Legend of Zelda: Hero of hyrule.
Hello welcome to the next chapter please enjoy.
Chapter start.
Hyrule Castle throne room.
Link stood before the great throne of the king. Gazing up at the mighty figure.
Even if maybe hours before he faces the king one on one and defeated him. Now standing before the king had Link shaking in his boots the Legendary green outfit contrasting with the red carpet he stood on.
And the gaze of the king was withering. Any lesser men would certainly cower beneath his might. As he contemplated the words his escort had said to him.
"Sir Groose this is the man you say is of destiny?"
The knight nodded "Yes sir I saw it myself he was the one who pulled The Master Sword out, he holds it as we speak.
The king nodded before he announced to Link "I require proof, draw The legendary blade before me if he speaks the truth your Triforce will resonate."
Link looked at Sir Groose who nodded, Link sighed as he drew the sword from his back. And held it out to the king. As stated on the back of his hand the Triforce did glow.
"That is all I require thank you." The king said
Link put The Master Sword away and looked at the king.
"I will admit that having you here is both a sign of hope and a bad omen. So I must be brief and need to prepare." The king sighed
"first as of this point I grant you the title as Knight of Hyrule, a privilege position which gives you many powers in court and unofficial marks you as Castle head of security. I grant this power because I believe you are worthy of it, hero. along with that a personal request."
Link looked up at the King who now had a more serious look about him.
"My daughter the crown Princess Zelda has unlocked her devine gift… a gift which terrifies her. I don't expect much for I fear there is not much that can be done, but I ask of you that you do whatever you can to help her."
Link bowed "I will do my best my lord." He said
The king nodded "then in the power invested in me I grant you the title of the princess's chosen bodyguard."
Link nodded "I will not fail you your highness."
The king nodded "very well you are dismissed, The crown Princess can be either found in her room or the perhaps her study." The king said
"I shall go and greet her now." Link said as he and Sir Groose left the throne room.
As they exited the room and the door shut Link let out a sigh of relief he wasn't aware he was holding in.
Sir Groose looked at him.
"Something wrong?" He asked
"Just… a lot to take in all at once."
Sir Groose nodded "Yes Sir but if anything I believe you're up to it. Don't forget the Knights will be with you entirely. The hero's is always said to have natrural leadership skills."
Link nodded "it's good that I have your backing otherwise I'd fear I'd be overwhelmed."
Sir Groose nodded "one of the reasons why we were created was to help ease the hero into his role."
Link nodded "I'm gonna need a daily routine for the knights so I know what to expect each day." Link said
"Sir Pipit will give it to you, that man can recite it from memory."
Link chuckled before they reached a closed door
"This the place?" Link asked
Groose nodded
"Wait for my return, if there is something the knights should be doing go ahead with that I'll catch up once I'm done." Link said
Sir Groose nodded and walked back down the hall as Link turned back to the door and was about to knock when the door opened and Impa stood on the other side.
"Ah you must be the hero." Impa said opening the door to the study
Link chuckled "I assume the outfit gave it away."
"I was watching the fight with the Demon below the castle, color me impressed by your skill. But yes the outfit does give it away."
"Not much in terms of stealth." Link said looking at his sleeves "may I come in?"
Impa opened the door
"The princess has already been informed of your arrival." Impa said
"And of my role?" Link asked as he stepped into the study a large library filling the room floor to ceiling and a maze of shelves.
"Role?" Impa asked
"I'm to be her personal bodyguard as well."
Impa bLinked "Well she could use some firends."
Link nodded "May you get her for me?"
Impa nodded "Wait here."
Link nodded as Impa left it was not long before she returned with the crown Princess by her side
Link could tell she was beautiful as she approched the Royal dress she wore fit her well a color of royal purple and white as she stood before Link.
From the look of her eyes Link could tell she recognized him that was good perhaps this first meeting would go rather well.
Zelda laid a hand on her hip giving of a snarky smirk "Well Mr hero." Zelda said
Link bowed "the honor is mine princess." Link said
"I'll admit…I'd thought you'd be taller."
Link and zelda looked at each other for a moment before they broke out into a good natured laugh.
"Come join me for tea why do you?"
Link nodded "I'd love too." He bowed before following Zelda deeper into her study.
In a nice crook in the corner of the study. Sat a small table seated for two near all the favorite books Zelda liked all in one spot. Off to the side was another chair this one occupied by Impa as the two sat across from each other talking.
"So Mr hero…"
"Link…I prefer Link, Princess." He said
"If you are Link then I'm Zelda."
Link nodded
"So what has father asked of you to do for me?"
"It's not much of a way I can say it but in essence he wishes for me to take care of you. I'm to be your accompanying bodyguard."
Zelda nodded "As I suspected. I have read into the history of the hero. But much of them are very vauge. But I assume the king has granted you other titles."
Link nodded "Yes the Honorable Knight of Hyrule for one and Head of castle security."
Zelda looked strained looking quickly at Impa in the corner before nodded "Very well."
Link noticed this and said "I admit it is not my intention to strangle you here in the castle both of us don't want that. I can see you value your freedom and I am also likewise busy but I will do my very best to assist you in whatever way I can. For your part it will seem as if nothing has changed."
Zelda nodded "thank you.
"May I speak to Impa alone?"
Zelda nodded as Link and Impa went back to the Entrance of the study.
"I assume the princess has other bodyguards to guard her besides yourself?"
Impa nodded
"Is she aware of them?"
"A few of them although not all."
Link nodded "Very well im not sure exactly how much time I'll have dedicated to the princess with my other duties but I'll."
"Impa!" Zelda's voice could be heard from the study.
"I'll see what I can come up with." Link said
"See that you do I understand that the princess is a bit much with your other duties hero but." Impa started
"Impa please!" Zelda called out.
"Excuse me." Impa said as she ran back to see Zelda Link followed
"Impa please!" Zelda said as the Triforce shined bright on her hand
Impa ran up to her "Princess breath."
"I'm trying." Zelda said panic was in her voice.
Impa reached over to embrace her right as she was about to touch her the Triforce shines brighter and Impa went flying. Smashing into bookshelf's and toppling over
"Impa!" Zelda screamed in panic seeing her firend hurt.
'No please no I can't I can't do this.' Zelda thought as she screwed her eyes shut. 'Please make it stop please make it stop.' Her ears were Ringing as her powers erupted more.
'Zelda…' a voice said to her. As the ringing started to fade away
'Zelda open your eyes.' The voice said
As she did so she found herself in her study again Link was infront of her blocking her view his hand was ontop of hers.
"L-Link." Zelda startled
"It's ok Zelda." Link said
Zelda looked down and saw the Triforce on his hand
"But Link I've."
"It's ok Zelda it doesn't hurt."
"But I've hurt Impa. Is she?"
"Impa is a lot tougher than she looks, look at me." Link said
"There is nothing wrong with you and no matter what I'm going to be here." He said
As they stood there looking at each other Zelda's powers began to fade as the Triforce faded away.
Link removed his hand from hers
"Feeling better?"
Zelda held her hand and nodded "much."
"I'm glad that sorted itself out." Impa said from the floor.
"Impa your ok!" Zelda said
Impa nodded. "I am Princess."
Link took a seat. And looked at Zelda.
"I believe we should talk about this." He said
"Is it not enough that everyone is ok?" Zelda asked
"Nothing against it infact om greatful. But I've been ordered to protect you."
Zelda scoffed "more like the king ordered you to kill me dhoulf I lose control of my powers." She said
"No I-!" Link called out.
"Princess!" Impa chastised her
"Don't lie to me!" Zelda barked leaving everyone silent
"Please of all things, please don't lie to me."
"Princess the king would never order that." Impa insisted
Slowly Link stood up
"I'll admit the king gave me one request…he asked me to help you find a way to control and your powers." Link said
Link grabbed Zelda's hand again "Your father would never order your death, he'll never give it and more to the point if he did I'd refuse it. Both myself and Impa will do whatever we can to help you." Link said
Zelda looked deep into Links eyes and sighed
"I don't believe you." She said as she pulled her hand away.
"Princess." Impa sighed
Link stood still for a second as Zelda turned away.
Then Link reached for his back and slowly drew his sword
Both women looked at Link with The Master Sword drawn.
Link held his hand out to the blade and slowly cut his palm open.
"Princess Zelda as your Friend, knight protector, and hero of legend I promise you that no matter what happens I will never intentionally harm you. Or so the gods strike me down where I stand." Link said finishing his oath the Triforce on his hand shined bright as it healed his hand and finishing the oath.
Both women looked stunned "a blood oath?"
Link nodded "to make you aware of how much I put into this." Link said
Zelda looked stunned at Link nodding
Link sat back down "Ok so I need to ask when did these power's develop?"
Impa and Zelda looked at each other before Impa turned to Link
"Well you see…" she began.
[Location unknown]
In a hidden location Master Kohga and Sooga were sitting around a table drinking tea legs crossed sitting on floor pillows.
"Master we are in position to strike." Sooga said as he took a sip.
Master Kohga took a calm sip of tea impassively "good."
There was a rumble of the Yiga clan's hideout which knocked over a few wall decorations and smashed the teapot on the ground. A booming Laugh echoed the chamber they were in, before it faded
"That was my favorite pot too." Master Kohga commented as Sooga looked to the door
"He gets stronger everyday."
Unfazed by the rumbling Master Kohga continued to sip
"Very soon he won't be able to train like this anymore we'll be spotted otherwise."
Suddenly the door of the hideout slammed open and a large Gerudo male stomped in he had a massive beard and long flowing hair down to his shoulders,
Master Kohga bowed to the man as he addressed him.
"Master Ganondorf how was training today?"
The Gerudo man stood before the two assassins
"It was uninteresting. My magic has gotten as far as I can without pushing myself harder. And doing so would risk injuring the members we have. It's time I gain a focus I require a sword." Ganondorf said
The two assassins seemed uninterested by the monologue as they looked to each other Master Kohga outstretched his hand to reveal a third tea cup full of tea
"Tea Master Ganon?"
Ganondorf looked to see the teapot was smashed underneath his feet as he kicked it aside and lowered himself calmly
"No." He declined
"What have you been discussing?" Ganon asked
"Oddly enough about the same issue you had."
"Any suggestions for how we can acquire more troops?"
"Several my men are stationed all over Gerudo town as we speak all we need is a signal and we can move to take the town, installing you as the head." Sooga said
Ganondorf stroked his beard "will they fight for me?"
"Gerudo worship power my lord, you have that not only that but you are the first male gerudo born in over 100 years if the women don't flock to you from your power, the sex will be appealing enough for them. Having pure blood Gerudo children again will definitely be a boon to the town." Master Kohga said
Ganondorf thought.
"Hmmm very well how soon can we march onto the town?"
"We can go now sir." Sooga said
Ganondorf nodded and stood up.
"Before then I'll need a weapon."
Master Kohga stood up "not to worry I have just the thing." He said before he walked away.
Ganondorf watched him go before the master assassin came back with a long wooden box
Master Kohga puts the box down allowing Ganondorf to open it
As he does so he looks to see the inside of the box is press fit in purple velvet
In the box was is a two-handed, totally white sword. Its guard is ornately crafted and shaped, and the handle has distinct ridges, to provide its wielder with a stronger grip. Ganondorf took out the sword and held it above him.
Before he swung it around cutting the air around him before he held it to his hip like he was sheathing it.
"Hmm I accept it." Ganon said
Master Kohga nodded "I'll get the sheath for it." He said before returning with a crude sheath Ganondorf slid the blade in the sheath which wasn't the best made causing it to rattle still Ganondorf was satisfied
"Now we March." He said as he turned to head out of the hideout.
Master Kohga and Sooga flanked him as they exited Karusa valley.
They made there march across the Gerudo desert
They arrived at Gerudo town within two days and they forced there way in With Ganondorf in the front being prominit as a Gerudo walked into the town unopposed.
Anyone who looked to attempt to put up a fight had a vicious sickle to there throat as the guards looked around to noticed many passing female travelers appered to be Yiga clansmen in desguised
Then they saw the man that lead them and several of the Gerudo guards felt there loins heat up at the prospect of the man infront of them.
Ganondorf for his part ingnored them as he walked straight into town unopposed and made a beeline for the throne.
The leader of the Gerudo sat on the throne sighing listing to several members of the town rant about there issues when suddenly a loud crash was heard
The guards turned around to see who caused it and drew there weapons.
After a tense moment the door folded in and Ganondorf stormed in.
The queen of at her feet in an instant "who are you state your business?!"
Ganondorf just raised his hand making the Queen fly into his grip by telekinesis as he held her by the neck
"I am Ganondorf! King of the Gerudo and I've come for my throne!"
The Queen snarled as ganondorf released her making her fall to her knees coughing.
The Queen looked up at the man "men are not permitted into the city!"
Ganondorf just smiled
"Guards seize him!" The Queen ordered
Ganondorf looked around almost temping the guards to attack him
After a few moments the gusrds lowered their pikes and swore feiltity to ganondorf
He then turned to the Queen "bow to me and I'll spare your life and rule."
The Queen sighed as she contemplated her choices looking around as everyone had betrayed her
She stood up and drew her sword charging at ganondorf
In an instant Ganon had drew the sword of six sages and beheaded the queen in a single stroke as the head rolled onto the ground.
Ganondorf then made his way to the throne and sat down looking over the palace with a smirk.
"Things are going to looking up from now on." He said
Hyrule castle…
Link sat in the knights barracks going over all the new information he had to process. He had to go over the knights daily regement, it's patrol duty and times, when they break for lunches, when training will be held. What type of weapons they will be working with, and don't forget horses and there riding training, and that's just his duty as the head of knights of the castle, he also was head of security and also Zelda's personnel bodyguard.
Fortunately for Link. Zelda had a marrade of personal at her beck and call several of them being Sheikah guards so while Link figured out what to do as head of security and the Knight commander her guards could handle her protection. Otherwise Link felt he'd had gone insane.
Right now Link was studying all the maps of hyrule castle and determining all the hidden passages an invading army or assassin could use to sneak in and kill the king or Zelda.
Links first order's as the captain of the Knights was to appoint Sir Groose as his second in command. Giving him much of the privileges he had before as the commander seeing as he had better knowledge of the Knights and there routine along with duties until Link was capable of taking control.
Link sighed as he strode over his table.
Suddenly his door opened and one of the knights Sir Anthony called to Link.
"Captain the King would like to see you in his throne room immediately."
Link stood up immediately on edge as he nodded and departed for the throne room.
He arrived and he noticed the the king wasn't on his throne instead one of the guards directed Link to a room offside the throne room where a military meeting was taking place.
Link looked around and noticed several men and women were sitting around the king holding itineraries. And wore regal robes. These were the Hyrule's ruling Council. A cabinet of officials appointed by the king and where to take his place as acting regents by democrat voting. Should the king pass and the heir of the throne (Zelda) not be in a position to make decisions
However with Zelda now 17 that possibility is now void but they still act as bureaucratic ministers for the day to day opprations of the kingdom's.
The king looked up
"Ah Sir Link please join us…" the king said
Link looked around feeling quiet out of place but nodded walking in and sitting down
"We were just descussing the ramifications of the recent uprising in Gerudo town." The king said
"There's been an uprising?" Link asked
The Chancellors looked at Link in shock.
"You didn't know?"
Link shrugged "I've been busy."
"With what?" One pushed
"Not relivant." The king said before bringing back the issue "we will bring you up to speed. The late Queen of the Gerudo has been killed it is unknown exactly who did it but there are rumors that the new leader is a Gerudo male. I believe you know what I'm trying to imply."
Link was on edge. Sense he became the hero he had been combing the Royal library for the tales of the hero and one theme kept popping up. Ganondorf was always a male Gerudo.
Link was on edge as he sticky nodded
"Then you are dismissed do what you need to do, you have the full resources of the castle at your back."
Link stood up and took a bow before he walked out of the room.
The king looked to his councilman "now you were saying…?" He asked one of the shiekah advisors spoje up.
"We've found a stone abundant in the kingdom that has the ability to produce its own power. It's believed that we could use it to develop weapons to fight back against evil should it arise again." The advisor said
The king nodded "very well inform Link about the development. Now onto religious topics High priestess of Hylia, is there anything of note?"
The group looked over to the empty spot in the room next to where Link previously occupied a spot that had a Triforce on it.
The spot was occupied by Zelda as the weilder of the Triforce of wisdom.
The king sighed "is there any news on how my daughter is dealing with her powers?"
"Ironically sir we believe the only reason she isn't in this meeting is because she's busy researching her powers." One minister said
"Explain." The king asked
"We don't know a lot but from what Impa told me is that after she had a conversation with Link she threw herself into her research."
The king nodded "very well we shall move on. We have more to descuss about the future of the kingdom.
Link walked into the Knights barracks and found Sir Groose sitting down at a desk
"Groose. I want you to call all the knights." Link said
"Sir?" Groose asked looking at Link
"Now Groose urgent meeting." Link said as he walked into his office and grabbed a map of the Kingdom of Hyrule.
Within the hour the knights were standing around the war table Link had the map out.
"This is everyone sir what's up?" Groose asked
Link sighed and scratched his hair.
"I've just received news from the king that Gerudo town has fallen into rebellion. And it's suspected that Ganondorf is the one now incharge of Gerudo town." Link said
The knights stood ridgedly
"As of now our training has a purpose we fight to defend hyrule. To defend our way of life." As of this moment I'm taking charge of the training. There will not be any slacking off. If you're not training or patroling your sleeping, understand?"
The knights nodded "this is no game anymore this is war and we must be prepared to fight it. Are you ready?" Link barked
"Sir yes Sir!" The 50 knights called back.
"Good here's the deal this next week I'll be watching as each of you train with Sir Groose. After that week I will be taking over. On my first day I'll give you your new patrol routes and partners you're assigned to." Link said
"Yes sir!" The knights said
"Good your dismissed." He said as he went back to look over the map.
As all the knights filtered out many of them descussing who they might be paired with Sir Groose stayed behind standing by the door quietly.
As the last of the boots left the room Link looked as if he hadn't noticed Sir Groose stayed behind.
"Is there something you wished to talk to me about Sir Groose?"
Groose stood at attention.
"Yes sir." He said
"Relax we're alone." Link said as the Knight stood at ease
"Sir what makes you believe that it's Ganondorf himself and not one of his lackies or something that causing Gerudo town to fail?"
Link sighed "I honestly don't, I just got word of his movement. But from what I've read this fits his playbook."
"There are sources?"
"Old Ancient scrolls in the royal library. But they do talk of Heroes like me rising up to face a major threat. All have mostly the same villain."
Sir Groose nodded "And you believe it's Ganondorf?"
"Ganondorf or Ganon as other texts call him. Yes and there's one key thing that drives it. In every incarnation of Ganon or Ganondorf he's told to always be a male Gerudo." Link said
"And the one to overthrow Gerudo town was a male Gerudo." Groose said
Link nodded. "Of course I could be speculating I'm not sure unless I find more sources."
Groose nodded crossing his arms.
"I think I might be able to help." The knight said
Link turned to Groose.
"Oh?" Link asked
"Follow me." Groose said as he lead Link away
After a bit they arrived at the Library of castle hyrule.
"Are you aware of the secret chambers in the library?"
Link looked around "I believe that one is a secret way to the Docks am I right?" Link said
Groose nodded "correct." He said before pointing to the bookcase infront of the stairs they just came down "behind there is the kings study." Before looking to the last one across the way from hidden entrance to the docks and here. This is a knight's secret." He said as he walked over and by pulling on a book a hidden section of the shelves one closed up by glass opened wide to reveal a small cranny as they entered they walked up the stairs on the left and found themselves in a second smaller library.
"This is the Royal library one where some of the darkest secrets of the crown are and many secret histories." Groose said
Link nodded Groose headed further into the royal library
"This is what I really wanted to show you." Groose said as he pulled on a book and the shelf spun out to reveal a cage and a third hidden library
"This is the hero's library. A library that is said that hold the histories of every single hero in the history of hyrule. If there is something you need to know it's likely here." Groose said
"Do you know what's inside?" Link asked
Groose shook his head "no…it's said only the one with the spirit of the hero can unlock the gate…whatever that means." Groose said
Link nodded and walked forward and grabbed one of the bars and upon grasping it Link's Triforce lit up and a loud clank was heard as the lock barring the gate fell off.
"I'm not to be disturbed." Link said
Groose nodded and stood there as Link walked in the gate shut behind him as well as the bookshelf sealing him in.
Link looked around the entire room was half the size of the kings study but it was far far older. Anchient scrolls and torn manuals were on the shelves and the room was full of stale air and dust. Infront of him was a lectern and a pedestal to hold a sword that was empty.
Link looked to the most prestine book on the shelf
Link opened it onto the licturn as it fell open natrually and read the following word's
"Spirit of the hero…you e come far to reach this goal. Place the blade that seal evil into the pedestal. So we can talk."
Link looked around to the pedestal again as his eyes laid on it he felt The Master Sword begin to vibrate.
Link drew The Master Sword from his back and held it before the pedestal it's blade glowing a vibrate blue.
Link sighed before he plunged the blade into the pedestal. He felt his body feel lighter as a bright light absorbed him and faded from existence.
"Link…"
"Link…"
"Link…open your eyes Link."
Link pulled his eyes open to find himself in a white void a skeleton in ancient looking armor peeling at the seems stood before him.
"Welcome Link. To the silent realm." The skeleton said
"A space held within The Master Sword where the souls of the previous owners of The blade are stored within."
Link looked around before his mind caught up to what the man said he stumbled in shock.
"Oh you picked up on that. I'll admit your a lot smarter that you seem it took me a full lifetime before I knew what that line fully entailed. I'm sure you have questions."
"Just one for now how do you know my name?"
The skeleton stood still for a moment. Before laughing.
"Hahahaha on such a simple question yet so complicated to answer. But I'll try to tell it simply. The reason I know what your name is. Is because that was my name." The skeleton said now identified as Link as well.
"I'm sure you know what this means but I'm afraid we can't share this revelation right now this is only a small tour and greetings. You have more important things you have to be doing. Just know that if you ever need advice or help on anything we are here to give it. Good luck with banishing evil Link." The undead Link said before a blinding flash of light engulfed them both and Link found himself back in the heroes Library.
Link drew The Master Sword from the pedestal and sighed before he left the library.
He had training to do with the knights.
Within the week Link was incharge of training. And he was strict. He made the knights run around the castle grounds in full armor. Push-ups and stretches before they were allowed to draw there swords and begin drills.
It was then Link drilled them rigorously as they
This had gone on for a full month
During that month Link wasn't idle either he vigorously researched into Ganon and his history from both the Royal and hero library. He had a good understanding of Gabon's operations morandam and felt confident in able to counter it.
He just had to get his knights ready before Ganon got his moblins Bokoblins and other forces under his command and organize.
Today he was drilling the knights in the grueling sun as they swung weighted training weapons in drills.
Link watched the drills in inpassibitivity they were good but they could be better. He wanted these knights to be the crack force that hyrule could count on. He wanted to know that they would have his back should worst come to worst.
As Link looked over the field he noticed the king and his entourage were approaching him
Link turned to face the king "your majesty." Link nodded
"Captain Link may you accompany us for a bit?" The king asked
Link nodded "yes your highness one moment." Link said before he turned to the troops
"And rest!" He barked
There was a clattering of steel hitting the ground as the knights looked exhausted from the training. However Link noticed that while they looked outright rebellious they cooled their tongue.
Link sighed as he noticed this "I will return in a bit in that time I want you to get your horses ready and prepare yourself for Mounted drills."
Link noticed the men sigh but not an audible groan could be heard. Link nodded and took pity on them. "And take a 5 minute break. I'll return soon." He said as he turned away and followed the king. Leaving Groose in charge of order while he was gone.
"Where are we off to?"
"My shiekah advisors have something to show us for the defense of the kingdom I wanted you here as Head of security." The king said
Link nodded as they headed out to an empty field
In said field 3 to 5 shrinkage scientists stood around a metal mech about the size of a person with 4 equally Apache's mechanical legs and a single eye on the face of the bulbous dome.
"What is this?" Link asked looking at the mech.
"This is the guardian project." One of the sheakah scientists said.
"A proof of concept design right now. That may be used in the future to protect hyrule." Another said looking over complicated charts and panal's
"How does it work?" Link asked.
The researcherlooked to each other before looking at the king who nodded as they began to explain.
"It's luminous Stone. We've been able to process it and allow it to conduct a charge, we can use it to power machines such as this one before you."
Link watched as the sheikah went about doing pre activation drills and checklists as Link looked over to the king.
"Do you have any idea what they plan to accomplish with this?" He asked
"Your guess is as good as mine." The king said
"Sire we are ready to perform the test." The Sheikah said
Link looked skeptical at the machine as the king nodded "very well we shall proceed." He ordered
The sheikah scientists nodded "begin test one." He said as one of the scientists flipped up a switch on the panal.
"What's does the test's entail?" Link asked
"Well honestly we just started with simi automimous mech's at this point. We're testing its balance around All sort of terrain for right now." He said
"And what is the main goal of this project?"
"As we said it's meant to help protect Hyrule and its people, and more or less aid you hero in defeating the coming evil, if we are lucky it will help us tip the scale against Ganondorf."
"What other tests are planned for today?" The king asked
"After the walking test we have a firing test and then an IFF reader before we take it off the test bench and run the tests again." The sheakah Head researchersaid
"It has weapons on it?" Link asked
"It has one Self defense Point defense unit in its optical sensor right on the head there." One of the scientists said
The king looked at Link "what do you think hero?"
"I'm reserving my judgment until after the tests." Link said with his arms crossed.
The king nodded before looking back at the sheikah "you may proceed when ready."
The head sheikah nodded "first we will do the walking test on straight ground here before we will swap for more mountains standin's and swarm. Before finally shifting to desert sand." The sheikah announced
The king and Link watched as the Guardian made its way across all obstacles only getting stuck on a few points in the mountains as it was flipped over several times.
"Write down the results, Guardian mark ones unusable for mountainous terrain due to lift yields but are In acceptable tolerances to be deployed in marshes, Deserts and flat planes." The head Sheikah said as one of the 3 assistants wrote the information down on a tablet.
"Next we will move onto Point defense testing." The head Sheikah said as a switch was flipped and the iris of the guardian lit up blue
"Sir optical sensor online." One of the assistants said.
"Engage the generator." The head researchersaid
"Sir targets are all set up down range." One assistant said coming back from the field as Link looked down to see 3 Archery targets set up in a row.
The head Sheikah looked to the king for permission. With a nod the test proceeded
"Activate manual targeting." The head researchersaid
Link looked over to the Systems computer as the tablet that the assistant was holding was now on the table with a screen now showing what the optical lense was looking at namely Link and the King.
"Manual targeting engaged." The assistant said
"Eyes on target." The head researchersaid
Link watched as the head of the Guardian rotated until it was facing down the archery targets.
"Prepare firing solution." The head researchersaid
Link watched the guardian as a loud hum sounded from the mech as it gathered energy as the optical lense shined brighter and brighter.
"Energy levels steady." The third assistant monitor's safety guidelines said giving the thumbs up.
"Fire when ready." The head researchersaid
"Firing." The assistant echoed
There was a bright bing as a laser shot from the Optical lense and impacted right in the middle of the straw Archery target covering it in smoke
As the dust cleared the entire middle area of the target had vanished being destroyed and the inner straw was singed from the heat of the laser.
"Situation report?" The head Sheikah asked
"Energy levels rising back up to ldilying levels… levels reached… and holding. Success." The assistant said
"Move to next target."
Link watched as the guardian looked at the second archery target and the hum began to build up again before the laser fired again another direct hit.
"Move to final target."
Like the last two times the guardian obliterated the archery target with ease.
"Ok deactivate manual targeting lets test IFF Reader." The head Sheikah said
"Deactivating point defense array." The assistant said as the Iris dimmed back into grey
"Scanning for hostiles." The assistant's said
Link looked over to see the Guardian was scanning the area on its own as it looked around. Before the guardian turned around to face them.
"Guardian has spotted us." The assistant said
The guardian let out a clicking sound as a laser pointed out towards them moving from one body to another.
"Scanning for hostile's." The assistant said
After a tense moment the Laser deactivated and the Guardian sat still.
"No hostiles detected." The assistant said
"Ok then test completed let's take it off the leash and give it the gauntlet." The head researchersaid
"Whats this test about?"
"We're testing its semi autonomy function. We will go through the same tests again just this time the guardian will not be controlled by us." The head Sheikah said
The king nodded.
After another 30 minutes the tests was done and it passed with flying colors.
"Shut it down and prepare to move it into storage." The head researchersaid as he headed over to the king and Link.
"So how did you like it?"
The king smiled impressed "I believe it will be great Ganondorf won't know what hit him." He said before looking to Link.
"What about you?"
Link however was more skeptical
"I'm not so sure I want to do one more test first before I make my judgment." Link said
The Sheikah researchernodded "very well what do you want it to do?"
"I want to fight it." Link said
The Sheikah looked stunned "sir?!" He asked
Link was already moving towards the guardian "you heard me make it register me as hostile and have it fight me."
The Sheikah looked around looking for the king's permission to which he nodded
"Fine. You two set the Guardian back up for one more test." He said to his assistants
"what's the test Sir?" The assistant asked
"Combat trial against the hero." The head researcher said
After five minutes the test was ready Link held the Master Sword in one hand and his shield out in the other.
"Test is ready when you are." The head researcher said
Link nodded "I want it autonomous." Link said
The assistant's nodded and stepped away from the controls.
"When I press this button it will attack you. Are you ready?"
Link nodded
"Begin!" The Sheikah said as he pushed the button
The Guardian scanned the area and laid eyes on Link in second as it began charging up the laser.
Link rushed forward hiding behind his shield trying to close distance as fast as possible.
The laser fired and at the last moment Link jumped to the left to avoid the blast as he landed on his feet and kept moving the guardian charged up another shot
Link was on the guardian faster taking two swings as the shell knocking it back and nearly over as the laser fired upwards towards the sky harmlessly.
The guardian readjusted and began to move around the battlefield as Link approached it again however this time the guardian kept its distance as it charged its laser before it stopped to actually power it up
Link nearly crossed the distance as the laser fired zooming towards Link in the bLink of an eye.
Link threw out his shield arm and like a Bat to a baseball the laser flew back at the Guardian making the machine overload before it exploded in a huge explosion.
Link put his shield and sword away disappointed in the test.
The Sheikah research team ran up to Link awestruck
"What did you do?!" The head researcher asked
Link didn't give the researcher the light of day as he spun on a dime and marched straight to the king.
The king had his arms crossed looking at the wreckage Link made
"Well?" He asked
"It's a good proof of concept but that's about it. Ganondorf can easily overpower them as it is right now. I don't feel good about fielding those things until they can defeat me." Link said
The king nodded "agreed."
The research team walked back up to the king with the piles of scrap in their hands.
"My lord, the hero he."
"I saw exactly what happened. And it happens I agree with Link's assessment of the situation." He said looking to the hero who stepped forward
"It's a good proof of concept and I commend you for that however Ganondorf would easily be able to overpower that thing as it is now. If you can make a Guardian that can defeat me in combat then I'll give it my approval." Link said
The Sheikah looked at Link awestruck by the demand "my king surely you can't-!"
"As I said I agree with Link on this, improve the design and then we will go from there." The king said as he walked away.
The researcher looked stunned before turning to Link.
"You! How dare you?!" He snarled
"I'm doing what I can to protect this kingdom. And I'd like to have these things by my side but I won't have them as a liability. If you can make a guardian that can defeat me in combat I will make it worth while for you." Link said to light a fire under the scientist.
The Sheikah snarked "you will regret this."
Link smiled, "I hope I do." He said walking away. He looked back at the castle and saw a figure standing by one window corresponding to the crown princesses room
From her room Zelda watched as Link crossed the field before heading up the stairs and entering the keep proper.
Zelda smiled as she walked away and sat by her table and poured some tea for herself and one other
A few moments later her door opened and Link walked in
"Did you have to humiliate the Sheikah scientist like that? They were so proud of there work." She commented not looking back at the door.
Link smiled and crossed the room
"Your safety is my priority I will not have you in danger my subpar equipment." Link said as he sat down across from her and picked up his teacup which Zelda poured out for him.
"How is your training?
"Good." Link said as he rolled his shoulder to ease an ach he earned before he called the knights to spar.
"And your knights?" Zelda asked
"They get better each day. A feel in a few more months a few of them may be able to best me." He said
Zelda looked at Link lightly insulted
"Are you trying to imply we have the wrong hero?"
Link gasped and waved his hand infront if his face as if to stop himself from fainting "oh never I'm just stating that should I do fall one of them would be able to pick up my torch."
Zelda scoffed and looked away "well that's fair I suppose." She said in a huff before falling away to her more silent demeanor as she bunched her hands around her dress.
"Seeing you out there… with them. Acting as a knight should be, I feel safe and yet, I still worry." She said
She felt a hand touch her's as she looked up to see Link kneeling before her
"Hey…I don't plan on going anywhere. I plan to kick Ganon's ass come back to a grand triumph, be lorded for my deeds with young girls flinging themselves at me screaming "Mr hero, Mr hero you saved us, mr hero!"
Link's voice cracked several times trying to play young madiens but his ploy was successful as Zelda slapped him on the shoulder.
"Only you would think that women would be flinging themselves at you, you damn narcissist. But wait, your not, you hate the spotlight!" Zelda laughed
Link chuckled as he scratched the back of his head
"yeah fine, guilty, I lied." He said with a smile
Zelda chuckled "well Mr hero…lying is very unbecoming of a future savior of Hyrule."
Link sighed as he looked out the window at the peaceful sight of Zelda's room.
His thoughts were interrupted by a kiss on the cheek.
"But I'll see what I can do about that triumph." Zelda said with a teasing look in her eyes.
Link sputtered shocked about the foreword ness of the princess was she teasing? Was it a joke? No emotions later saving hyrule from Ganon comes first.
Link got his radiant blush under control as he looked at the Princess and asked
"Speaking of princess how goes your training?"
Zelda's demo or shifted down again "it's um…it's progress." She said mutedly
Link just let her talk about the update.
"I Um, I'm no longer fearful of my powers but I'm still unable to control them." Zelda said
"And your afraid it's going to run loose." Link said
Zelda shifted to a prideful princess to a scaired little girl in a instant as Link found himself wrapping his arms around her.
"It's ok we'll get past it." Link comforted her.
"I know what my father says is true. That 'training with your powers will get you more use to your powers, and fear will fade away in time with more control.' But I just can't seem to start." She said
Link just sat there as Zelda laid her head on his shoulder
They stayed there for a few minutes until the door to her room opened
Link snapped a look over to see one of the servants bringing Zelda her lunch.
She froze in the doorway seeing the scandalous sight.
She was about to run to the king when a hand was touched on her sholder and there stood Impa.
It was clear she was there the entire time as an understanding smile graced her face.
The servant put down the food and bud herself out.
Finally Zelda and Link separated
"Thank you Impa." Link said to the Sheikah while Zelda refused to say anything although from a glance Link noticed a hint of pink of the princesses cheeks
"Expect the rumors to hit by tomorrow." Impa said
Link sighed "I expect all of castle town to know by the weeks end."
"I'm sorry..." Zelda started but Link hushed her with a kiss to her hand
"Don't. I heard them approaching." He revealed as he stood up.
"I need to get back out there to oversee Horseman ship drills." He said
Zelda perked up at that
"May I watch?" She asked
Link shrugged "there won't be much to see just a few hours of Swinging weapons on horses and maybe a few light jousts." He said
Zelda however had a light of passion in her eyes.
Link rolled her eyes unable to say no, "ok ok but only if Impa accompanies you and you stay far from the training grounds." He relented
Zelda nods and stands up "I'm gonna change." She said before she made her way around the clothing screen.
Link sighed as Impa put a hand on his shoulder
"Good luck with that one." She said
Link nodded "I'm gonna head out. I'll meet you at West Hyrule Fields." He said
Within 30 minutes Link was riding Epona and watched as the knights drilled with Swords, Shields, Spears and Halberds while on horseback. Smacking the straw dummies with loud thumps as straw piled around the dummies
In another section a few riders were riding back and forth with Bows shooting targets
From a sloped side of the hill Link watched it all and noticed who was riding better than others
For one unsurprisingly was Groose the Ex-captain was very diligent not only in training his comrades but also his own, like Link he threw everything he had into training almost passing out numerous times before Link had to pull him aside to take a break.
Others were Sir Anthony, two years Links Senor in term of being admitted to the knights he was probably the best Rider of all the knights and could probably outrace Link on Epona on a bad day. The man was a whirlwind.
Then surprisingly the last one that caught Links attention was in fact Orerick the recent Knight elect member might be new and might have been a bully when they first met, but damn was his arrogance well founded
Like Link, Orerick happened to take anything with the knights like a fish to water. Sparring against dummies, sparring against other knights using different weapons, with rage advantage and disadvantage, riding, riding with weapons. Fighting on horseback.
We're it not for the fact Link knew he had the Triforce he'd suspect Orerick was the prophesied hero reborn.
That said Orerick wasn't infallible he'd seen numerous times that he'd been beaten in battle.
The knights are moving up to where Link would like them.
The knight captain looked back to the top of the hill and saw Zelda and Impa watching the training Zelda engrossed in the entire thing and Impa acting as a bodyguard scanning the area for any incoming threats.
Link tapped Epona "let's rally the knights and begin Joisting." He said
Epona neighed and trotted forward as Link bellowed to his knights
"Knights to me!"
Instantly all the clattering fell away as the knights pivoted there horses and trotted to Link's location.
"You've done very well today in drills. Now I believe it's a good chance to reward you with some action." He said as he looked over to the archery fence.
"Sir Anthony, Sir Pippin, take down the Archery targets. Sir Krane go to the storage shed and get the Jousting pikes. Everyone else suit up for jousting!" Link called
The knights cheered. One of there favorite activities was the impromptu joust half test of skill half showing off it was a way for a knight to get themselves more "honor." in the knights ranks.
Link called out to the knights "I want it clean today people we got a guest." Link said
The knights looked past Link and noticed the princess on the hill as each of them went to get suited up.
Up on the hill Zelda noticed the knights were leaving
"Oh is training over already?" She asked
Impa looked over "let's ask Link, he's heading this way now."
Indeed Link was riding up the hill to meet them.
"Princess." Link said
"Sir Link is training over for the day?" Zelda asked
Link shook his head "No I've put together a impromptu joust."
Zelda smiled "of a joust Link you sure know how to be a gentleman." Zelda said with a hand on her chest.
Link smiled "why thank you." He looked over to the field where they were setting up the fence
"Would you like to move closer?" He asked
"Oh well infact I just might Impa?" Zelda said to the Sheikah who nodded as they made their way down hill.
Link rode ahead to talk to Groose who was the first one out
"How are they?" Link asked
"Excited but tired I don't think anyone is awake enough to cheat today." Groose said
Link nodded as they rode together
"How's the princess?" Groose asked with a grin on his face.
Link rolled his eyes "excited to see us in action I hope we all do well." Link said
"I don't think anyone is willing to take a punishment for something like this." Groose said
Indeed Link had a very unique way of dishing out punishment's normally they were few and far between and he only had to mention what the exact punishment would be to keep people in line.
While Groose was more a displinarian usally forcing knights to train in full armor Link was more pragmatic. He wanted the knights not only to learn but also gain good skills too so for his punishment the knights would again have to suit up and then fight Link, in the scortching sun and the bout would not end until the knight had scored a single hit on the captain.
Knowing that Link was a prodigy in combat let alone the hero knew that being forced to fight Link would be a death sentence. And everyone had no imagination that they'd sooner pass out than score a hit.
Link looked over "I'm gonna get my stuff together I'll join you in a second." He said as he rode away.
"You'll be jousting too?" Groose asked
Link looked back "Of course Epona has to stretch her legs too you know."
Groose sighed knowing that Link will really see what's going on.
In the barracks the knights were talking while sliding there jousting armor on.
"Goddesses I ache." One knight said
"Yeah but at least we are jousting." Another argued
"So what, we're exhausted. I feel that The captain is more about his image than anything else. I wish Groose was back in charge."
A couple of nods and grunts echoed across the room as they looked to see everyone was feeling the same way.
"Is that how you all feel?" A voice cut through the crowd in an instant
All the knights looked back to see Link by the door holding his jousting Chestplate in his hands his face was impassive.
"C-captain." The knight sitting down said
Link stepped forward, cutting him off as he looked everyone in the eyes.
No one met his gaze as they avirted there eyes in shame.
The only one who didn't was Orerick. Which was funny as He was the only one who didn't speak up with the other knights.
"We will discuss this later, for right now I don't want a single mention of this infront of the Princess, am I understood?" Link said he didn't raise his voice, he didn't snarl, he didn't stomp around.
But it was clear to all the knights Link. Was. Pissed. A silent brooding anger fermented inside him.
They had no idea what he had planned but they knew it wasn't good.
Link walked out of the barracks leaving the men in there stunned.
Groose knew Link found out when he saw him walk out holding the paldron for the jousting Sir Groose lowered his head in shame.
"I'm sorry sir." He said as Link walked up to him
"You knew?" Link asked Groose dared not look up to see the face of betrayal on his face.
"We will discuss this later tonight for now, we joust." Link said
The joust went around in a round robin match. Where in the end the final winner would face against Link,
The final match was set between Groose and Orerick as the two men clashed time after time neither of them able to slip there Lance past their opponents shield
After the grueling 30 minutes it was Groose that was flung off his horse in a shocking twist.
Orerick was off his horse and ran to his opponent to check to see if he was okay as Link rode to them.
Link stood above them as Orerick took off Grooses Helmet and checked his pulse.
"Well?" He asked
Orerick sighed "he's alive but exhausted." He said
Link nodded and pointed to two nearby knights.
"Bring Sir Groose in the shade perch him up against the wall." Link said the knights complied
Link turned to Orerick "congratulations you won the joust. Are you ready to face me?" Link asked
Orerick nodded
Link grabbed his helmet and tapped Epona to get in position grabbing his Lance and stuffing it under his arm.
The two men looked at each other and waited for the moment for the joust to begin.
"Ready Go!" One of the knights acting as the announcer said as the two spurred off towards each other.
Link and Orerick leveled out their lances and clashed with insane speed both men felt a jolt as the Lance struck home but neither men fell off their horse. They were in this to win.
Both horses turned around to reorient themselves as they charged off again.
This time Link noticed Orerick's Lance dip trying to get under Links guard but he countered with his own Lance
Both sticks clashed and a crunch of wood was heard as the men blitz's past each other.
Link looked to see his Lance was snapped in half seeing it unusable Link tossed the other half away and reached up for The Master Sword on his back.
The knights were looking intently at the battle now they didn't expect Link's Lance to break now he had to fight Orerick with a disadvantage in range.
Orerick reeled his horse around.
"Do you wanna stop sir?" He called
Link shook his head "No not really." Link said
Orerick sighed now worried of injuring his captain but shrugged "very well here I come." And the charge began.
Link matched speed with Orerick bending down, almost becoming one with Epona.
Link held The Master Sword outwards cutting the air as they rode and right as they were about to clash Link slid a Backhanded cut upwards getting under the Lance and forcing it out of Orericks hands.
The knights were stunned as the Lance landed out of play Orerick looked to his now empty hand shocked before looking up at Link
"Well played sir." He said
Link nodded "now show me what you can do."
Orerick drew his own sword, the replica Master sword versus the real deal.
Of course the tool doesn't matter, it's up to the knight in question.
Both knights reeled their horses back in there hind legs before charging full gallop at blazing speeds the fastest that either of the knights had seen it truly looked as if they had the intent to kill.
Three clangs were heard as the knights slid past each other
Link had his shield protecting his face while Orerick had his shield extended out in a parry
No one had hit.
They spun around and charged again
This time four hits ending with both men holding there blades outwards
Again this time a bind.
Again and again
Both were evenly matched.
Finally after 3 minutes Orerick dropped his sword and slid off his saddle
Link looked over the battlefield at his downed opponent as he sheathed The Master Sword he took a glance to his hand and found it glowing with the Triforce on it.
Link called to the end of the joust and that the knights were dismissed.
As the knights left to take off their gear Link noticed Zelda and Impa heading back towards the castle
Link nodded to Orerick as a silent dismissal
The knight kindly accepted as he went to take off his gear.
Link looked to the castle to see Groose was awake he heard metal clanking and saw Orerick picking himself up from the ground.
Later that night Link was in his office looking over a map of Greater Hyrule
A knock came from the door as Link looked up
"Enter." He said
The door opened and Groose walked in.
"Shut the door." Link said calmly.
Groose did so and stood At attention before Link.
"Captain." Groose said awaiting punishment.
"Groose." Link said as he motioned to the chair.
Groose looked down at it and sat down
"Link." Groose said relaxing a bit.
"I'll be honest I knew this day would come." He said still looking at the map.
"Sir?" Groose asked
"The revolting." Link said looking at Groose
"I know I'm a brutal trainer, in fact that's the point. I'm like this as a way to break the men, I just didn't expect them to do this so soon." Link said
Groose nodded "I understand Sir." He said
"Do you?" Link asked looking up Groose's eyes met Link's
"Because I'm not mad." He said
"Your not?" Groose asked
"No quiet the opposite. The fact is the men are ready. And tomorrow I'm gonna prove it." Link said with a grin as he walked over to a suit of armor in his office.
Groose looked at Link. "Sir what are you going to do tomorrow?"
"Make an example…you may go now Groose."
"Yes sir." Groose said as he crossed the room
Upon opening the door Link began ranting and yelling playing up his fake rage to convince the troops exactly how angry he was as he threw the armored knight against the wall scattering the Armor across the ground
Groose shut the door behind him as he left the office and noticed the terrified looks on the knight's faces.
(Eoc)