Morning came much harder then it normally did for Sheik. He lifted his head and peered sleepily out the window to see the sun already high in the sky. Link needed to get to that meeting soon.
He had almost allowed himself to admit what a wonderful turn of events when he was offered to share a room with Link, but as he dragged himself out of bed all he could think of was 'what the hell were you thinking?'
Sheik barely got any sleep because he had forgotten about the hero's insanely loud snoring. Something that he was now convinced must be the thunder of the Goddess's made real. He wouldn't be surprised if an earthquake happened somewhere in the world every time one of Link's snores echoed through the room.
Sheik walked slowly over to Link's bed, but paused when he noticed that it was empty. He yawned and then glanced around the hero's bed and saw that all his stuff looked untouched. He must have just missed Link then because even his green tunic was laying against the headboard. He stretched and then pulled on his body suit. He frowned when he glanced at his messy air. It wouldn't wrap well if he tried to tie it up like that so pulled a brush from the folds of his suit and started to brush his long hair.
He paused when he heard something and then glanced back toward the window to see Icesis on the other side of the glass. She was scratching at the glass with a look that seemed to say, "Don't just stand there! Let me in!"
He chuckled as he walked to the window to open for her. The white cat darted inside as soon he lifted the latch created enough space for her to wiggle her way inside with an irritated meow. He figured that she must have been trying to get inside for a while then. Once he was done he grabbed his travel bag and headed out the door with Icesis close behind him. He thought Link would be back by now but he could actually be up and making Sheik look like the lazy one. He chuckled at the image.
When he walked outside he paused to stretch again. He suddenly froze mid-stretch when he spotted something familiar near the edge of the spring. Dread filled him when he recognized Link's form but the hero laid motionless on the floor.
The Sheikah bolted forward and jumped over the wooden railing of the hotel. When he reached Link's motionless body he fell to his knees beside him and grabbed the hero so he could push him to lay on his back. Link's eyes snapped open suddenly and he shouted out in surprise and jerked away.
"Man, you scared the shit out of me!" exclaimed Link as he was rubbing his eyes. Sheik took a deep breath to calm himself and then turned to glare down at the sleepy hero.
"What are you doing sleeping out here by yourself?! I thought you were hurt or worse!" exclaimed Sheik. Link looked up at him confused until Icesis rubbed up against the arm he was leaning on.
"Oh yeah…I guess I didn't make it back," muttered Link sleepily. He yawned deeply as Sheik's glare intensified.
"What are you talking about?" said Sheik lowly. Link ran his hand along Icesis's back and then sat up straight.
"I didn't plan on sleeping out here. It just happened. Icesis woke me up last night by using my face as a step ladder to reach the window. Little shit. I thought she wanted to go outside but I didn't know if you normally let her go alone. So, I just took her over here and let her do whatever she had to do. I was going to take her back to the room in a few minutes but the next thing I know its morning and you're pouncing on me," muttered Link sleepily as he shot Icesis a glare. Sheik looked up toward the sky and prayed to Nayru to give him patience. He then stood up to look down at the hero with narrowed eyes.
"Link, please be more careful. What if this enemy had a spy here? All it would have taken was for them to take a late night stroll and then see you laying here on the ground defenseless! I wouldn't even know until I stumbled over your dead body the next morning!" shouted Sheik. Link frowned and then stood to his feet.
"You know what? If this had been anywhere else, I would have agreed wholeheartedly with you. Din knows I wouldn't do something like this in Hyrule Castle Town. But I know this place and every single person in it. No one here is a danger to me," said Link fiercely.
"This is a small town so that is a valid point but what of the people that pass though then? This town was almost ransacked recently!" shouted Sheik.
"If anyone wanted to stroll in here then they aren't doing so unnoticed. Unless they are a ridiculously skilled assassin or someone like you. But if that were the case then it really wouldn't matter where I slept because I'm sure they would reach me no matter where I was in this town," said Link.
"What makes you think someone couldn't go unnoticed in this town? The mere fact that there aren't many people living here would make it easy to sneak around. I could do it as easily as it was for you to fall asleep out here in the first place!" exclaimed Sheik. He understood why the hero would defend this place but he shouldn't be narrow minded about it. Not with what is at stake here.
Link raised an eyebrow and then slowly a small smirk appeared on his face. He folded his arms, careful to lay his injured one on top.
"Alright. Tell you what. You teleport just outside of the northern gate. Then, if you can sneak into town and reach the horses without being noticed then I will recant everything I said and never do it again," said Link as he pointed over toward where the northern gate would be. Sheik looked at him unbelievably but then thought about it. Sneaking into this small unguarded town would be extremely easy for him. If it prevented such an event from happening again then so be it.
"Fine. Have it your way. You can go get some breakfast for us then. I image I'll be back by the time you even bring the tray back out," said Sheik with a pointed look. He then focused on the image of the northern gate and teleported away. Link just snickered and then turned to take his advice.
Sheik appeared on the inside of the tall metal and wooden structure that protected Kakariko from the dangers prowling Hyrule Field. It looked like it had been patched up since the attack at least. He paused when he heard the yells of the Bulblins nearby but then shook his head. The gate was here for a reason so he would trust that it would keep them out for now. He kept low and stepped carefully. He was silent as he crept along the wall, peering high into the rock ledges above for any sentries that might be keeping watch. He rolled his eyes when he spotted no one. Going through this path seemed longer then he had remembered but then again, he really hasn't gone through them on foot before now. He was almost halfway thorough when he heard something. He paused as a small rock suddenly fell next to him. He lifted his head and gasped before flinging himself to the side to avoid being crashed by a large boulder.
The boulder landed with a heavy thud on the ground. His eyes widened when the boulder suddenly unfolded into a goron. It towered above him and then looked down at him with a frown. Then it shook a huge fist at him.
"You think you can sneak in here thief?! These are hardworking people! People that have enough to worry about without someone like you coming in here to cause trouble!" exclaimed the goron angrily. Sheik put up his hands as a sign of peace.
"I meant no harm. I was simply trying to prove a point to a friend. A point that I think he never had the slightest fear that I would succeed at proving," said Sheik somewhat bitterly. He stumbled a bit when the ground shook when the goron stomped the ground.
"I don't believe that. Right when this town gets attacked and brother Link tells us that we must watch out for shady folks! I don't believe it for a second! Away with you!" shouted the goron. It then clutched its fists and glared menacingly down at him as it stepped closer.
"Wait! Link is the friend I was trying to prove a point to! He'll vouch for me!" said Sheik hurriedly. He did consider teleporting away but this wasn't the kind of creature he wanted chasing after him once he was inside. The goron paused when he mentioned Link.
"You say you're a friend to brother Link? Fine! Then we shall see!" exclaimed the goron. It lunged a huge hand out and grabbed Sheik's arm. He was then tossed on the goron's shoulder like a sack of potatoes. Sheik winced when the goron tightened his hold though he felt there was no need. Even if he did try to escape he doubted he could. He was held in a vice grip with only one arm wrapped around him and yet he felt he might have had an easier time breaking free of iron manacles.
This image is what greeted Link as he sat at the edge of the spring munching on some fruit. Icesis was nibbling on a piece that Link had given her but her head snapped up when the mountainous creature approached them. Link grinned when he caught Sheik's eye and the Sheikah returned it with a fierce glare.
"Good morning brother Link! I caught this shady fellow sneaking into town but he says that he's with you. Is this true?" asked the goron. Link smiled up at him.
"Morning! Yeah, that's my partner. Caught him did you? Did you see him right away?" asked Link with a smirk. The goron looked over at the Sheikah in surprise. He suddenly dropped Sheik in a heap on the floor but then hurriedly helped him stand up.
"Oh! Forgive me friend of brother Link! I hope I didn't hurt you?" asked the goron. Sheik was a little amazed at how quickly the goron's attitude changed. Link must have made quite the impression on him.
"It's fine. You were a remarkable watchmen. I didn't spot as much as a glimpse of you before you dropped in on me," said Sheik. He could easily see why now though. The creature looked like just another part of the wall when it wasn't moving.
"It was the strangest thing brother Link! I didn't even see him approach the gate but suddenly he was just there sneaking along the wall! You are very good at sneaking friend of brother Link! But it made me nervous so I thought for sure you were a thief! Anyway, sorry about that! I should get back," said the goron. With a wave, it sat on the ground and then rolled away.
Sheik watched it roll back into the path that lead to the northern gate. It was intriguing to him that it rolled at a fast pace but still seemed to know where it was going without actually seeing anything. He then turned to look down at Link. The hero just flashed him a smile and held up a biscuit.
"Biscuit?" asked Link with a smirk. The Sheikah grumbled as he snatched the biscuit out of his hand. Icesis rubbed up against his leg as he sat down.
"You could have just told me that there were goron's watching the entrance's into town," muttered Sheik. Though to be honest he probably wouldn't have believed them to be enough if he hadn't experienced what it's like to be caught by one of them. He wasn't going to tell Link that though.
"I thought you would benefit more from the experience instead of me just telling you what to expect," said Link as he munched on a biscuit. Sheik rolled his eyes and then scratched Icesis behind the ears.
"Thank you for that. I can't wait to return home to tell my elderly mother that I was almost body slammed by a goron. They are impressive creatures nonetheless. I've seen them but never personally met one. I suppose I am grateful for that," said Sheik. Link snickered at him and then flicked a small piece of ham into the air. Icesis suddenly leapt after it and caught it in midair.
"Enough of these games though. You need to go to that meeting soon," said Sheik. Link groaned as he covered his eyes with his left hand.
"Aww, man! Forgot about that. I don't suppose I could just skip it, huh?" muttered Link. Sheik just raised an eyebrow.
"Didn't think so. Dammit, why do I have to go? I have nothing to do with Hyrule's political affairs! I have better things to do," muttered Link as he started to head toward the hotel.
"I doubt the princess asked for your presence just to have you sit back and listen to the council bicker about what law is passed or denied. She is the ruler and you are right at the center of yet another possible catastrophic event that could harm the people that she cares for. Your input is no doubt valuable to her," said Sheik as he followed the hero into the hotel.
"Ugh, fine. If it helps her prepare Hyrule for what is heading her way then I guess I'll deal with it," said Link. He reached his room and started to pack up his things. Sheik leaned against the doorway and waited for him. Link had packed all his things except for his clothing and Sheik's eyes widened in surprise when the hero started dress right in front of him. He didn't snap out of it until Link started to tug at his pants. He quickly turned around to face to hallway.
"I will meet you in the spring," said Sheik hurriedly. He winced when the door he grabbed ended up slamming closed. He hadn't meant for that to happen but it really wasn't his fault. He rushed out of the hotel and then went straight for the horses.
The Sheikah immediately went to stand beside Maelstrom once he reached the spring. The white stallion snorted and looked over toward him as if asking 'what has you so aggravated?" Sheik just laid his head against Maelstrom's neck and took a deep breath.
Epona was standing next to the white stallion and she even looked over curiously at him. He guessed his confusion and desire was pretty transparent then. He hoped Link wouldn't pick up on it. He didn't need such an awkward thing between them. It would pass soon though, he just had to wait it out.
Within minutes Link was walking toward the spring and Epona's ears perked forward when she noticed him approach. He paused to give her a carrot and a fond pat on the neck but then walked passed them and headed toward the back of the spring. Curious, Sheik followed.
"I thought Eldin would have tried contacting me by now. I was sleeping alone right next to it for Goddess's sake, but it isn't responding at all... I don't think it was petrified, because its body isn't here but it has never just ignored me before," said Link as he searched around for any sign of the avian Light Spirit.
"Perhaps it is busy or taking sanctuary with another of its kin. I imagine it would have felt its fellow Light Spirits being petrified so we might find it with another one," said Sheik. Link frowned.
"It's responsible for this province. It wouldn't abandon its purpose just to go hide with Lanayru…something isn't right," said Link.
"We can inspect it when we return Link, but we best leave now if you don't want to be late," said Sheik. Link gave Eldin's Fountain one last worried look and then turned to Sheik and nodded.
"Alright let's go," said Link. He blinked, confused when Sheik called Icesis over.
"Oh, you're bringing Icesis? Is that a good idea? I doubt she will like being shut in with all those snobby nobles. I would love to see the excitement though," said Link with a grin.
"No, she wouldn't like that. That is why she isn't going in there. You'll have to find another way to get…excitement," said Sheik with a chuckle. Link gave him a confused look as Sheik picked up his cat and held her.
"What is she going to do then? Wander around the castle? I thought you didn't like her doing that?" asked Link.
"She isn't going to be roaming the castle because she will be with me. I'm certainly not going to stand around bored out of my mind waiting for you, so I'm bringing her along," said Sheik.
"What!? Wait, so you're not going to the meeting? That's totally not fair! You're just as much a part of this as I am so how come you got out of going?" said Link irritably. Sheik sighed.
"Because my presence would not be…accepted in the court room. The princess must abide by the wishes of the nobles if she wants to keep their support," said Sheik as he looked down and stroked Icesis's back.
"Do you want to come?" asked Link.
"It would be nice to hear what the plan of action is as it is being made but I will have to settle for hearing about it once you and the princess have already made it. We really don't have time for this, so we will have to continue this conversation later," said Sheik softly. He grasped Link's wrist and teleported away.
Zelda greeted them as they reappeared in her private garden.
"It's about time. Come on Link we have to get going! Everyone else is already gathered in the court room," said Zelda. She gestured for him to follow her before turning to Sheik.
"Will you be staying in my room Sheik? Or the spot?" She asked.
"Icesis doesn't like it here, so I guess I will stay at our spot," said Sheik as Icesis meowed sharply, as if agreeing with him.
"Alright, I'll come get you when we're finished," said Zelda. She turned and left once Sheik nodded. Link walked beside her, glaring at the floor.
"Link? What's wrong? Not awake yet?" teased Zelda.
"….Why can't Sheik come to the meeting?" asked Link lowly. Zelda turned toward him, shocked by the hostile expression on his face.
"It's complicated," said Zelda. Link turned sharply to face her.
"Then give me the short version. Sheik has every right to be at this meeting. Especially if it has anything to do with Hyrule's current threat," growled Link. Zelda frowned at him as they turned a corner. Maids walked passed them, some swinging around to point at the man that some recognized as the same man that came bursting out of the Princess's private chambers the previous day.
"Link…things aren't as simple as they are in small towns like Ordon. Things like racism and prejudice views are formed when you have a place that has separate classes. Those of a higher rank tend to look down at those who are of a lower one. As much as I hate the fact that I have to have my best friend sit out of a meeting just to please these jerks, I have no chose. I need their support if I want this alliance with Calatia to be a success," said Zelda as they approached the court room.
The fury building within Link came to a sudden halt at the slightly familiar name. It brought flashes of people, sounds and smells. They also seemed familiar but he had never step foot out of Ordon before the Twilight Incident.
Calatia…? Where have I heard that?
The wide double doors were opened by a guard on each side. Link then was ushered into the room.
"Come sit by me," whispered Zelda in his ear. She turned swiftly and walked to the other side of the table with Link trailing after her. Link noticed most of the nobles were looking at him strangely, as if surprised he was here to begin with.
A guard at the end of the table stood behind Zelda's chair, then pushed it in once she sat down. Link took the seat to the right of her. He glanced down the table, but didn't see any familiar faces until he looked straight across from him. Victor sat to Zelda's left, giving Link a nod then returned his attention to his sister.
Zelda took a deep breath and then laced her fingers together in front of her. She then leaned forward in her seat to address everyone at the table.
"Alright, we will continue with what was discussed yesterday. I have recently discovered something important that my father had setup without my knowledge, but had intended to tell me on my eighteenth birthday…a date that most of you know occurred when the Twilight Incident happened," said Zelda as she addressed the room. Link's eyes widened.
What? Her birthday was on the day the twilight spread? Damn…what a way to welcome someone into adulthood.
"Also, there is something else that has recently reached my knowledge. Hyrule's state of peace will not last much longer because there is a new evil that is readying itself to strike us at the heart," said Zelda. Suddenly angry voices filled the room.
"What? I thought the Hero of Twilight had rid Hyrule of her currant danger? You mean there is something else out there as well?" exclaimed a woman that sat near the double doors. The feathers from her hat swayed with the sudden movement of her head.
"Yes! What could possibly be out there now? When there hasn't been a disturbance from any of the monsters that used to patrol the fields!" shouted a man that sat next to the lady with the feathered hat. He was obese and covered from head to toe with expensive jewelry.
Link turned toward the obese man to give him a look of disbelief.
"Have you even been outside? There was twice as many monsters on route to Kakariko as there were during my first journey. I even came here to request aid because of that!" said Link. The man's face turned beet red, and then jabbed a finger toward Link.
"You have no right speaking like that to me peasant! Your actions do nothing but give you a heroic title! Something that obviously is going to your head!" shouted the man angrily at Link.
Zelda put her hand on Link's right arm, but it went unnoticed as he growled at the man.
"What did you just say?! I never have taken advantage of this so called title! But you obviously have abused yours since the moment I met you! Maybe even longer!" shouted Link back at the man.
"Link please! There's no-" but the man ran right over Zelda. Several other people started to nod their heads in agreement with the obese man.
"How dare you speak to me like that! You are lucky to be given the honor of being a part of this meeting you ungrateful peasant!" shouted the obese man as he glared at Link. Those that sat closest to Zelda were looking at her, astonished. As if they were surprised that she was trying to calm Link instead of supporting the obese man.
"You want a piece of me?! I don't need to be a part of your ridiculous meetings! I saved your pompous ass along with everyone else here without so much as a plea for aid!" shouted Link.
"Gentlemen," said a stern voice. Link looked across from him to see Victor giving him a hard look. The obese man farther down the table looked ready to keep going, but Victor silenced him with a sharp look.
"Everyone here is aware of the Hero of Twilight's social standing but you all best consider the fact that he did not have to help us. He did not have to sacrifice so much without even asking so much as a rupee in return. Or would you all rather wait to see if this evil is in fact real, and have to beg for help from our fabled hero because of some petty fight?" asked Victor to everyone at the table. The obese man narrowed his eyes at Link.
"We have some of the finest soldiers in the world. We won't need him when we can handle this supposed threat just fine by ourselves," spat the man. Link growled, but Victor held up a hand and then nodded to Link.
"Duke Bastian, let me ask you this then. You say we can handle this supposed threat? Well, what of the last one? Where were our finest soldiers then? The King of Darkness had almost swallowed Hyrule in Twilight and had she not thrown everything she had at it? Yet, still he prevailed? Well, if what our hero here says is true then it is very possible that this evil is much stronger than even the mighty King of Darkness. Does everyone here really wish to bring its wrath down on us when we were obviously unable to hand our last threat by ourselves?" said Victor as he looked at everyone in turn. Link was impressed.
Wow, this guy is smooth. He isn't even challenging anyone out right, but is still getting his point across.
"No one seems to be considering the state of Hyrule herself either. Many areas are still recovering. Some of them are owned by many of you. Perhaps I am wrong to assume that everyone here wishes to avoid possible loss of land or even profit? That will be difficult once this possible threat makes itself known," said Victor. He looked back at his sister, giving her a nod.
Zelda smiled gratefully at him, while Link noticed everyone around the table were nodding in agreement.
Goddess's…this room was about to erupt! But he settles the tension with a few words? Who is this guy?
"Now, if we could get back to the matter at hand. There isn't much to tell about this possible threat, but something that will most definitely help us in the future is an alliance with the kingdom of Calatia far to the northeast. We haven't had much contact with them but when my father brought the races of Hyrule together and formed an alliance he thought that it would be beneficial to reach out toward Calatia to include them as well. He met with the king and made a deal that they would not act on until the crown prince and myself reached adulthood," said Zelda. She took a deep breath, and then took a quick glance around the table.
"Once I reached adulthood then I was to marry the crown prince of Calatia, Leonard," said Zelda finally.
Link had been barely listening, thinking that this really didn't have anything to do with him. Then he couldn't help but hang his mouth open in surprise at what she had just said.
"What does the crown prince promise in this union?" Asked the woman with the feathered hat.
You have got to be kidding me! They are more worried about what they might get from this then the fact that their princess is talking about marrying some stranger?!
"He is the king now. He is actually the one that approached me about this deal. I admit that I had been quite unconvinced of the truth of the matter but the letter he presented to me had my father's personal seal. So, as the king he has more to offer but has expressed the desire to come here and meet me in person. I thought it would be best if he met the council as well. I made it very clear that Hyrule is not a dictatorship and the council helps me keep order in my kingdom," said Zelda. A thin man sporting a long red goatee and green mage's hat and robes looked at her curiously from beside Victor.
"Their monarch is the supreme ruler then?" asked the thin man.
"That is correct Lord Noren," said Zelda. Lord Noren frowned as Victor looked at his sister inquisitively.
"Someone like that is not going to easily reform to a new government. If that was the case then you would dissolve the council after this union?" asked Noren with a raised eyebrow. Link noticed Zelda glance nervously around the table.
"No, of course not! I was trying to decide the best way to combine our kingdoms without having to lose the integrity that has kept us strong on our own. I had thought that since Calatia has expanded its borders since my father made this deal then we could exchange land along the border to the north-" but Lord Bastian cut her off.
"I own much of the land to the north. You can't possibly mean to give any my property?" asked Lord Bastian sharply.
"No, Lord Bastian. As I said, I thought to exchange-" but the Lord Bastian laughed unbelievably.
"Exchanging something is still giving away something in return for something else! If we are talking about trying to divide the land to the north then the answer is obviously to not combine the kingdoms but to simply define an alliance," said the obese man. Victor sighed as he ran a hand down his face. Lord Noren looked sharply down the table at the obese man.
"That would quite beneficial for you Lord Bastian. With land that borders a friendly kingdom you could literally bounce between governing laws at your leisure. You would enjoy trade that was difficult to tax and even control who and what goes into and from Hyrule and Calatia. I suppose the rest of us should just applaud such a brilliantly obvious scheme then?" asked Lord Noren irritably. He pointed a finger at Bastian and Link noticed tattoos all along the top of each of the man's fingers. They didn't look like anything that Link had ever seen. Zelda raised her hands in attempts to stop the approaching fight.
"There is no need for this! Lord Bastian, I intend to give you exactly if not more then what I would exchange King Leonard during our union. As the council member that lives so close to what would become our border anyway I thought it right to have you become the mediator in cases where it is needed," said Zelda. The obese man seemed to think about. Lord Noren looked at her incredibly.
"You would support this, princess? He would be able to control the trade routes and the amount of government loop holes that he could jump through would be astounding! You might as well hand him a crown of his own because he could very well create his own law in a region who's disciplinary issues would have to go through two different monarchs that governed their kingdom in two different ways!" exclaimed Lord Noren. Link was rapidly getting lost in confusion but something seemed to pop out to him.
"Why not just let the guy have his land where he wants but just have someone from each country living there to help him make chooses? Isn't that what this council is supposed be doing with Zelda anyway?" asked Link as he scratched his head. Victor tilted his head to look at Link curiously. Even Lord Noren twirled the end of his goatee in thought as he concerned Link's idea. Zelda smiled brightly at him before addressing the rest of the table.
"That's brilliant! With a representative from each kingdom there to aid in the government of his region then Lord Bastian will have to abide by the law of each. Now, I think now is a good time for a lunch break," said Zelda with a smile. She clapped her hands and then servants came pouring in from the narrow corner hallway that Link hadn't noticed before.
A servant went to wait behind the chair of each noble and helped them up. Link rolled his eyes as he got up from his seat. He gestured that he was fine when a servant rushed over when he got up without the help from one of them. Zelda strode passed him so followed her out of the courtroom. Zelda smiled gratefully at him and then seemed ready to say something but Lord Noren suddenly stepped up beside Link and held out a hand.
"I feel after that, I must greet the Hero of Twilight properly. You are a remarkable man. I am Noren, of house Greenwind. I must admit that your presence was most unexpected but quite eventful. I hope to see more from you in the future," said Noren as Link shook his hand.
"Just Link is fine. I don't really know what you mean by that but I'll be around," commented Link cautiously. Noren just chuckled and bowed his head slightly before turning to leave. Link watched him go with a confused expression.
I can't decide on a solid opinion for that guy…
"Well, that wasn't as much of a disaster as I thought it would be. You even caught the interest of two of Hyrule's oldest houses," said Zelda with a chuckle. Victor appeared beside his sister and leaned forward to grin over at Link.
"Well, our Hero of Twilight definitely has plenty of spunk to spare. My, it's been quite some time since I've seen someone with enough of a backbone to get in Bastian's face like that," said Victor. Link grumbled.
"If he didn't want to get burnt, then he shouldn't have touched the fire. How did you do that anyway?" asked Link to Victor as they rounded a corner.
"Do what?" asked Victor.
"Well…back in there, when you stopped the fighting. I would have continued in a heartbeat, and it looked like that fat guy would have as well. But you got right in there, said a few words, then bam! It's like the fight never even happened," said Link as he looked at Victor in astonishment. Victor laughed and then put a hand on Link's shoulder.
"My friend, politics can be just as fierce as any battle at times. You just have to know how to play your cards right, and know where to hit. Sometimes giving in to someone isn't always an act of submission. Sometimes you can take hold of what you just gave, and then twist it to your own advantage to where you get most of the benefit," said Victor as they walked into the dining room.
"With nobles, its best to just let them think they've won instead of battling them head on. The fight will go a lot smoother for you that way," said Victor as they approached the head table that overlooked the rest of the room. He took a seat to the right of the highest chair where Zelda was already sitting. Link glanced around the table until Zelda smiled and patted the seat on the other side of her. Link took the hint and sat down.
"I think I'll just stick to fighting monsters. Politics really isn't my kind of thing," said Link. Victor chuckled, while Zelda gave him a mock look of horror.
"Oh darn! Here I was thinking you would be a great politician! I even had a puffy hat and suit made just for you," said Zelda. She laughed at the pointed look Link gave her.
"Yeah, the only thing I'd use those for is target practice," said Link. A waiter suddenly set a tray in front of him and lifted the lid.
"Oh Goddess's…steak," said Link hungrily before devouring it.
Zelda rolled her eyes as she cut into her roasted chicken. Victor took a bite from his salad and watched amusingly as Link ate like a starving man.
Link finished while Zelda and Victor hadn't even gotten half way done. He then leaned back and stretched as far as his injured arm would allow. Victor glanced curiously at his injured arm.
"Is something wrong with your arm?" asked Victor. Link froze, and then brought his arm down.
"Ah, yeah. I got injured a few days ago, but it will be healed soon," said Link then took a swig from his goblet. He didn't know what it was but it smelled like berries and tasted good.
"That's good. Do you have potions or something else helping you in the mean time?" asked Victor.
"Yeah, I have a potion and it works wonders," said Link. He didn't feel it was a good idea to be spreading the word that he was injured so badly that he needed a special potion just to help him.
"Well, if you have any need of other potions and such just come seek me out. I'll be visiting Kakariko regularly soon," said Victor. Link looked at him curiously.
"Why?" asked Link.
"Because our forces will be in the command of a buffoon that hasn't seen a second of real battle. So, I'm going there often to make sure he does it right," said Victor. Link nodded, glade that Kakariko was getting extra protection.
The kids won't have anything to worry about with a portion of the Hylian army camping out in town.
Zelda turned sharply toward her younger brother.
"Daddy put him in charge, and I trust his judgment. Why don't you like him?" asked Zelda. Victor frowned at her.
"It's not that I don't like him Zelda. It's that I don't think he has what it takes to lead," said Victor. Zelda sighed, running a hand through her hair.
"Well, then you can keep an eye on him. But don't you dare leave that town on your own understand little brother? No matter many soldiers you have with you. I'm not losing you again," said Zelda as she gripped her brother's hand. Victor laced his fingers though hers.
"Firstly, I never do anything without a reason Zelda, come now. Nothing is going to happen to me, but that doesn't mean I can just sit back and watch when my homeland is scarred because some idiot doesn't know when to quit. Secondly, I am barely a year younger than you. That hardly qualifies the use of little brother," said Victor with a smirk. Zelda snickered at Victor and then went back to her chicken.
"So, where will you be heading next, hero?" asked Victor. Link looked over at him with a grin.
"Probably get into loads of trouble and saving the world while doing it," said Link. He held his goblet between his middle and index finger, lightly twirling the liquid inside it.
"And just call me Link. It feels kinda awkward to have the prince call me that. Not that I like the title to begin with," commented Link.
"Very well Link. In return you may call me Victor. Now, I have to ask. Are you going to the Welcoming Festival?" asked Victor. Link gave him a puzzled look.
"What's that?" asked Link. Victor chuckled.
"I suppose that is a no. Unless you would like to? It is a festival that we are holding to celebrate the arrival of Leonard, the King of Calatia. Zelda merely has to send word of when it will be," said Victor.
"I doubt it. I like to party but not with thousands of people. I most likely will still be on my new journey anyway," said Link. He finished whatever was left in his goblet and then wiped his mouth with his sleeve before standing.
"I should get going actually. Do you really need me in this meeting or can I just go?" asked Link hopefully to Zelda. Zelda sighed, then shook her head.
"No, I just need your honest opinion…do you think I should marry Leonard?" asked Zelda hesitantly. Link blinked, not expecting that.
"Ah, well, if it were me then I would say no. Because I couldn't just marry some stranger…but, ah I really can't say for sure without at least meeting the guy," said Link as he scratched his head. Zelda groaned as she put her face in her hands.
"You should come to the Welcoming Festival then. Even just briefly. You could meet him then?" asked Zelda.
"I can try, but like I said. I might still be on my journey. When do you think it will be?" asked Link.
"Possibly in two weeks," said Zelda. Link nodded then stood up.
"Alright, I'll see what I can do. I'm gonna get going so see you guys later," said Link.
"Oh wait!" shouted Zelda suddenly, making Link spin around. She stood up, but then looked down at her half eaten chicken.
"I'll take him. To the gardens above the chapel right?" asked Victor, who had long since finished his salad. Zelda sighed, and then sat back down.
"How did you know that? Good grief, I told you to stop that mind reading little brother! But yes, that's where Link needs to go," said Zelda with a smirk. Victor shot her a glare but then turned to gesture for Link to follow him. Zelda smiled and waved as Link before he walked away and then returned to her food.
"Are you sure you don't need anything else for that arm? I'm sure it will be difficult to fight without your sword arm," said Victor once they entered the hallway. Link nodded, but then realized something.
"How did you know this was my sword arm?" asked Link. Victor raised an eye brow.
"As much as I hate them, I do hear rumors quite often. I could comment on anything from the kind of weapons you use to the style of clothing you wear at night based on the gossip wheel that spins around this kingdom. I also noticed that you used that arm quite often during the meeting and while eating your food even though it's injured. So, I figured that must be your dominant one," said Victor. Link nodded.
Intelligent and really observant…but not a total snob like the other nobles I've seen. I like him.
"Maybe one of these days we can have that dual. That way I can see for myself if you can wield that saber that's by your side," said Link as he pointed to the blade he just mentioned. Victor smirked.
"Yes, maybe we will have that dual. It has been awhile since I've had a challenge," said Victor. Link laughed, shoving Victor slightly with his shoulder. He stiffened suddenly, nervous when he realized this wasn't one of his friends that he can shove playfully around. He was amazed when Victor just shoved playfully back.
They talked about their favorite kind of mixed drinks, previous battles, and other random things as they walked from one side of the castle to the other.
"This is where we part ways. The chapel is right up these stairs and to the right of them you will find the entrance to the garden that surrounds it. Oh, and don't forget that I will be visiting Kakariko often. When you told me you were a mean poker player I just had to challenge that because I hope you know that I have an unbeatable record," said Victor as he stopped by the foot of the stairs. Link humphed as he climbed the stairs but stopped and looked down at the prince.
"This unbeatable record of yours won't stand a chance against me," said Link with a grin. He snickered when Victor waved a fist at him mockingly.
"See ya Victor," said Link before turning and heading back up the stairs.
"Farewell, and good luck on your journey," said Victor. Link smiled softly as he climbed the stairs.
Wow, the last person I was that comfortable with talking to was Ilia. I wonder if he likes to fish? Or ride horses?
Link stumbled a bit suddenly, breathing hard. He had been trying to not dwell on the painful fact that most of his family was still petrified at the ranch where he grew up. Ilia was his closest friend and he couldn't save her this time. He started to tremble as pure misery and fury grew inside him. He clutched a fist and closed his eyes to try and calm himself. He never used to have this problem but ever since he become a wolf his emotions became difficult to control.
I swore to her…never again…
He stood there for several minutes and then took a deep breath once he started to relax. After shaking his head he started up the stairs again. He reached the top of the stairs and then turned right, walking straight into the garden. It was densely shaded, not many people were here either. Suddenly a streak of white came hurling toward him.
Quickly holding out his hands, Link caught the flying Icesis before she could impale his chest.
"Ha! I'm getting better at knowing when you're coming at me," said Link as he held her up to his face.
"Now, where is Sheiky, girl?" asked Link. Icesis tilted her head, giving him a look that suddenly made him question his sanity.
If I didn't know any better I'd say that she just smirked at me but cats can't smirk…can they?
Icesis then wiggled out of his grasp and darted away. Link shot after her, laughing as he passed several people that shot him weird looks. He narrowed his eyes once he spotted Icesis turn sharply to her right and suddenly gasped when he saw someone sitting on the edge of the pool calming drinking something out of a tea cup. It went crashing to the ground as the person was startled when Link suddenly jumped right over him to land on the white stone surrounding the edge of the pool.
"Sorry!" yelled Link quickly at the bewildered person before chasing after Icesis. He ran along the white stone ledge until he reached the side where he saw Icesis disappear behind the waterfall that poured into the pool.
Walking cautiously on the wet stone now, Link tried spotting the white cat among the white jagged stone wall. He suddenly caught sight of something else. Walking closer, Link realized it was a foot. After passing the rock that hid the rest of this person, he discovered Sheik laying against the rock with his arms wrapped loosely around himself.
Looking up he saw Icesis sitting near Sheik's head, strangely quiet now.
He wondered why Sheik hadn't said anything yet, but found that the Sheikah was fast asleep.
Bet she planned this, the little trickster.
Looking down at his sleeping form, Link couldn't bring himself to wake the Sheikah. So, after standing there awkwardly for a few seconds, Link decided that it wouldn't hurt to take a short nap.
Hell, it sure seems like Sheik needs it. Yeah, just like twenty minutes or so then I'll wake him.
He walked over to the Sheikah's side and laid back against the rock wall. He sighed and then closed his eyes.
Somewhere along the hour that passed, Sheik awoke and yawned.
"Meow," said Icesis to his right. He looked up and spotted her peering over the edge of the rock she was perched on. Sighing, he stretched to try and relieve the muscles that were cramped from sleeping against that rock wall for Goddess knows how long, but found that something restrained his movements.
He looked to his side and barely suppressed the yelp from escaping his mouth when Link's dark blonde head was not more than two inches from his face. The hero was obviously asleep, with his face buried in the Sheikah's shoulder, muffling his snores. Judging by the position of his feet, Sheik guessed Link had tried sleeping beside him but ended up slumped against his left shoulder, with his arms wrapped loosely around the Sheikah's arm.
Sheik wouldn't doubt that his face was probably as red as his eyes now. Once again, he was thankful for his shawl, but that wasn't going to help him if Link woke up to see the small portion of it that his shawl didn't cover. So, he needed to escape now.
He could teleport but he needed to move until Link wasn't touching him. So, he carefully started to move his feet and position himself so Link was gradually starting to lay against the place where Sheik was sitting. Link was almost laying on the smooth stone that they were sitting on but as Sheik was trying to shift Link's head from his chest to the smooth stone he suddenly noticed Icesis perched on a ledge that stood above Link. She had her behind high in the air and her tail flicked from side to side playfully. Sheik looked sharply up at the cat.
"Icesis! Don't you even-!" Sheik tried whispering angrily but Icesis still flew off the ledge she was perched on and landed right on Link's upper back, digging her claws into the fabric to stay there.
Startled by the claws in his back, Link's eyes snapped open and instinctively shoved himself away from them. He lunged forward, unknowingly right into Sheik. They fell backward until they went right into the waterfall. The water disorientated Sheik and then he panicked once the weight of Link's body drove him underwater.
Link suddenly lifted Sheik's head above the surface of the water. He coughed, trying to get the water out of his lungs and then noticed that Link was bent over to shield his face. Once the hero was certain he was breathing he jumped to his feet and then started to drag the Sheikah with his good arm a few feet until they were out of the waterfall.
Link loosened his hold and then fell to his knees beside Sheik, causing the Sheikah to fall against his chest. His head laid against the hero's shoulder and he stayed there, trying to catch his breath. Then Link suddenly buried his face in Sheik's shoulder and started to laugh. The Sheikah was confused until he heard the irritable and frantic meowing from behind them. He lifted his head over Link's shoulder to see Icesis dog paddling as fast as she could away from them, obviously trying to get out of the water. The sight along with Link's continuous laughter made him fall into fits of laughter himself.
"Guess your little prank backfired, huh you little imp?" snickered Link as Icesis was pulling herself out of the water. Sheik smirked as she spun around to give the hero a death glare. The intensity of it seemed to diminish as her already thin body looked even thinner with her wet fur dripping all over the stone edges of the huge pool. Then the hero shifted his weight and Sheik was suddenly hyperaware of the position they were in.
Link had his injured arm loosely wrapped around Sheik's lower back while he leaned on his other arm as he smirked over at Icesis. This meant that the Sheikah was practically laying against his chest with his head resting on top of his left shoulder.
"Maybe taunting her wasn't the best idea. She's starting to prowl the edges of the pool like an angry furry shark," muttered Link. He paused when he caught the scent of pine and turned cautiously when the Sheikah was silently still.
"Sheik? She hasn't scared you that much has she?" teased Link. Sheik didn't respond so Link moved his hand up his back to grasp his shoulder. He pulled it so Sheik would lift away from his shoulder but then the Sheikah seemed to finally snap out of it. He jerked away and then rolled off Link.
Link sat in the water looking up surprised at the Sheikah. Sheik stood there staring down at him for several seconds until Icesis meowed irritably from the edge of the pool.
"Ah, you alright there buddy?" asked Link cautiously as he stood to his feet.
"Yes, yes, I'm fine. That was just…unexpected. We should go though. If you wish to seek the Kokiri then we should reach the forest before dusk. That strange child is suspicious enough without having to follow him around in the dark," Sheik said as he walked over to the edge of the pool. Icesis was trying to clean herself and glare at Link at the same time as he followed her owner to the edge of the pool.
"Oh, ok," said Link. He wasn't sure why he suddenly felt disappointed.
What was I expecting…?
Sheik picked up his wet disgruntled cat and held her. He then shifted her around until he could reach out a hand to Link. Taking the hint, he grasped it. Suddenly they teleported into town. Link was confused when they eventually paused at the stairs that lead down to Telma's Bar.
"Why are we here?" asked Link when Sheik continued to stand there looking undeceive.
"I would rather not have Icesis wander in a place known as the Lost Woods but I don't know how long I'm going to be gone. I could go home and leave her there…but we might not have the time to take such a detour. Would Telma be alright if I left her here?" asked Sheik finally. A group of four people came stumbling up the stairs suddenly but they paused when they caught sight of Sheik. The Sheikah immediately moved to stand away from the stairs, making Link glance back at him confused.
"He-hey! It's that sneaky freak. Thought you guys we-were dead?" slurred a black haired man that was using the women he was leaning against as a personal crutch. She was stumbling as well but it seemed more from the effort of keeping the guy from hitting the ground.
"Hey, Jimmy! Hey, Jimmy! Ho-how can he be dead if he's right th-there?" slurred another man as he poked Jimmy. Jimmy looked at his friend like he just had a grand epiphany.
"You're right….sneaky freak is a gh-ghost! We should ma-make sure though. Oli, go kick him. If he's a ghost th-then nothing will happen! Go!" exclaimed Jimmy drunkenly. Link had been starting to think this was some kind of weird prank but now they were just pissing him off. He stood in front of the guy that must have been Oli. The guy looked up at the hero confused when he blocked his path.
"You guys need to move along," said Link lowly. Most of the group looked at the glaring hero cautiously but Jimmy either didn't notice or didn't care. He pushed himself away from his female crutch, making him stumble in a wide arch around the hero and even running into several people walking in the street until finally standing in front of Link.
Link had honesty lost some of his anger as he watched the guy almost take a dive into the hot spring water tub that sat next the goron salesmen. He sighed impatiently once the guy finally swayed on his feet in front of him though, apparently trying to stay still long enough to glare at him properly. Suddenly he felt Sheik place hand on his shoulder and then teleported inside Telma's Bar.
"What the hell? I can't decide rather to be pissed or amused. Those assholes were something else," muttered Link. He turned to Sheik curiously.
"Do you know them?" asked Link. Sheik was silent for a few moments until shaking his head and then walked passed him to approach Telma. Link frowned as he followed him.
Why did they act like they did know you then…? Even if they were being a complete ass?
Telma paused from drying a glass and then smiled at them.
"Well, hello there honey. Did you come in here to brighten my day?" asked Telma with a smile. Sheik walked up to the bar and set Icesis down on the counter.
"Good afternoon Telma. Link and I are leaving for somewhere far away but I don't know for how long. May I leave Icesis here until we return?" asked Sheik. Louise immediately jumped on the counter and approached Icesis, and started to help clean her.
"Well, of course you can honey. She is just a sweetheart. Louse could use the company too," said Telma. She turned to Link after he sat at the bar when he realized that none of his other friends were in the building.
"I take it you guys are going on some kind of mission?" asked Telma curiously. Link shrugged.
"Pretty much. I'm searching for someone that can finally heal my arm. I'm also going to cleanse a temple that had already been cleansed century's years ago," said Link as he started to munch on the bowl of nuts sitting at the bar. He chuckled when Icesis padded over to sniff at the nut he was holding but then stuck her tongue out at it. He was reaching for another hand full of nuts but suddenly hunched over gasping and fell to the floor. He clutched his right arm as it started to spasm again.
Link was screaming when Sheik ran to his side. The Sheikah was horrified to see dark purple liquid seeping out from under the bandages but was suddenly shoved harshly away from the hero. Sheik fell backward and knocked over a table, causing all the bowls, goblets and utensils to spill over him.
"Link! What is going on?!" exclaimed Telma hurriedly as she ran around the bar. She froze when Link's injured arm suddenly gripped the handle of the Master Sword and unsheathed the holy blade. Tears were starting to trail down his face but the pain wasn't the reason his composure was slipping.
If that bastard makes me hurt someone I care about…
Sheik also sat frozen, half tangled in a table cloth and ale dripping from his clothing. He stared at the hero's cursed arm in shock. He could easily see the purple veins growing along Link's arm but now he saw something else. Purple energy crackled off the veins but tendrils of darkness were wrapped around his arm. When they moved Link's cursed arm would try to imitate them.
Telma's eyes narrowed and she spun around and ran back behind the bar. Link's cursed arm started to slash wildly, half the time trying to attack Link himself or Sheik when he tried to approach him again.
"Stay away!" shouted Link in anguish. Sheik was crouched defensively near Link but was at a loss. If he couldn't get near the hero then he couldn't tend to his wound but that didn't really matter because Link had the potion in his pouch anyway.
Suddenly there was a loud cry from behind Sheik. He turned just in time to see Telma fly passed him wielding two long curved blades that she crossed in front of her. She slammed into the cursed arm that slashed at her when she came near but she was easily able to knock Link back against the wall since he made no effort to stop her.
"Don't just stand there gawking! Get over here!" shouted Telma to the stunned Sheikah. Sheik shook his head and rushed over to Link's right side and reached inside his pouch to search for the potion. Link was also surprised at Telma's sudden skill with a sword but then he grabbed her wrist and applied more pressure so his cursed arm would stay pinned against the wall. He blinked as his vision started to blur and it seemed the pain was ebbing away.
Telma cursed when Link began to slowly slide down the wall. Sheik finally pulled out both bottles of the silver potion. He looked fearfully up at Link and flinched when the tendrils were wrapping around his neck as if trying to strangle him. Sheik panicked and then summoned a dagger and cut the bandages from Link's cursed arm. It was strange seeing Link so weak when his cursed arm still fought like nothing was wrong with him.
The Sheikah ripped the cork off the bottle with his teeth and then spat it out. He then turned the bottle upside down over the wound. He was immediately worried when the wound seemed to absorb the potion. The tendrils started to fade but he couldn't tell if Link was doing any better because the hero had suddenly fainted and was now leaning against Telma as she tried to keep him pinned against the wall. The half full bottle was suddenly empty so he grabbed the other full bottle on the floor and ripped the cork off and turned it upside down over wound as well.
After a few moments Sheik stepped back with the now empty bottle. He prayed to Nayru that it was enough because they didn't have anymore. The Master Sword suddenly fell to the floor as Link's cursed arm went limp. Sheik relaxed and sighed in relief when the tendrils finally all disappeared.
Telma set Link gently on the floor and then checked his pulse. She seemed satisfied so she stood up and walked to the storeroom behind the bar.
Sheik knelt beside Link and looked sadly down at the hero. He reached a hand down to wipe the tears away from his face. He didn't deserve this. Not after everything he's done for this world…
The Sheikah pushed up Link's sleeve and narrowed his eyes when he noticed the purple veins had reached across his shoulder and almost touched his neck. Like wicked looking hands creeping closer to the hero's vital organs. What would happen if they reached his head? Or his heart? Would he just die? Would he become that little menaces puppet forever?
He gripped Link's chin gently and pushed it up to inspect his neck. He didn't see any bruises that would normally be lift behind from an attempted strangulation. Were the tendrils he had seen around the hero's cursed arm caused by the purple veins? Could they only affect the area that the veins were covering? Or were they a better way to control where the purple veins would spread?
Telma suddenly came back holding a bottle of red potion. Sheik shot a hand out to stop her from trying to use it on the motionless hero laying on the floor.
"No, red potion will cause him more pain. The only thing that has been effective is the Goddess's Tears. Which we are out of now…Telma can I leave Link in your care? I need to find the person who sold that potion to us," said Sheik as he gripped Telma's wrist. The red haired women nodded but then twisted his wrist gently and placed the bottle in his palm.
"I'll patch him up but you take this then. You never when you might need it. Especially if you're going to be following this stubborn hero around," said Telma with a small smile. Sheik gave her a grateful look and put it within the folds of his suit.
He then walked out of the bar and went hunting for the man that was so much like the friend that was making his world turn upside down.
Link awoke slowly, blinking his eyes at the slight throbbing in his head. He reached a hand up to rub his eyes but then paused when he caught sight of what was on his hand. Purple veins reached from the tips of his fingers to wrapping all along his arm and then stretched over his shoulders and across his the right side of his torso. They barely stopped before reaching his neck. Link closed his eyes and then took a deep breath.
What else can this bastard do to me…? Every time I'm forced to endure these attacks something new happens! Goddess…what if next time I'm not quick enough to stop myself from hurting Sheik?
The hero had shoved Sheik away the moment he realized that his arm was moving without his consent. His guide was becoming someone important to him. He hadn't known him for more than a few days but he already felt like he'd known him for years. He didn't think he could control the wrathful wolf in him if something ever happened to the Sheikah. Especially if he was the one that caused it.
Link paused as he looked to the side in confusion. He was emotional…but not as much as he expected. His eyes widened when he didn't feel a response from the wolf within him. This hasn't happened before.
This curse…it beginning to suppress the wolf within me.
The hero looked darkly at his feet. He wasn't sure how to feel about that. He loathed the fact that this bastard was manipulating his body. He didn't even hate the wolf within him. It was a beast, not a monster. It was a part of him now and he had accepted that. He wouldn't be alive without it. But he couldn't forget the fact that he wasn't in total control anymore ever since the twisting nature of the twilight had created the wolf within him to begin with.
He shook his head. There wasn't anything he could do about it now. He then glanced around the room. He was lying in a small bed tucked in the corner of a dimly lit room. He noticed that his boots, green hat and leather gauntlets were sitting on a dresser beside the bed. He didn't recognize the place though. So, he pulled the covers off him but then paused when something white suddenly shot across the room and headed toward the bed.
"Meow!" exclaimed Icesis as she jumped onto the bed. He smiled softly when she rubbed up against his leg but was startled when Louise suddenly jumped up as well.
"You guys are friends now then? That's good. You need someone else to keep you company so you stop messing with me so much," said Link as he scratched Icesis behind the ears. Louise tilted her head to the side as if saying, 'What makes you think I won't do the same thing?'
"Come on Louise! We're old buddies! You should be on my side!" exclaimed Link. Louise looked over at Icesis and then they both pounced on his feet. Link laughed as the cats playfully bit and swiped at his feet. Whenever he would get a hold of one cat the other would pounce on his hands to help the other escape.
"What is going on here?" asked Telma as she poked her head through a door on the far side of the room. She smiled when she noticed Link was sitting up and grinning at her as he tried to tuck his feet underneath himself to protect them from the cats.
"Good, you're up. I was getting worried there. How are you feeling?" asked Telma as she walked into the room. The cats settled down on each side of Link as Telma sat on the edge of the small bed. The hero sighed as he leaned his back against the wall the bed was pushed up against.
"My head feels like someone is using it as a drum. It's not bad though," said Link. He glanced around the room again when he noticed his guide wasn't there.
"Where is Sheik? And where are we?" asked Link.
"Your friend has been out looking for that miracle potion of yours for the past hour. You needed to take a breather after that last episode so I just let you crash at my place. Its right behind the bar," said Telma. Link raised an eyebrow as he glanced around the barren room again.
"Huh, always thought your place would be full of exotic girly stuff and cat toys," commented Link. Telma grinned and then playfully punched Link's uninjured arm.
"Well, you're not entirely wrong. Luda and I have just been moving my things slowly to another place in Kakariko over the last month," said Telma.
"You're moving to Kakariko?! That's awesome! Where are you staying? I didn't see any new houses," said Link excitedly. Telma laughed.
"I'm staying in one of the oldest houses ever built there. Its right next to Eldin's Fountain," said Telma with a grin. Link tilted his head as he tried to place where that location was in the Kakariko. His eyes suddenly widened when he realized there was only one house that close to Eldin's Fountain.
"No…you finally hooked Renado?! Man, it's about damn time. Good for you guys. He could use someone to help with Luda during times like this," said Link with a smirk. Telma shrugged but then grinned.
"Took him about a month to realize that I had more stuff in his house then he did. Eventually he stopped playing his little game of being hard to get. With Luda's help of course. That little sweet pea is like my own daughter now," said Telma with a smile. Link put a hand on her shoulder.
"You guys make a great family. Zelda's having soldiers station there soon so you guys won't have to worry about raiding parties either," said Link with a small smile. Sheik suddenly walked through the door looking aggravated.
"This has been the most wasteful-" he froze when he noticed Link was awake and sitting up.
"Link?! Goddess! Are you alright?" asked Sheik hurriedly as he rushed to Link's side. The hero chuckled and nodded.
"Yeah. I'm good now. Sorry for making you topple a table and….," Link leaned closer to him and then cringed when he picked up the scent of alcohol on him, "dunking you in something you aren't old enough to have yet," The hero then gave him a guilty smile.
The Sheikah shook his head and then folded his arms. He laughed when Link looked guiltily up at him.
"That was most certainly not how I imaged my first experience with alcohol to go, nor do I believe it to be my last. Especially if I'm around you. I've accepted that these strange but extreme occurrences are just part of being your partner," said Sheik with a chuckle. Link spread his arms and grinned.
"Wouldn't be an adventure without them. Anyway, I think we should get out of here before my whole damn arm just falls off," said Link. He stood up and turned to face Telma.
"Thanks for looking out for me. I'll see you later, ok?" said Link. He then turned and exited the room. Sheik nodded in thanks to Telma and then followed the hero out of the bar.
Link was waiting for him near the stairway once he went outside. He gestured for the hero to come over. Curious, Link walks over just as Sheik pulls out the scroll his other self had given him.
"I regret to say that the man that gave me those potions wasn't here this time. I even wasted an hour of my life walking around town trying to find places I thought he would be at. We shouldn't waste any more time looking for him though. You could have another attack at any time and we don't have any more of that potion. The safest thing to do is just find this women who can heal your arm as fast as possible," said Sheik as Link approached him. He opened his scroll and peered down at it trying to find what he had noticed earlier.
"While I was waiting in certain spots, I decided to read through this scroll. I eventually noticed something that surprised me. Mostly because you have used it before but apparently it has another use," muttered Sheik as he lengthened the scroll in his search. He finally spotted what he was looking for.
"You said that the ruins at the Sacred Grove was the…Temple of Time right?" asked Sheik. Link nodded.
"It says here that the Temple of Time has a warp song called the Prelude of Light. The same song you used to summon Valor. Did you want to try it?" asked Sheik.
"You mean try a song that will allow us to bypass the shenanigans that little masochist will surely try to pull on us? Must you even ask?" asked Link. He chuckled when Sheik rolled his eyes.
"Then place your hand on my shoulder. I will play it on my lyre," said Sheik. He reached into the folds of his suit to pull out his lyre.
"Alright, let's do it," said Link as he put a hand on the Sheikah's shoulder. Sheik glanced at the notes of the song one last time to try and memorize it before placing the scroll within the folds of his suit. He closed his eyes and then his hands ran along his instrument as if he had played the song all his life.
Link suddenly felt a pull that was similar to teleporting but it was wild and made him feel like he was being pulled through a lake of invisible water instead of through a narrow passageway.
The next thing they saw was the ruins of the Temple of Time standing before them.
"Oh my Goddess…it worked! That was awesome! Let's do it again!" exclaimed Link. Sheik couldn't help but laugh as he pictured a child-like Link saying the same thing.
"What's so funny?" asked Link.
"Oh, nothing. We can't go back though. I doubt I can teleport that far without killing myself. I must agree that this song is, as you said, awesome. I didn't waste an ounce of my own energy to use it," said Sheik as he crossed his arms.
"So, that lyre of yours is magical? That's not really surprising but it's nice to know for sure," said Link as he inspected the lyre in the Sheikah's hands.
"It wasn't at first but my other self enchanted it with shadow magic. I'm proud you remembered that warp songs require a magical instrument to work properly," snickered Sheik. Link gave him appointed look.
"Enough play time though. The sun is already high in the sky and I don't want to be out here at night so let's find that strange child," said Sheik.
"You mean the Skull Kid? Well…the only way I know how to summon him is through that stone near the entrance. Maybe there's another way…," said Link thoughtfully. Sheik rolled his eyes, but then jumped when Link started too shout to no one in particular.
"Hey! Where are you, you little rascal! Get your ass out here! I don't have all day!" shouted Link as he circled the area just shouting random things. Sheik sighed, but leaned against a broken part of a wall. He didn't have any better ideas at the moment so he might as well let Link run with his. After shouting for a good ten minutes, Link finally just sagged against the wall next to Sheik.
"I give up. Man…my throat is dry," grumbled Link. Sheik raised an eye brow.
"That tends to happen when you're shouting for ten minutes straight," snickered Sheik. He chuckled when Link just grumbled some more. The Sheikah tensed suddenly when a strange vibrating sound echoed through the ruins. Suddenly the Skull Kid just pops out of thin air right above the hero's head. They both go tumbling to the ground as the Skull Kid lands on top of him.
"Hey! You cheated you butt muncher! You're supposed to come in from the front!" shouted the Skull Kid as he wrapped his hands around the Link's head. The hero jumped to his feet and then shook his body trying to dislodge the child that was starting to look like his own personal cape. Sheik didn't think the strange child meant any harm to the hero so he let them wrestle. He couldn't help but snicker when he noticed Link blindly spinning himself around because the Skull Kid had his hands over the hero's eyes.
"I don't have time for your childish games! I'm busy with trying to save the world now take me to the Kokiri!" shouted Link when he finally got a hold of the rascal. The Skull Kids glowing eyes suddenly narrowed.
"Why do you want to see them?" asked the Skull Kid suspiciously. He made that strange vibrating sound again. Sheik guessed that must have been his version of a growl.
"Well…for several reasons! The main one is to…fix something and possibly cleanse a temple that has already been cleansed before," said Link. The Skull Kid stared at him for a moment, and then just shrugged.
"Ok," said the Skull Kid simply. Link gawked at the Skull Kid.
"What? That's it? No trickery? No wild goose chase? Just…ok?" said Link in amazement. The Skull Kid rolled his eyes.
"I'm not always like that you know. I can be simple, but…to bad this isn't one of those times!" shouted the Skull Kid before disappearing in a flutter of leaves. Link cursed as he stood up.
"Stupid little turd…always messing with me. Well, come on Sheik. We got to kick some ass if we want him to listen," said Link. Sheik turned sharply toward him.
"I am not helping you hurt a child," said Sheik firmly.
"Hey, didn't you listen before? That kid is probably older then both of us combined. He can also take a serious beating happily. Trust me," said Link. Sheik narrowed his eyes and refused to move from his spot.
"Hey! Come on you scaredy cats! Catch me if you can!" shouted the Skull Kid from high above them. Link looked upward and cursed when he realized that nothing but his bow would reach that high. Too bad he couldn't use it right now.
"Will you not see reason child? We are running low on time here and we can't afford to waste time playing games," said Sheik.
"Oh, you're so boring! You need to teach your girlfriend how to have fun hero!" shouted the Skull Kid. Link was torn between embarrassment from the statement and laughter from the look of utter surprise that clearly shone from Sheik's eyes at being called a girl by this child.
"You should watch what you say to people, because I am not a girl," growled Sheik.
"Fine! Then you need to teach your boyfriend how to have fun hero!" shouted the Skull Kid. Sheik growled again, his patience rapidity disappearing.
"Hey! Stop being such a little brat! We aren't dating! And Sheik isn't a girl! So get your ass down here and take us where we need to go before I pummel you!" shouted Link as he waved a fist at him.
"Why don't you and girly man over there come and make me!" taunted the Skull Kid. Link sighed impatiently and glared up at the Skull Kid.
"That's it! Listen Sheik, we can do this if we team together, ok?" asked Link. He turned when he received no answer and saw that Sheik wasn't even there. He swung back around when he suddenly heard a loud thud.
Link snickered as he walked closer to where Sheik was crouched over the wide eyed Skull Kid. He had three daggers held in between his knuckles and had them aimed at the surprised child laying on the ground.
"Call me girly man again. I dare you," hissed the Sheikah angrily. The Skull Kid looked like he would love nothing more than to sink into the ground.
"Ok! I'm sorry! Sheeh…you didn't have to do that, you meanie," mumbled the Skull Kid.
"Then you should watch what you say to people," said Sheik lowly. He stood and stepped aside. The Skull Kid grumbled, but stood as well.
"Fine. I'll take you two to the Kokiri," muttered the Skull Kid. He suddenly grinned once he remembered something.
"Hope you brought plenty of water and snacks! It's going to be a long six hours!" said the Skull Kid mischievously. He then bounded off toward the right of the area where the Master Sword used to be.
"Six hours? We have to walk for six hours? Aww man…" whined Link as he dragged his feet and followed the gleeful Skull Kid.
Sheik sighed before following the irritable hero.
Well, at least they achieved their goal…