Well, uh. He wasn't. Attacking him? But. Link's not sure what exactly he's looking at.

...but he can figure that out later. He swings his sword at a nearby monster, defeating it easily. He lifts his hand in another smooth motion, sending the apparition of a large red bird towards a cluster of shadows. They reel from the impact of a green wind.

Might as well make quick work of these shadows before he can ask the guy what precisely is his deal.