Disclaimer: I don't own the Legend of Zelda. Based on the walkthroughs of packattack04082.
There is a scene added at the end of the chapter. If you've already read this, just go straight to the end.
Chapter 4
DISASTER~!
"Well, as you can see, reaching the House of Gales will be rather tricky, as it is only accessible through Lake Hylia.".
Link leaned over the map to observe the map on the table. "Are there any boats I can rent there?", he asked the Elder hopeful.
Sahasrahla shook his head. "I'm afraid not. The Zoras can be quite territorial. In ancient times they would attack merchant boats and ships that crossed their waters, causing such the extensive damage that the art of sailing is all but lost to us today. And not only that, many a people hardly dare to approach our rivers.".
"So I have to swim there? I don't know how.".
"It's not surprising. Many people don't. I strongly suggest you pay a visit to the Zora Queen for her aid.".
Link blinked in surprise. "The Zoras have a Queen?".
"Indeed they do – they are not quite as uncivilized as people tend to believe.".
Link decided to store that bit of information in his mind for later. "Where is she?".
Sahasrahla pointed a waterfall high along the river. "The Zora Domain is hidden from our eyes as a means of protection – however their Queen is said to be welcoming to well-meaning Hylians, even if they are strangers. However, many dangers lay in the path – more so from today on.".
"Don't you say…".
Kakariko Village was in an uproar the whole night.
The devastating earthquake had caused more than just a little damage to the small village; many animals had ran away in fright, and several objects of value along with a few structures had been completely destroyed. Individually, the damage was not that big, but in order to be repaired there would be need for a lot of money, as many people's lives depended on their livestock.
Not an hour after the earthquake, a few soldiers of the Royal Guard started appearing, looking all frantic and terrified. They spoke of a man of evil deeds who showed up out of thin air and assaulted the castle with his magic. When asked what happened to the other soldiers, they said they were gone. And to add two all that turmoil, Link and Sahasrahla appeared later that evening, both exhausted from fighting the strange soldiers that had overtaken the surroundings of the castle.
Actually, the denizens of Kakariko did not know what the two of them were doing all day – only that they had both mysteriously disappeared earlier that afternoon and came back being worse for the wear.
Rumors spread faster than a plague, filling the villagers' hearts with fear – the unknown had always been a source of trouble and pain for the denizens of Hyrule, and the sum of bizarre events that had taken place in less than twenty-four hours was no exception.
That night, instead of returning to his home, Link had stayed with the Elder in spite of his initial protests. The old man had offered him a bed and some food, after checking up his magic-induced injury. The following morning the two had sat in the study – which was even messier than before, if such a thing was even possible – to discuss their future plans.
"How is your arm, my lad?".
Link flexed his right hand experimentally, the golden glow hidden under the bandages and his sleeve. "Better. Still stiff though.". Sahasrahla shot Link a searching look, trying to detect any lie in his eyes; Link was known for his tendency to hide injuries as proven by many past incidents at the forge. He did not push the subject any further.
"If I were you, I would first pay the village's shops a visit to restock. You may find many helpful things there. Do you have any money?". Link nodded. "Good.".
"Anything else about the House of Gales?".
"Excuse me?".
Link lifted his bow. "There was a carving of a bow at the entrance of the Eastern Place on top of some pillars - I needed one to get inside. Anything like it at the House of Gales?".
Sahasrahla seemed to think about it. "I'm afraid my memory is not as good as it used to be. I'm sorry I can't help you there.".
"Don't worry.". Link smiled gratefully. "You already helped a lot.".
"Don't hesitate to ask me again, my lad.".
"I know I'll need all the help I can get.", replied Link in an attempt for humour. "Well, I'm off.".
"May the Goddesses protect you, my boy. I know you will stop this evil and save Hyrule.".
The brilliance of the sun would make one think that nothing had happened the day before.
The first thing Link did was head to the Milk Bar. Truth to be told, the word "Milk" on the establishment's name, as well as the wooden cow head that decorated the entrance had only been added recently, after the Talon, the owner of the ranch, had bought the business. Not that anyone knew where the ranch actually was, but to Link that was for the best. Cows were worth a fortune. The bar's delicacy was the one and only Chateau Romani – a sweet and creamy drink based on milk that contained alcohol in it. Its production was a closely guarded secret by Talon, and that had certainly helped to up his profit.
Inside the bar was more crowded than usual, as along with the regular patrons and the two musicians at the back, sat many soldiers, shouting their complaints over a glass of, as expected, Chateau Romani.
Link had a few words to say to them.
The door behind him closed with a bang, making the soldiers jump on their seats, and Link sent a death glare towards them. With deliberately slow steps, the boy approached the cowering soldiers, knowing that he had made a sight of himself – armed to the teeth and everything – but not caring in the slightest.
"We-! We ran from the castle to fight another day, that's all!", a soldier spluttered. "We were outnumbered!". Obviously the boy had given the whole village quite the scare last night, showing up bloody from the fights with Yuga's soldiers on the way back from the castle. Otherwise the Royal Guards would not be trying to explain themselves to him.
"Curse whoever's behind all the evildoing at Hyrule Castle!", yelled the other soldier next to him, obviously drunk. "How did that happen?".
"How should I know?", protested the other soldier. "I was just scrubbing the wall and next thing I know everyone's running!".
"You're just looking for an excuse for being a coward!".
"You were running as well! Screaming like a little girl: "Oh, no! My dear sweet castle, what have those badies done to you?" Exactly like that!".
"You little-!".
Link left them to their argument. He would not get any information from those two, that much was obvious. He moved on to the other patrons, first asking an old man who sat on the counter. "Um, sir…?".
"Whaddya want? Can't a guy just drink him milk in peace?". If that guy's drinking milk then I'm the King of Evil. "Ah, sorry.", apologized the man, once he realised was talking to a boy and not a thug. "Don't mean to be a grump. I'm just thinking about magnifying glasses – how I'd read maps with'em. But my eyesight's going, and now not even a magnifying glass helps!".
"You're not worried about the castle at all?". Link turned to the one who had spoken up, the owner, Talon. The old man did not reply. Talon sighed heavily. "Everyone in the village is talking about the castle, you know.", he said to Link. "And how the elder left his house for the first time in forever! Who knew Sahasrahla could walk so far!", he said with wonder.
Link chuckled. "You won't believe. He walked all the way from his house to the Eastern Palace, then Hyrule Castle and back here and he was not even winded!".
"Seriously?! The old man is tough… What was he doing at Hyrule Castle?".
"We went to see what happened. You know, after the earthquake.".
Talon shook his head in disbelief. "Strange days, people are saying. And they're probably about to get even stranger!". Talon seemed to realize something, and switched to barman mode. "I have some chilled milk for you, if you want. It's twenty rupees a glass. Fancy a drink?".
Under normal conditions, Link would not even think about it with such a price, but in his raid at the Eastern Palace he had gathered over three hundred rupees. He could afford it – besides, he had skipped breakfast. He should make sure that skipping meals did not become a habit of his. Thanking the owner and handing him a red rupee, Link finished his milk – it was really good – and left.
Link swiftly ran to the general store, ignoring the old man in the middle who said something about passing streets, and inspected the items. On the shop's counter were a strange bottle, a rotten fruit – who would buy a rotten fruit? – and, Nice!, a shield.
"Excuse me, ma'am? How much is that shield?".
"Oh, you're interested in it? That makes perfect sense, what, with all those monsters outside the village.", she said in understanding. "They sprang up so suddenly! I'll sell it to you for fifty rupees. How about it?".
"Sounds great, ma'am!", he replied. Getting a shield at that price was a real bargain.
"Thank you very much!", she replied as Link handed her over a purple rupee. "Defense is important when you're fighting monsters. You should now that, looking all banged up like that!".
"It's nothing ma'am, really.".
"You're covered with cuts. Now, watch yourself out there, OK?".
"Yes, ma'am, Thanks for the shield!".
"You're welcome!".
The shield that Link had purchased was as basic as it could get; it was made of wood and had a metal frame, but it had no design or any other particular details whatsoever. Unsurprisingly, the shield was made for right handed users, but Link could change that easily. All he had to do was remove the leather bound handle from the shield that was used to steady the grip and nail it to the other side. He could do that at the smithy.
His mind filled with a subtle panic as he considered the implications of paying a visit at the smith's house. I haven't been there since yesterday morning… And Mrs. Lily already knows I had gone to the Eastern Palace… On top of that, the earthquake had surely had kept the small family up all night, just as it had with the village – and the rest of Hyrule, most definitely. They must have heard the rumors of his arrival to Kakariko Village by now. Link knew that he had a lot of explaining to do; he was not looking forward to it.
With a heavy sigh Link strapped the newly bought shield on his scabbard and briefly pondered on the image he created. He was slightly amused by it – the blacksmith's young apprentice armed to the teeth like that. In a probably vain attempt for subtlety, Link strapped his bow under his shield to hide it somewhat, hoping the result was satisfactory.
Passing by the weather vine in the middle of the village – he had woken it up the day before, much to the surprise of the elder – Link ran straight to the blacksmith's house, thankful that it was so close to the village. Huh. He was being thankful for quite a few things as of late.
The first thing he noticed once he reached the smithy was how empty it was. Absent were Mrs. Lily and Gulley, and there was hardly any sound of conversation lingering in the air. The only indication that the place was not empty was the thick black smoke that came from the chimney, along with the resounding clang of the hammer on the metal.
Link walked inside.
The place was a chaos. There were weapons of the Royal Guard scattered all over the place, most of them abused in some fashion. Unlike most days, both Mr. Nick and the old blacksmith were working at the forge, looking tired even though it was only mid morning.
"Master?", Link called out tentatively.
Mr. Nick looked up from his work, his eyes widening in surprise. "Link! What in the world were you doing all day? I told you to deliver the sword to the Captain, not go running to the Eastern Palace!".
Of course his wife had told him about that. "Long story…".
"Well then, what you're waiting for? Go on! Say it!".
Link knew he was not getting out of this. "In short, some art obsessed weirdo kidnapped the Captain and Seres, I reported that to the Castle and Princess Zelda sent me to Sahasrahla, who in turn sent me to an errand at the Eastern Palace. By the time I was done the earthquake had already struck, so I spent the night at the village.".
The blacksmith stared at him with an expression which clearly showed that he did not believe Link's story in the slightest, but he did not comment on it. "Alright then. Back to work.".
"Actually, no.".
That reply really angered the blacksmith. "What do you mean, NO?".
Without acknowledging the question, Link moved to the little space left on the stall and removed his shield. For the first time since he entered, the blacksmith noticed the boy's newly acquired gear. "You're armed?!", he asked in astonishment. "What in Din's name is going on with you?".
"I'm not done with my errands yet.". In the meantime Link had gathered the necessary tools and proceeded to remove the leather band from the shield. He oiled the nails so they could slide with ease without getting destroyed. After removing them, after wiping the oil off the nails with a cloth, he hammered the leather band to the other side of the shield, making sure said band had just the right distance from the second leather band in the middle of the shield. Once he was done, he tested his grip, and satisfied with the result, he strapped the shield across his back.
All the while Mr. Nick and the old blacksmith were staring at him silent.
"I got to go.", said Link, putting the tools back in place.
The blacksmith opened his mouth ready to retort, but something stopped him. He let out a resigned sigh. "Just go find Gulley while you're at it. I don't worry about him but the wife… I do worry. Go ease her nerves, would you?".
Link blinked in surprise. "Didn't he come home yesterday?".
"He did. After the earthquake, but he ran off to play again. He must be at the meadow.".
"I'll find him.", promised Link. He ran to the door and left, leaving no indication of his visit behind.
"He changed.", said the old man.
The blacksmith could only do something he did very rarely – ponder. "Have to wonder what made him so determined to pick a weapon.".
"It suits him.".
Mr. Nick stared at his partner before answering. "Aye. It does.".
Minutes later Link was standing at the entrance of the meadow, going completely unnoticed by Mr. Lily who was standing a few feet ahead of him. She was too busy looking for Gulley. "You-hoooo! Gulley? It's time to come home…!".
That's quite the early curfew, thought Link; it was only mid-morning. Then again, it was probably for the best.
Mrs. Lily received no answer to her call. "What, he's not here? He must be playing somewhere nearby.". In Link's mind, by "nearby" she meant the meadow.
Link cut down the bushes that blocked the entrance to the small meadow – they formed an arrow that pointed outside, strangely enough – and ran to the middle of the clearing. That tree stump that stood there right in the middle was there for as long as he could remember, and yet it had not undergone any changes in the last years. Not only the tree was not growing back – not even mold grew up there. For a plant to remain untouched by nature…
The tree stump was surrounded by the small animals of the meadow – rabbits, birds and squirrels – as if they were paying some sort of homage to it. It was highly unusual for animals to behave that way, but a regular occurrence here. They fled once Link got close.
On the tree stump laid a pouch.
Link picked it up to examine it. It was a bit small but it was made of sturdy leather, and it had a belt attacked to it. There were also two small pockets in the front. A small green gem the colour of a rupee decorated the button.
"Oh, Link!".
The boy turned around. "Mrs. Lily!".
"Have you seen Gulley in here? W-wait! Did you just find that pouch?".
"Um, yes…".
"Oh, my stars!", she exclaimed distressed. "Gulley had that!".
"This is Gulley's?!".
"I made it for you so you could carry more items – it's one of the magic ones. But he insisted on being the one who gave it to you.", she explained. "Strange, I wonder if he's back home already…".
"He isn't.", replied Link, a sense of dread slowly creeping in his chest. "I was there just now.".
"Then… If you found the pouch here, then where is my Gulley? Oh, how awful!". She looked at the verge of crying. "I had better tell my husband. I'm sure we can find him somehow. We HAVE to!".
"Mrs. Lily…".
"But please – you should use that pouch so I won't have to worry about YOU quite as much!".
The woman left the meadow almost running, and Link was left to stare at her back. "Gulley…". He shook his head, to clear all the worried thoughts. He's Gulley. He'll be fine. I have other things to do than worry about him.
He looked down at his new pouch. A magic pouch, huh? Magic pouches were not all that hard to make, and they were extremely useful – they could hold anything, no matter what the size, and they made all the cargo feel weightless. Link placed his bow and his lantern in it, and tied it to his waist. It was quite comfortable too. I must thank Mrs. Lily later., he thought impressed.
Link took off with a running start and left the meadow, passing in front of his house – he did not even think to check up on Ravio – and headed to the bridge of the Eastern Palace. He was glad he took his time to memorise the route to the Zora's Domain earlier that morning.
"Whoa! Hold up a second, greenie! Yeah, I'm talking to you! Someone else wearing the green hat?".
Said greenie stopped dead on his tracks. He searched around frantically? Who in the world was shouting? There was no one in sight! As if on cue, a shadow appeared above the bridge, growing bigger and bigger…
In front of him stood a witch. More precisely, she was floating with the aid of her broom. It was a girl same age as he, with dark purple hair in a pixie cut and red eyes. She was wearing a pair of green earrings, an oversized black pointed hat with a yellow ribbon and a black dress. Wow, talk about stereotypes.
"Who are you?".
"Who am I?", she quoted. "Haven't you heard of me? I'm Irene, best witch of my generation! Still a junior witch, but whatever.".
"Yeah.".
"All right. Get this. I had my fortune told this morning, right? And I was told I'd soon be visited by disaster. DISASTER!".
"Okay…". Why is she telling me this…?
"But if I want to change my future, I should take care of… green. I was like, GREEN? What, I should take care of grass? I'm not moaning every lawn in Hyrule! Forget that. I'm a witch on the rise! And then you came along – and then it all made sense. I've got to take care of you, greenie.".
"Eh?! Of me?".
"Yes, of you! So here. Take this thing.". Irene pulled a small bell out of her pocket. It was a simple-looking thing, but it had a nice golden colour and it was shiny.
"Thanks, but what am I supposed to do with it?".
"Seeing those weather vanes all over the place? Just ring and I'll fly you to any ones you found. There is a trick that wakes them up of sorts. I can show you.".
"No need.", replied Link with a bright grin. "I already know it.". Knew something good would come out of all these birds!
"Really?", she asked doubtfully.
"Yep; I've already woken up the ones at my house, Kakariko Village, the Sanctuary and the Eastern Palace.".
"Well, that's good.", said Irene surprised, and a little impressed. "Normally I don't take passengers, but I'd rather haul you all over Hyrule than face disaster.". Link still was not quite sure what he had to do with Irene's supposed fortune, but he was not about to complain. "Anyway, gotta fly. I have errands to run for my gram. Later!".
She gained a bit of altitude but she stopped. "Oh, right. One more thing. My gram's a world-class potion brewer. Her shop is behind the Eastern Palace. I'd strongly suggest you go look her up. Her potions can't be beat. See? I'm looking out for you already, greenie.".
She said that with a cocky but good natured smile, and Link smiled back. "Thanks a ton, Irene! I owe you!". The little witch was already off.
Her grandmother's shop is on my way, thought Link. I should pass by to say a hello. Link continued on his way by the river's shores, getting rid of any octoroks or Yuga's soldiers. However, instead of jumping into the river, he searched behind the hill of the Eastern Palace for the witch's shop. Much to his annoyance, the densely wooded area was full of Buzzblobs. They were monsters just like Blobs, but they were yellow in colour and could stun people with electricity. Good thing that they were so easy to avoid.
The witch's shop was just among the trees. Link stood in front of it impressed. It was an actual tree house. Whoever had made this, they had literally took a tree, hollowed the inside, put a door in the front and called it a house. The witch had also added the skull of a bull on the door to create an atmosphere, but it was nowhere close to as intimidating as it should be. Next to the shop was a sleeping weather vane. Link woke up the pink bird, which responded with a whistle – "Welcome to the Witch's Shop!" – and walked in the tree house.
As soon as he walked in Link's nose was assaulted by the scent of rot and dust, along with cooked ingredients. The small space was dark, only lit by two candles and the fire under the cauldron, almost blinding Link whose eyes were used to the bright sunlight outside. Once his eyes got used to the new conditions, he could make out what a mess this place was. The front part of the tiny shop was tidy, with four pots that contained colourful potions placed in a row for display. The back however was filled bursting with books and notes. It reminded Link of Sahasrahla's house.
Right in the middle stood a witch which was most probably Irene's grandmother, stirring a bright green liquid in the cauldron. If Link thought Irene looked stereotypical, her grandmother took the cake. She was wearing her black pointed hat indoors, and she even had a hooked nose and everything. She noticed Link as soon as he entered.
"Aha! A customer? Tell me what I can do for you, child.". Her voice was raspy with age, but she looked pretty cheerful and kind.
"Just came to say hello.", replied Link with a polite smile.
"What a polite young man you are!", said the witch pleasantly surprised. "And to a witch as old as I am? You don't see that much these days.".
Link blushed at the compliment. "I actually came here because I met your granddaughter, ma'am. She said you were a world-class potion brewer.".
The witch laughed good-naturedly. "Ah, that girl! You must be the "green" she was told to take care of! Poor girl; she honestly thought she'd have to mown lawns for the next few years. Good to know she's at the hands of such a fine young man.".
By this point Link was as red as the potion on display. "She seems very nice.".
"She is a bit cocky but she was always a good girl. But enough of Irene. What can I do for you?".
Link thought about it for a moment. "Could you please tell me what do all those potions do?", he asked curiously.
The witch looked really pleased with the question. "The red potion is also called the medicine of life – it can cure all sorts of physical injuries; however there is only so much it can do with the serious ones. The blue potion though, it can completely cure all injuries no matter how severe they are. It's a bit pricey, but it's all worth it! The yellow potion completely prevents all injury – until you digest it, it makes you invulnerable. Pretty useful for young warriors like you. And finally, there is the purple potion. That one's a little tricky there – when you drink it, it damages all the enemies around you. Remember that if you want to buy something you must have an empty bottle; I can't afford to hand out bottles for free.".
"I'm afraid I don't have one…".
"Never you mind that; there is always next time. Here – have a sip of this red potion I'm brewing up if you'd like.".
"You're sure, ma'am? I should pay for it…".
"No need to pay – it's a free sample! Besides, you look like you could use one.".
The witch offered a spoon to Link, who drank gratefully. To his amazement, all his scrapes from the night before instantly disappeared. "That's amazing, ma'am!". He then remembered the magic injury on his hand. Receiving a raised eyebrow from the witch, Link lifted his sleeve and removed the bandage. He was disappointed to see that the potion had done nothing to improve the situation.
The witch peered closer and the golden patterns that glowed under Link's skin. "What exactly did this, young man?".
Link decided to tell her the truth. "I was fighting a sorcerer named Yuga. He blasted me with some sort of lightning at some point. I asked Elder Sahasrahla about it but he couldn't do anything.".
"I'm afraid I can't do anything either. However you shouldn't worry about it; it may prove beneficial in the long run.". Link looked at her taken aback. He had not thought that his injury could be a good thing.
"I must go now.", said Link. "Thank you for all your help, ma'am.".
"Nonsense.", she replied with a smile. "I did nothing! Just make sure to come with a bottle next time!".
"I will!", replied Link. "Oh, by the way; which way is to the Zora's Domain from here?".
The witch blinked in surprise. "The Zora's Domain? Just turn left when you leave the shop. There is a Zora underling standing there. You'll need to find a way to cross over the water though.".
"Don't worry ma'am, I'll figure it out. Thank you again!".
"You're welcome!".
True to the witch's word, not two steps away stood a Zora overlooking a cliff. The Zora was a green, fish-like creature that also had human anatomy. His gills – it was definitely a male – were yellow and his lips and "hair", or the fish equivalent for it, were orange. He was naked, save for a blue cape, but he had no private parts to hide or anything. He was a fish.
The next cliff that placed the border of the next patch of dry land was not even three meters away, but Link could not make that jump. The two cliffs were connected with a third cliff that was solid smooth rock; yet another potion of the fortress surrounding the Eastern Palace, more than likely.
An idea came to Link's head. He stood next to the cliff's edge, turned into a painting, crossed the gap and popped out to the other side without breaking a sweat. He looked behind him proud of his small accomplishment, only to see that the Zora gaping at him. "What a special ability!", he praised. "That's about as special as they come!". Wow, I'm receiving compliments all the time today!
Link continued on his way though the only available path, as he was climbing up the Eastern Palace hill. He spotted a treasure chest on a crevice and using his wall-merging ability he reached it and opened it. Inside was a red rupee.
Returning to his original course, Link reached the waterfall at the side of Death Mountain – whoever had named this place must have been a really morbid character – behind which hid the cave of the Zora's Domain. The river here was shallow enough for Link to walk in it with no problem. That was easier than I thought.
A man slammed into him.
A blond man with a hooked nose and a flamboyant haircut, drenched to the bone, slammed into him. Link was the first to recover from the fall. "Youch!", shouted the man. "Watch where you're going!".
"I'm not the one who's running around not watching where he's going!", protested Link.
"Wait a second. I've seen you. Aren't you that kid who was hanging out in the village? Well – whatever! Outta my way!". The man took off like a bolt, leaving Link gawking at his speed.
"The queen, the queen!". The blond boy turned to the waterfall, where the voice came from. "Please help, somebody! HELP!".
"The Zoras!". Link ran into the cave, getting drenched. He came to a halt.
What. The. HELL. Inside the Zora's version of a throne room, in the Royal Pool was a HUMONGOUS green… female… thing mewling incoherently.
The three Zora Guards were freaking out. "The queen is in a sea of trouble! We've got to do something!".
"But what? That guy doesn't even KNOW all the trouble he just caused! It's getting worse by the second! I can't believe that guy came in and stole the smooth gem right out from under our gills!".
"That finless jerk probably thought it was just some sparkly thing! But the queen needs it to contain her power! Without that smooth gem, our queen will keep-!".
Right on cue, the queen grabbed a fish from the purple water of her pool and swallowed it whole. For an instance her spastic trembling stopped, and to everyone's horror she grew even BIGGER. She started bouncing after that.
"She'll keep bloating up!", finished the Zora.
"But our poor queen…".
"We've got to get that smooth gem back, or else!".
Link finally had enough. "Then stop freaking out and DO something!".
The Zoras jumped out of their skin – um, scales. "When did you get here?!".
"Just now! Now stop your arguing and go get that gem!".
"We can't stay out of water for long!", cried one Zora.
His fellow guard seemed to have regained his temper. "Please, stranger! Can you get the queen's smooth gem back? We've got to get it back to her pool before all is lost!".
"You must have seen that guy run out with the queen's smooth gem, right?", asked another Zora. Link nodded. "We've GOT to get it back! Stranger, if you were to see a big, gleaming, golden gemstone, bring it back here. I'm sure you'd get a nice reward!".
"But I've never heard of a stone like that before! Where am I supposed to find it?".
"The smooth gem is rarer that rare!", said the third Zora – it was the first time Link had heard him speak. "Someone could get a high price for that. Hmm… If anyone was going to make off with that stone, WE should've done it first. Gah – what am I thinking? I can't let the queen hear that sort of talk! ". How loyal.
"Got it – I'll get it back!".
Link left the cave and took out the small golden bell from his pouch. The sound the bell made reminded Link of crystal – it was that pretty. Almost instantly, Irene showed up.
"Hey, nice bell-ringing there. You're a natural!".
"Thanks!".
"So, where to?", she asked.
"Kakariko Village. Then it's back to your grandmother's shop.".
Irene raised an eyebrow at him. "You need my help with an errand, huh?".
"Some shady guy stole a gemstone and now the Zora queen is bloating like a balloon.".
"Wow, sounds like a mess. And what do YOU have to do with it?".
"Wish I knew…".
"Fine, I'll carry you around. Hold tight so you don't fall. See? I'm looking out for you big time!". Link grabbed the edge of her broom and she flew off.
Link could only marvel at the sight of Hyrule getting smaller under his feet. "Wow… I've never seen anything like this.". Just a short ride, and yet he could make out the entire Eastern Palace complex, the river, Hyrule Castle, the meadow Gulley usually plays in, Kakariko village, and even his own house looked no bigger than an orange. It did not matter how cold he was getting from being exposed to the cool breeze while drenched – the view alone took away everything.
"Pretty cool, huh Greenie?", replied Irene, smirking at his awestruck look. "You don't get to see this every day! Consider yourself lucky my fortune said to take care of you!".
"Believe me, I do. By the way, I never told you my name.".
Irene blinked. "Oh right, you didn't… So, what's your name?".
The boy smiled. "It's Link.".
Such a bright smile from a pretty cute boy that played the hero… Irene blushed. "I like Greenie better!", she said turning around sharply.
"Um, something wrong?", asked Link confused.
"Nope.".
A couple of minutes later, to Irene's relief, they had reached the village. She got her broom close to the Weather Vane and ignoring the strange looks from all the villagers, she let Link to drop unceremoniously to the ground. Link stretched his arm a little, as it had grown sore from hanging from the edge of the broom. "Hold on a second.", he said, going to mission mode. "I need to find that thief.".
"What? YOU again?! You banged into me at the Zora cave!". And so everybody in a ten meters radius watched as the blond man made a ran for his life.
"And… that's our culprit. Got to run!". And so Link started chasing after him.
Before long it became quite clear that Link would not catch up to the thief any time soon. He did not know whether it was the fear of being caught that caused this, or something else, but the man's speed was unnatural. There was only one thing left to do.
Link returned to the village, hid behind a house and waited for the thief to return.
Sure enough, a few minutes later the Shady Guy returned to the village looking both alarmed and relieved at the same time, obviously thinking that he was clear. How wrong he is…
Silently praying that nobody would notice, Link turned into a painting and sneaked up behind the thief. He came up with a pop, and a falsely polite grin.
"Hello.".
"Who's there?!", his jaw practically dropped once he recognized Link. "Y-y-you! Where'd you come from?".
Link could not help but mess with his head a little. "Behind you.".
"B-but there's only a wall here!".
"I know.".
"That makes no sense…".
"Neither you stealing that smooth gem.", said Link sternly.
"S-sorry…", apologized the man awkwardly. Link was pretty sure that he was extremely uncomfortable with being caught red-handed.
"That stone is a precious treasure to the Zora queen.", said Link with a softer tone. "She needs it to contain her power. She's bloating like a balloon back in the Zora cave!".
"Huh? I had no idea that stone was that precious.". The thief looked genuine sorry now. "I knew that gemstone would fetch a high price. I-I'm sorry. I already sold it. To that guy over there.". He pointed to a turban-wearing street merchant who had laid a carpet and his merchandise in the middle of the street. "I already spent all the money I got from selling that darn stone. I couldn't help taking it. My boots help me run so fast that I've been stealing everything that isn't nailed down!".
That explains all the thieving incidents as of late…, thought Link to himself. "Wait, your boots? They're magical?".
"Yup, they're called the Pegasus Boots.", confirmed the Thief. Sure enough, each boot had a pair of small wings attached to each heel. "It can make anyone who wears break into a mad dash!".
"Wow, that's pretty impressive.", replied Link.
"Yeah, I like them… But here, you take these boots.".
"Eh? Why me?".
"I can tell you won't abuse their power. I hope they fit. They're kinda small for my feet anyway.".
"But- You'll go around barefoot?".
"Hey, I have another pair of shoes in my pouch.". Link had a pretty good idea where that second pair had come from. "Those boots take some getting used to, but you'll figure it out. Just don't put too much force on your step. That gets them going.". The man handed over his boots to a stupefied Link.
"Thanks.". He smiled at the embarrassed thief. He was not a bad guy after all. He just had his own weaknesses, just like everyone else.
Link bid a goodbye and after tucking his new boots on his pouch to try them on later, he headed to the merchant with the turban. The guy had apparently come from somewhere south of Hyrule a few months earlier, and it was pretty obvious that he would stay here for as long as he had clients. He did not have many of those, but the man practically bought and sold everything so he did have an income.
As soon as he approached, the merchant made a point of advertising his new products. "Good news! I have some new stock that may interest you. Please come have a look.". Link did as told. As expected, the smooth gem was sparkling and proudly on display. "Have you seen this rare stone? Smoother than silk! Go on! Feel it! Just touching such treasure will make your skin happy all over! Ah, yes! A gemstone of remarkable quality. Smooth as silk! And for you, only two hundred rupees! Interested, my friend?".
Link inwardly cringed at the price, but he should have expected it. He was already told many times that the stone was quite expensive. He handed over two silver rupees anyway.
"This treasure is yours, my friend!". A jolt went through Link's skin as soon as he touched it. It was so smooth. Unimaginably so. Link had never understood why girls liked jewels so much – or girls in general – but it was no wonder the Zora queen needed this. Even Link was very reluctant to take it off his hands. He had to give the merchant credit for being willing to sell it.
Link nodded his thanks to the merchant. "Thank you! Come back soon.".
With that errand done, Link ran back to the waiting Irene. "Sorry for the wait. This took longer than I thought it would.".
"Nah, it's fine.", replied Irene. "I wonder how big the Zora queen has gotten. Bet she's as big as a house!".
Link remembered the image of the green behemoth swallowing that poor fish. "I really don't want to know…".
"You'll find out either way.".
"Don't remind me…".
"I'm back!", announced a panting Link to the Zora underlings.
"Wait, stranger!", yelled one of the guards. "Do you have the queen's smooth gem?".
"Yup.", replied Link proudly.
"Throw it in the pool – hurry!".
Link did as told, but he first took a moment to observe the queen. In contrast to his earlier fears, she was barely larger than before, and her whole posture betrayed exhaustion. Her head was slumped on her shoulder, her eyes were unfocused and her breathing was heavy. Whether this was the result of the guards' efforts or the trashing from earlier, he did not know, but he doubted it was the former. The water of her pool was a sickly-looking, purple colour that strongly resembled poison.
Link carefully placed the smooth gem in the tiny pool – he almost winced at the loss of the silky sensation against his skin.
The effect was instantaneous.
The water, from dark purple turned into a creamy golden colour, the exact same shade with the stone. Once the colour changed, the queen started trashing around once again, but her eyes widened in shock. A golden glow came from within and overwhelmed her. She vanished with a pop, splashing everyone in proximity.
"She's gone!", Link exclaimed shocked. He had spoken too soon. Seconds later, bubbles emerged from the water and a new figure burst out of the pool with a delighted moan. The glow subsidized completely to reveal… the Queen of the Zora people.
The sight of her was the closest thing the Zoras could achieve to beauty. Her face, instead of resembling a fish like the other members of her species did, it was shaped like a hylian's, with elegant features befitting of royalty. Her figure was slim but with also curvy like any other woman. She was wearing a floor-length yellow and orange skirt that matched the colours of the fins on her head; it hugged her hips in a flattering manner. She was also wearing a bikini top made large sea sells. From the same material was the tiara with the bleu sapphire that rested on her scalp, as well as her necklace and bracelets. Like all Zoras, her scales were emerald green and her stomach was white, but even more colour was added by the pink eyeshade and lipstick that she wore.
"Th-the queen!", stammered one of the guards. "The bloating has stopped!".
The Zora Queen either did not notice, or deliberately ignored him. She turned her black eyes to Link. "Are you the one who helped me?". Her voice was deep but melodious.
Link knew it would be rude not to reply. "Yes, your Majestly.".
"Thanks to you, I am free of my pool. That was all rather undignified.". Her tone clearly suggested how ashamed she was by the whole affair. "Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Oren, Queen of the Zoras. May I ask your name, young man?".
"It's Link, Queen Oren.".
"Well, Link… I don't know how I came to rely on that troublesome smooth gem. But I do need it, so I thank you deeply. I am filled with gratitude. Please take these, won't you?".
A quick magic spell later – Link consciously tried not to flinch – and he was now the proud owner of a pair of flippers. The pair resembled something between shoes and frog feet in their shape, and they seemed to match Link's size perfectly. The colour was a nice deep blue with some lighter shades, and it was made of a ruby material that he was unable to indentify. Quite frankly, Link had never seen such a thing before. He gazed at Queen Oren questioningly.
"These are the Zora flippers.", she explained with a smile. "They will allow you to swim and dive, so you may travel the rivers and roam the lakes. You don't need to worry about putting them on and removing them. If you wear them right now, they will only appear when you need to swim.".
"Thank you, Queen Oren!", Link exclaimed with obvious excitement. This was just what he needed!
"You're quite welcome.", she replied, laughing softly at his eagerness. "But my Zoras do consider that their territory, and while I tell them to get along with people… I have to admit, they just don't listen. So be careful out there.". Link acknowledged her concern with a serious nod. It was the issue he and Sahasrahla were talking about earlier that morning. He hid his snickering when he saw how bashful the guards were at their queen's indirect scolding.
With another "thank you", Link greeted Queen Oren and jogged out of the Zora domain.
Link had NO IDEA how to swim.
Sure, he did know what swimming is – how could he possibly not know. However, just because he was given the Zora flippers from Queen Oren, that did not mean that all of the sudden he was a master swimmer.
The first attempt was rewarded with a spectacular head-first splat! that resulted to a five-mintute long, pounding headache. The second attempt was Link waving around frantically trying not to get drowned. The third attempt was him hanging from the shore for dear life. The fourth time he tried to turn into a painting instead. He then realized that this would most probably be a very, very bad idea. He spent the next five minutes walking up and down in the shallow waters.
He decided that putting on the Pegasus Boots was a very bad idea.
Honestly, Link was wondering where all this stubbornness was coming from. So far he did not have any difficulty doing the tasks that had been assigned to him – not this sort of difficulty, at the very least. He sat down by the shore and started thinking.
To be honest with himself, Link had no idea how he had managed to progress up to this point, by that meaning that he managed to go through the Eastern Palace mostly unscathed, and more or less defeat Yuga in a one-on-one duel; for as long as Yuga was "playing" fairly, at least. Even the late night match against Yuga's conjured soldiers had not been a question of how to do it. Seriously, was he having such difficulty with the Zora flippers? It was just another magic item, for Farore's sake! He was using quite a few of these already! Those flippers should not be this much of a problem.
With a renewed air of resolve, Link took a deep breath and decided to go with the flow.
The hylians did not know what they were missing on.
The water was amazing. The cool sensation of the water engulfing every inch of his skin was unlike anything he had experienced in the past. A regular bath did not hold a candle to this. Jovially, almost instinctively, Link dived in and touched the riverbed, watching his puffy hair dance around him and gathering the sparkling rupees he found half buried under the mud. He emerged from the water, his hair and clothes sticking on him like glue, feeling more energized than ever.
Without the slightest bit of hesitation, Link dove down the sparkling waterfall, laughing all the way down in spite of the waterfall being several meters long. What an honour it was, to be allowed to swim in Hyrule's crystal waters! No wonder the Zora's wanted to keep the all to themselves.
"You are not allowed here, stranger!". And he was promptly attacked by a fireball.
"Hey!", protested Link. "Why did you attack me?".
"The fireball didn't burn him?!".
Link stared at the baffled Zora. "Of course not. I'm drenched.".
"Anyway stranger, hylians are not allowed in these waters.".
He should have seen this coming… "I got permission from your Queen.", said Link with a sigh, motioning to the Zora flippers.
The Zora did not seem to recognize the item. "You must be lying!".
"I'm not! And why are attacking any random guy you see around? Why can Zoras shoot fireballs in the first place?!".
They both realized what he had just asked. "I… have no idea.".
"You Zoras are impossible…".
"Say that to that other guy.".
Link's look turned questioning. "What other guy?".
"Some weirdo over there.", replied the aquatic creature, pointing to the general direction of the west. "He just climbed down the cliff one day and now he's spending his days under the bridge of Hyrule Castle. Get him off there!".
"Eh?".
"I said: Get. Him. Off. There. I don't want to deal with him. Go find him and kick him out of our river! GO!".
Link gave a sigh. That Zora most probably would not let him to leave did he not promise to chase that mysterious man off the river. Honestly, he did not have the time for detours! "I'll find him.", he said.
"Finally, someone who'll do it!", bellowed the Zora.
"Hey, no promises!". The Zora did not give notice. With a sigh Link resigned himself to his fate of endless running around aimlessly and searched for the nearest dock.
Problem was, even though the river did technically lead to Lake Hylia, various natural obstacles such as rocks made it impossible to just swim there. Link would have to cross the Eastern Palace wasteland anyway, and then jump into the river again to finally reach Lake Hylia. Passing by Hyrule Castle was not that much of a detour. The river, which served as a trench, was a surprisingly safe place to swim.
Apparently, the man who lived underneath the bridge thought the same thing.
He was a somewhat burly man who stood a head taller than Link, with straight blond hair parted in the middle and blue eyes. He wore a brown poncho with a simple orange pattern, and he had set a simple brown tend between the two pillars that kept the northern part of the bridge stand – it was a patch of grass standing above the river. There was a dock there. Weird. Why would anyone out a dock under a bridge?
Regardless, even though the man himself did not appear to be all that unusual, his company filled that bit for him. The man was practically surrounded by small birds in yellow, pink and blue colours. One of them was even sitting on his head. They all flew away once Link approached.
"Wh-what gives?", protested the man, with a surprisingly soft voice. "I was playing with those birds! You don't like my feathered friends?".
Link stared at the man surprised. He sure did not expect this demeanor. The bird lover's voice was shaded with the same disappointment that a little kid felt at being robbed of their toy, and his cheeks were tinged pink in a very obvious blush. Link suddenly felt very guilty, as if he had stolen candy from a baby or something. "I like birds.", he replied weakly.
The bird lover nodded. "The joyful way they fly around always lifts my spirits. I'd love to fly just once.". Link nodded, remembering the incredible view from Irene's broom.
Link laid on the grass to take a breath. Now that he thought about it, it was very peaceful here.
"You need something?", asked the bird lover, a little rudely.
"Nothing.", replied Link, his promise to the Zora from earlier forgotten – or rather, ignored.
"Hmm… You came to such an out-of-the-way place for no reason?". Link did not reply. The man eyed him wearily. "You know, this bottle washed up here a little ways back. And now you come on by. Exciting day for me! TOO much excitement, I gotta admit. I like things to stay nice and simple. Just me and the birds here. So do me a favour.". The bird lover reached for something inside his tent and handed it to Link. "Take this bottle with you. It'll do my nerves good.".
Link eyed the bottle. It was a simple glass bottle, but it was the perfect size to fill it with the potions of Irene's grandmother. A free bottle! "Thanks.", said Link. And he left.
The route to the House of Gales was short after that.
Author notes: Yet another humongous chapter. I really hope you guys have no problem with my pacing. I mean, it's not like something BIG happens here. It's mostly a - necessary - filler. Anyway, next chapter is the House of Gales with some other stuff. I'm not sure when I'll be able to update again. Even though we have a two-week vacation now, we also got the end of the year exams right after that so I'll spend most of my time studying.
Anyway, please read and review, follow, fav and do whatever you like. Don't be afraid of saying a word! I'm not afraid of negative critisism - trolls and spammers aren't welcome. If you hate it, justify why you hate it. If you love it, just tell me!
REVIEW!