Fan Fiction ❯ A Duo's Destiny ❯ Chapter 1

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

A Duo's Destiny
a fanfic by: Tori Singer

Disclaimers: I don't own Zelda or any of it's characters. So you won't get much if you sue me.

Warnings: This contains yaoi. Male Male love. Sheik/Link/Sheik. In this fic, Sheik is his own person. I never believed that Sheik was Zelda anyway. If you hate that idea, then go the fuck away. Also, this fic contains violence and some cussing. There's lemon scenes too, but they are not detailed explicitly, but enough. On with the story!


"Hmm...well what do you think Impa?" The king of Hyrule turned to the Sheikah warrior. The said warrior glanced over at him.

"Yes, I do believe these two will have a great impact on the world as we know it. They are children of destiny." With that, Impa returned her gaze to the sleeping infants. One was a blonde with bright blue eyes, hair that could rival gold; this one was the king's son, Link. The other was Impa's nephew. His name was Sheik. His eyes were red as rubies, like his father. His hair was shaggy and pale blonde. Both were incredible babies. The king was watching proudly, holding a year old squirming daughter in his arms.

"My little Zelda, it's your bedtime." Sensing her father's words, Zelda started wailing and squirming harder. The king and Impa chuckled. The king nodded his head and left the chamber, leaving Impa alone with the two boys. She continued her gaze, she could sense a great destiny within these two. Even now, the two were already bonding, they were turned slightly toward eachother, hands almost touching. They would never sleep unless they were next to oneanother. So they shared a room. Impa was glad that the king had grown as fond of Sheik as his own son Link. Link was to be the next king when he was grown, and Sheik his advisor and attendant, as she was to this king. Impa smiled again and left the room, leaving the golden infants to their slumber.
As Impa walked toward her chambers, she couldn't help but think once more on the great king Hyrule has. King Rando, (I don't know the king's real name so....) was the greatest ruler they've had yet. He treated everyone equally, he even made the people in the castle treat him like an equal! He and Impa had become good friends. Impa was glad her nephew would grow up to be a fine attendant. She would train him well, for it was her duty, she was the only living relative he had left. Her sister died giving birth to Sheik. Her sister never told her much about the father, just that he had died in a battle. So Impa took it upon herself to raise her nephew like a true Sheikah warrior. She could sense that he was not a normal child. He had a certain Aura about him....and the Prince, Link, he had a golden future ahead of him. She could see the goodness in his heart. Reaching her bedchambers, she undressed and readied for bed. Zelda....she's going to be a wise one......Impa couldn't help but think before she drifted off to sleep...
************************************************************************ ***************************************************
5 Years later....

"Daddy daddy!" A six and a half year old Zelda ran the length of the throne room and into her father's waiting arms. The king lifted her into the air and twirled her around before settling her against his chest.

"What is it half-pint?" The king used his nickname for Zelda.

"Daddy, I missed yoo. Where were yoo?" She asked rather cutely.

"Well, daddy had some business to take care of, but I'm home now. What's your brother and Sheik doing?" Zelda made a face at the mention of her two playmates.

"Oh, they're being boys! They don't wanna play dollies with me! They're so mean!" With that, she pouted and crossed her dainty arms across her chest. The king roared with laughter.

"Of course they're not going to play dolls. They're growing boys, they need to do boy things, like exploring outside...and climbing trees. At this age, they're afraid of girls, they don't understand them, so you'll have to bug Impa to play dolls with you." Amusement caught in the king's eye at the thought of Impa playing dolls with his daughter. He chuckled aloud. Zelda looked thoughful.

"Hmmm, last time I asked her, she said she was busy...but maybe she isn't busy now." With that, she grinned and wiggled in her father's grasp. Taking the hint, the king set her gently down onto the floor. As soon as her feet hit the floor, she was running toward the door. The king laughed again and sat down on his throne. Pondering, the king thought on how much Zelda reminded him of her mother.....
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

"Shhhh.....Link you have to be quiet...yoo don't want the birdie to get away do yoo?" Sheik stated all knowingly to the awed Prince. Link was a curious young boy, and he soaked up Sheik's knowledge like water. The Sheikah warrior loved showing Link new things, and always loved the look of wonder in the prince's big bright blue eyes. At Sheik's statement, Link slowly shook his head 'no'. Link would never do anything to make his playmate angry or dissapointed. Sheik grinned a toothy grin and focused his gaze on the 'birdie' which was in reality a friend of the family, visiting the castle. She was an older woman, about 50 or so, sitting in the park, back to the tree the boys were hiding behind. Of course, being children, they mistook the hat she was wearing for a bird. The hat was the feathery kind. She was sitting with some of the castle folk, along with Impa and the King. Sheik motioned for Link to come closer. Link complied, inching closer to hear what Sheik had to say.

"Ok, we can't let that birdie ruin the picnic they're having. It might attack Auntie or your daddy." Link's eyes widened at this, not wanting anything to hurt his 'daddy'. So, clutching the net tightly, Sheik motioned for Link to take the other side of the handle.

"Ok, Link, on three, we're going to net that birdie and save our family! Ok, one....two.....THREE!" With that, the boys yelled and brought the net right over the poor woman's head. The woman screeched and flailed around. Seeing the birdie was a person, both boys dropped the net and looked around guiltily. The King was on his feet, gaping at the two boys. Impa looked angry. The old woman, free of the net, glared at the boys, particularly at Sheik.

"You! You Sheikah, you put the gentle prince up to this didn't you!" When Sheik only stammered and looked near tears, the woman turned to Rando.

"How can a king such as yourself allow this Sheikah to associate with your son! He's a bad influence!" After that being said, she marched up to Sheik and slapped him hard across the face. With a cry, Sheik fell to the ground whimpering. Impa, enraged, went to scream at the woman for daring to insult and HIT her nephew, but was beat to the punch by Link. He glared up at the woman, then started slapping at her legs. Tears streaming, he beat on her.

"Yoo, yoo mean old lady! Don't you EVER hurt my Sheik again!" The woman and the rest of the group were all shocked at the usually gentle prince's violent behavior. After hitting her a few more times for good measure, he stopped and ran over to his fallen friend. He cradled Sheik in his arms. Then he glared at all the people there.

"Don't any of yoo ever hurt him!" He picked the Sheikah up into his arms and fled the area. Link had always been a bit bigger than Sheik, sporting tiny muscles, where Sheik was about an inch shorter than Link. Also, Sheik was lithe and kind of scrawny, fitting easily in Link's hold. Link didn't stop running until he couldn't hear the arguments in the garden any longer. Apparently, Impa and the King were arguing with the woman over the two boys. Link, still sobbing, placed Sheik down on a rock. Sheik was still a bit shaken. He looked at his friend.

"L-Link...I'm s-sorry..." Sheik started crying again. Link placed his arms around his friend. He pulled back and studied Sheik's face. There was a huge bruise right below Sheik's left eye. Link couldn't explain it, when that woman had struck Sheik, he felt a rage inside of him that he couldn't explain. He had felt like he wanted to beat that woman into the ground. Then he thought about what his father was probably going to do that night. He could just imagine the scolding he was going to get. Sheik looked into Link's eyes, seeing the torment there.

"Link, they might not let me see yoo anymore..." Fresh tears started treking their way down the Sheikah's face. Link gasped at this revelation.

"No! No matter what they do, they can't keep us away!" Link embraced Sheik again, this time, the Sheikah returned the embrace, tightly. Sheik pulled apart, gazing at Link.

"We'd better get back, they'll be looking for us." Link nodded and followed as Sheik walked back toward the castle's side door. Once inside, they headed to their rooms. At the door to Sheik's room, the warrior smiled gently at the Prince.

"Thank yoo for standing up for me Link...." Sheik blushed and quickly kissed Link on the cheek. Before Link could react, Sheik had already entered his room and shut the door. After standing there for a few minutes, Link smiled and walked off, gently holding his cheek where his friend's lips had been. After he turned the corner, vanishing from sight, two figures emerged from the corridor. Impa smiled up at the King.

"Well, I hate to say I told you so but....." Impa trailed off and her smile grew wider. The king looked indifferent.

"Ok, you was right about those two, I didn't really think.....hmm..but after today, Link's instinct to protect Sheik was astounding." The king still looked ruffled from the incident earlier that day. Impa almost grinned.

"And did you see that kiss? It's puppy love I tell you." She crossed her arms over her armored chest and awaited the king's answer.

"Hmm..I didn't think my son's first kiss would be at 5 years old but....that was a hell of a kiss. Anyway, we should talk to them about their behavier." Impa nodded and walked off. Back in Link's chambers, he sat on his bed, pondering. He was thinking deeply about that kiss on the cheek. He could still feel the warmth there. He raised his hand and and touched the spot again, grinning with his teeth. The door to his room burst open, and Zelda was standing there looking pretty smug.

"Yoo're gonna get in trouble! Yoo hit daddy's friend! Yoo're gonna get in trouble! Nya nya nya!" With that, she stormed back out and giggled all the way down the hall. Link, remembering, almost started crying. He didn't want his father to be angry with him. His delicate little behind was at stake! Distraught, he started quietly crying and pulled his knees up to his chest. This went on for a few minutes before there was a knock on the door. His father's voice was heard through the wood.

"Link? Son? May I enter?" His voice seemed soft, not angry, so Link told him he may. The king opened the door, and took in the sight of his son crying. He stroad over and sat down beside his son.

"What's this? You're crying? Over what might I ask?" Rando placed his arm around Link's shoulders. Link only sobbed harder. He found his voice and spoke softly.

"I..I don't want yoo to keep me away from Sheik..." He cried harder at the horrid thought. Rando's eyes widened.

"Now now, I never said that did I?" Rando said soothingly.

"N-no but I...I misbehaved today." Link buried his head in his knees. Rando smiled. Though he'd never say it aloud, he actually enjoyed watching his son smack her around a little.

"Link, what you did today WAS bad behavier, but she had no right to hit Shiek, but you shouldn't have struck her back. THAT was the bad thing, but the good thing is that you never hesitated in sticking up for your fallen friend. I'm sure it meant a lot to Sheik." Rando smiled and rubbed Link's back. Digesting this information, Link peeked through his arms at his father.

"So, yoo're gonna let me be with Sheik?" He said, almost whispering. Rando laughed.

"Of course, you kids are really close, I'd be cruel to seperate you two!" He laughed again but cut it short when Link threw himself at his father.

"Oh thank yoo daddy! I love you! I love Sheik! I'm so glad that I'll still be able to be with him!" He hugged his father's waist tighter, crying joyfully now. Rando was stuck on his last words....'I love you! I love Sheik!' Did his son really love Sheik? Did he...? Rando came out of his thoughts and patted his son on the head.

"Go to sleep now son....tomorrow you start your studying. Goodnight." He kissed Link on the head and stood up and closed the door on his way out. Link sat on the bed, happy as ever.
'I don't have to be apart from Sheik! Yay!'
With this thought in mind, he dressed for bed.
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

"Sheik what were you thinking! Netting that poor woman's head?!" Impa said sternly, but with a hint of amusement in her eyes. Sheik sat on his bed crosslegged, listening to his Aunt scold him.

"I'm sorry Auntie, I thought it was a mean birdie gonna hurt you and Link's daddy...." He trailed off, eyes downcast. He was startled when Impa started laughing.

"Is that what you thought?! Honestly Sheik, you couldn't tell it was a HAT!?" She laughed harder at this. Shiek's face turned red and he stammered out apologies. Impa waved a hand at him to silence him, as she was too busy laughing to say anything. When she finally calmed down, Impa approached the bed, sitting down next to her still embarrased nephew. Suddenly, she grew all serious.

"Sheik, it's your duty to keep Link out of trouble, not get him into it. And another thing, what was that kiss in the hall about hmm?" She said, amused. Sheik turned another shade of red and stammered.

"Umm, I was jus thanking him Auntie..." He trailed off, too mortified to finish. Impa laughed again and stood up. She reached down and embraced her nephew. She pulled back and gently carressed the ugly bruise on his face.

"If anybody ever hits you again, they'll have two people to get through...." She trailed off, smiling lovingly.

"Get some sleep, your warrior and Attendant training starts tomorrow." She left, closing the door on her way out. Sheik sighed. At least Auntie isn't angry.... With that, he curled up in his bed, snuggling in the covers. He drifted off to sleep, thinking about a certain blue eyed prince....
************************************************************************ ***************************************************
5 years later...

"Sheik! What's going on?!" Link rushed up to his friend, who was standing in the corridor outside the throne room. Hearing Link, Sheik turned around.

"I'm not sure, but it seems that the enemy has entered the castle!" Sheik waved his arms around to broaden his point. At this moment, Impa and the King rushed out of the throne room, toting a protesting Zelda. The king looked at the two boys, then at Impa and Zelda. He looked very upset. He approached Link, knealing down to his son's level.

"Son, something has happened. It isn't safe here any longer. You will be taken by guards to the Kokiri Forest. There you will learn your destiny from the Great Deku Tree. I'm sorry son, but this has to be done." He placed a hand on the confused boy's shoulder. Link shook his head and looked at Sheik.

"But, what about Sheik? And Zelda? and everyone else?" Rando's eyes turned downwards.

"Impa will take Sheik and Zelda to the Sheikah village. There they will be trained fully. There's an unspeakable evil coming, Ganondorf, he is leading the Gerudos here! We have to get you out of here! Guards, go now!" He patted Link's head and placed him in the guards arms. Flailing, Link screamed.

"No! I wanna be with Sheik! Wait! Sheeeeiiik!!!" He bellowed all the way out of the castle, looking back to see his friend being saddled into a horse. Red eyes turned and met his. There was a deep sadness there. He raised his hand and waved, mournfully. This made Link sad, he waved back, silently promising that no matter what happened, he and Sheik would always be together.....
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

Link awoke from his nap by the guard's voice.

"We've arrived, this is the entrance to the forest, go now, and be safe, my prince...." With that, they put Link on the ground and turned their horses around. Link look scared.

"Wait! Don't leave me!!" He called after the already retreating men. He stood there, watching them go. After a while, he turned and faced the entrance to the forest. It was a tunnel. He was terrified! He'd never been alone before...Sheik had always been there for him. Taking a deep breath, he started toward the dark tunnel, only to stop. Two children came running out of the tunnel towards him. They stopped about two feet from him. One was a girl dressed in green, even her hair was green! The other was a male, with orange hair and freckles. They looked apprehinsive. The girl spoke.

"If you are Link, come inside right away!" With that, she turned around and ran back in the tunnel, with the male right behind her. Link shrugged, and followed them inside. The first thing he saw was a bridge, he was in the middle of a bridge over a green garden of sorts. The two children from earlier was standing up ahead, staring at him expectantly. Link was still a little scared, but he sucked it up and walked forward. When he was a few feet from them, the girl spoke again.

"Listen, are you Link? Prince of Hyrule?" She asked softly. Link nodded, and her face lit up in a smile.

"Good! I'm Saria, and this is Mido. We are Kokiri, we live in the forest." Link nodded at this, and then asked a question.

"Um, how'd you know who I was and that I was coming?" Link cocked his head to the side and waited.

"The Great Deku Tree told us to greet you! Please! Come inside!" After that, she and Mido turned around and walked into the second tunnel. Link was feeling a little more comfortable. He walked on in the second dark tunnel. When he emerged, his breath caught. It was beautiful! Everything was green. And the houses were made out of trees. On further investigation, he noted the forest was filled with Kokiri! There were lots of them, and they were all staring at him. He felt embarrased all of a sudden. Then, he spotted the girl, Saria, standing up ahead waving at him. He smiled and walked off to where she was. When he got there, Saria grinned.

"Come, this way! The Great Deku Tree wants to speak with you right away!" She took Link's hand and started running over to another tunnel. She stopped at the entrance.

"Ok, when you emerge from this tunnel, you'll be in the Great Deku Tree's meadow, be respectful!" With this, she grinned again and gently shoved Link toward the entrance. Link stared at it and then back at Saria.

"Alright, see you later." He turned and started walking into the tunnel. He took a few turns, but then he reached the end. He was standing in a small field with a HUGE tree in the middle of it. The tree was gigantic, it was the biggest tree he'd ever seen. Link, wondering what was going on, started walking toward the center of the meadow. About halfway there, he heard a groan. He stopped, dead still, listening. It started again, that groaning sound. Looking around, he noticed nothing out of the ordinary.

"....Link..."
Link jerked his head in different directions, trying to locate the voice.

"....Link....the hero...it is I, the Great Deku Tree.." Hearing this, Link glanced up at the big tree...and almost screamed. The tree had a face! It had bushy eyebrows and a mustache. Standing there, gaping, was Link. He heard a chuckle from the tree and came out of his stupor.

"Wha..? What's going on?" Link quietly asked. The tree rustled and spoke again in his deep commanding voice.

"All in due time my hero....now, first, your father has sent you here to learn of your destiny. Would you sit down and listen to my tale?" The tree implored. Link hesitated, then nodded and plopped down on the damp grass. The tree cleared his throat and began.

"As you know, Ganondorf, the Gerudo King, is attacking Hyrule Castle as we speak. Ganondorf is looking for the Sacred Realm, located somewhere in Hyrule. Inside the Sacred Realm, is the relic, the Triforce. Here is how the Triforce came to be. In the beginning, three golden goddesses decended upon the chaos that was Hyrule. Din, the Goddess of Power, Nayru, the Goddess of Wisdom, and Farore, the Goddess of Courage. Din, with her strong flaming arms, cultivated the land and created the red earth. Nayru, poured her wisdom onto the world and brought the spirit of law to the Earth. Farore, with her rich soul, produced all lifeforms who would uphold the law. The three Goddesses, their labors completed, departed for the Heavens. The Triforce remained at the point where the three left the world. And since, the relic as been the basis of this world's providence." The Deku Tree paused.

"Do you understand so far Link?" He prodded. Link looked dazzled. He finally nodded.

"Good. Now, this Triforce has the power to grant the wish of any who touch it. One with a good heart will lead this world to paradise. One with evil ambitions, will create evil and devestation. So, in order to keep the Triforce out of evil's hands, the three goddesses hid the Triforce in the Sacred Realm in Hyrule. The castle town is where you will find the Temple of Time, the entrance to the Sacred Realm. But, it's blocked by a stone door called the "Door of Time". It is said you must have the three Spiritual Stones to unlock the door. Also, the royal family's hidden treasure, the Ocarina of Time! You must have the Ocarina and know a certain song to open the door. This is where you come in Link. You must find the keys to the door, which are the three stones, and retrieve the Ocarina. You must get the Triforce before Ganondorf! I have the first stone, The Kokiri's Emerald. Here, I entrust it to you, brave lad." Link blinked once, twice, then stared as a green light glowed softly above his head. Looking up, he saw a beautiful green stone hovering right over his head. Reaching up, he grasped the gem in his small hands. The light ceased, and it just shimmered in it's beauty. Link looked back up at the Deku Tree, confused as hell.

"Why me? Why couldn't someone else do this?" The Deku Tree sighed.

"Now is not the time for idle chitchat, you must understand, Ganondorf is evil, he came to this forest, searching for the Emerald. And when I didn't give it to him, he cast a curse on me. I will die soon, so you must listen well. I will give you the Kokiri sword, you know how to use a blade right?" At Link's nod, he continued.

"You'll have to buy a shield at the shop in town. Saria will give you the traditional Kokiri tunic; as I'm sure you won't be in fighting condition in THAT attire." Link looked down at his royal robes and nodded again. The tree seamed satisfied and another soft light glowed above Link's head. Glancing up, a gorgeous sword was all that was seen. It had a sharp blade, and gems in the hilt. It was beautiful. Link hesitantly reached his hand upwards. Wrapping his fingers around the handle, the light stopped, and Link felt the power of the sword fuse it's way up his arm. He shivered at the feeling. A sheath appeared on the ground in front of him. It was indigo blue in color. Knealing down, Link retrieved the sheath and put the sword away. He looked back up at the Deku Tree, who looked a little ill.

"Now...Link..you must go...see...Saria....she'll explain...further...good luck....Link the Hero....also...I present you...a...partner of sorts...Navi....aid Link....in his quest..goodbye..." With that, the Great Deku Tree withered up and died. Link felt sad all of a sudden. Bowing his head in respect, Link felt a thumping on his forehead. Looking up, he saw a little ball of light with what appeared to be wings. The little ball spoke.

"Hey! I'm Navi the fairy! I'm your partner from now on. Nice to meet you Link! Now, let's go to the Kokiri Forest!" After that said, she retreated into Link's robe. Surprised, Link stumbled backwards.
'Ok, this is all a bad dream. I'm gonna wake up soon and be home, then I'll be with Sheik again.......darn.....I'm not dreaming...' Sighing, Link turned around and trudged up the hill to the tunnel.
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

"I refuse to wear that!" Link stubbornly stated, crossing his arms over his chest. Saria sighed. They'd been at this for the past half hour. Link just would not wear the Kokiri tunic. Link looked back at Saria, who was looking exasperated. Finally, he noticed Saria's eyes were starting to water. Soon, she had tears running down her cheeks. Stupified, Link's jaw dropped and he gaped. Saria sobbed and spoke.

"But...I made this..just for you...and you hate it!" She sobbed louder. Link cringed, he hated seeing people cry, especially his Sheik. He never wanted to see water coming out of those red eyes. Sighing, Link held out his hand. Sniffing, Saria smiled a bit and placed the clothes in Link's outstretched hand. Leaving the room, Saria giggled and was happy again. Frowning, Link eyed the green outfit with disdain. Seeing no way out of it, Link stripped out of his royal garb, and into the green suit. Placing the silly looking hat on his head, he glanced in the mirror. His breath caught. He looked different! He looked like.....Robin Hood! Link groaned. That's the last thing he needed. People calling him Robin. But nevertheless, he didn't want Saria to cry again. So, attaching the sword, he picked up the shield he bought eariler. When he was ready, he stepped out of the house. But not before Navi curled under his hat, making a nest out of his hair. He glowered. Saria was standing outside, along with the rest of the Kokiri. Feeling all eyes on him, Link figeted and scuffed his feet on the ground. Hearing Saria's giggle, he jerked his head up.

"Link! You look like....Robin Hood!" She laughed again. Link's eyes turned into anime slits and he sweatdropped.

"Yeah yeah, I'm pretty funny aren't I?" He said sarcastically. Saria ceased her giggles and turned serious.

"Link, the second Spiritual Stone, the Goron's Ruby, is located on top of Death Mountain. I take it you've heard of the mountain?" She questioned, head cocked to the side. Link nodded, he and Sheik used to sit at his window, watching the sun set behind the mountain. At the thought of his friend and his well being, Link sombered. Seeing this, Saria spoke.

"The rock folk, the Gorons, have the stone. This is where you will go. But first, you should visit the village at the foot of the mountain. Go Link, Hyrule is depending on you!" She waved and started cheering as Link turned toward the exit of the forest. Link glowered as he trudged along. Everyone was calling him a hero...but he sure didn't feel like one.....
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

Staring up at the stone steps, Link pondered.
'This must be the village Saria was talking about....' He looked at the stairs a bit more before heading up. At the top, he saw a wooden archway, with a royal guard standing post.
'A royal guard! He'll know what happened at the castle!' Grinning like an idiot, Link marched up to the guard. The guard stared down at the green clothed figure.

"Hey! It's me, Link! The Prince!" Link grinned and jumped up and down in front of the guard. The guard's eyebrows shot up, then he looked at Link closely, he saw the blue hoop Link always wore in his ear. His eyes widened.

"Your highness!" The guard immediantly bowed his head. Link rolled his eyes.

"I just wanna know what happened at the castle." Link almost shouted, anxious and worried at the same time.

"Oh...the castle...well, the Gerudos broke into the Market, they destroyed a few buildings, but we held them off til' they retreated. Ganondorf was leading them. They've backed off for now, but they'll be back, which is why us guards were sent all over Hyrule to stand post and watch." Link was relieved. Then...

"What about.....my father..?" The guard thought a bit, then smiled.

"Ahhh, your father was very brave...he was at the front of the line, leading us. He took down many Gerudos....oh don't worry, he's fine, just cut up a little, minor injuries." Link let out a breath he didn't know he'd been holding.

"Do you know....where the Sheikah village is?" Link asked, eyes full of hope. The guard looked baffled.

"Sheikah village? Is there such a thing...?" Link groaned aloud. This guy didn't know where his Sheik was. He sighed.

"Thank you for your assistance." He bowed his head at the guard who quickly bowed back.

"You're welcome your highness. Let the four winds carry you swift on your journey." Link nodded and walked on into the village. It was getting late.
'I'd better find an inn or something.' He fingered the ruppees in his pocket. He'd had them with him when he was ushered out of the castle. He brought them out and quickly counted them.
'Let's see......500 ruppees exactly..' He was glad, he didn't know how he'd board up for the night without money. He spotted a sign above a door. It said, "Stockpot Inn" Link grinned and entered the building. He approached the counter, there was a young woman with shoulder length red hair behind it. She smiled as he approached. She bowed down.

"Welcome to the Stockpot Inn, I'm Anju, the rooms are 50 ruppees a night and dinner if you want it, is 20 ruppees." Link thought, fooood...

"Yes, I'll take a room and some dinner." Anju grinned and flipped open a book.

"Name?" She asked.

"Link." The prince stated.

"Ok, mister Link, we've one room available. Your dinner will be brought up to you when you're settled in." She handed a key to Link and lead him upstairs. When they reached the second door, she stopped and turned around.

"This is it. Enjoy your stay." She bowed again and left Link standing there. Looking around the hallway, he put his key in the lock. The door clicked and opened. Link stepped inside and walked to the center. He could barely make out everything, as it was almost dark outside. He spotted a lamp on a table. He quickly lit it and took in his surroundings. There was a fireplace on the right side of the room, a bed on the left, and the table was in the center, with a pot of flowers on it. The windows were on the far side of the chambers. It was pretty clean. Link smiled to himself. It'd have to do. He unhooked his sword and shield, then plopped down on the fluffy bed.
*Yawn...
'I'd better rest. Tomorrow I head to Death Mountain...' With another yawn, Link settled down in the bed. Drifting off, he heard a knock at the door. Cracking open an eye, he wondered who it could be. He was reminded when his stomach growled.
'FOOD!' Was the only coherant thought in his head. Leaping up, Link ran to the door and flung it open. Anju, carrying a tray of steaming food, was startled out of her wits. She stuttered and stammered, under the hungry gaze of the wanderer. She finally just thrust the tray at him and quickly ran off. Link grinned and went back inside. He sat at the table, immediantly digging into the food. There was roast chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, and vegetables. Finishing his meal in a matter of minutes, Link sighed and patted his belly. He stretched languidly and stood. Sitting on the edge of the bed, he toed off the boots that Saria had insisted he wear. He took off his hat, noting the huge knot in his hair courtesy of a little fairy. Link's eyes narrowed, before he stood and walked to the little bathroom in the corner. Standing in front of the wall mirror, he used the complimentry comb that was left behind. Many curses in the Sheikah language(courtesy of Sheik's teachings) later, he had all the knots out of his hair. Yawning, he took a look outside. From the looks of it, it was about 11:00PM or so. Nodding to himself, he flopped on the bed and quickly fell asleep.
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

*Knock Knock Knock
Link groaned. What was that infernal racket? He blinked his eyes.
*Knock Knock Knock
Link blinked some more and sat up. Memories of the night before came rushing back. He turned toward the door.

"You may enter." He said, then quickly cursed himself for using his princely behavior. People would be suspicious if he acted like his usual self. The door swung open slowly. Anju peeked her head around the door and spoke.

"Mister Link? It's 8:00AM, If you want breakfast, come downstairs. I hope you enjoyed your night." Link nodded, then stood up. Anju closed the door and left. Link yawned and padded to the bathroom. He stripped out of his clothes and sat on the wooden stool in front of the water basin. Washing himself, he hummed a little dity that Sheik taught him. He missed Sheik more and more as time went on. He heard a soft fluttering sound and looked toward the bed. Navi was snuggled to his pillow, wings fluttering in her sleep. The prince smiled. Although annoying sometimes, she could be helpful. And she was quiet and cute, while asleep of course. He grinned again and stuck his head in the water, swishing his hair around. He raised his head out and grabbed the bottle of soap. lathering his hair, he dunked under again. Making sure all the soap was out, he wrung out his bangs and wrapped his head in a towel. Standing, he walked back over to where his clothes lay. Putting them on, he strapped his sword and shield in place. Then unraveling the towel, he placed the silly hat on his head. Feeling a little cleaner, he plucked Navi from the pillow and stuck her in his tunic. Leaving the room, he grabbed the key from the table. He went on downstairs and enjoyed a nice hot breakfast before bading Anju goodbye and left. As he made his way to the base of the mountain, he got a little nervous.
'What do they expect a 10 year old prince to do? What kind of things are up on the mountain?' Butterflies in his stomach, he talked to the guard standing post. The guard opened the gate and he was on his way. After meeting lots of people on the way up the mountain, he tried to make heads or tails out of the directions they gave him. Finally he spotted the red flag signifying he had arrived at Goron City. Sighing in relief, he entered the rock town. Looking around, he noticed the Goron's looking a little ill. Walking up to one, he asked what the problem was. Thus, he was informed of the Dondongo's Cavern being blocked by a boulder(Ganondorf's work) and that they'll starve if it isn't opened. Understanding, Link was sent to see the boss of the Goron's, Darunia. Upon arriving, Link took in the huge stature of this creature. He looked different than the other Goron's, bigger, and taller, he loomed above the small boy. Darunia looked in a foul mood.

"You, boy, you're the one who will open the cavern and defeat the Dodongos? HAHAH HAH! Yeah right! You couldn't lift a rock! Hahahah!" The Goron continued laughing, to Link's utter embarrassment. He finally got fed up.

"Well, I could always leave and then there'd be no one to save you." He stated, all snooty like. Darunia quickly sombered up.

"Aww, I was just pokin' fun. Here, take this bracelet, it'll allow you to pick bomb flowers, but be careful. If you successfully complete the Dondongo's Cavern, I'll give you the Goron's Ruby!" With that, he ushered a stupified looking Link out of his room. Standing there, Link thought to himself.
'What did I just get myself into?' Shaking his head, Link exited the city. Walking around lost for a half hour, he finally came upon a huge boulder in the side of the mountain. There was a shivering Goron sitting beside it. Hopeful, Link approached the Goron. Sitting up, the Goron looked at Link with large cobalt eyes.

"Who are you?" The Goron asked. Link smiled nicely.

"I am Link, I am the one who is looking for the Dodongo's Cavern to unseal it." The Goron lit up at this information. He frantically pointed to the boulder beside him.

"This is it! The cavern!" The Goron laughed happily and rolled away, back to the city. Link's eyes anime slitted.
'Oh yeah, so he just leaves me here to figure it out.' -_-
Link sighed and turned back to the boulder. Looking around for anything helpful, he noted a strange plant a few feet away. Walking cautiously up to it, he leaned down and investigated. From the look of it, it's one of those bomb flowers Darunia was blabbering about. Link looked from the flower to the boulder and back again. He shrugged and plucked the plant. The fuse started sparking. Alarmed, Link tossed it at the boulder and ran the other way. Link dived behind a rock and covered his head with his hands. Hearing the sound of a fuse, he cracked open an eye and was sure he lost a few years off his life span. There sat the bomb flower, ticking it's impending doom. Apparently, the bomb had rolled down the hill after him and stopped next to the rock he was hiding behind. And the fuse looked like it was about gone. Screaming the whole way, Link hauled ass outta there, running at top speed until' he was thrown to the ground by an explosion. Quivering, Link sat up and looked behind him. The rock he had been behind was nowhere to be found, and there was a black spot where the bomb had been.

"Woah....." Was all Link could say. Darunia told him to be careful, but unfortunatly, he wasn't careful enough. Still shaken, Link stood up and brushed himself off. Gathering his wits, he jogged up to the boulder blocking the cavern. He plucked another bomb flower, this time making sure it was secure, before taking off down the hill. Covering his head, his body shook with the explosion. feeling debris, he pulled his shield over his head. After the falling rock ceased, Link peaked his head out from under the wooden shield. The wood had cracked in many places. Scowling, he tossed the wretched piece of wood away. Glancing up, his breath caught. The entrance to the cavern was open! He did it!
'Wait a minute....if it was this easy, why didn't the Goron's figure it out.' Thinking very little of the rock people's intelligence, he scrambled up the hill and into the opening in the mountain.
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

Breathing hard, Link stopped running and hid behind a wall.
'It doesn't seem to be following me anymore....'
For the past few hours, he'd been running around, dodging traps and killing dinosaur like creatures. Right now, he was being chased by little green monsters that detonated when struck. Peeking his head around the corner, there didn't seem to be any monsters around. Creeping, he inched his way along the wall toward the door on the other side. Earlier, he'd found a bag with bombs inside. They were pretty handy indeed. The fuses weren't as long as the ones on the flowers, but they were just as powerful. He was sure that he was getting closer to the big dodongo's lair. Every so often, he'd hear a roar or growl, each time a bit closer. Reaching the door, he opened it and went inside. The room wasn't very big, just a strange marking on the ground in the center. That was the only thing inside the otherwise bare room. Suspicious, Link approached the shape in the ground, never noticing the bomb that fell out of his bag, the fuse lighting when struck against the ground. Link leaned down and examined the mark on the floor. It was square, nothing else seemed out of the ordinary. Standing, Link turned back and he gasped. He barely had time to scream before the bomb went off and the floor collapsed.
Hitting the ground hard, Link groaned in pain. He moved around, nothing seemed to be broken. He cursed himself for his carelessness. Before he could stand up, the ground shook. It stopped, then shook again. Peeking over his shoulder, Link sucked in air. Stomping slowly toward him was a HUGE dinosaur! It seemed to be the Dodongo King. Shaking, Link scrambled to his feet. Reaching for his shield, he came up with....nothing. Cursing, Link remembered throwing the broken one away. Defenseless, Link readied for an attack. The dinosaur lumbered up to him and stopped about 10 feet from him. It opened it's mouth and started sucking in air. Quickly calculating what it was about to do, for he had seen smaller Dodongos do it in the cavern, Link turned around and scrambled around the narrow pathways. There was a huge lava pit in the center of the room. Running, Link stopped and turned. The dinosaur let out the air in a big cloud of fire. Feeling the heat even at a distance, Link shielded his face with his arms and stepped further back. After billowing out the fire, the Dodongo curled up in a ball and started rolling toward Link. Freaked out, Link turned tail and ran. He turned the corner of the room but stopped when he heard a thump. Turning around, he noted the king had run into the wall. Blinking, Link stood there, until the Dodongo started sucking in air for another fire attack. Eyes widening, Link turned tail and ran once more.
'I need to think of something! I can't keep running forever!' Link thought and calculated as he dodged more attacks. The Dodongo didn't seem very smart. It kept breathing fire and then rolling into the wall. Link had to do something about the fire. His sword wasn't gonna do him any good here. And he was running out of energy. He couldn't keep running much longer. Looking around the room for resources, he spotted bomb flowers in the corners of the room. Getting an idea, Link took off running around the corner, as the Dodongo rolled after him. Plucking the bomb flower as he went, he stopped a few feet away. Waiting for the right moment, Link tossed the bomb flower into the Dodongo's open mouth. The Dodongo seemed to gag a bit. Taking the hint, Link put some distance between him and the monster. It didn't take long, the Dodongo took a step forward and the bomb's fuse went out. There was a huge booming sound and Link covered his ears. Dodongo insides and blood went everywhere. Grossed out, Link gagged and shook the guts off of him. He was covered head to toe in blood. Then, he noticed the lava pit was hardening. Surprised, Link watched as it cooled into rock, then a blue circle of light appeared in the center of the pit. Curious, Link set foot onto the pit, weary of any offending heat. Satisfied, he walked to the light. He stepped inside of it and felt his body being lifted. He blinked and looked up. He saw he was flying....right into the ceiling! Gasping, he covered his head and waiting for the collision. Feeling nothing, Link peeked open his eyes, and seen blue sky. He didn't notice he was moving downwards until his feet touched the ground. He looked around. He was standing in front of the cavern! He was outside! He was safe! Link almost cried in happiness. He took a deep breath of fresh air, filling his lungs. His breath was cut short when Darunia fell from the sky and landed right in front of him. Gasping, Link stepped back. Darunia grinned and beat his chest.

"Lad! You did it! You reopened the cavern and defeated the Dodongos. Well done! For your courage, I'm going to reward you with this, the Goron's Ruby!" With that, the Goron raised his hands above his head, and a red light appeared. It turned into a beautiful stone and it levitated over Link's head. Mystified, Link reached up and grasped it in his tiny hands. Enthralled by it's beauty, Link gazed at it. Darunia brought him out of his thoughts by patting him on the head, sending the poor prince to the ground.

"Link, from now on, you and me are Sworn Brothers. We'll be friends forever. Doing favors for oneanother, aiding eachother in war, stuff like that. Now, let the Goron Guardian's strength guide you in your quest." Darunia smiled again and leapt up, leaving Link with his thoughts.
'I have two stones now, I only have one more to go. But, where the heck do I start looking?' Shrugging, Link placed the stone in a bag with the Emerald. He turned around and started down the mountain, back to Kakariko Village. Maybe he'd get information there...?
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

After an hour or so, Link arrived at the village. Stepping past the guard, Link glanced up and gasped, shocked. There, next to that house, was Sheik! He was sitting on a crate, looking bored. With a cry, Link took off running. Hearing footsteps, Sheik looked up and his face lit up. He jumped off the crate and ran into Link's embrace. They clung tight to oneanother. Finally breaking the hug, Link stepped back, grinning.

"Sheik? What? What are you doing here?" He asked, head cocked, still grinning. Sheik smiled.

"Aunt Impa, Zelda and myself heard from the forest folk of your mission. So, Impa took Zelda back to the castle to sneak the Ocarina out. Auntie sent me to find you and assist you in your journey......if...that's ok with you..?" Sheik got shy all of a sudden. Link's grin broadened. He took Sheik's hands in his own.

"Sheik, my best friend...no...brother....there's nothing I'd like more than for you to accompany me..." Link said, eyes glistening. Sheik smiled wide and embraced Link once more. He pulled back shortly and spoke.

"I was informed of the third stone's whereabouts. Do you know already?" Sheik prodded. At Link's negative nod, Sheik continued.

"The third stone, the Zora's Sapphire, is located in Zora's domain. We've read about the aquatic folk before, remember?" Link nodded, recalling rainy days spent cuddled up in a large chair with Sheik reading to him. He smiled fondly at the memories. Coming out of his recollection, he turned to Sheik.

"It's been a very dangerous journey so far...just to let you know to be prepared for anything." Sheik nodded. He showed Link his arsenal of Deku nuts and throwing needles and other stealthy weapons. Link was impressed. Link, strong and skilled with a sword, and Shiek, nimble and sneaky, armed with quick kill weapons. They were completely battle opposite, making them a rather great team. Nodding, the two headed for the inn for the night; planning on setting out tomorrow. After greeting Anju, Link paid for another night, with Sheik paying for the food. They headed upstairs, to the same room Link was the night before. He opened the door and turned the lamp on. Looking around, he noted one bed. Link shrugged, he and Sheik had shared a bed before, lots of times. He smiled and turned to Sheik, who was gazing out the windows, watching the sun. Link walked to his side and watched the sunset with him. Sheik smiled as the sun completely set. He glanced at Link out of the corner of his eye. He noted Link looked different in the Kokiri clothing. Remembering his Aunt's orders, he glowered and trudged over to his pack, rummaging around. Link, confused, spoke.

"Sheik? What's wrong?" He asked, walking over. Sheik stopped what he was doing and looked up at his friend. He sighed and spoke.

"Aunt Impa gave me these clothes, she wants me to be proud of my Sheikah heritege, so she told me to wear this, as Sheikah customs. I think it looks like a clown costume." Frowning, Sheik brought up the outfit from the bottom of the pack. He unfolded it and spread it out on the bed. It was blue and purple, kind of a mix between the colors in patches. There was a white headress, looking like white bangages. There were more bandages for his arms. Scowling, Sheik looked on at it in disdain. Link blinked and stared at it. Finally he shrugged.

"Put it on so I can see what it looks like. Please?" Link implored. Sheik shot his head up.

"You want me to put it on..?!" He looked shocked. This confused Link.

"Why not..? It doesn't look as ridiculous as mine, I look like Robin Hood." Link frowned down at the green outfit. Sheik's eyebrows shot up.

"Robin Hood..? You look nothing like that guy. But I guess I should wear the clothes, for I won't be able to battle in these castle clothing." He started taking off his clothes, causing Navi to tingle and flutter her wings before taking refuge under Link's hat, hiding her virgin eyes. Link laughed, causing Sheik to chuckle as well. When in nothing but his boxers, Sheik held up the warrior outfit, trying to figure out how to put it on. After much more cursing in Sheikah language, Sheik had the clothes halfway on. He still couldn't figure out the bandages. Sighing, he asked Link for assistance. Link shrugged and stood, walking over to his clothing-trapped friend. After more curses and 'ows' they had the outfit on, except for the headress and the arm bandages. Sheik felt stupid, but Link assured him that he looked fine. Satisfied, Sheik started taking the clothes back off. When finished, he shrugged on one of the night robes the Inn supplied. Link, after bathing, put on his night clothes as well. They settled into the bed and tried to fall asleep. Link however, was curious. Turning to Sheik, he broke the silence.

"Sheik? Tell me what happened after you left the castle." Sheik turned around and faced his curious young friend.

"Well, after we saddled up the horses, Auntie led us to a Village on the other side of the forest. We were about 10 miles from your location. After spending the day getting the low down on Sheikah customs, fighting techniques, Auntie showed me how to use the Deku nut. A Kokiri girl with green hair came to the village that night. She explained your situation and wanted us to assist in any way. Auntie agreed and dropped me off at Kakariko and then headed to the castle with Zelda. I waited another day in the village before you came down the mountain." Taking a deep breath Sheik stopped. Link blinked.

"Wow, you learned the Deku nut in one day?" Sheik nodded.

"It was hard, and Zelda of course ridiculed me, for I accidentally teleported into a tree." He cringed at the memory and humiliation. Link felt for his friend.

"Ouch...must of been tough." With that, Link leaned over and hugged Sheik. Sheik raised his arms around his friend. Link spoke sleepily.

"I'm really glad you're here, Sheik, I missed you so badly." Sheik tightened his hold.

"As I missed you brother." Link snuggled up in the Sheikah's embrace and fell asleep on top of Sheik's chest. Sheik smiled and soon fell asleep as well, arms around his best friend. Navi, curled up on the pillow, smiled at the two boys. It was obvious to her that they had a deep affection for oneanother. At ten years old, they knew of true love. Navi sighed happily and soon drifted off to sleep.
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

Sheik felt something tugging his shoulder. Groaning, he swiped at what ever the disturbance was. Then, feeling nothing, he started drifting back to sleep. Then, he felt the covers being jerked away abrutly. Gasping, he shot up and looked around. Seeing the Inn room, he remembered where he was and who he was with. Turning around, he caught sight of a very amused prince, holding the rumpled covers in his arms. Blushing, Sheik rolled over and got up from the bed. Turning to the now laughing Link, he frowned.

"What time is it?" He asked. Link stopped giggling and set the blanket back on the bed.

"It's 7:55AM, meaning you have 5 minutes to get ready to go." He grinned some more at Sheik's distraught expression.

"Why didn't you wake me up sooner!?" He yelled good naturedly as he scrambled around, trying to get his clothes on. Link chuckled.

"Cause you didn't wanna wake up, you just grumbled and rolled over." Watching Sheik turn different shades of red WAS entertaining, but he didn't wanna be late heading out. So, he stroad over and assisted in getting Sheik into the impossibly tight clothing. Finally, Sheik put on the headress, hiding his pale locks of hair, leaving his bangs hanging, one covering his eye. He pulled the mouth piece up and done his arm bandages. Finished, he looked to Link for approval. Sheik was taken aback at Link's expression. He looked dazed.

"Link..? What? What's wrong?" Sheik asked, concerned. Link shook his head.

"Wow...that outfit makes you look cool, you're all mysterious like." He guided Sheik over to the mirror. The Sheikah gasped at his reflection. He looked different. He looked like a true Sheikah. He grinned, although you couldn't see it on account of the mask.

"Aunt Impa would be proud..." He stated, looking at Link. Link nodded and turned and picked up his bag. Sheik followed suit with his pack and they left the room. Skipping breakfast, they said their goodbyes to Anju and left the village, heading to Hyrule field. Sheik stopped at the bottom of the stairs. Confused, Link stopped behind him. Sheik turned and looked up at Link.

"We'll be traveling a lot. We'll need some transportation." Link nodded at Sheik's revelation.

"But....where will we find horses?" Link asked. Sheik pointed his finger at an object in the distance. Squinting, Link followed the finger with his eyes.

".......Lon Lon Ranch..." He stated softly. Sheik nodded.

"Malon, the milk girl, will hopefully let us borrow two horses. Hopefully. We should head there now."

"Ok Sheik." With their conversation over, they headed out for the ranch. Link couldn't wait, he hoped they could get at least one horse, it beats walking. On the way to the ranch, the two boys talked about everything and anything. One conversation in particular.

"Hey, what do you think will be behind the Door of Time?" Link pondered to his friend. Sheik turned his eyes on Link.

"Well, I'm not entirely sure, all I know is that it's the entrance to the Sacred Realm. You're supposed to get the Triforce before Ganondorf and defeat him." Sheik stated. Link nodded.

"I wonder what the Sacred Realm looks like? And what will happen once I get the Triforce?" Link said nervously. Sheik understood his friend's doubts.

"I honestly don't know my friend. I am sorry." He said, eyes downcast. He felt bad that he couldn't help put Link's fears to rest. Link gaped.

"Sorry? For what? I was just wondering. Anyway, there's the ranch. Let's go Sheik." He lead the Sheikah in the entrance to Lon Lon Ranch. Walking around, they spotted the door to the house. Link walked up and knocked on the door. Malon's father, Talon, answered the door, looking groggy.

"Yes? Can I help you?" He asked gruffly. Link felt uncomfortable in this man's presence.

"Um, do you know where Malon is?" He asked hopefully. Talon's eyes widened.

"Aren't you a little young to be one of Malon's suitors?" He said, shocked. Link yelped and jumped back. Sheik looked a little angry.

"No, Link is not a suitor. We're friends of hers, we wanted to visit." He stated, eyes narrowed. Talon took in this information before pointing to the field in the center of the ranch.

"She's out there, playing with the horses as usual. Now get out of here." He said before slamming the door. Sheik looked at his still shaken friend.

"C'mon Link." He said. When Link didn't budge, he sighed and waved a hand in front of his face. Blinking, Link shook his head.

"Sheik, don't ever let anyone say that to me again." He said, annoyed. Sheik smiled.

"Of course not. Now lets go." He gestured for him to follow and walked on into the center field.(hey batter batter! hee hee.) They entered through the gate and heard beautiful singing. Following the voice, the two heros spotted a little girl with red hair singing to the horses. Both were humbled by the wonderous notes coming from her dainty mouth. Enchanted, they stroad to her. Noticing new people, Malon ceased her voice. The two boys seemed to snap out of their spell and shook their heads. Malon looked closely at the two, a forest boy and a young Sheikah.

"Who are you two?" She asked in that sweet voice of hers. Link motioned for Sheik to continue the conversation. He stepped forward.

"I am Sheik, attendant to Prince Link. We are here to humbly ask for your assistance." Malon stared at the royal claiming boys. Then shot her eyes open.

"Oh my gosh, it is you two! How have you been? What's Zelda doing? Did you say hi to my dad?" She gushed. Link looked dazzled, but they were used to her ramblings. Sheik nodded.

"We're fine, Zelda is in the castle, and yes we spoke to your father." He said in one breath. Malon squeeled.

"OK! Now, what do you need me for?" She was curious now. Sheik sighed.

"Alright, now what we're about to tell you doesn't leave your mouth, got it?" He firmly stated. Malon's eyes widened in wonder at being trusted with a big secret.
After telling Malon the whole story, she was more than happy to lend them horses.

"But, in order for you to tame them, you have to play this song. Can either of you sing?" She pondered. Link frantically shook his head. Sheik blushed a little.

"Yeah, but it scares everything away...." He said, mortified. Link turned to his friend shocked.

"You never sang for me. I never knew you COULD sing." He sounded disappointed.

"Yeah well like I said, it's horrible." Malon giggled at the two boys.

"Well, do you have any kind of musical instruments?" Both boys lit up.

"I play the harp." Sheik said, bringing out the golden stringed instrument. Link nodded, and pulled out a grey ocarina. Malon squealed again and laughed merrily.

"Ok, this is the song. My mother taught it to me. It's called Epona's Song. Listen."
She sang the song for them. They noted it was the same song she was singing earlier. After practicing a few times, both heros could play the song beautifully. After she was sure they had the song memorized, Malon giggled and took off toward the stables. In a matter of minutes, she came back to the gate with two horses. One was a brown mare with a silver mane. The other was black as night. She called over to the boys.

"Ok! Link! Play the song!" She cupped her hands to broaden her voice. Link shrugged and placed the ocarina to his lips. The sweet music filled the air. After he was done, the mare came trotting up to him and nuzzled his cheek. Link laughed and patted her head. Sheik smiled at the picture. Malon called again.

"Ok Sheik! Your turn!" After playing the song on his harp, the black horse came up to him. Malon followed and spoke.

"Link, your horse is named Epona, she was named after my mother's song. Sheik, this stallion is Jack, he's a bit rougher than Epona but they work together really well. You better take care of them." She stated seriously. The boys nodded. There were saddle bags on the horses, filled with oats, grain, and blankets, horse neccesitys. Link walked over and embraced Malon.

"Thank you little friend. We'll repay you someday." He said seriously. Malon grinned.

"All I'm asking is that you take my horses to see the world. Travel with them, let them see all these places you'll go. That's all. Good luck!" She called as the two boys got on the horses and galloped out of the ranch. Malon grinned and waved until she couldn't see them anymore.
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

With the aid of the horses, it didn't take long for the two boys to get to Zora's River. The river leads to Zora's Domain, at the end of the waterfall. Securing the horses to a tree, the boys walked along the river's edge. Link finally broke the silence.

"Um, what exactly do we say to the Zoras?" He asked. Sheik looked clueless.

"Uhh, I don't know, we'll think of something." He assured his friend. Pretty soon, they were standing in front of a huge waterfall. There was a Triforce marking on the ground in front of the waterfall. Peering at the mark, Sheik was lost in his thoughts. Link was looking around the waterfall, looking for a way in. Giving up, he turned back to Sheik. The Sheikah seemed to have made up his mind.

"This mark of course is the Royal family's symbol. So it has to have something to do with you. Why don't you stand on it or something?" He said, exhausted and peeved at the dead end. Link shrugged. It wasn't like there were many other options. He walked over and stood on the mark. A soft hum filled the air and the marking glowed. Gasping, Sheik stepped back. Link looked a bit frightened, but stood his ground. The waterfall parted into two sections, leaving a gap with a tunnel in the wall. Flaubbergasted, Sheik grabbed Link's hand and jumped. Startled, Link could just hold on as Sheik leapt across the gap and on the other side. Sheik grinned at his partner.

"Did I scare you your highness?" He said mockingly. Link glowered.

"N-no, of course not..." He said, cheeks a bit red. Laughing, Sheik took his hand and led him down the tunnel.
The first thing they saw was a beautiful pool of water. It was huge! Taking up most of the space in the cave. There were fish like people swimming around in the water. Link started walking toward a set of stairs with Sheik following quickly behind. At the top of the stairs sat who appeared to be the king. He was fat, wore a red cape, and donned a crown. He was visibly upset. Link approached the altar in front of the giant fish.

"Your majesty, we have come to-" He was cut off by a shrill scream. Both boys turned their heads to see a small fish girl standing at the top of the stairs where they had come from. She screamed again and charged Link. When she was in range, she glomped onto him. Sheik's eyes were slitted and Link looked frizzled.

"Oh my hero! You've come to find my stone! You brave man!" She nuzzled Link and continued to cling to him. Link looked to Sheik for help. Sheik didn't look amused.

"Hey girl, what business do you have on glomping my friend here?" He stated, anger and an unknown emotion etched across his face. The fish girl released Link and glared at Sheik.

"My stone, Zora's Sapphire, was swallowed by Lord Jabu-Jabu, our guardian god. Now, we're searching for someone brave enough to enter the fish and find my stone! And whoever finds it gets to be my husband!" She gushed, looking at the young Link with stars in her eyes. Sheik and Link both facefaulted. Regaining composure, Sheik stood.

"And why would we marry you? We're only kids!" He shouted, enraged by this female. The girl looked indignant.

"Because you stupid man, I am Ruto, princess of the Zoras! And you'd be honored to be my husband!" She directed that last part at Link, who looked frightened of the whole ordeal. The Zora king by this time lost his patience.

"Look! One of you find that stone so my daughter will shut up!!" He boomed, shaking the whole room. Ruto grinned.

"Daddy! I didn't know you cared!" She gushed. Everyone else sweatdropped. The king started scooting to the side, revealing a passageway behind his great stature. Once moved, he spoke.

"Brave lads, here's an offer. If you find the stone, you can have it. You shouldn't get stuck in a marriage of your disliking." He stated, ignoring the wails from his enraged daughter. Both boys were relieved by this. Link walked over to Sheik.

"Are you ready? Let's go!" He grabbed his friend's hand and went up the stairs and into the passage. Once on the other side, they were in a water garden of sorts. There was a huge concrete altar of some sorts. They read the sign by the stairs. "Lord Jabu Jabu residing." It said. Both boys shrugged and went up. At the top, they stopped short. In front of them was a huge fish! It had a golden headress with gems engraved on it. Approaching the fish, Link and Sheik were a little intimidated.

"Sheik...what now?" Link whispered. Sheik shrugged and mouthed that he didn't know. Both turned their attention to the fish god. Jabu Jabu snorted.

"You humans are all alike. Scared of me. Pathetic." The heros freaked out and jumped back. The fish chuckled.

"You two are the one's who will find that dreadful stone inside me? Good, now, begin." With that, he opened his gigantic mouth and sucked in air. The wind was so powerful, the boys felt their bodies being lifted. With a cry, both boys were sucked into the giant fish god.
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

"Oh come on Sheik it's not that bad!" Link scolded, although he was looking dirangled as well. Sheik glowered.

"We've been in this fish for half a day! I myself would like to find the stone and get the heck out of here! It stinks and I'm hungry!" He threw a needle at a jelly fish, causing it to explode into tiny pieces. They'd been lost for quite awhile, running in circles. So far, they'd encountered many different monsters, not to mention trouble with Jabu's insides trying to digest them. They were on a cliff now, after ungracefully falling into a suction hole in the floor. The only good thing was Link had found a cool boomerang. He had plenty of practice with it, with all the creatures lurking around. Sheik sighed unhappily, then lit up.

"Look! Another door! Maybe it leads somewhere..?" He pondered and motioned for Link to follow him. The door opened with a squish and they stepped inside. there was a circlular platform in the center of the room. Pretty big too. On top of the platform sat a blue stone. Sheik gasped.

"Link there! It the Spiritual Stone! Here, throw me up there." He said. Link nodded and picked Sheik up. With a grunt, he tossed the light Sheikah onto the high platform. Giggling, Sheik reached down and plucked up the stone. He turned to Link.

"We've got all three now! Let's head to the castle!" He took a step forward and the ground started shaking. Wobbling, Sheik fell to one knee. Then, the platform rose off the ground and into the hole in the ceiling.

"Sheik!" Link screamed. He heard Sheik's reply.

"Link! There's a monster up here! AIIEEEEEE!" Was the last thing Link heard from his friend. A minute went by and then the platform started back down. Instead of his Sheikah friend, there was an octorock sitting in the center of it. It jumped down in front of Link. Scared, Link stepped back and drew his boomerang. He'd dealt with these things before. There's a weak spot on their butt. Waiting, Link watched as the Octorok started moving. The platform raised a little and grew spikes on the sides. Alarmed, Link turned around and ran. After being chased for ten minutes, the Octorok changed directions. Seeing his chance, Link tossed the boomerang with all his might, directly hitting the green spot on it's back. Yelping, the Octorok flopped on the ground, dying. Satisfied, Link walked up and retreived his boomerang off the ground. The platform lowered down to the ground. Concerned for Sheik, Link hopped onto the platform. It raised up into the ceiling as before. Looking around, Link saw no sign of Sheik. Scared for his friend, he took off to the only door in the room.
'Come on, Sheik has to be somewhere!' He thought as he ran into the next room. It was a dead end. Approaching the wall, Link's body fell downwards. With a yelp, Link felt the floor moving with him. It lowered down and stopped. Link took in his surroundings.
'This is that gap in the beginning we couldn't get to...' Sighing in relief, he calmed his beating heart. He stroad to the door in the alcove. It opened and Link found himself in a room with lots of jelly fish, and a large door on the other side of the room covered in what looked like moss. Link shrugged and pulled out his boomerang. After taking out the jelly fish, he approached the door. It wouldn't open. He had to do something about that moss stuff...... He looked around the room, spotting a switch on the ceiling. Seeing a rough sided wall next to it, he climbed up to get a good shot at it. At the top, he saw it was behind a glass wall of sorts. He'd have to aim his boomerang carefully. Taking aim, Link let the boomerang fly, it was getting there.....it missed. It missed the switch by an inch, flying down and hitting the ground with a thwop. Link's eyes anime slitted. He sighed and climbed down the wall. Retrieving the boomerang, he scaled the wall once more. Taking aim, he missed again. Fuming, he climbed down and picked up his weapon. After a few more misses, he finally connected. Cheering, Link threw his hands up in the air. But he was cut short as he noticed the boomerang flying back at him. Crying out, he ducked as the boomerang zinged over his head to connect with the wall. Shaken, he walked over and put the boomerang away. Climbing down the wall, he walked back to the door, now unlocked. It opened and he walked inside.
It was a small room, but Link saw a giant Jelly fish monster in the center. And Sheik was glued to the wall with some kind of sticky gunk. Scared for his friend, Link yelled.

"Sheik! Are you okay?!" He yelled. Sheik raised his head and started struggling.

"I'm fine! Just help me out of here! Watch out for the Jellyfish!" Sheik's warning came too late as a bolt of electricity shot out of one of the monster's tentacles and zapped Link where he stood. Frazzled, Link stood there, smoking a bit. Sheik cried out.

"Link! Are you alright!?" Struggling against his bonds to no avail. Link shook his head.

"I'm....fine." He said before dodging another round of electricity. Pulling his boomerang, he yelled to Sheik.

"Where do you think it's weak point is?!" He dodged more bolts. Sheik studied the creature. He noted the tubes connecting the monster to the ceiling.

"Aim for those tube things with your boomerang!" He yelled, watching Link think about this while running from electrictiy. Link took aim and let the weapon fly, it cut through one of the tubes, causing the monster to shriek in agony. Link grinned as he caught his returning weapon. He quickly rolled out of the way of another jolt attack, and let loose his boomerang once more, taking the second tube off. He caught the boomerang and rolled. Sheik cried out in joy.

"That's it Link! One more tube to go!" He cheered on his friend, wishing he was free to help Link. After more rolling around, Link managed to cut the third tube clean off. Growling, the monster rose up and started spinning around the room. Alarmed, Link ran around the circluar room. Sheik gaped. They had not expected this. He quickly studied the monster, looking for an opening. Then, the monster stuck out it's appendiges, each having a jelly fish on the end. Frightened for his friend, Sheik called out.

"Link! Look out for those arms! Aim for the center of the monster, it's exposed!" Frantic, he watched on as Link did as he was informed, taking out the stomach. When struck, the monster froze and was open to Link's attacks. Taking his sword, he started slicing on the monster's stomach. The monster shrieked but could do nothing until Link finally thrust his blade deep into the monster, spilling green blood everywhere. With a grunt, he dislodged his sword, watching the creature whither up and die. Breathing hard, Link turned to his walled friend. He smiled and walked up to Sheik, who looked gleeful.

"Link! You should've seen yourself! You looked cool!" He praised as his friend cut through his bonds. The prince grabbed Sheik's waist and hoisted him down onto the ground. Sheik looked a little flushed. Then, his eyes widened as he looked at something behind Link. Confused, Link turned around and saw another one of those blue circles of light. He grinned sheepishly at Sheik.

"It's alright Sheik. It's just the way out of here. Come on!" He grabbed his friend's hand and stepped into the blue light. Sheik, feeling weightless, wrapped his arms around Link, a little frightened. Link smiled gently.

"Sheik, just relax, it'll be over in a minute." As he finished talking, they were set down on the altar in front of Jabu Jabu. The fish looked pleased.

"Well done lads! You've certainly did a fine job freeing me of that dreadful curse! You see, when I swallowed that stone, a man in black came and cursed me so that when I died, the stone would be his. But you two have saved me from that curse. Thank you. Good luck on your journey!" With that, he sent the boys off. They walked back in the cavern where the royal Zora's were awaiting them. Ruto screached and ran at Link. This time, Sheik was ready. He stepped in front of Link and shot Ruto with a tranquilizer needle. She hit the ground with a thump. He looked at the king.

"Don't worry, she'll wake up in an hour or so, enough time for us to be gone. Good bye King Zora!" He grabbed Link's hand and practically dragged the youth out of the Zora's Domain. He didn't let go until they were outside, next to the river. Link stopped.

"Sheesh Sheik, I take it you don't like Ruto much do you?" He asked, amazed. Sheik looked ruffled.

"Of course I don't like her! She runs around, glomping you whenever she feels like it! Ergh, I wish I could've given her a piece of my mind!" He fumed some more to Link's amusement. He laughed and patted Sheik's shoulder.

"Come on, let's head to the castle. You still have the stone right?" He prodded. Sheik fished in his pack and came up with a shining blue stone. He handed it to Link who placed it with the other two stones. They walked out of the river area and into Hyrule field. Calling their horses, they galloped toward the castle. Sensing danger, they stopped the horses a ways from the castle gates. They finished the walk on foot. Reaching the gates, Sheik stopped them both.

"Link....something's not..." He didn't get to finish his statement because a horse could be heard galloping out of the castle. A white horse rode out the gates. Getting a good look, the two boys gasped.

"Auntie!" "Sister!" They both yelled. The white horse was occupied by Impa carrying Zelda on the horse. Zelda stared at them as she passed. Then she threw something towards them. Sheik seen it coming. He stepped back and yelled.

"I...I got it!" He caught the object, but lost his balance and fell into the moat. Link started running to the moat but was stopped by a black horse. On the horse sat none other than Ganondorf.

"You boy...you must have seen that white horse. Where did it go, Answer me!" He bellowed at the scared child. Link backed up. Ganondorf spoke again.

"You think you can protect them from me? Foolish boy! Tell me which way they went!" He was getting impatient. Link looked defiant.

"I'll never tell you where they are you evil man!" He screamed. Ganondorf chuckled.

"Gutsy boy, but you won't last long...." He made his point by shooting a ball of power out of his hand and striking Link with it. With a cry, Link flew backwards and landed on the ground. Ganondorf laughed.

"Pathetic creature! I am Ganondorf! And soon, I will rule the world!" He smacked his horse and galloped toward Gerudo Valley. Still wobbly, Link stood.

"He really did a number on you Link." Sheik said, arms on the bank. Link was relieved.

"Sheik, you're ok!" Sheik laughed.

"Of course I am! Oh! Hey, check this out!" He pulled himself out of the moat and approached Link. He handed an object to Link's outstretched hand. When the object touched Link's hand, his spirit seperated. He found himself in a cathedral of sorts. Standing at the altar....was his sister, Zelda! He tried to run, but found he couldn't move. He watched as Zelda turned around.

"Brother, when you hold the Ocarina of Time in your hand.......I won't be around anymore. Impa and myself wanted to await you and Sheik, but we couldn't delay, Ganondorf was pursuing us. At least I could leave the OoT with you and this melody. This song opens the Door of Time." With that said, she placed the ocarina to her lips and played a low toned song, it was a sad sounding song. When she finished, she spoke again.

"Link....you and Sheik must protect the Triforce! Head to the Temple of Time!" A white light surrounded Link and he found himself laying on his back, with a very concerned Sheik leaning over him. Sheik looked releived.

"God Link! Don't ever do that! You just passed out." He shook Link's shoulders. Link blinked and turned to Sheik. He relayed the information Zelda had given him. Sheik just nodded and helped Link to his feet. Navi flew out of Link's hat.

"Let's go inside the Temple of Time!" She said in her high pitched voice. Both boys nodded and headed into the castle market. Walking around, they headed toward the Temple on the far side of town. At the steps leading to the entrance, Link stopped. Concerned, Sheik turned around.

"What is it Link?" He asked, walking back down the stairs. Link looked up, frightened.

"Sheik, I'm scared...." He trailed off, shaking. Sheik grew worried. He pulled his friend against his chest in a hug. He shushed and soothed the sobbing hero. After a bit, Link pulled away.

"Ok, Sheik, I'm ready, let's do this." He walked passed his friend and into the temple. Link recognized the interior from that strange dream with Zelda. The two heros walked the length of the temple, stopping in front of an altar. It had three indentions. Taking the hint, Link rummaged in his pack for the three stones. Placing them in the holes, he pulled out his ocarina. He proceded to play the saddest song Sheik ever heard. When finished, a humming sound emitted through the cathedral. The stone door beyond the altar creaked and rumbled open. Amazed, the two boys climbed the stairs and entered through the doorway. Navi flew out of Link's hat.

"Is that...!?" She fluttered over to the pedestal on the far side of the room.

"It's that legendary blade.....The Master Sword! Link! It's the final key to the Sacred Realm. Quickly, you must pull the sword from it's place!" She flew back over to Link. Shrugging, Link approached the gleaming blade. Sheik followed closely behind, but didn't climb the stairs to the sword with Link. Link gazed at the blade. Then, looking back at Sheik, he focused on the blade. He wrapped his tiny hands around the giant hilt and pulled upwards. The blade came out of the pedestal which was surrounded by a blue light. Sheik shielded his eyes. When he opened them, Link, Navi, and the Master Sword were gone......
With a cry, Sheik frantically called for his friend. Recieving no answer, he started crying. He fell to the floor. He heard someone laugh behind him. He stood and turned, and cried out. Ganondorf was standing not 3 feet away from him! Grinning evily, Ganondorf walked past Sheik. He turned around.

"As I thought, you two brats held the keys to the Door of Time! You have led me to the gates of the Sacred Realm! Yes, I owe it all to you kids! HAHAHAH!" He turned to the pedestal, where a portal had opened up. Ganondorf disappeared into the portal. Alarmed, Sheik followed through before it could close.
'I can't let Ganondorf get the Triforce!' He kept thinking as he pursued Ganondorf through the mazes of the Temple of Light. He wasn't too far behind Ganondorf. Sheik took a different route and ended in a room with a pedestal in the center. On the pedestal sat the Triforce! Ganondorf emerged from a door on the other side of the room. Seeing eachother, they both dashed toward the Triforce. Sheik leapt and grabbed it just as Ganondorf did. They struggled with it a bit before a bright light emitted throughout the room. With a cry, both beings were thrown against opposite walls. The Triforce hovered in the air before breaking into three parts. One part flew and merged with Ganondorf, marking his hand. The second merged with Sheik, also marking his hand. The third disappeared through the ceiling, to another person....
Ganondorf stood, as did Sheik. Ganondorf started laughing.

"I'm sure the third piece went to that green clothed brat! This is all your fault Sheikah! And for this, I'm leaving you trapped here in the Sacred Realm! Forever!" With that, a portal emerged from the air. Ganondorf stepped in, and closed it before Sheik could reach it. The Sheikah stood there, not believing what had just happened. He looked down to his left hand. There was a marking of the Triforce on his hand, and one of the triangles was golden. He looked around. There didn't seem to be a way out of this place.

"I'm stuck here......forever...." He sobbed and fell to the floor.

"Link....I'm sorry..." He said before blacking out.
************************************************************************ ***************************************************
Seven years later.....

"Link......wake up..."

"Link....the chosen one..."
Link fluttered his eyes open. The first thing he saw was blue lights in front of his face. He sat up and looked around. He seemed to be in some sort of chamber. He saw seven pedestals. Each one a different color. A green one, red, blue, purple, orange, and a golden one. An old man stood upon the golden pedestal. The old man spoke.

"Link, I am Rauru, one of the ancient Sages. This is the Chamber of Sages, outside the Temple of Light. When you pulled the Master Sword from the pedestal, you became the Hero of Time. But, because you were too young to be the Hero of Time, your spirit has been sealed here for seven long years. Now that you are old enough, it's time for you to awaken as the Hero of Time! Link, don't be alarmed, look at yourself!" Link looked down and gaped. He was older! And naked! He looked at his grown body. His sword and shield lay next to him, along with his pack. Navi fluttered around his head.

"Link! You finally woke up! It's been seven years!" Link looked alarmed.

"What happened?" He asked. Rauru sombered.

"After you pulled the sword, Ganondorf emerged in the Temple of Time. He used the passageway to enter the Sacred Realm. But alas, the brave Sheikah warrior, Sheik, went after him. He touched the Triforce at the same time as Ganondorf, causing the Triforce to break into three parts: Power, Wisdom, and Courage. The Triforce of Power remained in Ganondorf's hand. The holder of the Triforce of Wisdom was Sheik. And the other, you Link, hold the Triforce of Courage. It's mark is upon your left hand." Link glanced down and seen the marking on his hand. His eyes widened.

"What....happened to Sheik?" He was almost afraid to ask. Rauru averted his eyes. This scared Link.

"After the Triforce split up, Ganondorf sealed Sheik in the Sacred Realm while he escaped and brought destruction to Hyrule." Link's eyes teared up.

"So, Sheik's there forever?" He asked, tears starting to fall. Rauru smiled.

"He's been trapped there for seven years. But, when you return to the Temple of Time, the portal will open and he'll be able to come back." Link cried in joy. Rauru raised his hands above his head.

"The power of the Sages remains.....if you awaken the seven sages who dwell in the seven temples, the evil will be sucked in and trapped in the Sacred Realm. The first sage that needs to be awakened is the one in the forest. She's a girl I'm sure you've met. But, equipped as you currently are, you cannot even enter the temple. If you want to save Hyrule, you'll head to Kakariko Village. You'll find the item you need there. Now, take this medallion. The ability to fight with the Sages makes you the Hero of Time!" A yellow glow started above Link's head. He looked up and saw a golden medallion floating there. He reached up and grabbed it. Putting it in his pack, Link looked up at the old man.

"Um, can you maybe get me some clothes?" He asked sheepishly, blushing. Rauru laughed.

"Oh yes of course! Sorry about that.." He raised his hands again and a green outfit lay before Link. Link glowered.
'Green again? Sheesh!' But nevertheless, he first put on the white cloth tights. Then he pulled the tunic over his head. He felt ackward, with his larger body. After he was fully clothed, he strapped on the Master Sword and his shield. Rauru smiled.

"As I see you standing there, you really do look like the Hero of Time. Now, go back to the Temple of Time and save Hyrule!" A bright light surrounded Link. He closed his eyes, when he opened them, he was back in the Temple of Time. Looking around, he walked down the stairs. Then, he heard a swoosh sound behind him. Turning abrutly, he caught sight of a disheveled looking Sheik jumping through a portal in the air. Sheik hit the ground with a thud. Link stood there, watching as the Sheikah warrior lifted himself off the floor. Link noted the graceful arch of his back. The sensuous way he moved his limbs. Link looked at Sheik differently.
'What is this I'm feeling? It's like my feelings for Sheik have increased, at least doubled!' Sheik stood up and red eyes met blue. The red one's widened, then softened. Blue eyes looked scared. Sheik took off running. He ran straight into Link's arms.

"Link! I missed you! I thought I'd never get out of there!Ohhhh..Link it's all my fault. If only I hadn't..." He was cut off by Link.

"If you hadn't have gone, Ganondorf would have the whole Triforce. What you did was brave. And good thinking." Link raised his hand and patted Shiek's hair. The Sheikah looked into soft blue eyes.

"Link, when you pulled the sword, you just vanished! I was so scared! I thought that I'd never see you again. Then, Ganondorf came and went to the Sacred Realm. I'm sorry, I couldn't completely stop him. He's still got one piece of the Triforce." Link smiled.

"Yeah, but so do we." He held up his hand. Sheik's eyes widened.

"So you DO have the third piece..." He looked amazed. Finally, he pulled out of the Hero of Time's embrace.

"Link....you look different..." Link seen an emotion flash across Shiek's face, his cheeks were a faint pink. Link smiled.

"Sheik, you are.....I wanna say....pretty...don't be mad, but you DO look pretty." Link stammered and stared as Sheik flushed and smiled shyly. Link felt so ackward. One minute, he was a ten year old pulling a sword, and the next, he's a seventeen year old feeling strange over his best friend! Sheik wasn't fairing any better.
'He's gorgeous! I've been in the Sacred Realm too long. I feel sorry for Link, he's still a ten year old boy! He didn't get puberty explained to him!' Feeling bad, Sheik walked closer to his friend.

"Link, we've grown up, we're not kids anymore. You'll feel different things from now on. They'll be confusing, but you can handle it." He said softly, trying to reassure the prince. Link's eyes were downcast.

"Sheik, I feel funny, my body feels different. And when I.....I...when I look at you I.....*sigh." He trailed off. Sheik was curious.

"What?" He asked. Link looked down into red eyes.

"Promise not to laugh?" He asked seriously. Sheik almost did laugh.

"Of course I won't laugh silly!" He giggled and motioned for Link to continue.

"Um, when I look at you...I feel strange. I don't know what it is!" He exclaimed, throwing his hands in the air. Sheik looked stunned.
'He, he has a mutual attraction! This is perfect!'

"Link, you'll find out what it is soon enough. Now, tell me, what are we going to do now?" Sheik wondered. Link shook his head.

"I'll tell you in a minute. I wanna know what happened to you in the Sacred Realm." He stated, watching Sheik somber up quickly. Sheik turned from his friend. He seemed upset. Link quickly spoke.

"Um, if you don't want to talk about it...." He trailed off. Sheik waved an arm at him before settling on the floor.

"Have a seat on the stairs, this'll take a bit." Link complied and listened.
************************************************************************ ***************************************************
Seven years ago.....in the Sacred Realm
Sheik's POV 1st person.

"Link....I'm sorry.." I couldn't help but think I'd let Link down somehow. I felt the world blackening. Then, nothing.
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

Exactly one year I've been in here. I'm keeping a journal to keep from going crazy. I'm all alone here. No one but the evil monsters to keep me company. When Ganondorf overtook Hyrule, monsters have appeared everywhere, even here. I've been living off the land for a while, since the temple finally collapsed. The monsters had found it to be a good home, and the walls of the temple just gave in. Oh well, I suppose eating raw meat and roots isn't that bad after a while. True, at first I thought I was gonna starve, I was too cowardly to eat a dead monster after I killed it. But not eating for four days has an effect on you that will make you do anything. After the hundredth time, it got easier to deal with. I never got the hang of the roots though. I was so lonely, but I had two symbols of hope.

Three years I've been here. More monsters have shown up. Ugly, more devious ones. Ganondorf must be getting more powerful. My first symbol of hope, my left hand, still bares the mark of the Legendary Triforce. It's still surprising that I, a Sheikah, was chosen as the holder of the Triforce of Wisdom. And I'm sure that Link holds the Triforce of Courage....Link.....my most important symbol of hope. I'm still carrying that picture....the one taken the day before Ganondorf attacked the castle. We were in the garden, you were so happy.....I gaze at the picture all the time, memorizing you, as not to forget you, me, who we were. Recently, I've been feeling strange. I think I'm maturing, I'm not sure.

Five years I've been here. I'm still looking to Link for hope. Hope that someday we'll be reunited and bring Ganondorf down. I'm fifteen now. As I held our picture the other day, I felt something inside of me burn. It felt like it had been there awhile but was waiting until now to brighten. I had a dream the other night. I was there, laying in a bed, naked. Then you came in. You were grown up, like me, and you were also naked. You walked in the room and stared at my nude form laying on the bed. I remember seeing your blue eyes. They were possesive and full of what I think was lust. You ran and pounced on the bed. I seen you ravish my body, worshipping my every curve. You did many things to me in that dream. Ever since then, it all made perfect sense. I realized.....that I had been in love with my best friend ever since we were born. Now that I'm old enough to understand, I'm seeing it all come into the light. Now, you are my only symbol, I will live for you. I will see you again. We will be together. I stare at our picture, silently worshipping you. I know that you'll come for me.

Seven years I've been here. Today is a special day. I can feel it. I know that my wishes of freedom will be heard.....Link.......has awakened....
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

Link couldn't say a word when Sheik finished his tale. It must have been devestating for Sheik. Link felt tears still streaming down his face. He looked at his friend, who was sitting a ways from him on the steps. He took in the Sheikah's appearance. He was pretty slim, as raw monster meat probably isn't good nutrition. His hair was about the same length, but it was jagged, as if he had cut it with a knife. He was about 5'3, compared to Link's 5'7. He had muscles, but you couldn't really see them. He looked like he weighed about 110 pounds. Link looked down at himself. He weighed about 150, but it was mostly muscle, and with his height he could carry more weight. His hair was the same, a bit longer in the front though. He returned his gaze to the Sheikah. He felt he needed to say something, anything. But what could you say about something like that? Sheik, sensing his discomfort, turned red eyes on the green clothed figure. Link froze like a rabbit in a hunter's spotlight.

"Link.....you don't have to say anything..." He understood exactly how Link felt. Link sighed in relief, but still felt the need to comfort his friend. So, he got up from the steps and walked over to Sheik. The Sheikah looked up at Link in surprise. Link smiled and knelt down. The Hero of Time reached over and hugged his friend. He held him close as built up tears came forth from the Sheikah. Link sat back on the floor, pulling Sheik onto his lap, rocking him back and forth.

"Shhhh, I'm here, we'll end this nightmare and live the life we were supposed to." He tried to calm the sobbing teen, but didn't really know what to do. He thought back on what his father would do when he cried. His father would kiss him and tell him how much he loved him. So Link pulled Sheik's head away from his shoulder and looked into his puffy eyes. He placed both hands on either side of Sheik's head, then pulled him down and gently kissed him on the forehead.

"I love you Sheik, it'll be all better." That's what his father would do, and he'd calm down. Why should it not work for Sheik? Sheik sniffed and stared at the hero.

"Link....what? You love me...?......wait....you love me as a brother?" He asked, happy and sad about what the answer would be. Link's brow furrowed.

"Of course! Well, I don't know if it's as a brother, but I love you more than anybody else." His face showed how confused he was, he scratched his head in thought. Sheik laughed.

"Thank you Link, I feel so much better. Now, you said you'd tell me what the hell's going on." Link looked at Sheik shocked. Seeing the look, Sheik showed utter confusion.

"Sheik! You said a bad word!" Sheik facefaulted.
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

"So, we go to Kakariko and find a certain item? Sounds a little farfetched but it's all we've got." Sheik stated. They were walking out of the castle, horrified at what the city had become. It was completely destroyed. Redeads were roaming the streets, looking for fresh human flesh. Careful not to get to close to the monsters, the two boys made their way through the destruction and reached the broken drawbridge.

"I don't know what the item is, but I guess we'll find out when we get there." Link said, not sounding too sure though. Sheik looked around at the field.

"I bet Malon found the horses, maybe we should go see if they're back at the ranch..?" He suggested. Link nodded. They turned directions away from Kakariko and on to Lon Lon Ranch. Link noticed something different as soon as he entered the ranch. Sheik agreed. The ranch had an evil aura. Nodding to eachother, they rushed in the house. A startled Malon dropped the pan she was cleaning.

"Goodness! What on Earth..?" Malon stammered, eyeing the two strangers. Link looked at the redheaded teen.

"Malon?" He asked. Malon's eyes widened.

"Who are you?" She narrowed her eyes, suspicious. Sheik stepped forward.

"It's us, Link and myself, Sheik." Malon stepped back.

"Wha..? How? Where were you these seven years?! Do you have any idea what's happened with Ganondorf in charge?!" She vented all her frustrations on the quiet heroes. She finally stopped.

"Ganondorf came here....he murdered my father! He said that my father wasn't capable of running a ranch, so he wasn't needed any longer. He killed him! My father! I was left alone here! I've been running this ranch since I was nine! I'm so.....alone...." She trailed off, running forward into Sheik's arms. She started crying, years of unshedded tears taking it's toll. Sheik wrapped his arms around the now teenaged Malon, shushing her. Link watched on in sadness.
'Poor Malon....' He thought to himself. She sniffled a few more times and stepped back.

"If you're here about the horses, yeah I found them. I left for the castle town after my father was killed, I'd given up on life. Then I saw Epona and Jack tied to trees near the castle. At that moment, I knew that if I died, the horses would be alone and would perish. So I took them home and started the ranch back up. I was born here, and I'll be here when I die too." She finished her statement, crossing her arms over her chest. The boys nodded solemnly. She smiled.

"Hey, I thought you promised to let the horses see the world on your travels? Are you not here to take them back?" She prodded, curious. Sheik nodded his head.

"Yeah, we had lots of problems and couldn't leave the temple for seven years. Now we're back and Ganondorf's reign of terror will end!" He brought a fist down on the palm of his hand. Link spoke up.

"It would be helping to save Hyrule if you'd let us borrow the two horses once more." He smiled at Malon's nod.

"Of course you can borrow Epona and Jack! They've been restless recently. Maybe they knew you were coming..?" She put a finger to her mouth to ponder this thought. Sheik giggled.

"Maybe they did.....Anyway, thanks Malon. You're the best!" He embraced her, letting her know she wasn't alone anymore. She pulled back.

"Ok! Let's saddle up the horses and get you guys ready to go!"
All: YEAH!!
************************************************************************ ***************************************************

END OF PART ONE
Coming soon: PART TWO
Notes: Well? Did you all like it? Hm? I wanna know! Please! I've worked hard on this one! Part two will be the final part. I thought I'd be too long to just do it all so...Anyway, let me know what you think! Peace out.
-Tori