Chapter 1- The 1 become 2

Peace. That’s how Zelda liked it. ‘No battles to be won, no threat of kidnap.’ She giggled at that one. ‘Why was I always kidnapped? Just because I’m the Princess of Hyrule, didn’t give them a reason for them to kidnap me!’ It was rather odd for a seventeen year-old girl to think that, but it was true. She was snapped back to the present, when a soft knock came to the door. It was Impa.

“Link is downstairs, Zelda.” She said in her motherly voice, “Don’t keep him waiting!”

She closed the door behind her and went to tell Link she would be down soon.

‘Link!’ Zelda screamed in her head, as she scrambled to get ready. She had almost forgotten about their day out together! She liked to call it ‘a day out’ because calling it ‘a date’ sounded so childish to her, even though around Link, they both acted like children. And that was what she loved about him. She hurried past Impa, who smiled at her. Zelda felt so sorry for her. Impa was the only Sheikah left, and Zelda thought it was her fault, not Impa’s. If she hadn’t of done that binding spell with Sheik, he would be here and there would be two left. And Sheik would settle down with someone…
When she got down to the foyer, she looked up at Link, and saw the look of concern on his face.

“What’s wrong?” he asked.

“Just thinking”

“Oh don’t do that, Zel! Your head will explode from the pressure!!!” He joked.

She hit him playfully on the arm. It wasn’t hard, but it wasn’t soft either.

They walked out together, until they reached Epona, who was in the Royal stables.

“So where’re we going?” asked Zelda as he hoisted himself into the saddle.

He waited until Zelda had sat comfortable in the saddle, before he gave her his answer.

“Lost woods.” He said bluntly, as they set off at a slow trot.

“Ok. But no Deku shrubs again, please?” she asked pleadingly.

“Yeah Ok”

Zelda still remembered the last time they had visited the Lost Woods together. Link had purposely taken them past a bunch of Deku Shrubs. They scared the living daylights out of her. She had only partly forgiven him for that one.

By the time they had reached the Lost Woods, the midday sun was beating down hard on them. They went to their usual spot. A small clearing with a small stream, and blooming with flowers. Zelda loved this place. It was so beautiful. They sat down beside each other, and slowly ate. Zelda marvelled at his long, blonde bangs and cerulean eyes. He caught her looking at him.

“Wot?” he said, through a mouthful of bread.

She giggled at him. ‘He can be soooooooo immature sometimes.’

It was about 5 in the afternoon, when they began to pack their things. On the ride home, Zelda snuggled in his arms. She could smell lavender. She loved that smell. She could feel him smiling at her, and all that did was drive her deeper into his arms. She could stay like this forever. Epona suddenly started slowing down and Zelda opened her eyes, and saw they were already at the castle. She then realised that she had fallen asleep on the ride. They rode up to the castle gates and dismounted.

“Thanks” Zelda said

“For what?” Link asked, though he knew what the answer was.

“For today, silly!”

And with that, Link wrapped one of his strong, muscle-bound arm round her waist, pulling her closer, and placed his lips on hers. The kiss lasted a few moments, though both didn’t know how long. Link released her and bid her farewell, before riding off.

Zelda felt awake now. It was as if she was sleeping beauty and that kiss woke her. She walked up one of the many stairs to her room, humming quietly to herself. She stopped however, when she saw Impa staring out of a window in one of the corridors. She looked lost in thought. Zelda knew something was wrong, since after one of her days with Link, Impa would pester her with questions.

“Impa?”

Impa spun around, surprised.

“Ah, Zelda. How was your day?”

“Fine. How was yours?” she asked. Zelda used this technique when something troubled someone. It would let information out without the person knowing.

“Uneventful” was Impa’s reply

“Listen, Impa. I’ll cut to the chase.” Zelda said sternly, which surprised Impa slightly. “Something’s wrong, isn’t it? I can see it in your eyes. Tell me before I force you.”

Impa sighed and beckoned Zelda to come and sit down next to her. Zelda had never seen Impa like this. Except one time. The time when she told Zelda she had to bind with Sheik, which would kill him but save her.

“Lately, I have been sensing someone growing in power…” she began, but Zelda cut in.

“It isn’t Ganon, is it?” Her face was white with worry.

“No, child.” She soothed her. Impa heard a sigh of relief. “Someone of good. Someone pure.”

“But why is that worrying you?”

“This person isn’t supposed be alive. He is supposed to be dead. But he is alive and slowly recovering from grave injuries.”

Zelda’s face was a confused one. “Who is it?”

“It’s…”

Chapter 2- Back from the dead

“Sheik?! But I… He…” she tried to spit her words out.

“Hush. Do not worry yourself. I have located him and he is safe. I will travel to that location tomorrow at dawn to retrieve him and bring him back to the castle.” She said. “Now off to bed.” She added sternly

Zelda was about to protest, but gave in. At the end of the corridor, she turned round and said to Impa,

“Bring him back safely.” And walked to her room.
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Thoughts haunted Zelda through the night. Thoughts of Sheik. How she had killed him, taken him away from life. But then a voice in her head said,

“Calm down, Zel. He’s safe now. Impa will get him in the morning and he’ll be fine. If he doesn’t forgive you, he’s not worth bothering about. Now sleep.”

And she did.

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Impa was awake well before dawn came. She was all ready and packed. She had planned well and had many potions to heal different types of wounds and poisons. When she could not wait any longer she strode out of her room and towards Zelda’s. She opened the door quietly to check that she was asleep. She walked over to her, placed her hand on her forehead and nodded. It was an old Sheikah trick she used to check that Zelda wasn’t fake sleeping, by looking into her dreams. But Zelda was sleeping sound, dreaming of Link. Impa chuckled quietly and walked out of her room. She strode to the royal stables, and selected her horse, the second fastest horse she knew of, second only to Epona. Her name was Diana, a young white mare, named after an Amazon she had met. That woman was a VERY fast runner, so fast that while running she disappeared from view. She had hoped to see that woman soon, but her duties made her stay with the princess. She mounted her horse and rode past the castle town, out into the area in front of the drawbridge. She didn’t have to wait long until dawn came and the drawbridge lowered. She cantered along the bridge, well before it was down. The Guards looked at her in astonishment.

‘The last location I sensed Sheik was Kakariko village he should be there. Yes, his energy signal is coming from the village.’ Impa thought to herself. She urged Diana forwards even faster, towards Kakariko Village. She arrived there after an hour of riding and left Diana at the entrance, paying the clock soldier 50 rupees to look after her. The clock soldier was more than happy. 50 rupees was more than 3 days worth of pay. She followed Sheik’s energy signal to a small house. The shutters were open, and she heard movements from inside, so she assumed that the person was awake. She knocked quietly, and an old, kind looking woman opened the door. She looked up at the Sheikah.

“Hello. My name is Impa. I am the Nursemaid for Princess Zelda. I understand you found a young man on the step of the village. May I see him?”

“Yes, Yes of course, my dear.” She said, stepping aside.

Impa waited for her to show her the way, which she did. The old lady, who’s name was Yvonne, showed her to a small room at the end of a short hallway. Yvonne stopped at the door, and turned to Impa.

“Before we enter, May I ask why you need to see him?”

“Certainly” Impa said. “The young one’s name is Sheik. He is a Sheikah, one of the last. The Princess used to…er… know him very well. He disappeared and we have been searching for him. Since I’m Sheikah, I can sense his spirit, which lead me to your house.” She paused. “Does that answer your question?”

“Yes. My, I didn’t know this boy was so important.” She said as she opened the door. “My son has been helping me take care of him.”

Impa didn’t hear her, because of the sight she saw. Sheik’s face was cut and bruised. Blooded rags lay on a stool near his bed. She wanted to cry out and hug him, but she managed to restrain herself. Instead she walked up to him slowly and knelt beside his bed.

“I’ll leave for a while.” Said Yvonne quietly, “If you need anything, just call.”

And with a smile she closed the door.

“Sheik.” She breathed. “What happened to you?”

She touched his forehead, which was hot. She looked around the room for a cloth to wet, found one, wet it and placed it on his forehead. She could see his face relax slightly.
‘Good.’ She thought. ‘He’s near consciousness.’
Impa then noticed his scarf had been removed. She knew it was against Sheikah traditions that Sheikah males were not allowed to show their full face until marriage, or certain death. She put it down to the old woman not knowing of the Sheikah traditions, or even that he was Sheikah. He was very handsome. She was pulled off her train of thought when his eyes twitched.

“Sheik? Can you hear me? It’s Impa. Your safe, don’t worry.” She said as she put her hand around his. But when she said her name, her hand was squeezed weakly. She looked at him, waiting for him to open his eyes. All that came was his voice.

“Im…pa? Is… that you?” He managed to say. She could tell he had little energy left.

“Yes. I’m here, Young One. All is fine. Do not worry.”

And with that he slowly opened his eyes. He stared at the ceiling for a while, trying to gain his bearings. Then turned to look at Impa. She was smiling at him. He tried to smile, but could only manage a small one.

“Hello Sheik. Do you want some water?” she asked him.

A small nod was all he got. She got up.

“I’ll be back, Young One.”

Impa walked into the small kitchen, where she found Yvonne and a young man, she assumed was Yvonne’s son.

“Is everything alright?” The man asked

“Yes, He is awake. Could I have some water to give to him please?” Impa asked

“He’s awake?” Yvonne exclaimed, then realised what was needed. “Oh water! Yes.”

She hurried to the door, came back a few moments later with a bucket full of water and gave it to Impa, with a large glass.

“Thank you.” Impa said with a small bow, and returned to Sheik’s room.

When she entered, she thought he had fallen asleep again until he opened his eyes when she shut the door. She walked to his bed, filled the glass with water and pressed the glass to his lips. He drank slowly and closed his eyes to show he’d had enough. He opened them again, and managed to say in a bolder voice,

“Where am I?”

“In Kakariko Village. An old woman found you and brought you to her home. She said you’ve been out for over a week, nearly two. Sheik, can you remember what happened?”

“Yes, but only vaguely. All I remember is meeting with the goddesses after Zelda revealed herself at the Temple of Time. They said…” He trailed off and coughed.

Impa pressed the water against his lips and let him drink. Again he closed his eyes when he had had enough.
“They said the I was needed and that it wasn’t my time yet. The next thing I know, I’m lying in Hyrule field, just as the sun was setting. I got up but as I did, stalchildren rose as well. I had no weapon to defend myself, so I had to fight a few with hand-to-hand. I remember then running. I don’t know where I ran, all I know is I kept running till I could run no more, then I blacked out.” He paused. “But enough about me. Is everything ok in Hyrule?”

Impa smiled. ‘Always never worrying about himself. It’s good to know he’s the same old Sheik.’

“Everything is fine in Hyrule. Ganon has been vanquished, Peace is in Hyrule and Link and Zelda are together.”

Sheik managed to smile this time. Then there was a knock at the door. Yvonne’s kind face then appeared at the door and walked in carrying a small bag.

“Hello. I brought you your bag. The clock soldier said it was left on your horse.” She set the bag on a small table and walked out of the room with a bow.

“That was Yvonne, The woman who found you.” Impa answered his unspoken question, as she walked to the table and picked up the bag. It contained the potions and things. She picked out the red potion and poured it into the empty glass. She put it to his mouth and he drank. His face changed. Bruises faded and all except one cut faded. It must have been a deep one. She also noticed the increase in his spiritual energy. Sheik lifted his hands, clenched them then unclenched them, and smiled. He hated being weak, and now he had about half his strength back, his mood increased with it.

“I guess that feels better, doesn’t it?” she said with a smile

He simply nodded, and drank the rest of the potion by himself. He sat up slowly, wincing at the pain in his chest. He then realised he had nothing over his face. He felt naked, but he knew he had trousers on. Impa noticed his discomfort and went to his clothing, pulling out his mask. She gave it to him, and he put it on, feeling even better. More in control. Less vulnerable. Sheik then looked at Impa with his fierce red eyes and spoke,

“I know you are not here just for a simple visit. You want me to go back to the castle with you, don’t you?”

Impa nodded. “The Princess feels somewhat guilty about taking your life and plus it would be nice to have another Sheikah about the place.”

Sheik smiled.

“Fine with me.” He winced again

“It seems you must have cracked a few ribs.” Impa said as a purply colour came back to the side of his chest. “It’ll take a few weeks to mend totally. So you might not be able to come home today.”

Sheik smiled behind his mask.

“Why are you smiling?” Impa asked, cracking a smile as well

“You said ‘Home’. It makes me happy to finally have a home.” Sheik replied as he stared dreamily at the ceiling. Impa smiled and gave him a small hug. She was careful about his ribs and soon released him. “Don’t worry about me, I’ve ridden with worse.”

Impa nodded and went to get Diana ready, while Sheik got up. He found some clothes on a chair nearby. Simple ones. Trousers, a baggy shirt and some boots. He washed got changed and tidied up a bit. He also collect up his ripped and bloodied clothes and found a few rupees. He left them for the old woman as a thank you, and left the room. Yvonne met him on the way out and he gave her a hug as another thank you and left. He found Impa near the entrance with two horses. He guessed that the white one was hers, since he knew Impa had a thing about pure, white horses, especially mares. She got on her horse, and watched as Sheik got on his, easily. Impa chuckled.

“Even when injured badly you still have your flexibility as well.” She said. Sheik just shrugged, and when Impa had turned around, winced.

They slow cantered back to Hyrule castle and got there around late afternoon. The market was still bustling and they managed to get past all the hub-bub. When they got to the castle, they dismounted. Impa with ease, Sheik with a little less. They were leading the horses to the stables, when there was an excited scream.

“SHEIK!!!!!!”

Sheik turned just in time to see a pink figure jump at him, knocking him over. When he regained his vision, he saw that the ‘pink figure’ was infact Princess Zelda.

“Hello Princess” He managed to say through the pain from his chest. She was pulled off of him by Impa, who then gave a hand to help him up. He saw that Princess Zelda was red with excitement and embarrassment. He walked towards her.

“Again I say hello.” He gave her a small hug, and then they walked to the stables, Impa telling Zelda the story, because Sheik was too tired.

Impa showed Sheik the way to his new bedroom, which was complete with an en-suite bathroom. She let Sheik sleep, and then went to tell Zelda the rest of the story.

Chapter 3- The Dream

A scream. He heard a scream. He was in a dark hallway and a figure was thrown at the wall next to him. He called out to it, but then the image faded into whiteness…
Rise Sheik of the Sheikah. A voice, no three voices said, You must find a young girl in a prison cell in the vast desert. She is also one who is needed. To find her follow your heart…

Sheik awoke. He was covered in sweat and was shaking. He shook himself, got up and washed. It was about early morning. He walked back into his bedroom and saw an outfit on his dressing table. He unravelled it and saw it was exactly the same as his old one. He dressed and called Impa to his room using his magic powers. She burst into his room a few minutes later, slightly out of breath.

“Sorry to bother you this early, Impa” Sheik said

“What is it, Sheik?” Impa had recovered her breath.

“Sit down. This is a long one.” Sheik said

And he told her of the dream. The screams. The figure against the wall. The three voices. Impa looked very concerned at this. She sighed.

“I’m guessing that the three voices were the goddesses. The figure and the screams were the young girl they told you of. The only thing that bewilders me is the phrase, ‘To find her follow your heart’.”

Sheik stood. “And I’m guessing you’re right. I’ll set off immediately.” He paused to look at her. “If you don’t mind”

Impa stood in front of him, hugged him and said, “Now I think I figured it out. Follow your heart.” She smiled, and walked out of his room.

He followed her and had breakfast. Halfway through his meal, Princess Zelda and a man clad in green walked in. They were laughing together, but stopped when they noticed Sheik.

“Sheik! You’re awake!” She sat next to him and gave him a hug. “I wanted to say that I was sorry about the whole taking-your-body-so-I-could-live-thing last night, but you had gone to bed.”

Sheik just smiled. “That’s ok. It was my duty to protect you, so that’s what I did. So to ease your guiltiness, I forgiven you!”

She smiled, and then realised something.

“OH! I almost forgot! Link…” she went over to the green clothed man, “This is Sheik. I… ahem… borrowed his body during the seven years Ganon was in power. So technically he saved me as well!”

Sheik stood up walked up to him and held out his hand. “Nice to meet you, Link.”

“Likewise.” Link said, shaking it. “Zel has told me loads ‘bout you.” he paused and looked at Zelda, who was as red as a rose. They laughed. “So is it true that you survived a whole pack of Stalchildren, on your own with no weapon?”

“LINK!!!” Zelda shouted

Sheik simply laughed. “Na. It’s OK, Zelda. Yes, Link, I did. Though I don’t remember much of it.” He caught a look outside. “I’m terribly sorry Zelda, but I must leave.”

“Why?” Zelda look suddenly saddened
Sheik told them of the dream he had. Zelda looked astonished, but Link looked mildly happy. When he had finished, he looked at the look on Link’s face. He raised his left eyebrow, since it was the only one you could see because of his blonde hair that covered his right eye.

“And what’s so funny, Mr Hero of Time?”

“Well, I assume you’re going after this girl, and since I’m so darn bored… no offence Zel… I was hoping I could come along.”

“Well, the more the merrier.” Said Sheik

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After Link had finally coaxed Zelda into finally letting him go, they rode in to Hyrule Field, and towards the desert.

“I was just wondering.”

Sheik turned to look at Link. “What?” Sheik asked

“The goddesses said to ‘Follow your heart’, didn’t they?”

Sheik knew where this was going. “Yes. And I know what you’re going to say. No I don’t know who the girl is. I don’t recognise her voice either.”

Link just shrugged, and they rode on. When they reached the Gerudo Fortress, it was near midday. They dismounted and walked up to the gate. Even though Link had visited the Gerudo many times, they wouldn’t let them through. It was only when Sheik told them his name, did they let him through. One of the guards led the two of them to a building, and they entered. Nabooru was lying on a velvet couch, and was watching them as they entered. The guard went up to Nabooru, whispered something in her ear and left.

“So you are Sheik of the Sheikah. I have heard much about how you saved the Princess of Hyrule. If it wasn’t for you Ganondorf would still be ruling over this blessed land.” She looked at Link. “And welcome back Link, The Hero of Time. I say the same thing to you as I did Sheik. Without you, Ganondorf would still rule. But where are my manners? Please sit.” She pointed to two velvet chairs. They sat obeyingly. “So. What is it that brings you here?”

“I have been told by the goddesses that a girl is being held prisoner in the desert. They didn’t say where exactly…” Sheik began

“So we thought we’d start here. Not that we’re accusing you of kidnap.” Link added quickly

“Hmmm. We are holding no female prisoners at the moment. Not even recently. But I do know of an old tower, that had prison cells and such. It could be there. Since you do not know the desert well, and because you have been sent by the goddesses, I will offer my services as a guide.”

“Thank you.” Sheik bowed his head. “I also understand that you have fighting skills, they could come in handy.”

“Well, we shouldn’t just sit here. That girl could be in danger.” Link said

“I shall pack some essentials immediately. I shall see you by the entrance to the desert in 5 minutes.” Then she left the tent, leaving the two alone.

Chapter 4- Pain in body and Mind


Link and Sheik were waiting by the entrance when they saw a figure walking towards them with a sandy, beige horse. They only saw the horse when it was about 100 yards away.

‘Perfect Camouflage.’ Thought Sheik. ‘No wonder they rarely get caught.’

“Are you ready?” Asked Nabooru

The two of them nodded. Silently, they all mounted their horses, and rode into the desert. They were silent pretty much the whole ride. The wind whipped at Sheik’s eyes. He was thankful that he had something protecting his nose and mouth, but his eyes stung like hell. He looked round at Link. One hand was on his reins, the other over his mouth. Sheik looked in the pack for his spare mask. He found it and rode up right next to him. Link looked at him quizzically and Sheik handed him the mask. He pointed at his own, then at him, Link nodded to say he understood and put it on. Sheik then heard his name over the wind. He turned to see Nabooru next to him.

“It looks like there’s a sand storm picking up!!” She managed to scream. “Follow me!!!”

They followed her until a rock formation loomed ahead. They rode into the heart of it and into one of the huge rocks. They had to dismount to get through but that didn’t mean anything to Sheik. He needed to stretch his legs, but as he got off, a sharp pain came to his chest. He clutched it in pain.

“Sheik!” Cried Link. Link said something, but he wasn’t listening. The pain was too great. And then his world blacked out.

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Link was dismounting when he heard a cry of pain. He look over and he saw Sheik doubled over in pain.

“Sheik!” he cried out, and rushed over. “Nabooru!” he shouted at her, “Get the horses into the cave, I’ll help Sheik!”

But when he looked down Sheik’s face was still. Link would have thought him dead if he didn’t hear his breathing. He stood up, hoisted him on his shoulder and walked in the cave. Nabooru was settling the horses in, when she saw Link enter with Sheik.

“What happened?” Concern suddenly flooded her eyes, something Link had never seen.

“I don’t know.” He said. “ It must be one of his injuries he sustained before Impa found him. I’m guessing it’s in his chest because that was the thing he was clutching before he blacked out.” He put him gently on the floor and reached into his medicine bag, pulling out a red potion. He drank a little bit to cleanse his lungs and gave some to Nabooru. The potion made them fall asleep quite quickly.
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You are close! You will find her! Said one voice
Find her! Said another
Yes find her soon! Said a final
He then felt sad. He didn’t know why, and the sadness wasn’t normal. It felt painful. Like he had lost something dear to him. No not something…Someone.

Sheik opened his eyes to see colours floating above him. He thought it was a dream until he heard a snore, which ‘woke’ him again. He turned his head to see Link and Nabooru lying on the floor sleeping. He sat up wincing.

‘Stupid ribs. Why can’t they mend quicker?’ He thought. He saw a bottle of red potion sitting next to him. He reached out, grabbed it and looked round. He made sure they were both sleeping before taking off his mask. He took a long gulp of the liquid, set it down and tied his mask. It wasn’t long before he was falling asleep as well.
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Nabooru was the first to rise because she had the least bit of potion. She looked at Link’s sleeping form and the Sheik’s. She thought he hadn’t woken since they had, but when she saw the ¼ empty potion bottle, she knew he had and had a drink. Link then woke up and moaned.

“Well good morning, sunshine!” she said, voice heaving with sarcasm.

Link just glared at her. He then looked at the sleeping frame of Sheik.

“He did wake up.” He looked at her. “He had a drink of the potion and fell asleep.” And just as she said that, Sheik’s eyes twitched, then opened. He sat up.

“Could you stop looking at me please? It’s kind of freaking me out.” Sheik said bluntly

“Sorry.” Link and Nabooru muttered, and they both looked away. Nabooru then stood and went to look outside.

“Nights fallen and the storm’s gone.” She said as she entered the cave. Then she looked back a Sheik. “Are you OK? You scared me a bit earlier.”

“Yeah. Must have been my ribs. They still haven’t healed yet.” He stood, wobbled a bit, but put his hand on the wall to steady himself. Once he got his bearings, he slowly walked to his horse, which Nabooru had put outside, patted her and got ready to mount. He got on Ok, saw the others on theirs and said,

“I had another dream last night. Nothing much, they just said that we’re close.”

Link nodded and they started to canter. Sheik noticed Link putting on the mask he had given him. They rode for many hours, pausing only to rest and eat. They reached the tower by midday. It was slowly crumbling but sturdy.

“How’d we get in?” asked Link, when they found a place to hide, “And when we do, how do we find her?”

“Simple.” Sheik said, with a glint in his red eyes. “We get caught.”

Chapter 5- A happy welcome awaiting

Sheik’s plan was simple. A note was tied to each horse, telling of their location and that they needed help. If they got in too much trouble, a spark was sent into the air, which would scare the horses, sending them back to Gerudo fortress. But Sheik was sure that this wasn’t needed.

“So we just stroll in there and get caught?” Link was double-checking. Something he always did.

“Yes. Then they will take you down to the dungeon, were the girl is being held and I follow you. Then we escape.” Sheik explained again

“How?” Nabooru asked

“We’ll figure that out later” was his answer. And with that they marched into the fortress.

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The plan worked perfectly. Moblins were swarming all over the place. They didn’t know who they were, since Sheik had told Link to keep the mask on, to hide his identity as well. And sure enough they were taken down to the prison. Perhaps a little too roughly though. The Moblins didn’t take any risks, and knocked both of them out by hitting them over the head with the ends of their spears. Sheik winced as they fell, glad that he was hidden in the shadows of the rafters. Sheik followed them well, slowing his breathing to match theirs so he wouldn’t be seen or heard. The dungeon was at the very bottom of the fortress.

‘Why is it always at the bottom?’ Thought Sheik.

He waited until they had marched in before he leapt to the ground and back up into the rafters in the dungeons. The Moblins heard nothing, and shoved Link and Nabooru into separate cells and walked out. Sheik waited a while to make sure they wouldn’t come back, and jumped to the floor. This caught the attention of one of the cells occupants. He walked up to their bars and put his index finger to his mouth. They understood and made no sound. However, there was one more occupant Sheik hadn’t known about and as soon as the man saw him, he roared,

“OI!!!! ARE YOU GONNA RESCUE ME OR WOT?!”

Sheik knew this would attract attention, so he leapt to his hiding place once more and was glad he had, when the door opened. About 3 Moblins and one knight entered. He told the Moblins to search every cell for an intruder. He, however, walked up to the man.

“Where is the intruder?” he asked in a cold, spine chilling voice.

“There was no intruder.” Said the person Sheik had quietened, who was a seventeen year-old girl. “You know what Black’s like. He’s just delirious. There has been no one enter here, except those great, big, fat pigs you call guards with the guy and girl.”

The knight walked over to her cell, looked at her and walked out, summoning the Moblins with him. Sheik then fell to the floor, crouching, then rising to full height.

“Next time you want to get rescued, Blackie, don’t scream it out for the whole of Hyrule to hear.” Said the girl, who then pointed at Link and Nabooru. “I’m guessing they’re with you.”

“Yes. He is Link, and that is Nabooru. My name is Sheik.” He said with a small bow. “Thank you for covering for me.”

“No problem. My name is Raven.” She paused. “You look familiar, in some way.”

“Yes. You appear the same way to me.” Then it hit him like a slap on the cheek. “Wait. Have you been having dreams? One’s with voices?”

Raven nodded. “Yes. How did you know?”

Sheik was about to answer, when he heard movement from behind him. He turned to see Link sitting up, rubbing his head, gingerly.

“Ow.” He moaned. He then looked at Sheik. “Next time, you get hit of the head.”

“Agreed.” Said Nabooru, who had also woken up. “Have you found this girl yet?”

“Yes. This is Raven.” He said pointing at Raven. “So shall we get out of here now?”

He brought the keys over from the other wall using his powers, and set to work, freeing the others. Raven was amazed.

“Wow.” She said, as he opened the door to her cell. She walked out as Sheik opened Link’s door. She walked over to the wall where the keys used to hang and slipped a bag off a hook. She then walked over to Link, who was stretching. Link looked up and saw her fully for the first time. She was of average height, for a seventeen year-old. She wore a short, blue tunic that ran off her shoulders and blue, flat shoes, tied by ribbons that ran up her legs, to her mid-calf. She wore long blue gloves that ran up to her elbow and had been cut to let her beautifully manicured fingers through. She had dark, brown hair, tied in a bun and tanned skin. Her eyes were odd, though. They were yellow, like a cat’s. She was extremely pretty.

“Here.” She said, giving him a bottle, containing a clear liquid. “Drink this. It’s forest water. It’ll heal your wounds and bring back your strength.” She then turned to look at Nabooru. “You too.” Link took a gulp, and handed it to Nabooru. Raven looked at Sheik who had a hand on his chest, breathing heavily.

“Are you OK?” she asked as she walked up to him. “You look as if you’ve run a marathon. You sound like it as well.”

“Ribs.” Was all he said. She rummaged in her back again, pulling out another clear liquid. It had a pink tint to it.

“This will heal them.” He eyed the bottle suspiciously. Link and Nabooru, simply stared at her then him. “It’s sacred water. Trust me on this one.”

He turned his back on them and took off his mask. He took a large gulp, and 1ooked instantly refreshed. Even his hair looked refreshed! He turned to look at her.

“Thanks.” He said handing her the bottle. He walked over to door, opened it slowly and peered out. “Come on. There are no guards.”

They all walked out, leaving Black to ponder on what had happened.

Chapter 6- Not just a pretty face


They walked along countless corridors, up almost endless stairs, only seeing about 10 moblins and a few knights. They thought they would get out without being caught, when a wizrobe came up behind them. It fired a few spells along the corridor to alert the guards and a few at them.

“Come on!” he yelled as he grabbed Raven’s hand, “Follow me!”

Sheik had never run so blindly in his life. He didn’t know where he was taking them. They ran up a few staircases, until about 10 Darknuts stood in front of them. Link turned to look behind them, and sure enough, they were surrounded.

“Duck!” shouted Link

They did. And just as they fell to the floor, a spell whizzed over them. It had been fired by a wizrobe and had hit most of the darknuts in front of them. Sheik took this as a distraction and rushed through a massive pair of doors, Link and Nabooru following him and Raven. Sheik and Link put their weight on the door, while Nabooru shifted a long plank along catches, locking the door.

“That won’t hold for long.” Said Link.

“It won’t have to.” Said Raven. They all look at her in surprise. Just then she glowed bright white. The others had to shield their eyes against the light. When they looked back, in the exact place Raven was once standing, a huge, black, three-headed dog was standing.

“What the-?” cried Link

“Stand back!” barked one of the dog heads. They did as they were told and stared in amazement. The huge dog inhaled and spat at the door.

“Ewwwww!” Nabooru cried

The spit hit the door in three places- the hinges and the middle. It turned opaque and hardened. Then the dog disappeared and Raven was standing there. They were all standing in disbelief.

“How’d you-?!” Link began, but Sheik cut him off.

“We need to get out of here.” He walked to the massive windows, opened one and walked out. The others followed, Link helping Raven out. They were only a few floors from the ground and wasn’t a great distance.

“I would offer to fly us down there, but I don’t have enough energy to transform.” Raven said. She lowered her head as if she had let them down. Nabooru put her hand on her shoulder and smiled at her.

“Don’t worry.” Said Sheik. “We could probably jump, and not injure ourselves.”

“I’ll go first.” Link offered. “I’ll check there’s no one’s there.”

“Ok, but keep out of sight though.” Sheik said

With that Link jumped off the small balcony, and they looked over. He got down fine and put his thumbs up to show it was safe. Nabooru was next. Then Raven turned to Sheik.

“Um Sheik?”

“Yes?”

“Ummmm… I can’t really jump that well. There’s no way I’ll survive the drop.”

Sheik smiled. “Don’t worry. Just hold on to me.” After he said those words, he’s realised what he’s actually said. She put her arms round his neck and held on tightly. He jumped and heard a small shriek. He felt Raven’s body hug closer, but soon they hit the ground.

“See. That wasn’t so bad was it?” Sheik said to her after she had released him. She laughed.

“Yeah I suppose.”

They ran towards their horses and reached them in no time. Sheik helped Raven on to his horse and sat behind her. He put an arm round her small waist, and they rode home.

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They stopped to rest at the same rock formation. Link got a fire going and they sat around it, silent. Until-

“May I ask, how did you turn into that huge dog?” Sheik asked

Raven turned to look at him. She sighed. “I guess I owe an explanation, don’t I? Well, I was born with it really. My mother sensed it when I was born. She knew I had great power in me. I only figured out my powers when I was about 8. I still don’t know the full extent of my powers. All I know is that I can transform into any animal, any monster and any race. When I am in these forms, they are individual.” She paused and smiled. “I’m not just a pretty face, you know. Does that answer your question?”

Sheik nodded. Raven then yawned.

“I think it’s time we got some shut eye.” Yawned Nabooru

“I’ll stay up.” Sheik said. “we need a look-out and I am not particularly tired.”

They all nodded and went to separate, but near, spaces and lay down. Sheik sat by the fire and pulled out his harp. He played a sweet, quiet lullaby to keep him occupied and help them sleep…

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Raven was the first to wake up. She opened her eyes. She saw it was still early morning and was surprised to Sheik still awake. He was staring at the fire, as if mesmerised by it. He looked at her as she got up a walked over to the fire.

“You still up? Have you even had a wink of sleep?” she asked him

Sheik shook his head and went back to staring at the fire.

“Well, I’m awake now, so you go sleep.” Raven said looking at him, smiling. He smiled at her and lay down, closing his eyes. Staying awake wasn’t really her plan, though she would still keep guard. She transformed into a wolf, and closed her eyes. If someone entered the cave, her hearing would alert her. Also, she would get even more sleep.

‘I’m too clever for my own head.’ She joked

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


They arrived at the Gerudo fortress a few hours after dawn. Again, they were been silent most of the way. Raven was still riding with Sheik, Nabooru still leading the way and Link riding next to Sheik.

“Hey Raven?” Link asked

“Yeah?”

“If you can transform, how come you couldn’t get out on your own?”

“There must have been a magical field around my cell. I tried to, but couldn’t. Also I was afraid that if I escaped, they would go back after my brother.”

“Your brother?” Asked Sheik

“Yes. Those Moblins came to my home, the Forest Haven, on the sole purpose of kidnapping me. They found my younger brother, Fado, instead. They told me it was either him, or me. I couldn’t let them take him.” A tear came to her eye. She wiped it away. “I hope he’s alright.”

“I’m sure he is.” Sheik said. He squeezed her tightly and Link smiled. She smiled back and laid her hand on Sheik’s. The fortress loomed ahead. They sped through the gate and right to the other end. They stopped at the other side, bid Nabooru goodbye and were off again.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hyrule castle looked magnificent in the midday sun. It’s many stain-glass windows shone, almost glowed, in it’s rays. They dismounted and lead the horses to the stables but just as they came out, someone yelled Raven’s name.

“RAVEN!”

Raven looked up to see a small boy in blue clothing running towards them.

“Fado!” she called. She fell to her knees, and hugged the small boy. He started crying and she pulled him off her.

“Hey! Why’re you crying? I’m here now!” She asked him

“I…I…I th…thought…you were…d..d..dead!” He managed to say through his sobs. She hugged him again.

“Well I’m here now!” she soothed. He brightened up instantly.

“Well I guess.” She wiped his eyes and stood. She turned to Link and Sheik.

“This is my brother, Fado. The one I told you about.” Fado was a small boy of 11 with brown hair. He wore a simple, blue tunic and hat, just like Link’s, with brown boots. In fact he looked just like Link did at his age, except for the colour and hair.

“Hey lil’ guy!” Link said smiling at him. Sheik simply nodded at Fado and his fiery, red eyes twinkled. Raven saw this and guessed he was smiling under his mask.

“Come on. I bet Zelda’s worrying about you, Link.” Sheik joked, and they walked through the huge doorway, into the foyer.

“I see you’ve succeeded, Young One.” Said a voice. They turned to see Impa walking towards them. She looked at Raven. “And I suppose you are the girl Sheik dreamt about.” Raven nodded. “Zelda’s out in the courtyard. She told me to send you to her when you got back.”

They turned towards the courtyard, Link leading the way. Raven was staring around her in amazement. Fado had obviously been given a tour, because he plainly wasn’t. A small breeze blew over Raven’s face as they stepped over the threshold to the Courtyard. The courtyard was beautiful. With so many different flowers and plants, it looked like The Forest Haven.

‘Only the Forest Haven’s much more beautiful.’ Raven thought. A girl was sitting in the center of the courtyard with a small, brown thing she swore was…

“Makar?” She asked

The brown thing turned round. It was very small and chubby. It had a leaf on it’s face with two eye holes.

“Miss Raven!” It cried and pulled a two leafed branch out and flew over to her using it. She grabbed it and hugged it tightly.

“OK. Can someone explain what you guys are doing here?”

“I can.” Said the girl. Link walked up to her as she stood and they hugged. Raven realised that this must be Princess Zelda. Zelda beckoned the others to come over and they sat on the grass. Link sat next to Zelda, putting an arm around her shoulders and she leant against him. Raven and Sheik sat opposite. Fado sat on Raven’s lap, while Makar stood, looking at Sheik with interest. Zelda cleared her throat and made Makar jump. He sat in between Sheik and Raven.

“After you set off, I had a dream telling me to visit the great fairy. I went and she told me that your brother and friends would want to know where you were. Also they would need to be protected. She told me the location of your home, The Forest Haven, and I sent a messenger over there, telling them to come to Hyrule Castle. They turned up yesterday.” She smiled and looked at Raven. “Is your brother always so quiet?”

“I can’t really tell.” Raven said. She looked at Fado, who was blushing. “When he’s around me, he’s not. But according to others he doesn’t say much when I’m not there.”

Just then a shape on the back of her hand glowed white. She covered it up quickly, but not quick enough.

“What’s that?” Zelda asked looking at her hand.

“Nothing.” Raven said, taking a peek at her hand. It had stopped glowing. She looked away, but could feel everyone’s eyes on her. She sighed and slowly took of her glove. She stretched out her hand to let everyone see. Zelda gasped.

“Goddesses above! That’s… that’s…”

“The mark of Nayru.” Raven finished.

Chapter 7- the goddesses leave their mark

“No way!” Zelda gasped, forgetting her manners. She stared at the mark. It was the shape of three circles joined to form a triangle.

“Yes way.” Raven said, suddenly feeling uncomfortable. Sheik took her hand and looked at the mark. His gloved hands were gently with hers, which made her blush.

‘Why am I blushing???? He’s just looking at the mark!!’ Sheik’s voice broke through her furious thinking.

“Definatly Nayru’s mark. But the question is,” He said, looking at her with intense eyes. She stared into his, with her soft yellow ones. “How did you get it?”

“I don’t know.” She said, bluntly. “My mother said I was born with it. She said that Nayru blessed me with my powers, so she left her mark on my hand. But I truly don’t know. And I can’t ask her now.” Sheik had let her hand go by this time, and she rubbed the mark as if it hurt, which it didn’t.

“Why?” asked Zelda

“Our mother is dead.”

“Oh!” she looked horrified. “I’m so sorry!”

“That’s Ok.”

“So it’s a bit like the Triforce symbols on mine and Zelda’s hand?” Link asked, changing the subject as best as he could.

“I guess, except mine glows randomly. I guess it’s when Nayru’s near me, but I have no evidence to support this, though.” She added.

A loud rumbling sound was heard. Link blushed and rubbed his stomach. Everyone laughed.

“I guess you guys are hungry. Come on! We’ll get something to eat.” They all got up, but just as Raven was about to follow, a hand grabbed hers. She whirled round and saw it was Sheik.

“Can I talk to you?” he turned to look at the others who were staring. “Alone?” He added. She nodded and the others walked on. He pulled her to a secret part of the courtyard that only Impa and Sheik knew of. It was almost as beautiful as the other. A large water fountain was in the middle of all the plant life. It consisted of a marble Mermaid, in a clam. The water made sounds as it came out of it’s mouth, and into the Clam below.

“I know this is harsh of me, but I need to know. How did your mother die?”

Raven looked into his deep, red eyes and her heartbeat increased.

“Of an illness.” She said. She looked away. Sheik grabbed her hand gently.

“I know that’s not the truth, Raven.” he said sternly

Tears welled up in Raven’s eyes. “It’s hard to explain.” She looked back at him. “I know of
your Sheikah powers. Just look for yourself.”



They sat opposite each other, sitting on the edge of the clam, not that far apart. Sheik placed his right hand on her forehead and closed his eyes. Suddenly, Sheik was standing in a room. Technically, he wasn’t actually there, but he could see and hear everything going on, without being seen. A small girl entered. She was about 7 years of age, and wore the same kind of clothes Raven wore.

‘This must be Raven.’ He thought. ‘This must be her at the age of seven.’
Young Raven walked up to a cupboard and brought out some tiny clothes, just like Fado’s. She walked out and Sheik followed her. He found himself in a small room. It was very light and a small draft came in from an open window. Sheik didn’t feel it, of course, but he could tell it was there, because Raven’s hair moved slightly. In the corner, was a pretty woman, with a baby.

“Thanks Raven.” The woman said. He guessed she was Raven’s mother. Raven picked up the baby and began to dress it. It giggle.

“Oooh! Does that tickle? Does ickle baby Fado have a tickly spot?” Raven said, in a cutesy voice. Baby Fado giggled again, and Raven’s mother smiled.

“You two get along like Yin and Yang.” She said as she stood. She was wearing a long, blue dress with a long split up the side, stopping at mid calf. She was also extremely pretty.

‘Just like Raven.’ He thought as they laughed. He suddenly realised what he’d thought and shook his head, as if it would shake out thoughts like that. He was cut short when a door banged. Raven and her mother stopped laughing. Her mother looked at her and said,

“Take Fado and go upstairs.”

Raven didn’t protest. She grabbed Fado and ran upstairs. Just as Raven left, a man entered the room. He had black greasy hair and had a stern face. Not at all like Raven’s or her mother’s.

“Hello Abu.” She said, smiling. Abu didn’t return it.

“Where is the girl, Megara?” he said in a voice so cold and dark it sent shivers down Sheik’s spine.

“Who? Raven? She’s upstairs, sleeping.”

“You lie, Woman!” He lashed out and smacked her around the face. She fell to the floor with a shriek. Sheik gasped. Now he understood why Raven had said it was ‘Hard to Explain’. Sheik had not grown up with a father, but compared to Raven, he was thankful for it. But not making it sound horrible.

“I know of your power! I also know of hers! Now I will not tell you again! Join me and the Great Lord Ganondorf, or suffer!” Abu shouted at her.

“I would rather die!” she screamed. Just then, Sheik heard footsteps behind him. It was Raven. He turned back just in time to see Abu launch a huge black ball of light at Megara.
Raven screamed as it hit. When the light disappeared, Megara’s body was gone. Tears rolled down Raven’s face.

“You Monster!!!!” She screamed. But the fury in her eyes disappeared as fear set in. She turned and ran back up the stairs. Sheik followed. He wanted to help, but knew he couldn’t. He followed her into a room with a huge window. She picked up Fado and backed up to the window. Abu appeared in the doorway, smiling. His dark armour glinted in the pale light.

“I’m sorry you had to see that.” He sneered. “But if you join me, I won’t be forced to kill you.”

“Never. If mother would rather die than join you, then so would I.”

Abu frowned. “Fine then.” He was about to send the ball of light towards her, when a blue light appeared between them. He sent him anyway but the blue light bounced it back to the castor.

“I’ll be back! Mark my words!!! You will pay!!!!” He screamed before he disappeared in a puff of smoke.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sheik felt he had seen enough. He also felt he had put Raven through enough of it already. He took his hand away from her forehead, and realised he was sweating. He wiped the sweat from his eyes and looked at Raven. She had drawn her legs up to her chest. She was crying and shaking. He leaned forward and pulled her into a hug.

“I’m sorry.” He said

“It’s ok.” He heard her mumble. She had stopped shaking now, but he could feel her heartbeat still was high. “You would have found out sooner or later. It’s better now than later. But could we keep it between us? I don’t want anymore attention.”

He nodded. He had never hugged someone like this before. It was a comfort hug, but it had more meaning behind it.

‘Am I starting to have feelings for her?’ He thought. He let her go, wiping her eyes. He stood, helping her up, and together they walked to the dining room.

“Oh and before I forget.” Raven turned to Sheik and blushed. She continued. “Thanks for the compliment.”

Sheik looked confused. “What compliment?”

“You know the one about me being extremely beautiful.” She blushed an even darker shade of red.

“Well you are.”

‘WHAT??????????????????????’ Sheik screamed in his head. ‘WHAT AM I SAYING?????????????????’

“Flattery will get you no where.” She said matter-of-factly. She playfully punched Sheik in the arm. And she skipped back to the courtyard. “Come on then!”

Sheik smiled under his mask and walked after her. ‘You know what, Sheik?’ He thought. ‘I think she likes you.’

Chapter 8- True feelings let known

Impa had instructed Zelda and Link not to ask where Sheik and Raven had been. Zelda was curious, but obeyed Impa, since Impa always knew what was best for her. When they had walked in Zelda looked up at Raven. She looked as though she had been crying for ages.

“Hey.” Zelda said. “You hungry?”

“Not really, no.”

Zelda didn’t ask Sheik, as she knew he never ate around people, since he couldn’t remove his mask.

“Raven, dear, you look tired. If you want, I can show you your room?” Impa asked. Raven nodded and Impa beckoned her over. They walked away up a staircase. Sheik sat down on a chair and sighed.

“Something wrong?” Link asked.

“Yes, but I’m sworn to secrecy. So all I can say is that yes, there is something wrong.”

Zelda looked troubled, but decided not to push him. Once Sheik made a decision, he kept with it. He also took promises very seriously. Sheik stood.

“Where’re you going?” asked Zelda.

“I need some time to gather my thoughts.” Was all he said, as he left the room.

“So what do wanna do, guys?” Link asked Fado and Makar

“Well, I was hoping you could take us to the Kokiri forest.” He said, shyly.

“Yeah! Us Koroks have heard LOADS about the Kokiri!” Makar piped. Link smiled.

“Sure!” Link said. “You wanna come Zel?”

Zelda shook her head. “I think I’ll give it a miss this time, boys.”

“Fair enough.” And Link walked out followed by Fado and Makar.

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Just as they were out of Zelda’s sight, Link turned around and grabbed Fado, swinging him onto his shoulders. Fado laughed.

“So, what’ve you heard about us Kokiri, eh?” he asked. “Because, no offence, I’ve never heard of the Koroks.”

“We’ve learnt how you are protected by a tree, how you can never leave the woods for long and how the Hero of time came from them.” Makar managed to say in one breath. Link smiled.

“Yeah and how the bully, Mido thinks he’s all that!” Piped Fado. Link was slightly surprised at his outburst, but decided not to look it. He didn’t want a shy Fado with him.

“Yeah, but I bet you could take him out if he caused you trouble!” Link joked. They reached Epona and Link got on, Fado still on his shoulders. Makar whispered something in Epona’s ear and she whinnied. He hovered up and settled between her eyes, facing forwards. Link shrugged and nudged her flanks. They galloped through the gates and into the field. He felt Fado hold onto his head as they whizzed past Lon Lon Ranch. The forest appeared on the horizon and he heard Makar gasp as they got to the tunnel. He dismounted and walked towards it, and heard Makar flying next to him. They entered.

“WOW!!!!!” Link heard Fado cry. It was actually a sight to see. Small fairies hung in the air and people came out of their houses as Link entered.

“LINK!” A girl screamed as she ran up to him. She looked up at him and beamed. She had short green hair and a round, but not chubby, face.

“Hey Saria!” Link said. She looked at Fado.

“Who’s that?”

“This.” He said. “Is Fado. He’s the brother of a girl Sheik and I rescued from a prison. He wanted to see the forest. He comes from the Forest Haven.”

“The Forest Haven? Wow! What are the Koroks like?”

“We are well manned spirits who respect the Kokiri.” Said Makar appearing behind Link’s back.

“Oh and this is Makar.” Link sighed

“Awwwww! He’s soooooooo cute!!!!!!” she shrieked grabbing Makar under the arms. Link laughed. She was always like this when she saw something cute.

“Ahem.”

Link turned to see Mido. Even after Link had saved Hyrule, Mido was still bitter.

“What have I told you about bringing non-forest creatures and humans into the forest?”

“Yes I know. Not to bring them in.” Link said, rolling his eyes. “But these are Forest creatures. Forest Haven creatures, to be precise.” Fado jumped off Link’s shoulders and looked at Mido.

“Why’re you so mean to Link?” he asked.

“Because he’s not a proper Kokiri. He’s a Hylian. He’s not one of us.”

“Well, Raven and I weren’t from the Forest Haven originally, but the Korok’s still accepted us.”

“Yeah well, we’re different.”

“No we’re not.” Makar said matter-of-factly. “We are actually Kokiris, but we decided to take this form, to make us different from you.”

Mido turned red and walked away into his house. Link and Saria laughed.

“The only time I’ve seen Mido that mad, was when you got the Kokiri sword and shield and was summoned to the Great Deku tree!!!!!!” she managed to say through the waves of laughter. She calmed her self down. “So I guess you guys are staying here tonight then?”

Link thought about this. By the time they would reach the Castle town walls, the sun would have set. The drawbridge would be up and Stalchildren would be around. Staying here was their only option.

“Yeah. Then we can see more of the Woods.” Link said. Makar cheered, but Fado wasn’t so happy. Link noticed this and said, “What’s wrong, Fado?”

“What about Raven? She’ll be wondering where I am and also I’ve never slept without her.” He said as tears came to his eyes.

“Don’t worry. She probably figure out where you are, and plus, you’ll be fine here. You’ve got me, Saria and Makar!” he added. Fado smiled and they walked to Saria’s house.

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Raven’s dreams were full of bad omens. Huge black dogs circled her and laughter sounded. The same cold laughter she knew only too well.

I told you I’d be back, didn’t I? The voice said. Now you and your friends will pay!


She awoke. Her covers were off her body and she was shaking. Not from coldness, because it was sweltering hot in Hyrule, but from fear. She tried to calm herself down, but failed. The dream was too real.

‘No, not a dream. A nightmare.’ She thought. She needed some air, but also privacy. ‘The secret courtyard.’

She got up and slipped a jacket over her small, silk nightdress that Zelda had given her. She had bought it especially for her. She walked out of her room, and shut the door quietly. She crept past the guards and out into the night. A light breeze played across her body, which slowed her heart rate. She tiptoed to the ivy-concealed door, which lead to the other courtyard. The water fountain slowly gushed out water, into the marble clam. She walked over to it and sat on the side. She put her hand in the cold water and moved it about. She was totally calm now. Above her the stars twinkled and a full moon hung in the night sky. She stared at it’s reflection, letting her thoughts wonder to Sheik.

‘Do I have feelings for him?’

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sheik awoke to find his mind tense. He felt something was wrong. Somehow. He got up a dressed in simple garb, but kept his mask on. Eh didn’t bother with his turban, so he tied his medium-length hair back. He walked out of his room and made his way to Raven’s. But as he got nearer, he sensed she wasn’t there. He concentrated his powers and located her in the secret courtyard. He simply walked past all the guards; keeping to the shadows, mind. It wasn’t very hard. He made his way over to the hidden doorway, and quietly entered. He saw her straight away. She was sitting on the fountain’s edge staring into the water. She almost glowed in the moon’s light. Her hair was down, which made her more radiant. It was about the same length as his, and shaped her face at the front. She was wearing a simple, but small, nightdress under a jacket. He silently walked up to her.

“Raven?” he asked. She jumped and turned to look at him.

“Oh. Hello Sheik. You scared me. What are you doing down here?”

“I was about to ask you the same thing.”

She blushed. “Couldn’t sleep. Bad dream.”

“Wanna talk?” he asked. He sat opposite her, his only seen red eye pierced into her yellow one.

She sighed. “He’s back. My father’s back.”

“What? Are you sure?”

“Yes. But he’s weak. He won’t be reaching Hyrule soon.”

Sheik relaxed himself. If she wasn’t worried, then he shouldn’t be.

“Sheik? I’ve been meaning to ask you. Do you… Do you have feelings for me?”

That caught Sheik so off guard that he almost fell in the fountain. He regained his balance.

“Well… well… yes and no. I have feelings for you, but friendly feelings.”

‘WHAT??????????????? THAT WAS YOUR ONLY CHANCE TO TELL HER!!!!!! YOU MIGHT AS WELL SIGN HER OFF NOW!!!!!!’ He screamed in his head.

“Oh.” Raven stared down, looking disappointed. “Because, well… I have feelings for you Sheik. I have since you rescued me from that tower.”

“Hey.” Sheik said. He reached out his hand, put it under her chin and pulled it up so it was a few centimetres from his face. “If you feel that way about me, then I return those feelings.”

“You’re just saying that to comfort me.” She said, almost angrily, as she pulled herself away from him. She stood and walked a few paces away from him, into the shadow of the wall and with her back turned. If Sheik wasn’t Sheikah, he wouldn’t have seen her. What? Do you think a Sheikah’s red eyes are just for show?! “I don’t want your pity.”

“I’m not giving you my pity.” He said. He stood up also and walked up to her. “I’m telling the truth. I do have feelings for you. Those type of feelings. I just couldn’t admit it. I thought it would ruin our friendship.” She turned round.

“Y…you do?” she stuttered. She smiled and he put his arms around her.

“Yes. And if you must know, I felt a connection between us, the first time I laid my eyes on you.” She looked at him and he brushed a stray hair from her face. He thanked the goddesses they were in shadow, because just then, she reached up, to the top of his mask. She was about to pull it down, but hesitated. He brought his hands up to hers and pulled his mask off. In the shadows, she couldn’t see his face, so Sheik wasn’t breaking any rules. He leaned his face forward and placed his lips on hers. He felt her surprise, but then she relaxed.

‘Wow. My first kiss. This is magical.’ She thought. He placed his strong arms on her waist and pulled her closer, still with his lips on hers. She placed her hands on his chest, rolling them around, feeling the dips and bumps of his muscles, through the thin cloth. She moved them up, and placed them on his neck. He broke off the lip-lock and smiled. He knew she couldn’t see it, but he did it all the same. He replaced his mask and they walked back into the light. They sat down on the grass and he pulled her close, as they lay down. She placed her head on his chest, her hand resting on his other pectoral. Sheik rested one hand on her hip and the other behind his head. He saw her smile, in the corner of his eye. They had totally forgotten about Abu…

Chapter 9- A new evil rises.

“So. She has escaped.”

The messenger nodded nervously. “Yes, your lordship.”

“HOW DID YOU LET HER GET AWAY?!”

The messenger flinched. Even after he freed himself from the magical orb Nayru had put him in, he still had his anger.

“Sh… sh… she was r…rescued, milord.” The messenger stuttered.

“Rescued?” Abu asked. “By whom?”

“Ummmmmm. We don’t know their names, sire, but you might recognise their descriptions.”

Abu nodded, slowly.

“W…well. One was a woman. She was of the Gerudo tribe, definatly. The other was tall with a blue outfit. He wore a white turban and mask. He had blonde hair that hung over one eye. He was definatly a Sheikah because he had red eyes and bore the Sheikah symbol on his clothing…” He began.

“Ahh. Young Sheik has decided to play a part in this fiasco. No matter, he will die anyway. If not by me, but by the dark Lord himself. Carry on.”

“The third person was a man of 17. He wore green clothing and…”

“NO!!!!!!” He shouted. The messenger jumped a few inches in the air. Abu clenched his fist. “Looks like the Hero of Time wants to have a little fun too. Lord Ganondorf won’t be pleased to hear this!” He marched off, his black cape billowing his wake.

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Raven was awake, but wouldn’t open her eyes. The morning sun was slowly climbing to it’s perch in the sky, slowly. The morning birds twittered.

‘We must have fallen asleep out here.’ She thought. She was still lying in the position she had lain down in and so was Sheik. She shifted her weight slightly and felt him squeeze her waist slightly. She looked up at his face to see him looking at her, his normally fierce eyes, twinkling. She moved so she was facing him, but still leaning on his chest.

“Morning.” He whispered. She smiled at him.

“Same to you.”

“Come on. Fado and Makar will be wondering about you.”

She nodded. She sat up, letting him stand. He helped her up and they moved towards to door. He laced is fingers in between hers and she looked at him lovingly. They walked through the door into the other courtyard.

“So what do you want to do today?” he asked her.

“I don’t know.” She said. She loved playing –hard-to-get with boys, but Sheik was even more fun, even if he knew what she was doing. He was about to answer when Zelda walked outside. She looked at them and ran up to them. She hadn’t noticed them holding hands, so Sheik slowly took his hand from hers.

“Good morning, Princess.” Sheik said with a small bow.

“Good morning, Sheik. Raven, I’ve been looking for you all morning! Where’ve you been?”

“Sheik’s been giving me a tour of the castle. Sorry if we’ve caused you any trouble.”

“That’s OK. This message came for you.” She said, handing her a letter. She read it carefully.

“What does it say?” Zelda asked.

“It’s from Link. He says that they stayed in the Kokiri forest over night. Fado’s fine…” She reread it. “Usual.” She handed it back to Zelda to read. “Do you think we could go to the Kokiri Forest?” She asked Sheik.

He smiled and nodded. “Do you mind, Zelda?”

“No not at all! You go off and do what you want, but could you ask Link to come back soon?”

Raven nodded and Sheik took her hand. They walked off back into the castle. They split at each other’s rooms, so they could get dressed. Raven dressed and went down to the royal stables. Sheik had selected two horses and gave one to Raven. It was a chestnut brown with matching brown mane and tail. They saddled and mounted. Sheik went slightly ahead of Raven when they got onto Hyrule field. It was still early morning. They cantered along for a while and Raven settled into the ride as they rode. But suddenly her horse reared, knocking her off. As she landed, a sharp pain came to her elbow. She shrieked in pain and looked up. A figure in dark armour stood over her. Fear came crashing down on her like a tidal wave.

‘No! It can’t be!!!!! He’s dead!!!!!!!’ She repeated in her head.

The Dark figure leaned over, went to grab her, but froze. He turned to see Sheik riding at full speed towards them. The figure turned, ran to his horse and fled. Sheik rode up to her and dismounted. He bent down next to help and helped her up. He caught a look at her elbow, which had turned black.

“Are you ok? Apart from your elbow?”

She said nothing. She was still in shock. He helped her over to his horse, since hers had run off in fright, and helped her mount. He sat behind her and kicked the horse’s flanks. They rode as fast as the horse would go until they got to the Kokiri forest. He eased her off the horse and put her arm around his neck, to give her support. He left his horse by Epona, and they slowly walked into forest.

==================================================================

After Fado and Makar had fallen asleep on his bed, Link had sent a message to Raven via- a bird. He didn’t mean it to be funny, it was just that he needed to get a letter to her somehow, and a bird was quicker and easier. He wrote in his letter that they would spend the night in the forest and that Fado was fine. He also said he would be back around late afternoon. He knew Raven would piece it together, without the letter, but it was just an extra. He had slept on his roof, stretched out under the stars. He hadn’t done it in a while, so it was refreshing. When he had woken up, he had gone to Saria’s house. She was awake, but couldn’t make them breakfast, since she had not enough supplies.

“Don’t worry, Saria. I’ll go get some.” He had offered. He would take one of the shortcuts in the Lost Woods. Maybe he would take one to Goron city, make his way to Kakariko village and get supplies there. That was his best bet. He was setting off towards the entrance to the Woods, when Sheik and Raven entered. Link smiled, but then he saw something was wrong with Raven. He rushed over to help.

“What happened?” He exclaimed. Just then Raven collapsed. Sheik’s knees almost buckled under the surprise of it, but he regained his strength. He picked up her legs with his other arm and he and Link ran towards Saria’s house.

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Saria had been surprised when a hurried knock came to the door. She opened it and Link rushed in, followed by Sheik with Raven.

“W…wha… who’s that? W…” Saria began, but she was cut short by Link.

“Saria. Have you still got that bed I slept in when I grew out of mine? You know, I slept in it while I built a new one.”

“Yes. It’s in the back room.”

Link hurried to the back room, beckoning Sheik to follow. Sure enough the bed was still there. It was the same size as a normal single bed, but compared to everything else in the room, it was massive. Sheik laid Raven on the bed.

“I guess you want to know what happened, don’t you?” Link and Saria nodded.

“But before you start, who are you?” Saria asked.

“My name is Sheik of the Sheikah race. Link and I rescued Raven here from a tower in the desert.” Saria nodded slowly.

“Oh I see. Please continue.”

“We were riding along in Hyrule field, towards here. I was slightly ahead, so she could follow easily. Everything was fine, when I heard a shriek. I cantered back to see Raven on the ground, with a dark figure standing in front of her. It went to grab her, but I scared it off. I have a feeling she’s got a fracture in her arm, because of the purpleness of it. But when I got over to her, she was in total shock. It can’t have been just from that injury. So we’ll have to see what happened when she wakes up.”

And as if Sheik’s words are magic, she opened her eyes.

“Raven! Are you Ok?” Sheik asked, concern coming to his eyes. She sat up and rubbed her forehead gingerly.

“Yeah. Fine, sort of.”

“What do you mean by that?” asked Saria.

“Fine in body, apart from my arm. But mind and spirit, not so well.” She turned to Link. “Do you think you could get Fado up? There’s something I need to tell him.”

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Link returned a few minutes later, with Fado rubbing his eyes with sleep. Makar sat on Link’s shoulder. Fado looked up, saw Raven and brightened up.

“Hi Raven!” but quietened down when he saw the look on her face. “Raven?”

She sighed. “Come here.” He did so and sat on her lap. “There’s something I need to tell you about. It’s about mother and father.” And she told him, plus Link, Saria and Makar since they were in the room, about their father. How he had beat her and their mother up. How he had finally killed Megara, and tried to kill Raven afterwards, when she had refused to join him. Everyone was shocked, but not as much as Fado. He had tears rolling down his cheeks.

“But why now?” Fado asked. “Why are you telling me now? Why not a few years ago, or few years later?”

“Because, well. Because that dark figure in the field was Him. That was our father. He’s back.”

Chapter 10- A nice reunion?

Raven had made sure no one was around before she turned back. She sighed. That had taken a lot of energy from her. She heard footsteps. She knew it could be Sheik but she hid behind the huge sign in front of the Graveyard. She didn’t have to kneel, it was that big. She could stand properly. She peeked from behind the sign. There he was, walking towards her. He didn’t know she was there, so she thought she would have some fun. When he was literally next to her, she reached out and grabbed him. But he was ready for her somehow. When she grabbed him, he grabbed her and slammed her against the marble sign. He didn’t do it hard. He didn’t want to hurt her. This totally took her by surprise.

“How did you know I was here?” she asked, a sly smile creeping across her face.

“Didn’t. I have quick reflexes. But I also knew you’d try to sneak up on me.” His red eyes were soft, but were glinting with mischief. She reached up to his mask and closed her eyes. She pulled it down fully, and their mouths met. He moved closer to her, their lips never parting. She was relaxing into the kiss, when she felt his tongue against her lips. She opened her mouth obeyingly and his tongue invaded. He could feel her heartbeat increase, since her body was so close to his. It started to rain, but they didn’t care. He felt her pulling back, so he broke off the kiss. Even afterwards, Raven kept her eyes closed, panting slightly. He replaced his mask and pulled her closer, into a hug. They embraced each other for unknown time.

“Come on.” Sheik whispered as if a sound any louder would break this happy moment. The rain was heavier now. “The others will be worried about us.”

She nodded, but as she walked, her knees gave way. Sheik grabbed her just in time, and pulled her up.

“Must have used up most of my energy transforming and keeping it going.” She said with a weak smile. He pulled her arm around his neck, his arm wrapping around her tiny waist and together, they slowly walked back to the town.

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By the time they reached the village center, they were soaked to the bone. They went to the small tavern that Sheik had instructed the others to go to, and entered. It was practically empty, so it was easy to spot Link.

“Where’ve you been?” Link asked as Sheik helped Raven to a chair. “And what happened to you?”

“We had a run in. Raven was spotted in the graveyard. By the time I got there, they were all unconscious.” Sheik lied. Raven did a pretend blush.

“They didn’t see me transform, which was good to hear, but they were obviously drunk. I was just defending myself.” Raven added. They were playing a game. What would happen when they were caught?

“Pretty big storm. We might have to wait until it stops.” Link said. Everyone nodded and stood up. After the little sit down, she had enough energy to stand and walk on her own. When they got to the exit, a huge arm wrapped itself round Raven’s waist, pulling her down.

“Hey cutey- pie. Buy us a drink!” the man boomed. Raven screwed up her face. His breath stunk of beer.

“No. Now let me go.” She yelled. She felt something against her throat. A small dagger was pushing against one of the veins in her neck. She gasped.

“Now. But me a…”

But he was cut short when a long, silvery blade was at his throat.

“Let her go.” Sheik threatened.

“Or wot? You don’t own her!”

“Let her go.” Sheik repeated, with a little more menace. “Or I will decorate that wall in an interesting new colour, called ‘hint of brain’.”

The man let Raven go. She got up and went over to Link who was standing by the door. He gave her a friendly hug, whispering words of comfort in her ear. She was shaking slightly, but not that much. She had faced worse. While the others were absorbed in Raven, Sheik turned to the man and whispered in his ear, “Oh and actually, I do own her. She’s mine.”

He walked away from the man, placing the blade in its scabbard on his belt.
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Sheik had showed them to a small inn he knew of. It was a friendly place. No roughness and beer. They got three rooms- One for Raven, one for Sheik and Link and one for Makar and Fado. They parted at their doorways, each muttering a soft ‘goodnight’. Sheik and Link walked into their room and shut the door. Link slumped on the bed while Sheik just sat on the end of his, rubbing his eyes of sleep.

“Nice girl, isn’t she?” Link said. Sheik looked at him, slightly confused. “Raven. She’s a nice girl.”

“Yeah.” He had a feeling he knew where this was going.

“You two make a great couple.” Now this really blind sighted him.

“What?!”

“Oh come on!” He exclaimed as he sat up. “I saw the way you two have been looking at each other lately. The way you hold hands. The way you disappear together for a short while.”

Sheik looked down at the floor, blushing furiously behind his mask.

“Hey chill! Zel and I are just like that.”

They were silent for a while, and then decided to go to sleep. They slept for most of the night. But a huge BANG and the shaking of the building woke them. Sheik was up immediately and ran out of his room towards Raven’s. He stopped when he saw that her half of the building was gone. A huge pile of rubble was beneath him. He stared down at it and he started worrying about Raven. Link appeared behind him and gasped. Then a huge roar sounded, breaking the silence. They looked up to see a huge dragon above them.

“No way! That’s Volvagia! How many times do I have to kill that thing?!” Link cried. But Sheik wasn’t interested in what it was; he was concentrating the person it was carrying.

“Abu.” Sheik whispered.

“What?”

“Abu! Raven’s father!” Sheik yelled. Sure enough, the man on it’s back, was Abu and he was carrying Raven in his arms. “Give her back!”

Volvagia flew closer, so they could see Abu closely. Raven was unconscious and hung limply in his arms.

“You’ll have to come and get her!” he taunted. And that’s exactly what Sheik did. He drew his sword and ran at the dragon. He struck it, because he was too fast for it and it screamed. Black blood dripped from the wound that cut across its eyes. It lunged at Sheik missed but then caught it’s target across the chest. Sheik fell onto the rubble, his crimson blood mixing with the dragon black blood.

“SHEIK!” Link cried.

“If you want her back, come to the Desert Prison. You know the place.” The dragon, with a huge flap of its wings, flew into the air and away.

Chapter 11- Love leaves it’s marks

Link, not wasting any time, ran over to Sheik. He was still alive, because of the slow rising and falling off his chest, which had five big cuts in it. His eyes were open, staring into midair.

‘The blood loss must be big.’ He thought.

Two figures then ran over to them. It was Fado and Makar.

“Good you’re ok!” Link gasped. “Makar, could you fly over to our room and find Sheik’s medicine bag?” Makar nodded and flew away. “Fado. I want you to run to the nearest house and ask for a healer.” He nodded. He was either nodding, or the fact his whole body was shaking. He ran away. Link took out a small dagger and cut away Sheik’s top half of his outfit. He peeled them away slowly. Sheik closed his eyes and put his head to one side, biting away the urge to scream. The wounds were deep. Very deep. So deep, Link caught sight of one of his ribs. He had to act fast. While he waited for Makar to come back, he talked to Sheik, telling him to stay awake and that Raven would be fine. Makar appeared a few minutes later. He was carrying a small bag that was too big for him to carry easily. Link grabbed it and pulled out a red potion. He poured it into his palm, careful not to spill any, and rubbed it into Sheik’s wounds. It wouldn’t do much, but it would fight any infection and poison in it. Sheik hissed in pain but relaxed as he lost consciousness.

“Makar. Sorry to do this to you, but I need my medicine bag now.” Makar didn’t protest, because he knew how important the situation was. He returned quicker this time. Link ripped open his bag and pulled out some forest water that he still had from when they had first met Raven. He poured this on his wounds as well. He then propped Sheik’s head up and helped him drink the rest of the water. The smaller wounds around the main ones healed slowly, but nothing happened to the main ones.

“The dragon must have a poison in its blood. I have heard of a poison which keeps the victims wounds open until the antidote is given.” Makar explained.

“An the antidote is…?”

“The healer should have it.”

And right on cue, Fado and an old man appeared through the darkness. People were behind them. The old man took one look at Sheik and said,

“Bring him to my house.”

Link carefully picked up Sheik’s limp form and followed the old man.

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“So what happened?” The old man asked when they had got to his house. Link had laid Sheik down on a bed; his wounds were still bleeding badly.

“A dragon came. The man on the dragon has kidnapped one of our friends; a girl. Sheik managed to strike it, but it got him back. Makar thinks that the dragon’s blood has a poison in it that stops wounds from healing.”
“Hmmmm. That would explain the Forest Water not working. Luckily, I have the ingredients for that antidote.” He hurried ff to a cupboard and pulled out various bottles of potions and powders. “So what is your name, young one?”

“Link. That’s Sheik, Fado’s the little boy and Makar is that little brown thing. He’s a korok.”

“Hmmmm. Sheik… that rings a bell… Ahh yes! A woman I know cared for a person called Sheik a few weeks ago. I’m guessing this is him.”

“Yes. May I ask what your name is?” Link said. He was now sitting on a chair next to the bed.

“Yes! Sorry, where are my manners? My name is Guru Blanche. I come from beyond the Gerudo, in the desert.” He was mixing a paste in a small bowl. “Now, did young Sheik fall unconscious from pain or potion?”

“Not sure, probably potion because he can endure a lot of pain for a long time without falling unconscious.”

“Hmmmm. I’d better give him some more red potion, to keep him asleep. When this paste is applied, it’ll hurt like Hell.”

“But we can’t. We can’t remove his mask! It’s Sheikah traditions!” Link cried.

“Hmmmm. Yes good point. Do you know any other Sheikah who have seen him without a mask?”

“Yes; Impa. But it’ll take ages to get to the castle! Sheik doesn’t have much time left!”

“I’ll go! I can fly really fast and get into the castle without detection!” Makar piped up.

“I guess it’s our only option. Go Makar! Be quick! Remember, you’ll be slower coming back. You won’t be able to carry Impa, so she’ll have to come on horseback.” Makar nodded, and flew out of the open window.

“We’ll just have to wait and see. Link, could you apply the Forest Water to his wounds every ten minutes? You’ll have to get your hand dirty though! I have to go see if anyone was splashed by the dragon’s blood, or if anyone was injured.”

Guru Blanche left the house and shut the door quietly. A bird sounded from outside.

“Must be close to morning.” Link said to Fado. “Don’t worry Fado. Sheik’ll be fine and then we’ll go and get Raven back!”

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It didn’t take Makar long to get to the castle. But the question was, where was Impa? He knew the way to Zelda’s room, so he’d have to wake her to get answers. He flew into her room and onto her bed.

“Miss Zelda!” he said, shaking her shoulders. “Miss Zelda, wake up!”

She awoke with a start. She saw Makar and screamed. Her door banged open. It was Impa.

“Zelda! Are you alright?”

“Peachy. It was just Makar.”

“IMPA!” he screeched as he flew over to her. “Something bad has happened in Kakariko Village! A dragon came! It…it kidnapped Raven and it hurt Sheik! He’s badly hurt!! We need your help, cos we can’t apply the potion cos of his mask! You’re the only one who’s seen his face!”

Impa turned around, went to go out but was cut short when Zelda said her name.

“Impa. I’m coming with you. I need to see Link!” Tears came to Zelda’s eyes.

“She could help with any injured people as well, Impa.” Makar said.

“Fine. But hurry up. I’ll meet you outside the grand door.” And she shut the door. Zelda changed like lightning. She didn’t care if Makar saw anything, since he was a Korok. She ran out of her room after a few minutes and down into the foyer, with Makar trailing behind. She ran out of the massive doors and jumped onto her horse. Makar sat in between the horse’ ears and they rode off. Impa stayed close to Zelda. By the time they got to Hyrule field, the sun was just peeking over the horizon. They galloped as fast as their horses would go and got to Kakariko village in an hour. They left their horses with the clock soldier, who was happy to look after two tired out horses for 150 rupees.

“I think that’s a record. Hyrule castle to Kakariko village in an hour!” Zelda said. She then gasped. The whole village was in a hub-bub. The inn where Sheik and the others had been staying had finally fallen down. They had managed to save the innkeeper and a few other guests before it fell though. The healer, who was treating a young girl with a cut on her face, saw Impa and rushed over.

“Is your name ‘Impa’?” he gasped.

“Yes.”

“Follow me.” And he showed them to his house.

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Link had applied 7 helpings of the Forest Water on Sheik’s wounds, totalling in 1 hour, 10 minutes gone by. His hands were covered in blood. Sheik had woken up after about the 5th or 6th helping and didn’t care how hurt he was; he just wanted to get Raven back. Link had convinced him to save his strength on getting better, because otherwise, no one would be able to rescue Raven. They were startled when the door banged open and 3 figures hurried in- Guru Blanche, Impa and…

“Zelda?!” Link cried. Zelda saw Link and rushed over to him. They embraced each other for a while and Impa rushed over to Sheik’s side. He smiled behind his mask.

“Hello Impa.”

“Sheik! What have you been up to?!”

He laughed but stopped half way. He winced in pain. He opened his eyes slowly. His vision was slightly blurry.

“We need to get that antidote applied! Impa you give him lots of red potion and when he’s unconscious, smooth the paste over his wounds. The rest of you…” he turned to Link, Zelda, Makar and Fado. “I need you to help me with the injured.”

They rushed out of the house leaving Impa and Sheik alone. Impa leaned over him and untied his mask. While she was doing this she said,

“I know you have feelings for this Raven girl. Normally, I would forbid you from seeing her, but since you are one of the last of our race, I will accept this.” She had untied his mask by this time and he smiled with gratitude.

“Thank you, Impa.” He whispered. He did not have much energy left. He could feel him slipping away.

“No! Sheik stay with me!” She didn’t bother with the red potion. If he fell asleep, he might never wake up. She grabbed the bowl of paste. “Sheik, this is going to hurt like Hell.”

“Just do it.” He said.

Her hand was shaking as she dipped her hand into the yellowy paste. She brought it to his wounds and smoothed it over. It burned into his skin, sizzling like grease in a pan. He yelled in pain. She ignored him and kept smoothing it over his skin. When all the paste had gone, she walked over to a small bucket of water, poured some in a large bowl and washed her hands. She then poured some into a glass and brought it over to him. His breathing was fast and his eyes were scrunched up.

“Drink.” She whispered to his him. She pressed the glass to his lips and he drank. His breathing slowed down a bit, but not much. His skin was still burning. It didn’t look like it was doing anything, until a large amount of Black blood poured out of his wounds. She gasped, but realised that this wasn’t his blood. She calmed down and picked up first aid kit, from the Guru’s cupboard. She pulled out a large cloth and put it on his chest. It soaked up the dragon’s blood immediately and she wrung it into a bowl. She kept doing this until his chest was free of excess blood. The wounds were slowly knitting together; leaving large, red lines were they had been. He relaxed and opened his eyes. He looked at her and smiled. She smiled back and pulled out another cloth. She dipped it into the bucket of water and put it on his forehead. She replaced his mask and he shut his eyes again. His breathing had returned to normal. She looked outside to see Link walking towards the house. He walked in and smiled. His hands were cut.

“Link, dear, what happened?” She said as she dragged him over to another bucket of water. She mopped his hands.

“Was digging through the rubble. I found about 3 survivors. When Zelda caught sight of my hands…” he winced. Impa laughed. “So how’s Sheik?” He asked, looking over.

“Fine. His wounds are healed and he has no dragon blood left in him. He’s sleeping”

“Good. I’ll go tell the others.” He said as he stood. He walked out the door.

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Sheik slept until the late afternoon. He awoke to Zelda looking over him. She smiled at him and he smiled back under his mask.

“Afternoon, lazy bones!” She joked. He smiled and he sat up.

No pain. He thought. Wow. That antidote worked well.

“Afternoon?”

“Yes. You’ve been asleep for 12 hours!”

“12 hours?” he paused. “Raven!”

She smiled. “Yes I suppose you’ll want to go get her. I’ll let you borrow Link for this quest, but if he comes back hurt, it’s your fault!” She threatened. Sheik just laughed and got up. He still had the bottom half of his outfit on, the other half had been cut off.

“Here.” She said, holding out a bundle of clothes. “Impa made you some more. She said if you rip these, she’ll be charging you for the next pair. But these are different. They’re made of exo-skeleton, or something. It’s soft, when on contact with something, or someone, it hardens. So these won’t rip as easily. Well I’ll leave you to get changed.” She added. She left the house quickly.

Sheik then looked at is chest. 5 large scars went across it. The longest went from his collarbone to his diaphragm and was right in the middle of the others. He smiled.

‘Scars to show Raven when I rescue her. To show how much I care for her, that I’d get hurt to rescue her.’

He changed into his new outfit. It was just like his old one. Looked the same, but he knew it was totally different. He walked outside and down the stairs, up to Link.

“Hey.” He said to Sheik. “Ready to go kick some dragon butt?”

Sheik smiled and nodded. Link had hired some horses for them and Sheik mounted.
“Be careful you two.” Zelda said before giving Link a kiss. He rubbed her cheek and smiled before mounting his. “Goodbye!” Zelda screamed before they rode off.

“They’ll be ok, won’t they?” Zelda asked Impa, who had appeared behind her. She put her hand on Zelda’s shoulder.

“They’ll be fine.”

Chapter 12- Revenge

They rode to the desert as fast as their horses could go. They didn’t stop, even when they reached the Gerudo fortress. They just leapt over the huge gate, galloped to the other end and rode out into the desert. They only stopped once this time. At a small oasis, to let the horses rest and drink, But they were moving again shortly after. As soon as they got to the tower, Link and Sheik went on a killing rampage. They slashed, cut and stabbed every single monster that got in their way. After a while, the moblins usually ran away, but the wizrobes, Darknuts and knights stayed to fight, Even if they didn’t stand a chance. After about the millionth run in, Sheik stopped and grabbed a helmetless knight by the throat.

“Where’s Raven?” He yelled at him.

“Top Floor.” He gasped. “Throne room.”

Sheik dropped him on the floor and ran, Link following him. Link had never seen Sheik so mad before. Sheikahs were not ones to lose their temper. They would never fight while angry, because it clouds their minds and judgement. They eventually came to a huge oak door with the sign of the Triforce on it. One of the triangles was lighter than the others; the Triforce of power. Sheik was about to open the door, when he heard voices from inside. He gestured to Link and together they slowly opened the door a crack. Inside were Abu, a glowing orb, and Raven lying still on a stone table. She was still not awake.

“Raven...” Sheik whispered.

“She is a beautiful girl.” The glowing orb said. The voice surprised Link. He had heard it before somewhere.

“Yes, she is.” Abu said, stroking her silky hair, with an almost loving look in his eyes.

“It is so unfortunate though that you will lose her.” The orb continued.

“What?” Abu was snapped out of his daydream. The loving look, gone.

“I shall be using her body, until I find a suitable shell.”

“What?! Y…you said we would use her as bait to bring the Hero of Time here! You said nothing of hurting her! Or killing her for that matter!”

“Have you gone soft? Or have my powers on you faded?”

Abu grabbed Raven and picked her up. He held her close.
“I do not care!” he screamed. “I do not care! You will not hurt her!”

Sheik caught Link’s eye and looked surprisingly at him. He just stared back. The orb glowed brighter and brighter as the voice got angrier.

“YOU DARE DEFY ME?!” it shrieked. “YOU DARE DEFY THE DARK LORD GANONDORF?!”

Link gasped. “Ganon?!”

“Yes! I defy you!” Abu yelled back.

Ganon growled and a dark energy beam hit Abu squarely in between the eyes. He fell down, dropping Raven as he fell. She dropped to the floor a short distance from Sheik and Link.

“Hmmmm. I guess my power must be fading, because I have been using this orb to contact you. No matter, I have a host now.” And a dark shadow burst from the orb, travelling towards Raven. Link was quick and grabbed his shield, jumping in front of Raven. The energy beam bounced of the shiny surface and hit the wall, making it crumble. Sheik then leapt out of the shadows, grabbed Raven and moved her a short distance away. He laid her down and she slowly opened her eyes.

“Sheik?” She whispered. He nodded at her and smiled behind his mask. She smiled back and closed her eyes again. He stood and faced the orb.

“So the two of you decided to come after her? I didn’t think you had the guts, let alone the brains. Ha! But I guess I misjudged you. Again. But this will be the last time!” Ganon said.

“Yes, you’re right. This is the last time, for you!” Link yelled.

“Oh yeah? My dragon begs to differ!”

An ear-shattering roar filled the room, followed by a huge crash. Massive claws grabbed Sheik and he was pulled into the night air. Sheik heard Link scream his name, but he wasn’t really listening. The dragon pulled him to the roof of the tower and dropped him. It obviously wanted revenge for its eye. Sheik jumped to his feet and faced the dragon. Its eye had healed and it had a huge scar running down it.

Sheik smirked. “You call that a scar? Just wait until you see the ones you gave me!”

The dragon roared and rose into the sky. Sheik readied himself and unsheathed his sword. The dragon took a dive at him. Sheik hit its head with the flat side of his sword, as he had seen Link do with his hammer when he had fought him. Sure, his sword was no Megaton Hammer, but it worked anyway. The dragon crashed to the floor and Sheik rushed in, slashing its hide. The dragon regained itself and rose to the air again. He repeated this a few times, before an idea pooped into his head. He waited until the dragon took another dive, and when it did, he hit him with the flat side of his sword again. But instead of slashing furiously, he jumped onto the dragon’s head and jammed his sword into the dragon’s brain. No blood spurted out, and Sheik pulled his sword out of its skull. The dragon screeched in pain and ran towards Sheik, not realising it was dead. Sheik stood there and as Volvagia opened its mouth to eat him, he rammed the sword into the roof of its mouth. Now this time blood went everywhere. Sheik ran out of its mouth with his sword, to stop himself getting soaked, but he was still covered in it. The dragon now had realised it shouldn’t be alive and fell to the floor, with a last roar. Sheik smirked and two thoughts sprung to mind. One; how was he going to get down and two; he had figured out how to get rid of Ganon.

Chapter 13- Ganon’s final demise

“Sheik!” Link yelled as Volvagia grabbed his friend. But he let him go. He felt it was the right thing to do. Sheik would take it easily and would get revenge as well. But he would need Sheik to help him get rid of Ganon. So he decided to get him monologing.

“So why are you back? Want to get back at me and Zelda for destroying your body?”

“Why else? When you sent me to this realm, I began plotting my revenge. You see, I always have a back up plan.”

A huge roar sounded and small rocks from the ceiling came down as something crashed up above them.

“A back up plan? I guess this is Raven’s father.”

“You are smart. Yes. As I rose to power, I took control of the fool. I knew he had married a woman with tremendous power and had a child with it too. He was weak. It was easy to take control of his mind.”

“So he wasn’t actually evil, then?”

“No. but it didn’t matter. I knew the power he could get from his wife.”

“What power?”

Another crash and a roar, but louder.

“The girl’s mother was the goddess, Nayru.”

Link gasped.

‘Raven’s mother was Nayru in disguise?!’

His shocked thinking was cut short when part of the roof gave in. He looked up to see Sheik. Sheik then jumped down next to him and walked up to Ganon’s orb.

“You know Ganon, dragon’s blood is a very dangerous thing.” He said. “but on the right side…” he stopped and took out a bottle of black liquid. “…it is very helpful.”

He then poured the black liquid on to the orb. It fizzed on its shiny surface, but instead of sliding off, it seeped into it. Ganon screamed and yelled, but he soon died away. Link looked bewildered.

“What was that liquid?” He asked.

“Dragons blood. I figured that the orb was a portal to the real world and vice-versa. By pouring a poison into it, it would shut Ganon away for good.” He walked over to Raven and picked her up. Link walked over to Abu and checked if he was alive. He was, so Link slung him over his shoulders, and walked towards the door.

“There’s something you have to know about Raven.” Link said. Sheik looked at him and frowned. Link told him about what Ganon had said about Raven's mother. He didn't get as far as her father because he noticed the place was deserted. Sheik was shocked when he heard that Megara was actually Nayru.

“That would explain the mark on her hand.” He said. ‘And why she’s so beautiful…’ he thought.

“Yeah.” By this time they had reached the exit. They found their horses but realised something. How would they get back? They only had 2 horses. Sure, they could wake Raven up, and she could ride with Sheik, but what about Abu? If he just slung over the back of a horse, he would definatly fall off.

“Need a hand? Or another horse, maybe?”

They turned round to see Nabooru riding towards them, with spare horse next to her.

“Nabooru! What are you doin here?” Link exclaimed.

“The guards saw you ride through our fortress. They notified me and also said you looked like you were in a rush. I guess they were right.” She added, gesturing to Raven. “So what happened?”

“Raven’s father kidnapped her. He was working for Ganon. But I’m a little puzzled as well. Link, why do we bring him back? We could let him starve here.”

“Raven’s father wasn’t… himself. Ganon was controlling him. He took control of him when he was gaining power as a backup plan. Sheik, do you think we should tell Raven about her mother?"

"It would be wise. She'll find out sooner or later." He said, looking at her face. She looked peaceful, resting her head against his upper arm.

Link slung Abu over the spare horse, with the help of Nabooru, and tied him to it with some rope, to stop him falling off.

“It would be better to let her sleep. I don’t know what she’s been through, but it must be major for her to sleep this long. I’ll let her go with you.” She said to Sheik, with a wink. He glared at her, but nodded. He sat her on his horse, and mounted behind her, his arm gripping her waist. He saw Link mount in the corner of his eye.

“You still have the mask I lent you?” Sheik asked him as they set off at a slow canter. Link rubbed the back of his neck nervously. “Here.” He said, handing him another spare mask. He always brought a spare one, in case the current one was ripped or broken, so his face would always be hidden. He rode over to Link, handing him the piece of white cloth. He nodded gratefully and slipped it on.

“Déjà vu, isn’t it.” Said a voice.

Chapter 14- Déjà vu


“Déjà vu isn’t it.” Said a voice. Sheik looked down to see Raven beaming up at him. He smiled back.

“Good afternoon, sleepy head!” Link said with a casual smile.

“Hey Link.” Her voice was quiet. “What happened?”

“Your father kidnapped you…” Sheik began, but was cut short by Raven’s nails gripping into his skin. It didn’t hurt, because of the exoskeleton, but since the exoskeleton hardens to the strength of the attack, he could still feel them. “Hey.” He soothed. “He can’t and won’t hurt you.” He noticed she was shaking. “Shhhhhh.” He whispered in her ear. She stopped and relaxed, but only slightly. “When your mother and father first met, they were fine. But as Ganon rose to power, he started acting…strange. Ganon was controlling him, Raven. The things he did, were not his actual actions. It was Ganon.”

Raven gasped and tears streamed down her face. She turned round and buried her face in his neck. He rubbed her back, comforting her.

“Awwwwww! Come on! You’re gonna make me cry!” Nabooru said, dabbing the corners of her eyes, dramatically. Raven looked at Nabooru and smiled. Sheik rubbed the tears away from her eyes and hugged her gently with his one arm. They rode along, slowly speeding up, Raven glancing at Abu at intervals. Again they stopped at the same rock formation, and rested for the night. Abu was still unconscious and lying in a corner, his armour removed. When Nabooru saw Raven leaning on Sheik by the fire, she whispered to Link,

“Are those two a couple?”

“I think so.” He whispered back.

“I never would have thought that Sheik would be that kinda guy.”

Link shrugged and lay back, closing his eyes. Nabooru followed suit and fell asleep soon after.

“It really is Déjà vu.” Sheik whispered. “Us two being the only ones awake. The fact that I’m the one that’s going to be on guard duty.”

“You’re right about one thing.” She responded. He could feel the vibrations from her voice run through his chest.

“Hmm? And what’s that?”

She sat up and stared into his eyes.

“The fact that you’re going to be on guard duty. A girl needs her beauty sleep, you know.” She said with a mischievous wink. He raised his eyebrow at her and she responded with puppy eyes. He chuckled quietly and leaned in closer. He was cut short, when Link shifted in his sleep. Sheik sighed and stood. Raven looked at him in alarm, but understood when he offered his hand. She took it and they walked to the far end of the cave. Sheik lifted the blanket that he had placed on the wall, to reveal a huge hole.

“Why is it that you always know the secret stuff before anyone else?” She whispered as they bent down to walk through.

“Sheikah thing.” He said as he replaced the blanket. He walked up to her and stood in front of her. “There’s something I need to show you.”

She frowned. “What?”

“This.” He pulled the top half of his out fit over his head (Something else that Impa had changed in the design; separate top half and bottom half.). She gasped as she saw the huge red scars that stretched across his chest. She reached out a hand and traced the longest with a delicate finger.

“What…what happened?”

“It was when Abu kidnapped you.” He didn’t want to remind her of her father, but it had to be included. “He rode a dragon. When I tried to get you back, this happened. The wounds were deep, and I would have died, if it weren’t for Impa…” He stopped when he noticed tears falling down her cheeks, even though her head hung. “Hey!”

“This is all my fault! If I hadn’t of gotten kidnapped, you wouldn’t of…” She was cut off when Sheik’s lips pressed against hers. His body soon followed; pressing against hers. A groan was heard, but she didn’t know if it came from him or her. She wrapped her arms round his neck and moved her hands down his back, feeling the muscles tense and relax beneath her touch. He placed his hands on her hips, pulling her even closer. He stopped the kiss but they stayed where they were. Raven kept her eyes closed again, respecting his traditions.

“There’s also something that I need to tell you.” Sheik said. Raven’s eyes were still closed.

“And what’s that?” She mimicked. She heard him sigh and his breathing sped up.

“If… if…” He began. She had never heard him stutter before. “Raven… Will you do the honour of being with me forever as my…wife?”

Raven gasped. ‘Was he asking me to marry him? We’ve only known each other for just over a month! But I love him more than anyone could understand…” She was pulled away from her thinking when Sheik spoke.

“Because if you accept, open your eyes to see my full face. If not, say so.”

He waited for her answer. She smiled and slowly opened her eyes.

“This definatly isn’t Déjà vu.” She joked. Her heart skipped a beat when she saw his face. His features looked like the goddesses had sculptured him. His nose was neat; not pointed or flat; just right and his lips were fine but not thin. To put it in a nutshell, the words describing his features were not known to Humans. She smiled and brushed his cheek with the back of her hand.

“I accept.” She said with a smile.

*******************

Raven awoke in the large cavern where Link and Nabooru slept. She felt a warm blanket covering her and another beneath her head. She opened her eyes to see Link sleeping opposite her; the fire in between her and him. Nabooru slept not far from him. She sat up and scanned the room for her fiancé. He was nowhere in sight. She stood and walked to where the horses were. She patted each horse’s nose, still scanning the room until she heard faint music. Faint but happy. She followed it to the exit of the cave and saw Sheik sitting on a low boulder, playing his harp.

“Beautiful.” She said.

“Just like you.” Was his response. She pouted and put her hands on her hips.

“Why can I never sneak up on you? First the graveyard, now this! Wait let me guess. Sheikah thing?”

He nodded and she walked up to him, sitting on his lap. She was about to pull his mask down when Nabooru appeared at the mouth of the cave.

“When you two love-birds are done, can we go?” She joked, with a warm smile. Raven nodded and turned her attention back to Sheik.

“You may have escaped me this time, but I will get you next time.” She said, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. He raised his eyebrow and she laughed. She stood and walked back into the cave. He followed her a few minutes later. Link was stretching, apparently only just woken. Nabooru was packing up their things and Raven was saddling the horses. She smiled at him as he entered. Nabooru began to fix what little things they had to the horses and Link walked over to the sleeping form of Abu.

“He’s still asleep. Whadda we do?” Link asked the others.

“Goddesses, he’s almost as lazy as you!” Raven joked. She had regained her confidence around him, but was still unsure. Ganon could still be controlling him. “I say we wake him. But I’m not going near him just yet.”

Link bent down and shook Abu slightly. He stirred and opened his eyes.

“Where… where am I? Wha… What happened? Who are…you?” Abu stuttered.

“My name is Link. Don’t worry, you are safe.” Link soothed. He stood and offered his hand out to Abu. He took it and stood gingerly. He looked around at everyone, registering what they looked like, and so on. He spotted Raven and gasped.

“Raven? Is that…you?” he asked, taking a step forward. Raven stood next to Sheik, not moving a muscle. Tears came to her eyes and she ran forward. Abu opened his arms and they embraced each other, hugging tightly.

Epilogue (A Very long 1!)

Raven had spent the journey back to Hyrule castle as a small, yellow bird and sat on Sheik’s shoulder, leaning on the side of his face. She stayed like this until a horde of birds flew above them. They all looked up at the squawking bunch. Raven twittered, ruffled her feathers and flew up to meet them. She transformed in to an eagle and flew among them, squawking louder than them. The birds took the hint and changed direction. She then flew over to Link, circled him, then Nabooru, then Abu and finally rested on Sheik’s shoulder. Upon arriving at the Gerudo, Nabooru bid them goodbye, but changed her tone when she told them next time they needed to pass, not to just leap over the ‘front door’. They’d laughed and left. They reached Hyrule castle in the early hours of the morning. Stalchildren appeared but were too slow to actually catch them. They were greeted in the same style. Zelda running up to Link, Fado and Makar up to Raven and Impa walking up to Sheik, congratulating him. Abu stood at the back, until Raven introduced him to everyone. Zelda gasped but Impa ushered them inside to let them all sit down and to let Raven, Link and Sheik explain, with some help with Abu. Link and Sheik explained most of it, since Ganon had kindly told them the whole of it.

“So you escaped without ACTUALLY fighting Ganon. And Link, you just spoke, whereas Sheik, you fought a dragon.”

“Yep.” Link said.

“Anything else we ought to know?” Impa asked with a sly smile at Sheik. He stared at her giving the look that said, ‘How do you know?’ Everyone else stared at Sheik then at Impa, quizzically. Sheik sighed and stood up, walking over to the back of Raven’s chair.

“We’re… Raven and I… we’re getting married.”

Zelda gasped. “You’re what?! Wow! That’s so amazing! So cute as well!” She said with a huge grin. Raven smiled back until something covered her vision.

“OW! Makar! Get off my face!” She yelled at the small Korok. It obliged and stood on the table. She could tell that if he didn’t have a mask on, he would be smiling as if it could cure the world.

“Oh Miss Raven! How long I have waited for this to happen!” he squeaked.

“Does that mean you’ll leave me with Makar?” Fado asked. Raven beamed.

“No. I’ll still be around, but you’ll have father as well!” She said. Fado looked at Abu, who smiled.

“Well I guess you’ll want a grand wedding then?” Zelda asked. Link frowned.

“You just want them to have a grand wedding so you could wear a really nice dress.” He said, raising an eyebrow.

“Yes and no. I would like to wear a really nice dress, but Sheik deserves a grand wedding!”

“Uh huh.”

“Link!” Zelda screamed, slapping him on the arm. Raven laughed.

“Well I’m sure Raven deserves one too.” Abu said leaning back on his chair. Raven smiled back, but yawned straight after. Sheik laughed and Raven shot him a glare.

“I think I need some shut eye.” She said.

“Uh… you think?” Sheik said, a sly look in his eyes. Raven stood and eyed him, before walking off to her room. Abu chuckled.

“You two remind me of…” he trailed off.

“You and Megara.” Sheik finished for him.

“Yes.”

Sheik sat down in Raven’s chair. “You do not need to worry or feel guilty for what happened. What your body did, your spirit didn’t. Ganon took control of you.”

“Yeah I know. I shall miss her, though. Even if she was one of the great three.” He sighed. Fado walked up to him and gave him a hug. Abu sat him on his lap and smiled at him. “But I have you, you little tyke!” He added, removing Fado’s hat and ruffling his hair. Sheik smiled, and while everyone was concentrating on them, he slipped away. The only person to see him was Impa, but she let him go.

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Raven flopped onto her bed as soon as she entered her room. The mattress bounced slightly with her weight but settled after a moment or two. The sheets smelt of roses and she breathed in the aroma. She relaxed slightly and began to drift off to sleep, when she heard footsteps. They were heading towards her room, and she could hear them as if she was walking with the owner.

‘How can I hear them so well?’ she asked herself. The footsteps halted outside her room and a soft knock sounded. She tiptoed to the door and opened it. Upon seeing Sheik’s bright red eyes, a mischievous smile played on her lips and she pulled him into the room, by the neck of his outfit. She pulled him into her room, shut the door, pulled off his mask and pressed her lips against his. A fire grew inside of her, burning brighter and brighter. The kiss was the most passionate one they had ever shared. Sheik broke off the kiss.

“We really should wait till after the wedding.” He said. Raven raised an eyebrow and he smiled, pulling her back into another kiss. And the day went on from there…

THE END!!!!!!

Author’s note: If u want me 2 carry on wiv a sequel, and wiv a whole new quest (Wiv more yummi Link 4 u Link fans and more yummi Sheik 4 u Sheik fans!) please say so in a review! Oh and please review!!!!!! No flamers please, cos dis is ma 1st fan fiction!!!