Chapter 12: Trial of Courage
All four students floated down gently toward the entrance of Faron Woods, thanks to Fi. They all deduced it was reasonable to start looking from there. That and the group wanted to avoid running into Groose right now. Interestingly, they saw no sign of him back at the academy or anywhere at Skyloft, so Groose was, hopefully, still hanging around The Sealed Temple. Fi exited from Link's sword once the group got settled down.
"A report, Masters. I have detected the aura of a Trial Gate Nearby. If you can pinpoint the origin of this aura using dowsing, I conjecture the song you learned at the Isle of Song, Farore's Courage , will reveal the gate."
"Got it."
Link pulled out his sword after Fi retreated into it. The next while consisted of Link following the direction of the blade's tip while the rest of the group followed behind. It was a lengthy process, much to everyone's displeasure. Eventually, their journey took them across the Kikwis gathered around. One of the Kikwis, the one they recalled being Machi, trotted to them.
"You're all back!"
"Hey, Machi," Link greeted. "Everything going alright with you guys?"
"They're okay for the most part. Did you ever find that girl you were searching for?"
"Not yet…"
"Oh…I'm sure hope you all find each other soon."
"So you have returned," Elder Bucha greeted quite joyfully. "Good to see you all doing well, Kwwwee-heee. What brings you all back here? Perhaps I can be of assistance?"
"Have you seen some sort of strange-looking gate around here?" Link asked the giant Kikwi.
"Strange unusual gate…I don't think I've seen anything like that."
Link exhaled a breath, hiding his displeasure at Bucha's answer. "We'll get going then. Thanks anyway."
The group was about to leave the Kikwi when Bucha's voice rang out.
"Wait! I do recall seeing something odd going on! There has been a large number of butterflies gathered around the stone structure behind the Great Tree recently. I've never seen anything quite like that. Quite unusual if you ask me. Perhaps that could be a clue."
"We'll be sure to check that out. Thank you!" Link called out.
"Good luck with finding that gate! Kweee-Heeee."
"A high amount of butterflies gathered around? You think that might be it?" Fledge wondered.
"I'm not sure. Then again, I've seen stranger things these past few days," Link trailed off.
"I…I think maybe possible," Karane spoke up. "While Pipit and I were waiting for you and Fledge to return to Skyloft yesterday, we ran into that Goron we met in Lanayru Desert…Gorko. We talked briefly, and he mentioned something about butterflies being attracted to magic. You remember, don't you, Pipit?"
Pipit didn't respond to the redhead. His expression shows that his mind is elsewhere.
"Pipit!" Karane's voice finally broke through to him.
"Huh? What?"
"You remember what Gorko talked about the thing with the butterflies, right?"
"Oh, yeah!"
Link gave his friend a skeptical but also concerned look. "You…doing okay, Pipit? You've been awfully quiet."
"I'm fine. Guess I'm still a bit tired from yesterday." The yellow-clad senior knight stretched his arms. "That gate will not find itself, so let's get moving!"
Pipit strolled on ahead while the rest of his friends lingered back.
"Maybe it's just me, but does it seem like Pipit's been acting odd since we left the Isle of Songs yesterday?" Fledge fretted. "Do you think something's wrong with him?"
"Just to be safe, Fi," Link glanced at his sword.
"I do not detect any abnormalities within Master Pipit. He is in full good health. However…I do sense a feeling of uneasiness surrounding him. What it is, I do not know."
"Yesterday was pretty chaotic, so him being tired isn't that far off," Karane speculated.
"Whatever it is, we shouldn't force it out of him now. Once I find and complete the trial, he may be more willing to talk.
The quartet soon finds themselves at the sight of a familiar stone structure behind the Great Faron Tree. Between the structure and Tree were many Blessed Butterflies flying around. Link pulled out his sword to dowse that area. The tip of the blade glowed rapidly. This was the spot. The butterflies all left as Link moved close to the site. He pulled the harp and strummed it. A small blue circle with a white triangle appears on the ground. Link readied himself as Fi flew out. The familiar circle pulse of light started to appear. Much like before, Link play at the rhythm. With each strum, a pattern of a flower pedal appears around the circle, giving it the appearance of a flower. Once the ring was filled with pedals, Fi started singing a vocalized version of Farore's Courage as Link strummed the harp. The flower pattern gave a final glow once the pair finished their duet.
"Something here is reacting to our performance of Farore's Courage . I have confirmed the appearance of a strange mark on the ground," Fi informed Link. "I calculate a 90% possibility that this mark is a Trial Gate, as mentioned in the goddess statue we heard from on the Isle of Songs. Thrust your sword into the center of the mark on the ground before you."
Link gazed at the Trial Gate once Fi retreated into the sword.
"You just have to thrust the sword in the center?" Karane queried as Link unsheathed his sword.
"Seems like it." Link looked down at the flower pattern. "Tell you the truth, I'm a little nervous to see what's in store."
"I'm sure you can do it, Link!" Fledge encourage.
"Alright…here it goes."
"Good luck in there," Karane cheered him on.
Link thrust the sword into the center of the gate. He stood still, his head down, eyes closed, kneeling with the sword's handle in his grip. He glowed white as particles escaped from his body.
"Is he…okay?" Fledge waved his hand in front of Link's face. Fi's voice spoke up abruptly, causing the orange-clad student to jerk back.
"Master Link has entered a place called 'Farore's Silent Realm' where the limits of his courage will be tested. It requires a lot of focus, so I suggest you do not disturb him."
"Right. Sorry."
"We'll just have to wait then," Karane stated.
As Pipit gazed upon his frozen friend's stature. He had to admit, it was a bit odd to Link be so still. Over the years they had classes together, Pipit recalls Link getting fidgety at his seat during lectures that did not interest him. Link often quickly becomes bored when sitting in one place for too long.
"Wonder what's he doing? I hope it won't be too much for him."
"Pipit…"
The voice was so sudden he jumped a bit. It said his name repeatedly. He could tell it was a woman's voice, and it was clearly not Karane calling him. It was a cheerful yet calming voice. No matter where he looked, he could not pinpoint the origin of it. He was about to bring his friend's attention to it when he realized something bizarre was occurring. Both Karane and Fledge were frozen in place. And it wasn't just them. Everything in this section of the woods is frozen. The butterflies, insects, birds, and even the leaves falling from the trees appear frozen in time. Everything except for him. Pipit gaped at the sight, wondering just what was going on.
"So you're finally here, Pipit."
Pipit stood on his guard, hand hovering over the sword. The area around got dark. That voice was now speaking from directly behind him. Turning around, he saw a cloaked woman with a hood covering her face. The only thing exposed is her green lips. He didn't know if this woman was a friend or foe. The woman's green lips plastered in an amused smile.
"Oh, no need to be so jumpy. Do I look like I'm going to hurt you?"
"Your cloak makes it hard to tell."
Green Lips seems to acknowledge that answer. "That's a good point. Nice to know that knights are still more than just big brawns. Keep that up, and you'll have a good future of being a knight, my dear Pipit."
"Who exactly are you? How are you doing this? How do you know my name? And what do you want with me?"
"Right to the questions. Very well. First off…Who I am, I don't think you're ready to know. How am I freezing time right now? Let's just say my power exceeds even Hylia herself. As for how I know who you are? The truth is we've been watching you."
"We?" Pipit gazed at the woman suspiciously.
"My sisters and I have been watching your group for quite some time now. You all impressed us with your determination to help look for Zelda. Even more so once you and your friends hastily decided to join Link here and stick with him after fighting that monstrosity at the Sealed Grounds. Quite admirable, but it can only get you so far, which brings me to my final point. I came here to test you."
"Test me? For what?"
"Link is in a trial that tests his courage. Courage is one of the three virtues of the Golden Goddesses. You, my friend, share the most values regarding courage. Which is what I'm going to test you on."
"So you're giving me the same trial as Link's?"
"Oh no. It won't be like the Silent Realms he's going through. I intend to test your courage differently. Since you were not meant to be a part of this mission, I stepped in to see if you can handle sharing the burden he carries."
"I don't see why I couldn't. I know whatever comes next, I can handle it. We faced Ghirahim, Scaldera, Moldarach, and The Imprisoned."
"Are you certain of that?" The woman circled the yellow-clad senior knight. "The path from this point will only get more difficult for Link and the rest of you. Do you have the courage to face the unknown? To face more threats, ones you've never encountered lurking at every corner? Or to face the possibility that you could die? Are you courageous enough to face those threats?"
"I'm training to become a knight. All of those are occupational hazards. Despite that, I want to be a knight so I can help others in need no matter what. That includes my friends. Whether Hylia intended it or not, I will stick by to help my friends no matter the danger."
The green-lip woman stopped right in front of Pipit. She looked straight at him as she walked towards where he stood. Against his better judgment, Pipit remained still as she stood only a few feet from him.
"Those are noble words you have spoken…But anyone can say pretty words. I believe actions speak louder. This might hurt a bit."
"What do you-?"
Pipit never finished as the woman tapped his forehead with her index finger. Pipit heard the sound of a heartbeat. His eyes bulged as he felt a sharp pain in his head. The world around him returned to its original normal state. His friends and the forest became unfrozen. The woman that just spoke to him is nowhere to be found. Pipit was too focused on the sudden headache to notice his friends talking to him.
"Pipit?" Fledge called out.
"Pipit? Are you okay?" Karane spoke to him.
Pipit couldn't even respond to his friends. The pulsing headache was so painful he clutched his head to soothe it and barely stayed on his feet. The voice from the mysterious woman spoke to him again as his vision started to blur.
"So adamant...You claim you can face whatever struggles come your way, no matter how perilous. You know the risks. Well…if those are the shoes you've chosen, then let's see the limits of your courage."
"What's going on with you, Pipit?!" Karane called out to him more frantically this time.
Pipit suddenly collapsed on the ground below. Karane rushed to his side, trying to coax him awake while Fledge stood in shock.
"Your trial will begin."
Pipit found himself waking up on his side. A small groan escaped from his mouth as he placed a hand on his forehead. Slowly, Pipit sat upwards as he rubbed his head, no doubt feeling the small lingering remains of that painful headache. He had no idea what the hell that woman did to him. Before he could ponder on it, he took notice of his surroundings. There was a large but familiar gold door with the bird symbol in front of him. Behind him was also a familiar abyss but with no bridge this time. Despite the world around him being in a green filter and his skin now glowing, he knew where he was.
"Skyview Temple...What am I doing here? And why does everything look different?"
"Master Pipit, can you hear me?"
"Fi? Is that you? What's happening?" Pipit quickly got on his feet, trying to find Fi.
"It would seem that you're partaking in a trial realm of your own."
"A trial of my own? Is that why everything's so green and…glowing."
"Indeed...This is unusual. I have no record in my memory banks of a trial for you, Master Pipit. It would seem that a force beyond Hylia has decided to test you. Much like Master Link's trial, this will test your courage. But much like the trial Master Link is going through, I cannot follow you to this realm, for it calls to you alone. This domain is only accessible to you. Your spirit has temporarily separated from your physical body so that you may undertake this challenge. It is not the same as Master Link's, so I do not know the nature of this test."
"…Do I at least go through the door?"
"It would seem that way. Once you go beyond that door, I cannot reach you. I wish you the best of luck."
"Right…Oh, and could you explain this to Karane and Fledge as well. They seemed freaked out when I passed out."
"Understood, Master Pipit. I will eagerly await you and Master Link in the outside world."
Pipit's eyes were glued to the large door in front of him. He didn't know what to expect. Of course, he knew he wouldn't find out by staring at it. With a heavy breath, Pipit pushes the heavy doors open. Inside was the same chamber where he saw Link partaking in his first battle with Ghirahim. Aside from the green filter the realm provided, the room was the same as before. The door behind him slammed closed. The yellow-clad senior knight watches the door lock in place before…vanishing.
"Okay…that's weird."
"Look who's here at last~…" A dark voice sang through the walls.
Pipit turned to see a figure standing in the middle of the chamber. The figure is dressed in a tunic similar to the one he was wearing but in colors mixed with black and dark grey. The figure's skin and eyes are what gave him shivers. His skin was a sickly green, covered by dark green veins, and the pupils in his eyes were an unsettling yellow. Upon closer examination, Pipit was startled to see who this figure resembled.
"Who…Are you?"
"Isn't it obvious? I mean, the resemblance is uncanny." The figure's speaking reminded him of Ghirahim's mannerisms, which was not comforting. "Why…we're practically twins."
Who Pipit was staring at is now clear, no matter how much he denied it. The figure's hair is styled like his and has the same freckles. He even crosses his arms the same way he does it. This person appeared to be a darker counterpart of...himself.
"What is this?" Pipit demanded towards…Dark Pipit. Cheesy as it sounds, that's what he's sticking with.
"Do I have to point out everything?" Dark Pipit rolled his eyes as he let out a groan. "Then again, you were always the most oblivious person in Skyloft. I'll get straight to the point. While we may appear in Skyview Temple, this is something else entirely. We're in the depths within your head.
"My...my head?"
"All of this is part of your trial, including myself."
"So you're my trial?"
"Bingo! You're not as dimwitted as I thought you were. Try not to make the next few minutes dull for me, will you."
"Whatever you're planning to throw at me, I can assure you I can take them down without a problem."
Pipit reached for the sword on his back only to realize it was not there, along with his other gear. Dark Pipit stared at the boy with an amused look. His lips gave a twisted smile before he started…laughing.
"Aw…look at you. Being all Mr. Big Brave Knight. You sound so adorable when you talk like that, you know. But do us both a favor and drop the act already."
"What are you talking about?" Dark Pipit slowly walked towards Pipit.
"This whole 'Noble Knight' persona that you build up for yourself. I know it's nothing but pure bullshit." Dark Pipit was only mere inches away from the real Pipit's face. "And you know it as well."
"You don't know what you're talking about."
"Have you forgotten where you are? This is your head. Everything you see in it is a part of you. That includes me as well. You may act all courageous, but I know that this farce courage of yours is just a mask. What do you say about that?"
All Pipit could do was glare at his dark counterpart. How could he say such foul words about him? He had no right! Dark Pipit was unfazed and could only give a disappointed sigh.
"You still don't get it, huh? Can't say I'm surprised. I suppose if I can't tell, I'll show you."
Dark Pipit snapped his fingers. A white light blinded Pipit's vision. After it cleared away, he opened his eyes to find himself in a completely different room. Not just any room but the living room of his main house. What was he doing here? Why was he brought here?
Happy shouts of children caught his attention. There he saw two boys, one with brown hair and the other with sandy blonde, playing with toy wooden swords. Not too far from the boys was a woman in the kitchen washing dishes. Pipit recognizes the woman as his mother. He brings his attention back to the two boys. The one with brown hair is Pipit's seven-year-old self, and the other boy is a six-year-old Link.
"Be sure you and Link don't break anything, Pipit!" Mallara called out.
"I will, Mommy!" Young Pipit replied before he got hit by Young Link's toy sword.
"I win!"
"No fair, Link! I was talking to my mom!"
"Don't get distracted next time, then!"
A small smile grew across Pipit's lips at seeing his seven-year-old self pouting while agreeing with Young Link. The sound of the front door opening caught his ears. The sight of the person standing at the frame was enough for Pipit to hitch his breath.
A man stood at the entrance of the house. He wore a Skyknight uniform in the color of evergreen. He was tall with a broad structure. His face had a brown beard and freckles on his cheeks. Pipit took deep breaths as he did everything he could to keep his cool as he gazed at the man. He was someone Pipit knew he would never see again.
"Daddy! You're back!" Young Pipit ran up to the man, passing through Pipit's body.
"Hey, Pipit!" The man-Pipit's father lifted Young Pipit from the ground into his arms. "You didn't give your mother trouble, son?"
"He didn't, Harri," Mallara walked to her husband's side, giving him a quick peck on his lips.
"Eeeww! Gross!" Young Link sticks out his tongue in disgust.
"And how are you doing, kiddo?" Harri ruffled Young Link's hair.
"I'm fine, Mr. Erhard."
"How was patrol, honey?" Mallara asked.
"Relatively peaceful, thankfully. No Skytails, Aerocudas, or Aeralfos seen. Makes me wish there were more days like this."
"If they were, then they wouldn't need us anymore, my friend." A male's voice entered the room.
Another man entered the house, along with a woman as well. They both also wore Skyknight uniforms. The man in dark blue and the woman in magenta. The man had a build similar to that of Harri and had the same hair color as Link. The woman was slim but had little muscle and blonde hair, but she shared Link's sapphire blue eyes.
"Mama! Papa!" Young Link ran into his mother's arms, who also picked him up.
"Thank you so much for watching Link, Mallara," the woman said.
"Link is a pleasure to have around. I'm always happy to watch him for you, Cara."
"So, how was my brave little knight?" Cara asked her son.
"I beat Pipit in a swordfight!" Link proclaimed proudly.
"Only because I got distracted!" Young Pipit protested. "I'll get you next time."
"Look at them. Reminds me of you and me when we were their age, huh, brother," Link's father wraps his arm around Harri's shoulders.
"I think Link is a bit more well matter than you were, Kit," Harri joked to the man, earning a chuckle from both wives.
Pipit let out a bittersweet smile at the sight of his family laughing and smiling alongside Link's family. It was a sight he had desperately missed for so many years. It filled his chest with joy. That joy was short-lived.
"Isn't that such a sweet sight? Two families mingling and having such a great time." Dark Pipit spoke, standing next to the real Pipit. "But this is not what we're here for. Let's jump ahead a few months."
The scene quickly changed. Instead of the bright light that filled the living room, it was now dimmed. Pipit saw both of his parents sitting on the large sofa. Mallara was dressed in black, while his father still wore his uniform with a black scarf wrapped around him. They were gazing at a picture with them in it, alongside Link's parents, Kit & Cara. Their expressions were filled with anguish. Both of their eyes were red and puffy. It took Pipit a moment to realize where this memory was.
This was the evening of Link's parent's funeral.
"I still can't believe we won't be seeing them again," Mallara wiped her eyes from the tears trying to escape.
"I should've gone with them…" Harri choked back a sob. "If-if I had only been there, maybe I could've-"
"There was nothing you could've done! There were too many Skytails. Would one more knight have made a difference? If anything, you would've been killed alongside them."
Harri slouched forward with his hand covering his eyes. "Kit was practically my brother, Mallara…It's hard to believe that he and Cara are gone."
"Cara had been my best friend since we were young. Kit was always good to me…But Goddesses, I can't imagine what Link is going through. The poor boy is only six years old."
"Gaepora told me that Link would live at the academy dorms since he was already a student. He and Zelda will look after Link, and we'll do the same."
"Mommy? Daddy?" Young Pipit's voice startled his parents. They see their son standing at the end of the sofa dressed in his pajamas.
"Pipit, what are you doing out of bed?" Mallara asked her son.
"I-I couldn't sleep. And I heard you both crying."
"We're okay, son." Harri recomposed himself. "Why don't I take you back to your room and tuck you in?"
Young Pipit nodded. Harri gently took his son's hand and guided him back to his bedroom. The current Pipit followed after the pair. Harri placed Young Pipit onto his bed and tucked him under the covers.
"Comfy?" Harri asked.
"Uh-huh…" Young Pipit lowered his gaze to the ground. "Daddy, is Link going to be okay?"
Harri took a breath. "Link is going through a…rough time right now. Headmaster Gaepora and Zelda will make sure he's taken care of. But he's going to need our support now more than ever. That includes yours as well, Pipit. Can you do that?"
"Link's my friend. Of course, I will."
"I'm glad to hear that. Link is lucky to have you as a friend. He'll need someone as brave as you to help him overcome this." Harri paused, his mind pondering elsewhere. "Pipit can look at me for a moment?"
The young boy looked up at his father with anticipation. Harri gently places his hand under his son's chin.
"My dear son. Should…should fate ever part me from you and your mother…I'll be counting on you to be brave & strong from that point forward. Not only for your mother but me as well."
"Why-why are you talking like that, Daddy? You won't die. You'll always be around." Hearing that from his younger self left a sting in Pipit's chest. If only the younger him knew…
"To be honest, I hope that stays that way. But there's always the chance that the next moment will change everything. Which is why I'm telling you this. So you can be prepared. Understood?"
"I-I do, Daddy. I'll be a brave boy. I promise you."
"Bittersweet moment, isn't it?" Dark Pipit found himself next to the real Pipit once again. "Little did that boy know that his beloved father would meet his end the next year at the claws of a rogue Aeralfos. You remember that day, don't you?"
How could Pipit forget? It was the worst day of his life.
What was supposed to be a standard weekly night patrol for his father ended with his death when a stray Aeralfos attacked him out of nowhere. Backup had come and slain the monster, but it had already been too late for Harri. The Aeralfos injured him so severely that he died before they even arrived. The knights managed to recover his body, but from what Pipit recalled, his father's wounds were so severe that it would've been too much for his eight-year-old self to see. Mallara never shared the details, even to this day.
"If I can remember, that Aeralfos brutalized your father so badly that they wouldn't let you see his body, even at his funeral. Such a terrible way to die."
"What's the point of all this?" Pipit demanded his dark counterpart, not wanting him to speak more ill will about his father.
"You STILL haven't figured it out? For crying out loud, you really are that dense! You vow to keep your father's promise close to you the same day he was killed. You made a vow that you would be strong & brave not only for your mother's sake but for everyone around. It reminds me of something you once said. What was it again? Oh right… 'You put up a brave face in front of others. When you do it, the unhappiness rolls off like water on a Loftwing's back.' You were so dedicated that you didn't even cry at your father's funeral, even when you and your mother were alone in your grief."
"I-I didn't want to worry anyone, especially Mom. I had to stay strong for her."
"That's what you believe. But you want to know what I think? I think this charade of yours is a coverup of your fear. And you want to know what that fear is?" Dark Pipit grabbed his counterpart by the collar of his uniform. He leaned close to Pipit's ear, whispering with venomous glee. "You're afraid of being a big disappointment."
Pipit shoves Dark Pipit away from him. The scene changed back to the chamber at Skyview. Dark Pipit still stood with a rather annoyed expression.
"No need to shove me that hard, you know." Dark Pipit dusted himself off as he waited for Pipit to respond back. Yet he did not. "What? No comeback of any sort? Seems like I touch a nerve with you."
"You don't know anything about me!" Pipit barked back.
"I think I do. You're afraid that you'll disappoint those you care about around you if you drop your brave knight façade. That includes your mother, your beloved friends, and of course, daddy dearest."
"That's-that's not true!"
"Still in denial," Dark Pipit clicked his tongue. "Then I have no choice but to do this."
Dark Pipit snapped his fingers once again. It was quiet. Too quiet for Pipit's liking. He wasn't sure what to expect. Then he heard voices. Voices of people he knew.
"You bring shame to that uniform you wear."
"E-Eagus..?"
"You winning The Wing Ceremony was a mistake."
"Instructor Owlan?"
"I should have never let you attend the academy."
"H-Headmaster Gaepora?"
"Is this how you truly are? I looked up to you!"
"Fledge…?"
"I was counting on you, Pipit! Impa was right! You don't care for me at all!"
"Zelda!?"
"I can't even look at you. You're not the man I thought you were."
"Karane..." Pipit's eyes became watery.
"It's a good thing your father isn't here. He would be so ashamed if he saw you now!"
"Mom." Pipit could feel his body tremble.
"I once regarded you as my brother. Now, look at you. Truly pathetic."
"Link...!" Tears threatened to pour out of Pipit's eyes.
"This is how you really are, son? You are nothing but a disgrace. I'm ashamed to be called your father."
"Dad…"
That was the final straw. Tears started flowing out of the senior knight's eyes. He fell to his knees. One hand was placed on the ground, while the other covered his face as he tried to hold back his sobs. All Dark Pipit could do was peer down with a wicked smirk.
"Just as I thought. The noble knight is nothing more than a pathetic, scared little boy crying for his dead daddy."
Several sobs continue to escape from the boy as the tears continue to pour out. The voices felt so authentic. It's almost how he imagined what those close to him would say once they saw who he was for real. Goddesses, they hurt so bad. He hated to admit it, but Dark Pipit was right…He was just a scared child pretending to be brave for the sake of others.
"Dad…I couldn't keep your promise. I'm sorry." Pipit spoke through his sobs.
"Is that is then? Are you actually going to listen to him?" That voice! It was the one that belonged to the woman with green lips. "Perhaps, you should pay a visit to another memory. A memory that you have forgotten."
Slowly, Pipit brought his head up.
He was back in his bedroom at his home. The door opened, and Harri entered the room. He saw Young Pipit sitting on the edge of his bed, looking down at his lap with a glum look. An unreadable expression plastered across his face. He slowly walked to Young Pipit's bed and sat beside the boy. Taking a deep breath, Harris turned to his son.
"Pipit, I'm very disappointed in you," Harri spoke calmly but firmly.
"I know…"
"What you did today was reckless and dangerous. You took my Loftwing out on a flight without my permission and tried to fight an Aerocuda by yourself. It's a good thing one of the knights spotted you. You could've been killed! You deliberately disobeyed me. And what's worse? You put Link in danger!"
"I…I was trying to be brave like you," Young Pipit revealed as he tried his best not to cry.
Harri's expression softened. "I'm only brave when I have to be. Pipit…being brave doesn't mean you go looking for trouble."
"But…you do all the time, Daddy! You're a Skyknight! You don't get scared of anything!"
Harri stayed quiet for a moment. "Let me tell you something, son. The truth is…I do get scared. I get scared when one of my friends gets hurt. I get scared when I see a monster linger too close to Skyloft. I was scared for Link when Kit & Cara died. And just today, I was scared…I thought I might lose you."
"…You really do get scared?"
"Not just me. Everyone has fears, Pipit. Feeling fear is part of being human. Even Skyknights get scared. But you know what? That doesn't stop me or any of the knights from doing our duty. It takes courage to be a knight. But you know what's more courageous?"
"What?"
"Admitting that you're afraid. That takes great courage. To face it head-on is even greater. Yes, you can conquer that fear, but if you can't, there's nothing wrong with that. You don't have to prove that you're brave to me. You're my son, and I love you whether you're brave or not. Will you promise to remember that, Pipit?"
"I will, Daddy."
Harri and Young Pipit engulfed each other in a hug. Current Pipit looked on with a warm feeling in his heart and a sad smile. A lone tear trailed down his cheek before wiping it away.
"Do you remember this now?" Green Lip's voice echoed.
"I do…" Pipit answered. "This…this was right before Dad…"
"...Right before his life was tragically taken away."
"Yeah...I-I remember everything now. How could I forget this?"
"The shock and the pain of your father's sudden death was a lot for you to take in. You wanted to be strong for your mother, so you kept your promise to your father when Link's parents died close to you. But in doing so, your grief caused you to repress this memory. Locking it away within the deepest parts of your mind, thus forgetting this promise as well. You feared that you would dishonor your father's memory if you failed your promise. Tell me, Pipit Erhard…would the father who loved you ever look down if you were afraid?"
"No…Dad loved me."
"As for your mother, friends, and the people around you. Would they ever say such awful things to you?"
"Never. They…they would try to help me overcome my fear."
"Are you going to listen to a false illusion of yourself? Are you going to give in to it?"
"You're right. Letting that piece of…shit toy with me. What was I thinking…?!"
"Then what are you going to do? Cower in fear, or gain the courage to stand up to it? The choice is yours."
Pipit closed his eyes, deep in thought. He knew what he had to do. Opening his eyes, he found himself in the Skyview chamber before Green Lips spoke to him.
"Look at you groveling at the ground. What a pathetic sight," Dark Pipit's voice echoed off his ears. "It's like what I said. Your Brave Noble Knight image is nothing but pure bullshit-"
"You were right."
"Oh?" Dark Pipit watched with keen interest as Pipit slowly stood to his feet.
"I was afraid. Afraid of disappointing my father and the people around me." Pipit glares at Dark Pipit. "But you want to know something? I know they would never look down on me if I was afraid. They would help me stand up to my fear. I'm not scared of their rejection because I know it will never happen. Right now, Fledge & Karane need me. Link, who I'm honored to call my brother, needs me. And Zelda needs me most of all. I won't help them by cowering at the sight of some…faker!"
"What-what are you-?" Dark Pipit shuddered as he saw Pipit marching up to him. His hand clench in a fist.
"I'm not afraid of you! If anything…you only pissed me off, you son of bitch!" Pipit was now awfully close to his dark counterpart. "So stop looking down at me with that stupid smile on your face!"
Letting out a yell, Pipit threw a hard punch at his dark counterpart's face. Dark Pipit's head disintegrated the moment Pipit's fist made contact. Pipit stood as he watched Dark Pipit's entire body completely vanish until no trace of him remained. The only sound in the room was Pipit's heavy breathing. The chamber lit up with light. On the other end of the room, a door appeared, though instead the usual symbol of Hylia, it had the emblem of Farore.
"I guess I passed the trial then."
The symbol on the door glowed in bright green. The door vanished as it did back at Skyview in the outside world. Everything was in a green filter, and the open sky was filled with a green void. Like the real Skyview Temple, the spring lies at the end of it. The replica of the Goddess Statue resides at the end, just like before. However, there was a cloaked figure standing in front of it. When Pipit got close enough, the figure turned to face him. They were none other than Green Lips herself.
"Well, well…You made it through, eh? Color me impressed." A smile grew across her lips as she crossed her arms. "Looks like you might have a chance to help Link after all. But I imagine that you have questions. I'll start by answering your first question from earlier about who I am."
Green lips outstretched her arms out. The cloak that covered her disintegrated into the air. Underneath revealed a beautiful green dress with a knee-length skirt & elbow-length sleeves, along with dark green boots just a few inches below her knees. She wore gold jewelry with green gems. Her green hair was tied up in an upper bun, with two strands dangling on both sides of her head.
"I am Farore. Goddess of Courage."
Pipit's eyes widened in pure shock. He was standing in the presence of one of the three golden goddesses that created the world so long ago! He didn't know what to do. What was he supposed to do? All he did was hastily bowed his head.
"Please, no need for that, Pipit." The green goddess lifted her hand in assurance. "I know it must be a surprise seeing me. Truth be told, I'm equally as surprised to be here."
"What do you mean?" Pipit looked at Farore.
"You and your friends joining Link was not part of Hylia's plan. She suspected that something like this would happen, but she was unsure. So she entrusted my sisters and me to test all three of you. Each of us would test the one closest to our virtues. In this case, you were close to my virtue: Courage. Your trial was all about conquering your greatest fear. I do apologize for the manner I brought you here, and for the intense nature of the test, but it was necessary to determine if you're capable of aiding Link in his journey. And you passed your trial. Proving you're courageous enough for the task."
"But…Karane and Fledge…they'll be tested as well?"
"Yes. When Link must partake in his next trial, one of my sisters will come and test one of them. As for which they will test, I cannot tell you."
"I see…"
"I'm certain there's nothing to worry about. If you can pass this trial, the other two can! If you can all do it, then all of you can help Link and Zelda as well. I know you will!"
"Thank you. I won't let you or any of my friends down." Pipit looks toward the green sky. "I should get back to them."
"There's something else I need to do first." Farore brought Pipit's attention back to her. "I should reward you for completing your trial. It would only be fair. I shall bless you with a portion of my power to aid you and your friends from this point. It's a sacred power that I proudly dub…Farore's Gale!"
The green goddess made several gestures with her arms and twirled around before lifting one arm in the air. A green aura pulled out of her and formed a green orb in the palm of her hand. Once it was fully developed, she threw it toward Pipit. The green sphere went into his chest, leaving a glow on the surface for a brief moment before vanishing. A small surge of power filled him simultaneously as a breeze brushed his skin.
"From this moment forth, part of my essence now lives inside you and will remain with you till the end of your days. With the power of Farore's Gale, you can teleport to spots that would be otherwise hard to reach. It will be useful for your journey."
"Wow. I'm…honored to receive this gift. Thank you."
"There are also some other surprises my essence also brings."
"What are those?"
"You're smart. I'm sure you can figure it out. Plus, telling you would take the fun out of it," Farore giggled playfully.
"You know, for a goddess, you seem so…laid back."
"I can be regal when I need to be, but I like to have some fun. My sisters and I are not as formal as you mortals make us out to be." Farore took a moment to think. "Actually…Nayru comes pretty close. She's what you mortals like to call 'a stick in the mud.' Don't tell anyone I said that when you return to your realm. Otherwise, I'll smite you where you stand."
"I uh…" Pipit stuttered only to be interrupted by Farore laughing.
"I'm just kidding! I could never do that. Besides, Nayru often expects that from me anyways."
"You are certainly not what I expect. In a good way, of course!"
"I may be a goddess, but I'm just as human as you are. Try to keep that in mind."
Pipit's body started to glow as particles began breaking away from it.
"It's time that you return to your realm. You still have a long way to go, but you and the others can do it."
"Thank you again. I promise I will put your power to good use."
"You're a man of honor, Pipit Erhard. I know you will. Fledge, Karane, Link, and Zelda are lucky to have you as friends. I also want to relay a quick message to you…from your father.
Even as he felt himself fading away, Pipit focused on the goddess.
"Your father is proud of the person that you have become. He doesn't want what happened to him to weigh you and your mother down forever. He only wishes you both to live a happy life. And…that he still loves you both. Those were the words he wanted me to tell."
If Pipit wasn't in the process of being pulled back into his realm, he would probably be bursting crying now. Just hearing them was enough for the weight in his chest that had been there since his dad died. Now it had finally been lifted off him. It was a good feeling.
"Could you tell him…thank you for everything he's done for Mom and me. That we both still miss him, and we love him."
"I'm certain he already knows." Farore smiled at the boy. "But I'll be sure to tell him anyway."
Pipit gave a small smile at the goddess. His body was engulfed in a golden glow before breaking into golden particles. Farore watched as they floated above.
Link stood up and pulled his sword out of the ground. The Silent Realm wasn't anything he expected to be, but he completed it and got one of the three sacred gifts, the Water Dragon's Scale.
"Congratulations, Master Link," Fi said to him. "You have passed this trial. You now have the power to proceed to the location of the first sacred flame that will enhance your sword."
"Link!" Fledge's voice caught the green-clad senior knight's ears. To his side, Link sees Fledge & Karane. He grew alarmed when they same them sitting on the ground next to an unconscious Pipit.
"What happened to him? Is he hurt?"
"Master Pipit is fine," Fi assured Link as she floated beside him. "When you entered Farore's Silent Realm, a powerful force called upon him for his own trial. I'm sure he will explain further once he awakens."
"A warning would've been nice. Pipit clutched his head and struggled to stay on his feet without warning. It looked painful. Then he just…passed out. I thought he died on the spot. Freaked me out," Karane explained to Link as she gently pressed her finger against Pipit's cheek.
"Guys! We have company!" Fledge's panic-stricken voice caught the pair's attention.
Approaching the group was a trio of Bokoblins. These ones were blue rather than the usual red. The students were quick to their feet, forming a wall in front of Pipit.
"Damn it! Right now?" Link groaned as he and the others readied their weapons.
"Were they blue before?" Karane questioned.
"These are Blue Bokoblins," Fi explained. "This is a dangerous form of Bokoblin. My analysis suggests it is many times stronger than a Red Bokoblin. Its skin and clothing differ due to its hailing from a different environment, but it still has the same fixation with exotic undergarments. They fight in the same matter, but I advise you to exercise caution."
"Right. Let's take those things out! Don't let any of them get near Pipit!" Link instructed after Fi went back to the sword.
Each of them went to engage the Blue Bokoblin. Unlike the other Bokoblins, the blues more erratically and faster. They all got their swipes blocked more than they usually do. They moved so quickly that the students barely had time to use their shields to block. The Blue Bokoblins even almost hit them. But through patience, each of them fell to the student's blades. Then they would go to their friend to help take out the Bokoblin.
"Fi was right. Those guys were tough!" Karane exclaimed.
"You're telling me. Did some damage to my shield," Link said.
"Mine as well…" Fledge examined his battered wooden shield.
"Warning, Masters. I'm detecting a large enemy heading towards our direction." Fi warned the group.
A large creature rounded the corner. It appeared like a Red Bokoblin but much taller and fatter. It held one long spear in one hand. The other had a square wooden shield that was about as big as it was.
"That is a Moblin. This massive monster's wall-sized shield gives it a tactical advantage. When its shield is at the ready most attacks will be quite futile. The destruction of its shield will likely drive the monster into a rage, instantly increasing its threat."
"What's the plan now?" Fledge questioned.
A rush of yellow suddenly dashed past before anyone could answer. Pipit was running straight towards the Moblin. The boy ignored his friend's pleas as he stood before the monster. As the Moblin was about to strike him with its spear, Pipit suddenly disappeared in a flash of green light, accompanied by a yellow streak. The three students stood in pure bewilderment while The Moblin was equally confused. This didn't last very long as something attacked him from its back. After several strikes, it screamed a death cry before its body disappeared. Standing there was Pipit in a triumphant pose. He appeared to be alright.
"Hey, guys…" Pipit sheepishly greeted as he strolled over to his friends.
"Pipit! Thank Nayru, you're awake! You gave us the scare," Karane said.
"Yeah…sorry about that."
"How are you feeling?" Link asked.
Pipit let out a laugh. "I feel…great, actually."
"You seem happy for someone who was just unconscious," Fledge commented.
"Never mind that. What was that magic you just did?" Link pressed on.
"Yeah, um...I got blessed by Farore, and now I have teleportation magic."
"Farore?! As in one of the three Golden Goddesses?!" Fledge exclaimed in shock.
"Pretty much."
"Looks like she made some adjustments to your uniform." Link pointed to Pipit's torso. In the center of his chest, the green symbol of Farore is now plastered on his uniform.
"Huh…What do you know," Pipit stated.
"That's not the only thing that changed," Karane mentioned. "Your eyes…"
"What's wrong with my eyes?"
"Nothing! It's just…Were they always green?"
"You're right, Karane. His eyes are green now!" Fledge stated.
Pipit pulled out his blade to look into his reflection. Where his dark blue eyes used to be were now replaced by ones that were green as Farore herself. He brought his finger just below his eyes.
"Wow…There are so many changes to me, mentally and physically."
The familiar sound of Fi's filled his ears.
"Do not worry, Master Pipit. My calculations suggest that changing your wardrobe and eye color are side effects of receiving Farore's Gale."
"I know, but…" Pipit crossed his arms. "It's a lot to take in. The trial, and these changes to my body…."
"Let's rest with the Kikwis for a bit," Fledge suggested.
"And you can tell us about your trial in the meantime. I'm a little curious myself," Link said.
"Thank you. I...I'm happy to have you guys."
"And we're glad to have you around as well."
The quartet made their way in the direction of the Kikwis
"Hey…Pipit," Karane's voice broke through.
"Yeah, Karane?"
"You...you look good with green eyes."
"T-Thank you." A flush of red was painted on Pipit's cheeks. A small smile soon followed.
Elsewhere…
A man stood in the stone room. He looked into the orb, which had Pipit in it. A somber expression grew on the man's face. Farore appeared, walking right behind him.
"Did he pass the trial?" The man spoke, not even looking back.
"He did, Harri. He did." Farore answered as she stood next to him. "I relayed your message to him."
"What did he say?" Harri asked.
"He said…thank you for everything you've done for him and Mallara. That they both still miss you and love you."
A treat strolled down Harri's face as he gave a bittersweet smile. "Thank you…"
"He's a good kid. He and the others will get through this. If they can do it, they can also restore peace to The Surface and the rest of the world."
"I know he will. I know him, and Link can do this." Eyes still on the orb, he reaches his hand out to stroke it. More tears pour out of his eyes. "Oh, dear son…I know you already know this, but I'm proud of you. I'm sorry I had to leave you and your mother. I wish I could speak to you both again… Even just once more…"
All Farore could do was comfort Harri as he softly wept.
(Edit as of 7/27/2023: Added one of the enemies from Tears of the Kingdom)
So no new Breath of the Wild 2 trailer at the game awards...Ah well.
I want to make a quick note. Throughout this fic I've been referring to Eagus to Swordmaster. I recently realize that his real title is Knight Comannder. I don't know how the hell I mess that up or why I thought it was Swordmaster but I want to tell you guys I realize the mistake. And I didn't want to write Link in the Silent Realm. Those levels are painful enough as it is and I did not want to deal with them again. Now onto other stuff.
For Pipit's dad, and Link's parents name I decided to stick to Skyward Sword 's theme of giving most of the characters bird names
Harri (Pipit's dad) = Harrier
Kit (Link's dad) = Kite
Cara (Link's mom) = Caracara
All three of these birds are listed as birds of prey so I thought it would be fitting since these three are...or were Skyknights.
If you've notice the Persona 5 parallels...you're not entirely wrong. I'm not a big fan of it nor played it. I've only watch footage of the game on Youtube, but I have a decent understanding of the story. I was inspired by the palaces in the game, along with the characters persona awakenings for this chapter.
And if you played Zelda in Smash Brothers, Pipit's skill, Farore's Gale, is basically Zelda's move "Farore's Wind."
Favs, Follows, and Reviews are appreciated!