4
Flash from the Past
I scrutinize the elegant statue in front of me, desperately trying to grasp at anymore memories of her. But nothing comes. I sigh. Whenever I hear her name, my heart just warms with a reassuring sensation of familiarity. But I can't quite distinguish what I felt exactly for the beautiful Zora. I know I would never have willfully led a woman to believe in a future I was not willing to offer her. But I could be so oblivious to the matters of the heart of others… could I have misled Mipha in falling in love with me? The tunic she had made for me, a hundred years ago, was proof enough of her feelings for me. But I honestly can't remember what my feelings for her were.
Our travel here from the fields of Hyrule, where we faced the Calamity barely a week ago, has been uneventful. I always love coming back to Zora's Domain. I love the stunning wilderness that surrounds it, I love its strange fish-people and how they live as one with nature, I love the majestic architecture, I love the smell of fresh cold water. I don't know my own feelings very well, but I know I love those things. I even love Sidon. I truly do. He is the closest thing to a brother that I have. Who wouldn't love receiving instant, generous and unconditional praising from the man? He is like a walking talking dispenser of love. Of course, I love him.
How can I not remember his sister? I can't help but feel grieved by her tragic fate. I can't begin to imagine how difficult this must be for Zelda, who fully remembers the Zora Champion. Turning from her effigy, I make my way to the platforms leading to the gardens. Sidon has offered to entertain the princess with a visit around the domain, which she gladly accepted, having missed the beautiful place over the last century. I remained behind, giving them some privacy as they met again – after all, they did know each other before the Calamity. He is actually one of the few people she used to know who is still alive, even if he was only a child back then.
I glance at the throne room from the platform. A formal conference with the King and his council has been arranged for later tonight, since our arrival had not been announced beforehand. The council is currently discussing, probably of the sudden reappearance of the princess. I remember the cold greeting I had received from the Zoras the first time I came back here after the Calamity. Some had made it very clear that they did not like me. Nor the princess. How strange to be remembered from a hundred years ago. But King Dorephan had been understanding and fair. And of course, Sidon had showered me with approval.
What about Zelda? I think as I stroll. In the current state of my memory, it is as if we only knew each other for the sole week that had passed since she sealed the Calamity away, plus give or take a dozen days from before the Calamity. I know I always feel this urge to protect her fiercely, it is like a feral instinct. I certainly didn't appreciate the way Sidon looked at her when I introduced them. I don't know why, since that look was in no way threatening. If anything, it was the same look I always receive from him: respectful with a glint of enthusiastic admiration. Why did it bother me so much?
As I reach the gardens, an imperative question forms in my mind. Do I love the princess I have been appointed to protect with my life? Without hesitation, I would give my life for her. As a matter of fact, I already have. But I would do it again. She is infinitely precious to me. Does it mean that I can't stand the thought of her being admired by other men? I ponder, looking at the peaceful waterfalls. In a way, I presume it does. Why? Am I to be the one at her side in their place? Such a profanation. I never in my life dreamed of charming the princess in that way, that I am sure of. The whole idea seemed gruesomely… incestuous. What a strange choice of word, but it is the one that popped into my mind. Yes. As much as Sidon is like a brother to me, Zelda is like a sister. The dearest, most cherished sister. I do love her deeply. But I can't be the lover at her side. However, I can despise said lover – whoever it may be – as much as I wish to, and the thought brings a small smirk to my lips.
I walk back towards the plaza, satisfied to have explored my own feelings so successfully. But I stop abruptly after a few strides. I just hope I haven't repeated a mistake – if mistakes were made a hundred years ago – and encouraged Zelda's affection unintentionally. I think of how proper, stoic and totally unaware of anyone's sentiments including my own I always am. I am not entirely sure if that should reassure or worry me.
Author's note: well, a chapter worthy of Link's silent reputation. Only a few more short chapters before the action picks up! As usual, any comment is welcomed :)
numb3rwhiz: Thanks a lot for the constructive criticism and positive comment. It is much appreciated! I hope you will keep reading, and review if needed.
OnePunchFan8: I'm glad you perceive Link in that way, this is exactly the personality I'm trying to depict in this story.