A/N: Thank you guys so much! This is my most reviewed story and that makes me so happy. Seriously you guys are the best. I hope this chapter is good enough for you guys to keep up the review rate.
The sun was at its highest when the two warriors began to make out their home forest. They had left late two nights ago, traveling at the quickest pace they could, moving through the first night and all day until the next moon. They stopped that night to give the horses a rest. As soon as there was a trace amount of daylight they began their ride home once again. Now there wasn't much time until they would enter the forest.
"Link, take the front!" Rusl shouted over the thunder of the hooves. "Epona knows the path better! My horse shall follow her lead!"
"Yah!" One yell and his highly trained horse sped up, her head bobbing even more as she galloped towards her home. He gripped the reins tightly and leaned so his head was almost touching her neck. He glanced once over his shoulder to see Rusl matching his style on his own horse.
Link leaned inward as Epona sped around the bend. He could see the opening into the forest. "Let's go Epona!" His horse never wanting to disobey her master, managed to pump her legs faster. Only Epona could've managed such speed after the trip she just went on. Link looked back over his shoulder and could see Rusl slowly drifting behind. It didn't matter, one of them just had to get back as quick as possible. Link didn't like being away from his village and he instantly thought the worse whenever he heard of problems there.
Link heard Epona 'neigh' and he spun his head forward just in time to see a low branch coming at him. He ducked down as it cleanly swept over his head. Epona 'neighed' again, as if saying pay attention.
"Thanks for the warning girl."
Epona was smarter then the average horse…way smarter. It could feel Link in different positions. She knew he wasn't looking forward and she knew that branch would be a danger to him. It wasn't the first time she had to warn him. Whenever he would go hunting with her, she would give a slight 'neigh' is she sensed an animal. Link had Epona since he was a kid. They literally grew up together, and in doing so a deep bond developed between the two.
Through the trees Link could see the town's gates and a guard on top. In another couple of seconds Epona and he sped through them. He heard the sound of the guard shouting his return. Link barreled into his village and was immediately greeted by many. He pulled Epona to a stop, but stayed on her. In doing so, Epona kept moving, just stepping in circles and rotating so Link could see all around.
"Link!" He saw Malon approach him. "Where's Rusl?"
"He's coming," Link replied. His eyes scanned as much of the village as they could. "Has the beast been seen again?"
"No," Malon shook her head. "Just the once when he attacked Colin."
Link was about to ask the obvious question of what happened but he heard the guard yelling of Rusl's return so he waited.
"Make way people!" Link shouted as loud as he could.
The people weren't sure what he meant at first until they saw Rusl charging in at full speed. They quickly darted off the road and Rusl stormed down the path to his house. Link heeled Epona and went after him. Rusl's house was a little further into the village. It was on the opposite side of the village from Link's house and neatly set back from the main dirt path. The forest closely surrounded it but that was the case for most houses. The forest didn't actually hold any real danger until going a couple of hundred yards into it.
Link saw Rusl dismount from his horse and run into his house. Link dismounted Epona and turned back to see Malon running up the road.
"Take care of the horses!" he shouted. Honestly, Epona wouldn't move and didn't need to be tied but it was just out of habit.
Link threw open the door and it didn't take him long to find where everyone was. He saw Rusl and his wife, Uli, hugging. She was crying on his shoulder and Rusl rubbed her back gently whispering words of comfort. But his eyes were stuck on his boy, lying in the bed. Half of Colin's face was covered in bruises and his head was wrapped in bandages, implying a concussion. His right arm was in a sling and his shirtless body had more bandages wrapped around his middle.
Link saw mayor Bo sitting there with Ilia at his side, both looking sad and depressed at the sight of Colin's state. Link felt anger rage in him and he couldn't stop himself from banging his fist against the wall. Everyone's attention turned to him, they didn't know he was there before. Ilia quickly stood up and rushed over to him. She embraced him in a deep hug and he returned it. She stepped back and smiled softly.
"He will recover?" Link asked.
"Yes," Ilia replied. "Although it may take some time, we are expecting him to make a full recovery."
Link let out a sigh of relief. That worry was gone now, only one more to deal with. Link directed his attention to Bo, "What happened exactly?"
Uli sat back down at the side of Colin while Rusl went to fetch a chair. He came back with two and put one down behind Link, who thanked him with a nod. He sat down next to his wife and held her hand for support. They all watched Bo expectantly.
He took a calming breath before he started. "From what we know, Colin was with Beth, Talo and Malo."
"Are they alright?" Link quickly asked.
Bo nodded, "Yes besides being a little shaken up, none are harmed." He shifted a bit before continuing back to the story. "They were playing in the forest behind Rusl's house, doing what kids do. Then they saw one of those rare blue butterflies. They gave chase and they went deeper and deeper. They still knew their way out mind you, but they had no business going in that far. They told me suddenly there was a loud roar. They described it as a roar mixed with rage and a cry of anguish. Something that would make your blood freeze. They felt the earth shake and the bushes exploded as a giant beast charged at them."
Hearing this Uli began crying once again. Rusl embraced her, rubbing her back once again. He kept his eyes on Bo wanting, to hear the rest.
"The kids described the beast to us and it sounds like a boar from the Gerudo Desert. But not the ones that those sandmen ride. This one is larger, wilder, and the color of sand itself. How it got down here I do not know. But this beast charged and was heading for Beth. Colin pushed Beth out of the way and took the full hit. It is a miracle he didn't die instantly but his small body was…" Bo glanced at Uli crying. "…You see the damage, there is no need for me to repeat the accident. Talo and Malo screamed and ran back towards the village. That distracted the beast long enough for Beth to grab onto Colin and pulled him into the underbrush. She laid there with Colin unconscious waiting for the boar to leave. After he left, she stayed there, knowing it was dangerous to move Colin. She waited for help to come."
"Some villagers arrived and got them both back safely." Bo snorted. "Our village has been getting soft, no one else would come with me into the forest besides your friends Link. Those that weren't frightened would not do well in a forest. They were either too old or too big and noisy. So only Troy and Blaine came with me, but they did come without hesitation. We quickly followed the beast's trail. It was not hard, he just trampled through everything. When we found him we underestimated it. Its back was even taller then me, but its head hung low at my chest. The tusks on it curled back and I could fit my head the space they made. I had a spear, the only good weapon against him. Arrows can piece his flesh but not deep. Twin blades don't really work either."
Link leaned in listening intently to the story. He had to learn everything he could from this. It was going to be his job to hunt this beast down. He wasn't sure how he got that job, but after taking care of a few problems in the forest and since he spends most of his time in there anyways, the people always ask him for help, and he would never refuse them. Also the thrill of the hunt was greatly appealing to the young warrior.
"I told Blaine to just throw rocks at it to distract it, and keep a far distance. Whenever he charged at us, we would hide behind a tree. I must warn you Link, his speed was surprising. I barely made it behind one in time, and another time the tree splinted from his power. I got this cut on my arm from that. I tried to ram it with my spear, but he was able to face me head on and just broke it with his tusks. I quickly called for a retreat. We ran back to the village and decided you two had to be recalled. We sent the messenger hawk out as soon as we could."
Link rose without a word. He put a hand on Rusl's shoulder for a moment. That action alone showed the support Link was giving to him. Link turned to leave but Rusl caught his arm.
"Link, I'm going with you," his voice cold.
"No Rusl," Link's voice was strong. "I'm doing this. Stay here with Uli. She needs you. Trust me…" He looked right into Rusl's eyes. "…I will bring back the boars head."
Link then swiftly left and was greeted by many when he left the house. All of his friends were there and even the little kids Beth, Talo, and Malo. Many other villagers of all ages were standing in a semi-circle around him. He heard footsteps behind him and he didn't have to look to know it was Ilia.
"Link are you going?" One villager asked what was on everyone's mind.
Link's eyes were closed as he made a fist trying to hold his rage. His eyes opened and his usual youthful and playful blue eyes were tainted with steel and dark with anger. "Yes I'm going, be ready Ordon…for tonight we shall feast on pig!"
The village gave their cheer at the young warriors statement. They knew Link wouldn't let them down. He hadn't before and hearing him with such confidence was impossible not to believe in him. Their worries were washed away right then at that statement. The villagers knew that by dusk Link would come back scrapped up and covered in dirt, but he would return a champion, emerging from the forest with a triumphed smile on his face. He always did, why not now?
Link pushed through the crowd cheering for him. He spotted Malon holding onto both horses. Link skillfully hopped onto Epona and began walking to his house. His friends were immediately at his side.
"Link I'm going with you," Blaine said.
"No, you'll only get in my way." Link's words weren't harsh, they were simply speaking the truth.
"I saw this thing Link. You can't do it alone," Blaine persisted.
"I am doing this by myself," he stated strongly.
"Link I saw it too." Troy spoke from the other side. "Please don't be stubborn. Let us come with you."
"No."
"What if you get hurt though?" Malon asked, sounding worried. "Who will get you out of there?"
"It won't happen," Link's stated once again.
"Link you're being stubborn." Ilia accused.
"I'm doing this my way."
"You'll get killed your way," Ilia snapped losing her temper. In her mind Link was being completely unreasonable. He would surely get killed if he continued to do things his way.
"If I die doing this, then I deserve to die." His statement was short and simple but it held more meaning then entire speeches. He was an Ordon, he feared nothing. He could best anything no matter the size or the strength of his opponent. To back away because of simple fear is the most shameful act in his eyes. He would rather die than cower in fear. It was not Ordon's way…it was not his way.
"Link, you really are going to kill it?" A quiet voice spoke.
Link turned his head to look behind him. Beth was walking behind Link's friends but in front of the two brothers. He was sure she felt bad for Colin getting hurt so badly. In her eyes it was her fault since the boar was initially going after her. Link knew no one blamed her though. In fact he was sure Colin wouldn't even be mad at her when he woke up. It was just a matter of how long it would take Beth to stop blaming herself.
"Yes, I'm gonna kill it." He smiled reassuringly to her.
He crossed the bridge over the river that split up the village. Beth, Talo, and Malo stopped on the other side. Link's friends continued to follow him. They didn't speak anymore, but silently stayed by his side in support until he reached his house.
Link dismounted from Epona and led her to the small single stable he had under the house. He saw the wood stack he was previously chopping before a couple days ago when Blaine came to fetch him to go fishing. He hadn't had a decent break since. After the boar he was going to just sit back and relax.
"Blaine what should my pack be?" His mind didn't stray from his task for too long.
"A spear and the King's army." Blaine replied trying to lighten the mood slightly but also hint at how tough the beast was.
Link disregarded his answer. "How tall is he? If I stood next to him where would he be?"
Troy answered this time. "His eyes would be at your chest. The top of his back above your head. His tusks are large, even with the curl."
"What if I pierce him in his skull with my blade?"
Blaine shook his head. "An attack from the front is the wrong idea. But let's say you do that. It could work, providing you are able to hold your sword sturdy enough. His skull might actually cause your sword to slip backwards from your hands. You have to get a good amount of power behind it."
Link was taking all his equipment off Epona as he spoke. "What if I jumped out of a tree and came point down."
"That could also work. It would definitely give you the power you need." Blaine was pacing as he thought. "However there is just a high risk of missing and if you miss that strike you'll die easily."
"What about a strong war longbow. Pull it back for full strength and only being a couple yards away. If I can dig it behind his shoulder blade and hit his heart…"
Blaine nodded. "Once again that could work. But I don't know how deep the arrow must go. Based on Troy's arrows it would not be enough. But a stronger bow might work. I would say do that. If it doesn't work, you could keep at it. Just hitting him with arrows and hope he gets drained eventually."
"That would take too long," Link replied. He took the saddle off of Epona and set it on the fence boxing her in. "If the arrow doesn't work I'll try and get a stab behind his shoulder for his heart."
Blaine shrugged, "If you wanna get that close then go for it. Your sword will be able to reach his heart and it shouldn't be to hard to impale him."
"Alright." Link swiftly turned and scampered up his ladder into his house.
He continued to climb up in his house until he reached the very top. He kept most of his weapons up here. They were mostly bows, since he spent his spare time fletching them. He would gather the wood and sit in the top of his house looking out his window that gave him the beautiful view of the village. It was what he found calming. It kept his hands busy and he could just stare out that window all day. He loved sitting up here and watching the sunset with his mom. One of the few memories he had of her.
Shaking his head he put his mind back on his task. He found the strongest bow he made. It was a dark color, ugly, and rough but it held amazing power. The string was actually three stings braided together for more support. He placed one tip on the ground and using his whole body he pressed on the other, bending it just enough to slip the braided string over the top. After he set it up, he grabbed the arrows that went with it. Made of the same strong wood and thicker than the other arrows, they were longer too with a blade that was a jagged stone. This bow was not made for accuracy over far distances. It was for a straight shot no more than a hundred feet. It was for animals he was hunting such as this one, with tough skin and too big to dodge.
Link swiftly slid back down the ladders until he was outside once again. Reaching the ground he turned around to be engulfed in a surprising hug. Malon was tightly squeezing him, pushing her head deep into his shoulder on the verge of tears.
"Why do you have to go alone?"
He smiled slightly. Malon always got worked up easily. He gently pushed her back and looked into her eyes. "This is my task, my job. I'm not gonna let others get hurt."
He glanced at his other three friends standing there watching him. He could tell they were all worried for him. Even Ilia, who possibly seemed angrier than worried. That was the way she was and Link just learned to deal with it. Blaine was hard to read. Maybe a little mad at not letting him go but also like he understood why. Troy looked worried but tried to mask it with a confident smile. All others would think Troy was happy with Link going alone. But being friends with him so long Link learned how to read past.
Link walked back over next to Epona. He grabbed his sword and shield. Both Ordon made, the shield was wooden and the sword a simple cold steel; one handed. Kess did make shields out of metal, but they were expensive. He couldn't even let Link get it for a discount, which he does for most of his items. His sword was good enough for his uses. It wasn't anything impressive but it got the job done. However Link wished more than anything to get a new sword and shield.
Fact of that matter is, Link's poor. He doesn't buy new clothes, he makes them. If they rip, he will sew them. He doesn't buy food, he hunts. He makes his own repairs to his weapons. It is also why he makes his own bows and arrows. He just learned to like it, which makes it a lot easier. Link gets by with almost no amount of money on him. He doesn't need it in the village. Another reason why he loves Ordon so much. You couldn't live in Castle Town without any money.
Epona neighed seeing Link prepare for battle. The young warrior rubbed his horse between the eyes. "Sorry Epona, you can't come with me for this one."
The blonde strapped his weapons on his back. He fastened the quiver to his belt on his back. It stayed horizontal for the most part but there was a slight tip so the arrows wouldn't fall out. He simply carried his bow as he walked past his friends silently. Normally he would've made some joke about not too worry. But this time he was dead set on killing this beast. With Colin injured and just the sound of this beast, he was keeping his entire focus on it. His mind was already working on strategies, racing through them one after another, trying to find which was best. Trying to find faults. He couldn't make a true strategy to follow until he actually saw the beast. But for now he kept thinking about it.
Link made his way back to Rusl's house. A straight shot back long enough would probably lead him to the beast. If not, his trail would and that is easy to follow. The same crowd was still gathered on the dirt road. They began cheering again seeing Link walk pass. They gave him encouraging pats on the back and shouted their praise. As he walked past Rusl's house he saw the man standing in the doorway watching him. Their eyes met for a second. Rusl just nodded his head and it made Link shiver inwardly.
Link turned away and entered the forest. He could easily make out the trail of the kids running. As he followed it he thought about Rusl. I've never seen him this mad. He's been plenty disappointed but he always had some joy to him. I always wondered what happened to his anger. I heard stories of the past where he and my father would get all riled up. Then they would just go and hunt to vent all the anger. I wished to see Rusl actually show that emotion but now that I've seen it…it doesn't fit him at all. He has a wife and kids. He doesn't deserve to be angry.
It didn't take Link too long to reach the area where the first event happened. He didn't even have to crouch down and examine the tracks closely. It was amazing what you could learn from just looking at the after math. He could see the deep footprints in the grass and dirt. The branches were snapped right off the tree they belong to. The beasts' charging path was obvious. He made out where the grass was pushed down in a larger circumference. That must have been Beth dragging Colin. Link saw the path that lead away and he continued his march onward.
The Ordonian walked calmly, just keeping his eyes and ears open. He wasn't trying to be stealthy and quiet. He knew the beast would more than likely not be around him yet. If it was, there wouldn't be birds in the trees. Link kept a firm grip on his bow. Just in case if something did jump out at him. However, since there was a wild boar trampling through the woods, there was a good chance nothing would be hanging around.
Link didn't even have to push branches out of his way. There was literally a path that he could stand up tall and walk through. Everything was pushed back by the beast. Link usually couldn't see much further than a hundred feet when the woods got thick. Most wouldn't be able to see that far, not even many Ordonians. But now Link could see far down the one path. It had an ominous feel to it. Like the forest was leading him to the beast. The nature was disturbed in the area and the forest was asking Link to fix it, opening itself to allow him passage.
He saw the next grass opening coming up. The forest did have its patchy spots, were there was just some grass in an opening. This is where Link found the battle between the beast and Bo.
The grass was completely trampled in the area. Some dug up from the beast turning or pawing its hooves. Link stepped into the small circular clearing and looked around. The trees were all cut up, and the bark was smashed against many. Link could tell that was where his friends hid. He found the one tree that looked as if a bomb exploded next to it. There were wooden shards sticking out all around it. Link wasn't sure how the tree didn't completely fall over. It was, however, tipping and Link was positive it wasn't earlier. Link tightened his grip on the bow as he started following the path the boar made.
The young warrior kept glancing in the trees to see the birds. They were chirping like usual and that let Link know he was still safe. However, he found himself starting to approach more slowly. It had been about two days, so the beast could've traveled fairly far. Then again he might have found his territory and was hiding in some underbrush nearby. Link found himself glancing over his shoulder at the sheer thought.
Easy, just calm down, Link stopped and took a breath. He closed his eyes and just listened to the life of the woods for a moment. It always helped to calm him. You got yourself all riled up. You are following his tracks, you know he hasn't been back here.
After that little self-reassurance, Link continued on the move again. He walked on and on in the never-ending forest. Most others would begin to fear getting lost. But Link could find his way around easily. Living all his life around or in the forest, he had a sixth sense about it. That…and there was a giant trail that lead back to the beginning thanks to the boar. So there wasn't anything to worry about. He started to think if he would be able to drag the head all the way back. It would be heavy and maybe a little bit to gruesome for any kids back at the village to see.
"Stop," Link shook his head. "One step at a time. First you have to kill the thing."
Link smirked at his own cockiness as he entered another opening and he glanced around. He spotted some trampled grass and he hurried over to it. He knelt down and examined how great the trampled area was.
He slept here, or at least rested, Link concluded in his head. Then Link noticed something that made his neck hair rise. There's no blood. Troy hit it with some arrows. There should at least be a bit of blood. His skins so tough that the arrow didn't even reach the muscles…or was his muscle just so thick itself that there was no blood. Even if arrows don't inflict mortal damage, they almost always inflict a flesh wound. This is just impossible.
Link gritted his teeth as he rose back to his feet. He looked down the path that would eventually lead him to the beast. He tightened his grip on the bow as he began to trek forward once again. He was trying to picture the beast. A giant sand boar with menacing tusks and pure hatred flowing from him. Now he wasn't entirely sure he would know what to do against it. He was almost positive his arrows wouldn't work, even with a stronger bow. He would have to sneak up to it and jam his sword at its heart. A fairly difficult task and Link wasn't sure if it was a good thing that he couldn't help but smile at the thought of fighting such an opponent.
Link froze in mid step, his breathing hitched. He listened closely…nothing. Not a sound. He scanned the trees and there were no birds. No small animals scurrying across the ground. His heartbeat quickened. How long has it been like this? He cursed for not paying attention better. He slowly bent his knees and scanned the area. After making sure the beast wasn't around him he continued forward, but slowly.
Link didn't make a sound as he continued through the woods. He didn't step on a branch, or move any leaves. Everything he did was perfectly quiet. He knew the forest better than anyone and he knew how to move without being heard. Sometimes he placed his foot sideways wedged between two sticks. He might pivot on that foot spinning around before placing his other down. It was like a silent dance as he stepped through the forest. Dipping and ducking, sliding side to side. It was an art form, one that Link mastered in his early age. His eyes scanned quickly back and forth making sure the beast didn't double back on another path. His only advantage in this battle was surprise. If he could sneak up on the boar then he might be able to end it without a fight at all.
Then Link heard something in the distance. By instinct he squatted low and put his back against a tree. Peering through the leaves and bushes he tried to locate the sound. He tuned out the own sound of his heartbeat as he listened intently to his surroundings. His eyes widened as he heard the noise again. It was faint but it was certainly there. Link moved on slowly, there was no rush. He glanced at the sun and knew he still had plenty of time left. It had only been a bit over an hour since he left, maybe a little more.
As Link got further and further down the path, the sounds grew louder and louder. But as he grew closer he realized something else wasn't right. He wasn't expecting to hear sounds. Maybe the boar shuffling through the trees, but what he heard was cries and roars. The boar is fighting something. Link thought as he quickened his pace, knowing the boar was distracted it wouldn't notice a little noise. What if a person is fighting it? I got to get there.
There was a sudden roar and then there was a loud yelping cry of pain. Link froze in his place. That cry was ear shattering and heart breaking. It was so loud and terrifying it caused him to cringe, something he rarely did. Link couldn't imagine the pain that creature must be going through. He now knew it wasn't another person at least. Link knew that noise was unattainable unless it was your last breath leaving you. The last breath just a scream of pain…such a gruesome thought. He quickened his pace even more, now practically running down the makeshift path. The scream ringing over and over in his head. It was a warning call to Link. To turn around and leave. To not confront such a beast.
He saw a flash through the trees and he quickly ducked off the path. He heard growling and roaring. An anguished cry sounded and then the ground shook. Link was shocked by the sheer tremble the one beast could cause. He moved slowly making sure he didn't make his presence known yet. He came up to a row of bushes right before another opening. He rose to his knees but kept his back hunched. He was also next to a tree that he leaned his side against. Very slowly he leaned past it to see what was going on.
In the opening he saw the beast. Huge didn't describe it. The thing was massive, something Link had never witnessed before. This thing would probably run over Gorons. It was the color of sand and it had some red markings on it. Link saw a few arrows sticking out of it from Troy's earlier confrontation. The tusks were menacingly curled back. Snot dripped down its nose as he continued to snort. His small skinny tail swished back at forth simply out of habit. It pawed at the dirt as it glared down its foe.
Link moved a bit more to see around the tree and what the boar was fighting. Surprisingly he saw a wolf. One that was bigger than average, but compared to the boar it was tiny. The wolf was bleeding on its side. The fur around the wound was caked with blood, but the wolf didn't seem to notice. Link felt a surge of pain through him as he saw why an animal would fight such a large beast. The wolf stood protectively in front of another wolf lying on the ground. Link could tell by the way it laid, he knew it was dead. That's where the cry of pain came from before. It took a direct hit from the boar, right into a tree. All of the wolf's organs were undoubtedly crushed.
The boar cried out and the wolf barked ferociously. Spit and drool shooting from the wolf's mouth as its teeth gleaned menacingly. Link saw the hatred in the wolf's eyes. It would fight to the death, it would not back down. The wolf's back arched signaling his charge. Link was shocked; the wolf was going to attack the boar.
That's just what it did.
As soon as the wolf moved the boar did also. The wolf leaped left, then back to the right, then left once again. They were about to meet and Link could already read that the boar was predicting the wolf to jump back to the right once more. Lowering his tusks ready to make contact. However the wolf clearly outsmarted the boar. It jumped to the left again breaking the order. It dodged the boar's charge easily, but the wolf's mate's body was in the way. The boar lowed his tusks as he plowed through the limp body. Link felt rage swell up inside him as he watched. Not only was the mate tossed aside like a rag-doll, but also Link watched as a little pup was thrown into the air. The pup didn't frail when in the air, which meant it was also gone.
The wolf's bark was steel and venom. It was so strong and filled with rage. The wolf did not like its mate and pup trampled. No one would and it's why Link understood how the wolf had the courage to charge the boar. The beast's back was to the wolf and the canine took full advantage of that. It lunged onto the boar and dug its teeth into its side. The boar screamed and began jumping like a wild horse. The wolf held on, he was not letting go for any reason. The beast spun around trying desperately to get the wolf off. After a few long dragged out seconds the wolf went flying off the boar. It smacked into a tree and fell to the ground.
Link gave him credit when he saw the wolf immediately rise back to his feet. It stumbled and could barely move, but it was not giving up. Link noticed something in the wolf's mouth and his suspicions were confirmed when the wolf dropped the flesh. Glancing back at the boar he could see a spot missing some skin and some blood starting to trickle down. He could almost read the wolf's eyes as he spat the flesh to the ground. It looked like he was taunting the boar even on the verge of death. As if saying, I see your blood, and if I can see it, you can die.
Link couldn't agree more.
The boar slowly made its way towards the wolf that couldn't get out of his way. Link now knew he had to act. He couldn't let the wolf die. He sneakily and swiftly made his way around the opening, staying in the bushes. He could charge with his sword but after seeing the size of the beast he was feeling hesitation. As much as he hated it, but he would rather try his bow. He reached a spot and knelt down once again. He had a side view of the boar slowly approaching the wolf. He slid an arrow out and notched it onto the bow. He slowly pulled the string back and the bow creaked once or twice but the boar was too busy to hear. Link took aim and felt his arms already start to get heavy. He cursed himself for not training more with this bow. That was what he originally made it for. An over-heavy training bow to strengthen his muscles. However it became the perfect war bow. He just had to shoot before his arms would get shaky.
He closed one eye aiming right for the spot behind his front leg. That's where his heart was, he just had to hit it. The boar was two yards from the wolf when it began pawing the ground again, readying itself for a full charge. Link had to shoot. He held his breath to stop any movement his lungs might cause. He let the arrow slip from his fingers and he watched it soar. There was a hiss as the arrow flew. It landed right where Link aimed it.
However, Link held his cheer for the arrow did not go deep enough to impale the heart. The boar jumped around again and another scream mixed with rage came from it. The wolf looked truly shocked but was smart enough to look around. He spotted Link hiding in the bushes. Link only made eye contact with the wolf for a second. He didn't keep his eyes off the boar that long. The boar spun around to see if another opponent came to challenge him. When he didn't see anything he turned back to the wolf accusingly. Boars were dumb creatures.
Link notched another arrow. They wouldn't work but he might be able to annoy it enough to drive it away from the wolf. Then he would hunt it again. He simply wanted to save the wolf now. He pulled back on the bow and was instantly met with a snap sound and a sharp sting to the face. He examined his bow and saw that one of the tips broke under the pressure of the weight. He hastily looked back at the boar to seem him looking right back at him.
Fuck. The only word on Link's mind.
The boar dug into the ground as he made a mad sprint for Link. The Hyrulian knew the tree he was hiding behind wouldn't be big enough to stop the beast. He waited until the last second before diving out of the way. He was right. The tree simply snapped in half as the boar charge through it with ease. The beast turned and faced Link again. Link quickly whipped out his sword and shield. The boar was almost on him once again, and Link dove into the clearing. He turned to face the boar once again. The boar screamed out, it still sounded somewhere between a roar and a cry of anguish. Link, this time being on the other end of the scream, found his blood running cold. His mind was blank but his instincts kept him alive. He was bouncing on his feet ready for the next charge.
He heard the wolf bark twice and he glanced over at it. The wolf replied with another bark and Link thought back to what the wolf did. The ground shook and Link's head snapped back to the boar. Link stretched his right foot far and leaned all his weight on it. Just before the beast got to him, Link pushed hard off his right and pivoted on his left. He spun as the beast missed his body. But Link's left arm, his shield arm, was still hit by one of the curved tusks.
Link felt an excruciating amount of pain surge through his arm. He let his arm dangle at his side. Moving it caused all the muscles to ache. They were already deeply bruised. He didn't hesitate too long however. He charged the beast and in turn the boar turned to face him. Link held out his sword straight hoping to get a strong thrust into his side hitting his heart. The boar reeled its back legs into the air turning sharper than Link thought possible. Link was not charging his side anymore, but his front. Link slid to a stop but it was too late. The boar lowered his head before raising it strongly and swiftly. Link screamed in pain moving his shield arm just in time to cover the front of his body.
The shield shattered under the pressure and the tusks came through easily. They hit Link dead in the chest and threw him off his feet. Link would've cried out in pain if he had any breath. All the wind left him from the impact. He fell to the ground yards away, and began rolling on the ground, holding his stomach, heaving for air. His sword fell a couple of feet away, leaving him completely defenseless.
Link watched in terror as the boar pawed the ground and let out another scream. He charged at Link going full speed. The ground trembled and Link tried to get to his feet to dodge. He still didn't have any air and he was sure some of his ribs were possibly broken but definitely bruised. Link stared into the beast's deadly eyes. Dark red with blood on the mind…Link's blood. Link lifted up an arm in some hope of taking another blow and surviving.
The wolf barked again summoning all the strength he had left and dove on the boar that was just about to hit Link. He sunk his teeth into the boar's neck causing the beast to swerve off course. His feet stamped right next to Link's body as he ran past. Link knew that if one hoof landed anywhere on him, that bone would've been crushed in a second. The beast spun around again and again trying to get the wolf off him. Link rose to his feet, his chest erupting in pain. He stumbled over to his sword and gripped it tightly in his hand. He faced the boar just in time to see the wolf go flying into another tree.
Link let out a blood roar as he charged the beast with his adrenaline pumping, all his pain vanishing. The beast eyed him but he couldn't even move fast enough to stop Link. The young warrior slid on the ground and thrusted his blade with two hands deep behind the front leg. Right into the beast's heart. The boar didn't even have time to let out a scream before dieing. Link kicked the boar so he would topple over the other way. That would be one hell of a way to die after just going through that battle. Being crushed by the beast you had just slain.
Link got to his feet groaning from the pain in his chest. As soon as the threat was gone all his aches and pains came right back. He withdrew his sword and watched the blood run down the cold steel. It mesmerized him slightly. The shine that was caused from the blood and steel mix. He looked back at the boar, still amazed by the sheer size of it, the red eyes now dull and staring off into space. Link glanced up and down trying to measure it with his eyes. The young warrior then noticed that the markings were actually letters. They were messy, painted on with something. Link ran a finger across the letters and recognized the feel of dried blood.
Hektor, Link thought for a second, Could it be his name? Well one thing's for sure. This is definitely from the Gerudo desert. But what is it doing in the Ordona province?
Link gripped his sword tightly; he did not forget the promise he made to Rusl. He raised the sword above his head ignoring the pain that came with stretching his chest. After thinking about it, he realized that dragging a head back to the village was even too much carnage for him. He eyed the tusks and smiled. With one step he brought the sword down on one tusk. It chipped a little but didn't break. He had to hack it another three times before he got a good chunk missing. He spread his feet and wound up once more. This time swinging hard as he could, his blade sliced right through the tusk sending it flying. He smiled as he went over to retrieve his trophy.
Link held the tusk in his hand. He only took a small part of the tusk. Just a bit more then a foot. Link remembered he wasn't in victory alone. He turned around to look for the wolf that saved his life. All the happiness in his victory was lost as he watched the wolf lay down in front of its mate. The wolf put its head on its two front paws and licked the nose of its mate. The wolf whined and licked the mate once again. Link slowly walked over to the wolf. The wolf looked at Link but didn't growl. The wolf simply watched to see what Link was going to do.
Link knelt down next to the wolf and set his sword down. "Hey boy look…your mates gone." The wolf continued to watch Link. Link could now see the wolf's wound closer and he knew that it had to be treated. Besides the flesh wound, Link was positive there had to be some bruised if not broken bones. "Okay boy, I'm gonna take you home with me, alright? You need to be treated, I promise we'll come back for your family."
Link slowly reached out to the large canine. The wolf suspiciously watched Link's hands as they moved around him. Link slowly and carefully began to lift the wolf up. Surprisingly the wolf didn't fight back. Whether he was trusting of Link, or simply too tried and grief stricken to fight back. Link wasn't sure, but he kept still as Link put him over his shoulders so the wolf's four legs hung down in front. Link began making the slow walk back to the village, with wolf on shoulder and tusk in hand.
"So you are a boy?" Link spoke to the wolf. He wasn't sure too sure why, but he just felt like he had too. "I wasn't sure, I would've felt bad calling you a boy to find out you're a girl."
Link tried to walk carefully. He didn't want to bob up and down too much. It would hurt the wolf since his ribs were probably hurt and bouncing wouldn't help. Not to mention Link's own chest still ached terribly, but he fought through it. He just had to get home and a little pain wouldn't kill him.
"So that beast we fought," Link continued the one sided conversation. "I think his name was Hektor. You know a legend from our village is that those sandmen once had a hero named Hektor who claimed to be the best fighter in all Hyrule. Well one man from our village got sick of him boasting and challenged him. The man from our village won and that got us the name of the greatest warrior village. That man's name was Achilles. I think I'll name you Achilles…would ya like that?"
The dog made a sound that was a mix between a growl and a whine. Link figured that was the best he would get. He continued just walking back to the village talking to the wolf. It made him feel better, and he wasn't positive, but he thought Achilles enjoyed it also.
Link's trek home took longer then the one that he entered the forest. The sun would was going to set in another hour. Luckily, Link came to the opening where the beast met the kids. There wasn't that much ground to cover. Link kept checking over his shoulder to see Achilles. The wolf was starting to doze off a little. Link didn't know too much about medicine and healing so he wasn't sure if that was a good thing or not. He figured he could quicken the pace just a little.
Link finally saw Rusl's house through the trees. He gripped the tusk tightly as he stepped out of the forest and back into his village. He was surprised to see Blaine leaning against Rusl's house. Blaine was waiting for him and since Link entered the forest he didn't move an inch, and he wouldn't have until Link returned. A wide smile spread on Blaine's face for a moment before it turned to shock seeing what was on Link's shoulders.
"Is that a wolf?" Blaine asked stepping closer.
"Yeah," Link smiled proudly. "He helped me fight the boar."
"So what are you doing with him?"
"He's hurt." Link replied. "I'm gonna treat his wounds and help him heal. Then he can do what he wants."
Blaine just mulled over that thought for a moment. Link's legs were getting tired and his chest wasn't getting any better either. Not to mention his arm was throbbing with pain still. Link nodded his head towards his house, silently asking Blaine to walk next to him. Blaine got the message clearly and stood at Link's side as they walked back to Link's house. They only got to the front of Rusl's house before one village woman screamed.
"Link's returned! Everyone, young Link has returned!"
The village suddenly was a bustle of energy as almost everyone in the village exited their houses and ran towards Link. Link heard a door open and looked to his right to see Rusl standing at it. Rusl hurried down to check on Link but stopped in front of him when he saw the wolf.
"Link…?"
Link shoved the tusk into Rusl's hand. "Give that to Colin for his bravery. You should be proud Rusl."
Rusl nodded seriously. "I am proud. Proud of both of you."
Rusl put his fist over Link's heart in acknowledgment. Link remembered how mad Rusl was. He never wanted to see Rusl angry like that. It didn't fit him anymore. Maybe once, but now Rusl was the wise one. The peace seeking one. Rusl turned around and went back into his house, his worry of the beast now gone.
"Is that a wolf!" One villager exclaimed.
Link sighed, it was going to be rough explaining this one.
"Yes people, now move, Link is tired and wants to get some rest!" Blaine shouted back ushering people out of the way.
Link just kept walking slowly. Now he was simply not trying to collapse. That would be embarrassing; falling face-first into the dirt right in front of everyone.
"Link." The dirty blonde saw the mayor stand in front of him. "You did the deed then."
"Yes, Bo," Link answered. "Someone needs to retrieve him."
"Of course."
"Oh and Bo?" Link was happy that the mayor didn't question why there was a wolf on his shoulders.
"Yes."
Link looked over his shoulder at Achilles. "This guy lost his mate and his pup to the beast. Can someone bring their bodies back so I can bury them? It's the least I can do since this guy saved my life."
Bo nodded. He didn't say anything. There wasn't a need to. He walked past Link to go check back on Rusl. He too noticed Rusl's serge of rage. Bo hadn't seen Rusl like that since the war. At first he missed the old Rusl, but now he enjoys Rusl being the peaceful one. Anger doesn't suit him anymore. Not with kids and a wife.
The crowd was obedient and let Link pass without asking too many questions. It was a rather small village. They would hear the gossip eventually. That and Link always told of his adventures at the tavern. He was a great storyteller and people of all ages would gather around his table to listen.
Link reached his house and was surprised to see Troy chopping wood underneath the house. When he saw Link he smiled brightly.
"Hey just chopping some…shit is that a wolf!?"
Link smirked at his friend. "Yes it is, now to just get it in my house." Link looked at the ladder leading to his front door. There was no way he would be able to climb the ladder injured with a wolf on his back.
"I'll take him." Blaine suggested and Link nodded.
Blaine put his hands on Achilles. As soon as he did the wolf began barking and squirming. Blaine quickly backed off.
"Easy boy," Link soothed reaching back over his shoulder and rubbing his head. Achilles calmed down and laid still once again.
"Link getting along with a wolf," Troy observed. "Not too surprising actually."
"Shut up," Link rolled his eyes. "Well looks like I am carrying him."
Link grabbed the ladder and slowly made his way up. Doing one bar at a time. Blaine stood under Link in case the wolf slipped off his shoulder. After what felt like forever, Link managed to get to the top. He looked back down at his two friends.
"Hey guys, thanks for everything but can I just be alone for a moment. I need some rest."
Blaine nodded understanding completely. "Just call on us if you need anything alright?"
Link nodded and then entered his house. He gently placed Achilles down on the floor. He went over to a shelf and grabbed a blanket. He unfolded it some of the way but kept it enough so there was cushioning. He placed it down in front of the fireplace. He then picked up his new companion and placed him down on it. Link stepped over him and began fixing a fire. He kept the flint right next to the fireplace. A fireplace in a tree house, pretty impressive in Link's eyes. He was proud his father managed to figure out a way to accomplish that. He got the fire going in a couple of tries and stepped back. Achilles just laid there watching Link with his eyes.
Link quickly scaled up two more ladders and got his medicinal case. He brought it back down and placed it in front of Achilles. The wolf watched him unmoving.
"Well boy, I know a little bit about healing…but that's people. I just hope it's the same for an animal."
Link wasn't positive, but he could've sworn the wolf rolled his eyes and snorted.
Alright well there's another chapter. Please leave a review, it seriously does help me write a lot faster. I think my next update will be Christmas. My little Christmas present to you all.
Oh yeah if you guys know your history/mythology. Hektor (Hector) and Achilles are the two heroes in the Trojan War. Just telling ya where I pulled those to names from.