Link POV
It had been a about two and a half weeks since my birthday, and things seemed to be going well.
Soon, Zelda and I fell into a sort of routine. Nora would normally go by in the mornings and give Zelda a list of a few things to do for the day, while my mornings consisted of training with Impa. On occasion, Zelda would come out to the yard when she didn't have too many things to do and watch my training session. When that was over, I would get cleaned up and head out to any meetings I needed to attend, or go through any other lessons I needed for the day, and Zelda would finish up with her chores.
Depending on how busy the both of us were, we would meet up early to midafternoon and then spend most of the rest of the day together. I continued showing Zelda around the castle, inside and out. We ventured through the kitchens one day when they just happened to pull out a fresh batch of sugar coated honey buns. To say I was delighted would be an understatement. Zelda had to nearly peel me away from the glorious sweets.
On another day we went through the library. Zelda liked to read, she told me an old friend of hers taught her to read years ago. It was someone from the Gerudo staff, though I didn't get too much information. I learned very quickly not to pry about her life before she was brought to Hyrule Castle. The few times I brought it up Zelda's mood went from happy and cheerful to the complete opposite, pained and dark. I was horribly curious about her past, but I sympathized that there were few fond memories, and so I decided to not press her and let her talk about it when she wanted to. I was lucky a few times, such as when she told me about the scars and bruises and her friend that taught her to read. She mentioned that she didn't remember anything other than being a servant for the Gerudo royal family, so I figured she had been there since she was a young child. Normally we talked about me, but on occasion something I would say or we would do or see would get her to mention something about herself. Even though Zelda tended to avoid handing out information about herself, she had her slip ups and I was glad that I was getting to know her more. These slip ups were small things about her but they were beginning to happen more and more frequently. I took it to be a sign that she was beginning to enjoy my company and felt she could relax, even if only a little.
We would part ways when it came time for dinner, I would be with my parents and any guests we had at the time, and she would be with other servants. In the beginning, she used to get her food from the kitchens and then go back to her room to eat, but she told me that a few days after she got here, one of the servants in the kitchens started talking to her and asked if she would stay there to eat. Zelda told me she even had dinner with Impa once, which I found to be a bit strange since Impa is always in the dining hall as one of the guards when my parents and I are having dinner.
Though, what I found the most strange out of everything was that Zelda was spending time with my mother. A considerable amount of time. Not only that, but the queen spoke very highly of Zelda. My mother was a kind woman, generous, affable; but she was a practical woman, not one to hand out meaningless flattery. She wasn't one to be loose with her words; what she said, she meant. I almost feared she had ulterior motives, perhaps she was trying to spend more time with Zelda in hopes I would spend more time with my father or Impa and working on being a prince and the next king. My next theory had been that the queen was trying to replace me; I always thought she wanted a daughter. I remember when that had first come to my mind, I had truly worried myself, I was laughing at myself shortly thereafter. Once the laughter subsided the false fear crept in again and I reassured myself that had the king and queen truly wanted another child so badly they would have simply adopted a daughter as they had me.
I finally settled with the fact that Zelda was a very pleasant person to be around, and that my mother simply enjoyed her company.
Today Zelda and I were going to go to Lon Lon Ranch and spend the day with Malon. After spending the morning with Impa, I had nothing else to do. My father was in a meeting that he said I was not needed in attendance. If I remembered correctly the meeting was with one from the Gerudo.
I was glad to have the rest of the day free. I saw Malon in town a few days ago and she wanted a visit from the both of us.
Once I was cleaned up, I dressed in my favorite green casual wear. I ventured down the halls searching for my blonde friend.
It was a nice day out, so when I didn't find Zelda in her more common places in the castle I decided to check outside, heading to the gardens first. Rounding a corner, I heard a familiar, rich laugh ring through the air. I knew that laugh. Just following there was a second laugh, more subdued and higher pitched, but also familiar. I walked over in the sounds' direction and came to the small clearing to see my mother sitting with Zelda on the little wooden bench beside the tree.
Exhibit A, of my mother and Zelda spending time together.
I didn't know what they were laughing about, but it brought a smile to my face. I stayed by the entrance of the little clearing just watching. They were both coming down from their laughter, my mother continuing to talk and Zelda holding back her giggles. She looked a little more timid with the queen than she had been with me recently, but as friendly as my mother can be she is still the queen and though the war is over she still holds a fighter's spirit, which understandably made her a bit intimidating.
To be fully honest, aside from Impa, my mother is the person I fear the most, and the queen certainly gives my guardian a run for her rupees. The two women certainly beat my father and anyone else by a long shot when trying to instill me with some sort of fear.
I did feel a bit guilty for walking in on them and for disrupting their conversation, but I wanted to head out before noon or the sun would be beating down on us on our way to Lon Lon Ranch. It wasn't especially far, but it would still take some time to get there.
I stood up straight from the wall I was leaning my shoulder against. They hadn't noticed I was watching them, or at least they didn't give any indication that they saw me. As much as my mother has become a true queen, she was a warrior first, and a fine one at that. Sometimes she just knew things. Sometimes I wondered if she was really just a soldier, or if she was part of an elite group that was above the rest of the simple soldiers. I swear, the woman either had a third eye or could read minds. The amount of information she could pick up from simple gestures, body language, speech, and an array of other things was unreal.
I began walking forward. My mother put her hand on Zelda's knee and then they both turned to me. So she had known I was there.
The queen sat with her hands in her lap, a small smile on her lips. She looked as beautiful as ever, an elegant blue dress with purple and silver accents, green eyes bright and watching.
Zelda stood as I neared, she glanced at my mother beside her quickly, then back at me. She began to bow and I had to stop her. Her formality with me in front of the queen was not necessary.
Zelda never mentioned her time with the queen, but my mother spoke of her often enough that I knew they met fairly regularly. This was the first time I had actually seen her with my mother, I knew she felt like I caught her doing something she shouldn't. I didn't mind at all, it actually made me happy that she spent time with the queen. It would be good for her.
I smiled at her, she seemed a little flustered. "Don't worry, my mother and I are similar in that we aren't much for formalities."
"I-I've noticed." She glanced to the queen sitting on the bench, "I've been chastised about it more than once."
My mother let out a soft laugh, "I find it unnecessary." She said with a wavy of her hand, "My husband on the other hand, a bit less casual than I am, but sometimes finds all the titles and courtesies that others give him a bit silly, though he would never say."
Zelda let out a soft chuckle as my mother spoke so flippantly about the king.
"So, Zelda, I have an idea for something to do today, but it would be best if you wore pants and some shirt. A dress would probably not be the best idea."
"What are we going to do?" She turned to me, her eyes curious.
"You'll see." I smiled at her pout. "Why don't you go change, I'll come to your door shortly."
She nodded and, after saying her goodbyes to my mother, walked off.
As soon as she was out of earshot my mother spoke, I didn't even have a chance to sit down. "I like her." She said with a smile.
I shook my head, a smile pulling at my lips. I sat beside my mother, took her hand a kissed it lightly, "Hello to you too, mother."
She clicked her tongue and playfully swatted me.
"I was being serious."
"I know you were. I like her too."
She raised an eyebrow at me; I shot her a warning glance, "Mom."
"Fine, fine." She raised her hands, palms facing me. "I do like her, though. There's something about her. She's great company as well."
"Yes, she is."
"So, what do you have planned for today?"
"I was hoping to spend the day at Lon Lon Ranch, but first we are making a trip to the stables. I haven't been there in a while, I feel like I haven't seen my girl in a long time."
My mother looked at me, with a playful sparkle in her green eyes, "You haven't introduced them yet?"
"No, not yet."
"Oh, that girl is in for a treat." My mother laughed, I scratched my neck and let out a small laugh as well.
I stood getting ready to leave. "Have a good day, mother." I bent slightly and kissed her cheek.
"Take care."
ZELDA POV
As Link had said, he showed up at my door a few minutes after I had changed. I wasn't sure what we were doing today, but he seemed to be very excited.
Link held the door to the stables open for me. The place was huge. I took a slow few steps in and was awestruck. From the outside it looked pretty big. But this was more than just big, it was massive. There were long rows of stalls filled with various breeds of horses of all coat colors and patterns. They were beautiful creatures, a bit intimidating, but truly magnificent. I felt a light pressure just below my mid back. It was a hand, gently trying to get me to walk forward. I hadn't realized I was standing in place for so long. I looked over to see Link looking at me with an amused expression. He had been trying to talk to me and I hadn't even noticed. I could feel my face heating up and immediately looked down. His soft chuckle beside me only deepened the blush spreading across my cheeks.
"Come on."
I stole glances at various horses as I trailed behind Link. There were spotted horses, black, tan, just a few white, brown, grey, and many in between. So far my favorite was a dark brown horse that had a black tail and mane. I couldn't help but stare at the large creature.
"Huh?" I thought I heard my name.
Link had a smile on his face and shook his head. He was trying to talk to me again. And again, my cheeks were on fire.
There was a break in the stalls and also a door where Link had stopped walking. He opened and held the door for me. There was a large fenced off area with a few horse scattered about. I looked over and the smile never left Link's face. He looked like a little kid, giddy and excited for a present.
We moved to the side and leaned our backs against the fence.
"Wait for it." He said in a near whisper with a little smirk. He cupped his hands and brought them to his lips as he took a deep breath and, very loudly, began to whistle a catchy tune. Link looked over at me with big expectant eyes and a small smile.
"What?" I said softly. The way his shining eyes were boring into me was beginning to make me self-conscious and fidgety.
"Wait for it." Was his soft reply.
There it was a new and distinct clicking of hooves from the other horses in the large pen. It was definitely getting louder but there weren't any horses coming our way.
I was wrong.
I now knew why I didn't see a horse coming towards us. I was looking in the wrong direction. I turned around just as the thundering hooves paused. I would have marveled at the beauty of the horse, that is if it wasn't hurdling the fence in the exact spot that we stood. There was nothing I could do to help it, I screamed. Yes, it was mortifying, but I wasn't worried about looking like a fool in front of the prince at the moment, I feared for my life and I screamed. I saw the hooves flying past me! My heart was pounding, I could hear my pulse. Now I knew why Link was staring at me, he wanted to see my reaction. My heart and mind calmed and I got to look at the horse, an utterly stunning beast. The horse's shinning coat was a deep red with a hint of brown in it, a white mane, forelock, tail and tuffs of white hair above the hooves. Magnificent.
LINK POV
The mare slowed to a trot and looped around back towards us. "Zelda, I'd like to introduce you to Epona." With a big smile, I let my arm sweep out and gesture to the mare making her way toward us.
She turned to me with wide eyes. "You—! You did that on purpose!"
"Guilty." I smiled sheepishly and scratched the back of my head.
She gaped at me. Then stared at me. Then glared at me.
"I can't believe you…" She muttered. There was more glaring. She even looked about to cry.
Not cool, Link.
I was about to start throwing out apologies when my girl came to my rescue. With Zelda in a mild rage and focused on me, she didn't notice Epona nearing us. The mare came up slowly and quietly and nuzzled her muzzle into Zelda's neck.
"Oh!" Her body stiffened in shock, eyes wide, her lips just barely parted in surprise. She stood very still, only her eyes moved to look at Epona. She could no doubt hear the horse's breath at her ear. The horse nudged her again, and there was another yelp of surprise, but I could see Zelda's body relax. I seemed to have been forgotten and I watched on as the young woman slowly, and very cautiously, moved her hand up. She looked conflicted, probably deciding to touch the horse or not, she chose not to, but Epona had other plans. The horse moved her muzzle into Zelda's hand and snorted. There was a bright smile on Zelda's face, the kind of smile that could make someone melt or forget anything, a smile I wish she would show more often. She let out a breath of air that she was probably holding, mixed in with a light laugh.
After a few more minutes of watching Zelda and Epona interacting I swung myself up on the mare.
"Well, now that you two have met, how about we head out?"
Zelda looked up at me as I was seated on Epona. She shuffled her feet and then spoke up, "How do I get on her?" I had told Zelda we would both be riding Epona.
"Right, sorry. I forgot you've never done this." I moved my foot and pointed to where it used to be in the stirrup. "Put your foot in there and push off the ground." I stretched my arm out to her. "Here, grab my hand and try to get up. I'll help you." She was able to get up on her first try and sat behind me.
I looked over my shoulder at her, "See? Not so bad."
She let out a worried laugh and nodded her head, "Uh-huh." I knew she was a bit skeptical about the whole situation.
"Alright, just put your arms around me and hold on. If you notice me leaning, then lean with me. Don't worry though, Epona and I will take care of you." I flashed a reassuring smile back at her. She nodded at me, not sure of her voice. Zelda was very clearly nervous. I thought it would be best to take it slow at first, let her get used to being up on a horse. Once we were a ways out in the fields Epona would be able to really stretch her legs. We didn't make it to the field without interruption.
Impa stood with her arms crossed leaning against a tree and lazily looking out to the open field. Although, I knew better. Impa never did anything lazily. She knew I would leave the castle grounds the back way. Sometimes I wondered if she were a mind reader. Was it really possible to know someone as well as she knew me? There was no way to avoid talking to her.
Epona slowed to a stop, "Hey…Impa…" I said a bit apprehensively.
"No guards." She sighed out. It wasn't a question, just a disappointed observation. I hated the way Impa could make me want to crawl into a hole out of shame. Not to mention she was able to do so in very few words. I wouldn't put it past her to be able to make me feel that way without speaking any words at all.
She didn't say anything more, so I thought to justify myself.
"Impa, it's just to see Malon. It's not far; we won't be gone for too long. Plus, you know I can take care of myself, you've made sure of it."
"I know you can—"
"Then why—"
She continued talking, I knew she heard me but she just ignored the fact that I was trying to say something. Heh, probably because I was trying to cut her off.
"I have the utmost faith that you can take care of yourself, Link. We both know how many people are after your head."
I almost let out a bitter chuckle at the thought. There had been far too many attempts at my life than I would have liked, it was the reason I never skipped a day of training with Impa.
"But you aren't alone. Are you, Link?" Her red eyes boring into me.
"I…" She was right. I wasn't by myself. I knew Zelda was full of surprises, but I doubted she could effectively protect herself if anything were to happen. "We'll be alright Impa. I will keep us both safe. If you are so worried, why don't you start training her?" The body behind me stiffened.
Impa raised a brow, her face otherwise still holding a stern expression. "Not a half bad idea, Link." She started walking back towards the castle. "We start in three days. Link, make sure you stop and get her a number of outfits to work out in before you come back today."
Zelda's breath hitched and it sounded like she let out a strangled groan. With a heavy thump, her head pressed into my back.
"Oh, for the love of Nayru, Link! What have you gotten me into?" She complained, though I didn't blame her, her voice was muffled by my clothes. I wanted to smile at her whining, but I knew all too well what she was in for, and it was not something to smile about.
I looked back over my shoulder at her with sympathetic eyes. "Hell."
ZELDA POV
"Malon!" Link called out waving his right hand high into the air while holding Epona's reigns in his left hand. His body jostled when he waved to her, setting me off balance a bit, I tightened my hold on him.
The red haired girl looked over her shoulder where she stood leaning against the fence surrounding a number of horses. She pushed off the fence and turned fully toward us and with a big smile waved to us. Epona took us closer to the large pen and red haired girl, cucco fluttering out of the mare's path. Even when we stopped moving and were close to Malon I still had my arms wrapped around Link in a death bind.
It was a terrifying experience. When we first left, it was nice. Epona was trotting at a nice pace, I was able to look around and take notice of the landscape. It was very beautiful, very lush, and my first good view of Hyrule fields. Then Epona really started moving. That was when my death grip on Link started and never loosened up. Oh, Goddesses…my heart stopped when we hurdled a fence. I wanted to curse Link for directing us over the fence but the only sound that came from me was a very loud scream. Then after that, I didn't want to make any noise at all, and had my face buried in his back for most of the rest of the ride. The shriek wasn't one of my finer moments, but there was nothing I could do to stop it.
I really was making a fool of myself today…and to think that the day isn't even half way over.
I sat there, still holding onto Link, for longer than I should have. With good reason no less.
"Um…" Of course. I had no idea how to get off of Epona. Sure, she wasn't the biggest horse I saw today, but that didn't mean I wasn't high up. Link seemed to notice my hesitation, and thankfully he didn't make a fuss about it.
"Here. Scoot back a bit." I did as he said and he hopped off of his horse, very easily I might add, and took a step over to where I sat. He stretched his arms up, "Just lean over and I'll grab you." I put my arms out and grabbed his shoulders, I knew my fingers were probably digging into him, but he didn't complain. Link settled his hands on my waist with a firm grip, I leaned towards him just a little bit more and then I was on the ground. That wasn't so hard.
"Thank you." I said quietly. He gave me a smile and a nod.
My legs were slightly shaky, but I was on the ground again. As incredible of a creature as Epona is, I was still grateful for being back on my feet on the ground.
LINK POV
"Hey, Malon. Your dad here?"
She shook her head. "No you just missed him. He went to Kakariko, probably won't be back until tomorrow." She looked over to the barn and then turned back to me, "Since he is gone, and you're here, do you think you could help me move a few things?"
"Of course."
"They are a bit heavy, but nothing a strong man like you can't handle, I'm sure." Malon said with a wink.
I decided to play along, "Yes, I'm sure it's nothing these muscles can't handle. I could probably carry twice as much as you can."
"Oh, really?" Malon definitely felt challenged. I nodded and she huffed. The redhead walked over to Zelda and pulled a brush from her apron pocket.
"Why don't you go groom Epona for a little bit?" Malon knew me pretty well.
"She loves getting brushed." I added. It's not that I didn't want Zelda's company along with Malon, but I did want to talk to the redhead, preferably without Zelda there.
I certainly didn't back down from the little mock bet Malon and I had. I did manage to carry more boxes filled with empty glass bottles from her house over to the barn, but I didn't win by as much as I thought I would. Malon was surprisingly strong, I should have expected it but I got a bit carried away.
"Thanks, Prince. That definitely helped move things along faster."
After moving the boxes into the barn we leaned against the gate and looked out to the fenced off horses, eyes gliding over Zelda and Epona on occasion.
"Malon?"
"Mm?"
"Zelda really liked Epona. I was thinking maybe she'd like a horse."
She was laughing. "Just over two weeks and you're already getting her a horse, Prince?"
I narrowed my eyes at her, her laughing calmed to chuckles, "What's that supposed to mean, Red?"
She brushed off the name, "That's a pretty big present. Should you wait until at least the six month anniversary?" She snickered.
"Malon!" I gaped at her. "It's not like that. She's important to me." Irked at my so called 'friend', I turned my eyes towards the blonde we were talking about, and looked on as she brushed Epona, talking and smiling to the mare. "She has had a hard life, been denied so many things. I know I don't have to, and I know it's not my job to do so, but I want to do what I can for her to try and make up for all the wrongs that have been done to her. She's a great person, Malon."
"You've got a good heart, Link. You'll be a wonderful king." At hearing her words, I turned to look over at her. Malon was looking at Zelda's direction with a warm smile.
Thanks, Malon.
After a few minutes of comfortable silence had passed I looked over at my friend. She noticed and looked my way, eyebrow raised and waiting for me to say something.
"So…about that horse."
Malon let out a laugh and shook her head. "Younger or older?"
"Probably younger, so she'll have a good bond with the horse."
"Let's see, there is a new foal, beautiful coat, he won't be ready to leave for a while though. There's one that just turned two a few weeks ago, she's a bit…unruly, she's a funny one, got quite the personality, really nice black coat. We have three that are three years, a colt and two fillies. That colt's the most docile we've had in a while, he's a good horse. The dark filly is a good girl, nice balance and good endurance. The tan filly is a rather docile one, she's a definite sprinter and on the smaller side. They are all pretty different. Then we have a six year old stallion, he has quite the attitude and is picky about his rider, still a good horse none the less."
"Wouldn't expect anything different from Lon Lon." I said honestly.
"Thanks. So how do you want to pick? Do you want to check them out or have her do it?"
"I was thinking of letting them all out in the pen and have her in there with them. Maybe let a horse pick her." Malon gave me a funny look when I said that. "What? It worked for me."
"That's because my girl is special."
"Your girl? Last I checked, I came riding here on Epona. I'm pretty sure that makes her my girl."
"She was my girl first, therefore I have priority."
I scoffed at her, "We do not have joint custody of Epona, Malon."
She looked at me, fighting a smile. "Yeah, I guess you're right. We don't have 'custody' of her. She's her own horse."
That was definitely true. Epona was as free as could be.
"Come on, let's start rounding up the horses to put them back in their stalls."
Malon agreed and we made our way back over to the large pen. Zelda was off to the side with Epona, her head resting on the mare's side as she moved her hand over Epona's shoulder in circles. I smiled at the sight. They were off to the side, so we wouldn't disturb them when we moved the other horses out of the pen.
ZELDA POV
I had a brush that Malon had given to me in my right hand with which I made large sweeping motions to smooth out the hair that was misplaced as I rubbed and scratched Epona's side with my left hand. It was almost funny, this horse had nearly scared me into the Sacred Realm and here I was grooming her. I let out a soft chuckle at the thought and the mare turned her head towards me. I could feel her gaze and I looked up and was caught, there was something unnerving about the way this horse was seemingly staring into my very being. I hadn't noticed but for a moment my hands had stopped moving.
"I think I know now why Link speaks so highly of you."
Epona let out a nicker and shook her hair out. I smiled and continued mindlessly grooming her. I talked to her, telling her how pretty she was, what a nice day it was and she would stomp her front hooves around, shake out her hair and nicker. Then I started telling her about myself. The mare seemed to get a bit more somber, less movement, just a swish of her tail hair and there, a twitch of her shoulder, a flick of her ear, a soft snort. She was watching me as I told her about myself. It started out light and easy, my favorite things to do, a few things I picked up from my time in the castle, the silly little things Link has done, some of the things that he's done to make me smile; just basic things. Then it got heavy. I told her more personal things. My bruises were all but gone, though there were still some tender spots. I told her the story behind some scars: a knife here, a broken cup there, pieces of a wooden crate that broke when I fell into it. I didn't tell her about all of them. I knew she wouldn't tell anyone, even if she was able to talk, but some of it was buried in a place I didn't want to go. Maybe if I buried it all so far back, and never thought about it, never remembered it, then it never really happened. Except the scars were there, they were always there, the bruises were gone, but the scars were still there, never going away. Something soft and warm pressed against my cheek and then a puff of air. I focused my eyes as saw Epona nuzzling me. I touched my cheek where her nose just was and found it wet, but it wasn't from her. I was crying. I didn't even notice. How long was I crying? Where were Link and Malon? Could they see me?
I wiped my eyes and took a few deep breathes to clear out the lump in my throat and collect myself. I looked around and noticed there were considerably fewer horses about. I saw Malon walking away with a horse then I saw Link walking out of the stable doors. He caught my eyes and smiled wide. His hand waving high about his head, he called out to me.
"Hey, Zelda!"
Link.
He knew. He even saw it. I guess I can't really saw that he knew about it, more like he knew of it. I hadn't told him anything, really. When I showed him, he was so angry. The day after, he kept a noticeable distance between the two of us and held an angry grimace on his face. I remember him completely avoiding physical contact with me. He would reach out to grab my hand or my arm to show me something and then snatch it back. After two days he was back to normal, or at least the normal I had known for the short time I was there, he was smiling again and although he didn't avoid touching me, he kept his touches very light and gentle. It was a small gesture that I appreciated. But what I appreciated the most was that Link didn't press me about what happened, how my body came to look as marred as it is. I knew he was curious, but he didn't ask about it. He didn't poke and prod about me; he carefully and respectfully waded through snippets of information about me. He didn't get very much, but for now he was okay with that. I knew my…blemishes…were in the back of his mind, he made a certain face when he thought on it, but he held his tongue and didn't ask. He was being patient. An act that I appreciated more than I could express to him.
Maybe someday, I wouldn't have to hide it all anymore. Maybe someday, I can accept what happened. Maybe someday, I can move on. Maybe someday, I could tell him.
Someday.
"I can trust him, right?" I whispered to the mare. She dipped her head, stomped her front hooves and let out a happy whine.
Someday.
"—da"
With that thought I pat the horse with a smile. Epona shook out her hair and snorted.
"Zeldaaaa~~"
"Someday." I turned and came face to face with Link. I said that out loud. I was sure my face was red, yet again.
"What?" The blond prince tilted his head slightly to the side with a small smile on gracing his lips.
"Nothing." I said, much too quickly.
He raised a brow at me, "You were pretty out of it, I said your name about five times. Are you well?"
"Yes." My response came out rushed. More heat rushed to my face. Would the embarrassment never end?
"Alright, if you say so."
He stepped closer and ran his hand along Epona's side.
"I have a bit of an odd request."
I looked over at him, waiting for him to continue, he was still looking at his horse.
"I was wondering if you would go stand in the middle of the pen."
"What?" I was hardly even comfortable with one horse!
He looked at me then, his eyes soft and yet serious, "Please?"
"I—are they friendly? Like Epona?"
His mouth turned down in a slight frown, his brows knit together. "I don't really know. I don't know the horses well. Malon knows them better than I do and she said there were a few docile."
"A few? And what of the others?" I was not liking this idea.
He shook his head, "I really don't know."
My heart was pounding. Go stand in the middle of a pen filled with horses. Large, muscular, powerful creatures that could trample me at any moment. Sounds like a great idea, Link. I was just getting comfortable with Epona. My first experience with a horse and I nearly get my head taken off by her hooves. Yeah, I really want to go stand with a bunch of unfamiliar horses. That's exactly what I want to do. That's why I was standing at the very edge away from all of them…
"Zelda?"
"Fine." I saw his face light up, "But! I swear by Din, Link, if I get stomped, I will haunt you."
The light in his face was gone and replaced with complete shock. I, myself, was a bit shocked as well.
He laughed, "I didn't know you had that in you." Honestly, neither did I, "If something happens to you, then I give you permission to haunt me. I'll be on Epona so that we can charge out there if we need to."
"Why am I doing this?" I asked suddenly
"Hm?"
"Why did you ask me to do this?"
"Oh. You'll see."
"That's not-!"
"Oh, come on! You already agreed." He cut me off.
That I did, and I wasn't about to back out now. Maybe this (in my mind) seemingly idiotic act will somehow make up for my embarrassments. That was my justification. Not the fact that I got caught up in his eyes and would have done anything he asked when he said please.
After just a bit more resistance on my part, and encouragement from Link and Malon, I was standing in a pen with six horses. I let out a shaky breath and just stayed still.
LINK POV
I was sitting casually on Epona, leaning my arms against her neck. Malon was perched on the top rail of the pen loosely swinging her feet. Then there was Zelda, standing stiff as a board in the middle of the pen. I knew she was nervous, she was probably regretting agreeing to do this. I would be alright if she was mad at me for asking her to do it, but if it worked then I wouldn't mind her being a bit peeved with me. I was honestly surprised she agreed to it so quickly.
"Go try and pet one of them!" Malon called out to her. I looked over to the redhead and saw her sporting an amused smile.
"WHAT?!" Zelda looked over at us, her eyes wide.
Malon chuckled, "Walk up to one and try to touch um!" She hollered out.
"WHY?!" The poor girl was probably having a panic attack.
"See if one of them likes you!" The rancher yelled out.
"NO WAY!"
Malon wasn't really getting anywhere with her, so I thought I'd chime in, "Come on! That tan one is pretty close! Go pet that one!" Zelda looked at me with pleading eyes, even from this distance I could see that clearly. She was conflicted. I knew she didn't want to let me down, and I did feel a bit guilty for all of it but if it worked out she would be happy. She didn't want to let me down, but she was terrified. Epona shifted under me.
Zelda shut her eyes tight for a moment. When she opened the again, she stood taller, less tense, with a fierce determination burning in her that made me smile. She slowly walked over to the tan horse grazing a few paces away from her. The horse picked up her head and looked at Zelda as she slowly approached. Zelda cautiously brought her hand up and when she was in reaching distance the filly walked away casually. The next closest horse was the young colt and Zelda made her way over. The playful young horse galloped around Zelda and then ran off to the other side of the pen. After two failed attempts to touch a horse I could see Zelda let out a huff of air. With a little less caution she walked over to the next closest horse. I could tell she really wanted to at least touch one, she was determined. She had a stubborn streak in her and it was definitely showing right now.
Zelda turned around and her eyes narrowed in on the black filly. The horse picked her head up and looked at Zelda walking, her ears twitching. The filly shook her coat and snorted. Zelda kept walking gradually over and the horse backed up slowly. They both stopped moving and just watched each other. Zelda was only a few steps away from the horse.
Epona shifted under me again, we were both getting anxious. I was hoping one of the horses would like Zelda. This particular horse I was a bit nervous about. Out of the six, she was the most unpredictable, according to Malon.
Zelda reached her hand out and stayed rooted in place. The black horse took a few more steps back. She shifted. I straightened on Epona and kicked her into a sprint.
"Zelda!"
ZELDA POV
I thought I was going to be able to touch this one. I thought we had a moment of understanding, neither one of us really wanted to be in this pen. I was wrong. The horse stepped back.
I heard Link yelling at me. It got my blood pumping, he sounded scared. What was wrong?
That's what was wrong. I saw the black beauty charging at me.
I couldn't move. My mind was racing and the message to move out of the way just wasn't getting to my legs.
I didn't have time to be mad at Link for putting me in this position in the first place. I didn't really have time to think at all and even if I did, my mind wasn't working, I wasn't thinking, I was just watching. Watching the horse get closer and closer to me.
Then the horse was right there.
There was a sudden warmth in my hand. I hadn't noticed that it was still up. Then the warmth was gone from my hand and replaced with a radiating heat that I felt all over my body. Something soft rubbed against my cheek, my eyes focused and I could see the horse's eye right there. A warm puff of air blew my hair past my shoulders. I don't know how long we stayed like that, staring into each other's eyes, but it felt like an eternity. I could hear the horse's strong breathes, feel each breathe against my neck. Then it was gone. The warmth was gone and running past me in a large semi-circle.
I didn't notice when Link arrived. I didn't notice when he got off of Epona. I didn't notice when he got near me. Or when he put his hand on my back. Or when he started talking to me, asking if I was alright.
My attention was on the black horse galloping around the pen. That black horse took my breath away, quite literally. That black horse with the black mane and tail, the white almost-diamond on its head, white blotch on its chest, and white trimmings around its hooves. That black horse with such dark blue, almost midnight blue, eyes that I had thought they were black. That black horse that stared farther into my soul than anyone had ever done.
That horse was mesmerizing.
"Zelda." Link's voice cut through me. It sounded different, rough almost. "Are you alright?" His voice was tight even. My eyes finally moved to him. He looked like he had seen a poe for the first time. He was a bit pale, eyes wide, brows knit together and lips pulled in a tight line.
I nodded my head.
He moved his hands from my shoulders, another thing I didn't notice, and wrapped his arms around me.
He really was scared.
I looked over his shoulder and saw the horse standing there, tall and graceful, wind blowing through its mane, not moving, and seemingly watching me.
"I thought she was going to trample you." His voice rumbled in his chest, vibrations I could feel as he held me tight.
"She?" My eyes still focused on the horse across the way.
Link moved back and held me at arm's length. He followed my gaze behind him, released my arms from his hold and ran a hand through his hair roughly.
"She. Malon said that she is two years old."
I nodded. "She's beautiful."
"You are strange." He said in disbelief.
"What?" I looked over at him now. Where did that come from?
"You just about got run over by a horse and you don't seem at all worried that your life about ended not even two minutes ago." He pointed out.
I opened my mouth to respond and was cut off. "I think we found our winner." Malon said cheerily.
I blinked. "Winner?"
"Malon, that horse almost killed her." Link said sternly.
"What winner?" I asked again.
"Link, that whole scene was just…ugh! It was beautiful!" Malon threw her hands up enthusiastically. She turned to me, "She didn't hurt you did she?" she continued before I even shook my head, "I bet that pretty filly left quite the impression on you. Made you feel something so unique, you can't even describe it if you tried."
"Y-yeah."
Malon smiled knowingly at me and turned to Link, "See I told you. That filly's the one."
Link ran a hand down his face, Epona nudged his back and he grumbled under his breathe. "Alright."
The redhead nearly jumped up and down. She grabbed my wrist and dragged me away.
"Malon. What is going on?" I said each word slowly and distinctly.
"We found your horse." She looked back at me with a smile.
"My what?"
"Your horse. What do you want to name her? Unfortunately you can't take her back with you today, she still needs some training. Won't let anyone ride her yet, I've only gotten on her a few times. You could come by and help train her sometimes and then I could show you how to care for her and it would be good bonding for the both of you. You could probably use a few lessons on how to ride, anyways. Maybe you—"
"Malon!" I didn't mean to sound too harsh, but she was rambling and I was completely lost.
"Sorry." I guess she knew she was rambling. She also knew I wanted to know why this was happening. "Link thought it might be a good idea to get you a horse. So we thought it might work if we let a horse pick you."
"Link is giving me a horse…"
"Well, yeah, I guess."
"No. He can't just get me a horse."
"Why not?"
"Because you can't just do that!"
She chuckled and shook her head, "Fine. How about…I'm giving you the horse, but it was his idea."
I sent her a glare that clearly said 'this is not acceptable'
"I know, I know. I even told Link I thought it was a bit early to be giving you gifts of this nature."
"Early?" I asked a bit confused.
"In the relationship." She said smoothly.
"R-relationship?" My voice hitched and I nearly squeaked the word out.
Malon let out a laugh. She got me, and she got me good. I would get her back someday, I would find something that I could joke and tease her about.
"Malon…" I whined.
"Zelda." Her voice was different and I looked at her, "Trust us. Please. You won't regret it."
My eyes drifted over to the horse that was still just standing still.
"Plus," her voice was light again, "I know you want her." There was a hint of a smile in the way she spoke.
Oh, Nayru, I really really did.
Malon went over a few things of care and just simple things that should be known for having a horse. We set out for the Castle Town before the sun had begun to set, ensuring that we would be back before dark. As hectic as the morning had been, today was turning out to be a very good day.
Link pushed the door open and let me walk in ahead of him.
"Zelda dear! That you?" I turned to the side at the familiar voice. I smiled when I saw Arlyn walking around the counter towards us.
I nodded.
He made a sweeping motion gesturing toward me. "My dear, look at you. You are looking more radiant than ever, and finally have a bit of meat on you." He lightly poked at my arm.
"Arlyn!" With my face flushed I looked at the back curtain to see Daena walking through.
Well, I was being given a proper amount of food now. I suppose I could take that as a compliment…
"He means well, sweetheart. Don't mind him."
Arlyn cleared his throat, slightly flustered from his wife's reprimand. "My young prince, Zelda dear, what can we do for you today?"
Before I could speak, Link started talking.
"It's good to see you both again." He said with a smile, the two tailors gave a nod of thanks. "We need a few more riding outfits, and at least four training outfits; something light and sturdy. You know how tough Impa can be." Arlyn chuckled and nodded his head, "These will be for Zelda."
"Why would our lovely young woman here need training gear?" The man rose a brow.
Link rubbed the back of his neck and let out a soft laugh, "Well, Impa is going to start lessons with her."
"With Zelda dear? But she's a bit…oh what's the word…" Arlyn rubbed his chin in thought, "Dainty…no no…delicate?...not quite.."
Link looked back at me; he was chewing at his bottom lip, then smiled and turned to Arlyn. "No, she's pretty tough, actually."
Daena cut in this time, "We will get the outfits done. As for the training, anything you would like to request? Aside from the material."
I really didn't know. Even though I had seen Link out at his lessons with Impa a few times, I had no idea what to expect in my own training with her.
Thankfully Link had a few ideas, "How about something with a large amount of coverage, we don't really know how hard Impa will work her, but incase its anything like I think it might be, it would be best to have Zelda covered. And then we can have one of them be something with little covering for hot days."
Since I had gained some weigh, Daena measured me again even though the clothes that I was getting at the moment were somewhat loose fitting, not baggy but not completely form fitted either.
"Thank you both. I'm sure we will be back soon." Link called back into the store and waved. He took hold of Epona's reigns that were simply hanging over a railing, not even bothered to be tied, and walked back towards the castle.
We walked Epona to the back pen and Link began to take off her saddle and packs. The mare gave a happy shake after getting the gear off of her. She blew in my face and then moved her head over to Link and nuzzled his face. It was a nice sight to see. After Link gave her a few pats she ran off around the pen. We walked back towards the stables and Link held the door open for me. He hung up the saddle in Epona's stall and we headed back towards the castle.
Walking along the path, he looked over at me "So…" Link broke the silence that had befallen us. "Have you thought of a name for her yet?"
I knew exactly who he was talking about. A wide smile broke out on my face and I beamed at him. I had been thinking about it on the ride back to Castle Town. She had the most beautiful black coat, mesmerizing eyes, everything about her reminded me of the night. The haunting beauty of night. With her dark coat I had thought she may even disappear in the dark of the night. Something I had wanted to do before I met Link. I had always wanted to disappear, always wished that I could just blend into the darkness and not be noticed, not be hurt anymore.
"Shadow."
Hey everyone! I know it's been forever since a chapter was posted. Sorry about that. Kinda lost inspiration for a while and there weren't many reviews to kick writing into gear, but a thousand thanks to those of you that have reviewed. So those reviews really do help. A few words saying you want more, means I'm doing something right. Or some words on what I'm doing wrong and what you would like to read, that'd be great. Anything would be great. As many of you probably know, classes have started up again which will most likely put a damper on writing but don't freak out too much, the writing will still continue. This probably wasn't the best chapter written, I read it over and it was a bit choppy (at least I thought so) but I didn't really know what to put to fix it. It's a pretty long chapter so hopefully that makes up for the lack of fluidity throughout the chapter. Write something in the reviews about the chapter or something you want to see in the coming chapters, anything and everything is helpful. So dear readers, thanks for clicking on this story and hope to hear something from you. Don't lose faith, the story will continue.