride actually, if you don't want to," said Link as Epona approached him and nuzzled his hand.
"I can take you if you wish, but I can't teleport us back. My ability is starting to become unreliable so I need to rest," said Sheik.
"Unreliable? What do you mean? Are you alright?" asked Link worriedly.
"Yes, I'm fine. It's just that one of the first signs of severe magical exhaustion happened earlier so id rather not risk it. A days rest and I'll be back to normal," said Sheik. Link gave him a confused look.
"When we teleported here, we didn't land on the spot I was focusing on," explained Sheik.
"Where were you trying to take us?" asked Link. Sheik turned to nod toward Renado's house.
"There. I thought speaking to the shaman would be the quickest way to find out what happened," said Sheik. Link gave him a weird look after comparing the distance from the spring to Renados's house.
"But that's like ten, maybe twenty feet from where we landed anyway. It is really that big a deal?" asked Link.
"Now it's ten or twenty feet. The next time it will be fifty feet. The next time one hundred, and then finally I could teleport into an entirely different town then I had wanted and die instantly from the strain of traveling farther then my body can handle," said Sheik as he raised his eyebrow.
"Alright. Duly noted. Looks like we are going for a ride girl," said Link as he patted Epona's shoulder.
"I can still take you there Link. I will just walk back with you," said Sheik. Link shook his head and then playfully pushed him toward the hotel.
"Nah, it won't take that long. Besides I'll being worrying that you when I should be focusing on trying to not get my ass kicked by my teacher. I'll see you when I get back alright?" said Link. Sheik frowned, but finally nodded.
"Alright…but if I hear that you went gallivanting on your own then your never leaving my sight again," said Sheik as he crossed his arms. Link rolled his eyes and laughed.
"Hey, that's for the after party when we've already beat this new enemy," snickered Link. Sheik just gave him a pointed look but couldn't help chuckle a bit at the hero's carefree nature.
Sheik suddenly remembered something. He turned and gestured for Link to follow. He led the hero to the side of Renado's house and grabbed a shield that laid against the wall. Sheik held it out to Link. The hero smiled, taking the shield gratefully.
"I thought you should have that if we are going to be handling large scale enemies like this in the future. You best put it on Epona for now though. The weight against your shoulder will most likely aggravate your wound," said Sheik.
"Thanks," said Link as he approached Epona. He attached it to the side of her saddle. She snorted, not liking all the extra weight on one side of her but seemed to understand why it needed to be there.
"Well, I'm gonna get going. See you later," said Link as he mounted Epona. He urged Epona immediately into a gallop. Sheik watched him go. He was already worrying about what could happen to the hero while he wasn't there. He shook his head though. He was going to meet with an ally and will have plenty of soldiers in the area when he does so.
So, he picked up his snoozing cat and headed to his room. While he was walking he realized that Link never told him his own news. He guessed that didn't matter. He could just ask him when he got back.
Link grinned as Epona galloped out into Hyrule Field. It had been months since he and Epona let loose. He let her run free as he lifted his head to feel the wind against his face. He heard the Bulblins shouting to each other nearby and soon heard their mounts charge toward them. He laughed as Epona seemed to make a game out of avoiding them.
He eventually approached the bridge leading into the city but he decided to ride around toward where he knew his teacher would be waiting for him. He spun his head when he noticed movement near the castle walls but was surprised to find that it was a patrolling guard.
The town guards are actually patrolling the city's perimeters now? It's about damn time they did something useful.
Once Epona rounded a corner Link was surprised to find a wall of people standing there. He quickly pulled her reins back and she skidded to a stop. Those that stood closest to the entrance into town were mostly all townsfolk but several soldiers were trying to direct the crowd back inside the city. He took a closer look and realized that most of the crowd was actually surrounding the platform that his teacher was perched on.
Well…for once he gets a taste of what I go through whenever I go into town…
Link urged Epona forward and she didn't seem to have a problem making a path for herself through the crowd of people. Suddenly a soldier among the crowd caught sight of him and gawked. Link noticed the guys black eye pretty much immediately when he stood in front of Epona.
"It's the Hero of Twilight! It's really you! Oh my Goddess! Do you remember me? I was the soldier that you knocked out in the court room! But of course I wouldn't have done that if I had known it was you but I was just doing my job! But wow that was…so…exhilarating! I mean…!" Epona cut the guy off with a shove as she passed him.
"That's good but listen, I'm kinda busy now so I'll ah, talk to you later," said Link as he urged Epona to walk faster. He cursed when the solider excitedly jogged after them. He kept a watchful eye on his horse as he tightened his hold on Epona's reins. Her ears flatten against her head when the guy jogged right up to her right shoulder.
This guy is gonna get a finger bitten off if he's not careful…
"Oh, of course! Have you come to take care of the wild beast? I bet you could take it down easily!" said the soldier excitedly as he continuously jogged in order to keep up with Epona's fast pace.
"What wild beast?" asked Link.
"Oh, you're such a tease! Oh wait! You're testing me aren't you? I know what I'm talking about. It's that golden wolf over there. It's been growling at anyone that comes near it, but you know that of course. You probably had plenty of experience fighting things much bigger than that," said the soldier. Link rolled his eyes, and then urged Epona to canter the rest of the way. The solider was quickly lost in the crowd of people.
Link finally reached the platform covered in vines. He paused when a familiar face approached him on top of a chocolate colored mare.
"Well, I'm guessing you've heard of our furry situation here, yes? He hasn't moved from his perch, and he doesn't seem savage so I'd rather not kill such an interesting creature. But I can't have it just sitting here outside of the city walls. Have you got a solution perhaps?" asked Victor as he had Lilith walk up to Epona. The horses inspected each other and Epona seemed to tolerate Lilith as she pushed lightly against the chocolate mare's neck.
"Don't worry. That wolf is a friend of mine actually. He'll move when I get up there," said Link. He pulled his feet out of his stirrups and then stood up on top of his saddle. He paused and then turned to face Victor again.
"Oh, and I'm going to disappear along with that wolf once I get up there but don't be alarmed. It always happens so you can have everyone leave alright?" said Link. He faced the platform again and jumped up to grip the ledge at the top with his left hand. He used the vines to help pull himself over the top just as Victor gave him a confused look.
Once Link stood up he dusted himself off and then looked up to see the golden wolf snort at him. His single red eye gave him an impatient look.
"I'm sorry, ok? I kinda got caught up in a few things but I'm here now. So, let's get this party started," said Link. He then rubbed his hands together and got in a defensive stance. The golden wolf just rolled its single eye as he stood and then pounced at him. Link disappeared as soon as the golden wolf made contact with him.
He appeared back in the spirit realm, the wolf standing a few feet away. It shifted into his warrior form, and then brought his sword and shield up before suddenly charging at Link. The hero yelped in surprise and then throw himself to the side. He rolled and hopped back to his feet.
Link quickly unsheathed the Master Sword and barely had enough time to raise it to block the blade that came hurling toward his head.
"Hey! I said I was sorry! I didn't mean to make you wait this long!" shouted Link as he sidestepped to avoid a jab toward his chest. The warrior seemed to be ignoring him, much to Link's dismay.
Damn it! I've never seen him fight this harshly before! Note to self…never make my teacher wait ever again…
Link was having a horrible time trying to land any solid blows because he wasn't used to using his left arm. After a swift kick from the warrior to send him stumbling backwards, Link was hurled half way across the room by the recoil energy from the jump strike that quickly followed the kick.
Link hit the ground and suddenly had a heavy boot on his chest with the warriors blade posed right over his neck. Gasping for breath, Link stared fearfully at his teacher, wondering if he was angry enough to kill him.
"Why are your movements so much slower now?" grumbled the warrior as he stepped aside. Link closed his eyes for a moment, thankful that he didn't become a permanent resident of this place. He then got to his feet and sheathed the Master Sword.
"I ah, I ran into someone that robbed me of my sword arm with a cursed wound. So, I'm forced to use my other one until I can get it healed," said Link. The warrior cursed.
"Who is this person that has done this to you?" asked the warrior.
"He's…I don't know actually. He looks like a kid but he sure doesn't act or sound like one. We never got his name either," said Link. He suddenly snickered when he remembered their last meeting with the guy.
"But I think he might have introduced himself if he hadn't been jumped by both Icesis and you the two times we've seen him. He certainly seems vain enough," said Link with a chuckle.
"Then you were lucky young warrior. If the same one who cursed you is the same one I attacked then it was purely happenstance. If he had not been within the Sacred Grove then I would not have sensed his presence and would not have known you were in grave danger," said the warrior. He looked to the side as he seemed to be trying to decide on something. Link was suddenly very grateful that the warrior happened to be listening at just the right time to come help.
If that little bastard had been floating just ten feet back from where he had originally popped up then Sheik and I would be dead right now…
"This is not good. You can't defeat the evil imprisoning the Sages power if you can't even wield a sword properly and you haven't the time to stop and learn how to wield one with your other hand. You need to be stronger…" said the warrior. He sighed as he placed the tip of his blade on the ground and leaned on the hilt.
"Hey, I'm trying my best here," said Link with a frown. The taller warrior looked over at him.
"That wasn't an insult to your skill. I am merely trying to decide if now is the time…?" muttered the warrior. Link blinked several times in confusion.
"Well…my big brother said this Saria chick would help me heal my arm and Sheik said he'd help me learn how to fight left handed as we went along," said Link, hoping that this information would help whatever his teacher was trying to decide. His teacher didn't respond so he figured he should tell him more.
"I just have to find this Saria chick. I think he said…the Kokiri Forest? I've never heard of it but I'm sure it will be on a map," said Link thoughtfully.
The warrior continued to stand there for a few more moments, just staring at Link. The hero started to shift his feet nervously. The warrior finally tilted its head.
"Saria…?" said the warrior slowly. He then shook his head.
"That is fine. The Kokiri will not be easy to find though I'm afraid. You won't find their forest on any map either. No adults have ever come back out after venturing into its depths let along traveled its entire length to map it before. With two exceptions, but that was a different case. I'm sure if you work with your guide you will find your way there," said the warrior.
"Alright. Oh, and what are these Pieces of Courage anyway?" asked Link.
"I think it would be best if you took this one step at a time. So, first you must go to each temple and awaken each Sage. Once you awaken them they each will give you a medallion that will combine their power with your own. When you collect all six of the medallions then I will tell you what you must do next," said the warrior. Link sighed impatiently, but nodded.
"Fine, but won't all the Sages be in one spot? With one monster summoning several others maybe?" asked Link.
"Why would they be in one spot? Each temple stands for something different. Just as each Sage does," said the warrior.
"Huh? They all look the same to me, except the fact that they are missing one now," said Link.
"What!? How could you have seen them already?" exclaimed the warrior.
"I met them when I first went to the Arbiter's Grounds. They were all shiny and standing on these tall pillars," said Link. He jumped when a loud clanking sound filled the air. The warrior had hit his bony hand to his forehead in disbelief.
"Good Goddess! Those are the ancient sage's young hero. They upkeep the Sacred Realm because they are eternal. The ones you search for are seven individuals who house the power of the ancient sages. They all have a bloodline of their own," said the warrior.
"Well, how was I supposed to know that? Big brother just said to awaken the Sages. Not awaken seven people who all have a bloodline that just happens to bestow power to the sages that you already meet," grumbled Link.
"Don't get cheeky with me. I don't have to help you," growled the warrior. Link sighed.
"Alright, I'm sorry. I appreciate your help a lot actually. So, the first thing to do I guess then is to find the first…temple right? That will help me find the Sage for that temple?" asked Link.
"Yes, within each temple you will find a medallion that houses the power of each Sage. When you touch the medallion, it will react to the Triforce of Courage and point out the Sage it belongs to by using a particular beam of light that only you can see…perhaps your guide may also see it. I'm not sure if eyes of truth can see things meant only for those who are chosen. You will find out soon enough," said the warrior. He stepped closer to Link as he reached behind himself and then pulled out what looked to Link like a rather large diamond with a bright red ball in the center.
"Take this. You will need it to pass the Forest Temple. It is called Din's Fire. Simply call forth the power of the spell and slam your fist in the ground and the fury of Din herself will came in the form of wild flames," said the warrior. Link took the spell, looking within the diamond container in awe. He flinched when little jolts of red energy came from the spell housed inside the container. They targeted the back of his left hand and suddenly the golden Triforce symbol appeared and seemed to absorb the energy. It felt hot and seared through his veins but he rejuvenated and empowered.
"I have added my power to yours now. I will give you certain items that will have similar affects every time you come see me. My hope is that you triumph over this evil like you have all the times before it," said the warrior.
"I can't thank you enough," said Link gratefully. The warrior nodded.
"Just be sure the spell is on your person or it will not work. You can use it for many different things other than battle. The rather dramatic pose I told you about brings out the most from the spells power. If you merely wish to fill a room with light though, then a bit of concentration will cause a small flame to appear in your hand while closing your fist will disperse it," said the warrior.
Link stepped back and held out his left hand while clutching the diamond case with his right one. Closing his eyes, he tried to focus the spells power into his left hand. Immediately Link felt heat rise from his hand, and opened his eyes to see a small flame burning inches above his palm. Link grinned, moving his hand in different directions before closing his fist and the flame was gone.
"Good, now try the spell as an attack," said the warrior. Link nodded excitedly.
"Don't have to tell me twice," said Link. He brought his right foot back and crouched on the ground, focusing his energy before he brought his left arm back and slammed it into the ground palm first.
The reaction was immediate. Flames burst from all around him, and then a dome of fire suddenly surrounded him and then shot outward.
Link laughed, amazed at the spells power.
"Oh man! This is amazing! Why didn't you give me this sooner!?" exclaimed Link as he held the spell up to look through it at a different angle.
"Because you didn't need it then young hero," said the warrior.
"What! I totally would have wanted this during my first adventure! There were plenty of times I could have used it," said Link. The warrior humphed.
"Yes, you would have wanted it. But you didn't need it. It isn't good to have too much power, especially when you have no need of it. You of all people should know this by now because of the enemies you have faced," said the warrior. Link felt ashamed, and then tucked the spell away into his pouch.
He's right…I've got to be careful, lest I become what I fight…
Link took a deep breath before looking up at his teacher.
"What's your name? I feel bad always referring to you my teacher…and I respect you too much to just say 'hey you' and such," said Link. The warrior tilted it's head as if considering it.
"It has been so long…I'm afraid I don't remember my name. I really don't care what you call me. As long as it isn't rude or ridiculous. Like Kip," said the warrior. Link couldn't help but laugh, just imagining this tall bony warrior just walking up to someone and introducing himself as Kip.
"Oh wow. That was good. So, I can make one up then…?" asked Link. The warrior nodded. The hero stared at his teacher for a few moments before he settled on a name.
"How about Valor? Can I call you Valor?" asked Link finally.
"Why?" asked the warrior. Link shrugged, embarrassed.
"Well…it came from when I when I look at you. You don't portray an ounce of fear and I wouldn't be this strong to begin with if it hadn't been for you so…" said Link as he scratched his head. The warrior considered it.
"I am touched that you would feel that way, so very well. If you wish to call me Valor then you are welcome to," said Valor. Link grinned.
"Cool! Well, I think I better get going then. Or is there something else I need to know?" asked Link.
"Just one last thing. The next song that you will need to summon me is the Song of Hero's at the next howl stone near the lake. Until next time young hero," said Valor.
Link then felt himself falling until his feet hit the stone of the platform they had left from. Sighing, Link turned and found that everyone was gone.
"Link! Thank Goddess…are you alright?" exclaimed a feminine voice from over the side of the platform.
Link walked to the edge and peered over to see Zelda and Sheik looking up at him from either side of a snoozing Epona. Maelstrom and Star Fire were grazing a few feet away. Icesis immediately leapt from Sheik's arms and climbed the vines in seconds and ran straight up to Link. She lifted her body up to rest her front paws on his leg as she meowed at him. He chuckled as he picked her up.
"You couldn't wait a few seconds could you?" said Sheik dully to Icesis as soon as he climbed over the edge of the platform. She just continued to rub her face against Link's neck.
"Thought you were going to rest?" asked Link. Sheik tilted his head.
"Two hours is enough for now. I can begin our lessons when we get ack as well," sadi Sheik. Link looked at him surprised though.
"Two hours? I couldn't have been gone more than maybe forty minutes," said Link.
"Perhaps the Spirit Realm has its own time flow? Or maybe the current crisis the world is having is affecting it? I'm not sure," said Sheik curiously.
"Hey! You two get down here now before I have a heart attack!" exclaimed Zelda. Sheik laughed softly before placing a hand Link's shoulder and teleporting them to Zelda's side.
"What happened!? Victor said the holy beast was your friend but then it pounces on you and then you both disappear!" exclaimed Zelda. Icesis climbed onto Link's left shoulder as he put up his hands, trying to get Zelda to calm down.
"Whoa Zelda, it's cool. Valor is my teacher, but he's a spirit so he has his own way of sending me to the Spirit Realm so we can talk," said Link.
"Who is Valor?" asked Sheik.
"He's the one that helped me all through my last adventure. He's also the one that I had disappeared to meet when we were in the Sacred Grove. He couldn't remember his name so he let me call him Valor. I think it's a cool name for him," said Link. He grinned at the memory of actually giving the noble name, but then frowned when he remembered what had happened earlier.
"Zelda…could you dispatch a squadron of soldiers to Kakariko until I finish this quest? I…I think my enemy will do whatever it takes to win this thing and I don't want anyone to live in fear just because they might be in a place that I often go to," said Link warily.
"Of course. Victor is already forming one as we speak," said Zelda. Her eyes widened as she remembered something.
"Sheik did you tell Link about the meeting tomorrow?" asked Zelda.
"Yes princess," said Sheik. Zelda put her hands on her hips.
"What did I tell you about calling me princess? Seriously, don't make me sit on you again," asked Zelda irritably. Link eyes widened as Sheik chuckled, and then shook his head at the monarch of Hyrule.
"You know how uncomfortable that makes me feel when we are around other people. We are also out in the open and not in your labyrinth of a room, so chances are I'll get away before you can initiate your impish plans," said Sheik as he raised an eyebrow. Zelda pointed a finger at Sheik and grinned.
"Ah, but I happen to know where you sleep my good friend. Your mother also happens to love me so you'll never see me coming until I pounce! And come now! That antisocial thing won't support your love for titles here. It's just Link," said Zelda. Link pouted at her as Sheik gave Zelda a look of mock horror.
"Hey! What's that supposed to mean?" exclaimed Link. Zelda grinned as she poked his chest playfully.
"It means that my dear friend Sheik can't use you as an excuse to keep calling me princess. Anyway, back to the matter at hand. Link, I want you up, ready and dressed and in my court room by mid-morning got it? No excuses! Your one of my best friends now, so I will need your opinion since yours will count more than any of those other idiots combined. Mostly because I actually trust your judgment," said Zelda. Link gave her a confused look.
"Huh? Just what is this meeting about?" asked Link.
"The future of Hyrule. I will explain tomorrow, but for now you both best get some rest alright? I'll see you guys tomorrow," said Zelda. She then turned and mounted Star Fire. After a wave she kicked her into a canter and headed into the city.
The future of Hyrule, huh? Must be something to do with this shadow thing. Why call all the snobby nobles together though? What are they going to do? Tax it?
"Shall we head back?" asked Sheik. Link thought about it but realized that he knew someone that could help.
"I should talk to Shad first. The guy is a walking source of knowledge, so he probably knows how to get to the Kokiri Forest," said Link. He glanced at his snoozing horse but figured she would be fine with Maelstrom also here to keep an eye on their surroundings. Goddess knows the stallion will be more reliable than those guards now patrolling the area.
Link walked toward the western entrance into the city. Sheik followed as he gave the hero a confused look.
"Where?" asked Sheik. Link explained what Valor had told him. Sheik nodded in thought.
"Alright. There's just one thing that needs to be addressed," said Sheik as they paused at the stone walkway that lead into the city. Link faced him curiously but then Sheik suddenly snatched Icesis from his shoulder.
"You need to stop stealing my cat! Because she's mine, and your reckless nature is starting to rub off on her," said Sheik with narrowed eyes. He then let out a long sigh, until finally holding her back out when he could no longer take Link's kicked puppy look. Grinning widely, Link took her back and held her in the curve of his left arm.
"Where are we going at least?" asked Sheik as he followed.
"Telma's Bar. If he's not there then one of the others probably knows where he would be," said Link as he rounded the corner and headed into town.
"Shall I teleport us there?" asked Sheik. He was more than happy to take advantage of this ability when he had sigils to do the work for him.
"Nah, I think a good walk would do me some good," said Link as he scratched Icesis behind the ears.
"Very well. I will meet you there then." said Sheik before teleporting away.
Does the guy ever walk anywhere? I thought he was supposed to be taking a break from teleporting so much?
Link froze the moment he entered the town.
"Look! It's the Hero of Twilight! He drove away the beast!" yelled a familiar voice. He spotted that same solider that had talked with him when he was trying to make his way to Valor. He stumbled back when the crowd all started to surround him.
Icesis suddenly hissed, keeping most people from touching him. He used this to his advantage by sprinting through the gaps and letting Icesis scare anyone that got in his way. After breaking out into the open, he made a beeline down the street. He had to hurriedly sidestep around a few people that were crowding the front of Agatha's Castle and then almost knocked over someone that stood in line at the Goron's stand. He then sprinted down the first part of the stairs but then jumped over the side instead of following it along the wall. He rushed down another flight of stairs and then burst into Telma's Bar. He quickly slammed the door behind him and gasped for breath.
Link took a deep breath as he slid down the door. Icesis leapt from his arms before he hit the floor, but then he looked up to see Sheik approach him with an amused look in his eyes.
"Have a good walk Link?" asked the Sheikah smoothly. He chuckled as he scooted back a step when the hero threw a pitifully weak kick in his direction.
"You could have just told me the crowd hadn't dispersed yet, you jerk," grumbled Link from his position on the floor. Sheik laughed fully, and then stepped closer and offered his hand to the grumbling hero. Link glared at him, but take the offered hand before shuffling his way over to the bar and slumped in the seat.
Link smiled gratefully when Telma gave him a glass of water. He downed his water and was now working on his second one when Ashei came walking over.
"Oh, so the hero returns. You have something interesting to tell this time, ya?" asked Ashei as she took a seat on his left side while Sheik leaned against the counter on his right. Icesis leapt onto the counter but then jumped back a step when Louise jumped up there as well. Sheik tensed when the cats inspected each other, ready to grab Icesis should she start anything. They seemed to deem each other tolerable and playfully started swatting at each other.
"Is Shad here actually?" asked Link.
"No, he actually got himself attacked by a swarm of Hylian Hornets because the stupid man decided to check out a rumor about how their honey could be used as a substitute for red potion. Can you belief that?" asked Ashei as she rolled her eyes.
"But I'm sure he will come here even though he should be in bed. Because sleeping is just so boring even though it helps heal you much faster. But that would make sense and boys just can't handle something when it makes sense," said Ashei. She gave Link a pointed look which he returned with a grin.
"I hate to admit it but that's kinda true. Then again, what would be the point of going after something if you already knew what it does? I would rather have the thrill of not knowing. I mean, what if you had to choose between a solid gold box that you were told had one gold bar in it or a bigger but plain wooden box that you were told could either have an infinite amount of gold or the grim reaper himself inside? Come on, tell me you wouldn't pick that wooden box," said Link. Sheik ran his hand down his face in astonishment, while Ashei just chuckled and slapped Link's back playfully.
"I'm pretty sure you're one of the few people that would chose that wooden box just for the thrill of it. But I like living thank you very much. Luck has never been that great of a friend to me," said Ashei. They all turned toward the door when something that resembled a walking match came inside.
"Oh my Goddess…Shad is that you?" asked Link.
"Yes Link, and please don't start with the teasing Ashei. I'm afraid I've used up all my patience on trying to keep that doctor from bankrupting me…" mumbled the inflated red faced Shad as he walked over to sit beside Link. Link gave him an apologetic look but Ashei suddenly looked furious.
"What!? How much did that old sack of rat crap charge you!" shouted Ashei angrily, making everyone wince.
"Um…six hundred rupees…" said Shad hesitantly.
"What!? The supplies don't even cost half that much! Why don't you stand up for yourself? This is not happening. I won't allow it," growled Ashei as she stood and stormed over to the door. She paused by the door and then swung around to face them.
"I'm not finished with you Shad! So you better be here when I get back!" exclaimed Ashei angrily. She then opened the door and slammed it behind her.
"Oh Nayru help me…Ashei's going to murder me. I just can't do it! I'm good with learning words and understanding them, but not with using them when I'm under stress!" said Shad desperately. Link patted his back gently.
"Hey, she's just looking out for you…in her own special way. I see you hadn't asked her yet though…" said Link slyly. Shad looked at him wide eyed.
"I tried! Really I did! But I was so stressed that my horrible ability at commutation caused her to think that I was trying to tell her that I was a girl…" said Shad. Link laughed, slapping the counter.
"What? How in the world did she think that out of a simple 'I love you'?" snickered Link.
"Because I didn't start with a simple 'I love you'! I couldn't gather enough courage to say it aloud! So, I tried beating around the bush for a bit but you know how that went now," said Shad before groaning.
"That woman is going to be the death of me…" muttered Shad miserably.
"Perhaps you should write her a letter," said Sheik suddenly. They both stared at him for a moment before Link grinned at Shad.
"See? Sheik has an idea you haven't tried yet so there you go," said Link. Shad was staring at Sheik still and the Sheikah was starting to get unnerved until Shad finally burst out laughing. He started talking so fast that Sheik barely understood most of what he was saying.
"A Sheikah! A full blooded one it looks like too! Oh, this is wonderful! I've read so much about your kind. How-" but Link cut off fast string of words as he suddenly turned him around to face him.
"Shad, you may not have the correct words come out when our stressed but they come out like endless energetic arrows when you get excited," said Link with a smirk. Shad nodded with a nervous laugh and then turned to face Sheik again.
"Right. I've been trying to work on that. Anyway, your Sheik then? I've always wanted to meet a full blooded Sheikah, especially since I kept hears rumors that we had one here in the city. That was probably you then? It makes sense. I can't image the people of this city giving you any reason to want to be out in the open," said Shad. Sheik was uncertain how to respond to him. Link decided that they should just do what they came here for.
"I have something to ask you actually. You know a lot about the history of when the Hero of Time existed right?" asked Link. Shad turned to look at curiously.
"I've studied many things from around that timeframe why?" asked Shad.
"Well, I've got a new quest now and it's going to be a big one. So, I was wondering if you know anything about the temples of old?" asked Link. Shad looked at him thoughtfully.
"Well, in the era of the Hero of Time there were six temples in all. The Forest, Fire, Water, Shadow, and Spirit temples. There's also the Light Temple, but many people called it the Temple of Time instead. The Hero of Time had already cleansed these temples a long time ago and returned peace to the land," said Shad.
"Hmm, well might as well start in order. Do you know where the Forest Temple is?" asked Link.
"I'm afraid not. To my knowledge, the only people to have ever been there were the Hero of Time and the Kokiri," said Shad. Link eye's widened.
"The Kokiri? What are they actually?" asked Link.
"They are supposedly a race of eternal children that live in the Lost Woods," said Shad.
"Eternal children…does this mean we will meet some that might have known the Hero of Time?" asked Sheik.
"It's possible. His origins are shrouded in mystery, but the one thing that the people of that time were able to see clearly was his connection to the fairies. Many writings and drawings that describe the Kokiri show them being followed by a fairy. Legend says that they Hero of Time was also followed by a fairy. It could also just be a coincidence. He could have simply been hurt so much that he was always buying or catching fairies. If you guys do make to them I would love to hear all about it," said Shad excitedly.
"I could believe that," said Sheik as he gave the hero a pointed look. Link smirked but then his eyes widened as he realized something.
"Damn, now that I think about it, there's one person that I think is just as eternal as these children and just happens to know the forest pretty well. That damn Skull Kid. He's going to mess with us so much but I can't think of anyone else that could help us find the Kokiri," said Link.
"I can't think of anyone off the top of my head either, so I'll have to agree. This friend of yours is most likely your best bet," said Shad.
Link got up and stretched, but suddenly jerked forward when pain shot through his right arm. Sheik immediately went to his side.
"Is it your arm?" asked the Sheikah. Link nodded, just trying to focus his will power and not scream out in pain as the waves started to hit him. Link was horrified when his arm started to spasm and then shot out grip the countertop. He couldn't let it go.
"Link hold still," said Sheik as he tried to unwrap the bandages around Link's arm. He paused slightly when purple veins started to grow out from his wound and spread farther up his Link's arm. His sight of truth saw more than just something growing underneath Link skin. He saw black energy pulse lightly from each vein. His arm twitched involuntarily each time that black energy would pulse.
"I can't control it…" grunted Link as he used his other hand to hold his wounded cursed arm to his chest. It jerked and moved like a fish trying to escape Link's grasp but Sheik moved closer to help hold it in place. Icesis jumped from the top of the counter but stood peering worriedly at Link from a few feet away. She seemed just as unsettled by the strange behavior from his cursed wound as her owner.
Shad had gotten up immediately but didn't know how to help. He stood closer and then peered closely at Link's cursed wound once it came into view. He wasn't a mage but he knew the basic fundamental aspects of a curse.
Link hurriedly reached into his pouch to pull out the silver Goddess's Tears, but Sheik quickly snatched it from him. He then pushed the hero lightly so he was sitting down again.
"You'll probably spill it all over yourself so try to be still," muttered Sheik as he unwrapped the rest of bandages. Shad suddenly tapped the Sheikah's shoulder and then pointed to where the very tips of the cursed veins were spreading up Link's arm once he turned to face him.
"You should focus on the mutated sections you can see first and then move on to the root of it. It'll help the potion work faster," said Shad hurriedly. Sheik nodded as he popped the cork off the bottle and leaned closer to Link.
"Don't have any more bandages," grunted Link. He breathing increased as both the pain and panic of his loss of control started to overwhelm him but he focused on keeping composed. Ashei then burst back into the bar, muttered to herself.
"The bastard had already spent it on useless garbage! So, I made him give me some other stuff instead…what's going on?" asked Ashei as she paused to stare at the heaving hero on the floor near the bar. Sheik glanced up at her as he started to apply the potion.
"An old wound is being rather stubborn. You wouldn't happen to have bandages in that stuff you made him give you would there?" asked Sheik. He applied the potion to the veins surrounding the cursed wound first and then moved on to the larger wound. Link immediately went lax and sighed in relief.
"That's actually mostly what he had. I have plenty, why? You need some?" asked Ashei. Sheik nodded, and then accepted the bandages from Ashei and started to wrap the wound back up. He frowned as he noticed that the wounded now covered Link's entire upper arm and those veins reached into the top of his shoulder and passed his elbow. They didn't pulse with that dark energy anymore but it was painfully obvious that it was not just getting worse after each time, it was mutating. What exactly was this enemy trying to do to Link? How was he even doing it in the first place?
Link smiled gratefully and slightly flexed his arm. He frowned, confused when his right arm wasn't as responsive as it normally was. It felt weak and it took effort just to flex his fingers.
What the hell that that little bastard do to me? I'm losing control of my own body now…
"I think we should leave immediately after that meeting tomorrow Link. You used up almost half the bottle now and I don't want you having an episode when we don't have any more left," said Sheik. Link stood up and approached Shad.
"Thanks for the help. Here, you should use some of this," said Link as he tore a piece from the bandages Sheik had used. He poured some of the sparkling silver potion on it and handed it to Shad. He looked at it curiously and then gently touched it to a swollen part of his face. He was startled when he felt immediate relief and the swelling was gone from the area he had touched when he lifted the cloth. He smiled gratefully at Link and then began wiping it all over his face.
Sheik sighed frustratingly. He had just told the hero that these episodes are causing the amount of that potion they use to increase each time it happens and here Link was giving it away! It was only a small amount though so he decided to not make a scene out of it.
After a matter of moments Shad's face looked as if he hadn't been stung at all. He pulled his glasses from his pocket and put them on.
"Thank Goddess. I can get by without my glasses but its rather embarrassing bumping into every other person on the street because they were closer than I thought they were…" muttered Shad. He turned to Ashei with a smile.
"Thanks for going through all the effort but I don't think I'm going to need those bandages. Is that all the doctor had? I saw him not more than an hour ago," said Shad. Ashei shrugged and then pulled out the rest of the bandages and two bottles. One was small and filled with a clear liquid while the other looked like a regular glass bottle filled with a green liquid.
"I don't know what either of these are but that old codger seemed unwilling to part with them. So, they must be useful for something. I lost my patience with the old man so I didn't get a chance to ask him. I think it might be safer to ask Renado instead anyway. I might punch him into next Tuesday if I see that greedy scoundrel anytime soon," said Ashei as she examined the bottles. Shad picked up and the bandages and took the bottles when Ashei set them down on the counter.
"Here, you can have these. I'm sure you'll put them to good use. You could probably sniff out what these potions do with that noise of yours," said Shad with a chuckle as he handed everything to Link. The hero smiled in thanks and then stuffed the bandages in his side pouch.
"Cool, I wonder what they do? We should get going though, so I'll find out later. You should get started on that letter!" exclaimed Link as he headed for the door. He snickered when Shad's eyes looked ready to pop out of his head as Ashei looked at him curiously.
"It's nothing! He's just saying something about earlier!" said Shad nervously. He gave the hero a quick glare before turning to glance at Telma when she walked out from the back room. The hero just laughed as he waved to Telma and then left the bar. Sheik followed outside but then paused when the hero was waiting for him with a hand on his hip. He was starting to believe that the hero was angry at him for some reason but then just rolled his eyes when he noticed the smirk on his face.
"You can't pull one over on me this time. So, how about we both take the quick way back to the horses?" said Link. Sheik chuckled but then nodded. He placed a hand on Link's shoulder after picking up Icesis and then teleported them to the closest sigil that was near the horses.
As they appeared on the outside of the wall surrounding the city, Link tilted his head as a he thought of something.
"Hey Sheik, is touch important to teleporting?" asked Link. Sheik looked at him confused.
"What do you mean?" asked Sheik. Link shrugged.
"As far as I can tell, you always make sure that you're touching me in some way before you teleport anywhere. What would happen if you weren't touching me when you're teleporting away?" asked Link.
"You would be left behind while I teleport away. That thought alone is why I remind you to stay near me when we are somewhere dangerous. It wouldn't do to have you in grave danger just because my hand was knocked just slightly enough that it wasn't touching you anymore. Then I would teleport away while you were left there to fend for yourself. Image if that had happened when we were attempting to rescue the children," said Sheik. They walked along the wall as they headed toward the horses. Link frowned at the thought.
Sheik would have fallen unconscious and I would be dead. Leaving the kids with Coro, who didn't know what the hell was going on to begin with…
The hero glanced over at Sheik. He wondered what gave him the experience and wisdom to act more mature than his sixteen years of age. He was curious about his partner, especially since he didn't really know that much about him.
Sheik seems like the private type though…maybe he'll share if I do first?
"You know what? When this is over, I'm going to travel. Of course I've been to different realms but it's not the same. Mostly because of the near death experiences but it would be nice to see other countries. I barely remember what it's like to meet people who have no idea who I am," said Link.
"Travel? Where would you go?" asked Sheik as they caught sight of the horses grazing near the main route out of town.
"Not sure. Somewhere with good food would be my first choice I guess. Auru tells me that Calatia has this tavern near the ocean that serves smoked swordfish and its apparently to die for. I've never seen a swordfish but it would be cool to have a taste of seafood that's actually from the sea," said Link casually. He didn't see it, but Sheik made a disgusted look.
"I'm not fond of seafood. I've tried every kind of fish that we catch from our streams but it all tastes slimy and disgusting. The smell makes it even worse…" muttered Sheik. Link snickered.
"That's kinda weird since you're such a cat kind of guy. Haven't met a cat that doesn't love seafood," said Link with a smirk. Sheik laughed softly.
"Well, that's true for me as well. Icesis and all her siblings love fish. I've just never cared for it. No matter how much my mother tries to convince me how nourishing it is. I would eat a moldy piece of bread before taking so much as a bite of fish," said Sheik. He clicked his tongue, making Maelstrom lift his head and perk his ears in his direction. Link laughed and then raised his hand to touch Epona's soft muzzle when she approached him.
"Well, hopefully we never get stranded out in the ocean. Otherwise you would have to learn to like it," snickered Link. Sheik shot him a glare and then mounted Maelstrom.
"Starvation would be more appetizing than having to survive on fish," said Sheik.
"Don't worry then partner. I'll make sure we are never put in the situation where you would be forced to place death before salvation," said Link with a salute. Sheik laughed as he shook his head.
"My hero to the rescue. I admit it would be nice to travel but I wouldn't be able to. At least not anytime soon," said Sheik as he urged Maelstrom forward. Link followed close behind on Epona but they walked at a casual pace.
"Why not?" asked Link.
"My mother is much too old to be relying no one but herself. I would always worry. She would probably make me go anyway if she found that I wanted to but that's the kind of person she is," said Sheik. He sighed as he thought about how lonely his mother must be at that moment. The litter of cats and their cucco were like family but there's only so much they can do.
"Yeah, Impaz was always a sweet lady. The cats were kinda weird and so was that cucco but they were interesting to talk to," said Link as he scanned the area. He may not be all that impressed with the town guards but they were doing a decent job of keeping the monsters away from the city walls at least.
"Right. I forget that you know my mother. I didn't think you would like animals so much that you would speak to them often though," said Sheik thoughtfully.
"It's hard not to. They were jibber jabbering so much. Never thought cats were the gossip type. It was kinda funny when that cucco thought I was going to eat him though. Until I was jumped by his ring of cats that is. We got along after that though. They always pulled me into their game of hide and seek. Something that was way easy as a wolf, heh heh. Nothing can hide from this noise," snickered Link. Sheik swung around to look at him in surprise.
"That's right! You said something like that in the Scared Grove. How in the world did you become a wolf?" exclaimed Sheik. Link shrugged as they entered Hyrule Field.
"It's a long story. It's basically my last adventure. I could tell you if you want?" asked Link.
"Of course I want to hear it. There's so many stories floating around Hyrule about your triumph over the King of Darkness that I can't tell which one is the closest to the truth," said Sheik. Link chuckled and then lunched into the story of how he met Midna and become as wolf.
The horses hugged the edge of the field and seemed to escape the sight of the patrolling monsters. They reached the bomb shop inside Kakariko when Link finally finished his story.
"Fighting Ganon with nothing but pure skill at the end was intense…but dealing with what that rat bastard did to Zelda was worse. He possessed her…and just seeing her floating around in the air with his voice echoing out from her…he's lucky there's no way to permanently kill his ass. There is no length I wouldn't go to in order to achieve it," growled Link. Sheik was shocked. Zelda had told him several things during her imprisonment in the Twilight, but being possessed wasn't one of them.
They walked to the other side of town and then dismounted once they reached the spring. Link looked up toward the blue sky.
"How about that lesson now? I'd like to be able to do more than just swing this sword around wildly," said Link with a chuckle. Sheik frowned as he turned to face him.
"Are you sure you're up for it?" asked Sheik.
"Why wouldn't I be?" asked Link with a confused look.
"You were just attacked again by that strange man-child! You seem to do this a lot. Something dramatically dangerous or painful happens to you but then you move on like nothing is wrong! Do you not understand what happened or do you not care? That would be beyond reckless," said Sheik with hard look.
Link was oddly silent and stared at him intensely. Sheik couldn't tell if he was angry or if he just didn't know what to say. The Sheikah suddenly felt unsettled and nervous as he peered closer at Link. He thought that the hero's cerulean blue eyes were changing to look almost feral, as if a wild animal was prowling toward him. Link suddenly closed his eyes and shook his head. When he opened them again he wore a half smile on his face.
"That's just how I deal with stress, alright? I'm fine though. I wouldn't be able to sleep anyway so I might as well do something useful," said Link. Sheik stared at him cautiously for a few moments but then nodded slowly. Maybe there wasn't a reason to be that alarmed by his strange behavior. He was once a real wolf so why would it be strange if Link would sometimes act like one as a man?
"Alright. Where would you like to practice?" asked Sheik. Link thought about it and then turned to point at an opening next to the spring. It wasn't very big but it looked somewhat private. They both headed inside and Sheik thought that even though it was a bit damp, it still seemed like a good place for a lesson.
Link already knew the basics and could probably apply them to his left hand but it would still take some help from someone that already knew how to fight left handed. He admitted that he would love being able to wield a sword with either hand as well.
"We don't have a lot of time and I don't think you're going to master the blade with your left hand before this journey is done but you have surprised me before. Ready?" asked Sheik as he drew out a scabbard from the folds of his suit. Link stared wide eyed at him as he unsheathed a shortsword. He couldn't take it anymore.
"Ok, this is driving me crazy! How in the holy heavens are you able to stuff so much crap into or pull what seems like anything from that body suit of yours?" exclaimed Link. Sheik chuckled. He tapped the red eye symbol on the front.
"It's enchanted. It can't hold a limitless amount of items but it's the equivalent of carrying around a large bag. It also helps me blend into the shadows when it is dark. It's quite useful," said Sheik with a smirk. Link couldn't see it but he would bet that Sheik was looking pretty smug about his fancy body suit.
"Well, it's not going to help you once I get the hang of wielding a sword again. Except maybe the fact that you could pull hundreds of daggers out of that thing like you have been already," said Link playfully. Sheik raised an eyebrow.
"I only carry a set of six daggers actually," said Sheik. Link gave him a look of disbelief.
"There's no way. You've thrown way more than six daggers since we met and not once have I ever seen you go back to retrieve one," said Link.
Is he trying to pull one over on me again?
"That is because I have a better way of retrieving them," said Sheik. He pulled a dagger from his suit then brought his arm back to hurl it over Link's head. The hero yelped as it went sailing over his head and then spun around. He caught sight of the small silver blade imbedded in the rock wall but then suddenly it disappeared. He turned back to see Sheik twirling the small blade between his fingers. The Sheikah snickered when Link just throw his hands in the air.
"I give up! Every time I find out something about you, then another question pops up. Let's just get started before I find out another mindboggling thing about you," said Link with a smirk. Sheik just smiled softly. Zelda was right. Having another person around to interact friendly with did feel good.
Hours later they both sat at the edge of the water of the spring. Link was tilting his face toward the sky with his eyes closed. He took a deep breath as he leaned his back against a rock. He was sore and hot but it felt good. He needed a good workout like that. After a few lessons and some physical exercises, they just tried sparing with a few pointers from Sheik. It had been more fun than he had thought.
Sheik was also relaxing against the same rock that Link was leaning on. He was amazed at how quickly the hero picked up on the required technique. It was almost like he was remembering how to use an old tool that he hadn't picked up in years. That's not possible though. He'd seen the hero trying to wield his sword lefthandedly and his lack of skill had showed then. He wasn't complaining though. At this rate, Link might just learn to wield that sword lefthandedly before the end of this adventure after all.
The lesson had gone smoothly and Link was surprisingly a patient student. He listened intently to everything he had to say and would give the performance everything he had. It wasn't until an hour or so later that they decided that it would be good to put these lessons to use by sparing. That is when things became difficult for Sheik. Within minutes into their sparing practice Link had gotten hot and sweaty enough that he paused to take off his tunic and chainmail and then resumed the fight. That alone had caused Sheik a few moments of embarrassment when he tripped over himself several times but was able to pull it together in the end. Link was still bare chested but Sheik was too tired to care at the moment. He was just glade that the hero was too focused on the fight to notice one of the disadvantages of an aroused male wearing a skin tight suit.
Link cracked an eye open as he turned his head to look at his partner.
"This has to become a regular thing between us. It will help me get better and you will get a good laugh at flooring me every day. Until I get this arm healed that is," snickered Link. Sheik rolled his eyes.
"We shall see about that. Sparing regularly is a good idea though. It will definitely help us hone our skills. Especially me. I'm sure I'm going to need it if your last adventure is anything to go by," said Sheik as he gave Link a pointed look. The hero just smirked in return.
"Hey Sheik. You want to play a game?" asked Link. The Sheikah raised an eyebrow in surprise.
"A game? What kind of game?" asked Sheik.
"I don't think they gave it a name. It's something the kids would sometimes play when they were all forced to sit in the time out corner back home. It's basically just an imaginary game where you place each other in different scenarios and then explain what you would do in them. We got at least an hour or two until dusk so I thought it would be a good way to pass the time," said Link. Sheik shifted his body so he was laying on the floor and peering up at the hero. He normally wouldn't be this relaxed around a place he wasn't familiar with but the atmosphere around the Kakariko was like his hometown.
"I've never been all that good at games. Of any kind. Something my mother teases me about constantly. We can try it I guess. It would be a good way to wind down," said Sheik.
"Well, luckily for you this game doesn't really have a winner. You just make up a scene and then the other person would describe what they would do in it. Should I start?" asked Link. Sheik nodded. Link looked up toward the sky again as he thought about what scene he was going to make.
"Ok…You are in a distant land where everyone wears bright flashy colors and speaks in rhyme as they dance everywhere they go. You look down and find that you are wearing the same clothing that they are. What do you do?" asked Link finally. Sheik buried his face in his arm and laughed at the ridiculous image.
"That's what makes this game fun! So, what do you do?" asked Link as he tried not to laugh as well. After a few minutes Sheik finally looked up.
"Alright then. I guess I'm going through a check list first. Did someone slip something into a drink I had earlier? Does it look like I'm dreaming?" asked Sheik.
"It feels real and you don't remember having a drink anyone prior to this," said Link with a smirk. Sheik sighed as he thought about it.
"Well, I supposed I'll try to talk to the people around me. Where am I at?" asked Sheik.
"They immediately start to dance in circles around you singing in rhyme about the kingdom of little marshmallow," said Link. He laughed as Sheik buried his face in his arm again in laughter.
"Good Goddess. I'm going to ask about the quickest way out of this sweet nightmare," said Sheik.
"All twenty people dance and sing in rhyme about how the only way out is across the sea of molten chocolate or through the forest of sour candy," said Link.
"Death by chocolate or suffocation through candy, huh? I guess I'll ask if there is anyone who can guide me though the forest," said Sheik.
"Suddenly a pumpkin with the face of a sinister kitten craved into it pops out from behind a rock and floats over to you. Its voice is velvety and sweet as it speaks normally to tell you that it knows the way through the forest. It requires a hug as payment though," said Link.
"Of course it does. I'll give it a quick hug then and ask to go as fast as possible," said Sheik.
"It giggles and then suddenly sprouts wings and carries you away to the sour candy forest. After traveling through it for maybe half an hour you hear the sound of beating wings heading your way. What do you do?" asked Link.
"I will hide and wait until whatever it is to reach me," replied Sheik.
"I image that your good at hiding but your floating pumpkin guide doesn't understand what you're doing. It flies in circles next to where you're hiding and shouts out in confusion. Suddenly a swarm of meatball bats appear and attacks you. Huge boils that flash different colors start to appear all over your body," said Link. Sheik covers his face with his palm and shook his head.
"That is both incredibility ironic and excessively ridiculous. Something like that has actually happened to me before…anyway, when a swarm is attacking you then the smart thing is not to stay there. I'm going to run away," said Sheik.
"You're kidding?! When has something like this ever happened to you?" asked Link, astonished. Sheik raised an eyebrow and chuckled.
"That's not part of your story now is it?" asked Sheik slyly. Link narrowed his eyes and then pointed a finger at him.
"Alright. So, you run away but they follow you. Your floating pumpkin guide says that they are attracted to the bright colors you are wearing," said Link with a smirk.
"Is there patches or other parts that I can rip off then?" asked Sheik.
"You're wearing a red wizard's hat, solid bright yellow shirt, orange leather pants and boots that are a mixture of pink, orange, white, and green. You are also going to die soon if you don't get them off your tail," said Link.
"Really?! When did I suddenly join a circus?! I'm guessing throwing the hat and boots off aren't enough. Is there mud around that I can roll in maybe?" asked Sheik.
"There's cinnamon sticks and flour that you're running on top of. Nothing thick like mud though. You are starting to get weak from all the bites," said Link.
"Good Goddess. I suppose the colorful cloths will be a good distraction then. I'll take a page from your book and strip them all off and throw them in random directions. If the color really is the only thing that attracts them then hopefully that is enough. Unless you're going to say that these flying meatballs suddenly develop the strong noise of a dog and are following my scent now?" asked Sheik with a pointed look. Link threw his uninjured arm over his eyes as he laughed.
"Heh heh, no that is dramatic and effective. They are distracted by your cloths so you get away. Your floating pumpkin guide is so impressed and surprised that he leads you the rest of the way through and you make it back to Hyrule. I also would have been fine without the reminder of that dark moment of my life," snickered Link. Sheik stretched and Link couldn't help but grin, thinking that he looked just like Icesis when he did that.
"Then you shouldn't have created the possibility of such an event happening in this place that must be hell in disguise. I believe it is my turn but I have to say that your elaborate imaginary world has done wonders for my threshold of stress. I think will present your personal hell at a later date. We should turn in," said Sheik as he stood up. Link gave him a glare before standing up himself.
"Not even going to sugar coat it, huh? Just a straight punch to the gut. Now I'm going to be wondering about all night," said Link. He followed the Sheikah across the street and then into the wooden walkway of the hotel.
"I believe the saying you would use is 'pay back is a bitch'," said Sheik with a smirk. They entered the hotel but Link paused to ask the lady to bring whatever kind of meat they had available to his room.
"You seem to have a particular liking for meat," commented Sheik. Link rubbed his hands together and grinned.
"Yeah. I've always liked meat but I didn't start craving it until I first became a wolf. Steak is my favorite but it's kinda rare. I was surprised when I got one when I first got here. Renado is always getting treats from Telma though so he probably gave them to the hotel to give away," said Link. He grinned when Icesis shot out of nowhere and started to rub against his legs.
"Hey girl. I wondered where you disappeared too," said Link as he picked her up and held her. Sheik followed as he turned to head to his room.
"Its absurd how much my cat is spending more time around you than she is with me," muttered Sheik.
"She just has a new friend. Don't you girl?" said Link as he played with her feet. She swatted at his fingers but he paused when Sheik suddenly stood in front of his door.
"I'm more than happy if she views you as a friend but you're not using that as an excuse to steal her anymore. Hand her over," said Sheik as he held out his hands. Link pouted as he held her up to his face. She just meowed sleepily and pawed at his face.
"Aww, but I was getting used to her sleeping with me," whined Link. Sheik sighed trying to ignore how adorable the hero looked as he snuggled with one of his closest friends.
"Well, I was already used to her sleeping with me," said Sheik. He continued gesturing to hand her over.
"Hey, I got an idea. What if we just shared a room? Then she'll be with both of us," said Link. Sheik stared at him for a moment.
"You…wouldn't be bothered by that?" asked Sheik hesitantly. Link shook his head.
"The room on the other side of me has two beds so we can switch to that room," said Link. Sheik considered it, and then nodded.
"Fine, but Icesis still sleeps with me," said Sheik. After Link muttered a low 'fine', he headed to his own room. He gathered his things and changed into a lose shirt and pants but kept his shawl on. He wasn't sure how confrontable it would be to sleep with it on but it was more lose than his body suit so it shouldn't be that bad. He then packed up his stuff and headed to the new room.
He noticed an empty try with a plate and cup sitting on the outside of the door. He chuckled. Link must have inhaled his food because Sheik hadn't taken that long to get ready.
He entered the room and found Link already in bed with his back facing Sheik. The hero's clothing was thrown messily beside his bed then he appeared to have just went straight to sleep.
The Sheikah thought the moon light hit him just right, giving him a soft glow. He quickly shook his head, and then headed straight for the other bed. He then noticed that there was a small plate sitting on his bed. It looked like half a pork chop and some green beans. The meat actually looked like it was cut from another piece. He smiled when he realized that Link must have given him half of whatever he had ordered. After laying his things neatly at the foot of his bed he sat on the edge and ate his food. He then set the plate on the try that was outside the room.
After a final stretch he finally got into his bed and crawled under the covers.
Sheik closed his eyes and laid there, but felt something was wrong. He then noticed how empty his bed felt. He swung around and growled.
"Link…give me my damn cat!"