The Fleet

[Darkshadowmark]

(As I said in my Signature, PLEASE do NOT post on this page what so ever until I finish my story in entirety. I wish for this story to remain hidden underneath a mass of posts until I finish the story so as to not draw critic attention to the massively changed story and world.

Thank you and enjoy the story
~DSM

small warning, before reading, make sure you have a basic Knowledge of what places look like in "Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Pictures can't do everything justice and frankly, I'm not good at environmental descriptions.)

Dedicated to Ronald Campbell for being an unparalleled father and best friend
And to Cassandra Hoff, a true friend and scholar.

Hah hah hah hah hah!
The three men walked through the Faron Province Forest, trailed by a large black horse with packs of logs, food and supplies on it. They came to a lake and sat down, Taking a rest before they continued their journey back home. The lake was a small grove with 2 entrances on the tree walls. It was where the Spirit of Faron slept, peacefully giving any traveler or animal a drink. It was nearing dark now, orange coated the land.

One was a peasant warrior with nothing but a simple longsword on his back.

His name was Rusl, the man charged with the overall protection of Ordon. He looked at another man in the group and spoke proudly; The heart of a warrior could be heard in his low toned, slightly gruff voice.

"So, Bo, how did you enjoy your first hunting trip in a few years?"

He was talking to a large man with a bow on his back, the mayor of Ordon, he looked tired and out of shape. With an exhausted breath, he looked at Rusl and smiled, his magnificent mustache' rising with his lips.

"Excellent! I just have to remember to hit the weights when I get back! If it wasn't for Leon, we would have never caught that Elk."

"Nicely said! Hyrule Academy trains 'em well. Didn't you come out with high marks, Leon?"

On the far end of the group, listening to the conversation and taking in the scenery was another man, Leon Grace, He wore nothing but simple Rancher's clothing, least by Ordon's standards. A cloth and leather duster, He Also wore a dark bluish brown shirt with olive colored pleated pants. He had a well defined Hyrulian (Caucasian) face, deep-as-the-ocean-is-blue eyes and dark brown hair that was unstyled and natural. He had a few small scars on his right cheek without any freckles dotting the rest. A small nose in the middle and a slight overbite on his mouth. Underneath, a well rounded chin and a thin neck with some muscles within. He was well built from the waist up from both days in Hyrule Academy and being a ranch hand here in Ordon. He was tall, around 6ft. 7in. Just a little bit taller than the mayor Bo. Though it could not be seen, he had a slight tan on his entire body. While not sporting a six pack, he can take down a charging goat without breaking a sweat. His hands were calloused and that of a warrior. Slender and built for wielding a sword.

He was from up north. He and about 300 other people came down from the far northern Scallwind lands about 20 years ago. They were all that were left from the Gerudo raids. An entire civilization of Hard warriors that numbered in the tens of thousands reduced to just 300 survivors. The Gerudo got their wish however, a new home.

Leon had come down with his parents, Sarah, a Hyrulean knight, and Soren Grace, Scallwind Ranger, and joined up with Hyrule. He was 7 when they joined. He doesn't say much beside being in Hyrule Academy then moving for the Guards academy and coming out with honors. He moved down towards Ordon about a year ago to get away from the hellish Hyrule.

Yes Rusl, I did. It helped a lot in the guards’ academy.

Bo laughed a little and spoke up again, splashing the water a little with his hand and taking a drink.

"So, When are you going to Court Alison?"

His deep blue eyes shot open when he mentioned Alison, Bo was always known to be...very very blunt

uh...Hey Rusl! Don't you like the scenery?

"hah, Indeed. One thing has always bugged me about this time however..."

What is that?

"Tell me something, Leon... Do you ever feel a strange sadness as dusk falls? They say it’s the only time our world intersects with theirs..."He leaned back on his hands and stared at the lake.

"The only time we can feel the lingering regrets of spirits who have left our world...That is why loneliness pervades the Hour of twilight."

He leaned forward and rested his arms on his knees. Leon's face saddened a bit as he remembered coming to Hyrule. Rusl noticed and changed the subject."but enough of sadness, I have a favor to ask of you Leon. I was supposed to deliver something to the royal family of Hyrule the day after tomorrow."

He brought his eyebrows together and listened intently to him.

"yes, it was a task given to me by Bo, but...Would you go in my stead?"

Of course I’ll go, it'll be my pleasure! I still know the way too.

You haven't heard much of there recently have you?

He shook his head and spoke.

Hasn't changed that much right?

Last I heard, about 2 weeks ago, the Scall took back their home with the help of the Hyrulean Army. Tore the Gerudo up they did, it was nasty.

They went home?

Yeah...are you going to follow?

It was here that Bo perked up; Alison would be heartbroken if Leon left.

Nah, Even if I spent 7 years up there, this is my home now. I'll defend it to death.

Well then! Its getting late and we have a lot of skinning to do tomorrow, eh Bo?

The three got up, rested and ready for the last leg home.

The next morning...

The sun was just coming over the horizon, painting the woods in a Deep sunshine.




Through the middle of the town was a large river, one of the life bloods of the town, Ordon. It's adorned with several Pumpkin patches as well as many free range chickens. Within the town, there are a few families and their homes, and Sera's Sundries, the town's general store. Mayor Bo's daughter, Alison, is Leon's greatest friend in the village. The town and the Ordona Province that surrounds the village is named after the Light spirit, Ordona.

Ordon was concealed in small canyon walls, about 30 feet high all around the village with multiple entrances and exits. all over the top of the canyon walls was the Ordon Forest, looming over the town with both protection, and secrecy, Heavily wooded as well as populated

Leon lives in his own House just on the outskirts of the main village.

A hill leads to the southern plains where Leon and Fado take care of the Goats and the Big-horners. The Big-Horners are just like regular Ordon goats, only twice as big and larger horns. Ranchers come from all around to have their goats mate with the Ordon Big-Horners. Fado owns the goat pasture which the hill up to it is right next to the mayor's house.

Alison and her father, Mayor Bo, live in a house near the entrance to the pasture. Jaggle and Pergie own a house with a Waterwheel, and live there with their two sons Malo and Talo, and their pet dog, Sera, the shopkeeper, lives with her husband Hanch, her daughter Beth, and her pet Cat, Bosco. Uli and Rusl live by the big tree with their young son, Colin; Soon to be another addition to their family is Uli's Infant Child, Uli is heavily pregnant and is ready to give birth at any time.

Over on the outskirts of town is Leon's
A young girl, dressed in dark colored sweatshirt with decorative scarf and blackish-violet colored Khakis, a popular type of pants for girls, walked through Leon's yard to a Large black horse. She took the horse by the reigns and patted her on the nose.

She led her out of the area through a back passage way and towards Ordon woods.

A man, Fado, around 29 years old came running into the front yard, noticing Leon's horse gone. He called out in the worst manner possible

HAAAAAAAAAAYEEEE!!!

A rustling was heard within the house and Leon's head poked out the top window, his hair was messed up and he was bedraggled and tired. he yelled out, angry at being woken up on his day off.

WHAT?!

Hey Leon! I need your help herding the Big-horners over at the ranch, their being restless again. I'll Pay you a little extra this time!

Alright alright...wait...

He poked his head out a little farther and looked all around then let his hand go to his forehead with a resounding slap. His horse is gone.

BY THE WAY! Shade's Gone!

NO?!? REEEEALY?! I never would have never have noticed if you haven't told me!!

No Problem Leon!

Fado turned and ran back towards the ranch while Leon came down, sliding down a ladder within his house. he got to his closet and got out his Rancher's clothing. It was the same as from yesterday’s excursions, and walked out. He slipped down the ladder and found Shade's Tracks heading out of town. He knew exactly where she was.

He walked out of town and towards Spirit of Ordon's Spring.

When he arrived he turned a corner and entered the Spirit's Spring. A large wooden gate covered the entrance, but it was open. He leaned against the entrance wall and smiled at what he saw.

She approached Shadow with a Light smile on her lips and washed the horse a little. They were in the middle of the spring, smiling, and excited.

Her hair was a fantastic blonde and her eyes were, a deep blue like Leon's and showed the golden heart that lay behind them. Her face was pure of imperfections with a light set of freckles on her cheeks. She had a wide smile and a thin build. She wore a dark overcoat popular with the women of Hyrule. Underneath, she had on a dark tan blouse and matching slacks. She didn't notice Leon watching her and Shade.

Ya know, you could knock on my door and ask if you could wash Shade.

She jumped when she heard Leon's voice, she turned toward him, her eyes darting. Her voice was a bit scared.

Uh, Leon, I...

Relax Allie, Its fine.

She sighed to herself and chuckled at Leon as he approached. She was just a little shorter then him, just a year younger too. She smiled and bumped into him with her arm as he Brushed Shade's hair a little bit.

Sorry, Leon, I was just prepping Shade for your trip tomorrow. You’re going to be alright...right?

Of course, But then again, I'm sure your going to try to tail me. Aren't you?

He looked at her with amusement in his eye, knowing she would try to tag along. Her eyes went down, a little embarrassed. He brought her into a side-hug and smiled a great big smile.

Don't worry, I'll bug your dad into letting you go.

You'd do that for...me?

Naturally, Allie.

She hugged him tighter for a few seconds then realized that she was hugging too long and backed off, blush in her cheeks.

Unfortunately...Fado wants me to help round up the big horners, so Shade's gonna need a bath tonight. I don't suppose you know any cool girls that would do that, would you?

You know me too well Leon, just be careful with Shade.

I will, don't worry.

With a grunt, he hopped up onto Shade's back and reared her back, He stuck his hand down and lifted Alison up with a heave and let her rest right in front of him to feel the wind in her face. He spurred Shade and galloped out of the spring and towards Ordon village once again.


________________

When they strode into town on Shade's back, a few of the townspeople, namely Colin, Looked up. A few chuckled at the sight of Leon and Alison riding Shade, others shook their head.

They crossed the stream bridge and came to the other side, waving at Rusl, who was practicing swordplay on the fishing platform. They stopped in front of the mayor's house and Leon let Alison down, she pushed her hair back behind her ear and turned, smiling.

Thanks for the ride Leon.

No problem.

The Teenager now, Colin (he's taller now then in the game, huskier too), came running up, stopping Leon before he could head off to work. He turned toward the boy and got off Shade. Even though Colin was taller now, he was still a whole head shorter then Leon.

Whats up Colin?

"My dad and I have something for you! For your trip tomorrow that is."

Lead the way little man.

The 13 year old grabbed Leon's wrist and started to Lead him back over the Bridge and up the hill. He turned back towards Alison and made a signal to hold shade for him for a few minutes. She smiled and nodded.

As he was dragged up the hill, Rusl noticed his son's excitement to show his gift to Leon and stopped practicing. He began to walk up slowly, knowing what Colin had.

When they got to the front porch of his house, They stopped and only Colin went inside. Rusl stepped up and stopped next to Leon, Smiling.

Whats he got for me Rusl?

Oh, you'll love it. We've worked on it for the past 2 weeks. Actually, just him, I barely helped. He even made the Sheath.

Sheath?! What do you mean by Sheath?!

The door opened and Colin came strolling out like a pro, carrying an Ornate Katana in its Sheath that was Specifically crafted for Leon. It had a black hilt with cloth covering, ended in a Dragon's head. The blade was perfectly crafted; looking like it could slice through a tree. The sheath was immaculate, designed and clothed as well.

He handed the Immaculate Blade straight to Leon along with a sword belt, just like his normal belt, only with a sword hilt-loop on it. He drew the sword itself and inspected it, marveling at how well it was done. He didn't have any words, only his jaw, lying on the ground. Colin laughed at his reaction and spoke.

"I started it a couple weeks ago with my dad's help. It’s my first sword. Dad says I could be an excellent blacksmith, but I don't think so."

"run along to your chores Colin, I have to talk with Leon."

"okay dad!"

He ran off when the other kids showed up down the hill, looking for him. He joined them and went off, playing, instead of pumpkin patch picking.

Excellent blade, isn't it?

Excellent doesn't give it enough justice. How much did you say he worked on it?

He did the entire thing actually. I sharpened it as I didn't want him to use the grindstone. But he hand forged it in the furnace to the side of the house. Most blades only take a day or two; he started the day we heard that the Scallwind took back their home.

So that’s why you didn't tell me sooner...

Yep, I wanted to tell you that day, but he convinced me not to. He keeps blades like that up; he'll be the best blacksmith in the land. Course...he'll have to make my blade first.

They both laughed and sighed afterwards. Leon put the blade back into its sheath and put it into the loop. Fado came running up, scared.

LEEEON!!

What is it now Fado?

The kids...I went off towards the spring to try and get you to stop flirting with Alison as I thought you were doing it again, and I saw Colin and the others running off across the bridge chasing some monkey. I yelled at them, but they didn't hear me.

silly putty...I'll round up the Big-horners after I get back.

He ran down the hill and towards the mayor's house. Alison was still standing, petting Shade. She noticed Leon's expression and let the reigns go. He popped up onto the horse from behind and wheeled her around. With a "HYAA" He shot off at full gallop, chasing after them.

He bounded across the bridge and to the other side. He noticed Colin and Malo panting next to the bridge. They looked up to him, scared.

Leon! I didn't mean to run off! They were teasing me and-

Home. Now! Where are the others?

Down the road...I'm sorry.

Least you’re safe. Now go home.

Not waiting for them to get going, he continued into Faron woods.

He came to a large entrance that was opened, Beth stood next to the cave (she's taller as well).

She jumped when she saw Leon hop off of Shade and started to Tear up.

Leon I...

Where's Talo?!

He Kept running...I was too scared to enter the cave.

Get home, now.

No Problem, I'm going.

She ran off as Leon grabbed a torch and went into the cave. He drew his blade and stepped into the dark.

The cave was pitch black, but the fire helped him move through the winding cave. Suddenly, bats came out of the dark and covered him in fluttering wings. He pushed past the group and out the other side.

The area was disgusting, but he came down a hill and into the lake bottom of the bog. The water was gone, but the creatures weren’t, Goblins were running around. He put the torch aside and ran at the goblin. It turned and jumped back at Leon's presence, then ran at him. Before he could do anything, Leon ran the beast through with his blade and tore upward, splitting it in half. The blade truly was super sharp.

He continued on towards the other side of the swamp where Talo's and a monkey's footprints lead to.

A few goblins guarded a specific gate that lead to the next area. They all ran at him at first sight. One on the right swung his club down onto Leon's head, but he dodged, barely, and countered with a Horizontal slice to the neck, lopping off the goblin's head. The other swung and smacked Leon in his shoulder, even for such a lanky creature, it hit hard. He turned and sliced the Goblin's arm off then struck at the monster's abdomen, the bottom half of the goblin's body ran away while the top tried to crawl. The last one turned its stick over to the pointy end and hit Leon from behind. He let out a howl of pain and elbowed the Goblin in the jaw, making it drop the stick. Leon took the stick and knocked the goblin down and brought the stick down HARD onto the goblin's head. Smashing it like a cherry.

His back hurt, the pointed end of the stick got him good in the middle of the back. He came to the gate and broke the lock with his sword and proceeded through the cave.

He came out the other end into a large area, where on the other side was a bridge up a tree and onto another large area where Talo and a female monkey
They were locked in cages while Goblin's circled them, hungry.

Leon came running, rolling onto the platform and decapitating a goblin then running at another. Before the Goblin could notice, Leon had already picked it up and threw it over the edge of the platform. Its screams could be heard for a while until a noticeable splat stopped them.

Leon!

He came to Talo's cage and ripped it open. He did the same with the monkeys and shooed it away.

You’re in a lot of trouble Talo.

I'm sorry Leon! I just...

Come on, let’s head home.

HYAH! HYAH!

He chased the Big-horners and Goats across the Plains. The Ordon Ranch has greatly prospered in the years, nearly 200 head of Goat and 100 Big Horner. The Plains itself spanned several miles south and east of Ordon, it was a huge farm. Thankfully, it’s not hard to manage, if people want milk from the goats, they make it themselves with Fado's and Leon's guiding hand. Draws in kids as well, so it’s nice, pays the bills.

He got the last of the goats into the last of the barns for the night and sighed with content. It was very dangerous for Goats to be out and around during the night. The Big-horner could protect some, but not all, from the beasts.

He strode back into town with an exasperated breath and got off of Shade. Twilight was starting to come upon the land, he remembered that Allie wanted to wash Shade before Leon left tomorrow, so he got off of Shade and came up to the door.

He knocked on the door and Bo came out hiding a smile rather badly. He watched shade being lead away by Alison while Leon was talking.

Hey Mr. Stone, is Alison here? I have to keep a promise.

"Nope, just missed her"

Where did she head off to?

"the Spring"

...She’s got my horse doesn't she?

"yep."

He sighed and shook his head, laughing.

I wanted to ask a...Dangerous question Bo, If I may.

"You wanted to ask if Alison could come with you to Hyrule.

Well actually I was going to ask for some sugar as I just ran out, but that works too.

"Relax buddy. She can go. One missing hair and I’ll tan your hide though"

Alright, I should...go chase her down.

He turned from the door and saw that his horse was indeed gone. he walked toward the Ordon Spring.

Twilight was more upon the land when he got there; he smiled, seeing Alison lying in the grass on the spring's bank while Shade was just chilling on the far side, drinking water. He came up and plopped down next to her, placing his arms behind his head.

What did My dad say?

He had to think about it, but he said yeah, you can come along. But he said he'd only allow it if we stop for Roses in the Zora's Domain.

Unless I'm wrong...Roses don't grow in the north...

That’s what I said; he just winked at me and walked back into the house.

My dad's so weird...

Not as weird as you!

Is that so?

She got up and stood over him with her hands on her hips and her lips Puckered.

What makes you say that, Leon?

You stealing my horse for the up-teenth time.

He sat up and splashed a little water at her from where he sat and got up. She yelped and bent over, cupping some water and tossing it at him. It splashed all over his back, but he just laughed and tossed more her way.

They ran around a bit and just threw water at each other, laughing and smiling. A rumbling sound made them stop in their watery tracks and look toward the pathway. The rumbling got louder and louder until a large Bulbin Riding a huge boar burst into the scene followed by two more Boars with smaller Bulbin on it.

The larger Bulbin knocked Leon aside with a swipe of a large club. He went across the spring and hit a wall, falling to the ground, injured. They surrounded Alison and tried to get closer, but she tried to hit them away with her hands. One of the Bulbins got onto shade and tried to run off, forcing the horse along. One, ready to leave sooner, drew and arrow and shot. The arrow went into her back and she dropped to the ground. The Large Bulbin bent over and grabbed a wrist, she was gone...Leon's eyes shot open and he drew his blade. He ran for the King Bulbin as the others were taking Alison's body and leaving. He Jumped onto the Boar and onto the Bulbin's back. The Bulbin shot off, heading for Faron woods, but Leon tried to stop him, slamming the sword into the Bulbin's shoulder and ripping out. Blood gushed from the wound as the Bulbins made it across the bridge.

When they got across the bridge, they neared a Dark Curtain. It was A black and totally flat curtain that was boarded by Bright white edges. The Bulbin got Closer and closer and closer and-

They came through to the other side. His eyes opened wide at his surroundings. Everything he knew about Faron woods, covered in a black and white. The canyon walls were black, the trees were black, and the ground and grass was all white. He tried to scream when he slammed his sword into the Bulbin again, but no sound was made. In fact, it was as if he was deaf, he couldn't hear anything at all. He ignored it as he shifted all his weight into bringing the Bulbin off of his Boar.

The two slammed into the ground and rolled to a stop. His sword was placed into his sheathe when he got up. He got on top of the Bulbin Leader and started to pound his fists into the Bulbin's chin over and over and over. Blood started to come out along with rotten teeth. Leon's hands started to hurt from the amount of force in each punch. One of the other Bulbin’s came over, having had enough and hit Leon's head with a huge amount of momentum. Leon rolled off of the Bulbin Leader, unconscious.

The Leader then got up, brushed himself off and relocated his jaw back into place. He got onto his Boar and they joined up with the others. The other children were knocked out and on the boars as well. Leon opened his eyes at the last second and saw Alison laying on the front of the boar, facing towards him. Her eyes were just slightly open, she was-

His eyes opened to a darkened jail cell. He looked around groggily and attempted to stand up. He saw his hands and gasped. They were completely coated in armor. He looked around and saw a mirror. He tried to stand up straight, coughing heavily. Once his vision cleared from the coughing he gasped again at what he looked like.

(no helmet, no Gun)

In addition to the armor, his skin was...bright white, a shimmering white, his hair had turned pitch black as well. His eyes kept their blue eyed appearance.

He felt the chest of his armor and the pauldrons. They weren't the normal metals he was used to. In fact, they weren't metal at all. It felt a bit like leather, but incredibly stronger. He tapped his fist against the shoulder and chest plate and tried to judge the type again. Oh...I know what it is. The pauldron and chest plate are simple steel with leather over the top of it that been sanded down then reinforced, then a hard casing of...wood I think...no...Carbon Fiber...but Carbon Fiber is only made in the Goron mines. Gorons themselves make it and keep the technique to make it to themselves only...this doesn't make sense, how is it on me? How is it fitted to me?

His thoughts were interrupted, more like added on to, by a giggling sound in his head. He looked forward, trying to find it. He noticed his sword and sheath on the other side of the hall on a table. He looked side to side trying to find the noise. Right, left, right, left, ri-

He silently screamed when he turned right and jumped back and went into the wall. He felt a chain move with him. He glanced down to see a chain connecting his ankle to a wall. He looked back up towards the Little girl now floating in front of him, looking curiously at him.

She was extremely strange looking. Her skin was like his, Pure white and slightly luminescent. She wore a Sleeveless billowy dress that went down to her calves. It was totally black with a red sash in the middle that tied into a cute bow that then hung down a little on her left side. (right side in Leon's perspective) Her hair was pitch black as well, long, it went down to the middle of her back with a little of it hanging in front of her face, covering her left eye (right eye in Leon’s perspective) Speaking of eyes, she has normal eyes beside a Deep blue like Leon's eyes. She stood about 4 ft 3 in and looked like she was just ten years old, Although she floated at head height to Leon.

Her body and face went into a position where it seemed she was giggling, but no sound came out. A voice rang in his head.

Hay there Mister, Are you okay?

He raised an eyebrow to the little girl, wondering how her voice got into his head when there is no sound in twilight.

Just speak in your head dummy. Think the words!

H-H-How are we doing this?

Ever heard of Telepathy?

And how come I can't speak or hear anything?

Your Twilit ears haven't developed yet. If you head back into the world of light, they'll adjust. But in Faron woods, the silence will still be there. So now I ask again, are you okay?

Uh...Been better. Who...and What, are you?

You are new to twilight. My name is Eve. I'm a twilit. A pleasure to meet you.

She smiled a great big smile and held out her hand. Leon took hold of it and shook, giving a curious smile.

Whats your name?

Leon Grace...Whats a twilit?

A twilit is a resident of the Twilight Realm. My home, Silly boy.

Twilight realm...?!

Before we continue...can we get you out of here? This is hardly the place to have tea.

Agreed Little Eve. You see that Sword over there?

He pointed out of the cell and towards the other side of the hall. His sword lay on the table in its sheath.

You mean the black stick? That is not a sword, Silly Boy.

Bring it here please.

O-kay.

She floated toward the bars and just phased through them. She came up to the sword and brought it to the bars again and slipped it through the bars, handing it to Leon. She then slipped through herself.

Leon took the blade and backed up, stretching the chain out. He drew the sword and sliced the chain in two. Eve gasped and backed up, still floating, frightened by the sudden appearance of a blade.

He sheathed it and looked at her. He gave a quick smile and nod. She brightened back up and went through the bars again. She went down the hall a bit and came back a few minutes later carrying a set of keys. She came to the cell door and unlocked it. It swung open with a loud creek and he stepped out into the hall.

So...where are your parents, Eve?

she grew sad here and landed on the ground. She stood close to him, seeking comfort.

Gone...

What happened to them?

Midna...My mom, was killed the day Zant took over the Twilight Realm. Dad was killed there too...Leaving me alone...

He bent down to her level and looked into her eyes, smiling. He didn't know the pain of such a severe loss like this. But he could see it in her eyes and in the tears that started to roll down. Without a word, he hugged her and shook her a bit while in the hug. Like a big brother or father would. He let her go but kept his hands on her shoulders, smiling

Hey don't worry little Eve. I won't leave you alone.

She smiled and hugged him, knowing he was sincere. He stood up and they began walking down the hall, slowly, so Leon could ask questions.

How did I end up here?

I'm not sure how you ended up HERE but 2 weeks ago...just before mom died, we were out in the Twilighted Faron woods, trying to see what was causing the twilight realm to start to spread over Hyrule...I think I saw you on the back of the Lord Bulbin Warlord, trying to kill him. Was that you?

yeah...Did you say TWO WEEKS?!

Yes. When you were knocked out, one of the hunters came and picked you up. Your hand started to glow a little, but it faded and the Hunter dragged you here where I've...um...kept you alive by spoon feeding you stolen carrots and stuff while you went through the...transform-thingy, phase-thing. White skin, armor. You look a lot like my dad...

So wait, this outfit came with the skin change?

Yes. You were naked for half a day while your Armor made itself.

Do you happen to know where the people that were on the Boars are? 4 little kids and a grown woman...?

The kids yes, they are over in Kakariko Village. Mom and I tracked them for a long while. When the Bulbin’s went through Kakariko village, they were attacked. The boars that the kids were on were killed and the remaining townspeople saved them. They should still be hiding there.

And the woman...?

She simply shook her head. His face darkened then. His mind going back to that scene where he last saw Alison. Her eyes were barely open, wounded. But she was Alive. Although it was 2 weeks ago, she just has to be alive.

They walked through a hallway door and went up a flight of stairs. When they came to the top they went through one more door, Outside.

Outside, it was raining hard. Regular water as always. But the clouds above were a Bright white and luminescent, like their skins. They were on the castle wall, a dark dark gray color of granite all around. They looked down onto the town (on their right) and saw all the houses. All the houses looked normal. The people were gone however, just floating blue flames skittering about.

Oh, here, this will help you see the people.

She hugged him once more, and melted into him. His shadow appeared in front of him and waved at him. His eyes tingled a bit and turned a Light blue color. He looked down and saw all the people, ghostly versions of themselves, but they were there. He sat down on the castle wall and just looked. He didn't even care about the pounding rain. He heard Eve's voice in his head.

Are you okay Leon? You look sad...

I'm just worried about that woman. Really really worried.

You know...Becoming your shadow doesn't just grant you Ghost sight. If you find something that belongs to her, a shirt, purse, blood. Whatever works for you. We can track her easily. A trail of smoke signaling her every move.

really?

Yes! Unfortunately though...Us twilit, can't communicate to the people. This means even if you find her, you can’t speak to or touch her.

I just need to know she is alive.

Then why don't we head to her home and do just that?

We are...right now.

They reappeared at the Ordon-Faron bridge, on the Ordon side. Nothing was covered in twilight. Leon looked around and found that a large metal wall was constructed at the bridge, blocking off the rest of the world. That might explain why nothing's been Twilighted yet. They walked toward Ordon Village, strolling. Leon looked the same as he did in the Twilight Realm. White skin and armor. It was night time and clouds started to gather in the starry sky. Eve wasn't walking with him, she hid in his shadow.

Ya know. It would have been nice to know that you could Warp around like that

Heh, sorry Leon. Mom gave me a lot of powers I'm not supposed to talk about.

He stopped himself at first and stomped his foot on the ground. He could hear again. They moved on into the spring then. All the signs of battle were gone, only the spring itself was left.

Before we move on...I wanted a few more answers.

Sure!

Earlier, you said a name. Zant. Who is Zant?

She was silent for a while. The silence bit at him until she spoke.

________________________

Zant is...A monster...


He walked into the Hyrulean throne room, Massive black beasts with metal faces walked with him. On the other side of the room, guards rushed at him and his beasts. He and his beasts continued at a slow gait. One guard rushed straight at him, but without lifting a finger, the guard shot up into midair and started to crush into a ball. His screams stopped the other guards. The now small ball of flesh and bone fell. The blood that had come out separated and floated in midair as well. it hardened in an instant and turned into separate spears. They flew at the other guards and impaled them, leaving them to rot on the ground.

They walked right over the deceased guards. More ran at him with tower shields and spears. The beasts ran forward into the spears. Their metal faces protected them as they tackled the guards and decapitated them. One last guard ran forward. The Beasts turned and grabbed his legs when he ran past.

The poor man face-planted into the ground. Slowly, from the hip up, the Beasts pulled him in half and threw him aside.

At the throne stood the Princess Zelda. Two, larger guards with claymores stood at the ready. She held her sword, tense. The Monster of the Twilight spoke.

It is simple. Zelda. Relinquish your throne to me. Or everything you've ever known...Dies, here and now.

She stood for a moment, contemplating her next move...finally, In the best interests of her people, she dropped her sword...

_______________________________

He killed my Mother and My father. He hangs them both as trophies in his "Throne of Gods". The only reason I'm alive was because I was out practicing my tracking skills...Before he gained his strange powers and turned into...a Monster...We were friends...Basically brother and sister...I was his only friend...

Eve...

C-C-Can we just continue on please? I...I don't want to answer any more questions right now...

Alright, alright...

In silence, they crept into the village. Nobody was around besides a wounded Rusl sitting on the dock. Rusl was always...a bit of a dad for Leon. Because Soren was a Scall Ranger, he immediately signed up for the royal guard for Hyrule when they arrived. Helped support the family rather well. He certainly didn't get denied either since Scall Rangers were essentially Royal Guards of Scallwind. Because he signed up however...he was always gone. Never at home to see his son. Leon looked up to his father for his strength though and got into the Academy to follow in his footsteps. They had a fight near the end of the academy however, a big one.

Due to a disturbance, Leon and his squad was tasked with hunting down a child that had stolen from Zelda herself as she went through the streets, mingling with the people. A guard having witnessed it. Automatically, the child was charged with treason. It was an orphan; he only stole that bag so he could eat another day.

The captain accompanied them when they went in search of the child. It wasn't long until they found him. The captain of the guard Pushed Leon forward, barking an order to kill the child. Leon wouldn't move. The Guard instead gave Leon an offer. Kill the child in the name of Hyrule, or serve all time off of school in Jail for refusing a direct order.

Leon had walked up to that child and bent down to face level. The poor thing was backed up in a corner with nowhere to run. He spoke to the child "hey, hey, it’s alright...here, hand me the bag..." The child gave that bag to Leon, which contained enough money in it to buy half the stuff in Chudly's Emporium, and in return, Leon gave the little orphan all of his money on hand. Enough to buy some food for a few days. With a "go on, get out of here little one" he pushed the child off. The little boy skittered off into the crowds.

He had turned to his captain with a stern face. "You DARE let that child get away?!" Yelled the Captain. "You are a disgrace to every single one of you filthy degenerate Scallwind. Especially to your father" It was then that the Captain spit into Leon's face. It was also then that the Captain's head went into the stone alleyway wall and was pounded into mush by Leon's balled up fist.

Because of how much the entire regiment hated that captain, they all turned their backs, as if nothing was happening. It was Zelda herself that pulled Leon off of the Captain. Leon explained, in great detail, what happened and what the Captain did. All that Leon did was forgiven and the Captain was thrown into jail for a long time.

Leon's father did not excuse his actions however. "Disobeying a commanding officer?! Nearly Killing him?!" he said. "What makes you think that YOUR THOUGHTS can overrule a commanding officers command?!" He could hear his father’s voice in his head as he looked at Rusl...father was not somebody to disobey any order. Period. He was the definition of the "Perfect Soldier" Never disobeying command for any reason.

Leon sighed, remembering his father, and crept up on the wounded soldier. He placed both hands on Rusl's shoulders and squeezed a little, caring. Rusl tried to move to strike, but Leon's words were faster.

Rusl, Relax. Its Leon...

Rusl's face turned from anger, to disbelief. He tried to move to see Leon, but Leon moved out of Rusl's vision when he turned his head. He kept his hands on Rusl's shoulders, not letting him twist his body.

You have to promise not to freak out when you look at me...I am vastly different then before due to...strange circumstances...

I Promise, old friend...sit down with me...

Leon let his hands off of Rusl's shoulders. He scooted to the left a bit so Leon could sit on the dock with him. Leon took a bit of a deep breath and sat down. His legs dangled over the side a bit when he did. Rusl looked at him for a few seconds, taking in the hugely different skin; hair and clothing, but still recognized the face. He sighed and just looked straight ahead, almost unaffected.

What the hell happened over the past two weeks?

You tell me. I chased the Bulbin Warlord into the woods and into a place called "The Twilight Realm" and was knocked out. The past two weeks I was taken to Hyrule castle dungeon by some strange beast and turned into...this...

What of the kids Leon? What of the Kids?

I don't know...My newest...tag along, Eve, told me the kids are in Kakariko. The residents there apparently saved them...and Alison...I’m not sure where Allie is...that’s why I'm back here.

Eve?

Eve popped up to Leon's side, although in a shadowy color instead of her usual white. She waved at Rusl and just floated.

Eve's kept me alive the last two weeks.

Really? She looks friendly. Are you and her one in the same now?

Kind of...I hope to be able to change back to human, but for now...I'm a "Twilit". Not even she understands why I'm twilit.

Why is that?

Anybody who steps into twilight either becomes beastly, or a ghost.

Oh...Why are you back here however?

To get Alison's bow. With Eve's help, I can track Alison down using traces of Allie herself on the bow.

Do you need the kid's stuff too?

No, no, I know where Kakariko is. I'll find them. My highest priority...for now I'm afraid, is Allie.

Although I feel you should look for the kids first, I can't blame you for wanting to find Alison right quick.

Not just because I care for her, Ya know...I have a promise to keep to Bo. I said I'd protect her with my life, and I intend to keep that promise. There is a problem however...

What is that?

When I am in twilight, I can't interact with her in any way. I have to find a way to clear out the twilight.

Try praying to the spirits of the areas. Their holy words might just help you out.

Thank you, Rusl. I'm not going to surprise Bo with my gallant return so could you...

I'll be glad to tell him, and everybody else, what happened in the morning. Head in through the roof of the house and you'll be undetected. You'll drop right into Alison's room. Though I'm sure you knew that already, Leon.

Damn you, ya old coot. You know me too well.

I've seen you sneak her out of the Village before; don't think I haven't been watching.

They laughed and Leon got up. Just as he walked away, Rusl spoke up once more.

And hey, Leon...Be careful out there alright? Don't get stupid. Don't know what I would do if you passed on...

No problem Rusl. Take care now. I'll get the kids back as soon as I can.

With a final nod, Leon walked away and across the bridge. He came up to the side of Mayor Bo's house and climbed up the side using the window's wooden edges. He found the roof entrance and slipped in. Mere minutes later, he came out of the same entrance with Alison's hand carved Red Wood bow. Her "soul bow” and a Big Horner skin quiver of 60 arrows.

He climbed back down and went over the bridge. He bid farewell to Rusl once more and went for the exit of Ordon.

When he walked by the Spirit's spring minutes later. Something called to him.

Wait...

Leon turned when he heard the voice in his head. He looked toward the hot spring. Something beckoned him inside.

He stood in the middle of the hot spring now, awaiting what was beckoning him. The mystical Spirit of Ordona appeared, shining greatly.

The spirit looked at him, his head Dr. Seussed, judging him.

So...you are the Hero to be? I am impressed, I expected a redneck.

Leon Crossed his arms and leaned on his foot. He didn't expect the mighty spirit to act this way.

Hah hah. I joke with you Hero. I am indeed impressed. You look the part, aside from the look of spending your entire life in a pitch black cave and dying your hair black. On a more serious note however. You are close to the one called Alison, correct? Then I have a task for you. As you have learned, the land is almost entire covered in Twilight. In this state, you cannot go to the Children's rescue or to Alison's rescue either. You must go to my brothers, Eldin and Lanayru, and help them. Their power was stolen by the Shadow Beasts, Thus coating the northern provinces in Twilight.

What about Faron Forest? It was Twilighted when I was captured 2 weeks ago.

One named Midna. Before she was killed, tried to set things right. She recovered Faron's Light and defeated the monster of the wood. She was extremely brave and would have gone on to cure the rest of the land. But alas...Zant stopped her...Thanks to a spell however; Zant's forces cannot enter Faron or Ordon. Least as long as your friend there lives.

That would explain why Ordon isn't Twilighted. Who should I go see first, Noble Spirit?

Eldin. You won't be able to enter the Lanayru Province due to not having Shade, your horse. Once you find her, you can head to Lanayru. Anyways, Head after Eldin in Kakariko village.

Leon nodded and turned, heading for the exit. The Spirit of Ordon. In all it's strange attitudes and making fun of sweetheartic Zant, Disappeared into the spring. Leon couldn't help but hate that spirit. Expecting a redneck...HAH!

High up in Hyrule castle, sitting inside of a darkened room sat Isabella Zelda. Princess of Hyrule. Wearing a brown cloak over her regal attire, she watched down through a glass window over what had become of her home. She was sitting inside her chambers, a bed on the far side and a table on the other. The bed was disgusting and the table was poorly made. Thunder rocked the sky while white lightning scrapped across it. Rain poured down below onto the blackened town. The twilight having turned the entire town into a mixture of black for all the houses rooftops and white for all the walls and streets. People, literal ghosts of what they were, still moved through the streets, continuing their lives as if nothing happened.

She felt a twinge of guilt grip her heart as she remembered that his was largely her fault for giving up Hyrule so easily. Simply dropping her sword and letting her guards be maimed by those foul beasts...she thought of one of the Hyrulean's hand...Adam...as he was being dragged away...how he had taken her to places in town that she hadn't even seen...how they had their first kiss in Lanayru fishing grounds...and...she wondered if he was alright...

She snapped out of it when a slam was heard behind her. She turned to see Zant standing in her doorway. She turned back toward the window and stared.

Why do you IGNORE me, Isabella? Why must you act like such a CHILD?!

I have nothing to say to you Zant. You've stolen my home, unwanted caressd it, pillaged it, and turned it into hell.

Your persistence is commendable, Isabella. But it is NOT welcome. Do not think that I CANNOT break you.

His sleeve went down a bit to reveal his muscular arm and hand. The hand wrapped around her neck and forced her to look into the steely eyes of the helmet Zant was wearing.

You should be HAPPY that I captured this PITIFUL kingdom of yours. Your PITIFUL soldiers could do NOTHING against my army, what makes you think that they could have held up against somebody or something stronger?

She simply sat, unmoving. Her eyes met the steely once on his helmet and did nothing. She even crossed her legs and relaxed as his hand grew a little tighter. When it did, she spat into his face.

With a mighty roar, he threw her across the small room and on top of the bed. His hand went to her throat again and pinned her down.

DO NOT IGNORE ME YOU CALLOUS BITCH. YOU ARE LUCKY I SAVED THIS PITIFUL KINGDOM AND DISGUSTING COUNTRY. I WILL NOT BE AFRAID TO SLIT YOUR THROAT AND THROW YOU OFF OF YOUR OWN TOWER!

Her face was contorted in both anger and sadness now, realizing that he could, and definitely would do what he said. She just looked at him now, submissive. His hand left her throat, leaving a deep red mark on her skin. He turned toward the door and stopped.

I believe that there is some...business...that I must attend to dear princess...I do hope that you...do not enjoy this...business...

He closed her chamber door with him still in it and walked toward her.

________________

Down in the jail however, sat several Royal Guards. Dressed in their Hyrulean’s Hand armor.

An order of guards where there can only be 5 of them at any time. They are of the highest training and skill that can possibly be learned or self-taught. Each is said to hold a chunk of the Triforce of courage around their necks. Nobody has ever found out as the job is until you die and the successors are those that nobody will ever think of. One in the corner did not have a helmet on. His eyebrows were furrowed and angry. He was staring out of the jail cell at his weapon. A runic longsword that can only be held by the Hyrulean’s "finger" that it is given to. His name was Adam Laal

One of the best Hyrulean’s Hand out there. He got up suddenly as a woman's screams echoed throughout the castle. He came up to the cell door and flat-foot kicked it as hard as he could. It rattled and shook, but it did not budge. He kicked again and again, but nothing. He roared as he kicked again and again and again until his foot started to become inflamed with pain. The 4 other "Fingers" pulled him back and shook their heads. There was no way out. He went to the bench he was at and slammed both of his fists down onto it and crushed the bench in half out of pure blind anger.

He sat down against the wall and closed his eyes. Furious.

Well...There it is...looks different...

Leon stood, sadly still in his twilit form, in front of the Eldin Twilight Curtain. The twilight curtain was different from before. Instead of being black with white borders, the Eldin Curtain was a bright yellow with Orange at the borders. He pulled out Alison's bow and inspected it. His eyes went back to that Pale blue and Alison's bow glowed in his eyes a little.

Suddenly, a light pink trail appeared before him and led into the Curtain. He blinked a few times and stepped forward, following Alison's trail into the Twilight.

When he entered, he had to covers his eyes from what he saw. For a few minutes, he simply stood, totally blinded by the land until his eyes adjusted to the sheer brightness.

When they did adjust and he looked at what he saw, he was amazed. The earth was a golden yellow color while the grass was a deep orange. The Eldin canyon walls were golden like the earth. In the middle of the land was a gorge with a golden bridge going across. He was absorbed into the landscape for a while until the pink trail appeared once again, leading across the gorge and towards an opening in the canyon that lead to Kakariko village.

He started to run, following the trail as fast as he could, hoping, and praying that she was all right.

He bounded across the bridge and towards Kakariko, heading straight in.

________

When he entered, he was amazed with what he saw. The old Kakariko he knew and loved turned into a golden paradise. There was no grass or leafy trees here. Everything was golden, the houses were totally golden, and the canyon walls were golden. The ground was golden. Hell, even the sky was golden. It was hard to tell where the ground ended and the wall began because of all the gold.

Eve popped up and stood next to him, marveling at the shimmering area. She actually spoke for the first time, her voice different then in thought. It was soft, like a ten year old little girl's voice, but ghostly as well, as if drawing power to speak with each word.

Beautiful...isn't it?

Yeah. Why isn't this twilight like the Faron Twilight?

Because each region is different, keeping it diverse. No two regions are alike. Even the central region where Hyrule Castle lies is different. It’s close to Faron, but there are a lot of grays. Lanayru is my favorite however...

Before they could finish speaking however, something appeared across the yard along with 2 others.

H-Hunters!

Before Leon could say another word, Eve disappeared into Leon's shadow and the Hunter's Turned towards him.

Leon charged a hunter as it turned to charge him. They were easy to see because of their colors. It jumped in the air, but Leon started to sprint and went right underneath the beast. He took out his sword and swung as he went under, slicing it in half.

He flipped his sword so the blade pointed downwards. He slammed the blade into the second hunter's faceplate then ripped sideways, severing the head from the neck.

He kept the blade pointed down as he turned towards the last hunter, just about to make a call. It raised its head into the air and opened a gnarly looking mouth. Leon pulled his arm back and threw his blade as if it was a spear, right into the Hunter's throat. It gargled for a bit then fell backwards. All three melted into a puddle and disappeared.

He came up to his fallen blade and picked it up. The blood that was soaked on it disappeared as well. He sheathed it and looked around again. A man had come out of the nearby temple and was looking around, seeing that the Hunters were gone.

He looked terrified, shaking and forcing his mask down over his face. A rustling down the road from them both cause the man to run back inside of the temple. Leon came up to the temple window and looked in.

Inside, the man from before, one other man,

Beth, Colin, Talo, Malo and one other child

huddled in a small group. The man with the boiler mask came over to the window and just watched for any monsters.

The man with the children spoke. An obvious Indian descendant. His voice was low and Prophetic.

Worry not, little ones. We will be okay. Those monsters cannot hurt us here.

CAN'T HURT US HERE?!

The man by the window spoke up and stormed over by the children.

Renaldo, did you not see what happened to your WIFE?! She was torn apart by those beasts then turned into one of them. I swear I saw her in the shop! We are doomed to be just like them!

the child and Beth began to cry there, thinking of the deaths that are about to come.

BARNES!

Well?! What the hell do you expect me to do?! Sit here giving false hope speeches while my thumb is up my ass?! I'm trying to make them see REALITY not your sweetheartic peace pipe bullshit!

BACK TO YOUR WINDOW BARNES

He shook his head and went back to the window. He looked out and continued to watch, melancholy of what is to come. Colin stood up though without a tear in his eye. and spoke.

I don't care what you say Barnes. You are nothing but a coward. But I know one thing...Leon Is Coming for us...

And who is this mighty "Leon" you speak of? Some superhero you came up when you were 5?!

He is a true warrior, unlike you. Stronger then a Goron, more skilled then a Hyrulean's Hand and twice the courage. I know he's coming...

But...Colin...

Teary eyed and weary, Beth stood and looked straight into Colin's eyes.

The last time we saw Leon was two weeks ago...who knows if he's even alive?

I know he's coming Beth...I just know it. I don't know how I know, but I just do.

Renaldo stood then, placing a massive hand on Colin’s head. The Indian was huge. Over twice Colin’s height. It was hard to tell, but the Indian's muscles defined the elaborate fabric robe he was wearing.

A very inspirational speech my friend. One that would inspire even Barnes to do something productive. Luda, my child, go with Beth into the basement and clean your eyes. Colin, please go with them. And take this.

Out of the back of his robe, he pulled a small shortsword in a black scabbard

A proud blade for a proud warrior. Use it well my friend.

With Colin following closely by with his new shortsword in it's black Scabbard. The girls went to the statue in the middle of the Ritualistic temple and opened a trapdoor in the back. Together, they climbed down. Colin went with just in case.

Leon backed up from the window, saddened by what he saw. Yet at the same time, proud of what Colin had become.

Hero...

Leon turned at the sound of the word "Hero" and looked at the spring at the back of the town. A single floating golden thing was above the spring, beckoning him. The water itself was golden like everything else so it was hard to see the thing. But the water was sparkly!

He walked to the spring and stood, waiting.

It...is...good to finally...meet the hero...I...apologize for not...speaking on better terms...my power is all but...depleted...and I'm scraping the bottom of the barrel to...speak to you...

The spirit grew dim for a few seconds, and then regained its slight color. It was obvious that the spirit was nearly dead.

Please...I ask you...nay...I PLEAD and BEG you...go to Barnes'...explosives building at the...top of the hill...The path up to it is right next to Barnes' shop...Kill the creature there that...has taken my power...return it to me...the Twilight will be...lifted...

With a simple bow to the spirit and a nod. Leon turned around and went for the other end of town where Barnes' Bomb Bunker was.

Ya know, while we climb this dizzyingly high cliff side up a rather badly made path of dirt and shaky gravel, we should sing a song!

Shut up, Eve...

There once was a man by the name of Toital (Toy-tall), Toital, and his favorite color was Poipall! Poipall! (poy-paul)

Eve...Dear...

aww…what? you interrupted my song!

Do me a favor and shut up!

aw...

Leon was having a hard enough time climbing up the path to Barnes' bomb Shack without Eve's singing. How the hell did that fat guy get up here every day to get his bombs?

More then a couple times, Leon's foot slipped and he nearly plummeted to his death. The entire hill was unstable. It went up in an S fashion, constantly going up.

When he reached the top after several minutes of slip and sliding on the path. He witnessed Barnes' Bomb Shack in all it's...Defunct...glory. Seems as though Barnes just threw it up from shrapnel and left over bomb parts.

When he walked up to the door and opened it however, it opened towards him and pushed him back. A strange looking Goblin coming out.

It was obvious that the spirit's power was inside of the disgusting little creature. It was about twice the size of a regular goblin (Bokoblin) but had a much larger blade on its back, there were also golden veins running across its body and the tongue that hung out a bit of its mouth was totally golden as well.

It took out it's rather over sized claymore and ran at Leon. It's poor mentality and instant rushing attack was rather sad considering the power it had.

Leon stood just as the creature was charging and side stepped it. Unable to stop the momentum, it went right over the edge of the cliff and fell.

It plummeted for about 3 seconds before it made a satisfying "splat" on the ground. Goblins were always stupid.

That was too easy...

Either that or the goblin really was that stupid...I gotta climb down this don't I?

Effectively...

And no teleporting either I wager?

That’s what you get for telling me to shut up.

With an angry sigh and a rolling of the eyes. Leon started to walk down the path, slipping and sliding again.

When he got to the bottom and to the Goblin's blood spot. He didn't get to study it when he was knocked down the street by a rather large bug

When Leon recovered from the smack from the sweetheartic bug. He waited for it to charge him. It tried to sting him with the multiple thorns on its backside, Leon deftly moved out of the way, trying to lure it towards a canyon wall.

The light that the bug created camouflaged it in the bright landscape. It was hard to see, but Leon found his way to the canyon wall. When the bug charged at him again, Leon rolled out of its charge and it went right into the wall. It fell backward; having the wind knocked out of it made it squirm and try to get back to the air. Leon jumped onto the insect and used his blade to carve into the Bug's head. He carved all around it while it was squirming and took the entire thing off and threw it to the side.

For a small while, it wiggled and squirmed, and then it stopped moving all together. Without delay, it exploded into a Light blue orb that was bigger then Leon's head. It zoomed over to the spring and went into the water.

Quickly, Leon went over to the water and waited.

________________

As the spirit rose out of the water, The Twilight started to be stripped away. Light overcame the village and tore apart any evil that lied within the dark corners. All around the area, the sun shone once more and the entirety of Eldin was purged of any of Zant's Ilk.

Leon was also cleansed of his Twilit self. He did not look the same, no. He looked like a Hero.

He looked himself over and was shocked at how different he looked. Alison's bow was slung over his back with a full quiver of arrows next to it. His sword at his side. It wasn't quite like his last duster, longer and darker in color with Carbon fiber, like his twilight form, underneath. It was strangely comfortable, the Carbon Fiber was a bit rigid, but still flexible. It was as if it was custom tailored for him and him only.

His thoughts of his new armor was interrupted by Eldin, the Light spirit.

So...you are the Hero of the Gods? Impressive. But your work is not done.

What must I do?

High atop the mighty Death Mountain lays the Goron Village. Their leader, Fyrus, has been infected by the Twilight Parasite and been locked away. As long as he is still infected, he is a massive danger to this land. Capable of putting it right back into Twilight. You must go up the mountain and deal with Fyrus.

Easier said then done, am I right?

Very...The Gorons are not letting in anybody at the moment. The only way up, is through them. You’re going to have to figure out a way to do just that.

Without giving any hints on how to do that, the light spirit disappeared into the spring. As it did, the others peered out of the temple and looked around. When they noticed that the Twilight was indeed gone along with all the monsters, the kids rushed out and smelled the clean air again. Both Renaldo and Barnes' walked out as well, happy.

Colin looked all around, and saw Leon. He poked the others and told them to look. Although in different clothing, they instantly recognized Leon's face and ran at him. He braced himself for what was coming and was knocked to the ground by the kids. Screaming and yelping, they hugged him and asked him too many questions to count. At once however, they were all silenced by Renaldo, whom shook Leon's hand vigorously.

A pleasure to meet you Mr. Grace. Colin's said a lot about you.

And the same to you...?

Renaldo. This man behind me is Barnes and this is my daughter, Luda.

He squatted down to face level with the kids and smiled. They hugged him again all at once, ecstatic to see him. They continued to ask their questions, like "how is mom and dad?!" and "What happened to you?" and "You look weird!" Colin's question struck home however when he asked "Where’s Alison?" His face had been overcome with sadness then when he answered "I don't know...I'm trying to find her"

They all looked sad for a time, but quickly dragged Leon inside of the Hotel to gather around the fireplace to hear Leon's story of how he survived the Twilit capture and rescued them all.

The Next Morning...

Leon was up early the next morning and was at the beginning of the mountain, looking up it to see what was waiting for him. He was decked out in his new armor, arrows, weapons and gear, almost ready to go. The other children were asleep, but Renaldo was up as well. He came up behind Leon and spoke.

Hello, Mr. Grace.

Renaldo...A pleasure, sir.

Heading up the mount. to try and talk to the Gorons eh?

More along the lines of dealing with their leader...Problem is, how am I going to get up there when the Gorons will try to flatten me out.

I figured you would need these...

He handed Leon a pair of boots, cleats that let him dig into the ground and let him stop something charging at him.

Thank you, Renaldo. But I'm not sure these will help stop a rolling Goron...

You would be surprised, Mr. Grace. Just dig your feet into the ground and hold on. Colin told me you knew how to stop a charging Goat, use the same tactics on the Gorons.

You really think that would work?

Its the exact same way Bo gained the respect of the Gorons a little before Alison was born.

Your kidding, right?

Don't believe me, try it out for yourself. But you know how Gorons are when it comes to honor. Don't use the boots unless you cannot convince them that you are there for good reasons

He couldn't believe what Renaldo said, but did take the boots and put them on before starting up the mountain.

When he got to the base of the mountain, he looked up and marveled at it's simplistic beauty. Magma rolled from from the top of the gigantic mountain and stacks of smoke rose from the Goron mines of Death Mountain. Deep trenches of mine carts and tracks covered the Volcanic fields around the mines. Even now, with dangers lurking on their doorstep, the hulking Gorons labored to create carbon fiber, mine diamond, dig up ancient wood, and hunt down onyx, steel, iron, and coal.

The mines themselves were comprised of mainly 5 tracks covering the entire area. The mountain itself, with constantly pushed materials from the mountain and left it both at the foot of the mountain and all over. The Volcanic fields, which were massive fields of black crusted lava and the sand and dust that blew in. The mine cart tracks that lead from important dig spots to the main repository. The mine carts. and the mine itself deep below the earth.

A few looked toward him and rose their shovels and pickaxes and rolled toward him. They stopped just before him and surrounded him. One with black markings over his body and dark circles around his eyes spoke in a guttural voice, obviously angry at the interloper.

"Explain yourself, Human. Why are you here. Renaldo knows that we do not allow anybody into our lands because of the monster threat"

Leon bent down onto one knee and spoke carefully, knowing that Gorons must listen to the honor bound.

Honorable Gorons, I come with a request. The Spirit Eldin has sent me to cleanse your mountain of the monster that lies within.

He bowed while he sat on one knee and hoped that he wasn't about to be pancaked by the Gorons. The Goron that had spoke let his gnarled hand go to his chin and considered what Leon said. A great big smile was drawn onto his lips and he brought a big hand down onto Leon's shoulder and lifted him up with ease.

"Relax, my friend. You have honorable Intentions here, there is no reason to be afraid of us. Come, I shall take you to the Elder so he can give you the low down. Boys, get back to work."

All but the black marked Goron lowered their makeshift weapons and rolled away, heading back to mine the precious materials before the fields. Walking next to the Goron, Leon and him spoke as if best friends now. Upon closer inspection, the black marks on the Goron were intricate tattoos that showed the mighty death mountain spewing rocks of brimstone through the sky that was his chest and his arms. His eyes where two black "Meteors" themselves.

"A hearty welcome to you, human. I am Glendron the Fire of house Brimstone. Who, exactly are you?"

I am Leon Grace, mighty Glendron.

"Mighty Glendron? A delightful fantasy, but I am but a welder. A fantastic one at that, but a simple welder. My father is the Mighty one of the family. Guy could lift over 3000 steel ingots any day of the week. Thats 3000 pounds in your tongue. I can only lift around 1900, but I bring honor to my house with my welding skills. How much can you lift, Leon?"

I would guess around...300 to 350.

"Well, we can't all be Gorons I suppose. But that is impressive for a human. I remember one human who came around...30 years ago, back when I was just a tyke, that lifted 900 Ingots...A marvel for a human. His name was Bo, if you recognize that name."

I do, he is the mayor of the town of Ordon down in the Ordon Province.

Glendron looked down to Leon with amazement. Bo was still kickin' around. He noticed the blade on Leon's hip and spoke again.

"That looks like a fine blade you have there, Leon. Would you mind if I looked at it?"

Absolutely.

Leon unsheathed his blade and handed it him. He grabbed the little blade in his hand and looked at it with his trained, smith's eyes. He marveled at the fantastic work of the blade and the near perfect folding of the blade to turn it more or less into pure art. He spoke as he looked at it, flipping it over in his practiced hands, taking in every inch of it.

"Leon, this is a fantastic blade. I almost mistook it as my own work until I looked closer. Did you do this?"

No, I did not. There is a boy down in Kakariko named Colin that, while we were still in Ordon, crafted the blade all by himself.

"This is a masterwork blade. There are...several flaws unfortunately, but it is still a work of absolute beauty. I've never seen a human blade so excellently made. You say this is but a boy?"

Yes sir, he is down in the village right now.

"Hmm, perhaps while you are talking to the elder I'll go down to the village and talk to this boy. Maybe take him on as an apprentice, show those "Master" smiths of Hyrule castle town just how to make a real blade. Have you seen those blades that the soldiers use? If any REAL soldier used it, it would crumble in their hands."

I know what its like. When I was in the academy, the blades broke more times then you could count.

"You were in the Academy in Hyrule? Then are you cowardly and stupid like the others?"

Does nearly smashing in the face of my commanding officer because he told me to kill an orphan boy explain how I was trained?

Glendron let out a roar of a laugh at Leon's feat and handed the sword back to him. He sheathed it as they reached the entrance to the elder's chambers where the entrance to the Goron Mines lay within.

"Treat that blade with respect, Leon. Its an amazing blade. But anyways, this is our stop. The elder inside will have already known about you. The wonder of speech communication. I am going to head down to that village and see if I can snag a new apprentice. If you need my help later, let me know.

He smiled and bid Glendron farewell as he rolled off for Kakariko. Leon stepped toward the cave, heading inside to speak with the Elder of the Gorons of Death Mountain.

Part 1 of 4

Leon walked into the proud Goron elder's room which was based inside the actual Volcano, but not affected by the eruptions of the earth. Clever Gorons. More along the lines of an arena where young Gorons earned the right to become a Praetorian to the Elder and to the Chieftain. This was where also the Chieftain and any opposition would duke it out for leadership of the clan. The room itself was circular in shape and adorned with tribal ornaments befitting an honorable arena. The Elder sat across the arena in a low-backed chair next to a rather large one for the Chieftain. The wizened and wrinkled little Goron, three quarters Leon's size, stepped up and forward toward the hero with a gnarled and splintered stick that he used as a cane.

He looked Leon over and gave a slight smirk, impressed by him, obviously seeing something within Leon that many others could not.

And who might you be, youngling?

Leon Grace of Ordon, sir.

The proud farmhands of the deep south where many a barrel of fine cheese is made by hand? An honorable profession my friend. What brings you to my home in these dire times.

I come to cleanse the mountain of the Twilighted being that has taken shelter within. As ordered by the spirit Eldin

So you are the Goddess' chosen hero? You did not come here of your own free will, did you? Why are you so far from home, boy?

I aim to bring home the children that were kidnapped from my village and track down a dear friend.

And who might be these children and dear friend, Sire Leon?

The Goron paced back and forth, listening to Leon's story and gauging if he should help this youth. So far, Leon seemed honorable to the old Goron.

The children go by the names Beth, Colin, malo and talo. Sir.

They must be the children down in Kakariko. Their parents must be worried, but worry not. As soon as the problem with our chieftain in the mines is dealt with and we get things back to running order here, we will guide the children home. Now, what of this dear friend? Who is he, or she?

Her name is Alison Stone. Daughter of the Mayor of Ordon Village. Bo Stone.

Bo?! Now that is a surprise. Tell me, are you two betrothed?

Leon, who had been standing straight this entire time, placed his hands behind his back, trying to keep his back from hurting. The Elder's question brought thousands more to his mind, but all were quieted with his answer.

No, sir.

Do you Love this "Alison"? Are you willing to die for her?

Leon smiled to himself, thinking of the times he and Allie spent together in Ordon. His promise to take her to Hyrule with him...his promise to Bo.

I...Would give my soul to the great Gerudo desert and forever stalk the halls of the Arbiter's Grounds prison just to see her safe, sir.

The humble Elder was taken aback by Leon's comment. Mere human knowledge of the Arbiter's grounds was unheard of nowadays let alone how it used to be a prison. But a question still plagued his mind, to see if Leon really would do such a thing.

A bold statement boy, but it means nothing unless you Love her. Do you, boy?

A bit of a spark in Leon's eye and a nod of his head told the Elder all he needed to know. He waved his hand and a few large Gorons move aside, revealing an entrance to the underground Goron Mines. He looked to Leon with an approving smirk on his brow.

You are free to enter my mines, boy. Take this key and seek out the Shield Gauntlets that are within the heart of the mines, given to us by the Hero of Old for one like you. The Guardian will be warned of your arrival, so you should be able to get them with ease unless he too has been tainted. In any case, my grandson, Glendron the Fire will be with you shortly when he has returned from his duties.

The Elder dangled a large, light blue square connected to a small chain. Leon took it and stashed it in his pack.

What exactly are the Shield Gauntlets?

They are an old type of gauntlets that are specifically designed for those without shields. An all purpose pair of gauntlets. They have sharp spikes on the knuckles for hand to hand fighting, grooved palms for catching an opponent's blade and either breaking it with a simple twisting motion, disarming, or a full counter attack. Then Steel backed wrist and forearm bracers that are part of the glove itself so the user can easily deflect blows that he can not catch.

Now those are what I can use. I'll get to work, sir.

Be wary of Glendron the Mighty. Whatever has possessed him has made him a blind beast in the cage we have left him in. Be careful.

With a nod, Leon stepped past the Elder and into the entrance of the mines, already feeling the intense heat of the flowing magma.

Part 2 of 4

It was blisteringly hot inside. The heat seared his skin as if it was wood for a fireplace. But it did not slow him down a bit. His new armor clanked with the sound of chain mail and his bow patted him on the back with each step, encouraging him forward into the Goron Mines. A new venture. His heart beat exceedingly fast, the thought of being one of the few humans to ever step in the Goron Mines in years and being around the very real danger that lay within. Part of him wanted to turn around and leave, but the thought of the children and seeing Alison once again put down the very thought of running away. Especially after entering the main chamber of the mine.

In front of him was the main mine cart chamber for the Goron miners, all of the tracks eventually lead here to be redirected to another part of the mines. The chamber itself was dome shaped, very large in total size but with tracks coming from each of the 18 entrances that circled the walls of the dome. Each track that came out of the entrances lead to a suspended stone platform in the middle that had 4 tracks set up in a pentagon shape to accommodate each entrance. Beneath the floating hive of tracks was a deadly pool of Lava that flowed into each entrance, meaning Leon had to either utilize the track system itself to move from chamber to chamber to reach the Goron Chieftain or walk it. Knowing his luck, he'd have to walk it.

As he reached the main platform there was a rumbling on the tracks from behind him. He looked to see Glendron the Fire rolling along and skidding to a stop next to him. He stood with a severely oversized (to a human) steel and gold claymore on his back.

Leon! Your still alive! More then I expected from a mere human.

He laughed and patted Leon on the back and knocked the wind out of him.

Some of us are quite hearty, Glendron. You would be surprised.

I'll have to find out about that. Few things surprise me, but you my friend have yet to NOT surprise me. Keep it up will you?

So, do you know the way to the Shield Gauntlets?

Indeed I do, but unfortunately, several of the paths have caved in, leaving us to use the long route.

And let me guess, it leads us very close to the magma below, through dens of monsters, is prone to falling apart underneath us and is filled with traps...

Actually no. We collapsed that tunnel about 3 months ago. The one we're using is pretty mediocre aside from the Moblins that have made a den in there. We've never gotten around to clearing them out since we don't often use the tracks. They don't bother us though since we always go in cart groups that have 5 or 6 Gorons in them. Us though, they'll try to mess with.

Fantastic...

With a slightly ruined demeanor, the two started to walk the right most track which would lead them to the Shield Gauntlets.

When they did step inside, the tunnel itself was long with magma underneath and a lit torch on each side of the wall every 10 feet or so. Mediocre and boring. This was going to be a long walk.

Meanwhile...In Castle Hyrule Dungeon...

We have to get out of here...but how...

Adam thought to himself as he sat in the corner of the cell, the 4 other Hyrulian's Hand sat around the cell on the 2 benches and against the wall. Adam knew every inch of the castle by heart. Not just because he was a Hyrulean's Hand but because he grew up infiltrating it to see Isabella.

His hand was grasping his chin in a quizzical manner and his lips were pursed as every possible route and corridor of the castle went through his mind.

The sewer might work...the access to it is just down the hall and down the tower, but only one of us should go...the others seem more then content to rot down here while the princess they swore to protect is being unwanted caressed above our heads...Isabella...the guard is due to come by any minute, that'll be my chance...just a matter of time...

He stood, coming to the conclusion of how to get out of the castle and into the sewers to try and find help. One of the other guards looked at him with a raised eyebrow.

"Have a plan, Adam? Or you just hearing your precious Isabella being "unwanted caressed" again?"

Adam jumped at his fellow Hyrulian hand and slammed his armored fist into his jaw, and knocking him straight to the floor, when he tried to get up, Adam planted his foot onto his skull and started to press down.

Speak about her like that again and I'll show you why I lead the Hyrulean's Hand. Is that understood, Frederick?

"Yes...Sir..."

He lifted his foot off the man and backed up. He came up to the bars and placed his hands on them, listening, thinking...Suddenly, he turned to one of the benches and told the Hyrulean's Hand soldiers that were sitting on it to get off. He then ripped off the board of the bench and spit it in half length wise and broke it at the ends to create a sharp point.

When he finished, he had made an excellent tool for getting the keys off of the guard, but he put it over in the corner and made it look like it was always there. Down the hall, a door opened and the Jailor walked in. Adam sat down against the wall next to the makeshift key-fishing-tool and looked inconspicuous. The guard, a large and lumbering ogre, stopped in front of the cell and looked in. He swayed right to left and back, looking all around the room. He then turned and went to the opposite side of the hall to a table which had a bunch of confiscated gear that had not been processed yet.

Adam took the chance and sneaked over to the bars with his hook and reached out with it. On the Jailor's backside was the keyring with multiple keys on a small hook. As the Jailor held Adam's very own sword in the air and shined it against the meager torch light, Adam hooked the small keyring and slowly brought it back into the cell without making so much as a squeak. Just before the guard turned around, he replaced the stick against the wall and hid the Keyring behind his back so the Jailor couldn't see it. Lumbering as always, the Jailor placed Adam's sword back onto the table and walked out, satisfied that everybody was where they were supposed to be.

When the door slammed shut, Adam made his way over to the cell door and went through the assortment of keys to try and unlock the cell door. One after another, the keys didn't work, until finally, at the last one, the door unlocked and the cell was open. The 5 Hyrulean Hand members left their cell then, grabbed their weapons and made for the exit door. Adam opened it up slowly, making sure not to make a sound, then went downstairs, opposite of the Jailor's path.

The group went down all the stairs and into a hallway with doors on each side, dimly lit by several torches. They sneaked into the nearest door, a latrine for the servants, and found a trap door to the sewers. One by one they went under the kingdom. Adam stalled for a bit before going though, he looked back, tempted to attempt to rescue Isabella, but shook his head.

We'll be back, Isabella. Thats a promise.

He jumped into the hole and splashed into the sewers. Dung and grime floated by the meager stream underneath them. It was small and compact, but big enough in case of flood. The Hand moved through the sewer catacombs quickly to avoid detection and exited out a sewer grate on the far side of the kingdom around half an hour later to a small pool that was outside the back wall of the town. The small swim through the water cleaned off most of the waste, the rain from above cleaned off the rest. They gathered on the far edge of the pool. Adam never actually got the chance to see the environment after the twilight came. It was all grimy and depressing, all of the lush green plains and trees he remembered were a dark, choking gray color. All of the foliage was. The clouds were black and rain poured down from the skies and everything felt...dead.

When they gathered up, they started to lay out a plan to start a rebellion against the Twilit forces. Adam sent out two of the hand to start to gather up soldiers for the resistance while the other two were sent out to simply cause trouble. As for Adam, he had to try and find a way to the Scaalwind lands of the far North. They needed more than a few rogues and guards to take back their home. They needed the Scaal.

Part 3 of 4

...and that, my friend, is why Gorons and Zora DON'T mate...

As the 2 walked along the tracks, Leon was constantly thinking "I hate my life...I hate my life...I hate my life...I hate my life..." with his hand clasping his forehead.

Now what the hell happened here...?

When they came onto the Moblin camp near the end of the trackline to one of the sacred ante-chambers, it was a massacre. Body parts and meat everywhere. The camp itself was located off to the right of the way they were coming, crude leather teepees made up the camp of 50 or so Moblins. Though there was nothing left of them now. Several tents were crushed or destroyed and black Moblin blood decorated the walls. This wasn't a normal Goron's work.

Your the expert here. What happened?

From the look of the carnage...The Keeper was here. Apparently he had enough of the camp guarding his doorstep.

Wait, what?

Right, didn't tell you that part. Another reason we left the Moblins alone was they camped right in front of The Keeper's chamber. Kept him from having to clean up any rabble that got past us. Rather useful actually.

They picked their way through the meat and bones of what was left of the Moblin camp, heading for the keeper's doorway.

This isn't right, this wasn't The Keeper's work...least...not willingly...

How can you tell this carnage apart from any other Goron's?

There is a certain...elegancy...to our destruction. I, for example, will never sever limbs aside from the head. Anything else and it gets too messy. I was friends with The Keeper before he took up his oath to guard the gauntlets. He would never let himself do this kind of carnage. I think the same spell that is on our Chieftain is also on The Keeper.

So...in other words...we have to take him down and dispell whatever has taken control of him?

Basically.

Welp. Lets get to work then.

Glendron came up to the large, intricate, Keeper's door and placed his gargantuan hands onto the door and found two small (to a Goron) handles imbedded in the stone. He pulled on them as hard as he could for a few moments until the door budged and pulled towards him. The heat blast that hit them almost knocked Leon over as in front of them was a small bridge to a platform supported only by 4 large chains and on the far side was the Keeper, massive, even to a normal Goron. He easily stood 8 times Leon's height and how much he weighed was out of the question entirely.

The Helmet he wore resonated with a strange energy. It turned his eyes white and made him pound onto the floor with massive strength and anger. The platform he was pounding on was suspended over a large pool of magma from the mountain. It was an arena, a proving ground for those who wish to try and take the shield gauntlets.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0KFA...eature=related

When Glendron and Leon stepped onto the platform, the hulking beast stood fully with his fists high in the air, he slammed down with all the force he could and shattered the chains that held the platform above the pool of lava. It careened down towards the pool and splashed into it. Magma bit at Glendron's and The Keeper's heels. Dangoro let out a guttural roar and charged at Leon and Glendron, rolling into a ball, trying to steamroll them flat.

Leon rolled to the side, narrowly dodging The Keeper. Glendron however sidestepped him like it was nothing. The Keeper flipped around and grind to a halt before balling up and charging at Glendron again. The arena tipped toward The Keeper for a moment before realigning correctly.

Without any pause, Glendron dug in his heels and took the full force of the charge in his hands and arms, catching the still rolling keeper. His hands burned from the intense friction of the thick skinned Guardian and he was slowly being pushed back. With a yell of strength, he switched The Keeper's direction and literally threw The Keeper toward the magma.

The Keeper couldn't stop himself in time, he rolled right into the lava and was suddenly being burned alive. While the magma itself couldn't kill him as fast as other creatures, the pain was intense. He came undone from his ball stance and flailed around in the magma for a few moments before stretching out and grabbing onto the platform. It shifted and tipped to his weight as he pulled half of his body onto the platform before trying to pull the rest of his body onto it. Leon took the chance and ran at him, drawing his sword. It was obvious that the helmet he was wearing was having an adverse affect on him, thus causing him to be like this.

Risking slipping into the magma pool himself, he came up to The Keeper's head and wedged his sword between the back of The Keeper's skull and the helmet. He started to pull and yank as hard as he could. The Keeper began to flail and scream from the intense pain of the magma and Leon's sword. Glendron soon joined him and together, they pulled as hard as they could on the helmet before they both shot backwards with the helmet flying with him.

More and more frantically, The Keeper struggled to get his lower half out of the pool, his massive fingers kept slipping on the platform and his kicking wasn't helping. Glendron ran to his brother's aid, ignoring the now dissolving helmet that The Keeper had on before. He took The Keeper's hand and pulled, he himself was slipping before he knew it and almost joined his brother in the magma if it wasn't for Leon coming in as well and pulling, using the spiked boots he got from Renaldo. Together, they pulled and tugged at The Keeper, inching him onto the platform. The platform itself was keeping in pace, the opposite side rising and lowering with each frantic leg kick of The Keeper. Every now and then, the magma rose high enough to start to melt the spikes on the bottom of Leon's shoes before sinking again, also putting Glendron into a huge amount of pain. Before they knew it however, The Keeper finally gained a foot hold and pulled himself onto the platform, settling it down.

He stood, his entire lower half charred, and felt his head, nearly ready to faint from the incredible pain.

Where am I? What happened last night?

He looked around, trying to assess the situation as best as he could. Glendron and Leon stood up, they checked themselves over and made sure all their vital parts were there. Glendron patted down his ankles, getting off droplets of magma from his feet. Leon however yelped and danced from foot to foot, patting away the fiery pain as the spikes were totally burned off along with most of his sole. Glendron spoke to The Keeper as if they hadn't missed a day/

Relax, old friend. You were under some kind of spell. The same that had befallen our chieftain. Are you alright?

Wait...Glendron?! It is you! Good to see you!

Still nearly twice Glendron's size, the pat on the back that The Keeper gave him knocked the wind out of him, he could feel the cracks in his claymore from the sheer strength of the simple pat. He thanked the gods that He and Leon hadn't gone hand to hand with The Keeper. Would have been far more than a few 3rd and 5th degree burns

It is *cough* good to see you too, Dangoro. I wish we could talk more, but my friend and I are on a mission. We need the shield gauntlets.

That would explain you coming to seem me so unexpectedly. But you know the traditions. I must inspect the wielder of the gauntlets and I know your too big to wear them. My guess is the human back there is the one who gets to wear them. Right?

Leon stepped forward and looked up to the huge Dangoro. He reached a big hand down and scooped Leon right up and brought him up face level. His hand was big enough to wrap around Leon's body and crush him like a bug. In truth, Leon was a bit terrified.

What is your birth name, little man?

Leon Grace, sir.

Grace?! You must be a descendant of the mighty Alcatraz Grace...course, records of that time are lost besides a few names...we haven't seen a true goddess chosen in decades.

As they spoke, the magma rose the platform they were on up and up to the top of the room, back where they started. Dangoro set him down and pointed towards a smaller, metal door.

Through that door is the Shield Gauntlets. Use them with honor, lad.

He nodded and jumped off of Dangoro's hands. He walked for the metal door and stopped in front of it. There were two grips near the bottom. He placed his hands in them and lifted up, yanking the door upward. He stepped in and was greeted with a golden chest. He came up to it and inspected it. He tried it, pulling at the top. It opened easily, and inside, were two black gauntlets. Shield Gauntlets, perfectly preserved.

He reached in and grabbed them, made of a platinum metal, he took off his old, leather gloves and placed the new ones on. They fit him perfectly, like they were made specifically for him. He clenched his fists over and over again, testing them. The right hand was more like a simple gauntlet than the left. The right was made for his sword to rest in, but the left, however, was made for sword deflection, being bulkier than the right. It also had two grooves in the palm to actually catch an enemy blade and either break it or disarm it. The wrist and forearm of the left hand could be used to deflect an enemy blade and the finger tips had small, downward facing spikes in them for scaling certain walls and the knuckles had spikes on them for hand to hand combat. Deadly and formidable gloves indeed. He turned and walked for the door, meeting Glendron on the way out. They bid farewell to Dangoro and made their way for the sacred ante-chamber to clense Glendron the Mighty of the evil that plagues him.

Part 4 of 4

The Sacred Ante-chamber as it was called was a massive cavern with boiling lava constantly licking the sole platform suspended by chains that each of the 24 tracks that lead in and out of the cavern rested on. Above the platform, one could see daylight, meaning that the Sacred Ante-chamber was directly in the heart of the volcano. In the northern part of the cavern was a rocky bridge to a sole wall-platform where, against that wall was a large stone door, like the keepers, only it had a single special keyhole shaped like the key that was given to Leon by the Elder.

Leon and Glendron came running from the eastern most tunnel, knowing that they were nearing the end of their journey. They didn't stop to admire the cavern as they ran across the bridge and came up to the door. Leon took out the key that he had and came closer to the door. He flipped it around a bit and fit it upside down into the keyhole then turned it. The Keyhole slid backwards a bit then separated the key and the door itself into two halves then slid fully open for them to walk through. A ghostly fog rolled out accompanied by vicious growls from within.

Hey...Leon, before we go in, I got something to say.

Yeah? Your not going to profess your love are you?

Hell no, just wanted to say that if you don't make it, which might happen because your fleshy and weak, I'll make sure to make your grave all pretty and such like humans so love to do.

You sure I'll be the dead one? Look at you, all fat and soft like sand. You barely held up against Dangoro

Is that so? Maybe we should make this a competition?

What did you have in mind?

Hmm...

He placed his boulder of a fist onto his chin and sarcastically thought about what the challenge should be.

First one to get hit has to give the other a ride to Hyrule Castle Town.

Seems fair to-

Now boys! Your not going to make me carry one of you there, are you?!

Glendron jumped back at the playful sound of Eve's ghostly voice and started to look around frantically.

Holy Crap, what the heck was that?!

Eve popped out from Leon's shadow and waved at Glendron while rubbing her eyes and yawning.

Where have you been, Eve?

Sleeping...even I have to do it, ya know.

Glendron was starting straight at Eve like he had just soiled himself and was about to run away.

Uh...i-is that a ghost?

No, this is Eve. A friendly Twilit that has been helping me since I woke up a couple days ago. Most people can't see her unless she wants to be seen.

Oh. Thank the goddesses. I'm...a bit terrified of ghosts...

Honestly...that has to be the funniest thing I've heard all day. But we've no time for this! lets go! Glendron the Mighty isn't going to wait all day!

Leon shot off into the pitch black of the door before Glendron could answer. He shook his head and quickly followed, a little paler than before because of Eve's surprise appearance, curling up and rolling along.

When they entered the prison chamber, it was dimly lit by several faintly glowing torches on each of the 4 pillars in the room. From each pillar came a black chain, onyx in make, that stretched forth into the middle of the room. Something was rolled up into a ball...sleeping. The floor was scarred with gouges and cracks from repeated pounding.

As Leon and Glendron the Fire drew close to inspect the figure, the chains started to rattle as the creature stood. Rivaling Dangoro in size, the creature was black from head to toe, built like a Goron but with a silver crown with a ruby jewel in it on his forehead. White, beady eyes peered down at Leon and Glendron.

Glendron The Mighty...

Suddenly, before their very eyes, Glendron The Mighty exploded into a scorching inferno. His entire body became pure fire and magma. He yanked at the chains from the front pillars that were connected to his wrists. They gave way without effort. He kicked away from the pillars that imprisoned his ankles. One came off as easy as the ones on his wrists. The other took more force to dislodge from it's pillar, in fact, when Glendron The Mighty pulled hard enough, half of the pillar came with it and swung around towards Leon and Glendron The Fire.

Duck!

Both hit the ground as the massive pillar piece flew over their skulls and impacted upon a closer wall. The chains that held him before now dragged behind him, makeshift weapons for the heroes' demise.

TWILIT INFERNO
FYRUS

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLBgbLtb-K4

Leon and Glendron The Fire split up, one heading right, the other heading left. Leon knew he couldn't possibly get close to the hulking monster that was Glendron The Mighty.

Glendron! The Jewel! The Jewel must be where his curse is originating from!

What?!

Glendron The Fire stopped for a moment behind a pillar that was still left standing. Leon dived forward as Glendron The Mighty swung a fiery chain his way.

The damn Jewel on his forehead! That is what is making him this way! Distract him! I'll hit it with my bow!

Why didn't you just say so!

Glendron The Fire immediately took to the offensive, risking melting his hands by grabbing one of the ankle chains and yanking on it. The heat burned him to the bone, but it made Glendron The Mighty turn and start to chase after Glendron The Fire. Leon took out Alison's bow and circled the beast, waiting for a moment to strike. Glendron The Fire circled around Glendron The Mighty enough to get him to face Leon. Without hesitation, he drew back the bowstring and aimed the arrow at Glendron The Mighty's crown. He waited for a slight pause in his movement before letting the arrow fly.

Heading straight home, it impacted in the jewel and caused Glendron The Mighty to grab at his forehead in sheer pain. The fire around his body waned and he started to wander aimlessly, the jewel being effectively both his eyes. Glendron The Fire took the chance and grabbed an ankle chain then yanked back as hard as he could. Glendron The Mighty tried to pull Glendron The Fire with him, but ended up tripping over his own chain instead and falling forward. Leon took the chance and ran at Glendron The Mighty's head, unsheathing his sword. When he got to where Glendron the Mighty had fallen, he drew his sword back and thrust it forward into the jewel. He screamed again and immediately got up, bringing Leon with him. He ran around the room with Leon flailing helplessly on his head, trying to dislodge him.

Leon got a foothold on the back of Glendron The Mighty's head where he couldn't reach him and started to try the jewel loose with his sword. He got a good grip on one of the edges of Glendron The Mighty's helmet and took out his sword. He flipped the blade upwards and started to slam the dragon's head hilt down onto the jewel. With each slam of the hilt, the jewel cracked more and more before Leon rose his blade high into the air and brought the hilt down with all the strength he could muster, yelling all the way. The jewel shattered and Glendron The Mighty stopped suddenly, making Leon jerk forward.

The jewel shards rained down and bounced across the floor. Leon stayed on top of Glendron The Mighty's head for a few seconds until he fell forward again, forcing Leon to jump off half way down and roll into a standing stance.

For a few moments, they simply stared at the unconscious body of Glendron The Mighty before a light came from where the jewel used to be. It shined for a few short seconds before the shadow that covered Glendron The Mighty exploded into floating particles. They shot for Leon, more specifically, they shot for Leon's sword. They hovered around his sword for a few moments before he rose it up in front of him to inspect it. The shadow particles melded with the sword in front of his eyes, bathing it in a pure, blue light. He shielded his eyes until it disappeared and he gazed onto what his sword had become. It was at it was before, only the circular guard on it was gone, replaced with a black grooved cross-guard that was curved upward in unison with the blade above it.

He gazed it over with a inquisitive eye, but was drawn away by the changing form of Glendron The Mighty. The black beast he was as he lay upon the floor was stripped away in favor of the more appropriate image of the Goron Chieftan.

The Chieftan's son wasted no time coming to his father's side. Though he was still huge, compared to his son, Glendron The Fire took Glendron The Mighty's arm around his shoulder and lifted him up off the ground, grunting all the way. Neither of them spoke to each other. Either out of respect for each other or simply due to weariness, Leon did not know. Leon ran up with him and got Glendron The Mighty's other arm around his tiny body and tried to help as best as he could. Staying quiet, they limped out of the former prison, towards the entrance of the mines once again.

Well, that was a lot of fun.

What're you talking about, eve? You slept through most of it.

I was there for the fight against The Chieftan, dummy. Couldn't sleep with you running around like a chicken with it's head cut off! <3

The two had finished their business with the Gorons in the mountain. Though groggy, the elder thanked him for his help and promised to get the children home safe once the mines have been reestablished. For the time being, guards will be stationed in Kakariko and the parents will be notified.

Even Glendron the Fire said his thanks before he ran off, saying that if Leon ever needed his help again, he would gladly give it.

Apparently being woken up makes you a sassy little bra-

When they reached the bottom of the path, all they heard were the screams of goblins and the neighing of a horse. They turned a corner to see everybody outside, watching a horse near the spirit's spring rear and kick to try to get the three goblins that were on top of it off. It forced one off and onto the ground. Before it could move, it's head was smashed by the horse's powerful hooves. Another one was knocked off and sent right into the path of a backwards kick from the innocent horse, knocking the goblin right against the wall with two hoof prints on it's chest.

Leon noticed exactly who this horse was when he got closer. It was Shadow, his horse from Ordon. He ran at Shade and waited for the right moment to jump on. When it came, he seized it and leapt onto Shade's back and knocked the remaining Goblin off. He took Shade's reigns and pulled on them, trying to heel his steed. She kicked and thrashed, not recognizing Leon was on top of her.

He pulled on her again and reared her back. He got his head right next to hers and spoke into her ear.

Calm girl. Calm. It's alright.

The sound of Leon's voice calmed Shade and got her to stop thrashing around. She took deep breaths through her enormous nostrils and calmed down entirely, knowing who was commanding her now. He patted her on her neck and brushed her a few times.

Thats my girl...

Renaldo came up after things calmed down and looked over the horse himself. She had been through a lot, cuts and bruises all over her. But she didn't seem to mind it from how she was standing.

Where are you heading next, Mr. Grace?

Hyrule...Its time I went to find my friend. The children will be alright here?

Of course. The Gorons will be down any time. Do not be worried, they will be more than safe. Good luck on your journey, my friend.

Thank you.

The children stood together in front of the hotel, staring at Leon, expecting him to say something. He trotted in front of them and simply held out his hand, saying goodbye. Beth began to tear up and wave with the others as Leon shot off suddenly and bounded over the gate to Hyrule.

I'm coming Alison...I'll be there soon...

He peered over the side of the Bridge of Eldin and felt the icy wind brush against his face. Eagles and Albatross flew over in large flocks, casting shadows below in the orange twilight of sunset. It was a long drop to the River of Hylia below. But something wasn't right with the river, though he couldn't see it from how high he was, the high winds that pushed a deep cold up to the bridge above said that something was frozen below.

He payed no heed towards it however as he jumped back onto Shade and spurred her across the bridge and rounded the corner only to skid to a halt with distraught written on his face. Before him was another Curtain of Twilight, like when he first entered Eldin only this curtain was a black with dark orange at the borders. Eve came out of her disguise as Leon's shadow and floated next to him, expectant.

Did you forget that Hyrule town was covered in twilight?

I did...

Do you still want to head through?

Of course!

Then lets go!

She nudged him onward, but not before Leon patted Shade on her neck and spurred her onward. At first she resisted the terrifying visage of the Twilight Curtain, but some encouraging from Leon got her to move forward into it.

On the other side, Leon and Shade burst into a white light before revealing that they both had taken on twilight forms. Leon was the same as before, wearing carbon fiber armor while Shade however took on a drastically different appearance than her normal black appearance. She was now a stark white like Eve and her neck hair and tail was a pitch black. Her eyes were a darkened blue while her hooves took on the same color as her skin.

The world around them was grimy and dirty, faded grays colored the landscape, portraying a sad and remorseful land. Trees were without their leaves and dead and grass looked sharp to the touch. The occasional patrol of hunters could be seen in the distance. The sky above was covered by darkened clouds, coupled with the rain that was pouring down and soaking everything, one could not tell if it was day or night. The road ahead was straight and narrow yet felt dangerous because of the rainfall that masked many of the areas just off of the side of the road.

Leon kicked his heels and got Shade to move forward at a steady gallop. Eve popped out of Leon's shadow in full glory. She stretched and yawned like she just got out of bed.

Ah, its good to be home! I missed this place like you wouldn't believe, Leon!

You Missed this place?! It makes me feel like just dropping over onto the ground and dying.

Yeah, but it has a sort of...charm to it, don't you think? There is a term I've heard you humans use: Apocalyptic Beauty...Home to me has that Apocalyptic Beauty behind it and I love it.

I guess I can see where you see that. I prefer the snow, honestly.

I think I can see Hyrule in the distance...

She was right, in the far distance, mostly masked by the rain was Hyrule castle, standing tall in the darkness. A sly smile came over Leon's face when he saw it as well and kicked Shadow into a heavy gallop to get there as fast as possible, excited to see Alison.

______________________________

A mere half hour passed between when Leon and Eve passed the Twilight Curtain and arriving at the main gate.

The massive black gates were shut with no apparent way through them. Least for Leon anyways. Eve and Leon stood outside the door and gathered their thoughts.

I have an idea!

Oh? I'm almost afraid to ask what you have in mind...

Without even pausing to answer him, she floated up above him and went over the wall. He watched her go, a part of him wanted to call her back, being a bit protective of her now that they have grown to be friends. He stood in the rain, his head soaked from the downpour of water.

In truth, he enjoyed this rain, it reminded him of when he first arrived in Ordon...and his life in hyrule...

nearly 4 years ago now he arrived in Ordon under a rain just like this and was rescued by the woman he holds so dear; Alison...He remembered the hours he would spend telling her of his life before he came to Ordon...

When Scallwind was taken by the Gerudo, a fraction of the nation migrated to the deep south to receive assistance from their Hyrulean Neighbors. Back just before the current Princess Isabella Maria Hyrule took the throne and when Leon was just four years old. So 20 years ago.

Around 300 people made it down of the ten thousand or so that used to lived up north. Almost an entire nation destroyed by the Gerudo.

When they initially arrived, many of the remaining soldiers joined the Hyrulean Guard, his father being part of that group of soldiers.

He barely remembers anything, but Leon and his family stayed in Hyrule for around three years until his father put Leon into Hyrule Academy to follow in his footsteps. Asroc was always an honor-bound warrior that never failed to follow an order perfectly. He was a perfect soldier.

Leon's mother stood quietly on the side, loving both of her boys deeply and counseling Leon whenever possible. She was a large reason why he remained sane in the academy.

Within the Academy, Leon met a stout Hyrulean named Adam Laan. He remembered him well because of Adaml's infatuation with the young princess to be, Isabella. Adam and Isabella were inseparable, he always snuck her out during the night to enjoy the town. Even going as far as to scale her bedroom tower to see her.

He remembers watching him train to challenge one of the Hyrulean's Hands so he could always be with Isabella. Man had a lot of dreams.

Leon's time in the Academy however lasted until the day when he nearly killed his superior officer when he was 19. Leon lasted another year in Hyrule before disappearing when he was 20 and headed south.

When he arrived in Ordon, fate had another surprise in store for him...

4 years ago...

Moving through a deep forest far south of Hyrule, On a recently bought horse he had deemed "Shadow" for her black hair and nimble composure. Leon rode out a heavy storm that had moved into the forest. He was trying to follow a rode to a small town named "Ordon" that was the de-facto capital of the Ordon province. He lost the trail to follow however because of being blinded by the heavy rains and winds and was led astray into the forest. He was lost...and he wasn't alone...

An arrow shot forth from nearby bushes and hit him square in the shoulder. The sudden shock knocked him off of the horse. He fell down and hit the mud and dirt hard, letting out a heavy groan.

A silent "Yes!" echoed over the rain and thunder as the hunter moved forth to retrieve it's kill.

When Leon looked up to see what had hit him before he would draw his sword and kill it, he saw that it was a girl. When she had drawn close to see what she had hit, she gasped and placed her hands over her mouth, yelling out over a crack of thunder "Oh I'm sorry! Are you okay?! I thought you were a goblin! They always have great catches and they are always a nuisance and..." She stopped talking and helped Leon up, yanking out the arrow at the same time. He bellowed in pain and stared at her through the darkness. He could see the red on her cheeks from being embarrassed. She held out her hand and gripped his good one.

"I'm Alison Stone!" She yelled. "I can lead you to Ordon if you'd like! Least I can do for, ya know, shooting you!" He smiled and nodded, saying "I'm Leon Grace! We can talk more in town, come!" He helped her onto his horse then and jumped on, noticing she herself didn't have a horse, he spoke again while she directed him back to the road.

"Why are you out here on such a deadly night?!" he yelled. "I always go hunting during nights like these, Goblins like to use them to transport foods without being hunted. Trying to change that. What about you?!" She pointed him towards a bridge and across, passing by a spirit's spring on the way.

"I'm trying to get to Ordon, find a new home!"

Since that day...Leon had lived with the people of Ordon and been very close to Alison. Before the whole goblin attack ordeal he was planning to marry her and travel with her...she often said while they were hanging around with each other how she always wanted to go to Scallwind and see his home...Maybe after this they can go-

Suddenly, a massive clang came from the gates he stood by and they opened inward, with Eve floating in the entrance, waving. Leon quickly entered into the town before the gates closed again behind him.

How did you get the gates open?!

I have my ways, Leon! My mother taught me more than just a few explorer techniques.

He took a quick look around and saw a guard, clad in the Hyrulean silver armor, walking around in a daze, he walked into the town wall and fell backwards, out cold. Leon shook his head and walked next to Eve into the town itself. The rain made the streets empty, Leon almost expected citizens to look out their doors and windows to see the newcomers, he knew that they would have never seen or interacted with him or Eve.

The streets were partially flooded from the immense amount of rain that had fallen because of the twilight. Every step Leon took was in a puddle. Soon, it soaked him to the bone. They took a turn out of the streets and into an alleyway. It had been far too long since he had been here, he barely had a clue on where to go. All the twists and turns...streets...pathways, he barely had a clue where the marketplace was let alone Alison's location. Eve perked up though and started to go down the alleyway, toward something.

Leon...this way...Alison is this way!

Eve was like a Scaal hound when she flew down the alleyway. Leon gave chase, trying to keep up with her as she rounded a corner into the back streets of Hyrule Castle Town. She rounded bend after bend, not waiting for Leon to catch up. She rounded one last corner and stopped cold.

When Leon finally did catch up, he panted and looked at her, seeing what she saw. A set of stairs leading downwards to a small courtyard in front of a small bar. A sign sticking out of the building said "Tetra's Tavern" with the picture of a tankard on it.

She's in there? Are you sure?

Absolutely...do you want me to wait outside?

There is no reason to. Come on.

The two descended down the stairs and down a second set, coming up to a large door. Though he was reluctant at first, Leon threw open the door and stepped inside, out of the rain and cold finally.

"Damn wind!"

A blonde woman not unlike Alison yelled out and rushed past Leon ,who quickly sidestepped out of the way, and to the door, closing it. She opened it again and placed a small sign outside saying the bar was closed for the evening then closed the door again, locking it as well.

The woman herself was a lot like Alison, but much older with gray streaks in her hair, wearing it in a pony tail. She wore a red lace blouse that went down to her ankles. She had cream colored slippers on. After closing the door, she ran back across the room, speaking something.

"How is she holding up, Allie?"

Allie...?!

He followed the woman closely until they entered a back room that was used for guests that needed to rent it out for the night. There were two beds, one of which occupied by one of the Rito clan to the far east, one of the sea faring folk. The Rito girl was young, maybe 18 or 19 years old. She wore an elaborate dress with the Triforce on it.

She had a wet towel draped on her forehead and her cheeks were bright red. She had a heavy fever...

Next to her, sitting on a small bench, in a short sleeve white shirt and dark tan slacks was Alison. She looked much different than before. She had a deep scar running down her right arm, from a grievous sword slash. She had some cuts on her face and she looked like she hadn't slept in days.

Across the room, by what Leon assumed to be her bed, was the same coat from before she was kidnapped, hanging on the wall, soaking wet. He was happy that she still had her coat.

He took to the foot of the bed, out of the way so the two could talk. It took everything he had to not start screaming at the top of his lungs to vainly try to get her to acknowledge his Presence.

She's...surviving...I honestly don't know...mom...I wish Leon was here...he would know how to treat her...None of the doctors know what to do. And the only one who knows is in Kakariko Village.

Mom...? Alison never talked about her mother...Man, Have I been out of the loop that long...?

"Don't worry Allie, This rain will lighten up soon and she will be fine...I hope...Who is this Leon fellow? You haven't talked about him much besides wishing he was here. Is he your "fella'" from Ordon?"

Thank you...and...I guess you can say that. I'm worried about him...since I last saw him a few weeks ago I...I can't stop thinking about him...It was the thoughts of him that kept me going when I was held prisoner by the Goblins....

"It's called love, dear. I know what your going through...come...it's time to put out the candles. Bella will wake you if anything happens to her...alright?"

Alright....

She stood and walked next to where Leon was standing, listening. He had a few tears in his eyes, though near unnoticeable with his bright white skin. She paused for a moment, staring at Leon, but only seeing the wall, before heading to her bed and kicking off her shoes. She could of swore something was there.

Leon slouched against the wall between the beds and got down onto the floor. He leaned against the wall, staring straight ahead. He pulled on the collar of his armor, starting to feel a bit claustrophobic. Eve floated down next to him and sat with him.

Leon...Are you alright?

Y-yeah...I just...need a moment...to think...

The lights of the bar went out, one by one, all but one on the bar counter to help a young brunette read a book. Alison's mother came by and closed a curtain that gave the Rito girl and Alison some privacy to sleep. This curtain shrouded Leon and Eve in darkness...Leaving Leon to doze off, unable to move his body to do anything at the moment.

Shrouded in darkness...a figure reminding her of Leon stood with her, his skin bright white and hair black, wearing strange armor. He comforted her with his words, sounding exactly as Leon did. I'm coming to take you home, Allie. Things will be as they used to be. I am close to you, even when it seems you are alone...I will lift this darkness for you, do not worry about anything...my love...

He pulled her and kissed her then, but as he did-

LEON!

She sat up in bed looking around for him, finding nothing but a still darkened room and the fast breathing of the Rito girl, still under a heavy fever. She felt something on her foot, she tried to kick a bit to try and get it off, but the feeling was still there. She found a candle on the floor next to her bed and lit up one of the matches that was on the candle holder. The flame illuminated her flushed face as she held it close to her foot. There was the imprint of a hand there, like somebody had their hand on her foot for a long time.

She looked around again, finding that nobody had stepped past the unrustled curtains and left no trace of them being there at all. She felt her foot with her hand and wondered if the dream she had was because of this mysterious imprint, or if Leon really was close...

______________________________________

A high pitched whistle filled the air in front of Hyrule Castle Town's bridge, Leon calling his faithful steed Shade. She was over in a pasture, away from the patrolling monsters. She heard his call and started to gallop towards him.

Are you alright?

Yes, why do you ask?

Just a little worried...you haven't said a word since last night.

Didn't find a reason to talk, to be honest.

Shade reached him then and stood by for Leon to mount off and push for the Spirit's spring on Lake Hylia. Hyaa! He said as he spurred the horse around Hyrule Castle's walls and north into Hylia. Both of them would notice the air become noticeably colder as they approached the lake and snowflakes began to fall, replacing the rain.

________________________________________

The trip to the Lake was a short one, placing them in a canyon that lead to the Lake. It was also the only safe traversable road to the far north into Scallwind, going over the lake via a stone bridge allowing travelers the pleasure of visiting the Spirit's Spring and praying for safe passage along their journey. As well as trading valuable merchandise to the honorable Zora clan that resided on the lake. But it was not as it once was, instead of beautiful grass alongside the road and the occasional merchant's stand, there was only snow. Snow was everywhere, falling from the skies to cover the ground. This was not natural, something had happened to the lake...and the Zora clan that took up residence there.

When they turned the final corner, leaving the canyon and saw the lake in it's glory, their mouths dropped open when they saw the horror...

The exotic Lake Hylia was now a massive bowl of ice, frozen by the Twilight and buried under snow. Leon spurred Shade onward onto the bridge...

Being in the middle of Hyrule fields which stretched all around known Hyrule and into Ordon lands with grassy fields and scarce trees besides the south, being the only water for miles, the lake itself was massive, ranging about a mile and a half in length and width and nearly 3 miles deep, least from the Zora's account. The massive Hylia Bridge spanned the entire lake, the combined efforts of the Zora, Hylians, and Scall. On the western shore of the lake was the base of Snowpeak Mountain range, the very mountain range that separated Scallwind and Hyrule, it was this very range that created the canyon wall that forms Lake Hylia. The spirit of Hylia keeps the lake filled full of water year round, least from what the Zora and Hylians believe, and it is the same spirit that made the river-based trade route with the Rito to the east where Hylia empties out in the great sea. In the middle of the lake is a small island where the Hylia Bridge splits into three bridges. Two going around the island, and one going to the island. In the Island was the Spirit's Spring.

The Zoras live here on the lake, using caves dug out by their ancestors underneath the lake, but now however, Leon wasn't sure what happened to the Zoras, or the lake for that matter...the entire thing was covered in ice, snow gently fell from the air, covering the lake in a blanket of cold.

Leon...something isn't right here. It's too quiet. I was here with my mother before she...ya know. She was teaching me about the Zoras...this is their home, their culture...

She floated over the side of the bridge and onto the lake, landing in the snow. She immediately jumped up with a yelp and continued to float. It was her first time actually stepping in snow. Leon got off of Shade and jumped over the bridge railing, coming over to where Eve was. She got down into the snow again and cleared some off of the top. Her little black dress was turning white like her skin because of the snow, though she wasn't that cold.

When she cleaned off enough snow to see underneath, she screamed and stepped away from the little window. If her skin was more normal, she would have gone pale. She came up next to Leon and hid her face in his armor.

Wondering what she saw, he knelt down and cleaned off enough snow to see what was below. His mouth fell agape and he felt a rise of searing rage in his stomach at what he saw.

Underneath the lake, frozen in the ice were hundreds of them...Zora guards, citizens, nobles, merchants, the entire Zora clan was frozen underneath the ice. Each one trying to swim for the surface, but none making it.

Without hesitating he jumped back over the railing and onto Shade, spurring her into a heavy gallop towards the spirit's spring to try and cure this mess. A fire was in his eyes, though not enough to melt the ice, it would guide him to Zant's death.

Across the bridge the two went, hell bent on clearing the twilight. They crossed the bridge and galloped onto the Spirit's Island. Leon dismounted, plopping down in the snow. Floating beside him, Leon and Eve went inside the Spirit's Cave, praying that the Spirit still had enough power to tell them where the light carrier was.

The inside of the cave was illuminated by the pool in the middle of the room, bathing them in a cool blue glow. A outreach of rock lead them to a point just above the pool. They edged closer to the pool, a golden glow came from in the pool. A golden cloud arose from the pool and began to speak-EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!

The scream! The scream brought Leon to his knees, covering his now bleeding ears! Eve fell from her spot at Leon's side, out cold! The Spirit nowhere to be found, the water in the Spirit's Spring turned from the healing water into a blood red, darkening the room in a sickening red light. Now, instead of gentle spirit, the nightmare arose from the pool of blood, it floated up and rested on the rocky point in front of Leon, staring him down....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4Fqz3P29k0

Did you truly think that I, ZANT, would not notice your little..."excursion"? Disrupting my heavenly world of Twilight for your own SELFISH reasons? You make me ANGRY you IMPUDENT disgusting worm! SO. VERY. ANGRY.

Zant rose his arm up and an unseen force picked up Leon and held him in the air, forcing him to stare into Zant's metallic face. Zant's sleeve flicked then and shot Leon out of the cave and onto the bridge. He bounced against the snow covered stone surface like a stone on water, coming to a rest near half way. Zant was not far behind.

Forcing me to come here...leaving my conquest of the north to deal with such rabble...you will REGRET forcing my hand, boy. You should have stayed home, you would have lived a few days longer.

Zant rose his arm up again, bringing up Leon as well again, the unseen force holding him in place. Leon's right hand began to glow a golden color, showing three triangles, the lower right being brighter than the rest. Zant lowered his arm in a quick motion, slamming Leon against the ground. He raised it again to bring Leon back up, then back down with more force. He rose to do it a third and last time, but...

STOP, ZANT! PLEASE STOP, BROTHER!

Eve floated behind the two, trying her best to think of some way to stop Zant. The most she did was give Zant a slight pause before continuing to raise Leon high in the air, but something wasn't right...just as Zant began to slam Leon into the ground his grip on Leon was severed and golden streaks of lightning flowed along Zant's arm, shocking him with holy power and dropping Leon. Eve zoomed past Zant to try and catch Leon, though weak. She slowed his fall enough so that he wouldn't be hurt.

YYYYYYYYAAAAHHHHH!!

He screamed and grabbed his arm with a metal hand, it smoked from the intense shock of the holy lightning. He reached it out again to entrap Leon, but was shocked yet again, only twice as bad as before.

YYYYYYYYYYYAAAAAAHHHH!!!

The intense scream still made both Eve's and Leon's ears bleed. Zant rose into the air above them and spoke, still licking his wound.

So...you are the goddess' chosen...? Then you are much harder to kill than I previously thought...least...by me. But by a creation...

He rose his left arm, the one that was still good, and made circles with it in the air, summoning a pitch black claymore with blood red rune markings on it. From across the lake, a golden light shot over and hit the sword, which quickly absorbed it, increasing it's power. Zant flicked his arm downwards, sending the sword into the frozen lake.

May Thardus end you here and now, "Chosen".

Zant disappeared, leaving the two alone for the moment. Eve helped Leon up and pulled him over to the stone railing. He placed his hand on the side of his head and shook it, trying to awake from a daze.

Leon...are you alright?

Strangely...yes...but...that isn't right...

The visage of a small golden snake coiled around Leon's boot. The head of the snake rose up a bit and looked Leon in his eyes.

It is...All I can give you...Leon...I'm sorry...Zant has...taken my energy...

The snake disappeared, all of it's energy having gone to Leon to heal him after Zant's barrage. Leon stood and looked over to the hole where Zant's sword went. He bounded over the railing and started to approach the hole at a slow pace...the ground started to rumble...

Thank you for reading thus far! Please! Head over to http://roleplayerguild.com/showthread.php?t=108073 for more LOZ: SOTD!