"My Queen, wait!"
Queen Rutela hesitated around the corner and let Pisces go first.
"Okay, follow me, quickly." Pisces urged.
He was leading the Queen, the Prince and their Zora attendants. The body guards that came with the Queen were already dead. They held off the invaders into the Queen's chamber long enough for Pisces to reach her. He was sleeping with Prince Ralis in their room, when he heard a disturbance. He stepped into the hallway to see what was going on. He was met with Gerudo soldiers about to kick the door in. It didn't take him long to dispose of the soldiers. He quickly raised Ralis from his slumber and headed for the Queen, with Prince trailing behind. He was happy he trained Ralis well. He didn't have to worry about him too much. The boy could handle himself in a one on one fight. The only problem was, many of the fights they were outmatched.
They reached the Queen and her two attendants. Now they just had to get out, almost every corner had enemies, which led to battles. Pisces and Ralis would occasionally help any Hyrulian soldiers, but only if they were on that path already. Much to Ralis' protests, Pisces was looking out for the Prince and Queen only. It was not his job, or duty, to take care of every soldier. Ralis even wanted to go find Zelda, but Pisces refused. He explained that the royal family had their own escape plan, and they would only interfere.
Truth be told, Pisces was quite fearful of what was truly happening. He knew, along with the Queen, that the Hyrulians would normally send Elite Knights to help escort the Zora Queen. Since they didn't, Pisces knew that the battle was far worse than he imagined. Every resource must've been being used. He also knew of the dangers of a surprise attack, and he realized this wasn't going to end well.
"Pisces!" Queen Rutela shouted as three Gerudo charged.
The elder Zora charged without hesitation. The first Gerudo, a spear-wielder, sloppily planted his feet and jabbed out strongly. Pisces skillfully let it get within centimeters of his side. He lifted his left arm so it wouldn't be hit, and after the blade passed by safely, he stepped into the spear. He could feel the wood rub against his side. He lowered his left arm, catching the spear in his armpit. He grabbed it with his left hand, yanking it forward…the Gerudo came along. Pisces held out his skinny saber and the Gerudo virtually impaled himself.
Pisces quickly casted the man aside and readied himself for the next two. They both had medium sized curved blades. One stepped forward and swung sideways. Pisces dropped low and spun under it. He used the spear that was still in his armpit, to swipe the Gerudo off his feet. He rose, parried a strike from the third Gerudo, and retaliated by jabbing the saber into his gut. Without looking, he jabbed the spear backwards into the ground, and heard a grunt that alerted him to his success.
"Pisces," Ralis cheered, "You're amazing!"
Pisces smiled sheepishly. "Every old fish gets a lucky swing." His smile faded. "Let's keep moving."
So they did. Working around the corridors and rooms. Unlike Link, Pisces was wise enough to keep a general layout of the interior of the castle. He knew where he was going.
"Pisces, we passed this hallway before."
More or less.
"Did we?" Pisces smiled over his shoulder. "Brains getting old."
"Stop your foolish antics," Rutela demanded. "Be serious."
Pisces' smile faded. "Yes, my Queen." He was an old fun fool, but he was a soldier first and he would do as commanded.
They continued on their way in silence until Ralis spoke.
"Shouldn't we find Dangoro and see if he's okay?"
Pisces stopped running and turned to Ralis with a face that showed pure amazement. "Are you daft? Do you really think we need to worry about Dangoro? I'm afraid he'll knock the pillars out and this castle will crumble."
"I suppose so." Ralis said thinking, "What about Link?"
Pisces' face didn't change, "…are you daft? I'm afraid he'll kill everyone in this castle, why do you think I'm trying to get out? Did you think we were actually running from the Gerudo?"
"Pisces!" The Queen exclaimed.
"Ah yes, seriousness, it's a hard trait to obtain, my Queen."
"Just get us out of here," the Queen sighed.
"Not to worry my Queen," Pisces bowed gracefully.
Then, a plethora of Gerudo poured into the hallway at both ends. In a matter of ten seconds, the Zoras were completely surrounded. Piscis' joking demeanor vanished as he grabbed the Prince and shoved him back against the only wall not blocked by Gerudo. His mother, the Queen, wrapped her son in her arms protectively. The aids stood in front of the Queen and Prince. Piscis stood in front of them, saber in a defensive ready position.
The warrior Zora knew their position they were in…they weren't getting out. There was at least thirty Gerudo and maybe he could fight them off if he was by himself. But that would involve running around and he couldn't do that with the Queen and the Prince. Maybe even leave them entirely. He would die honorably rather than live cowardly.
The Gerudo slowly began walking towards them. Piscis readied himself. Ralis tried to free himself to fight, but his mother refused to let him go.
"Cease!" A feminine voice rang out.
All the Gerudo hesitated as they looked around. A female Gerudo stepped up. She looked like the one Link ran into, extremely beautiful, with deep purple silk clothes, and two large scimitars.
"Look who you fools are attacking," She hissed. "They aren't Hyrulians, they are Zoras."
Piscis looked down at his arm. "By the goddess she's right! Everything I know is wrong."
"Piscis," Rutela hissed.
"Ah yes, seriousness."
The female Gerudo ignored him. "They are not our enemies. Now go, they are not to be harmed."
After a couple seconds of no one moving, a couple men finally started to dissipate. After a couple more moments soon all the men were charging down one hallway, or the other.
The female Gerudo turned to Piscis. "My apologies, you can understand how men in battle can get carried away."
"Why are you letting us go?" Piscis' surprised everyone with the grave demeanor he took again. He switched back and forth so much it was hard to keep up with.
"You aren't our target." She answered simply like they weren't sacking the castle. Like they weren't committing open acts of war. "I wish you could simply walk out, but I cannot trust all the men to recognize your importance and let you pass. So I advise you to proceed with caution, even if you aren't our targets, Gerudo only truly trust their own."
With that the women slowly turned, and at a very leisurely pace, strolled out of view. The Zoras didn't move an inch until they were sure she was gone.
"What was that about?" Ralis asked.
"No time my Prince," Piscis answered and walked over to a nearby window. He opened it and peered out.
"What are you doing?" Ralis asked.
"Letting a breeze in, little stale in here."
"Pisces!" Ralis and Rutela shouted.
Pisces smiled. He knew he was being foolish, the point was to relax the Prince and Queen. He would get them too safety. He would rather die than fail at being a bodyguard. If this helped them keep their cool, then he'd play the foolish card all he needed too.
"This window is our escape," Pisces explained seriously. "There is a river down there, we can land in it and swim to safety. I believe that woman was correct. Even if we aren't their targets we don't know for sure if we won't be attacked. Better to skip all that and simply jump out here."
"Aren't we too high?" Ralis inquired.
"There is one river that leads into Castle town and one that leads out. The one that leads in is wide and deep. The one that leads out is wide and shallow. Now it's just a matter of making sure this is the right one."
"How do you know?" Queen Rutela asked.
"The trees, my Queen, the tree line is different on both sides, I believe this one is the correct one." Pisces grabbed Ralis' hand and pulled him to the window. "You first, my boy."
"Why me? Shouldn't the Queen go first?"
Pisces looked shocked. "You think this is a royalty thing? I just want to see if you'll make it to the water or if you'll crush your bones on the castle. You're the test dummy." Pisces smiled but that didn't keep Ralis' mouth from dropping. "Relax, I jest. I know the Queen, and know she wants you to go first."
Ralis glanced at his mother to see her nod. Family above titles. A mother will always care for her child more than herself.
Ralis gripped the side frames of the window and stepped onto the ledge. He peered down…far down, and could see the river.
He glanced back at Pisces. "You sure this is right?"
"Have some trust," Pisces smiled.
Ralis smiled back.
"In luck."
"Wait! What?" Ralis exclaimed only for a brief moment before Pisces shoved him out the window.
Pisces looked out the window and watched the Prince fall. "Stop flailing your arms you aren't a bird, you're a fish!" He shouted. He watched as there was a tiny splash and he felt a big burden be lifted from him.
He turned back to the Queen, "Your turn."
The Queen took on a very unladylike look as she shook her head, terrified, and clasped a hand to her chest stepping back.
Pisces sighed. He suddenly pointed out the window. "Oh look, your favorite bird."
He looked back at the Queen to see no response. He sighed.
"Don't behead me after this." He rushed over to her, grabbed her by the waist, lifted her off her feet, and marched to the window. "I can't throw you far enough, so you better jump."
The Queen didn't have time to even think, or protest. She felt herself being pushed out and in the last second kicked off the ledge into the air. Pisces watched her go all the way down into the water before turning back to the attendants.
"Don't make me." He told them.
They fought to be the first to jump out of the window. After they were down, Pisces stepped onto the ledge.
"Dear me," He stared all the way down. "I do hope this is the right side."
He jumped off the ledge and felt himself falling fast. He went head first, arms at his side, and feet together. He cut through the sky like an eagle. It didn't take him long to hit the water. He broke through the surface and continued on down into the water. He saw the water bed coming and put his hands out to help the impact. He crashed into the ground with his hands first to help a little, but his head still hit as well. He crumbled up slightly before straightening back out. He planted his feet on the ground and shot back to the surface.
He was met with four angry faces but they soon turned to smiles.
"Told you to have some trust," Pisces smiled.
"So you did know this was the deep side," Ralis laughed.
"My dear boy…this isn't the deep side." Pisces answered seriously. "Now I'm going to go ahead because I have the silliest inclining that I'm about to be beheaded."
The entire way to the resting place, Zelda didn't speak. She was still crying but it wasn't hysterical, she settled down. Link tried getting her to answer him but she didn't. She bobbed unevenly with Epona's strides making it rather difficult to carry a fast pace. Link had to wrap one arm around her to keep her body in synch with his and the rhythm of Epona. He felt her nails dig into his arm, and it only relieved him slightly to know she was at least semi-aware.
Link reached the spot he was racing towards. There was a river that ran across the plains, and a bridge was built to allow safe passage across. Link's particular destination was off the main grassy path. It wasn't too deep into the forest, no more than a hundred feet. It was a sudden steep incline of the landscape, giving a small waterfall, which was no bigger than a couple yards. The edges of the river were slopped off evenly from the eroding water that splashed down from the waterfall.
Link stopped Epona and hopped off. He pulled Zelda who was completely unresponsive. Her eyes were staring off into the distance unfocused. She simply fell off the horse into Link's arm. He knelt by the river and cradled Zelda softly in his hands. He watched Epona slowly step over to the water, tip her head down, and begin drinking thirstily. He reached his hand into the water and goosebumps shot up his arms from the freezing temperature. The water didn't get much sun in the forest and especially not now since it was night.
All the better. Link thought.
He scooped as much as he could in one hand and flung it at Zelda's face. He repeatedly splashed her a couple times until her eyes blinked rapidly and she took a sudden loud breath. Her hands gripped Link in shock as her entire body tightened from the cold water. She began struggling in his grip with her head whipping back and forth trying to orientate herself. Her breathing quickened in panic and she kicked her legs almost taking Link's head off.
"Zelda, Zelda," Link urged holding her tight, not letting her go. He grabbed her head with one hand and forced her to look at him. When their eyes connected she instantly settled down. Link moved his left hand behind her head. She sat up herself but kept her back resting against Link's one propped knee. Link gently brushed her wild hair from out of her face. Their faces were only a breath a part.
"Where are we?" Zelda's voice was hoarse from all the yelling she'd done today.
"On our way to Ordon," Link smiled soothingly. He caressed her smooth face softly for a moment before cupping her cheek. He then rubbed his thumb back and forth on her cheek. Never removing his sight from her beautiful eyes. "I'll keep you safe, don't worry."
Her eyes didn't dare pull away from his either. "Link…the people…"
"They'll survive."
"B-but…the Kingdom, I'm nothing without it."
Link shook his head, "No, you have it wrong. The Kingdom is nothing without you. As long as you live, the Kingdom can come back, it is an idea, it cannot die. But you can, and if you die, then the idea dies. Zelda, you must stay alive, at all costs."
"But I abandoned everyone," Zelda whined pitifully placing her own hand over Link's which still rested on her face. "They hate me."
"No, they know you have to live, they know. They freely sacrificed themselves to let you escape. You would be a fool to give up now. Their deaths would mean nothing, do you want that?"
"No." Zelda stressed, upset at that thought.
Link was going to respond when Epona interrupted with a random neigh. However, it wasn't random. Link let go of Zelda so fast she almost fell over, but she righted herself in time to stay seated.
"What's wrong?" She asked worriedly and whipped her head over her shoulder to watch Link.
Link hurried over to Epona who was stamping her feet and shaking her head.
"What do you feel Epona?" Link asked urgently stoking his horse. Epona looked him in the eye, and Link understood.
"We need to go," Link rushed back to Zelda and helped her up. "Now."
"Link, your horse needs more rest," Zelda argued.
"She's fine," Link dragged the Princess back to Epona. He didn't wait for her permission to grab her and heave her onto Epona. She almost fell off the other side but grabbed the horse to right herself. Link skillfully climbed up behind her and they were in the same position they were before.
"Epona," Link called and she instantly began a medium speed trot out of the forest.
"Link, what's going on?" Zelda looked over her should to see him scanning around. His head stopped turning and she saw his eyes peer through the darkness.
He cursed. "No time." She kicked Epona. "Let's go!"
Epona didn't disobey. Within a couple more steps she was back into a sprint and they broke out of the tree line with strong intensity. Epona turned right and they both leaned in the turn with her. Zelda looked left and felt her skin crawl. There were three dark colored boars riding strongly at them, two Gerudo on each boar. Zelda could barely see them except when the dark sky erupted with lightning. In a quick flash the entire plain was opened to see.
They spotted Epona and quickened the boar's pace. The three Gerudo sitting on the back of the boar were archers. All three had flaming arrows drawn on their bow. It took a second for them to aim them into the air and launch them straight up.
"Signals!" Link yelled. "Damn it, we need to gain some distance!"
"They're gaining!" Zelda yelled looking back. "Aren't horses faster!"
"Not in a straight line," Link growled. "Horses are more agile but boars can charge faster…they will catch us."
"No!" Zelda screamed in fear. "We must do something."
Link didn't respond. He was thinking. The Gerudo were gaining feet every second. They were already only twenty yards behind. The archers began shooting arrows, but Link wasn't too worried about that. They'd have to be extremely skilled or extremely lucky. Shooting arrows on a riding animal was hard enough, but one at full sprinting speed was nearly impossible to keep it accurate. Link couldn't do it, and Troy could barely do it. He doubted that these Gerudo, who looked like common soldiers, maybe scouts, would be able to do it.
It didn't mean that when an arrow whipped past his head he didn't worry.
Thunder roared and lightning flashed. The sky ripped open and a torrential downpour let loose on the riders. From one second the land was dry, and the next it was soaked. It was a heavy, wet rain. The land darkened with the clouds blocking out most moonlight. The visibility was even less with the thickness of the rain. The drops were freezing against Link's bare body, the temperature was dropping steadily, but that was the least worry on his mind.
He looked back and saw the Gerudo only ten yards behind him now. He cursed and drew his sword. They still had a long way to go to reach Ordon at this speed, and he wasn't sure if he'd be able to keep Epona at such a speed. He'd have to fight them, and kill them quickly. However, the archers surely wouldn't miss if they were within a couple feet. He didn't even have a shield, or armor. Calculating everything in his mind, he quickly came to the decision that it would be suicide to fight, even for him. He had ever disadvantage.
He thought as quickly as his mind could. When being chased, where does one go if they can't fight? They hide. That won't work, Link knew one of them was at least a tracker, thus why they couldn't stay hidden near the waterfall. However, if it wasn't exactly hiding, but simply getting out of eyesight and gaining more distance. Maybe, getting the pursuers lost and off the correct path. It would stall them for at least a little while, but how could he ditch them.
Then an idea struck him. It was still suicidal…but a little less so.
"Zelda, whatever you do, do not let go or fall off this horse."
She could only nod as she gripped the horn on the saddle. Link steered Epona back towards the tree line. He didn't slow down in the least.
"Link! You're mad!" Zelda exclaimed. "You can't keep this speed into a forest."
"Oh let me just ask the Gerudo to slow down a little then."
"Don't get sarcastic with me now!" Zelda growled.
"Sarcasm is the reason I live!"
"Well now is not that time!"
"There is always time," Link grinded his teeth as they darted through the tree line. "Especially when I'm scared shitless!"
"You're scared," Zelda gasped. "You aren't supposed to be the scared one."
"You're right, I'm the pretty one," Link smirked before having to duck so a tree didn't take his head off. "…maybe now isn't the time."
"Dear Goddess," Zelda kept her head bent low to Epona terrified off the trees. Link wasn't slowing in the slightest. There was a tiny path, well it technically wasn't a path, but there was a scattered zig-zag line where there weren't trees in the way…that was the path Link was taking or for a better term, creating. Not to mention with the darkened stormy sky and under a thick forest, it was almost pitch black. Even the lightning just created more shadows than light and could only be more distracting.
"How can you see?" Zelda cried out looking over her shoulder at him. She gasped when lightning flashed and his eyes glowed gold.
"I see during the lightning flash and memorize the path until the next flash," Link answered seriously.
Zelda waited for the next lightning flash to do the same. They were going every couple seconds so she didn't have to wait long. However, when the next one happened, she couldn't make anything out. The shadows confused her too much and it was only lit up for a second! There was no way that was enough time. It was utterly ridiculous if Link could see in here. Unfathomable even. And yet…they weren't crashing.
"Also, Epona has a certain sense about these things," Link further explained. "I'm letting her lead more than me."
Zelda didn't even want to think about a horse leading and not the rider.
There was a loud crash behind them and Link didn't have to look to know it was a Gerudo that followed him. He worked his way back over to the edge of the tree line. He could look out and see the other two boars with two Gerudo on each. That meant only one went in after them. They were smarter than he thought. Even they knew he would have to come back out on the path eventually.
"Ow."
"You okay?" Link urgently asked Zelda. Not knowing what happened.
"Yeah…I think I hit an apple." She held it in her hand.
"Oh great." Link grabbed it from her.
"What's that going to do?"
"Nothing I'm hungry," Link took a bite.
"Link!" Zelda exclaimed. "Not the time!"
He chuckled, "'I'm kidding, watch this…oh and hold on."
Did he think she wasn't? She'd been holding on for her life since they left.
Link spotted the perfect gap in the tree line to be able to go back on the plains. He gave a small tug on the reigns to let Epona know. She instantly understood and swerved left. They shot out of the trees, stilling going full speed, and now on a direct beeline to run into the Gerudo. The archer on the back of the closest boar to them took aim with his bow. Link cocked his arm back and chucked the apple. It hit its mark, not doing any damage, but simply making the Gerudo not fire his bow. When the Gerudo readjusted his grip and took aim again, Link was already too close.
Epona was about to collide with them before turning left just a bit more to end up running behind the boars. Link drew his sword after throwing the apple and put it in his right hand. He slashed, connecting with the archer Gerudo that was riding on the back of the first boar. He didn't know if the slash killed him, nor did he care. He just wanted him off the boar. He swung his sword again as he neared the next boar. The archer couldn't shoot earlier in fear of hitting his kinsmen. Now that Link passed them, he was able to take aim and shoot, except he wasn't able to get the shot off. Link was in reach and swung again, knocking this Gerudo off as well.
With both archers off the boars, the danger greatly decreased. Link quickly sped back in front knowing it was dangerous to be alongside the boars. He would take out the drivers as well, but that would involve getting near the boar's head. If that happened, they would be able to try and ram a tusk into Epona. Link wasn't going to risk that. He would be fine with just two Gerudo chasing him, they wouldn't be able to do much.
This is how things remained for hours, hours that seemed like days, months, even years to Zelda. No one spoke, there wasn't a need. They hoped things would stay just like this, but deep inside he knew that would be lucky. He also knew it was only a couple more hours to Ordon. A two day trip being condensed down to half a day. To be fair, it was only two days when stopping and walking slowly. One day, if the person didn't stop at night and they kept a steady pace, but a full speed gallop would only take a about a half a day.
"Do you hear that?" Zelda asked.
"Hear what?"
"A horn."
Link listened and he did indeed hear a horn over the rumbling of the hooves and the thunder above.
"Ordon has come!" Zelda cheered.
"That's no Ordon horn," Link grinded his teeth.
They both looked back and could see in a flash of lightning more boars, at least four more.
"Oh no," Zelda looked up to Link who also faced front again. She was hoping to see him not too worried, but that wasn't the case. Worry was all over his face and it terrified her.
"Epona!" Link shouted. "Let's go!"
Epona could hear the urgency in her master's voice. She could sense that even more trouble was brewing. She pushed her legs harder and faster.
"Link stop!" Zelda screamed. "You'll kill her."
Link growled at the comment. "One thing to know Princess, I hold my horse's life above everyone. If anyone is getting out of this, it's Epona."
Zelda didn't know exactly how to feel about that. Happy he cared for his horse…not happy he didn't hold her life, a princess, above that of a simple horse.
Link glanced back to see the two boars with only one Gerudo on them not letting up in the slightest. He could see the new four boars gaining slowly. In a matter of minutes they'd be on them. The only reason the two boars that were right behind them didn't completely catch up, was because they didn't have archers anymore, there wasn't much they could do. They knew if they got too close, they may be able to ram Epona, but they also would be in reach of Link's sword. They'd play it safe for now, they had the advantage. Because once the other four caught up, a total of twelve Gerudo on each, things would get radically more difficult for the Hylians.
Zelda and Link didn't speak as they just kept riding hoping to gain some distance…but it didn't happen. After a few minutes the other boars did indeed catch up and Link growled.
"Can't we ride into the forest again?" Zelda inquired worriedly.
"It's thicker here," Link glanced over his shoulder quickly before turning back around. "That trick was only possible near the thinning forests close to the Castle."
"What are we doing to do?"
"We're going to- agh!"
"Link!" Zelda screamed looking back to see him holding his left arm.
"It's okay, just a scratch," He answered. "We need to get some distance."
They looked back and there were now a total of six boars, and ten riders. Luckily, there was only one archer in the new arrivals. The rest of the tandem riders had spears. It wasn't too appealing, but at least they would have to completely catch up to do some real damage. That one arrow must've just been a lucky shot.
"Come on Epona!" Link shouted gripping the reigns tightly.
She tried but she was already running full speed.
"Link she can't," Zelda yelled, pleading. "She can't outrun them, we need to think of something else."
"Yes she can!" Link growled. "Come on Epona. Come on, come on, come on, come on, come on!"He rapidly screamed in desperation as another arrow flew passed his head. The rain beat against his face and caused his hair to whip wildly around. Water poured into his mouth and spat back out as he shouted. His eyes glowed gold in the lightning and stared off in the distance determined to make their destination. His body was freezing from the dropping temperature. His hands pruned and weak refused to lessen his grip on the tough leather reins.
"Vado, vado, vado, vado, vado!" Link cried out in the ancient language.
Epona heard her master's wishes and would rather die than refuse them. She pushed her legs, she pumped her heart, she neighed in effort, and she picked up the pace to begin putting distance between her and the boars. Her legs stretched far in each gallop, and her eyes refused to close even with heavy rain that pounded against them. She knew the importance of getting her two riders to safety. She didn't care how tired she'd feel, she didn't care how much pain her body was feeling, she didn't care that her muscles were beginning to set on fire from the strain they were enduring. She didn't care, as long as her riders were safe, she didn't care.
"Unbelievable," Zelda spoke in awe. This horse had been running for hours, with two people on its back, going full speed, and it was able to increase the speed even more. This was the most impressive horse Zelda had ever seen.
"She can't keep this up though," Link told Zelda. "We are still hours away from Ordon. Maybe in the storm they'll lose their sight of us and he could hide. I originally hoped someone would be out on the plains but with this storm everyone would be inside. If he can just go a little longer we will be in the forest I've explored and we might be able to go on foot and lose them."
"I trust you," Zelda said seriously.
Link didn't say anything back. They traveled like this for no longer than twenty minutes. They were able to gain some distance, but they both knew it would slowly diminish. The riders on the boars didn't push their boars to their full sprint. Link knew if they did they'd easily catch up, but he also knew it tired the boar out and they might come to a complete stop. It was also hard to control, especially with two people. They didn't want to risk it, they were simply faster anyways, it would just take a little longer.
It took just under an hour for the boars to catch back up to the original positions. They were in firing range again and the one archer began shooting arrows, but none came close. The wind was picking up even more, making it harder to aim. It was a simple fluke an arrow was actually able to hit Link. Not only was the wind helping Link and Zelda in that way, but it was aiming directly at them. Which was slowing them down, but it was slowing the boars down more. They were larger and less aerodynamic, along with two men on top. Zelda could fit snuggly into Link's form to make it seem as one person. The archer had to lean out to the side and that took more wind as well. It was the only reason they weren't completely taken over yet. The only thing that seemed to stop was the thunder. It would still roar now and then, but it wasn't as often as before, which again, was disadvantageous to the archers since it was darker.
It seemed all the elements were on Link's side.
Link could hear them yelling behind them. They must've been doing it the whole time but he could finally hear it with the thunder taking a break. He couldn't make out what they were saying…not like it would matter. They were probably just talking about which ways to take him down. Something Link was trying to figure out as well so he would be able to avoid it.
"How much closer!" Zelda shouted breaking Link of his thoughts.
Link looked around…he recognized this. He knew where he was. "An hour, maybe two, not much longer." Link cheered happily.
"Really!" Zelda was equally as happy.
"We aren't out of the woods yet, we can't relax." Link advised.
"Right." Zelda faced forward determined.
Link glanced over his shoulder and fear struck him…the Gerudo picked up the pace. They were going to catch them in another minute.
Link let out a long high pitched whistle. Zelda peered back at him, but he didn't stop the whistle. He held it out as long as he could, and as high as he could. He took a breath and did it again. He did this over and over until he finally had to stop, and focus on the pursuers. When he looked back he saw they were just about on them.
"Zelda, we aren't making it."
"What!" Zelda exclaimed. "No Link, we're almost there."
"No," Link told her sternly. "I said we…you are."
"What?" Zelda said breathlessly. "You can't…no."
"If you fall off, get to your feet as quick as possible and get back on Epona, okay."
"No you - Link…I-I…you – no, you can't." Zelda pleaded finding it hard to get the right words.
"Just get back on Epona, and don't let go!" Link ordered.
He had to attack first, it was always the key. He tapped both of Epona's sides simultaneously with his hands. Epona understood the meaning. Ignoring Zelda's stream of protests he sharply pulled on Epona's reigns and she slid to a stop. Link turned to jump off but he didn't get the chance since one of the boars collided with Epona. She was easily knocked over from the rough hit from the boar. Zelda and Link toppled over as well. Five of the boars sped past not responding quickly to the sudden stop. However, one boar stopped immediately, quicker than Link hoped.
Epona neighed and quickly got back to her feet, as much as her body told to her to just lay there and rest. Link also jumped to his feet. He looked for Zelda who didn't just fall off but managed to get thrown off. She laid a couple yards away. Link dashed over to her and yanked her to her feet. He began leading her back to Epona when the boar suddenly appeared and blocked their path back to Epona. It happened to be the one with the archer, what terrible luck. He drew an arrow on his bow and Link wanted to dodge but he had to protect Zelda above all else. He quickly grabbed the Princess to his chest and turned around to show his back to the archer. He waited to take the arrow but instead he heard a scream.
Link spun around to see the archer on the ground with his neck ripped and bleeding.
Link smiled, "Thatta boy Achilles."
The wolf stood over the archer's now dead body. It was growling and revealing its blood stained teeth. It quickly turned back onto the driver of the boar. It took a couple steps before jumping up and knocking that man over as well. Screams were heard as Achilles chomped down on him.
Link turned to see Zelda watching the wolf in horror.
"Don't look, don't look," Link told her yanking her to her feet and covering her eyes. He dragged her over to Epona. He literally threw her on top of the horse, she was barely able to steady herself.
"Link no!" Zelda shouted about to jump off
"Ride Epona!" Link shouted slapping her back. "Now, vado!"
Epona almost didn't move. She wanted to stay in place but she'd trust her master. Over the years she knew what he was doing. Epona eyed Link strongly sending a clear message.
Don't you dare die.
Then she took off running directly through the five boars that were coming back to get Link. When Zelda passed them, the two with no second rider took off after her. They were the faster ones with the one less rider. The other three remained to fight Link.
The Ordonian watched Epona run into the distance, he knew Epona would take care of Zelda. As long as the Princess held on, Epona would take care of the rest. She was a smart horse.
Link saw as all six of the riders dismounted from their boars. The drivers pulled out small curved blades, while the other three were the spearmen. They began circling Link slowly.
Achilles stood in front Link sideways, so he was somewhat blocking Link, protecting him. He growled viciously bearing his fearsome teeth.
Link drew his sword. "Thanks for coming when called buddy." In the short week Link had Achilles, he was able to connect with him very easily. They went hunting often together, mainly because Achilles was restless in the house, even with wounds, and wanted to be in the forest. The area they were currently in was a favorite place to hunt Elk and other types of game. It was a long stretch in hoping Achilles would be here, especially in the rain, but it paid off. Maybe Achilles was hunting and when it began raining he hid under a tree to wait it out. Whatever the reason, Link was thankful because now he was at least not completely alone.
Achilles didn't acknowledge Link's comment. He was too focused on which neck he would bite next. Someone had to stay serious in situations, and the wolf knew it wouldn't be Link.
Link smirked, "Here, here," He taunted the Gerudo. "Wish to fight the champion of the tournament? I warn you, I don't play nice."
"You'll die tonight Ordon," one sneered.
Link chuckled, "What an insult, to think my glorious existences of a life would be ended by such unimportant people."
"Oh, we'll show you how unimportant we are," a Gerudo licked his dagger.
"I don't even know how you meant to make that sound threatening," Link's skill with words was as evident as ever.
One of the Gerudo only smiled. "You realize you are completely outnumbered, and we aren't fools, we know you're more skilled. But we know you're beyond exhausted, and your skill comes from your speed. We have spears, we can keep our distance, wait you out if we have too. You don't have much on your side right now, you made the mistake of getting off your horse."
Link's eyes glared wickedly and he crouched ready to strike. "You have made the mistake of surrounding wolves, let's see whose mistake was worse."
"Come on, Epona," Zelda begged gripping on for dear life. She was bobbling up and down ungracefully against Epona's rhythm. Without Link behind her to mold into his form, she couldn't control herself. Her hair was whipping rapidly even though it was completely soaked. Her eyes squinted to see through the rain to try and get her bearings in the lightning flashes. Everything Link said, she was trying to do, but it wasn't working.
Zelda felt Epona slow a bit. "No, no, no," Zelda urged, "Do not slow because of me."
Zelda was surprised when Epona picked the pace back up again. Zelda truly had to admit to the intelligence of this horse. Zelda pressed hard against the foot holders and gripped the reigns tightly. She stood slightly, getting herself off of Epona's back, like she's seen other riders do. She leaned forward and could feel the rhythm. She began moving with it, hunched over close to Epona's head and she found it was much easier and far more comfortable. Epona must've noticed as well because she let out a happy neigh.
Zelda glanced over her shoulder and all her happiness was instantly taken away. The Gerudo were almost right on her. Not even ten yards behind and they were gaining. As good as Epona was, an unskilled rider still affected the speed of the horse. Zelda continued to look over her shoulder as the Gerudo was almost on her, no longer yards behind but feet. One boar was ahead of the rest just to her left a bit. She pulled to the right slightly but the boar just followed. Zelda didn't even have to look over her shoulder anymore. The Gerudo was right next to her. She watched in frozen terror as he reached his hand over to grab her.
Then, in a flash, an arrow dug itself into the Gerudo's chest. He fell off the boar dead.
A horn sounded, one that was different from the Gerudo. She looked forward and could see a group of riders coming at her.
They were from Ordon!
Epona knew it as well and found the extra strength to push a little harder to get away from the last boar chasing her. Zelda held on tightly, too afraid to feel relief yet. She saw the riders getting closer. There were four riders on horses and then one in a chariot being pulled by two horses. They were less than a hundred yards away now.
The Gerudo knew he was in trouble and stopped the boar to turn around. A standing target was not a smart move and an arrow lodged right into his heart. He slumped over on the boar for a moment before gravity caused him to fall off.
Epona came to a stop and Zelda was instantly surrounded by the group.
She recognized Rusl immediately and he recognized her. His eyes widened and his face was filled with shock. "Zelda?"
"Where's Link!" Blaine shouted causing Zelda to flinch and hesitate. "Where is he!"
"B-back a bit," Zelda quickly answered.
Blaine and Troy needed to hear no more to instantly take off down the plains northbound to find their friend.
"I'm sorry, this may not be the time," a big man with a double axe resting on his back said. "But why is the Princess here?"
"I don't know, Vex," Rusl answered seriously.
"Quick my child," Bo, the biggest man Zelda has ever seen. "Get on my car."
Zelda hopped off Epona, rather, fell off Epona. As soon as she was off, Epona instantly turned around, and raced after Troy and Blaine. Zelda hesitantly stepped onto the chariot with Bo. He took up almost all of it but there was some room in the front if he leaned back.
The three older men, and Zelda, quickly headed off after Blaine and Troy as well. Hoping to reach Link in time.
"Quit moving around!"
"Now that would defeat the purpose of dodging wouldn't it," Link taunted spinning around another spear jab.
Link stood with his sword in both his hands held diagonally in front of him. The rain still poured and his dirty blonde hair fell in front of his face. His steel blue eyes peered out watching every muscle movement of the Gerudo. His bare chest was breathing heavily, whether from the blood loss or just the enormous strain from everything that happened today. The bandages were soaked, and at some point, had fallen off. The blood was washed off in the rain but the cuts were still visible, and some blood would seep through but would be quickly rinsed away. Achilles was in front of Link, his fur wet and heavy. Every time the Lightning flashed, Link and Achilles' eyes would flash gold. It was taunting to the Gerudo, but they couldn't worry about that now.
Achilles was trying hard to get close but the spears were keeping him at bay as well. The formation the Gerudo took, were the three spears in front, with the three dagger wielders behind. Link had to keep his distance from the spears, but if he ever got inside their guard, the other Gerudo, with their daggers, would step up and protect the spear wielders. Maybe if Link had a shield he would be able to get something done, but as of right now…he couldn't do much. Worse yet, they managed to get between him and the forest, so he couldn't escape there. If he made a run for the plains they would mount the boars and hunt him down. He couldn't steal a boar, he tried, but it wouldn't budge. Apparently they are trained well, and he had to quickly get off before a spear took him.
Now he was just trying to think to get himself out of the situation. Achilles still growled at the Gerudo pacing back and forth. He tried to flank them multiple times but it became too dangerous, and he had to back away. They were in some real trouble. They could only hope one of the Gerudo made a mistake and then take advantage of that.
Link took a slow step forward. Achilles did the same lowering his head ready to lunge. The Gerudo tensed ready for the move.
"Gah!" A Gerudo shouted grabbing his shoulder.
"An arrow!" Another one shouted seeing it.
Everyone looked southward to see Troy and Blaine charging. Troy slowed his speed to aim his long bow better, while Blain showed no signs of stopping. Link felt relief wash through him while the Gerudo felt panic. Troy continued to fire arrows and was able to land two into one Gerudo who fell to the ground dead. He was a spear wielder. That left three short blade wielders and two spearmen.
"Quick, kill the Ordonian!" One shouted referring to Link. "We'll spear the horse."
The three blade wielders advanced on Link, and that was fine with him. He would take them without the spears. He just hoped Blaine would know what to do against the spears. There wasn't time to worry however, since the other three began their attack and he was occupied with not dying.
The two spearmen lined up next to each other only for one more to fall down when Troy's arrow hit him in the chest. That left only one more and Blaine charged full speed. The spearman was not prepared like he thought he would be. He tried to do what he was trained to do, and stand firm with his spear ready to stab the horse. However, Blaine simply sped pass him to the right. The spearman made an ugly jab at Blaine, but didn't reach him. He turned back to see that Troy was already aiming at him, now even closer than his earlier shots. The Gerudo realized Blaine was just a distraction…Troy was always going to be the one to kill him.
Troy smirked before releasing the arrow and it buried deep into the man's chest.
Link swung strongly at the Gerudo who parried it. The heavier sword pushed the smaller one to the aside exposing him. Achilles saw the opening and with a little run up, jumped to reach the man's face. He reached his target and his heavy weight knocked the man to the ground. The wolf instantly began twisting and turning his head to rip into the Gerudo more. Link left the wolf to his own work and turned to the other two Gerudo. They stepped closer to Link, who he smiled and the Gerudo hesitated. Suddenly they felt themselves being knocked to the ground as Blaine dove off his horse on top of them. Blaine took less than a second to withdraw his katanas and stab each man in the back. He took them out of the two Gerudo and rose to his feet.
Troy was quickly off his horse as well, standing next to Blaine. Epona rode up back to Link and he stroked her head softly.
"You did good girl," Link told her earnestly.
Blaine and Troy looked at the beaten, wore down, and cut up Link.
Blaine smiled, "How was your trip?"
Link smiled back and shrugged, "Oh you know, some souvenir shopping."
"Meet any girls?" Troy asked also smiling.
"How do you think I got these scratches?" Link joked.
Blaine and Troy stepped forward and wrapped their Ordon brother into a hug. They were extremely worried and apparently they had a good reason to be.
They heard a bark and turned to see Achilles sitting next to his gruesome kill and wagging his tail.
"He's a creepy one," Troy commented.
"That's my boy," Link laughed.
They saw Bo and the rest ride up. Before anyone could say anything Zelda was off the chariot and running towards Link. She dove on him completely wrapping her arms around his neck. She knocked him over onto the ground and hid her face into his chest.
Link smirked at Troy. "Told ya."
Zelda sat up and smacked Link across the chest. "How dare you pull such a crazy stunt."
Link rolled his eyes. "Oh because I've never done something crazy before."
Rusl stood over the two teens. He reached his hand and Zelda took it to stand up. She found it rather hard to stay on her feet. All the exhaustion was hitting her now. Link was barely able to get up on his own, but he did manage.
"Link," Bo sternly called. "What has happened?"
Link took a breath, all the heavy events crashing back down on him. "…Hyrule has fallen."
"Okay…so if I heard you correctly…The King and Queen are dead, the Princess is missing, and Ganondorf has take the Castle."
"Yes," Link nodded.
Bo, Rusl Vex, Link, and Zelda sat in the small medical house in the village. It was run by Vex's wife, Rosalind. She was extremely beautiful. She was taller than the average girl, about an inch taller than Link. She was extremely slender which only seemed to outline her curves at the hips more. She had gorgeous long blonde hair that touched her mid back, with well placed bangs bouncing on her face. Her fingers were delicate, smooth, and gentle as they needed to be since she was the doctor. Her face held symmetrical curves with a small nose pointing out. Her lips were plump, with a classic rose red coloring she added. Her deep jade eyes sparkled with a certain beauty it was breath taking. Her smile could light up an entire room. She had the sweetest personality, where she cared for everyone she met. The kind where inside of killing a bug she found in the house, she would set it outside instead. Her walk was as graceful as any princess, and many times she added her own little happy skip.
She had one fault and only one fault.
Link felt his arm being tapped and he looked over to see her smiling at him. He lifted it for her so she could examine his wound on his left side.
She was mute.
Link sat on a cot that was set up in the main common area. That way the rest could fit as well, especially Bo. Bo, Rusl, and Vex sat in chairs across from Link, next to the exit door. Rusl was leaning forward with his hands folded and his arms resting on his knees. Vex sat up straight with his enormous arms crossed. Bo was currently making direct eye contact with Link. Zelda sat in a chair next to Link's cot. She was hunched over, something she rarely did. Her arms were resting on her knees and her head was down. She hadn't looked up since she sat in the chair. She just continued to stare at the floor, not having the slightest clue what to think or do.
"Link…do not think I am naïve enough to not know what the Princess looks like." Bo commented. "Or that Rusl wouldn't have told me anyways."
"Oh." Link glanced at Zelda before looking back to the three. "So…I'm assuming Vex knew as well, otherwise he'd be a little more shocked."
"Not as dumb as I look." Vex said. "Now, the question to be asked, and I'll be asking it…why is the Princess here?"
"She was in danger," Link answered. "I saved her."
Rusl eyed him. "You charged into the castle that was currently being invaded, found the Princess, and then escaped?"
"Ehh," Link rubbed his neck. "There's a little more too it."
"When isn't there," Rusl snorted.
Link eyed Rusl. "Don't think this is my fault or something. Oh and by the way," Link eyed all three of them. "Did anyone else know that the King, was a good friend of my father?"
All three heads shot up, even Zelda's for the first time.
"Yeah, that was something interesting to learn," Link's words dripped with venom. "High Nine, sound familier."
All three looked away.
"Oh, so you all knew?" Link spat. "Did anyone wish to share this information with me at some point?"
"We didn't know until recently," Rusl answered. "And I wouldn't say good friends."
"No," Bo said, "I won't lie to you, Link. I've known for some time now. Only me though. The topic didn't come up until after you returned from the goat delivery. The King recognized Rusl and told him the story. Rusl told Vex, and then they both came to me, but I already knew. I am the mayor after all."
"Okay then-"
Bo raised his hand cutting Link off. "This is not the time for your personal quarrels."
Link grinded his teeth because it was true. He'd deal with this subject later.
Something was thrust in front of Link's face. It was a flask and Rosalind was holding it. Link looked over to see her other hand holding a thread and needle. She smiled sympathetically. Link grumbled and grabbed the flask. He opened it and drank a good half of the contents. It was strong and made him cough a little after. He felt it being removed from his hand and before he could react it was dumped on his left side. It stung like hell and he squeezed his fists to control the pain. He saw amusement in Rosalind's eyes and he sent a glare, but she didn't seem to notice. She went over to a table with a candle. She heated the needle to rid of any infectious possibilities.
"Can you tell us what really happened?" Bo asked.
Link told them about everything. From being rejected at the inns, to meeting up with Kristi, to all the tournament ongoings, then about the fight with the King, then the conversation with the King, then the escape, which brought him back to the current situation. Which was the strange position with his left arm over his head, so Rosalind could easily stich the wound. It wasn't easy to tell the story when being repeatedly poked by a needle. She began the same process on Link's other side, which caused Zelda to scoot over and give the Doctor room.
"You beat Dangoro?" Bo asked, jaw still down.
"Hmm?" Link was watching Rosalind, "Oh yeah, I did." He paused, "Oh, and he sends his greetings to you."
"And he beat Lex," Vex mused nodding happily.
"You actually were going to win the tournament?" Rusl was shocked.
Link grinned. "I told you I would've."
Rusl shook his head unbelieving. "I just…don't believe it."
"He's a lot better than you give him credit for," Bo said. "Down here, he is strong, so it only makes sense when he goes to any other place, he is even more impressive."
"It's not that I doubt his skill, it's simply…I don't know."
"A master will never truly trust his pupils skill until he witnesses it against someone else than himself, because then the master knows the pupil has successfully fulfilled the teachings." Link smiled jokingly.
"Don't make things up," Rusl sighed while Vex chuckled.
"Oh," Link said quickly changing the topic. "I also made friends with the Zora Prince Ralis and Pisces, one of the High Nine, while I was there. Have a respectable relationship with Dangoro and have officially pissed off the Gerudo." Link smirked. "I think I should be an ambassador."
Bo ran a hand down his face, "Not if we don't want the world to end."
"That's pretty impressive for 'em to do though, gotta admit. Making so many alliances." Vex said. "I'm proud of you Link." Vex gave Link a thumbs up.
Link flashed grin at Vex and returned the gesture. Vex was always a physically portraying type of guy.
"Let's get back to the immediate issue," Bo advised. "Hyrule is now under control of Gerudo, led by Ganondorf. This raises a serious issue. Are the Zoras and Gorons going to keep an alliance with Hyrule…has it been broken? What about all the other villages scattered about that relied on the Kingdom. And the most important question." Bo paused looking at everyone. "Should we even get involved?"
"What! Ow ow!" Link exclaimed making everyone jump. Including Zelda and Rosalind who was in the middle of sewing him. She smacked him on the head before going back to her work.
"Relax Link," Rusl sighed again and turned to Bo. "He killed many Gerudo, and stole the Princess from them. They will want her, we are already involved."
"Alea Iacta Est." Zelda mumbled daze like, the first words she's spoken since the plains.
"Uh what?" Vex scratched his head.
"The die is cast," Link translated. "Ganondorf set the mat down. I hastily, and admittedly, unwisely acted, by representing Ordon, throwing the dice as soon as they appeared in my hand. They have landed on the mat and once lain cannot be taken back. What they show, they show. No amount of lavish words or ornate gifts can replace that. My actions…happened…we can't take them back."
The three digested that for a moment. Zelda let a small sigh out drawing attention back to herself.
Bo looked at Zelda, who was still in a pitiful mess. "My dear, do not think much on my words, I am simply thinking out loud." He said calmly and she looked up at him with worried eyes. "You are safe here, do not worry."
Zelda gave him a weak smile.
Bo turned back to Link. "I believe you were right in keeping it a secret that she is a princess. She will take a new name and live among us until we come to some decision."
The door suddenly flew open and Malon was standing there. It took her another minute to charge Link and tackle-hug him, knocking him over. He gripped the table to stop them from both falling to the floor. Rosalind scowled as her work was interrupted once again.
"I'm so happy you're okay!" She cried into his chest. "I was so worried the entire time. Blaine kept telling me you were okay but I didn't believe him. Then when we suddenly received all the messenger pidgins from the Castle at once we knew something happened." She squeezed him tighter. "I'm so happy you're alive."
"Not at this rate," Link choked out.
Malon realized he was, in fact, in the infirmary. She jumped off him. "I'm sorry." Her hands covered her mouth.
"It's fine," Link said slowly sitting back up. Rosalind gently helped him by pressing lightly against his back. "So that's how you knew to ride out."
Bo nodded, "I assume in the worst case scenario the guards in the castle were told to release all messenger pidgins. When we received over twenty, all at once, we knew something was wrong. I'm sure they did it for every other territory as well. The entire country knows something happened."
"Hmm," Link agreed, "I do hope the Zoras were able to escape."
Rusl chuckled, "If Pisces was there I'm sure there fine, in fact maybe he just settled this whole issue itself already."
"It's interesting to know Ganondorf was planning this for so long," Bo commented. "Even that boar hunter that came to the village warned Link not to go."
Link's eyes lit up remembering that moment. He completely forgot about that.
"Malon, you aren't supposed to be in here," Blaine called stepping into the room. Troy and Ilia followed after him.
"Then why are you all entering," Rusl grumbled.
Ilia walked straight up to Link and stood in front of him.
Link sighed, "Please don't hit me."
She ignored that and slapped him straight across the face. Then she hugged him before stepping back. Link's grumbled because all his friends were too dramatic.
"Rosalind just put me out of my misery already," Link joked.
Rosalind smiled picking up a large knife and walked over.
"I'm kidding!" Link exclaimed.
Rosalind shrugged and tossed it back on the table.
Link looked over at Vex to see him smiling proudly at his wife and giving her a thumbs up now.
"Oh sorry," Blaine randomly said drawing everyone's attention. He was looking at Zelda. "Kinda just shunned you aside there. We all joke about Link because he's more or less indestructible, but I'm sure what you went through was very trying. Please, is there anything we can get you?"
Zelda smiled sympathetically but shook her head.
"Oh yeah," Link started to introduce Zelda, "this is-"
"Zelda right?" Blaine finished. "I heard Rusl say that when she was on Epona."
Link wasn't going to actually say Zelda, he was going to make up a name. Link sent a glare at Rusl who was currently rubbing the bridge of his nose aggravated.
"Hey, that's the name of the Princess isn't it?" Malon said. "Link mentioned that after the goat delivery. Kinda weird?"
Link panicked he had to come up with a reason quick.
"Yes, my name's Zelda della Casa," Zelda smiled meekly, "I was born two weeks after the Princess and my father, in her honor, named me after her. It's given me quite the hassle at times but I've met a couple others Zelda's in the City as well. I became good friends with one actually, I do hope she's alright."
"Oh dear, I'm sure she's fine," Malon gave Zelda a reassuring hug, not finding personal boundaries ever an issue.
Meanwhile, all people who knew that the story was a complete lie were extremely impressed. Even through all the turmoil she had just experienced, and the obvious deep sadness she was feeling. She was easily able to come up with such a perfect lie and pull it off remarkably.
"Oh my look at yourself though," Malon stated. "You're clothes are all cut up and bloodied." She turned to Link. "What did you drag her through?"
"Me?" Link exclaimed. "How come I'm getting blamed for everything?"
"Doesn't matter," Malon grabbed Zelda's hand. "Come to my house, I'll get you something to wear."
Zelda's eyes widened and her body flinched in panic. Her head whipped to Link and he instantly knew how sacred she was.
"No, Malon," Link told her with strong sternness. Everyone felt the mood suddenly become serious again. "Go to your house, grab some clothes, she's about your size. Zelda will be staying with me and you are to keep people from bothering either of us. I know how curious the villagers can be. We need rest, and once we're rested, then I'll answer questions."
"No you won't," Bo said. "Let the three of us-" he was referring to himself, Rusl and Vex, "-discuss this situation tonight. We'll talk to you about what should be done after, but for now. You're right, you need rest and to put your worries aside for a time. Please, if Rosalind is done treating you, then go home and rest."
Rosalind circled Link checking her work before nodding.
"Excellent," Link cheered and hopped of the table. When his feet landed on the floor, he wobbled. He grabbed the table to steady himself and everyone eyed him worriedly. "Relax, just tired."
Rosalind eyed him suspiciously but she brushed it aside. She walked over to a nearby closet and withdrew a simple white nightgown. She handed it to Link who nodded his thanks.
Link stood up and held out his hand for Zelda. She took it and stood up. They headed towards the door.
"Hey man, you sure you're okay?" Blaine asked.
Link smirked, "Relax, good night of sleep, and we'll be perfect."
"If you say so," Blaine didn't sound like he believed that.
Link opened the door and wrapped an arm around Zelda's shoulders. He glanced over his shoulder. "By the way, nice shot Troy, getting better every day."
Troy smirked proudly, "Damn straight."
Link led Zelda out of the room and shut the door, making their march back to the house through the rain.
"So what really happened?" Blaine asked.
Bo pinched the bridge of his nose and slumped in his chair. "Hell."
Link and Zelda made a very slow and tired walk back to the house. People knew there was a problem and looked from the windows at their young warrior making a pitiful looking walk down the path. They didn't know what happened, and they would've been out asking Link questions, but because of the rain they stayed in their homes. Something Link was extremely happy for. The villagers knew they would find out soon, tomorrow maybe. There was no need to rush in their discoveries.
When Link and Zelda reached Link's tree house they stopped at Epona's stable first. She was lying on the ground exhausted. They both petted her gently as she slept it off. Achilles was sitting in front of a platform that Link installed. It had a rope leading up to the branches and looped back down. It was a simple pulley system so Link didn't have to carry Achilles up the ladder every time.
Link let Zelda climb up the ladder first and he followed after. He opened the door and told her to wait inside for a bit. He went over to the railing and pulled the platform up that Achilles was on. Achilles quickly ran inside and Link mused over some thoughts of Zelda being alone with a wolf. He descended the ladder quickly. Underneath the tree there was a stack of wood he cut weeks before. He was happy he finally cut an excess amount in case of a sudden rain storm. He grabbed as many as he could and set it on the platform. He climbed back up the ladder, pulled the platform up, unloaded it, and then finally went into his house.
Zelda changed into the white night gown. She was just standing in the middle of the room but her head was tipped upwards looking at the spiral sets of platforms that ascended throughout the large tree. Her bloodied and ripped gown was draped over a chair. Link noticed her dirtied feet and had to wonder how many times in her life her feet were ever dirty.
"Hey," Link called drawing her attention.
Her head turned slowly too him, like she was still lost in another world. Which to her, Ordon was another world, this whole night was another world to what she was use to. To Link, it was just another day of hell.
"I got wood, we'll make a fire and warm up a bit, okay?" His tone was soft and sweet.
She nodded.
Link walked over to the fireplace and set the wood down. He began preparing the fire. Achilles was lying just to the left of the fireplace. It was where he could look up and see the moon out of the window sometimes, but with all the rain that was unlikely tonight.
Link knew he had to say something to Zelda, he couldn't just let her stand there.
"There's a towel by the sink over there." Link nodded behind the table. "You can dry your hair, I know you did at the infirmary, but uhh I don't know, maybe from the walk over or something…ya know?"
Zelda smiled, "It's okay Link."
"Uhh alright." He mentally kicked himself for such a bad conversational topic. "You hungry?"
She shook her head.
"Uhh…"
She strolled over and sat on the floor next to him. "It's okay Link," She knew he was trying, and normally she'd help, but right now she wasn't in the mood. "Just, sit here…with me."
"Sure," Link told her genuinely. "Let me just get this fire going. It'll brighten and warm this place up."
After a couple moments he got it started and in a few more minutes it was a steady blaze. It instantly warmed the two teens, who were out in the rain for what they thought was an eternity.
"Just let me change from these wet pants okay?" Link told her and she nodded.
He quickly scampered up the ladders to his 'bedroom' which was simple a loft with his bed and a dresser. He discarded his wet pants and underwear, and quickly put on some new ones. He threw on a sleeveless loose cotton shirt, more just for the manners that a princess was in his house. Link grabbed a blanket and then descended the ladders. He sat back on the floor next to Zelda.
He draped the blanket around both of their shoulders as they watched the fire. He wasn't sure if he should keep his distance from her or not. He wasn't sure what her thoughts were on that, since she was a princess and all. However, when he felt her lean into him, his questioned was answered. He wrapped an arm around her so she could lean her head on him. There were only sounds of the crackling fire and the rain tapping against the tree. It was soothing in many regards but even as great as it was. What truly happened today was by no means forgotten.
"I miss them Link," Zelda voiced so quietly Link wasn't even sure he heard it at first. Zelda dug her head into Link more and placed one of her hands on is chest. "I miss them so much."
Link rested his chin on top of her head. "I know, I know. Everything will be okay."
"The Kingdom has fallen, my parents are dead, people have been murdered, Ganondorf wants my head, and I'm two feet away from a ravenous wolf that is sleeping like an adorable puppy. I'm afraid everything is not okay."
Link even had to chuckle at the last one. He rubbed her arm slowly. "Zelda, trust me, okay. Everything will work out, I know you don't believe it, and I know you think there is no hope, and are completely overwhelmed right now. But I know how you feel. When I lost my parents, I didn't know what else I was supposed to do in my life. I thought I was just going to sit and cry forever. But look at me now, I have the Princess of the country in my house."
"So?"
"So…you don't know where life is going to take you."
"…I'm scared."
Link pulled away to look in her eyes. She didn't look back, but kept them downcast. Link brought her into a deeper hug and she didn't mind. She swung her legs around and Link used his left hand to help her. She pushed herself onto his lap and wrapped both her arms around his neck. She twisted her body to press her head into his chest, beneath his chin, while her legs stuck out but her knees bent. Link wrapped both arms around her, along with the blanket to keep them warm.
"Scared of what?" Link quietly asked.
"The future, the loneliness, the emptiness, Ganondorf." Zelda was beginning to sob again.
"Ganondorf?"
She tightened her grip on Link. "I've never had someone hate me before. Never had the thought of even dying in my mind, and now…he wants me dead. He's going to hunt me down like a beast and killed." Her voice was starting to crack and Link knew she was slowly getting worse.
"Zelda, please, I know you have no reason to, and I know it's a little strange. But I'm asking you to trust me. I promise you, I absolutely promise you…Ganondorf will never get you, ever. I will protect you, for as long as I have too. I will run where you need to run, I will hide wherever you need to hide, and I will fight anyone you need to fight. I swear on these words and if i break them, may Death drag me down himself."
"Why?" Zelda whispered softly with pure innocent confusion turning her head to look up into his strong gaze.
Link chuckled, "Because you're a princess and that's what heroes do."
"That isn't a real reason." Zelda pouted putting her eyes downcast again.
"Because, I like you Zelda," Link told her earnestly making sure to use her name. "Throughout my entire life I hated the Kingdom and then I met you. In the short time I knew you; you've changed my entire opinion on this Kingdom, that not everyone automatically hates Ordon. You've proven yourself time and time again in my eyes."
"And just because of that, you will risk your life for me."
"Yup."
Zelda pulled her head away to look him in the eyes again. "As simple as that."
"Yup."
"I do not understand, you have no reason too. You could trade me to the Gerudo and Ordon will rise with them. You two could rule the country, easily."
Link gave her a confused stare. "Have I ever said I want to rule this country? I would like to lie in the grass all day with the sun radiating down. I have no ambition to rule the country. I like to believe that even if I am a warrior, I am still a decent person. You expect me to hand you over to the Gerudo for my own ambition, frankly, I'm insulted. When have I used other people for my own gain?"
"But…but…" Zelda couldn't fathom that. She may have been panicking about this entire situation, but she was still thinking well enough. She knew that any other man would think of her simply as a means to an end. Save the Princess, get rewarded, save the Kingdom, get rewarded, fight battles to get rewarded. Did people truly do things simply because…they were good?
Zelda buried her head back into Link's chest. "I do not understand you Link…not at all."
"I'm simple Princess."
"How so?"
"Because I saw a beautiful girl and had to save her." Link smirked.
Zelda chuckled quietly, like this wasn't truly a time to laugh. "Ah I've discovered the true intent of my brave hero, he simply cannot resist women."
Link tightened her hold on her. "For now, all you need to worry about, is sleep, everything else, just leave it to me. You are safe, as long as you're with me…you're safe."
Zelda couldn't explain the comfort that gave her. She inhaled, and was engulfed with Link's strong scent. It brought her back to reality. For good and for bad. For good because it meant she was being held in strong, safe arms by a truly caring person. He was able to fight in the tournament and although technically not the victor, he was in her mind. Overcoming enormous odds and gaining a lot of respect, only to lose it with the last action, but that matter aside. Zelda knew, deep down inside, if there was any place for her to be safe…it was Ordon, with Link.
However, the fact that she was in Ordon meant that what just happened wasn't a dream. That the Kingdom had fallen into Gerudo hands. That the country as they knew it was changing. The future was now. Buildings burned, women raped, men slaughtered, kids thrown from buildings…the thoughts tormented her. But as selfish as it was, what was affecting her most were her parents' deaths. The last conversation she had with her father was with shouts and angry words. Her mother was no different. She didn't get a chance to tell them she loved them. She didn't even get to see them again. She knew there would be no funeral, they might be tossed in a ditch for the rats to feast. No person deserved that, especially her parents.
But the fact of the matter was…her parents were gone…never to return…never to be heard, seen, or touched.
Link heard Zelda start to sob again. He knew tonight would be the worst. It always was. It was for him as well. First night without parents in the world was truly a terrible feeling. Worse yet, he knew there was nothing he could do. So he held her, and he whispered words of comfort to her, even if he didn't believe they'd do anything.
Zelda slowly grew worse until her sobs turned back into hard wails. She pushed Link over onto the floor and laid on him, crying fully into his chest. He didn't complain. He kept rubbing her back and let her cry. She was overly exhausted and stressed from the day's events. She'd cry herself to sleep eventually. For now, he just let her sob knowing she just needed to be held. He felt his shirt soak through from her tears and his neck being lifted from her arms wrapping around underneath it. They squeezed him tightly but he wasn't going to complain, he would be there for her…because he had no one there for him like this.
This brought back all too many feelings of when his parents passed. He knew exactly what Zelda was going through and he knew there was more to come.
She only entered into hell, she still had a long fiery journey ahead of her. She had to face fierce demons and battle all types of Death' minions to escape. Hopefully…she would escape. Because many people often don't get out of hell once they enter into it. It took immense strength to overcome those odds. But Link knew she could do it, because she was the strongest girl he'd ever met. And if she couldn't…he already swore to himself, that he would plunge head first into the fires to save her. He didn't care if he defeated Death himself. He wouldn't allow any harm to come to her. He'd fight the world if that's what it took.
So the warrior laid there, with a crying princess on him, mentally preparing himself for what was coming next, because even he knew, whatever it was…it was going to be hell.
Updating about a month after isn't too bad, at least not for me, right? Anyways, thank you so much for the reviewers, i truly appreciate them. Sorry if i didn't reply to your review, my inbox was deleted somehow and that's hwo i keep track of who i wrote back to or not. If i didn't, it's nothing personal, you guys know how much i love hearing from you and always want to reply to your reviews with my thoughts. So sorry if you are one of the unlucky one's who got deleted.
I don't know when my next update will be. I wish i could say Christmas for sure, because that's kind of a tradition that some how got started for me. However, i don't want to promise something i can't. I have others i want to update as well. So, i guess i'm saying, i'll have to see what i can do. Thanks for all the reviews, they were amazing as always. I hope they continue. Also, next chapters are mainly Zelink focus now as action takes the back seat.