CHAPTER 16
He knew precisely what would happen if they passed through that tree, but Epona was running far too hastily toward it. Even if he managed to regain control now, there was no hindering her from plunging into its depths. . . . . . . . .with himself and Ruto in-tow.
Praying for the best, but bracing himself for the worst, he released Epona's reins from his clutches and wrapped his hands around Ruto instead. "Link, what are you doing?" she shrieked.
"Just hang on!" he replied, removing her from his neck and holding her close to his chest.
Staring straight ahead as Epona charged toward the tree, he thought that he felt Ruto turn her head to face it herself – and was certain that he felt her tremble at the sight, for the blackness that enveloped the tree threatened to swallow the lot of them whole.
"LINK?!" she shrieked at the top of her lungs, clenching his tunic almost as tightly as he was now clenching her pocket-sized frame. "WHAT'S HAPPENING?!"
But scarcely had the question departed her mouth before Epona took them both through that tree's gaping maw, plunging them into complete and utter darkness.
Link closed his eyes and unconsciously held Ruto closer to his chest, letting the simple perception of their combined weight wash away from his body and mind. He could hear Epona whickering in unease, Ruto attempting to squeal (and only managing a high-pitched wail) and his own heart thumping as he bent his knees against himself and Ruto, bracing her.
Please let this path lead us home, he prayed in absolute silence, and quickly, too.
Hesitantly, he opened his eyes – and, immediately, faint silhouettes began to prance around him in a faintly-colored fog, forming the shapes of the Spiritual Stones and the Sage Medallions and the Triforce. He closed his eyes once more, bracing himself and Ruto for impact.
It can't be long now. . . . . . . . .