Chapter one: Home

I've come home -- to find you waiting!
Home… and we're together...
And we'll do wonders...
Won't we...?

“My friends” (¨Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” Soundtrack) by Stephen Sondheim

The river’s voice echoed on the forest, the wind moaned softly on the tree branches and a young boy was sitting on a rock. He had blonde hair and his eyes were blue and sad.  However, his body was surprisingly well-formed for his nine years and his arms and legs were strong. A sword cover hang from his waist and a wooden shield covered his back. He held a fishing rod on his small hand, but the bait on the water hadn’t moved for a long while.

The boy sighed.

“Good grief…how long have I been here?” he thought, looking at the sky. It was darkening “Three hours, maybe?” He stared at the water “Maybe I should go home…the fish are not biting today…” he shivered “And it’s starting to get cold, too”

Not that he was surprised about the cold, after all, winter was just coming to it´s end, and although snow had already melted, the warm spring rains hadn’t come yet, it was just that…well…everything seemed just…colder than usual…as if a dark cloud covered the usually sunny Faron Woods. And animals were acting weird too. The Ordon goats were really nervous creatures, they reacted at the first sign of danger. All the past week, they had been acting weirdly.

At this point, the rod gave a jerk, making the boy start.

-At last! - he said, pulling the rod. As he pulled, an enormous fish of a greenish gray jumped out of the water like an arrow.

-A catfish!!- the boy smiled, pulling even harder.

-Need help, Colin? - asked a soft voice behind him. Collin almost forgot about the fish when he heard it.

A hand fell on his shoulder and the other grabbed the rod. The second later, the Ordon catfish came out of the water splashing and twisting.

But Colin didn´t mind…he only cared about the person who helped him.

It was a young man. His dark golden hair fell partially on his dark blue eyes, which were wild and strange. One could have thought he was one of those legendary creatures that feature on fiction books, elves, because of his long-pointy ears and his clothes, which where as green as the fields of Hyrule. But mostly, because of his face.

His expression told that he had seen horrible things, battles, fire, death…suffering. It’s something people keep in their minds and on their faces…even so, his face also looked young. A long triangular hat fell from the top of his head to his back, making him look childish. The arm that held Colin’s rod was strong and mighty…but the hand on Colin’s shoulder was gentle.

Colin stared at him wide-eyed.

-What? - asked the young man innocently –Don’t tell me you don’t like catfish anymore…-

The next moment, both of them were falling off the rock, laughing like crazy and rolling like a pair of children on the river’s water.

-Oh, how cute- said a woman’s voice, laughing.

-Why didn’t you tell us you had a little brother, Link? - said a man’s voice.

-Actually- said Link, getting up –Colin’s not my brother…at least, not my sibling- he smiled.

A man and a woman about Link’s age stood at the border of the river. Both of them looked rather tired, but they were smiling. Link and Collin made them laugh.

-Wait- said Colin, getting up –I know you…- he walked towards the man –It is you!  You went to Kakariko back then…you know…- he looked ashamed, he wasn’t smiling anymore -…two years ago-

-You’re right, Colin- said Link, looking worried –He’s Shad. And she…- he made a slight motion towards the girl -…is Ashei. The three of us have been traveling together all these time. Guys- he added- this is Collin, as I said…he’s like my brother-

Colin made a clumsy bow.

-And this…- Link continued -…is Faron spring. Thought you might like it Shad…-

-Interesting- said Shad –So this is where…the forest spirit lives…impressive-

-It´s also- said Link –Where you can get the best catfish in the whole world-

-No kidding- assured Colin, showing the newest catch with a goofy grin on his face.

--

The forest is a silent sea of life. Turn left; turn right, and all you can see is exactly that: life.

As they rode through the forest, Shad’s eyes explored the forest, as if capturing in his mind every last detail of the living paradise around him. Ashei, on the other hand, looked tired and sleepy.

-What a marvelous flora you have here- said Shad, admired –Why, even the light’s shaded of green-

-Very interesting, Shad- said Ashei, yawning –I bet you were a school teacher on your past life. Probably only school teachers and politicians can use that monochord tone with such perfection. You’re hypnotizing me, yeah?-

-Ha, ha, very funny. Do you become stupid when you are sleepy or some…?-

A far-away crashing noise cut Shad’s words. It was the sound of breaking branches, breaking woods, destruction. Before anyone knew what happened, Link had already grabbed his sword and dismounted Epona.

-What was that?!- asked Ashei, sitting straight on her horse.

-Sounded like a thunder- said Shad, rather frightened

-Thunders- explained Colin –Don’t break trees like that. It sounded more like an explosion-

-Colin’s right- said Link –I smell smoke. Fire-

-Smoke? - repeated Colin –I don’t smell anything…-

-How far? - asked Shad, paying no attention to him

-…a kilometer….more o less-

-Want to go? - asked Ashei. She seemed less sleepy now. Link sighed.

-No, maybe it´s just nothing- he lowered his sword –The smell is disappearing- he sheathed his sword.

-Probably another real bomb-chu, just like in Jorlier- replied Ashei, looking disappointed

-Surely…- mumbled Colin, shrugging.

-Well then…- said Shad, giving a yawn –How about hurrying to Ordon before it gets dark?-

-Nice idea- said Ashei –I think I need some sleep…-

Link grabbed Epona´s rains and continued leading the group through the forest.
As they continued walking, Colin shook Link’s sleeve, looking carefully if Shad and Ashei weren’t watching.

-Link?-

-Yes, Colin? - said Link, turning to him in surprise

-What the heck is a real bomb-chu? - asked Colin, blushing.

--

-Holy cow!!!- exclaimed Bo, looking at the chess board with a wild expression –How did you bloody do that?!-

-Practice- said Rusl, smiling –Are you going to move or can I check mate already?-

Ilia walked towards them carrying two glasses filled with beer. Even though she was usually light-hearted, she didn’t seem all too happy. Maybe the climate had something to do with it. However, that evening the climate was just warm enough for a nice chess game on Bo’s doorway. Ilia looked around.

-Papa- she asked –Where’s Colin?-

-Haven’t seen him since the morning- replied Bo –He went fishing, didn’t he?-

-Yes, but it’s getting dark and he hasn’t come back- Ilia stared at the sky, worried -Do you think something happened-

-Maybe I should go looking for him...- started Rusl

-Yes!!- Bo got to his feet -That’s exactly what I was going to suggest-

Ilia made a face

-Papa...are you saying that because you’re worried or just because you’re loosing on chess?-

-Well, I...-

Suddenly, a loud melody came out of the woods. It was a simple, yet beautiful melody.

Ilia raised her head, her face very pale and her eyes wide opened.

-That sound...- said Rusl, smiling. Bo moved an eyebrow.

-It’s him! - Illia rushed towards the village door.

-Him? - Bo was puzzled

-He’s back, at last- said Rusl, following Ilia.

--

-I tell you, Ashei, this boy is brilliant!-said Shad, ignoring Ashei´s killer look –To make such music with a piece of grass! Bloody brilliant, I tell you!-

Ashei yawned and Link stopped playing the grass flute. His face was red.

-I...it’s nothing- said Link –It’s...something really simple, you just blow through this and...- he interrupted himself for a moment and smiled –Here she comes-

-Wh...?!- started Colin, just a second before Ilia rushed past him and threw herself at Link, making him fall to the ground. Rusl came behind her, smiling.

-Link! Link! Link! Liiiiiiiink!!!- exclaimed Ilia, hugging him

-I’m glad to see you too, Ilia- whispered Link –But...would you mind to stop strangling me? - Ilia laughed and released him.

-So, Link- said Rusl, approaching to them –You finally decided to come home, didn’t you?-

-Two years were enough for me- answered Link, getting up –Anything interesting happened while I was gone?-

-Nope- said Colin, stretching his arms, the catfish still on one of them –Looks like you’ve got a reputation. Ever since you were made a Hyrule Knight, not even a small monster dares to come to Hyrule. The only interesting thing that’s happened here is that Talo, Malo and Beth went visiting Luda back in Kakariko-

-That’s nice...but why didn’t you go with them?-

-I couldn’t leave my mom and dad alone, could I? - answered Colin, scandalised.

-I see...- said Link, smiling –What about Princess Zelda? Any news of Hyrule Town?-

Rusl, Ilia and Colin glanced on each other.

-What? - Link’s smile faded –Did something happen?-

-Well...you see, Link...- said Ilia, lowering her eyes –It’s just that we...haven’t heard anything about her in a while-

-What do you mean-

-Well...just as I said, no one has seen her nor heard of her in a while. She doesn’t even come out of the castle anymore-

-That’s odd- said Link in a dark voice.

-Nothing to worry about, surely- said Rusl, quickly –She promised to call you if she needed help. So I guess its nothing-

-I’m worried, though- said Link –Maybe I should pay her a visit... just to check if everything’s alright-

-That- said Ilia, grabbing his arm –Can wait until tomorrow. Right now, the only visit you’re paying is to a lovely lady with a baby who misses you very much-

-That’s great, Link! - cried Colin –You’re going to meet my little bro, Shig!-

-But I-Ilia! - groaned Link, as Ilia dragged him towards Ordon –I have to! Remember I’m a Hyrule knight now! I have responsibilities! Hey, Ilia...!-

Rusl stared at them as they disappeared between the trees.

-Am I imagining it...or does Link look like he’s got a ton on each shoulder? - he asked.

Shad and Ashei stared at him, surprised.

–A ton on each shoulder? - asked Colin, not noticing -What do you mean, dad?-

-Well, he surely looks like he’s carrying something heavy- said Rusl, pensive –That’s not normal-

-W-well, that’s just because...- started Shad, uncomfortable.

-He’s been far from his homeland for a while, yeah?! - completed Ashei –It’s normal for anyone who hasn’t seen his family or friends in two years to act and look weird. Don’t you think so?-

Rusl nodded, but the pensive expression didn’t disappear.

-Hey dad, come on! - said Colin, patting Rusl’s arm –I’m sure it’s noting serious! Let’s take mom this catfish-

-OK, young man! - said Rusl smiling as he messed Colin’s hair –Let’s go, then! - Father and son started walking after Link and Ilia.

Shad sighed, relieved.

-Close call-

-You bet- said Ashei, her eyes fixed on Rusl’s back –That Rusl...he sure knows Link like he’s his own son! He noticed immediately!-

-If everyone in this town knows Link like Rusl does, they’ll probably guess it before the week’s over-

-Let’s just hope that doesn’t happen- said Ashei, gloomy –Link wouldn’t stand it-

--

A baby is always something strange and alarming for a man. Link was not the exception. Even when Uli assured him babies don’t bite, Link couldn’t help gulping when Colin placed the blonde-haired Shig in his arms.

Shig was a small boy, for his two years. His enormous blue eyes wanted to explore everything and his hands reached out for Link’s ears the moment he saw them. Link, not sure of what to do, let him grab his left ear, even when the boy started pulling it.

-Isn’t he cute? - said Ilia tenderly, looking at Shig over Link’s shoulder–I could eat him!-

-I...don’t think he’d like to know what that means- said Link –He’s be scared if he did-

-Very funny- said Ilia, glaring at him.

-No fighting in front of Shig- said Colin at the table, crossing his arms over his plate –He learns fast, and I don’t want him fighting on me so soon-

-OK, OK, then- said Link, placing the baby on Uli’s arms –Sheesh! He’s heavy, Uli. Are you overfeeding him, like you did me?-

-Oh, he’ll thank me for that when he has your age- said Uli, rather annoyed –You’re a healthy young man, aren’t you? Didn’t I tell you so when you didn’t want to have a decent supper?-

Link blushed.

-Anyway. What have you been doing these two years? - asked Uli, gazing at him reproachfully –Chasing monsters, dreams and young girls, undoubtedly –

-Chasing girls, eh? - repeated Ilia, angrily.

-I...I was travelling with Shad and Ashei! - said Link, getting suddenly nervous –Ask them, if you don’t believe me! We travelled trough all the countries that surround Hyrule! - he turned to Shad –Didn’t we?-

Shad nodded, smiling.

-On all the countries surrounding Hyrule- he said –Which explains why Link’s reputation is so extended, even when he wasn’t in Hyrule anymore-

-I even got a new sword from the Gae-wen town Mayor- continued Link, unsheathing the blade and showing it to Uli –See? It’s made out of the finest steel and wolfo fangs. They gave it to me when I rid the town from a giant snake that menaced the inhabitants-

-Giant snake?!- repeated Ilia.

-That was great! - said Ashei, excited –We cornered the snake on a cliff, yeah? Then Shad and I grabbed the snake by the neck and Link got onto his head and took out this giant hammer-thing, yeah? - Ashei raised is left hand, closing it to a fist –And then, WHAM! - she hit his right palm with her left fist –He crushed its head, just like that!-

-Such a nasty mess! - said Shad, making a face.

-But it was worth it- said Link, touching the sword’s hilt with affection –They made the hilt out of the snake’s scales-

-Wow, nice story- said Ilia, surprised.

-And you’re trying to tell us you didn’t break a couple of hearts on your way? I don’t believe it- said Uli

-Well, actually...- started Ashei

-I didn’t! - cut Link, blushing again –I swear! I didn’t!-

-Calm down, boy. It’s just a joke- said Uli, smiling –Your conscience is playing tricks on you, darling. What? Did you do something bad during your journeys?-

Link’s face stiffened.

-...Maybe...- he muttered

-Link? - called a worried Ilia.

Come and gone, Link’s expression normalized.

-Payback time, Ilia! - He said happily -I was joking too!-

Before none of them could say a word, he went out of the house, laughing merrily.

The problem is: When you know a person like Ilia knew Link, you can easily see when it’s not being sincere. That’s why Ilia recognized a sad note in Link’s laughter as he walked away. Shad took off his glasses.

-I think dad’s right- said Colin, after hurrying some milk –He’s acting weird-

-Maybe something bad happen during the journey? - asked Uli, rocking Shig.

Ashei stared at her shoes, uncomfortable.

-I’m pretty sure he’ll tell you when he’s ready- said Shad, cleaning his glasses.

--

-Link!!- called the voice –Where are you?!-

And he ran towards the voice on a burning field. He tried to find the owner of that voice, but everything was destroyed.

-...Link...where are you? ...Link...- the voice started to fade, as if the owner was taken away...

-...Link...Link...-

-What...what do you want? - asked Link, looking around him.

Blood! Bodies! Fire!

-Link! - exclaimed the voice. It sounded really scared. Link’s despair grew as he recognized the place were he stood...

-Link! Wake up!-

-What?!-

-Wake up!! It´s morning already-

Link opened his eyes.

His house hadn’t changed a bit in two years. Colin told him that Ilia went and made some cleaning every now and then. Only the door, which Rusl knocked, was a little worn-out.

-Yeah, Rusl? What is it? - asked Link, sitting on his bed

-Are you OK? Your voice’s quivering-

-I’m fine. What is it, Rusl? –

-Well, it’s just that Bo wants to have a Sumo wrestling match with you-

-What?! Do you mean he...?! – exclaimed Link opening the door –He wants me to...?! – he cut himself, blushing.

-Hey, Link! - exclaimed Ilia, giggling behind Rusl –Do you mind putting some clothes on? Not that it bothers me to see your amazing pecks-

Link closed the door.

-Why didn’t you tell me Ilia was with you!?- he said as he started dressing up.

-How did you expect me to know you sleep shirtless? - answered Rusl with a loud chuckle.

-Oh, come on, Link- said Ilia, merrily –It’s not like I’ve never seen your bare chest before. You used to live here, you know...-

Link opened the door, already dressed.

-Well, what the hell’s the matter with Bo? - he said –What does he want a Sumo match for?-

-He wants to know if you’ve become stronger than you were before- said Rusl giving a shrug –I think it’s quite obvious you are, but I suppose he’s sick of playing chess with me and he prefers some sporting-

-He does better on that- mumbled Ilia

-Let’s go then- said Link, yawning and stretching –Are Ashei and Shad awake yet?-

-Yeah, they’re having breakfast with Colin now- said Rusl giving a head-jerk towards the town –Maybe you should go join them-

-Maybe- accorded Link.

As they walked towards the town, Link closed his eyes, remembering the last part of his dream:

The fire, dead children, men and women...the fire...the beast who did it all...and that last voice calling his name in fear.

--

-OK now, lad- said Bo, clapping his hands over his bare chest –Let’s see if you still remember how this is done!-

Link, his chest bared again, nodded.

Bo started the upright Sumo presentation, but Link’s mind was on other place. He only went back to reality when his turn to introduce himself came.
As usual, he split his legs and raised the left one the most he could before stomping down with all his strength.

-Fight! - shouted Ilia, sitting next to Shad, Ashei, Colin and his parents. The match began.

As usual, Bo started with an open-palm jab, hitting Link on the jaw. Link, already expecting it, returned the hit. The blow sent Bo backwards and he almost fell of the battle platform.

-Woah! - exclaimed Uli –He’s really strong!-

-I didn’t think he’d become that strong- said Rusl marvelled.

Bo recovered quickly, but Link was already before him. Before he could do a thing about it, Link had already attacked. With his strong shoulders and arms, he started pushing Bo to the border of the platform.

-Show it to him, Link! - called Colin

-I don’t think he needs you to tell him- said Shad, his eyes fixed on Link. He seemed worried –He’s already at it-

With a last push, Link made Bo fall off the platform with a loud thud.

Colin clapped his hands with glee.

-Well done, Link! - said Uli

-Way to go, lad- said Bo, getting up –You’ve become really strong on these past two years-

Link scratched his head and smiled as he jumped off the platform.

-Not so, Bo- he said, sitting next to Ilia –I grew stronger since the last time. That’s all-

-Don’t be modest- said Ilia, placing a hand on his back

-He’s always been like that- said Uli –The boy only likes to bluster in front of the pretty girls-

-Oh, stop that...- started Link

-He’s really amazing- said Ashei –He can smell a fire from miles away-

-Once, he saved an entire city by warning them about a storm days before it happened- said Shad –He smelled the storm on the air, you see-

-Woah! - said Colin, marvelled. Link turned to him angrily, puzzling him.

-He also has an amazing ear- continued Shad.

-Yeah- agreed Ashei -And he once saved me from an arrow. He heard it coming and grabbed it before it hit me. That was incredible-

-I’m pretty sure there are many conversation subjects that don’t include all the times I’ve saved your butt- said Link, rather aggressively.
–Wait a minute- said Ilia, a hand on Link’s back -...what is this? –

A white scar marked Link’s back, it was like an inch wide and it ran from the back of his shoulder to the end of his ribs. It looked like an old wound.

-Oh, my god, Link! - exclaimed Uli, touching the scar –What happened to you? –

-An accident- said Link. Even though Ilia couldn’t see his face, she already knew he was saying this with a sad expression –During the war of Kirehi, like a year ago-

-A year ago? - repeated Ilia –Why, Link, this looks like an old scar!-

-Yeah?-

-That’s exactly what I tell him- said Ashei.

- It still hurts sometimes, you know...-

-Does it hurt a lot? - asked Colin, while he examinated the wound.

-Only when I remember how it was made- answered Link, lowering his eyes.

-How? - asked Uli –What happened?-

At that moment, a loud noise distracted them, an explosive noise that Link had heard the day before in the forest. Bo raised both eyebrows.

-That sound again- he said

-What do you mean with “Again”? - asked Link –How many times have you heard that?-

-At least twelve for the past three days- said Ilia, shrudding –Nothing to worry about, probably someone’s discovered gold on the forest or something-

-Haven´t you noticed something weird or anything? - asked Shad –It isn’t likely that someone digs a mine without telling anyone-

-Besides- said Ashei –As this is Ordon and Faron territory, yeah? They have to ask Bo before doing anything to the forest-

-Do you think they’re blowing trees up? - asked Colin –I heard they use that as a time-saving tactic-

-It’s possible- said Shad, nodding.

-We should go, just to check everything’s alright, yeah?- said Ashei –There’s nothing a soldier like myself can do on a goat-herding town like this, I’m getting bored-

-Yeah! Maybe it’s a savage monster and it wants to eat us! - said Colin

-And you’re excited about that?!- asked Link angrily, making Colin start.

-I’m sure is nothing like that...- started Bo

-Better be sure- said Link, getting up –Hold on while put my clothes on-

-Can’t it wait? - muttered Ilia, giggling.

--

-Link, are you angry? - said Colin. Link didn’t answer, but he tightened his fists. The four of them, Colin, Link, Ashei and Shad now rode towards Faron spring. Colin was mounted on Epona behind Link.

-I still don’t get why you insisted in coming, Colin- said Ashei, looking at Link’s expression –It might be dangerous, yeah? We don’t know what’s up there in the forest; it may be a monster or something-

-I already told you, I´m an expert swordsman now! - Colin showed her his shield, which had a symbol with the shape of a goat’s antlers –See this? This means I know the ways of the swordplay. I defend myself really well now! Besides, my dad say it was OK!-

-I don’t think is anything serious- said Shad -As I said, it might be someone who’s making a mine-

-See?-

-Pay no attention to Shad- said Ashei, glaring at Shad –He’s a library mouse; but there’s many things on the real world he really doesn’t have an idea about-

-Don’t worry; it’ll be alright as long as Link’s around-

-Colin- said Link softly

-Yeah? - smiled Colin

-Shut up-

Colin’s smile faded to be replaced by utter surprise; they rode in silence until they came upon the spring.

-We walk from here- said Link dismounting –Try to stick together-he started walking without even checking if they had heard him. Colin dismounted with effort.

-What’s eating him? - he whispered to Ashei as she dismounted. Shad dismounted next to her.

-Not sure- he said, shrugging

–Maybe he thinks you’re too confident on him, yeah? - said Ashei

-Too confident? - repeated Colin –Why would he...?-

-Listen that’s just a thought- cut Shad, giving a furtive glance at Link –Don’t relay on what she said-

-But...-

-Aren’t you coming?! - shouted Link.

-Come on, guys- said Ashei –He’s really touchy today-

The path they were taking began on a rock next to the spring. Exactly were Colin sat the day before.

-Not many people know this path- warned Link –If you get lost, the better way to get back to the beginning of the path is to follow the river. If you don’t, you’ll probably hang around the forest for a while until someone finds you- he turned to Colin –So it’s no fooling around! Understood?-

-OK- answered Colin, his eyes lowered.

-Good. Let’s go-

They started walking, Link taking the lead, Ashei behind him followed by Shad and Collin closed the march.

Collin seemed really downhearted. He was surprised by Link’s behaving; he wasn’t usually unkind to anyone.

“Maybe he thinks you’re too confident on him, yeah?”

“Too confident...” thought Colin “Why shouldn’t I be? He’s always been there every time we needed him. He always came in our aid...unless...”  Colin raised his head “Unless he...”

-Hold it! - said Link, stopping suddenly

-What? - said Shad –Trouble?-

Link didn’t answer. Instead, he smelled the air carefully.

-Colin- he said, at last –Go back and take Epona and the horses back to Ordon-

-What?! - said Collin –Are you serious?!-

-Remember the monkeys like to steal stuff. Take them to Ordon and wait for us at the spring-

-No way! You made me come all this way just to make me turn back and...!?-

-I made you come?!- said Link, turning on him –May I remind you that it was you, Mr. Swordsman who started bugging me so I would bring you over?!!-

-That’s not true!!-

-Now, listen! You’re gonna do as I say! You’re going to go back to the village and you’re going to wait for us at the spring! Is that clear?!-

-All right- he said, turning his back on him.

-Colin, do you remember how to go back to Ordon...? - asked Ashei

-Following the river- mumbled Colin

-Now scram! - said Link, harshly.

Colin glared at him over his shoulder and disappeared on the bushes.

-What’s the matter with you? - asked Shad, grabbing Link’s shoulder –There was no need to shout at him like you did!-

-He was being very stubborn- said Link.

-Both of you were- said Ashei –Your little staring contest wasn’t very mature either-

-Listen, there’s no point on taking a stubborn boy to a battlefield!-
Shad took off his glasses.

-Battlefield?!-

-Where?!-  asked Ashei

-Not far from here- said Link

-So that’s why...- started Shad

-Both of you know it’s not safe around me anymore- said Link, lowering his eyes –That’s all- he started walking again.

--

Colin was furious. As he walked, he kept kicking everything that came across his way. He had waited for two years to see Link again and now this...he kicked a stone, frustrated.

“Who needs him?” thought Colin crossing his arms “My dad thought me swordplay without his help and I managed to survive. And he comes back thinking he’s the eighth wonder”

He sat on the ground

“How am I supposed to find the river, anyway? I can’t hear the water or anything”

A whooshing noise came from the forest. Colin got to his feet.

-Who’s there?!- he asked, placing a hand on his sword-hilt. No answer came, although the noise seemed to get closer -Show yourself!-

Colin heard a snort come from the shadows.

-Wait...are you...? - said Collin, raising his eyebrows

Galloping, a white stallion came out of the thicket. It was a beautiful horse, its horse-chair and its ornaments were of pure gold and velvet. However, the horse seemed to be looking for something or someone. It stopped right in front of Colin and neighed in a high-pitched tone.

-Whoa! - exclaimed Colin, raising his hands –Easy now! Calm down, boy!-

The horse stomped in front of Colin and stared at him, its eyes very wide. Colin realized its eyes were of an odd violet tone.

-I’m not gonna harm you- said Colin, slowly approaching to the horse –Calm down-

He reached out for the horse’s snout, marvelled by the pearly colour of its skin.

-Come on, pal...I don’t bite-

The horse allowed Colin to touch its nose.

-Easy, easy...- muttered Colin –Are you lost? Can’t you find your way home?  I can’t find the river anywhere, and it’s my only way home-

The horse snorted softly and pushed Colin’s hand with its snout. He started whining softly; at the same time, he jerked his head softly, as if pointing to one direction.

-What? -  asked Colin removed his hand –What is it, boy?-

The horse moved behind him and started pushing him.

- Is there something you want me to see? - asked Colin

The horse whined again and pushed harder.

-Ok then- said Colin, starting to walk –Let’s go-

--

-Oh, no- muttered Ashei, turning away

-We were too late- said Shad, astonished

Link remained silent, but his eyes were full of rage and indignation.

The battlefield upon which they came was full of human bodies. The blood and corpses filled the air with its smell and soft smoke clouds came from a burning wagon. Every now and then a pile of black armor could be seen between the slaughtered bodies but no dead enemies could be observed. Link bared his teeth.

-They finished them all- muttered Ashei –I don’t see any survivors-

-The dogs! - said Shad, indignated –They must have doubled them in number. And the enemy didn’t lose a man here, I don’t see any-

-But...what army is this? Where is it from? - asked Link, looking around, hoping to find any clue.

-Maybe we should split up and look for survivors...- suggested Shad –There doesn’t seem to be any but, then again, we could find a clue about the army they fought-

-Good idea- said Link, although he was repulsed by the strong smell of bodies –Look well-

Ashei took left and Shad right. Link continued walking in a straight line.

“They were completely eliminated” he thought, looking around him, impressed by the number of dead men that lay on the ground “It’s just like Shad said, the number of their enemies must have been impressive...” Then it happened. He stopped, his heart hammering

“No...it can’t be” his nose had just caught a familiar smell, the last thing he’d hoped to find in the middle of that massacre “I must be mistaken...I have to be!”

-Hey guys!! Come here for a minute!! - called Ashei, not far from him –You’d better get a look at this!-

Link approached, half-guessing what he was about to see. Even so, he couldn’t help that his heart gave a leap at the sight of Ashei’s discovery. He stood next to Ashei, his eyes pinned on it.

-No way! – exclaimed Shad approaching –It’s impossible!!-

In front of them, half buried on the ground, stood a lone standard. The figure on it was stained on blood and dirt, but the three of them still recognized the crest.

--

As the horse trotted, in front of him, Colin started to hear the soft babbling of a river in front of him.

-Well, what do you know? He’s taking me to the river” thought Colin “He wants to help”

The horse whined softly and accelerated.

-Hey! Wait for me! - called Colin, walking faster. Soon, the trees started to appear more separated and a soft golden light fell on Colin’s shoulders. As the river’s voice became louder, He started to feel an odd peace fill his soul. His father had often told him that the forest’s spirit lived in the river-water, but Colin hadn’t believed it until that moment. Even the air around the river seemed sweeter than on the rest of the forest.

As soon as the river came to view, Colin smiled and ran towards it. He entered into the water laughing merrily. The river wasn’t really deep (The water was just deep enough to sink his knees) But its water was deliciously refreshing. It s sound filled the silence, its smelled filled the air and its life filled the forest. Colin sank his hands on the water and splashed it on his face. Suddenly, he remembered the horse and looked around him.

The horse was right behind him. Staring at him with its intelligent violet eyes, almost like waiting for him to stop playing in the water.

-Hey there, boy! - said Colin, as he approached and clapped the horse’s neck –Are you a forest spirit? Did you come to guide me to this river? - The horsed snorted and made a head-jerk towards a group of rocks. Colin gave the rocks a look

–Is there something you need me to help you with? - he asked. The horse snorted again and started walking towards the rocks

–Alright then- said Colin, following the horse.

--

-Link! Hey, Link! Wait for us! - called Shad, running as fast as he could. Even so, Ashei was already far in front of him.

-Link! Are you sure?!- yelled Ashei, making her best to catch up with Link

-Yes! - said Link, running in front of her –I can’t be wrong when it comes to tracking! It was that smell!-

-Then we’d better hurry! – said Ashei, running faster

-Let’s just not hope it’s too late! - said Shad –Or things are really going to get ugly!!-

--

Colin looked into the cave. It was a small cave in the middle of the rocks. Its mouth was of about five feet tall and wide and its structure was conformed in an odd way that, even when its height was lower than the river’s, the water couldn’t reach it. It was also dangerous because a person couldn’t see the cave almost until it had stepped on it, but it was good for a hiding place, as it was surrounded by rocks. The inconvenient of this was that it was dark like a moonless night, even in the middle of the day.

-Is there something in here? - asked Colin, turning his head to the horse –Something you want me to see? –

The horse neighed, as if hasting him. Colin sighed and looked into the cave.

-Should have brought my lantern- he mumbled, stepping inside carefully, running his hands on the stone walls. He continued walking that way, using his hands like a bug’s antennae. The river’s babbling was a soft noise outside, but a loud noise inside the cave. Two times he was about to trip in the dark but caught himself in the middle of the fall. He had only advanced a few meters when his right foot hit something...something that felt like clothes.

-What the heck!?- muttered Colin, kneeling slowly, feeling the object with his hands

“What is this?” he thought running his hands up the object until he felt something metallic “I think it’s an armor!”

Yes, the texture, the shape...that thing was definitely an armor. But, why was it there? Why was the horse so insistent on showing it to him? Colin sighed.

-This is stupid! - he said in a loud voice, hoping the horse would hear him. The horse whined back.

It was then that a hand grabbed his, making him shriek. A voice shushed him and Colin heard a distressed breathing.

-Do not be afraid- said a soft voice, a woman’s voice –I am not going to harm you-

-Who are you? - asked Colin, making his best to sound calmer. A sudden light made him blink madly. His companion had just lit a small lantern and was now examinating him from head to toes. It was a small figure partially dressed in a silver armor that seemed to be way too big for her. She was wearing a helmet that covered her hair, but her face was pale and delicately shaped. She was also wearing a white long skirt that covered her legs completely. However, the skirt was torn in some places and stained with blood, which made Colin think the woman breathed heavily because she was hurt.

They stared each other in silence.

-I might as well ask you the same- finally said the young woman, cautious –Who are you, child?-

Colin doubted for a second before answering. He only needed to recall the horse’s eyes to feel confident again. For a reason, he felt the horse had taken him there only to meet that woman.

-I’m Colin, from Ordon Village, south from Faron Woods, miss-

-Ordon!?- gasped the woman, releasing Colin’s hand –You come from Ordon Village?!-

-Yeah, why? - said Colin, starting to feel nervous

But the woman seemed to forget he was there, she put her right hand on her forehead, looking chagrined.

-Ordon! - she repeated softly, talking to herself. - That must mean I am not far from the village! Oh, I am endangering them! - she wrung her hands, looking despaired –So much for a reward! The man saves Hyrule from complete destruction and I get his homeland attacked-

-Excuse me? – Colin was really puzzled –Attacked?!-

-No, not if I can help it- answered the woman, puzzling Colin even more –The only thing I have to do is to draw those beast’s attention towards me and...- she started getting up, but fell to her knees.

-Are you hurt, miss? - asked Colin, taking her hand.

-It is nothing- she said. But Colin could see her face was full of pain.

-Miss, I can’t just let you go like that- he said, moving closer to her.

-Listen, boy- she started –Do not worry about me. I am not the priority right now-

-But you’re bleeding!-

-That is not important- she marked, half angry-like –Please. I need you to stay here and make no noise. That way, those monsters will not realise you are here-

-But...!-

-Please, I beg you! Do not endanger yourself. I would never forgive myself if a friend of Link got hurt because of me-

-A friend of...?! Do you know Link!?-

-There is no time for questions, boy- she stood up carefully, picking something up from the floor -I have to...-

A skin-crawling cry came from the outside. Colin froze and let the woman´s hand go.

“Ilia screamed”

“The floor thundered”

“And they came”

-Oh, no- said the woman, rushing towards the entrance –They got Azul!-  

Colin seemed to wake up from a dream when he saw her running out of the cave.

-Miss! Wait! - he called, following her and unsheathing his sword. The light of day blinded him, but he quickly recovered and looked around. The woman had a sword on her hand and was already running towards the enemies, who surrounded the horse and menaced it with their swords.

Colin saw them and stopped breathing momentarily.

Their attackers were a group of thin, short, long eared, blue skinned, impish creatures. Behind them, a huge ogre held an enormous wooden stick. They were all dressed in black armors and held thick black swords on their deformed hands.

But what made Colin’s face go pale was the resemblance with those attackers he had seen two years before...

The woman hit one of them with her sword and jumped on the horse’s back with astounding ease.

-Away, you fiends! - she said in a loud voice, waving her sword. The horse raised his front legs whining.

Colin winked.

“Where do I know her from...?”

The horse stomped and started to run towards Colin.

-Boy! – called the woman, reaching out with her right hand.

-Wha..?!- started Colin

–Take my hand! - she said, stopping next to him.

Colin reached out towards her. Their hands met and she pulled, helping him sit on the horse-chair in front of her.

-Hold on! - said the woman –Is there somewhere were we can hide near here?-

-I’m not sure- answered Colin –Maybe the forest. It’s easy to get lost in here-

-Alright, then...Go Azul! - the woman shook the bridle and the horse rushed towards the trees.

“It’s incredible...she reminds me an awful lot of him”

Suddenly, the woman gave a small wail and fell of the chair.

-Miss!!- called Colin, looking behind. The woman was already getting up from the floor, sword on her hand.

-Go! - she said –Do not worry about me, just run!-

-No! - said Colin, pulling Azul’s reins. Azul stopped...and something really strange happened.

-Azul! Take him somewhere where he can stay safe! - commanded the woman...and the horse obeyed!

Azul turned around and started running away from the river. Colin tried to stop him, but the horse just wouldn’t stop. It ran even faster, shooting through the forest like an arrow.

“Faron” prayed Colin “Please! Help me find someone who can help!”

--

Link stopped suddenly, smelling the air.

-What now?!- asked a panting Ashei, stopping next to him.

Link’s expression became suddenly angry.

-That moron! - he whispered –Can’t he stay out of trouble for once?! –

-Link? - asked Ashei, as Shad stopped behind her, looking as like he was going to faint. For all answer, Link started running again.

-What...was...it? – asked Shad gasping between words –Do you...think he...smelled...someone else?-

-Colin! - said Ashei, guessing. Shad looked at her, his face very pale.

-He must...be in...trouble!!-

-No time to lose! You know it’s risky to make Link furious!-

Shad nodded and the two of them started running after Link.

--

As Link ran through the forest, his anger raised.

“Why does he have to act brave right now?” he thought, pushing away the branches in front of him “He’ll get himself killed! ...that if I don’t kill him first”

Suddenly, he heard a high-pitched neigh dead ahead of him. He stopped, unsheathing his sword.

Suddenly, out the meadow came Colin, riding Azul. When Azul saw Link, he stopped, almost making Colin fall off his back.

-Link! - he exclaimed, looking relieved –I’m so glad we found you!-

-What the hell are you doing?!- yelled Link, approaching –And where did the horse come from?!- he stopped, gaping at Colin –And since WHEN do you know how to ride a horse?!-

-There’s no time for this! - said Colin, dismounting –Please, Link! We must save the Miss!!-

-The Miss? - repeated Link, turning pale.

-The lady who lent me this horse, she’s in trouble! She’s being attacked by monsters and...-

-Can you please tell us what this is all about?!- interrupted Ashei, catching up with Link.

-Where’s Shad? – asked Colin, looking around

-The wheezy stopped for a breath a few yards away from here. What’s going on here?-

Azul snorted and pushed Colin softly, impatiently.

-Link! We have to hurry!- called Colin -The Miss was bleeding a lot, I don’t think she can fight them for long-

-How far from here?-

-At the river-

Link looked over Colin’s shoulder and smelled the air.

-How far is the river, Link?- asked Ashei

-Not much- he said –Ashei; you and Colin go get Shad and meet me on the river. Do you remember the way to the river, Colin? - Colin nodded -Hurry then- he turned his back on them, but Azul bit his sleeve, stopping him.

-I think Azul wants to go with you- suggested Colin

-No, you take him! - said Link, struggling to free from Azul. But the horse stubbornly pulled the sleeve, like saying he wasn’t going to give up that easily.

-He’s really stubborn- said Colin, quite angry -You’d better take him and save some time-

-No! - said Link, struggling harder –Listen, you need to get out of here quickly! The quickest way is on a horse, so you take him! - The horse snorted and pulled harder. The struggle made Colin even angrier.

-Stop acting like an idiot! - yelled Colin, furious –Just take the damn horse!-

-YOU take him!!- yelled Link

-He’s not giving up and we have no time for this silliness- said Ashei –We’ve better get going or it’ll be too late. So just...- Ashei gasped -TAKE THE FREAKING HORSE!!-

-Well said! - agreed Colin.

-Hey! You can’t leave me with the stubborn pony! - said Link

-Oh, for Din’s sake! - said Ashei, turning his back on him and running -There’s no time for this!!-

-Just get on Azul’s back and he’ll take you to the Miss- said Colin, before turning and following Ashei.

-How is he supposed to know where to take me?!- called Link. But Colin was already gone. Azul let go off Link’s sleeve and whined softly.

-Great- said Link, walking away. Azul started walking next to him –Stop following me! –

But as he continued walking, even when he accelerated, Azul kept catching up with him. Finally, Link exploded

-CAN YOU PLEASE STOP THAT!? - he shouted, turning to Azul –DAMN IT, YOUR’RE CREEPING ME OUT, HERE!!-

-Calm down! There’s no need to shout! - said a soft male voice.

Link blinked. Azul blinked back.

-D-did you..?- he stuttered -Did you just...!?- Link stared at Azul, shaking his head –I’m going crazy...I thought I’d heard you talk-

-Well, you did-

Link almost fell on his back this time. He saw the horse’s mouth move slightly.

-You just talked!!- he said, bewildered.

-What surprises me is the fact that you can understand what I say-

-But that must mean you...you understand what we said a while ago-

-Oh, don’t look so surprised- said Azul, like laughing -You should have guessed it before by the way I behaved!-

-Then you...?!-

-Listen, I’d like to explain the whole thing, but right now, my master’s in a huge problem and you’re the only one who can help her. The question is: will you help?-

-I...of course!-

-Then stop stammering and climb onto my back already!-

Link, too surprised to refuse, obeyed.

--

The woman fell to her knees, breathing heavily with a hand on her chest. His left trembling hand held the sword. There was blood coming out of her mouth. She coughed softly, going more and paler. The ogre laughed at her sight as the group of monsters approached her.

-Now, little girl! – said in a high-pitched voice one of the smaller creatures who held a bigger sword. He seemed to be the leader. The woman pierced him with his deep sad eyes –If you surrender, we shall have mercy on you. So surrender now!-

The woman got stood up and raised her sword before her face. Even when stained in blood, her face seemed noble and proud...but very pale.

-No- she said boldly, even when her hands trembled -Not this time-

--

The branches flew making a whooshing noise above his head, but Link, ducked over Azul’s neck, barely noticed them. He still felt shocked on the fact that the horse had spoken to him.

-The battlefield, north from here- said Azul, interrupting his thoughts –Did you see it?-

Link felt a chill as he recalled the horrible scenario he and his friends had discovered.

-Yes-

-The master and I fought on that battle. We and a lone soldier survived that massacre-

-I see...where’s the soldier?-

Suddenly, Link felt dizzy and faint. A flashing of images flooded his mind.

“He was running, fast as the wind. The master and the man on his back as he rushed through the forest, running away...away...”

“Away? From what? ”

“The man covers the master’s head with a metal helmet and her body with parts of an armor and leaves her somewhere safe”

“The water...I can hear and smell water...not far from here”

“He rides me through the forest. Those beasts are tracking my smell, so they think it is the master who rides me. Where driving them far from her”

“The man’s scared, I can smell his fear. He’s scared...but he doesn’t seem to doubt on doing this”

“And then...they reach us”

Link shook his head.

-What was that?-

-I see you could understand my message- said Azul –Now, that’s new! I thought only the master had that ability-

-So you where communicating with me?-

-Exactly-

-What happened to the soldier? - asked Link, despite himself. Azul snorted, angry.

-He took as many enemies with him as he could...but they killed him in the end-

Link pursed his lips

-OK, then! - he said, ducking again, his eyes fixed in front of him –Then we’d better not waste his death-

--

The woman fell on her back again, but she didn’t recover this time. She remained in the ground, not moving anymore.

-Come on! – said the monster leader, mocking her –Is that the best you can do? - When no answer came, he laughed.

-Hey boss- warned another monster -I think she’s dying-

-Then she had absolutely nothing to do against us, nor against our master- said the leader

The woman didn’t answer, but remained on the ground, gasping for air.

-Hey! Don’t go dying and ruining everything we’ve worked for- said another monster

-That’s enough- said another –If we don’t take her to the general now, she won’t last the day-

The ogre smiled goofily and kneeled beside the woman, reaching out for her.

-Don’t you break her bones- said the monster leader –The general said she was to be delivered alive-

The ogre made a face, but decided to obey. He seized the woman’s arm and lifted her bringing her close to his face. The woman didn’t move at all, she kept breathing with a lot of effort.

-Small, eh? - said the ogre in a thick voice –Could crush’ er bones in a sec. Wanna see?-

Suddenly, an arrow hit its collarbone. The monsters looked around, startled, but the ogre just gaped at it with a stupid look on its face.

-Who’s there?!- asked the leader, rather scared.

No answer

-Who dares attack us?!- asked another monster.

No one answered.

-Hey, that hurts...- said the ogre, unpinning the arrow.

-It will hurt a lot more if you don’t release that woman! - called a voice that came from the trees –The next one’s aimed for your left eye!!-

-Who are you?!- demanded the monster leader.

-The guy who’s going to kill you- continued the voice –Now, free the girl and I’ll spare you!-

-Show yourself!-

-I said: Free her!!-

-Hurts! It hurts! - yelled the ogre, angry –What was that for?!-

-Shut up, you freak! - snapped the voice –You’d better leave that woman alone or I’ll poke your eye off-

-You want this woman? - the ogre lifted the woman over his head, and grabbed her head –I crush her skull now!-

-NO, YOU IDIOT! THE MASTER WANTS HER ALIVE! - roared the monster leader, but the ogre ignored him, ready to close his fist around the prisoner’s delicate head. Just when he was about to crush her skull, an arrow flew through the air and hit the ogre’s left eye.

The brute roared in pain as he tossed the woman away and clutched his bleeding eye-socket with both hands.

A splash came from the opposite riverside as the woman landed half into the water.

-NO!- With the sound of breaking branches, Link rushed out of shadows, mounted on Azul’s back. The group quickly moved out of his way as they ran towards the river. Almost as soon as Azul’s hoofs touched the water, Link dismounted and hurried towards the senseless figure that rested on the riverside. He kneeled beside her.

-How is she? - asked Azul, approaching

-Can’t tell- said Link, darkly –So much blood...this armor must be crushing her-

-Then take it off her!-

-Halt! – called one of the monsters, as the fiends re-grouped –What business have you here?-

Link turned to them, a fierce look on his eyes, and unsheathed his sword and shield. His eyes looked so menacing that even the ogre felt a little bit scared.

-I’m taking the girl with me- said Link, menacing. The monsters stared at him, taken by surprise.

-Are you crazy, boy?!- called one of the monsters

-There’s a whole group of us against you and that horse! - said another

-You have no chance! - said another

-Silence! - cut the leader, staring at Link with his sunken red eyes –He’s obviously trying to scare us. What’s he gonna do? He’s merely a little boy!-

Link gave them a creepy smile, but his eyes were still fierce.

-This “Little boy”- he said -Is going to kick your impish, deformed ass if you try to stand on his way- Azul whined, agreeing.

-Oh, well- said the leading monster, making his best to sound scary –You have guts! To come here just to insult us...your blade better be as fast as your tongue- he pointed Link –Get him!-

The rest of the group ran towards Link, waving his weapon. The ogre roared and charged towards him, furious.

Link held his sword with both hands and waited.

-Showtime- he muttered, with a twisted grin on his face. His sword glistened slightly, advising him to be now ready to strike.

-What are you doing? - said Azul, rather nervous

-You stand in front of your master and watch- said Link, confident. His eyes were fixed on the enemies and his legs were ready to spring. As the enemies approached, Azul placed himself in front of the fainted woman.

The enemies advanced and entered into the river.

-Link? - called Azul, starting to get scared. The man didn’t move a muscle.

The monsters where now a few yards away. Azul was now really scared.

-Link?!-

-OK! - He jumped across the air, raising his sword the most he could, a strange light emanated from the swords tip -EAT THIS!!-  He hit the closest monster and the light became a wave that swept all the monsters away, killing them instantly. When the wave reached the ogre, it fell on its back, splashing Link with his fall.
Azul was astonished.

-Well- said Link, standing up and shaking his wet hair –What do you think?-

-Amazing! - said Azul –What was that?-

-Jump attack- explained Link –Had a good teacher, you know...-

-A really good one! - agreed Azul –Why, you even knocked the ogre out!-
Link stared at the ogre, puzzled.

-But the ogre’s...-

He was interrupted by the noise of the ogre’s huge body splashing in the water as he sat up.

-You bother!!- roared the ogre, standing up –I kill you!!-

-...still alive! - completed Link, staring at it wide-eyed.

-What’s the plan?!- asked Azul, staring at the ogre too.

-I...er...-

-Don’t you have any?!-

-Hey, how was I supposed to know ogres have stone heads!? –

The ogre walked to them, raising his weapon.

-Die, you worm!!- roared the ogre, ready to strike.

A white figure crossed the air above the ogre’s head and landed behind it. The ogre remained for one second, his eyes fixed upon Link with hatred...and he collapsed. Link and Azul got out of the way in time to save themselves.

-What was that!?- asked Link, looking around. Azul was stunned. The white figure was none other than the woman.

-It is always a pleasure, Link- said the woman, taking off the helmet and shaking her head. Her dark golden hair shone on the sunlight as she stared warmly at him with her stunning gray eyes –Although I would have preferred a less stressing situation for us to meet-

Link stared at her, dazzled by her genteel language and her charm.

-What? - asked Princess Zelda, raising an eyebrow –Say something! - she smiled -Do I look so bad you have no words left? -