@reflectedhero / reflectedhero.tumblr.com
How many months had passed since their impromptu partnership? Five or six? A lot had happened since they parted ways - namely a near death experience with Zant, watching Zelda sacrifice herself for Midna’s sake, gaining the Master Sword, and finding out that his journey had become a hell of a lot more difficult.
It showed in his eyes - hardened by the spoils of countless battles and senseless deaths. The timid, uncertainty that once reflected in his eyes was gone, replaced by a feral and proud confidence that had stuck with him since his first meeting with Dark.
Link didn’t speak a word at first, not even as the reflection materialized into a solid form before him. Despite being streaked with blood across his clothes and face, and sporting a few battle scars, he appeared to be in high spirits just from the small smile he greeted Dark with.
“On the contrary…” he began, fingers skillfully twirling the blade of evil’s bane between his fingers before sheathing it. “…I just got done beating his ass.”
The smile did fall slightly as he turned to glance out at the lake, the memories of their first meeting replaying through his head - namely the discussion they had after their fight. He hated that he was right all along, that Dark’s hunch was right all along about his former master.
“…As much as I hate to admit it, yes… I did kinda miss you. You were a worthy opponent after all, and whether you intended to or not, you wound up helping me in the end.” Link turned his gaze back to Dark.
“…I figured I would drop by before I take the fight to Ganondorf.” He’d long accepted that he’d been sent on a suicide mission by the gods of this land, and that he might not make it back alive. But that didn’t mean he wasn’t going to fight his hardest to survive the final battle.
Crimson orbs studied the new man before him. It was easy to see how this war had changed Link, forcing him to take the role of the Hero of legend. Whether it was good thing or not was debatable. Was it right for the Goddesses to toy with this man’s life?
Even so, the shade continued to grin. No doubt the farmboy had become a true hero at this point. He’d probably never admit it, but the aura he gave off now was similar to his ancestor’s. Of course, it only served to piss the shadow off even more.
Before he could comment, Dark’s gaze fixated on Link’s new sword. A wince was given as he instinctively backed away from the blade. Teeth grit together as he eyed the weapon, remembering the pain it inflicted.
Again, the hero cut him off before the shadow could say anything. He also confirmed the fact that Ganondorf was the mastermind behind the war. No surprise there, but was Link truly ready for such a battle? It was almost as if he only came here to say goodbye.
“....Are you sure you’re ready? He’s not a normal foe. Definitely not like any other creature you’ve faced before.” Eyes scanned the surrounding area to make sure no one strange was around. It wouldn't surprise Dark if the dark lord was keeping tabs on the hero.
“His swordsmanship is easily on par or even superior to mine. Not only that, but he possesses a beast form of his own. Nothing like yours though. His is huge. He could trample all over you, ya know.”
[Fake Link]:
It certainly wasn’t uncommon for Link to be out and about in the woods even before everything that had occurred. On his days off if he wasn’t in the village or spending time with the children he could probably be found in the woods if not in his house. Though, he had spent a large majority of his time upon returning in Ordon. It had felt like such a long time since he had been there and he knew the children felt the same way. The village had simply felt different without the children there the few times he had returned to the village on the course of his adventure. But it was also nice to get away for a little while too he often felt restless particular on his days off from the ranch when he didn’t have to do anything.
Others being in the woods had never been an overly common occurrence. So that in itself would have been enough to give him pause as he came close to Faron’s Spring but the fact the other also looked a bit similar to himself did as well. He seemed to be muttering something and only caught on the last few words as he walked closer. “I’m not who?” He did notice the grip the man had on his sword and it did make Link tense up as well. If the man made a move he would be quick to defend himself if needed.
His curious gaze turned more into a glare the more he stared at the stranger. The resemblance was too close to be a coincidence. Another bearer of the Triforce of Courage perhaps? It didn’t matter. This person had no business with the shade.
“Doesn’t matter. You’re not him.” And with that, Dark went back to washing his face. Hopefully the other man would just wander off. He had to get bored eventually. Then the shadow could focus on finding an after-training snack.
“...Your face still pisses me off just as much as his.”
[???]:
“Really? Because I like you very much!” Grimmer crowed, his grin widening. “Appearing so suddenly like that with such a nasty thing to say. You must be very interesting indeed.”
He shifted the weight of his mask bag from one shoulder to the other, looking perfectly beatific. However, secretly he was rather enjoying being contrary.
“Hmm, you look familiar. Like a child I once knew. Not that I would say you’re childish or anything!” Perhaps Grimmer’s true colors were showing. The grin widened further, a little sharp and frayed at the edges. Maybe he was actually kind of annoyed.
His words only caused the shadow’s anger to rise. Even his voice was detestable. Still, he couldn’t pinpoint why he hated this stranger so suddenly. Instinct just told him to be wary of the man.
Ears twitched at his following words. This man knew Link? It wasn’t too surprising considering the hero’s large-spread reputation, but what was their relationship? Friends? It didn’t seem like it.
“What does it matter? He and I are two completely different beings. Just because you knew that brat doesn’t mean we’ll get along.”
[Anita]:
“But it looks pretty!” Anita insisted, trying to keep the bows on his head. “C’mon, wear them! Pretty pleaseeeeee?”
He knew children were supposed to behave like this, but that didn't make the situation any easier to bear. “Only for a minute....and don’t you dare tell anyone about this!”
[Ilia]:
A frown passed over the woman’s face at the man’s display of pain. She would have to keep on eye on it. Gouges that deep could get infected, and he was at risk while it was still healing, and it was going to take awhile for those to heal.
She kept quiet though, opting just to give him small look of concern. Captor or not, she wasn’t fond seeing others in pain. However, he put on a brave face, so she would skip the chance to wound his pride for now.
She retraced their steps with him back to the bear. She was relieved to see that one, it was in fact quite dead, and two, no other animals had found it yet. She turned to him and held her hand out for whatever weapon he was going to give her.
She took his knife by the handle. It dawned on her then how now she had some leverage against him. He was hurt after all, and she had a knife. She handled the blade thoughtfully for a moment, then turned on her heel away from him. Even while hurt, he probably could still beat her. And he’d saved her life. She couldn’t just go stab him. Not yet anyway.
Bracing her nerves, she went to the bear and began her task. She groaned sickly at both the smell and the sight. She really wished she had something to cover her nose and mouth with.
Despite her disgust, she managed to skin the animal without throwing up.
The shade studied the woman carefully as she took the knife. Now would be a perfect time for her to strike and escape. Whether he could hold his own against her in his current state was unknown. Perhaps he wouldn’t even put up a fight.
A wave of relief washed over him as she turned away and headed to the bear. It appeared as if she could be trusted, if only slightly. The extent of her trust remained unknown, the thought only worrying the shadow. Lending her a weapon might end up going horribly for him. Not that it mattered at this point. He certainly couldn’t skin a bear with his wound.
At the sight of her gagging, Dark couldn’t help but lightly chuckle. He knew it was rude, but the laughs escaping him begin to escalate as she continued struggling.
“Not too used to this are you?”
[Peachy Keen]:
——— Sitting up, the princess set a hand atop his own, bringing slim fingers around it to reassure her lover she really meant the words that came from her lips. Peach was most definitely never one to lie and when she meant something, it was impossible to miss the way her eyes held confidence.
❝ Of course I mean it…! ❞
If anything, she should be the one to question his proposal…
❝ Did…did you really mean it when you asked me to be yours forever, Dark? ❞
Forever was a long time and the princess failed to see just how special she might have been to the shadow. After all, past experiences reminded her that there wasn’t always a happily ever after…and truth be told, the princess was worried history might repeat itself.
He could still feel his heart pounding in his chest though whether it was from the previous shock or from the sudden relief was unknown. His hand gave a small wince at her touch, still unsure of whether she was lying or not.
Pointed ears twitched as she questioned the truth of his statement. While it was true, the shadow found it hard to state exactly what was on his mind. Opening up to someone was a rather new experience. How much of your thoughts were you supposed to share without burdening someone?
“I....” His words left him, crimson hues locking with cerulean eyes. Dark could feel his throat getting drier by the second, but this was something he had to say.
“I do not deserve you. That’s easy enough to see. But, as selfish as it may be, I want to stay by your side for as long as I can.”
For once, Link agreed with the shade and nodded to show as much. “Hopefully, Ooccoo isn’t too far away - I have a feeling we might need to stock up on more stuff… This place is huge.”
Descending down the stairs, the blond unsheathed his sword, readying himself for whatever usual (or new) enemies awaited them around the corner. He could hear something jumping around to his left, and once they reached the bottom of the stairs, he peered around the wall. Yep, Tektite…
Link waited for it to hop past before swinging vertically, then slashing down to finish it off in two hits. The coast seemed to be clear, and he proceeded around the corner to see a chest just past the door that Dark had spotted. He opening the chest to reveal a much needed dungeon map. Unfolding the yellowed parchment, he held it out so the shadow could see it as well.
“Four main floors, two basement floors…” he spoke aloud in thought. “at least the biggest ones are only situated on the first and second floors…” He pointed to the lone circular room marked as the second basement floor. “And judging by how far down and isolated this room is, I can only guess this is where the monster lays in wait for us.”
A quick shudder was given as the shadow remembered the monstrosity this hero had befriended. He had no idea why Link hadn’t just sliced the creature in two when he first saw it.
Following behind the other, he let Link deal with any incoming enemies as the shadow scouted for anything that might surprise them. So far, the lack of monsters seemed odd. Were the temples always this empty?
Standing beside the man, he took a good look at the map. It seemed overly convoluted depending on which room they’d need to head to. Adding in the fact that they needed keys to enter certain rooms only made the task even more tedious. Should he just ditch the hero now?
“If that’s the monster’s lair...” Gazing at the map, his finger landed on the second basement floor. “that means that we have an underwater fight waiting for us. Hope you packed accordingly.”
[Goddess]:
Elvóthien gave a shake of her head, a small hint of a smile crossing over her lips. Was he really that naive or was he just teasing? A delicate eyebrow raised, she leaned in closer to the silverette; smile turning into a sly smirk. ❝ Of course I’m right. Trust me, the answer you’re looking for is a lot closer than you think.❞ The brunette was obviously throwing him hints; she was determined to let him figure it out for himself.
❝ You did. Honestly, how could I resist? You’re charming and sweet, and you even call me your Goddess! What’s not to love about you?❞ Elvóthien truly wasn’t out to embarrass the poor shadow, but the words seemed to just spill from her lips. Though, the surprised expression he wore was rather cute.
❝ Oh, c’mon. You definitely mind and I can tell that by the look on your face. I was only teasing, anyways. D’ya really think it’d be that easy to get me? You’re going to have to work a whole lot harder, Darkie.❞ The Hylian had picked up that he was uncomfortable, and she really had no intention of taking it any further than what she had. She had managed to embarrass him and that’s what she had aimed for in the first place.
The shadow stared at the brunette for a moment, deciding how to take in what she had just said. Could she really be implying what he thought she was? He wasn’t sure. If anything, she could just be out to tease him again. Even so, it was a tempting thought to believe. “Lucky me. I have had my eye on a certain woman in this bar.”
He was at a loss for words. How was one even supposed to reply to such a string of compliments? Surely a simple ‘thank you’ was not enough. He could feel his throat grow dry as his eyes darted across the room. “W-well the same could be said for you...! You’re quite beautiful...for a Hylian. Definitely more charming than anyone I’ve ever seen. And, you’re really easy to talk to. Even to the point where it’s comforting just to listen to you.”
He felt a wave of relief wash over him as their charade was finally brought down. In truth, he didn't know how much more he could have taken before he cracked. “I-I knew that! There was no way you were so serious about something like that! Ha....ha...”
[Lana]:
【白い】”If they were to avoid me from such a foolish reason, honestly I would hate to acquainted with such people. I’d rather be ignored, than to befriend those who look down upon others.” If the Hylians hated the idea of the fact she wish to befriend a shadow, the witch couldn’t care less. It was her own business of who she wish to spend her time with it, and if they didn’t like it, Lana would have no problem dropping connections with such people.
True a shadow may see evil or deceitful. But, he seemed different. Lana did not care what he was, Dark Link was her friend, simple as that.
“You needn’t worry about them, everything will work out, I’ll ensure you.” Hearing his concerns made her a little curious, how did the hylians treat the being before her? No doubt with hostility, the simple thought of that made her stomach turn. Enough with such depressing topics, if the hylians were so against the idea, then let them. Surely it wouldn’t stop her.
Pointed ears raised as he listened to the sorcerer's reply. A faint smile graced his lips as her words echoed in his head. What an odd sensation this was. Is this how friends looked out for each other? If so, then he did not mind befriending the woman one bit.
“Thank you. You are too kind.” His reply was quiet yet heartfelt. It was probably the first time that anyone had stood up for the shadow. Something he was definitely not used to.
It was when silence fell between the two that Dark realized he truly had no experience with friendship. What were they to do now? He honestly had no idea. Fingers fiddled together as he tried to find anything to say.
“So...what exactly do friends do together?”
[El-Belle]:
As pale digits ran through her tendrils, she let out a contented sigh; eyes slowly closing. Pointed ears raised as he spoke, Elvóthien leaning even more into the shade. ❝ Then I propose that we don’t. Wouldn’t want the two of us to get jealous… If that’s alright with you, that is.❞
With the tone of his voice so teasing and playful, Elvóthien let out a giddy giggle. ❝ Perhaps I will, shadow!❞ A playful push was then given, the little Hylian barely able to contain her snickers. They both were more lighthearted than usual, mostly due to the alcohol; though Elvóthien could hardly complain– his company was more than appreciated.
The brunette quirked a brow as the shade became flustered once more. He just couldn’t seem to keep his composure, could he? With the pat given came a smile that brightened Elvóthien’s features; face inching ever closer to the silverette’s. ❝ I feel like you didn’t believe what I just said, Dark.❞ Planting a soft kiss on his cheek, she pulled away to throw a daunting smirk his way. ❝ Need I say it again?❞
Fingers continued to run through her hair as she spoke, taking in what the woman was saying. Yes. That would work. What better way to keep himself from getting jealous than by staying by her side? “That’s fine with me. I wasn’t planning on sharing you to begin with.”
A grin quickly found its way onto the man’s lips. If anything, he praised the tiny barmaid for having the courage to speak so confidently. It wasn’t too surprising considering the amount of spunk she daunted off. “It’d be wise for a small thing such as yourself to act at least a bit more reserved you know? It could get you into trouble one day.”
Brows raised in shock as he felt the soft sensation of El’s lips against his cheek. Digits traced the area where her lips had been placed as Dark felt his face grow hot. Had she really just done that?
“Yes. Say it again. Please.”
[Peach]:
——— Pulling him inside, they were greeted by one of sales representatives, to which she greeted in return with a smile. She’d asked her people not to treat her any differently when she was shopping in town, wishing to blend in more. It made her happy they were always so willing to comply.
❝ Yes, clothes for you! In fact, let’s do that first. ❞
Peach knew what she wanted in terms of clothing but Dark on the other hand…? This might take a bit more time.
❝ I think you’d look handsome in a casual jacket and t-shirt! As much as I adore that tunic you love so much, perhaps we can try something different? ❞
She eagerly brought him over to the men’s section of the store, releasing his hand to search for what she’d hand in mind. Of course, he was more than welcome to give his own input.
A reluctant hello was given to the representative as he followed behind the woman. He was still not used to the shops in the Mushroom Kingdom. So much different than the small stands in Hyrule. The items on sale were far more diverse as well.
An eyebrow twitched at the thought of parting with his beloved tunic. He wasn’t fond of the idea, but how would he let Peach know that?
“Listen Peach, about my clothes...”
Before he could continue, she had already wandered off, leaving the shadow talking to himself. A nervous sigh escaped him as he realized that he’d have to wear something else.
He began scanning through the articles of clothing but failed to find anything he liked. Maybe it’d be best to leave it to her? How bad could it be after all?
[Peach]:
——— A bit of time passed where Peach wondered what had been taking Dark so long just to grab some fruits and nuts he had. Sitting up, she stretched her arms over her head before removing the covers and stepping out of the tent. The fresh morning air felt good against her warm skin, sky a clear blue…
Despite the rough start to it, this morning was actually beautiful.
❝ …Dark? ❞
He was nowhere in sight… Where had he gone off to?
Deciding to look for him, the princess was lead to a lake by their campsite. It looked incredibly refreshing—so much so the petite woman wished to take a dip in cold waters. She didn’t see a soul in sight so took this as her opportunity to strip of her clothing before slowly stepping in.
Shortly after departing, the shadow quickly decided to leave any small creatures off the menu. He could only imagine Peach’s reaction to being asked to eat a rabbit or squirrel. Leaving him only one other option, he set off towards the closest source of water he could find.
To his luck, a lake happened to be nearby. Sitting on the bank, he was quick to throw out his baited lure, eager to catch the princess a tasty treat. That is, until he saw a turtle pop its head out of the lake and steal his cup of bait before diving back into the water. Tossing his fishing rod aside, an aggravated growl was let out as he dived after the animal, realizing too late that the effort would most likely be in vain.
He stayed beneath the water for a moment, taking the opportunity to catch a few fish with some quick swipes of his hands. It was then that he felt another presence enter the lake water. Who could have come to this locating at this time? An enemy? Had someone already begun to target Peach?
Grasping the few fish in his hand, he swam back to the shore as fast as he could. How could he just leave her alone at the campsite? He’d never forgive himself if anything happened to her.
“Peach!!”
The cry was let out as he emerged from the lake, coming face to face with the unclothed princess. A blank stare overcame him as he stared at the woman, fish wriggling in his hand.
[Peach]:
——— What more could she say to make this easier on Dark? If anything, she was the one who needed the reassurance…yet wasn’t receiving any. She’d been trying to stay calm about it but that initial panic that once set in the moment she found out…it was resurfacing the more the shadow doubted himself.
❝ …You…don’t go into this knowing how to be a father…you learn along the way… ❞
If that even meant anything…
❝ …Dark, the last thing I’d ever wish to do is…is to trap you into doing anything you do not wish to do… I’m keeping it…and should you feel that you’re not ready for this… ❞
Hands released his own, directing him towards the door,
❝ …I will not stop you… ❞
Most of her words bounced off of the shadow’s ears. In truth, he was far more concerned about being responsible for the life of a child than he was for the words coming out of the princess’ mouth.
It wasn’t until she released him that he snapped out of his thoughts. Following where her finger was pointing, his gaze settled on the castle doors a few ways away from them. Was she telling him to leave?
In all honesty, the offer was tempting. Something like this was far from Dark’s comfort zone which was a place he scarcely left. But if he did walk out of that door, what would happen to the woman he loved?
“I’m nowhere near ready for something like this...” A shaky breath was exhaled as he locked eyes with the monarch. “But I would never leave your side.”
Turning his back to the door, he took Peach’s hands in his.
“We’ll learn together...right? I think I can do it...if it’s with you...”
*.:｡ ۞*ﾟ Crimson eyes stared at shades of black and grey as they emerged along the shore… He was not impressed in the slightest by the Hero’s shadow; why did it still live?
“You should not be here.” The statement, simple enough, was a warning.
Droplets ran down the shadow’s face as he stepped out of the lake’s waters. A small stretch was given before he came face-to-face with an unwelcomed guest.
“Says who?” He retorted, testing the Sheikah’s challenge. “I see no reason for you to be here as well.”
*.:｡✿*ﾟ Lake Hylia… It sounded familiar, but she had no memories to connect to the place, so the name was practically meaningless. Just another place on the map of Hyrule.
“So you live underwater?! Can you breath underwater?!” Blue eyes shined at the thought of being able to breath underwater. There were fish that could do that, as well as the Zoras- but this man seemed Hylian enough. She was mistaken- and realized so as he referred to pesky Hylians as just that.
What did he have against them? As far as she knew- they hadn’t done anything wrong… Or at least she hadn’t. Did he not like her because she was Hylian?
“…Hey mister, is that why you were so mean to me?” She asked, “Becos I’m Hylian?” An innocent enough question- expected from a child.
Crimson eyes narrowed at her comment. It seemed like a ridiculous statement though it was his fault for not clarifying anything with the child.
“No no, nothing like that. My temple is underwater, but there is hardly any water inside. I can even change the water level to whatever I want.” Fingers stroked his own chin in thought. How useful it would be to breath underwater. That way, he’d be able to actually communicate with the Zora’s rather than wave his sword around.
Her next question caused the shadow to come to a halt. He had no quarrel with the child, so why was he so rude to the girl? Because she was the princess to the Hylians? Or because he knew that she would ultimately begin to loathe him as well, much like the rest of her people.
“I don’t have a good relationship with you Hylians...” He began as he continued to press on forward once more. “So I see no reason to act friendly with your kind.”
[Hylia]:
“Well, running into a shadow of my chosen hero isn’t an everyday occurrence either. I fear mortals tend to romanticize the life of the gods. If only my life was as exciting as the stories say! Alas, there is no incentive for my visit, unless you would consider curiosity a ‘hidden incentive’?”
“It very well could be. A Goddess’ curiosity is definitely something to be wary about. Especially yours. Whatever it is that you’re planning for your hero, please feel free to leave me out of it. Dealing with all of you really drains my energy.”
