Okay sorry this took so long I hit a rough patch in my life and took some time to fix but it's all good now. All I have to say is how great you reviewers are. This is first story for one chapters to get 20 reviews and that's phenomenal. I really hope you guys keep it up 'cause it's the greatest feeling in the world.

Swords clashed. Sweat dripped from the combatants faces. They dodged and ducked around each other. The stands were alive with roars and cheers. So many cheers that no one knew what side they were for. The stands were stands for a reason. No one sat in them, they couldn't help but stand and jump watching the fantastic battles. To not know who would win or lose, to see both fighters trying their hardest to be victorious. It was the most excitement the city had seen in years. The people drank it all in and spat it right back out.

Even the royal box was feeling the energy. The King himself would cheer when the strikes were close. The Queen would let out a faint gasp every time there was a close call. Queen Rutela could be seen enjoying it immensely, but she kept it to a professional level. Even Ganondorf could be seen making the occasional raised eyebrow when something that he deemed worthy happened.

The only one not enjoying the fighting was Zelda. She never did find fighting too entertaining to begin with, but even she could admit she found herself letting out a breath every now and then. That was yesterday, though. Today she didn't find any enjoyment in it at all. She lost all the "entertainment" when death became a factor. She didn't know how people could still be enjoying themselves when two men were killed. Worst yet, Link slew one of them.

She couldn't believe that he committed such an act. She always figured him as a tough-outside guy that just put up a front. She could understand seeing how others treated him, but she always thought when it came down to the line he was a good person. However, he slew a man and she wasn't sure what to think of him now. It was racking her brain all night.

She finally came to a conclusion early this morning. She couldn't look at Link as some teenage boy. He wasn't just some kid that had a sword. He was a warrior and he fought like a warrior. And warriors kill…which he did. He wasn't afraid of death, as he clearly stated, and that made Zelda think all the more about what kind of childhood he had. To be raised with no parents because he lost them in a war against Hyrule: she didn't know how anyone would be able to stand that.

That's why she could understand why he had hatred. She knew he had his reasons to be angry before, but she always thought he was under control enough to not let it take over. She witnessed what he did when he lost grip of the whirling spiral of anger he had inside of him. The Princess now understood that even if he looked like a boy on the outside, he was a dangerously skilled warrior that could kill if necessary.

However, Zelda couldn't stop thinking about when she spoke with him. He was so kind and so gentle, at least to her. He didn't seem like anyone that would kill. All he wanted in return was a little respect. When Rusl heard his son was in danger, Link rushed back home as quickly as he could to help his friend. He fought the dangerous beast all by himself. He risked his life for others… how is that a killer?

Ahh, this is all too confusing. Why couldn't he just be one or the other? A gentle boy or a warrior? Why does he have to be both? Zelda continued to have the mental battle in her head about Link as everyone else enjoyed the battle.

Bailey's booming voice startled Zelda. She grabbed the arms of her chair and looked down at the battle arena. She saw the men bow to each other and then to her. She nodded her head as she was taught. They walked off and her father called for a short break. Zelda sat back in her chair trying to relax whilst still looking as regal as possible. She knew when the fights weren't going on people would look at the royal box for their entertainment. Seeing so many royals in one place was something that many would never witness again in their lives.

Yesterday there were enough fights to last the whole day, now since there wasn't as many they called for more breaks. The fights grew more exciting with each combatant having more skills to duel each other with. Each fight was more intense than the one before and the crowd soon learned what the names of the fighters were. This is when the gambling really starts. The crowd knew who was more likely to win and who they wanted to win, whereas the day before it was mostly just a bunch of random names.

They also knew that the next couple of fights had the main competitors they wanted to see. There was Sheik of the Sheikah clan from the Snowpeak Mountains: he was young, strong, and mysterious. No one saw his face and they rarely heard him speak. He easily took down every opponent he faced with small double-daggers. He quickly became a crowd favorite with his chivalrous outward attitude; he even respected his opponents. He was a one-of-a-kind fighter that some people backed in the tournament now.

The two Zoras were heavily favored, but Piscis suddenly withdrew from the competition. No one was sure, but it was rumored among the crowd that he did it because he would've had to fight Dangoro. When asked, he simply smiled and said he was too old for such a competition. However, the prince, Ralis, was still in the competition and was going strong. People liked him but feared he was too young and inexperienced for later rounds.

There was also the aforementioned Goron, Dangoro. He smashed through his opponents within the first minute of each fight. Many simply yielded as soon as they stepped up against him. All weapons simply bounced off his rock-skin. If that wasn't enough, he wore thick black steel armor that had spikes sticking out of his shoulders. Before every fight he would lower a black helmet on his large head. It kept his face open but that was also advantageous for him since it struck fear into his opponents. The crowd liked him for he took care of all no-named people, but as soon as he fought against someone they wanted, their favor would surely switch.

Another big name that everyone knew and loved was Lex, the Captain of the Guard. He swiftly won each battle with a couple of swings. No one was able to even get him to take a step in retreat. They tried hard but each time his lightning-fast strikes would have them submit before they could even think of a strategy to fight him. He was easily the favored for the tournament. Being well respected throughout the city, everyone knew he was the strongest, and he was personally chosen by the King for his position, and it wasn't a light one. This tournament reinforced everyone as to why he was in such a position.

The last big name that everyone knew was Link, although they continued to call him the Ordonian. He was the upset of the tournament for all the citizens. Although every person that was above the common level knew Ordon was not one to trifle with, they expected some skilled warrior, and Link did not disappoint. He swept through the competition, easily taking down each opponent. The biggest match so far in the tournament was when he fought Occisor. When the crowd learned he was holding back the entire fight they began to understand how powerful he really was. They worried if he would actually win the tournament.

The entire city paid attention to the ongoing tournament. After all, it was the Princess' birthday celebration, but it was also the biggest thing that has taken place in Hyrule since the Ordon War. The tournament was the first five days of the celebration, then the week after would have all the festivities. Where all the dancers, musicians, and performers come to show their talents for the Princess. It wasn't possible to have each at the same time because the city would be packed full of people beyond what the Kingdom could control for safety. That's how big this truly was, people from all over the land came to attend.

Now the next two fights were what stopped the city from breathing. They were able to have everyone stop their daily activities and join together at the stadium. For those that couldn't get in, they would stand outside and await the news of who was victorious. The streets were packed from building to building to the point where it was almost impossible to walk. The four main combatants in the tournament were all fighting in the next two fights.

Lex versus Sheik and Dangoro versus Link.

It isn't simply just a fight, it is a battle of cultures. The second most powerful man in the Kingdom fighting for the strength of Hyrule, and a mountain boy from a tribe that has been forgotten about by civilization. The two clash together in totally different styles and strengths. A boy against a man…it will be a fight to bring honor to one culture and shame to another.

Then there's Link against the Goron General, Dangoro. A beast from the center of a mountain that is able to be considered a mountain himself. A boy from a village shunned and deemed evil on all accounts. One that towers over everyone earning respect by his simple presence and the other that demands to have respect. Two fighters from two completely different worlds that are now crashing together.

The two favored fighters among the crowd were Lex and Dangoro. A mainly Hyrulian crowd would undoubtedly want the Hyrule man and his friend. Everyone knew they were friends from war. It was known throughout the land that a bond made during war could run deeper than even blood brothers shared. It was two Hyrulian heroes against two outside cultures.

As this huge commotion of taking bets and discussing the tournament was going on, Link was lying on his bench in his box taking a nap. Kristi was sitting on the bench as well with Link's feet perched on her lap. She didn't mind, she enjoyed seeing Link sleep. He was always so peaceful looking when slumber hit him. He had his Ordon hat tipped down over his eyes for it to rest on the bridge of his nose.

"One would think sleeping before a fight is bad."

Kristi saw the ninja-looking man stand in front of her. She remembered Link mentioning something about him last night.

"Sheik, right?"

He nodded. "Yes, and you?"

"I'm Kristi," she replied.

From the way the bandages stretched and his eyes, she could tell he was smiling. "Well it's nice to meet you. You sure you should let him sleep like that?"

She shrugged. "I honestly have no idea, but he has his style. It's worked so far so why bother?"

He didn't reply, and Kristi noticed he was staring at Link. "Hey, what are you doing!?"

His head snapped to Kristi in confusion at the sudden increase in voice level. "I'm sorry?"

She stood up and poked him in the chest. "Don't think I'm gonna let you size him up while he's sleeping. If he was awake he'd already have you on the ground."

Sheik quickly waved his hands and apologized. "No, no, not at all, I wasn't doing that."

"Oh yeah, what were you doing then?" Kristi pressed.

"Something just caught my eye," he urgently explained.

"Oh yeah, likely excuse."

"Damn," Sheik said half laughing. "You defend this man in a second. You his lover?"

Kristi punched him hard in the shoulder. "Like you should be asking questions right now. It's against the rules to sabotage other opponents before a fight."

"What!?" he exclaimed. "How am I sabotaging him? I just looked at him."

"Yeah, well, when he wakes up I'm sure he'll wanna hear what you're doing here."

"Yeah, I will."

The two turned to see Link sitting up adjusting his hat. He yawned before leaning back and looking at them both. "What's going on?"

Kristi pointed an accusing finger at Sheik. "He was doing something weird."

"I was looking at him!" he countered.

"Looking at what, huh?" Kristi snapped.

"My beautiful face," Link joked.

"Shut up Link, this isn't a time to joke," Kristi yelled.

Link shut his eyes and rested his head back. "Relax, he probably wasn't doing anything."

"Thank you," Sheik nodded.

"How do you know?" Kristi marched up to Link. "He's from a mountain clan. They are sneaky thieves and can do crazy things, or maybe he was just thinking of what valuables you had on you."

"Hey!" Link yelled causing Kristi to step back and bring her hands to her chest. She looked frightened by Link's sudden outburst. Link made direct eye contact with her before continuing. "You just put him into a stereotype, Kristi. That's what people do with me, do you think I'm a blood thirsty barbarian?"

"No…" she replied sheepishly.

"Then you don't think he's a thief based on what people say then, do you?"

"…No."

"It's alright Link," Sheik stepped in. "I know she doesn't really think that."

Link took his eyes off Kristi and she felt like a Goron just stepped off her. His eyes were able to make her feel like she was being weighed down. Even if she didn't make that big of a mistake, he was able to make her feel horrible. Maybe she cared more about what he thought than what she originally believed.

"So what are you doing here?" Link asked Sheik.

"I was simply going to try and become friends," he chuckled. "Not going too well so far."

Link laughed. "Total misunderstanding."

"I'm glad it is," Sheik took a seat next to Link. "I don't know if you know this, but I believe we are the last outsiders in this tournament."

"Outsiders?" Kristi found that strange. "There are fieldsmen and other villagers still in the fight."

Link shook his head. "Not literally outside the city, outside the Kingdom."

"You see Kristi," Sheik explained further seeing that she didn't quite understand. "The mountain clans don't necessarily listen to the Kingdom. We don't hate it like the Ordonians, we simply don't have any need for it and they have no need for us."

"But Ordon is a part of the Kingdom," Kristi responded.

Link sighed, "Have you learned nothing knowing me?"

Sheik chuckled. "Technically yes, but do you think the Ordonians like to be considered part of the Kingdom? They like to separate themselves as much as possible, just like my clan does. So virtually, we are the only outsiders – of the Kingdom – left."

"Okay…so what are you doing here again?" Kristi asked not too sure what was really going on.

"Diplomatic relations," Link laughed. "We need to stick together in this big nasty city."

Sheik laughed as well. "Not all the time, hell we don't ever have to see each other. But let's say something bad happens, I'll come to his aid if he comes to mine, because there isn't anyone else in this city that we can rely on."

"Oh," Kristi nodded. "That makes sense. You two can really be friends just like that?"

The two boys looked at each other. "It's a warrior thing," they both answered.

"We will now continue the tournament!" Bailey's loud voice thundered throughout the stands. "Will Lex, Captain of the Guard, and Sheik of the Sheikahs, please stand before us."

Sheik patted his knees before rising to his feet. "Well, looks like I'm up."

Link held up his arm. Sheik grabbed his forearm allowing Link to grab his as well. It was a true handshake that meant a lot for the both of them. Link suddenly leaned forward and gave Sheik a headbutt. Sheik looked confused at first before realizing it was an Ordonian friendship gesture. He reached up with his free hand and patted Link on the cheek, his own personal way of excepting it.

"Good luck."

Sheik nodded before turning and heading towards the stadium. He walked up the stone steps to the platform and a tremendous cheer was released. Link and Kristi could see him clearly from their box since so many competitors emptied out. There wasn't a human wall in the way.

Sheik stood across from Lex, opening and closing his fists in anticipation. Lex stood tall and strong with his eyes steadily fixed on Sheik. They simultaneously turned to the Princess and bowed silently. It fit both of them to not shout out a loud declaration. Zelda nodded, trying to think who would be the most likely victor. She knew Lex's skills and they were far above average. However, she also knew this Sheik was no lightweight, and wasn't sure if he was holding back.

"Commence!"

The two warriors continued to stare at each other, neither making any move. The medium built bearded man with thick eyebrows crossed his arms and leaned on one leg. The young blonde that was on the leaner side and had practically playful eyes rested a hand on his hip while also favoring one leg.

"What made you enter this tournament?" Lex asked.

"Oh, you know, fame, fortune, women," Sheik counted on his fingers. "The usual."

Lex laughed. "I find it hard to believe you are here for those reasons. Maybe fame but not in the sense of being famous. I say you are here for the same reason as the Ordonian boy. You wish for people to remember your clan."

Sheik clapped twice. "Bravo, the Captain isn't just all about fighting."

"I try," Lex smiled.

"However, his name is Link and mine is Sheik, and although we do represent our cultures, we also represent ourselves." Sheik pulled two deep blue curved daggers out of their sheaths on his sides. "We weren't sent here by some order…we came here on our own to prove something. So let's see if we can succeed."

Lex withdrew his long sword and his round buckler shield. "Well I hope I don't get in the way of you proving yourself."

Sheik's bandages tightened into a smirk. He threw his arms back behind him as he charged forward. He leaned his body towards the ground with arms high in the air running at a lightning fast pace. It was the Sheikah style, heavily influenced by ninja ancestry.

He leaped high in the air, slamming his dagger into Lex's shield. He swept his leg on the ground to take out the Captain's feet, but he jumped it with ease. Sheik followed through with a rising uppercut, aiming for his opponent's face, but Lex side stepped with a returning slash. Sheik danced around it, moving faster than even Link. He did another acrobatic move that involved jumping and spinning horizontally ending with a fierce kick that landed squarely in the middle of Lex's shield. The end result was Sheik placing his hand on the ground since his foot was against the shield.

Lex pushed his foot off and Sheik turned it into a retreating roll. As soon as he was upright he charged again. He continued to put as much pressure as he could on Lex, never taking a break, never letting up. He pushed Lex to his limits, forcing him around the arena, doing moves that people didn't think were physically possible.

This was how the fight lasted for a half hour. Everyone looked on in an utter stupor at the skill before them. They thought Link and Occisor had the most impressive looking fight. That was nothing compared to this. Sheik was doing flips, rolls, spins, high kicks, sliding slashes…he looked like he belonged in a staged show. It was beyond spectacular and everyone couldn't stop their screaming. For the whole thirty minutes people cheered for both sides.

Lex never went on the offensive, which made the crowd even more ballistic. Lex never took a single step in retreat the entire tournament and this battle he couldn't take one step in advance. It was enough to get everyone's adrenaline pumping, to see how their hero would come out of this and be victorious. It was an exciting thought to ponder if Lex would even be victorious. The crowd couldn't get enough, it was the fight everyone wanted to happen and the fight they were all allowed to see.

"This is amazing," Kristi said in awe. She turned to Link. "You think he'll win?"

"Maybe," Link answered seriously, his eyes glued to the fight.

"You could sound a little more positive."

"I'm being truthful." He glanced at her from the corner of his eye before they returned to the fight. "Sheik is giving it his all, he isn't holding back, he isn't testing out Lex's strength. He knew he had to go all out from the very beginning if he had any chance to hopefully catch Lex off guard. But it doesn't seem to be that way at all, now he just can't let Lex take the offensive."

"That doesn't sound good at all," Kristi grumbled. "You make it sound like he can't win."

Link shrugged, "There is still a chance, he is setting up many opportunities but Lex isn't giving him any chances to capitalize. If Lex makes one mistake the fight will be for Sheik, but if he doesn't… I can't see Sheik winning."

"Oh, they stopped!" Kristi pointed out.

Sheik and Lex for the first time since the beginning of the fight stood a couple of yards apart. Sheik was breathing heavily, practically panting, while trying to keep his stance. Link could see his body fighting to bend over and get a break but his years of training was pushing him to try and keep it straight up. His one dagger that should have been in front of his face was drooping down below his chin, his other was hanging, the arm not wanting to waste any more energy lifting it. His eyes however were as sturdy as they were at the beginning of the fight. They didn't waver at all: they continued to stare at his opponent with dead intensity.

Lex was breathing heavier but was nowhere near as tired as Sheik. He let his sword hang casually at his side with his shield just clutching his arm. He held a serious look on his face, but Link noticed that never wavered when he fought. It made it hard to judge what he was thinking and Link knew it was a good battle presence to have. It would make anyone fighting him hard to know what he was thinking.

This was absolutely true for Sheik, he was getting frustrated by his opponent's unworried presence. He didn't know if Lex knew how he was going to win or if he was thinking of a strategy. As much as Sheik hated to admit it, he was happy to get the little break, but it did worry him when Lex didn't go on the offensive right away. It would've been the smart decision.

"You are pretty good," Lex spoke first.

"Thanks….you as well."

"But I must warn you," Lex took a step forward. "This is your last break, and since your first strategy didn't work you might want to think of another one. Because when I go on the attack, if you miss a step you may lose your head…nothing personal, of course."

Sheik gripped his daggers tightly and renewed his stance. He took one deep breath to regain all his composure. "Well then, let's see what you got."

Lex held up a finger while the sword dangled in the other four. "One second…I would like to predict how this is going to end."

"What?" Sheik narrowed his eyes.

"This will end with me holding one of your daggers with you on the ground." After Lex's statement he got back into his battle position.

Sheik didn't have time to respond before Lex charged him. He had surprising speed for his build and age. It caught the Sheikah off guard, but he recovered quick enough to dodge the strike. Lex continued to hound him and Sheik found himself on the defensive like Lex promised. He was too tired to try any fancy flips, so he took it down to the basics with simple parries and dodges.

However, he did have one trick left up his sleeve and if he succeeded he would be able to win the fight. Lex came at him with an upper-diagonal slash and that's exactly what he needed. He moved so quickly half the stands missed it. All they saw was Lex's sword go flying out of his grip, glimmering in the sunlight. Sheik did a traditional disarm move that involved lightning fast reflexes to twist the sword with his one blade while simultaneously pulling Lex's shoulder closer to himself and twisting the Captain's arm further. Then with a strong punch to Lex's arm it was a simple body reaction to release the sword. For it to be done was immensely hard but Sheik was able to pull it off and now his opponent was disarmed.

"He did it!" Kristi jumped up cheering.

"It's not done yet!" Link yelled in a futile way to communicate with Sheik, because he knew Sheik felt victory in his veins, which would be a fatal mistake.

Sheik smiled under the bandages. As he was bringing his blade up to the Captain's neck to end the fight, he suddenly saw a large metal shield hurriedly coming for his head. He didn't have time to react and took the full force in his face. It launched him backwards and he struggled to stay on his feet.

How could he have been so stupid to overlook the shield? He knew in any skilled warriors hands a shield was just as much a weapon as the sword.

Sheik gained his balance just in time to see a fist close in on his face. It landed straight in his nose and the pain flowed throughout his face. His feet retreated backwards in a sloppy pattern and he felt a strong kick to his chest, knocking him on his back. One dagger flew from his grip, but he wasn't worried about that now. He got up as quickly as he could, almost falling back down when he got to his feet.

His back was to Lex as he was just trying to get away to recover. He glanced over his shoulder in time to see Lex do a spin to gain momentum in another shield swing. He swung it so the edge collided with Sheik's head, causing the mountain clan boy to see black for a second before a bright white light. He felt his body collapse, but he kept trying to get away. He heard the ringing of his second dagger drop but he kept moving. When the light cleared away, he was on the ground and he got to his knees.

He felt thick liquid filling his mouth and he quickly ripped the bandages off his face. He let out a giant gasp of air and the crimson flew out like a roar. He took large gasps of air on his hands and knees while the blood dripped down his chin. He looked over to Lex, terrified of what he was going to see. Lex was further away and spun once again but this time threw the shield accurately at Sheik. It sailed the small distance and landed on the side of Sheik's head since he was only able to turn away in time.

It caused him to flop over onto his back, going in and out of the world around him. He just concentrated on breathing and nothing else. He saw a blurry figure of a man standing above him with the blue blade in his hand.

"I told you this is how it would end," Lex's voice was calm and relaxed. "You're a Sheikah, which means you're trained to be a ninja. One of the main training sessions are how to disarm an opponent. It is very dangerous when in a one on one fight and should only be done as a last resort if you cannot simply outfight your opponent. So I knew you would try it when your attacks didn't work. I also knew in that couple of seconds when it worked you would let down your guard thinking you won."

Lex chuckled a little. "People don't understand that a shield is truly far more dangerous than the sword since no one ever expects it. Well… I doubt you'll forget that again. Now yield so this can be done."

"I won't yield…until you have a blade…at my neck," Sheik spat between his heavy breathes.

Lex groaned and knelt down but in doing so he placed one foot on Sheik's hand. There was a crunching noise and Lex froze. Did he just break the boy's finger? He looked at Sheik's face to see if he was writhing in more pain but he was still just gasping and glaring. Lex heard many bones break in his day and that sounded… strange. He slid his foot off the bandaged-up hand to see hard plaster broken in pieces.

"…A fake?" He said quietly.

Lex's eyes grew wide, realizing what it meant. Sheik roared, searching for any strength left in his body. A hidden blade flew out of the one hand filling the gap of the missing finger. He lunged at Lex's neck but the Captain was able to catch his hand just in time. He pushed it to the side so the blade cut his ear. He twisted Sheik's elbow so his arm was out of commission and then knelt on his chest with the blue dagger at his neck.

"Close one boy," Lex commented. "You nearly had me there."

Sheik grunted trying to get his hand free.

"No, no," Lex said, "You got your try and you failed. Now the question remains whether you are really in this tournament or if you were sent to kill me?"

"Don't flatter yourself," Sheik growled.

Lex chuckled. "You know, I'll take your word for it since I really don't think you could kill me anyway. Now yield or you shall be the third to die in this tournament."

"…I yield."

"Thought so," Lex placed the dagger on his chest before standing up and walking away.

Two men ran up to Sheik and loaded him on a stretcher. They pick it up and walked off towards the infirmary to have the doctor check him out. They walked past Link and Kristi on their way to the infirmary. Link scanned over Sheik's body, finding what he expected.

"I don't get it, what just happened?" Kristi turned to Link for an explanation.

Link dropped his head into his hand. "I don't believe it."

"Believe what?" Kristi exclaimed. "Explain!"

"He's a fucking assassin." Link palmed his forehead.

"How do you know that?" Kristi shoved his shoulder. "You were yelling at me earlier for calling him a thief."

"Oh he's much more than that."

"Link!" Kristi stamped her foot.

"The blade attached to his arm." Link patted his arm. "That is an assassin's weapon, but what truly reveals what he is, is the fact that he has no right ring finger."

"What?!" Kristi looked down the path they went down as if she would still be able to see Sheik.

"When someone becomes a full fledged assassin they remove their ring finger so the blade can slide out in an angle. It shows that they will do anything for the job even if it means removing a finger to make a blade work better."

"That's crazy."

"But it means he isn't just a simple boy. That isn't easy to accomplish that level in any order.

He is top of the line if he had the honor of getting his finger removed."

"The honor?" Kristi repeated, disgusted.

Link sighed, "It's hard to imagine but that was an honor. He entered one of the most serious orders in Hyrule, one that people know exists but still don't know where. So he is very skilled and isn't to be trifled with, but saying that, he isn't a cold blooded murderer. As you can tell, he is another person that just has taken up fighting as his life, just in another matter."

"So…are you saying to stay away from him?" Kristi was unsure.

Link shrugged, "He likes us well enough so I don't believe it is dangerous for us. But it means we have to be careful around him, since, as you noticed… he can have weapons anywhere."

"Well if he's so skilled, shouldn't he have won?" Kristi proposed.

Link chuckled, "That's the funny part. Lex is that good to have beaten him, but also saying that, assassins obviously prefer stealth, and most wouldn't be that good in a single match…which of course is crediting Sheik in skill again."

"I'm so confused," Kristi took a couple steps away before turning back around. "What are you saying exactly?"

Link was completely solemn speaking. "It means there are many skilled people among us and we have to be careful. I didn't foresee this at all. Such powerful opponents all entering one tournament… it's captivating."

Kristi sighed with her hands on her hips. "You would."

"Link, son of Collan, and Dangoro, the Great General, please come forward!" Bailey's booming voice echoed.

"Oh, gotta get my stuff ready," Link scampered back to his box and readied himself.

"So you have you figured out a strategy yet?" Kristi asked, worried.

"Yep," Link piped up over his shoulder.

"What!?" Kristi exclaimed.

Link laughed and walked over to her, all geared-up. He planted a gentle kiss on her cheek. "Wish me luck." He then briskly walked away headed towards the arena, leaving Kristi to hold a hand to her chest in worry, not just for the fight he was about to partake in, but also her feelings that were beginning to grow between them. Even if she just knew him a couple of days he just had this attraction to him that she couldn't resist. The more she realized it the more she worried about the fights, and she wasn't sure how she would able to stand watching a few more rounds.

Link marched up onto the platform at the same time Dangoro did. The mighty Goron ascended the stairs in two steps. His shining black armor was a reflection of his hatred for many things and the silver spikes on his shoulders added to the intimidation he radiated. In his hands were thick steel chains that ran up and over his shoulder. They connected to a giant black ball of steel that was swaying against his back. It was his signature weapon: a ball that could only be wielded skillfully by such a powerful creature. There are few men that have ever won against such a weapon.

Link made eye contact with him and Dangoro was stunned when he saw no fear in his eyes. The young boy stared on, dead and true. The smirk placed on his face was appearing to be a constant feature. For the slightest second, such a small amount of time no one would ever think it would matter, the great general Dangoro felt hesitation. It came and went so quickly he wasn't sure if he even felt it, but he knew there was something about the boy standing in front of him. The teen dressed in green that managed to be a surprise after surprise, time and time again.

The two fighters stood apart from each other and turned towards the royal box.

"Princess of Hyrule, I will be victorious for you." Dangoro's voice was throaty like all

Gorons, but it was still loud.

The crowd roared upon hearing his declaration. It was bold, clearly stating he was going to win. It wasn't something a normal competitor could do, but since he was Dangoro, he could get away with it. The crowd silenced itself, waiting for Link's declaration.

"Princess, I apologize for the fighting you have been forced to watch."

The crowd looked on in shock as Link managed to surprise everyone once again. Zelda was startled as well but was deeply intrigued. She made eye contact with Link, holding his gaze, knowing he was speaking to her and only to her. It wasn't like the others who, although directed at her, they were still speaking to the crowd in a matter of speaking. Link didn't stand regal like the other competitors. He stood relaxed and calm as if simply having a conversation.

"I know it displeases you and I'm not making it any easier… I'm probably making it worse," he mumbled, glancing at the ground for a second. Zelda found a tugging at her lips but she forced it away, not wanting to show too much emotion while he spoke. It was for political purposes, of course, and not that she was mad at him for no legible reason and didn't want to seem happy to him.

He looked back up at her. "I'm afraid I must continue my fighting and I want you to understand I am not trying to make it horrific. I am not here to fulfill the stereotypes that have been placed upon me, and I know that this isn't entertainment to one so gentle as yourself. I ask you to bear with me a little more, and after this I can show you my more sophisticated side."

"Okay." Zelda's eyes widened. Did she just reply to him? She wasn't supposed to reply to the competitors save for a nod of the head. Oh how could she be so stupid? She knew she made a mistake and would be scolded for it later. She knew the crowd definitely thought she favored him or something now. She stayed strong and acted like nothing strange occurred even though everyone knew it had.

Link smiled, knowing what she did was wrong but loved it simply because it actually happened. She spoke to him. Even if it was an accident, it meant she thought of him higher than an average person. Link turned to the Goron, who hissed in annoyance.

"Well, you are a big one, aren't ya?" Link commented.

"Boy, I'll devour you," Dangoro declared.

"Oh, that's a frightful thought," Link made a disgusted face.

"Begin!"

"I'm going to enjoy this," Dangoro chuckled.

He lifted the giant steel ball above his head and began swinging it around. It didn't whirl too fast, not to the point where it became a blur, that wasn't necessary or controllable. It maintained a good speed with a constant whirling sound.

"Ah, I have a wooden whistle that makes that sound."

"I'll crush you!" Dangoro shouted as he released the chain from his grip, causing the ball to sweep across the ground.

Link jumped backwards out of reach just in time. His clothes blew from the rush of wind as it passed. Dangoro let it fly again and Link ran out of the way. It was easy enough to dodge, but that wasn't the problem. Link could dodge it all day if he had to, but he'd never win the fight. The ball and chain was a great weapon for keeping opponents at bay, and if Link couldn't get close… how would he injure a beast such as a Goron? The fight continued with Dangoro letting the ball sweep across the ground at Link. He never came from over the top because that would stop the momentum and give Link a chance to counter.

Lex stood behind the King in the royal box, watching the fight intensely. He wanted to learn every single step Link had, for he knew there was a strong chance if he managed to beat Dangoro –which still remained impossible in everyone's eyes – he would make it to the finals. As he watched, he didn't pick up anything except his amazing speed, which he found strange during this fight. He never lost his footing or stumbled and always managed to dodge at the last second. Someone with Link's speed should've been able to get a lot further away than a couple of inches. Yet time and time again he would barely dodge the steel ball. It just wasn't right.

"Ah, smart boy," Ganondorf mumbled against his fist he was resting on.

"Oh, have you noticed something?" The King asked.

Ganondorf smiled, "I hope I'm not the only one."

"Well, you are," Rutela looked at the fire-headed man.

Zelda tried desperately to see what he was talking about. All she could see was Link barely dodging every time and she knew if he was hit once he was done. Maybe even dead, which worried her even more. She just didn't see any way Link would be able to be victorious in this fight.

Lex silently cursed himself for not seeing what Ganondorf was talking about. In his eyes the boy was barely dodging and eventually would get hit once and be done. Surely Link knew that as well. However, the more Lex watched the Ordonian dance around the stage the more he felt he was missing something. Lex looked at Link's face and made a stunning realization.

"He's not worried," Lex stated out loud.

"So?" The King questioned.

Lex looked back at Ganondorf to see him staring right back. He was now watching Lex, finding him more entertaining.

"So…" Lex turned back to talk to the King. "If I was fighting him I'd be worried, probably terrified out of my mind. That boy doesn't look the least bit worried, he looks as if he knows he's going to win."

"That's absurd," the King stated. "I can't even think of a way for him to win."

"I'm not too sure either," Lex said seriously. "But he is confident of something."

Ganondorf chuckled. "I'll give you a hint…it has to do with how close he is coming to the ball."

"I figured that," Lex grumbled.

"My apologies," Ganondorf smiled snidely. "Just tell me if you need another hint."

Zelda turned around in her chair to face the Desert Lord. "You really know how Link could win?"

"Oh, my sweet Princess, not could win… will win."

Everyone's head snapped to Ganondorf at his bold statement.

"Explain yourself, Lord Ganondorf," The King demanded.

"Oh, I think you should figure it out for yourselves." He rested his head back on his propped up fist. "It's much more interesting this way."

They all grumbled, annoyed at Ganondorf, but did as suggested and just continued to watch the battle. Nothing changed since it began, Dangoro continued to hurl the giant ball at Link who would at the last second get out of the way. To a simple spectator it looked to be the most boring fight so far, but in essence it held so much importance to it that every swing was captivating. One hit could end Link's amazing battle against the kingdom.

"Do you think he's trying to tire him out?" Zelda asked.

"No," Lex shook his head. "I know Dangoro, he could go all day and night if he had to. If anything, the boy will get sloppy over time and miss a step."

"Then why do I get the feeling Link's going to win?" Zelda proposed honestly.

"It is a strange feeling that is beginning to overtake me as w-" Lex stopped mid sentence. Something caught his eye, he finally realized what Link was doing. "By the goddesses… he's lengthening the chain."

"You see what he's doing?" The King urged, "Explain it!"

"Every dodge is inches away, every escape almost fails, every swing comes just as close as the one before. He is baiting Dangoro to try harder and harder and in doing so Dangoro is releasing the chain just a little bit more. A very little amount, but over time it has doubled in length…and I don't think he realizes it, or if he does he doesn't see the problem."

"What is the problem?" Zelda asked, fighting herself against being immersed into the fight.

"It's smart and on a normal opponent it takes longer to swing, so you can run in past his guard," Lex explained. "But he doesn't have a way to truly injure Dangoro, so I see what he's doing but I still can't see how it will work."

Ganondorf chuckled. "No need, the boy's about to make his move."

No one questioned the Desert Lord because they were too interested in watching the fight, intent on making sure not to miss anything.

Link new his plan since the very beginning and he was ready to strike. He hadn't drawn his weapons yet and was dodging the ball each time. He would only admit to himself that each dodge frightened him because of how close it was, but he knew it was working. It was now his moment to strike.

He timed up Dangoro's next swing. He couldn't show any signs of preparing to strike or the Goron might correct his mistake. Link watched the ball and knew that next time it came around Dangoro would send it his way. He watched him long enough to know his grip tightened and he took a sharp intake of breath through his nostrils before every attack.

Link moved as swift as a wolf. He simultaneously drew his shield and lunged forward just as Dangoro was hurling the ball of steel at him. His godlike speed was incredible, and he got halfway to the Goron just before the chain would strike him. He planted his feet and held up his shield bracing himself by leaning his shoulder into it. The chain applied pressure against his shield and just as he planned, he felt it wrap around his body. It was extremely difficult to stand tall and not get tipped over but he did it. The chain went around his back and he heard a loud crashing sound.

He smirked as he felt the chain's pressure release, his plan worked perfectly. He used his body as a pivot for the steel ball so when it came back around it smashed right into Dangoro, who, before he even realized what happened, was on his back. His leg was engulfed in pain from where the ball hit him.

Link wasted no time and leaped onto Dangoro and drew his sword. He shoved it into the giant Goron's mouth and kept it right above the inside of his throat.

"I always wondered if a Goron's insides where as hard as his outsides." Link smirked as he always did. "Shall I answer my question or continue to live on wondering?"

"I yield," Dangoro slurred, finding it difficult to speak with a sword in his mouth.

Link's eyebrows rose. "Really? Thought it would've been a little tougher to convince you."

"Winner… Link!" Bailey shouted and everyone knew he had hesitation to it.

Link withdrew his sword and stepped off the Goron. Dangoro pushed himself off the ground and faced Link. "I know when I've been beaten…even if by Ordon trickery."

Link laughed, "Yeah, I won't lie and say it wasn't a little cheap but it was the only way."

Dangoro smiled for the first time that anyone could remember. "You are like your father, Link."

"You knew him?" That surprised Link greatly.

"Of course I did," Dangoro huffed. "All great warriors know each other, which is why I am glad to know you, Link, son of Collan."

Link stood straight and took a serious posture. He knew this was a very important moment and even he would show respect now. "Likewise, I am glad to have fought you and glad that we have made a friendship out of it."

"Indeed," Dangoro surprised everyone with his gentle and well behaved tone. "I can already tell you will do magnificent things in your lifetime. You are storming through this tournament at such a young age."

"You praise me too much." Link knew the right card to play now was modesty… even if it went against his entire personality. "You are the first true warrior I have come against."

"You haven't fought Lex yet."

The confidence on Link's face was evident. "Can't wait 'til I do."

"Well, I wish you luck." Dangoro turned and began walking off the stage. "Oh, and give Bo my regards."

"Yeah, sure," Link said before heading back to his side.

As he did, he glanced up at the royal box to see Zelda watching him. He smiled to himself just seeing her. Not only did her beauty still manage to astound him, but he knew in a way their relationship was growing. She watched his fights more intently than the other fights. He knew it didn't mean anything in the way he and Kristi were growing. He just found her intriguing and he was pretty sure she thought the same of him.

Zelda watched Link walk off the stage. She officially admitted to herself she wanted him to win. She had just decided while watching that final fight and seeing how it ended up. He wasn't just a brute with a sword, his intelligence ranged far above the common soldier if he was able to put together a plan that involved turning his opponent's weapon against himself. It was impressive, to say the least, and how he respected Dangoro after the fight. It proved that if you treated him with respect, he'll treat you with it. For the first time she saw the boy she talked to that one late night in the library.

Lex leaned heavily against the King's chair. He realized right then that they would fight in the final. There wasn't going to be anyone to stop him. He was able to overcome every obstacle and Lex knew there was more competition ahead for him, like the elite knight, for example. They were on a whole other level, but seeing Link defeat Dangoro and Occisor, he was almost positive Link would prevail. Link didn't fight anyone in a simple basic sword to sword combat yet, and that intrigued Lex all the more. He knew every fight Link took part in so far was something he wasn't used to… so what would happen when he fought in a fight he was used to?

Link once again managed to astonish everyone watching. Everyone had to admit that he wasn't just lucky and he wasn't simply skilled. He had intelligence to work out any problem he'd face and they began to realize what a contender he really was. They were running out of people to fight him, with only a couple of fights remaining. They all held Lex in the back of their minds as a last resort, but now they truly wondered… what if Lex lost?

Link's continuous advance also raised other thoughts. Thoughts that were buried for a decade. Is Ordon still a strong nation? Are there more warriors like Link? Are there better warriors than Link?

The people of Hyrule lived the past ten years feeling at the top of the world, as if they were the best. At the time they proved they were, but now looking at individual fights… Ordon was beating every other culture. That an eighteen-year-old boy was able to beat the unbeatable Goron General, it was almost unfathomable, but Link kept proving to them it was possible. Link was single-handedly reminding everyone what Ordon use to be and what it could be.

And it terrified them.

Link prevails again…of course. Now I'm going to try and update the next chapter a lot faster than the past chapters and I mean that this time. With all the reviews I feel you guys don't deserve waiting so long for each chapter. So I'll try my best to write the next chapter.

ScarsOfTime…learn the name, he's the one who takes my story and polishes it all up, so it looks all pretty like. Be thankful.