Inspiration: The Minuet of the Forest from OoT; forests; the 'Master Sword' (this is where the joke originally came from); integration of two worlds; and Twilight Princess.
Original Shouts: JadusTheDragonMaster, link, freecooper, Paul, EvanEssence, Terry, OdnetninAdlez, and The Pilot
New Shout Outs: Vivi3030, TellaStory, Shocktop, Riddle-me-this, and WhiteHero thanks reading and reviewing new readers.
Author Note: Reedited 4/9/2012 ADDENDUM 1/3/2013- This chapter has the added element of Saria's POV, and a scene at Lon Lon Ranch that the first draft did not have, please enjoy. I got rid of the Shakespearean language. ~ZR~.
Chapter 4
I see you…traitor.
Who can a person trust when everyone suddenly becomes a suspect?
I see you…traitor.
I couldn't get that message out of my head.
Who do you see assassin? I pondered. Who's the traitor?
I spent the next ten weeks tracking clues in the countryside and in the mountainous regions. Everything led to a dead end. The whole matter was unsettling. Two and a half months of searching, and it seemed as if this 'would be' assassin had vanished. There wasn't another letter. There wasn't another attack. There wasn't another anything that warranted anyone to believe that the killer was still around.
He just disappeared.
Even still, the words of the message echoed through my mind: I see… you traitor.
Who was that letter addressed too? I thought. Had a spy infiltrated the military? Were there some other factions involved? Why was whoever the killer was addressing considered a traitor?
These questions were swirling through my mind, and driving me mad. I had no answers, and no way of getting any answers in my current manner of doing things. If I wanted to find the killer, and know if this threat were still tangible, I needed to revert back to my rogue way of working. Protocol and bureaucracy was getting in the way of getting the job done. The question was: how was I going to make that happen?
I would seriously have to tread softly if I did anything remotely like that, I thought.
When I was just the hero, I had to answer to no one other than myself. Now that I worked for the royal family, that wasn't a viable option. As a knight, I had to look at things from a non-prejudice, unbiased view point, and that was proving hard with all of Daphnes' secrets. Also, there was even the unthinkable to still consider regarding the letter. That message was shot into the throne room, so it was intended for the royal family to find. The problem I was having was which family member was supposed to find it. I had Daphnes pegged from the beginning, but I couldn't just completely disregard Zelda because I was engaged to her. That message may have been addressed to her. It all depended on the context of what this crazed lunatic considered betrayal. Assassins often had strange insights.
That's why I need to find him and question him, I thought.
I knew it was a far reaching premise, but I had to consider all alternatives. The royal family had a shoddy history at best. Who knew how many secret enemies they had; enemies that may have once been allies of the country. Whatever the case, there was something real out there and it was coming, I could feel it.
The past always has a way of catching up to the present, I thought.
I sent out platoons to patrol the surrounding areas under the guise of the threat of Ganondorf's return. If word got out that a new, slash old, threat was on the horizon, panic would spread throughout the land. I hated the fact I couldn't be completely honest with the citizens, but given the circumstances, I really had no choice. Even still, it made me feel like another underhanded politician.
So, this is what it's like to be king of Hyrule, I thought of the unsavory feeling, this feeling doesn't suit me… not at all.
I knew Zelda could sense a change in me too. She knew I was distant, even more so than I used to be. When I was with her it was still like we were apart. She would try to make casual conversation while we dined together, or whatever activity we were doing, and I found myself not paying attention. Also, two of the past ten weeks I hadn't seen her at all. I was preoccupied in some field assignments. Zelda pretended like it didn't bother her, but I knew it did, and I did feel guilty for not giving my all to her the way she deserved. I couldn't blame the letter and work completely on that. I admittedly had another woman on my mind: that pretty seamstress from Kakariko Village. I knew I was wrong for that, but it was the truth.
It is what it is, I thought.
I hadn't seen Saria in over two months, even though when I last saw her I promised her I'd be back in a few days. I was so busy with everything else I just didn't have the time for a visit. It didn't mean I didn't want to see her, and that I wasn't thinking about her though. I was thinking about her a lot, maybe even more than I should have been. Even still, she was probably glad I wasn't around to bother her. I could potentially cause her a great deal of problems if I saw her the way I wanted to.
It's a good thing you've been busy Link, I told myself.
Anyway, somehow through it all, I found that Saria was a solace for my troubled thoughts. I knew that Zelda should occupy that place in my mind, but for whatever reason she just wasn't. It didn't mean I didn't care about the princess, and it didn't mean that I didn't feel love for her. That wasn't the case, I cared about Zelda very much. However, when I simply wanted a thought without any compromise or drama, I thought of Saria. I didn't know why, I just did.
Maybe it's because I think of her as a kind of kindred spirit, I thought. She was someone whom I could understand. She was an orphan like me, and she didn't garner any privileges in her simple life.
A simple life.
I paused for a moment when that thought went through my head. If I were given the chance to do it all over again, I would have chosen to live a much more simple life, one without espionage and intrigue. It was much easier to go to sleep at night with a clean conscience, than with one riddled with secrets and lies.
I feel like my concerns are going to spill out of my head onto my pillow, I thought.
It seemed like a silly thought, but that was the truth. However, it shouldn't be mistaken that I didn't want to fight for Hyrule. That wasn't the case. I would always fight for Hyrule. It was just this life of secrets and lies was getting to me.
It would get to anyone, I thought.
Even still in the case of Saria, if the citizens knew what I was thinking they would consider my thoughts a betrayal to Zelda. However, I didn't see it that way. I wasn't outright pursuing this woman with any romantic intentions. Although, I wasn't going to lie, I was physically attracted to her, and I knew I needed to be careful of that. I simply saw her as an oasis from the deceptive world I was living in.
It was strange, because I didn't know why. I didn't know Saria that well. I didn't know very much about her. I didn't know where she was from, and I didn't know anything about her family or her life standings. In all honesty, there wasn't very much for me to draw on in terms of why I thought about her so much. Even still, I thought she was funny and beautiful. My goddess, she was beautiful. She was mysterious. She was comfortable. She was all these little things that painted a pleasant picture in my head.
Tekkites eating raw meat, I thought, shaking my head at the silly joke she had told me once before.
I smiled when I pondered over that. However, my smile slowly faded when I realized she was still just a girl, a girl in serious need of a friend. She had no one but the old man, and he was more of a father to her than anything. And there was also the issue of her lost memories. Saria had no recollection of her past and that was a shame, because no one should wander through life wondering who they are.
I want to see if I can help her, I thought, maybe if I take her some places throughout Hyrule it'll help trigger something in her mind.
I made a resolve and definitely wanted to do that for Saria when the time allotted for it. However, I still had my obligations to the other woman in my life. Zelda was planning our engagement party. It was coming up in two months, and I knew the princess was eager to have some alone time with me. Even though I was spending a great deal of time with her when I could, with the exception of these past two weeks, we were always under the watchful eye of a chaperone. I knew how much Zelda hated being chaperoned, especially at age twenty-five. Even still, I understood why it was necessary and it never bothered me, but I promised her tomorrow afternoon, just the two of us.
I'll make sure nothing happens, I thought with a grin.
I continued riding, and thought I saw a scout in my periphery following me on my left side. It turned out to be mostly my imagination, but not entirely. There were some riders out and about, but they weren't following me. They were heading in the opposite direction to Gerudo Valley, looking for who knows what. I hadn't given them orders to look for anything in the desert, and that's when I knew the king's watchful eye was getting evermore watchful.
Daphnes… I thought, but let my mind trail.
I noticed on a regular basis, guards being placed in areas where I hadn't ordered. The alleys were double booked. Scouting assignments were being handed out without my notice. Certain factions of the personal guard to the king, which I was head of, was being dispatched without my permission. It was blatant things like that that made my job harder to do. It was no matter though, I knew it was decreed by his majesty, and that was his right. Daphnes was the king after all, and I knew he didn't trust me.
Why would a control freak trust someone they can't control? I thought.
I was okay with Daphnes not trusting me, because I didn't trust him either.
One day Daphnes your secrets are going to implode inside of you, I thought, I just hope you don't live to regret it.
All of my thoughts and introspection led me to Kakariko Village and the dress shop. I decided I would visit Saria and see how she was doing before I got back to my life of espionage. It was time for me to be fitted for my garments anyway. I had put it off long enough. I opened the door to the modest business and removed my characteristic green hat. I saw Saria standing behind the counter.
When she saw me she smiled, a big warm smile… seriously. I smiled back, relieved she was looking and feeling better.
"There you are," she said to me with a bright disposition.
I looked at her surprised.
What in the-? I cut my thoughts off.
"I was wondering when you were going to come back," she said to me.
I looked at her puzzled, and almost turned around to see if she was talking to the right individual.
"You were looking for me?" I asked.
Saria involuntarily blushed when I said that and shrugged.
"Yes and no," she began, "I wasn't really looking. I just remember you saying you were going to come back and see me a little while ago."
I was genuinely surprised she missed me.
I guess maybe I should have kept that promise, I thought, but after the way we interacted last time, I hardly expected a reaction like this.
"I'm sorry," I said sincere, "I had some business to attend to. I've been very busy over these last couple months."
She fanned off my reply with a gesture of her hand, and shook her head.
"That's alright," Saria said, "I can understand that, I know you've been busy. At first, I thought maybe you found another seamstress," she divulged. "I was thinking 'oh no I lost one!'"
I grinned at her explanation. I was glad she was back to her old self. I liked that funny lady I first met. Saria then came from around the counter, and I noticed she was walking much better.
That healed nicely, I thought.
"Your leg looks much better," I stated.
"Yes," she replied with a smile, "I just needed to be off of it for a little while. Gramps actually made me close up shop for three weeks."
The bazaar owner looked up from his book just then.
"And it's a good thing too!" the elderly gentleman segued. "Imagine trying to work with a swollen ankle."
Oh, I can imagine, I thought, I've actually done it.
I grinned over at the bazaar owner, when surprisingly Saria came up to me, untied my cloak, and tried removing it for me. Her fingers brushed against my neck, but that didn't deter her from trying to help me.
"You look so uncomfortable with those heavy wears on," she said.
I raised my eyebrows slightly at her forward action, and intercepted her from taking it off.
"I've got it," I replied, "thank you though."
Saria drew back only a little at my words. She stared into my eyes a little longer than I think even she intended to.
"Oh... okay," she replied, "sorry."
I grinned.
"There's no need to apologize," I replied, "I appreciate you trying to help."
Is this the same girl I left a couple months ago? I wondered, trying to figure out what had gotten into her.
Saria clasped her hands together and raised her eyebrows.
"Shall I get you fitted?" she asked me softly.
I nodded my reply, not meaning to be, but was a little alerted to her sudden friendly manner.
Maybe she's always this way and it's just me, I thought, she was very kind to me the first time I met her.
I left it to that, and tried to let the matter go.
"So," she said to me, pulling out a measuring tape, "are you excited about the big day?"
I shrugged, trying not to be too nonchalant about it. I remember what that afforded me last time.
No repeats Link, I thought.
"I guess so," I replied.
Saria gave me a funny look as she wrapped the measurement around my waist.
"You guess so?" she repeated, and then marked the thirty-two inch measurement down on a piece of paper.
"Yeah," I said, "I just want it to come and get it over with."
Saria scoffed.
"Well, you're a killjoy," she said of my lack of enthusiasm, "spread your arms out for me please."
I did as I was told and she measured my wingspan: six feet eight inches.
I did say that with a pretty dry undertone, I thought.
"It's not that I'm not excited," I said, trying to save some grace, "it's just very stressful."
Saria nodded, but was preoccupied.
"Wow, you're tall;" she said to herself, and then directed to me, "that's strange coming from a man. I usually hear things like that from the bride."
I guess maybe it was, but I had my reasons.
"You don't have a king as a soon to be father in law," I added.
Saria smiled at my recourse.
"That's true, but you'll do fine," she said, "you're already showing your capabilities by being an excellent knight."
I smiled genuinely at her sense of confidence in me.
It's nice that she's so thoughtful, I pondered, she really tries to put her customers at ease.
"That's very considerate of you," I said to her, and then dropped my voice a little, "thank you."
I suppose my tone caught her off guard, because she blushed again. She paused for a moment and smiled up at me, her fingers stroked subtly over the front of my tunic, but she caught herself and pulled her hand away.
"You're welcome," she replied.
We fell silent for a few moments. Saria cleared her throat, and continued with her measurements.
Why are we having such a hard time communicating after our initial contact? I wondered. These past two months couldn't have put this much of a strain between us.
Saria seemed in tandem with my thoughts because she finally broke the silence.
"I... uh I wanted to thank you for what you did for me over a couple months ago," Saria said to me, not looking at my face now. "If you hadn't been there when those thieves showed up, I don't know what would have happened."
I smiled at her again.
"You're welcome, and don't worry about it," I said, "thanks for not freaking out about me following you."
Saria laughed lightly at my comment. She had deep throaty laugh. I merely grinned and we became silent again so Saria could finish all of my measurements. I didn't understand why, but a nervous anticipation came over me just then.
What's this all about? I wondered of the feeling.
I looked at Saria's concentrated face and furrowed brow, and knew she was trying make sure all her numbers were just right. I was glad she took her job serious, however, that wasn't what was making me so eager.
I wonder if the decree for the ceremony was for everyone, I thought, if not, I'd like to invite her.
"Are… are you going to come to my wedding Ms. Saria?" I asked, breaking the silence.
Saria looked up at me surprised.
"I'm sorry?" she inquired.
I looked into her eyes for a moment.
I guess I did ask that out of the blue, I thought.
"Are you coming to my wedding?" I asked again. "I would really like for you to be there."
Saria's eyes widened slightly.
"You want me to come to your wedding Sir Link?" she reiterated making sure she heard me right.
I nodded.
Saria hesitated for a moment.
"Isn't it invitation only?" she asked.
I shrugged at that.
"I can get you the stationery if you want me to make it official," I said.
The surprise in her eyes never went away. She looked over at the bazaar owner then back to me.
"I... don't know what to say," she replied.
I chuckled at her.
"Say you'll come," I replied, "you can pretend to be a noble from a far off country."
That garnered another smile from her, but she shook her head.
"I'm…" she started, "I'm just a peasant girl Sir Link. No one would ever believe I was a noble, I have no business around royalty."
My own smile faded for a moment, and I stared into her eyes. Her words affected me in a very abrupt way. I hated the thought of a friend of mine feeling out of place because of silly class distinctions. It made me think if my own parents were alive would they feel the same way. The emotion I felt was even sharper and more poignant than even I was expecting, and it must have showed.
"You're not just a peasant girl," I said to her, "you're my friend."
Saria looked at me surprised, then took a step back and looked to the floor.
"Sir Link..." she trailed, not finishing.
I raised my eyebrows at her nonexistent reply.
Am I thinking too much into this? I thought. Do I have the wrong idea?
"You are my friend aren't you?" I asked, not wanting to assume anything.
Saria's face turned crimson, and she still wouldn't look at me, however, she nodded.
"Yes," she replied, "I... I suppose I am."
My expression softened a little.
"Well, then you have to come to my wedding," I insisted.
Saria fell quiet for a moment, then grinned at me as if she rationalized the quandary in her head.
"I... I would love to come to your wedding Sir Link," she said to me finally. "I bet it'll be fantastic."
I nodded.
"It will be," I replied.
I noticed out of the corner of my eye the bazaar owner eavesdropping on our conversation. The elderly man had been eyeing us with open suspicion since our conversation began.
If I were anybody else he wouldn't care, I assumed, then suddenly an idea came to mind. Wait a minute... maybe I could...
It was about midmorning, and the rest of the day was pretty much free for me since I finished all of my patrolling duties early. I hadn't told Zelda about that because I wanted to have an evening alone for myself. However, I now saw that I could take this free time and possibly seize a rare opportunity.
Maybe I can help Saria with her memories, I thought, maybe if she has a guide to certain places something will click.
"How many more appointments do you have today?" I asked Saria all of a sudden.
She gave me a thoughtful look just then.
"None," she said, "just you, I was going to do some marketing today... why?"
Perfect, I thought.
"Good," I said, "I want you to close up after we're done here, so I can take you some place special."
Saria's eyes widened and she looked at me surprised. She turned to look at the bazaar owner who was still staring at the both of us. I honestly didn't care. This wasn't what he was thinking.
All I want to do is help her sir, I thought of the gentleman's concern, that's all.
"Uh…" she trailed, trying to decide if she should say yes or not, "I really can't, I need the money."
I shrugged and looked at her undeterred. I opened my satchel and pulled out my giant wallet, in it I took out a thousand rupees and put it on her counter.
"There," I said with finality, wanting no other excuses, "that should cover my fee and what you were anticipating throughout the day, right?" I asked.
Saria looked at me shocked.
"A thousand rupees?" Saria said to me in disbelief. "That's-that's way too much!"
I looked at her determined.
"Are we on?" I asked.
Saria looked back to the counter at the money, and then back to me.
"Uh…" she trailed, trying to figure out what she should do, she looked back over at the bazaar owner, "gramps?"
The elderly gentleman looked between the two of us carefully, and seemed to casually shrug. However, I saw the unease in his eyes.
"It's not my decision Saria," he said to her, "it's yours."
Saria turned back to me and bit her lower lip. She was quiet for a moment, then slowly nodded.
"…Okay," she replied quietly, "I'll go."
I felt my face break into a smile.
"Really?" I said surprised, expecting her to refuse.
She nodded.
"Really," she replied and smiled back.
My smile broadened.
"Great," I said, "I just need to square away a few things, and I'll be back for you in an hour."
Saria nodded again.
"Okay," she said quietly.
I headed for the door, but she stopped me for a moment.
"Sir Link…" she called to me softly.
I paused thinking she was going to change her mind.
Here it comes, I thought.
"Yes?" I asked, not turning around.
Saria paused before she asked her question.
"Why… why do you want to take me wherever it is you want to take me?" she asked me.
I turned to look at her just then.
"I recall you saying something about not remembering where you were from," I stated, "I want to help you get your memories back, and I think I know a good place to start." She characteristically blushed at my comment, I grinned and added, "I've never seen a woman blush so much before in my life."
Saria raised her hands to her cheeks to try and downplay the color.
"I know, it's so embarrassing," she replied, but then added, "…and thank you. Thank you for wanting to help me."
I stared into her eyes just then.
I'm selfishly doing this for my own sake too, I thought.
"You're welcome," I said, then opened the door, "I'll see you in an hour."
I turned to nod at the bazaar shop owner, he merely nodded back with a very familiar expression of confusion on his face.
I then left.
~SSS~
Saria's POV
Well, that was interesting, I thought, I'm so glad he finally showed back up, but I wasn't expecting any of that. He wants to help me with my memories? I didn't think he was coming back.
I watched as the door closed behind Sir Link and smiled. I then glanced over at gramps who was looking at me with a raised brow. I sighed, knowing he probably didn't approve of what just took place.
What now? I thought, already knowing the answer.
"What's the matter?" I asked.
Gramps looked to the door then to me again.
"You know very well what the matter is Saria," he accused.
I pursed my lips together, not in the mood to be lectured, but knew it was coming.
"Enlighten me gramps," I said.
He shook his head just then.
"Are you sure you should be gallivanting with that young fellow?" he asked. "Don't you think that would look... odd?"
I groaned and looked away from my friend, not wanting to see his reasoning, but I knew he had a point.
That isn't the best situation for me to be in, I thought, especially when I know he's well known throughout the land.
I tried to segue anyway.
"You heard our conversation," I said, "he just wants to help me."
Gramps took in a deep breath and shook his head again.
"Saria you know as well as I do, there's more to it than that," he stated, "I've seen you watch that door in anticipation for that young man's return for weeks now. Every time someone new came in, you would be disappointed. I just don't want you to set yourself up for heartache."
I thought he was reading too much into this.
He's just a friend, I thought, that's all.
"I'm not setting myself up for heartache," I insisted, "he said it himself, he just wants to help me. He has no other intentions than that. He wouldn't talk about his fiance if he were ashamed of her, or wanted something else from me. You're worrying for nothing gramps."
My old friend looked at me with open cynicism.
"Saria," he said, "I don't think you should go," he said outright. "You've only met him a few times. You don't know anything about him."
I put my hands on my hips when he said that. I felt like now he was beginning to treat me like a child. There was no need for that. I was a good judge of character.
I'm not going to run away and elope with him, I thought.
"He saved my life gramps," I divulged, "and that isn't true, I do know some things about him. He's a knight, he's engaged, and he's a nice, serious person. He hardly seems like the type of man to play around with a girl he doesn't know."
The old man shook his head again.
"I'm not saying he isn't a nice young man," he stated, "on the contrary, he seems like a wonderful catch for any young lady. And if he weren't engaged, I would actively encourage a courtship between the two of you. However, I don't think it's wise for two people to go anywhere alone who are obviously attracted to each other."
I blushed when he said that.
"Gramps-" I tried.
"Don't deny it Saria," he interrupted, "you like that young man, more than you're letting on, but my dear you have to think about your reputation. You're a single woman with no ties to anyone in Hyrule. You're one of the prettiest creatures to grace this dreary little mountain village since who knows when, and you live amongst fickle people who would turn on you in a heartbeat. If you go with that knight, there's no telling what they would say about you."
I sighed and bit my lower lip.
He does have a point, I thought, but if Sir Link can help me get my memories back then I think it's worth the risk.
Gramps saw the look on my face and was encouraged by it, thinking I was seeing things his way.
"And then there was that display with the money," he went on, "does he think he can buy you because you're a simple girl? You are worth more than a thousand rupees!"
Now, I thought he was taking it too far. Link wasn't propositioning me with that money. I honestly thought it was a gesture of goodwill. I knew gramps had his worries, but I didn't think they were warranted in the instance of Sir Link. I didn't know why, but I felt like I could trust him completely, even with the little time I'd known him.
I wonder why that is, I thought.
I walked over to gramps's counter and gave him a hug.
"I'm so glad you worry about me," I said in his ear, "but I think you're worrying too much in this case. He only wants to help me, that's it."
Gramps shook his head.
"Saria-" he tried.
Reassure him Saria, I thought.
"I'll be back before it gets late," I promised, "that way you won't have to worry."
He was silent for a moment and sighed, then shook his head.
"You're so stubborn," he said.
I smiled when he said that, and pulled back to look at him.
"I can't help it," I said, "I get that from you."
That got a reluctant smile from him.
"Curse me for being so concerned over you child," he said.
I chuckled when he said that.
"I wouldn't want you to be cursed gramps," I said, "what would I do without you?"
He pat my hand when I said that.
"Alright, you win," he said, "just be careful, okay?"
I reached up and caressed his worried, weathered cheek.
"I will," I said, "thanks for caring so much."
With that, I hurried to change. Link was going to be back in an hour.
I don't want to keep him waiting, I thought.
~SSS~
Castle Town: Link's POV
I rode Epona back to Hyrule Castle Town and hurried to my villa. I went in and retrieved an old map of Kokiri Forest. I always kept it, knowing it would be of some use to me some day. I tried leaving my home without being noticed, but unfortunately two guards caught sight of me and approached me.
"Sir Link?" one of them called.
I tried to avoid making eye contact and started for the draw bridge.
"Sir Link?" the soldier called again.
Damn, I thought with slight frustration, and stopped in my tracks.
"Yes?" I replied finally, and turned to face them.
The two men hesitated for a moment because of my manner. I tried not to let my irritation show, but apparently that wasn't working.
"Sir, the princess is looking for you," the other divulged.
Now? I thought.
I groaned.
"What does she want?" I snapped.
Both guards looked at me surprised and weren't sure if they should answer.
"Um-I'm afraid we don't know sir," the other said, "we were just told to let you know when we saw you."
I ran a hand through my hair irritably, and started for the castle.
"Thanks," I muttered as I walked by.
I saw out of the corner of my eye the bewildered look on the guards faces. I hurried through the castle gates and into the garden where I knew Zelda would be. She turned when she saw me approach, she had a relieved expression on her face. I bowed mechanically, wanting to hurry through the pleasantries.
Saria's waiting for me, I thought with impatience.
"Good morning Link," Zelda said to me quietly.
"Good morning," I replied.
She pointed to a table and I went to have a seat. I sighed a little out of frustration, hoping this wouldn't take long.
What is it now? I wondered.
Zelda took note of the expression on my face.
"Is everything okay?" she asked me sitting down.
I raised my eyebrows at her.
"No," I replied, trying not to make my tone too short with her.
Zelda stared at me for a long moment. She knew there was something not right with me. She was also well aware I didn't like being called out of service impromptu like this.
"What's the matter?" she asked me.
What's the matter? I wondered aggravated.
I groaned.
"I'm trying to protect the country, my love," I replied in a snide fashion.
Zelda looked at me for a long moment, as if absorbing my rude tone. It wasn't necessary for me to be so incensed with her, she didn't deserve that.
"Link, please tell me what's going on with you," she asked me gently, "you seem so distracted these days."
I cleared my throat.
That's an understatement, I thought.
"It's not you," I replied, "I'm just… I'm just busy."
She stared at me again.
"Busy?" she inquired with a hint of disbelief.
I raised an eyebrow at her questioning me.
"Yes," I replied, "busy," I repeated. "You know… patrolling the kingdom, making sure no one gets assassinated, things like that."
I knew she would catch the hint of sarcasm in my voice.
Why am I doing this? I thought. It's only going to make the situation worse.
"Oh really?" Zelda replied to me quietly. "Is that all that's occupying your time? There's nothing else you care to share?"
There was a hint of knowing in her tone. I paused and looked at her suspiciously for a moment.
What does she mean by that? I thought. What's she getting at?
"No," I said, "why?"
Zelda looked away, and I saw tears forming in her eyes.
"No reason," she said quietly.
Now she had my full, undivided attention. I reached across the table, and took her hand into mine and squeezed it.
"Zelda," I said, "what's the matter?"
She wiped her eyes and squeezed my hand back.
"Do you love me Link?" she asked me all of a sudden, her voice was trembling.
I sat back in my chair, a little on edge.
Oh boy, I thought, where is this coming from? Why now?
"Yes Zelda, I love you," I said honest.
I didn't feel like I was lying to myself, I did love her. I watched Zelda close her eyes and sigh in relief. She then took my hand and pressed her lips against my knuckles.
"Thank you for telling me," she whispered, "I just needed to hear it from you. I felt like I haven't heard that from you in forever."
I squeezed her hand again.
She must be feeling terribly lonely right now, I thought, I haven't spent any real time with her in over two weeks.
"I haven't been very attentive towards you lately, have I?" I divulged.
Zelda shook her head no.
"But I understand," she added quickly, "I know you've got many things on your mind."
I raised my brows and sighed.
"That's no excuse," I said to her, feeling guilty, "I should always make time for you."
She took in a deep breath, almost as if I had liberated her doubts by saying that. She smiled at me and held my hand to her face.
"I do love you so Link," she said to me, kissing my knuckles again, "if only… if only I could show you."
I paused for a moment. I raised my eyebrows at her suggestive proposal and gave her an obvious stare.
Wait a minute... I trailed my recourse.
"You have been," I said, wanting to get her mind on other things. "You're supportive and you're caring. I wouldn't know how to deal with the king without you."
She grinned and looked deeply into my eyes.
"That's sweet Link, but you know what I mean," she whispered suddenly.
I swallowed hard.
Oh goddesses, I thought, and she wonders why her father wants us chaperoned. If it were up to her, there would be another Link or Zelda running around the castle already, married or not.
I wish I could say I was exaggerating, but I have been alone enough with this woman to know she could be very rambunctious... very.
"Yes, I'm afraid I do," I replied, trying to reason with her, "and we'll be married soon enough."
Zelda looked down and caressed my hand with her thumb.
"I don't want to wait that long," she divulged.
I'm afraid you're going to have to, I thought.
"Zelda-" I tried.
"Father's not here," she interrupted me, staring into my eyes, "I've sent my servants on a task. It's just you and me. We're completely alone."
I narrowed my eyes slightly when she said that.
"His majesty is gone?" I asked, detracting the subject.
"Yes," Zelda replied with a nod.
I sat back in my chair, looking a little unsettled with that fact.
Where in the world did the king go off to? I wondered, unintentionally sidetracking.
"Did he say where he'd gone?" I asked.
Zelda shook her head no.
Why in the world would he take off now? I wondered. And with a killer after him?
I was lost in my thoughts, when Zelda got up from her seat and walked over to me, reminding me of why she called me there. She stroked her fingers through my hair when she sat down on my lap. She then leaned over and kissed me. It was a soft, sweet kiss. I was working hard to keep it that way.
She just needs some attention Link, I told myself, don't let this get out of hand.
When the kiss got a little deeper, I had to pull away. Zelda tried to resume it, but I stopped her.
"Oh, come on Link," she said in a low voice, "stop being so chivalrous all the time."
I grinned at her saying that. I knew why she was so enamored with the idea of wanting to make love to me. A few summers ago we got a little too caught up in one of our intimate moments, but I stopped it from going any further. Needless to say, I left one hell of an impression with how far I went with her. I was always a man in control. That summer day was the first time Zelda had ever seen me almost out of control.
I can't let that happen again, I thought, if Daphnes had any idea I almost deflowered his virgin daughter, he would have my head... and I'm not talking about the one on my neck.
"Zelda…" I said, having to exercise serious self control, "think about what you're asking me."
She stroked my hair again, and stared into my eyes.
"I have thought about it," she whispered, and kissed me again, "and I want to play with your Master Sword."
My eyes widened slightly at hearing that.
Did she really just say that? I thought in disbelief. There's a naughty little girl under all that pristine beauty.
I kissed her back just then, and a little deeper than I was intending to. However, I pulled away once more before I had... an accident. There was only so much will power I had.
I have to stop this, I thought.
"I can't," I whispered, trying to maintain some self-control.
Zelda was goading me with her those beautiful eyes of hers.
"Yes, you can," she replied, not letting up on me, "you're the Hero of Time you can do whatever you want."
I stared into her eyes and pondered over my moral dilemma.
Link, I told myself, you don't want to do this, and forever have that kind of guilt hanging over your head. She's the princess, and her honor is not something to be taken lightly.
I shook my head.
"I can't Zelda," I repeated.
She smiled, thinking I was playing with her.
"Yes, you can," she whispered, "I told you no one is here."
The princess leaned forward and kissed me again, and I was almost tempted to give in. I kissed her deep when the smell of her lavender scented hair brushed across my face. I held her tight around the waist and close to me. However, I knew things were getting out of control when she started undoing her corset. I immediately pulled back and stared into her eyes.
"Zelda, we're outside," I whispered, trying to reason with her.
"Then let's go inside," she replied, "I told you no one is here."
I shook my head no.
"I can't," I said.
"Link-" she tried.
"I-I can't," I interrupted with finality and stood up.
Zelda slipped from my lap, but I caught her before she fell. We were silent for a brief moment, and she looked at me shocked. I looked away from her eyes. I knew she was upset.
I should've handled that better, I thought.
"I'm sorry," I said finally.
Zelda's mouth was agape. She was looking at me like I was insane.
"You-you can't be serious," she said to me in disbelief.
I didn't want to hurt her, but I knew this was the right thing to do.
"I am serious," I replied.
Her throat tightened.
"Link-" she tried.
"I will not take you dishonorably!" I interrupted. "You deserve better than that."
Zelda looked at me with widened eyes, which immediately filled with tears. She couldn't believe I was rejecting her.
"Is… is there someone else?" she asked me.
I looked at her surprised.
What? I thought.
"No," I insisted.
The princess took a step towards me and narrowed her blue eyes.
"Don't lie to me Link!" Zelda said in a tone I've never heard before.
I looked at her surprised, but my surprise soon turned to anger.
"I don't have to lie to you!" I replied. "There is no one else!"
"Then why are you-" she tried.
"There is no one else!" I interrupted for the last time. "Plain and simple, now drop it!"
Zelda stood there frozen for a moment. I was taking a huge gamble speaking with her that way. I had no right addressing a princess of Hyrule in such a fashion. My anger got the better of me, but that still was no excuse. The princess was too stunned to say anything in retaliation to that in that moment. She pursed her lips together to keep them from trembling, and turned herself away from me and wept bitterly. I stood there feeling guilty, knowing the only reason she was propositioning me like this was because she felt like she had too.
There was an uncomfortable silence between us.
Apologize Link, I thought.
I came up to Zelda and took her in my arms and held her close to me.
"I'm sorry," I whispered in her hair, "I didn't mean to raise my voice."
Zelda sniffled and remained quiet. She rested her head on my chest. I stroked my hand over her hair and sighed.
"I promise tomorrow I'm all yours, okay," I reassured her, "I'm just busy right now."
Zelda nodded and wiped her eyes.
"I'm sorry too," she replied softly, "I don't know what got into me just then."
I squeezed her affectionately with my hug.
"I know what got into you," I whispered in her ear, "it's called being Hylian."
I felt her body tremble at my voice. Zelda looked into my eyes and reached up to kiss me again. When she pulled away she stared into my eyes.
"You shouldn't whisper in my ear like that," she whispered, "it gets me going."
I smirked.
Oh really? I thought.
"I'll have to remember that for the future," I replied.
I kissed her again, then let her go. Zelda put a smile on her beautiful face, and all was well. The princess was happy again.
I stepped back and bowed.
"I have to go," I said gently, "I'll see you tomorrow, alright?"
"Alright," Zelda replied, "remember, you're all mine."
~SSS~
An Hour Later
I arrived back at Kakariko Village and saw Saria waiting for me outside her shop. However, before I could greet her, the bazaar shop owner waved for me to come see him. I looked at Saria puzzled, and she merely shrugged at me.
What now? I wondered.
"I'll be right back," I said to her as I passed her up to go into the store.
Once inside, I closed the door behind me, and turned to see the elderly gentleman looking at his accounting records. I approached respectfully and removed my hood. It was several minutes before he spoke.
O…kay, I thought, getting slightly annoyed, does he want to talk or doesn't he?
The silence between us lasted for a few more moments, until finally the old man broke it.
"Don't play with her heart son," he said out of nowhere.
I looked at him surprised just then.
What is he talking about? I thought.
"I'm sorry?" I said confused.
The shop keeper closed his book and looked up at me.
"Don't play with that young girl's heart," he repeated.
I swallowed hard when I saw the determination in his eyes.
"I have no intention of doing that sir," I replied honestly.
The shopkeeper looked at me audacious.
"She's just a simple girl, blessed with a much too beautiful face," he said to me, "and here you are this big, handsome, strong, strapping knight coming into her life making her feel things that only exist in story books."
I was slightly offended by that.
"But I-" I tried.
"If you want to be her friend," he interrupted me, "be her friend. She is not however, some cheap thrill for you to play with because you're bored with the princess."
I got heated at that comment.
No one is going to accuse me of using anyone, I thought, no one!
"I have no intention-" I tried again.
"Don't intend," he interrupted me again, "just don't do it. She's a sweet girl, and I love her like she's my granddaughter. I'm not going to allow you to hurt her son."
I swallowed hard again.
"I-I wouldn't do that," I said honest, "I-"
"Just don't do it," the shopkeeper interrupted me once more, "now get out of my store, she's waiting for you."
I stood there, looking at him shocked, not knowing how to reply, or even if I should reply. I always considered my intentions noble, but was I being clouded by something else?
I don't want to use her... I thought, do I?
I shook my head of the thought, and nodded respectfully to the elderly bazaar owner and then exited. Outside, I took in a deep frustrated breath.
Everybody's on my goddamn case today, I thought in irritation.
Saria caught the look on my face and raised her eyebrows as I came downstairs.
"Are you okay?" she asked me.
I avoided her eyes.
"I'm fine," I muttered, "let's go."
I took hold of Saria's hand and headed for the exit. I guess I wasn't aware of my strength, because I yanked on her poor arm at the initial tug. As we walked through town, we did turn heads unfortunately. I was hoping my hooded appearance was enough to deter some of the stares.
Why is the inherent disposition of Hylian nature to be nosy? I wondered upset.
I was glad when we finally reached the stairs exiting the village. I was sure everyone was wondering why we were going off together. In any such case, I didn't have time to worry about that. I had a very short window of opportunity. I helped Saria on Epona and that was when I noticed her appearance. She had changed from the dress she was wearing in the morning to some black travel pants with a matching shirt, and green boots. It certainly flattered her slender curvaceous body. She also had a satchel swung around both shoulders and a green headdress that allowed only her pretty face to be seen.
It looks like this lady has traveled before, I thought, noticing the hunting dagger in her boot.
"You hunt?" I asked.
She smirked at my question.
"Only when I need to," she said simply.
It was an unorthodox reply, but I took it for what it was.
Saria looked at me with a thoughtful expression just then.
"You seem cross," she said,"what's wrong?"
"Nothing," I replied.
Saria looked back over her shoulder to the Kakariko entrance.
"What did you and gramps talk about?" she asked me.
I was tightening my saddle on Epona, making sure it was secure for two riders.
"He told me to be really nice to you," I said dry in a sarcastic manner.
Saria smirked again.
"So, why are you so upset?" she asked. "You don't want to be nice to me?"
I looked up at her, the comment did put a grin on my face. She stared into my eyes and nodded.
"That's better," she said, staring deeply into my eyes, "try not to be so serious all the time Mr. Killjoy."
She's certainly... different today, I thought.
I looked up at the forecasted sky, and noticed she didn't bring a cloak with her.
"It might rain," I said, "you sure you don't want to bring something to cover with?"
Her smirk widened to a smile.
"You don't want to share your cloak with me sir knight?" she asked me flirtatiously.
My eyes widened, and I looked at her surprised.
Oh boy, I thought.
"It-it's not that-" I began with a stutter.
Saria put a finger to my lips silencing me.
"Relax," she interrupted in a calm manner, "it was a joke."
I looked her up and down.
Some joke, I thought when she pulled her finger away.
Saria looked around and swung her feet lightly on the mare.
"So... where are we going?" she asked me as I mounted.
I paused and smiled.
"I hear you like horses," I said.
Saria gave me a perplexed looked.
"Who'd you hear that from?" she asked.
I looked on ahead at the middle of Hyrule Field to Lon Lon Ranch.
"Why don't I get you reacquainted?" I said, not giving anything away and giddied Epona.
Saria held on tight, and we headed to Lon Lon Ranch.
~SSS~
Lon Lon Ranch: Saria's POV
When we approached the impasse leading up to the main entrance, Sir Link and I dismounted. The ranch was a commodious open area, with horses trotting within an outside bin. Adjacent to the entrance on the right of walking in was a medium sized stable that housed cows and horses. To the left was a three story home that looked like it doubled as an inn.
This is nice, I thought, looking around.
Sir Link went on ahead and started walking in. I followed after him, not sure why we were there. A few moments later, we were suddenly greeted by the door opening and a pretty redhead showing her face. She waved at the knight.
"Howdy grasshopper," she greeted.
I looked over at Link and chuckled at hearing that.
Grasshopper? I thought. That does seem fitting with all the green he wears.
Sir Link smiled at the lady and shook his head.
"Howdy Malon," he greeted back.
Malon, I thought, that's her name.
Malon walked out of the house and came to stand in front of us. It was then that she noticed me.
"Hi there," she said, "how are you?"
I liked her sunny disposition, she seemed very friendly.
She's very nice, I thought.
"I'm fine, and you?" I replied.
She studied my face for a moment, and her eyes narrowed slightly.
"I remember your face," she said, trying to recall, "you'll have to forgive me, I forgot your name."
I smiled.
"That's alright," I said, "it was a while ago and I never gave it. My name is Saria, I was looking at that beautiful Gerudo stallion you were showcasing."
Malon nodded.
"That's right," she said, then looked over at Link, "it looks like your stalker found you as well."
I was puzzled by what she meant at first, but then remembered again back to that day. Sir Link looked embarrassed at her saying that.
"Malon..." he trailed.
She raised her eyebrows at him.
"Lighten up sir knight," she said, "it was a joke."
I giggled again.
I think I like this lady, I thought.
"I was just telling him earlier that he looked cross," I divulged.
The knight turned and looked at me surprised.
"Ms. Saria..." he trailed at me this time.
Malon glanced at me and smiled once more.
"It's true," she agreed, "he needs to get his happy back."
I nodded in agreement.
"When did he lose it?" I joked.
Malon pretended to think about the inquiry.
"Years ago," she divulged.
She and I both laughed at that. However, Sir Link closed his eyes and took in a deep breath.
"I can't win against two women," he stated.
Malon and I laughed again, and she looked between the two of us.
"No," she said, "but seriously, what brings you two here today?"
I looked over at Sir Link waiting for his explanation.
Why did he bring me here today? I wondered.
~SSS~
Link's POV
I looked past Malon to the horse in the bin in the distance.
"Do you still have that Gerudo stallion you two were talking about before?" I asked my friend.
Malon nodded, then grinned at me. "I sure do," she said, "do you want to take him for a ride?"
I shook my head, then nodded towards Saria.
"I don't," I said, "but she might."
Saria looked at me surprised. "What?"
I turned to look at her.
"You wanted to ride a stallion, didn't you?" I asked.
Saria was slow to answer. "Yes, I did," she replied, "but why would I do that now?"
I grinned.
"You seemed like you were really interested in that horse when you first saw it," I said, "maybe riding it will help trigger something."
Malon looked between the two of us perplexed and raised a brow just then.
"Trigger something?" she asked. "What do you mean?"
I was going to reply, but Saria quickly intercepted.
"Nothing!" she said, not meaning for her voice to be so sharp.
Malon and I looked at her surprised, but then I realized why she reacted that way.
Link you idiot, I thought, how could you be so careless, and almost give this woman's secret away? You have to know she doesn't want others to know she has amnesia.
"It's nothing," Saria repeated, and forced a smile across her face, "I'm sorry I raised my voice."
Malon stared at her for a moment, but then shrugged. "It's alright," she said, "I'm sorry if you thought I was prying." She started walking towards the main area of the ranch, and gestured for us to follow. "If you want to see the horse he's over here."
Good save Malon, I thought and folllowed in step behind her.
Saria bit her lower lip, but then hurried to catch up with her. Malon opened the fence to the bin and we all went inside. Stationed in the center of the area was a beautiful, black Gerudo stallion. The horse stood tall and erect. He certainly was a beauty.
This guy might even give Epona a run for her rupee, I thought.
Malon turned and looked at Saria. "Would like to give him a ride?" she asked. "He's tame, but he can still be quite a hand full."
Saria was patting the horse's snout. "You know what," she started, "now that I do have a better look at him I would like to take him for a spin."
Malon grinned. "Great," she said, "let me saddle him up."
However, the seamstress stopped her. "That won't be necessary," she said, and then with an incredible display of strength, mounted the steed bareback, "I'm fine."
I raised my eyebrows and looked at her mildly stunned.
She's riding a Gerudo stallion bareback? I thought in disbelief.
Saria took the reigns and trotted outside the bin to the perimeter to circle the track. Malon looked over at me with a dumbfounded expression. I had no explanation for her.
"Where did you find this woman again?" she asked me.
I shook my head, watching Saria ride around the track.
"I'm just as surprised as you are," I stated, "she's a seamstress by trade."
Malon gave me a funny look when I revealed that.
"A seamstress?" she repeated. "Since when do seamstresses carry knives in their boots and ride horses bareback?"
So, she saw that too, I thought regarding the knife.
Malon did have a point. It seemed strange that a woman whose occupation was to sew, also hunted and took part in equestrian activities.
Maybe it has something to do with her past, I thought, maybe she did something with horse training before she became a seamstress.
"I have no idea," I replied to my friend, "you know what they say though, life brings about strange bedfellows."
Malon looked back out at Saria, who was circling the track for a second time.
"Right," she said with a hint of cynicism, then directed her attention back to me, "speaking of bedfellows... is everything alright with a certain royal princess?"
I had a feeling she was going to bring Zelda up.
Here we go, I thought.
"Everything's fine," I replied, still watching Saria.
Malon knew that I was avoiding her eyes.
"Are you sure?" she asked.
I took in a deep breath, not wanting to go in circles about the topic.
"Just say what you mean Malon," I said, "you've never been the type to walk around things."
Malon sighed at my words, then pursed her lips together.
"It just seems kind of strange that you all of a sudden drop by with a... new friend," she said. "You and Zelda have been exclusive for years. It just seems out of the ordinary that you would go anywhere with another female."
I understood her conjecture, and from the outside looking in, it did seem odd. However, it wasn't the least bit strange to me.
I have a strong feeling about this woman, I thought, she reminds me of someone very dear to me, and I have to know if there's some kind of connection.
"It isn't what you're thinking Malon," I said finally.
She raised an eyebrow at that, not fully convinced.
"What am I thinking Sir Link?" she challenged.
I finally looked at her and gave her a curt gaze.
"Something that isn't the case," I said, not bothering to elaborate, "she's just a friend."
Malon narrowed her eyes slightly, and crossed her arms over her chest.
"You mean like you and me?" she asked. "The way we used to be just friends?"
I knew she meant more than she was letting on. There was a time in the past that Malon showed a romantic interest in me, and we did share a few 'friendlier than friends should be' moments. However, I never reciprocated her feelings because I was too dense to recognize it. That, and I was beginning to court Zelda at the time. Malon pretended to be casual about it, but I knew she cared more than she was letting on.
"I'm sorry Malon," I said, hoping she would get the subliminal message.
Malon turned away a moment and shrugged.
"It isn't a big deal Link," she said, "I'm getting married later this year to Stephen anyway."
Stephen was a long time beau of Malon's. He was a nice, handsome fellow, and he just had a big house built in one of the provinces of Eldin.
"How is Stephen?" I asked, changing the subject.
Malon smiled.
"He's wonderful," she said, "as always."
I nodded in approval.
"You know I'll take care of him if he doesn't treat you right," I said humorous.
Malon laughed.
"You won't have to worry about that grasshopper," she said, "Stephen is just what I want."
I was glad to hear that. Malon deserved a good guy, after the issues with Ingo and losing her father earlier in the year, she needed some solace.
It's been a rough time for her, I thought, but she keeps on going.
Just then, Saria came trotting back to the center of the bin where Malon and I were.
"That was fantastic!" the seamstress announced. "I could ride this horse for hours."
Malon and I both smiled up at her.
"You probably could," the redhead complimented, "you look like a natural."
Saria jumped off the stallion and landed with perfect ease.
No one would ever think she hurt her ankle, I thought.
I gave her a knowing look, hoping she would know what it meant.
It seemed Saria did. "I feel like I've done that before."
I nodded.
That's good, I thought, I think it's time I took her to a place with a little more greenery now.
"You've certainly showed the capability," I said and grinned at her.
Malon looked between the two of us. "Should I schedule you another riding appointment then?" she asked Saria.
Saria looked back at the horse. "He's a beauty," she said, "but I don't want to commit just yet."
Malon grinned at her. "Flirting with a stallion is dangerous," she joked.
Saria laughed. "Aye, but I think ye have that backwards," she said, letting that foreign accent slip through again, "I think the stallion was flirting with me."
The redhead gave the seamstress a peculiar stare. "That's quite the vernacular," she said, "where are you originally from?"
I was going to interject, but Saria had it under control.
Saria shrugged. "Here and there," she said, conforming her voice to the standard Hylian again.
That's what I'm trying to find out, I thought, and then looked towards the exit.
"You ready to go?" I asked Saria, not meaning to cut the visit short, but there were still other places I wanted to visit before the day was over.
Saria looked at me surprised, then glanced at Malon. "Um... sure."
I nodded and started for the exit.
"I'll bring Epona by more often in the future Malon," I promised.
Malon raised a brow as she watched Saria and I walk away. "We'll see."
I smiled as we left the ranch.
We'll see indeed my friend, I thought, we'll see indeed.
~SSS~
Back on Hyrule Field Saria's enthusiasm was growing. She really enjoyed that ride.
"Where are we going now?" she asked with her arms around my waist as we saddled on Epona.
I grinned.
"That is actually a surprise," I said.
Saria looked at me curious.
"A surprise?" she repeated.
I nodded.
"I think this next destination will be a big help to you," I said.
The puzzled expression never left her face.
"It sounds interesting," she replied.
It is, I thought, and I can't wait for you to see it.
I giddied Epona and we head for Kokiri impasse. When we approached we dismount, as my mare would not go into the tunnel.
"We're going on foot from now on?" Saria asked me.
I nodded.
"Epona's too big for this forest," I replied.
She paused for a moment.
"A forest?" Saria asked drawing back.
I saw Saria hesitate, but I took her hand firmly in mine.
"It's alright," I promised her, "I won't let anything happen to you."
I still saw traces of doubt in her face, but she nodded and followed me anyway. We passed the bridge and I discreetly watched for the reactions on her face. She was looking around in wonder. I didn't blame her, Kokiri Forest was a beautiful place. The green iridescence that permeated through the air shifted from evergreen to evergreen. Fireflies and tree sprites dotted the breeze, and flickered beyond the foliage. Tunnels carved out of trees led to deeper impasses of the forest. We headed through the second tunnel and into the Kokiri Village.
Something might manifest itself here, I thought.
I felt her let go of my hand as her eyes grew wide from looking around. She went out ahead of me and stopped in the middle of the dirt road.
"Oh my goddess," I heard her whispered. She turned to look at me. "I think… I think I know this place," she said startled.
I merely nodded and watched as she explored the area on her own. I wasn't letting it show, but I felt my heart was pounding fast. I didn't know why, I think maybe I was just excited for her too.
"These trees," she whispered, going up to touch one, "they're so old, but so familiar."
"Do you recognize them?" I asked.
She swallowed hard and nodded. Saria walked off the path to explore a little house on her left. She approached it slowly, and knocked on the door. She had to kneel down to get a better pitch on the wood.
"Hello?" she called out, then looked in the small window. She turned to look at me a flummoxed. "There's no one here," she said, "it seems that the village is empty."
I grinned and crossed my arms over my chest. I sat down on an old tree stump.
"Oh, they're here," I replied, "they're just hiding right now. Try another house."
She looked at me perplexed.
"They?" she asked.
I nodded.
"The Kokiri," I said.
Her perplexity never went away.
"What's a Kokiri?" she asked.
I chuckled when she said that.
"Knock on a door and find out," I said.
Saria furrowed her brow at my words, but turned around and approached the house that was directly behind her anyway. She knocked again softly and waited for a reply. There was silence.
"Hello?" she called out finally, when no one answered for a second time.
"Go away!" a small voice inside finally snapped.
Saria looked startled at the sudden outburst, but didn't budge. She turned to look at me confused.
"Was that a child's voice?" she asked me.
Before I could reply, the voice on the other side of the door reprimanded Saria.
"Let's get one thing straight," said the feisty female Kokiri, "I'm not a child, I'm a Kokiri."
Saria eyes were widened in surprise. "Oh," she replied, "I'm sorry, I wasn't aware there was a difference."
"There's a big difference lady!" the little voice went on.
Saria sighed and bit her lower lip. "Please," she began, "I didn't mean to insult you. I'm trying to find out why I can't remember where I'm from. My friend brought me here because he thought your people could help me."
A silence followed after Saria spoke, but slowly the door opened and a little strawberry blonde head poked out. When the little Kokiri saw Saria her eyes got wide in disbelief.
"Saria?"the little Kokiri said in shock.
Saria drew back a little befuddled with what was going on.
"You know me?" she asked.
The Kokiri let her head rest on her shoulder as she stared at Saria. "I think I do," she said, "but how'd you get so big?"
Saria looked at the Kokiri shocked. "For all that I know I've always been this big," she replied.
The Kokiri for some odd reason giggled. "You look just like our beloved Saria," the Kokiri said, "she's the Forest Sage you know."
Saria shook her head baffled. "There's a girl that lives here with my same name, and she's the Sage of the Forest?" she asked the Kokiri.
When I saw Saria was getting a little overwhelmed, I got up from the stump. I was beginning to think that everything Saria was taking in was too much for her.
It's like an information overload, I thought, but even though I got closer to her, I didn't intervene.
"Look lady, you probably got that name after her," the Kokiri went on, "no offense to you, but Saria's been around a long time."
Saria shrugged and shook her head. "None taken," she replied.
"So," the Kokiri said, "how can I help you?"
Saria hesitated for a second. "You said something about Saria being the Forest Sage?" she repeated, trying to understand. "What did you mean by that?"
"What did I mean?" the Kokiri went on incredulous. "I meant what I said. She's been the sage of the forest for years now, but then there was some funny stuff happening at the temple, and Mido went in to see what was going on."
That got my attention.
What? I thought.
"Funny stuff?" I segued, not meaning to interrupt.
The Kokiri turned to look at me.
"Who are you?" the Kokiri asked me.
"Oh," I replied, realizing she couldn't recognize me in my adult state, "I'm her friend."
The Kokiri gave me an odd stare.
"You look familiar," the Kokiri stated.
I merely smirked.
I'm sure I do, I thought.
"I get that a lot," I replied.
"Anyway," the Kokiri went on, turning her attention back to Saria, "Mido claimed he heard a girl's voice crying at the temple, and said he was going to check it out."
Saria narrowed her eyes slightly. "Who's Mido?" she asked.
The Kokiri scoffed.
"He's the so called 'leader' of us Kokiri," the Kokiri went on, "he gave himself that title so Saria could like him, but she never did. She had it bad for her best friend. Anyway, Mido left one day thinking he was going to bring Saria back. That was five years ago."
Saria looked concerned at that. "Where is he now?" she asked.
The little Kokiri shrugged.
"Beats me," she said, "he still hasn't come back yet. He said something about doing anything to save his beloved."
Saria blushed when she heard that. "Anything to save his beloved?" she repeated. "I don't know why, but that sounds so familiar."
"I wouldn't worry," the Kokiri said, "no one misses him anyway. He was a bully and a jerk. He used to pick on this other Kokiri named Link. He picked on him so badly that Link left the forest and died!"
Saria's eyes widened again and she turned to look at me. "Is… is she speaking about you?" she asked me.
I nodded.
"Some of the facts are skewed, but she pretty much is telling you the truth," I replied, "except the whole Mido driving me away, and the death thing."
Saria turned back to the Kokiri and looked at her troubled. "This is so strange," she muttered to herself.
The Kokiri shrugged.
"Not really," the Kokiri replied, thinking she was talking to her.
Saria sighed and tried to smile. "Thank you for your help," she replied, "you've been wonderful."
"If you want to know more about Saria, her house is over there," the Kokiri said pointing to the northwest corner, "right next to my former dream bow."
Saria grinned at the Kokiri. "And who was that?" Saria asked.
The Kokiri scoffed. "Link of course," the she said, "well, I better go, I've said too much already. I'd speak to the Great Deku Tree if you want more info."
"The Great Deku Tree?" Saria repeated.
"Yep," the Kokiri said, trying to close her door.
However, Saria stopped her for a moment. "Wait," she said, "who was Saria's best friend?"
The Kokiri rolled her eyes as if she didn't want to answer.
"Why?" she demanded.
Saria bit her lower lip. "I just want to know," she said.
The Kokiri took in a deep sigh. "Link," she replied.
Saria blushed at the revelation. "Link?" she repeated, then turned to look at me.
I unintentionally felt my cheeks flush too.
I'm getting too old for that, I thought embarrassed.
Saria looked unsettled and decided to let the Kokiri go back inside.
"Thank you," Saria said quietly, "you've been very helpful."
"Sure," the Kokiri said, then slammed her door.
I raised my eyebrows at that.
It looks like some of the manners have left some of the forest with me and Saria, I thought, but if Mido was the leader for so many years, what was to be expected?
Saria then turned and hurried down the road, she gestured for me to follow after her.
"Come on!" she called.
I headed down the road after her. Saria headed off the main road again, and approached the Kokiri house intrigued. She then opened the door and peered in. Her eyes grew wide.
"What is it?" I asked, coming up and placing a hand on her shoulder.
She covered my hand with hers briefly.
"I know that hearth," she said.
My own heart began to pound a little bit.
"You know this place?" I asked.
Saria nodded solemnly, then went in.
"I used to make soup in that pot," she said, looking at the soot and cobwebbed utensils.
I followed, but only attempted to squat in the tiny door way. Saria tried to sit down in one of the tiny chairs, obviously much too big for it now, and I saw her take in a deep breath.
"I used to live here," she said so quiet I could hardly hear her.
She looked away from me as tears filled her eyes. I carefully maneuver past the door way so I didn't bump my head, and tried to sit down across from her on the floor.
"Are you alright?" I asked.
She nodded, then wiped her eyes.
"I can't believe I didn't remember any of this," she said attempting to smile. "It's like my entire childhood was snatched away from me."
I reached over and took her hand in mine.
"What happened to you?" I asked her softly.
Saria shook her head.
"I don't know," she said, "one day I just ended up in this little village deep in the woods."
My ears perked when she said that.
Little village? I thought.
"What village?" I asked.
She sighed and thought nothing of it.
"A little place called Ordon," she replied.
I looked at her flummoxed.
"Where?" I asked, never hearing of it.
"Ordon," she repeated, "I wouldn't expect you to know about it, it was only founded five years ago."
I looked at her puzzled.
How in the world are there new marked territories, and I know nothing about them? I wondered.
Saria saw the inquiry in my eyes.
"What is it Sir Link?" she asked.
I shook my head, still thinking.
I need to know more about this Ordon, I thought.
"Would you take me to that place?" I asked her, detracting the subject.
She raised her eyebrows and nodded.
"Of course," she replied.
Ordon Village? I thought incredulous. There are too many coincidences happening at once. How in the world do I not know about an entire village?
I was shaken from my thoughts, when Saria reached over and grabbed my hand suddenly.
"Can-can we go see the Deku Tree?" she begged all of a sudden. "Maybe it knows something."
I stared into her eyes and smiled.
With her asking me like that how could I say no? I thought.
"Of course we can," I replied.
We then got up and headed for the exit. Saria paused at the door and turned to look around for a moment. She took in a deep breath, then grinned.
"I hope I can remember more of what this life was like," she said to herself.
I hope so too, I thought.
She then exited and met me outside. However, we had an unexpected crowd greet us.
Saria's eyes widened. "There's a whole tribe!" she said surprised.
The Kokiri marched up to us.
"What are you doing in Saria's house?" one the Kokiri demanded of Saria.
Saria was hesitant to reply. "I… I think I knew the little girl who lived here," she stated.
"Saria wasn't a little girl," a little Kokiri boy snapped, "she was a Kokiri!"
Saria raised her eyebrows trying to understand the difference. "Oh right, I forgot," she replied, "I'm sorry for talking disrespectfully of your friend."
There was a low groan from the tiny people, and they chattered in amongst each other. I was digging in my satchel looking for my map when Saria approached me.
"Did you really live here?" Saria asked me abruptly.
I smiled at her and nodded.
"Yes," I replied, "I did."
She smiled at my answer.
"You must have had quite a childhood," she said.
I grinned.
"It was wonderful here," I said, "with... the exception of Mido."
Saria bit her lower lip and looked away from my eyes just then.
"Was Saria really your best friend?" she asked me quietly.
I was silent for a moment.
"Yes," I replied with a sigh, "she was."
Saria looked back at me and characteristically blushed.
"Did you… did you love her?" she asked, not looking into my eyes.
I felt my heart pound like crazy, but before I could answer, the Kokiri interrupted us.
"Could you remove that thing on your head?" another little Kokiri boy asked Saria abruptly.
"Why?" Saria replied.
"We just want to see the color of your hair," another Kokiri boy added.
"Oh," Saria says nonchalantly and then removes her headdress, "okay."
There was a collective gasp when they all saw Saria's green waves tumble down her back.
"It looks just Saria's!" a little Kokiri girl gasped.
For some odd reason Saria smiled.
"You like it?" she asked them.
The Kokiri didn't answer immediately.
"Where did you get that hair?" a Kokiri girl demanded suddenly.
Saria shrugged imperturbably.
"I was born with it," Saria replied.
The Kokiri broke into another buzz of chatter.
Saria glanced over at me and for some odd reason smiled. I didn't realize why until I saw her kneel down and catch the attention of a lone Kokiri boy not in amongst the group. She looked at him sweetly and gestured for him to come to her.
Smart girl. I thought with a smirk. Use your feminine whiles to your advantage.
"Could you take me to that big beautiful tree that you all talk to?" Saria asked him gently.
It worked because he turned red.
"Uh-I don't think strangers are allowed to see the Deku Tree," the Kokiri boy replied.
Saria stared deeper into his eyes.
"Please," she begged.
I turned so I wouldn't chuckle.
That poor Kokiri won't know what to do with himself, I thought humorous.
The Kokiri swallowed hard and then nodded mechanically.
"Okay fine," the Kokiri boys replied quick.
"She can't see the Great Deku Tree!" another Kokiri girl said upset.
"Oh yes she can!" the Kokiri boy said back, "If that big old guy with the creepy beard can see the Deku Tree, this girl should be able to too!"
I was alerted immediately.
"What?" I demanded unintentional. "What big old guy?"
The little Kokiri boy edged back at my tone.
"Some big old guy came and spoke to the Deku Tree a couple days ago," another Kokiri girl replied, "he was wearing some fancy clothes and a funny looking ring."
The signet ring of the royal family, I thought in disbelief, the king was here!
"You didn't happen to hear what he said did you?" I asked knowing it would be a silly question.
The Kokiri boy looked at me like I was crazy.
"No," he replied.
This is insane! I thought. There are too many coincidences happening in one day for my liking. First, he just up and leaves when there's a killer after him, and then he comes to see the Deku Tree secretly. Is he mad?
I took in a deep troubled breath.
"What's wrong with you?" one of the Kokiri girls asked me.
Saria noticed my ostentatious expression.
"What is it?" she asked.
"Nothing," I replied.
Saria gave me a funny look.
"Are you sure?" she asked me.
"We need to speak to the Deku Tree immediately," I said impatient, ignoring her questions.
She drew back at my tone.
I sighed.
"I'm sorry," I replied, "I didn't mean to snap."
"Come on let's go," the Kokiri boy Saria flirted with said, "I'll take you to see him."
We followed him to a tunnel, but the Kokiri boy didn't go through.
"This is as far as I can go," he stated, "we Kokiri have to be summoned to see the Great Deku Tree."
Saria kneeled down and kissed the Kokiri boy's cheek softly.
"Thank you," she said to him, and he blushed, "you've been wonderful."
The Kokiri boy turned red and smiled sheepishly.
"Ah, gee you're welcome," he replied, then turned and ran off to join his brethren.
I took Saria's hand and headed with her down the tunnel to the commodious alcove where the large tree was residing.
It looks like the new sapling is a full fledged fern now, I thought, remembering how small the tree used to be eight years ago.
Saria's eyes grew wide in surprise.
"I can't believe it," I heard her whisper.
Suddenly, there was a loud rumbling and then a sharp ray of green light that iridized across the sky.
When the magnificence dissipated the Great Deku Tree spoke.
"Believe it young one," the Deku Tree said.
I turned to see the shocked look on Saria's face.
"And how are you Hero of Time?" The Deku Tree asked me.
I sighed.
"I'm a little unsettled," I said honestly, "there have been so many things going on as of late."
"More than even you realize great hero," the Deku tree said with a thoughtful inflection in its tone, "for that is why you are here, is it not?"
Saria came up and stood next to me, she still looked dumbfounded.
"I wanted to inquire about your conversation with the king," I divulged.
Saria turned to me surprised.
"The king?" she asked.
That's right, I thought, she didn't know what the Kokiri meant back there.
The Deku Tree nodded shaking several branches.
"And the young lady no doubt has some questions for me as well," the Deku Tree said.
Saria turned her attention back to it and nodded.
"But first you need to know about a bold warrior by the name of Zant," the Deku Tree said.
What? I wondered perplexed.
I noticed Saria's eyes grow wide again, but it wasn't in surprise, it was in fear. I looked at her concerned.
"What's the matter?" I asked her.
Saria shook her head not being able to believe it.
"I… I know who that is," she whispered fearfully.
Please write a review and tell me what you think. The next chapter will be up Saturday.
