Poes And Roses Part One: The Ghost of Tower Zelda
CHAPTER 1: Sunday Worship
Hyrule Castle.... 1025
"Sister, what are you doing?"
"I'm writing…?"
"Yes Rebecca, I can see that… ?"
"Do you believe me?"
"I.... I don't know.... please... tell me.... why did you scribble on the floor?"
"But I didn't do it."
"Then what happened?"
"The poe..... he told me to write it... he wanted to let you know when he was going to kill you."
Hyrule... three centuries later.... or 1325 for those who can't count
The morning light arose from the horizon as a gentle princess lay in slumber in her silk sheets upon a feather soft bed. A middle aged Sheikah slowly ascended to the royal girl with a tray in one hand and a book in the other. Placing the book down, the woman caught her breath.
*.... oh my.... feel like I was a hundred years old.... tis good there are so many steps.... no wonder Zelda is in such good shape. No worry about getting old and fat anytime soon.* Impa thought as her knees felt pangs of pain from the constant hoofing up the stone block that laid with scarlet carpet.
"Zelda dear.... come on, wake up..."
The blond child lay peacefully on the bed. Her long blond hair was spread across the pillows while a graceful hand was spawned on the other side.
"Impa..... please.... can't I have a few more *yawn* minutes."
*You've been hanging around Link too long, dear.*
"Zelda, please..... you know that it is imperative that you receive your nutrition. A princess must be in excellent health to run her country. Especially with your father visiting the Country of Diadra all the time now."
Zelda slowly rose up. Her eyes remained a bit puffy as she pulled herself across the room to open the door for her nursemaid. She then walked over back towards her bed and slowly draped the canopy sheets on each pole. Impa placed the tray on top of her thighs and slowly pulled the silver cover off the delicate feast.
"MMMmmm, I LOVE pancakes!! Did you place the M and Ms, ketchup and honey on it?"
"Zelda, I want you... I want you to be a bit more civilized.... you've lived far too long as Sheik that you seem to have forgotten the proper etiquette that we've punctuated into you as a young lass. You are a woman and it's time you should act like one. Which means that you must exclude disgust... I mean... unique-types of food."
Zelda could not help but chuckle at the sight of Impa flushing a slight pink.
"Oh Impa, come on... at least leave the ketchup on the pancakes... please?"
Impa crossed her arms over her chest.
"I'm sorry dear, I know you enjoy ketchup on everything.... but it has to stop. Now please eat your breakfast. It's starting to get cold." Impa watched as the young lady carefully laid the napkin on her legs. Her eyes shifted back and forth as she watched the weary nursemaid's stone gaze upon her. Perfection.... that is what separates the high class from the low... an unminded rule that is the bible to a Princess.
"No slouching... tuck that lip in....." her words were quick and crisp that seem to slam her head like a jagged dagger. She hated it. So many rules and not a sign of any leeway.
After breakfast, Impa went back and returned the tray. Zelda slowly walked over towards her closet.
Fine Cypressian silks and velvet hung row by row in the immense closet. So many dresses... too bad she hated every one of them. She must've gotten a ton of rashes over the years from the itchy wool that lined underneath.
"Eh, I'll just wear the old white one," she muttered to herself as stripped off her nightgown and jerked the outfit off the hanger. Zelda walked over at the mirror.
*Hmmm, my thighs look a little big... maybe Impa was right and that I should watch what I eat for a while. Legs feel a bit prickly... I better shave after church. *
Zelda pulled out a small bottle of lotion and began to caress her body with the thick fluid. The palace life is so.... dreary. Spend a few hours making herself look beautiful.... going to church.... go back to her room to look beautiful… lunch... go back to her room to look beautiful… a court walk once around the town...piano... dinner… bathing.... and start the process all over again.
"And my father finds this all amusing.... he has no life."
"Zelda.... what are you talking about?" Impa stood at the door, holding a well-polished tiara.
"Oh, Impa.... what brings ye here?" The old woman chuckled as she walked over and placed the crown atop her head.
"You.... left this.... on the fountain yesterday.... it's a good thing those children gave it to me instead of your father. He would have a fit if you were to be caught in public not wearing it. Now, why were you talking to yourself?"
"Ohhh, it's just that... roasted pig with Malted Lamb Eyes... how could he eat those kind of foods and still not have a demon strangle him yet?"
"He's a moral man, dear. Obese... a bit overweight.... hasty at times... but a good man none the less. Be proud that you are his daughter, and remember that he loves you. Now hurry up. You still haven't done your hair yet. Now, hand me the brush, I'll give it its five thousand strokes."
* Maybe, Impa should have stayed a sage. Its not that I wish to part from her so soon but maybe she would treat me like a woman.... instead of a little chil..."
"OWWW!!"
"Sorry about that.... you had a tangle.... its gone now though."
*Then again, whenever I close my eyes at night, I still remember the days of long past eternity when a different world existed... when my father was assassinated and Ganon took the throne. But those days are long gone. It's time I forget them and just go on with my life. I feel terrible now. Poor Link, stuck with the mind of a 10 year old.... I in 24. Skipping the joys of seven years is hard enough but to relive it seven more? I should've wed by now.... unfortunately my father is alive to pick my paramour.... Link? Oh him.... he's usually out playing stickball or skipping stones. He still thinks I have kodies.*
"Zelda, have you been using those mulbron herbs? I told you not too. It ruins your roots."
"SO-RRY!!"
"Don't use that tone of voice young lady. Now come, lets go. Pip-pip, hurry up."
The two slowly descended down the stone staircase. One with a copy of the Book of Mudora, the other hand holding Zelda's hand, guiding her down the spiral way. Soon they reached the bottom of the immense staircase. A large stone door guarded her room to ensure that no evil would try and kidnap her. Impa placed her fingers in between her teeth and began to whistle the gentle song that was passed down for centuries. What was once a ballad to honor the dead on Kora Memorial Eve is now the sweet lullaby that her mother sang to her when she was born... hours before she died. Slowly but surely the door faded into a transparent curtain of air. Each time she passed by it, it filled her with vigorous sensation... do not ask why... it is just so.
Some believe that the door is filled with the royal spirits guarding her to incline why it's so strong. The more skeptical tend to believe it was one of Impa's Sheikah tricks so that she doesn't have to watch Zelda twenty-four hours a day. However, those opinions really don't matter at all. It works, doesn't it?
The two made their way, past the glass tiled Main room, through the red velvet hallways and towards the horse stable.
"Impa, why must we go all this way to just to ride a carriage fifty feet?"
"Zelda dear, why are you questioning me all of a sudden? These are rules.... and rituals.... that you have been doing since you were a little girl. Now please, proceed into the carriage, and not another smart mouthed comment from you till after church."
*Impa just doesn't understand. We use to be so close, but now.... well.... I just can't stand being with her. She's always there. When I turn, she is there. When I open the window, she happens to come in at that second. Why can't I be free? Then again, I use to enjoy these carriage rides. Back when I was a young girl. Too bad I was raised in a bubble back then. There is such a rush when you go off into the world dressed like a vigilante. Leaping from the shadows.... pillaging the rupees in which Ganon took from the people... and knowing you can get away with it all while wearing a piece of white tattered clothing.
Link... he's so lucky.... never having to worry about a whole kingdom depending on him again. Now he's out romping around.... here I am stuck in the same old place as my mother and her mother, her mother before that have. Now I know the reason why my father said mum loved to have balls every week, she got bored from sitting around here. *
One hour later...
"My highness, we are here," spoke a coachman as he shook her shoulder a bit. Zelda's eyes blinked a few times. Did she fall asleep? Maybe she shouldn't have stayed up so late last night. Oh that's right... she had to stay and read a story to Link cause he couldn't fall asleep.
"Zelda dear, come, we are late," spoke Impa as she tapped her cheek. Zelda wearily got up. A small slander of hair was brushed to the side as the coachman took her hand and guided her out of the carriage. Zelda nodded her head at the coachman and made her way towards the balcony.
That was the hard part. Swarms of common folk surrounded the trio as Zelda made her way towards the door.
"Good morn, my princess."
"Good morn, Philip."
"Would you like a pastry, princess? Hot and pippin fresh from the fire."
"No thank you, I've already had my meal."
"Keep your distance. The Princess is late and does not to be any more with your soliciting," spoke a solder as his battle worn spear pushed the crowds aside. Zelda sighed as she opened the door. Another long tower walk just to get to her special spot. Everyone else just goes through the doors. Small, tiny cobwebs dominated the ceilings in the passageway.
"MY PRINCESS!!! *CRUNCH*" Zelda shot her gaze towards the front. Apparently a Skullwalla made its way there. Zelda watched as the small green juices seeped from the impaled carcass. The guard hurried down below to dispose of it while servants on hands and knees willingly scrubbed the ivory steps to a pearly shine.
Through purple velvet curtains were three oak seats: one for Impa, one for Zelda, the other for Zelda's father. King Harnikan sat sleepily in the chair as Zelda took her spot.
"Father? Wake up, it's almost time." King Harnikan grumbled as he twitched his nose and opened his two tiny gray eyes. His whiskers seem to weaver as he felt the distaste in his mouth after the long nap.
"Daughter, were have you been? Have you overslept?"
"I'm sorry, forgive me, father. I just couldn't sleep last night. Queen Mabe seemed to be angry at me for the past few days sending nothing but terrible nightmares."
Harnikan's large soft hand reached for her shoulder, gently giving it a small squeeze.
"Aye, she too wants me to relive the death of your mother over and over at night for me," muttered the King as his eyes paled from the cold thoughts.
"But do not push yourself too hard."
"But, father I..." whined Zelda.
"Zelda dear?"
"Yes, Impa?"
"Why didn't you tell me about this sooner?" wondered Impa as her red lips glimmered in under the light.
Zelda pursed her lips. Why didn't she? Impa was her second mother. She never kept anything from her, never.... the basic fact was...."
"I... was scared..."
Impa let out a deep sigh.
"Well, why don't we talk about this later.... perhaps during lunch. Right now we must provide our full attention to Rauru. You know how much pride he takes in his speeches," spoke Impa as they watched the torch light die down to a golden glow.
An old, heavy man trudged his way towards a podium. A candle sat just above the podium where a book resided. The pages, 12 centuries old.... far too fragile to be opened again except by those who were blessed by a goddess as a child.
"Today.... marks the day.... of the five hundred anniversary.... of the day that the providence of Hyrule broke off the Cypress Territory. Our ancestors shed great amounts of blood so that so that their children could be free of the old ways of hierarchy. We continue to…
(ZZZZZZZ)
"…what the?! Oh, for Din's sake will someone PLEASE wake Link up!"
Zelda turned down towards the back row. There, sitting with his hand on his chin was the local Hero of Time. It was pretty hard to distinguish between him and the rest of the people without his green cap and tunic. He started wearing his lose white shirt with a green vest and some pants ever since he moved in at Lon Lon Ranch as a new hand. His hair was still long, with a part in the center and the front locks cropping his eyes. Yep, he tried to fit in.... but it was kind of hard to do that with a smartass pink fairy on your shoulder....
"LINK GOD DAMN IT!!! WAKE UP!!!" shouted the little fairy girl as she jerked on his gold hoop earring.
"OWW! Navi how many.... oh.... umm... heh...." Link began to blush a bright red as Zelda placed her hand in front of her face.
"Link..." Zelda muttered in a harsh growl; her words muted by her palm.
Link sank in his seat innocently as Rauru continued on with his speech.
Malon turned towards him with a stern look.
"Link, how many times have I told you not to stay up so late?" she rashly whispered to him as he twiddled with his fingers.
"Ain't my fault Wind Waker was hard… stupid Wind Temple."
"Link, don't use that sort of language here."
Link grumbled.
*giggling* went Navi as she sat on his shoulder.
Rauru sighed as turned the page.
*How is it possible that he was the same boy that I had sent out to save the world...* Rauru thought as he rolled his eyes back before beginning once more.
".... our men continue to sacrifice their lives just to protect the borders and build on the pacts with the other independent nations of the Cypress Territory. Let us take a moment of silence to honor those who have honorably fallen in battle, as they watch upon us from the Golden Land. For in paragraph 3, section G, line 3... 'Thou bloud spilt upun thy land, tis thou bloud thou creates life upon thou sacrificors'. When this country first separated from the Cypress Territory... Lord Cortina.... quote unquote... "Your country will never last. There is far too little lumber and irons for market... what will you do, sell your worthless minerals?' Those 'worthless' minerals... have proven the key to our more advanced race. Over the years we Hyrulians were able to harness the energies of these minerals.... some for good like our fair princess.... some with a darker purpose like Lord Dragmire of Gerudo Valley.
Now join me.... turn to page 989 for the poem.... 'Thwern de Rouse'
'Courage, Wisdom, Balance and Power,
Whert thou would thy bring?
Bearer of life's fruit,
Symbols of the goddesses
A unison repetition of the words filled the air. The women and children grasped their pendants that hung around their neck; a gift from he king from childbirth.
The men unsheathe their daggers and swords to lay the flat part upon their forehead as they chanted the poem to themselves.
A small grin cracked around Link's lips as he stared down to see his piece of the Triforce glow. He carefully pulled his sleeves down as to avoid notice. No one but Zelda, Navi, Rauru and he knew that the Triforce was gone from the Temple of Time, now separated into three.
He'd be dead by now from all the times he foiled Ganondorf, watching him time after time, attempting to steal it. Too bad he doesn't realize he has the strongest of pieces himself. Zelda had the Wisdom piece so she would never forget. As long as he held the Master Sword, he will never lose the most exhilarating memories of his life. Still, ohhh the temptation of walking up to the Gerudo King and start mocking about how hard he's worked and he's had it all along. He could have alot of fun with it. Unfortunately, he's not going to risk an entire kingdom just for a good jest.
"... And so, with that in mind, next week, we will discuss the three former Guardians of the Goddess Temples, Yokiro, Tokiro and Anhell. I bid you Good fortune, and may the holy goddesses protect you."
With that, all of the group got up and dispersed. Zelda stretched her long, tired, gloved arms in the air. Zelda looked over the balcony. Maybe she should talk to Link about this. Surely a boy who has traveled through time and a parallel world would understand what she envisioned. Link needed to know of it. But then again.... why is she always relying on him.
"Cause he saved your life about four or five times now," she rasped out silently ensuring that no one could hear her.
"What was that, daughter?"
"Oh.... father.... ummm, I was talking to myself.... father?"
"Yes?"
"May I go..."
"Descend.... the dignified word is 'descend'."
"Well, may I descend downstairs and talk to some of the commoners?" She asked as her hand held her father's in plea.
Harnickan thought diligently. A princess shouldn't spend so much time hanging around the lower class.... but then again, as his father have told him, 'A good ruler, knows his people, but a good kingdom has the people know its ruler'. Wise words of Lord Victor.
"Of course, but make sure you are back in time for piano lessons at two o'clock."
Zelda smiled and reached up to kiss her father on the cheek.
"Thank you, daddy."
"Zelda, it's 'father'... not 'pops', 'old man', or 'daddy'."
"*giggling* Of course, pops." Harnikan gave a small laughter.
*Always like her mother.* "Have a good time..... pumpkin."
"Oh father," she commented as she smiled then was gone.... excuse me 'descended' down. King Harnikan smiled as he sat back down.
"Who says, I cannot have a little fun," he spoke to himself proudly as he watched the people below.
As usual, the small groups were divided into cliques of the nobleman, middle-class, and the lower class.
"Maybe he should've stuck with the old tunic and tights," she spoke to herself as she made her way through the crowds. At least his looks stood out. Sky blue eyes, golden blond hair, a lean, built body.... it's like he's Prince Charming from a fairy tale.... if he would have better manners, stop cussing, and use so much slang. Zelda turned towards a corner to where a pink ball of light floated above a crowd of four.
"Well, maybe he won't be so hard to find after all." Zelda hastened her pace. There, she saw Talon, Ingo, Malon and...
"LINK!!" she cried as she saintly smiled. The man slowly turned. His hair was a bit longer to where a small part was tied in the back, with the same bangs that cropped his face. His skin was warmly tanned due to spending more time in the fields while his muscles have seem to tighten more.
*mmmm, I wouldn't mind watching him do his field work, without a shirt, sweating, rippling...*
"Oh, hey, Zel, what's up?" he spoke interrupting her fantasy. Zelda shot her eyes wide open for a second.
*Zelda, get those thoughts out of your head. They are inappropriate now that you are engaged to Prince Lance of Magenta.*
"Good afternoon, Link. I was wondering if you and I could... have lunch... I need to talk to you about something that's bothering me."
"PMS?"
"Link..."
"I'm kidding, okay, sure I'd love to come. I haven't seen you in awhile, be nice to talk to each other... ummm, are you paying?" he muttered shyly.
Zelda bit her lip playfully. "Yes Link… I wouldn't imagine having the poor man pay for lunch… everything's on me."
"GREAT!! Let's go to the Rib House All-You-Can-Eat Bar," he shouted as he grabbed her hand and shot out of the door.
The King turned towards the ground as he watched Link pulling Zelda by the hand. "GUARDS!"
"Don't worry Daddy! I'll be back in time for Piano lessons!" shouted Zelda as Link mischievously turns towards her and gives a wink. His hand reaches into his pouch and pulls out a Deku nut. His hand skillfully tosses it to the ground and clears the cluttered aisle way for them to exit the church.
Rauru sighed. "Perhaps, Samus would've made a better Hero of Time."
Chapter Two: Hey Zel, Are You Going to Eat That?
"Hey!! Wait for me!!" cried Navi as she flew behind the two. Navi panted as she finally reached the restaurant. With an easy glide, Navi flew threw the crack of the doors, just as a couple came out.
Link guided Zelda through the bar. She waved her hand a bit from the smell as she leaned against his shoulder.
"You okay?" he whispered towards her. His hand gently pulls one of her hairs back into place. A quick nod of her head was her answer.
"A little. I'm just not quite as use to the unpleasant scent of cigarettes and alcohol. Considering I've been in the castle life for so long." He brought his hands towards her forehead and wiped the sweat a bit from her face. He then knelt a bit keeping one hand at her knees and the other behind her neck. With a brief heave he lifted her up like a new bride and carried her over to a chair in the corner.
"There we go… Its not as bad over here. Now you sit there and rest… I'll go get our meals, and we can begin talking," he spoke as Zelda tossed a small bag of silver rupees in his hand.
"Thank you... umm, I guess I want a number 3," she spoke as she placed her hands on her lap. Link rose a brow.
"What? No salad today? What ever happen to watching your girlish figure?" he spoke as his hands gestured like an hourglass.
"Link, when I start having children, I won't 'HAVE' a girlish figure," she muttered back as her hands gestured back like a beach whale.
"Well don't you want to look pleasantly plump, then?" he spoke as his hands waved in the form of a pear.
"Link...."
"Come ON, Zelda. You've been depressed for the past few days. Lighten up. It ain't like Ganon is gonna take over Hyrule anytime soon. Come on… smile for me." Link formed an over-exaggerated grin. Zelda smirked a little. Link went down and patted her blond hair. "Good girl." With that, Link walked over towards a line.
Zelda humbly sat there. *Link seems to have matured a lot quickly than I thought.* He was honestly being playful instead of childish. Maybe that's the reason why deep down, she still wishes they were more… closer.
It must've been years since she sat in a bar. She was Sheik at the time when she first stepped in one. Even longer since she had a cigarette. Took her forever just to quit the habit. Especially since she herself was returned to her ten-year state.
"Ya two got hitched or somethin'?" Zelda turned towards a table. A black archer with Diadran armor sat lazily on a stool with a frothy glass of 1292.
"No.... I'm already engaged. He was just being a sweetheart... that's all." The archer placed her mug on the table.
"Oh, so he's available? Well send that boy over here so I can make a man out of him!!"
"Wait... you're female?" mumbled Zelda as she turned down to realize there was nothing down there.
"Damn straight. Name's Barba. Please ta met'cha." Zelda made a quick scan.
*Did I just mistaken her for a man? Probably cause she's the first to have a bald head and more muscle then a goron.*
"Hello... Barba.... I am Zelda... Princess Zelda. I do hope you enjoy your stay here in Hyrule."
Barba squinted at her. All of a sudden she threw back her head and about fell to the floor.
"HA!! What the bloody hell is a Princess doing here!" Zelda frowned.
"I beg your pardon.... but have you just accused me of lying?"
"YES!!" she snickered.
"Well, I'll have you know, your accusation is indeed false and if I must go out, fetch one of my guards to have you thrown in a dungeon for insulting me.... I-WILL!!" The woman stopped. Slowly, she got up towards her and grabbed her arm. She then pulled out a pair of eyeglasses and held it in front of a piece of her shoulder pads.
"Well son of a motherless goat.... that'd be 24 K of gold.... you are serious. Sorry for that little insult."
"It's okay.... by the way, what are you doing in Hyrule?"
"Girlfriend, don'cha know its Poe Hunting season!?! A lot of the warriors from my land is coming over since this place is in kneedeep shit with tham. Especially the rare ones."
"Rare ones..... you mean Big Poes?"
"No... hell no, I mean the ones that you can actually talk back too.... Trinity Poes....my king wants one for his daughters so he got yours truly.... THE best archer of all of Diadra. Hey there's your boyfriend coming back."
*He's not my boyfriend.... * she thought to herself as Link carried the two platters of food. There he laid a nice plate of fish with a glass of....
"Fruit Juice!?! Girl, are ya little old for that kiddy stuff.... put some alcohol in your blood. HEY YOU!!! A ROUND OF 1192 FOR HARNIKAN'S GIRL!!"
"Hey Zel, who's your friend?" asked Link as he jabbed a potato with his fork. Zelda sank in her chair a bit.
"Her name is...."
"Barba!! Barba of Diadra!! What's the owner of that cute little face be?"
"I'm Link... of Hyrule." He mumbled while pouring ketchup on meal.
"Hey, I've heard of you. Your the guy who got rid of that clan of Moblins out of my territory."
"Hell ya!! Let me you tell you something. They are the MEANEST some-of-a-bitches you will ever me..." Link shouted as he pounded his fist and switched his lingo into warrior talk.
"Umm Barba.... it was very nice to make your acquaintance.... but I need to talk to Link... personally," she spoke as she slit her fish open. Barba pulled herself up.
"Well okay. I'll let you two lovebirds keep to yaselves. Besides, ol' Barba has to reserve herself a room or I'll end up with my ass on the street."
With that, the hefty woman picked her bow up, flipped a few rupees on her table and made her way to the exit. Link and Zelda stared at each other.
"Hey Zelda?"
"Yes Link"
"What's a lovebird?" he asked as he shoved a potato down his throat. Zelda sliced a piece and inserted it in her mouth.
"Don't worry about it. Barba is probably one of those eccentric people who must've drunk too much. Now can we get to business? My piano lessons are in an couple of hours and I have so much to tell you."
Link squeezed a boyish smile as he picked up a cheese stick and bit the top off.
"Shoot."
Zelda smiled back as she took a sip of fruit juice.
"All right, now before I start.... will you promise not to jest at me?"
".... Umm... sure. But you get a better answer if I receive a small bribery."
"*Giggle* All right, well.... I think there's a ghost, a poe actually.... in my room." Link arched an eyebrow.
"But I thought the castle was blessed by the goddesses so no ghost can come into the castle?"
"Exactly! That is what I thought... but there is one. I saw it with my own eyes. I heard it... it spoke. That woman.... she said that at this point of the year, there is a type of poe that can speak back that are considered rare."
"It spoke? Why? Why now?" Link was confused. He thought he knew everything about poes from his dealings with the Poe Keeper.
" I don't know. That is the odd thing. I-just-don't-know. It looked different as well. The flame in its lantern was yellow..."
"Do you know what it said?"
"La..... Lauretta.... yes... it would just repeat the word over and over. But last night.... it changed... and said HOT!!! I've tried having a few guards stay with me all night but they cannot hear or see it. I've left a bottle of hot spring water but it would not accept it. I gave it a small torch but it still would not go away. I'm scared Link. You've dealt with this stuff before.... do you think you can help me?" she whispered. Link placed his hand under his chin.
"I'm not sure if I can do much. I'll try.... maybe I should stay with you this time. The afterlife is not a very good category under my department.... but I'll try. Dammit I'll try."
Zelda reached over and hugged his shoulders."Thank you... what time will I see you?" murmured Zelda as her eyes wavered up and down.
"How about.... 8'ish... but tomorrow." Zelda tilted her head a bit as Link touched her cheek.
"Tomorrow? Why tomorrow?"
"Eh, I gotta run Navi over to the fairy fountain.... it's...."
Chapter 3: Farm Life
"Bingo Night... he rather take a little girl out to waste her rupees by sitting around, marking numbers," her mind thought as her concentration deviated away from the piano.
Her hands floated above the keys like feather in the wind. Gentle taps of each ivory key filled the hall with a melody that seemed to warm a heart or two. A steady clap filled the air after her hands left the instrument. A stick figure of a man clapped as he straightened up his wig a bit.
"Bravo.... only royalty as yourself can fulfill sweet tunes. Have you been practicing?"
Zelda pulled the cover of the piano on top. Her head guilty drooped.
"Not really. I've been busy." The teacher crossed his arms.
"Zelda.... your father has paid good money for I; I travel very far just to see how you improved. There is a difference from being good.... and becoming better."
" I know.... I know.... I just can't sleep.... that's all. Besides, I impressed you... didn't I?"
"You have, but you disappointed me as well. I want you to put more dedication in your practices. Every princess must learn the piano. It shows great wisdom and pride."
*I have the Triforce on my hand.... is that not proof enough?* "Very well, I'll try harder next time," she curtsied to her piano master.
"Try? You will. Remember, you are a princess, and everyone expects the most out of you. Do you wish to disappoint them? Disappoint your father? Disappoint your mother...."
Zelda flashed a look of hurt at him. "Oh... I'm sorry... I forgot... " Zelda took out a piece of cloth and wiped her eyes.
"Tis alright. It was just a slip of tongue... excuse me; I need to leave to my quarters. You are dismissed." Zelda sighed as she lifted a part of her gown. Up the stairs once more. It was only the afternoon but yet the castle seemed far darker then usual. Paintings of the royal members hung one after the other.
"We should put more windows in here. I swear, using candles at 3 PM in the afternoon is simply ridiculous," she bitched as she placed the wick wax end over a flame above a torch. Zelda shivered to herself as she opened her door. Lying on the bed was the mysterious poe, sleeping soundly to its self. She slowly brought her hand to her lips. She could feel her blood run cold as her eyes gazed at its hideous body.
*What is it doing there!?! It's sleeping that's what. Do poes actually sleep?* Zelda crawled behind a table. The poe turned its head as it sleeply cradled the pillow.
"Lauretta," it whispered.
What does she do?
"Calm down Zelda.... all you have to do is smash its lantern and it will be gone from you forever. You won't even need Link this time." she spoke to herself as grabbed a broom handle. She sat herself down and pry off her high heels to prevent the clicking sound of her heels from cracking the silence around them. On her hands and knees, she crawled on the cold, stone floor. Too bad she no longer had her Sheik outfit on. Then she could perhaps roll from side to side with ease. Silent little ninja was she. Those days are gone. Now she's stuck as an uptight princess who faints at the slightest stench or upchuck at the sight of death.
"ZELDA WHAT IN DIN'S NAME ARE YOU DOING!?!" shouted King Harnikan as he opened the door.
"Father, keep it down, you'll scare it!" she rasped.
"Scare what?" he asked as he lowered his voice and pulled a dagger.
"The poe on my bed!!" she cried as she pointed to the ghost as it shot up.
"Poe? I don't see any!"
Zelda ran towards her canopy bed and began to beat the broom, attempting to strike it. .
"FATHER!! HELP ME!! DON'T LET IT ESCAPE!!" With that, she took the handle and slammed it against the mattress. Bits of feathers flew around as the poe floated to the air to vanish once again. Zelda turned towards him. A look of astonishment, confusion, and fear all spooned together enlightened his gray eyes.
"Zelda.... come with me to Rauru," he spoke as two guards came running up the stairs and grabbed her arms.
"Father please!!"
"Zelda, this is for your own good."
He watched as she screamed and clawed his men. He then rubbed his beard as he examined her room. His purple, velvet robes with gold ropes hung lightly on his shoulders. *First her lies about a commoner who was the true 'Hero of Time'. Honestly, what was she trying to pull? Everyone knows that the only one worthy of such a destiny would be a nobleman of great wealth and fortune... and not some street rat who feeds on stale bread and lived in a tree. *
"And now she is seeing things," he muttered. His precious daughter, his most prized item in the world is going mad. *Perhaps she is possessed? A demon soul claiming his daughter?* "Preposterous!! I'll spit upon such lies and crush it underneath my sole before I believe that such rubbish be true." He better leave for the church now. Curiosity has now embraced his mind.
"A Poe... here? Damn it to hell, if to be true."
A small floating figure watched as the old pudgy man exited the door. The apparition guided its way past a set of candles and to a window. Its marbled, white eyes gazed into the Lost Woods.
"Lauretta," it moaned as its small stick-like hand touched the window.
"Lauretta..... come... come HOT....."
Down at Lon Lon Ranch........
Link sighed as he heaved the large metal buckets over to the small aging barn. It was harvest time for Lon Lon Ranch. Lon Lon Milk was at its best at this point of time and demands a very high price. It also the busy time of the year as Malon hastily milked old Besse. Link placed the two buckets down and began to stroke the top crown of the cow.
"So what did you and Zelda talked about?" Link turned towards her.
"What do you mean?" he asked nonchalantly. Malon tucked in a small lock of red hair.
"You know... at the bar? Was she bitching about you falling asleep in the cathedral again?" Link shook his head.
"Nope, not this time. I was a bit surprised myself," he spoke as he pulled out a weed and began to chew on it between his teeth, leaning his forearms against the side of the beast of burden. "Besides, I don't think she would want me to talk to others about it since its a little.... weird."
Malon sat up from her stool and wiped the liquid off her hands.
"Oh, come on, you know me. I won't tell anyone. Maybe I can help? But could you help me get a bale of hay. I pulled my shoulder earlier from carrying some pottery."
"Oh sure," he replied as he ran over towards the far corner of the ranch. Square bundles were stocked on top of each other. Grabbing them by the wire he heaved them ontop of his shoulders. Taking a quick breather he carried them to the small herd and slammed them on the ground. "Well, it sounds weird... but Zelda thinks there is a talking poe haunting her in her bedroom."
"Hmmph," she replied. "Talking poes? Why would it be in her room? Especially since Nayru blessed it. Hmmm, so a few can talk, eh?"
Link shrugged his shoulders.
"I guess."
"*sigh* I hate poes. They are so....so..."
"Nasty? Creepy? Annoying?" interrupted Navi as she flew in between them.
"Exactly... they scare the cattle and horses, pillage the older houses and burn the fields. I say shove every bloody one of them back into their graves and toss a barrel of stone ontop," she spoke as she gritted her teeth to cut the metal wire with a cutter. Link walked over and helped her.
"Yeah, I know, I hate them too... but hey, a nice big one bags a lot of rupees. Plus they are a lot of fun to chase around. Scary to go outside by foot right now. Crazy poe hunters from all around are coming over... hate for one to mistaken me for one with Navi around... no offense," he spoke as he turned toward her. Navi smiled.
"None taken. Just don't fill my head with those sorts of images of you lying on the ground with a heap of arrows plugged into your gut because of an accident. Cause I... just don't want you to die...." Navi began to grow teary eyed. Link looked up and carefully clasped her out of the air.
"Oh, don't cry, Navi. You know me. We'll always be together. You sacrificed from becoming a Great Fairy to stick with me after what happened with Ganon. I can't ask for a more loyal person. So just hush," he spoke as Navi lowered her energies a bit. Her short purple hair gleamed a bit. Decked out with a tiny skirt and top with small mosaic tattoos on her arms, her violet eyes welled.
"Thank you," she replied as she buried her head into his shoulder. "I always thought you think of me as annoying," she whispered as dried her tears on his blouse.
"No..... you don't know how lonely it got after you left me and I had to move out of the Kokiri Forest due to my.... um growth. I'm glad you've stayed by my side. Someone to talk to, someone to trust." Navi turned towards him and smiled once more. She crawled upon his shoulder as Malon crossed her arms.
"So do you think that the talking poe thing is true?" she asked as she placed her finger on her lip. Link placed his hands in the air and shrugged.
"Who knows.... maybe she imagined it. Or dreamt it up. There could be a poe in her room but talking? Maybe she thought she heard it say something but it was some sort of groan from it. Oh, before I forget... I'm going to stay over at the castle tomorrow night."
"How come?"
"Well, I figured that her nerves would be a little more at ease if I was around. You know, a little security. It's like a sugar pill. It may make her feel better and convince her that it ain't there. Zelda feels confident, sleeps like a baby from now on… and all is well."
"I hope so.... I've seen her earlier.... she looks terrible.... well maybe not that bad but still a little tired then usual."
Link walked over to Coal and pulled out a brush.
"Yeah... me too," Link stroked the midnight dark coat with a gentle ease. Life was different now that he had a place to call home. He could still remember the tough times he went through during the Age of Dragmire. Forced to go days without a bite to eat.... filthy water.... rainy days sans shelter. Now all he does is earn his keep on the ranch. He's gotten a little use to Ingo.... although he still thought he was a jerk and vice versa. Talon was one of the best beer buddies he had ever had and every time the sky is clear and the stars would shine down.... he and Malon would just sit on a couple of crates. She would sing while he would be tooting on his ocarina. It's nice to have a good amount of security. He felt so relax now, that simple rides from Hyrule town and back gives him a nice feeling deep inside. At first he was rather disappointed that no one knows of what 'really' happened during the real seven years but after watching the country prosper so well, he began to feel a healthy sense of pride within.
The horse began to nuzzle its nose against the side of his cheek. A small chuckle escaped from his lips has he gentle pushed it aside.
"I guess growing up with the Kokiri helped you get along with animals easier."
"A little bit, but don't forget, Malon, you have been around them since birth."
Malon smiled as she pulled a piece of grass out of its mane. It was true, though. It looked more like she could practically talk to them, but still understand her. "So... who's Coal gonna go to?" asked Link, pulling a chunk of hair out of the brush.
"Prince Lance of Magenta. He's to marry Zelda in two weeks so we must bring them a gift." Link went silent for a second.
"Wow.... didn't realize a princess had to be married that early in her life," he spoke lightly. Link knelt down to the hooves and began to check on their horseshoes. Maybe he was a little sick from the thought. That would mean she would become a queen. Always being guarded 24-0. He won't be able to be with her as much.... she would be too busy running the country.
Malon walked over towards the house.
"Hey Link, I'm gonna prepare dinner, is there anything you have in mind?" she asked as she leaned against the door. Link turned towards her.
"Ummm, I'm not hungry, thank you. I'll just stay here a bit longer to groom Coal."
"All right, but don't stay up too late like last night."
"I won't."
Link stood there. He sighed as he laid his head and forearms ontop of Coal's back. All his friends... seem more and more less in-tied with his life now. He was just a freelance solder now. Not THE legendary Hero of Time. The world was hardly in danger of being conquered right now. Now he just watches Zelda send some solders... then he would have to come and save their asses.
*Just like saving the carpenters, over and over.*
They had to learn. Zelda knows that she couldn't rely upon him all the time. The solders must be ready to defend Hyrule if he was to ever fall in battle. But he didn't care. There were worse things then death. He could be forgotten.
"Coal, be glad you are a horse and don't have to worry about this stuff," he spoke as he patted its side. A slight leap and a throw, to mount the horse to the Lost Woods. "Might as well get you some exercise out of you before it gets too cold. HEY NAVI! You got your cards and rupees?"
"Sure do. Hope you don't mind me bringing your lucky Pikachu foot."
Link raised a brow.
"Didn't you say that when you took my shrunken Charmander head and lost it a week later?" Navi flew over and hugged his cheek.
"Pllllleeeeaasssee!! I promise I'll give it back," she begged as she fluttered her tiny eyes while kissing the side of his face over and over. Link's eye shifted towards her. Link shook his head and smiled a bit.
"Oh, all right, but make sure you get it back on my dresser when we come back."
"Thank you," she giggled.
CHAPTER 1: Sunday Worship
Hyrule Castle.... 1025
"Sister, what are you doing?"
"I'm writing…?"
"Yes Rebecca, I can see that… ?"
"Do you believe me?"
"I.... I don't know.... please... tell me.... why did you scribble on the floor?"
"But I didn't do it."
"Then what happened?"
"The poe..... he told me to write it... he wanted to let you know when he was going to kill you."
Hyrule... three centuries later.... or 1325 for those who can't count
The morning light arose from the horizon as a gentle princess lay in slumber in her silk sheets upon a feather soft bed. A middle aged Sheikah slowly ascended to the royal girl with a tray in one hand and a book in the other. Placing the book down, the woman caught her breath.
*.... oh my.... feel like I was a hundred years old.... tis good there are so many steps.... no wonder Zelda is in such good shape. No worry about getting old and fat anytime soon.* Impa thought as her knees felt pangs of pain from the constant hoofing up the stone block that laid with scarlet carpet.
"Zelda dear.... come on, wake up..."
The blond child lay peacefully on the bed. Her long blond hair was spread across the pillows while a graceful hand was spawned on the other side.
"Impa..... please.... can't I have a few more *yawn* minutes."
*You've been hanging around Link too long, dear.*
"Zelda, please..... you know that it is imperative that you receive your nutrition. A princess must be in excellent health to run her country. Especially with your father visiting the Country of Diadra all the time now."
Zelda slowly rose up. Her eyes remained a bit puffy as she pulled herself across the room to open the door for her nursemaid. She then walked over back towards her bed and slowly draped the canopy sheets on each pole. Impa placed the tray on top of her thighs and slowly pulled the silver cover off the delicate feast.
"MMMmmm, I LOVE pancakes!! Did you place the M and Ms, ketchup and honey on it?"
"Zelda, I want you... I want you to be a bit more civilized.... you've lived far too long as Sheik that you seem to have forgotten the proper etiquette that we've punctuated into you as a young lass. You are a woman and it's time you should act like one. Which means that you must exclude disgust... I mean... unique-types of food."
Zelda could not help but chuckle at the sight of Impa flushing a slight pink.
"Oh Impa, come on... at least leave the ketchup on the pancakes... please?"
Impa crossed her arms over her chest.
"I'm sorry dear, I know you enjoy ketchup on everything.... but it has to stop. Now please eat your breakfast. It's starting to get cold." Impa watched as the young lady carefully laid the napkin on her legs. Her eyes shifted back and forth as she watched the weary nursemaid's stone gaze upon her. Perfection.... that is what separates the high class from the low... an unminded rule that is the bible to a Princess.
"No slouching... tuck that lip in....." her words were quick and crisp that seem to slam her head like a jagged dagger. She hated it. So many rules and not a sign of any leeway.
After breakfast, Impa went back and returned the tray. Zelda slowly walked over towards her closet.
Fine Cypressian silks and velvet hung row by row in the immense closet. So many dresses... too bad she hated every one of them. She must've gotten a ton of rashes over the years from the itchy wool that lined underneath.
"Eh, I'll just wear the old white one," she muttered to herself as stripped off her nightgown and jerked the outfit off the hanger. Zelda walked over at the mirror.
*Hmmm, my thighs look a little big... maybe Impa was right and that I should watch what I eat for a while. Legs feel a bit prickly... I better shave after church. *
Zelda pulled out a small bottle of lotion and began to caress her body with the thick fluid. The palace life is so.... dreary. Spend a few hours making herself look beautiful.... going to church.... go back to her room to look beautiful… lunch... go back to her room to look beautiful… a court walk once around the town...piano... dinner… bathing.... and start the process all over again.
"And my father finds this all amusing.... he has no life."
"Zelda.... what are you talking about?" Impa stood at the door, holding a well-polished tiara.
"Oh, Impa.... what brings ye here?" The old woman chuckled as she walked over and placed the crown atop her head.
"You.... left this.... on the fountain yesterday.... it's a good thing those children gave it to me instead of your father. He would have a fit if you were to be caught in public not wearing it. Now, why were you talking to yourself?"
"Ohhh, it's just that... roasted pig with Malted Lamb Eyes... how could he eat those kind of foods and still not have a demon strangle him yet?"
"He's a moral man, dear. Obese... a bit overweight.... hasty at times... but a good man none the less. Be proud that you are his daughter, and remember that he loves you. Now hurry up. You still haven't done your hair yet. Now, hand me the brush, I'll give it its five thousand strokes."
* Maybe, Impa should have stayed a sage. Its not that I wish to part from her so soon but maybe she would treat me like a woman.... instead of a little chil..."
"OWWW!!"
"Sorry about that.... you had a tangle.... its gone now though."
*Then again, whenever I close my eyes at night, I still remember the days of long past eternity when a different world existed... when my father was assassinated and Ganon took the throne. But those days are long gone. It's time I forget them and just go on with my life. I feel terrible now. Poor Link, stuck with the mind of a 10 year old.... I in 24. Skipping the joys of seven years is hard enough but to relive it seven more? I should've wed by now.... unfortunately my father is alive to pick my paramour.... Link? Oh him.... he's usually out playing stickball or skipping stones. He still thinks I have kodies.*
"Zelda, have you been using those mulbron herbs? I told you not too. It ruins your roots."
"SO-RRY!!"
"Don't use that tone of voice young lady. Now come, lets go. Pip-pip, hurry up."
The two slowly descended down the stone staircase. One with a copy of the Book of Mudora, the other hand holding Zelda's hand, guiding her down the spiral way. Soon they reached the bottom of the immense staircase. A large stone door guarded her room to ensure that no evil would try and kidnap her. Impa placed her fingers in between her teeth and began to whistle the gentle song that was passed down for centuries. What was once a ballad to honor the dead on Kora Memorial Eve is now the sweet lullaby that her mother sang to her when she was born... hours before she died. Slowly but surely the door faded into a transparent curtain of air. Each time she passed by it, it filled her with vigorous sensation... do not ask why... it is just so.
Some believe that the door is filled with the royal spirits guarding her to incline why it's so strong. The more skeptical tend to believe it was one of Impa's Sheikah tricks so that she doesn't have to watch Zelda twenty-four hours a day. However, those opinions really don't matter at all. It works, doesn't it?
The two made their way, past the glass tiled Main room, through the red velvet hallways and towards the horse stable.
"Impa, why must we go all this way to just to ride a carriage fifty feet?"
"Zelda dear, why are you questioning me all of a sudden? These are rules.... and rituals.... that you have been doing since you were a little girl. Now please, proceed into the carriage, and not another smart mouthed comment from you till after church."
*Impa just doesn't understand. We use to be so close, but now.... well.... I just can't stand being with her. She's always there. When I turn, she is there. When I open the window, she happens to come in at that second. Why can't I be free? Then again, I use to enjoy these carriage rides. Back when I was a young girl. Too bad I was raised in a bubble back then. There is such a rush when you go off into the world dressed like a vigilante. Leaping from the shadows.... pillaging the rupees in which Ganon took from the people... and knowing you can get away with it all while wearing a piece of white tattered clothing.
Link... he's so lucky.... never having to worry about a whole kingdom depending on him again. Now he's out romping around.... here I am stuck in the same old place as my mother and her mother, her mother before that have. Now I know the reason why my father said mum loved to have balls every week, she got bored from sitting around here. *
One hour later...
"My highness, we are here," spoke a coachman as he shook her shoulder a bit. Zelda's eyes blinked a few times. Did she fall asleep? Maybe she shouldn't have stayed up so late last night. Oh that's right... she had to stay and read a story to Link cause he couldn't fall asleep.
"Zelda dear, come, we are late," spoke Impa as she tapped her cheek. Zelda wearily got up. A small slander of hair was brushed to the side as the coachman took her hand and guided her out of the carriage. Zelda nodded her head at the coachman and made her way towards the balcony.
That was the hard part. Swarms of common folk surrounded the trio as Zelda made her way towards the door.
"Good morn, my princess."
"Good morn, Philip."
"Would you like a pastry, princess? Hot and pippin fresh from the fire."
"No thank you, I've already had my meal."
"Keep your distance. The Princess is late and does not to be any more with your soliciting," spoke a solder as his battle worn spear pushed the crowds aside. Zelda sighed as she opened the door. Another long tower walk just to get to her special spot. Everyone else just goes through the doors. Small, tiny cobwebs dominated the ceilings in the passageway.
"MY PRINCESS!!! *CRUNCH*" Zelda shot her gaze towards the front. Apparently a Skullwalla made its way there. Zelda watched as the small green juices seeped from the impaled carcass. The guard hurried down below to dispose of it while servants on hands and knees willingly scrubbed the ivory steps to a pearly shine.
Through purple velvet curtains were three oak seats: one for Impa, one for Zelda, the other for Zelda's father. King Harnikan sat sleepily in the chair as Zelda took her spot.
"Father? Wake up, it's almost time." King Harnikan grumbled as he twitched his nose and opened his two tiny gray eyes. His whiskers seem to weaver as he felt the distaste in his mouth after the long nap.
"Daughter, were have you been? Have you overslept?"
"I'm sorry, forgive me, father. I just couldn't sleep last night. Queen Mabe seemed to be angry at me for the past few days sending nothing but terrible nightmares."
Harnikan's large soft hand reached for her shoulder, gently giving it a small squeeze.
"Aye, she too wants me to relive the death of your mother over and over at night for me," muttered the King as his eyes paled from the cold thoughts.
"But do not push yourself too hard."
"But, father I..." whined Zelda.
"Zelda dear?"
"Yes, Impa?"
"Why didn't you tell me about this sooner?" wondered Impa as her red lips glimmered in under the light.
Zelda pursed her lips. Why didn't she? Impa was her second mother. She never kept anything from her, never.... the basic fact was...."
"I... was scared..."
Impa let out a deep sigh.
"Well, why don't we talk about this later.... perhaps during lunch. Right now we must provide our full attention to Rauru. You know how much pride he takes in his speeches," spoke Impa as they watched the torch light die down to a golden glow.
An old, heavy man trudged his way towards a podium. A candle sat just above the podium where a book resided. The pages, 12 centuries old.... far too fragile to be opened again except by those who were blessed by a goddess as a child.
"Today.... marks the day.... of the five hundred anniversary.... of the day that the providence of Hyrule broke off the Cypress Territory. Our ancestors shed great amounts of blood so that so that their children could be free of the old ways of hierarchy. We continue to…
(ZZZZZZZ)
"…what the?! Oh, for Din's sake will someone PLEASE wake Link up!"
Zelda turned down towards the back row. There, sitting with his hand on his chin was the local Hero of Time. It was pretty hard to distinguish between him and the rest of the people without his green cap and tunic. He started wearing his lose white shirt with a green vest and some pants ever since he moved in at Lon Lon Ranch as a new hand. His hair was still long, with a part in the center and the front locks cropping his eyes. Yep, he tried to fit in.... but it was kind of hard to do that with a smartass pink fairy on your shoulder....
"LINK GOD DAMN IT!!! WAKE UP!!!" shouted the little fairy girl as she jerked on his gold hoop earring.
"OWW! Navi how many.... oh.... umm... heh...." Link began to blush a bright red as Zelda placed her hand in front of her face.
"Link..." Zelda muttered in a harsh growl; her words muted by her palm.
Link sank in his seat innocently as Rauru continued on with his speech.
Malon turned towards him with a stern look.
"Link, how many times have I told you not to stay up so late?" she rashly whispered to him as he twiddled with his fingers.
"Ain't my fault Wind Waker was hard… stupid Wind Temple."
"Link, don't use that sort of language here."
Link grumbled.
*giggling* went Navi as she sat on his shoulder.
Rauru sighed as turned the page.
*How is it possible that he was the same boy that I had sent out to save the world...* Rauru thought as he rolled his eyes back before beginning once more.
".... our men continue to sacrifice their lives just to protect the borders and build on the pacts with the other independent nations of the Cypress Territory. Let us take a moment of silence to honor those who have honorably fallen in battle, as they watch upon us from the Golden Land. For in paragraph 3, section G, line 3... 'Thou bloud spilt upun thy land, tis thou bloud thou creates life upon thou sacrificors'. When this country first separated from the Cypress Territory... Lord Cortina.... quote unquote... "Your country will never last. There is far too little lumber and irons for market... what will you do, sell your worthless minerals?' Those 'worthless' minerals... have proven the key to our more advanced race. Over the years we Hyrulians were able to harness the energies of these minerals.... some for good like our fair princess.... some with a darker purpose like Lord Dragmire of Gerudo Valley.
Now join me.... turn to page 989 for the poem.... 'Thwern de Rouse'
'Courage, Wisdom, Balance and Power,
Whert thou would thy bring?
Bearer of life's fruit,
Symbols of the goddesses
A unison repetition of the words filled the air. The women and children grasped their pendants that hung around their neck; a gift from he king from childbirth.
The men unsheathe their daggers and swords to lay the flat part upon their forehead as they chanted the poem to themselves.
A small grin cracked around Link's lips as he stared down to see his piece of the Triforce glow. He carefully pulled his sleeves down as to avoid notice. No one but Zelda, Navi, Rauru and he knew that the Triforce was gone from the Temple of Time, now separated into three.
He'd be dead by now from all the times he foiled Ganondorf, watching him time after time, attempting to steal it. Too bad he doesn't realize he has the strongest of pieces himself. Zelda had the Wisdom piece so she would never forget. As long as he held the Master Sword, he will never lose the most exhilarating memories of his life. Still, ohhh the temptation of walking up to the Gerudo King and start mocking about how hard he's worked and he's had it all along. He could have alot of fun with it. Unfortunately, he's not going to risk an entire kingdom just for a good jest.
"... And so, with that in mind, next week, we will discuss the three former Guardians of the Goddess Temples, Yokiro, Tokiro and Anhell. I bid you Good fortune, and may the holy goddesses protect you."
With that, all of the group got up and dispersed. Zelda stretched her long, tired, gloved arms in the air. Zelda looked over the balcony. Maybe she should talk to Link about this. Surely a boy who has traveled through time and a parallel world would understand what she envisioned. Link needed to know of it. But then again.... why is she always relying on him.
"Cause he saved your life about four or five times now," she rasped out silently ensuring that no one could hear her.
"What was that, daughter?"
"Oh.... father.... ummm, I was talking to myself.... father?"
"Yes?"
"May I go..."
"Descend.... the dignified word is 'descend'."
"Well, may I descend downstairs and talk to some of the commoners?" She asked as her hand held her father's in plea.
Harnickan thought diligently. A princess shouldn't spend so much time hanging around the lower class.... but then again, as his father have told him, 'A good ruler, knows his people, but a good kingdom has the people know its ruler'. Wise words of Lord Victor.
"Of course, but make sure you are back in time for piano lessons at two o'clock."
Zelda smiled and reached up to kiss her father on the cheek.
"Thank you, daddy."
"Zelda, it's 'father'... not 'pops', 'old man', or 'daddy'."
"*giggling* Of course, pops." Harnikan gave a small laughter.
*Always like her mother.* "Have a good time..... pumpkin."
"Oh father," she commented as she smiled then was gone.... excuse me 'descended' down. King Harnikan smiled as he sat back down.
"Who says, I cannot have a little fun," he spoke to himself proudly as he watched the people below.
As usual, the small groups were divided into cliques of the nobleman, middle-class, and the lower class.
"Maybe he should've stuck with the old tunic and tights," she spoke to herself as she made her way through the crowds. At least his looks stood out. Sky blue eyes, golden blond hair, a lean, built body.... it's like he's Prince Charming from a fairy tale.... if he would have better manners, stop cussing, and use so much slang. Zelda turned towards a corner to where a pink ball of light floated above a crowd of four.
"Well, maybe he won't be so hard to find after all." Zelda hastened her pace. There, she saw Talon, Ingo, Malon and...
"LINK!!" she cried as she saintly smiled. The man slowly turned. His hair was a bit longer to where a small part was tied in the back, with the same bangs that cropped his face. His skin was warmly tanned due to spending more time in the fields while his muscles have seem to tighten more.
*mmmm, I wouldn't mind watching him do his field work, without a shirt, sweating, rippling...*
"Oh, hey, Zel, what's up?" he spoke interrupting her fantasy. Zelda shot her eyes wide open for a second.
*Zelda, get those thoughts out of your head. They are inappropriate now that you are engaged to Prince Lance of Magenta.*
"Good afternoon, Link. I was wondering if you and I could... have lunch... I need to talk to you about something that's bothering me."
"PMS?"
"Link..."
"I'm kidding, okay, sure I'd love to come. I haven't seen you in awhile, be nice to talk to each other... ummm, are you paying?" he muttered shyly.
Zelda bit her lip playfully. "Yes Link… I wouldn't imagine having the poor man pay for lunch… everything's on me."
"GREAT!! Let's go to the Rib House All-You-Can-Eat Bar," he shouted as he grabbed her hand and shot out of the door.
The King turned towards the ground as he watched Link pulling Zelda by the hand. "GUARDS!"
"Don't worry Daddy! I'll be back in time for Piano lessons!" shouted Zelda as Link mischievously turns towards her and gives a wink. His hand reaches into his pouch and pulls out a Deku nut. His hand skillfully tosses it to the ground and clears the cluttered aisle way for them to exit the church.
Rauru sighed. "Perhaps, Samus would've made a better Hero of Time."
Chapter Two: Hey Zel, Are You Going to Eat That?
"Hey!! Wait for me!!" cried Navi as she flew behind the two. Navi panted as she finally reached the restaurant. With an easy glide, Navi flew threw the crack of the doors, just as a couple came out.
Link guided Zelda through the bar. She waved her hand a bit from the smell as she leaned against his shoulder.
"You okay?" he whispered towards her. His hand gently pulls one of her hairs back into place. A quick nod of her head was her answer.
"A little. I'm just not quite as use to the unpleasant scent of cigarettes and alcohol. Considering I've been in the castle life for so long." He brought his hands towards her forehead and wiped the sweat a bit from her face. He then knelt a bit keeping one hand at her knees and the other behind her neck. With a brief heave he lifted her up like a new bride and carried her over to a chair in the corner.
"There we go… Its not as bad over here. Now you sit there and rest… I'll go get our meals, and we can begin talking," he spoke as Zelda tossed a small bag of silver rupees in his hand.
"Thank you... umm, I guess I want a number 3," she spoke as she placed her hands on her lap. Link rose a brow.
"What? No salad today? What ever happen to watching your girlish figure?" he spoke as his hands gestured like an hourglass.
"Link, when I start having children, I won't 'HAVE' a girlish figure," she muttered back as her hands gestured back like a beach whale.
"Well don't you want to look pleasantly plump, then?" he spoke as his hands waved in the form of a pear.
"Link...."
"Come ON, Zelda. You've been depressed for the past few days. Lighten up. It ain't like Ganon is gonna take over Hyrule anytime soon. Come on… smile for me." Link formed an over-exaggerated grin. Zelda smirked a little. Link went down and patted her blond hair. "Good girl." With that, Link walked over towards a line.
Zelda humbly sat there. *Link seems to have matured a lot quickly than I thought.* He was honestly being playful instead of childish. Maybe that's the reason why deep down, she still wishes they were more… closer.
It must've been years since she sat in a bar. She was Sheik at the time when she first stepped in one. Even longer since she had a cigarette. Took her forever just to quit the habit. Especially since she herself was returned to her ten-year state.
"Ya two got hitched or somethin'?" Zelda turned towards a table. A black archer with Diadran armor sat lazily on a stool with a frothy glass of 1292.
"No.... I'm already engaged. He was just being a sweetheart... that's all." The archer placed her mug on the table.
"Oh, so he's available? Well send that boy over here so I can make a man out of him!!"
"Wait... you're female?" mumbled Zelda as she turned down to realize there was nothing down there.
"Damn straight. Name's Barba. Please ta met'cha." Zelda made a quick scan.
*Did I just mistaken her for a man? Probably cause she's the first to have a bald head and more muscle then a goron.*
"Hello... Barba.... I am Zelda... Princess Zelda. I do hope you enjoy your stay here in Hyrule."
Barba squinted at her. All of a sudden she threw back her head and about fell to the floor.
"HA!! What the bloody hell is a Princess doing here!" Zelda frowned.
"I beg your pardon.... but have you just accused me of lying?"
"YES!!" she snickered.
"Well, I'll have you know, your accusation is indeed false and if I must go out, fetch one of my guards to have you thrown in a dungeon for insulting me.... I-WILL!!" The woman stopped. Slowly, she got up towards her and grabbed her arm. She then pulled out a pair of eyeglasses and held it in front of a piece of her shoulder pads.
"Well son of a motherless goat.... that'd be 24 K of gold.... you are serious. Sorry for that little insult."
"It's okay.... by the way, what are you doing in Hyrule?"
"Girlfriend, don'cha know its Poe Hunting season!?! A lot of the warriors from my land is coming over since this place is in kneedeep shit with tham. Especially the rare ones."
"Rare ones..... you mean Big Poes?"
"No... hell no, I mean the ones that you can actually talk back too.... Trinity Poes....my king wants one for his daughters so he got yours truly.... THE best archer of all of Diadra. Hey there's your boyfriend coming back."
*He's not my boyfriend.... * she thought to herself as Link carried the two platters of food. There he laid a nice plate of fish with a glass of....
"Fruit Juice!?! Girl, are ya little old for that kiddy stuff.... put some alcohol in your blood. HEY YOU!!! A ROUND OF 1192 FOR HARNIKAN'S GIRL!!"
"Hey Zel, who's your friend?" asked Link as he jabbed a potato with his fork. Zelda sank in her chair a bit.
"Her name is...."
"Barba!! Barba of Diadra!! What's the owner of that cute little face be?"
"I'm Link... of Hyrule." He mumbled while pouring ketchup on meal.
"Hey, I've heard of you. Your the guy who got rid of that clan of Moblins out of my territory."
"Hell ya!! Let me you tell you something. They are the MEANEST some-of-a-bitches you will ever me..." Link shouted as he pounded his fist and switched his lingo into warrior talk.
"Umm Barba.... it was very nice to make your acquaintance.... but I need to talk to Link... personally," she spoke as she slit her fish open. Barba pulled herself up.
"Well okay. I'll let you two lovebirds keep to yaselves. Besides, ol' Barba has to reserve herself a room or I'll end up with my ass on the street."
With that, the hefty woman picked her bow up, flipped a few rupees on her table and made her way to the exit. Link and Zelda stared at each other.
"Hey Zelda?"
"Yes Link"
"What's a lovebird?" he asked as he shoved a potato down his throat. Zelda sliced a piece and inserted it in her mouth.
"Don't worry about it. Barba is probably one of those eccentric people who must've drunk too much. Now can we get to business? My piano lessons are in an couple of hours and I have so much to tell you."
Link squeezed a boyish smile as he picked up a cheese stick and bit the top off.
"Shoot."
Zelda smiled back as she took a sip of fruit juice.
"All right, now before I start.... will you promise not to jest at me?"
".... Umm... sure. But you get a better answer if I receive a small bribery."
"*Giggle* All right, well.... I think there's a ghost, a poe actually.... in my room." Link arched an eyebrow.
"But I thought the castle was blessed by the goddesses so no ghost can come into the castle?"
"Exactly! That is what I thought... but there is one. I saw it with my own eyes. I heard it... it spoke. That woman.... she said that at this point of the year, there is a type of poe that can speak back that are considered rare."
"It spoke? Why? Why now?" Link was confused. He thought he knew everything about poes from his dealings with the Poe Keeper.
" I don't know. That is the odd thing. I-just-don't-know. It looked different as well. The flame in its lantern was yellow..."
"Do you know what it said?"
"La..... Lauretta.... yes... it would just repeat the word over and over. But last night.... it changed... and said HOT!!! I've tried having a few guards stay with me all night but they cannot hear or see it. I've left a bottle of hot spring water but it would not accept it. I gave it a small torch but it still would not go away. I'm scared Link. You've dealt with this stuff before.... do you think you can help me?" she whispered. Link placed his hand under his chin.
"I'm not sure if I can do much. I'll try.... maybe I should stay with you this time. The afterlife is not a very good category under my department.... but I'll try. Dammit I'll try."
Zelda reached over and hugged his shoulders."Thank you... what time will I see you?" murmured Zelda as her eyes wavered up and down.
"How about.... 8'ish... but tomorrow." Zelda tilted her head a bit as Link touched her cheek.
"Tomorrow? Why tomorrow?"
"Eh, I gotta run Navi over to the fairy fountain.... it's...."
Chapter 3: Farm Life
"Bingo Night... he rather take a little girl out to waste her rupees by sitting around, marking numbers," her mind thought as her concentration deviated away from the piano.
Her hands floated above the keys like feather in the wind. Gentle taps of each ivory key filled the hall with a melody that seemed to warm a heart or two. A steady clap filled the air after her hands left the instrument. A stick figure of a man clapped as he straightened up his wig a bit.
"Bravo.... only royalty as yourself can fulfill sweet tunes. Have you been practicing?"
Zelda pulled the cover of the piano on top. Her head guilty drooped.
"Not really. I've been busy." The teacher crossed his arms.
"Zelda.... your father has paid good money for I; I travel very far just to see how you improved. There is a difference from being good.... and becoming better."
" I know.... I know.... I just can't sleep.... that's all. Besides, I impressed you... didn't I?"
"You have, but you disappointed me as well. I want you to put more dedication in your practices. Every princess must learn the piano. It shows great wisdom and pride."
*I have the Triforce on my hand.... is that not proof enough?* "Very well, I'll try harder next time," she curtsied to her piano master.
"Try? You will. Remember, you are a princess, and everyone expects the most out of you. Do you wish to disappoint them? Disappoint your father? Disappoint your mother...."
Zelda flashed a look of hurt at him. "Oh... I'm sorry... I forgot... " Zelda took out a piece of cloth and wiped her eyes.
"Tis alright. It was just a slip of tongue... excuse me; I need to leave to my quarters. You are dismissed." Zelda sighed as she lifted a part of her gown. Up the stairs once more. It was only the afternoon but yet the castle seemed far darker then usual. Paintings of the royal members hung one after the other.
"We should put more windows in here. I swear, using candles at 3 PM in the afternoon is simply ridiculous," she bitched as she placed the wick wax end over a flame above a torch. Zelda shivered to herself as she opened her door. Lying on the bed was the mysterious poe, sleeping soundly to its self. She slowly brought her hand to her lips. She could feel her blood run cold as her eyes gazed at its hideous body.
*What is it doing there!?! It's sleeping that's what. Do poes actually sleep?* Zelda crawled behind a table. The poe turned its head as it sleeply cradled the pillow.
"Lauretta," it whispered.
What does she do?
"Calm down Zelda.... all you have to do is smash its lantern and it will be gone from you forever. You won't even need Link this time." she spoke to herself as grabbed a broom handle. She sat herself down and pry off her high heels to prevent the clicking sound of her heels from cracking the silence around them. On her hands and knees, she crawled on the cold, stone floor. Too bad she no longer had her Sheik outfit on. Then she could perhaps roll from side to side with ease. Silent little ninja was she. Those days are gone. Now she's stuck as an uptight princess who faints at the slightest stench or upchuck at the sight of death.
"ZELDA WHAT IN DIN'S NAME ARE YOU DOING!?!" shouted King Harnikan as he opened the door.
"Father, keep it down, you'll scare it!" she rasped.
"Scare what?" he asked as he lowered his voice and pulled a dagger.
"The poe on my bed!!" she cried as she pointed to the ghost as it shot up.
"Poe? I don't see any!"
Zelda ran towards her canopy bed and began to beat the broom, attempting to strike it. .
"FATHER!! HELP ME!! DON'T LET IT ESCAPE!!" With that, she took the handle and slammed it against the mattress. Bits of feathers flew around as the poe floated to the air to vanish once again. Zelda turned towards him. A look of astonishment, confusion, and fear all spooned together enlightened his gray eyes.
"Zelda.... come with me to Rauru," he spoke as two guards came running up the stairs and grabbed her arms.
"Father please!!"
"Zelda, this is for your own good."
He watched as she screamed and clawed his men. He then rubbed his beard as he examined her room. His purple, velvet robes with gold ropes hung lightly on his shoulders. *First her lies about a commoner who was the true 'Hero of Time'. Honestly, what was she trying to pull? Everyone knows that the only one worthy of such a destiny would be a nobleman of great wealth and fortune... and not some street rat who feeds on stale bread and lived in a tree. *
"And now she is seeing things," he muttered. His precious daughter, his most prized item in the world is going mad. *Perhaps she is possessed? A demon soul claiming his daughter?* "Preposterous!! I'll spit upon such lies and crush it underneath my sole before I believe that such rubbish be true." He better leave for the church now. Curiosity has now embraced his mind.
"A Poe... here? Damn it to hell, if to be true."
A small floating figure watched as the old pudgy man exited the door. The apparition guided its way past a set of candles and to a window. Its marbled, white eyes gazed into the Lost Woods.
"Lauretta," it moaned as its small stick-like hand touched the window.
"Lauretta..... come... come HOT....."
Down at Lon Lon Ranch........
Link sighed as he heaved the large metal buckets over to the small aging barn. It was harvest time for Lon Lon Ranch. Lon Lon Milk was at its best at this point of time and demands a very high price. It also the busy time of the year as Malon hastily milked old Besse. Link placed the two buckets down and began to stroke the top crown of the cow.
"So what did you and Zelda talked about?" Link turned towards her.
"What do you mean?" he asked nonchalantly. Malon tucked in a small lock of red hair.
"You know... at the bar? Was she bitching about you falling asleep in the cathedral again?" Link shook his head.
"Nope, not this time. I was a bit surprised myself," he spoke as he pulled out a weed and began to chew on it between his teeth, leaning his forearms against the side of the beast of burden. "Besides, I don't think she would want me to talk to others about it since its a little.... weird."
Malon sat up from her stool and wiped the liquid off her hands.
"Oh, come on, you know me. I won't tell anyone. Maybe I can help? But could you help me get a bale of hay. I pulled my shoulder earlier from carrying some pottery."
"Oh sure," he replied as he ran over towards the far corner of the ranch. Square bundles were stocked on top of each other. Grabbing them by the wire he heaved them ontop of his shoulders. Taking a quick breather he carried them to the small herd and slammed them on the ground. "Well, it sounds weird... but Zelda thinks there is a talking poe haunting her in her bedroom."
"Hmmph," she replied. "Talking poes? Why would it be in her room? Especially since Nayru blessed it. Hmmm, so a few can talk, eh?"
Link shrugged his shoulders.
"I guess."
"*sigh* I hate poes. They are so....so..."
"Nasty? Creepy? Annoying?" interrupted Navi as she flew in between them.
"Exactly... they scare the cattle and horses, pillage the older houses and burn the fields. I say shove every bloody one of them back into their graves and toss a barrel of stone ontop," she spoke as she gritted her teeth to cut the metal wire with a cutter. Link walked over and helped her.
"Yeah, I know, I hate them too... but hey, a nice big one bags a lot of rupees. Plus they are a lot of fun to chase around. Scary to go outside by foot right now. Crazy poe hunters from all around are coming over... hate for one to mistaken me for one with Navi around... no offense," he spoke as he turned toward her. Navi smiled.
"None taken. Just don't fill my head with those sorts of images of you lying on the ground with a heap of arrows plugged into your gut because of an accident. Cause I... just don't want you to die...." Navi began to grow teary eyed. Link looked up and carefully clasped her out of the air.
"Oh, don't cry, Navi. You know me. We'll always be together. You sacrificed from becoming a Great Fairy to stick with me after what happened with Ganon. I can't ask for a more loyal person. So just hush," he spoke as Navi lowered her energies a bit. Her short purple hair gleamed a bit. Decked out with a tiny skirt and top with small mosaic tattoos on her arms, her violet eyes welled.
"Thank you," she replied as she buried her head into his shoulder. "I always thought you think of me as annoying," she whispered as dried her tears on his blouse.
"No..... you don't know how lonely it got after you left me and I had to move out of the Kokiri Forest due to my.... um growth. I'm glad you've stayed by my side. Someone to talk to, someone to trust." Navi turned towards him and smiled once more. She crawled upon his shoulder as Malon crossed her arms.
"So do you think that the talking poe thing is true?" she asked as she placed her finger on her lip. Link placed his hands in the air and shrugged.
"Who knows.... maybe she imagined it. Or dreamt it up. There could be a poe in her room but talking? Maybe she thought she heard it say something but it was some sort of groan from it. Oh, before I forget... I'm going to stay over at the castle tomorrow night."
"How come?"
"Well, I figured that her nerves would be a little more at ease if I was around. You know, a little security. It's like a sugar pill. It may make her feel better and convince her that it ain't there. Zelda feels confident, sleeps like a baby from now on… and all is well."
"I hope so.... I've seen her earlier.... she looks terrible.... well maybe not that bad but still a little tired then usual."
Link walked over to Coal and pulled out a brush.
"Yeah... me too," Link stroked the midnight dark coat with a gentle ease. Life was different now that he had a place to call home. He could still remember the tough times he went through during the Age of Dragmire. Forced to go days without a bite to eat.... filthy water.... rainy days sans shelter. Now all he does is earn his keep on the ranch. He's gotten a little use to Ingo.... although he still thought he was a jerk and vice versa. Talon was one of the best beer buddies he had ever had and every time the sky is clear and the stars would shine down.... he and Malon would just sit on a couple of crates. She would sing while he would be tooting on his ocarina. It's nice to have a good amount of security. He felt so relax now, that simple rides from Hyrule town and back gives him a nice feeling deep inside. At first he was rather disappointed that no one knows of what 'really' happened during the real seven years but after watching the country prosper so well, he began to feel a healthy sense of pride within.
The horse began to nuzzle its nose against the side of his cheek. A small chuckle escaped from his lips has he gentle pushed it aside.
"I guess growing up with the Kokiri helped you get along with animals easier."
"A little bit, but don't forget, Malon, you have been around them since birth."
Malon smiled as she pulled a piece of grass out of its mane. It was true, though. It looked more like she could practically talk to them, but still understand her. "So... who's Coal gonna go to?" asked Link, pulling a chunk of hair out of the brush.
"Prince Lance of Magenta. He's to marry Zelda in two weeks so we must bring them a gift." Link went silent for a second.
"Wow.... didn't realize a princess had to be married that early in her life," he spoke lightly. Link knelt down to the hooves and began to check on their horseshoes. Maybe he was a little sick from the thought. That would mean she would become a queen. Always being guarded 24-0. He won't be able to be with her as much.... she would be too busy running the country.
Malon walked over towards the house.
"Hey Link, I'm gonna prepare dinner, is there anything you have in mind?" she asked as she leaned against the door. Link turned towards her.
"Ummm, I'm not hungry, thank you. I'll just stay here a bit longer to groom Coal."
"All right, but don't stay up too late like last night."
"I won't."
Link stood there. He sighed as he laid his head and forearms ontop of Coal's back. All his friends... seem more and more less in-tied with his life now. He was just a freelance solder now. Not THE legendary Hero of Time. The world was hardly in danger of being conquered right now. Now he just watches Zelda send some solders... then he would have to come and save their asses.
*Just like saving the carpenters, over and over.*
They had to learn. Zelda knows that she couldn't rely upon him all the time. The solders must be ready to defend Hyrule if he was to ever fall in battle. But he didn't care. There were worse things then death. He could be forgotten.
"Coal, be glad you are a horse and don't have to worry about this stuff," he spoke as he patted its side. A slight leap and a throw, to mount the horse to the Lost Woods. "Might as well get you some exercise out of you before it gets too cold. HEY NAVI! You got your cards and rupees?"
"Sure do. Hope you don't mind me bringing your lucky Pikachu foot."
Link raised a brow.
"Didn't you say that when you took my shrunken Charmander head and lost it a week later?" Navi flew over and hugged his cheek.
"Pllllleeeeaasssee!! I promise I'll give it back," she begged as she fluttered her tiny eyes while kissing the side of his face over and over. Link's eye shifted towards her. Link shook his head and smiled a bit.
"Oh, all right, but make sure you get it back on my dresser when we come back."
"Thank you," she giggled.