(Fan/Act/Rom) The Legend of Zelda: Empire of Darkness [T]

Author’s Note: This is my first chapter that I wrote 11 months ago, so please excuse the crappy writing.
EDIT (6-23-07): I started writing this story July 29 of 2004. It's be nearly three years since I started writing this fanfiction. Since then, I have been developing my writing, my characters, and my plot. Thus, I have discovered dozen of plot holes, unrealistic events, out-of-character behavior, and just my sheer crappy writing. I plan to go back after completing this story and rewriting it into a final and complete version, edited, and hopefully in its perfect form (as perfect as I can get it to be). So I can understand how others can find the beginning of this story ... unsatisfactory. I find it that way as well. I hope to improve this story tremendously and, therefore, making it enjoyable for all. ~ Shrub

Chapter Updates (8-18-07)

In Progress:
Chapter One: Dark Omens

Complete:

Awards
*Best Writer, Winter 2005*
*Best Zelda Fiction, Summer 2007*

Chapter One:
Dark Events

He looked up and found what he had been waiting for: Home. This young man clad in a green tunic and a hat to match rode quietly upon the plains of a land he knew very well. On his back he bore a very large sword and a Hylian shield, riding on a friend of his that had always proven loyal to him, a beautiful horse with a marvelous coat of fur that appeared to be almost a blood-red and had a pure-white mane.

Link wondered which of his friends he should surprise first. He first left home when he was eleven; seven years having past since then and now he was eighteen years of age, finally a man. He had made many of friends on his travels, but the people who lived here were the people he was born and raised with and so he would never forget what they had done for him. Link came to a conclusion; he would visit Malon first, because she was closest.

His horse galloped down a dirt road in the direction of a ranch, which he had known since his childhood, but when he saw the place he had been looking for, he stopped. Link felt his heart drop into his stomach: the place had changed a lot since he had last been there. The ranch had doubled in size and there was what appeared to be Hylians, except their skin was black and their hair was white. Link watched as a wagon pulled out of the entrance of the place, which was surrounded by a giant wall. The wagon held a huge metal cage with true Hylians inside. Most of them looked as if they were about to die; their clothes were worn and dirty as were their faces. Their shabby faces held within them many hard years of agony and suffering.

Link approached the entrance stealthily, unsure if he would be permitted entrance. He leapt from his horse, landing with one hand in front, balancing his weight. His sapphire blue eyes studied the dark-faced guards through the strands of shaggy blonde hair that on his travels he has had to pull back in a ponytail. Link found he recognized what the guards were: They were Dark Elves from a different world he had encountered before. This was not a good thing however; Link, understanding the nature of these people, mounted Epona and rode in. As he rode in he stared around at what he had remembered to be a peaceful place; realizing it was now a hell-hole. Many Hylians young and old were being dragged around in chains. There was only one thought that had filled his head. He had to find Malon.

Link stopped at a pub were he would try to find answers for what had happened here. He dismounted and walked into the dark pub that was, of course, infested with more Dark Elves. He seated himself at a table and kept to himself, hoping no one would notice him. At least until he heard a familiar voice that spoke to him said,

“What will your order be?”

Link looked up and found the red-headed friend of which he had been searching for. Her red hair had lost the shine that had once been there, and her blue eyes appeared to be extremely tired. Her plain, light blue dress and apron were smudged and dirty. For a moment she stared at Link trying to remember his face.

"Excuse me, but do I know you? You look very familiar,” she asked the familiar stranger.

“Malon, it's me. Link, the fairy boy,” replied Link, hoping she would remember him. Malon gave a gasp, and then whispered quietly to him.

“Oh my Gods! Link, where are have you been all these years?” She asked as she stared at him in question, but her eyes glittered in happiness for seeing someone friendly.

“There's no time to explain that, but tell me what happened here,” said Link, as he made sure no one could hear him.

“Well, it’s sort of a long story,” said Malon. “Just a few months after you left Hyrule a huge army of Dark Elves came and took over Hyrule Castle and Kakariko. Most of the townspeople were imprisoned and sold as slaves, but they haven't taken Kokiri Forest,” began Malon, but then Link asked,

“Why is that?”

“I don't know, I don't think anyone knows. They tried to take over the Gorons too, but the Gorons left Goron City. No one knows where they went. Weird, huh?”

Link just prayed that Darunia was still alive.

“The Dark Elves can't find the Zoras—they don't know where they are.”

Link gave a chuckle, for he knew exactly where to find Zora's Domain. Malon brought her voice even lower and asked,

“You know where to find it, don't you Link?”

Link nodded, Malon beamed at him as she continued her story.

“Anyway, they're trying to make peace with the Gerudos and get them to join the Dark Elf Empire. So far no one knows where the Gerudos stand. The worst part is who leads the Dark Elves.” Malon stopped for a moment to look around and make sure no one was watching.

“No one knows what he is exactly, but they say he was born without a soul. His eyes are completely white, and his name is Nottuu,” Malon finished, and then Link said to her very quietly.

“What happened to the Princess?”

“They say she is still up at the Castle, held prisoner by Nottuu.”

“Listen closely Malon, because I'm only going to say this once,” began Link staring around the pub. “Finish taking my order and then later tonight I need you to sneak out and I'll get you out of here.”

“But Link; do you know how dangerous that is? I've tried millions of times,” whispered Malon, doubt painted on her face.

Link just gave her a look of pure determination, and she nodded.

“Where is Talon? Maybe we can get him out of here too,” said Link, but then he noticed how she looked down at the floor and fidgeted with her dirty apron.

“Malon ... what happened?” asked Link as a frown began to form on his face.

“... He's dead.”

Link felt his heart slide slowly down to his stomach again. No ... Not Talon, he thought miserably.

“The Dark Elves killed him when they raided the ranch, and now look at it: It's become the slave trading center.” Tears began to shine in her eyes. Link clasped his hands to sides of his head and stared down at the rotting table.

“Oh Malon, I should have never left. I've been gone way too long. I'm so sorry,” said Link as he reached out and held her hand.

“I promise … things will get better.”

Malon shook her head. “Link, what could you have done if you had stayed? Don't beat yourself up about it; nothing would have changed.”

Link however, doubts this very much. He had saved Hyrule before. He couldn't help but feel responsible for whatever happened to it. So he was not going to stand around and watch this happen to this beautiful land he had fought so hard for. Malon finished taking his order and went back to the counter to tell the chief the order; the Dark Elf owner asked accusingly, “What the **** took so long?”

“Picky customer,” Malon replied simply and walked away.

Link came to the entrance of the pub and saw that at night it was guarded by two Dark Elves. He crept up silently behind them and bumped their heads together. They made no protest, but simply dropped to the ground. Link then dragged their bodies away and hid them in a dark corner were they would not be seen until sunrise. That's when Malon finally came out of the pub. This time she was decked out in black. Her black shirt that's sleeves only reach to her elbows held tightly to her figure, her hands were hidden in small black gloves, her baggy, black pants were held up by a black leather belt, and her black combat boots clunked heavily on the ground.

Link stared for a moment; he had never seen her dress like this. Malon noticed Link gazing at her.

“What?”

Link shook his head. “Nothing, I've just never seen you dress like this before.”

“Well, I'm not going to escape from Dark Elves in a dress,” said Malon, raising her eyebrows at Link.

“Do you know how to fight?” asked Link. Malon pulled out a very long and slender knife from her belt and replied,

“Link, I've lived in a world ruled by Dark Elves for seven years. I had to learn how to fight to survive.... I'm not the innocent girl you knew seven years ago.” Link said nothing and just stared at her for a moment.

They went to make their escape, but they found that the entrance was heavily guarded.

“Listen Malon, when I say 'now' I'm going to attack the guards. I need you to run ahead of me. Don't worry—I’ll be right behind you.” Link kept his eyes on the guards ahead of them. Malon nodded in agreement.

“Now,” Link whispered and he darted ahead, smashing a guard in the face with his shield. While the guards became distracted by Link, Malon was able to slip by unnoticed. Link kept his word and was right behind her. They found Epona waiting for them outside.

Link swung onto her back and pulled Malon on after him. Link handed her his shield and said,

“Use this to block the arrows.”

“What arrows?” asked Malon, but didn't get an answer because they found themselves in a rain shower of arrows. Arrows banged against the shield Malon now had, covering their backs.

“Where are we going?” asked Malon as she held on to him with one arm and blocked arrows with the other.

“Hyrule Castle,” replied Link, keeping his eyes on Hyrule Castle as they approached it.

“What for?” Malon questioned as the arrow shower began to fade.

“To save Zelda.”

Malon gasped, “Have you gone completely nuts!”

Link didn't answer.

They reached the Town gate, which seemed to be open all the time now that the Dark Elves were in control. They both jumped off Epona. Link pointed in the opposite direction and said to Epona,

“Go!”

Epona sped off in that direction. Link grabbed Malon by the arm and pulled her across the gate.

“Why did you send Epona away?” asked Malon gasping for breath as they ran into the Market, which just like everywhere else was infested with Dark Elves.

“She would gather too much attention,” Link answered simply, who didn't seem to be out of breath.

They ran through the Market and made it to the castle entrance, which hadn't changed much except it was now being guarded by Dark Elves. Link guessed Nottuu wasn't much for remodeling like Ganon had been. The Castle looked just like it did before Link had left Hyrule.

Link and Malon slid along the dirt wall until they came to some vines that were clinging to the wall.

“Oh,” whispered Malon, apparently remembering the time when she had asked Link to find her father at the Castle for her and how Link had climbed the vines. First, Link pulled out his ocarina and said to Malon,

“Try to follow along with this tune.”

Malon didn't question Link; she has learned to just do as she was told. She began to whistle along with Link and as she whistled the tune made her think of rainy days on the ranch. Soon after, clouds were bellowing in the sky and it began to pour. Malon realized that it was the song that had made it rain.

“How did you do that?” asked Malon as they became soaked from the rain.

“It's the magic from the song. Usually the storms aren't as powerful as this when it's only one person playing the song. I did it so it would be hard to see us in the rain. Now, come on, let’s climb these vines,” Link finished as he started to climb the wall.

Malon came up right after him. They ran along the edge of the wall, and then Link found a hole inside of the gate and climbed down a ladder that was in it. Malon had no idea how Link saw the hole in the rain, but it made her think that he had memorized exactly how to get in the Castle. Once they were down in the small room inside of the gate Link began to speak.

“I do hope that you know the nature of Dark Elves—” Malon cuts him off.

“Dark Elves are violent creatures to which the concept of honor is meaningless,” Malon finished with a great tone of bitterness in her voice. Link was a little shocked to hear her voice like that and stared for a moment at her. Malon realizing this said,

“Sorry, it's just ... my life will never be the same thanks to them.”

Link knew more than ever now that what she had said before, ‘not being the same girl from seven years ago,’ was indeed very true. She had to endure seven years of being enslaved to a dark race that knew no mercy.

“Do you want revenge, Malon?” Link asked her as he stared into her determined face.

“Yes.”

“Well, then if revenge is what you want then follow me wherever I have to go, because I on the same boat as you. I will not allow them to destroy what I have fought so hard to save!” shouted Link, the same look of determination on his face.

Malon nodded, even though she did not understand the last part Link said: ‘what I have fought so hard to save.’ It didn't make sense.

“Okay, we're going to have to be careful,” said Link, surprisingly sounding a lot calmer. “If we get caught they might try to kill us.”

“Might,” said Malon doubtfully. More like they will kill us, thought Malon, as they crept out the door.

It was still pouring when they got outside. Malon could barely see through it. Link had been right about the guards may not be able to see them, but they were not able to see the guards and Malon had no idea where they were going. Even though Malon didn't know where she was, Link did. He knew this place like the back of his hand. He soon found a familiar edge and climbed over it. Once he had helped Malon over they found themselves right in front of the Castle moat.

Link gestured toward the moat; Malon followed him over to it, understanding that they were going to have to swim through it. They both slipped quietly into the water and swam just as quietly right against the right side of the stream so that the guards would not hear or see them. They finally reached the end of the moat and got out of the water. Malon noticed that her clothes were not much wetter from the rain than they were from the water.

Link pointed across the stream from them to a small hole in the wall and said,

“See that hole?”

Malon nodded.

“That's how I got in the Castle when I was a child, but since we're too big we're going to have go through this door.” Link gestured to the door in font of them.

“But they must have locked it, didn’t they?” pointed out Malon, but Link just walked over to the door, kneeled down and pulled out a needle that he kept on his belt. On his travels Link had learned the very useful skill of picking locks. In just a few minutes he had the door open.


A depressed, young woman sat on a beautiful, red silk couch facing the back of it with her arms resting on it. She wore a beautiful, blue dress with long, white draping sleeves. She had gorgeous, shiny, blonde hair and ocean-blue eyes that were dazing off into thought. Her imprisonment in the castle brought her to be depressed all the time.

Zelda had tried to escape before but it had never worked: he always caught her. She often wondered where Link was and if he would ever come back to Hyrule. For seven years she had hoped he would return and save her from this dark place. Zelda had always been independent from men, but Link was the only man she would depend on when she was in time of need. Link, will you ever come back? thought Zelda, or will you keep me waiting for seven years again?

Zelda had laid her head on her arms as she felt her eyes burn with tears, but she closed them, not allowing them to fall. She had already cried enough these seven years; she won't cry anymore. She had to be strong now. Please Link, share some of your courage with me now, ‘cause really, I need it, thought Zelda. Her thoughts, however, became interrupted, when her lounge door opened, and there stood someone she did not want to see.

“What is it that you want, Nottuu?” Zelda asked coldly as a man with white hair and white eyes to match walked up to her. His skin was not black like a Dark Elf would have. As a matter of fact, his skin was unusually pale, but she never really believed he was a Dark Elf. His outfits were always simple: black shirt, black pants, and black boots. The fact that he wore black made his white hair and eyes stand out even more than they would have. For the seven years Zelda had known this pale man, she had never seen an expression on his face. She had always believed that he had no soul, for she had seen him kill many people without even blinking, not one emotion had ever shown on his pale face.

“I hear that you are depressed,” said Nottuu, looking down at the beautiful Princess.

“I am always depressed, Nottuu,” replied Zelda, who shivered because she hated when he would look at her with those chilling eyes.

“Not nearly enough, my princess,” he said as he walked up to her balcony that was across the room.

“Don't call me that! I am not yours!” she said as she glared at her door, because she preferred not to look at him.

“I do hope you are not thinking of escape,” continued Nottuu, ignoring her comment as he stared at the rain pouring outside. Or at least she thought he was. She could never tell where he was looking, except when his head was turned in that direction, because Nottuu had no color or pupils in his eyes.

“....”

“Or are you thinking of Link, who you believe will rescue you someday?” said Nottuu, his voice matching his blank face. It was empty of feeling just like his eyes.

“How did you—” began Zelda, but Nottuu answered before she could finish.

“You're not the only one who can read minds.”

“....” She did not know what to say.

“Do you really believe he will come back? He has been gone for so long that it is possible that he is dead.”

There was silence.

“You have a will like a flame, princess. I know this so—I’ve worked hard to control it. If you’re not careful, you can get burned, but if you learn to control it; it can be yours forever,” said Nottuu, slightly turning to look at her. She flinched. Even though she could not see him, she could always feel his eyes on her.

“Like I said before, I'll never be yours Nottuu,” she continued to stare at the door.

“If you keep this up princess, I'll have to punish you. I had hoped you had done well to remember the last time you acted out.”


Link and Malon slid quietly along a wall of a dark corridor to make sure they would see a guard before he would see them. Thunder rumbled outside the castle as the rain continued to fall.

“Link, where are we?” asked Malon as Link peeked over the corner to make sure no one was coming.

The truth was Link had no idea. He had never really been inside the Castle, only the courtyard and when Ganon had control over it. Still, Link was confident that he would be able to find the princess without being seen. On his travels, Link had been in many places just like this that were even more heavily guarded.

“Link?” said Malon, for he had not answered her. She never knew because that's when they ran into someone.

“Ouch!” shouted the voice of the person they had run into. When Link looked up he found that both he and the person had been knocked to the floor. He had been expecting it to be a Dark Elf, but ... it wasn't.

It was a Hylian that looked around the same age as Link. He had black hair that stuck out at odd angles, except for one strand that fell in his face. He did not wear a Dark Elf uniform either; he wore instead a dark blue tunic with a white undershirt whose sleeves only went down to his elbows. His loose, black pants hung over his black boots and his black leather gauntlets clung to his hands and forearms. His midnight-blue eyes were very shocked to find Link there. Link found the Hylian was not alone, either.

A younger girl that looked a year younger than he was was with the Hylian. She had long, silver hair that went down to her waist, and emerald-green eyes that were staring curiously at Link. She, too, did not appear to be a Dark Elf; a gray dress that went down to her knees with slits on the sides, the top of the dress had no sleeves—just straps. The gray dress came with a black belt around her waist, and she had black boots that went up to her knees.

Both Link and the Hylian bolted up. Link took out his sword and the Hylian brought out two katanas.

“What's the matter? Not calling your friends to come help you?” said the Hylian, waiting for Link to attack. Link, however, did nothing. He did not think this man was with the Dark Elves.

“What? We're not with the Dark Elves,” said Malon, peeking out from behind Link.

“What?” said the Hylian, just as confused as her.

They didn't get to finish their conversation, because they heard someone coming from down the corridor. Both Link and the Hylian ran down the opposite end of the corridor with the silver-haired girl and Malon trailing after them. Once they had lost who ever might have been there, the Hylian said,

“So if you're not with the Dark Elves, then what are you doing here?”

Malon answered, “We're here to save the princess. What are you doing here?”

“We're with the Rebellion—” began the Hylian, but Link interrupted,

“The Rebellion?”

“You don't know what the Rebellion is?” asked the Hylian, raising an eyebrow at him. Link shook his head.

“Well, when the Dark Elves first took over Hyrule, some of the people managed to escape them. Those people came together and formed the Rebellion against the Dark Elf Empire,” explained the Hylian as more thunder shook the Castle.

“Okay, so you're with the Rebellion, but that doesn't explain what you're doing here.” Malon pointed out.

“Oh yeah, well, we're here to assassinate Nottuu,” replied the Hylian.

“Since we're both here and against the Dark Elves, maybe we can help each other,” said Link.

“That's right,” began Malon. “You could help us find the princess and then we'll help you kill Nottuu.”

Link was very surprised to hear Malon say that. He could definitely tell she was becoming more rebellious.

“It's a deal,” said the Hylian, offering his hand to them. Link shook it and so did Malon.

“First,” began Malon. “We need to know your names.”

“Oh, well my name is Khaz, and this is my sister Leita,” said Khaz, gesturing to the silver-haired girl who smiled at them.

“I'm Malon, and this is my friend Link,” said Malon as she pointed to Link, who nodded in greeting.

“So do you know your way through the Castle?” asked Malon. Khaz smiled and replied,

“As a matter a fact I do. Some spies of the Rebellion were able to snag a map of Hyrule Castle, and I happened to have memorized it.”

“Do you know were the princess is?” asked Link, for all he could think about was Zelda.

“You bet,” Khaz replied.


Again there was silence between Nottuu and Zelda, but it did not last long, for there was a loud bang as the door flew open. Zelda sat up to see who had entered; she felt her heart skip a beat. It was Link.

“Zelda,” said Link as he stared at her. Tears began to shine in her eyes. She tried to say his name, but she couldn't speak. He had finally come back ... to save her.

Zelda stood up and was about to walk over to Link to have him hold her in his arms, but she felt Nottuu's cold hand close around her wrist. Zelda turned to look at him, but before she could say a word, Nottuu brought his hand up and hit her hard across the face. Zelda fell to the floor.

Link gasped as he saw Nottuu hit her. Hot anger shot up inside him. He clenched his fists as he felt power surge inside of him and the back of his hand burn as he tapped into his Triforce. Malon was very startled; she could feel Link's power and she saw the gauntlet on his hand glowed with the shape of a triangle.

“Link—” but she couldn't finish her sentence. She backed away from Link, for his eyes had turned completely bright-green. This was a Link she did not know, the Link that had saved Hyrule, the Link that held the power of the Triforce of Courage.

“You must be the Hero of Time,” said Nottuu, his face always blank.

Link's eyes returned to normal as he gazed upon this man that he was expecting to be a Dark Elf, but appeared to have pale skin, standing seven feet tall. Link's power remained a constant flow inside of his body. Link said nothing to this man. He drew his sword and shield; prepared to fight for Zelda, even if he died trying. Nottuu did nothing.

Link charged forward, hitting Nottuu in the face with his shield. Nottuu hadn't been expecting Link to be so strong. He didn't think it would have affected him as much as it did. Nottuu went flying into a wall, which crumbled slightly when he hit it. Link, believing Nottuu to be dead, put away his sword and shield and kneeled down next to Zelda. Link felt his heart ache as he stroked her beautiful face while he held her in his arms. Her face remained beautiful even though there was a bloody mark on the side of her head. Link was about to pick her up when Khaz shouted,

“Link, watch out!”

Link looked up right as Nottuu hit him in the face. Link went flying across the room just like Nottuu had and hit the wall, but it didn't stop there. Malon screamed as Link slammed into the wall, braking through it and hit the wall of the corridor outside the room, which slightly crumbled. Link gasped as pain shot through him. Link realized that this man was very powerful, even more than Ganon. Link stood up and took out his sword and shield. This time, he wouldn't take Nottuu so lightly, for he as well had much more power than when he had fought Ganon.

“Oh my Gods! Link … you're all right!” said Malon with disbelief in her blue eyes.

She surely thought he had died when he had hit the wall. Khaz could say nothing, for he was in shock. Link ran through the opening towards Nottuu, but this time rolled off to the side and brought up his sword. When Nottuu went to dodge it Link appeared behind him, instead. Link smashed Nottuu in the back of his head, which sent him flying across the room again, but this time Link hit him a lot harder and Nottuu smashed through the wall. Link didn't stop to think. He ran over to Zelda and picked her up.

“We're going to have to escape!” Link shouted to his friends across the room.

“I have an idea. Follow me,” said Leita, Link noted this was the first he had ever heard her say anything, but they followed her to the balcony.

“Jump,” she said to the group.

“Are you crazy?” shouted Malon, looking down from the balcony where the ground was very far down.

“I know a useful spell. Don't worry—you won't get hurt,” replied Leita. Link didn't let Malon complain. He grabbed her wrist as he held Zelda with his other arm and jumped. Malon screamed as they pelted toward the ground. Link held Zelda tightly in his arms, not wanting her to fall from him. Just before they hit the ground they slowed to a stop and touched down softly. Leita and Khaz came shortly after them.

“I didn't know you use magic,” said Link, looking curiously at Leita, who just smiled in reply.

The four of them ran through the field, which was still being poured on by rain. They made it back up the hole and through the Market. They only stopped when they reached the gate. Khaz whistled and a black stallion with a white mane came thumping toward him. Link brought out his ocarina and with one hand played Epona's Song. She came thumping toward him. Khaz looked at Epona and said to Link,

“Nice horse.”

“Yours is nice too,” replied Link, smiling as he mounted and held Zelda on his lap.

“Okay, it's really not the time to admire horses!” said Malon, reminding them that they needed to go as she got on after Link.

“Right! Okay, follow me,” said Khaz. He darted forward as his sister held on to him.

“Where are we going?” asked Link charging after him.

“To Gerudo Valley, that's were the Rebellion is,” replied Khaz. Link smiled, as he knew Nabooru would have never joined the Dark Elves.

Awesome, amazing, just as the first time I read it. The only thing that would have you do is put 2 spaces between your paragraphs. It makes it muych more easy and appealing to read. Fore example:

Instead of:

I didnt know what was going on, "kill the fool!" they said, working at my chains, "he must die!"
Suddenly, guns fired in the distance. "What the hell was that?!" I yelled.

Try:
I didnt know what was going on, "kill the fool!" they said, working at my chains, "he must die!"

Suddenly, guns fired in the distance. "What the hell was that?!" I yelled.

Nice story. Though I will say you forgot the rating and what type of story it is. Another thing though dark elves? Come on...Those have been in so many diffrent things. Where i've seen is in DnD called drow. Black skin white hair. Try somthing a bit more creative reamber go big this your story. Well can't wait to see more.

Link twin, you have no idea what you are talking about. That idea came out of her head. So don't pull things out of your butt. Anyway, this must be the fiftieth time I've read the first chapter, and its still great. Obviously not as good as your writing now, but great nonetheless. Loved it. Post your other chapters soon

Nice story. Though I will say you forgot the rating and what type of story it is. Another thing though dark elves? Come on...Those have been in so many diffrent things. Where i've seen is in DnD called drow. Black skin white hair. Try somthing a bit more creative reamber go big this your story. Well can't wait to see more.

Yes, Dark Elves have been in many things but so have other creatures and I like the idea of Dark Elves and I don't feel the need to replace them with anyother creature, they fit the bill for me. Thanks for your opinion.

I remember reading this on the old fanfic. I could never finish it. But it's good.

I read it again just for the heck of it. Of course I loved it! And how come you keep saying you're a cruddy writer? you aren't bad! You ARE good at writing!!!!

I have to agree with these other guys, it's just as good as the first time I read it, it might even be better due to the appreciation I have for the story after the other chapters. Have you written anything new since the Tejison or whatever the hell it was called. I can't wait to see more Shrub, it was good as always.

Keep up the good work.

Author's Note: Thanks for all the support guys!

Chapter Two:
Son of a Dark King

The four of them thumped across the bridge in Gerudo Valley when the sun was rising. Gerudo Valley itself, Link found, had changed a lot since he had left. They came to a giant wooden gate, which was definitely new to Link. Khaz showed his membership card to the Gerudo guards and they opened the gate. Link gasped with surprise as they entered the Gerudo Fortress. It had tripled in size and so had the population, but this time it was filled with Hylian and Gerudos alike.

“Where can I find Nabooru?” asked Link, looking to Khaz for the answer.

“You know Lady Nabooru!” replied Khaz in shock. Link nodded.

“Jeez, you’ve got friends in high places buddy. Actually, I’m not sure where to find her, but for now let’s put away our horses,” said Khaz, as he went off in the direction of the stables.

Once Link got off he laid Zelda down on some crates and held her hand against his face, praying that she would be all right. Leita came up to Link and said,

“I can heal her.”

She held her hands over Zelda and closed her eyes in concentration. A blue light covered her body and the bloody bruise on the side of her head faded away. When the light had faded, Zelda opened her eyes. When she saw Link, a smile appeared on her lovely face. She sat up and looked around.

“Where am I?” she asked as her gaze came to Link.

“Gerudo’s Fortress,” replied Link as he smiled at her.

“You mean, you saved me? I’m not at the Castle?” said Zelda, tears started to spill from her eyes. Link nodded as his hand stroked her shiny hair. Zelda threw her arms around Link as more tears fell from her eyes.

“I knew you would come back. I knew you would come back and save me from him. I waited seven years just like last time and you came back. You always do,” said Zelda, crying softly while they held each other.

“I’m so sorry. I’ve been gone for too long,” said Link, holding Zelda tightly in his arms.

Khaz, Malon, and Leita were a few steps back waiting by the horses to give the two privacy.

“Are those two together or what?” asked Khaz, looking to Malon for an answer.

“I-I really don’t know,” replied Malon while she watched the two hold each other.

Finally they stopped and Zelda got up. She took another look around and asked,

“What happened to Gerudo’s Fortress?”

Khaz answered her,

“Well, when the Rebellion came to Gerudo’s Fortress they had to make some installments.”

“The Rebellion! Finally I can help take back what is rightfully ours,” began Zelda. “What am I doing walking around with the Rebellion dressed like a lady?” She shook her head, and then with a flash of light became Sheik, but this time she looked different. She still had her womanly figure, but with Sheik’s clothes. And the cloth the usually hides her face was gone. You could see her short blond hair and her red eyes, but her face remained feminine.

“Uh, what just happened?” asked Khaz, who looked very confused.

“A transformation spell, impressive,” said Leita, who obviously knew her magic.

“Yes,” began Link. “But I haven’t seen this form of Sheik before.”

“Well, I got sick of walking around looking like a boy, Link. So I made some changes,” said Sheik as she smiled at him.

“Sheik?” said Malon, who looked just as confused as Khaz.

“It’s my nickname when I’m in this form,” replied Sheik.

“Let’s try to find Nabooru,” said Link, as he walked off to do so.

Sheik followed him and so did the others. Sheik slipped her hand into Link’s, Link looking over in surprise as she smiled at him. Link felt his insides tingle as she smiled. Link, who liked the feeling he was getting, smiled back. It didn’t take long for them to find Nabooru.

“Look! There she is,” said Sheik, who was the first to see her.

She was standing on top of one of the buildings that had stairs on the side leading to the top. Her red hair danced in the wind that swept across her face as she stared out into the desert. She was wearing her usual blood-red outfit. Link and Sheik ran up the stairs to greet their old friend.

“I can’t believe it. They’re running right up to Lady Nabooru” said Khaz, staring at the two of them as they ran.

Nabooru didn’t notice Link until he was right next to her. She gasped with surprise when she saw him and gave a yell.

“Oh my Gods! Link, where in Hyrule have you been?” asked Nabooru, as she hugged him tightly. Link just smiled in reply.

“It’s great to see you Nabooru,” said Sheik, as Nabooru looked up.

“Sheik, you escaped from the Castle?” she asked as she gave Sheik a hug.

“Not really. Link rescued me. He’s my hero,” replied Sheik, smiling as she leaned her head on Link’s shoulder and slipped her hand into his. Link’s heart did a back flip when Sheik did this, but he squeezed her hand in return.

“Well, he is the Hero of Time,” said Nabooru, smiling at the two.

“Link, guess who is here with me?” continued Nabooru. Link gave her a curious look.

“The Gorons and Darunia,” replied Nabooru, Link beamed at her.

“And Impa,” said Nabooru, looking at Sheik.

“Impa is here?” said Sheik, as if she could hardly believe her ears.

“Well then, let’s go see her,” said Sheik, who could hardly wait.

“We will, but first I want you to meet someone,” began Nabooru. “Hey Blaze, come out here for second,” Nabooru what appeared to be a through the doorway behind her.

The man called Blaze, came out from the doorway. His sleeveless black shirt held tightly to his well developed muscles, he had the usual baggy Gerudo pants that were black which hung slightly over his matching boots, and his trench coat, that had no sleeves with red bordering down the sides, swirled in the warm desert wind. His tan skin told Link that he was a Gerudo. He had an air of confidence about him, but those red eyes were a little too familiar for Link.

“You’re a Gerudo, but how is that possible? A male Gerudo is only born every hundred years,” said Sheik not believing her eyes.

“Well, my mother was a Hylian. I guess that had something to do with,” replied the red headed man.

“You see the gene that makes the Gerudos female only exists on the mother’s side of the family,” explained Nabooru.

“Well, if his mother was a Hylian then his father would have had to have been….” But Sheik didn’t finish. She was now staring wide eyed at the red haired man.

“Ganondorf, the Gerudo King,” finished Nabooru, who was now looking at Link.

“Link, this is Blaze. Ganondorf’s son,” said Nabooru, and then waited to see what Link thought of this.

Link stared at the son of a man who had once brought much pain to the land of Hyrule. The son of a man that Link himself had sealed away forever into the Dark Realm. Link could do nothing, but stare at him for all words were lost.

“Link, I know very well about what my father did, and I don’t blame you for your actions. You did what you were destined to do and I plan to make up for my father’s mistakes,” said Blaze, who now offered his hand to Link.

“Friends?”

Link looked into Blaze’s red eyes and found there was neither greed nor selfishness in them. Only confidence. Link shook his hand. Blaze smiled until he felt someone clinging to him.

“Well, hi Trisa,” said Blaze, as he pulled out someone from behind him.

It was a young girl about the age of fourteen. She had short red hair that stuck out at odd angles and her golden eyes held much innocence within them. She wore tight black pants that seemed to blend in with her tight black shirt that sleeves reach out into a point that connects to her middle finger. Her black boots were smudged with the desert sand, and her blood red traveling cloak blew in the wind behind her.

“Oh, I would like you to meet my daughter. Her name is Trisa,” said Nabooru, smiling at her young daughter.

“You’re a mother?” said Link, very surprised since she never said anything before. Nabooru nodded while Sheik looked down at the girl.

“Hello, my name is Zelda, but you can call me Sheik,” she said to the young teenager.

“Hello Sheik,” said Trisa, who was staring back at her curiously.

“Link, aren’t you going to introduce me to your friends?” asked Nabooru, looking behind Link at the three who were waiting patiently.

“This is Malon, her father used to own Lon Lon ranch and this is Khaz and Leita,” said Link, turning to look at them.

“Right, Khaz and Leita Spiritwood, the two who thought they could kill Nottuu,” said Nabooru, as she shook her head with disbelief.

“Oh yeah, how about that?” said Khaz, as he nervously rubbed the back of his head.

“Well, now that we’re all introduced let’s go see Darunia and Impa,” said Nabooru as she headed down the steps of the building.

The group followed Nabooru down the steps and onto the ground. They followed her until they came to what appeared to be the training grounds of the Rebellion. There were many groups of Hylians and young Gerudos being trained by the older, more experienced Gerudos. As they walked into the training ground Link noticed how much the Hylian race had in seven years turned from being peaceful people to a warrior race. Again, Link had been absent those seven years to help the people of Hyrule through terrible times. Not only the people he didn’t know, but his friends, too. They had needed him so much and again he abandoned them to suffer for seven years. I should have never left, thought Link, looking around the training ground.

“Link, are you okay?” asked Sheik, awakening Link from his troubled thoughts.

Link just nodded and continued to stare around the training ground until he saw Darunia and Impa, who were practicing shooting arrows.

“Hey, Darunia! Impa! Guess who finally came home,” called Nabooru.

Darunia and Impa looked up. They didn’t appear to have changed one bit since Link had left. Darunia still looked big and strong, and Impa clever and serious. When Darunia saw Link he ran over, shook the ground as he did so, and gave Link a huge hug that almost broke his spine.

“Brother! Where have you been these seven years?” exclaimed Darunia, while he squeezed Link.

“Darunia, I need air!” gasped Link, who could hardly breathe.

“Oh, right. Sorry brother,” said Darunia, as he let Link drop. Link stood up gasping for air.

“Impa!” called Sheik, who again had tears in her eyes.

Impa looked over then dropped her bow. Sheik ran up and almost knocked Impa over as she hugged her long lost caretaker.

“He didn’t hurt you did he?” asked Impa urgently, looking Sheik in the eye after their long hug.

“No, but Link, he saved me from him,” replied Sheik, looking over at Link, who by this time could, again, breathe.

Link, noticing her looking at him, walked over to them. Link smiled at Impa in greeting, who too smiled back.

“Where have you been, Hero of Time?” asked Impa.

“I heard you went off to save other worlds,” said Nabooru, who like everyone else was looking at Link.

“Yes, I did, but I should have realized this world was the one that needed saving the most,” said Link, gazing around the training ground looking at the Hylian race, which he could barely recognize because they wielded weapons.

Everyone was silent.

“Hey, Link!” called a voice from across the training ground.

Link looked up and could hardly believe his eyes. Link ran over to a group of three people. Two of them were women and the other you couldn’t tell because he was hidden under a black traveling cloak, but Link already knew who it was.

One of the women had very short, brown hair and dark blue eyes. She wore so much dark blue armor that she looked like a knight, her gray traveling cloak was draped over her clanking armor, and you could see the hilt of her sword peeking over her shoulder.

The other had jet-black hair that was done up in a bun and her eyes were a light green. Her blood-red tunic hung over her short, black skirt with slits on the sides, black gauntlets held tightly to her arms and all the way to her elbows. Two long, slender swords were strapped to her back.

“What are you guys doing here?” asked Link, when he had finally got over to them.

“Followed you, of course,” said the one in the red tunic.

“We had to make sure you didn’t get into any trouble,” said the one in blue armor.

“Link, aren’t you going to introduce us?” asked Sheik, with the others standing behind her looking curiously at the three.

“Everyone, this is Kira,” said Link, gesturing to the one in the blue, “Tila,” Link pointed to the one in the red, “and this is Rontu.” Link finished with the one in the black cloak.

“Kira, Tila, Rontu. This is Nabooru, Darunia, Zelda, Impa, Malon, Blaze, Khaz, Leita, and Trisa,” said Link, finally finishing all the introductions.

“Can we see Rontu?” asked Nabooru, staring curiously at the hooded stranger.

“… I think it would be best if we were inside for that,” replied Link, getting a curious stare from the group.

“Well all right, let’s go inside for some breakfast then,” said Nabooru.

“How’s Sheinron?” asked Link, as he looked over to Kira, who looked a little startled by this question.

“Well, you know. He continues to rule over the Dark Elves,” replied Kira, as they followed Nabooru into the vast Fortress.


They all were seated down at a large table, except for Rontu, who was staring through a window across the room from them. The two groups talked only to the people from their own worlds, until Kira called over to Rontu,

“Hey, come over here and eat something, Rontu.”

The dark figure hesitated, but came over and sat down between Link and Kira. Rontu removed his cloak and showed himself. Rontu was a Dark Elf, his long, white hair was pulled back in a tie, and his eyes were a shimmering gold. Under his cloak he wore a large, black trench coat, a black shirt, and black pants.

Those who didn’t know Rontu, gasped in surprise. There was tense silence now that Rontu was sitting down at the table. This appeared to annoy Rontu as the silence continued….
“I’ve had enough of this!” said Rontu angrily as he stood up from the table.

“No, Rontu, stay,” said Kira as she pulled on his trench coat.

“I wouldn’t want to make anyone uncomfortable!” said Rontu, with great bitterness in his voice.

“No, please stay,” began Zelda, who was not in her Sheik form for breakfast “We’ve been terribly rude. It’s just you don’t know what we’ve been through-”

“No, I know exactly what you’ve been through. This is not the only world were Dark Elves are despised and hated. So don’t give me that ****,” said Rontu, cutting her off. However, he sat down.

“So … how do you know Link?” Malon asked Kira.

“He helped our land of Ranelu against the Dark Elves in the war they had declared on us. I do believe he took down a dragon,” replied Kira.

“Not the only time either,” began Darunia “He killed Volvogia and saved my entire race.”

As their subject turned to Link, he began to feel an uncomfortable tingle along his spine. Whenever someone started to talk about the things Link had done in his life; Link always felt uncomfortable and self-conscious. Link stared down at his plate as he felt his cheeks burn, his appetite no longer there. Link felt Zelda’s hand slip onto his. Link looked up to find Zelda’s beautiful face smiling at him as she squeezed his hand. Link smiled back no longer remembering what the others were talking about. All he could think about was Zelda’s hand caressing his.

“Hey Link?” said Khaz, bring Link back to the conversation.

“Why does everyone call you the ‘Hero of Time?’”

“Yeah,” began Malon “you never told me anything about being a Hero of Time.”

“Yeah, what’s that about?” asked Kira, looking down the table at him.

“I want to know too,” added Tila, who was also looking at Link.

Link shifted uncomfortably in his chair until Zelda brought her gaze to him. All she had to do was squeeze his hand and he would feel…. Link didn’t know how to explain it but he didn’t feel self-conscious anymore. He felt like nothing could bother him as long as Zelda kept holding his hand.

“Link,” began Zelda “these are your friends and they deserve to know what you’ve done in your life.”

Link just nodded as he smiled at her.

“I’ll tell the story,” she said to Link and everyone there.

“It started when the Great Deku tree summoned Link to him and…”

Link began to think about Zelda, admiring her beautiful face, how she always moved around with grace. Soon Link could hear nothing of what was being said, only thing he could focus on was Zelda and how she kept her hand on his and how her finger kept sliding along his hand. When Link came to he found Zelda was already half way through the story.

“Then Link, after defeating the creature in the Water Temple, returned the water to Lake Hylia….”

He was again swept off to gaze at her beautiful lips as she spoke. So smooth, so perfect … he began to wonder what it would be like to kiss those marvelous lips…. The warmest feeling buzzed in his heart when that thought came into his mind. Link didn’t understand why these thoughts came into his head; Zelda never made him feel this way before…

“Then after we sealed Ganondorf away, I sent Link back to his original time when he was just a boy. Only the sages and Link know what had happened, because we had gone back to our original time when none of this happened. That’s how Link got his title as The Hero of Time.” Zelda had finally finished the story.
Everyone was silent … until,

“That’s your father!” said Khaz with disbelief, to Blaze who almost choked on his food. Once Blaze had got his food down replied,

“Yes…. Do you doubt my loyalty to the Rebellion?” Blaze stared down the table at Khaz.

“N-no … it’s just an interesting fact,” Khaz stuttered as he stared down at his food.

There it was again … the uncomfortable silence as they all stared at Blaze, the son of the King of Evil. Rontu smirked as he leaned back in his chair. He seemed to be enjoying the fact that Blaze was now the cause of everyone’s discomfort.

“Oh! I just remembered,” said Nabooru, bring everyone out of the silence.

“Finally,” Blaze murmured under his breath.

“I have an assignment that I need taken care of for the Rebellion,” continued Nabooru as she stared around the table.

“What is it?” asked Zelda.

“Well, there’s a group of rebels hiding out in Kokiri Forest and I want them to join us here in the desert. But I need a group to go out there and convince them to come,” said Nabooru as she continued she stared hopefully around the table.

Link looked up and smiled. He would be able to see Saria. Zelda who seemed to know what was on his mind said,

“Link and I will go.”

“I’m going anywhere Link goes,” said Malon as she stood up from the table in confidence.

“I’ll follow the Hero of Time anywhere,” stated Khaz as his sister nodded in agreement.

“And me,” said Kira who also stood up.

“I’m in,” said Tila smiling.

Kira looked hopefully up at Rontu, who grunted in reply. This must have meant he was coming, because Kira gave a yell and hugged Rontu, who in disgust, tried to push her off.

“Well, if everyone is going … I might as well go,” said Blaze, who has finally gotten over the uncomfortable silence.

“I’ll come too!” piped up Trisa.

“No, you are not,” replied her mother, Trisa sighed and went back to poking her food.

Zelda looked to Impa, who just nodded in return.

“Okay then,” began Nabooru “You’ll leave tomorrow and since you all will be staying a while let me show you to your rooms.”

Nabooru stood up from the table and everyone followed her out the door. They went through a few corridors until she led them through a door and into a large room. The room looked fit for royalty for it had red, blue, green, and purple silk lounge chairs and sofas. There was a gold coffee table and a balcony across the room that had purple drapes and the carpet was an emerald green. On the right side of the room there were ten doors, and on the left side of the room there was a one door in the bottom corner of the room.

“Wow ….” said Khaz, who pretty much said what was on everybody’s mind.

“Well, you can use the rest of your day to get to know each other better. Well, me and Darunia need to talk over some plans so, see you tomorrow,” said Nabooru as everyone walked into the amazing room. Nabooru, Darunia, and Trisa left the group alone.

They all made themselves comfortable in the lounge room except for Rontu, who went to sit on the balcony. Link sat down on a sofa next to Zelda, but only for a moment. He then went over to the balcony were Rontu sat staring out into the desert sand.

“So this is the land where you grew up,” said Rontu not turning his head to see who it was.

“No, the land I grew up in was free. The land I grew up in was peaceful,” replied Link staring at the young Dark Elf.

“… You’re lucky to have grown up in a land like that ….”

“Hey you two, come over here and be social,” Kira called from inside.

Link turned to go inside, but stopped and waited for Rontu, who gave one final glance at the desert and came inside with Link. When they had returned to the room they had found the conversation had turned to relationships.

“So, Khaz how many women have you been with?” asked Blaze, who had just finished a story that had made the room burst out with laughter.

“Well, a good few—” but Khaz didn’t finish for Leita, who said a little too loudly, interrupted him with,

“Like half of Gerudo’s Fortress.” This made the room explode with laughter again.

“Leita!” Khaz exclaimed as his cheeks burned red. Malon giggled as she said,

“You’re so cute when you’re upset.”

Khaz looked over and smiled, as he looked her up and down. His grin widened as he replied,

“Know what else is cute?”

“What?”

Khaz leaned over, now every close to Malon. He brought his hand up and placed it very gently on her cheek

“This face,” he replied and Malon’s face turned bright red.

“I can’t count how many times he’s used that one,” said Leita, breaking the silence that had filled the room.

Khaz’s cheeks again turned even redder than before, as he removed his hand from Malon’s face. As the laughter calmed down, Zelda’s hand went up and played with Link’s ponytail.

“So you’ve decided to grow out your hair have you?” asked Zelda as she twirled his golden hair in her fingers.

“Actually, I haven’t had the time to cut it because I’ve been busy with my travels,” replied Link, as his eyes gaze from her hand up to her ocean blue eyes.

Zelda smiled her beautiful smile that Link couldn’t take his eyes off of. Link smiled back too as they both continued to stare at one and other. He now more than ever wanted to kiss those gorgeous lips….

“Wow … I’ve never seen Link look at a girl like that before,” stated Kira, knocking Link out of his trance to realize that everyone was watching them.

Link saw Zelda blush and then noticed that he was blushing too. His gaze dropped to his knees. He didn’t understand why he was blushing…. Giggles and smirks swept across the room. There was silence for a time until Khaz spoke.

“What was that suppose to mean anyway?”

Kira giggled for a moment, and then said, “For as long as I’ve known Link, girls have hit on him every where. And Link has never had a clue.”

“When?” asked Link, looking up from his lap.

“You know the girls with hair?” replied Kira, waving a hand over her head as if it would show it to him.

“Yeah … oh,” said Link as his cheeks again turned a crimson red.

The whole group again exploded. Link even started to laugh too until he felt a sharp pain stabbing him in the side. Link gasped as his hand went down to touch it, which caused even more pain that made Link flinch.

“Link, what’s the matter?” asked Zelda, who immediately noticed that something was wrong.

“I think I hurt something when I fell through the wall,” replied Link as pressed his hand to his side.

“You fell through a wall?” gasped Zelda, as her eyes got wide.

“More like smashed,” added Khaz.

“Let me see it,” requested Zelda, as she leaned in closer to Link.

Zelda leaned her head slightly on his chest as she began to inspect the injury. The smell of her hair drifts up to Link, which caused his heart to thump in his chest and his mind to become dazed and hazy.

“Link, when did you smash through a wall?” asked Zelda as she poked and prodded his right side.

“When, I was fighting Nottuu. You were unconscious then,” replied Link, still a little hazy from the smell of her hair.

“You have a broken rib,” stated Zelda as she sat back up from Link. Leita quickly got up and healed Link with a flash of blue light.

“Excuse me, but I’m curious about this Nottuu. If he had the ability to knock Link through a wall then what kind of enemy are we dealing with?” asked Rontu as he stared around for the answer.

“… His power far exceeds Ganon’s …” began Link, but he just stared off, remembering their battle.

“Zelda, you have lived with his man for seven years,” began Impa. “Tell us what we are dealing with.”

“Link is right, his power goes far beyond anything of Ganondorf’s,” replied Zelda, who looked very worried.

“I’m curious of why Nottuu leads the Empire and not Sheinron. Sheinron is the Dark Elf King,” stated Tila, looking around at the others.

“Actually, I think I’ve known of Nottuu before,” said Kira.

“What? How could you have known him?” asked Blaze; who was now looking at Kira along with the rest of the group.

“Well, I happen to have had a close relationship with Sheinron,” began Kira, but then Tila said,

“A very close relationship.”

A smirk spread across Rontu’s face; his golden eyes gaze over to Kira who wasn’t amused. The corners of Link’s mouth twitched for a smile wanted to form, but Link repressed this grin. Tila beamed at Kira waiting to see her reaction. However the far too familiar silence took its place.

“Close relationship? What does that mean?” Khaz finally asked.

“It means that me and Sheinron were something of an item, but when he declared war on my people I was forced to break it off,” replied Kira, her gaze went to the balcony as she stared outside to hide her discomfort.

“Forced?” said Malon curiously.

“I would prefer not to talk about it,” said Kira quickly, as her gaze came back to the room.

“Anyway, you were talking about Nottuu,” said Blaze to bring the subject away from Sheinron.

“Right, I do believe Nottuu and Sheinron started as partners of invasion. They would travel into different lands and take over its inhabitance. First it started out that both Sheinron and Nottuu were equals, but then Nottuu began to slowly show that he has far more power than Sheinron, and before he knew it Nottuu had Sheinron right under his thumb,” Kira told the group; all were silent.

“Funny, Sheinron wouldn’t strike me as the person to be under anyone’s thumb,” said Rontu, gazing over at Kira in question.

“Well, according to Sheinron, he could care less. He’s just happy that he has some sort of power over the Dark Elves,” replied Kira, looking over to Rontu.

“What I find most troubling is that if they were just traveling to different lands in their own world they must have taken over their entire world,” began Blaze, but then Kira said,

“Yes, except for Ranelu.”

“Well, if he has done that then he must have found out how to travel to different worlds,” said Blaze, who was staring seriously around the room.

“What are you getting at?” asked Zelda.

“What I’m getting at is that if this doesn’t stop here and now in Hyrule, then all the other worlds are doomed as well,” finished Blaze, leaving silence in his wake but only for a moment….

“That’s right, and if his power is far greater then Ganondorf’s was, then how do we plan to kill him?” asked Tila, who like the rest of the room was infested with worry. Silence again screamed in the room, not only silence was there but also a terrible feeling of a waiting doom, spreading its stench in the air….

“Well, we are not totally lost,” said Link, who appeared to be the calmest in the room.

“What do you mean we’re not totally lost? We’re done for!” exclaimed Khaz, who was definitely feeling despondent.

“Nottuu’s power maybe greater than Ganon’s, but … so is mine,” replied Link, as he looked around the group.

“Wait a moment!” piped Malon, who seemed to have a light come on in her head.

“Link, when you were fighting Nottuu you weren’t the only one to go flying through a wall. You hit Nottuu right through a wall so that we could make our escape!” Malon must have been very excited because her eyes got very big and the smile on her face never left.

“Who else better to save this land than the Hero of Time himself,” stated Blaze, who too was smiling at Link with confidence.

“Wait a moment, you don’t want to put too much pressure on Link,” said Tila, frowning.

“Well, there really is no one else other than Link that even has a chance,” said Zelda.

“The fact of the matter is that all the pressure is on his shoulders whether or not he wants it to be. The real question is; Link, can you handle having the weight of entire worlds resting on your shoulders?” said Rontu, looking at Link waiting for an answer. Everyone was now looking at Link, waiting for his response. Link sighed and said,

“I have had the weight of this world on my shoulders without even knowing it before; when I was only a boy, and seeing as I didn’t even know it, I let it fall. This allowed Ganon to obtain the Triforce. When I was older and realized that had been on my shoulders and still was on my shoulders, but only in pieces, I picked up those pieces and became what you all know as the Hero of Time. When I returned to my time I again forgot that I was still responsible for whatever happened to this world. Since I forgot this and left to save other worlds I again let all that I had fought so hard for be destroyed, and again now that I am older I have realized that this world is still my responsibility. All I have to do now is pick up the pieces and if I don’t pick up the pieces other worlds will fall to the same fate. So I must and I will carry the weight … I will not let it fall again … I will not forget my responsibility…. I have an apology to make…. I should have never left, I should have never forgotten what my responsibility to this world was… this is really … all my fault and … I’m … sorry. I know; a simple apology can’t make up for all the damage that I have caused.”

A terrible feeling overwhelmed him, making his heart twist and turn along with the rest of his insides. He leaned his forehead on the palm of his hand, squeezed his eyes shut and as his eyes began to burn as he grinded his teeth. Link has never felt so disgusting; he has however felt appalled with himself before…. That had been when Link awoke after seven years to find he had let down all of his friends, Hylians, Zoras, Gorons, Kokiri, the Deku Tree who gave his life to protect this beautiful and how did Link repay him? By allowing the Deku Tree’s death to be in vain….

“Link,”

Link looked up to find everyone was watching him. He looked over to Zelda, who, by the look on her face, was worried.

“Link, it wasn’t your fault this happened. Nor was it your fault that Ganondorf got the Triforce,” said Zelda as she leaned closer to him.

“…” Link could say nothing for he knew she would not understand.

“By the way, why hasn’t the Rebellion attacked Hyrule Castle yet? It looks to me that they have the power to do it,” asked Malon.

“Well, Nabooru as decided to slowly take back the smaller cities and gain control of them and then attack Hyrule Castle. She definitely wants to free the slaves at Lon Lon Ranch first. How? I do not know,” replied Blaze, who would have more insight of what Nabooru’s plans are.

“How did the Gorons get here? No one had any idea were they went,” said Link, this question as been bothering him for sometime.

“Well, when the Gorons found out that Hyrule Castle had been attacked Darunia knew that their only hope would be the Gerudos, so they packed up and left Death Mountain before the Dark Elves got Kakariko. Both Nabooru and Darunia have plans to convince the Zoras to help too,” said Blaze.

“The Zoras Help? That’s a laugh,” said Zelda in disbelief.

“Why is that?” asked Khaz.

“The Zoras don’t believe in war. They are a peaceful race. The only time they had been involved was in the war seventeen years ago, but only because they had too. All they have been doing these seven years is hiding out in their Domain,” replied Zelda.

“What?” began Link, who appeared to not believe her. “But they serve the Royal Family. They have to fight.”

“I think that is not only because they don’t believe in war but because they are scared. They haven’t been in a war for seventeen years. I don’t think they even remember how to fight,” said Zelda as a gloom set on her face.

“Well, that’s going to change,” said Blaze.

“How is it the Dark Elves are unable to invade Kokiri Forest,” asked Link, this was another question that has been swimming around in his head, but Zelda answered him this time.

“Well, Nottuu is having trouble entering the Forest; apparently there is some sort spell on it that doesn’t allow them to enter.”

“Then how are we going to get in?” asked Kira frowning.

“Well, I guess I could try and break whatever spell it is. I’ll have to see what I can do when we get there,” replied Zelda.

Silence fell again in the group.

“So, Rontu tell us a little about yourself,” said Leita, attempting to make conversation.

This however had the opposite effect on Rontu. He simply glared at her and walked away toward the balcony. Leita frowned.

“Try not to take anything Rontu does personally,” said Kira, who seemed to understand what Leita was thinking.

“I was just trying to be friendly. I don’t understand him,” said Leita, and for some reason this started to bother her.

Why? Why does he act like that, wondered Leita as she stared out at the balcony where Rontu stood gazing out into the desert at the sunset.

“Well, that’s Rontu. His most popular reactions to almost anything anyone does are anger, disgust, and dominance. Probably because that’s the only thing his father ever showed for him,” said Kira, staring off at the ceiling.

“What?” asked Leita curiously for there was been no mention of his father before.

“Oh! Sorry, I said too much. Forget I said it,” said Kira very quickly, trying to repair the damage that was too late to fix.

“No, wait. I really want to know more about him. He really doesn’t say much about himself,” pleaded Leita.

“Well then, I’m really not the right person you should be talking to,” replied Kira.

Kira pointed toward the balcony, silently saying what she meant. Leita looked over at Rontu. She really wanted to ask him about himself, but the truth was she was scared to. She was afraid he would push her away. Besides it was rude; she just met him only a few hours ago. It’s rude to ask such personal questions so she will hide her curiosity.

“By the way Link, these travels you speak of…what would that entail?” asked Zelda, with the entire group’s stare that fell upon him. Link again sighed.

“… All right, I’ll tell you. Well, after I left Hyrule I had been traveling for month when I was attacked by two fairies and an imp known as Skull kid who wore what is called Majora’s Mask….” Link continued his story that went through the time he had met Kira, Tila, and Rontu in a war he helped them win that too had been in a different world. Link finished his story at the time he had saved Zelda and Malon.

“Wow! Link you’re amazing! The things you’ve done in your life…. How do you do it?” exclaimed Khaz, who was as impressed as everyone else in the room.

“It’s … really not that great. The things I’ve done are amazing and at the same time … not,” said Link, who turned his gaze to stare outside.

“What?” said Khaz, not understanding what he meant.

“… Nothing, forget it,” replied Link as he continued to stare out of the balcony.

Zelda didn’t like the look in his eyes when he said that nor did she understand it. His eyes were so sad. Why would he feel despair for the many great things he has done. Why do you say things like that Link? wondered Zelda.

“Hey, Zelda?” asked Malon snapping her out of her trance.

“Yes?”

“Uh, I was just curious, but it’s true that Nottuu has no soul?” said Malon, getting the attention of everyone else in the room.

“Well,” began Zelda. “I think so, I’ve never once seen the man have an expression.”

“Creepy,” said Malon in awe.

“Actually, I feel sorry for him and yet I hate him for it too,” said Zelda, surprising them.

“What! How can you feel sorry for him?” asked Khaz, who was completely appalled at the idea.

“Well, isn’t it sad that he is not capable of emotion? Not being able to feel the beautiful things in life,” replied Zelda, leaving a thoughtful silence behind her.

“Well, it must be great not to be able to feel the horrors of it,” said Rontu, his voice echoing from the balcony. This however made everyone give him a weird look.

“Well … come on! Don’t tell me that if you had a chance to stop feeling the terrible things in life that you wouldn’t do it. Fear, pain, depression, hate; don’t tell me that you like those emotions,” said Rontu, who too, left a silence in his wake.

“I guess I hate him for it,” began Zelda bring everyone out of the silence “because he can do so many terrible things to people without thinking anything of it. It’s almost like he does it to see their emotions. It fascinates him because he doesn’t have it. He really is a very pitiful person.”

There was the silence again but it is shortly interrupted.

“I think I’ll go for a walk,” said Blaze as he stood up from his chair to stretch.

“I think I’ll come to,” said Tila after letting out a huge yawn.

The two left for a walk around the fortress, gazing at the beautiful sunset in the desert.

“Wow, I can’t believe we were talking for that long,” said Tila as she gazed around the fortress.

“Yeah, it was morning when we started talking,” said Blaze, who looked over at Tila.

He gazed her slim figure up and down. The sun was setting right behind her gave her figure an orange outline. Her face was covered with the warm glow of the sun. Blaze never noticed before just how beautiful she was. A smile crept up on to his tan face as Tila looked over at and said,

“What’s the matter with you?”

“Well, you know in this light, man you look … disgusting.”

Tila tried to look appalled, but her smile kept flashing on her face.

“So Blaze, tell a little about yourself. What is like to grow up around all these women?” Tila asked as her smile fade from her face.

“Hmmm … once a month this place becomes a snake pit for men,” replied Blaze thoughtfully. Tila broke out into a fit of giggles. Blaze narrowed his eyes at her and said,

“You think that’s funny, do you? Well, it wasn’t funny for me; I had to hide out in my room to avoid getting my head bitten off.”

This however didn’t help Tila’s giggles fit because she broke out into fits of laughter. Blaze gave a smile; he liked when she laughed.

“Those were times when I could have used a father,” said Blaze, staring off at the sunset thinking of the father he never knew.

“You did meet him, didn’t you?” asked Tila curiously.

“Yes, I did, but I barely even saw him around. Probably because he was so busy and probably because he didn’t want see me,” replied Blaze.

“What? He didn’t want to see you? Why?” asked Tila as she frowned.

“Well, I guess you could say I was an accident. My father didn’t want to get my mother pregnant, but you now how it is. Moments of passion,” said Blaze simply; it didn’t seem to bother him that his father never wanted him around.

“So, you were an unwanted child?”

“Yep,” his answer was as simple as the one before.

“Speaking of moments of passion,” began Tila. “Have you … been with a woman before?” she finished with a little smirk on her face.

“Let’s see … a fortress filled with women and me being the only male Gerudo. Yes, many times. Did you not hear the story I told inside?” said Blaze with a smirk now on his face.

“I did, but the story did not tell whether or not you had been with a woman,” replied Tila.

“So, have you had…?” said Blaze, giving Tila a sideways glance.

“Yes, I have,” answered Tila as her cheeks turned a light pink.

They started to head back when a group of Gerudos called down to Blaze from another balcony.

“Hey there Blaze!” said one.

“Looking good, hot stuff,” shouted another.

“Hey Blaze, when are you going to show us a good time!” called one with short spiky hair.

“We love you Blaze,” yelled the one next to her.

“You keep this up girls and I won’t respect you any more,” answered Blaze as they passed.

“We don’t want you respect us, we want you to disrespect us!” They chanted in unison. Blaze chuckled and said,

“These kids today.”

Blaze looked over to find Tila was giving him an unusual stare.

“What? Is there something on my face?”

“You are a total slut!” exclaimed Tile with a huge smirk on her face.

“What? I am not!” said Blaze, who looked disgruntled by this comment.

“Then tell me, have you ever been in only one relationship at a time?” asked Tila as they reached the door to the lounge room.

“Uhmmm … I,”

“Yeah, that’s what I thought,” said Tila with a smile of victory on her face. She was about to open the door when Blaze put his arm in front of her to block her way. She looked up at him in question. Blaze just gives a mischievous smile.

“I’m not going to let you get away with that,” he said as he leaned closer to her.

“Oh really,” she said giving him a sleigh smile back.

“Yep.”

“And what are you going to do about it?”

“Do you really want to know?” asked Blaze as he came ever so closer to her face, his insides with tingling with excitement and something else. Something he has never felt before that went trickling down his back.

“Yes,” replied Tila, who too was leaning closer to him.

As Blaze leaned in closer to her face he could hear her breath catch in her chest and a tingle, again, went down his spine. Their lips were just barely touching when the door opened and the two looked up to find Kira staring back at them.

“Well, there you two are,” said Kira as if she hadn’t seen what was about to happen.

“Hi, Kira,” said Blaze with a big smile on his face that was saying the exact opposite of his feelings toward Kira at the moment.

“I was worried, it’s getting late you know,” said Kira, not looking worried at all.

“You’re right, I think I’ll go to bed,” said Tila, her cheeks slightly pink.

Tila went through the door and into the lounge room; Blaze was about to follow her when Kira stepped out into the hall and closed the door.

“What? Am I not allowed in the lounge room?” asked Blaze, raising an eyebrow.

“No, I just need to talk to you about Tila,” replied Kira, folding her arms across her chest.

“Okay, what about her?”

“Well, I’m not responsible for her actions, nor am I responsible for your actions, but I just thought you should know her heart belongs to someone else,” replied Kira, looking at Blaze seriously.

“What?” said Blaze, not wanting to believe his ears.

“She is in love with a man from my world and currently involved with him,” said Kira as she turned to open the door.

“I just thought you should know,” said Kira as she opened the door.

“Wait,” said Blaze, Kira stopped.

“What’s his name?”

“Rai,” she replied and went through the door.

Blaze leaned against the wall of the corridor and sighed. Involved. Involved she said. Blaze had met a girl that for the first time in his life made him feel … nervous. Blaze had always been confident with girls and just about everything else in his life and for the first time in his life a woman made him feel nervous. But, he liked it. Involved. She was involved with another man. Blaze shook his head and said,

“Perfect, just perfect,” and walked through the door.

Chapter Three:
A Walk in the Woods

In the morning the group was woken up by Nabooru and Impa to get ready for their trip. Everyone gathered in the lounge room before leaving. Kira was, however, not wearing her armor today. Instead she wore black pants, a white blouse, her brown boots, her blue metal gauntlets, and her sword was still strapped to her back.

“Hey, Kira, why the change of clothes?” asked Khaz curiously.

“Well, I guess I was just used to being dressed like I’m ready for battle. Besides I was getting sick of wearing that heavy armor all the time,” replied Kira, just as Nabooru announced that they were ready to go.

The group went down to the stables to collect their horses. They said their goodbyes to Nabooru and Darunia and then headed out on the road toward Kokiri Forest. Their travel was a peaceful one; they were not ambushed and they reached the Forest safely in midday. When they got to the entrance they got off their horses.

“So, how are we going to do this?” asked Kira as she stared at the wooden tunnel.

“I think we should first attempt to go in,” suggested Link, as he led Epona toward it.

“Wait! Link, don’t you think you should be more cautious?” said Sheik, staring at him disbelievingly.

“I have a feeling that … it will be safe,” replied Link as he stepped onto the wooden floor. Everyone hesitated for a moment, except Khaz who immediately followed him through.

“Wait, Khaz!” Leita called to her brother, running after him. The others knew there was nothing left to do but follow. One by one they entered the Forest. When they had gone through the tunnel the group found themselves on a small bridge leading to another tunnel that they also went through. What they found next was a clearing with houses made out of trees and white tents that were everywhere. Soon their appearance was noticed and Hylians sprinted over pointing swords and spears in their faces. A man came forward that had long, blonde hair and stern eyes that were dark green.

“Who are you and how did you get through the seal?” he shouted angrily at them.

“Calm yourself, we come in peace,” responded Blaze.

“What is your purpose here?” asked the blonde haired man.

“We come from the Rebellion in the desert and we need to speak with your leader,” replied Blaze, folding his arms across his chest. Then, as if to answer him, the crowd parted and a man walked forward. He had shaggy auburn hair and his eyes were … black. The whites of his eyes were still there but you could not see his pupils. He wore a dark, blue shirt with short sleeves, black pants, and a coat similar to Blaze’s except it was completely black. He seemed no older than nineteen. He held with him an air of power and respect. You could see in the eyes of his followers that they truly respected him.

“I am Kai of the Forest Rebellion, what is it you have come for?” he asked with a calm voice that held great cleverness. Blaze did not have a chance to answer for a cry came from one of the Hylians.

“There! A Dark Elf!” he shouted as he pointed to Rontu. Immediately four Hylians attacked him; Rontu smirked as they came at him. He kneed the first in the gut, then smacked the second with his elbow breaking his nose, he back hands the next, and then grabbed the fourth, pulling out his sword as he did so that had been hidden under his trench cloak. The sword was slim and slightly curved like a Japanese sword, and he held it next to the young Hylian’s neck. The Hylian appeared to be no older then fifteen or sixteen and looked as if he was going to wet himself.

“Give me a reason and I’ll do it,” Rontu called out to the crowd of Hylians that looked ready to attack. They did not attack for fear of the young Hylian who, again, looked like he was going to cry.

“Rontu, stop it!” shouted Kira. Kai, however, walked calmly toward Rontu. Rontu stared at him uncertainly; not sure whether he would attack.

“I see that you are not here to harm us and are clearly with the Rebellion. So do not harm the boy and I promise that you will be treated respectfully,” said Kai, his black eyes staring into Rontu’s. Rontu hesitated for a moment, but took away his sword and pushed the Hylian away from him. The young man scrambled away from Rontu as fast as he could. Rontu fitted his sword into its sheath and folded his arms moodily.

“Good, now what is it you have come from the desert for?” Kai again asked Blaze.

“The Rebellion in the desert wishes that you would join us. If we band together we will surely have more of a chance against the Empire,” replied Blaze.

“… Yes, you are definitely right about that…. I suppose it would do no harm. All right, my men will leave tomorrow, but in the mean time please stay here in the Forest until we are ready to leave,” offered Kai. The group looked around at each other. They seemed to agree it would be pleasant to stay for a day. Link just wanted to see Saria and the Deku Tree again. When the group agreed to stay Kai said,

“Allow me to give you a tour of the Forest. Don’t worry about your horses they will be taken care of.”

“Well, actually that won’t be necessary. You see, we already have someone with us that knows the forest very well,” replied Sheik as the group followed Kai deeper into the clearing.

“Really? And who is that?”

“That’s right we haven’t introduced ourselves, have we? I’m Zelda or Sheik which ever is fine, this is Blaze, Impa, Tila, Malon, Khaz, Leita, Rontu, Kira, and Link,” replied Sheik until she was interrupted by a squeal that came from one of the near by tree houses.

“Link! Link, Link, Link, Link!” cried a small person with light green hair.

“Saria!” said Link as smile slid onto his face. She ran up and hugged Link around his waist because she couldn’t reach; even when hugging his waist she had to stand on her toes. Then she started hitting him.

“How could you, Link? You left again! Don’t you realize that when you leave I’m going to miss you?” she shouted, pounding his torso with her little fists and then broke out into tears.

“Saria, stop crying. I’m back and I’m going to make very thing right again,” said Link as he knelt down to look at her. Saria rubs her eyes dry and smiled at him.

“I’m glad you’re back,” she said as Mido ran up to them.

“Link! … er—nice to have you back, Link,” said Mido pretending not to be happy to see him.

“Hi, Mido,” replied Link, smiling at the Kokiri leader.

“Tell me, Link,” began Kai “How is it that the Hero of Time would be friends of the Kokiri?”

Link looked up at him in surprise. How could he know about that? Link stood up to look Kai in the eye. He gave Link a small smile as he stood up.

“Of course you are wondering how I knew that. I’m afraid that is a secret I cannot tell you,” said Kai.

“Anyway, I’m sure you would like to see the Great Deku Tree, follow me,” continued Kai walking off toward the entrance to the Deku Tree.

“Saria, did you tell him?” asked Sheik, who, like everyone else, was shocked.

“No, he never said anything about it before,” replied Saria, just as puzzled as her.

They however followed him to the Deku Tree. The Deku Tree has grown since the last time he saw it. This had been right before he left to Termina, where he found the Deku Tree had sprouted again. That he means by sprouted again is that he had seen the Deku Tree sprout before when he was the Hero of Time. It was a few feet taller and its roots were branching out more since then.

“Link, thost has returned … again,” said the wise tree. Link bent down onto one knee, he respected the Deku Tree the most out of all the people he has ever known.

“No doubt thost has come to save the Land of Hyrule once again. Did thee find thy friend?” asked the Deku Tree.

“Only one of them, sir,” answered Link as he stood up.

“Navi still wanders the worlds….” The Deku Tree dazed off.

“Sir?”

“Uh? Oh yes … Princess of Destiny, thost is happy and healthy. I am grateful, for thy help is greatly needed in these times of darkness. Please show thyself,” said the Deku Tree to Sheik, who in a flash of light became Zelda. Kai’s eyes flickered over at Zelda. However, his face was not surprised. He just studied her with interest.

“Tell us Great Deku Tree, why is it we were able to enter the forest and others not?” asked Zelda, her ocean-blue eyes gazing at it respectfully.

“Only those with good intentions are allowed to enter. Those with evil ones merely end up right at the entrance,” replied the Tree.

“First allow me to tell thee of the important matters of this man known as Nottuu,” began the Deku Tree “There are what is known as the five Dark Lords, which, in legend, will challenge the fate of Hyrule. Again the power of the Triforces of Wisdom and Courage are needed. I am afraid I must tell thee; thost has the fate of the world and others as well on thy shoulders. Only one of the Dark Lords has come to pass. Ganondorf was the Dark Lord of Sorrow—” but Blaze cut him off.

“Why Sorrow? Is he not the Lord of Power?” asked Blaze, not realizing how rude it was to interrupt the Great Deku Tree.

“Sorrow was what fed his greed,” began Link. “If it had not been for his sorrow he would have never been the King of Evil.”

“What sorrow? I never was told he had been in pain,” stated Blaze.

“That’s because not many knew of his pain. I had seen it the very first time I saw his eyes…. What caused this pain I do not know,” answered Link. Blaze fell silent for thoughts of his father swarmed his head.

“Please, continue great one,” said Zelda to the Deku Tree.

“Nottuu, I’m sure you know is the Dark Lord of Darkness. Link, I’m sure thy courage will aid thee again has it always has. Let it guide thee to the right choices,” continued the Tree.

“My courage did not guide me to right choices before, only to the wrong ones. How can it guide me now?” asked Link, who now wished he hadn’t. It led him to dwell on thoughts that Link preferred not to think of.

“Link, do thost think thee has chosen wrong in the past?” the Deku Tree answered with another question.

“….”

“Link, thy choice to pull the Master Sword from the pedestal was pure. Or do thee believe the choice to leave Hyrule vain?”

“….” Link couldn’t answer those questions. Not without them asking more questions that answers they would never understand.

‘Is it that they won’t understand or that you’re too afraid to tell them?’ echoed a
voice in Link’s head. It was … his own voice, but at the same time it wasn’t.

“Link?” Zelda’s voice appeared at him side making Link realize that he still hadn’t answered the Deku Tree’s questions.

“Link, dost thee have something to share with us? We are thy friends, please speak freely,” said the Deku Tree, whom wooden face bent in concern.

“… No, nothing is wrong,” lied Link. He was lying right to the Deku Tree’s bark-covered face. The Deku Tree was one of the few people Link could tell anything to … yet he was lying to him.

I can tell him, it won’t hurt, thought Link.

‘No you can’t, he won’t understand. Will he, Link?’

Link shook his head mentally. He couldn’t believe it. He was having a conversation with himself. What? Was he going mad?

‘Maybe,’ it answered again

No, stop it! I don’t want to hear that voice, thought Link trying to force it from his mind.

‘What? Are you scared of me, Link?’

Link had decided it best to ignore that voice that sounded so much like his own…. Yet it was so empty…. When he rejoined the conversation the Deku Tree was talking.

“After Nottuu there will be three; the Dark Lord of Pain, the Dark Lord of Fear, and the Dark Lord of Hate. Even with Zelda and thy friends helping thee in this quest, I believe thee will need the help of Kai. Kai, Child of the Wood, I request thee follow these people where ever they may go. And most of all follow Link and Zelda.”

Kai stepped forward to Link and Zelda, bent down on one knee and said,

“I pledge my loyalty to the Royal Family and to the Hero of this land. I serve only you and the Royal Family to the end of my days,” pledged Kai, his black eyes facing the ground.

“He has the will of the Sheikah, no?” Impa whispered to Zelda, who smiled and replied to Kai,

“You may raise loyal servant, and may you be respected by all to the end of your days.” But as he rose a silver chain fell out of his shirt.

Only Impa was the one to notice this. The chain had a sliver eye and a tear drop that held a red gem. Kai realizing this quickly hid it back in his shirt again.

“Thost may wander the Forest until thee must leave, but do not wander the Lost Woods with out one of the Four guides. Who are Kai, Link, Saria, and Mido,” informed The Deku Tree. All but three remained behind. Kai, Impa, and Saria, who appeared to need the council of the wise Tree.

“Child of the Wood, protect Link and Zelda from harm. Try thy best to protect them from their own sorrows,” requested the Tree.

“Sorrows great one?” said Kai, who became curious of this unusual request.

“Don’t thee feel their pain? Fear, hate, anger; these things flow out of them fluently. Oh dear Child of the Wood, I beg of thee, try to reach their lost souls … only then can we wait for them to solve their inner conflicts,” the Deku Tree fell silent, and then Saria spoke,

“I felt it too. When I hugged Link I knew that he was not the same person before he had become the Hero of Time. Great Deku Tree, I don’t understand. What is it that has changed?”

“I am afraid I do not know my child. Though I fear that if he doesn’t conquer it … it will be the end of Hyrule as we know it,” replied the saddened Tree.

“And Zelda,” began Impa “I could tell the difference myself … I fear the worst for her. I fear I have let down the Royal … for something may have happened to her during her stay at Hyrule Castle….”

“We can only wish for them to solve it themselves,” continued the great Tree. “It is just the same when I sent Link out to the Princess for the first time. I could have only hoped that they would make the right choices, and it is the same now….”

Kai, Impa, and Saria returned to the group, whom were relaxing by the small pool by the water fall. Zelda and Link were leaning against a small fence talking while the others joked around watching Kira and Tila spare.

“Now were have you been?” asked Khaz suspiciously. However none replied as Impa and Saria took their places next to Zelda and Link.

“I am afraid I must leave for awhile. I have some business to take care of. If there is an emergency I will either be in my tent or in the Lost Woods, but don’t enter the Lost Woods without Link or Saria,” said Kai before he head off in the direction of the cliff were the water fall flowed from.

“Mysterious isn’t he?” said Kira with immense interest as she stopped sparing to stare at him as he fade from sight. Handsome too, thought Kira.

“Yeah, but why did the Deku Tree call him ‘Child of the Wood’?” asked Malon.

“Well,” began Saria. “It may have something to do with the fact he first appeared here in Kokiri from the Lost Woods. I mean that’s the only woods we know of here.”

“Yes, that would explain it, but he came from the Lost Woods? How is that possible?” said Zelda puzzled.

“Yep, right around when the rebels came to stay in the Forest. He was sixteen then. The rebels made him their leader when he was seventeen” answered Saria.

“Wow, that’s young,” said Blaze, in awe because they would have such a young leader.

“Well, he really proved his worth to them. They do respect him a lot, even those older than him,” said Saria.

“He has a chain around his neck, on it bares the symbol of the Sheikah,” stated Impa.

“The Sheikah? That doesn’t make any sense at all,” said Zelda, becoming more clueless by the moment, which was not something she liked at all.

“That’s it,” said Kira determinedly. “I’m going to go talk to him. I want some answers, like how he knows Link is the Hero of Time.”

She started walking off in the direction of the cliff.

“Don’t go into the Lost Woods,” Link called after her as she faded from sight.

“His eyes remind me of a Sheikah I knew that died in the war seventeen years ago,” continued Impa.

“A Sheikah had black eyes?” asked Zelda curiously.

“Yes, she was the leader of the Sheikah. But she died honorably in battle…. Ganondorf killed her,” replied Impa.

This comment made Blaze’s heart plummet to his stomach. He didn’t really have a good daddy, did he?

“So are you saying it’s possible that he is a Sheikah?” asked Link.

“Maybe, his hair is all wrong though … not at all like a Sheikah’s, more Hylian…. The Sheikah leader did have a lover … he was a Hylian … with auburn hair,” answered Impa, staring off in the distance trying to remember.


Kira found Kai’s tent on top of the cliff but it was empty. She then found the wooden tunnel that she could only guess was the Lost Woods. Kira knew that everyone; the Deku Tree, Kai, and Link told them not to go in the Lost Woods alone. But Kira’s curiosity was killing her. Curiosity is the cause of the cat’s death, because the cat died of curiosity, thought Kira as her boots thumped across the wooded tunnel.

Kira found there were three more tunnels in another clearing. I guess this is why they call it the Lost Woods, thought Kira as she tried to guess which way was the right way. She then decided to go in the one in front of her. Then a strange noise came to her ears as she walked through the tunnel. It sounded like a flute, playing a melody over and over again…. When she came out of the tunnel she found a ladder that lead down to a small clearing. Of course Kira went down the ladder and into the clearing. In the clearing there was a tree. An unusual tree that had no leaves, only four thick branches that flattened out into platforms. Three of the platforms branched out on the left side and the other branch was on the right side; separate from the three. Four rays of light shimmered down onto the platforms from the dark canopy of trees. Weird, thought Kira, gazing up at the far away canopy. Kira curiously walked up to the unusual branches and stepped up onto the lone branch on the right. She got a huge surprise when three little creatures popped into sight on the other three branches.

These unusual creatures wore a red outfit, appeared to only be three feet tall, carried flutes, and had a small yellow beak that stuck out from their large red hats. Their beady eyes glowed out from their shadowed faces. They kind of look like scarecrows, thought Kira, after she got over her shock.

“What in the dark realm is that?” said the one on the right in disgust.

“Looks like a Hylian to me … an adult Hylian,” the one in the middle finished nastily.

“Let’s have some fun with it,” the one on the left said evilly.

“Okay!” they cheered in unison.

They did back flips and disappeared into the air simultaneously. Kira had a feeling that it wasn’t a good thing. Their cackles rang all around her; she couldn’t tell which direction they were coming from. One appeared on her right and shot what seemed to be little needles out of his flute. Kira jumped from the platform as the needles flew at where she had been, and then striked at him with her sword. He did another back flip and disappeared. As he did so another appeared behind her, shooting the needles. She dodged these and again swiped at the creature. Just as she was slashing at the thing, one appeared at her right and shot the needles while she was open. Five pierced her chest where her heart was. Kira stumbled but caught herself as her chest stung. They had disappeared again but their laughter had not. Kira pulled the needles from her chest and threw them to the ground. Ha! It was nothing but child’s play. They were only needles, what harm could they do, thought Kira shaking her head. Then she noticed that they weren’t attacking her anymore. Their voices began to echo around her.

“HEH HEH, you’re going to die foolish Hylian!”

“A slow and painful death!”

“You didn’t take the darts seriously, and for that you pay the ultimate price!”

Kira snorted, she wasn’t going to let them scare her. They are like children anyway. What harm could their little needles do? Kira wiped the sweat from her forehead then thought, what? How could I be sweating? I haven’t even gotten warmed up yet. The heat slowly crept up on her, and then she found it was hard to breath. The trees around her began to blur as she stumbled toward the ladder. A wave of dizziness swept over her and she fell to her knees. She now found it hard to move her legs as her strength faded from her body leaving her weak. Thump, she hit the ground falling unconscious just as she saw a dark figure sweep over her. Their terrible laughter echoed in her ears.


Kai stood in front of Kira’s body protect fully; his fist clenched in a cold fiery. The laughter stopped immediately. The three imps appeared in front of Kai.

“It was her fault!” cried two at the same time.

“Yeah! She started it!” shouted the other.

“BE GONE!” yelled Kai angrily, his black eyes turned cold.

The three yelped and did back flips disappearing into the air. Kai knelt down next to Kira and turned her over. Five red dots were on her chest. Damn it! The darts, thought Kai and he knew he didn’t have much time before the poison would kill her. He would have to suck the poison out. Kai bent over her and as his face came close to her chest he felt his cheeks tingle. He hesitated … but he shook it off. This wasn’t the time to hesitate just because he was blushing.
His mouth pressed over the puncture marks. He tasted the bitter poison as he sucked it from her small wounds. His cheeks burned even redder as a tingle trickled down into his stomach as he started to become aroused. When Kai started to taste blood he stopped and spat it out. His hand went to cover his mouth as he thought about what he just did. He was breathing hard. Why? He didn’t know. Actually he did know, but he didn’t want to admit it.
Kai stared down at her face; her forehead was shining with sweat that trickled down the sides of her face. She really is beautiful, thought Kai as his hand went to touch her short, brown hair, but he didn’t. Instead he picked her up and carried her back to his tent so he could finish aiding her injury.


Kira’s vision slowly came back into focus. She found that she was staring at the white ceiling of a tent. She tried to sit up but a wave of dizziness and nausea came to claim her. She groaned and fell back onto what she realized was a bed.

“You probably won’t want to sit up for a while,” came a voice from her right.

Kira turned her head to see Kai sitting on the floor wearing his half smile that hung on the left side of his face.

“Kai!” she yelled and again tried to sit up, but only to groan and fall back again.

“I told you that you won’t want to sit up.”

“What happened?” asked Kira frowning as she tried to remember.

“You were attacked by what are known as Skull Kids or more commonly known as imps. You see they shoot poisoned darts at their victims. I found you unconscious and treated your injury,” replied Kai.

“Why didn’t they attack you?”

“Because they know me very well; I was raised by them you see.”

“You grew up in the Lost Woods?”

“Yes,” Kai answered simply.

“Why don’t they attack the Kokiri?” asked Kira.

“Because the skull kids like children, it is said that the skull kids were once Kokiri themselves, but became imps when they got lost in the woods,” said Kai.

“….”

“I must leave now that you are awake. I must tell your friends about your condition. You shouldn’t get up for a few hours so stay here until you can,” said Kai standing up and heading toward the tent opening.

“Oh and Kira?” said Kai stopping at the opening but with his back turned to her.

“Yes?”

“Try not to enter the Lost Woods again.”

“Yeah, I’ll try not to,” replied Kira smiling at his dark figure as it left the tent.

Kira looked down to find her small injury on her chest. The five small holes had pink lines circling it. That when it hit Kira. He had to suck it out! Yelled Kira’s mind as her face became bright red. How am I going to look at him again without blushing? wondered Kira as her cheeks continued to glow.


When Kai reached the group by the water fall they all stopped talking at once, which made it obvious that they were talking about him.

“Where’s Kira?” questioned Rontu.

“Didn’t she go to find you?” asked Malon.

“Yes, she did but I’m afraid she wandered a little too far. She went into the Lost Woods,” answered Kai. The group gasped.

“But I told her not to,” said Link frowning.

“Well, I think that only fed her curiosity,” said Kai, his half smile sliding back on to his face.

“That does sound like Kira,” stated Tila, who too had a frown on her face.

“Is she okay?” asked Zelda with a look of concern starting to work away at her face.

“She was attacked by three skull kids,” replied Kai, folding his arms as his smile faded from his face.

“Skull kids?” said Khaz.

“Imps that live in the woods,” Saria answered quickly for him.

“They shot her with five of these poisoned darts,” continued Kai holding up a single needle that had an oily substance on the tip.

“I managed to treat her quickly enough so she will be fine. She just needs to rest for a while. She is up in my tent right now.”

“Damn it! I told her not go in the Woods!” exclaimed Link, with a frown carved on his face.

“… Are you going to stay the night?” asked Kai, this was slightly random but he felt there was nothing more to be said about Kira's condition.

“Oh please, Link!” begged Malon, clearly enjoying seeing the place where Link spent most of his childhood.

“Well, that's really not my decision,” replied Link, everyone staring at him for an answer.

Everyone, except Rontu, turned their heads to Blaze. Blaze was slightly startled by this. He was still under the impression that they didn't trust him. Blaze finally answered,

“Well, I suppose it wouldn't hurt. I mean, we might as well leave with the Hylians.”

“And Kira needs time to heal,” reminded Rontu.

“Okay, then we're staying,” Zelda answered for Kai.

“Great, well I must be off. I trust you learned from Kira not to enter the Woods,” said Kai, unfolding his arms and walked toward the Lost Woods.

“Jeez, could he be more secretive,” said Khaz, with everyone else staring after him.

“Well, it isn’t like he has to tell us everything about himself. I mean, we just met,” said Zelda.

“Oh well, I guess we should just forget about it,” said Tila, as she shrugged it off.

“Hey Link, wanna duel?” said Blaze, as a smile split across his face.

“All right,” answered Link, who had wanted to see exactly how Blaze fought.

The usual Gerudo would use two curved swords, but Blaze walked over to his horse and pulled out a long staff that had been strapped to its side. Blaze held this out in front of him horizontally. The ends burst into flame; obviously Blaze knew a little magic himself.

“I won’t use my flame because we’re just practicing, but I’m sure I’ll be enough for you anyway,” said Blaze as the ends flickered out.

Link smiled, this will be fun.

Zelda stayed in the back of the crowd that had gathered to watch. She watched Link admiringly as he fought off Blaze and the crowd cheered too. She watched as he worked his sword and shield in ways that she never even thought possible. She loved the way Link fought, the way he moved, and even the way he was silent. If only he knew how much I loved him, thought Zelda dreamily.

“Ah, so you fancy Link,” said a small voice.

Zelda turned her head. It was Saria, who had decided to hang back too.

“Is it that obvious?” said Zelda, her cheeks turning a little pink as she smiled.

“I’m afraid so, but don’t feel bad. A lot of girls have got it bad for Link,” chuckled Saria.

“Oh? Like who?” asked Zelda, very interested in who these women are.

“Well, Malon had a crush on him when she was little, but she has grown out of it. Ruto still does, and even I have had a crush on him,” admitted Saria.

“Well, I don’t think I’ll be growing out of it any time soon,” said Zelda, her eyes wandering off toward Link.

“No, I don’t think so either. I mean, you’ve lov—er—liked him ever since you battled Ganondorf with him, haven’t you?” stated Saria.

“Well, yes,” answered Zelda, turning a little redder.

“Believe me, if you only had a crush on Link it would have faded by now,” said Saria, beaming at her.

“I suppose so,” said Zelda, not understanding how that fact would help her. So she again dazed off at Link, thinking things she believed would only happen in her dreams.

Chapter Four:
Teen Assassin

Night fell upon the busy clearing. The clinking and clattering of the Hylians began to fade as camp fires were made all across the forest. The group decided to stay at Link's old house for the night. It would be a little squished in there, but if they moved the furniture up against the walls they would be able to spread blankets across the floor. Link hadn't noticed until now, standing on his balcony, how crowded the forest was now that the Hylians were there. Mido made it clear that he was glad the Gerudos were taking the Hylians off their hands, for he complained loudly how much of a pain they were to look after, as if they were the mere children and he a big Hylian.

Leita was skipping across the rocks in the little pools of water for the last time before returning to bed, when she tripped on a root. Rontu caught her out of instinct; however he picked a bad moment to do so, everyone happened to be looking in that direction.

“Oh, thank you, Rontu,” said Leita, brightly not thinking much of it. She was still in his arms at the moment. Rontu was staring at her as if he just realized she existed. Leita gave him a curious stare right back.

“Excuse me, but what's going on,” came Khaz's voice from the group over by the house. It however did not sound like Khaz's usual sarcastic voice. It was stern and demanding. Rontu immediately let go off Leita, as he glared at them as if it were their fault. Leita, however, took her time removing her hands from his arms. Rontu of course pretended not to notice. Khaz's piercing gaze increased at this.

“Nothing,” answered Leita, not understanding why her brother was looking at them in that way. She walked up to the house, giving her brother a worried stare as she went. Everyone was silent, Rontu had been expecting Kira's leering comments but they were absent. Rontu walked over to them putting on the moody glare. Khaz, surprisingly, surpassed Rontu's glare with the one he gave him now. Only Rontu saw this glare, it shocked him that Khaz, the happy-go-luck guy, could give him such a look of pure hatred. His midnight blue eyes were blazing with it. Khaz walked off toward the pool were Rontu had been standing, apparently not wanting to be near him.

Rontu stood there stuck on the spot as he wondered what on Ranelu had he done wrong. He shrugged it off as he went up the ladder with the others following, leaving Khaz alone by the trickling water.

Kira poked her head out side of Kai's tent. It was night already and all of the camp fires have all been put out and the only light was the full moon and the many small stars that followed. Kira walked over to the edge of the cliff where fencing stood. Leaning on the fence she then noticed someone else was still awake. The dark figure was lit up by the moon showing his dark, auburn hair and his black eyes. He was sitting on a large pillar that had a small bridge connecting to a small pillar. He turned his head to look up at the moon then lifted something that was in his hands. Music flowed from him, the tune was beautiful and bold … yet sad.

Kira stared at him for a long time, soaking in the sound of the flute in his hands. She began to walk over to were he sat as he continued to play. She found the ramp, on Saria's house, that lead to the small bridge. The bridge was very peculiar; it seemed to be unstable yet perfectly attached to the pillars and the house. She, thinking wisely, took her steps slowly until she reached the middle of the second bridge. The music slowly faded from Kai and he took the flute away from his lips. Kira was very surprised to find that she was not blushing, though the thought of what he had done to save her was still there.

“Not many people would be able to do that,” said Kai, the first to speak.

“Do what?” asked Kira, not understanding what he meant.

“Walk across the bridges. Only ones with balanced hearts can make it across without the bridge wobbling, which makes the ones who are not balanced fall,” replied Kai, his black eyes falling onto her. His gaze then went to the moon. He just stared at it for a while obviously thinking deep thoughts. But Kira just couldn't help but ask,

“What do you see when you look at the moon?”

Kai took his eyes away from the moon and they again rested on Kira's dark blue eyes.

“It is mysterious, strong, and … lonely,”

“What makes you say that?”

“When you think about it,” began Kai “the other stars could never match its size and brightness. It makes it seem strong and mysterious, and yet … sad and alone because of that.”

“You know, they say when you look at the moon you're looking at a refection of yourself,” said Kira as she walked over onto his pillar and sat down next to him dangling her legs over the edge with his.

“And do you believe that?” questioned Kai as he looked over at her.

“Well, now I do. Looking at you tells me it's true,” replied Kira, smiling at Kai.

“I'm mysterious?”

“Oh, yeah! My friends are very curious about you, since you don't say much about yourself.”

“What do you see when you look at the moon?” asked Kai, catching Kira off guard.

“Well … many things. It's brave, strong, and has a beauty different from the other stars. I … guess that sounds a little conceded,” said Kira, staring up at the moon.

“No, you're right … you are very beautiful,” said Kai, his black eyes gazing at the back of her head waiting for her to turn and look at him. Kira's heart seemed to have stopped in her chest when he said that. Only one person before has said she was beautiful. She continued to stare at the moon almost afraid to look at him.

“When you said … that you believed it was true, because when you looked at me you saw it,” began Kai, changing the subject “how is it I seem lonely?”

Kira turned to look at him.

“Well, you stand out. Even in a huge crowd of Hylians there's something about you that catches the eye. But since there's no one else like you, you appear lonely… like the moon,” said Kira.

“No, there's another person who catches the eye,” said Kai, shaking his head.

“Who is that?”

“Link.”

Kira stared curiously at Kai, not understanding the connection. Yet when she had first meet Link … there was something that made her glance back at him.

“You see, Link … is always looking for … home,” said Kai, understanding Kira's confusion.

“But isn't Hyrule Link's home?”

“Well, in a way yes. Kokiri Forest is home to him, he grew up here until he was ten. But … he could never stay here, for he is a Hylian and does not belong in the forest; so Hyrule is the place he was looking in for a place to call home. Not really feeling like a Hylian and not a Kokiri. So then, not finding home here he looks for it in other worlds but of course he would never find it there,” answered Kai, and then turned to look at the moon again.

“Well, I guess that's understandable but … how are you like him?” said Kira, pointing out this space missing in his explanation. Kai sighed and turned to look at her again.

“I told you myself that I was raised by the skull kids in the Lost Woods. The Woods to me is like the Forest to Link. Home and yet not really belonging there. For of course I am very different from the Skull Kids, I'm not really even sure what I am. We both look for a place … to call home,” said Kai, and then again, turned to stare almost longingly at the moon. Kira felt her eyes watering, but she blinked it away. Her hand slid over to his and she gripped his hand lovingly. Kai slowly looked over at her. He just stared at her for a moment before saying,

“You are very beautiful, Kira.”

Kira felt her heart stop. He said it again. Her eyes began to burning again, but she continued to blink it away. Kai's black eyes looked her in the eye as she tried to turn away.

“Your beauty is very different. You're not as flashy as some women, which makes you hard to approach. And even more beautiful … like the moon,” said Kai, as his hand went up to her face gently turning it to look at him. Tears were shining in her dark blue eyes as he looked right into them. His face came very close to her as his lips lightly brushed hers. His lips continued to caress hers as the moon shined as brightly as ever in the star infested sky.


Link and the group were angry at Kira in the morning, seeing her for the first time since she left yesterday to find Kai. Rontu was the first to give her a talking to.

“And what are you doing here?” Rontu snarled at her when she arrived

“Well, that's a nice way to welcome your friend. I remind you I almost died!” she retorted back at him.

“Yeah! Because you decided to run off into the Lost Woods when every body told you not to!” said Tila, who was completely furious with her.

“Well …” began Kira in small voice. “I wanted to find Kai.”

“Oh, and about that. Did you find anything out?” asked Zelda, who had been dying to know more about him since she met him.

“Um …” Kira's cheek become rosy at this question.

“What is it?” questioned Khaz, wanting to know too.

“Are you blushing?” said Rontu, with his terrible smirk.

“No!”

What happened last night was still fresh in Kira's mind. Remembering Kai's lips on hers made her face turn a strong shade of red.

“Are all of you ready?” asked Kai, who seemed to have been standing there for sometime without them noticing.

“Yes, we're ready when you are,” replied Blaze.

“Good, then let’s go,” said Kai as he mounted a pure white horse which stood next to him. The others followed his suit and mounted their horses. All the Hylians were grouped together so that they looked very much like soldiers marching into battle.

“Move out!” called Kai, over the field of Hylians. They began to march out the entrance of the forest when….

“Link! Link, wait!” cried a small voice, which Link recognized to be Saria's. Link dismounted Epona to give Saria one last hug, this of course made her burst into tears and squeeze Link hard around his waist.

“Link, promise me you won't leave for seven years again!” demanded Saria as tears poured down her cheeks.

“I promise, I could never leave again after this happened,” replied Link, smiling softly and sadly at her small face.

“But, I also need something from you,” said Link, as he kneed down close to Saria.

“What is it, I’ll do anything.”

“I need you to protect this with your life,” whispered Link as he brought out a green stone while concealing to from the eyes of the troops.

“Link! That’s the Kokiri’s Emerald, I couldn’t-” began Saria, in an equally quiet voice.
“Saria, you can. You’re a sage and of the Forest. I could think of no one better too protect it than you.”

“Well, I can. You, Link, you have that power to,” said Saria.

“That’s true, but I don’t need it anymore and the stone belongs here,” said Link, and Saria gave in.

“Don’t worry, Link! It will be safe with me.”

“Thank you, Saria.”

Link shook Mido's hand and mounted his horse and finally the group began to exit the forest. They were at the back of the Hylians because Link had to say his good-byes to Saria and Mido. They rode out onto the road and again were headed for Gerudo's Fortress. It was silent for a time until Khaz decided to break the silence with a question.

“So are you Hylians or what?” said Khaz to Tila and Kira.

“Well, in our world we are known as High Elves, but I suppose we are the same even though the names are different,” replied Kira.

“There is also what is known as Wood Elves, but they have tanner skin and usually have darker hair colors, and of course live in the woods and forests of our world. Similar to the Kokiri only they can grow to be adults. They too are immortal. I am Wood Elf and Kira is half High Elf and half Wood Elf,” added Tila, her tan skin and black hair seemed to stand out as she said this.

Kira too had the tan skin and dark, brown hair of a Wood Elf, but her deep, blue eyes clearly showed her High Elf side. Malon was about to ask them what other kinds of elves live in their world when Link suddenly decided to launch himself off of his horse. There was a swoosh as sometime very large just swung in the air right were Link's head would have been. Everyone came to a halt, even the Hylian troop.

“Stay in your positions not matter what!” ordered Kai as he swung off his horse. In a flash Zelda became Sheik and too dismounted her horse. The others followed too, looking around trying to locate the attacker. There was a small thump as someone jumped out of a tree that stood on the left of the path. Link was very confused to find a young teenager about the age of fourteen standing there. He had short white hair that fell in his eyes, which were blood-red, his long, coat, which had no sleeves, swayed with his body as he swung a very large metal ball that had small spikes all over it. The metal ball was attached to a long metal chain which the boy used to swing over his head. Other than his long, white coat he wore a blood-red shirt and black pants, he also wore a very arrogant smile across his face.

“You!” gasped Sheik.

“Zelda, lovely to see you, darling,” said the white haired boy as he continued swing the chain menacingly over his head.

“So, Nottuu as decided to send his assassin instead of fight himself,” said Sheik, it was more of a question than a statement.

“Well, you see he need not waste his energy on bugs that could be so easily squished by myself,” answered the boy, arrogance flowing from his lips.

“That's a laugh! You're only a kid!” exclaimed Khaz, not at all frightened by the teenager swinging a large spiked ball over his head.

“Oh really? Well, you should know that you will be dead in five seconds,” said the boy. Khaz snorted, but Rontu shouted,

“Get down you fool!” And shoved him to the ground while ducking down himself as the metal ball flew past their heads, and instead of hitting them it hit an unsuspecting Hylian. Blood splattered them all as the Hylian smashed into the ground with the ball. Bits of his skull had been scattered to the ground covered with blood like his brains that had followed. Even though he was no longer recognizable, Rontu had noticed before the ball hit him that he was the young Hylian he had threatened the day before. Malon fell to her knees covering he mouth as the smell of blood intoxicated her. Her stomach turned violently as she struggled to prevent her breakfast for spilling out of her mouth.

“Oh, oops!” said the boy, surprised but as he stared at the corpse, the smirk on his face said he was pleased. The teen quickly retracted the ball and was swinging it over his head again as if it were feather-light.

“Oh my gods,” said Tila, horrified. They all stood there, silent, not believing what the child had done.

“Your friend has a good eye. You know that's the only reason you're alive. Now, I have no time for amateurs. My business is with Link,” said the boy as calmly as ever, smirking as he did so.

“Be that as it may, at least tell us your name!” demanded Blaze, glaring at the young teenager.

“It's Ren,” answered the boy. Link stepped forward, if a fight is what he wants then Link would give it to him as long as it kept him from attacking anymore people.

“Link, please don't hurt him, he's just a kid. But don't underestimate him either he knows what he's doing. He's killed many times before!” called Sheik. Link nodded and turned to face Ren.

“She's right Link, don't underestimate me and I don't hesitate to kill. As you have seen,” said Ren, obviously pleased with himself.

“What kind of kid is he? Does he have no innocence?” exclaimed Tila, not believing what she's hearing.

“No, he has no innocence. Only the need to kill,” replied Sheik.

“Well, I think we've had enough chit-chat. Time to die,” said Ren cheerfully as if he was giving them a real treat. And without hesitation he swung and aimed right at Link's head, who easily dodged it. But Ren seemed to know just how to use this weapon for he let the chain wrap around his leg which shot it forward. Link, shocked at this, barely had enough time to put up his shield. There was a bang and then Ren twisted his body to make to chain swipe at his feet. Link jumped to avoid it, but Ren then sent the chain swinging in the air to catch Link in mid-jump. Link again put up his shield, but that didn't stop him from slamming into the ground. Damn he is strong, thought Link as he quickly recovered. Link now had just about enough of Ren and decided to go on offense. Link charged Ren and when he tried to smack him with the ball Link rolled, shot behind him, and then smacked Ren upside the head with his shield. Thud! Ren hit the ground.

“Don't worry Sheik, he's just unconscious,” said Link, and then exhaled as if he had been holding his breath.

“Wow, he near matched Nelu's strength,” continued Link, staring down at the unconscious Ren.

“Who's Nelu?” said Sheik.

“He's-” began Kira, but Tila cut her off.

“He's no one all right!” said Tila, almost shouting it.

“What's the matter with you?” said Khaz; he was as confused as the rest of them.

“Just forget it!” she was now positively shouting.

“Tila! It's okay we can tell them,” said Kira, trying to clam her down.

“I don't want to talk about it!” and she then mounted her horse and said,

“Can we go now?”

“Wait, what about the kid?” asked Leita.

“Well, I guess we take him with us,” replied Blaze.

“What?” shouted Khaz “He only tried to kill us! Why should we bring him?”

“He can be our prisoner,” said Blaze, who didn't seem to like Ren any more than Khaz did. Blaze, then tied his feet and his hands behind his back and plopped him over his horse on his stomach. Ren made no movement, for there was a very bloody bump on his head and it didn't appear that he would be waking up any time soon.

His lips continued to caress hers as the moon shined as brightly as ever in the star infested sky.

I was really getting into this chapter until the end of this line. Stars are supposed to be beautiful which you make come across well, but infested isn't the kind of word I would've used right there. The mood that was being created was totally destoyed right there. I was like, "wow that's beaut- wtf?" Just be more careful in your wording in some places so you keep or enhance the mood you are trying to set (english teachers would say tone and diction). You usually pull that off very well but in a few placed (I could probably count them all out on one hand) in these first chapters you just let the wrong words come out.

Keep up the ridiculously awesome work. And I didn't mean for any of that to be offfensive, sorry if it came of mean or off-putting.

I was really getting into this chapter until the end of this line. Stars are supposed to be beautiful which you make come across well, but infested isn't the kind of word I would've used right there. The mood that was being created was totally destoyed right there. I was like, "wow that's beaut- wtf?" Just be more careful in your wording in some places so you keep or enhance the mood you are trying to set (english teachers would say tone and diction). You usually pull that off very well but in a few placed (I could probably count them all out on one hand) in these first chapters you just let the wrong words come out.

Nah, that's okay. I like the way I wrote it, and if you don't then I guess that's too bad for you. Thanks for your opinion .

Author's Note: To reply to the Dark Side, don't worry about it. You were just stating your opinion and there's nothing wrong with that.
Warning to my readers: there will be a lot of swearing in this chapter.

Chapter Five:
What is Fear?

The trip back to Gerudo’s Fortress was full of questions which bombarded Sheik, who decided it was best to stay in her Sheik form for when she was traveling because Nottuu might be hunting for her; not that Nottuu didn’t know about her Sheik form. It was just that she would be less noticeable than if she were in a dress.

“So, like who is he?” asked Khaz, along with everyone else watching.

“Well, he’s … Nottuu’s son,” said Sheik, everyone stared.

“Oh! Now I see it!” exclaimed Malon, who had gotten over her sickness but still was a little pale.

“Yeah, he has Nottuu’s hair and build,” Leita pointed out.

“I’m wondering how he got to be such a merciless killer,” said Rontu, the young Hylian’s death still on his mind.

“Yeah, he’s only a kid!” said Tila, still having a hard time believing it.

“Well, that has a lot to do with his mother,” said Sheik, with a serious look on her beautiful face. Everyone was waiting for her to tell them more. Sheik stared around, not understanding what they wanted her to do.

“Oh come on! Tell us already!” pleaded Khaz.

“Well …” Sheik hesitated.

“Pleeeeease, Sheik,” begged Malon.

“All right,” said Sheik, finally giving in. “Ren lived with his mother until he was ten, and then Nottuu decided to take him from her. When she tried to take him back, Nottuu gave the order and she was killed. But what they didn’t know was Ren was hiding in the closet and had seen the whole thing.”

“What did you mean when he ‘gave the order’?” asked Tila.

“Well, Nottuu didn’t kill her himself. His right hand man did, Kashino,” answered Sheik, and then continued her story.

“So, Ren, I guess had sworn revenge for his mother. He got his revenge a year later. When he had finally mastered his weapons he killed Kashino. It is interesting how he easily became better than Nottuu’s top hit man in a little over a year. What I think happened is that … Ren confused his need for revenge for the need to kill. He took up Nottuu’s offer of being his top assassin and Ren has been killing since.”

When Sheik finished, everyone sat in silence. Link’s eyes came to rest on Ren, who was tied to Blaze’s horse. His face was so calm and so innocent, it was hard to believe he had been killing since he was eleven. Ren’s face began to twitch and his eyelids began to flutter. However hard Link had hit him, Ren managed to regain consciousness. When this happened Ren let out a combination of foul words and struggled in his bindings.

“You better let me go or—” began Ren.

“Or what? Daddy will beat us up?” said Blaze. This seemed to have silenced Ren, for he stopped struggling and kept quiet. At least until he noticed everyone staring at him.

“What that f*** are you looking at?” snapped Ren. No one said anything but they continued to stare. This extremely aggravated him as he snarled,

“What is it already? If you’re not going to tell me then stop your goddamn staring, you sh**y-ass excuses for elves!”

“Watch your f***ing mouth!” retorted Blaze, who was been getting steadily furious with him.

“Blaze! Don’t talk to him that way!” exclaimed Tila frowning.

“But he—” began Blaze. “I agree with Tila. Don’t swear at him,” interrupted Malon.

“What? But he—”

“Maybe it would be best not to,” agreed Kira.

“He—”

“Please Blaze, he’s just a kid,” demanded Tila. Blaze just shook his head helplessly as they rode on. Ren s******ed and said,

“She’s got you in the palm of her hand. You’re her f***ing b**ch,” and he broke out into laughter.

“Shut up you little sh**!” shouted Blaze.

“Blaze!” yelled the three girls.

This however continued through the rest of the trip. Blaze and Ren’s foul language were spat at one another. Tila had finally given up on the hope that Blaze would stop. Khaz, Rontu, and Link had about enough of their squabbling. They made it clear to them when they entered the Fortress.

“Shut up!” They yelled in unison.

“On and on we have had to listen to you pathetic retorting! For once just shut the f*** up!” snarled Rontu, his temper spilling over.

“Well, isn’t that lovely,” said Nabooru, her eyebrows raised. She was standing in the entrance of the Fortress, waiting for them.

“Hello, Nab,” greeted Blaze, looking extremely agitated.

“What’s wrong with all of you?” asked Trisa, standing next to her mother.

“Yeah, it looks as if you ran into poes and peahats…. And who is tied to the back of your horse?” asked Nabooru, noticing the rebellious Ren.

“This, is the reason why we are the way we are,” answered Blaze, getting off his horse and untied Ren’s legs and pulled him off the horse. Ren immediately attempted to kick Blaze, but Blaze caught his leg and pulled it up making Ren fall on his back. Trisa looked alarmed at this, not understanding why Blaze would do such a thing.

“Blaze! You might have really hurt him!” she gasped.

“As if he could,” scoffed Ren, who was still on the ground. This comment made Blaze’s eye begin to twitch.

“WHY! Why do people always stick up for him when he tried to kill Link and succeeded in murdering one of the Hylians!” yelled Blaze, who looked as if he had just gone mad. This made Ren burst out in terrible cackles; it seems the memory was still fresh in his mind. As Ren continued to cackle madly Blaze seemed to really have gone mad. His leg shot out and hit Ren on the side of the head making him roll over several times. This only stopped Ren’s laughter momentarily and soon enough he was rolling on the ground with a tickle fit. And again, Blaze kicked him only this time in the stomach. This one was a lot more effective. Ren gasped in pain and Trisa squealed,

“Blaze, don’t!” And she kneeled down next to him to say:

“Are you okay?”

Ren just looked up at her and grinned. Blaze knew what happened a second before it did.

“Trisa, get away!” shouted Blaze, and he tried to get to her in time. Ren grabbed her before Blaze could and wrapped his arms tightly around her neck and arms. Ren had snapped his bindings, which he could have done before but seemed to have been waiting for the right time. Trisa gasped with surprise; whatever he was going to do she definitely didn’t expect that.

“Don’t take a step closer or I’ll kill her. What? Don’t think I’ll do it? I could snap her neck in a second,” said Ren, his grip was terribly strong. Blaze looked ready to kill but he stood his ground, too afraid what might happen to her if he tried. He could do nothing but glare.

“That’s a good boy, stay right there,” said Ren, inching closer to the exit. But Trisa, who Ren had not noticed just how angry she was getting, was fuming. In her anger she shoved her elbow into his ribs, Ren had definitely not been expecting that. Ren barely had any time to gasp, because soon she had grabbed his wrist that was around her neck, and twisted it then shoved him to the ground. She then pinned him down by his shoulders with her knees. Ren was thoroughly shocked that he had been pinned down and unable to move by a girl. This was something Link was sure that had never happened to him before. Naturally, he was pissed.

“Dickhead! I was just trying to help you!” Trisa shouted; her arms crossed.

“Well, you shouldn’t have been so thick to think I wasn’t going to hurt you!” Ren yelled back. Kira and Sheik rushed forward and had Ren tied only this time with magic; specialties of Sheik. Blaze was ready to kill Ren; Link, Khaz, and Rontu barely had time to grab him to restrain him from doing so.

“I’LL KILL HIM! I’ll f***ing kill him in his sleep if I have to!” screamed Blaze, struggling in their grasp. They eventually pinned Blaze to the ground.

“Someone, sedate him!” cried Khaz desperately as they continued to struggle. Kai swept over and took a small bottle from a poach on his belt. He took the cap off and stuck the bottle under Blaze’s nose. It took thirty seconds for this to have an effect on him, but soon, surprisingly; there was a relaxed smile on his face.

“What did you do to him?” asked Link as he stood up from the ground. Link was a little worried because Blaze had gone into fits of giggles.

“Just an herb,” replied Kai as he tucked the bottle away.

“What does it do?” questioned Khaz, who also had a worried look on his face. Kai hesitated, then answered,

“It makes you—er—relaxed.” As he said this, Blaze finally came up from the ground. He was finally over his giggle fit and the herb appeared to have worn off. The good thing was he had more control over his actions but he was still seemed ready to kill Ren in his sleep. Nabooru was on his side this time; she snatched Ren up by his shirt and slammed him into a nearby wall.

“Who are you?” she demanded, Ren was a little surprised at her strenght—but of course his arrogant smile beamed openly at her.

“And who might you be?” he asked as if it were a normal conversation.

“Your name!” she shouted in his face.

“I’m Ren,” he answered cheerfully.

“How did you come to be amongst us?"

Sheik answered instead of Ren.

“He is the assassin and son of Nottuu.”

Nabooru snorted in disgust, “So you’re the one who kills the innocent Hylians who get in Nottuu’s way.”

“Well, I am his best assassin if that’s what you mean,” answered Ren, pride swelling in his face.

“What, do you think it’s a good thing to be killing the innocent? Would you even stop to consider not killing children or their mothers?” Nabooru spat in his face. At that last word Ren seemed to have snapped. He went ridged and his red eyes flashed. Soon his whole body was trembling in what appeared to be anger. Nabooru was staring curiously at him and did not expect the attack. Ren’s leg shot out, hitting her in the side and the other leg caught her in the middle. His magical binding vanished and soon he had her pinned to the ground; hands wrapped tightly around her neck. Link wasted no time dashing at Ren and again bashed him upside the head. Ren again slumped to the ground. Nabooru got up slowly gasping for breath, looking shocked. “What did I say?” asked Nabooru.

“Ren’s mother was killed when he was ten years old. When you said that about ‘killing mothers’ it must have brought back some old feelings of hatred,” answered Sheik, who seemed to understand Ren’s inner workings.

“Oh, that’s so sad,” said Trisa looking over at Ren in sympathy. “I wouldn’t know what I’d do if I lost my mother.… I almost did.”

Trisa ran over to her mother and wrapped her arms tightly around her as if she were afraid she would disappear. Tears began to swell in her eyes as she Nabooru hugged her back.

“Don’t worry, no ones going to be lost. We all will make it out of these terrible times alive and everything will go back to the way it was,” said Nabooru, calming her daughter. Everyone smiled at each other almost in agreement. All convinced everything would be fine and no one would die. Leita, however, looked over at her brother; she had almost lost him today. During Ren’s attack, that metal ball almost … if Rontu hadn’t…. No! She didn’t what to lose him! Khaz was everything to her; he was the only family she had left. How can they all smile at each other without worrying who might die tomorrow? There were sure to be many battles to get Hyrule back in their hands. Did they really expect for all of them to live through it? The chances are so slim…. How can they just stand there and smile at each other? Leita tried her best to hold back her tears and she managed to swallow them, trying to look normal. However, Rontu seemed to catch this. He stared at her for a moment; his eyes scanning her, studying the look on her face. He looked away as quickly as he had looked at her.

Oh no! He me saw me! thought Leita miserably, but then stopped. What does Rontu care? He doesn’t seem to care about anybody but himself. What does he care if I look this way?

Everyone piled into the lounge room, flopping down onto chairs and sofas. They were all exhausted from the trip. Not because it was long, because Ren and Blaze made it terrible. Speaking of Ren, he was soon healed, reluctantly by Leita, and shoved into a spare room on the left side of the lounge room. Nabooru really didn’t have a use for it so they made it his cell. Zelda put a charm on it so he couldn’t break down the door. Ren swore loudly through the door but soon stopped when he found it was useless.

“Finally we can talk in peace!” said Zelda, very much exasperated.

“What is it you need to talk about?” asked Nabooru.

“We need to talk about some information that the Deku Tree told us,” replied Link. Nabooru’s eyes widened at this, a serious look swept across her face. Zelda repeated what had been said at their meeting with the Deku Tree. All the sages looked to one another. Understanding what this means. Nabooru finally spoke.

“Ruto will need to be told of these important matters, and we sages must not make any rash decisions, for we must stay alive so that we can help Link. All of us together sealed Ganondorf away, we will definitely need the same strength and more,” said Nabooru staring down all the sages and Link. Zelda, Darunia, and Impa nodded.

“By the way,” continued Nabooru “I have another assignment for you.”

Everyone groaned.

“When is it we need to head out?” asked Blaze, with a tired look on his face.

“Tomorrow.”

They groaned again.

“But we just got back!” complained Khaz.

“Well, we can’t stop to rest!” exclaimed Nabooru, her ambition shining in her stubborn face. “Nottuu will get suspicious as to why the Gerudos put off answering his request to join him. So we must move fast, we need the element of surprise more than ever! Nottuu’s armies outnumber all the Gerudos, Hylians, and Gorons combined!”

“What is the assignment?” asked Blaze, giving in.

“You must go to Zora’s Domain and convince the Zoras to join the Rebellion! You can tell Ruto about the five Dark Lords when you get there,” answered Nabooru. Zelda groaned, for she seemed to only know how hard this was going to be.

“Well, we must be going now and you will all need your rest for tomorrow,” said Nabooru as she and Darunia stood up.

They left the room and left the group to figure out who would be standing watch at Ren’s door. After some arguing, Rontu volunteered. Everyone finally retired to their rooms leaving Rontu to stare into the lounge room fireplace as a fire roared inside.

Everyone fell fast a sleep, all but Leita, that is. She turned in her sheets as the image of the young Hylian being smashed into the ground played over in her head. She couldn’t help thinking how that could have been to Khaz. She couldn’t stop thinking about what she would do if she lost him. How? How could they all stay so cheerful without worrying about who might die next? With these thoughts swimming in her head no sleep came to her eyes that wanted desperately to close, but there was something that would catch in her throat that made her want to sob. No, I can’t cry—I have to stay strong. Leita sat up in her bed, all thoughts of sleep forgotten.

Leita walked out into the lounge room in her white pajama pants and shirt. She was almost shocked to find Rontu there until she remembered that he was there to stand guard over Ren’s door. All her thoughts earlier had pushed this out of her head. Rontu looked at her then looked away into the fire. Has he been standing there all night? wondered Leita, staring curiously at him, wondering what he thought about when he stared off like that.

“I couldn’t sleep,” said Leita, trying to make conversation. However, Rontu made no reply, only continued to stare into the fireplace.

“….” She didn’t know what to say next. As she stared at him the image of him pushing down Khaz right before the ball almost hit him. He had almost been hit too; if he had been a second late they both would have been dead…. Tears started to develop in her emerald-green eyes. Rontu looked over and was shocked to find tears pouring down the girl’s soft cheeks.

“….” Rontu stared, unable to say anything, for his confusion overwhelmed him. Then the next moment Leita threw herself onto his chest sobbing. Rontu stood there stunned, not knowing exactly what he should do. Should I … comfort her? thought Rontu, becoming very confused. It seemed like the right thing to do and … there was something about her that made him want to stop her crying; something that ached deep inside if she did.
Then Rontu, with shaky hands, wrapped his arms around her as his heart began to pound in his chest. He held her so close that he could feel her heart throbbing inside of her body. Rontu hadn’t held a woman in his arms for what seemed like forever, so he couldn’t help but squeeze her closer to him. When Leita felt Rontu’s arms around her it wasn’t as rough as some would think. They were so warm and comfortable. She never knew Rontu could give such comfort to her, or that he would ever hold her. She pressed her cheek against his chest as more tears poured down.

“What’s wrong?” he asked as he held her.

“I can’t help but think about what happened to that man. I can’t help but think what if it had been Khaz! He’s all I have left,” she answered as she continued to cry.

“But it didn’t happen and don’t you have parents?” said Rontu.

“No, they died when the Empire took over. But still, how can we honestly tell ourselves that we will make it out alive? The odds are stacked against us! Not all of us will make it,” said Leita, shaking her head. “And you saved him when it might have meant your death as well. I can’t tell you how grateful I am that you did, or sad it would have been if you had died too!” continued Leita. Rontu let out a sigh,

“Leita, that’s what war is about. You can’t make it out without some people dying. But that is a sacrifice we must make to be free. All we can do is hope for the best and not worry about it, so please … don’t cry,” said Rontu, his voice softening but there was almost a pain to it as if it were hurting him that she was crying so. In the comfort of his arms she did stop. Surprisingly, in Rontu’s arms she felt nothing could go wrong for her.
Then to their terrible surprise Kira stepped out sleepily into the room. Rontu immediately let go of Leita and took a step back. Leita quickly wiped her eyes and looked down at her bare feet, cheeks burning red. Kira’s sleepy face grinned: she had seen exactly what had happened.

“Hello, what are you two doing up so late?” she asked with a yawn. Leita mumbled something about not being able to sleep and ran off to her room ... leaving Rontu to Kira’s ridicule. Rontu flopped down onto a chair looking the other way, pretending she wasn’t there. Kira sat down in the chair in front him crossing her legs and said lightly,

“Well, you don’t see that every day, do you?”

“Don’t even start with me, Kira!” growled Rontu.

“Ha! I never thought this day would come! Oh Rontu, hug me now!” she exclaimed hugging herself as she mocked him.

“Shut up!” whispered Rontu, it was surprising how violent Rontu could sound when he was whispering. He didn’t want the others to hear and he just wanted her to drop the subject, but never in a thousand years could Kira let this go.

“It wasn’t what you thought,” claimed Rontu. Kira snorted,

“Yeah right, what was that? The hug of death?”

Rontu glared viscously at her and looked capable of breathing fire.

“So why were you hugging her?” asked Kira, knowing he would no longer deny it. Rontu looked away and mumbling.

“What was that?” said Kira, not hearing it.

“I was comforting her,” grumbled Rontu, turning his head as far as it could go trying to hide his red cheeks (Note: Yes, Dark Elves can blush. Their blood is red too, just a deeper red because their skin is black). Kira was thoroughly shocked to find Rontu’s black face a deep red.

“Oh my gods … are you blushing?” said Kira, not believing it. Rontu snarled in reply, stood up, and turned his back to her.

“Wow, you must really like her,” said Kira in awe. Rontu whipped around glaring at her.

“What? Me like her? I was just comforting her! She was worried about what might happen to all of us in the war,” said Rontu, trying to change the subject but that would never work on Kira.

“Ha! Just comforting her! Since when are you the comforting type?” laughed Kira.

“It doesn’t matter anyway! All she thinks of me is a violent Dark Elf no different from the ones who killed her parents!” snarled Rontu, quickly changing these painful words into anger. Kira stopped laughing. She was looking at Rontu in a painful way, for she had heard the sadness in his voice before he could hide it. She always could tell what Rontu was really feeling.

“Don’t say that. You’re not a—er—violent Dark Elf, and you are very different than the ones who killed her parents. Do you think she would go to you for comfort if she believed that was true?” said Kira, giving him a meaningful look.

“….”

That’s when they heard pounding coming for Ren’s door. “Shut up!” Rontu yelled through the door.

“You’ll wake everyone up!” said Kira, glaring at the door.

“I think there’s something in here!” cried Ren’s voice “HEEEELP!”

He wasn’t lying, Rontu felt it too, something really was in there! Rontu wrenched the door open. Ren came toppling out onto the floor then tried desperately to scoot away from the dark room, which was pitch black inside. It was a little too dark, even for it being night; the light from the fireplace couldn’t penetrate it. Everyone came out of their rooms demanding what the noise was all about when a figure stepped out of the dark room. When it did so, the fire immediately went out as the darkness settled in the room as they gazed at the figure. It was … Ren. Well, at least it looked like a four-year-younger version and it was glaring angrily at him. Ren’s eyes opened wide with fear and some kind of inner pain as he tried scrambled away and tripped over himself. Then the figure instantly became some kind of black gas and flew across the room launching it’s self at Kai. Kai threw up his arms but he did not feel it hit. When he looked up he found it had changed into a ten-foot spider. All the color seemed to drain away from his face, chilling his blood.

The spider shot its sticky webs at Kai, he again shielded himself but he was thrown up against the wall and pinned to it by the webs. Kira leapt forward grabbing her sword that she had left in the lounge room and stuck it into the spiders back, but just before she stuck it into its body the spider vanished and when it did, so did the webs. Kai fell to the floor on his knees as his body shook a little. Kira ran over to him and helped him up. Then the formless gas spotted her.

It again changed form, this time into a very pale and beautiful woman with long, brown hair. Kira stared at her in fear as she backed away into the wall. Before the woman could attack, Kai threw what was a foot-long spike at her. But again it turned into mere gas. It lifted up and charged again.

This time Blaze was its target, it landed right in front of him turning into a familiar Gerudo, who stood seven feet tall and had terrible, red eyes. The figure smirked at him as he stared in shock. Tila ran into action, swiping at the figure with a long sword–which instead dodged and turned into an elf with black hair and evil, gray eyes. He appeared to be no older than herself.

“Rai?” said Tila, looking confused. But the evil figure only s******ed and stabbed with a sword in hand. Tila gasped tears formulating quickly. Blaze came to her defense and tried to whack the creature with his staff, the creature again was gas. A light seemed to click on in Leita’s head.

“It a shape-shifter!” she yelled quickly. “It turns into what you fear most!”

“How do you kill it?” yelled Malon, who had become its next victim. It was now an ugly, gray figure that let out an ear-piercing shriek as is walked slowly over to her. Khaz, who was closest to her jabbed at it with a long katana; it turned its sights on him. There sprang up Nottuu, who leaned in slowly and whispered in his blank voice,

“Want me to kill you like your father?”

There was a clatter as his katanas fell to the ground. Khaz trembled with fear as pain twisted on his handsome face.

“Khaz!” called Malon and swiped with her dagger. It flew away as Khaz slid down the wall, his eyes wide and staring. Leita couldn’t remember how to kill it! She had gone over it when she was learning magic, but for now she could only watch as it hurtled itself at Zelda. It soon became the figure of Link laying on the floor twisting with agony covered in blood.

“No!” she shouted as she tried to reach him. But the real Link pushed her away and the figure saw him and smiled as it stood up. The blood vanished from its body and soon became completely black with glowing, red eyes and a horrible smirk. Heat pounded in him as anger for the creature swelled filling every corner of his mind with only one thought … kill it!

Link swung his sword up in an arch, anger madly flowing from him. His eyes were a blazing green and his Triforce burned to the point it felt as though it would burst into flame. The figure dodged him easily and dashed around some more as Link tried with all his anger flooding him to hit it, but it continued to play with him. Soon it grabbed Link’s wrist and yanked him forward forcing him to look right into his red eyes.

“Maybe you are crazy,” it said with an unbearable grin. Link stared wide-eyed, everything seemed to be going in slow motion and silence rang in the air as a shiver climbed up his spine. Impa came to his rescue and tried hitting it, and then it seemed to vanish slowly as it turned back into its black, gaseous form.

It now came for Leita, for her, it became a tall man with long, black, greasy hair who slammed her up against the wall; pressing her into it. She felt his moist tongue licked the side of her head slowly making its way up. Leita gasped, struggling against its body. Anger tingled inside Rontu as he saw it lick the side of her head, he snarled as he slashed out with his sword,

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you!”

It, however, sprang away and with amazing speed shot right up in front of him. Its skin slowly became black and its hair faded into a white. It stood towering over Rontu with disgust and anger…. It was interesting how much it resembled Rontu. Rontu had frozen and, for the first time, Leita saw fear splash onto his face as he backed into the wall and slid down it trying to get away.

“Look at me you f***ing sh**-head,” it roared at him, Rontu trembled and looked up into its golden eyes that were so much like his own. Rontu tried to flatten himself into the wall in desperation. The figure snatched him up by his trench coat and shoved him against the wall, his horrible face leering at him. Rontu kicked and flailed, struggling to be free letting out pathetic whimpers that didn’t at all sound like Rontu.

“Are you going to cry, you f***ing fairy!” growled the Dark Elf, and at this Rontu’s eyes began to shimmer with tears shaking his head madly, pounding the wall and trying to get away.

“Go ahead—cry!” it snarled.

“No!” he yelled, suppressing the tears from his eyes. The figure pulled a smirk like Rontu’s as he held up a fist ready to kill. Leita stood panicking, trying to figure out what to do. If they tried to pierce it with a sword it would only change right before they could even touch it, how can they get it to not change? That’s it! She then ran up and thrusted her hands out in front of her and shouted words in Ancient Hylian and gold light filled the room. The figure dropped Rontu, who curled up against the wall. It was frozen in the air, unable to make itself into gas.

“Rontu, now!” she cried, but Rontu made no movement, only stared wide eyed at her.

“Rontu, now! Kill it now!” she cried again, but Rontu shook his head wildly griping his trench coat closely to his body as if it would protect him. His body language was that of a child’s, which made him so sad and pathetic that she could have cried right there.

Link took it upon himself, and with a strong stab it shrieked inhumanly. Then a bright light flashed through the room and when it faded a black body fell to the floor. It had no face, no nose, no mouth, and no eyes; it had only a long and lanky body. The room became dark again and the only light was the moon’s shining through the balcony. They all stood, stunned at what they had just seen. Rontu shrank into a corner and curled up as if he was trying to disappear, trying so hard to not feel the pain. Trying to forget.

(Note: Yes, Dark Elves can blush. Their blood is red too, just a deeper red because their skin is black). Kira was thoroughly shocked to find Rontu’s black face a deep red.

When you say their shin is balck do you mean actual black or the black used to describe black folks (brown)? I've been wondering that for a while.

Another great chapter with a great enemy, I'm glad you chose something like this because it tells us a lot about the characters. It is spoiled a little for those of us who have read further because we know why most of the characters fear who they do, but it was also cool because I didn't feel as clueless as the first time I read it.

MORE! ... please

Author's Note:

When you say their skin is balck do you mean actual black or the black used to describe black folks (brown)? I've been wondering that for a while.

To answer your question, their skin is literally black not brown. Glad to clear that up. Anyway, on to the next chapter .

Chapter Six:
Secrets and Lies

Rontu lay in the corner, still shaking. Leita walked over to him and opened her mouth, but then didn't know what to say. They were all shaking, having seen their worst fears within minutes, but none were as affected as Rontu. Except for maybe Khaz, who was still trembling on the floor in which he sat with terror still clinging to his midnight-blue eyes. Rontu closed his eyes suppressing the burn in them as memories, that he wished he never had, flashed through his mind. As Leita looked at him, watching him be in so much pain made her eyes water with more tears. She fell to her knees and put her arms comfortingly around him. Rontu opened his eyes to find Leita's soft body wrapped around him. He put his arms around her too, squeezing her as more tears came to his eyes which he shut again, not letting them fall. He couldn't cry, he wasn't allowed to. Men don’t cry….

As they held each other, the others looked around at each other. They had all learned very personal things about one another. The things that frightened them the most and the effects on them showed how they were all the same. Link leaned up against the wall; he couldn't get those words out of his head. Am I really crazy? thought Link.

'Maybe,' it answered again to Link's horror. It had said those words. Those words that made Link freeze.

I'm not crazy, thought Link determined to convince himself.

‘That's what they all say isn't?’

Stop talking to me! cried Link's mind. Just stop talking to me and go away.

‘I can't leave you; I am a part of you, Link.’

Link flattened himself against the wall, trying to forget what it had just said. Kai walked over to Kira who was staring at the floor in deep thought. He lifted his hands to touch her, but drew them back.

Zelda sat down on a chair and wrapped her arms around her legs, hugging them for comfort. Link, noticing this, walked over and hugged her. Was she that afraid he might get hurt? He couldn't stand that look in her eyes when she saw him like that. It was so desperate, so ... lost. He held her closer to him for her comfort and his own. That voice was still ringing in his mind. Zelda squeezed him back as her tears began to form. Link squeezed her too, pain surging through him along with guilt. He had left her to that man for seven years. How could I have been so wrong to leave?

‘It was your fault,’ echoed the voice. ‘Her pain was because of you. You could have stayed in Hyrule but you left her alone and defenseless.’

Link squeezed Zelda closer to him, as if he was afraid to let go. Ren sat on the floor, eyes widened from what he had seen. But why? wondered Link. Ren was soon put back into his room. He made no effort to refuse—just quietly went inside.

They stayed there for what seemed like hours. Some fell a sleep; Rontu and Leita and drifted off in the corner, Zelda slept on a chair, Khaz fell a sleep on the floor against the wall, Blaze and Tila fell a sleep on a sofa, Kai leaned up against a wall, and Impa stayed faithfully at Zelda's side. Link walked over to the balcony as the beautiful colors of the sun rising shimmered in the sky. Link's thoughts began to fall on Rontu as he stared out in the sky. Kira came out onto the balcony and stood next to him staring out into the desert. Link couldn't help but ask her about it. Kira knew the most about Rontu than anyone else, even Link who had known Rontu for a long time didn't know this about him.

“Kira, did Rontu have trouble with his parents?” said Link, looking over at her. Kira sighed sadly,

“Yes, his mother died when he was nine. He lived with his father until he was fourteen, then ran away.”

“Why did he run?” Link knew that he was close to the answer. The answer that had made Rontu shake with fear in that dark room. Kira hesitated, it was clear that she wasn't sure if she should tell him.

“His father ...” She stopped, still unsure. “His father ... hated him. I'm not sure why, I don't think even Rontu knows. When his mother died his father suddenly became violent as if he had been holding it back for years. His father would beat him until he was an inch away from death, and then when he would recover it was only a matter of time before he did it again.... The pain of his past is always there.... I don't think he can ever forget.” Link didn't know what exactly to say, he never knew Rontu had such a past. Kira's eyes suddenly became wide and she whipped around, there stood Leita and Rontu. Leita looked horrified at what she had just heard. She turned to look up at Rontu. Rontu stared at Kira for a moment then, turned away, walking off into the lounge room.
Damn it! swore Kira's mind. That look on his face wasn't anger or hatred, it was so blank and yet so sad. She had seen the pain swimming in his eyes. She hated it when he looked at her like that; it was worse than when he would glare. Leita ran off toward Rontu, who kept his back to her.

“Rontu,” she said, and went to touch his shoulder but he threw her hand off.

“Don't touch me!” he snapped, his back still facing her. Leita took a step back. She didn't understand. Why is he pushing me away? Tears began to shimmer in her eyes, as she stared at the ground. Rontu turned to glare at her when he found, again, tears on her gentle face. He felt a sting of pain stab through his body as she cried without a sound. This time he turned away and walked off into his room, slamming his door.

Leita fell onto a sofa, pulling her legs up and crying softly into them. Why does he push her away, when before he had openly comforted her; she didn't understand … Why does he make me feel like this? She felt a gentle hand on her shoulder as these thoughts tormented her. She lifted a tear-streaked face to see her blurred-figured brother looking down at her. She wiped her eyes to find he was still pale and shaky but looking concerned, and it seemed as if Khaz had been woken up by Rontu's outburst.

“What did he do?” asked Khaz frowning.

“Nothing,” she answered quickly, too quickly.

“That's very nice, lying to your big brother,” said Khaz, unconvinced. “What did Rontu do? I heard him yelling about something.”

“Nothing, I was just trying to talk to him and he pushed me away,” said Leita, eyes beginning to burn again. Khaz rolled his eyes and said,

“Jeez, you shouldn't take what Rontu does so personally.” Then he sat down on the sofa next to her.

“Well, he's been so ... kind lately,” said Leita. She wasn't sure if she should say comforting because Khaz would never believe that. He even snorted at this.

“Rontu? Kind? Now that's a laugh!”

Leita felt a twinge of anger as Khaz said that, but then again, Rontu did bring that appearance upon himself. But it wasn't all his fault he was that way.... She wanted to hold Rontu like he had done for her, but he would only shrink away. As if he couldn't let anyone to get close to him like that. Like he didn't think it was allowed.

“You know, he's not as bad as you think!” sniffed Leita, raising her voice, tears spilling from her eyes. Khaz gave her a concerned look and replied,

“What is wrong with you? Why are you crying over him?” Leita didn't answer, he would never understand.

“Jeez, he's not that great of a guy if you didn't notice. He is a Dark Elf,” said Khaz, in disgust. Leita looked up at him in shock. She never knew Khaz to be racist, but soon anger replaced her shock. She stood up from the sofa, more tears of frustration staining her face as she yelled,

“You don't even know him!”

“And what, you do?” retorted Khaz.

“I know a lot more than you!” She stomped off to her room slamming her door. Khaz scowled on the sofa. Rontu, this is all your fault, he thought savagely. He had been feeding his sister false ideas. Then he made her all upset and mad at him! Stupid Dark Elf.... I don't know why everyone trusts him, Khaz silently doubted.


“Damn it!” swore Kira as Rontu walked away, Leita trailing after him. “Now, he's mad at me!”

Link thought Rontu was usually mad at everyone, but there was something different: he didn't glare and he didn't yell; but that was what told Link this time there was something seriously wrong. Kira let out a depressed sigh, and then looked over at Link with an expression of hopelessness, but it quickly changed as she continued to stare at him.

“Hey, Link?” she said finally. Link gave her a look that told her he was listening.

“Who was that man that the shape-shifter turned into? He looked exactly like you, but at the same time ... not you.”

Link immediately let his gaze drop to his hands that were on the railing as his insides froze. Link began to panic; should he tell her about the voice in his head?

‘No, she’ll only think you're crazy too,’ it answered for him. That's right, what would she think if he told her? Only that he was going mad and would probably be disgusted. But … that doesn't sound like Kira. She always understands him and he could always tell her anything.

‘Well, has she ever had to deal with someone crazy before? She may not know how to handle it,’ spoke the voice. That was true, too, Kira has never met someone going insane. But was he really ... going mad?

‘Well, you're talking to me, aren't you?’ it continued. ‘No one will understand this....’

“Link?” said Kira, worry ringing in her voice. Link began to grip the railing hard. How was he supposed to tell her he can't say, without striking up suspicion? Link continued to stare down at his hands, not wanting to look at her.

“Link, are you okay—” but she was interrupted when Nabooru finally opened the door to the lounge room. Link automatically went off to greet her. Kira stared at him for a moment, then followed.

“Hello,” greeted Nabooru “Good morning.”

They all snorted, and a snort came from Ren's locked door.

“All right, what happened?” asked Nabooru, cutting to the chase. They all exchanged tired looks.

“We were attacked by a shape-shifter,” answered Kira in a tired voice. Nabooru's eyes widened and then became serious.

“What? Why didn't you come to me after you got rid of it? You need to tell me these things. They affect the well-being of the Fortress!” said Nabooru, getting angry with them.

“How?” retorted Khaz. “Weren't we the ones who almost got killed?” Nabooru glared at him.

“Because, Nottuu might have sent that shape-shifter and that means he knows you're here. Which means he knows the Gerudos are against him!” she said, giving them all a serious stare.

“And it means we have a spy within our mists,” said Impa, with a face even more serious than Nabooru's. Silence echoed across the room.

“So our element of surprise is gone,” said Blaze, staring at Nabooru. She nodded in reply. Everyone sat in a terrible silence that seemed to never leave them alone. Of course, Khaz tried to see the bright side of things.

“So I guess that means we won't have to head out so soon,” said Khaz, hope whispering silently in his voice.

“Actually, no,” answered Nabooru. “This means we have less time! It means we have no time to rest. We'll never know when Nottuu could attack!”

“But how do you know that Nottuu sent that thingy-shifter?” asked Malon, who too, hoped for the best.

“Who else could have sent it; creatures like that don't just pop up out of Hyrule,” replied Zelda.

“That's right,” agreed Leita. “Those creatures have to be summoned from the dark depths of Hyrule, and it takes a lot of power to do that.”

“So, do any of you have any idea of who the spy might be?” asked Kai, getting down to the importance of the matter. Nabooru frowned and shook her head.

“There's too many people to know who might've betrayed us,” said Nabooru, a look of hopelessness on her face that seemed to be common these days. However, Khaz caught Rontu's eye; he gave him an evil glare, then looked away. Rontu glared at him even though he wasn't looking. What's his problem? wondered Rontu. He had been acting weird since Kokiri Forest, but Rontu let this thought no longer bother his mind. He really didn't care that much. A lot of people seemed to have a grudge against him for no reason. This was probably because of his black face and spotless white hair.

“Well, you better get a move on if you're going to Zora's Domain,” said Nabooru, trying to forget the worry that never left her face.

“Wait!” gasped Leita. “What about my class?”

“Don't worry, Natty will be teaching the class for you while you're gone,” said Nabooru smoothly to put her at ease.

“Yes, well, Natty goes too easy on them,” said Leita, not completely satisfied. “She never challenges my students.”

“That's because your class is more advanced than hers,” Nabooru remarked quickly.

“You teach a class?’ said Tila, curiosity glittering in her face.

“Yes, I teach magic to the gifted it's my job here, but I have a new one which is to go with the rest of you to Zora's Domain, so... I get to take a break from teaching,” explained Leita.

“Speaking of which, you all need to be going!” Nabooru reminded them as she began to lose patience. Blaze let out a sigh then went over to Ren's door.

“All right, get out here you worthless piece of sh**,” said Blaze, speaking through the door and unlocked it to everyone's surprise. Ren stepped out with his pride intact as well as his arrogant smile. Everyone glared, even though he was doing nothing. They continued to hate him for the things they have seen him do and for the things they haven't seen him do.

“What are you doing?” demanded Khaz, who seemed to still remember a large metal ball that had almost smashed in his, in his own an opinion, handsome head.

“He's coming with us,” answered Blaze, not looking happy about it either.

“Are you nuts?” said Malon, who was as outraged as Khaz. “He'll be a nightmare!”

“I want him where I can keep an eye on him!” retorted Blaze, who was in no better a mood than yesterday.

“We can keep an eye on him here,” offered Nabooru.

“Sorry, but I don't trust the guards here. They will be too soft with him. He will only appear to them as an innocent kid when he a ruthless murderer,” said Blaze, rejecting the offer.

“Well, if you think its best, then okay. Besides, you need to start making important decisions for the Fortress,” said Nabooru, as she began to head for the door, but Blaze stopped her.

“What do you mean?” he asked, looking confused.

“Well, you were supposed to take your place as King this year, but I thought you might need another year to prepare yourself,” answered Nabooru, beaming proudly at him.

“What? Take my place as King!” said Blaze, alarm thundering in his Gerudo voice. Nabooru raised an eyebrow at him and said,

“Jeez, don't sound so surprised. You are a male Gerudo and the son of Ganondorf, our last King. I'm only the leader now because you weren't of age.”

“I ... I just....” stuttered Blaze, his eyes were on the floor and his fists were clenched in anxiety.

“You just what?” asked Nabooru, bending over, trying to look him in the eye. “I'm not sure if ... if I want that to be my place,” said Blaze, who was trying not to have eye contact. Nabooru stared.

“What?” she gasped.

“I—I don't want to be king,” repeated Blaze, finally looking up at her. Nabooru looked furious.

“But you have to! It's in your blood! Everyone will be expecting you to take your father's place!” argued Nabooru, taking a step closer to Blaze, standing in an omnipotent pose.

“Well, I don't want to take his place! That was his life—not mine! I don't want to be him!” erupted Blaze, fists now shaking angrily.

“I'm not asking you to be him!” she retorted back, just as angry as him.

“Then don't ask me to be King!” he spat at her.

“How is that asking you to be him? I'm just asking for you to take your responsibility for the Gerudos!” yelled Nabooru, pulling an angry but confused face.

“Well, if you're just asking then I'm saying no! I am not going to be King!” shouted Blaze at the top of his lungs. Nabooru just glared at him and he glared back; neither seemed to remember the others in the room, whom were staring with wide eyes at them as they argued.

“Fine!” yelled Nabooru. “Do what you want! I was just trying to make something great out of you!” And she stomped off toward the door.

“Then stop trying to change me!” Blaze screamed after her as she slammed the door making the dust fall from the ceiling. Blaze smacked the wall with his fist as he let out a furious roar. Blaze scowled as he leaned against the dented wall. Everyone was staring at Blaze, all words lost. Blaze finally looked up to find everyone staring at him. He stood up looking back at them all. His face appeared expressionless as he spoke but his eyes betrayed him.

“Come on, we have to get going.” And he walked toward the door grabbing Ren by his coat as he went.

“Hey! Hey! Stop that, you f***ing assh***!” complained Ren as Blaze dragged him toward the door. Blaze seemed to have become deaf to Ren's shouts because he continued to drag him until they were outside and next to their horse's stable. Everyone started to mount their horses trying to forget the argument between the two Gerudos. Tila watched Blaze and Ren argue with each other as she climbed onto her horse. Her gaze was fixed on Blaze, not really hearing what they were arguing about just staring at the looks on their faces. Tila giggled as Blaze became suddenly outraged; she loved how he put so much passion into every thing he did.

“I'm guessing I'm riding with one of you,” said Ren, the expression on his face obviously said he was not pleased.

“Right you are. You're riding with me,” stated Blaze. Ren looked as though he were about to puke.

“What? Ride with you!” exclaimed Ren, looking positively disgusted.

“You think I want to ride with you?” Blaze growled back at him. Ren rolled his eyes and demanded,

“Then why don't you let ride with someone else?”

Blaze glared at him in return.

“Because every one else won't take you seriously!” shouted Blaze, hatred exploding in his voice.

“Jeez! You don't have to yell at me!” Ren retorted, shouting just as loud as Blaze.

“Just shut up and get on the horse!” ordered Blaze, and then noticed that Tila was staring at him. She just gave him a sweet smile and continued to look straight into his fiery, red eyes. Blaze had become caught in her gaze, unable to remove himself from her mischievous, green eyes. Well, at least until Ren s******ed. Blaze's eyes snapped from hers and rested angrily on the young elf next to him. Ren smirked arrogantly up at the much stronger, taller, and angry Gerudo.

“Get ... on ... the ... horse,” repeated Blaze. He spoke slowly with pure venom pouring out of his voice.

Link heard what was the beginning of a Blaze-Ren argument when he saw Darunia at the back of the stables, looking as though he were there to bid him farewell. Link walked slowly over to the back of the stables. Darunia grinned at Link, which was the first smile he had seen all morning. Link managed to pull up a weak smile, which quickly faded. Darunia must have noticed this because he frowned and said,

“What's the matter brother?”

Link just shrugged in reply, his dark blue tunic, he wore instead of green, rippled in the light morning breeze. He had decided to change his golden gauntlets to his silver ones, too. He felt he was in need of a change of clothes, for he had not changed since he had come back to Hyrule.

“Not having a good morning, I suppose?” continued Darunia, trying to get Link to speak.

“I guess,” said Link, finally speaking. Darunia was about to say more, but Link stopped him.

“Listen Darunia, I need you to take the Goron's Ruby.... I need you to protect it,” whispered Link, making sure no one could hear him.

“What for, brother?” Darunia's big face turned with concern.

“Well, I don't need it anymore, and it belongs with you,” answered Link as he slipped the blood-red stone out of his pocket. Darunia smiled and took the stone, but before he took his hand away from Link’s, he spoke.

“Link, are you okay? You've been acting weird lately.” Link kept his eyes on the ground. He didn't tell Kira, he wouldn't tell him. Darunia seemed to know Link wouldn't tell him anything because he said,

“Well, have a good trip; I hope you come back in a better mood.” He shook his hand and walked off toward the training grounds. Link stood there for a moment, wondering if he had done the right thing not telling him.

‘No, you did the right thing. No one will understand you, only I can.’ The voice again whispered in his head. Link went back to Epona, patted her on the head and jumped on, ready to go just like everyone else. They were about to go, when Trisa came running over to them.

“Not right now, Trisa, we've got to go,” said Blaze, before the girl could speak. Blaze still looked irritable from Ren who was sitting in front of him with the usual scowl on his face.

“Yeah, but I was wondering if I could come with you,” spoke Trisa, catching Blaze by surprise. Blaze studied her, considering the matter.

“Please, Blaze! How dangerous can it be? It's just walking over to Zora's Domain,” begged Trisa, looking up at Blaze with big, hopeful, golden-brown eyes.

“Well, I'm okay with it but you should go ask mum,” answered Blaze, Trisa squealed with joy. And she ran off without saying a word. Tila giggled and said,

“You call Nabooru, mum?”

Blaze blinked and stuttered, “W-well, yes.” But Ren snorted,

“What kind of a moron calls their mother that?”

Thud! “f***!” Blaze gave Ren a whack at the head. Ren clutched his head in agony as Blaze glared at him. Forgetting Ren's comment Blaze turned his attention back to Tila as Ren continued to mutter vulgar words under his breath. Trisa had come back with a horse obviously telling them Nabooru had agreed to let her go. To Blaze's surprise, she also carried two curved Gerudo swords on her back.

“Why did you bring those?” questioned Blaze, eyeing the two blades.

“Well, we are with the Rebellion and you never know what dangerous things could happen!” replied Trisa, who was very excited about this.

“But I thought you said—” began Blaze.

“Come on Blaze, you know I know how to fight,” said Trisa, looking sure of herself.

“All right,” said Blaze, letting the troubling thought slip away as they galloped out of the Fortress.

“Well, as I was saying.... I guess I call her mum because Nabooru is the closet thing to a mother I've ever had,” said Blaze, never taking his eyes off Tila's amazing figure. Ren however, sneered more than ever.

“What's so funny? I don't see your mother around,” spat Blaze, who was getting very sick of Ren already. Ren became unusually silent. Blaze couldn't see his face, but he could tell just how far his words had penetrated him. It was Blaze's time to sneer, how heartless as it may sound, he enjoyed seeing the young teenager in pain.

Trisa looked over at Ren when she heard Blaze say those words. Ren's mother was killed when he was ten-years-old, Zelda's voice quivered through her thoughts. Ren's blood-red eyes that had once been cruel and arrogant had become misty and distant, but he closed his eyes, hiding what had begun to form … maybe where far-off memories took place. Trisa felt her heart being squeezed and tears watering, but she couldn't take her eyes off of the sad, little boy that had replaced the murder.

Ren opened his eyes suddenly and turned his head to look straight into Trisa's golden eyes. He stared wide-eyed at her, then whipped his head to the side, the color of shame filled his face. Trisa wiped her tears away hastily and looked back over at Ren, hoping she would see the little boy again. The rest of the trip Ren made sure he didn't look in Trisa's direction. He didn't want to see her looking at him like that—that look pierced right through him. He couldn't shake it off like the looks the others have given him. Maybe it was because it wasn't fear, anger, or hatred.

Ren wasn't the only one avoiding eye contact. Rontu tried his best to stay as far away as he could from Leita. He didn't know what made him do this; all he knew was he couldn't look her in the face after what happened the night before.

It was noon when they reached the river. More trees covered the water's bank, but they were dead trees. All the once green grass lay brown and decayed, and the air even seemed to hold the stench of death. Link gaped at the dead land, not believing what has happened. The others stared around, staring in silence at the ugly ruins of Zora's River.

“We should leave our horses here, we can go no farther with them,” commanded Link, as he dismounted Epona, still unable to stop staring. The others followed his order and got off their horses and tied them to trees. Link led them to the narrowest part of the river, when he found there was no longer a river there. Both Link and Sheik exchanged alarmed looks.

“Wow, I guess there used to be a river here,” said Kira observantly.

“Yes, it was here seven years ago.... Come on, we've got to jump across,” said Link as he jumped across effortlessly. Sheik followed immediately after him and he heard her whisper in his mind,

‘Link ... the river ... we've got to find out if the Zoras are all right!’

I know, but if there's no water here, then they would have gone to Lake Hylia. The Gerudo's River runs into the lake, too, so there would be water there, Link answered back through his thoughts.

‘But the Dark Elves have control over the lake.... The Zoras wouldn't be safe there,’ Sheik's voice reminded him.

‘Looks like you’ve let down the Zoras too, Link.’ This time it was not Sheik's voice that spoke to him.

‘Who is that?’ asked Sheik.

N-no one, replied Link as he tripped over his thoughts. Link pushed Sheik out of his mind, not letting her back in. For fear of what she may find in the depths of his scared and confused mind.

While Link and Sheik had conversed in his mind, the others followed him one by one until Khaz was the only one on the other side. He gave a huge jump and landed on the edge of the river bank. He gave a yelp as he began to fall, but Kai grabbed his tunic before he could. Kira gave Khaz an amused glance and stated,

“Klutzy aren't you?” Khaz looked furious at this assumption.

“I am not klutzy!” he exclaimed as they continued down the path surrounded by trees, but this didn't convince them because he tripped on a rock a second later.

“Ouch!” squeaked Khaz, and then Kira helped him up.

“Khaz if you’re not klutzy, then Rontu is the nicest person I know,” she commented as she got an evil glare from Rontu.

“Yeah! Wait, Rontu is the biggest assh*** I know.... Hey!” said Khaz, finally understanding what was meant by that comment. His face turned a bright red as the group bubbled with laughter.

“Slow, too,” s******ed Blaze, as Khaz's face remained a light pink. They came up to another narrow opening of the dead river which they could step over easily.

“Want help?” mocked Blaze, offering his hand to Khaz who hadn't crossed yet. Khaz's face turned red again but this time with anger.

“No!” He snapped and smacked away Blaze's hand as he stepped across—without tripping.

“Well, I think it's cute,” giggled Malon, as she pasted Khaz up to walk with Tila, turning her head to look back at Khaz and smiled. Her red hair gleamed more magnificently there ever in the sun and her blue eyes twinkled at him mischievously. Khaz stared; not taking his eyes of her until a tree branch hit him in the face, knocking him to the ground. They all snorted with laughter again as Khaz got up off the ground, blushing the deepest red ever.

“Jeez, a pretty girl gives you a look and you melt like butter,” scoffed Tila, making Malon and Khaz's faces fill up with blood.

“Yeah … that's weird” said Leita thoughtfully. “Khaz never used to do that. He usually would flirt right back.”

“Would you stop!” yelled Khaz, his face now beat red.

“Yeah, because if you don't there won't be any blood left in his body to fill up his face,” said Blaze, they s******ed again as Blaze narrowly dodged Khaz's hand that had made a swipe at his head. They came to the end of the cliff and jumped down before continuing their conversation.

“Well, I think it takes the right girl to make a guy turn into butter,” stated Kira as they hiked down the river's path. The girls nodded in agreement as the guys laughed.

“Yeah right!” dismissed Khaz.

“No way,” doubted Blaze.

“Whatever,” retorted Rontu. Link and Kai stayed silent, both had no input on the subject because they haven't been in any relationships. Ren hadn't either, but he s******ed anyway.

“That's a load of sh**,” he snorted as they stepped up onto a tall edge continuing up the river.

“What a foul mouth,” said Khaz, giving Ren a sideways glance of disapproval.

“Pipe down klutzy, or I'll make you trip again!” threatened Ren, raising his fist but Blaze grabbed him by his coat tugging him away from Khaz.

“So, you guys don't think it's true?” said Tila, ignoring Ren's comment. They all snorted in reply as they walked over some more dried up paths of the river.

“Oh yeah....” she giggled mischievously as she began walking very close to Blaze who looked at her in confusion. She suddenly reached up letting her fingers slide into Blaze's flaming red hair. They all stopped in their tracks, staring at Tila and Blaze. She pulled his head closer to her until their lips were barely touching. Blaze tried to lean in closer to connect his lips to hers but Tila leaned away brushing her lips over his mouth, almost touching his mouth with the tip of her tongue. When she pulled away from him Blaze had a hazed look on his face.

“See, exactly what I mean!” exclaimed Tila, snapping Blaze out of his trance. His face immediately became as red as Khaz's had been.

“That wasn't nice, you know!” said Blaze as smirks and s******s appeared on Khaz, Malon, and Kira's faces. Tila only smiled as she walked away from him. Her face turned pink too, as they continued toward their destination. Link noticed that the river was only a trickle of water. They came to a small dirty bridge that looked as if it had been a long time since it had been walked on. Beneath the bridge was the dry bottom of the river. As they crossed they stepped lightly, making sure the bridge wouldn't fall out from under their feet, but it was sturdier than it looked and held tightly.

Soon they were climbing up a very slim walkway that led to a once beautiful waterfall. The water that had once been there was dried up; only a trickle came from the deluded waterfall. Link ran up to the dry waterfall, staring into the dark opening that lead to Zora's Domain. The others walked up next to him, not understanding what this could mean.

“Hey, what does this writing say?” questioned Tila, pointing at a large stone tile embedded into the pathway in front of the opening.

“I can't read it,” stated Kira as she studied the writing on the tile. “It looks similar to the elven runes, but some of the characters I don't understand.”

“That's because it's in Hylian,” explained Sheik “It says : ‘Sleepless Waterfall
The flow of this waterfall serves the King of Hyrule
When the King slumbers,
So, too do these falls.’”

Sheik stared at the poem for a moment, then gasped suddenly, making them all jump.

“That's it!” she exclaimed “The waterfall isn't running with water because ... my father no longer runs with life.”

Sheik stared down at the poem; Link wasn't sure if she was really seeing the poem ... but thinking of the seven years of darkness that Link never seemed to be able to save Hyrule from. Impa gave Sheik a sympathetic squeeze on the shoulder, as Link gazed at Impa he knew he wasn't the only one with regrets. Link grabbed Sheik in his arms suddenly, catching her off guard. She loosened up, allowing him to cradle her and lean into his strong chest that held her weight. Smelling the sweet scent of his hair made all her sorrows fade into the air. There was no longer space for them in her mind, which was full of thoughts of Link. He squeezed her closer to him as if there was some comfort of his that was needed to be filled just as hers.

‘Don't you see it? Her pain is always because of you,’ the voice sneered in his ear caused Link to hold Sheik closer to him.

‘Be careful.... Don't hug her too tight.... You might hurt her,’ it s******ed at him. Link snapped away from Sheik, those words still vibrating in his ears. Sheik stared at Link, her face flushed and her eyes filled with warmth.

“Um ... we need to be getting inside,” muttered Link, and he jumped onto the edge of the opening with the others following closely behind.

Chapter Seven:
Loyalty of the Zoras

Link, Sheik, Impa, Blaze, Khaz, Kai, Ren, Trisa, Malon, Kira, Tila, and Rontu walked cautiously into the cave. Expecting to see the dead bodies of Zoras’ and the ruins of their Domain. However, many Zoras swam and dived happily in the pure water of their home. Link and Sheik again exchanged puzzled looks; the rest gaped at the water at the bottom of the cave which reflected on the huge walls of the cavern. A huge waterfall roared at the other side of the Domain, but it didn’t seem as powerful as it once had been.

They hadn’t even said a word and a Zora came running up to them. It was Ruto! She looked just as beautiful as she had been in the Water Temple where Link had last seen her. She had grown into a fine Zora just as before, she smiled beautifully at Link and the others. But as she came closer Link saw tears in her purple eyes; she immediately ran into his arms.

“Link!” she gasped through sobs. Link a little stunned hugged Ruto back, not quite knowing what to say to make her stop crying.

“I thought I would never see you again!” she exclaimed as she rubbed away her tears. Link only smiled at her, just the way she remembered him to.

“Well, looks like he made it just in time,” said Sheik, as if to remind her that they were there.

“Oh! Sheik, I didn’t see you there,” giggled Ruto, her arms still wrapped sweetly around Link’s neck.

“Of course you didn’t,” muttered Sheik, noticing how much Ruto was snuggling Link.

“What?” said Ruto, not hearing Sheik’s words.

“Nothing,” said Sheik, smiling an all too happy smile as she turned back into Zelda. Ruto scanned over the visitors and when she got to Rontu she gasped and hid behind Link.

“A Dark Elf!” she squeaked, she clung to Link’s arm as Rontu sneered at her.

“Don’t worry, he’s with us,” explained Zelda, as the others gazed curiously at the Zora. Some of which had never seen one.

“Oh …” said Ruto, as she began to relax. “So … I know why Link is here, but why are you here? Zelda, I heard you were captured by Nottuu.” Zelda smiled even though Ruto sounded too sure of why Link was here.

“Well, when Link came back to Hyrule the first thing he did was rescue me,” smirked Zelda, hoping this would bother the Princess of the Zoras but her plan back fired.

“Really? Wow, Link! You stormed the castle all by yourself!” she squealed. “You’re amazing!” and she held him closer to her; beaming at him in admiration. Link at first was confused at why she was being so huggy and loving, but then he remembered—the Zora’s sapphire—the Zora’s engagement ring. He felt nauseous at the thought of having to give it back to her; she would be crushed.

“Anyway, we were wondering what happened to the river,” said Zelda, who too, was getting nauseous except it was from watching Ruto hang all over Link.

“Oh, well … we don’t know how, but the water that comes from Zora’s Fountain as been barely giving out any water. It is only enough to keep Lord Jabu-Jabu alive and the Domain plentiful. I guess there just isn’t enough to keep the river running,” answered Ruto, looking worried for the first time they had seen her, but this didn’t stop her hands from playing with Link’s ponytail. This made Zelda so annoyed that she almost didn’t listen to what she had said. However, Ruto noticed this and asked,

“Is something wrong Zelda?”

“No, nothing, there’s just been a lot of troubles lately,” Zelda answered quickly, covering up her discomfort.

“Oh, okay … so I’m guessing you need to talk with my father,” said Ruto, and Zelda nodded in agreement. Ruto led them across the walk way and up the stone staircase to the Throne room. Where King Zora sat as fat as ever on his throne; he smiled as Link appeared in the room. The memory of him saving his daughter was still there, even if Link saving Hyrule wasn’t.

“Sir Link! Where have you been these past years?” boomed the great Zora, his voice echoing off the cavern walls.

“That is not what is of importance at the moment, your Highness,” replied Link, his face serious and determined. It worried him what Zelda said about the Zoras. Would they not help, are they mere cowards?

“Oh? What is of such great importance, Sir Link?” continued King Zora, his face becoming curious. Link gulped down his doubt and spoke hoping against hope that they would come to their aid.

“The matter of the Empire your greatness,” said Link, his words immediately took effect on the Zora. He shifted on his throne and his face had become as hard as stone.

“Yes, I thought one day the Rebels would come to me with this matter. Probably to ask of my assistance in war,” spoke the huge king, any hope of Link’s faded away with the tone of the King’s voice. It was harsh and cold, the fate of their request was obsolete. Yet, Link would not give up until he had answer.

“Yes, great Zora, that is why we have come … we wish to hear your answer,” requested Link, staring up at the king not daring to look away.

“We Zoras are a peaceful race … we wish not to take place in war … no, we cannot help,” answered the Zora king with a grave voice. Any hope that was left now had become anger. Heat pounded in his veins as he stared at a Zora he once held great respect for.

Link tried hard to take away the image of Ganon charging up a large black energy ball. He had stood there not sure what to do against such an attack. Seconds seemed to stretched out among hours, as he waited for his doom which lay in in the red eyes of his enemy which held no mercy. When he had released the energy it split into five smaller ones. As they had come hurtling at him, all he could do was gasp in horror for within seconds they clashed had into his body. He still could taste the pain; he still could hear Ganon’s laughter ringing in his ears, mocking him, ringing just like the great Zora’s voice on the small cavern walls. After all he had done, after all the pain he had gone through to save them, The King of the Zoras would not help them.

“So … I guess it’s true,” began Link, opening his eyes, which he had just realized he had closed. He found the ground was in front of him and he let his eyes travel back up to the fat face of the Zora.

“The Zoras are nothing but cowards.” King Zora stared at Link; looking as if he would have never believed Link would say such a thing to him.

“How can you sit there and do nothing … sit here until they come for you, because when they are done with the Hylians and the Gerudos nothing would be stopping them from coming after you! What happens to the rest if Hyrule will affect you!” erupted Link, not allowing the King to respond. The Zora stared for moment before speaking. The shock of Link’s words never left his eyes.

“But we are hidden! They will never find us here,” said the Zora king, he sounded hurt and vulnerable. Link never knew he could have such an affect on a great king, but at the moment he did not care.

“What happened to your river and the water fall that was your shield? It has dried up and don’t you think they might find it odd that there is a cave in its place?” questioned Link; the harshness of his voice did not lighten up one bit. The King stared with big eyes, obviously that thought had not occured to him.

“And what about your loyalty to the Royal Family! You serve them! You serve her!” shouted Link, putting his hand on Zelda’s shoulder. “Can you say right to the face, of who you vowed to serve forever, that you won’t help?”

“Even if I were to say yes, how do you expect me to gather Zoras and train them in time for a battle? How long do you think Nottuu will wait until he realizes the Gerudos are plotting against him?” retorted the great Zora.

There was truth to his words. Nottuu had already found out that the Gerudos were with the Rebellion. Nabooru said they had less time than ever. Before another word could be said a Zora appeared from the opening that led to the water fall. He was a Zora of an interesting color. He had a deep red skin color that faded out into a lighter shade, and he came with a look of determination on his face similar to Link’s.

“Zota! What are you doing here? I am in an important meeting!” exclaimed the King, who didn’t seem to like Zota that much.

“Please sir! It is of this matter,” said Zota.

“Oh really? What could you do to help?” mocked the Zora.

“Many other Zoras have already considered the matter not long after the Dark Elves took over Hyrule Castle. We have believed that if we were need by the Royal Family, that we should be ready for battle. So we had gathered most of the Zoras and trained in secret to hide from those who might oppose it,” said Zota, looking directly at his king as he said that last bit.

“So you’re saying you can help us?” said Zelda, hope gleaming vibrantly in her ocean-blue eyes, which stared at the brightly colored Zora.

“That is if our King will allow it,” replied Zota, as he glared up at the big Zora. “We have to take responsibility for the promise we made! The vow to the Royal Family! I will not stand by and watch the Zoras believed to be cowards!”

King only glared at the fiery red Zora, who glared right back. The moment of silence continued until the King finally pulled away from the Zora’s fierce stare. He brought his attention back to Link. The Zora gave a sigh and spoke,

“You will have the Zoras’ dying loyalty, I’m afraid I had forgotten what my vow entitled … I will never make that mistake again.”

Khaz, Blaze, Tila, Trisa, and Kira gave a huge cheer. Link looked over at Zelda, beaming at her. She smiled back just as brightly as him.

“Link! You did it!” she exclaimed, and flung her arms around him. Link blushed a little as he hugged her back. Ruto stared at him in disarrangement; she had never seen him blush like that before. She acted briskly and swept over to Link and whispered to him,

“Link, can I speak with you for a moment?”

She didn’t wait for his answer; she pulled him away from Zelda and toward the tunnel which led to Zora’s Fountain. Link was befuddled by Ruto’s unusual actions; why was she dragging him away like this? When they had passed through the tunnel they came to Jabu-Jabu’s sanctuary. The water level had certainly decreased. The whale like fish, Lord Jabu-Jabu, wasn’t so much leveled with the platform in front of him anymore. The water had sunk so low that it didn’t make it over the ridge that fell into what had been the Zora’s river. When Ruto had finally released Link she stomped off toward Jabu-Jabu’s platform. What in the Dark Realm is going on with her? wondered Link. Ruto kept her back to Link and did not show any signs of telling him why she was in disarray. Link grew frustrated and finally walked over to her.

“Ruto—” but he didn’t finish.

“You!” shouted Ruto, glaring extensively at him. “Are you in love with her?”

This question completely blew Link out of the water. Link gaped at her, eyes wide and surprised. She continued to glare at him accusingly. He however, just abided to gawk with an open mouth; looking as if he couldn’t speak.

“Link! Answer me!” she yelled, Link flinched at her fierce temper.

“W-who?” he stuttered even though for some reason he already knew who.

“Zelda! Who else?”

“W-what? N-no!” Link sputtered.

“Then why were you blushing?” Ruto demanded, taking a step closer to him, her purple eyes criticizing him.

“I—I … I wasn’t!” claimed Link. Soon the reason why she was so mad again entered his mind. He was so stupid—she was jealous of Zelda. The answer was always right under his nose.

“And now you’re lying to me,” she sniffed, tears starting to fill her big eyes. Link sighed turning away from her; he couldn’t stand to see her crying. This only made her more furious.

“Look at me when I’m talking to you!” she cried.

“Stop,” said Link, somehow he was calm even though he was afraid about what he was going to say. “Stop acting like we’re a couple …”

“What …?”

Link didn’t dare turn around and see the look on her face. He had faced the most terrible and gruesome creatures in all of a Hyrule and other worlds, but somehow … he could not face Ruto.

“What are you saying …?” sobs filled her voice, penetrating him with more pain than Ganon’s sword had. Link grinded his teeth together as he tried to get his words out but none came.

“Link … the—the Zora’s Sapphire … you promised …” Ruto’s voice trembled. “You promised you would marry me.”

Link felt his insides turn to liquid and seemingly began to burn. He walked steadily over to the railing of the platform; he leaned on the railing while gazing down below at the water which shimmered brightly in the afternoon sun. He didn’t want to hurt her more. It caused him pain beyond anything he had ever fathomed. For once in his life he found himself wanting to run. Run from her—he never thought there could be anything that made him so frightened.

“Ruto …” said Link, somehow finding his voice again. “I was ten years old … I didn’t understand what you were asking of me.”

She didn’t answer. He finally turned around to find her sitting on the ground; her tears never stopped falling from her face. He unhastily grabbed the beautiful Zora’s Sapphire and placed it in front of her face, but turned his head so he wouldn’t see her face.

“I have to return this to you … find yourself a husband who can love you back … I’m sorry … but I can’t do that for you,” said Link, his voice barely a whisper. He felt the weight of the stone leave his hand.

Nothing but silence … except her sobs and the Water Lord’s heavy breathing. Link gulped down the more pain that had formed in his throat. His words seemed to have gone with it because he couldn’t manage to get out another sound. Ruto’s sobs continued and never seemed to fade. Each one echoed with more pain than the first.

‘Heh … look at her face Link. Don’t you have courage? Or as that faded too?’

Link turned his head to peek at her, but he really didn’t want to but somehow he felt a strong influence that seemed to force his head to the side. Ruto clutched the jewel to her body as her eyes streamed silently with more tears. Link felt a sharp stab in his heart making him gasp and suddenly stand up turning his head sharply toward the exit. He couldn’t stay there a second longer. He turned and headed swiftly for the tunnel.

“Link,” came Ruto’s voice. Link stopped right in front of the tunnel, waiting for her to continue.

“Just tell me one thing … do you love her?”

Link turned one last time to look at her. She waited desperately for him to reply, to tell her he wasn’t. Link was so confused he didn’t know what to do.

“Ruto … I can’t tell you if I am or not because … I don’t really know myself …”

Those were his last words to her. As Link walked down the tunnel, he thought of all the battles he had ever been in. Not one had come close to that.


Zelda bit her lip as she watched Ruto drag Link away into Zora’s Fountain. For once she regretted saving her from the ice. What exactly where they discussing?

“Now what are they doing?” said Zelda out loud and more to herself.

“That’s exactly what I want to know,” responded Zota, who also was unable to take his eyes off of the entrance to the Fountain.

“Zota!” said King Zora suddenly. “Now that you have no purpose here, please remove your presence from my throne room.”

Zota snorted in reply and walked toward the waterfall’s tunnel. There was so much resentment in the King’s voice that it led her to believe that he wasn’t fond of Zota. This Zota stuck Zelda to be very curious of him. He appeared to have a lot of determination to have gone against his king like that.

“Hey, Zelda,” called Tila, grabbing her attention.

“Yes,” she replied automatically.

“The others want to go down to the water and swim. You know, while we wait for Link,” said Tila as the others began to marching down the stairs. Zelda nodded as an answer and walked down the stairs with the rest of the group, who chatted happily together. Zelda was the only one not in the mood to talk of course Impa noticed this and walked along her side in the back of the group so that they would not be over heard.

“How long will you wait to tell him?” said Impa. Zelda was not surprised that Impa knew. She was her closest friend and more of a mother to her than a caretaker. Impa had always known and didn’t need to tell Zelda that she did. Words were not needed.

“….” She did not know how long she would wait except that she could not tell him now. She had not enough courage yet.

They said nothing else to each other because nothing else was needed to be said. They walked down the stone pathway and down to the water where they sat under a part of the walkway above them, and gazed around at the endless beauty before them. Malon took off her boots and stuck her hot, aching feet in the cool water. She was so relaxed that she did not notice Khaz sneaking up behind her. With a quick shove Malon went splashing into the water.

“Ha ha!” cried Khaz in triumph as Malon arose from the water, not looking pleased. She sprang from the water tackling Khaz to the ground. They rolled around on the floor until Khaz was sitting on top of her pinning her to the ground.

“I say it again!” said Khaz. “Ha ha! I win!” and grinned at her. It wasn’t until then did they notice that they were being watched. Khaz and Malon looked to their right to find the rest were smirking at them. Their faces simultaneously turned red and they immediately separated.

Link walked down the water where his company lay in relaxation, which Link was far from doing. For some reason, both Khaz and Malon’s faces were a deep red and the group was snorting with laughter. But they stopped when they saw Link’s face. Did his feelings show that much? Apparently they did, because Zelda was the first to ask,

“Link, what’s the matter?”

Link stared at her momentarily, and then his gaze fell to his feet. Zelda shot off of the ground like a bullet and pulled him over to his friends un-wavered to make him spill the beans. Everyone crowded around Link with worried looks on their faces. For once Link didn’t feel so alone anymore.

‘But you’re never alone, I’m here.’ Link, however, decided to ignore the voice in his head. He never seemed to help his mood much.

“Now Link, you can tell us what happened,” said Kira with Tila peeking over her shoulder.

“... Ruto ... she....” but Link still had a hard time getting out his words.
Zelda eased him to the ground by the calming water. “Sit Link,” she said as she did so.

“Zelda, you know how I got the Zora’s Sapphire,” continued Link, and Zelda nodded.

“Well, before she gave it to me for saving her. She said something about her mother telling her to give it to only the man she would marry. I ... took the stone without knowing what marriage was. I was only ten and had lived with Kokiris that didn’t know themselves what marriage was....” He finished leaving a stunned silence.

“Y-you ... you are engaged to her....” stammered Zelda, her heart turning stone cold.

“Not anymore,” said Link, looking off into the waterfall as the same sharp pain as before took hold of this throat.

“What?” exclaimed Zelda, sounding a little too relieved.

“I gave her back the Zora’s Sapphire,” responded Link, not realizing how relieved Zelda was.

“Oh ... poor girl must have been crushed,” frowned Tila, as the other nodded in agreement, but Ren rolled his eyes heartlessly. He could care less about anyone else but himself.

“You bastard!” shouted a voice echoing off the walls. The fact that everyone else heard it told Link it wasn’t the voice in his head. It wasn’t a cruel voice either--it was an angry voice. “By the pillar,” growled Rontu, the only one leaning relaxingly on the wall.

The others followed Rontu’s directions to a fiery red Zora leaning against a pillar next to the waterfall. It was Zota; the only Zora Link knew that was the bright color of red. He wore a scowl on his face and his temper flashed in his eyes threateningly.

“Watch your mouth!” snarled Khaz, immediately outraged.

Link had no idea why Zota would say that. He had helped them earlier, but the answers to these kinds of questions would always come soon.

“How dare you dishonor her, when she offered her heart to you freely! Any other Zora would have taken it gladly,” snapped Zota, pointing an accusing finger at Link.

“Well, he isn’t a Zora, is he?” smirked Rontu, amused at the Zora’s rage, but he only got this spat back in his face.

“I don’t believe I was asking you Dark Elf!” sneered Zota. Rontu actually growled, reminding Link very much of a dog, and stood up at his full height, glaring nastily at him.

“Of course I should have guessed no less from the Hylian who abandoned his land to save others and leaving his queen here to rot when he could have saved her in the first place! And running around with Dark Elves like friends! What kind of a Hylian is that!” mocked Zota. Looks like Khaz isn’t the only one being racist, thought Leita as the Zora roared on.

“Why you...!” threatened Blaze, standing by the water’s edge, looking as if he were going to jump in to get Zota.

“I should rip you a new *******!” yelled Tila, just as furious. While they argued, Zota’s words echoed just as before in Link’s head. His throat burned and his insides twisted with guilt and anger. But he was right. What kind of a Hylian was he? One that leaves his home when it needed him the most; one that would leave Zelda there, too. Zelda.... How could he have done that to her…. But his anger was for Zota. ‘Running around with Dark Elves like friends!’ These words pounded in his head. Rontu ... he was a better friend than most he had ever met. Yes, he had made a lot of mistakes in his life, but he had made up for that. Zota had no right to deride Rontu in such a way.

“Enough!” shouted the enraged Link, but he gave off a little more than he wanted to. As anger rushed in his veins, so did his power: it sent up a gust a wind knocking some back. Zota was shocked as well; he stared at Link, as if making him angry was suddenly a bad idea. Link pierced Zota a stare unlike any other, making Zota take a step back from him even though he was already ten feet away. For no one else had seen Link’s eyes flash green, but then go slowly back to their original sapphire-blue.

“You ...”said Link, voice shaking but slowly speaking. “Will not ... speak to Rontu that way!”

Rontu stared, but he just shook his head and leaned lazily up against the cavern wall. Though no matter how hard he tried to repress it, a small but visible smirk crept its way onto his face.

“Oh really,” replied Zota, but Kira thought this was a very stupid idea of Zota’s. He had already angered Link enough.

“You talk tough but can you back it up?” questioned the Zora. Link did not answer, only continued to glare viciously at him.

“Looks like you want to have a go? Well? Or are you coward?” scoffed Zota.
Link simply answered, “As a Zora or myself?”

Zota raised an eyebrow, not really understanding the question he said, “You can fight however you want.”

With this said, Link grabbed something from his bag that the group had been carrying with them. No one had a chance to see what is was, and soon Link was trudging out into the water. No one spoke—only watched carefully as the two met each other out in the knee-deep water. Link and Zota stared at one another, waiting to see who would attack first. Soon the second was over and Zota sprang behind Link with a quick kick in the back, he had launched Link into deeper water. But Rontu noticed something; Link’s eyes had followed Zota. Link had let him get the first hit.

“This will be fun,” s******ed Rontu, but no one heard him. They were too worried about Link.

It was a good thing Link was wearing his blue tunic. Now he could fight underwater without worrying about breathing. But the only problem was that Link was much slower underwater and the Zora are naturally built for it. Link was right, because soon Zota came hurtling at Link like a missile. He dodged him just in time, but while Zota was slowing down he flipped around and fired a fin at him. Link gasped, which were only air-bubbles. I forgot the fins, yelled Link’s brain. He brought up his shield to block them just in time. Zota started to do something Link had also forgotten. Bright blue electricity sparked around his body but soon began to surround the tip of his index finger, which he pointed at Link like a gun. He didn’t have any time to stop him and he fired. The bolt shot through the water and smashed into Link. Link tried to scream but only bubbles came out.

On land the rest could see nothing, only every now and then bubbles gurgled up to the surface. Soon they saw a lot of steam and water boiling at one spot on the surface. Link shot out of the water and slid roughly onto the ground where the group stared shocked. His body was steaming and smoking, which brought a lot of chaos to the devastated company. Link sprang back up before any of them could do anything. Zota resurfaced too with a broad smile on his face. I don’t know what everyone was making such a fuss about, thought Zota. The great Link wasn’t that amazing.

What none of them noticed was the crowd of Zoras that had begun to form. They watched just as curiously and fearful as the rest of Link’s group. Some remembered Link as the hero who had saved their princess. Others cheered on Zota; many were good friends of his. Ruto appeared solemnly into the crowd wondering what was going on. Her eyes met the scene of Link and Zota. Zota? What is he doing? Did he come here right after I told him what happen with me and Link, thought the confused Ruto. She would go over to see what was going on, but she couldn’t look Link in the face after what happened.

Zota sneered gleefully at Link, pride full in his face. Link finally decided that Zota was tougher than he thought. He takes out what he had grabbed before their battle. It appeared to be a mask. A mask that looked like the face of a Zora. Zota stopped smiling to inspect the object. Zota snorted at the small thing. How could that help him? Link placed the mask over his face and with a blinding flash of light he had become a green colored Zora. The group and many Zoras gasped at the sight before them. Ruto gawked admiringly at Link, but only to feel the immediate pain of never being able to have him.

“S-so what!” exclaimed the appalled Zota. “What have you proved?”

The Zora-Link crouched in position to leap; Zota put his guard up as Link attack surprisingly head on slamming him into the water. Link was gone just as fast as he had come soon Zota found himself supposedly alone. Out of no where a green fins slashed Zota along his side, but disappeared back into the water before he could see where it had come from. He cursed under his bubbles that flowed from his mouth as he grabbed his side. Zota turned rounded and round to try and find him, but his efforts were in vain. For Link floated right behind him with blue electricity sparking and snapping around the palms of his hands that where faced in the direction of Zota. He only just looked around in time to find a large bolt of fiery blue plummeting in his direction. He didn’t even have enough time to yell.

Again the crowd saw boiling water and steam. Just as before a body came flying out. The only difference was that the body was Zota’s. The crowd of Zoras had to run out off the way to avoid being hit by him as he landed in the shallow waters of the Domain. Link jumped out of the water quickly after him; landing with one hand balancing his weight perched on his feet. Zota looked up at him, while Link rose to a standing position. He looked him straight in the eye, and there was something there—some wisdom of a warrior that he hadn’t reached yet. Something that told him Link was way out of his league and yet a league of his own that no other warrior had ever reached. Somehow this only made Zota more eager to fight him, not for Ruto but for himself. Like it was some kind of honor and almost like he was his teacher.

Link gripped the side of his face and pulled; another flash and he was himself again. Zota stared at Link in question; why would he stop being a Zora when he was doing so well?

“Why’d you do that?” asked Zota as he stood up and faced Link.

“It isn’t fair,” answered Link. “You are fighting me as yourself and I’m not. I should face you as myself.”

Zota nodded, only understanding somewhat of what he meant, but if it were him he wouldn’t have done that. But maybe that’s why he was a much better warrior than any other he had met. Soon they took their positions again, ready for another round. Zota again had the first strike, but instead he went for Link’s weapons. Both fins smacked Link’s shield and sword into the deep water and onto the bottom. Link could retrieve them easily but that would mean that Zota would again have the advantage of being in the water and he was curious. Zota been expecting him to jump back into the water for his weapons and then he would again have a better chance. But Link caught Zota by surprise when his fist met his face. Zota again fell to the ground but bounced back up and tried to punch Link too, but he dodged. Only he again under estimated Zota’s speed, Zoras were just as fast on land as they were in water. Zota smashed Link to the ground and dove on top of him; determined to beat him unconscious. Of course Link couldn’t be beat that easily and soon they were rolling around on the ground trying to make contact with their fists. Soon Link managed to throw Zota off of him and they lay there panting. Link and Zota looked at each other for only a second and burst out laughing.

While Link and Zota were in their fist fight Zelda was doing some thinking about Zota. His reaction earlier when Ruto dragged Link off was similar to her own … he looked so bothered and couldn’t take … his eyes off Ruto. Zelda chuckled as the answer that was as simple as the same reason why she had a grudge against Ruto.

The crowd stared unusually at the two as they laughed, no one could understand the minds of the warriors. All they knew was one second they were ready to rip out each others throats the next they were laughing happily together. Link was laughing because their reason for fighting was stupid and because he finally understood just like Zelda. Zota was only jealous of him, it seemed stupid to Link because he had to no reason to be. Zota was laughing at himself too; he also realized there was nothing to be angry about.

“What’s so funny?” demanded Khaz. “Didn’t they want to kill each other?”

“Well, if you looked at the details you would have figured it out already,” s******ed Rontu and Kira smirked too. Only Zelda, Rontu, and Kira seemed to know what was going on.

Link stood up and offered his hand to Zota, who gladly took it. Link helped him off of the ground and they splashed back over to Link’s company. They had a few cuts lips and bruised faces but neither seemed to care. They again relaxed by the water side smiling and talking calmly together even though there were some who still didn’t understand what was the situation with the two, not none bothered to ask. Ruto wanted to go over and see why the two were fighting before, but Link was there and she could not look at him without crying.

“So, Zota do you … love Ruto?” asked Zelda, coming right down to the point. Zota whole faced turned red and when he tried to talk he stuttered so much you couldn’t make out what he was saying.

“Aw, that’s so cute,” laughed Tila.

Link smiled at Zota, he was right. Zota had been jealous of him, but he seemed to have gotten over it. Link, found Zota reminding him of himself at one point in time and he really could fight well. Just as about as good as he was when he fought Ganon.

“B-but … she … Link …” mumbled Zota, staring sadly at his fins. “She only thinks of me as a friend … besides her father would never let me get near her.”

“That was unusual of King Zora to be so rude to you,” said Zelda thoughtfully.

“Well, first off I taught Ruto how to fight and he really didn’t like that. Then when we were sixteen I took Ruto and some friends to Lake Hylia to do some Dark Elf hunting. Man, we almost got killed!” smiled Zota, as happy memories of Ruto zipped through his mind. “But,” said Zota, looking gloomier. “He’s been making sure that I stay away from Ruto he keeps sending me on stupid jobs. But it never worked anyway she always snuck out to hang out with me.”

“But,” said Leita, finally joining a conversation. “Why would she go through the trouble of sneaking out if she didn’t have some kind of feelings for you?”

“Well, I’m her best friend and that’s all … I mean would you stop seeing your best friend? No, those kinds of feelings she has are only for one person …” Zota brought his legs up so that his chin may rest on his as he stared hopelessly out into nothing. Ruto peeked around the corner at Zota, not believing what she had just witnessed. Zota had feelings … for her? Was that why he was fighting Link? Of course the only question that seemed to continuously agitate her was: Did she have some feelings for him too? Somehow she found the answer was not so easily possessed. But maybe she could find out if she just…. Ruto waltzed around the corner and she became known to them just as quickly.

Zota’s eyes glittered at the sight of her and he stood up immediately. “R-ruto! Hey … h-how are you?”

“Fine … hey Zota, wanna go to Lake Hylia?” said Ruto, looking at Zota and avoiding Link’s eyes.

“But it’s kind of dangerous; don’t you remember that happened last time we went there? And what about your father—I don’t think he would like this—” but Ruto rolled her eyes and grabbed Zota’s hand and began to lead him up the corridor. Zota went with her willingly as she complained about her “stupid” father. They were soon out of sight and Link smiled to himself when he realized that is was the first real smile he had in a while.

“Well,” began Zelda. “Now that is over, let’s relax!”

Link was smiling in agreement when he heard Malon scream and then a splash. He turned his head and Khaz stood trying to look innocent by the water side. This was quickly followed by a hand reaching out of the water and grabbed Khaz’s boot. He yelled and slipped into the water. Tila gave Blaze a smile and took of her boots then jumped into the water. Blaze stared for a moment, but soon was shedding his boots too. Kira was about to go in also, but then she noticed Rontu off in the shadows just staring—thinking. Kira thought for a moment then made up her mind and walked over to Rontu. He didn’t notice her walking up he was too lost in thought ….

“Hey Rontu, come swim with us,” said Kira, even though it sounded more like an order then a question. Rontu looked at her, glared, then went back to staring at the wall in front of him. Kira was a little miffed but she tried again.

“Oh, come on! It’s gonna be fun lighten up for once,” pressed Kira.

“No.”

“Why not?”

“Because I am not going to frolic around in the water like a moron!” snarled Rontu. That’s it; Kira has just about had it with this gloom of his.

“…” Kira stared at Rontu before she lost control of herself.

“You know I’ve just about had it with your GODDAMN ATTIDUTE!” shouted Kira, getting the attention of everyone. Rontu opened his mouth to say something back but she didn’t let him.

“I know your father ****ed very thing up for you and I feel sorry for you, but it has been four years! Four years Rontu! Why can’t you just forget about what he did to you and learn how to live again!”

Kira’s voice echoed on the walls and left silence unlike anything the group had ever heard. Rontu has never looked so murderous. He stared at the ground as he clenched his teeth together, grinding them.

“… Did you feel everyone had to hear Kira?” said Rontu, in calm but dangerous voice. “Of course you have to spout off this to Link when it was none of his business, but that never seemed bother you did it?”

Rontu continued with his voice rising.

“I only told you because I thought I could trust you, but you only proved no different than anyone else I’ve met! I don’t even now why I should be here anymore!”

Rontu went to walk swiftly up the corridor but stopped just at the corner and he spoke without turning around.

“Kira … don’t follow me—I have nothing to do with you—I’ll see you in the Dark Realm.” And he walked away without looking back. Kira felt all the strength in her legs give out and she feel to one knee. No! Rontu—I didn’t mean to ….

“Rontu! Don’t go … I—I still need you …” sobbed Kira, hoping he would turn around and—what? Rontu would never turn to look back ….

“Good riddance,” Khaz muttered under his breathe, but Leita heard it.

Leita didn’t know what she was doing but she jumped to her feet and fled up the corridor to catch up with him. She had no idea what she would say when she caught up with him but it didn’t matter.

“Leita!” gasped Khaz. “What is she doing?”

“She’s … going after Rontu!” exclaimed Tila, who didn’t look like she could believe it either.

“Have those two been close lately?” asked Blaze, who stared strangely at the corridor she had, ran up.

“Yes …” said Link, they all stared.

“How is that possible?” demanded Khaz, who was the only one looking panicked about it. Link shrugged, he wasn’t quite sure himself, but the way Leita had ran after him the night the shape-shifter attacked and the way she looks at him told him something was going on.
I swear, over my dead parents’ souls, that I will not let him touch her. Khaz vowed silently to himself and he without further delay he sprinted after them.

“Rontu! Wait!” called Leita when he came into view. He turned sharply to face her, but was surprised to find it was Leita. He had been expecting Kira.

“What is it you want?” growled Rontu.

“I …” but nothing came out. She couldn’t say anything that would help because all he would do is yell and walk away. “I … I …” she stuttered.

“Are you going to keep stuttering like an idiot or can I leave?” snarled Rontu, his words piercing her like daggers. She hadn’t even said anything and already his words hurt.

She looked down pitifully as her green eyes filled with tears. She closed them as one splashed on her cheek. Rontu flinched. I made her cry again …. Rontu couldn’t help it, he walked right up to her and again placed his arms around her; holding her close to his chest. Leita gasped as his warm arms and body, again, held her so close.

“Please … don’t cry,” breathed Rontu.

Leita sniffed and wiped her tears on his shirt. He always could make her stop crying, even if he was the one who made her eyes burn with those tears. He’s so warm, thought Leita. She could even feel Rontu’s heart thundering in his body—was that because of her? Rontu let his face rest on her head, pressing against her silver hair that felt so soft against his cheek. How does she do that to me? She makes me care … care if she cries … care if she smiles …thought Rontu, but his thoughts were interrupted when he realized that they weren’t alone.

Rontu looked up to see Khaz had been walking up the corridor and had spotted them. Khaz’s deep, blue eyes met Rontu’s golden ones, he really did hate him. Rontu could see it those deep eyes that held something that would always make him stare deeper into them, maybe hoping to find what angered Khaz. Rontu, without taking his eyes away from Khaz, slowly let go of Leita, who looked up in surprise.

“K-khaz?” she sniffed, her eyes were still wet from her tears and Khaz must have noticed because his eye gave a twitch.

“Leita … go wait with the others—I need to have a talk with Rontu,” Khaz said through his clenched teeth.

“But—”

“Go,” he ordered, Leita did not wish to test the tone of his voice again, but before she went she said,

“You won’t leave … will you, Rontu?”

Rontu shook his head, his eyes flickered over to Leita but soon back to Khaz. When Leita left the two there Khaz didn’t say anything at first. What happened next was very much unsuspected. Khaz slammed Rontu up against the wall as he pulled out one of his katanas and held it so close to Rontu’s neck that he could feel the cold steel against his skin. But Rontu wasn’t frightened, Khaz wouldn’t kill him—not that he cared if he did.

“Now listen closely with those damned ears of yours,” whispered Khaz, but his voice was screaming with malice. “Keep your dick in your pants—or I’ll cut it off.”

Rontu only sneered. “So that’s what you’re worried about is it?” Khaz glared back, but Rontu knew that meant yes.

“All right, but if she asks me I’m not sure if I’ll be able to say no …” smirked Rontu. Khaz’s katana shook as his eyes begged to see it pierce his skin.

“What’s the matter—go ahead and kill me—I don’t care …” The katana grazed the skin on his neck making a small cut and let his blood leak onto the blade.

“Ah …” said Khaz as he looked at the blade studying Rontu’s blood. “So your blood is red like ours … but it’s darker—like your skin.”

Khaz’s face twisted with disgust as he spoke. He finally released Rontu and walked down the corridor, not saying another word. Rontu stood there as he chuckled to himself. That was amusing….

When Khaz returned he immediately went to deal with Leita. The others were again sitting on the ground talking about what was wrong with Rontu.

“WHAT do you think you were doing!” roared Khaz, right when he saw her. Leita looked up in shock and so did the others.

“Jeez, Khaz, calm down!” exclaimed Blaze.

“No! I will not calm down!” Khaz snapped at Blaze.

“Why?” yelled Khaz turning his attention back to Leita. “Why were in his arms like that?”

The silence exploded like bomb, all were looking at Leita. Her cheeks beamed red and she avoided Khaz’s stare.

“I—I don’t know!” whimpered Leita, Khaz’s harsh voice brought tears to her already red eyes.

“Promise me that—that you won’t do that again!” demanded Khaz. He grabbed Leita’s wrist to make her look him in the eye. His grip was horribly strong and quickly did she feel her bones ach in protest.

“S-stop …” sniffed Leita, trying to pull away but he only tightened his grip.

“Promise me!” cried Khaz.

“Khaz—stop—you’re hurting me,” sobbed Leita. Khaz stared for a moment at his hand holding her wrist firmly as if he need a moment to realized what she said. When he did his hand snapped away. Khaz looked away from her, shame glowing on his face as Leita held her hand against her chest as more tears crashed down from her eyes. They all sat stunned. The only noise in the place was Leita’s weeping and the chatter of the Zoras’ in the Domain. Khaz felt the tingle of panic as they all stared at him. Leita …I hurt her, raced Khaz’s mind, the thought began to tare away at him making him want to run. And he did. He splashed off toward the waterfall as Malon called,

“Khaz, wait!” but he disappeared behind the roaring water. Malon wasn’t one to give up that easily so she followed him.

“Jeez, you could have a little more drama,” mocked Ren, but soon Trisa brought her hand up and smacked him in the back of his head.

“Ouch!” yelled Ren as he grabbed his head. “What was that for?”

“For being an *******,” replied Trisa. Blaze just remembered Ren was with them, he had been so quiet that Blaze forgot he was even there.

“Leita are you okay?” asked Zelda, standing up to get a better look at it.

“It’s okay—it’s just broken,” answered Leita as she wiped her eyes with her other hand.


“Wow, he must have been holding on really hard,” said Tila, looking in the direction of the waterfall.

“Yes …” Leita’s eyes began to fill with tears again as she lifted her hand and healed the broken one. “I—I don’t understand why he was so angry!”

Leita began to sob as she sat down on the ground, she had never been hurt by Khaz before and even though he didn’t mean to she couldn’t stop the tears from coming because the worst thing about this was she saw just how much Khaz had changed. He was suddenly so full of hate and so much of it was for Rontu; when Rontu had done nothing wrong, but be born a Dark Elf. Only once before had she seen Khaz like that.

“He is angry because of me,” said a voice coming from the pathway that led to the next level of the Domain. They looked up and saw Rontu standing there looking solemnly at the crying Leita. She looked up to see him standing next to her holding out his hand to her. Leita sniffed once or twice and then grabbed the hand offered to her.

“Why would he be angry because of you?” questioned Leita as she stood up.

“He hates me—isn’t it obvious?” responded Rontu. “He’s just worried about your safety.”

Leita looked confused, but he didn’t blame her. Khaz seemed to be a very confused person himself.

“If he was worried about my safety, then what is so dangerous about you?” said Leita. Rontu sighed,

“Leita, I am a Dark Elf which your brother seems to think gives him reason to believe that I am not trustworthy.”

Leita nodded and too looked over at the waterfall Khaz had gone to for refuge. Then she noticed something, Rontu had a small cut on his neck.

“What’s that?” she asked, pointing at the small injury. Rontu brought his hand down and touched it.

“Nothing,” he replied. “Don’t worry about it.”

But Leita looked like she was going to worry about it. She bit her lip and continued to stare uncertainly at him.

“Um … did Khaz do anything to you?” questioned Leita.

“No, he just threatened me.”

This didn’t seem to relieve Leita at all. She looked just as worried as before. Why would she be so worried? Khaz was harmless, he didn’t look and act like a dangerous person. But still, there was something about his eyes—they were so deep—they held something more then his cheerful attitude. That’s probably why you should never judge someone by their appearance … thought Rontu.

“Why are you so worried?” asked Rontu, he wanted to find out how Khaz could possibly be any sort of a danger to him. Leita’s hands began to twist together as she looked down not meeting Rontu’s eyes.

“You are right about Khaz just making sure I am safe … but sometimes …” said Leita, not finishing her sentence. Rontu reached out and placed his hand under her chin and lifted it so that she would be looking at him. Somehow, looking in his eyes she found the words that she was afraid to say.

“Sometimes,” began Leita. “He takes it’s too far.”

“How far?” said Rontu.

“The threats he makes … he sometimes … carries them out,” finished Leita. Rontu stared at her for a moment. Keep your dick in your pants … or I’ll cut it off. But would Khaz really do that? No—he wouldn’t—besides Rontu had no intentions to do anything like that with Leita. He was just trying to piss Khaz off before. Rontu sneered,

“Well, don’t worry about that … I doubt I would allow Khaz to ‘carry out’ his threat.”

“You should be careful not underestimate him—he’s stronger than you think,” said Leita, as she griped her wrist.

Chapter Eight:
Pleasant Dreams

“Hey,” said Kai, suddenly. “Where’s Kira?”

Link pointed over to a small island to their left on which Kira sat with her legs soaking in the water. Kai trudged through the water until he was standing in waist deep waters and in front of Kira. She didn’t look up when he came, but he knew that she was aware of him.

“Is Rontu gone?” she asked, her voice barely even a whisper. Kai lifted her face to look at him and shook his head.

“What?” she gasped and looked over at the group where Rontu stood; he was also looking at her but quickly looked away.

“Leita somehow managed to convince him to stay,” said Kai.

“I heard Khaz yelling about something,” added Kira. “What happened?”

Kai climbed out of the water and sat down next to Kira before answering, “Apparently he found Leita in Rontu’s arms.”

Kira smiled softly to herself and found the memory of Rontu holding Leita in his arms at the fortress.

“It’s not the first time you know,” smirked Kira, Kai stared at her blankly waiting for her to say more. But she didn’t, she had already said enough about Rontu.

“Interesting isn’t it?” said Kai, Kira looked up in question. “That it would be her. They are very different people—I can tell even though I have not known them long.”

Kira nodded in agreement, she understood how Kai could tell he was quiet and observant of the people around him.

“Rontu …” began Kira. “May look tough and rude but he is the most sensitive out of us.”

“He holds so much of it in. He grows darker and darker inside because of it. And soon, if he does nothing, I know he will take his own life,” continued Kira as she felt her eyes begin to burn again and a lump catch in her throat. “I’ve tried so hard to reach him—but nothing gets through.”

“Maybe only Leita can,” suggested Kai, Kira blinked, he might be right. “It is possible that since Leita is very thing he isn’t that she is the very thing that he needs to live, for shadows need light to exist.”

Kira gaped at Kai; she never knew he could be that observant to notice so many hidden feelings, she never knew he could be so wise.

“But if there is no light then isn’t everything shadow?” asked Kira, this thought just accuring to her.

“… No, it’s complete darkness,” replied Kai.

Kira stared at the water, but wasn’t at the same time. Leita … please—reach him, begged Kira’s thoughts.

“Kira … why do you still need him? I understand that he is your friend, but it was something you said earlier before Rontu left,” said Kai, his soft voice bringing Kira back from deep thought.

“Oh … that,” said Kira. “Well, I guess I need him so much because I no longer have my brother—”

“You have a brother?”

Kira smiled weakly at him with eyes filled with sadness. “Yes, I had a brother,” answered Kira. Kai stared at her as he silently waited for her to continue. She noticed and gave a sigh as she spoke.

“He died in the war against the Dark Elves…. Do you remember the woman that the shape-shifter was when it saw me?” said Kira, Kai nodded.

“That was the woman who killed him, her name is Lilith. She’s not really a human or an elf, she’s a vampire—they happen to be amazing with magic and she gave him what is called, the Black Curse … it turns your blood black,” finished Kira.

“What was your brother’s name?” questioned Kai, tempting to take Kira’s mind away from such hurtful thoughts.

“Tarrowco.”

“What was he like?” continued Kai.

Kira smiled at the image of her brother that she could so clearly see in her mind. His smirk she could remember well—his forest green eyes—long blonde hair which he never cut.

“He was too arrogant for his own good,” laughed Kira. Kai’s half smile sparked onto his face at Kira’s pleasant features.

“He had a problem with stealing too … it often got him into trouble. That was how I met Link,” said Kira, eye dazed as the memories blinked in her head.

“Oh?” said Kai.

“Tarrowco had spotted Link’s ocarina and couldn’t help himself; Link caught him and I always can tell when Tarrowco was getting into trouble ….” Kira smiled down at her knees remembering how Link gave her such a calm expression even though her brother had almost stolen his precious item. Kai noticed something he hadn’t before. There was a small chain around her neck; on it was a pendent. It was a black stone curved into an “x” shape.This pendent was in the shape of a rune Kai knew well, it was the rune of geofu or “gift”. The rune was associated with the goddess of love….

“Who gave that to you?” asked Kai, pointing at her necklace. “It must have been someone important.”

“Oh this?” said Kira, placing her hand on the small stone. “He was a Dark Elf I knew in Ranelu.”

He wasn't a fool; he knew that there was more to it than that. “What is his name?”

“….” Kira avoided his eyes. “Sheinron …”

“Do you still love him?” said Kai, making Kira’s head turn farther away from him.

“ … I …don’t know anymore.”

Rontu stared silently at Leita who gazed right back at him. Tila shifted uneasily in her spot by the water as the absence of sound continued. Blaze walked slowly over to her and sat down. Ren yawned as he leaned more of his weight on the wall; boredom began to consume him. Trisa sat down on the wall next to him, she too was getting drowsy at the lack of movement. Impa, stood with a face of stone that never seemed to change. Link and Zelda stood, both were unsure of what should be done next. That was until Link got an idea.

“Zelda, do you want to go to the top of the waterfall?” asked Link, pointing at the one across the Domain.

“Sure!” said Zelda.

Link grasped her hand and led her up the corridor and to the upper levels of the cavern. Zelda blushed but Link didn’t see because she was behind him. They didn’t say anything for a while. They reached the level where King Zora sat proudly on his throne. They said nothing to him as they passed over to the tunnel which led to the top of the waterfall. Zelda stopped suddenly as the weight of the water her dress had soaked up began to make her weary. Link stopped too to see what was holding up Zelda. She said nothing but in a flash her outfit changed. She was now wearing tight black shorts and a tank-top that held tightly to her slim figure. Link’s eyes gawked at this. Her gorgeous body made his breath catch in his chest.

“Is something the matter, Link?” said Zelda, as she caught him staring at her unusually.

“N-nothing,” gulped Link as his cheeks turned pink, but Zelda didn’t see because of the shadows of the dark tunnel.

“Hey Link?” said Zelda.

“Yes?” he answered. She walked closer to him and obviously was about to ask him something important because her face looked serious.

“What was that voice in you head? The one I heard when we were traveling Zora’s River,” questioned Zelda.

Link didn’t answer; he stared at her in what seemed like alarm. She hadn’t seen that expression on his face for a long time. He soon turned away from her and continued to walk down the tunnel to the raging waterfall.

“Link? What’s that matter?” called Zelda as she splashed over to him.

Link however, continued to avoid her eyes as he stared down at the waterfall just before his feet. Though she tried she couldn’t see his sapphire-blue eyes that were in the shadows of the blonde hair that fell in his face.

“Link, who was it?” repeated Zelda. “It sounds like you … only empty.”

Link seemed to flinch at her last words. He turned away from her hiding his face farther into the darkness of the tunnel. He kept shaking his head as he backed away from her.

“Link?” whispered Zelda, his actions where starting to scare her. She had never seen Link act like this before. He looks so—so scared, thought Zelda.

“I …” quivered Link’s voice from the shadows where she could barely see him. “I … don’t ….”

Zelda walked slowly over to him, her feet trudged through the water current and over to him. She could see his eyes clearly now, even though the shadows continued to dance around them. His eyes, they were so lost, so lonely. He did not allow her to stare any longer for he quickly turned his head to the side almost in shame. Zelda allowed her hand to move forward and touch his cold cheek. Link felt the warmth of Zelda’s gentle hand on the side of his face he chose to hide in the darkness of the shadows. He felt her arm slip between his side and his arm as she pulled her body closer to him. He allowed her to embrace him but his arms hung limply at his sides, he was afraid to even touch her.

“It’s okay, you don’t have to tell me,” she breathed as she placed the right side of her face on his chest.

She could hear his breathing start to return to normal and feel his body loosen up. Zelda wasn’t sure how long she held him, but for all the time she did she never felt his arms around her. Maybe he only thought of her as a friend, nothing more.

Blaze and Tila sat in silence for a time. So did the others around them and soon boredom claimed them all. Trisa fell a sleep against a wall, Leita stared off into nothing, Rontu and Ren showed no signs of speech. Blaze’s mind began to wonder on previous events one of which caused his mind to stop and think again about.

“Hey Tila … who was that man the shape-shifter took the form of?” said Blaze suddenly.

This question seemed to snap Tila out of her boredom-trance and into deeper thought. She shifted uncomfortably on the spot she sat, she wrapped her arms around her legs and looked at him from the corner of her eye.

“Rai.”

Blaze blinked; that made no sense.

“Kira told you about him, didn’t she?” said Tila; it was more of a fact than a question.

“Yes, um … why would you fear him?” questioned Blaze.

Tila sighed, “He has two personalities, one is particularly violent.”

“Oh …” Blaze didn’t really know what to say to such a blunt answer.

“What about you?” said Tila.

“What do you mean?” replied Blaze. Staring at him she could see the truth in his eyes

“It was your father,” whispered Tila, that wasn’t a question. Blaze felt his confidence be smothered out. His mouth became dry and he couldn’t find any words to say nor would they have come out.

“Blaze … why are you afraid of someone you don’t know?” asked Tila.

Blaze had to give something back to Tila, who had shared something of herself. Now it was his turn, he knew this even though it was something he wished not to do, but he forced the words out of his throat.

“It’s not him I fear,” spoke Blaze. “I fear … becoming him.”

Malon splashed through the wall of water that was the waterfall. She found Khaz leaning up against the wall of a small opening that was behind the waterfall. Khaz looked up and immediately met her sky-blue eyes with his midnight ones. Khaz wore a face she had never seen; it was so blank, there was no smile on his face or frown. Malon stood transfixed on his eyes. They were so deep; they seemed to stretch on into nothingness even though they seemed to hold something more than nothing. Like the never-ending bottoms of the ocean, so dark and blue with on going depths filled with the unknown. So much an unfamiliar depth could almost make you insides fill with cold fear.

Khaz never took his eyes away from her for the long time that they continued to gaze at each other. Finally, Khaz moved. He slowly took his weight off of the wall and just as steadily moved his feet to walk over to her. Malon felt as if she was in a trance his deep, midnight-blue eyes put on her. For she never took her eyes off of them as Khaz trudged quietly in front of her. They spoke nothing to each other still, even when he was so close to her. Khaz was again the first to move and seemed to be the only thing that moved. The water itself seemed to stand still and she could hear nothing else but him breathing as he brushed some of her red hair out of her face to better see her eyes. His hand fell down to her lips, which he touched lightly with his thumb. His hand cupped her chin and his face leaned in closer to her lips.

Malon was completely under his control; she wanted nothing more than to feel those perfect lips of his. Khaz softly pressed his lips on hers and then again touched them in small, light, kisses. He slowly, with each kiss, increased the pressure of his mouth on hers along with the speed as he hungered for more of her lips. His hand drifted over into her blood red hair, pulling her head as close as he could to apply more pressure. His other hand traced along her side and then down along the small of her back. It wasn’t long until she felt the heat of his tongue in her mouth and she then forgot what was happening. She could only feel the warmth of his soaking wet body and of his mouth. Khaz was unsure of why those were his actions, but their kiss made him forget his troubles, allowing him to forget again why he was hiding there behind the waterfall.

Everyone seemed to return to the spot they had all been at the same time. First Kai and Kira traveled back across the water to their resting area. Second was Zelda and Link; they came from the corridor and down to the resting spot. Third was Malon and Khaz; they appeared out from behind the waterfall. When they met their friends Khaz kept his eyes locked on the ground; not wanting to look at them.

“Is everyone ready to go?” called Blaze as he woke Trisa from her sleep. They all agreed it was time to leave the Domain. The group traveled up the corridor and turned to the right where their exit awaited them. When they had reached the outside they were surprised to find the sun was already setting.

“You know, that Zota guy wasn’t too bad,” said Khaz as they again hiked down Zora’s River.

“What? Did not hear him? Dark Elf hunting,” muttered Rontu under his breath.

“Well, I guess that’s something only you have to worry about,” smirked Khaz.

The smirk on Khaz’s face almost made Rontu sick. It was filled with more arrogance than Ren’s face and his eyes bested Ren’s in cruelty. They were as cold as the bottom of the ocean and just as empty. Rontu stopped in his tracks at this smirk he had never seen Khaz wear. Khaz’s gaze continued until he had passed Rontu; Rontu looked around to see if anyone else had seen it, but that was a lost cause. No one had seen it.

By the time they reached their horses the sun was completely set. The dead trees in such darkness looked like crying people contorting in agony. Tila and Kira seemed to notice the most for Tila said,

“The trees … they’re screaming.”

“Yes … I think I can hear something too,” added Kira, looking around at the trees as the rest stared at them as if they were insane.

“Are you two all right?” asked Blaze.

“That’s right, they can’t hear them can they?” said Tila to Kira, who nodded in reply.

“Have you two gone nuts or what?” said Khaz.

“No,” laughed Tila, smiling at Khaz like he was a child. “Trees have voices too, but only Wood Elves can hear them.”

“And since I’m only half it only sounds like whispering to me,” said Kira.

“Well, enough of this pointless talk we need to make camp,” interrupted Rontu.

“That’s right,” began Sheik. “It’s too dangerous to travel Hyrule field in the dark.”

They blindly gathered wood in the dark with only the light of the waning moon to brighten the ground. Though the twisted trees made Trisa nervous she continued on determined not to get scared. When all the wood had been gathered Leita hastily lit the pile of wood on fire with some magic. Everyone sat in silence and in the warm heat of the fire. The trees not only made Trisa nervous but everyone else as well. Sheik was reminded of something her father told her about the river.

“There is a myth about the river you know,” spoke Sheik, her voice caught everyone’s attention. “It is said that if you fall a sleep on the river those with troubled minds will have troubled dreams.”

This didn’t seem to make anyone feel any better about the river. Rontu, Ren, and Khaz rolled their eyes.

“What? You don’t believe it?” questioned Sheik. Rontu snorted for his answer, Ren sneered, and Khaz gave Sheik a sarcastic smile.

“Not really, I never believed in things like that,” beamed Khaz.

“So Tila, since you are a Wood Elf doesn’t that mean you’re immortal too?” asked Blaze, wanting to change the subject away from such troubles.

“Well yes, but it’s more like we start aging very slowly,” replied Tila. “And we only start to age slowly when we reach twenty years of age.”

“Weird!” exclaimed Khaz.

“Well, I’m getting tired,” complained Kira. “How about we all turn in?”

Everyone nodded but Zelda reminded them,

“Hey, we need someone to take night watch.”

“I will!” piped Trisa, who was wide awake.

“No you won’t, you might fall a sleep,” said Blaze, making Trisa wilt.

“Then I’ll do it,” volunteered Khaz.

With this settled everyone made themselves as comfortable as they could on the dead grass. One by one they fell into a deep sleep, deeper than they thought they would have in such a spooky place. Khaz leaned back on a tree staring off into the fire, unaware that his eyelids were dropping as he let out a yawn. Soon Khaz was softly snoring as the fire sparked and crackled.

Khaz soon found himself eleven years old again and he was sitting down in front of a large clear pond with a fishing pole his father owned. Khaz watched his lure with a blank stare; awaiting a tug or pull. Khaz looked behind him to see his father too was leaning on the counter of his business center staring off; waiting for a customer. His father’s hair stuck up in the same odd angles as Khaz’s hair and was just the same shade of black. However his eyes were an emerald-green. Leita sat on a stool while their mother brushed her long, silver hair with a large, black brush. His mother’s hair was longer, but just as silver as Leita’s. Khaz stared up at his mother’s eyes that were looking down at Leita. They were filled with a comforting glow; they were the same midnight-blue as Khaz’s.

“Hey, mum?” called Khaz from his fishing spot.

“Hm?” she answered.

“Why don’t you ever brush my hair like that?”

She giggled, “Because what’s the point in brushing it when it’s never going to lay flat?”

“Believe me,” began his father. “I remember when she tried to brush mine … I swear she had been brushing it for hours and it still stuck up everywhere.”

Khaz smiled as his father beamed lovingly at his wife. Khaz returned to the constant staring at the lure. It had always been a quiet life here at Lake Hylia. There were the conversations every now and then but there were the same amount of quiet moments too. Every now and then they would get a customer that wished to fish at their pond. His father also made a living by fishing in Lake Hylia and selling it at the market in Hyrule Castle.

When Leita’s mother had finished brushing her hair she leapt off the stool and walked around the pond area just staring into the water. When she reached Khaz, who was still watching his lure intently; she sat down next to him and joined him in the blank stare of fishing. Khaz heard the door to their home slam open. Both Khaz and Leita turned their heads to see who the customer was. He was the most unusual Hylian he had ever seen. His spotless, white hair was just as white as his eyes that had no pupils or iris. Along with blank eyes was his long blank face that held no emotion. When the strange Hylian entered so did several other men. Their hair was as white as the Hylian’s but their faces were black.

Khaz abandoned his pole on the ground and stood up to get a better look at them. Leita, just as curious as him, also stood up. Their father looked a little nervous about these strange looking people. The dark skinned ones spread out in the open area and one came up to his mother who was just as surprised as them and slammed her into the wall pinning her to it. She gasped as the hard wall made her back ach with hot pain.

“Hey!” exclaimed his father, alarm flashing onto his face. “What are you doing? Who are you?”

The white eyed Hylian didn’t reply he only pulled a long thin sword from its sheath. Their father stared at the sword as Khaz saw fear envelop his green eyes. The Hylian did not give his father a response and let the blade slash across this neck, severing his head off his shoulders.

“Tori!” screamed his mother, she tried to move but the dark faced man didn’t let her.

Khaz’s father fell to the ground with a thud. Khaz stared at the Hylian as tears swarmed his eyes. Leita was sobbing, almost screaming at her brother’s feet, unable to rise off of the ground. The Hylian stared right back into his eyes—nothing. Not one smirk or even pleased expression, neither was on that blank face nor in his eyes.

“L-leita,” sobbed Khaz, trying to summon his courage as his eyes became more flooded with tears. “G-get out of here!”

Leita shook as she got up off the ground. She knew why she had to run and she did run. Some Dark Elves chased after her with their long and quicker legs but Leita knew where to hide and disappeared as if she vanished out of thin air. Khaz watched Leita run and hide farther into their home. Khaz heard his mother’s screams reach his ears. Khaz turned quickly around to face where his mother had stood.


Zelda poked her head outside her bedroom door. Good, no one is around, she thought as her face disappeared just as quickly as she had looked outside. Zelda closed her door and in a flash her sixteen year old body cloaked in a white dress became her sixteen year old version of Sheik. She wasted no more time and slipped out the door. Sheik didn’t know why this time was suppose to be any different than the other times but she kept on sneaking down the abandoned corridors of a place she once had called home. Now it was a prison. Adrenaline pumped through her veins as she neared the door to the outside world she had not seen for five years. Sheik has never reached the exit of the castle before. But … how long will this last? wondered Sheik.

Sheik neared her key to freedom and opened it and stepped outside. She shut the door silently and slowly crept up to the tall black fence five feet away. It was a beautiful sunny day, not a cloud in the sky. So long it has been since she had felt the bright sun’s rays on her pale flesh. Sheik allowed herself in bath in the sunlight of the bright afternoon. However, she quickly shook herself out of it. If she was going to escape then she better not waste her time. She whispered some ancient Hylian under her breath and soon she blended into her surroundings just like a chameleon. She climbed effortlessly over the fence without the near by guards noticing. Sheik dodged the dark guards as if she were an innocent bird or butterfly. Impa should be waiting down by the gate, thought Sheik, she had managed to contact Impa telepathically without Nottuu finding out about it. Victory was so close—the gate was ten feet away. She could even see Impa waiting at the corner pass it. Please … this time—don’t let him catch me.

Sheik reached the door on the left side of the gate that led up into the stone structure and to freedom, to Impa, and to Link where ever he may be. Sheik placed a silent hand on the wooden door knob as she felt a cold hand touch her shoulder. Her insides turn just as cold as the hand. No … I can’t go back. Sheik felt her magic fade from her body by his vile hand. She was soon no longer Sheik but only Zelda, and now she felt the hopelessness burn in her eyes. She didn’t want to turn around. She didn’t want to see his face and know that he had caught her again. She just wanted to reach Impa on the other side.

“H-how long have you been following me?” whispered Zelda; she kept her gaze on the door knob that she still had her hand on.

“Since I saw your head outside your bed room door,” answered the cool emptiness of his voice. He had been following her all this time only to catch her there—right in front of her freedom. He’s playing with me…. Zelda finally turned to look at him, knowing that she would have too. Nottuu’s white eyes stared blankly at her as his hand never left her shoulder. Zelda didn’t know what good it would do, but as she felt the cold of his hand she knew she had to get away.

“Please—let me go!” begged Zelda, tears already taking their place in her eyes. “Why do you keep me here? Why do you care? I am nothing! I am no use to you! Please! Just let me leave!”

No emotion. Nothing. Nottuu did nothing, he did not answer her. His cursed eyes just looked at her; the absence of feeling in those eyes made Zelda shake with anger. Damn him for his emotionless soul! Damn him for he had no mercy. Words of hatred leaked out of her mouth.

“No! I won’t go back!” cried Zelda, as she backed away toward the door that was waiting for her. “I will not live in this prison with someone who cannot even understand how much I hate him!”

Zelda grasped the door knob but Nottuu grabbed her around the waist with one arm and began to drag her back to the castle.

“Impa!” screamed Zelda.

Tears fell as she struggled with all her might to be free of the warm less arms of emptiness.

“No! I’m not going back! IMPA!” sobbed Zelda, stretching forth her hand at the blurry figure of her caretaker which began to shrink as she fell farther and farther away, back to an empty home. Her screams could be heard all over the courtyard. She never stopped, all through the halls and corridors her cries and sobs echoed until they reached the ears of the twelve-year-old boy with white hair.

Zelda had struggled so much that she slipped out of Nottuu’s strong grip but one frozen hand clutched her arm with strength that would not faultier. Her white dress gathered dirt from the ground as she continued to scream. Ren stopped in the middle of the corridor as Nottuu came around the corner dragging the sobbing Zelda along on the floor. Nottuu did not look at him as they passed by, and Ren could only stare. Zelda looked up to see Ren staring down at her with a look that was possibly sympathy.

“Ren!” cried Zelda to her last hope. “Ren, please help me!”

He only gazed at her with the same look as if he really did want to. He gripped on hilt of his blade but only stared.

“Ren! PLEASE!” screamed Zelda, as her arm ached so much she thought it might have broken in Nottuu’s grip. Ren looked down at the marble floor tiles, unable to look at her. Zelda could see it in those blood-red eyes and the hand that trembled at his side. He feared Nottuu, he could not help her.

“No!” she sobbed as her body went limp as the will to move left her like the tears soaking her face. No one would help. She couldn’t fight anymore. He would always find her. He would always bring her back to this place. She no longer had the will to fight back.

Nottuu threw her into her lounge room and she slid across the room. Zelda lifted her upper body up with her arms as her body shook and looked at him with lost blue eyes. Nottuu closed the door and walked over to the spot where she lay in tears. Now what is he doing? thought Zelda, an alarmed screeched in her head as the soulless elf stared emptily down at her. Nottuu bent down on one knee on the floor right next to her. His white eyes were so hard to read, how could they not be? White and blank features made his thoughts impossible to read. Zelda felt a sudden urge to back away from him. She began to push herself away from Nottuu as fear pierced her stomach like a cold blade.


Link stepped lightly onto the decaying bridge leading to the island in the middle of Lake Hylia. Fog surrounded him and filled the lake, making it almost impossible to see anything. Along with the fog came a terrible cold that spread through his clothes and into his body making him shiver and his breath to mist.

He continued crossing the bridge and as he walked Link began to hear something. Something ever so faint—like voices—they were becoming louder and louder until he heard one right behind him. Link whipped around to stare into the empty fog. The mist had tousted and turned in such away he could have sworen someone had been there just a second before. He griped the hilt of his sword nervously, and even though the cold metal stung his fingers he griped it hard. He turned slowly around and continued to walk. It had only been a few seconds and he heard the whispering again. He knew nothing would be behind him if he looked but he did anyway. Link turned his head to look out of the corner of his eye and he saw a black figure dodge into the mist and out of sight. He shivered out of the cold and out of fright as he whirled back around and drew out his sword. His hands shook and his breathing pounded his lungs as he looked in every direction possible expecting it to jump out at him. Why am I so afraid? thought Link. This wasn’t half as life threatening as his battle with the spirit Nelu had been. I need to get a grip of myself—someone is here and I will find out who he is.

“I’m you,” whispered a voice right behind him sending shivers down his spine. Link again whiped around to see the figure fade into the fog before he could see who it was. He plunged into the fog after it. The cold air sent sharp pains into his lungs but he didn’t stop running. The fog was so thick there he couldn’t see five inches in front of him. The fear of falling of the bridge did not enter his mind for only the identity of the man ahead of him mattered. He stumbled as he passed from the bridge onto the island. When he got his ground, again, he found that no one was there. He looked all around and found the fog was much clearer here than anywhere else on the lake.

He stared off into the fog forgetting what he was looking for as he noticed that the mist began to swirl around and part to show Link a small house on the other side of the lake. The door to the house flew open and two small children ran out. One was a boy with jet-black hair; the other was a girl maybe a year younger than the boy, she had long, silver hair. The boy fell to his knees when the girl tried to pull him up and over to a small boat at the water side. He heard what the girl was saying as if she were right next to him.

“Khaz, come on! We have to go,” she sounded like she was sobbing between her words. “We have to go—before they come back.”

Boy made no reply; he only continued to sag to the ground. Link could barely hear him whisper these words,

“K-kill me …”

The girl stopped pulling at his shirt; she stared with red eyes and burred vision.

“What?”

“ … I don’t want—want to hear them anymore …” the boy whimpered. The girl gawked at him and finally she spoke and just as quietly as him.

“H-hear what?”

“She’s screaming—she’s screaming!” the boy moaned on the ground as he cradled his head rocking back and forth. His small hands were placed over his ears as if he was trying to block out the sound. Slowly the children faded into what appeared to be older versions of them. The girl now had long, silver hair that went down to her waist, her emerald-green eyes was something one could always remember. She wore a dress that went down to her knees with slits on the side and a belt around her waist. The boy was now the age of eighteen, he wore a dark blue tunic, a white undershirt that sleeves only went down to his elbows, black pants, and he had two short katanas strapped on his belt. He remained in his feeble position rocking back and forth moaning,

“She’s screaming!” he then lowered his voice as he muttered this over and over.

“Khaz?” breathed Link. “Why am I seeing this?”

“The spirits of the river wanted you to see it,” answered a cold voice he recognized. He let out a cold shudder at the voice that sounded just like his own, only empty. He swallowed his fear and turned around to see a black figure leaning up against the huge tree on the island. His red eyes glowed out of the dark shadow of the tree.

“Why do they want me to see this?” questioned Link, he didn’t know why he was talking to it but this was something he had to ask.

“So that you would see that there are other people in pain,” it replied.

“I know that the others are in pain!” stated Link, starting to get angry at this a summation.

“Really? Tell me Link, did you even realize what the spirits were showing you?,” said the shadow. “Look again and tell me what you see.”

Link looked back around at the house where both Leita and Khaz stood. Khaz was still utterly sobbing those words over and over under his breath, he was still rocking back and forth. Khaz? He is in pain? Why haven’t I seen this?

“He hides it well, doesn’t he?” it spoke, it seemed to be able to hear his thoughts. But there was something else that Link noticed about the house. In the shadows of the side of the house was Khaz. Only he was different. He had cool, calm resolve about him and yet…. He was at first looking over at the other sobbing Khaz not looking worried or saddened, only observant. He then noticed Link’s gaze and looked at him with a smirk unlike anything he would have expected from Khaz. It was cruel and arrogant, and his eyes were as empty and cold as the dark depths of the ocean.

“So you can see him—he is similar to me, which is why the spirits of the river choose you to show this to but now it is my turn,” its voice seemed to echo all around him. Link turned around quickly to face the dark figure.

“Who are you?” Link asked, the man only chuckled.

“Haven’t I already told you?” it s******ed. “I’m you.”

Link couldn’t believe what he was hearing. How could he be him? They were two separate beings, it wasn’t possible.

“I don’t know who you are, but I do know that you aren’t myself,” said Link, courage returning to his cold body.

“Shows how much you,” it laughed again.

“I’ve had enough!” exclaimed Link. “Leave me be.”

“Ah, but you are alone,” it echoed as Link realized there was no longer a person lingering in the shadows—as if he had be speaking to something that wasn’t there.


A small boy leaned against the opposite wall of the door he was waiting to see open. How long has it been? Ten, twenty minutes since Nabooru told him to wait here. To wait to meet him. He could faintly hear voices coming from the door. Blaze looked at the corridors on the left and right walls before going over to the door and pressing his ear to it.

“Ganondorf, he’s waiting for you why won’t you go out to see your own son?” said Nabooru’s voice.

“I have things to do Nab …”

“Ah! I had you set time out of your day out for this! So do tell me you can’t see him!”

“Do you really want to know why I don’t want to see him?”

“Of course.”

“I never wanted a son and I really don’t give a damn about seeing him.”

Blaze took his ear away from the door. So this it? This is his father.

“Well, you should have thought about that before you decided to run off with Trilka that night. Now you have responsibilities to live up to because of that,” continued Nabooru’s voice.

“Fine, I’ll see him but I can’t stay long.”

Blaze gasped and backed away from the door to lean back on the wall innocently. The door opened and out stepped his father. Blaze had his red eyes but not much else seemed to look the same about them. For he was still a skinny ten-year-old boy when he was a strong full grown man. Ganondorf stared back at Blaze, who stared at the ground. “I never wanted a son.” He could hear those words pounding in his head as he stared at his boots.

“So … how old are you?” asked the Gerudo before him.

“T-ten,” mumbled Blaze, gaze still fixed on his feet. It didn’t surprise him that he didn’t even know how old he was.

“So it’s been that long has it?”

“…”

Silence echoed around them as they stood there not sure what else there was to say or just too afraid to say anything else. The Gerudo began to lose his patience or will to remain there. He was supposed to be going to Kokiri Forest to speak with the Deku Tree, but this had made him stay.

“Well, I need to be going …” he said has he headed to the corridor on the right. He didn’t even say goodbye, he left before Blaze could say anything to him. Blaze looked up to watch, what was supposed to be his father, walk swiftly around the corner and out of sight. Blaze slid down the wall to sit on the floor and stare at his knees instead. He didn’t cry or feel angry. As a matter of fact he didn’t think he could feel anything at the moment. Nabooru poked her head outside the door across from him. He heard her give out a sad and heavy sigh as her feet echoed on the floor as she crossed the room. He felt her gentle hand touch his shoulder making him look up at her. Nabooru was kneeling down in front of him waiting for him to look up when he did.

“I’m sorry but that is your father and I guess this is how it will always be,” she whispered to him. “He is not very good with change …”

“If he doesn’t care than that’s how he feels and I can never change that,” said Blaze, he knew that was what she really was saying. Nabooru looked at him with sympathy as his red eyes began to water.

“I wish I had a mother, like you,” sniffed Blaze, he was alone—he had no family except for a father that could barely remember how old he was.

“If you want me to be, I can,” she smiled, he looked up with wet eyes.

“R-really?”

“Trisa already sees you as an older brother, we’ll adopt you into our small family if you want,” she answered, smiling sweetly at him.

“O-okay,” he sniffed as more tears fell down his small face. Nabooru chuckled softly and wrapped her arms around the child as if her own. Blaze felt something he never had before: a mother’s embrace. The feeling made even more tears fall from his eyes that looked just like his father’s as he hugged her back.


Kira strapped on her blue metal gauntlets as Tarrowco preferred to place on green ones. He always looked good in green, it matches his eyes, thought Kira as she finished putting on her gauntlets. Link was on her right, only he wore his red tunic and hat with a black undershirt to match his pants. He wore no High Elf armor, he had some kind of armor that was probably from his home land. He had a huge two-hand sword with a blue hilt and an unusual shield that appeared to be a mirror with a red metal border. On his hands were golden gauntlets, which Kira had the suspicion that they made him stronger. Rontu was standing next to Link, also putting on High Elf armor.

“Hey, Rontu,” said Kira. “Doesn’t it bother you that you are fighting against your own race?”

“No,” he answered bluntly as he strapped on a black gauntlet.

“Are you going to tell us why?” questioned Kira as she put her sword in its sheath.

“Kira, you know what I think of my race,” he snarled. “Pathetic—all of them, even that Sheinron that you hold so dear to your heart.”

Kira stopped putting on her breast plate to feel a hard lump slide down her throat. They hadn’t talked about him for a while. Kira tried not to think about it, but it always failed late at night when she had nothing to distract her.

“Still mad about that are you?” Kira laughed nervously.

“No, I’m still mad about when he tried to kill me,” growled Rontu as he finished with his armor.

“And me,” added Link.

“Yes, but if I remember correctly it was Rontu who tried to kill you,” said Kira, raising an eyebrow at Link.

“That was only because Sheinron ordered me to,” Rontu replied for Link.

“Right, because you feared him,” s******ed Kira.

“No, because I knew he would stick a blade in me if I didn’t and I wasn’t ready to die,” said Rontu, looking enraged at this.

“Funny, sometimes I think you are,” said Link, catching everyone's attention. Rontu stared at him observantly and yet almost fearfully.

“Oh really, what makes you say that?” he asked, he looked a little nervous because his eyebrow twitched just ever so slightly, which was something Kira noticed he did whenever he felt nervous.

“Well, it’s just that sometimes you do things that are so dangerous that I sometimes think you welcome death,” replied Link, his sapphire eyes stared straight into Rontu’s golden ones and into his soul. This didn’t last long because soon Rai and Tila entered the room. They appeared to already have put on their armor and they were giggling lovingly with each other. Kira looked up to see Rai’s gray eyes peering happily at them through strands of jet-black hair. Tila was hanging onto his waist smiling at them all too. Rontu rolled his eyes in disgust at their happiness.

“How can you two smile like that?” snarled Tarrowco, who also looked sickened. “We are about to fight a war.

“Maybe you should lighten up,” replied Tila, frowning at Tarrowco.

“Hey Tarrowco, shouldn’t you cut your hair?” suggested Kira.

“No way! Cut off this gorgeous hair!” he gawked as he pointed to his long, blonde hair. “Not a chance!”

Kira rolled her dark blue eyes; she could never get him to cut it.

“I still don’t trust that elf,” Rontu whispered to Kira out of Rai’s hearing range.

“Rontu, he saved us from those guards back in Delu, what makes you think he is not trustworthy?” she breathed, but Link suddenly called to Tarrowco from across the room, getting both Kira’s and Rontu’s attention.

“Tarrowco, here—catch!” he tossed him what were beautiful silver gauntlets. Tarrowco gawked at them as they gleamed beautifully in the candle light that filled the room.

“Why—” began Tarrowco, but Link stopped him.

“They match your armor and I don’t need them,” he said smiling at the young warrior.

“Thanks!” exclaimed Tarrowco as he replaced his green ones with the silver. They didn’t have time to say anything else because an alarm sounded through the armory.

“What?” said Rai in alarm. “They’re already here!”

“Come on we’re suppose to be in the front lines,” said Link, as he hurried through the doors of the armory with Kira and Rontu following him. Tila, Rai, and Tarrowco followed shortly after. They ran up to the nearest tower to look out onto the plains of Ranelu. To their horror the Dark Elf army was already beginning to fill it.

“I thought they said they wouldn’t be here until sunrise,” gasped Tila.

“We better get going, I have to lead the first troops into battle,” said Link, his courageous face was unfazed by the tremendous wrath of the Dark Elf army.

Kira remembered being in the front lines facing the army next to her brother and Link on his horse Epona, riding back and forth from one end of the lines to another; waiting for the moment of battle. When the horn was sounded Kira felt her stomach clench with fear.

“Move out!” cried Link, how he never showed fear on his face was wonder to Kira. She now had no time to think—only to charge forward along with the rest of her people. They crashed into the front lines of the Dark Elves. Her and Tarrowco were an amazing team when they fought together. Tarrowco defended while Kira attacked.

Tarrowco charged with his weapon, which was a staff with a blade on each end, straight into a group of Dark Elves. He impaled two on one end then swung them with a such a force that they went flying off the end of it and into a crowd of Dark Elves, knocking them over. Tarrowco gasped at his own strength, he had never been able to do that before. But along with his strength came his arrogant attitude. An explosion erupted ten feet away from Kira and Tarrowco. It sent many High Elves flying into the air. When the smoke and faded there stood a women with long, brown hair and pale skin. Long, black robes draped over her thin body. Tarrowco s******ed and walked forward to meet her on the battled field. Kira gasped as she saw her brother walk toward death itself.

“Tarrowco, no!” she cried. He, of course, didn’t listen. His confidence swelled in his face as he swung back his staff in the position for attack. The woman smiled with amusement. Tarrowco swiped at her but at the next moment she wasn’t even there. She had dodged it so fast that he hadn’t even seen her move. She had appeared behind him, looking at him as if he were an ant that needed to be squashed. Kira slashed at her but did only what she had done to Tarrowco, appear at her right without being seen dodging the attack. This was when she decided to go on offense and threw a dagger at Tarrowco with such speed he didn’t even know that she had until he felt a sharp pain in his shoulder.

“F***ing b*tch!” yelled Tarrowco as he pulled the knife out of his flesh. Link looked over at them when he heard Tarrowco shout. His eyes then found the woman in black, Kira saw his eyes widen with—was it fear? Link galloped toward them with his sword raised at his side and attempted to cut off her head. She actually appeared to be surprised but she ducked in time to miss his sword. Link dropped off of Epona, allowing her to gallop back to the safety of the castle of Kanet.

Tarrowco sneered at her; he obviously thought she wasn’t that great because she had missed his heart. But what he didn’t understand was that she had missed on purpose. Tarrowco began to blink as his vision began to blur. Kira looked over to see Tarrowco start to cough, he was soon coughing so bad that he fell to his knees.

“Tarrowco?”

Kira ran over to her brother and when she kneeled down to see that was the matter, she saw a black substance was in his hands. It had come from his mouth. Kira gasped as she felt her breath turn icy-cold like her insides. Tarrowco’s coughing continued and worsened. It had become so bad that he couldn’t breath. Link ran over to Tarrrowco too, fear showed itself plainly on his face. Link did the only thing he could think of, he picked Tarrowco up and began to take him to the Medical Center. Kira was following killing those who tried to stop them. But as she fought she stopped and looked back at the woman in the black robes. She was looking at Kira too and she gave her a smile.

When they got to the Medical Center they found Rontu, Tila, and Rai were already there. It looked as if Rontu had gotten a bad slash to his side and Rai had helped him to the center. They all gaped when they saw Tarrowco. His coughs were no longer coughs but convolutions. The black liquid flowed out of the corners of his mouth.

“Kira!” cried Tarrowco, as his body jerked with pain. Kira ran over to the bed they had placed him on.

“It’s okay, I’m here,” she said, as she stared at her wounded brother.

“I’m gonna die, I’m gonna die,” he moaned, tears fell down his cheeks. “I don’t wanna die!”

“No, you won’t!” cried Kira as she held his hand. “You’re not going to die!”

“Kira,” he whimpered, he suddenly bent over on the side of the bed and vomited the black substance at huge amounts. Kira stared, horrified at the sight, she couldn’t stop the huge tears that fell from her eyes.

“Someone get a healer over here!” called Link, panic filled his handsome face. Rontu, Tila, and Rai stared unable to say anything.

“Kira,” breathed Tarrowco, his green eyes looked like something was fading from them. When the healer got there she tried to heal him but there was no affect. When she saw the black liquid, her eyes got wide and she said,

“I-I’m sorry but … there’s nothing I can do.”

“What do you mean there’s nothing you can do?” she sobbed but sounded outraged.

“He has the Black Curse, I don’t have the power to save him. I don’t think anyone has the power to,” she answered looking truly sorry for the poor warrior. Link wouldn’t give up—he couldn’t. Not on Tarrowco. Link placed his hands over Tarrowco and summoned Nayru’s Love, he only hoped it would be enough. A blue light filled the tent of the Medical Center. Kira gasped with her mouth wide open at Link’s power. She saw a golden light glow on the back of his gauntlet on his left hand. It was in the shape of a triangle. Link felt his power begin to fade, he should be healed. Link moved his hands away from Tarrowco—nothing—no affect. Tarrowco suddenly gripped Link’s hand with a silver gauntlet as his whole body tensed with a new wave of pain. The tears from Tarrowco’s face mixed with the black liquid the flowed from the corners of his mouth. Kira watched as Link squeezed his eyes shut, trying to hold back his own tears.

“Kira,” Tarrowco whimpered again. “I don’t want to die …”

Rontu walked slowly over to the dying body of his friend. He stared down into the life in his eyes that was fading fast.

“Damn it,” whispered Rontu, his voice choked. “T-tarrowco, what did you get yourself into?”

“I thought—I thought I could,” coughed Tarrowco. “I thought I could kill her.”

“Gods damn it!” cried Rontu, as he always tried to hide his feelings of saddness with anger. “Why do you have to be such an idiot!”

Tarrowco tried to laugh but could only cough. Tila was sobbing in Rai’s arms as a deadly silence surrounded them, death was near. Tarrowco was thrown into another coughing fit—his last breath. Tarrowco stopped coughing—he stopped moving—everything stopped. Kira let out a hard sob, she couldn’t see anymore life in his beautiful, green eyes. Link stared at the hand he was still holding. It had gone limp.

“No …” she sobbed. “Tarrowco—no …”

Tila paced back and forth on the floor of her small home. Her home was on the bottom of the city of Kelu. The city was a bunch of tree houses connected together with bridges. Where is he at this hour? thought Tila. Rai usually was back by now … and today she heard the trees whispering about something. Some sort of being—a dangerous being.

Tila stepped out the doorway of her home to stare at the trees of the higher up homes. She turned her gaze up to the dark canopy of the forest. It was already dark and torches were being lit all around the city. Alarmed voices coming from the path to her right caught her attention.

“He went this way!” cried a voice and soon ten Kelu soldiers were trudging out of the darkness of nightfall. Their faces held panic and fear. I wonder what happened …Tila felt a cold hand close over her mouth. It pulled her back into the darkness of her home as she tried to scream. When it finally let go she turned around to yell at who ever it was, but her voice stuck in her throat when she saw him. It was Rai—a scared looking Rai. He was covered in blood but she couldn’t see a wound, it wasn’t his own blood.

“Rai-” began Tila but he put a bloody finger to his lips to silence her. His gray eyes were wide and panicked.

“Rai … what happened?” she whispered. Rai, poked his head outside to make sure he wasn’t followed. When he looked over at her he hesitated before he said,

“I—I was at the fishing pond….” He trailed off as if he forgot what he was saying. He suddenly turned his head to look over his shoulder but no one was there in the shadows of her room.

“Rai?”

He looked at her as if he just realized she was still there. Tila was being to get very scared, she never saw Rai like this before.

“What happened?” she repeated. Rai looked at her like he was going to cry.

“I … I did it again …” he whispered, eyes widening with even more fear as he backed away from her and into the darkness of the unlighted room. Tila watched as his breathing became fast and hard as if he had been running.

“D-did what?” stammered Tila, as she began to think there was something very wrong with him….

“… run …” he whispered as he slid down the wall of which he had backed into.

“What?”

“Run—go—before it happens again …” he sounded like he was going to sob any second. She could hear him breathing now, it was the only thing she could hear. She wanted to run but fear made her feet frozen to the floor. His breathing stopped. She heard a chuckle come from her love, but it didn’t sound like her love anymore. He stood up slowly from his spot. His head hung low. She couldn’t see his face because his black hair was in the way. She let out a scream as he suddenly sprang at her. His blood-covered sword slid out and came to a stop right before it could hit her chest. She stumbled backward into the wall behind her as he stepped closer to her with his head still staring at the ground.

“R-rai—w-what are you d-doing,” she stuttered. Rai raised his head to look at her. He wore a smile on his face that widened into a grin that made Tila tremble with fear. His empty, gray eyes scanned her body all the way down to were his sword pointed at her heart which was just above her left breast. His grin fell into a smile of satisfaction as he slid the cold metal down between her breasts without marking her soft flesh. As his eyes followed the blade down his smile broadened.

“Rai …” she whimpered with a quiver in her voice as she stared at the bloody sword. His eyes went back up to met hers.

“And what are you two doing?” came a growl from the doorway. They both looked up at the same time to find Rontu glaring at them. Rai’s eyes narrowed at him and his smile fell, looking as if he didn’t want to be disturbed.

“I was looking for you, Rai,” snarled Rontu. “I heard a rumor that you killed a bunch of children down at the fishing pond … and now looking at you I know it’s true.”

Rai only smiled in the sinister way that he had done before. It did not look as if he wanted to speak either. It was almost animal like the way he never said anything, almost as if he couldn’t understand them. Or maybe it was the other way around; maybe he didn’t think they would understand him as if they were the animals.

“Now … just step away from her and I promise that I will hurt you,” s******ed Rontu as he pulled his katana from its sheath. Rai only smiled and turned his eyes back to Tila. He pulled his sword back a little….

“No!” yelled Rontu, golden eyes widening, but he couldn’t get there in time. Tila shut her eyes and waited for it. She opened her eyes again when she found there was no pain. Tila gasped, Link had grabbed Rai’s hand that held the sword. Rai looked very bothered by this but not at all worried. He only brought his other fist back to hit Link in the face, which sent Link flying into the wall on the other side of the room. Rontu rushed forward and slashed at him with his katana. Rai blocked it effortlessly then again brought up his fist hitting him back out of the doorway. He followed him out and stood in front of Rontu who soon sprang off of the ground and tackled Rai to the ground in return. Their swords fell from their hands as they tried to kill each other with their bare hands. They rolled over onto the edge of a hill where many hard-trunk trees grew. Without realizing it they went over the edge and soon were tumbling down the hill. Rocks and tree branches scraped and cut them as they roll down the hill with many trees in their path. Rontu was the first to hit into a tree but it did not stop them from continuing down the hill for Rai pulled Rontu down with him. As they continued a large boulder soon came into view. Rontu was lucky enough that Rai would hit the boulder instead of him and when they did he used all of his weight to slam Rai into it. He was knocked out immediately by the impact which had caused the most damage on the back of his head, which now was bleeding fluently.

When Rontu had finally dragged Rai back up the hill and into Tila’s house Kira had already arrived. He slumped to his knees for his back surged with pain from hitting the tree. He allowed Rai to hit the floor hard, he didn't care about holding him up anymore.

“Rontu! Are you okay?” cried Kira as she ran to his side.

“I am but I don’t think this bastard is,” said Rontu as he stood up and glared at Rai who was still on the floor.

“Rai?” whispered Tila, unsure if he would act the same as before, but for now he remained unconscious.

“Why do you think he did it?” asked Kira. “I mean trying to kill Tila and murdering children is something Rai would never do.”

“I always thought he was scum,” spat Rontu. Tila glared at Rontu; silencing him.

“I think this may have something to do with Nelu,” suggested Link. “It’s like somehow he developed another personality. One that is bent solely to kill and to kill anyone—even you, Tila.”

Tila stared at Link who gazed back, but soon her eyes traveled to Rai who lay on the floor. His eyelids began to twitch making Tila gasp and Link and Rontu to grip their swords. He opened his eyes slowly, his gray eyes that had held the emptiness that was there before was replaced with the warmth that Tila remembered. He groaned as he raised himself to his knees. Then his eyes widened with remembrance of what had happened. He gasped and gazed all around them with eyes that were filled with panic.

“Tila?” he breathed, looking at her, eyes filled with pain. “I—I’m s-so sorry!”

“I don’t think sorry this going to make things better!” roared Rontu, Rai flinched on the floor as he looked up at him in fear. “Do even remember what you did!”

Rai trembled at Rontu’s furious voice and stared down at his legs as he leaned against the wall.

“Y-yes …” his voice choked sounding as if he was in tears but if he was or not couldn’t be made for sure because his black hair fell over his face hiding it. Rontu stared. That wasn’t the answer he had been expecting.

“I remember it all ...” Rai was about to bring his hands to his face but stopped when he saw the blood on them. They all heard a hard sob sound from him as he brought up one knee to lean his arm on, in which he buried his face in.

“I—I didn’t … I didn’t want to … to ...” he sobbed as Tila approached him. She kneeled down and placed a hand on his shoulder. He looked up at her with a tear soaked face, but only looked back down in shame. He remembered her terrified face when he had held a sword to her. She brought his face back up with a gentle hand.

“I will always love you,” she said and slipped her arms around him. Rai hugged her back as he sobbed silently into her shoulder.


Ren heard voices and foot steps coming from down the corridor. He could recognize the voices. One was his mother’s and the other was Nottuu’s, who was supposed to be his father. But how could he love a father who would take him away from his mother? How could he love a father with no soul? His curiosity brought him into a search for somewhere to hide. He scanned the room with blood-red, eyes which stopped when it saw a closet on the left wall of the small hall-room. He quickly hid in it just as they came around the corridor. Ren peeked through the cracks between the closet’s boards that were tipped in away that he could see out of it but they couldn’t see him.

“Nottuu! Give me my sons back!” demanded a woman’s voice that belonged to his mother. He could see her long, blonde hair through the closet boards.

“We have talked about this before Rika,” replied the empty voice of Nottuu as they walked into the room. “I believe they will do better if it is I that raises them.”

“Oh really? And how do you plan to love them like they need from a father? Do you forget your own emptiness?” questioned Rika.

“You think that is what I need to raise them? I am confident that I can without having to love them,” answered Nottuu. “I have talked enough about this with you, farewell Rika.”

Ren hadn’t noticed that there was another man in the room. He was leaning in the shadows of the corner of the room. Ren knew this man, he was Nottuu’s hit man. He was a Dark Elf with short, white hair and icy-blue eyes. Why did he bring Kashino? wondered Ren but stopped because his mother spoke again.

“I don’t plan to leave until I have my sons back!” she said stubbornly.

“Then you are mistaken, for that is not what I had planned,” said Nottuu as the hit man rose from the shadows. She didn’t even have time to respond to this for Kashino’s blade flashed and in seconds she fell to the floor. Ren almost screamed but clapped his hands over his mouth in a silent one. Ren suddenly found himself outside the closet and again fourteen-years-old and holding Kashino’s bloody sword. Ren gave a yell and dropped the sword with his mother’s blood on it as he stumbled back from his mother’s body.

“What?” he exclaimed in horror. Nottuu and Kashino were no longer in the room. It was only him and his mother’s body. Ren looked over at the closet that opened at that exact moment. He saw a ten-year-old version of himself step out of it and stare down at the blood on the floor, which surrounded her body. The boy looked up at Ren with blood-red eyes that for some reason he couldn’t recognized anymore.

“Why did you do it?” he asked as he looked back down at the woman’s body.

“I—I didn’t!” claimed Ren.

“Yes, you did!” accused the boy. “Don’t you see what you’ve become?”

“What do you mean?” stammered Ren.

“You’ve forgotten me,” replied the child. Ren didn’t know what to say to that or what he meant. So he could only say again,

“What do you mean?”

“Oh wake up!” the boy cried suddenly, making Ren jump. “It means you’ve forgotten who you were! Who I am!”

“What? Forgotten who I am?” said Ren. “That doesn’t make sense, I know who I am.”

“And who is that?” questioned the boy.

“I’m Ren, the assassin,” answered Ren proudly, but the boy only scowled.

“Exactly!” he retorted, making Ren even more confused. “You don’t see it, do you? You think you know who you are, but you don’t see it for what it really is!”

“So you’re saying I don’t see myself for who I really am?” asked Ren slowly as he began to understand what the boy was saying.

“Then who am I?” said Ren, thinking out loud. The boy nodded as Ren realized this was what he was trying to tell him before.

“You’re him,” said the boy with the same white hair and red eyes and yet completely different. As he said this the image of Kashino appeared behind the boy smirking at Ren arrogantly; looking more like Ren than the boy.

“No!” shouted Ren, at what was shown to him. He tried not to look at her body.“I’m not him!”

“Come on, think about it,” continued the small Ren. “How many people have you killed for Nottuu? Or can you even keep count anymore?”

No, Ren wouldn’t believe it. He couldn’t believe it. How could he be like him? How could he be like the man who killed his mother?

“You’ve killed the innocent!”

I …

“You’ve killed for Nottuu just as Kashino did!”

No …

“You’ve become just like the man who killed our mother!”

NO! I’m not like him—I would never kill like …

“How could you do that to her! Become exactly what murdered her!”

“No!” screamed Ren, pressing his hands over his ears. “I’m not him!”

Ren fell to his knees with his hands the only thing stopping him from hitting the floor. Tears held back for years made their way from his eyes no matter how hard he squeezed them shut. Mom … I’m sorry … how could I have done this? It was true, he let himself become the very thing he hates. His tears splashed in huge droplets to the floor as thoughts of what he has done tortured him. How could I have let this happen? Where did he go wrong?

“How can I give up what I have made a part of me?” asked Ren, looking up at the boy for the answer.

“Remember who you were … remember me,” he answered.

“I … can’t remember…. That was taken away from me a long time ago,” said Ren.

“What if you could take it back?” suggested small Ren. That thought hadn’t come to him.

“You’re right!” gasped Ren. For once the boy smiled at him. It was the sweet smile that Ren had forgotten how to do. He stood up as he stared down into the eyes of his mother’s lifeless body. They were red, like his. Mother … I promise to make things right again…. Nottuu … you took my mother away from me… you even stole who I was and made me what you wanted me to be. For this …
I will kill you.


Ren’s eyes snapped open. He propped himself up on his hands to look around. The fire was still going and the only one still awake was Trisa, who was happily poking the flames with a stick. Khaz was snoring against a tree. So much for night watch … Ren crossed his legs and yawned his sleepiness away annd continued to pounder his dream. Trisa gazed over at him with big golden-brown eyes; they were filled to the brim with curiosity. Ren stared blankly into the blazing fire. Mother … I’ll make everything right again.

“What are you thinking?” came Trisa’s curious voice. Ren scowled at her in reply.

“Jeez, you don’t have to give me that look,” pouted Trisa. Ren rolled his eyes. “Hey! You did again!”

“Why don’t you stick to your own business for once,” snapped Ren. Trisa looked hurt and let her gaze fall back down into the fire. Silence seemed to snap and crackle like the fire before them as they waited for nothing. Trisa again began to stare at Ren, making him more annoyed with each passing second.

“Why do you stare like that?” asked Ren, finally saying something. Trisa looked up, delight glittered in her eyes.

“I was just hoping I would see something,” chimed Trisa, making Ren raise a curious eyebrow at her.

“Like what?” he said, for some reason he was almost afraid to hear the answer.

“Well, I thought I might see it again,” said Trisa, she knew that this would make him mad but she couldn’t help it. He kind of looked cute when he was angry.

“Oh gods, just say it already,” snarled Ren as he became frustrated with her.

“Well, sometimes you look … like an innocent little boy,” said Trisa, finally giving him the answer he wanted. Ren stared into the fire as he froze. Her words went right through him.

“How can you say that,” whispered Ren as he turned his head away from her, shame for the first time filled his insides with disgust. “I’m a murder remember? I almost killed your mother, do you remember that?”

“Well, yes but,” began Trisa, she could remember that vividly. “Sometimes I don’t think it was all your fault that you are like this.”

He couldn’t brush her words off like everyone else’s. They left him with nothing to say; he didn’t know how to respond to it, maybe because it wasn’t something hateful. How does she do it? Trisa inched closer to were Ren sat. She wanted a better look at his face, which looked speechless.

“You were raised by Nottuu, right? How could you not make any mistakes?” continued Trisa.

“But some mistakes can’t be forgiven that easily,” stated Ren, staring solemnly into the fire.

“Everyone makes mistakes,” said Trisa, now only five inches away from him. “Look, at the others. They have regrets and mistakes; it’s just how you make them right that matters.”

Ren looked at her in a way that made Trisa think he had been thinking the same thing. How could she talk to him like this? How could she easily forgive all that he had done and had almost done? She was actually smarter than the others of one thought about it. She let’s go of her hate and anger instead of let it get in the way of living life happily.

She’s not that bad, thought Ren as she smiled at him so beautifully that he couldn’t help but smile back. Trisa stared at Ren, looking shocked.

“What is it?”

“Nothing, I just … never saw you smile like that before.”

Ren didn’t think he had truly smiled without smirking since he was little. He liked it. It didn’t make anyone scowl or glare at him, it actually made Trisa smile more at him. Was this how he used to be? Was this a piece of him that had been missing along with the rest of what had been stolen.

“You know, I don’t think you’re such a bad person,” beamed Trisa.

“Well, you’re the first,” said Ren as he stretched out his legs and leaned against a tree. Trisa stared at the surrounding trees that were drenched in darkness, remembering what Tila had said. Were they really screaming with voices that could only be heard by few? The light from the fire danced across the trees, making them look like they had faces that were twisted in agony.

“I don’t like this place,” shivered Trisa, sliding closer to Ren in discomfort. “It’s hard to believe it was ever beautiful.”

“Well, isn’t that what hate and death does to things,” suggested Ren. “Suck the life and beauty out of something that was once a very peaceful and happy thing.”

Trisa sighed and leaned her back against Ren’s chest. Ren stared into her wild, red hair and smiled again. The river made Ren think about Hyrule and what the Dark Elves had done to it.

“Hey, Trisa?” said Ren as he gazed up into Hyrule’s dark sky that was filled with thousands of stars.

“Yes?”

“I’m sorry.”

Trisa turned her head up to look at Ren and smile in return. Ren smiled too, it felt good to not be hated. Trisa began to drift off into sleep as Ren yawned as drowsiness started to take him over.

I had a dream about you Ren. You were a beautiful person … just like you were and just like you still are. Please don’t forget the beautiful person you are. Because even though you may think you have forgotten it … it will always be there when you smile … just like you did tonight.


Leita had her arms wrapped around her legs as tears fell from her eyes. Nabooru stared down at the two teenagers with the most stern and demanding presence Leita had ever experienced. The minutes flowed by as she just stared at them and the silence screamed in their ears as if they were supposed to say something. Khaz just glared down at his legs as they both sat on the coach in Nabooru’s living area. Leita looked over at her brother who had nothing to say to Nabooru. She looked down at his hands that were as his sides, still clenched in anger and covered in blood. There was very little of Khaz that wasn’t covered in the red liquid.

“Do you have nothing to say for yourself?” asked Nabooru, finally speaking but only to get the same silence as before. Khaz clenched his hands harder but said nothing.

“Why did you do it?” she questioned again, nothing … but silence.

“Khaz … why did you kill your uncle?”

“He got what he deserved!” screamed Khaz as he suddenly exploded, making Nabooru stare wide eyed at him as his hands gripped his knees with his nails digging into his pants.

“No one does that to my sister gets away with it,” snarled Khaz, with anger glowing in his eyes just like when he had cut into his uncle’s flesh. Leita buried her face away from the face of Khaz. Away from the anger she had never seen in the kind face of her brother. Something had awoken that day … inside of him. Something empty and cold. Something that held onto hate with a passion.

Leita’s eyes opened as if she had been wide awake for hours. She sat up and stared into the darkness of the trees around them, which were touched by the light coming from the fire behind her. Her green eyes automatically searched for Rontu who was only a few feet to her left. Being near him was enough to calm her so she crawled over to him, laid back down, and stared at his face. It was tense more than usual. Maybe his dreams were as troubled as hers? He cringed suddenly as if something was hurting him inside that mind of his. Leita reached out to his hand and touched it softly and then squeezed it as she thought,

Don’t worry Rontu … I won’t let anything hurt you.


Rontu waited by the fence that surrounded his father’s land that was surrounded by the desert of Suu, the land of the Dark Elves. Rontu leaned on the fence with the young face of a fourteen-year-old. He waited for her. It was getting late and if she didn’t hurry his father would come out. It was a warm winter night, only because of the desert surrounding him. Rontu perked his head up when he saw the outline of a young girl that was the same age, run out of the darkness and toward him.

“Tilly,” he whispered as she ran up to the fence to meet him. Her long, white hair glowed in the moon light and her black face beamed at him with purple eyes.

“Sorry I took so long, my brother didn’t fall a sleep for what seemed like hours—” but Rontu put a finger to her lips to silence her. She looked at him with a curious face as he took his finger away and leaned in close. She closed her eyes as Rontu’s lips touched hers. Rontu snapped back when he heard his front door slam open. Tilly looked up in surprise.

“Tilly, you better get out of here,” said Rontu as his mouth went dry and stared at the front door and at the person standing there. She nodded, fear flickered in her eyes.

“Good-bye,” she whispered and slid off back into the dankness. Rontu heard his father’s feet sink into the sand with each step he took. What did he do now?

“What the hell are you doing out so late?” growled his father. Rontu griped the wooden fence as he kept his back to him and said nothing.

“Look at me you little *****!” he slurred, he had been drinking again. Rontu stuffed away his fear and turned around to look at his father, who was looking at him in disgust.

“Are you out here waiting for that little b*tch again?” he snarled. “You stupid f***ing boy, waiting out here for that slut.”

“She’s not a slut!” retorted Rontu, but a second later he wished he hadn’t. Rontu leaned his back against the fence … ready to run.

“Don’t you yell at me you little *****!” he roared, he lunged at Rontu, who dodged and ran into the field of his father’s ranch. He didn’t dare look behind him as his feet pounded on ground to get away. Rontu’s lungs screamed at him to stop, but he didn’t dare. He wouldn’t stop running until he felt the pain in his head that would be the Dark Elf’s fist. He knew that running would get him nowhere, he knew that he would catch him but it didn’t matter. He would have beaten him away.

Rontu had been right, he felt the back out his father’s hand meet the back of his head and he fell to the ground clutching his head. The pain scorched his mind, but he wouldn’t cry out. That only made him hit him harder. Rontu looked up to see his father’s drunken face smirk down at him. His foot swung back and then slammed into Rontu’s gut. Rontu gasped but still didn’t shout as he rolled several times over until he hit the barn doors making them fly open. Rontu stumbled as he got up. He wouldn’t lie on the ground and wait for him. He cradled his stomach, trying to forget the hot pain that was there. Sweat dripped from his face as his father stepped into the barn. The horses even seemed to know what would happen next, as he sneered at Rontu, who tried to stand up sraight be the pain in his torso kept him hunched over. There was nowhere to run now.

“Are you scared?” he s******ed with disgust. “You f***ing fairy, face me like a man.”

The horses kicked and bucked in their pens as his father dashed forward and punched him in the gut sending him flying across the floor. Rontu’s body shook hard as he lifted himself to his knees and he coughed up blood that had been caused by the blows to his stomach. Rontu gasped for breath and heat pounded in his mid-drift as he heard his father’s feet echo around the barn.

“You’re going to end up just like me,” said his father as he kneeled down to look at Rontu’s face that was full of pain, eyes squeezed shut. “I married you’re f***ing b*tch of a mother and got landed with you when she got herself killed.”

“Don’t call her that!” shouted Rontu, all pain forgotten and only rage could be thought of. He could hit him as much as he wanted, but he couldn’t do that. He wouldn’t allow him to mock his mother. He threw a punch that his father, who only caught it easily. When he tried to hit Rontu, he caught the blow just as easily. His father’s golden eyes widened with surprise but were only surprised again when Rontu kneed him in the gut. His father’s face twisted with anger as well as pain.

“You little bastard!” he barked as his hands closed around Rontu’s neck cutting off his air supply. Rontu gasped and fought to breath. Panic filled his lungs in the place of air. He gripped the hands around his neck, but they were too strong to pull away. His father finally let go, maybe he decided he wouldn’t kill Rontu that day. But that didn’t stop him from hitting Rontu in the face after he let go. Rontu clutched his broken nose as his father rose from the ground, again towering over him. Sharp stabbing pains spread all over his face as blood leaked through his fingers.

“Get up,” his voice echoed. Rontu did as he was told and stood up but still shook as he fought to remain standing. Rontu fought back tears, tears for his mother and tears of frustration.

“Oh *****, don’t tell me you’re going to cry,” laughed a man that should have never been a father. A tear slipped its way out of Rontu’s restrain and down his cheek.

“Oh don’t f***ing cry you pansy-ass bastard,” he snarled with disgust. “Men don’t cry.”

Rontu quickly wiped away the tear, shame filling his face. He swallowed down more tears but more somehow escaped his golden eyes. This made his father roll his eyes as more hate for his own flesh and blood began to bubble up.

“Don’t f***ing cry!” he growled as he kneed his son in the gut, which sent him again across the barn. Rontu hit into the wall next to the hot coals where his father made horse shoes. The Dark Elf picked up a poker from the coals that had made the tip red hot. Rontu stared up at him, fear sparking in his young eyes at the poker that his father held in a strong hand. He shrank back against the wall, he panted with fear as the man walked closer. Fear kept him on the ground, unable to move. His father inspected the piece of hot metal, before stabbing the poker straight into his shoulder, making him scream.

Rontu was on his knees in pitch black nothingness; his hand gripped his shoulder where a scar took the place of the wound that had been made there. His other arm wrapped itself around him, trying to find some sort of comfort that wasn’t there. Rontu’s breathing decreased as he realized he wasn’t in the barn anymore. This place wasn’t any better than the barn. Yet he knew it well, it was the darkness that encompasses him. He was alone in the dark place of his mind … alone.

The tapping of feet was heard and then he suddenly found he was not alone. Rontu looked up to see the fragile figure of Leita walking toward him. She appeared unaffected by the darkness around them that keep him on his knees. When she stood in front of the Dark Elf she smiled at him softly and offered her gentle hand. Rontu stared at the hand, should he take it? He hesitated but reached out a glove-covered hand to touch hers. Rontu rose up off of his knees and to his feet. She smiled brightly at him reaching up to touch his face that was still wet from the tears that had been there four years ago. She wiped them away for him as his arms went around her, pulling her closer to him. She went willing into his arms, giving him the comfort he had been looking for. Rontu leaned in close to her face and kissed the tip of her nose making her giggle. He smirked and squeezed her closer to him as he allowed her lips to touch his.

Rontu’s eyes opened slowly to see Leita’s sleeping face in front of him. Not only was she sleeping next him but her hands held his in her deep sleep. Rontu noticed the sky above him was a light blue of the morning, but he didn’t not rise from the ground. Nor did he remove his hand from her soft ones. He laid there waiting for the others to rise and for their day to begin, but almost dreading it. He wished he could stay there … holding her hand, lost in the moment forever.

Wow, I think that's the longest chapter in fanfiction history, I mmust have been reading for like an hour.

What was the deal where the chapter just randomly went into italics, I was sllightly confused at that. Was the conversation between Kai and Kira an addition, I don't remember that from the old fanfiction site.

Great as usual, I dont have any complaints, I liked how you slipped in sons when talking about Nottuu, I was wondering if it had come up earlier. All your characters are great and so interesting; their is never a dull moment in your story due to the depth of all the characters. My favorites are Kai and Rontu, and of the girls Leita for reason that haven't occured yet.

Keep it up, I hope there is and end in sight (in a good way, not a negative way)

Author's Note: Sorry about the italics, you must have read the chapter before I managed to fix it. I'm glad you like Rontu, he's one of my favs too. Hard to say which one of my guys I like best. Leita is my personal favorite out of the girls also.

Chapter Nine:
Dragon Blood

“Wake up!” snarled a harsh voice, making Ren blink but just to close his eyes again. I don’t want to get up, thought Ren’s groggy mind.

“Get up you sh**!” it growled at him again. “You too Trisa!”

Ren rubbed his eyes and looked up to see Blaze scowling down at him. The sky behind him was a bright blue and the early morning air awakened his senses. Ren didn’t know at first, why Blaze was glaring at him in such a way. He hadn’t done anything wrong yet, but he looked down to see Trisa had fallen a sleep on his chest; obviously had been snuggling with him. She sat up blinking away her sleepiness and looked up at Blaze in confusion. Ren gulped as he gazed up at Blaze, who was towering over him; eye twitching at what he has seen. He hadn’t seen him this angry since he had attacked Trisa at the Fortress.

Ren rose quickly from the cold ground, trying to look as innocent as possible. Trisa still looked clueless and no less sleepily. She too rose from the ground to blink at Blaze.

“Jeez, you don’t have to be so mean about it,” she yawned. Blaze continued to scowl.

“Come on!” he barked to the rest. “Get up, we have to get going.”

Ren let out his breathe that he had been holding. He was expecting Blaze to freak out on him, but he was lucky this time. If you thought about it, Ren really didn’t do anything wrong. So Blaze would have no reason to do anything to him.

Khaz’s eyes fluttered open and he stretched out his arms and legs as he gave a huge yawn and then jumped right to his feet with enthusiasm.

“Khaz!” snarled Blaze; he didn’t appear to be in a good mood this morning. Khaz smiled in reply and didn’t seem to notice how dangerous Blaze looked.

“You fell a sleep!” growled Blaze as he advanced on Khaz, who backed into the tree behind him. He was finally realizing just what kind of a mood Blaze was in.

“O-oh … yeah, um … sorry about that,” stuttered the belittled Khaz.

“Sorry you say!” exclaimed Blaze. “What would have happened if we had been attacked!”

“Blaze!” said Tila, who had been woken up by his loud and harsh voice. “Don’t be such an assh*le.”

The only person Blaze would never yell at was Tila. So he became silent and walked grumpily over to his horse. Rontu got up and brushed the dead grass off his black trench coat. Leita stood up shortly after, but didn’t make eye contact with Rontu. His eyes followed Leita over to her horse and readied to mount it. He wanted more than ever to walk over to her and say something. No; what would he say? His pride wouldn’t allow him to anyway. But perhaps it wasn’t pride like he would like to have thought that didn’t allow him to.

Link walked over to Epona, patting her for a moment as he stared off. That dream…. Sheik untied her horse’s reins, which was next to Link’s horse. Link snapped out of his trance to look over at her. But she had changed again, but this Sheik was the male version and all of his face was hidden beneath a cloth, except for his red eyes.

“Hey, Sheik,” said Link. “What’s with the change?”

“Nothing,” he answered. “The Dark Elves with be looking for a woman, so I thought I would make it more difficult for them.”

I’m not going back, thought Sheik as he adjusted the saddle. Kira then walked up to where her horse was, which also was next to Link’s and Sheik’s horses. Kira stared at her own hands as they began to untie the reins to her horse. She stumbled over the knot again and again until frustration got the best of her, pushing her over the edge.

Link and Sheik gasped as Kira fell to her knees, shoulders shaking as she sobbed into her hand. She let out sobbing gasps, as the others stared in silence. Kai walked over to where Kira sat, still crying but now silently. He kneeled down and touched her shaking shoulder, making her look up at him with a tear covered face. He didn’t say anything, because he knew nothing was needed to be said, even if they had no idea why she was crying. Kira spoke anyway; this was something she needed to let out, something that she couldn’t hold in anymore.

“L-link,” she whispered with a quiver in her soft voice.

“Yes?”

“Do you remember … the day Tarrowco died?”

This question stole Link’s breath away. He remembered, he would always remember. Link looked down at his silver gauntlets, which were glittering in the morning sun. He remembered how they had shined in the candle light that night. He could still feel the pressure of Tarrowco’s hand with the silver gauntlet, squeezing his in pain. He could still see his face screaming….

“Yes … I remember,” Link answered, his eyes fixed on his gauntlets.

“I dreamed about it … last night,” said Kira, falling silent for only a moment.

“It’s not fair!” she cried. “I—I just want my little brother back!”

She fell into Kai’s arms, sobbing just as hard as before. Kai held her securely in his arms as her tears dampened his dark blue shirt. They stood in stunned silence. The only thing that could be heard was Kira’s crying. Rontu’s hands were frozen to the saddle of his horse that he was about to mount. He stared down at the dead grass on the ground. Tarrowco … he was an arrogant idiot and had even made Rontu furious at times, but he still missed that fool. Rontu took his eyes back up and turned them toward the sky. Why did you have to die? You had done nothing wrong … you were innocent….

Kira eventually stopped crying and wiped her eyes. They all mounted their horses silently and made their way back to Gerudo’s Fortress. The trip was a quiet one; no one seemed in the mood to talk. Without knowing it they were all thinking about the dreams they had last night.

Link looked over at Khaz, who was trying hard to remember his dream but onl