Saria, Hero of the Forest

by digitalSatyr23

There is a prophecy that a young boy from the forest would one day leave his home, aid a princess in her quest, and ultimately vanquish evil with the help of the Ocarina of Time and the Master Sword. But something has gone wrong. Saria, a Kokiri from Kokiri Village, must take up the mantle of hero and save Hyrule before the world is unraveled by the prophecy undone.

4. Chapter 4: Bond of Friendship

"So this is the fabled Composer Brothers' final work?" said the man in black armor. "How did you get this?"

"I was able to sneak into a Royal Family tomb," said Kitoga, kneeling. "It was well-guarded so I had to memorize it, but the notes on that scroll should be accurate – this I pledge my life on."

"Then let's put it to the test." The man in armor walked over to a decorative case where several instruments rested against purple cushions. After pulling out a mizmar, the man played the song. The man stepped over to a window in his chamber, waiting. The sun set while the moon rose, all in the span of a few seconds. He played the song once more, returning the sun to the sky. "Ha! So it is true!"

"Does this please my lord?" asked Kitoga.

"It might have in the past, but I've lost interest in this magic," the man said as he put away his mizmar.

"If I may ask, why the change of heart?"

"There's only one thing I want in this world now, and in order to get it, I need the Triforce. Had you brought me a spiritual stone, or the Ocarina of Time, I would been elated! But this? Compared to the Triforce, this is a mere parlor trick!"

The man tossed the scroll to the ground, which bounced and unrolled at Kitoga's feet. It stung seeing her hard work tossed aside like that, but the Gerudo dare not speak such words before her lord. To outsiders, Ganondorf was a mere chieftain, but to the Gerudo, he was akin to a god reborn. And you do not level complaints at God.

"Kitoga," said Ganondorf, "while you were sneaking about, did you cross paths with a Kokiri? There is a girl from Kokiri Village who I believe may have the very same stone that accursed tree denied me. I saw her the other night at Hyrule Castle peeking through a window." Ganondorf stepped closer to Kitoga as he said, "Green hair, green clothes, green everything! Does this sound familiar?"

"I fought such a girl while in the tomb. I underestimated her, however, and nearly lost. I decided to flee before our battle drew the attention of the guards."

Ganondorf looked Kitoga in the eye and gestured. "Rise."

The Gerudo stood up slowly. Every Gerudo was physically gifted. Tall, muscular – imposing to even the stoutest Hylian. Yet even with her height, Ganondorf stood a head taller than her.

"My lord?"

"I wanted to get a good look at your eyes. They're quite pretty. Almost like carved amethyst…" The Gerudo woman blushed at this, unsure how to react. "Yes," Ganondorf continued. "Just like gemstones… So you did indeed encounter the Kokiri."

"I did."

Ganondorf started laughing. It was a low chuckle at first, but it soon rose in volume – a mad cackle that echoed throughout the room as the sorcerer clutched his head with a wild-eyed look of disbelief. Kitoga joined in, laughing uncomfortably. That was until Ganondorf grabbed her by the throat and slammed her into a wall, cracking the sandstone.

"That means you let one of the keys to the Door of Time get away! You useless woman, I'll turn you to ash!" Dark magic swirled about in Ganondorf's free hand. "Before I kill you, do you have anything to say for yourself?"

"I… I overheard where she's going! She's traveling up Death Mountain!"

Ganondorf dropped the Gerudo woman, dispelling the dark magic in his hand. "Death Mountain… Of course, of course… It's just like he said… It's all making sense…"

Kitoga watched as Ganondorf paced about the room. She decided not to question it, saying, "I can pursue her, my lord. I underestimated her before, but I won't make that mistake again. Not only will I return with the Kokiri's Emerald, but the Goron's Ruby as well!"

"Ha! As if I'd trust this matter to your hands alone. Still, you may prove useful yet. Go into the pit and take some of the lizalfos with you. They should be more than enough for the likes of her."

Kitoga shook at the mere mention of the creatures. Lizalfos were just one of many monsters Ganondorf had won over to his side with his guile and ruthlessness. They were cruel, bestial things that looked at all living things as potential prey. Once Kitoga saw Ganondorf throw a Gerudo into the pit after failing him one too many times. Even to this day, the screams still gave her nightmares.

"H-how many should I take, my lord?"

"As many as you think you can handle, and a few more besides. A band of monsters raiding in the mountains does not raise suspicion the way a band of Gerudo might." Kitoga nodded and started to walk away, but then Ganondorf said, "And one more thing, Kitoga."

"Yes, my lord?"

"For every spiritual stone you do not bring back with you, I'll pluck out one of your eyes. A gemstone for a gemstone… A fair trade, wouldn't you say?"

Ganondorf laughed once more. All Kitoga could do was bow and leave the room. As she walked, she could feel a hot stinging sensation in her throat. Anger, fear, embarrassment – it hurt more than being struck against the wall. As the fuming Gerudo stomped down the hallway, a voice called out to her.

"Kitoga? Is everything all right?"

She almost snapped at the woman, but upon realizing it was Nabooru, she held back. Kitoga was hesitant to answer, for she feared being overheard by one of Ganondorf's followers.

"Can't say? Fine. Just be careful," said Nabooru. "Our lord has grown a little agitated as of late. I suspect it's his obsession with the Triforce." Nabooru then approached Kitoga, putting a reassuring hand on the Gerudo's shoulder. "It might be safer to disappear and never be seen again. I wouldn't blame you for it. Trying to get on Ganondorf's good side is like dancing with death."

This only angered Kitoga further. She pulled away from Nabooru. "I'm not a coward like you!" she hissed. "Thinking like that is why you lost your place as chieftain to begin with! But I won't go down the same path as you. My destiny is greatness! I will not falter!"

Kitoga then ran off, leaving Nabooru alone. The former chieftain simply shook her head.

Saria made her way up the mountains, pacing herself as to not get too worn out. Further up the path, Poppy noticed some wandering monsters.

"Hey, I think those are red tektites."

"Are they dangerous?" asked Saria, watching the creatures hop around.

"I… I think so. They're certainly territorial."

Saria took out a deku stick. "They seem harmless enough, but…"

As she inched closer, one of the tektites noticed Saria and hopped in her direction, springing its four spider-like legs off the ground. Its mandibles clicked together as its one eye stared the girl down. One thwack from her stick, however, pulverized the creature. It fell to pieces and dissipated into green flame. The other tektites saw this and hopped away, clearly frightened. Saria and Poppy froze, mouths agape.

"Oh geez, you really let him have it," said Poppy.

"I didn't think they were so delicate!" said Saria. "Now I feel sorry for them."

"Hey, you were just defending yourself. I get it."

"Yeah, but…"

Saria noticed a smaller red tektite that was too slow to catch up with the others. Upon Saria's approach, it shook in fright. Seeing this, Saria took out some berries. When it seemed clear the girl meant no harm, the small tektite approached, eating the berries and calming down enough that Saria could pet the creature.

"I knew they weren't so bad," said Saria. "They're cute once you get used to them."

Poppy looked the creature in the eye. She tried to get close, but the tektite nipped at the air in her direction, causing her to back off. Saria just laughed.

"Oh yeah, real funny!" Poppy fumed, floating away to safety.

After helping the little tektite get back to its pack (or swarm - Saria wasn't sure), she continued up the mountain trail, occasionally stopping to take a breather. During one of her small breaks, Saria noticed a pair of Hylians making their way up the trail in her direction. One of them was a large man with a fat belly wearing blue overalls and a red shirt, while the other was a small girl with fiery red hair wearing a white dress.

"Malon! Talon!" shouted Saria, waving them over.

"Saria!" shouted Malon, racing up ahead and giving Saria a hug. "What're you doing up here?"

"An important mission!" said Poppy.

"Ooh. You'll have to tell me all about it later."

By this time, Saria took notice of the woven baskets with straps being worn on Malon and Talon's backs, each filled with heavy-looking rocks.

"Come to think of it, what are you two doing up here?" asked Saria.

"Yeah. Those look super heavy," said Poppy.

"These are for the Gorons," said Talon. "They're in a spot of trouble, so the King of Hyrule asked me to help transport some rations up to Death Mountain for them."

"So you brought Malon with you to help carry the rocks?" asked Poppy.

"Oh, not exactly. She was the one who wanted to help. I told her it was dangerous up the Death Mountain trail but she insisted she come along."

"I wanted to make sure he didn't fall asleep somewhere," said Malon.

"I see…" said Saria. "But what did you mean by rations?"

A shift in the air alerted the Kokiri. She shoved Malon aside and jumped back, dodging a large lumpy figure that slammed into the ground face-first.

"Gah! What the?!" shouted Talon.

The brown creature was still for a few seconds, eventually standing up after Saria poked it with a deku stick.

"Ooogh. Still hungry. I guess I missed," said the creature.

Deku stick at the ready, Saria said, "Who are you? Why did you attack us?"

"Attack you? Huh?"

"Yeah! What's the big idea?!" said Malon, shaking the creature around. "I know you all are hungry but that's just plain rude! You'll get yer rations when we get to the city!"

"M-malon, dear, try and calm down," said Talon. "I'm sure he didn't mean anything by it."

"Hey! Don't take his side! I was nearly crushed!"

"I'm sorry, okay!" The creature pulled Malon off of him and set her down. "You need to understand we haven't had anything even remotely edible in a long time."

"What do you mean?" asked Saria.

"Hrrrm? Have you never seen a Goron before?" Saria shook her head. "Oh!" said the Goron. "Things make a bit more sense now. We Gorons live on these mountains, you see. We've had trouble getting food as of late, so when I saw some people carrying around some nice-smelling rocks, I couldn't help myself."

"You could have asked you know!" Malon fumed.

"I said I was sorry. Why don't I escort you all the rest of the way to Goron City?"

"Impa said the Gorons had the Spiritual Stone of Fire, right?" Poppy whispered into Saria's ear.

"Then that must be our destination," whispered Saria. "We'll gladly accept the help," Saria said to the Goron.

"Great! Then right this way!" said the Goron. He then curled up into a ball and rolled up the mountain path. Saria looked to the others, shrugging, then they all followed the Goron.

Along the way, Saria noticed what looked like a sealed cavern. A Goron wearing a metal helmet, pauldrons, and chest armor was standing guard.

"I wonder what that's about?" Saria wondered aloud.

"I guess we'll find out soon enough," said Poppy.

Eventually, the group made it to the top of the trail where they could see a large opening in the mountain. The Goron stood up, gestured for them to come inside, then waddled in, shortly followed by the rest of the group. Once inside, Saria found herself at the top ring of a multi-floor city. Rough round walls had been carved into the mountain, and decorative paintings of dancing Gorons could be seen all over the place. Hanging above the city on the top layer was a platform suspended by rope with a gem-like symbol carved into a short wall on the platform. Below, Saria could see carved openings to rooms, torch sconces, decorative pottery with Goron faces, and dozens of tired Gorons.

Talon set down his rock pack. "Hey, take this," Talon handed a rock to the Goron that guided everyone to the city. "Call the others up so we can start distributing these."

"Yes sir!" The Goron took a huge bite out of the rock like it was a berry, making loud crunching sounds. After swallowing, a bit of light returned to his big eyes before he waddled off. Malon set her backpack down as well and helped her father distribute rocks as Gorons wandered up to the top layer of the city.

"So they really do eat rocks," said Poppy. "Gross!"

"Hey, that's not very nice," said a Goron tiptoeing across the rope suspension. After setting foot on the stone floor everyone else was on, he said, "rocks are a great source of nutrition!"

"Oh yeah? What kind of nutrition?"

The Goron took a rock from Talon, eating it. "Minerals, mostly."

"Wait, I'm confused," said Saria. "If you all eat rocks, how were you out of food? This whole place is made of rocks."

The Goron scratched his chin, which had a patch of fuzz on it. "Do you eat the dirt surrounding your potatoes?"

"Then you only eat specific rocks, then. So what's going on? Why is there a food shortage?"

"Big Bro would be able to explain it better, but some nasty stuff was going on in Dodongo's Cavern, so he sealed it off. Only problem is that's where we get most of our food. We can eat other rocks, sure, but the tastiest and most nutritious rocks are all found in that cavern."

"So you guys are just picky eaters?" said Poppy.

"Hey, be nice," said Saria. "Who's this Big Bro? Is he your leader?"

"Yeah!" said another Goron. "You never heard of the Great Darunia? He's like the strongest Goron ever!"

"I haven't heard of a lot of things…"

"Well maybe you should go pay him a visit. At least when he's open to visitors, anyway… He shut the door to his room and hasn't come out in a while. Said he had to protect the city's ruby or something."

"Real shame, too," said another Goron. "That ruby looked mighty tasty."

"I think he's just trying to keep it safe from you guys," muttered Poppy.

With a better understanding of the situation, Saria walked over to Malon and said, "Hey, I have some things to do. I'll see you later."

"Okay! Maybe when we're both free we can hang out some more!"

"Sounds good to me. Take care, now!"

The two waved goodbye, then Saria made her way down. At the very bottom of the city past a gigantic pot was the sealed chamber. Curiously, it was marked by the crest of the Royal Family.

"Hey, you thinking what I'm thinking?" asked Saria.

"I just hope it doesn't explode like last time," said Poppy.

Saria played Zelda's Lullaby, and just as she suspected, the door opened up. "I see. So it really does open any door with that marking."

Poppy, who had been shielding her face, peeked between her fingers. Since nothing exploded, she said, "Phew. Let's get inside, then."

A short hall led to a larger chamber with two brightly lit torches, a stone statue, some tables and chairs, and a muscular Goron sitting on a rug with his back turned. The rocky bumps on his back looked almost like spikes, and the Goron's full head of hair looked equally spiky.

"Excuse me," said Saria. "Are you Darunia?"

"Hm?! It's about time!" Darunia stood up, turning around. "I was wondering when the… Royal Family's… Messenger… Would get here. Hm!? Who are you?"

"My name is Saria. I'm a Kokiri, as well as an envoy of the Royal Family."

"You? An envoy?! How?! When I heard that song, I was expecting a proper messenger, like a Hylian guard, not some puny kid. Go away!"

"Hey! She's not just some kid! She's just short!" shouted Poppy in protest.

"You're really not helping…" muttered Saria.

"I can't believe it. Has the Great Darunia really fallen so far that this is the best I get from my sworn brother? And after everything I did for that guy! Sheesh!"

"Hold on, the king isn't trying to slight you. He even sent your people food rations."

"Yeah! You should be thanking us!" said Poppy. "Or at least Malon and her dad…"

"Food? That helps a little, but that still doesn't solve the problem. What I need is backup! Fightin' men! You get me, little pipsqueak? I don't need a tiny envoy and her even tinier fairy!"

"Waiting for backup? Is that what you call sealing yourself in your room like a coward?!" shouted Poppy.

"What did you say?!" Darunia got closer to the fairy as a vein bulged on his forehead. "You don't understand a dang thing!"

"Well maybe we would if you explained a thing or two!"

"It's Goron business! It's got nothing to do with you!"

Poppy and Darunia looked like they were about to get into a fight (a fight Poppy would surely lose), so Saria stepped between the two.

"Enough! No more fighting! We're just here to help, and we can do that if you tell us what's going on."

Poppy turned her nose up and crossed her arms. "Fine. I'll be in your cap." Then the fairy lifted Saria's cap and took shelter. Saria let out a tired sigh.

"So Darunia, why is Dodongo's Cavern sealed?"

"Hmph. If you really want to know, a nasty fellow came by not too long ago looking for our sacred treasure. Obviously, I told him to buzz off, and when he tried to steal it, I threw him out – literally. He got so mad that he started waking up a bunch of monsters in Dodongo's Cavern out of sheer spite."

"Ganondorf caused all this? That slime!" Saria clenched her fists, anger welling up inside of her. She saw what it had done to Darunia and Poppy, however, so she took a second to breathe and calmed down. "Then what happened?" Saria asked Darunia.

"What didn't happen? After he woke up all the dodongos and those other nasties, they started attacking our miners. Do you know how many good men I lost in that cave? Some of my best warriors gave their lives so the others could escape unharmed. I had no choice but to seal the cave, otherwise they would have rampaged through Kakariko Village and the rest of Hyrule!"

"Oh… Then this whole time… You all were starving to keep Hyrule safe?"

The grumpy-faced Goron nodded. "Mhmm. A sorcerer tried to steal our treasure, then monsters were woken up and wreaked havoc where we get our food, we've been starving this whole time, and to top it all off, we've had a terrible harvest of bomb flowers, so we haven't had any money to buy food from elsewhere! It's been one disaster after another! I wanted to put together a team of warriors to take back the cavern, but all I've got with me are cooks, miners, sculptors, and painters! And then the lazy bums started getting desperate and tried to eat our sacred ruby! All I could do was send a letter and wait here for someone, anyone to come from Castle Town. I thought maybe if I could get a contingent of soldiers, I could finally fix this mess, but all I got was some rations and a nosy kid!" Darunia collapsed on his back, staring angrily at the ceiling. "So yeah. I'm a little upset, okay? Can you really blame me?"

Poppy poked her head out from under Saria's cap. "Geez… When you put it that way, I kinda feel like a jerk. I'm sorry."

"Bah!" Darunia turned away on his side. "I don't need apologies. I need to fix this mess. But… How?"

Saria thought back to her home village, on how sometimes her fellow Kokiri would squabble, yell at each other, get upset, and sometimes just feel sad for no good reason. Everyone had rainy days – some more than others. She didn't like seeing her brothers and sisters cry, so she spent time writing a song. It was a song meant to lift the spirits of her brethren, one that would brighten their day no matter how bad things got. It worked, too. It worked so well, it started attracting the attention of the forest spirits, who loved to dance to the tune. It wasn't much, but Saria wanted to cheer up the Goron, so she pulled out her ocarina.

"Say, I wrote a song once to help cheer up my fellow villagers. It's not much, but would you like to hear it?"

Darunia continued grumbling. "Go ahead, I don't care. Maybe some nice music will help me think…"

In an attempt to cheer up Darunia, Saria played her song. The notes danced playfully through the air like the spirits of the forest. As Saria played, Darunia kicked one of his feet to the tune. Then he stood up and started to dance, swinging his oversized fists around.

"Oh! What is this? Oh! Oh yeah! I can dig it! Come on, come on! Hot! Hot! I feel like I'm on fire! Oh yeah!"

The once sullen Goron danced to his heart's content, moving about the room, nearly smashing his own statue with one of his flailing fists. When his spirit seemed lifted, Saria finished the song. Darunia took a second to catch his breath.

"Wow… What was that? It felt like all my anger and depression was washed away, and the only thing that was left was the urge… To dance!"

"Feeling better?" Saria smiled.

"I'll say! That was some song! Saria, right? I'm sorry for how rude I was early. Let me properly introduce myself. I'm Darunia, Chief of the Gorons! I come from a long line of warriors and even fought beside the King of Hyrule during the last war! Normally I'm more of a doer than a thinker, but ever since I took on the role of chief, I barely get to do anything aside from delegate. But no more! I'm gonna whip those sorry Gorons into shape and take back the cavern!"

"Really?"

"In a day or two."

"A day or two?!"

"What, you think training comes easy? These guys need all the help they can get! As for you, you said you wanted to help, right? Is that why you were sent here?"

"Sort of. Truth be told, I was sent here for the Goron's Ruby."

"Wait, really? Why?"

"It's a bit of a story, but my goal is to keep the spiritual stones away from Ganondorf – the sorcerer that harassed you and caused trouble in the cavern. Ganondorf has been traveling all over Hyrule attacking and harassing people over the stones – my village included. I want to carry that burden for others so they can be safe, and maybe I can even use it to draw the sorcerer out of hiding."

"Huh! I wouldn't have taken you for such a brave sort, but I can respect your goal. Even so, I can't just give you our sacred treasure, so let's cut a deal. I need time to train my people into proper soldiers. If you can lead the charge into the cavern and help clear out some of the monsters, I'd give you anything, even the ruby! Are you up for some monster slaying?"

"If it means your people will get to eat again, I'll gladly clear a path."

"That's the spirit!" Darunia said, patting Saria on the back with concussive force. "Oh, but you'll need to make an opening. Here, you can have this magic bracelet. If you wear this, you'll be almost as strong as a Goron! Even a little gal like you should be able to harvest some bomb flowers and blow open a hole to the cavern."

Darunia gave the Kokiri a golden bracelet with a shimmering red symbol on one side. After slipping it on, Saria felt the power of the bracelet course through her body. When she clenched her fists, she could see her muscles bulge underneath her sweater.

"Whoa."

"Here, try crushing this rock."

Darunia passed Saria a rock, and after holding it in both hands, she squeezed, crushing the rock into tiny little chunks.

"Oh hey, a rupee," said Poppy, scooping the gem from the rubble.

"Some of our bomb flowers grow in the shade just outside the city. They're those funny-looking round plants you may have seen on your way up here."

"Wait, the plants explode here too?" asked Saria.

"Yeah! Pretty crazy, huh?" grinned Darunia. "We use 'em for mining, or at least we did. What's with that look on your face, though?"

"Oh, it's nothing… Anyway, I'm gonna get started on the cavern. Don't take too long, otherwise I might clear the whole place for you!"

"Ha! I like you, kid. Go get 'em!"

As Saria tried to leave Darunia's chamber, she bumped into Malon, as well as a few others. Malon, Talon, and the rest of the Gorons were waiting outside Darunia's room.

"Wait, when did you guys get here?!" asked Saria.

"We finished distributing most of the rocks, but we still needed to give some to Darunia," said Talon.

"And the rest of the Gorons followed us down here," said Malon.

"We were just worried about Big Bro! We hadn't heard from him in ages!" said one of the Gorons.

"I'm glad he's feeling better. How'd you know he liked music so much?" asked another.

Just then, Saria felt a presence from behind her.

"How… Long… Were you… Watching…?"

"B-big Bro?"

"A-a-around time she started playing that song…"

Darunia started grinding his teeth and blushing. He stomped his foot and shouted, "You idiots! Who said you could listen in on a private conversation between me and a Royal Envoy? That does it, training starts now! Give me 500 squats on the double!"

"Gah! Yes, Big Bro!"

All the Gorons started exercising vigorously on Darunia's command. Even Talon joined in out of fear. Saria took this as an opportunity to slip out of the city so she could get to work.

Off to the right after walking out the entrance, she noticed patches of bomb flowers growing in the shade. They were near a cliff overlooking that sealed entrance Saria had seen earlier. After gripping one of the flowers and yanking it out of the ground, she could hear a hissing sound. She quickly tossed the flower over the ledge before it exploded.

"Huh? What's this?" said a voice down below. Then came a loud boom. The voice cried out as the sound of crumbling rocks echoed throughout the mountain.

"Oh shoot! Sorry!" said Saria, looking over the ledge.

"Watch where you're throwing those things!" shouted the Goron back at her.

"Try and be careful next time," said Poppy.

"I'm sorry! I panicked!" said Saria.

After that, the Kokiri made her way down the mountain trail, stopping just before Dodongo's Cavern. The entrance was a long dark tunnel, almost like the throat of a beast.

"Time to get to work," said Saria.

"Are you really going in there?" asked the Goron guard.

"Yeah. I promised Darunia I'd help you all with the monsters."

"Well, if you're really going in, just watch out for those dodongos. They'll eat anything, so don't get yourself eaten!"

"I'll be careful. Just keep watch in case anything slips past me!"

Saria waved goodbye to the guard then ran inside the cavern. Despite the danger, despite her anger and fear that had been bubbling in her stomach ever since she first left the forest, Saria felt… Excited. It was a strange feeling.

I bet you would have felt the same way, Link, thought the Kokiri girl. Putting a hand on her cap to keep it from slipping off, she thought, Don't worry. I'll keep Hyrule safe in your stead. You can count on me.

Once Saria was inside the cavern, she found another barrier. A wall of stone stood before her, with bomb flowers growing nearby in dark corners of the cave. It was a simple matter of picking up a bomb and hucking it at the wall to blast it open. Beyond the shattered wall were walkways of stone, platforms held up by support beams, and on the far side, the remains of a great beast embedded in the wall. Round platforms rose and fell into the magma below and waiting on some of the platforms and walkways up ahead were one-eyed monsters that looked more like statues than living things; their singular eye as big as a head, spinning around and around.

"They almost look like they're guarding the place," said Poppy. "Do you think Ganondorf put them there, or was it Darunia so they could keep the monsters at bay?"

"I don't think Darunia would put such mean-looking things in his own cave," said a familiar voice from behind. Saria turned around, weapon drawn. It was Malon.

"What are you doing here?" exclaimed Saria. "Shouldn't you be heading home with your father?"

"I overheard some of the things you and Darunia were talking about. You're gonna fight some of the monsters in this cave, right? Well I'm here to help!"

The farmgirl was no longer wearing her simple white dress, but instead, she was adorned with a red tunic, similarly red pants, sturdy boots, and thick hide armor plated with metal for added protection. She even had an open-faced leather helm on with horns on top.

"Okay, back outside," said Saria as she pushed the girl.

"Hey! No fair! I can help too!" said Malon.

"Sneaking into a castle is one thing, but clearing a cave full of monsters is another thing entirely! Where did you even get all this?"

Malon stepped away from Saria and beat a fist against her chest proudly. "The local merchant was really hungry, so I traded some of the rations for some gear. Pretty smart, huh?"

"Wait, doesn't that mean some of the other Gorons went hungry?"

Malon stared blankly then looked up. "Huh. I didn't think about that. That's okay though!"

"How?!"

"Because we're gonna clear out the cave and make sure everybody gets to eat!"

"No we're not! Do you know how dangerous it is in here?"

"Do you?"

The Kokiri's shoulders drooped. "No, but…"

"But nothing! You're always worried about if I get hurt, but what about you? Don't I get to be worried about my friend's safety?"

"Malon…"

The farmgirl stepped closer. Even though Malon was just a child, she was already as tall as Saria. She put her hands on the Kokiri's shoulders and smiled once more.

"I know places like this can be scary and there's a chance one of us could get hurt, but if we work together, we'll probably get hurt way less than if it was just one of us. Besides… I saw how sad the Gorons looked. Knowing that they were scared and hurting like that, I couldn't just walk away. I want to help them just as much as you, so please, let me come with you!"

Hearing Malon's words, Saria couldn't help but smile back at her. "You know what? You're right. If we tackle this together, it should take no time at all."

"So you'll let me join you?"

"On one condition."

"Aaah…"

"You have to let me lead the way like last time. No running ahead and no splitting up. Got it?"

"Got it!"

"Then let's get this done."

"Yay!" Malon put on a metal buckler decorated with a Goron's face and drew a thick stone club from a belt loop. Weapon and shield at the ready, she said, "Let's go!"

As Saria and Malon stepped through the opening to the main chamber, Saria said, "You really made out like a bandit, huh?"

"I know, right? I even got this heat-resistant tunic. It was a bit big for me so I had to resize it, but it must be working because I feel downright comfy in here!"

Saria put her hand out, stopping Malon. "Watch your step."

"Oh, right." Malon looked around. "This place is huge! And the Gorons used to mine in here?"

"It does seem a bit perplexing how they got around. Did they really hop between platforms? I can see some ladders, but still…"

"Maybe they had a way of controlling the platforms? You know, so they could load rocks and stuff onto them and lower them down for others to grab and transport?"

"Ooh, that makes sense," said Poppy. "Though now that I'm looking… Where are we even going?"

"The goal is to clear out monsters, right?" said Saria. "Then let's start with these guys."

"Me first!" said Malon, charging ahead and hopping between platforms. The beamos took notice of her and fired a concentrated heat beam. Malon raised her shield to block, but it was clear it would only hold for so long. Saria jumped ahead and readied a deku nut.

"Malon, close your eyes!" Saria shouted.

When the girl obeyed, Saria slammed the deku nut to the ground, blinding the beamos. The two girls then struck the creature with their weapons, but its metallic exterior was too tough. They even tried picking it up to throw into the magma, but it was too heavy, even with Saria's Goron bracelet.

"Wait, I see some bomb flowers," said Saria. "Think you can keep it busy?"

"I'll do my best!" said Malon, readying her shield.

Saria hopped to the left side of the chamber, yanking a bomb flower out of the ground. Putting all her weight into the throw, the bomb rocketed across the chamber and smashed into the beamos, exploding. The beamos was torn apart, and its head-sized eye arced through the air, exploding once it hit the ground. Saria joined Malon in the center of the room, giving her a high-five.

"Good work!" said Saria.

"Oh, it was nothing…" said Malon.

"In that case, you think you can handle the monster on that side of the room while I take this one across the way?"

"I can certainly try," the girl nodded.

Knowing the effectiveness of the bomb flowers, Saria and Malon pulled out the flowers and used them to destroy the remaining beamos in the chamber. Besides a business scrub (who had been hiding ever since the cavern was sealed off), the room was now clear. Saria helped the business scrub to the entrance so it could safely leave, then the girls continued further into the cave.

They navigated stone hallways, doing battle with dodongos young and old. They also found stone creatures that imitated statues found throughout the cavern. Each and every enemy seemed to explode when it was defeated, which really started to make Saria wonder what didn't explode after it was struck down.

"Looks like this room is clear. What do we have left?" asked Saria.

"Let's see…" Malon took out a map she had found near a Goron worksite. "It looks like we need to start making our way upwards, but I didn't see any stairs."

"Well what about that?" asked Poppy. The fairy pointed to a tall block of stone surrounded by bomb flowers on all sides.

"That's not a stairway, Poppy, that's a workplace hazard," said Saria.

"But look, it's not one solid piece. It has grooves on its sides. I think it can be moved somehow."

"Then where are the switches?" asked Malon.

"I do see a walkway built around the upper level," said Saria. "Can you check if there are any switches up there?"

"On it!" said Poppy.

The fairy fluttered up above, narrowly dodging fiery keese and skulltulas webs. No switches could be found. She did find a sign, however, written in Goron.

"Did you find anything?" asked Saria.

"Yeah! I found a sign that says I'm right!" said Poppy.

"What?"

"Put a bomb between the flowers!"

"Why would I do that?" shouted Saria.

"Just trust me on this one!"

Saria looked to Malon, who shrugged. "Worth a shot, right?" said the farmgirl.

"All right… Let's just hope this doesn't collapse the whole cave on us," said Saria.

After carefully placing a bomb between the two lines of bomb flowers, the girls took cover and waited. When its stem burned away, the bomb exploded, causing a chain reaction that wrapped all the way around the stone pillar. Somehow, the explosive force caused the pillar to shudder and fall piece by piece until there was a Goron-sized stairway in its place.

"What?!"

"I told you!" said Poppy.

Saria and Malon climbed up the stairway, regrouping with Poppy. "But why would it work like that?"

"I can't read the sign, but the pictures make it seem like the stairs were locked during the evacuation. It might have been to prevent monsters from easily moving up and down the cave."

"Shame so many can fly or crawl on walls," said Malon. "It would have been a good idea otherwise."

Saria raised a finger in protest but decided not to question things anymore. The Kokiri had their way of doing things, and the Gorons clearly had their own way.

Continuing through the cavern, the girls found themselves at the top of a magmafall. Several platforms with broken walkways could be seen, though little else, save for the magma flowing downstream and over the cliff. A doorway to the next room could be seen, so Saria and Malon moved forward. But then… Saria heard something.

"Wait, I think-"

That's when they attacked! Tall lizard monsters with spiky armor and sharp blades leapt to the ground, hissing from fang-filled maws. Two charged the girls at once, their eyes filled with bloodlust.

Saria dodged to the left, avoiding the lizalfos' attack. She spun around, slashing it in the side with her Gerudo scimitar, drawing her dagger in her off-hand. Its wound only emboldened the creature, however, and it swung wild. Saria suffered light cuts across her body as she struggled to defend against the wild beast. She decided to feign weakness, causing the creature to leap into the air for a plunging attack. Before the lizalfos could land, Saria hucked her dagger at the creature and stuck it in the chest. It landed, weakened, and Saria finished it off with her scimitar.

That's one down, she thought. Looking across the chamber, she saw Malon was having a tough time against her opponent. While she hadn't suffered as many wounds as Saria, she was being pushed closer and closer to her platform's edge. Saria hopped across to them and slashed the lizalfos across the back while it was distracted, opening it up for a devastating swing from Malon's club. The beast fell lifeless to the ground, its skull thoroughly caved in. The battle was over.

The girls were silent for a time, taking in what had just occurred. The creatures were monsters, yes, but they were distinctly different from what they had encountered so far. They had only fought rampaging beasts and deadly pests, not trained warriors like these lizalfos. Saria retrieved her dagger, wiping off the blood on it.

"What were these things?" Saria muttered to herself.

"I think I've heard of them," said Poppy. "They're called lizalfos. They're evil monsters that crave violence. We're lucky there was only two of them."

"Lucky indeed…"

Malon said nothing, instead following Saria across the room to the exit. Once they were safely across, Malon hugged Saria from behind.

"Thank you for saving me!"

"Malon? What are you doing?"

The farmgirl let go, wiping a tear from her eye. "That was really scary. The little monsters weren't so bad, but the way those creatures looked at me… I really thought something bad was gonna happen. But then you saved me! You were so cool!"

"Aaaah… I wasn't that cool," said Saria, rubbing the back of her head while blushing.

"How modest of you," Poppy said with a smirk.

"Oh my goodness, I just realized! You're hurt!" said Malon.

"A little, but I should be fine. You look a little beat up yourself," said Saria. "Maybe we should take a break. We still have the rest of the day, and we don't have to clear every room."

"Yeah, I think a break would be nice." Malon walked up to the door and put her hand on it, opening it. "But imagine the look on their faces if we did clear the whole cave."

Moving forward, the pair found a small room they sealed off with a statue once they were certain it was safe. With the door blockaded, Malon took off her helmet and wiped the sweat from her brow. Saria took out some medicine and began treating the wounds the girls had taken, then they sat down.

"What a day," said Malon. "I can't believe I get to go on an adventure like this. It's just like in my stories!"

"You're stories?" asked Saria.

"Yeah! Talon got me all kind of books to read. Said it would be good in case I didn't always wanna work on the ranch. When I was still learning to read, I would sometimes borrow books from the library in Castle Town. I read all sorts of stories about heroes, fair maidens, dark lords, and grand adventures. A part of me always imagined what it would be like to be in one of those stories. What role do you think I fit the best? Hero or maiden?"

"Considering how scary you were the other night, maybe you'd be a good dark lord," said Poppy with a smug grin. Malon stuck her tongue out at the fairy.

"Hero or maiden? I'm not sure…" said Saria. "Do people really have to fit into one role? Maybe sometimes you save people, and other times when it gets too tough you get saved yourself? There's nothing wrong with that, right?"

Malon looked up at the ceiling wistfully. "I guess not. Changing things up every once and a while sounds more fun anyway. Although…" Malon blushed, her eyes sparkling, "it would be pretty swell if I got swept off my feet by a dashing knight." Malon then turned to Saria. "Say, do you ever think about that kind of thing?"

"About knights?"

"No, silly! About boys!"

"I… I guess not." Not in a while, at least, thought Saria.

"Oh really? Well I bet boys think about you a lot! You're strong, brave, and kind, too. You must be really popular back at your village!"

Saria thought back to the fights Mido and Link would sometimes have around her, as well as all the flowers the villagers would pick for her. It wasn't that the thought had never crossed her mind, it's just that…

It was so peaceful… I didn't want it to ever change. And yet…

A tear welled up in Saria's eye. She wiped it away before Malon noticed and said, "Let's change the subject."

Saria fished out some of her food rations and shared with Malon – bread, berries, and nuts. Saria then asked, "So what's life like on the ranch?"

"Oh, it's not too bad. Lots of work in the morning, but you can take it easy in the afternoon. We have a lot of horses on the ranch which I tend to every day. I feed them, give them water, clean their stables, and brush their manes – that last part is my favorite. I also like to sing to them."

"You like to sing?"

"Yeah! It's a little embarrassing, but I guess… It makes me feel a little closer to my mother."

Saria's heart sank at those words. "I… See. What happened to your mother?"

"I'm not sure. Father said she died when I was real little. I don't even remember what her face looked like. All I know is that when she held me, I felt as safe as could be. I also remember her singing to me. I think they were lullabies to help me sleep. That's why I started to sing, I suppose. The peace mother's lullabies gave me I want to give to others. The horses really like it, so I've been singing to them ever since."

"I see… You're a good kid, Malon." Saria gently ruffled the top of Malon's head, making the girl smile and blush.

"Oh, you don't have to say that. Besides, you're a kid too!"

"Ah ha… Not exactly."

"Huh? What do you mean?"

"I'm a Kokiri. We're… Always like this."

"I don't follow."

"They don't age," said Poppy, joining the conversation. "After they grow to a certain height, Kokiri look the same their whole lives."

"How is that possible?" asked Malon. "You don't look too much older than I do!"

"I don't know how it works, but I think it's because we're the Great Deku Tree's children. We start as little saplings, and given enough time, we take shape, and become what you see before you. I guess in that regard, we'll always be the Deku Tree's children."

"Hm. I think I understand. Does that mean you're older than me?" asked Malon.

"Oh, definitely," said Poppy. "I'll bet she's even over fort-"

Saria grabbed the fairy and covered her mouth, laughing awkwardly. "I'm older, but not by too much. Isn't that right, Poppy?"

"Gah!" the fairy gasped for air. "Okay, okay. Keep your secrets, then."

Malon giggled at the display. "You two are really close, huh?"

"Oh yeah! We're the best of friends," said Poppy. "Like two scrubs in a pod!"

"I'm glad… It means neither of you have to be lonely while you're out adventuring."

Saria and Poppy looked at Malon, then at each other.

"Yeah… I guess so," said Saria. Poppy then floated gently through the air, taking a seat on Saria's shoulder, kicking her dainty feet back and forth while listening more intently to the conversation.

"Come to think of it, do either of you have moms?" asked Malon. Saria shook her head.

"Not exactly. I'm a child of the Deku Tree. Just the Deku Tree, as far as I know."

"I was sorta like a mom to Saria when she was smaller," said Poppy. "We fairies are the surrogates of the Kokiri we bond with, making sure no evil befalls them as they grow up."

"I see…" said Malon, tracing a finger in the dirt. "I was just curious. I see kids with their moms all the time in the marketplace, and I'd be lying if I wasn't a little jealous. I guess I'm not totally alone, then. You were probably really surprised when you saw them yourself, huh?"

"Not really," said Saria.

"You weren't? But it sounds like you didn't even know what moms were until you left your village."

A memory flashed in Saria's mind like a candle being lit in the dark. It was during the times of trouble. A lone woman, wounded and out of breath, stumbled into the village cradling a baby in her arms. Saria had only caught a glimpse of her as the woman made her way to the Deku Tree. Against Mido's judgement, Saria watched from afar as the Deku Tree and woman spoke to one another. When she finally collapsed, the Deku Tree called on all of the Kokiri to watch over the baby.

"What should we call him?" asked Fado.

"We shall give him the name his mother requested," said the Great Deku Tree. "From this day on, the boy shall be named… Link."

"That was so long ago…" mumbled Saria.

"Everything okay?" asked Malon.

"Oh, sorry. I got a little lost in thought."

"Heh. That's all right." Malon yawned, stretching her arms before resting her head against Saria's shoulder. "If it's okay with you, I think I'll take a little nap. I gotta get my energy back for the rest of the adventure."

"All right. I'll keep watch for now. If something happens, I'll be sure to wake you."

"Thanks… You know, I always wanted a big sister like you. Someone I could rely on when things got tough, but someone who would encourage me to keep trying as well. Thanks for believing in me…"

Saria smiled. "You're very welcome."

The two rested against the wall as silence descended over the room. Malon began drifting off to sleep, but even then, she still had a few things on her mind.

"All I got is pa…" Malon mumbled. "I don't wanna lose him… I'm scared about… What I'll do if he leaves me too… I hope we can still be… Friends after this…"

Saria ruffled Malon's hair once more, gently petting the girl as she fell asleep beside her.

No wonder you act the way you do. Without your dad, you really would be all alone, huh? I'm sorry, Malon. I won't push you away anymore. Saria looked over to Poppy, who was also sleeping. The Kokiri let out a soft sigh then shook her head. "I guess it's just me then."

Saria sat there the whole time, keeping watch as her friends slumbered. No matter what happened, she would keep them safe.

After everyone had the chance to rest and recuperate, they delved deeper into the cavern. They hopped, explored, and fought their way through until they reached the deepest chamber they could find. After blowing open the entrance to the last room with a bomb flower, they found a slope leading down into a pit.

"You think it's safe?" asked Saria.

"Only one way to find out," said Malon, heading down.

"Hey! I said no running ahead!"

Saria slid down after Malon, and after landing on the ground, she found herself in a large chamber with a pool of lava in the center. The heat was nearly unbearable, and the stench stung her nostrils. These were the least of her concerns, however, as something big was coming her way.

"Uh… Saria? What's that?" asked Malon, stepping back.

The creature stomped one oversized foot at a time. Easily the biggest thing Saria had ever seen (save the Deku Tree himself), the gigantic dodongo roared, releasing hot burning smoke into the air.

"That's King Dodongo!" shouted Poppy. "Run!"

The girls took off in a sprint, racing down the stone pathway that wrapped around the room. The dinosaur gave chase, rolling into a ball and crashing against the walls in its pursuit, causing rocks to fall from the ceiling. Saria dodged the falling rocks while Malon protected herself with her shield. When the dinosaur grew tired of its pursuit, it started sucking in tremendous amounts of air – enough to pull the girls towards it.

Saria stabbed her scimitar into the ground and said, "Hold on!"

Malon gripped Saria by the cloak and stood her ground, even as her boots were grinding against the floor. As heat built up in the monster's maw, Poppy said, "Forget that! Take cover!"

The girls dove to the ground, narrowly avoiding the dodongo's fiery breath. As Saria covered her head, she looked forward.

"Wait, bomb flowers are growing down here too."

"Yeah? Got any ideas?" asked Malon, shielding herself with her buckler.

"Think you can play distraction one last time?"

The breath attack ended, giving the girls the chance to stand up.

"You already know my answer," Malon smiled. "Go!"

Saria raced across the chamber, skidding to a halt at the end of the path.

Dodongos eat anything, right? If that's the case…

The Kokiri plucked the bomb flower from the ground and ran back. Malon was playing defense, blocking incoming bites from King Dodongo. After Malon countered with a swipe to its skull, the dinosaur roared in anger and started sucking in air once more.

"Eat this!" shouted Saria as she hucked the bomb flower. The dinosaur sucked in the bomb, swallowed, then the bomb exploded from the inside, causing King Dodongo to collapse.

"Now's our chance!" shouted Malon.

The Kokiri and farmgirl ran ahead, striking at the beast with as much force as they could. With a final blow to its eye, the beast threw its head back in pain and curled up into a ball as if to shield itself. It rolled throughout the chamber, slamming into walls over and over. Saria and Malon avoided rocks as best they could. When the beast's rolling slowed, it slumped over, falling into the lava pit. King Dodongo sank into the lava, hardening it somehow. After reaching to the sky with a claw, it stopped moving.

Malon, whose hair was lightly singed, stood up. "Is it over?"

"I think so," said Saria. She tested the hardness of the magma. It had cooled and hardened to the point of being no different from ordinary rock. After stepping onto it, she threw a fist into the air in triumph. Malon joined her on the ground, giving Saria a big hug and swinging her around.

"We did it!" shouted Malon. Even Poppy was excited, and the girls hopped up and down while letting out cheers. After getting it out of their system, Malon let Saria go and looked around. "Soooo… How do we get out?"

"You needn't worry about that," said a feminine voice. Saria turned and saw a Gerudo woman with several lizalfos in tow.

"Kitoga!" shouted Saria. "What are you doing here?"

"What I should have done when we first met! Lord Ganondorf knows you have the Kokiri's Emerald, so hand it over, otherwise these lizalfos will tear you to pieces!"

"Not on your life," said Saria. Looking to Malon, she said, "Get behind me."

Malon nodded, stepping behind Saria with her buckler and club at the ready.

"Hmph! You must have been struck in the head. Fine, then. I'll be more than happy to see you all killed. Lizalfos! Get them!"

The lizalfos charged, hungry for blood. Saria ran forward, cutting one down with her scimitar. Another lizalfos tried to strike, but she parried its blade with her dagger. A third one came in swinging, which she ducked around its attack, stabbing it in the back. Behind her, Malon was keeping the lizalfos' swords at bay with her shield, clubbing them in the arms, stomach, and head when an opening presented itself. Malon fought valiantly, but the enemy's numbers were too great, and she was quickly overwhelmed.

"Malon!" shouted Saria. She tried running to the farmgirl, but her path was blocked by more lizalfos. "Get out of my way!"

Saria slashed and stabbed her way through the hissing lizalfos, taking wounds she could have avoided had she been patient. Despite her best efforts, Malon was captured and brought to Kitoga's side.

"See? It's foolish to resist. This is but a taste of our power. Now hand over the emerald, or I'll slit this girl's throat!" Kitoga drew a curled dagger from a sheath and held it to Malon's neck.

"Don't do it!" shouted Malon. "I'll be fine!"

"Silence!" Kitoga hissed. "One more word and it will be your last!"

"Saria… Are you really going to do it?" asked Poppy.

"I don't have a choice." Saria reached into her sweater, pulling out the magical gemstone. Its light was so pure and brilliant, the lizalfos had to shield their eyes from it.

"At last! You, grab it and bring it over!" Kitoga shouted at a lizalfos. The creature narrowed its eyes at the Gerudo but obeyed nonetheless, stepping lightly towards the Kokiri girl.

Before the Kokiri's Emerald was taken, Malon stomped Kitoga's foot, causing the Gerudo to scream in pain and lose her grip. Malon broke free, stealing back her club and slugging her way through the lizalfos. Saria pulled the emerald away just in time, and the fighting continued.

"I've had enough of this. Kill them both! You can eat them later!" said Kitoga.

Saria and Malon fought back-to-back. They struck down several more lizalfos, but it simply wasn't enough. The monsters continued crowding around the girls, making it harder and harder to block or dodge attacks. Before things grew too dire, the ground started to quake.

"Wait, what's going on? Is it an eruption?" Kitoga looked around frantically. It was a squadron of armored Gorons rolling down the slope into the chamber, followed shortly thereafter by Darunia. "What? But how?!" said the Gerudo.

"Training went well," said Darunia, tossing a lifeless lizalfos to the ground. "It was a bit impromptu, but I appreciate the warmup!" Darunia then looked over to the wounded Kokiri and Hylian girl. "Seems we're not the only ones you attacked."

"Malon!" A voice rang out, and a bumbling, oversized man rolled down the slope, landing on his feet mostly by chance. It was Talon, ready to fight with a mallet.

"Dad?!" exclaimed Malon.

Talon looked at Malon, noticing the wounds she had suffered. "You damn dirty lizards, get your hands off her!"

The farmer charged into the fray, knocking away the lizalfos with his sheer bulk. After he joined his daughter by her side, the two hugged, then readied themselves for battle. Saria readied her blades as well, and after Kitoga shouted orders at the lizalfos, the final battle came underway.

With Talon and Malon working together, Saria was free to focus on her own enemies. She slashed her way through her foes, dropping them one by one. She could feel the power of the Goron's bracelet as her blades cut deep, but there was something else there as well, like she was gaining an innate sense of where to strike. It was almost too easy, but then Kitoga joined the fray, swinging wild with two new scimitars.

"I won't lose!" growled the Gerudo. "My destiny is still far from this place!"

Saria ducked and parried the Gerudo's attacks, keeping her at bay while doing her best to avoid attacks from supporting lizalfos.

"Destiny? What are you even saying?!" asked Saria.

"We all have our part to play. One block of stone does not make a house, nor does one Gerudo make a whole tribe! I have my mission, and I will not leave here until I have those stones!" Kitoga slashed furiously with her scimitars, pushing Saria back. "I will bring honor to my people! Now give me the stone!"

Saria did her best to defend against the mad Gerudo warrior. As she blocked one of the woman's scimitars, a lizalfos came up from behind her, sword at the ready. She couldn't defend against both, so she decided to step back and swing at the lizalfos. Kitoga took advantage of this and swung her blade at Saria's chest, cutting open her outer shirt. The Kokiri's Emerald fell out, and the Gerudo woman snatched it midair.

"Got it!"

"No! Give it back!"

Kitoga drew a deku nut and slammed it into the ground, blinding not only Saria but the nearby lizalfos. Malon came to the girl's aid, and with the help of Talon and the Gorons, the lizalfos were defeated. Unfortunately, Kitoga was able to escape.

"No! I can't believe this!" said Saria.

"What happened?" asked Malon.

"She got the emerald… I failed the Great Deku Tree…"

Talon and Malon looked to one another, falling silent.

"Don't be so hard on yourself," said Darunia. "You may have lost your stone, but you two saved my city!"

"You… Two?" questioned Malon.

Darunia laughed, slapping his belly. "Don't be so modest! You think I didn't notice when Talon here started asking around for his daughter? You and Saria cleared this whole cavern all by yourselves! Give yourself a little credit!"

"Were you here this whole time?" asked Talon. Malon nodded.

"Thanks, Darunia, but Saria did most of the hard work," said Malon.

"Yeah, but… My whole mission was to collect the stones. I'm glad I could help, but I still failed."

Darunia approached, giving Saria a hearty pat on the back. "Don't be like that. You and your friend were great! I still can't believe you two managed to take on King Dodongo all by yourselves! You two are real heroes! Now we Gorons can mine the cavern again and stuff our faces until our stomachs burst!" Darunia looked over to the other Gorons. "Hey, let's all head back! You fought well today, and that's cause for celebration! Grab what you can on the way out, for today, we feast!"

The Gorons raised their fists and weapons into the air, cheering. They all made their way out of the cavern, followed shortly by Darunia, then Talon, who looked back and gestured for Malon to follow. The farmgirl helped Saria out of the cave, and once they were back in Goron City, Darunia threw a feast in honor of Saria and Malon.

"Three cheers for the heroes of the Gorons!" shouted Darunia. The Gorons cheered once more, and as the feast progressed, there was music, dancing, singing, and more celebrating than you could shake a deku stick at. Even Darunia was going crazy, hopping and dancing around. Though Saria was devastated at the loss of the Kokiri's Emerald, seeing everyone be so happy cheered her up in time. She played her ocarina while Malon sang, and for just a little while, everything felt right in the world.

As things started to wind down, Darunia rewarded the two girls for their efforts. Each received bomb bags, compliments of the city's merchant (though Talon was quick to take Malon's bag away). There was one more thing Saria was owed, as well…

"Here, take this," said Darunia, pulling out the Goron's Ruby from his beard. "You've more than earned it. Even with the recent setbacks, it'll probably be safer in your hands anyway."

Saria took the ruby, noting its brilliant shine. The ruby took the center, acting as the middle of three spikes – the other two coming from its golden frame. In many ways, the spiritual stone looked like crystalized flame.

"Thank you, Darunia. I'm glad I could help," said Saria.

"And thank you as well. I won't forget what you've done for my people. Say… Why don't we swear an oath? If the Kokiri ever need help, you can call on us! What do you say?" Darunia put out his hand. Saria reached out, and the two shook, making their oath.

"And if your people ever need help again, you can always count on me and the rest of the Kokiri."

"Great! Then from this day forth, you shall be my blood sister, and I your blood brother!"

Darunia then picked Saria up, tossing her in the air over and over.

"Poppy! Malon! Get me down!"

The Kokiri's fairy and Malon, who was in the middle of trying a sirloin rock, just watched, smiling and laughing the whole time.

When the festivities were near their end, Saria said her goodbyes to everyone and left Goron City. The girl was shocked to find Kaepora Gaebora waiting for her outside.

"Gaebora? What are you doing here?" the Kokiri asked.

"I've been keeping a close eye on you. Quite a fine deed you've done today! You don't exactly look like the hero that will save all of Hyrule, but you're certainly shaping up to be."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Saria glared at the great owl.

"Hmm… Perhaps it's finally time I tell you." The owl's head flipped upside down. "Has anyone ever told you of the prophecy?"

"I… I'm not sure. So much has happened recently…"

"It's all right if you don't remember," the owl flipped his face upright again. "Mayhap I or someone else failed to mention it. Let me explain, then. A long time ago, certain figures across the land had a prophetic dream. We all came together to speak of this, finding it was indeed the same dream. Much like the princess's visions, our dreams were the prophecy I speak of. That of the boy and the fairy setting out across the land at the behest of the princess, all to thwart the plans of a great evil. Eventually, this would end when the boy became a man. With the Blade of Evil's Bane, he would strike down the King of Evil once and for all, and with the help of seven sages, seal him away forever."

Saria thought on the owl's words. It was… Strange, and yet, somehow the words felt oddly familiar.

"So that's why you spoke that way back then."

"It's good you understand. That boy was someone you once knew. The boy who was destined to defeat the King of Evil was none other than Link."

"Maybe the prophecy was wrong? He was a brave boy, but even he was… Defeated."

Gaebora shook his head. "It was not to be. Something has interfered. I do not know what or how, but the prophecy has been undone. Even now I can feel the very fabric of this world begin to unravel. It was subtle at first, but I fear the world will become very different in the coming days. Where order fails, chaos reigns supreme."

"Then is there no hope? Are my efforts in vain?" asked Saria.

"Perhaps not… You have done well to free the Great Deku Tree of his curse and save the Gorons from their grim fate. The world is changing, Saria, but perhaps we must change with it. Saria… Will you take on the mantle of hero?"

The Kokiri stepped forward, nodding. "I will. My friends, my people… Everyone is depending on me. No matter what happens, I'll do everything I can to protect them."

"Good answer," the owl flipped his head upside down. "I was really worried for a minute." After flipping his head upright again, Gaebora said, "I believe you, Saria. You have given me much hope for the future. Even so, the dangers ahead will only grow. There is much to be done if you are to face the forces of evil." The owl then looked further up the mountain. "Perhaps you should see one of the Great Fairies."

"I think I've heard of them before," said Saria. "Is there one nearby?"

"Indeed! I'll take you up to her now if you're all right with it. Grab onto my legs and hold on tight!"

Saria did so, and after the owl clasped her in his talons, he took flight, soaring high into the sky. After avoiding the smoke and falling rubble of the rumbling mountain, Gaebora landed on a cliff's ledge where multiple cave entrances could be seen. Saria was let go, landing on her feet while Gaebora roosted on a signpost.

"To your left is the entrance to this Great Fairy's fountain. Speak with her, and if she deems you worthy, she may offer you a boon."

"Thank you, Gaebora."

"Think nothing of it," the owl gestured with his wing. "From now on, I'll do everything in my power to aid you. Now go see the Great Fairy."

Saria did so, stepping through the entrance to the magic fountain. As she did, she nudged a much smaller fairy that had been resting under her cap.

"Hey, you awake in there?"

"I am," said Poppy.

"What do you think about all this? About the prophecy and King of Evil?"

"I think it's crazy… But I believe him."

Just as Saria had suspected, her fairy had been listening intently to Gaebora's words all while recuperating from too much celebration under the cap. Now that the fairy was fully awake, she slipped out and floated through the air, following Saria.

After stepping through a shadowy hall, Saria found the room light up with brilliant, sparkling colors. Beautifully carved tiles formed a walkway up to a large fountain. On every wall it seemed as if gemstones were raining down from a waterfall, dazzling the Kokiri with its sheer brilliance. The air was sweet, a gentle mist cooled Saria's face, and all the while, beautiful harps played, the instruments and musicians both invisible to the naked eye. Saria couldn't help but stare in wonder.

"What is this place? Are we truly still on Death Mountain?" asked Saria.

"Like the place?" a playful feminine voice called out.

"What? Who goes there?"

A large, voluptuous figure emerged from the fountain, with long flowing red hair, pale skin, and a body carefully adorned with leaves and flowers. She floated in the air above the fountain as if she were laying on her side, resting her head in her hand.

"So… You're the new hero, huh?"

"Um… I'm not sure if I'm a hero yet, but-"

"Oh please, girl, you don't have to be modest like that. You think you'd get anything that happened on this mountain past me? I saw you and that sweet little farmgirl fight those nasty beasts. You did wonderfully!"

The Great Fairy clapped her hands, and several other ghostly hands manifested around the room, clapping as well. Saria blushed in embarrassment.

"I was just trying to help…"

The Great Fairy giggled. "Well you helped a great deal. Don't forget that." Moving her body through the air, the Great Fairy posed as if she were laying on her belly, kicking her feet back and forth. "Now, I know why you're here."

"You do?"

"Of course I do! Budding heroes always seek out our aid. And we gladly give it, too, for there is always some nasty to vanquish or seal away. I suspect there will be more than a few of those in your future. So here, take this!"

The Great Fairy held out her hands, and a magical light enveloped Saria. She could feel power course through her, starting from her legs, rising up through her body, then out through her arms and ending in her hands.

"I… Um… Thank you. What is this?" asked Saria.

"I just unlocked some of your magical potential. Pretty sweet, huh? I also passed on a technique used by all those lovely heroes from yore. Try it out!"

Saria stepped back. She could feel memories flickering through her mind. Memories not her own. Warriors in green from all walks of life with sword and shield in hand readied their blade with magic, spinning about in a brilliant display of power and swordsmanship. Saria did much the same, taking her scimitar and dagger in hand. The magic flowed through her limbs before emanating from her blades. When it was ready, Saria spun about, unleashing the powerful new technique. After it was done, Saria spun around and looked at the Great Fairy in amazement.

"Thank you, Great Fairy! I don't know what to say."

"Then don't say anything, girl. It's all right. Oh, before you go, be sure to visit some of my sisters. I think there's one near Hyrule Castle who could show you another way to use that magic power of yours. Listen for the harps, and I'm sure you'll find all of us."

"I'll take a look. Thanks once again!"

Saria waved goodbye, leaving the fountain. Poppy floated after her, but then the Great Fairy called out.

"Hey, Poppy!"

"Y-yes, Great Fairy?"

"Be kind to that girl and take good care of her. There's a lot of trouble for all of us waiting in the future, so be a good friend, okay?"

Poppy smiled and said, "Of course. What, you think I've just been flying around and making quips this whole time?"

"Hmm… I wouldn't put it past you."

The two fairies laughed before saying their goodbyes. The Great Fairy disappeared into the fountain, and Poppy caught up with Saria.

Outside, Saria was waiting for her fairy.

"Had some catching up to do?" she smirked.

"You could say that," said Poppy, glancing away.

"Then is everyone ready to go?" asked Gaebora.

"Ready to go? Are we flying again?"

Saria nodded. "Since there's still lots of volcanic activity, Gaebora offered us a ride down to Kakariko Village."

"Well that's nice of you," said the fairy. "Any chance we can take it easy on the way down? I was nearly flung off Saria's head last time."

"Oh, my apologies, little fairy. I will do my utmost to make sure both of my passengers arrive safely to their destination," said the great owl.

"Good!" Poppy then slipped herself between Saria's sweater and outer shirt, peeking just above the collarbone region. "Okay, ready to fly!"

"As am I," said Saria.

"Good!" Gaebora grabbed hold of Saria. "Then we're off!"

Kaepora Gaebora took to the air once more, flying gently with the warm air currents of the mountain before circling around and lowering himself more and more on his course for Kakariko Village. In the end, he dropped the Kokiri and fairy off on top of a roof.

"Hey, what's the big idea?" fumed Poppy.

"I didn't want to make too much of a scene. You should be fine from here, right?"

"Of course!" said Saria.

"Good. I shall try to find the location of the third spiritual stone. What you do with it once you find it is up to you. In the meantime, train all you can! Be ready for anything!"

The great owl then took to the air, leaving the village behind. Saria and Poppy watched him go, with Saria shielding her eyes to avoid being blinded by the sun. Afterwards, the Kokiri climbed down from the roof, landing just next to a shocked Anju.

"S-saria? What were you doing up there? Was that an owl? Are you okay?!"

"Don't worry, he's a friend," said Saria. "How are those gloves and mask treating you by the way?"

"Oh, they're working wonders. I can't thank you enough for these."

Saria smiled as she said, "Don't worry about it. I'm always happy to help."

After leaving Anju behind, Saria made her way toward the village entrance. But as she did, she noticed a familiar face waiting in the shadows. It was Impa.

"We have much to discuss," said the Sheikah. The woman then walked down a secluded path, gesturing for Saria to follow her.

"Do we have to?" asked Poppy from under the cap.

"Hey, you stuck by me while I fought armored insects and giant dinosaurs. What's so bad about her?"

"She's scarier than the dinosaurs."

Saria laughed, following after Impa. "You know, you're probably right…"