Chapter 20: Heights

Rusl kept giving skeptical looks to Shad who kept rambling as he moved from a strange rod that Link had laid out on the table to his scriptures. By pure luck they had found a strange mechanism under the Shaman's shed that had very familiar scripts to the scholar. Kagome seemed to be the only one understanding him as she kept writing something in parchment.

He noted that the young girl had deep dark circles under her eyes, like if she had not slept the whole night. He could feel the stressful air in the room, which he could only think of one reason.

He paid attention as Ilia came in with a tray of hot teas. Miroku moved to help her quickly, which she returned the gesture with a radiant smile. He saw the way she touched Link's shoulder and leaned slightly in as she handed him his cup. Link turned to her and gave her a small smile as he went back to listen to Shad's rambling. He could tell she was curious as to what the conversation was about, as she now had more of an understanding of what Link was doing. She sat next to him and looked at the parchments as well.

He noticed the sigh that left Kagome's lips, "I'm going to go and check on Shippo."

He saw the way Link's blue eyes followed her form, but her eyes were set forward.

Bingo.

She took a deep breath the moment she was outside. That indeed she needed to check on Shippo was true, but she needed to leave the room if Ilia was going to be there.

She didn't hate her. But her heart couldn't bear it.

She still couldn't bring herself to say anything to anyone about her encounter last night. It felt like a nightmare.

However, knowing that he knew exactly how they got there and could even show her a glimpse of her sibling worried her deeply. As much as her heart was hurting, she knew what her decision was and needed to stick with it.

She found Shippo with Kirara with the village kids. They were laughing and talking amongst themselves.

That's the distraction she needed, "Hey guys! Want me to teach you a game?"

"You gotta be kidding me."

"But I'm not."

"Link, that's a piece of junk."

"It's here for a reason!"

"I mean it could work…"

"Miroku, it's a crazy analogy!"

"You heard what Shad said earlier," Link said as he walked towards the cannon, "To the heavens is thee who possess the Dominion Rod. The old man down at Lake Hylia can fix it. He has one himself."

Sango was biting her lip, "But does that mean we are going to be launched up to the heavens? What if there's nothing there? it'd be our death."

"We have to try," Kagome finally said after getting back from the children, "Midna, can you take it to that man at the lake?"

The imp came out of the shadow with a nod. Her magic engulfed the cannon to take it to Lake Hylia, but she purposely targeted Link and Kagome to come along to talk to the man. Both of their eyes widened, but it was too late to step back.

The sun was shining brightly when they arrived. The water was so translucent that it kept reflecting the light. Kagome didn't say anything as she went down the small pier to speak with Fyer, who immediately recognized her.

His eyes were huge at the sight of the cannon as she explained to him it needed repairs. He followed her, circling around the ancient machine as his excitement grew.

"I can repair it, but it would take me about four days and I'd need an advanced payment."

Link's eyes darkened, at one, the mention that it would take a few days for it to be ready, and that the man was already expecting money.

"How much?"

"300 rupees young lad."

Kagome shook her head, "How sure are you that you can repair it? Clearly this is an ancient device. What if you can't? We'll give you half of that and the rest once it's ready."

The short stubby man wasn't pleased but he always had a hard time saying no to a pretty face. Reluctantly he agreed with her conditions.

She sighed in relief as she saw him going back to grab tools, leaving her and Link alone.

She really did not want to be alone with him, but clearly Midna had other thoughts. She didn't want to discuss anything. Her heart was torn in two, and not just because of what she witnessed the night prior.

"We have to go to Telma's," he cut the silence, "I need to get her updated on everything and what's to come."

His voice sounded deeper than usual, she just knew he was holding back what he wanted to say. She simply nodded as Midna came out with an eye roll and transported them to Castle Town.

They still remained quiet, but the imp was suffocating with the tension. She understood why Link was not saying anything, as Inuyasha had spoken to him one on one after finding Kagome shaken up.

It was still a mystery to her on what happened. She was as pale as the moon, her eyes shining in fear and anxiety. She was visibly shaking. She was sure she was hiding something, but she was silent about the whole thing.

She still deemed both humans equally as stubborn.

Castle Town seemed to be a bit more frantic and it was noticeable there were a bit of less people in town. It made it easier for them to reach Telma's bar.

The busty woman clapped her hands excitedly when she saw them coming in. It had been weeks since their last encounter, she's been worried sick for them.

She made them sit at the group's table, which was surprisingly empty at the moment. She brought a herbal tea to Kagome and a mug of beer to Link.

She waved off the look he gave her, "Honey you haven't seen yourself. You need it."

She grinned as he sighed and took a sip, "Now how's everyone doing? Kagome I can see that bandage on your shoulder, is that healed already? If Renado didn't treat that properly he's gonna hear it from me. How's my sweet Ilia doing?"

Kagome placed a hand on her shoulder, "It's almost fully healed, it was an arrow."

"You're so brave for a young soul."

"Ilia regained her memory," Link said softly, staring at the mug in his hands, "Just yesterday."

"Oh goddesses!" Telma exclaimed, "That is wonderful to hear!"

He barely managed a smile to not raise suspicion, "Yeah. I would've hoped that her father would've joined us in Kakariko. Which is why I wanted to talk to you about. Where's Ashei? And Auru?"

"They actually went to meet with The General. Ever since he spoke with you, he's been very adamant to being helpful here. They're over at the south entrance."

Link nodded as he stood, "I need to talk to him, I won't be long."

The last part was directed towards Kagome, but the young girl did not even look at him. He didn't wait for a response, but rather left abruptly.

Telma was about twenty years older and had seen several things in her life. Experienced things, especially in the relationship department.

"Honey… that man looks absolutely heartbroken. What happened?"

Kagome couldn't bring herself to say anything.

"It has to do with Ilia regaining her memory right?"

She swallowed, "Yes, it's just," she took a deep breath, "It's my fault. I got caught in a fantasy."

She felt Telma's hand over hers, making her eyes burn.

"I can tell you this much for the time I've known Ilia since she came into my bar and when Link saw her. He cares deeply for that girl. Would lay his life for her," she squeezed her hand, "The way that man looks at you, it's different. He is willing to defeat anything and anyone. He is willing to kill whoever tries anything against you. His eyes are like a wolf, don't underestimate what he feels for you."

Kagome looked down again, "I can't do it. I have to go back home."

"I know honey, I understand you have your own responsibilities. But don't fight your heart. That's a battle you're going to lose. Give him a chance to explain."

The days came and went after taking the cannon and speaking to Telma. Link had been able to speak with The General as well as with Ashei and Auru. He expressed his concerns over the remaining townsfolk. He did not mention anything about Ganondorf as he did not want to raise their panic, but he advised them that a battle was soon to unfold and the less innocent lives around, the better. He couldn't give them a time frame, but it was to be within the next few weeks.

Ashei took the time that they were outside to ask Link for a sparring session. His body was still recovering from the previous time at the Temple of Time but he could not say no to the young warrior. He knew if he didn't prove himself to her now, he would never gain her respect. Not that he needed it, but her little side comments were getting on his last nerve.

She was a formidable opponent, that he could give her credit for.

Auru was not at all surprised to see that she lost.

It was now the morning of the fourth day and the group was getting ready to depart. Renado proportioned clothes as the Feudal group were on their last set after re-washing their clothing any time they could get. Inuyasha remained to be the only one in his Feudal clothing though, as he refused to wear shoes.

Miroku gripped his staff as they all went outside, "I think I should stay."

Sango turned to him, "What? Why?"

"We have more people here. This village is now a target. My wind tunnel can get rid of several if it's needed. Shippo can stay with me. We can both patrol the entrances."

Shippo's chest puffed up at the mention of staying behind and protecting the village, "Uli's daughter is so tiny too. I'll protect them."

Link genuinely smiled at the small fox demon, appreciative of his courageous approach.

Sango nodded, "I can stay behind too. Kagome, take Kirara with you."

The cat demon immediately jumped on Kagome's arms, "Are you sure Sango?"

The demon slayer nodded, "Besides, I don't get to be thrown into the sky by the cannon. You can let me know how that is later."

Kagome gave her a look but chuckled, "You've gone through worse."

"That doesn't mean I like it."

Inuyasha was leaning against the wall, "I'll stay too. I can go to Prince Renali, warn the Zoras so they're ready."

Kagome's head whirled to him, "What?"

"Kid lost his mother already, he can't lose the rest of his tribe either. They should at least be warned."

But before she could say something to plead with him to come, Rusl then came inside the inn, "Everyone wants to say goodbye before your departure. Want to wish you luck."

Link wanted to ride out Epona to the East side of Castle Town as he could not show Midna in front of the townsfolk. It would only delay them for a few hours, but after that she would take them straight to Lake Hylia. Shad had given Kagome some scriptures that should help them when they arrive, wherever it is that is. She was so grateful for his help during the entire thing. She knew this was just as important to him as to them. This would prove the research his grandfather and father worked for for so long.

As they stepped out, Kagome grabbed Inuyasha's arm, "Inuyasha…"

He knew what she was trying to say, but all he could do was put a hand on her head, "You need to. This whole not speaking to each other is fucking weird, even to me."

Link was holding Amelia, Uli's and Rusl's new daughter when Ilia came up to him, "Link, I want to go with you."

His blue eyes widened, "Ilia, I don't think that's a good idea."

The woman stubbornly crossed her arms, "I can take care of myself."

Uli reached for Amelia so Link could talk to Ilia.

"Ilia," he said again with a sigh as he ran a hand through his bangs, "You can't come. It's too dangerous."

"But she can go? Link I can help. You're always coming back severely injured. I can't stay here knowing that!"

Uli was about to say something, but Rusl put a hand on her shoulder to stop her.

Link took a deep breath, as he knew he needed to be careful with his next words.

"This is not a trip Ilia," his eyes went to the other people around them as there was now a small crowd, "This is not a vacation. You don't know what happens out there, you don't understand-"

"Then make me understand!" her voice shook, "Make me understand Link because I really don't know. All this time I see you running off, coming back injured. I can't stand knowing you'll die out there and I'm not there!"

Some of the crowd gasped at her outburst. Others remained quiet waiting to see what his response may be.

He was shocked to hear those words coming from her. He was already having an internal battle with himself regarding his so-called destiny. He knew some swordsmanship thanks to Rusl and his skills only improved with actual battle and encountering the Spirit several times. He did not have the experience of The General of Hyrule or what Ashei has gone through as well.

He was doing what he was doing out of his own will to protect those he loved. His village, his people, his land. What he's encountered are things out of nightmares, things that were only old tales. He did not choose this for himself. He's aware of some of the things he's gone through, he should have died. But he never did. It had to do with destiny, but also thanks to the strange group he encountered.

He knew he wasn't careless, but if he managed to be injured it was not intentional.

"He's a lot stronger than what you give him credit for," Kagome's voice seemed to cut in through the tension as Ilia's words finally hit her, "He's not going to die."

For the first time in days, they made eye contact. He could see all types of emotions in her gray eyes, but the one that seemed to jump at him was faith. She was looking at him with faith to end the whole thing. She was there when the Sages spoke of Ganondorf, how he felt about the upcoming confrontation.

Ilia's temper seemed to worsen as she heard the other woman, "You don't know him like I do!"

Kagome started to pet Epona who seemed to be growing a bit impatient, "You're right. I didn't grow up with him. I met him after the incident with the gorons- he actually saved my life. I didn't meet a common farm boy, I met a warrior. Link, we are going to lose daylight."

Inuyasha looked proud of her as she approached him. He could see her blushing but gave him a small smile in return.

Ilia now understood the damage she caused when she looked back at Link, but his gaze was nowhere near her, it was on the other woman.

When he finally looked, he placed a hand on her shoulder and gave it a squeeze, but did not say anything else.

He got on Epona first before reaching with his hand to Kagome. She was hesitant, but without another intrusive thought, she gripped his hand and let him pull her behind him. Epona let out a happy wine as Link had her go at a sprint, both of them taking off for the last mirror piece.

Inuyasha followed along, but his journey was to continue going to Zora's domain.

"You can either take Eldin Bridge and follow the path up North," Link said as Epona continued going at a great speed, "Or you can take the other pathway from the West entrance, but it would take you longer to get there."

Inuyasha grunted, "I'll go up North, I'm not trying to waste my time. The sooner I get to Kakariko the better."

"We'll be going straight to the Mirror Chamber after," Link grunted, "Meet us there in two days."

Kagome gave him a look, "You think we'll be done in two days?"

"We've gotta be, look."

He pointed forward where they could evidently see the shield around Hyrule Castle. It seemed to be a deeper mixture of orange and yellow, "It did not look like that before. We have to finish this."

"I'll find Telma after the Zoras, this is going to happen sooner than we thought if the shield is looking like that."

Link nodded, "We've gotta save Princess Zelda. Whatever is going on there, it's getting worse."

They did not stop when it came time for them to depart ways.

"Don't die on me Kagome."

She was worried but managed to give him a thumbs up, "You should be the one to be careful dog-boy."

She saw his smirk as he took off, increasing his speed.

Eventually Link slowed down the pace to give his mare a small break as he'd make her start at a full sprint. In reality he did it because he needed to get out of there. Ilia's words cut him deep, as she was someone close to him.

But Kagome said it. Ilia remembered the farm boy, not the person he was now.

It was mid afternoon when they finally started to get closer to the Eastern entrance. The summer air was starting to get to them, so the faster they got off Epona, the better for the horse and for them.

"Thank you."

Kagome had been staring out in the field lost in her own thoughts until he broke the silence.

She cleared her throat, "I was out of line. That's someone important to you and I butted in."

He did not say anything until they finally got off Epona to get over the small bridge.

"Referring to me as a warrior rather than a mere farm boy impacted me more than when I first saw Midna," the imp mentioned exclaimed 'Hey!' from his shadow, "I've been having serious doubts about myself the closer we've gotten to the last shard because I know what's waiting for me."

He stopped walking and waited for her to turn around, "Thank you for having faith in me."

She bit the inside of her lip to control her emotions. Her face slightly flushed locked eyes with him.

He got closer, in hopes that it wouldn't make her uncomfortable, "That meant nothing," he whispered to her as he searched for her eyes again, "Nothing. Maybe, maybe in another lifetime, but not in this one. I can't."

She looked at him again, "Why?"

"Because of you."