A/N: Well Merry Christmas everybody. As promised I bring you another chapter. Nothing too special about this chapter. It's more of a set up till the tournament, which Link will head to next chapter. So almost there.
It was the next day after the boar rampage. Link was in the top room of his house looking out the little window. A heavy piece of wood rested in his lap. He was planning on making a new war bow after the other one broke yesterday. However, he didn't get too far on it before he started daydreaming. Not about anything in particular. They just drifted from one topic to the next. One topic that continued to come back was the upcoming tournament.
Link couldn't stop the small smirk that graced his lips every time he thought about it. To fight and represent Ordon could be the best thing in his life. He only ever fought some people in his village. He would get to see other styles, other stances, other moves. It would be a completely new experience. Rusl always told him a true warrior had just as much experience as skill. The only way to achieve more experience was to travel, which Rusl forbade. He never wanted Link going further than Castle Town.
"Link!"
Sounds like Rusl, Link thought. He stood up and leaned out the window. Rusl was standing in front of his house. People never climbed Link's ladder and knocked on the door. It was a waste, they would just shout for him. He could always hear people yelling from outside his house.
"Come on in!" Link shouted down.
Link then descended down his house. He met Rusl on the main floor with Achilles still lying on the blankets. The wolf didn't react except his eyes shifting back and forth watching the two men. Link sat in a chair at the table and Rusl did also.
"What's up?" Link asked.
"I needed to thank you again personally," Rusl said.
Link rolled his eyes. "That's like the forth time today, I've told you. It wasn't a big deal."
Rusl laughed, "I know, I know." He trailed off looking at Achilles. "You bury his family?"
Link nodded. "Last night. I dug the holes and brought him down. I know moving him early was bad but I couldn't just bury them without him seeing them, or wait until he could move."
Rusl just nodded thoughtfully. He then smiled and held out a piece of paper. "Guess what this is."
Link shrugged, "Do I care?"
Rusl smirked knowingly. "Surely you wonder that the princess sent a letter."
"She did what?" Link snatched the letter out of Rusl's hand.
Rusl laughed as Link scanned it over.
Dear Link,
I was told writing a letter personally would reflect poorly on my reputation, but I do not care. I wish to know if you need assistance. I know my father will send soldiers if you ask. I am worried about Rusl as well. How is his child? How is Rusl dealing with this? Link I beg you not to go after the beast yourself. My father will send any assistance you require, so don't be rash.
Princess Zelda.
"How sweet of her, she cares how I'm doing?" Rusl joked.
"She is nice," Link agreed.
"Oh? Did I just hear you correctly?" Rusl faked shock. "Link admitting someone from the royal family is kind."
Link waved him off. "Come on you know what I mean. She was the only normal one. The King was weird in my mind. All the money got to his head."
"The King is a good man Link," Rusl stated seriously. Link glared at him but Rusl didn't want to get into another argument so he quickly changed the subject. "The Queen, though, is crazy."
Link laughed. "A total bitch you mean."
"Link! You just called your Queen a bitch!" Rusl attempted to scold but instead laughed.
"You know she is."
"Okay well, I'll write back to the princess," Rusl said standing. "We all know your writing is like cuckoo scratch."
"Probably for the best." Link agreed also standing.
"What are your plans for today?"
"I think I should start training."
Rusl nodded. "Good idea, you only have about a week to train. Then you have to head out."
"What should my training be?" Link asked. "I mean I train about everyday anyways. All my skills are up to par, what else could I do?"
"Your archery is fine so don't worry about that," Rusl told him thinking deeply on the matter. "I think you should just work on your agility."
Link arched an eyebrow. "Agility?"
Rusl began making his way outside as he explained. "You wont gain enough strength in the next week to really make a difference. Your overall endurance is high enough but doing a full week of training will raise it more no matter what you do." He climbed down the ladder not stopping his speech at all. "What you need to work on is your quickness. That is your biggest advantage."
It made sense in Link's mind. "Okay how should I do that?"
Rusl thought a moment. "Well I think you should just spend a lot of time in the forest."
"This isn't survival training Rusl." Link looked skeptical.
"Yes I know that." Rusl chuckled. "What you need to do is sprint full speed in the forest. Dodging branches and watching your steps will build reflex times. You being able to dip, duck, and swerve around objects will help you in battle."
"A one on one?"
Rusl shrugged. "Okay so it's more for war combat, but it should still be good enough for this." Rusl scanned his eyes up and down the trees around him. "Climb some trees while you're at it."
"What will that do?" Link asked curiously.
"Not quite sure…gotta do something."
"You're not serious." Link laughed.
Rusl laughed as well as the two began walking into the village. As they entered they could see the remains of the boar. Last night they had a giant fire and feasted on him. The boar tasted great and Link had to imagine the taste was only improved because he killed it. Link made sure to get some extra meat and give it to Achilles so the wolf could also taste the victory.
"Should I still do sword drills?" Link asked.
Rusl nodded. "Yeah you should, but we need to talk about other weapons that might be used."
"Alright."
"Link! Rusl!"
They looked over to see the mayor waving them down. They changed direction and made their way over to him. He was looking happy and…big. Bo towered over Link by at least two feet. Then his width was about twice the size of Link. Anyone who didn't know him would instantly be afraid. But those who did knew Bo was one of the kindest people in Hyrule. However if he needed to get business done, he would do whatever was necessary.
"Link, I think we should talk some strategy," Bo advised.
This caught Link off guard. "You know I'm entering the tournament?"
Bo nodded. "Rusl told me, now come." He began walking towards his home and Rusl followed with a shrug to Link. Link simply shook his head and followed.
They sat around Bo's table. The room was quaint and cozy. Some paintings hung on the wall and various other ornaments. The room was large enough that Bo could walk around without having any problems with space. Bo served them tea and Rusl sipped it happily. Link, however, didn't find the taste too enjoyable, but he thanked the mayor nevertheless.
"Okay Bo, what did you want to tell me?" Link asked wanting to start the conversation.
"Link, normally I'd let you be," Bo's tone was serious, putting Link on edge. Bo was rarely serious unless the matters were very important. "But you are representing Ordon this time. You cannot act your normal rude, rowdy way. I'm not telling you to act like a royal ass, but for the Goddesses' sake…don't pick fights with people."
Link smirked, "Bo, don't worry. I'm not gonna just go and fight in taverns. I'm sure that will disqualify me. I'm going to only draw my sword when in the arena."
Bo nodded, satisfied. "Okay, what is your overall plan?" He asked, sipping his tea.
Link tried hard not to laugh seeing Bo drink tea. Such a big man holding such a small cup was humorous in Link's eyes. He coughed the laugh out before speaking. "I'll watch each person closely. I'm not too worried about any normal solider or person. What I'm afraid of are the Gorons. They seem to be the toughest opponents. The Zoras I know a swift but I think I can handle them."
Bo eyed Link closely. "Link, whatever you do, don't underestimate anyone. The Elite Knights in the Castle aren't to be taken lightly. They are extremely skilled in many arms of combat. They might prove more challenging than Gorons."
Link shook his head. "Bo I don't have the slightest clue how to beat a Goron. These Knights I can probably just out skill."
Rusl sighed, "Link you will lose with that attitude. There are other warriors in the world, some that are stronger than you. They don't have to be a different race."
"Okay fine," Link crossed his arms. They are treating me like I'm five, I know others out there are better than me. But I know my own skill and I know I can take them…whatever. "But tell me how to beat a Goron."
"Unless you are the size of Bo there," Rusl nodded towards Bo who smirked proudly, "Then you have to use your brain."
"Oh how helpful," Link rolled his eyes.
Rusl chuckled. "Link, skill isn't everything. I know you will find a way to defeat them. As for the Zoras…they are swift and smart. They won't simply rely on strength and skill. More than anything I think they will go for a quick disarm. Be prepared if you lose your sword to fight with your hands."
"I think you should have more than just your sword as a weapon," Bo suggested.
Rusl nodded in agreement. "You should have some knives strapped on you, just in case. Maybe a short blade as well. You need to be ready for anything, even if your sword breaks."
Link took in all the information they were giving him. He was going to listen to everything because he knew it was all important.
"Well as you know, I don't have money. How am I supposed to get all these extra weapons?" Link looked away admitting he was poor. He knew it was nothing to be ashamed of but he didn't actually own anything in his house. It was all from his parents. Unless he made it himself, it was more than likely a gift from someone or left behind from his parents.
Bo smiled and glanced at Rusl. Rusl also smiled before turning to Link. "Kess has agreed to give you all new weapons. Especially since your old shield was destroyed fighting the beast."
Link couldn't stop the smile spreading on his face. "Seriously? I get all new weapons?"
Bo nodded happily. "Now Link, I hope you understand that since you're representing Ordon you aren't allowed to lose."
Link laughed arrogantly. "Bo please, I don't even know how to lose."
They all laughed at Link's comment. It was refreshing. Secretly Bo was hoping Link went and won. It would show Ordon wasn't just a pushover village. It still was strong and it was still important. Most didn't even take Ordon seriously anymore. But Bo knew after this tournament Link would cause many people to think twice about Ordon. Especially since Link was so young. A lot of young warriors would compete, but none ever made it too far. It was always the more mature and experienced people who did.
Suddenly the door burst open and a villager came in.
"Mayor Bo," he addressed. "There are two strangers approaching the village."
Bo frowned only for a second before smiling. "Well let's go greet them."
Link and Rusl followed Bo out of his house. They made their way to the front of the village and waited for the two strangers to arrive. Other villagers heard the commotion and also joined the three at the front. Link soon found his friends, Troy and Blaine, at his side.
"Who you think it is?" Blaine asked Link.
"No idea," Link replied truthfully.
Soon they saw as two men passed through the gate. Both were extremely dark skinned, which immediately told Link who they were. Gerudo from the desert. Link knew this had something to do with the boar: there was no other possible reason.
One man was tall, at least six feet and muscular. He had scars all over his face and body. He only wore pants but no shirt. His ear was pieced all the way up and around the curve. He had one big loop pierced to his nose. He didn't wear shoes and his eyes were dark red. He looked serious and unfazed by anything. Most of all, the deadly aura coming off him was enough to keep Link on his guard. He carried a heavy spear. Link knew instantly that it was for the boar. With a strong golden tip and the back pointed as well. It was used for if a boar charged, you put the back of the spear in the dirt and let the boar run into it, virtually killing itself.
The man next to him was equally as dark but not nearly as tall. He was probably smaller than Link even. He wore pants, shoes, and a shirt. He had one piercing in his ear but that was it. He carried a big pack on his back, with a sword dangling off of it. Link knew the sword was actually for the tall warrior, this man just seemed to carry his stuff. The smaller man walked hunched over from the pack but he smiled as he made eye contact with the Ordonians. His teeth were chipped and some missing.
"Greetings!" The short man called out to all the villagers.
"Here we go," Bo whispered to Rusl. He knew they were from Gerudo as well but he wasn't sure if that was a good thing or not.
"Greetings!" he shouted. "I am the Mayor of Ordon, what business brings you to our village?"
They stopped a couple yards in front of the group of people. The tall man still just looked at each person individually. Like he was sizing them up and comparing them to his might. The shorter one never stopped smiling.
"We have been traveling for a little less than a month." The short man said.
"If you need shelter we can provide it, but it is not free," Bo replied strongly, but truthfully.
The short man shook his head. "We need no such thing. We are on a quest. It sounds irresponsible of the Gerudo but a beast has escaped. We tracked him through the mountains to Lake Hyrule. He then made his way across the plains and we believe he may be around here. Have you spotted anything that resembles a giant boar? The color of sand."
Bo glanced worriedly at Rusl before responding. "What importance is this boar to you?" Link noted how formally Bo spoke to strangers. He knew the proper speech, he only did it for visitor and important matters. No one around Ordon spoke like that. The village was seen as a family.
"Our leader Ganondorf has sent us to fetch this beast."
Bo gulped. "Fetch as in bring back? I hope this beast does not serve any religious purpose."
The man shook his head but lost his smile for a second in confusion. "It doesn't. We simply need to kill it."
Bo let out a sigh of relief. "Oh, well we already killed it."
The short man was stunned and the tall one for the first time showed emotion. It was only an eyebrow raise but it told Link he was impressed or doubtful.
"…Where is it?" The short man asked.
"Oh uh." Bo scratched the back of his head. "Well…we ate it."
Link smirked and he heard his friends trying to suppress their laughter. The short man was looked completely shocked now. He almost looked as if he just walked into a village of cannibals and he was the next target. The tall man went back to his emotionless face.
"You ate it?" the short man repeated.
"Yeah!" Link shouted. "It was quite good too!"
Rusl quickly elbowed him to shut him up but Link could see a small smile tugging at Rusl's lips.
"Well how many people did it take to fight the massive beast?" The short man asked getting over his shock.
"Just this guy," Troy said pointing to Link.
The tall man once again arched an eyebrow in either doubt or impressiveness, Link wasn't sure.
"You," the short man pointed at Link.
"Yeah," Link nodded proudly stepping forward. "Fought it close combat with my sword."
The short man was about to speak but surprisingly the tall man stepped forward. "I am to believe you killed Hektor?" The man's voice had a heavy sand accent. It was deep and powerful. His eyes scanned up and down Link. "You are too puny and weak to take such a beast."
Link's eyes turned to daggers as his mouth formed into a taunting smirk. The man took another step forward
A big mistake.
All of Link's friends ran to his side, as well as other Ordonians. Link could see slight fear in the Gerudo's eyes. Link was sure the tall man was used to everyone being afraid of him. He didn't know how to react when almost an entire village was going to back up one kid.
"Ya wanna go right now!?" Troy shouted over Link's shoulder.
"Come on! Come on!" Blaine shouted jumping against Link, showing his enthusiasm.
Link just crossed his arms and smiled tauntingly as his friends continued to make jeers and taunts over his shoulder.
"Let's not take all day!" Troy shouted once again.
"Your bones better be strong mate!" Blaine yelled.
It didn't take long for others to jump in.
"Go on make a move, do it, you won't. Come on! Come on! Don't be scared!"
"I'll shove that spear right up your ass buddy boy!"
"Let's do it! Let's go!"
"I'll send you back to the desert!"
"He's frightened!" Blaine yelled and laughed.
Troy growled, "I'll rip those piercing off you with my teeth you ugly giant!" Then Link had to try his hardest to keep a straight face when Troy started barking. Like a mad dog, he just went loose barking and growling at the man.
Bo stepped in front of the crowd and raised his hand silencing them.
"Watch your village, mayor," the short man warned. "They are rude to us, and we represent Lord Ganondorf."
He glared at the short man causing him to take a couple of steps back. Bo then looked at the tall man. Bo was still a couple inches taller and crossed his arms roughly. "You have insulted one of my villagers, and that is an insult to me." Bo snarled dangerously.
The tall warrior backed up. "If there is no need for us here then we take our leave."
"As you wish," the short man said. He turned back to Bo. "I'm sorry it got hostile, you can understand a warrior losing his temper."
Bo nodded glancing at Link. "Yes, I do know what you mean."
Link stepped forward again. "Are you gonna be in the tournament?"
The tall warrior turned around. "No, I am not."
"Too bad." Link's voice was cocky sounding but any real warrior knew Link wanted to fight the Gerudo to see his skill.
The tall man smiled wickedly. "I suggest you do not go to the tournament."
"Oh?"
The man chuckled, his deep voice etching itself into Link's mind. "There is danger lurking in that city. Watch yourself."
"Why the warning?" Link asked confused.
"Warrior to warrior. If you truly killed the boar by yourself then you should not fear. I do wish to fight you some day, Ordonian."
Link grunted, not publicly showing how much the words disturbed him. He watched the tall and short man walk away. He couldn't help but feel some sadness for them. Traveling for a month just to turn around and go back. If someone killed Link's hunt he knew he would be pissed. But the tall man didn't even seem to care too much. He just doubted someone of Link's size could do it, and Link was use to that. People always underestimated him.
He felt a hand clamp on his shoulder. He looked up to see Bo gazing down at him. "Link, I know you fear nothing, but please don't do this in Castle Town."
Link laughed. "Bo, you know I treat those people with respect."
Troy wrapped an arm around Link's neck. "Remember that one guy in the tavern a couple of months ago? You definitely respected the hell out of him."
"He called us useless barbarians," Link said.
"Yes so beating him to a pulp made us seem civil." Rusl argued.
Link shrugged. "At least he knows we can fight."
"Breaking his arm and throwing him through a window is not skill in fighting." Bo scowled.
Link just shrugged again.
"Link!"
They all turned and saw Kess walking towards them. He was average height. A little on the heavy side and had a thick salt-and-pepper beard. He had on a leather apron, so Link figured he stopped in the middle of something to watch the events at the gate.
"Hey Kess," Link greeted.
"I know you are going to be training for the tournament and you are allowed to take whatever weapons you need. Get them early so you can get use to them."
Link smiled brightly. "Can I get them right now?"
Kess nodded happily. "Sure, just come right over."
Kess led Link, his two friends, Bo, and Rusl, to the shop. Link couldn't contain his excitement. He got to choose anything from the whole shop. That was a big deal. He wasn't going to take the most expensive items. That wouldn't be fair to Kess. He would just take what he needed. Maybe he would trade him some bows later.
They all walked in the store, one of the biggest in Ordon. Being a warrior village it didn't surprise anyone. There were rows of long swords, broad swords, short swords, any kind of sword. Curved or not, steel or bronze. Kess did it all. There were other weapons as well. Spears and pikes. He had shields, and all types of armor. Helms to leggings.
"You made all these?" Link asked. He wasn't in the store too much so it was still somewhat new to him. Every time he went in the store he felt sad he couldn't get anything, so he stayed away.
Kess chuckled proudly. "Yeah. Well after the war the demand went down. There use to be a lot of blacksmiths working all at once. Now it's just me and Blaine. No one really buys a lot of anything anymore. So it just kinda stacks up."
"Okay well I need a new shield."
"Link you're getting all new stuff, that means a sword too." Bo told him.
Link tried to stop from shouting like a little boy. "Seriously?"
"Yes," Rusl nodded, "Anything you want, you can get."
Link thanked them all and walked the aisles of the shop. He was going to think carefully. He held a couple of swords and felt the grip, to see how it would feel in his hand. He would give a swing or two. But every time he shook his head and put it back. He gave up on his main weapon for a while. He went to the shields. He just stood there staring at them for a while.
"Is it that hard to decide?" Troy whispered to Blaine.
Blaine nodded. "Link knows he needs the perfect weapons. He can fight with almost anything, but to be truly masterful he needs the weapons to be just right."
"This is it.," Link exclaimed happily.
He was holding a shield shaped like his old one. It was medium size, covering his upper half but leaving his legs exposed. It looked like a rounded off triangle. With four points, one top middle, top left and top right, and one bottom. The sides all curved slightly. It was metal and Link already knew he had to get use to the difference in weight from his old one.
He equipped it on his left arm. He took a defensive stance. He then swung the shield before going into a bash. The bash and swing was sloppy. He was over doing it from the weight difference. "I'll need a lot of practice with this."
He took it off his arm and looked at the inside and frowned.
"You can switch the handles around for different styles." Kess answered seeing his confusion. "The handles lock in place so don't worry, they won't come undone in a middle of a fight. But it only takes a couple seconds to unlock them and switch them around. That way you can carry the shield in both hands."
Link smiled. "This shield is perfect." Kess took it from him before Link went around the shop again.
"Link come here!" Rusl called out.
Link found Rusl a couple of aisles over. "What?"
He held a short blade in a black sheath. He held the sheath so Link could draw the blade. The blonde wrapped his hand around the black leather handle. He slid it out and Rusl didn't miss the gleam in his eyes as they landed on the blade. It was dark steel. The blade was jagged. It went straight at first but then it shifted to the right and the outside became round curving back in. It was an interesting weapon and Link knew he had to have it.
"Kess I'll take this as well." Link told the older man.
He smiled approvingly. "I'll take me about an hour to adjust your shield to hold this type of blade."
"Alright," Link glanced around the shop. "Now I just need a sword."
"The most important choice," Bo advised.
Link nodded in agreement. He looked around before coming to a stop. He turned to Blaine. "Which ones have you made?"
Blaine looked a little shocked by Link asking for one of his.
"Uh…mine aren't good at all."
Kess laughed and patted Troy on the back. "He is too modest. Come Link, I'll show you his."
Kess lead them over to a smaller section. Link passed by it a couple times before not really paying too much attention. All the swords were similar in size and shape. None really caught Link's eye enough to stop before. Now that he was looking closer they were pretty good weapons.
"What do you suggest?" Link looked at Blaine.
"Uh well," Blaine scanned the swords up and down quickly and slightly nervously. Even if it was his friend he didn't ever make a sale to someone. Not many people needed weapons anymore. He knew Link would know a lot about any sword he chose. He also knew as great as a friend Link was, he wouldn't mess around picking out a weapon. It was just the way Link was.
Blaine picked up a long sword. It was cool steel and there was a groove running down the middle. It had a normal hilt nothing fancy about it. The sword was extremely basic but very well done. Blaine handed it to Link who gazed upon the steel. He let it shift in his hand to see if it would be a good fit. He took an offensive stance. Blaine backed away as Link swung a couple times.
Link smirked as he heard the sword cut through the wind. He could swing easily with it. One handed and two handed. The hilt was long enough to grip it with both.
"It seems shorter then usual." Link noticed.
"Yeah it is," Blaine said stepping up to Link. He pointed to the sword as he talked. "It lacks a few inches. This way it is still long enough to get the job done. But it wont be too hard to swing with one hand. You should be able to keep up a good guard with it and if you have to get a tough swing, then you can still grip it with two hands."
Link nodded proudly at his friend. "You made an excellent sword. I'll take it."
Blaine looked stunned. "Why? Kess makes much better swords than me."
"This is a great sword," Link reassured his friend. "It suits me perfectly."
Blaine scratched the back of his head. "It's really good, eh?"
Link laughed. "It's great."
"Very Well!" Kess clapped his hands together. "I assume you are going to keep the sheath on your back." Link nodded and Kess continued. "I'll make the sheath have the hook to carry your shield. It will be easy to slip it on an off."
"Alright."
Rusl walked up to Link. "Take these."
They were arm guards. They went up to his elbows and stopped just before his hand. The inside was lined with clothes and the outside metal. Link took them and tried them on right away to see if they fit. He strapped them in and they were extremely comfortable. They didn't interfere with his movement at all.
"Thanks Rusl."
Rusl just shook his head signaling it was nothing.
"You sure you don't want a helm or any body armor?" Troy asked.
"No, that only gets in the way."
"Alright then," Bo started towards the door. "How 'bout a little test run?"
Kess handed the sword back to Link. "I do not need this for anything. You can keep it and I'll give you your other stuff later."
Link held out his hand and Kess took it strongly. They hugged and patted each other on the back.
"Thank you Kess." Link spoke slowly and surely to make sure it sound sincere. It was probably the best gift he'd ever gotten. He turned to the others. "Okay, which one wants to go?"
"You'll go against me first," Rusl told him cracking his knuckles.
Link smirked. "Alright."
They walked out of the shop. The whole group, including Kess now walked over to the ranch section where the goats were kept. They walked in and were met by Fado. He was lying on his back with one leg crossed over the other, cloud gazing with a piece of straw in his mouth. All the goats were just grazing around. Link could see Malon over at the cuckoo's nest tending to the Cuckoos. Ilia was next to her, helping and keeping Malon company.
"Fado," Bo sternly said crossing him arms.
The farmer recognized the voice immediately and jumped to his feet. "Bo, uh sorry, really I was just resting for a moment."
"Yeah, yeah, whatever," Bo waved him off.
Fado noticed everyone behind the mayor. "Uh…what's up?"
"Training," Link replied. "You should probably put the goats away so they don't freak out."
"Good idea."
Fado went about herding all the goats into the stables. Malon and Ilia heard the commotion and turned around. They saw the big group of people and went over to see why everyone was gathered.
"Father?"
"Just a little test run for Link," Bo responded to his daughter.
"Hey Blaine," Malon greeted with a pretty smile.
"Malon." Blaine smiled back.
"We're here to train, not flirt," Link joked.
Both their faces turned the color of their hair.
"Okay let's go!" Rusl shouted while walking away from the group. He drew the attention off the two redheads. Blaine gave him a thankful smile.
Link stepped out towards Rusl. The group of people who came to watch sat on the grass. Ilia next to Troy, and Malon obviously next to Blaine. Kess, Fado and the mayor all sat together.
Rusl held the normal Ordonian shield and a medium sword. It was shorter than Link's by only a few inches. He stood ready for Link's attack.
"You're keeping your shield? I only have a sword. That's dirty." Link stated.
Rusl chuckled knowingly. "You're half my age. How is that fair?"
"Experience," Link mimicked his voice. "You always say it's better than skill."
"Well it will probably be anything goes in the tournament," Rusl advised.
"Very well."
Link charged Rusl. Their swords clanged as the battle was underway. Link only kept one hand on the sword as he assaulted Rusl. Rusl would mostly block with his shield but if Link's swings were aimed at his right, he would use his sword. Link swung at his right once more and Rusl reached over blocking with his shield for a change. Rusl then spun, bringing his sword around at Link, whose sword was currently pushed away because of the shield. Link lifted his arm and blocked the strike with his new arm guards.
"Good, but don't get use to that, you'll lose your arm one time." Rusl informed.
"Noted."
They pushed back and stood a couple feet away from each other. Link began a light jog, circling Rusl. Rusl kept on his toes as he watched Link circle him. Link did a quick fake step making Rusl flinch. He laughed at Rusl who gripped his sword tighter and charged. Rusl swung with his sword. Link parried it to the side. Rusl then smashed his shield into Link's body causing him to back up.
"Mind the shield." Rusl instructed him again.
"I know, I know," Link said. "I would do the same to you if I had a shield."
Rusl shrugged smirking. "Shame ya don't."
Rusl charged again. Link parried his sword and Rusl went for another shield bash. Link lowed his shoulder and pushed against the shield. Rusl stumbled back and Link kicked the shield once again. Rusl turned and fell to the ground. He quickly rose and faced Link again.
"Very good, very good."
"I know," Link smirked.
Link charged and went for a jab. Rusl pushed it away with his sword. Link went with relentless jabs. They simply glanced off of Rusl's shield or he would parry them. Link over lunged one time and Rusl took full advantage. He sidestepped and spun, causing Link to almost fall onto his face. When Rusl came around from his spin he brought his shield in full force. He smashed it into Link's back causing the blonde to fall to his stomach. Link quickly rolled away and rose again.
"You really like that shield," Link stated.
"It works well," Rusl simply replied before charging again.
"Come on Link!" Malon shouted. "You got him!"
"No way!" Ilia shouted. "Rusl you beat that arrogant little bastard!"
"Ilia!"
"Sorry, father."
Troy laughed. "This is great. What an awesome fight."
"Sure is," Blaine said thoughtfully.
"How far do you think he'll go in the tournament?" Kess asked Bo.
"How far?" Bo turned to Kess with a proud smirk. "I think he'll win it. But don't tell him. He's got a big enough ego."
All the spectators laughed as the young and old clashed.
Link thrust high and Rusl fell to a knee. He swung at Link's legs. The dirty blonde jumped the blade before kicking Rusl in the face. Rusl rolled onto his back and came up with a bloody nose. The spectators all cringed seeing it.
He touched it for a second before glaring at Link. "You'll pay for that."
"Nice going Link!" Troy shouted. "Now you're dead!"
Rusl gripped his sword with two hands as he did a vertical slice. Link sidestepped it. Rusl followed up with a powerful horizontal slice. Link rolled underneath it and came up behind Rusl. Rusl swung around shield first. Link rammed his shoulder into the shield once again, negating the attack. He stretched his foot, tripping Rusl. Rusl fell to the ground and Link's sword was at his throat.
"Looks like I win," Link said. He stepped back and let Rusl up.
"You did good," Rusl told him.
"My turn!"
Link heard Blaine shout and knew he would charge. Link grabbed Rusl's shield and with brute force spun Rusl. Rusl's hand slipped from the shield as he flew to the ground. Link quickly equipped the shield and faced Blaine who was charging with his dual katanas.
Blaine swung both swords at him. One from each side. Link blocked the left with his shield and the right with his sword. They pushed off each other and began walking in a circle. Blaine charged him once again. He swung his swords back to back. Right, left, right, left, right, left, relentlessly beating on Link's shield. Blaine came from the top so it was pounding down on Link. The blonde began to stumble from the constant beating. Blaine kicked Link's shield making the teen fall to the ground.
Link rolled away and quickly distanced himself from Blaine. Blaine looked determined as he stared down Link. He never did beat him and he always wanted to. Maybe today was his day.
Link sprinted towards Blaine. Blaine readied himself. Link jumped into the air and made a downward jab. Blaine quickly back stepped to dodge it. Link's blade dug into the ground and Blaine quickly charged Link. Link held up his shield ready for the sword swing. However, Blaine just needed him away from the sword in the ground. He rammed his shoulder into the shield. Link stumbled backwards unready for the strong force. Link now only had a shield in his hand and Blaine had his dual-swords.
"Wow Blaine, I'm impressed," Link said, slowly back-stepping to Blaine's right.
"This might finally be my day." Blaine kept his eyes always on Link, ready for anything.
Link smirked. Blaine felt a shiver go up his spine. Link didn't look worried at all. He only looked amused. Blaine watched as Link kept walking backwards but Link's side was to Blaine. Blaine gripped both his swords tightly awaiting Link's charge. Blaine was guarding Link's fallen sword. If he charged Link would easily run around him and retrieve it.
Suddenly Link ran full speed at Blaine. As Link came in range, Blaine swung his left sword. Link blocked it with his shield as he expected. Blaine swung his right sword at Link's exposed side. Link moved with blinding speed as he grabbed Blaine's hand on the hilt. Link kicked out Blaine's legs and turned his shield inward. He used his shield to push Blaine to the ground. Link then sat on his friend.
"Yield!" Link shouted.
"Never!" Blaine yelled back as he squirmed to break free.
"Oh just yield!" Link shouted trying not to laugh.
"I will never yield!"
Link laughed and was caught off guard. Rusl's foot collided with his face and Link went flying.
"Alright Link," Rusl said helping Blaine up. "Let's see how you do against multiple enemies."
Link rubbed his jaw and was surprised by no blood. He rose to his feet and stared toward his two opponents. "Alright then. This should be fun."
Blaine and Rusl surrounded Link. They simultaneously launched attacks. Link turned so his sword was against Rusl and his shield against Blaine. He concentrated more on Rusl, seeing how blocking a sword with a sword was harder. He made a jab towards Rusl pushing him back. Link continued after Rusl, also dragging Blaine along. He glanced back to Blaine every once in a while. He saw Blaine swing low and he lifted his left foot high dodging the strike.
Rusl made a strong thrust and Link sidestepped it. Link dropped low swinging his foot out. He tripped Blaine before rolling behind Rusl. He rose and swung his sword followed by his shield. Rusl blocked the sword strike but the shield overtook him and shoved him to the ground.
Blaine leaned up on his elbows.
"Damn Link. Two against one and you still win," Blaine smiled.
"I'm getting to old," Rusl stated crossing his legs.
"You know two on one sometimes can be easier for the single. I just had to keep my shield to Blaine and fight Rusl. If I stepped forward I would essentially be dragging Blaine along. If I was pushed back it would force Blaine to back up. You just have to know your opponents and what you think they'll do." Link was cocky at times, but not with his friends. He would give them the credit they deserved.
Rusl waved off the modesty. "No Link, you should be proud of this."
Link smiled at the praise Rusl gave him. It meant a lot to be praised by Rusl. He was a good man of course, but during training he was very strict and judged hard. If someone got praised by him, they should see it as an extreme compliment.
Link heard clapping and turned around to all the people watching.
"Excellent Link!" Bo cheered. "You will do wonderful in the tournament."
Rusl stood and patted the dirt off himself. "Don't let this add onto your ego, Link. There will be much tougher opponents than me and Blaine."
"Yeah, yeah, I know."
"You did really good, Blaine," Malon told him as he rose.
He rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. "I thought I had him."
"I did too." She looked him over before grabbing his hand. "Here…come with me and I'll clean you up."
"Alright."
Link had to stifle the laugh that rose seeing how excited his friend got at being dragged away.
"Okay Link," the blonde turned back to Rusl. "I'll watch over your training. By the end of the week, you'll be set for the tournament."
"I don't know, Rusl," Link put his hands behind his head. "I think I should be the one training you."
"That's it!" Rusl yelled catching everyone off guard. "Run the village."
Link cringed, he hated those three words. That was always Rusl's punishment. Run The Village. They were etched into his mind since he was young. When Rusl began training him, he needed to get in better shape. Rusl made him run all the way around the village. Which meant running in the forest and that could be considerably hard. Then if Link got to a river, he would just have to swim to the other side. It wasn't the most tiring exercise. But after hours of tiring training, it was very exhausting.
Link sighed. There was no point in fighting it. He handed the shield and sword to Rusl. He started into a light jog.
"You aren't a kid anymore Link!" Rusl called after him. "I want you to run this!"
"What!?" Link called back. "You can't be serious!?"
"Let's see how high your ego stands after!" Rusl laughed.
Link let out a loud groan before picking up the pace. He entered the forest and already had to duck and dip around branches and trees. A little smile broke through Link's features. He remembered hating Rusl at first for how hard the training was. But after many years of work, Link could now beat him. Link knew his skill was all because of Rusl. Which is why he didn't care as much to run the village. It would only make him faster, stronger, better. He would push himself to his limits.
Link wasn't going to shame Ordon in the tournament. He would bring back the pride they lost. He would show that Ordon was a village of warriors. Born and bred tough. He would take down any and all opponents.
"Maybe even the princess will be impressed," Link mused to himself as he felt a new reason to push himself even harder.
So there's that, my Christmas present to you all. How 'bout some reviews to make my Christmas great. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas.
Oh and I have to mention and thank my beta ScarsOfTime.