Chapter 18
The entrance to The Resistance base camp is filled with activity as the sun scarcely shined. Anyone close to those taking part in the journey to Castle Town is doing everything they can to help them prepare for the mission. The Ordonians were extremely helpful to Link, Zelda, and Ilia. At least, the adults were while the kids were playing around on the wagon.
The trio had changed out of their rebel attires in favor of civilian-looking clothing to keep a low profile. Link had exchanged his green tunic and hat for a blue shirt, tan trousers, brown boots in a lighter shade, and a black hood. Zelda is wearing a white long-sleeve shirt with a green bodice, a brown V-neck on the top, black pants that go up to her knees, and knee-high brown boots. Her hair is entirely loose, with a braid around her temple. Ilia made the most minor change, only discarding her green hood and gloves, leaving her shirt, pants, and boots.
"It's kinda weird seeing you without that green tunic of yours, Link," Fado commented as he helped Link saddle Epona.
"I have to keep a low profile," Link stated. "But I guess you got a point. I got so used to wearing that thing a lot that these clothes feel alien to me."
"And it also looks like you've been neglecting your hair. It's gotten long," Uli eyed his Link's hair.
Link moved his fingers through the length of his hair, which went a little past his chin. "Huh, you're right. I should tie it up."
"Let me help you."
"Uli, you don't have to," Despite the protests, Uli, being the mother she is, pulled out a hair tie and used it to tie Link's long locks behind his head, leaving two large strands dangling at both sides. "Thank you."
"Do you three have everything?" Rusl asks.
"I believe we do," Zelda replies as she finishes tying up the saddlebag on Ahern.
"And you're okay with bringing Ilia this time?" He looked sternly at the teen, no doubt referring to her Lake Hylia stunt.
"Yes, she is, Rusl. I'm only tagging along. I won't even infiltrate the castle with the others," Ilia answered with a groan.
"Okay." The older man paused, his expression appearing to be filled with thoughts. "You three haven't been to Hyrule, right?"
The trio shook their heads. "Have you?"
"Once, many years ago. In the center of the kingdom lies Hyrule Castle, and around it is Castle Town, a community far bigger than Ordon. I remember it being a bustling place filled with friendly faces. That was back when the old Royal Family was still around. Things are different over there now, most likely.
"I've heard that the town plaza often houses public executions, most of which are brutal. I also heard stories from others here on how most soldiers often terrorize citizens," Uli mentioned with an uneasy tone. "Link, Zelda, Ilia, promise us you'll all be careful out there."
"We will," Link promised with confidence.
"Alright, kids, I think you should get off now," Jaggle's voice echoed as he and Pergie brought the last supplies.
"Do we have to, Dad?" Talo whined.
"Yes, otherwise we can't load the wagon."
"Okay. Come on guys, you heard my dad!"
Talo quickly jumped off the wagon, Colin slowly climbed down, and Beth was lifted to the ground by Sera while Pergie did the same to Malo. The children then proceed to head over to Link's group.
"Hey, Link, you guys are going to Castle Town, right?" Colin asks eagerly.
"Yeah. Why do you ask?"
"Neither of us has been there, but...we were wondering if you…"
"We want to ask if you can bring us some stuff from there!" Talo cut him off.
"Don't interrupt him!" Beth yelled.
"Sorry! I got excited."
"More like impatient…." Malo mumbled irritably.
"Yeah, pretty much what Talo said. If it's not too much trouble," Colin stated.
"I can help you guys with that. Is there anything, in particular, you want me to get you?"
"Well...My favorite boomerang was left behind back at the village."
"Can you find me a slingshot? I lost my old one, too," Talo added. "Or maybe even a scattershot if you could! I heard those things are awesome! Bet that would make Mido jealous."
"I would like a bug net. I missed catching butterflies back home," Beth said.
"What about you, Malo? Anything you want me to get?" Link leaned down to his level.
"I want you to find abandoned buildings in Castle Town," Malo answered calmly.
Link could only give the young boy a bewildered look. "Okay...what for?"
"Since my home is almost gone, I've been thinking about my future. I decided that once Ganondorf is gone, I'm opening up my own store in Castle Town called Malo Mart."
"Alright...I'll see what I can do."
A simmering sound came to Link's side. Navi quickly flew to him, twirling around his head.
"Sorry, Navi. I need to lay low. And I don't want to put you in danger as well."
The fairy made a sad tinkle, causing the Hylian to frown. Link looked at her and then the Ordon kids when he had an idea.
"Come here." Link laid out his palm for Navi to land on. He turned his attention to the kids. "Can you kids do me a favor? Can you look after Navi while I'm gone?"
"Sure, Link!" Colin replied.
Link moved his palm towards Colin, who then laid out his hands. Navi took that invitation and flew to the boy's hands. Just like the day Link introduced Navi, all the children look in awe at the little fairy.
"I don't think I mentioned how pretty she is," Beth commented.
"She's so cool," Talo followed.
"Promise me you'll take good care of her?"
"We promise," Colin answered back.
"Your fairy is in good hands," Beth vowed as well.
"Yeah, leave it to us!" Talo said with confidence.
"As long as she doesn't annoy me…" Malo mumbled.
Ashei had completed packing up for the trip. She gave a gentle stroke to her light grey horse with a touch of black around her snot that she calls Yeta. Like the others, she, too, had to change her attire. Instead of her armor, she wore a simple aegean shirt and jam-colored pants. She glances at Shad, who is still saddling up his butterscotch horse he calls Oocca (and for her life, she cannot figure out where he got a name like that). Like her, he also changed his attire to the ones similar to the clothes he wore the day they met. The clothes consist of a rose-colored shirt with a large knot on top, a dark purple jacket, beige pants, tan and brown shoes, and some rather tacky red and white diamond-patterned socks.
The scholar soon noticed her gaze on him. "Do you need any assistance?"
"I haven't seen you wearing that in a while. It brings me back memories of the day we first met."
"Not sure that's a day I would look back fondly." Shad immediately realized how that was worded and quickly corrected himself. "Not because I met you! That is one of the best moments of my life, I assure you! I was merely referring to the circumstance leading up to our meeting."
"If I can recall, you were cowering in fear while those bandits closed in on you, yeah?"
"Admittedly, that was not my proudest moment." Shad's face flustered as he rubbed his neck.
"To be fair, you didn't know how to properly defend yourself back then. You just waved that dagger of yours like a maniac."
"Thankfully, I had you to teach me better defense and deal with the grief of my parent's death."
"And, in return, you helped me with my issues." Ashei parted her hair behind her ear. "Goddesses, we were both a mess back then. How old were we?"
"I was seventeen, and you were eighteen, I believe. That would make it five years. Honestly, it felt like a different lifetime. I didn't think I would make it this far."
"Yet here we are now. The unusual couple."
"That we are, my sweet dove."
Auru had just finished hooking up the horses to the large covered wagon. The horses connected were his horse, a gray beast that he proudly dubs Aonuma, and Sheik's horse, a black & white horse named Iwata. A nudge felt against his leg, and he looked down to see Twilight rubbing against him, letting out some soft whines.
Auru knelt to pet the wolf's head. "Don't worry, girl. I'll be back here before you know it."
"Don't forget your sword." Auru turned his head to Impa, holding his broadsword.
"You know I would never forget this. Thank you." The older man stood as he took his weapon and hoisted it on his back as Twilight scampered off to the rest of the group, no doubt trying to get more pets. "Where's Sheik?"
"He's still getting ready. The magic we use to change our eye color does take time."
"Oh, right." Auru took notice of the somewhat uneasy expression glued to Impa. "Don't give me that look."
"Whatever do you mean?"
"The same one you make whenever Sheik and I leave without you."
"I'm used to fighting alongside you both for so many years. I do worry whenever you two go on without me. You can be...rash sometimes in the heat of the moment."
"I call it courage."
"There's a fine line between courage and recklessness. As brave as you are, that does not make you immortal." To the woman's surprise, all she got in response was Auru chuckling. "Care to share what is so amusing?"
"It's just that you're telling me not to be reckless, yet I told you that when we started doing this. Amusing how things have changed."
"That's because I didn't know what the hell I was doing. You just got too comfortable." That earned a laugh for the man, leaving the Sheikah with a smile before their gazes glued to each other.
Footsteps coming from their side broke their gazes. Smiles grew when they saw Sheik approach them with a bag in hand. The young Sheikah is dressed similarly to Auru. Rather than his Sheikah garb, he wore a simple Hylian tunic. The most significant change in the young teen is that his eyes were blue rather than red.
"Sorry, I took a while. The eye-changing spell is such a pain," Sheik apologized.
"I know, but understand why we do it, Sheik. Anyone with Sheikah eyes is immediately arrested."
"I know, master, but I still hate it."
"You'll be fine." Auru patted the teen's shoulder. "Why don't you put your stuff in the wagon?" With a nod, they watch the teen reach the back of the wagon, giving both horses a pet.
"He's grown a lot these past few years," Impa expressed.
"Hard to believe he's been with us for thirteen years. Felt like not too long ago we brought him here."
It was a day Impa would never forget. It was about five years into Ganondorf's reign. What was supposed to be a simple scout mission for her & Auru led to the discovery of a raided homestead, a grisly sight of a dead Sheikah couple, and a scared, traumatized four-year boy hiding within the home. Sheik was initially skittish, too afraid to leave Impa's tent, and always clinging to her or Auru. Through patience and compassion, Sheik slowly grew out of the phase and became the warrior that he was.
"He's still a child, yet his maturity is beyond his years." Impa looked downward. "Sometimes I wonder if I made the right choice letting him be involved in all this."
"He's involved because he wanted to. Sheik is the best warrior we have here and is a great man. All this possible because he had you to guide him."
"Well...I can't take all the credit."
Auru smiled at the Sheikah woman. "I think we both raised him well."
Sheik came back seconds later. "Okay, I got all my stuff loaded."
"Good. Then it is time." Impa faced the rest of the party participating. "Everyone, listen! You all are about to embark on a mission to Castle Town. Auru here is in charge of the operation."
"Now I know some of you have never been to Castle Town, so listen." Auru's voice bellowed. "Ganondorf may be out of the country, but Hyrule Castle, along with Castle Town, is one of the most heavily guarded places in the whole country. This is no run-of-the-mill stealing from soldiers or even Lake Hylia. All of you must keep your wits up and be careful."
"Before stopping by Castle Town, you will briefly layover with our allies in Kakariko Village. Then you will go to the town where our allies will keep you safe. However, if you're approached by a soldier, do not do anything rash, and remain calm. Do not travel around Castle Town alone. If you're approached by someone you don't know, do not reveal your real name either." Impa added on.
"If anyone asks, Sheik and I are father and son from Hateno Village, traveling to Kakariko to visit friends while the rest of you are mercenaries we hired for protection. Do any of you have questions?" Auru glanced around, seeing that everyone seemed sure what they were doing. "Alright, mount up, everyone!"
Those participating followed the older man's orders and mounted their steeds. On the other hand, Ilia had to sit behind Zelda on Ahearn because she did not have her own horse, leaving the young teen grumbling to herself with her sister chuckling. Auru climbed onto the wagon, lending Sheik a hand to sit beside him.
"You good, son?" The Sheikah teen nodded at the man.
"Auru, Sheik?" Impa's voice caught the pair's attention. "Come back safely."
"We will," Sheik promised.
"I'll be back, just like always," Auru declared.
"May goddesses watch over you," Impa said to him.
The older man responded with a smile. He looked to the camp members who had gathered to send them off, including the Ordonians, Malon, Saria, and her friends. "Goodbye, everyone! We'll be back soon!" Auru bellowed as he waved. Everyone else in the group did the same before they all began riding away, hearing the voices of encouragement, reassurances, and reminders to be careful. The Ordonians were the most vocal.
"Good luck to you guys!" Fado shouted
"Take care!" Beth added.
"Come back safely!" Uli bellowed.
"Bring Bo home safely!" Rusl's voice echoed.
"Be careful, you guys!" Colin called out with caution.
"Go kick the bad guy's ass!" Talo encouraged.
"TALO!" Pergie scolded her son.
The voices heard after were dimmed out when the group was deep within the tunnel.
Several hours had passed since the group left. The ride through the woodlands remained quiet for the most part. The Ordon Trio felt a mix of nervousness since they had never left the Faron region in their whole lives and a mixture of excitement to see new sites, despite the circumstances. As the trees become less dense, those feelings rose.
"What do you think Hyrule is like, Zelda?" Ilia said to her sister at one point.
"I don't know. I imagine not a lot of trees."
"Well, no, duh. What do you think, Link?"
"Dad used to tell my stories about his time in Hyrule. He told me that Hyrule is a vast and lush land."
"Neither of you guys ever went to Hyrule?" Ashei questioned them.
"Never," Link responded back.
"The farthest Ilia and I ever went was Lurelin Village in South Faron." Zelda shared.
"Then this trip will be an exciting experience for you three," Shad said gleefully. "I cannot contain my excitement to return to Kakariko Village. It's my hometown. It'll be great to see Renado and the others again."
Ilia heard a light hmm from Zelda. "You okay, big sis?"
"Does the name 'Renado' sound familiar to you? I felt like I heard that name before." Ilia took a moment to think before shrugging.
"There are some places in Hyrule that retain their beauty, spared from the malice spread by Ganondorf," Sheik explained, not hearing the sisters' conversation.
"Should be an interesting sight," Link stated.
"Well, you three are about to see for yourselves. We're reaching Faron's end." Auru pointed straight ahead, which lay the end of the forest line. A bright light shined at the end. "Why don't you three ride ahead?"
The Ordonians looked at each other for a moment. Silently, Link agreed to move first. He commanded Epona to jog ahead, with Zelda doing the same with Ahearn. The sight around them awed them once they finally reached the other side of the trees.
Saying wow couldn't help do their view justice. Lied all in front of them lay extensive grassy plains with various hills, rock platforms, wide species of grass, and some large mountains far away. The sky is a clear blue, with a flock of birds flying above. Compared to everything the trio has been through these past few months, this sight was soothing to them.
"So many hills," Ilia breathed out.
"So much wide space. Bigger than the ranch back home," Link followed.
"I've never seen so much grass in my life," Zelda said in pure awe.
"Wonderful view, isn't it." The trio turned back to see Auru and the rest of the group behind. "Welcome to Hyrule Field."
"There is so much to see in all that space," Zelda commented.
"There will be more to see. Let's get going."
The group resumed their trip alongside the roads of Hyrule Field. As they rode, the Ordon Trio took this time to enjoy the sights around. Growing up all their lives surrounded by trees, the environment is quite a sight to see. Deep within their journey in the field, they spotted a large plateau in the distance. Shad kindly explained that it was called The Great Plateau. According to legend, it was the birthplace of the entire kingdom and where Hylia resided before establishing Hyrule. Another exciting landmark was an enormous mountain with a significant gap in the middle known as the dueling peaks, which served as the main entrance to Necluda, where Hateno village is.
Their trip eventually took them alongside a river, more significant than any river the Ordon Trio had ever seen around their woodland home. As they gazed at the river, the rest of the group couldn't help but find the Ordonians' awe of their surroundings amusing.
"They seem to be amused by all this, yeah?" Ashei stated within earshot of the Ordon group.
"I suppose growing up in the forest all your life does give a limited view of the world," Shad followed.
"Now, now, you two. Let them have their moment," Auru lightly scolded. "They've been through a lot these past few months. They deserve some joy."
"And in our line of work, seeing that wonder in others is wonderful." Sheik glance over to the trio. Their eyes were still wide with glee. He found Ilia's expression particularly delightful.
After a while, the group caught sight of some settlements on the river's edge. It contains a massive tent with a wooden horsehead statue. Directly across from it is a hill.
"There's a stable up ahead. You guys want to stop here for a bit?" Auru asked.
"My legs are feeling stiff," Zelda moved one of her legs to stretch them.
"I think Epona could use a break," Link patted his horse's neck.
"My butt is feeling sore, too," Ilia bluntly shared.
The rest of the group nodded in agreement. They moved forward towards the stable. In front lay three Hylians. Two men, one thin with a goatee & one on the obese side, and a woman wearing a slight touch of light pink standing out front, all wearing white shirts with blue vests with a picture of a horse on both sides, gloves and some strange triangular hats.
The thin hylian male was quick to greet the group. "Hello, folks! Welcome to the Riverside Stable! My name is Ember. I am the stablemaster here! Is there anything we can help you with?"
"Me, my son here, along with our party, have traveled for several hours and wish to rest here if that's okay with you," Auru said.
"Of course! Your group and their steeds are welcome to rest here for as long as needed. If you need anything, I will be happy to help. My stablehands, Leekah and Gotter, are also happy to help." Ember pointed to the woman & obese Hylian man, respectively.
"We appreciate your kindness, good sir."
As Ember and the stablehands walked away, Auru & Sheik climbed down from their wagon as the rest dismounted from their horses.
"We'll rest here for about an hour," Auru told everyone.
Everyone in the group nodded. As everyone tended to their horses, Zelda noticed Ilia wandering away.
"Where are you going?"
"I'm gonna take a look around. That's okay with you?" Ilia answered.
"Just don't wander too far. Come back here immediately if you see trouble."
"Don't worry, I will."
The teen resumed her walk in the opposite direction. Everyone else attended to their horses while Auru & Sheik checked out their wagon. The air is quiet, save for the sounds of the horses snorting.
"That's a nice horse you got." A pleasant guttural voice captures Link's ears as he brushes Epona's mane.
Link turns to see one of the stablehands, Gotter if he could remember, at his side.
"Thank you."
"So, where are you folks traveling to?"
"We're heading towards Kakariko Village. I'm a mercenary hired to protect my employer and his son on the trip."
"Mercenary, huh? Haven't seen your kind in a while. How long have you been in the business?"
"Several months. I was a...rancher beforehand."
"Quite the career change. I imagine this lifestyle is different."
"It's more...unpredictable, but in an exciting way."
"I prefer a stable lifestyle. Pardon the unintentional pun."
"You like it?"
"It's a little boring at times, but it's nice. Way better than living in Castle Town."
"You're from Castle Town?"
"I spend most of my life there. It used to be a great place, but it has changed significantly since King Ganondorf took over. What was once a lively city became unpleasant. I left that place as soon as possible, and I've been happier since." Gotter explained. "Say, you folks aren't planning to go there, are you?"
"We might be for business," Link answered, not giving the whole truth.
"I wouldn't recommend it, but if you plan on going, let me give you some tips. The streets are filled with soldiers willing to go above the law. They'll terrorize you just for fun. There are also the Gerudo soldiers, who are very skilled killers. The town is also crawling with thieves & criminals. Rumor has it they live in a secret network under the town. Don't stand out too much otherwise. It makes you an easy target for both parties. Finally, don't ever explore alone at all times, especially with your lady friends."
Link had already heard most of the advice but appreciated the stablehand's advice. "I'll keep all that in mind. Thank you."
"Not a problem. Happy to help," Gotter said before leaving Link alone.
Several minutes went by in silence which Link enjoyed as he finished brushing up on Epona. Once he was done, he pulled an apple from the saddlebag and fed it to her, which she munched on happily. He glanced at the group, who were still tending to their horses.
"Dammit, where'd she go?" Zelda's voice caught his ear, instantly knowing who Zelda was talking about.
"Ilia can handle herself. I'm sure all that self-defense training she's been through, we'll be enough."
"I know, but -"
"I'm sure she's fine." At that moment, Link glanced at the road ahead to see Ilia in the distance. "Look, there she is."
As the pair watch Ilia, they notice she is running as if something were chasing her. By the time she had returned, the teen was entirely out of breath, catching the whole group's attention.
"Ilia, are you okay? What's wrong?" Zelda asks with concern.
"I think we might have a problem."
"What?" Sheik spoke with concern as well.
Ilia pointed to the road behind her. "Soldiers, coming this way."
Everyone looked to where the teen was pointing. Sure enough, three figures were seen on the horizon. Shad quickly pulled a telescope from his satchel and used it to look in that direction.
"I see three armored troops on horseback heading this way."
"What do we do?" Ashei asks.
"We stay calm and act natural. Don't do anything to warrant their attention. Let me do the talking if they speak to us," Auru instructed.
Quickly, everyone resumed what they were doing while Zelda guided Ilia back to Ahearn. Moments later, echoing footsteps entered the stable area. Three men dressed in armor sat imposingly on each of their horses. They trotted through the path slowly. Both stablehands don't dare to look at them. Link thanked the goddesses that Impa convinced him and Zelda to leave The Master Sword and her Light Arrows hidden in the wagon, only having standard ones on them. Once the soldiers noticed the group, they made a complete stop.
"You there!" The ringleader of the soldiers called out to Auru.
Auru took a deep breath. Gave a reassuring glace to the group, mouthing 'follow my lead' before turning his attention to the soldiers.
"Gentlemen, is there anything I can help you with?"
"I don't think I've seen you around these parts before. State your business."
"My son and I are traveling from Hateno to Kakariko to visit friends."
"Have you seen any suspicious activity on the roads?"
"I can't say I have. Other than a Moblin or two."
The leader did not respond and instead looked over to the group. "These people with you? Seems like a big group you have."
"They are mercenaries that I hired for protection. The roads are dangerous with monsters and bandits running amuck."
"Mercenaries?" The leader glances at the rest of the group, taking extra long glances towards Shad and Ilia. "Not who I would choose, but I suppose beggars can't be choosers."
"They're competent warriors," Auru reassures.
"Oh, I bet they are." The other soldier behind his leader glances over to the women, giving a lewd gaze and smirk. Ashei could only glare while Ilia clung close to Zelda. Link did not like how that soldier looked at them.
"You all seem to be a very peculiar group." The leader spoke up. "May I be kind enough to get your names?"
"Our names?" Auru clarified.
"Yes, you're names," The leader repeated more snarkily
"Since you insist, my name is Eiji."
"Satoru," Sheik replied.
"It's Salma if that satisfies you," Ashei spoke up.
"I'm Milo," Shad followed.
"And what about you three?" The leader glances at the Ordon trio. "I know I never saw your type around here."
"It's um…Ravio." Link stuttered.
"Tetra. My name is Tetra," Zelda followed, using the name of a character from her favorite childhood books about a pirate.
"And what about you, little miss?" The leader eyed Ilia.
"It's umm…." Ilia completely forgot to think of a fake name.
"C'mon, don't be shy, babe!" One of the soldiers playfully taunted while his friend laughed.
Ilia quickly scrambled her options. She glanced at Link, finally bursting out what came into her head.
"Linkle!" She spoke out loud. Zelda arched a brow while Link gave the teen a 'seriously?' look.
"Does that satisfy your curiosity?" Auru prodded.
All the leader did was give out a low 'hmm.'
"Hey! Quit hassling these folk, Ralph! They're trying to rest!" Ember shouted as he came to view.
"Hello to you too, Ember. And no need to fret. We were just about to leave." He turns back to Auru. "You and your son have a safe trip, Mr. Eiji."
The leader and his men slowly rode away on their horses. One of his men looked back to mimic a kiss back to the woman. The group stood in silence as they watched the soldiers leave their view.
"I am very sorry about that." Ember apologizes to them. "Ralph can be a bit...pressing to say the least."
"You know him?" Sheik questions him.
"He and his soldiers patrol around here. They used to stop by occasionally, but ever since the prison camp at Lake Hylia fell to The Resistance, they've been coming here more often than I like. They've been harassing every traveler here, probably making sure they aren't inmates from there. I'm very sorry you all had to deal with that."
"It's alright. It's not your fault," Auru assured him.
"Thank you for understanding. If you don't need anything, I'll leave you to rest now."
The stablemaster retreated into the large tent. Once they were sure he and his stablehands were nowhere around, the group huddled close.
"That was too close," Ashei stated.
"Too close for my liking," Shad agreed.
"Should we leave?" Link asks.
"No. We'll only look suspicious if we do. I believe it's safe to assume they don't know who we are," Auru insisted.
Zelda glanced over to Ilia, who had an unsettled expression. "Are you okay?"
"I...I didn't like how those guys looked and talked to us. It felt so...uncomfortable."
"Hey, it's okay. They're gone."
"I mean, I've had guys flirt with me before, but...never in that matter. Why would they talk like that?"
"It's because they're pigs, much like most of the soldiers under Ganondorf," Ashei stated. "Them being soldiers just inflates their ego. Fitting for a swirling swine like Ganondorf to have them under his service. They're a disgrace to the royal guard."
"At least they're gone," Sheik said.
"What do we do now?" Link wonders.
"We'll rest here as we originally planned, but do not wander too far away," Auru stated.
Everyone else nodded before dispersing again.
"I'm going to look around for materials if that's okay with you," Shad told Auru.
"Just stay nearby."
"Of course."
As the scholar walked away, Zelda glanced between him and Ilia. Wanting her sister to forget the encounter with the soldiers, an idea came to her.
"Why don't you go help Shad? I think he would appreciate the help."
"I haven't been foraging since before Ordon day, and it was with Mom last time," Ilia said.
"Maybe today is a good day to restart."
"I guess it wouldn't hurt."
The teen went over in Shad's direction. She talked to him for a bit, which resulted in Shad looking excited, and guided her to the surrounding trees. Everyone else split off to do their own thing.
Zelda decided to look around the stable. Behind it, she discovered two little islands connected by piers surrounded by fences. One had a pen of cuccos. That she avoided as she recalled an incident involving her and Link messing with cuccos which led the whole flock to attack them when they were kids. Ever since then, she had avoided it. The second island had a large pen with some fluffy white goats. Despite their large horns, they all appear docile. She sat in the pen, watching them.
Sitting there watching the goat's gaze brought her back to her days in Ordon, where she would sometimes sit on the ranch to watch the Ordon Goats after a hard working day. Her heart heavies as she thinks about her former home. One of the goats seemed to sense her sadness and rubbed its head against her. She smiled and petted its head. It let out a gentle 'baa' before walking away. Zelda envies the goats in a way. They go about their lives without a care, unaware of the country's state.
After a while, Zelda left the pen. Glancing around, she discovers a nearby pier over the river. At the edge of it is Ashei sitting hunched over. Curious, she went over to the woman. The pier squeaked below her feet, which alerted the warrior.
"Hey, Zelda."
"Hey. I'm not bothering you, am I?"
"Not at all. I'm just sketching the river and the trees across." Ashei lifted a small sketchbook. "Would you like to see?"
"Sure." Zelda knelt next to the warrior. Her sketching contained the scene front: the river, the small forest across, with a bridge connecting to the woods on the right and the Dueling Peak mountains on the right. Zelda was no art expert, but she could see how much effort Ashei had put into this sketch from the lines, shading, and detail.
"This is a good drawing, Ashei."
"It's nothing special. Shad is the better artist, mostly because I think his mother was one."
"This is still great work. Is there more?"
"Several. You're welcome to look."
Ashei went through several pages showcasing all the sketches she had taken for many years. Some were scenes from The Resistance camp, and others seemed to be made in the wild.
"All these look great. They look printed."
"I wouldn't go that far, but thank you. I got into drawing when I was a child, which my father encouraged. After he died, I stopped until Impa got wind of it and persuaded me to do them. I did, and I still do them to this day. It's nice to do something other than focus on this rebellion or the state Hyrule is in, just for a moment. Anyways I appreciate your admiration of my sketches."
"There you two are," Sheik approached them. "I just want to let you two know we're leaving in ten minutes."
"I guess I should get Yeta ready. You coming, Zelda?"
"Yeah."
Both women followed the Sheikah teen back to the stables where their horses and wagon were. Ashei went to tend her horse. Zelda looked over to a nearby tree to see Link sitting against the base, arms crossed, napping. She went over to the young man, taking a moment to look at him.
"He looks so adorable when he sleeps. I hate to wake him up."
"Link? Link, wake up." He did not stir, clearly in a deep sleep. Zelda considers shaking him but gets a mischievous idea when she realizes they are close to the water. She went over and used her hands to cup water. She then splashed all over Link, and he woke with a jump, greeted by a giggling Zelda.
"Zelda! What's the big idea?!"
"You wouldn't wake up."
"You could've shaken me awake."
"This is more fun. Plus, consider it payback for that little prank you pulled when I was thirteen."
"That was five years ago. I thought you got over that?"
"I did. That doesn't mean I stop thinking of revenge. Now we're even. C'mon, we're leaving soon."
Link stood up, shaking the water off him, and followed Zelda to the horses. Sheik quickly noticed Link's wet state.
"What happened to you? Took a dip in the river?"
"Let's just say karma finally caught up to me," Link deadpanned.
"Okay...Anyways, have either of you seen Shad or Ilia?" The pair shook their heads. "Shad probably got carried away again. Could you find them and let them know we're leaving soon?"
"Sure. Hopefully, Ilia is still with him," Zelda said. "Come on, Link."
The pair walk close to the stable. They spot one of the stable hands, Leekah, nearby sweeping in the tent.
"Excuse me!" Link called the woman's attention. "Hi, we're looking for two of our friends. A blonde human girl and a Hylian with orange hair and glasses. Have you seen them?"
"Oh, those two? Yeah, I saw them go up Whistling Hill not too long ago." Leekah pointed to the ridge across the stable. "Just go over the ridge. I think they'll be there."
"Thank you," Zelda expressed.
Both friends went over to the steep ridge and managed to walk over it. Over it reveal a massive hill with a wide field of grass. On the top of the hill lay several treetops. They saw the teen and scholar near the top of the massive hill, to their relief. As they made their way near the top, they saw the pair gathering flowers.
"There's one! Oh, and another!" Ilia shouted excitedly as she picked several flowers. "I've never seen so many pretty flowers!"
"They certainly are pretty, but the flowers we have in Hyrule aren't just beautiful. They're also quite useful as ingredients for various things," Shad explained. "Safflinas, Thistles, and Armoranths are useful for medicines. Swift violets are great for seasoning foods. And Blue Nightshades are great for hearty meals."
"What's this one?" Ilia pointed over to a rather pretty-looking flower. Its petals were blue with white edges, blue anthers connected by green filaments, and a yellow stigma. It also seems connected to another flower that has yet to bloom. She reached her hand to touch it. "It's so pretty."
"Don't pluck it!" Shad said urgently. "That right there is the Silent Princess. It's a rare species of flower. This flower was once on the brink of extinction due to Hylians using them for its uses. Despite Hylian's efforts, they can never get them to grow domestically. The princess could only thrive out here, in the wild. The late Queen Lydia loved the flower so much that she helped make it a law for the flower to be a protected species. This flower was also my mother's favorite. She also contributed to the conservation of this flower. I help continue that legacy." Shad pulled out a small sketchbook. He showed her several pages with drawings that resembled the flower. "I document these flowers whenever I go. I have seen them from just outside of Hebra to Necluda."
"I never knew how much significance a flower can hold."
"Which is why I never pluck them. Fortunately, we can use plenty of other flowers around here." He looked up to the top of the hill with trees on top. "Why don't you check up there?"
"Okay."
The teen made her trek up the hill. Shad quickly sketched the flower before he finally noticed the Ordon pair.
"Ah, Link, Zelda, I didn't see you there."
"Sheik sent us. We're about to leave soon," Link told him.
"Already?" Shad pulls out a pocket watch. "Shoot! I didn't realize that much had already passed. I just need to finish up here."
"Those are some nice sketches," Zelda complimented.
"Oh, these? I've been sketching for a long time. While my father excelled as a scholar, my mother did the same as an artist. It's only natural I pick some traits from her. I made myself a personal compendium. Though I don't think I could measure up to her skills. I think even Ashei's drawings excel mine."
Zelda gave a light, amused giggle before composing herself. "Your drawings look great."
"Yeah, don't put yourself down. I think you're a good drawer," Link encourages.
"And I'm sure your mother, especially Ashei, would agree with us."
"Well...it's nice that you both think fondly of my drawings. Anyways, I just need to finish this. How 'bout you both help out Ilia? We'll be done quicker."
"Alright. C'mon, Zel, let's go pick some flowers."
The pair trek to the top of the hill where the group of trees lays. Through the wall of trees, they stop Ilia on the other side. Ilia stood still as if she were looking at something. Curious, the two friends made their way through the trees.
"Hey, Ilia. We're about to leave-" When they reached the other side, they could see what the teen was staring at.
Miles away in the distance across Hyrule Field stood a vast castle. Even though it was quite a distance away, the trio could tell the castle was a place to behold. In front of the castle lay many smaller buildings surrounded by a large wall. Even though the castle is far away, they can feel the dark aura surrounding it.
"That there is Hyrule Castle." The trio turned around to see Auru. "Forgive me for startling you three. You were taking a while, so I came here to check. I sent Shad back his way."
"Sorry," Ilia apologized as she gazed at the ground. "I felt this sudden...dred coming from over here."
"I suppose it's no coincidence that the castle just happened to come from that direction." Auru walked closer to them. "For thousands of years, Hyrule Castle was the home of Hylia's bloodline, the Royal Family. It was the very symbol of the kingdom. Now it houses Ganondorf Dragmire, the Scourge of Hyrule."
"And somewhere in the castle, Dad is in there," Zelda stated glumly.
"We'll save him, Zel. We have to," Link promised.
"Fortunately, we don't have to deal with it today. You three see that large mountain?" The Ordon looked in the direction of where Auru pointed at. In the distance is a large mountain that resembles a volcano, with lava trailing on all sides. "That right there is Death Mountain. Kakariko Village lies just at the base of it. That is where we are going next. I'm sure you three will like it. Let's get back to the others. We'll most likely make it by this evening if we leave now."
All four made their way through the trees and trekked down the hill. The dark that had struck the Ordon Trio still stuck with them. Hopefully, the rest of the trip to Kakariko will be uneventful.
Buckle up folks, these next several chapters are gonna have some worldbuilding!
Quick reminder that Hryule in this story is a mix of Ocarina of Time, Twilight Princess, and Breath of the Wild
Now I know I promise we see some familiar faces last time but this chapter went on longer than I anticipated (unless you're hardcore Breath of the Wild fans that knows every npc). So Kakariko will get it's own chapter.
Anyways, our heroes finally enter Hyrule. Next stop is Kakariko.
Trivia Time:
Riverside Stable is the same one in Breath of the Wild. There's also references to some of the memories from there
The names of the Sheik, Auru, Ashei, and Shad's horse should be familiar to hardcore fans, same with Auru & Sheik's cover names. Ashei's cover name "Salma" is just her name in Spanish. Shad's cover name "Milo" is named after Milo Thatch from Disney's Atlantis: The Lost Empire because they look alike. Link, Zelda, and Ilia's cover names should be obvious as well.
Link's civilian look is loosely based on his Breath of Wild look, with his champions tunic. Zelda's civilian clothes is based on concept art for Breath of the Wild as well. If you have the Creating a Champion book go to page 66 and it's the bottom left. And she has the same Breath of the Wild hair in her fieldwork getup.
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