Legend Of Zelda Fan Fiction ❯ Wounded Hero ❯ The Battle and the Bridge ( Chapter 3 )

The Battle and the Bridge

Link stood opposite the foreman as he looked at the blueprints. “So for the bridge to support that kind of weight, we need to get timbers of a weight of which we can't handle because of the valley walls. Did I get it right?”

The foreman nodded slowly. “It wouldn't normally have to be such a strong bridge, but new regulations require that bridges of a certain width and length must support so much weight. Something with the new military weapons from Genthro.”

The two stood for a moment, both deep in thought. The silence was broken by the shouts of `look out!' and `whoa!' When they exited the tent, the cause of the chaos was found. A rolling Goron, headed straight for Link. The spectators knew that the fairly scrawny Link would soon be a memory, but the Goron came to a sliding stop mere feet from him.

“Brother Link! Big Brother sent me to tell you that we need your help! A large band of thieves captured the city and are holding our Brothers hostage! They are fierce fighters and refuse to leave the city!” The Goron said, not stopping for a breath until he finished. He waited for Link's answer.

“Tell Darunia I'll help.” He started to leave when an idea struck him. “How many of them are there?”

The Goron shook his head. “We counted thirty-five, but there were more moving around between the levels and rooms. Possibly fifty of them.”

Link nodded. “I'll be there shortly. Go to the castle and tell Zelda.” The Goron nodded his head and took to rolling. Link looked at the foreman. “I have an idea for the bridge, but I'll have to tell you later.”

The foreman waved his hand. “Don't worry, it'll be a while until we get there. You just go do what you need and don't worry about this.” Link turned and ran towards Epona. She saw Link running and turned towards the Fortress. Link's `Yah!' seemed to come when he was still in the air, but Epona bolted at the command. Link just barely reached the saddle when she started moving.

FORTRESS GROUNDS—

Nabooru was just leaving the stable when she noticed Link racing down the straight. She raised an eyebrow as the pair came to a sliding stop. “Whoa, Hero, what's the rush?”

“A band of thieves took Goron City and are holding some Gorons hostage. Darunia sent a message for me to help if I could. I think it's the same band as the ones who attacked here.” He jumped off Epona and started a jog inside, with Nabooru beside him.

“That's a good possibility. Did you find out how many there are?” Link smiled when she asked that. He liked how she thought.

“Thirty-five for sure, but he said there could be around fifty total. They were moving constantly to hide their numbers, I'm sure.” They reached their bedroom and Link turned to Nabooru. “I'd like for you and some of the Gerudo to help, but it's your call.”

Nabooru winked at him. “All you gotta do is ask!” She said in a cheery voice. “The girls are getting restless, so it'll be good to get out of here. I'll let them know.” She turned and sprinted to find some willing women. Like that would be difficult. The Gerudo absolutely loved to party and fight. He turned his attention back to gathering his things.

GERUDO STABLES—

Link made it down with a few select weapons and found the wedding crew waiting. They were dressed in their normal outfits, as was Nabooru. Link was still in his armor. Nabooru stepped up to him.

“I hope these women will be enough.” She said, turning to face them.

“They'll be fine. Just one thing.” He threw his head at the group of three on his right. “What are your names again? I'm bad with names…” He trailed.

The women smirked, but told him none the less. “I'm Maya. That's Neela and Kiran.” Each woman nodded at their name. Link nodded.

“Good. I'll try harder to remember next time.” They then mounted their horses. “Nabooru, I have a bad feeling about this. Can you double the watch?” She nodded. “Also, could you send whoever is left over to the bridge? Somebody has to protect our bridge so it can protect us later.” Nabooru nodded and turned to tell the watch captain. “Oh, and tell them that they can have fun if the men there get out of line.” The women laughed a little. He turned Epona and looked at Vajra. “Tell Nabooru I'm going to tell the foreman to keep his men on this side of the gorge.” She nodded.

GERUDO BRIDGE—

Link soon found the foreman, and told him of the plan. He called the men over to him. “We have a change of plans. Some of the ladies from the fortress are going to keep us company. Remember, you can look, but not touch. Another thing. For the rest for the day, we work on this side of the gorge.” He clapped and the men went off to do their tasks. “I hope we don't have any problems.”

Link nodded. “Me either. There should be around fifteen Gerudo here, and about twenty back at the Fortress.” He turned when he heard Nabooru shout.

“You ready to kill some bandits?” She threw one hand in the air. “Cause we sure are, right ladies?” They all yelled various things, but it still brought the group morale up a few notches. As soon as they were done, the group left for Death mountain.

KAKARIKO VILLAGE—

It was close to dusk in the peaceful town. People were finishing their business for the day. All heads turned when hooves were heard thundering up the stairs. Link shouted for people to move as they raced through town. The gate guard watched the group turn and ascend the stairs. Link waved his arm from one side to the other, and the guard knew what he meant. Open the gate and get the hell out of the way. And that's just what he did.

DEATH MOUNTAIN—

Darunia was awaiting word from either the messenger or from Link. The other Gorons were trying to stay clear of him, for Darunia had started a low growl. The doors to the city had been closed and barred, and any attempt to break it down would incite the bandits to kill a hostage. They had said they would until they got their ransom.

A feint `yah' could be heard, and Darunia recognized it right away. His mood was lifted instantly, and he couldn't wait for Link to arrive. Once Link rounded the bend, the Goron leader was more than surprised to see Nabooru at his side, and several Gerudo women close behind.

“Darunia!” Link yelled. “What's the situation?”

Down to business. Darunia liked when Link was in this mode. “Brother, they have locked the doors, and are threatening to kill hostages if we barge in. They want a ransom of rupees. They say they will only let a royal messenger in to discuss the ransom amount.” He crossed his absolutely massive arms across his equally massive chest.

“Hmm… They want a messenger, huh.” Link said to himself. Nabooru walked off to the side a bit.

“How about this.” She said, before turning to face to two. “Link is all dressed up, so he can go in as the messenger. You could make a feel for their strength as a group and see where the other Gorons are being held.”

“I love that strategic mind of yours, Nabooru.” Link cooed. Darunia nodded in agreement of the plan and Link's comment.

“Then it's decided. Well talk more once Link gets back. Link.” Darunia said as they walked to the doors. “Try to haggle with them. Spend as much time in there as you can get. Don't just agree to whatever terms they set, but don't be too hard. Give in eventually.” Link nodded at the advise. Darunia nodded once and turned to the doors. He banged three times and waited.

“Who is it?” A snidely voice called from the other side.

“Darunia, Leader of the Gorons. I have the messenger you requested. He's coming in…” Darunia looked at Link. “… unarmed.” Nabooru took a step forward to say something, but realized that a messenger couldn't go in there with a sword and shield. Link turned to the door as it cracked open. He pulled the Master Sword from his sheath and handed it, as well as his shield, to Darunia. Link looked at Nabooru, and she mouthed `good luck.' Everyone held their breath as Link slipped through the cracked door.

GORON CITY—

Link was immediately grabbed by two large fellows and patted down by a slim, greasy looking guy. Greasy turned and spoke. “He's clean.”

“Good.” A smooth voice called. The owner of the voice came from around the corner. He was a rather handsome man, slightly taller than Link. His build was more muscular than Link's, but not by much. His long, jet-black hair was tied back in a loose pony-tail and he was clean shaven, unlike all the rest of the oafs around. His armor, although leather, was still much higher quality than the rest. Smoothie strolled closer to Link. “I hoped the Queen was smart enough for that, and it seems she was. My name is Bryce. And yours is?”

“Link.” He said, without thinking. He mentally kicked himself after he'd said it.

“The Knight Commander of Hyrule!?” Smoothie said, stepping back.

“No.” Link said, trying to talk his way out of this jam. “But I do get that a lot.”

“How do I know you aren't lying, Mr. Link?” Smoothie said, eyeing him cautiously.

“Think about it. He's a legendary hero, right? Look at me. I might have fancy armor, but I can barely stand to wear it. I don't have the build of a warrior.” Link played with a few of the straps, as if annoyed by the armor. Some of the bandits looked him over and agreed with Link's explanation. “Trust me, you'll know that Link when you see him.”

Smoothie thought on it a second. “I guess you have a few valid points. Alright messenger Link, let's talk business.” He turned away and walked to the edge of the floor. Link followed him and stood beside him. The Gorons were all curled up by Darunia's door. It was closed for some reason. It gave Link an idea.

“I see all of the Gorons are unharmed. That's good. Now, how much are we talking to end this little conflict?” He turned to Smoothie. Smoothie smiled.

“I like you messenger boy. My boys and I want a few things, actually. A hundred thousand rupees per Goron and the good Queen's word that we will be allowed to leave Hyrule.”

Link counted the Gorons. “Eight hundred thousand and free passage. That's a little steep, don't you think?” Link stalled, trying to get an accurate count of bandits.

“Well, I guess we could lower it, but you also get less Gorons back.” Smoothie looked at Greasy and laughed. Greasy laughed as well.

“Whoa now, let's not be hasty.” Link said quickly. “How about this. Seventy-five thousand per Goron.” Link just couldn't catch enough of a view to count the bandits. “Plus new armor and weapons from the Castle Armory for you and each of your men.” Greasy's eyes lit up at Link's proposal.

Smoothie thought about it for a second. “Throw in our guaranteed safe passage and you might have a deal.”

Link nodded his head once. “How many sets should I acquire for your men?”

Smoothie's eyes narrowed for a split second before he put his game face back on. “Seventy-five.”

“Then I shall be on my way, good sir. I shall inform the queen and return with all haste.” He bowed slightly. Smoothie looked at one of the big guys, and motioned his head at the door. The big guy walked over to Link and pushed him towards the door. Greasy opened it and Link was thrust outside.

DEATH MOUNTAIN—

Heads shot up when the door cracked open once more. Link came through the door and stumbled around before the ground caught him. Darunia pick him up with one hand, as though Link were a stick.

“Brother, how did it go?” He asked, hope clear in his eyes.

“They want rupees and free passage.” He brushed himself off before continuing. “I couldn't get an accurate count, so I bargained in new armor for the bandits. They took the deal, so I asked the leader how many men he had. He shot me a funny look, but tried to hide it. `Seventy-five' he said. So I figure they have less, probably close to fifty like we figured. But they could still have as many as that, or they could have more. It's hard to tell which way he's leaning towards.”

Darunia stood silent for a moment. “Did you get a look at our brothers? Are they safe?” Link caught something in his eyes.

“They are fine, scared I'm sure, but unharmed. I noticed they were by the entrance to your room. It's closed…” Link said, shifting his weight to one side.

“I closed it before we left for the ceremony… Link…!” The Goron's eyes lit up with sudden realization.

“Just what I was thinking. We go in from the Crater entrance and get them out. Then the bandits won't have their bargaining chips.” He wore a look of satisfaction as he spoke.

All who were present gathered around as they discussed what was to be done. Nabooru looked to Link with a strange look in her eyes. He couldn't quite place what it was, but he soon found out what it meant.

“We can't just open the door. If we do, they could easily kill the few who were at the back of the line. We need a distraction. Maybe we could wait until a few are in place in Darunia's room, then break in the doors up top to create the distraction. We should send a few archers down to give cover, cause I'm sure the bandits down on bottom will try to attack. How does that sound?” She stood tall as she finished, proud of her plan. Heads slowly started to nod as they digested the idea. Soon the different parties were in discussion, and after everyone was satisfied, the time frame was decided. Darunia and Nabooru's escorts left for Death Mountain Crater. Link, Nabooru, Vajra, Tara, Jayanti, and three Gorons waited for the signal to start timing.

Tara looked between her sisters, nervous about the plan. Link noticed her anxiousness. “There's nothing to worry about, Tara. All we are going to do is make a distraction until the Gorons are safe. After that, we can retreat and wait for back-up.”

Vajra laughed. “It's not that that she is worried about, Link. She's a virgin to real battle.” Link was shocked.

“Don't look so surprised, Hero.” Nabooru stated. She sat down on the pedestal near the door. “It's been relatively peaceful since the War, and at that time, she was too young to go to battle.” Link tossed that information around a bit, before deciding it was very sensible. A loud roar was heard, marking the timer start.

“One minute.” Link said.

DEATH MOUNTAIN CRATER—

“Stay close!” Darunia shouted, surprised at the Gerudo's tolerance to the heat. He chalked it up to them living in the desert. The Gerudo all had their bows ready once they reached the secret entrance to Darunia's room. Darunia moved the huge statue as if it were nothing and walked into his room. There they waited for Link's signal.

DEATH MOUNTAIN—

Thunder. Everyone looked to the sky, only to see a clear sky. “Odd.” One Goron said. Again, thunder was heard. Soon it was heard again, but louder and longer. Not long after, it felt like a soft earthquake. A horse rounded the bend, but stopped at the sight of the group.

“Identify yourselves!” The knight shouted. The legion responsible for the thunder and earthquake filed behind the horseman. “I said, identify yourselves, or you will be thrown in the dungeon!”

“Excuse me, Sir!” A Hyrulean knight spoke.

“What is it!?” The commander shouted. “This had better not be stupid!”

“Well, sir, that's Sir Link.”

The commander turned in his saddle to face the knight. “And just who the hell is that!?”

“He's the highest ranking military figure, only second to the monarchy, sir.” The knight said with some unknown pride. His stance was reflective; he stood taller and pulled his shoulders back. In fact, the entire Hyrule legion had the same look and stance at the mention of Link's status.

The commander turned to the front, and looked at Link. “Is what he said true?” His voice held a twinge of condescension.

“Yep.” Link said as he looked at Nabooru. He acted as if the situation bored him. “But we'll worry about that later. Right now we need to storm the city doors. Walter, bring your battalion here.”

“Sir!” Walter's voice responded, the same who had spoken before. Clanking armor was the predominant noise, until they jogged past the commander.

“I didn't say you could break ranks!” He shouted. Walter just looked at him as he lead his battalion to Link. “I said stop!”

Nabooru had thought it better to remain out of this little power struggle, but now the arrogant knight was being an ass. “No, you didn't say they could break ranks. But you know what?” She shouted, startling Link. She walked towards the knight as she continued. “Link told them to get their asses over there, and he outranks you.” She stopped a few feet away.

“Who the hell are you!? I am Ajax, Baron to King Rovus! I will not have this now. There are peoples who need assistance, as ordered by the Queen. Now step aside, the lot of you!” Mr. Commander said in a huff. Nabooru stepped to the side, but it put herself in front of the knights' horse. “Move, or I shall go through you!” She raised an eyebrow. Walter looked at Link, and saw him standing perfectly still. “You asked for it! Yah!” The knight said, snapping the reigns. His horse shot to a full sprint at his masters' command. The knights watched and expected her to move away, but Nabooru had her own plans. She jumped straight up, and her foot planted itself Ajax's face as he neared. Needless to say, Ajax was separated from his horse. As she landed, ten spears were pointed at her throat. Link started walking.

Ajax groaned, rolling over onto his back. He shook the cobwebs out, and stood. The Hyrulean knights looked satisfied with the turn of events, and that made Ajax even angrier. “What a stupid move. Yeah, you gave me a good one, but look at your situation now. I'm gonna pay you back, and then have you locked in the dungeon.”

“But sir, that's…” Walter began, but was silenced when Ajax put his hand in the air.

“Walter, that's enough from you for the day.” He looked at Nabooru. “Now take your punishment!” He said, drawing his fist back. He took his time, picking his location. Just as he was about to unleash his fury, a strong hand grabbed his wrist. Ajax turned to face this person, only to discover what Link looked like up-close.

“Nobody, and I mean nobody, touches her when I'm around. Understand?” He gave Ajax's wrist a light squeeze when he stressed his words. A sickening snap was heard as Link's squeeze tightened. Ajax screamed in agony once Link released him, and that incited a few of the Genthro soldiers to step in. One spear was thrust at him. Said spear was grabbed and the attached soldier was thrown into the cliff wall. Link looked at the others. “Anybody else wanna mess with me!?” Three soldiers stepped forward, and Link drew the Master Sword. The soldiers backed away slowly. “Good. Walter! Get your ass over to the door and break it down. Make as much noise as you possibly can!”

“Yes sir!” Walter said, turning and pointing at the door. “You heard him, get to work!” Twenty soldiers rushed the doors, and they gave way almost instantly. Battle cries were yelled as they entered the city.

GORON CITY—

Darunia waited with his hand on the switch. The Gerudo held their bows ready. It had seemed like forever since they got to where they were. “What is taking them so long? I hope they can break the door down…”

And as if answering his question, a loud crash and angry screams were heard. Darunia threw the switch. Once the door was open enough, the Gerudo slipped underneath and took aim. Darunia soon followed. “Brothers! Quickly, this way!” Goron heads popped up at his voice, and the moved at a pace not usually seen. A whistle was sounded, and archers turned and took aim at the retreating group. Gerudo arrows found their targets with startling accuracy, and they continued to fire as the backed to the room. “Now!” Darunia shouted, and the Gerudo turned and sprinted for the door. Once they were in, he flipped the switch and closed the door. He looked from Goron to Goron, making sure everyone was uninjured. “Brothers, stay here until we make sure it is safe on the other side. “Gerudo, let us help Brother Link!” He roared, which made the women yell their battle cries as well.

DEATH MOUNTAIN—

Darunia slowed to a walk once he caught sight of the ranks of soldiers near the city doors. His face switched to an indifferent look as he pushed through the ranks. The Gerudo followed close in his trail, noticing the lustful gazes from the Genthro soldiers.

“Where is your commander?” Darunia's voice boomed, startling a few nearby soldiers. One soldier stepped forward.

“He's up there, by the doors.”

Darunia's huge head nodded as he started walking again. The soldiers parted when he got near, and then reformed once the Gerudo were past. Once Darunia made it to the doors, the Gerudo ran to meet Link and Nabooru, who happened to be coming out with the bandit leader. Darunia walked to Link and stood tall.

“Is it safe for our brothers to come out?”

“Yes. All the bandits have either been killed or captured.” As Link was speaking, the Hyrulean knights walked past with ten bandits, tied in a line. Darunia said nothing, but instead walked inside the city to let the Gorons know it was safe.

“Well Hero, what should we do with this one?” Nabooru shoved the `one' in question. He turned and gave her a nasty glare.

“Well, I know what I'd like to do, but I think we should let Darunia decide. He can determine the punishment, or let Zelda do it.”

The commander stepped forward rather quickly. Quickly enough to incite four Gerudo to have swords and spears at his throat. A look of total shock took over his features. “This is an outrage! You speak the Queen's name as if you are a close friend! And you hide behind women! I would be ashamed!” The Gerudo all laughed at his sputtering.

Link opened his mouth to say something, but Nabooru beat him to the chase. “I've had about enough of your disrespect. Not like it's any of your business, but Link does know the Queen. And the way you talk to him, it amazes me the amount of patience he has. He's your superior and yet you talk to him like a foot soldier.” Halfway through her words of wisdom, Link felt the vibrations of something big walking his way, and he turned to see what it was. It was Darunia, as he had suspected.

Darunia had heard all of Nabooru's heated speech. His expression was one of controlled anger. It only made the large Goron more terrifying. “What truths are there to the rumors I hear?” He took a breath, his absolutely huge nostrils flaring. “The rumors of disrespect towards the only living being to best me in a wrestling match?” His round head darted from soldier to soldier, as if he was daring anyone to speak.

“Do not try to bully me, Goron.” Mr. Commander huffed. “I can believe the talk of how strong he is, and I've witnessed some of his combat prowess. But do not expect me to believe that this whelp was able to defeat a Goron of your size in a wrestling match.” He threw his head to punctuate his sentence. Darunia brought his fist up in a rage, but Link intervened.

“Just let it go, Brother. I will inform the Queen of his wrongdoings. Let us see to our brothers.” Darunia nodded once and turned to check on the others. Satisfied the large Goron was out of ear-shot, Link walked towards Ajax until they were shoulder to shoulder. “I don't know what your problem is, but you are really starting to piss me off. Let's be mature and quit this ridiculous posturing. Can you agree with me?”

Ajax, ready for some sharp wit, was surprised by Link's words. “Well, I see no faults in your words. I can agree.” He said, straightening his back and smiling as if he had won some underlying battle. Link just shook his head and walked in the city.

GORON CITY—

Nabooru followed Link. “How can you let that pompous bastard walk away after slighting you how many times?” She asked desperately.

“I'll get him back, but I need to be in a place where the resulting humiliation will be amplified. I was thinking at the Annual Festival. The tournament to be exact.” He let a positively evil smirk grace his face, and Nabooru was unsure just what he was planning.