ShiningwingX: Ok first off, let me just say that this chapter has been "done" for the last two months, but due to my system of releasing a chapter only when the one after it is complete, I've been unable to upload it until now. For various reasons I was not able to complete the next chapter until recently but now that I have, I can now upload this.
I think part of the reason might have been because of the sheer length of time it took to complete. It was taking so long so it felt like I was going nowhere and so I had a bit of a 'why bother?' mindset for a while. Not really as extreme as that, maybe but yeah. Actually getting something DONE is pretty motivating though, so I think I'm ready to continue on with the same stride I had before.
Anyways, enjoy the chapter all ye readers :).
Chapter III: A single Constant
The Great Palace of Hyrule is even grander than I could have imagined. Zelda, having recovered from her odd nervousness from before, now explains the layout of the Castle, and its grounds as we move through one of the many beautiful corridors of the castle at a leisurely gait. Like most of the castle, this corridor is composed largely of the same sparkling granite-like stone that I'd seen in other corridors, as well as the throne room. Elegant, silvery focus pedestals in the shape of candelabras line the walls, feeding magical energy to the shimmering illumination crystals floating only inches above them, casting a pleasing glow about the windowless corridor.
I listen intently, hanging on to every word the sagely princess speaks, delighting both in the fact that I am learning more of her home, and possibly the most important location in Hyrule, as well as the fact that she seems to enjoy speaking of it. Zelda has always been wise, and simply hearing her voice seems a learning experience in itself, which is only added to by the vast fount of knowledge she possesses that never seems to dry. My ears perk up as she begins a new explanation.
"As you have likely learned already, the palace is divided into various wings. These wings are arranged in a circular formation like that of a wheel, similar to the city outside the walls. Each of them have their own purposes, and many are essential to the well-being of Hyrule itself, as what happens within often affects the lives of the people."
As she explains, her voice seems to take on a tone that sounds much more like a guide or scholar than that of a princess. I find the shift slightly humorous and am forced to cover my mouth with my palm in an effort to conceal a snicker that threatens to spill out. Despite my efforts to hide my mirth, her pointed ears perk up, and she turns to look back at me, having heard it regardless. She glares daggers at me, her lips curling into an offended pout as she crosses her arms before her chest. It lasts for but a moment, however before she drops the façade, instead breaking into a smile of her own, all the while continuing to glare at me. The contrast between the two expressions only causes my amused snickers to break into a fit of laughter. Relinquishing her attempts, she simply settles for giving me a light slap on the arm before grinning herself.
"And what, pray tell, do you find so funny, Link?" She asks in mock annoyance.
"I… I apologize." I say, giving a valiant attempt to compose myself, but with only marginal success. "Forgive me, but this manner of speech… it simply does not become you, Zelda."
"And what manner of speech would that be?" She asks in a somewhat jesting manner, raising an eyebrow though her visage is still graced with a smile. "Please explain, good sir."
"This… scholarly voice." I attempt to explain. "It sounds much more suited to a scribe or a historian than the Princess of Hyrule. A sage, you may be but I never expected such words to come from your lips."
"Hmm… Perhaps you're right. I do not remember lapsing into such speech before, even when something piqued my interest… " Zelda responds, seeming rather contemplative over my words instead of amused. "Could it be Wisdom's doing? Perhaps she was roused because of my focus on my knowledge of the palace, and its history. It may have influenced my temperament slightly."
"That is possible. I suppose she would influence such a thing given the nature of it. It is quite likely that all of the Aspects have a similar influence on the wielder's personality. It would not surprise me given that they do hold the essence of the goddesses." I say, considering the thought for a moment. "Please continue, I did not mean to laugh."
"It is well. Were you in my position, I would have likely reacted in a similar fashion." The princess dismisses, smiling genuinely as she begins her elucidations once more. "As I explained before, the palace is divided into wings, arranged like a wheel, with the Grand Atrium in the center of it all. The wings each possess a theme related to one of the many creatures of Hyrule." My interest is piqued upon hearing this and I listen while she explains the various wings, and their functions to the greater structure of the castle. "Some wings are either larger, or smaller than others, based off of necessity, with the residential Wings being the largest. The first, as you know is the Phoenix Wing. It is where members of the Royal Family reside, as well as the throne room. The personal servants, handmaidens and guardians for the Royals also reside there, in separate quarters. Next to the Phoenix Wing is the Dragon Wing, where members of the Court reside. It is also where assemblies related to politics, and the state of affairs in the country are held." I cannot help but smirk at the subtle cringe she makes at the very mention of the word 'politics' as it leaves her lips. I've become well aware of the fact that Zelda would rather walk through the fires of Death Mountain than listen to some Duke or Duchess explaining a new, complex law that merely comes down to a simple rising of taxes in his or her province. Her voice takes a merrier tone however as she begins explaining the next Wing; one she appears to enjoy. "On the opposing side of the Phoenix Wing is the Owl Wing. This is where wizards and arcanists conduct research in magical advancement, as well as the creation of new spells and charms. Apprentices who pass their magical examinations at the Academy of Nalistrim often come here to aid their fellow wizards with their research. The palace library is also located there. There's so many books to choose from, covering any topic one could possibly imagine."
I give a knowing grin that Zelda does not appear to notice. No wonder her mood had shifted so suddenly upon her mentioning of the Owl Wing, and what it held. Where as the princess despises politics above all else, books and reading were certainly another tale entirely. I silently wonder if the Triforce of Wisdom has something to do with that before dismissing the notion. Speaking of it as she is, I assume she has always enjoyed that particular wing of the castle and Triforce or no, there was little divine influence guiding her thoughts on this matter.
Reflecting upon this, I continue to listen as she explains the other wings of the castle beginning with the Salamander, Centaur, Griffon, Leviathan, and Golem Wings, which served as residences, the latter three themed to suit the Rito, Zora, and Gorons respectively. The aptly named Serpent Wing is used by the Kingdom's spies, and was largely unused for much, save for training and the dungeons beneath nowadays, while Soldiers, Knights, and Paladins remain ever vigilant in their own exercises within the Wolf and Lion Wings. Finally mentioned was the Unicorn Wing, which served as a hub for the castle's healers and alchemists.
We come to a stop before a set of large doors, crafted from the same golden wood as the doors of the Throne Room, brass hinges securing it to a frame of a vibrant green color. Upon each door is an identical, though mirrored image of a large, flowering tree carved from the wood itself. Upon the frame, images of painted vines in white so detailed as to almost be living, undulate down to the floor, stopping just before the sparkling stone that made the floor of the corridor in which we stand.
"What is this?" I question, craning my neck back so to see the very top of the doors, where a generous amount of light filters into the room, unimpeded by the clear glass panels, arranged in an arch-like fashion at the top of each one.
Zelda's grin only widens as she looks proudly upon the doors, obviously very proud of what lies beyond the portal, which alone is quite lovely. "This is the last area of the palace, and the only one I have yet to speak of. I felt it would be better to allow you the opportunity to see this particular area personally, rather than simply explaining it to you." She turns her eyes to me as we approach the doors, large but far from imposing. "I hope it is to your liking."
"If that is your wish then it would be my honor." I say with a chivalrous bow that causes the princess to giggle softly.
With those words said, she reaches for the doors, pushing them open gently and allowing more light fill the corridor. My eyes take a moment to adjust to the new amount of light, much greater than that provided by the crystals and I squint in an attempt to see through the shine.
Slowly the brightness begins to fade and I freeze, staring dumbstruck at the sight before me. The source of the light had in fact, been Malia and Yira, and beneath their gaze lies the most beautiful landscape I've ever witnessed. A vast grassy expanse lies just beyond the door, the blades a vibrant emerald green and cut long enough to show their beauty, but short enough so as to not to be hindering should one wish to walk within. Flowers fleck the area, all in their budding phases, spread about at random, some standing alone within the vastness of the utopia, others clustered together like tiny villages in a miniature kingdom of nature. Hedges and shrubs producing flowers of their own serve as borders for the cleared dirt walkways leading to every corner of this place, so different from the rest of the castle. High walls of silvery marble raise high from the ground and toward the heavens, separating this area from the rest of the Castle grounds.
Stepping through the open portal is like stepping into a dream directly from the waking world, and as I do so, I cannot conceal my awe as I attempt to observe everything in this strange new place. The twittering of birds reaches my ears from the canopies of the many large trees of varying species. Despite having lived among nature for the greater part of my developing life, I have never seen anything quite on this scale. It is as if every tree, shrub, and flower in Hyrule, possibly even in Ismirra itself can be found here. High Marble walls extend toward the heavens above, surrounding the small, delicate ecosystem and at the center of it all is a dais of pristine marble at the end of the path with stairs carved delicately from the stone possessing images of the Triforce which lined the base in shimmering obsidian. At the top rests what is perhaps the only man made thing in this place; a medium sized gazebo made of wood, painted white with an open roof made from an arrangement of arches in cross like formations along the top. The walls are no more than a few planks of white wood, arranged sparsely so to create a sturdy barrier while still remaining picturesque. Thick vines producing a few scarlet flowers coil about the four wooden posts suspending the ceiling, adding a touch of green to the beautiful structure. Recovering from stupor slightly, I turn back to the door to see a grinning Zelda stepping out to join me, her eyes sparkling with mirth in Malia's light.
"Was it not you, Hero who spoke of unbecoming mannerisms?" The princess asks softly. "I hadn't thought that one such as you, having lived amongst nature would have been affected so greatly by such a thing."
Hearing her words, I shake my head and respond, feeling the need to explain despite the jest. "Nature I know, but this is much different than a simple field or wood. Something of this magnitude simply does not exist in the natural world. I've never seen the like…"
Her smile fades upon my words, the joy vanishing from her eyes, and a frown quickly forms in its stead. "You… do not like it then?"
Whatever might have remained of my astonishment is immediately scoured upon seeing her expression and hearing the dejection in her voice. "Do not misunderstand, Zelda. I do like it, truly I do. I've just never seen such a beautiful place… not even the Sacred Grove of the Lost Woods holds the same level of splendor as this."
"Ah… I see." The young royal breaths out in a sigh of relief upon hearing those words, which in turn causes me a relief of my own. "I was not certain it would appeal to you being so different from what you are accustomed too."
"It certainly does." I say, smiling amiably while giving another quick glance about the massive garden. "Though, I must ask… what is this place?"
Zelda smiles and steps toward me, seeming quite happy with the question and having apparently expected it she responds. "This is Schileria's Arboretum. It was created over three thousand years ago at the request of King Hastarian as a gift to his wife to be, Lady Schileria who was then the Duchess of Relawen. Schileria herself was quite fond of flowers, so the king commissioned the greatest horticulturists to create a magnificent garden, the greatest ever seen before or since. Needless to say, the queen was quite thrilled with the gift." Zelda pauses for a moment and I cannot help smiling, as I remember another young princess' love of flowers. "Upon its creation, it was only around the size of my own Courtyard but since, it has expanded to what it is today. Alchemists from the Owl Wing often come here to gather regents for the creation of potions, due to the number of rare ingredients that grow here." She sighs softly and pleasantly. "Next to my own courtyard, this is my favorite place in the castle
"Schileria's children must have truly loved their mother if they would continue to care for her garden so long after her passing." I remark as we make our way along the path, the perfume of the newly blossomed flowers filling my nose with a pleasing scent. As we do so, a thought comes to my mind which I speak. "Perhaps your garden may one day look like this, Zelda."
"I…" Zelda begins, stopping half way along the winding path to the Gazebo, and lowering her eyes. A slight blush tinges her pale skin in turquoise. "Queen Schileria was a wonderful queen and a loving mother and wife… do you truly believe that I will be held in the same esteem as she?"
I turn to the princess and take her hand gently, causing her to turn her ocean blue eyes to me. I give an encouraging smile as she does, reflecting the sincerity of my words and respond. "There is no doubt in my mind that you will, Zelda. You've already done much for the kingdom as it stands, and I do not believe for a moment that this will change. If what you have already accomplished is any indication… then I know that you will do even greater things for Hyrule as time moves forward."
"I did only what I was fated to do," Zelda replies. "and regardless, it does not account for much if no one else knows of it, save us."
"Rather others remember matters not. It happened, and I know it will not be the last great act in your life Zelda." I reply without any need for consideration.
"Still… you speak as if I accomplished everything alone. You did so much more than I." She says timidly, her blush seeming to grow slightly more vibrant as she continues. "Moreover, I could never have accomplished what I had if you had not been with me."
I feel my own face become slightly hotter upon hearing those words and I turn away quickly so the princess will not see my embarrassment over them. Raising my left hand I rub the back of my neck nervously. "I… did not do much to speak of. Merely… what I was fated to do, as you said. I… erm…"
"Zelda?" Asks an unfamiliar voice. "Are you here?"
Zelda gasps upon hearing the voice, and I glance back at her, seeing a look of recognition slowly form upon her face. I can tell from the expression that she must know the one who had spoken. She turns so swiftly in response to the voice that her body is no more than a blur for but a second before she casts her eyes in the direction the two of us recently came from. I do the same, albeit much more slowly than she, wishing to see exactly who it was that has caused such a spontaneous act from the Princess Royal.
The answer comes in the form of a young girl, porcelain skin and dark chestnut colored hair falling a few inches past her shoulders in slight curves. Her almond shaped eyes are a rich brown color, a few shades lighter than her hair, and her slender lips are curled into a friendly smile. Two small hoops of gold hang from her ears, swaying slightly as she turns her head to regard us. She wears an elegant dress with a pale blue bodice with short, slightly plumed sleeves and a v-necked collar, with buttons of gold lining each side. Her skirt is somewhat flared, and slightly darker in color to the bodice, with intricate patterns woven into the fabric with a white thread, giving the dress a somewhat unique appearance. A pair of evening gloves cover her arms, extending just beneath her shoulder. The gloves possessed no hand covering, save a strip of cloth forming a cone like shape, which wrapped between her middle, and ring fingers, secured to the wrist with a button.
Gathering her skirts, she proceeds down the dirt path toward us, the golden cincture around her waist clinking musically with each step she takes. An intricate gold amulet with leaf-shaped chain links and a medallion in the likeness of a sun, encrusted with a large, ovular ruby hangs from her neck, swaying with her movements. I only take a moment to consider that the amulet in question looks identical to the one Zelda herself wears before another thought strikes me.
"Liene! Sister!" Zelda calls breathily to the young girl, who is now nearly upon us, confirming my suspicions of her identity. Zelda herself promptly rushes over to embrace her slightly shorter younger sister tightly, eliciting a gasp from the Liene.
"Zelda!" The younger princess exclaimed with a small giggle. "What ails you? I hadn't expected a reaction like this."
"Ah… For-forgive me…" Zelda replies, lowering her arms, and backing away from her sister quickly. She crosses her arms around her body timidly, a little blush finding its way to her cheeks .
Liene lifts a hand to her mouth in order to stifle another giggle before approaching Zelda, wrapping her own arms around her older sister in a bid to comfort her. The action seems to help Zelda recover slightly, as she returns the embrace. I remain silent, and allow the two princesses their time, though I cannot help but smile upon the scene. Despite the differences in hair and eye color, Princess Liene may as well have been an exact, albeit less physically mature Zelda. I've heard from the elder princess on a number of occasions about her younger sister; a diligent, and very cheerful girl, much learned in the way of Hyrule's political and social workings. It seems now, in seeing her for myself that the description of her personality at least, was quite accurate.
"I heard word from the servants that you were seen in the presence of a young boy, who has only recently visited the palace." Liene said with a wide grin upon releasing Zelda. "Is this the boy they spoke of?"
"Oh!" Zelda responds in realization as she turns around, leading her sister a short distance along the path to stand before me. "I'd nearly forgotten to introduce you. This is Link. He is a close friend of mine, and Father has given him leave to visit the castle. We spoke to him earlier."
"Yes, I did hear of your rather tense discussion with Father." Liene replies with a shake of her head before approaching me. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Princess Liene Hyrule, second daughter to King Gustav IV. I must offer my thanks for treating Zelda so well. She is very sweet, but so timid sometimes."
"Liene!" Zelda cries, blushing slightly.
"I only speak the truth, dear sister." The cheerful royal responds with a wide smile.
I smirk at the brief exchange before replying. "It is well. I, too, did not know many within Hyrule until I met Zelda, so I am grateful for her friendship as well. She has been a good friend to me, and I am both happy and privileged to know her." Turning my attention from Liene for a moment, I notice Zelda looking down somewhat shyly upon those words and, not wishing to embarrass her further, I change the subject. "But I digress, it is a pleasure to meet you, Your Highness." I finish, offering a bow to the young royal.
"The pleasure is mine." Liene says formally before turning toward Zelda once more. "Zelda, why did you not tell me this boy was so chivalrous?"
"I did not think much of it." Zelda replies with a small smile, seeming a bit less fainthearted now. "I've always known him to be this way, so I suppose I did not give it much consideration since it seemed so natural."
I grin a bit sheepishly, upon hearing the soft-spoken praise, unknowing of rather those were Zelda's true thoughts or simply an attempt to save face. Before I can say anything in amendment however, Liene response. "Hmm… well regardless, might I ask how long you've known one another?" She smirks a slight bit, narrowing her brows in what seems to be mock annoyance before continuing. "And why did you not introduce me sooner?"
"I suppose that is in order." Zelda begins, giving a little smile at her sister's jesting manner. "We first met seven… months ago." The pause is slight, and would be unnoticeable unless one knew what to look for. Liene does not appear to notice as Zelda continues her story, holding to the one she told her father some hours ago. The younger princess nods in understanding as she finishes the tale.
"A chance meeting developing to a close friendship. To find such a thing in the most unlikely of places. I'm so happy for you both." She says, her eyes turning to the sky for a moment before she turns to me with a pleasant smile. "You mentioned that you are not of Hyrule did you not? From where do you hail? If it is not too bold to ask."
The question was merely asked out of curiosity and I see no reason to hide the truth when it comes to this. Zelda's eyes turn to me for a moment her expression encouraging, as if she had thought the same as I, and so I begin my story. "As far back as I can remember, I have lived among the Kokiri, deep within the forest far to the south. Since I was a baby, the children living there have cared for me, and treated me as one of their own… at least for the most part." The latter part I add on an afterthought, remembering my history with Mido and a few of the other, less tolerant Kokiri. "I've recently learned a truth of myself however, and that is what lead me to Hyrule."
"You are not Kokiri…" Liene observes, moving her knuckles to her chin in thought. "I can see you are Hylian born, despite your clothing. Did you come to Hyrule in order to find your birth parents?"
I say nothing for a moment, casting my eyes down. The thought of my true parents had not often come to mind, but hearing Liene's implications over my motives for coming to Hyrule, I cannot help but consider it now. I'd been so consumed by my duties as the Hero of Time that I had no time to think on it before, but now… now that my quest has come to an end the prospect of discovering my origins is certainly a thing to consider. I know the fate of my mother, as I was told of it by the Deku Tree's Sprout… but what of my father? Perhaps it would be wise to consult the Deku Tree again. He may know more… and I do wonder of his fate in this time… as well as how drastically the course of history as a whole has been altered due to our actions. The sealing of Ganondorf is sure to have it's own repercussions.
A hand coming to rest upon my arm draws me from my musings, and I glance up to see Zelda gazing at me inquisitively. "Link? Are you well?"
"I am." I say plainly, still half in thought. "Merely thinking of what Liene said. I hadn't thought much on it before, but she may be right. I believe I would like to know more of my parents… if possible."
"You still do not know much of them, yes?" She asks knowingly.
"Not even their names, or even what they named me." I say. "Link is the name I've always known… but for all I know, my birth name may be something entirely different." I lower my eyes and shake my head, giving a barely audible sigh, loud enough for only the Princess Royal to hear. I continue. "I just want to learn all about them that I can… and perhaps, someday even have the privilege of meeting my true father." I pause momentarily. "I wonder if all orphans feel this way…"
A tiny smile forms upon the lips of the timid young royal as she looks into my eyes. "I know you will find the answers someday, Link. Until that day, you must never loose hope, and I vow that if it is within my ability, I shall do all I can to aid you."
Her words are spoken with conviction, and I know she means all that she says. For some reason, simply hearing those words, and seeing her smile fills me with a sense of comfort, and I smile back in response. Had I any doubts to begin with of the affects our actions may have had on our friendship, they would surely have been washed clean in this moment. I feel hope in knowing that, despite the many new uncertainties lying before me, I still have one constant in my life in Zelda. Just as the consideration comes to mind however, Liene steps forward, approaching us.
"What are you two whispering over?" She says, coming to stand beside Zelda, apparently having grown curious over our conversation. "Something I am not to know perhaps?"
The question was asked in a playful way, and I smirk slightly despite myself. "No, nothing of import. I was merely considering your question regarding my parents. I had not thought of the possibility before. I simply wished to know of the land of my birth. Though… I do wonder if in doing so I may discover more about them."
"Do you know anything of them?" Liene asks thoughtfully.
I shake my head in the negative. "That is what I wish to discover. I know close to nothing at this time however."
"Well, despite what little information we have, there may be something we can do." The younger princess begins.
"Hmm… perhaps the palace archives?" Zelda asks thoughtfully. "Though we do not have much information, what we do know may help to narrow the search."
"No, do not trouble yourselves on my account." I say formally. "It is as you said; we do not know enough for a search of the archives to result in much success. I do not wish to burden you with such a thing, especially when there is so little known."
"Then… if you were to discover anything further?" Zelda asks, her soft voice having a slightly imploring undertone that I could not bring myself to deny.
I bow my head in consent. "If I do find something worthwhile that may help us in a search, then I would appreciate the aid. However, I still do not wish to be a burden if it would interfere with-"
"Perish the thought!" Liene interjects. "It would be a privilege to help anyone with such a matter, and even more so for a friend of Zelda's."
"Please, Link?" Zelda adds in her typical soft, musical voice.
The beseeching gaze she gives, coupled with the eagerness of her younger sister is enough to silence any further argument I might have made. I lower my eyes with a smile, touched that there are two people so willing to help me, let alone the two daughters of Hyrule's Royal Family. I silently wonder to myself how the two of them could possibly differ so much from their father, but I push the thought away, I turn my eyes back to them, seeing them still awaiting my reply.
"Very well." I say finally. "If it is your wish, then it would be wrong of me to deny you the opportunity. Thank you, Your Highnesses."
Zelda smiles, and Liene clasps her hands together, both obviously pleased and after a moment, the younger of the two speaks once more, offering a change of subject. "Well now that this matter has been settled, let us speak of something more pleasant. It is not for a few hours, but would you care to join us for supper, Link? I know that Zelda is too timid to ask, so allow me on her behalf."
"Liene!" Zelda cries, a bit flustered. "That isn't-"
"Oh? So you did not mean to ask him?" The chestnut haired princess questions with a lifted brow.
"I…" Zelda looks down at the ground, shyly. Liene simply laughs.
"I only jest, Sister." Liene says humorously.
"You jest more than most." Zelda amends, but a smile forms upon her lips that suggests she is not quite as irritated as she is attempting to be. Liene simply smiles, having apparently noticed it. I grin myself, finding the antics of the younger princess, and her golden haired older sister's reactions to them to be quite cute in a way.
However, in remembering Liene's request I shake my head. "I do not know how wise that would be at this time."
Zelda seems slightly disappointed, and looks up at me. "Why would it not be?"
"His Majesty currently does not seem think highly of me." I explain. "I do not wish to give him cause for concern, and I fear that having a meal with his daughters may do just that. He has given me permission to come and go when I wish, but I would hate for that privilege to be stripped the very day it is given. It would be best for me to not overstep my bounds. I do appreciate the gesture, but I would like to be cautious in this matter."
"That does make sense." Zelda says in reply. "You are right, and I would not wish for such a thing either."
"However…" I say, giving an encouraging half-smile before continuing. "Once the castle has grown used to my presence, I would be delighted to accept such an offer in the future."
"Perhaps another time then." Liene says in agreement. "You will be leaving shortly in that case, I assume?"
"Unfortunately so." I reply. "I apologize, but I do have matters to attend elsewhere."
"Well, it was truly a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Link." Liene says. "I do hope you will visit again soon."
"As do I, princess." I reply, giving a bow of respect.
Liene gives a small but pleasant smile offering an elegant curtsey in response, and Zelda steps forward, her hands clasped before her waist. "Then I shall see you off. The news may have not reached everyone in the castle grounds, and I would not wish for any inconveniences to be caused by a case of misinformation."
"I would appreciate that." I say in approval. "Thank you, Zelda."
"In that case, I bid you farewell Link. I wish you luck in your search, and I do hope you find the kingdom to your liking." Liene says amiably.
With that the brown eyed princess turns and heads for the ornate doors that serve as both entrance and exit to the Arboretum, disappearing through them after a moment. I watch her go with Zelda at my side until the doors close of their own accord. I glance down to see Zelda smiling happily, and the sight causes me to grin as well, glad that the ill emotions I'd sensed from her before seem to have faded completely for now. I place a hand on her shoulder and grin down at her as she looks up at me inquisitively.
"Your sister truly is quite the card."
"She is at that." The ocean eyed princess says, her smile only widening from my words. "Shall we go then?"
"Lead on, my lady." I say formally, as the two of us make our way to the entrance to the Palace.
After a few moments and a good amount of walking, I step from the palace foyer and no later, find myself at the top of a large staircase of marble ascending to the large pair of silvery doors that serve as the main entrance to the castle, Zelda at my side. Cylindrical balusters extend from a straight, narrow riser, which swell at their bases before slowly thinning as they extend to the smooth handrail. A pair of statues baring the appearance of two unknown people; one male and one female, each holding aloft an image of the Triforce made of the same stone as the figures themselves. Like stone sentinels, they gaze out over the castle grounds in a silent vigil, as if ready to awaken at any time to defend the castle should a threat present itself. They are finely detailed, and doubtlessly do justice to their models, yet from my position, I cannot accurately make out their features.
Side by side, we begin to descend the staircase and down into the inner grounds of the castle. My feet touch down on the cobblestone path as I reach the bottom of the staircase. The path extends straight ahead to the large drawbridge which leads outside the fortified walls. The light has grown fairly dimmer, and I surmise it to be early evening from the soft pink color of the sky, and the position of Din's Eyes. A row of coniferous bushes lines the street on either side, which likely would begin baring flowers quite soon. The path winds in two directions around a fully grown Lothrian tree, the golden wood shimmering in the light of the twin sols, while the sky blue leaves sway lazily in the gentle breeze. I had expected to see many guards and knights in this portion of the castle grounds, but surprisingly, there are none to be seen at this time. I assume this must be the time of day that the shifts change, which would account for the apparent lack of protection. It is fortunate for me that they are, at present, absent however as I would rather not feel their eyes watching my every move.
"It seems the Knights are currently changing shifts." Zelda says, confirming my suspicions from before. "The grounds always seems so much more peaceful when they are not present."
"I can see why they would be." I say in reply.
I turn to face her, and she appears thoughtful for a moment, as if considering her next words carefully. I wait patiently as she does so before she looks up at me curiously. "Link, might I have a word?"
"Of course, Zelda." I reply without hesitation. "Is there something you wish to know?"
"I was merely wondering…" She begins, casting her eyes to the ground in thought. "Where will you go? Now that everything has returned to normal… at least in a way, what will you do from here?"
I gaze up at the sky for a moment, thinking on the words. "I planned to travel to Bahn first and formost. I wish to visit Lon Lon Estate. There is an old friend there that I need to thank. I doubt she will remember me, but I feel it is fitting that I tell her how grateful I am for her aid."
"You refer to Epona, yes?" Zelda asks, though it was far from a question.
"I do." I say. "After I finish things there, I will return to the Kokiri's Forest Haven. I will not stay there long. Merely enough time to gather some personal belongings, and perhaps to speak to the Great Deku Tree. I believe he may have answers to a few things that I am still confused over."
"I see." Zelda begins, a bit of timidity in her eyes as she continues. "Will I see you again soon?"
"I would hope." I say, smiling slightly. "Normally it would take at least two weeks to reach Kokiri Forest, but if I remember, there is a Lost Gate a day's length from Bahn which will make the trip much shorter. Three days perhaps, four at the most but I will return. I promise."
"In that case… I would like you to have this." Zelda says.
I give the princess a questioning look but before I am able to ask what she means, she raises her right hand, holding it before her as if grasping some invisible object within her fingers. After but a few seconds I hear the familiar hum of magic she slowly draws an item from the Aether. A swirling light forms in her palm, coiling about and taking form, slowly shaping itself into the item she is summoning. Slowly the light fades, leaving behind an item very familiar to me; the Ocarina of Time, its body glimmering prettily in the light of dusk. Cupping her left hand under the sacred instrument as well, she holds it out to me in offering.
"The Ocarina…?" I ask, blinking in disbelief. "Zelda, this is a sacred item… I could not possibly take something like this from you."
"It is one of the three relics meant for the hands of one." Zelda begins. "The second, being the Master Sword, and the third, the Triforce of Courage. These three items are meant for the hands of one who holds the title of Hero of Time. This Ocarina has always belonged to you Link. My family merely held it until its true owner could arrive to claim it. I entrusted it to you that day knowing this, and now that we have fulfilled our roles in that distant world, I return it to you now."
"Zelda…" I say begin, but the princess simply reaches for my hand with hers, placing the Ocarina within my palm with the other.
"It is yours." She says simply, her eyes having a look that says any further refusal would be pointless.
My eyes settle on the instrument as she slowly removes her hands from mine, leaving me holding the precious relic. This ocarina had served me well in my quest, and now I hold it in my hands once more. I run my fingers over the cool crystal surface and the golden embroidery on the mouthpiece, baring an image of the Triforce. Twelve holes line the bluish base, capable of producing all manner of pitches imaginable, just as I remember it. I look back toward Zelda, a feeling of modesty coming over me in having the item return to me. Though I was only without it for a short time, it still feels as if I've been given the greatest of gifts in having the instrument returned.
"In that case, I take it respectfully." I say. "And with the Minuet of Forest, it may even make the journey even less time consuming."
At those words, Zelda lowers her eyes, heaving a dejected sigh. From her expression I can only assume that what she has to say relates to my mention of the teleportation magic, and that what ever she had to say regarding it was not good.
"I do not believe that is an option anymore, Link… though I do wish it still were." She says resulting in a sigh from my own lips, having expected something of that nature. "Because the Door of Time has been closed, the Elemental magic that surrounds the temples is no longer as strong as it once was. Therefore, the Warpstones are likely dormant now. They may work if you were close enough, but it would not be enough to make for any convenience in travel."
'Din sear it…' I bite my tongue to avoid uttering any thrice-cursed oaths before the princess, instead replying, "I had thought you might say as much…"
"There are other uses however." Zelda replies. "You of all people should know how versatile it is. You can still call upon Familiars, or control certain objects. You can even increase the range of your telepathic ability with it."
My ears perk upon hearing this. "I have experienced the telepathy enhancement before. Do you mean to say that this could be used to communicate with others as well?"
I had spoken to Saria in this manner before… though the means used were quite different when I spoke to my childhood friend. The force behind that communication was that of the forest spirits, their power contained in both the Ocarina she had given me, and the song itself. Though I had sensed a difference when I had used the Ocarina of Time for the same purpose, as had she, I did not understand the reason for this until now. I smile considering a possibility.
Not privy to the idea forming within my mind, the princess replies. "If your connection is strong enough yes… Why?"
The inquisitive look in her ocean blues causes me to smile. "Assuming I should I wish to contact you… This would be possible?"
Zelda's eyes widen slightly. "I… had not had the thought." She thinks for a moment. "It would be, yes. But you… you would wish to contact me?"
Still grinning, I nod in affirmation. "If only so you might hear the voice of a friend. I am not your sister, and I say this not out of jest, nor jeer but if what she said before is true, then I assume it must get quite lonely for you here in the palace. I would like to contact you, if only to lessen that burden… that is, if you would permit me to do so."
"I…" Zelda begins, thinking on her words for a moment before smiling finally. "I am humbled that you would think of me so. I would indeed be pleased if you were to contact me."
"Very well. Then I shall." I say.
I pause for a moment, turning my eyes toward the raised drawbridge with a sigh. As much as I wish to stay, I cannot delay my departure any longer. I still have questions that need answering, not only for myself, but for Zelda as well. Triforce of Wisdom or no, I can see that even she does not have all the answers as to the extent of our efforts. Even the very wise cannot know all. There are some things that only experience can reveal… and it is my purpose to discover what these may be. Zelda has already done much to assuage some of the uncertainties, and now I aim to return the favor, for both of our sakes.
"I suppose it is time." I say, somewhat reluctantly despite myself.
"But you will contact me soon, yes?" She asks softly as I turn to regard her once more.
"I will." I say with a nod. "Farewell Zelda… at least for now."
"Farewell, Link. May the Trinity smile upon you, and bless your path." She replies formally.
"And yours as well." I return. "By your leave."
With those words I turn from her and start down the cobblestone path, toward the drawbridge in the distance. My mind turns to the task at hand, and I think for a moment on what I may learn, wondering just how much the world has changed as a result of our actions. I reach the drawbridge moments later, standing before the dull brown, steel framed wood. The standard of Hyrule is emblazoned above it upon the white-grey stone of the bulwark; The image of a phoenix with outstretched wings with the Triforce centered above its head, and a smaller, inverted triangle below as if carried within the avian's talons.
"Link!" I am stopped by a soft voice, calling out from behind me, and turning I see Zelda quickly moving toward me, raising her skirts so as not to trip over them.
"Zelda? Is something wrong?" I ask the question as I place both hands upon the golden haired princess' shoulders as she stops before me, looking up into my eyes.
She says nothing in reply, and instead simply stares at me for a few moments, as if hesitant. Then, in a sudden change, she leans in quickly, placing a hand upon my chest for support and presses a gentle kiss against my cheek. I gasp in shock, certain that my eyes must have gone wide as saucers from the action and the feel of her velvety lips against my skin. Though it lasts but a second, it may have easily been an hour or even longer before she removes her lips, backing up a few paces and casting her timid gaze up at me. I blink a few times, returning her gaze with a look of utter shock.
"Thank you, Link… for everything." She says, her voice soft and angelic to my ears. The words serve to pull me from my trance, albeit only slightly.
"It… was my honor." I stammer unsteadily in reply.
She gives a silent nod of her head before turning back to return to the palace with a final, small farewell. I stare after her as she goes, watching as her skirts and wimple billow in the slight breeze of the castle grounds. As she disappears into the doorway at the top of the stairway, I turn and continue toward the drawbridge as disappears from sight, still dazed by the short, unexpected kiss.
'She… kissed me…'
Was it real? I honestly cannot answer even that, my mind still caught in a haze from what had occurred. In the deepest corners of my mind, I know it was, but somehow it simply seems too absurd to believe. I raise my left hand to my cheek for a moment, placing my fingers upon the place her lips had touched, still in a state of shock. It feels hot to the touch; which is not to say that that was not obvious from the beginning for the burning sensation I have felt sense she had made the action. It feels as if I could light the flame of a lighthouse beacon if I was merely to come within five paces of it. I know of my feelings for her… but how could such a seemingly simple action affect me in such a profound way?
I pay no mind to the descending drawbridge, nor the reason of why it simply seems to lower of it's own accord. In my addled state, I cannot bring myself to focus on such details and merely pay it a passing glance as I proceed across the newly formed path over the palace moat and into the outer grounds surrounding the castle. Only vaguely remembering what I'd set to do, I slowly make my way through them, hardly noticing the suspicious glances of the patrolling Soldiers and Knights as I traipse along the path to the city, slowly attempting to gather myself once more.
Interlude
The palace' entrance chamber was a rather large room, though greatly dwarfed in both size and extravagance by the Grand Atrium which it connected to. The walls, floor, and ceiling were all made of a white and yellow-orange stone, the colors of which swirled and blended with one another, creating pleasant patterns while Illumination Crystals casted light all about the room, which reflected off the polished surfaces, causing them to shine prettily. A few simple, but quaint tables made of burgundy colored mahogany were positioned spuriously about the room surrounded by comfortable armchairs made of similar wood and padded with blue velvet cushions. A few old suits of armor lined the walls, the straight edged swords they held resting against the ground by the tip of the blade like knights standing at attention. A few medium sized plants gave a bit of greenery to the room, the broad leaves casting a few shadows here and there in the light. A short crimson rug with simple golden embroidery bordered a set of very large doors of a familiar golden wood that lead to the Grand Atrium. It was subtle, but welcoming, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of the palace, while not dazzling them the grandeur other areas possessed.
Zelda slowly stepped into the foyer having seen to Link's departure from her home. She had left the castle's grounds quickly, staying only long enough to hear his reply before returning the way they had come. A furious blush painted her cheeks a deep turquoise color, and her eyes were trained on the ground, attempting to hide her obvious chagrin over what she'd just done. The mere thought of it made her feel as if her face might have been on fire. She had kissed him. It lasted but a second, perhaps slightly longer but to her it felt as if it may have been an eternity. She'd done so out of her wish to show her gratitude for what all he'd done, and she knew as much, but this knowledge still did not make her feel any less flustered.
In truth, she wished that she could have shown him much more than simple gratitude and that thought only served to deepen the embarrassment the meek princess felt. In truth, she felt the same affection for the Hero of Time as he felt for her. Unwitting to his own feelings however, she had said nothing; partly due to her own timidity as well as her fear of her feelings being unrequited. Through telepathy, she could have easily read his thoughts to discover where his own feelings rested, and if they were with her, as hers were with him. However, though the possibility still lead to a fear of the unknown, the strongest reason was that she simply could not bring herself to invade his thoughts in such a way. No matter how much she desired to know, she could never bring herself to do that to him. Caught in her own musings as she was, she failed to even notice another presence in within the foyer.
"A close friendship… or perhaps something more?" The voice, young and feminine spoke from behind the princess.
The sound elicited a gasp from Zelda and she spun quickly, only to see Liene sitting in one of the chairs within the foyer. There was a book sitting in front of her, but she did not actually appear to be reading it, looking at Zelda with knowing eyes and a bright smile. Closing the tome, she drew her arms up, resting her chin upon her hands as she regarded her sister and her still quite telling blush.
"What… whatever do you mean?" Zelda began, her voice hesitant.
Liene's grin widened and she continued. "So you mean to say that your means of a farewell is to kiss one on the cheek? It does not exactly seem formal, dear sister… unless of course there is more to your history with Link than you mentioned before."
"You saw that…?" Zelda asked, casting her eyes to the ground and away from her sister, folding her hands in front of herself, looking about uncertainly.
"Worry not." Liene replied. "I've sent the maids and servants away for the time being. It is only the two of us here now."
Zelda sighed in slight relief over that fact, but her eyes still showed some worry. "But, you said you had matters to attend. Why did you follow us?"
"That was simply a ruse so I could watch you two alone. I knew things did not seem altogether right when I saw you today, Zelda, and that kiss was but one of many things I witnessed between you." Liene said, her cheerful expression changing to a more thoughtful one as she explained. "Once you left the Arboretum with Link, I decided to follow you to see what you would do. Though I did not hear every word, I saw everything. I knew that what you were speaking of was much more than idle conversation, but I did not expect you to so willingly hand him one of the greatest treasures of the royal line."
"Was it truly that evident?" Zelda asked softly, knowing that there was no possible way to lie her way out of this. "What did we do to betray the truth?"
"A good many things." Liene admitted. "But the first would have to have been those curious emblems on the back of your hands." Upon hearing those words, Zelda lifted her right hand to examine it. The Triforce symbol had faded from view, but Zelda knew that Liene must have indeed seen it if she spoke of it now. "I said nothing at the time because I did not wish for either of you to feel uncomfortable, and to question something of that nature upon a first meeting would have been highly inappropriate."
Zelda stood in silence for a few moments, absorbing the words of her sister and attempting to decide on what she meant to say. Liene was very perceptive to have discovered the truth so quickly, and Zelda silently admired her quick wit. She would not lie to her sister, but there was still the fear that what she was to tell the nine year old princess would be difficult to accept. However, she also knew that her sister was indeed quite mature for her age. Perhaps even more so than she herself had been before the time of growth she had experienced during those seven long, dark years. Liene was about to speak again when her older sister finally found the words she was searching for.
"I suppose there is no more use in hiding it." She said softly. "If you already know this much then, I assume you also know that the story of our meeting and our history is a false one as well." She pauses for a moment, sighing heavily and shaking her head in defeat. "I would not have hidden it from you, Sister, but you never would have believed me had I told you the truth… and if you did, I feared what you may have thought of me."
"Zelda…" Liene says, standing up and approaching the blonde haired princess in order to embrace her. "Nothing you tell me would make me think any less of you. Father may not have noticed himself, but I know you better than he does. I could tell the moment I saw you standing with Link that there was something different about you. I also noticed that Link himself seemed to be acting much differently than I would expect from a boy such as him. I could see that there was more to him than what met the eye, and I would have noticed even had I not seen the marks." She paused for a moment, noticing the look of shame in her sister's eyes, and her refusal to meet her gaze. "There is more between the two of you, is there not? Both in your history and emotionally, yes? Tell me Zelda… who is he?"
"Do you remember the legends, Liene?" Zelda asked slowly. "The legends of the Hero of Time. Of the one who would deliver our country from the hands of evil ones? The one who, wielding the Blade of Evil's Bane would cast the darkness into the fires of Umbra?" The younger princess nodded certainly, having heard the stories multiple times. "What if I told you… that the prophecy has already been fulfilled? What if I told you that the boy you saw just now was indeed the very hero the legends spoke of?"
"I would find it difficult to believe." Liene admitted honestly. "However, I also would have found it difficult to believe that the two of you hold two of the three essences of the Divine Trinity had I not borne witness to it myself. Moreover, your connection with him appears to run deeper than that of a simple friendship…" Zelda's eyes closed as she attempted to fight away a blush that threatened to make itself known. Liene noticed and gave a slightly coy smile. "So that is it."
"I…" Zelda began, the blush she felt intensifying as she started to speak. "…I love him."
"I thought as much." Liene said simply.
"You do not think ill of me for it?" Zelda asked, slightly surprised that she would not have at least some objection given their stations.
"It would not be right of me to judge something I do not know, Zelda." Liene said. "I know there is more to you both than I am aware. If you would tell me, I would hear of your story. I would like to better understand what has happened to you."
Zelda thought for a moment, before giving a nod. "Then I will tell you… but you must promise to keep this story between us and Impa. No one else is to know… especially not Father."
Liene understood why Zelda would not wish for the king to know her story with what such knowledge my entail and nodded. "I swear that it shall remain secret."
The two princesses moved to sit across from each other at the small table where Liene had sat before. Seating herself down in one of the plush, blue cushioned chairs the elder of the two waited for her younger sister to take her place near the book she had been pretending to read a moment before while awaiting the former. She glanced about the room, making sure there were no potential listeners as Liene had done before. Seeing none, she turned back to her sister.
"What shall I say first?" She asked with a bit of trepidation in her voice.
Liene simply smiled in response. "Start from the beginning."
So we've finally met Liene, learned about the castle, and now Link is setting off into a much more peaceful Hyrule. Quite a long chapter this time around. I don't exactly know what the average length of these will turn out to be. This one is the longest chapter so far, I think. A lot happens here, and of course, some things probably need to be explained.
1. The Triforce Aspects have a subtle, but profound effect on their wielder's personalities, especially when aroused as was seen with Zelda's 'tour guide' moment. All the Triforce aspects have some effect on the personalities of their holders, sometimes good, sometimes bad. You'll see more of this as the story goes on.
2. 'Over three thousand years' may seem like a long time by human standards, but the average lifespan of a Hylian is anywhere from 650-700 years. Indeed, it's still a long time but hopefully this explanation makes the idea a little more believable.
3. What do you guys think about the contrast between Zelda and Liene? I decided to do something a little differently with the whole sibling aspect. Normally when you see a pair of siblings in stories it's always the older one who is the source of emotional support, the teaser, the confident one… this time it's the younger of the two with those aspects. I felt it would be an interesting change from what readers are used to.
4. I'm aware that Zelda actually gives Link the Ocarina before he leaves Hyrule before the events of Majora's Mask but I DID say this story was slightly AU… so she's giving it to him now.
5. Ok, I said there wouldn't be many Zelink moments yet but I HAD to do that for the simple fact that I wanted to show Liene's own ingenuity to figure things out. I couldn't do it while Link was present though because I want their feelings to remain unknown to one another for now. The kiss was a simple means of showing her gratitude, and despite his feelings, Link's sharp enough to know that (Well, once he recovers anyway). So that isn't going to be the catalyst for any rapid development.
Hmm… I've noticed that despite making my best effort to shorten these notes, I don't seem to be having much success. I've always been one for long winded, detailed explanations but I'm starting to think that seeing them at the beginning and end of every chapter might be a little off putting.
For this reason, I'm thinking of creating a website of sorts for this story using like Wordpress or something so I can post these things (and more) there and won't have to take up a wall of text at the end of each chapter to explain everything.
My question though is… would anyone go there? I mean, it wouldn't JUST have information regarding each chapter. There'd a lot of other things. Maps, Chronology, Flora and Fauna, etc that I plan to implement into the story, and it would be spoiler free. Would anyone be interested in reading things like that though? It would be really insightful, but is there enough people interested in the BACKstory as well as the story to make such a thing worthwhile?
In any case, in the next chapter, we'll start seeing a little bit more of Hyrule outside of the City! And we'll meet some old friends as well.
As always, please review and share your thoughts. It REALLY helps. Thanks.
P.S. I'd also like to give an extra special thanks to The Author of Doom: Rin for my most recent inspiration. If anyone likes my work, I URGE you to read her story Child of the Sun as well. Rin, if you're reading this, thanks for showing me how it's done!
