The Legend: Part II

The Legend: Part II: Chapter 26 - The Duel Begins

Link's P.O.V

I lie there in silence as the day passed. Zelda hadn't returned since this morning. She was angry, and she had every right to be. "I have to fight Armani." I stated as I tried to get up. Searing pain shot through my chest in response. I laid back down in defeat. Impatiently my mind was racing. I thought of multiple things at once. Ways to beat Armani without getting myself killed. Zelda would kill me, before I was even dead if I step into that ring. "Link..." A voice trailed. A shiver went down my spine in response to the voice. "Fierce Deity." I stated. Suddenly the mask appeared before me in my lap. "Put me on tomorrow for the duel. Your wounds will no longer ail you. You will be unstoppable. You will defeat Armani and Zelda will finally be yours." The mask explained. I held the mask in my hands as I listened to the spirit. "How can I be sure?" I asked. "You've heard the stories. You know I can help you. You and I are connected. You need me." Fierce Deity explained. Something within me agreed to what the mask was saying. I did need him. Especially if i wanted to marry Zelda. Armani needs to be defeated and I'm in no shape to fight. This is my only choice. I tucked the mask under my pillow and closed my eyes. I tried to fall asleep but it was to no avail. I could not sleep. Before I knew it the sun was up and the time for the duel was approaching. I managed to sit upright and bring my legs to the side of the bed. I grabbed the mask as I carefully stood up. Pain vibrated through me as I struggled to stand. Beside my bed the Master Sword sat idly.  I swiped it and used it as a crutch as I inched towards the door. Slowly I made my ways to the training grounds. From a distance I could see a great amount of people had gathered to watch the duel. A battle stage and been set while bystanders sat on either sides of the stage. On a higher level a throne stood where Zelda sat. She appeared worried as she watched Armani trying to beguile the crowd. He was well armored and wore Termina's colors, yet the gear seemed to large for him. The look of a warrior did not suit him. "Look it's Sir Link!" A voice shouted. Suddenly the crowd went silent and all eyes were on me, including Zelda's. She was on her feet staring at me in shock. She mouthed 'no' to me as my eyes locked with hers. 'I have to' I mouthed back. Tears gathered in her eyes as I stepped forward into the ring. "So great of you to join us Master Link, I was worried you weren't going to show. " Armani laughed. "You should be worried that I did show." I chuckled in a horse voice. I was clearly not still 100%. "Shall we begin then?" Armani inquired.