Chapter 4: End of a Busy Day

The four Loftwings landed at the base of the Goddess Statue back in Skyloft. Epona was the first to fly away while the others stayed behind, being tended by their riders. Link strolled into a large hole at the bottom of The Goddess Statue. Curious to see where he was going, Fledge followed Link into the statue after sending Yunobo on his way.

The secret room in the statue was large. There were all sorts of carvings all over the walls, along with small stone statues of Loftwings. Six small pillars circle the room with carvings as well. At the center of the room is a pedestal of sorts.

"What is this place?" Fledge wondered.

"It's where I got the sword," Link answered. "Up until yesterday, I had no idea this room existed. Only the Headmaster and several staff members at the academy knew about this place."

The green-clad senior knight made his way to the end of the room. Another one of the purple crests of the goddess floated above the altar. A tablet similar to the one Link got back in Skyview Spring is already there but with an emerald gem. Link places the ruby tablet on top of the emerald one. The chamber shook slightly before a loud ding followed. Fi appeared before them.

"Master, I have confirmed the location of a second opening in the cloud barrier. It is located in the skies to the northeast. This opening will allow us to reach a new area on The Surface. I suggest we fly over there after you have made the necessary preparations."

"We'll head out tomorrow. I think all of us want some time to rest."

"Understood, Master. Searching for Zelda in a tired state would not be wise." Fi retreated into the sword.

Link & Fledge exited the chamber. Once outside, they could see another column of light, red this time, emerging in the direction behind the statue. Voices then were coming near the entrance of the statue courtyard. At the bottom of the stairs leading to the statue island, Pipit & Karane talked to a woman Link recognized as Wryna, who appeared very distressed, and her husband, Jakamar.

"I'm sorry, but we haven't seen her," Pipit told the woman.

"Not anywhere?" Wryna stressed.

"I last saw her in the plaza, but that was this morning," Karane told her.

"What's going on?" Link walks to the scene with Fledge behind.

"Oh! Link! Fledge! Perfect timing! You haven't seen my daughter, Kukiel, have you?" Wryna asks him.

"I can't say I have. Is something wrong?"

"I've been looking everywhere, but I can't find her! She's nowhere to be found!"

"What? Kukiel's gone missing?" Fledge quavered.

"I've asked everyone I could find for help, and a few people said she's been spotted with some unknown person with a scary face!"

"Honey, I'm sure Kukiel's fine. She probably just ran off playing somewhere," Jakamar tried to calm his hysterical wife.

"You don't know that! Someone even told me she was carried off by a monster! A monster! For all we know, she must've been kidnapped!"

"The only monsters here are Keese and maybe the Remlits at night. And no one on Skyloft would ever hurt her."

"I know, but...I don't know what to do if anything happened to her."

A breath escaped from Jakamar's mouth. "I know you four probably have other things to do, but can you try to look for Kukiel?"

"You got it," Link responded

"Really. You'll help look for her?" Wryna clarified.

"Of course! We'll try our best to find her!" Fledge told her with conviction.

"Oh, thank you! The Knight Academy should be proud to have students like you. Please try to find her as quickly as possible."

"We're gonna keep on looking, but come find us at our house if you hear anything," Jakamar instructed.

"Poor Kukiel. I hope she's okay," Fledge expressed as the couple wandered away.

"I'm sure she is," Pipit promised.

"Ah, Link. You're back!" Headmaster Gaepora walked on the path leading from the statue to the academy. "How is your search? Have you found any leads to Zelda's whereabouts?"

"I might have an idea where she may be going next." Link pointed toward the red column of light.

"A new light column. I'm guessing that's where you're heading next. Hopefully, you'll have better chances of finding Zelda there." Gaepora brought his glance from the red light back to the students. "But you did seem to find our three missing students."

"They...decided to tag along," Link said as his three friends stood nervously.

"I had my suspicions, especially once Eagus told me some items from The Sparring Hall had gone missing, but it is a relief. However, others were quick to notice your absence. It wasn't until Mallara came by to tell us how nice we were to let Pipit & Karane help Fledge with knight training that we realized you weren't on Skyloft."

A hand slapped Pipit's face. "Damn it, Mom."

"Owlan is in my office trying to keep her calm. She is frantic about your whereabouts, Pipit. Owlan has been worried about you as well, Karane."

"Oh great. He's never going to let me live this down," Karane muttered.

"I think it would be wise to see them before any of you make your next move."

Gaepora escorted the students toward the academy. When they arrive at his office, they can see Instructor Owlan talking to Pipit's mom, Mallara, oblivious to the group entering.

"Mrs. Erhard, I ask you to please remain calm. We do not know the whereabouts of your son nor the other two students."

"I will calm down until I know where my son is!" Mallara retorts back to the Instructor. "How could you not know the whereabouts of your students?"

"Mom, calm down! I'm here," Pipit called out to his mother.

Immediately, Mallara ran straight toward her son, wrapping him in a tight embrace. "Oh, Pipit. I was worried sick about you! Are you okay?"

"I am."

Owlan went over to Karane. "Are you alright as well, Karane?"

"Yeah."

"Good. Then I would like to ask, where did you three go?"

"They went to help me," Link answered.

"They went with you?"

"Not initially…" Karane muttered. "We decided on the spot to go with him after he left for The Surface."

"The Surface? You went to The Surface?" Mallara questioned.

"Yeah…" Pipit answered.

"Did you tell anyone about your whereabouts?" Owlan addressed firmly.

"No…"

Owlan placed his hands on his hips. "So, from what I can gather, you decided to jump down towards uncharted territory without informing anyone the truth of your whereabouts or thinking about the potential risks?"

"When you put it that way...it does sound somewhat foolish," Karane replied.

"Somewhat foolish? It was a reckless move for the both of you to make. Not only that, but you also lied about your whereabouts. You may be Senior Knights, but you need to have all the qualifications of a Skyknight. Making moves such as these is what'll prevent you from advancing."

Seeing the senior knights lowered their heads in shame, Fledge knew he shouldn't stay silent. They were here because he was the one who suggested going after Link.

"It was my fault!" The adults turn to the timid student. "I-I brought up the idea to help Link find Zelda! It was all my idea, Instructor Owlan! They only went with me just to help. We wanted to make sure Link was okay!"

The stern expression on the Instructor's face quickly softened, relaxing his shoulders once he saw the gentle looks on the three students' faces.

"It is commendable that you all wanted to help your friend, but you should not go behind others' backs. One of the most important values of being a Skyknight is teamwork & communication."

"I know. Looking back, we probably should've thought this through, but take our perspective in this." Karane straightens herself. "One of our friends suddenly disappears, while our other friend, who just got promoted to Senior Knighthood, goes out into the unknown alone with no one watching his back with no explanation whatsoever. That was before we found out about Fi."

"Who's Fi?" Mallara whispered.

"I'll explain later," Pipit murmured back to his mom.

"So you all know about the sword, then?" Gaepora asked.

"And everything else," Link noted.

"Of course, now we know the situation, but as Karane said before, we didn't have much information to go off of," Pipit reasoned.

Thoughtful expressions filled both the Instructor & Headmaster. Owlan spoke up after about a minute.

"I suppose you rather both have a good point."

"I would have to agree, Instructor," Gaepora spoke up. "Perhaps they were not the only ones to make hasty decisions based on emotions."

"Give them a little credit. They handle themselves pretty well," Link spoke in their defense.

From that point, Link and the three students explained everything they had experienced. From landing on the Sealed Grounds, exploring Faron Woods, and reaching the end of Skyview Temple. Needless to say, all of the adults were fascinated by their tales.

"I must say I'm rather impressed by how you handled yourselves down there," Owlan praised.

"See, we haven't forgotten our knight lessons," Karane commented.

"May I ask...Do you three intend to accompany Link from this point?" Gaepora inquired.

"We do," Fledge answered.

"It took a bit of convincing, but they were pretty adamant that they were going to help me find Zelda," Link stated.

"And don't try to talk us out of it. We already made up our minds. I believe with the four of us working together, we might have a better chance of finding Zelda," Karane asserted.

"If that's the case, then you all have my support," Owlan declared.

"Mine as well," Gaepora verified. "I feel much better knowing you have extra hands to assist you, Link. I trust you three will ensure he stays safe and finds my daughter."

"We will. Thank you," Fledge said.

"However, I must ask you three to keep Zelda's absence a secret. That extends to you as well, Mallara. We mustn't let the rest of the village catch wind of what transpired last night. If the truth came out to the rest of the island, it would cause mass confusion, leading to chaos."

"And please come see us before you set off somewhere," Owlan advised. "The Headmaster and I are always happy to help you however we can.

"We understand," Link stated.

"Good. I believe that's the end of this discussion. You all have my leave to go. May the winds be at your back," Gaepora said.

Everyone, minus The Headmaster, exited his office. Pipit guided his mother to the side, intending to explain what she knew, shouting to his friends that he'll catch up with them later.

"Mom, I know you must be very confused about everything."

"I think being confused might be a bit of an understatement."

"I-I know, but...let me explain as best as possible."

In the next few minutes, Pipit tried to explain what he knew to his mother. By the end, Mallara, while a bit bewildered, better understands her son's story.

"So that mysterious storm that showed up yesterday, Zelda was caught in it and is missing. Link went out to find her, and you wanted to help." Mallara summarized, and her son nodded with confirmation. "Why couldn't you just tell me?"

"I didn't want you to worry."

"I got worried when The Headmaster told me he had not asked you to help your friend with his knight training. Not knowing if you were hurt or not. I was anxious for hours! Not to mention you lied to me."

"I know, Mom. I'm very sorry. But...I couldn't let my friends go out there on their own. I had to do something."

Mallara watches her son glance downward. She knew how determined he was about this. He and his friends had been close since they were very young children. He and Link are incredibly close. Their close bond extended from a simple friendship to brotherhood since Link's parents, who were Skyknights, died while on assignment. She remembered Pipit visiting Link, plus Zelda and the others almost daily afterward. Then the day came when she lost her husband in a monster attack. In the months that followed, Link returned the favor. If they weren't close then, they were since that point.l

"And I thought your father was stubborn. Now I see it in you."

Pipit looked back at his mother. "What do you see?"

"A knight that's willing to do what's right. Putting others before himself. You truly are your father's son."

"Was there ever any doubt?" Mallara chuckled. "Are you okay with me helping Link?"

"I don't think you need my permission. You're old enough to make your own decisions. Even if I did forbid it, I know you still go regardless. You have my blessing."

"Thank you, Mom!"

"But I want no more lying out of you, and you must see me before you leave Skyloft and when you come back."

"I promise. And I promise to make it up to you for lying."

"I'll hold you to that."

Pipit hugged his mother, who then hugged him back.

"Are you boys ready yet?" Karane yelled to the door that led into Fledge's room. The boy wanted to remove his chainmail before they started looking for Kukiel. Link was in there helping him.

"This chainmail is heavier than it looks!" Fledge called back.

"Why did you even get one this heavy?" Link's voice echoed.

"We didn't know when Eagus would return, so we were on a tight schedule!"

The female student shook her head as she continued to lean against the wall. With luck, Gaepora will be merciful enough to give Fledge proper chainmail. Just another side effect of their hast decision.

"Karane," Owlan's voice called out to her.

"Owlan...I'm sorry I didn't tell you what I was doing."

"That is behind us now. However, I hope you know what I said in the Headmaster's office still stands."

"I do…" Karane's gaze lowers to the ground.

A breath escaped from the white-haired man. Then he spoke to her with a tone much more gentle than the one he uses whenever he's in teacher mode. "I know that I may be strict with you sometimes, but that's because I care for you. Not just as your teacher...but as your guardian as well. Imagine my reaction when I found out you were out somewhere, with no clue where you were."

"I didn't want you to worry."

"I know you did not have any malicious intentions, but you must understand that small actions have the biggest effects."

"Is there any way I can make it up to you?"

Owlan placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Just promise me you'll stay safe and come to me whenever you have any issues."

"You're not going to talk me out of it?"

"Despite your missteps, your heart was in the right place. Something you no doubt inherited from your parents. If what you said is true, then I believe you did remarkably well down at the surface." Owlan gave a smile. "My blessing still stands."

"Thank you."

The door opened. Out came Link, followed by Fledge.

"We need to get you a better fitting chainmail," Link stated.

"And my own knight's uniform would be nice as well." Fledge lowered his head. "Too bad I'm not qualified for one.

Owlan gave a curious expression. What are you three up to now?

"Oh. Hello, Instructor Owlan," Link greeted. "We're just about to head to look for Kukiel."

"Jakamar and Wryna's daughter? What for?"

"She's gone missing, and we promised her parents that we'll do what we can look around," Fledge explained.

"In that case, I'll leave you all be. Good luck, and send Kukiel's parents my best wishes."

Link, Fledge, and Karane all left the academy to start the search for Kukiel. Pipit still needed to catch up, so they started looking around. They decided to start with the plaza since Karane said that was the last time she saw the small girl. Karane decided to look around at the Bazaar while Link & Fledge stuck around to the plaza.

Later on, they saw Gully dreamily eyeing Beetle's Air Shop flying above. The young boy is one of Kukiel's friends.

"Hi, Link. Hi, Fledge! Are you going to Beetle's Air Shop?"

"No, we wanted to ask you something," Link answered. "Have you seen Kukiel?"

"Kukiel?" Link nodded at the boy. "I did see her playing over by the graveyard earlier. My mom called me home, so I left. I don't know what she did after that. Why? Did something happen?"

"Her parents want to know if she's okay," Fledge told him.

"If I see her, I'll let you guys know." Gully walked away, following the air shop.

Moments later, Karane joined up with the boys after the boy left.

"Any luck?"

"None. All we got is that Kukiel was last seen playing in the graveyard," Link reported to the female senior knight. "How 'bout you?"

"I don't have anything on her whereabouts. But I did run into Parrow. He said that Wryna's monster claim could be related to that old story about a monster that lingers around Skyloft. The one that supposedly steals children?"

"Oh, I remember that story," Fledge uttered quietly. "Groose used it to prank us into thinking the monster was coming to get us when we were kids. That was not a fun night."

"Yeah, but at least we got back at him a week later," Link reminded with a mischievous smile. "Still doesn't help us find her."

"Maybe we can find a clue at the graveyard?" Fledge suggested.

"It's worth a shot," Karane said.

The group made their way in the direction of the graveyard. It was located around the residential area of Skyloft. Though it was called a graveyard, no bodies were buried there. It was more of a memorial site since Skyloft does not have enough land for a proper graveyard. Slabs of stones carry the names of those who passed on.

While walking, Fledge notices a familiar face walking through the neighborhood. It was none other than Orielle. This was the first time seeing her since leaving her in the plaza after the black tornado appeared. In his hasty decision to join Link, he did not check in with her.

"Orielle! Over here!"

"Fledge, there you are. I haven't seen you all day."

"Sorry, I had...knight academy stuff to care of."

"Ah, I get it." Orielle quickly notices Fledge's companions. "Hey, Link. Hey, Karane."

"Hi, Orielle," Karane greeted while Link gave a simple wave.

"What brings you three over here?" Orielle asks the trio.

"We're looking for Kukiel," Link answered her.

"Kukiel...Oh, right, I heard about her going missing. I haven't seen any sign of her, but I keep hearing that a monster has taken her. Can you believe it? Do you really think there are monsters abducting children in our little town?"

If he was asked this question just yesterday, Link would've not believed it. But after seeing the many creatures and monsters lingering down at The Surface, it does beg the question.

"I think it might be possible."

"What? So you think she was dragged off by a monster?" Orielle responded, clearly surprised. "Let's not be ridiculous here. This monster business is going a bit far. Wait...Now that you mentioned it, an old man living near here always ranting about hidden monsters in Skyloft."

"I think I may know who that is," Fledge exclaimed. "Henya has a husband that always goes on about monsters. His name is Rusta."

"Yeah, that's him! He's known for being a little looney, though, so no one takes him seriously."

"Do you know where we can find him?" Karane asked the brunette.

"I think I saw him fly off to The Lumpy Pumpkin not too long ago. You may be able to catch him there."

"Thank you, Orielle," Link said.

"Not a problem! Good luck finding Kukiel." The group started to walk away before Orielle decided to speak up. "Hey, Fledge?"

"Yeah?"

"Are you going to tell me what you were really up to today?"

"I-I can't give you an answer. Not right now, at least...But I'll tell you later."

"If you say so... In that case, you should catch up to Link & Karane before they leave you."

"What?" Flege turned to see his friends pretty far off where he was. "Hey! Wait for me, guys!"

Oriellle let out a giggle as Fledge dashed back to his friends.

They made their way back to the central plaza. They heard someone shouting their names. Pipit stood near one of the small Loftwing statues.

"Finally decided to join us, eh?" Link said.

"Sorry. My mom insisted I answer every question about what I saw on The Surface. And wanted to make sure that I wasn't hurt in some way. Any luck in finding Kukiel?"

"We might have a lead. You know Henya's husband?"

"Rusta? I know who he is. Crazy old guy. I remember seeing him stop by the academy several times with Henya. What does he have to do with it?"

"He might know something about the monster that supposedly took Kukiel. He's at the Lumpy Pumpkin," Karane explained.

"You guys believe that it was a monster?"

"If you'd asked me yesterday, I would've said no, but after what we saw on The Surface, especially seeing whatever Ghirahim is...I think anything is possible," Link stated.

"I guess that's a good point."

"Right, here's what we're gonna do. Pipit, you come with me to The Lumpy Pumpkin. Karane, you and Fledge stick around here to see if you can find any more clues."

Everyone parted ways. One half ventured within Skyloft, while the other half went to the jumping docks. The flight to the Lumpy Pumpkin only took about several minutes. Once close, they could see many Loftwings flying around or resting on the island. Pipit pointed out one of the birds named Auru, which was Rusta's bird meaning that he was still there.

Once the pair of young men landed, they entered the establishment. Just as the many Loftwings indicated, the inside was indeed busy. The dinner rush had started a little early today. Almost every table was filled with customers chatting amongst themselves or staff members barking orders at one another.

Link rubbed his head. "This just got a little harder."

"Hey, let's not give up yet," Pipit encouraged. "We'll split up. You cover the second floor while I'll look around here. Shouldn't be too hard to spot an elderly man."

"Anything to help find him quicker?"

He likes to wear a large orange shawl and has a beard. Unless he shaved it off since I saw him.

"Alright, let's go."

Link went up the large stairs that led up to the second floor. Pipit started searching around the ground floor, finding anyone with the exact resemblance to Rusta. Of course, Rusta was not the only elderly resident in this section of the sky, but Pipit had faith that he could find him.

"Hey, Pipit! Over here!" The yellow-clad senior knight shift in the direction of the voice. He saw Keet sitting at a table.

"Keet, hey! I thought I saw your bird here."

"You know how much I love coming here, Pips! That, and Shad loves hanging around with Kina's bird, Ashei. You know I can't deny my bird that. Anyways, what brings you here? You don't eat alone since you and your mom have money problems."

"I'm looking for someone. Have you seen an elderly man who may be wearing an orange shawl?"

"Ranting about how monsters are real?"

"Yeah...how do you know about that?"

"Because he's sitting over there." Keet pointed over the table next to him. Pipit recognizes the man sitting there as Rusta. "The old guy says he saw a demon! Been ranting about it since I got here. I bet he's only trying to get Kina's attention, but he won't get anywhere using creepy lines like that!"

"I...don't think that's his intention."

"What? You're not saying you believe him, are you?"

"No, but as a senior knight, it's my job to investigate any suspicious-looking characters around Skyloft. You know, just make sure they won't cause problems."

If you say so, you can go ahead, but it's a waste of time. If he tries anything with Kina, I'll set the record straight with him!"

Pipit walked towards the older man's table.

"Hello, sir?"

"You…"Rusta uttered. "You have that look that says you might take an old man's ramblings seriously. So tell me...Do you believe in the Skyloft Monster? I shouldn't even call it a monster! It's a demon, I tell ya! But no one can say fer sure because no one's seen it and lived to tell the tale."

Just the way he spoke, Pipit could see why most people see Rusta as a crazy old man. No wonder Henya doesn't let him visit the academy much. However, what he's saying may be the key to finding Kukiel.

"How are you telling it then?"

"Wha-huh? You wanna know 'how come I'm telling the tale if nobody who's seen it is left alive?' Is that it?"

"Yep!"

"Yeah, well...I saw it, but I was able to escape by the seat of my pants. I was saved by my catlike reflexes, I tell ya! Any regular person wouldn't have lived long enough to scream! Anyway, I saw the thing, I tell ya! There's a great big tree in the cemetery. I walked by that tree in the middle of the night and...I saw it hit the gravestones nearest to the tree, and the gravestone lit up! It pushed the gravestone, and the door by the storage shed opened up all by itself...The monster then went into the shed, and then...it closed the door behind itself, which was unexpectedly polite for a demon….It was the most terrifying thing these old eyes had ever seen! If you're smart, you'll stay clear for the cemetery in the middle of the night!"

"Thank you for your information. I'll be sure to look into this matter."

"You will?! Ah, it warms my heart to have someone take me seriously, especially a member of the knight academy. I'll tell the Headmaster my good word about you."

A few minutes earlier...

Link looked around the upper floor for Rusta. At first glance, he did see anyone fitting his description, but he wasn't giving up yet. Link had reached the balcony. From where he stood, he saw Pipit talking to an elderly-looking man. Link figured that that was the man they were looking for and was about to head back down when someone called out.

"Hello, Link," The green-clad senior knight sees Strich leaning against the balcony railing, cup in his hand.

"Oh, hello," Link answered dreadfully, not wanting to deal with one of Groose's friends.

"Why so sour? Can't I just say a simple hello?" Strich took a sip from his drink.

"You seriously want me to answer that?" Link deadpanned as he crossed his arms.

"Fair point, but I'm here alone, so you don't have to worry about Groose or me messing with you." Link could only stare at him skeptically. "Anywho, I didn't think I'd see you here. You wondering what I'm doing here?"

"Maybe…"

"Well, I may or may not have mentioned this before, but man, I am really into bugs. That's why I'm out collecting insects wherever I think I'll find them. Maybe you can help me?"

"And why should I help you?"

"Word around the academy is that you went to The Surface. Surely that place is filled with bugs never seen before. Bugs are amazing, even more amazing than Groose in a lot of ways…Oh, wait. I'm not saying Groose isn't as amazing as a bug. The point is, I really like bugs. I want to collect all kinds of. I even dream about having an entire island full of bugs. How about this. If you find a bug, come by my room to sell it to me. And I only want to do these deals at night. I have a reputation to protect, you know. Do we have a deal?"

"If this is some sort of trick-"

"It's not! When it comes to my passions, I'm no pest. I may even get Groose not to bug you for a while."

"I guess we have a deal."

"Nice! Now all my bug-collecting ambitions will finally be realized!"

Seeing Strich acting like this was...odd to Link. He's so used to Strich joining in on Groose's constant antagonization toward him. Without him around, Strich seems to be more...tolerable. It reminded him of a point in time when Strich was like this before Groose arrived at Skyloft so many years ago.

"You know, Strich. Sometimes I forget you're pretty decent when you're not around Groose."

"I can be a decent person when I want to be."

"Then...why hang around him & Cawlin?"

Strich's eyes cast downwards. "Well...you see..."

"Link!" Pipit strolled over. "What are you doing with Strich? He's not giving you a hard time, is he?"

"No. We're just talking," Link assured.

"Just talking?" Pipit gave a skeptical glance at Strich.

"Yes. Link and I are simply conversing, Mr. Senior Knight."

"Uh-huh...Anyways, Link, I managed to find Rusta. He gave me a clue as to where we could look for Kukiel if this monster has her."

"That's great! Let's head back to Skyloft to join up with Karane & Fledge. Then we'll-"

"There you are!" A familiar voice cut Link off. Cawlin made his way to Strich. "I've been looking all over for you! What are you doing here while Groose needs us in his time of need?"

"What am I, his mother? I have a life outside of him," Strich responded snarkily. "Also, it's hard to comfort somebody when he doesn't want anyone near him. What am I supposed to do? Sit around at the academy all day?"

"Hmph, some friend you are." Cawlin notices the pair of senior knights. "Even better, I find you hanging around these losers!"

"Hello to you too, Cawlin," Link greeted sarcastically.

"What are you doing here anyway? I thought you were looking for Zelda? Wow, you're an even lousier senior knight than I thought. I'm not surprised, given that it's your fault she's missing in the first place."

"Cawlin, enough," Pipit firmly commanded, but his short classmate continued on.

"If Groose had won like he was supposed to, he probably would've saved her. Or better yet, Zelda wouldn't have been flying out there when that storm hit. She was only out there because you won!"

"You weren't there, and you don't know anything, so you don't have any room to talk, Cawlin! I did everything I could to help her, so knock it off!" Link raised his voice loud enough to cause Cawlin to jump back in shock. Pipit and Strich just looked in shock at Link's outburst. Some customers and staff members looked bewildered at the green-clad senior knight. Link took several deep breaths as Pipit held his friend's shoulder.

"Let's just go, Link. We have better things to do than dealing with someone on a short fuse."

The midnight blue-haired student's expression suddenly went from bewilderment to pure rage. "I'll show you who's short!" Cawlin made a mad dash in Pipit's direction. Link pushed Pipit out of the way, only for him to get headbutted in the chest by his shorter classmate. He knocked back into the balcony railing, hitting his head hard. The last thing Link heard before passing out was a loud crash and shouts from patrons.

"I think he's waking up."

"Come on, Link. Just open your eyes."

A groan escaped Link's mouth as he opened it. A minor pain itched in his head as he massaged it. As he came to his senses, he could see he was on a bed with pumpkin designs, seemingly in the back of the restaurant. Pipit was at his side, accompanied by The Lumpy Pumpkin's owner Pumm and his daughter Kina who stared at him with concerned expressions.

"You okay?" Pumm asked.

"I think so…" Link responded the large man. "What happened?"

"Cawlin headbutted you in your stomach. You fell and hit your head against the railing," Pipit told him.

"Pretty hard considering what happened to the chandelier," Kina commented. "You were out for half an hour!"

Link stared in confusion. Kina gestured towards a door. Link got off the bed and walked to the door. To his shock, he could see the chandelier that hung above the restaurant when he arrived was now in the middle of the restaurant, all damaged.

"Oh, Hylia…" Link gaped at the broken chandelier in horror. "Was anyone hurt?"

"No one was, thank goodness. Keet was the first to notice the chandelier about to fall and got everyone to move."

"I'm so sorry! I didn't-" Link stutters before Pumm speaks up.

"Easy there, son. Your friend told me what happened, and there were plenty of witnesses to back him up."

"What happened to Cawlin?"

"He tried to run, but some staff members caught him. I flagged down one of the patrolling Skyknights, and they took Cawlin back to the academy," Pipit explained.

"Of course, we told them what happened," Pumm added. "Believe me, if the Headmaster approves it, that Cawlin boy will be working for me for free until he pays off every Rupee that chandelier cost me! It was a custom-made fancy one that cost me a lot!"

"Honestly, that Cawlin was out of line. To think he could be a Skyknight one day. His stunt could have hurt someone. I think I feel safer around a pack of Keese than with him," Kina stated.

"What about Strich?" Link asked Pipit.

"Ran off as soon as the chandelier started swinging. Said something about not wanting to get involved in Cawlin's mess."

"Maybe this experience will make him rethink his friendship with him and Groose."

"Are you okay enough to fly back? It's almost sundown."

"I think so. I'll ask Owlan for something for my head." Link turned to Pumm. "I'm sorry again for the trouble."

"Don't sweat it. It wasn't your fault."

"Let me give you this." Link reached into his wallet, pulling out several red Rupees. "It's not enough for the chandelier, but I thought it should help a bit."

"Thank you, kindly! Nice to know not all students at the Knight Academy isn't as rotten as that Cawlin. Let me give you both something for your troubles." Pumm went into the kitchen. He came back a few minutes holding two bottles. "Fresh Pumpkin soup on the house!"

"Thank you." Link and Pipit took the bottle with the soup.

"You two better fly back to Skyloft before it gets dark. Otherwise, you'll have to wait for the night patrol to escort you back. You can exit out the back door. There's a jumping dock out there."

The two senior knights exited out the back door leading to a field of pumpkins looks ready to be harvested any day now. True to Pumm's words, a jumping dock is across from where they both stood. The sun sat at the horizon, giving a warm glow, symbolizing the twilight hour. Link was about to jump for it when Pipit's voice called him.

"Link, about what Cawlin said, don't listen to his words. Everyone in the academy knows what happened to Zelda wasn't your fault, myself included." The words of Ghirahim bragging about creating the tornado echoed through his mind.

"Like I had ever listened to him in the first place." That earned a chuckle from the yellow-clad senior knight. "But thank you."

The two friends smiled at each other before jumping off the dock, Loftwings carrying them away.

After regrouping, the four students decided to wait until it was completely dark before investigating Rusta's claims. During this time, Link showed off the slingshot Bucha gave him and the Beetle he obtained from Skyview Temple. Link even demonstrated the flying contraption on it. It was also enough time for Link to nurse his headache from his scuffle with Cawlin.

Once night had fallen completely, they made their way towards the graveyard, avoiding any Keese and Remlits trying to attack them.

"What did Rusta say to you again?" Link asked Pipit once they reached the cemetery.

"He said he saw the monster hit a gravestone close to a tree, then pushed it once it lit up, and the shed opened."

"So we just have to hit the stone?" Karane looked at the gravestone in question. "You think a monster would have a more elaborate way to open a secret passage."

"There's only one way we'll find out." Pulling out his sword, Link struck the stone. An image of eyes and large horns appeared. Pushing the rock, the shed next door opened. Down below revealed a very long ladder.

One by one, they reached the bottom, standing on top of a platform with very old-looking wood. The wood creaked as they all walked along the relatively narrow bridge. Ahead lay a small-looking house that looked like it had been abandoned for many years. Cobwebs hung all around, and there were no windows.

"Well, that's not ominous," Pipit commented.

"So...Um. Who wants to go in first?" Fledge queried.

None of them got the chance to answer as a loud scream filled the air. They all ran towards the door, practically shoving themselves inside. The room was dimly lit, with only candles as the only light source, and the walls and floors appeared desperate for repairs.

At the edge of the room lay a creature hunched over. Its wings were blue & yellow, giving the pattern of a skull. Slowly it turns to face its visitors, revealing its form. Its skin was grey, large horns growing from its head, and long red claws emerged from its fingers. It let out a loud, terrifying roar.

"Sweet Hylia! What is that?!" Fledge shouted

"I don't know, but I know how to deal with it!"

Link pulled out his sword, followed by his friends. They all ran towards the creature, swords in the air, shouting battle cries.

"Stop! Please! I beg of you, don't hurt me!"

The four stopped in their tracks. Each one blinked as the creature reached its arms to protect itself.

"Did he just tell us not to hurt him?" Karane wondered.

"Oh goodness, I know how bad this must look to you right now, but I assure you I mean no harm! We were just playing the scream-as-loud-as-you-can game!" The creature said.

"What now?" Pipit questioned out loud.

"Isn't that a fun game? Oh dear, perhaps an explanation is in order!"

"Please do," Link urged, putting away his sword.

"My name is Batreaux, and I am a monster who resides here in this humble dwelling below Skyloft," the monster introduced himself. "But please allow me to correct one popular misconception. While I'm certainly a monster, I wouldn't dream of terrorizing the people of this town! You see, this adorable little girl is the only one who didn't let loose a blood-curdling scream at the sight of me!"

Kukiel appeared from behind Batreaux, looking completely unharmed. "Hi!" She waved at the group.

"Since she began visiting me here, I've felt positively jubilant! You see, my heart's only wish is to become friends with the lovely people of Skyloft. But as you can imagine, it has proven quite difficult to break the ice when they are struck with paralyzing fear at the sight of me! I assure you, nothing would fill my heart with joy more than to be friends with the fine people of this town. But as soon as I try to approach any of them and extend my claw in friendship, they run and scream as though they've seen a walking nightmare!"

The four students stood still as Batreaux went on, still rather bewildered, but listened with interest.

"Oh, right. Silly me. I've gotten ahead of myself! You see, an old tale among my monstrous kin goes as follows. When humans make other humans happy, the happy humans produce a substance known as a Gratitude Crystal.

"Gratitude Crystals...I read stories about those!" Fledge said excitedly. "They say with enough of them, they're capable of doing amazing things!"

"Oh yes! Gratitude Crystals are quite amazing! Just looking at them and knowing there was such gratitude in the world could turn me from a monster into a human! Oh goodness, nothing would delight me more than to become a human!" Batreaux exclaimed with joy. "You know, from the moment I laid my regrettably demonic eyes on you, I could tell you all had gentle and generous hearts. Won't you please gather Gratitude Crystals and show them to me?"

The students glance at each other. They were still skeptical of the creature, but seeing Kukiel unharmed and how he spoke, Batreaux seemed genuine in his desire.

"Sure," Link answered.

"Truly?! You'll help me?"

"We are knights in training. It wouldn't be right to turn away from those in need."

"I've heard that you can obtain pure Gratitude Crystals by helping people solve their troubles! They might be in Skyloft or elsewhere among the clouds, anywhere you can find people! I'm sure someone with a heart as pure and genuine as yours will be able to see them. Please, solve some troubles and gather me all the Gratitude Crystals you can find! Any help you can provide will be dearly appreciated. I promise your assistance will be rewarded! Thank you so much!"

"We'll see what we can do. But, right now, we need to take Kukiel home."

"Do I have to?" the little girl whined.

"Your parents have been very worried about you, Kukiel. They've been looking everywhere for you," Karane explained.

"Oh. I didn't realize I was gone that long." Kukiel turned to the demon. "I have to go, Uncle Bats."

"Of course. I should've realized you've been here too long. I trust you four will get Kukiel home safely?" The students nodded.

All the humans left the house to make their way to the ladder.

"Just to be clear, that really happened?" Pipit said once they reached the top.

"He's not a bad man! He saved me one time when I almost fell over the edge! And he lets me come here and scream as loud as I want!" Kukiel defended.

"Do you think this Batreaux is trustworthy, Fi?" Link whispered.

"I detect a 90% chance that Batreaux is truthful and has no ill intentions."

That seemed good enough for Link.

"If Kukiel trusts him, I think it's safe to say Batreaux is good."

"He was very nice," Fledge said. "But I wonder how we're going to find those crystals..."

"Let's get Kukiel home first. It's on the way to the academy," Karane said.

"I'll come too since it's close to my house anyway," Pipit added.

They soon found themselves at the door of Kukiel's house. Knocking on it, Wryna opened the door. Kukiel waved at her.

"Hi, Mom!"

"Kukiel!" Wryna hugged her daughter. "I'm so happy to see you! Honey, Kukiel's home!"

Jakamar arrives at the door. "Well, all be. You guys found her!"

"Where did you find her?"

"I was with a friend!" Kukiel answered her mother.

"A friend?" Wryna eyed the four students.

"His name is Batreaux. They've been friends for a while," Link answered.

"Is he friendly?"

"Very friendly!" Fledge assured her.

"And a little odd...but he seems like a responsible adult," Pipit added.

"What did I tell you, Wryna? Nobody here in Skyloft would harm a hair on Kukiel's head!" Jakamar rubbed his chin. "But I don't recall knowing a Batreaux around here."

"He's...shy," Karane answered with a nervous smile.

"Well, either way, it's good to hear that Kukiel was with a friendly and responsible adult," Wryna stated as she held Kukiel close. "Now she's safely back home, and it's all because of you four! I don't know how to express my gratitude. I can finally smile and laugh again! Thank you so much!"

A small cluster of orange crystals formed above the woman's head before falling to the ground. The mother didn't notice the crystals at her feet as she carried her daughter back into the house.

"I think you all best be getting back to your homes. It is awfully late. Thank you again." Jakamar closed the door.

A yawn escaped from Pipit's mouth as Link retrieved the crystals. "I don't know about you guys, but I'm heading home. I'm beat."

"I still haven't taken my bath yet," Karane stated.

"We all had quite the busy day, huh," Fledge added.

"If you guys are going to tag along with me, I think you better get used to it," Link turns his gaze to the red column of light. "Something tells me we'll have many of those in the coming days."

Just to be clear in terms of Fi speaking, when she talks while in the sword the text will be italicized and when she speaks out of the sword the text will be normal.

Erhard is the last name I gave Pipit in my other fic Path of Destiny, so I figure why no use it again here. In case you're curious 'Erhard' originated from German which means 'honorable'. I thought it would be fitting since his is said to have a strong sense of honor.

Now let me explain on what I did for Cawlin & Strich, especially the latter. I've notice when I'm playing the game, when Link talks to him Strich always acts pretty okay, even before Groose goes on The Surface, while Cawlin most of the time is rude towards Link. Also, Strich doesn't show any concern for Groose, even after he goes to The Surface. Cawlin always sticks around the academy and wonders where he was while Strich was at The Lumpy Pumpkin, and eventually Bug Island, neither in those place Groose is ever mentioned. I don't want to say much further but this will play into Groose when he comes along later in the story.

And I didn't want Link to break the chandelier (to me that goes against his character to do something that could potentially hurt someone), and I always view Cawlin as a rotten kid so I made him the one who (while unintentionally) broke the chandelier. I want Pumm to get a new one somehow.

And Batreaux is here!

Next chapter: The gang goes to Eldin! What wonders awaits them there?

Favs, Follows, and Reviews are appreciated!