''So that's why I cant be your escort to the anniversary bonfire this year.'' Link said awkwardly to the woman who sat beside him while they ate their morning meal.
Aran stared at him with a look devoid of emotion. ''That's too bad.'' She said with a small sigh turning back to her breakfast. ''You must be excited, considering all the stories we hear about the anniversary ball.''
Link scratched the back of his head. ''I'm not that excited actually, being around nobles makes me nervous.'' He stole a glance over at the knight beside him to see the slight frown on her face. ''I'm sorry that I cant go with you.''
Aran shrugged trying to play the situation off. ''It's no big deal, when the Queen asks you for something you cant exactly say no. I'm still expecting that dance you promised me though.'' Link cocked his brow at her which produced a small snigger from her. ''Were you actually planning on spending the whole night at the ball? Not even the General and Captain do that.''
''I guess not.' 'The Hylian said with a shrug.
The girl smirked slightly. ''Then you better come to the bonfire party later. If I cant get you to be my escort I at least want that dance.''
The young man smiled admiring his comrade's tenacity. ''Then I guess I better show up then.''
It had been three days since the Gerudo Sultan had left and today was the same day that Venrik would leave with several dozen soldiers to assist the Gerudo with their situation. The past few days had been uncomfortable for the Hylian, the rumors regarding himself and Veran had seemed to reach everyone within the palace, and more importantly Midna had hardly spoken to him until he had caved and swore to her on what little honor he possessed that he and Veran were just friends and that the rumors about them were untrue. He still wasn't sure if she believed him.
The circular room was known as the meditation room and was exclusively used by the magic users that worked or had the privilege to study within the palace, it held no furniture or items except for the pillows that lined the walls, each one was currently being used as a seat while the occupants of the room meditated. If one would walk past the door to the room they would no doubt be able to feel the powerful magical energy being produced from within.
Midna could feel a small bead of sweat roll down her brow as she focused to keep the small sphere of magical energy formed in front of her. Already having exhausted most of her energy she cracked open her eyes to gaze at the manifestation of her magic before it vanished, it was a mix of orange and turquoise colors and roughly a foot in diameter. She breathed deeply through her nose, gently wiping the sweat from her forehead with the small towel that rested beside her as she watched the quickly dissipating sphere.
She glanced to her right were Zant sat, eyes closed deep in concentration and still as a statue, the circular mass of magical energy that hovered just a few feet from his face was nearly three times the size of her own and held numerous shades of crimson, emerald and copper colors. The fact that he could produce such an amount of magic was commendable on it's own but when also taking into the fact that it seemed to not strain him in the slightest it was no wonder why many thought of him as a prodigy in the magical arts.
Sitting to her left was the sorcerer in training Havid, the boy was fourteen years of age, wore a thick pair of glasses and had begun studying within the palace two years ago, she knew the reason the boy was studying magic was because Sebin was the boy's uncle and also for lack of a better term his role model. Havid's face was affixed into a strained expression as he attempted to concentrate, sweat running down the length of his chin, the magical orb he had conjured was barely the size of his own fist and kept flickering like a flame nearing the point of extinguishing. Havid's small orb vanished the moment the boy opened his eyes, his shoulders rose and fell as he took in deep breaths, he looked over at the Princess who gave him an encouraging smile as she handed him the towel she still held. The boy gave the older woman a small bow of his head trying to hide the blush on his face as he accepted the piece of cloth.
''Alright everyone that is enough for today.'' Sebin spoke out from the opposite side of the room. One by one each of the rooms occupants orbs vanished as they ceased their meditation.
''You are getting better.'' Midna said to the boy as she stood.
Havid smiled coyly as he jumped to his feet following the Twili beauty out into the hall. ''Thank you, your Highness, Uncle Sebin says I have a long way to go if I truly want to join the sorcerers guild though.''
The Princess smiled at him causing a bright blush to form on his face, she found Havid's small crush on her rather adorable, it reminded her of the days when she and Link were still young and the Hylian was much more timid and shy. ''I have told you before, Havid, you may call me Midna. And if you keep improving at your current rate I can see you having the ability to join in the future.''
''You know I was reading about the Hylians the other night,'' Havid said a tone of excitement creeping into his voice.
Midna chuckled lightly. ''Really now?'' Havid's fascination with the Hylian race was well known to her and Link, which was the reason her bodygaurd did not overly enjoy the boy's presence. The reason being that Havid would ask Link a near never ending number of questions about the lost Hylian civilization and culture every time the two were in the same room no matter how many times the knight told him that he knew nothing of Hylians other then what he had read in the library.
''Yes, I found an interesting theory that the Hylian race had been exposed to a new disease, and since they had no medical knowledge of how to combat it they all died out. But I believe that since Link is here that a small group left Hyrule before becoming sick and possibly survived within-''
''Cease bothering her Highness with your tedious theories.'' Havid looked over his shoulder and jumped at the sight of Zant looming over him.
''I'm sorry, Councilman. I did not mean to.'' The boy said timidly, shrinking under he large man's intense gaze.
''Be off with you boy, you have other lessons to attend.'' The Twili scolded.
''Yes sir, Good day to you Princess and you as well Councilman.'' Havid gave a quick bow to the both of them before hastily leaving their presence.
Midna watched the boy disappear down the hall before crossing her arms and facing Zant with an unamused look. ''That sort of attitude was completely uncalled for.''
''There is no reason for you to humor his obsession with a dead race, your Highness.'' Zant said simply.
Midna sighed through her nose. She wanted to correct him on the fact that she had not been humoring him and that Link was evidence that the race was not dead, but an argument was the last thing she desired at the moment. ''Did you want something, Zant?''
Zant straightened his posture and cleared his throat. ''As a matter of fact yes. I was hoping that you may allow me the honor of letting me escort you to the anniversary ball.''
Midna almost rolled her eyes. Zant had asked her this same question for the past several years and she always turned him down, and while she would admit that Zant was a very handsome Twili and could be very charming when he wished she wondered if he would ever get the hint that she wasn't interested in him in that manner. ''Thank you, but no. I plan to arrive alone again this year.''
Zant nodded slowly. ''That is a shame, perhaps another time then?''
''Perhaps. Now if there is nothing else I have other matters to attend to today.''
Zant gave a small bow to her. ''Of course. Good day to you Princess.''
''Good day Councilman.'' Midna said as she turned to leave.
''It's beautiful.'' Midna spoke awe struck by the dress that the Royal Tailors had laid out before her, her hands running over the fine material that had gone into creating the dress. ''Your skills never cease to impress me.''
''Thank you your Highness.'' The head seamstress said. An old woman with spindly limbs and thick gray hair. ''We should have your escort's outfit ready in a week or so. But if you like we can show you what progress we have made so far.''
Midna's brow cocked in confusion as she turned to the older Twili. ''Excuse me?''
The seamstress returned Midna's confused look with one of her own. ''Your escort. Her Majesty commissioned us to create an outfit for your bodyguard, saying that he would be escorting you to the ball.''
Midna let out a deep breath through her nose. ''Did she now?'' She hissed through her teeth.
''Did you even think to ask me?!'' Midna raged at her mother as the two strolled down the palace halls towards the front gate.
''Of course I did,'' Vezzna answered nonchalantly. ''But I knew you would say no if I had asked beforehand.''
The Princess rolled her eyes dramatically. ''Then why do it then?''
The Queen faced her daughter. ''Because after what happened with the attack on you and the boy's death I want to take precautions, for my own piece of mind if you wish to call it that.''
Midna let out a deep sigh. She understood her mother's concern perfectly, she herself had been feeling somewhat paranoid the past few days. And as much as she disliked having people make decisions for her the thought of being able to spend the night of the kingdoms most celebrated holiday with her best friend for the first time was not without its appeal, although she would not put it past her mother that this was another one of her matchmaking schemes. ''Alright fine. Link can be my escort,'' She relented. ''But I am not happy about you doing this behind my back.''
Her mother smiled and held up her hands apologetically. ''I am sorry for not consulting with you first and I swear I will do no such thing again. Now are you going to be joining me to see off the General and his men?''
''I don't see why not.'' Her daughter shrugged.
Venrik along with the thirty-six soldiers he had hand selected to accompany him on this mission kneeled before their Queen and Princess. ''Be safe during your travels and look out for each other.'' Vezzna spoke to the soldiers before her in the palace courtyard. ''I dont want to see a single face missing upon your return.'' The plan that she had laid out with the Gerudo Sultan was for Venrik and her soldiers to meet the Sultan's men at the border of the Twilight and from there they would be lead to the encampment that Ganondorf seemed so keen on ridding his lands of.
Venrik arose with his men following suit. ''If all goes as planned we should return home before the holiday.'' The General said as he placed his helmet on his head.
The Twili Queen nodded. ''Just make sure you come back safe.''
The large man bowed one final time to the two royals, he turned on his heels and gave a signal to a woman standing near the gate as he climbed atop his horse. The woman raised her horn to her lips and gave the soldiers atop the palace wall the signal to open the large metal doors that seperated the palace and the kingdom.
Vezzna bit the inside of her cheek as she watched her lifelong friend ride out into the kingdom with his small group of soldiers, worry beginning to build in her gut as she watched the palace gates close. ''They will be fine, Mother.'' Her daughter told her.
''I know,'' She answered. ''But I worry that the Sultan may have some ulterior motive in this.''
Midna opened her mouth to agree but stopped herself when she saw the Hylian standing with Xanza across the courtyard. ''Excuse me a moment.'' She muttered her face morphing into a scowl.
Link's face paled as he watched the Princess march over to him. ''Good Morn-''
''We need to talk.'' Midna interrupted with a sharp growl grabbing the front of his poncho and practically dragging him back into the palace. Both of them hearing a faint snigger come from Xanza as he watched them leave.
Link watched the woman as they rounded a few corners, nervous but curious as to what she wanted to speak to him about, considering ever since the Gerudo had left three days ago Midna had hardly spoken to him.
She released him and turned to face him with her hands on her hips and scowl still present. ''Did you know about this?''
Link gave her a puzzled look as he smoothed down his poncho. ''What do you mean?''
''Mother has informed me that she wants you to be my escort to the anniversary ball. Did you know?''
Link swallowed nervously. ''Yes?''
Midna threw up her hands in anger. ''And you didn't think to tell me?!''
The young knight shied away from his friend's outburst. ''I thought you already knew.''
''Of course I didn't know.'' The Princess shouted. ''You honestly think she would have asked me?''
The Hylian gave a dejected sigh at his friends reaction and averted his gaze from her. ''If...If you want I can ask her Majesty to make other arrangements.''
Midna's brief moment of anger dissipated at the sight of the pale man's crestfallen face. ''Look I am not against it, I am just upset she went behind my back to do it and that you didn't tell me yourself.''
Link felt a faint hope rise in his chest at her words. ''So does that mean?''
The Twili felt a familiar warmth appear on her cheeks as she spoke. ''Yes, you can be my escort to the ball.'' She watched as a smile appeared on her bodyguard's face. Goddesses she was beginning to hate that smile, lately it had been making her heart beat faster when ever she saw it. Just like it did when they both were young.
Venrik peered through his spyglass taking in every detail of the large camp he and his men would soon drive out of the area as he could. Several large spires jutted out from the sand, artifacts of some ancient ruin. ''It's bigger then your Lord said it would be.'' The General remarked to the Gerudo man beside him. Not that it would be a problem for the combined groups, there seemed to be a total of seventy in the camp. Onox did not reply but then again Venrik did not expect him to, he knew full well that the large Gerudo was a man of few words. As his gaze swept over the camp once more he took notice of the large amount of excavation tools stockpiled near one of the bronze colored tents. Where the creatures trying to excavate the ruins beneath the sand? ''You mentioned yesterday that you had a plan?''
Onox nodded. ''You and your men will attack from the east, but when they try to flee we will be attacking from the west. Trapping them in the middle''
''And what makes you think that they will run?''
''Bublins are cowards, they will run.''
Venrik lowered his spyglass. ''There are more then just Bublins down there, I highly doubt that all of them will.''
''Then we best be ready to fight.'' Without further word the Gerudo marched back towards his fellow countrymen.
Venrik watched them go a scowl present on his face, the closer they came to attacking the camp the more his suspicions grew. The camp was so far from any known resources within the Gerudo Kingdom he failed to see why the Sultan deemed them a threat and he never showed any sign of interest in the numerous ruins scattered across the desert, from first glance it seemed that there were more tools then weapons at the creatures disposal and there seemed to be little to no benefit of the creatures that inhabited the camp to settle on this area of land considering there was no sign of any natural resources which could sustain them within it.
''We bout ready to move out, General?'' Kul spoke as he approached his superior.
The General glanced over his shoulder towards his men, all of them dressed in chainmail and leather armor. He himself preferred more heavy, sturdy armor, but such attire was unsuitable in the deserts of Gerudo. ''Get everyone prepped, we are moving out in five minutes.''
Kul gave a quick and lazy salute his superior before jogging back to the group of Twili. Venrik peered down at the camp through his spyglass once more trying to find anything that could possibly rid him of his paranoia.
The General withdrew his blade from the dead Bokoblin's chest, the creature fell onto the sand with a dull thud as it's life quickly left it as the Twili scanned the area as he caught his breath. The Gerudo had been correct that most of the Bulblins had fled once they had begun their attack, leaving only the Bokoblins for them to fight off, despite the camp being larger then expected he saw his men easily overpowering the enemies that stayed to fight while the rest ran for the nearby hills.
And that as when he noticed it, he scanned the area once more but his eyes had not deceived him the first time. There was not a single Gerudo soldier in sight. He marched over to one of his men and siezed his shoulder to gain his attention. ''Where are the Sultan's men?'' The General shouted to be heard over the fighting.
The flustered soldier quickly glanced around the camp. ''I-I don't know Sir.''
''Then find them!'' Venrik roared giving the soldier a light shove to get him moving.
The fighting had ended not long after that, The soldier he had sent to search for the Gerudo had yet to return so Venrik had busied himself by instructing his men to search the camp for anything that might tell them why the creatures had settled here in the first place.
Kul approached the General while he was inspecting a pickaxe that he had found among a pile of tools. Kul took a moment to observe the item himself from over his superiors shoulder, it like all the other tools in the pile were well used but little to no rust covered their surfaces. The other items within the pile included shovels, hammers and chisels. ''What have you found?'' Venrik asked.
''This, General. Several of the tents are filled with em.'' The older man spoke offering a stone the size of his fist.
The General set down the pickaxe and took the stone. ''Is this what I think it is?'' He asked somewhat rhetorically while inspecting the object.
''Aye, we found this as well.'' Kul presented a dirty tattered flag. ''One of the men found it in what we think was the leader's tent.''
Venrik glared at the familiar symbol that adorned the cloth, it was one he had seen numerous times before, and it was a symbol to be feared at the least.
''General!'' A soldier called out as he sprinted over to the two men. ''I've searched everywhere,'' The soldier said between gasping for air. ''And there is no sign of the Gerudo, in or out of the camp.''
Venrik held the stone up to Kul. ''Load up the horses with as much of this as we can carry, then erase as much evidence as you can that we were ever here. And be quick about it the creatures who escaped are no doubt getting reinforcements.''
Vezzna stood in the palace courtyard with Xanza beside her. The horn that signaled the kingdoms gates to open had sounded off several minutes ago and since the last patrol had returned yesterday it was no doubt to her whom was approaching the palace.
''Excited my lady?'' Xanza jabbed playfully as he observed the Queen's giddy expression.
''Should I not be excited to welcome my dear friend home?''
Before the Captain cold utter another word the palace gates began to open with a loud groan, and the moment Vezzna saw the soldiers she knew something was amiss. They did not carry themselves as if they had won a battle that was worthy of celebration, they looked as if they had been on the losing side of the fight. Even though there did not seem to be a missing person among them.
Venrik dismounted his horse and removed his helmet and dropped it onto the cobbled ground as he marched towards the royal and captain. ''It wasn't just a camp!'' He hissed while walking past them.
The Queen watched Venrik storm into the palace momentarily stunned by her friend's words. ''Stay with them.'' She ordered Xanza before chasing after the General.
''Venrik stop!'' She called as she ran to catch up with the man in question.
Venrik entered the throne room and began pacing back and forth, he had hoped that the long journey home would help quell his anger but instead it just allowed it to fester and grow like a flame on dead wood.
Vezzna approached the man and placed her hands on his cheeks. ''Deep breaths.'' She whispered as she looked into his eyes. Venrik closed his own eyes and breathed through his nose. Ever since they were children she always seemed to know how to calm him no matter the extent of his anger.. ''Tell me what happened.''
''He set us up.'' He spoke with venom.
''The Sultan?''
He nodded. ''We met with his men as planned but when it was time to 'drive out' the camp they never appeared. They tricked us into doing their dirty work.''
The Queen removed her hands to rub her eyes with a thumb and forefinger. ''What did you mean when you said it wasn't just a camp?''
''It was a mine.'' He reached into the satchel that hung across his torso and handed a stone to the Queen.
Vezzna's brow furrowed as she inspected the clod she now held. ''Is this iron?''
''Yes, we brought back as much ore as we could but it's not even half of what was already mined.''
''I don't understand, if what they wanted was the mine why didn't they just tell us?''
The Twili man sighed though his nose as he reached into his bag once more. ''I suspect it is because they already knew who owned it.'' He held a piece of cloth tightly in his fist, the symbol drawn in white paint adorning it in clear view. The symbol was of a two-pronged spear pointed skyward, bolts of lightening arcing in between the two blades.
Vezzna's jaw tightened at the sight. ''The Stormriders?''
Venrik nodded a grave look in his eye. ''I am afraid so, my Queen.''
''How close was the mine from their main settlement?''
''We do not know.''
The Queen could feel her stomach churn. ''Summon the council members, we need to begin preparing for the coming fallout.''
The Princess and her bodyguard were the last to enter the council room, the Princess took her usual seat beside her mother's. Her bodyguard stood close by mimicking the posture of the General and Captain whom stood beside the Queen's chair, feet shoulder width apart, posture straight and hands clasped behind his back.
''Thank you all for coming so quickly.'' The Queen spoke once all the council members had made themselves comfortable. ''I have called this meeting because a grave situation has befallen us.''
Venrik took a step forward. ''You all know the details which led to us aiding the Sultan. And to put it simply we were tricked.'' The General placed the same scrap of cloth he had shown the Queen earlier onto the table for the others to see. ''The camp we attacked belonged to the Stormriders, not only that but the Gerudo never appeared when we attacked.''
''The Stormriders are real?'' The occupants of the room all gave the Hylian a puzzled look. ''I thought they were just a folktale.'' Link muttered bashfully cursing himself for thinking out loud.
''As much I wish they were, I assure you that the Stormriders are as real as the ground you stand upon, Link.'' The Queen spoke. ''The General has revealed to me that the creatures were mining iron at the campsite. And that is no doubt what the Sultan desired from the beginning.''
''If the Gerudo never showed during the attack does that mean that the creatures will be seeking us out for retribution?'' One of the Councilwoman asked.
Vezzna rested her elbows upon the cold stone table as she nodded slowly. ''That is what I fear. And since I don't believe any of us have any knowledge on the Stormriders diplomatic policies, if they have any to begin with, we will be taking extra precautions. Meaning I want extra shifts on the kingdoms walls and I want no less the forty soldiers per party when patrolling our borders, is that clear, Captain?''
''It shall be done, my Queen.'' Xanza spoke with a bow of his head.
''And how do we respond to the Gerudo for their actions?'' Midna spoke.
The Queen took a deep breath through her nose. ''I personally believe that the reason behind the Sultan's actions was because he thought he not only could get away with it but also because he thinks we will not retaliate, that we are desperate for trade and cannot sustain ourselves without the help of his kingdom. And we must prove him wrong, so from this moment forward we will no longer be trading with the Gerudo kingdom.''
The room exploded with varying shouts from the council members. ''Her Majesty has spoken!'' Venrik roared bringing the room back to it's previous silence.
''While I agree that we are not 'desperate', our kingdoms resources will still take a heavy blow if we proceed with your orders.'' A Councilman spoke.
''I am aware of that. And I believe that perhaps it is time we reached out to the Zoras and see if they may be willing to negotiate a trade with us. Zant, I will be preparing a letter for the Zora King detailing our wishes to trade, I want you to choose an emissary from our kingdom to deliver it.'' Zant bowed his head in reply. ''I will be passing all of the preparations for the anniversary celebration to rest of you at this time. Thank you all for your time, this meeting is adjourned.''
Midna gripped the railing of the library balcony with enough force that her fingers ached and her knuckles turned white. ''How dare that rat faced son of a-!''
''Breath, Midna.'' Link spoke from the doorway, he had learned from their years of friendship that it was best to keep some distance from the Princess during her outraged moments.
The Twili beauty took a single deep breath before shouting again. ''Just who does he think he is? He's practically spat in the face of every single person in this kingdom.''
Link moved to stand beside the Princess. Thought he made sure he was more than an arms length away in case Midna desired to punch something to release her anger. ''I know. Do you think we will be okay cutting off our trade?''
''We will no doubt have to start being more economical with our resources once the trade ends but I do believe we will be alright. Honestly I think the Stormriders are a greater cause for concern at the moment.''
Link leaned forward resting his arms on the balcony. ''How many of the stories are real?''
Midna shrugged. ''Don't know, I figured you would know more about them then us.''
''All I heard when I was in Gerudo were tall tales and rumors.''
The Princess mimicked her friend and leaned against the balcony after moving to stand closer beside him. ''Sebin told me that the one thing that everyone is certain of is they are the largest organized group of Bublins, Bokoblins, Moblins etc. If what he told me was true there are thousands of them, large enough to populate a whole kingdom. And that's why no one would dare cross them.''
A chill ran down the Knight's body making him rub his hands together. ''When I was still with the 'caravan' I overheard one of the slavers say that the reason they call themselves Stormriders is because they would preform raids during the sandstorms and never be harmed when doing so.''
''And do you believe that?'' She asked turning to face him.
The Hylian returned her gaze. ''I don't know...Maybe. I like to think I'm living proof that nothing is impossible.''
A silence followed his words leaving the two friends gazing at one another. Link wondered briefly if he would ever be able to look into Midna's eyes without fear of becoming lost in them, her crimson eyes always seemed to hypnotize him the same way when one would look deep into a fire on a cold evening. The desire to reach out to cup her cheek and feel her silk like skin against his calloused hand just before placing a gentle kiss upon her luscious lips struck him like a heavy blow to the chest. But as always all he did was avert his gaze while trying to rid his mind of impure thoughts.
''It's starting to get cold,'' He said. ''I'm going to head back inside.''
Midna gave a small nod of agreement as she straightened her posture. As the two walked indoors the same thought Link always had whenever he lost his nerve echoed in his mind. Next time. He always thought. I will do it next time.
There were several towers in the palace and all of them were used for different purposes, the tallest was originally a lookout tower for the guard when the kingdom was much smaller, several hundred years ago it had been converted into the palaces personal aviary. And that was were Vezzna queen of the Twili was currently standing, gently petting the neck of one of the many Kargarok whom sat upon its perch. These specific breed of avian creatures were only found in the Twilight, and unlike the feathered variation of the species these Kargaroks held large bat like wings and jagged tails. They were strong and deadly making them ideal when hunting and transporting messages and/or small packages great distances. ''Was there something else you needed, Venrik?'' She spoke as her hand traced over the neck of the creatures trumpet shaped head.
Venrik hesitantly stepped into the aviary his eyes scanning the high ceiling of the tower, he always felt uneasy around the large predators. ''There was something else recovered from the camp I thought you might want to see.'' The General spoke in a bit of a skittish tone as he eyed the creature now perched upon the Queen's shoulder.
The Queen walked out onto the balcony, she placed one of her hands on the Kargarok's neck to feed a small portion of her magic into it's body which allowed her to tell the creature where it was headed. She then placed a letter which she had addressed to the Gerudo Sultan into the pouch tied around the avian's body. The Kargarok took to the sky and in just a few moments became a speck upon the evening horizon.
Vezzna released a tired sigh, the letter had taken her an hour to write and it would mark the end of their trade with Gerudo once it was read by the Sultan. ''What else was it that you found, my friend?''
The General walked out onto the balcony to stand beside Vezzna and unrolled a map that seemed to be falling apart with age. ''One of the soldiers found this inside the leader's tent and believes they may have found it near the sight due to the state it's in.''
The Twili woman let her gaze travel over the faded ink of the rather large map, it appeared to be some distant area of Gerudo that she had never seen before, most of the map was empty except for a few landmarks and what seemed to be a small village of some kind. Then her wandering gaze fell upon the writing that seemed to be just as old as the map, there were only two lines of letters but it was enough to identify the language. ''It's written in Hylian?''
''You would know better then I.'' He remarked. ''Can you read it?''
She took the map into her hands. ''Barely, it's written in an old slang. Has Sebin seen this?''
''I wanted to show you first, once he realizes that there is a good chance it's of Hylian origin I have no doubt he will want to look into it personally.''
''True, and who knows maybe it is worth looking into.''
Link frowned at the hand of cards he had been dealt, he was never much of a gambler and when combined with his terrible poker face ensured that he lost more often then not, the barracks was filled with the usual liveliness one would find at the end of the day and despite the the fact his sense of hearing was much more sensitive then anyone he knew, Link always found the noise rather calming. Which was something he desperately desired at the moment, the ball was tomorrow and his nervousness had grown to such a degree that he felt somewhat faint thinking of the fast approaching holiday.
The bet moved to him, he glanced down at his cards before reaching into his purse and placed a single green rupee into the small pile in the middle of the group. The bets were almost always for small change it was more for the enjoyment of the game rather then the money, of course things would sometimes escalate but that usually meant that some would begin betting to cover someone else's chores for a day or two. Link never participated in the larger scale bets, he was saving his earnings in hopes to one day buy a home for his mother just outside the palace gates and to also help her retire from her hard worked job.
Beside Link Aran shifted as she tossed another green rupee into the middle of the circle without removing her head from the Hylian's shoulder, it was not unusual to see the two in such a close proximity to one another but lately Link had been wondering if it was appropriate now that he knew his friend desired their relationship to be more physical, also he was starting to suspect that she was peeking at his cards.
Link suddenly felt a wave of harsh nausea strike him, he bent his head down letting out a breath that was almost a belch and placed his free hand over his stomach.
''Are you alright sir?'' Link glanced up at the boy sitting across from him, he was a cadet who had only been in training for about four months or so.
The Hylian sat upright, continuing to lightly rub his uneased stomach. ''I'm alright comrade.'' seeing the boy's concerned face he decided to elaborate on his state. ''I have an old wound on my stomach that sometimes acts up and leaves me feeling a little nauseous.''
The boy opened his mouth with intention to ask where he had gotten the wound but the looks that the other Twili gave him silenced his curiosity as quickly as it had come.
Aran raised her hand and began rubbing small circles into her friend's back to help soothe his stomach. His wound was no secret of course. Everyone knew how he had received it and the boy would learn of it in no time, but most felt it in poor taste to ask the Hylian himself about how he had stared death in the face on that day. It was also remembered now as a shameful day for the Royal Guard, they had failed to ensure the safety of the people they all held responsibility to protect and worse yet the fact that they had witnessed how deep the corruption among the guard actually was. Not all of the members of the Guard were saints by any means, but hardly any of them felt to need to question their fellow comrades if they were traitors of the crown.
''Mail call!'' Someone shouted from the door leading outside. Link gave little mind to the man's call, seldom mail ever arrived for the barracks and everyone he knew lived within the palace, so one could only imagine the surprise he felt when his name was called.
''Um...Here?'' Link called out to the Twili passing out the small stack of letters, his neck craned backwards to watch the approaching man.
''It's from Gerudo,'' The Twili said once he stood before the gaggle of card players. He held the small envelope up to his nose and sniffed the tan paper. ''And its laced with perfume.''
Link felt his face turn scarlet as everyone within earshot laughed teasingly at his blushing face, he tossed his cards into the pile of green rupees before standing and once the letter was in his hand he made his way towards his bunk while avoiding eye contact with his comrades.
He looked over the wax seal upon the letter that was shaped into the Gerudo kingdoms symbol once he was seated on the edge of his bed. Carefully he removed the neatly folded paper within the envelope and began to read.
My dearest friend.
Word has reached me that our kingdoms have fallen on bad terms because of my Lord's actions, this pains me greatly for I fear I may never see you again.
I pray you believe me when I say I knew nothing of this deceitful plan that was enacted upon your people.
And perhaps you will be pleased to know that my Master is furious over your Queen's decision to cease trading with us.
I miss you dearly and speak of you often to my fellow harem sisters, lately they have made a habit of teasing me and asking if I have become smitten with you.
And I cannot help but wonder how your quest for the young Princess' heart has gone.
I do hope you will write to me.
Veran.
Link smiled at the message from the woman that had he had thought of numerous times since her departure from his home as he placed it back into its envelope and hid it inside his bag of personal belongings. He hopped to his feet and began his search for an inkwell and paper.
He had a letter he wished to write to a good friend.
Venrik stood within The ballroom overseeing as much of the preparations for the ball that evening as he could. He quickly looked over the list of food and drinks that would be served during the festivities, he gave the list back to the young woman who had brought it to him and once he had given his approval she quickly disappeared into the crowd of people that were setting up decorations, tables and seats around the room. The General barely had a moment to breath before he had another worker approach him, he wished Vezzna was here with him. Or better yet instead of him.
Vezzna currently sat in her room on the edge of the bed she had once numerous years ago happily shared with her husband while going over the reports and letters she had been given from her council that held suggestions and possible solutions to the now growing issue of the more limited resources within their kingdom. Meanwhile here personal maids tried the pry her away from her work to get her Majesty ready for the ball that would take place just a few hours from now. She had yet to even have a bath that day.
Xanza along with Kul lifted a barrel filled with ale from the back of one of the wagons that had been parked within the entrance courtyard. The two men stood the barrel up on its end near one of several groups of similar barrels. The Captain would not be among his comrades when the festivities started that evening, instead he would be at the lavish ball along with the General, that is until Venrik and himself would sneak off as they always did. And even though Xanza would only make it to the bonfire towards the end of the festivities he never shied away from the preparations.
Iliana ran her brush through her amber hair in slow and gentle strokes. Her gaze far away while she was deep in thought. The first thought occupying her mind was the ball that her son would be attending tonight, she was excited for him as well as slightly nervous.
But the thought that currently left a smile upon her face was the fact that tonight she would see him there. Of course he was there every year but even now just the thought of it left her feeling giddy and elated. It was similar to how she felt when she was a young girl long before she worked in the palace and she had heard from her friends that the boy she fancied at the time that lived down the road from her had told them that he thought she was beautiful. She could not wait for tonight.
Link squated on the floor in front of his bunk a small hand mirror carefully resting atop his sheet to help him shave. He held the blade exactly the way Xanza had taught him so that he would get the least amount of razor burn afterwards.
He was nervous which didn't help keep his hand steady and for the life of him he did not know why, he had been through things much more horrifying then this, several times even. His hand froze for a moment as the thought he had conjured while writing his letter to Veran the other day drifted back to him. Perhaps tonight, he had wondered, perhaps tonight should be the night to tell her.
He shook his head and returned to shaving the stubble from his face, he still needed to retrieve his outfit from the Queen's tailors and he promised he would see Iliana before he left for the ball and she made her way to the bonfire. He would dwell on his previous thought later.
Midna sat before her vanity gently applying her lipstick. She had dismissed the maids once they had helped her into her dress, she had never let anyone other then her own mother help her with her makeup. She let out an anxious breath once she had finished with her lipstick, she could not figure out why but tonight she felt jumpy and for the first time since she was made to go to this celebration she was truly excited for it.
She already knew why, it was the same reason she had used extra of her cinnamon scented soap in the bath earlier, and why she was making sure that she looked her absolute best tonight.
It was all because of the man who would be her escort.
Her stomach filled with butterflies and her heart pounded against her breast. The sudden realization almost frightened her.
''Mom, I'm going to be late!'' Link whined when he felt his mother whom sat behind him began to rebraid his hair for the sixth time.
''Oh hush,'' Iliana said as she worked. ''There is nothing wrong with being fashionably late.''
''Not when you are arriving with royalty!''
The Maid shrugged. ''You said so yourself, she's royalty I think that means you can show up whenever you please.''
Link groaned at his Mother, out from the corner of his eye he spotted a few young women eyeing him from the doorway of Iliana's bedroom. He took a deep breath in an attempt to calm himself, he had arrived at his mother's room almost an hour ago to finish getting ready and now he sat there in the dimly lit room dressed in the finest clothing he had ever worn while his nervousness rapidly grew as the event drew closer.
''Relax,'' Iliana spoke gently. ''You two will have a wonderful time tonight.''
''I hope so.'' The young man muttered while fiddling with his fingers.
Iliana took the now braided hair and rested it upon her son's left shoulder. ''There, it's perfect.''
Link quickly stood from the edge of the bed fearing that his Mother would decide at the last second that his hair would need to be redone again. He turned to face the woman who had just stood herself. ''How do I look?'' He asked smoothing down the front of his high collar vest, feeling the light chainmail that had been masterfully hidden inside the seams of the vest.
Iliana covered her mouth, her eyes watering slightly as she saw her son properly in his attire for the first time that night. ''Oh Sweetheart, you look so handsome.'' The Hylian smiled bashfully at her words. ''Go on, I know you are eager to go to her.''
The Hylian hugged his mother. ''I'll see you at the bonfire later tonight.''
''Take your time getting there,'' She teased. ''Now go sweep that beautiful woman off of her feet.''
Midna paced about her room, she had been ready to leave for the better part of an hour and still her escort had not shown. But that was not why she found herself walking back and forth over the same patch of stone floor, no it was who her escort was that had her driven her to such a state.
Ever since the attempt at her life during the Sultan's visit she had been experiencing...complicated emotions in regard towards her best friend. There was the jealousy she felt when she saw him with the Gerudo woman, how her heart almost fluttered when he spoke to her after she had been poisoned, the mix of anger and what she could have sworn was elation when she had learned that it had been arranged for them to attend the ball together and then there where the dreams. Oh the dreams were the worst part of it all, leaving her sweaty, uncomfortably hot, out of breath and a burning desire in her body that cried out for release once she had awoken from them.
And the thing that drove her mad was that this was not the first time she had felt such things, far from it in fact. She had felt them on numerous occasions throughout her friendship with her pale companion but lately what she felt was much stronger then it had been before. The emotions she felt cut deeper into her now leaving her confused and slightly frightened as to what they all meant.
She sat upon her bed and sighed through her nose. ''What is wrong with me?''
You know exactly what is going on, you just don't want to admit it. Her inner voice stated matter-of-factly.
Before Midna could properly process what those words meant a knock came from her door. ''Just a moment!'' She called as she went to her vanity to give her appearance a final once over. She told herself she would deal with her troubling thoughts another night.
Link smoothed down the wrinkles on his vest as he waited for the Princess. His heart hammered in his throat making him wish the collar wasn't so high up and tight around his neck. Goddesses he was starting to fear he may have an anxiety attack if he didn't calm down.
The door opened and what Link beheld made his eyes go wide and his jaw fall open.
The dress Midna wore was a snow white ball gown that hung off her shoulders and was adorned with gold lace, the lace was patterned to resemble the symbols on her cloak as well as her tattoos, her hair was tied into a low braided bun along with the two thick locks of hair that framed her face and rested on her chest held in place with a gold band as opposed to her usual stone one, the makeup she wore consisted of emerald green eye shadow and matching lipstick, the combination bringing out her eyes in the most tantalizing way and finally resting upon her head was a crystal imbedded tiara similar to the one she wore as a child complete with the two long points that spiraled at the end.
Link was truly in awe of the beauty that stood before him. Deep in the recesses of his mind he wondered if this is what the Goddesses would look if they ever took mortal form.
Midna cocked her brow at her friend's slack jawed expression. ''What?'' She said. ''Say something!'' The Hylian stood frozen like one of the sculptures that decorated the halls. The Twili smirked as it dawned on her what had caused the young man's current state, she crossed her arms and spoke teasingly. ''Am I so beautiful you've no words left?''
Link snapped his mouth shut and blushed a deep scarlet as his wits returned to him. ''Wow Midna,'' He spoke with a sense of awe in his voice. ''You look...wow.''
The Princess averted her eyes slightly as she unconsciously brushed a loose hair behind her ear. ''Thanks.'' the fact that his words left her feeling bashful befuddled her, she had been complemented on her beauty countless times before, so why did it effect her so when it came from him at this one moment? To distract herself she took a moment to let her gaze travel over the outfit that the royal tailors had crafted for her best friend for the event. ''You don't look too bad yourself.''
Doesn't look too bad? Doesn't look too bad?! Her inner voice shrieked. Are you out of your mind?! He's gorgeous!
Link's own attire consisted of silver colored trousers and long sleeved tunic, with a storm gray vest with a high collar, a pair of dark leather cuffed boots that ended just below his knees the matching leather belt held only one item, the dagger her mother gave him on his first birthday, his hair had been braided rather elegantly and was resting over his left shoulder.
''Thanks, it's a little tight.'' He said as he smoothed down his vest again.
''They make it that way so that the outfit can show off your physique.'' And it was true, the tight outfit was very flattering towards his figure, she imagined that without the vest one could easily see the outline of his torso. She stepped forward and flicked the braid on his shoulder. ''Did Iliana do that?''
The Knight blushed. ''Yeah, Mom said it wasn't proper to just wear it in a tail like I wanted.''
She smiled at him. ''I like it.''
Link cleared his throat and averted his gaze fearing he may once again become lost in her eyes. ''Well...um shall we?'' He offered his arm to her with a nervous grin.
The Princess' smile widened while rolling her eyes as she took his arm. ''Relax, Mutt. Tonight is going to be fun.''
Venrik weaved through the crowd of nobles and politicians as he made his way towards the refreshments table, the anniversary ball was in full swing and he could not wait to leave it and head down to the bonfire. Once he reached the table he took an empty tankard and filled it with one of the pitchers of ale. ''Good evening, General.'' Someone spoke beside him.
Out of the corner of his eye the the General saw Dr. Casdin standing beside him with his back to the table. ''Evening, Doctor.'' He greeted turning to face the same direction as the good doctor. Whilst scanning the crowd he saw Xanza talking animatedly with Sebin and several other nobles, although Xanza's upbringing could not have been farther away from that of a noble the Captain had an uncanny ability to socialize with the upper class.
''I am surprised you are still here,'' Casdin said after taking a sip from his goblet. ''You usually leave before this point of the night.''
It was true, Venrik was never one for fancy parties and it was much later then he would have usually snuck off to join his comrades down at the bonfire, and Goddesses knew he was anxious to get there. ''I wanted to make sure her Highness arrived alright. '' He answered.
The Doctor hummed. ''I honestly don't see why, the boy is with Midna tonight. Besides we all know who you are eager to go to.'' The General sent a brief glare towards the older Twili's teasing tone. ''And I am sure she is just as eager for you to arrive.''
Venrik attempted to smooth down his cowlick with no success. ''You know, Kul spoke to me this morning.''
Casdin cocked his brow. ''Really now, and what did he want?''
''He asked me what the chances were of his husband joining him tonight were, also that he has barely seen said husband for almost a month and is feeling somewhat lonely.''
Dr. Casdin removed his monocle to rub his eye with a sigh. ''Some days I wonder why that old fool ever asked me to marry him.''
''He loves you, he just wants you to show that you still feel the same way from time to time.''
The older Twili replaced his monocle and eyed the man beside him. ''Speaking of marriage, when will you and that girl stop with your games and admit your feelings towards one another?'' Venrik shrugged, a far off look in his eyes. ''You should go to her.''
''I will once her Highness arrives.''
A deep chuckle rumbled within the old doctor's chest as he gestured into the crowd with his cup. ''Well since you are so focused on protecting royalty, perhaps you would like to offer aid to the one that is actually in need of help.''
Venrik looked to where Casdin had gestured. A good distance away was Vezzna being flanked by people from what seemed to be every possible angle, a small flustered look on her face. The General set down his tankard and bid Casdin a good night.
The Doctor smiled as he watched the man disappear into the crowd. He thought of his husband, he could easily see him drinking without a care in the world loudly singing with his friends and comrades. The image he conceived made him chuckle. Yes, perhaps he should go be with him tonight.
Venrik weaved through the crowd that seemed to be surrounding his best friend until he stood before The Queen, and once she noticed him she seemed almost relieved to see him. ''Good evening, your Majesty.'' He spoke with a bow. ''I was wondering if I could possibly trouble you for a dance?''
''I would be delighted, General.'' Vezzna answered. She walked out onto the dance floor with Venrik beside her. ''I am surprised you are still here.'' She said as the two friends began their dance. ''Are you not going to the bonfire tonight?''
''I am,'' He answered. ''I just wanted to make sure Midna arrives before I left.''
Vezzna chuckled. ''I suppose it's ridiculous to think you would not go to her on this night.''
The Twili man rolled his eyes. ''Laugh now while you can you know this is the one night I let you tease me about her.''
Her brows scrunched together in thought. ''I cant help but wonder, when will you marry her?''
''You are the second person to bring that up tonight.''
Another chuckle escaped her. ''And no doubt far from the last.''
a bell was rung from the large doorway of the ballroom just before one of the men by the door called out over the crowd. ''Presenting her royal Highness, Princess Midna of the Twilight! And her escort, Sir Link the Hylian of the Royal Guard!''
The doors opened to reveal the two and a shocked silence overcame the crowd.
There they stood, a beautiful young princess and her dashing knight, they looked like something that had stepped right out of a fairytale, as if they belonged together.
Venrik's gaze finally broke away from the two when he noticed the gleeful grin on Vezzna's face. ''You planned this whole thing didn't you?'' He accused her with a hard gaze.
Vezzna's mirth vanished as she turned back to face the man who she had just been dancing with. ''General, I do not approve of what you are insinuating.'' His gaze slowly grew into a glare and she felt herself crumble underneath it. ''Alright, perhaps I was hoping something would happen between the two if they came together. But her safety was my first concern.''
The Twili man shook his head as the band began to play again. ''You need to stop trying to meddle with your daughter's love life, Vezzna.'' He scolded as he began to dance with the Queen again.
''I know that. But I also know they feel something for each other, so what is wrong with giving them a push in that direction?''
''Perhaps the fact that Midna may not return the boy's feelings?''
Her Majesty shrugged. ''She feels something for him, what that is I am uncertain. But you and I both know that she is stubborn and will not say what it is she feels unless he tells her first.''
His brow cocked. ''So you planned them to be here together in hopes that at some point the Hylian would cave in and tell her?''
''You always could read me like a book, my friend.'' She chuckled.
Link's heart hammered against his ribs as he and Midna stepped into the room, his ears being filled with the noise of chatter and the soft music provided by the band. Every direction he looked he could see a handful of people glancing at him and the Princess right before whispering to one another, he was never very good at speaking to the higher class and now he was in a room filled with every kind of noble and politician. His anxiety was increasing by the second, he was grateful that Midna was beside him, he feared what state he would be in if he was alone.
Midna was not blind to her companion's ailment, she tightened her grip on his arm in an attempt to reassure him that she was there. She had helped him through his bouts of anxiety and panic attacks several times in the past and because of that she knew how to keep it from getting worse. She turned to him intending to ask if he was interested in finding something to drink.
And that was when a cruel twist of fate befell them both. ''Your Highness, you look absolutely radiant tonight!'' A plump old woman cheered as she approached the two, her makeup was thick and her green ball gown seemed one size to small for her frame. Midna recognized her as one of the kingdoms wealthier landowners whom lived near the palace gates. ''My nephew has been waiting all night to have a chance to dance with you, you simply must come meet him!'' And before ether of the two could protest, the woman hooked her arm around Midna's own and pulled her into the crowd of guests leaving Link alone among a sea of strangers.
The Knight tugged at his collar as he suddenly found it hard to breath. He wanted to run, to get away from this crowd and find his mother and have her sooth his panicked state. He felt his hands beginning to shake and sweat form on his brow. Goddesses help him, it felt like he was suffocating.
''You clean up pretty well, little brother.'' Link felt a relieved breath escape him as he turned towards Xanza's approaching form. The Captain's attire was Similar the Link's own the only noticable difference was there was no high collar on his vest and a red silk sash was tied around his waist instead of a belt. ''You lose her already?'' The Captain teased.
Link felt himself calm a little. ''It happened so fast I didn't have time to object really.'' He answered awkwardly.
Xanza clapped the shorter man on the back. ''In that case how about you join me for a drink?''
Link found himself smiling as he was led deeper into the crowd, the older Twili's merriment seemed to be infectious. They had just arrived at the refreshments table when Xanza spotted Venrik not to far from them, the Queen who had been standing beside him just moments ago being whisked away for another dance by a tall gentleman. ''General,'' He called out to the man now that he stood alone. ''Care to join us for a drink before leaving the party?''
Venrik gave a brief glance at the exit before going to join his comrades without uttering a word, he already had stayed later then he normally would at the ball, what was a few minutes more? As he approached Link took notice that the General's outfit was the same as the Captain's except the color of the sash around his waist was a golden color decorated with turquoise runes.
After selecting their drinks the three men moved to the banquet table that stretched along one of the far walls, Link took the empty cushioned stool in the middle with Xanza to his right and Venrik to his left. Xanza raised his tankard to his friends and allies, his grin growing wider. ''To the Kingdom, and to her Majesty, long may she reign.''
''Long may she reign.'' The other two echoed as they raised their own tankards.
Midna gave a small curtsy to the man before her as the song ended. He was tall, with a pointed chin and broad shoulders. He had been nothing but polite during their brief conversation while the dance took place, even apologizing to her for his aunt's pushy behavior.
He bent down and kissed her hand before she excused herself. The Princess exited the dance floor doing her best to avoid eye contact lest she get roped into another unwanted dance or conversation. A small smile came to her as the crowd parted slightly to allow her mother to come greet her. ''You look lovely tonight, Midna.'' The Queen said as she hugged her child.
''You're one to talk.'' was the Princess' snide remark. The Queen's dress was snow white with golden lace similar to Midna's own, but the lace seemed to have a green tint to it matching the jade circlet that her mother wore as a symbol of her power within the kingdom, the dress covered her shoulders but was open in the back.
''Where is, Link?'' Vezzna asked as she glanced about the room, expecting the Hylian to be close by.
The Princess took a moment to scan the room as well. She had been rather anxious to get back to him since she had been pulled away so suddenly, she was starting to feel rather ridiculous over her state of mind tonight towards her bodyguard. ''I don't know. I lost track of him rather quickly.'' Her Mother turned to speak to her but froze as her eyes fell on someone behind her. She glanced over her shoulder and beheld the council member and one of the high sorcerers Zant.
''Good evening your Majesty, and good evening your Highness.'' He spoke as he bowed his head to the two royals. ''You both look lovely tonight.''
''Thank you, Councilman.'' Vezzna replied. Midna simply waited for what she knew would be the inevitable outcome to his approach.
Zant held out his hand towards the younger of the two women. ''I was hoping that you would treat me to a dance, your Highness?''
The woman in question placed her hand atop his. ''I don't see why not. Lead the way.'' She gave her mother one last smile before Zant guided her back onto the dance floor. Vezzna pouted slightly, she had hoped that tonight her daughter and Link would spend some time together tonight but it now seemed that would be harder to achieve then she had thought.
''You are absolutely stunning, Princess.'' Zant complemented as the dance began.
''Thank you, Zant.'' Midna said plainly. Not that she wasn't flattered by his words, she had just grown accustomed to the complements she received on this night. Which only made her suddenly realize how flustered Link's words had made her when he saw her in the dress earlier. She felt her cheeks redden slightly.
Zant smirked smugly believing that the Princess' flushed cheeks was because of his words. ''I can not help but be curious about the fact that you arrived with the Hylian, considering when I asked to be your escort you told me you would be arriving alone.''
a small sigh escaped her nose. ''It was my Mother that arranged for him to escort me, she has wanted to take no risks with me lately since the attempt on my life.''
The Sorcerer gave a curt nod. ''Understandable. Has there been any development into the investigation?''
''Very little unfortunately, since hypnosis based magic is forbidden and considering the skill that is required to preform such a feat would take an expert magic user one would think it would be easy to find the perpetrator, but it seems the perpetrator covered their tracks rather thoroughly.''
''And now we must also worry over the fact that one of our main trades has been closed.''
Midna cocked her brow. ''Do you not agree with my Mother's choice?''
Zant's gaze went hard. ''I do not believe it was the wrong choice, but I feel that it was a hasty one. I foresee many hardships coming from her decision.''
''Our ancestors built our Kingdom upon nothing but hardships, Zant. We are a stronger kingdom then I think you know.''
Twenty minutes later and Link was only halfway through his first tankard of ale, Xanza was two-thirds through his second, Venrik's was empty but he had yet to refill his drink. The three men did not speak and instead enjoyed a companionable silence among them.
Xanza watched from the corner of his eyes as Link glanced back towards the dance floor for the umpteenth time, his gaze lingered on something and a small melancholy groan escaped him. The Captain twisted sideways in his seat and followed his gaze out onto the dance floor to where Midna was dancing with Zant, and if he was correct it was the third time that they had done so that night. ''Go on, little brother.'' He encouraged. ''Ask her for a dance.''
The Knight glanced towards his superior before returning his gaze to the young woman in question. In reality he wanted desperately to ask her for just that, but in this setting, with this many people watching and the fact that his anxiety was already acting up from the noise alone it wasn't hard for him to imagine the nightmarish scenarios that could possibly play out if he did. ''I think I'll pass on that for now.'' He turned back to the table and took a long drink of his ale.
Xanza's eyes narrowed at the young man beside him. He leaned his arm onto the table and looked past the young man and towards the older Twili. Venrik caught the Captain's gaze from the corner of his eye, he watched as his comrade glanced down at the young man between them and then gave a subtle cock of his head towards the dance floor, the Twili glanced over his shoulder and seemed to understand what the Captain was plotting, he glanced back at Xanza and gave a small nod of his head. He told himself that what he was about to do was not meddling as her Majesty had done before, it was a way to help the timid man come out of his shell a bit more and to aid the slightly annoyed looking Princess. If he believed that he had yet to decide.
Simultaneously the two men stood from their chairs, each grabbed one of the Hylian's arms and lifted him into a standing position, before Link could make heads or tails of what was happening the two men spun him around and both gave a hard shove against his back, sending him stumbling out into the sea of guests.
Guests and dancers dodged and parted way for the flailing pale creature as he tried to stop himself, none of them daring to help him in fear of falling themselves or perhaps believing him to be drunk. Link was beginning to panic as he felt himself tilting forward more and more as he tried to catch his balance, he pressed his eyes closed preparing to fall flat on his face and embarrass himself among the nobility of his home. But when he felt himself stop suddenly and not feeling the polished floor against his chest and face he slowly cracked open one of his eyes. The floor was still a good deal away from his face, a small amount of pressure on his chest from some invisible force was keeping him balanced, and found himself looking at a pair of fine boots and a snow white skirt before him, swallowing he tilted up his head to see Midna and Zant directly in front of him. The hand that Midna had been until just now resting on Zant's shoulder was now being held out towards him a faint orange and turquoise aura surrounding it, she had used her magic to catch him and save him from any embarrassment and/or injury. Zant glared at the Hylian clearly unamused with having his dance with the young lady interrupted.
Link stood up straight and sent a glare over his shoulder to the men who had caused the ruckus, Venrik was watching with disinterest while Xanza had turned completely around in his seat and gave Link a mocking wave and a wide smile as he watched. The Knight turned back to two dancers, slightly astonished that he had managed to stumble all the way to the dance floor. ''Good evening, Councilman. Good evening, Midna.''
''Good evening to you as well.'' Midna smirked, seeming to enjoy his slightly chagrin tone. Zant however stayed silent.
Link cleared his throat and held out his hand with a small nervous smile. ''May I cut in?''
Zant opened his mouth clearly intending to anyone watching that he would have denied the man if not for Midna speaking first. ''Of course you may.'' She disentangled herself from Zant's hold on her and took her friend's hand. ''Thank you for the lovely dance, Zant.''
a faux grin appeared on the Sorcerer's face doing little to hide his irritation. ''It was a pleasure, your Highness.'' He sent Link one last glare before turning away and disappearing into the crowd.
The Princess stepped closer to her protector placing her free hand on his shoulder while his own settled on her waist. ''Thank you,'' Midna said in a hushed voice as they slowly began to dance. ''He is a fantastic conversationalist but I swear all he ever wants to talk about is politics.''
Link nodded slowly. ''Well a lot has happened lately I suppose. Everything with Gerudo, the new resource regulations that have yet to be put into effect, the worry over the Stormriders-'' He was silenced when Midna placed a single finger on his lips.
''No politics right now,'' She spoke softly, moving her hand back to his shoulder while looking deeply into his eyes. ''Just dance with me.'' His hand tightened slightly around her own as he gave a small nod of his head.
Venrik watched the two dancers as they began to increase the tempo of their movements seeming to be lost in one another. He stood and gave a firm pat on the shoulder to the man beside him. ''Keep an eye on things.''
''Give her my best when you see her.'' Xanza called after his superior as he made his leave from the party.
Venrik strode out into the palace courtyard where the bonfire party was in full swing. People danced around the fire while a band of numerous instruments played merry tunes, people ate and drank heartily using the same barrels they took their drinks from as makeshift seats while they conversed with one another, large tables had been set out for the potluck supper that countless participated in providing.
This was where Venrik felt at home, with his comrades and countrymen, away from the higher class and their uptight demeanor. He reminisced for a moment on when he would spend this holiday with his father before the poor man passed away. Across the courtyard he saw Kul, a large tankard in one hand and his other arm draped across his husband's shoulders, Casdin's face was a deep scarlet no doubt from whatever Kul was currently animatedly discussing with with his friends.
As the General continued to scan the area his eyes fell upon a woman sitting alone atop a barrel nursing a drink in her hand, it was not just the woman who caught his gaze but rather what she was wearing, which consisted of a fine tailored bright blue dress and shoes. ''Good evening, Aran.'' He greeted once he had approached her.
Aran nodded her head at the man in greeting without returning his gaze. ''Good evening to you as well, General.''
''I am somewhat surprised to see you dressed in such a manner, you never struck me as the type to wear dresses. And such an expensive one at that.'' Most of the clothing that could be found in the Twilight consisted of black and gray colors. Not to help them keep warm, their species had adapted well to the cold climate of their home centuries ago but rather because dye was a rather difficult item to create considering that the ingredients used to make said dye were already of a muted color due to the lack of sunlight. And bright colored clothing was easily the most expensive within the kingdom, meaning that usually only the higher class could afford such things.
The knight shrugged. ''Truthfully I was hoping to catch someone's eye tonight but they have yet to show.''
''Well I hope they arrive tonight.''
''Oh he better.'' She growled under her breath as she took a drink of her ale. She glanced at Venrik as he went back to searching the crowd, a small smile came to her as she pointed towards the northern area of the grounds. ''She's over that way, General.''
Venrik gave a small bow of his head as thanks before he made his way to the place she had pointed. He had taken notice of Aran several years ago, she was a very promising knight and if she continued to grow he had a mind to nominate her as his successor when he retired from his position.
He smiled broadly when he came upon a group of women chatting with enthusiasm as they sat upon several barrels that had been stood on their ends. The women hushed when they saw him approaching and the one among the group he sought after smiled as wide as he did when she looked over her shoulder to see whom had caught her friends attention.
''Good evening, Venrik.'' Iliana greeted with elation.
''Good evening, Iliana, and to you as well ladies.'' He greeted in return with a bow.
''And what brings you by tonight?'' Everyone already knew what he desired, and her excitement showed on her face as she spoke.
Venrik held his hand out to the woman. ''I was hoping you would allow me the pleasure of a dance?''
The Maid set down her drink and took his hand. ''I would love to dance with you.'' Her friends giggled and whispered to each other as the two walked into the crowd of dancers.
Iliana wrapped her hands around the man's neck and rested her head against his chest, while Venrik placed his hands upon her back and held her tightly in his arms and the two slowly moved to the beat of the music. Once a year on this night there was no harsh or teasing words, no veiled flirting, or longing gazes across rooms. Just the two of them spending this intimate moment together. It was also a sight rather celebrated among the people whom witnessed it.
Back in the ballroom the dance between the Princess and the Hylian had continued from one song and into the second and without them knowing the second had become a third. The two souls seemed lost in their own world, and no one seemed to dare separate them.
Midna had taught Link to dance and over the years of her passing on the lessons she had learned to him they had become nothing short of the perfect partners for one another when it came to dance. They moved as if they knew how the other would respond to each others steps before they even preformed them, there was an air of intimacy between the two as they preformed their movements. Bodies pressed close when they drew the other to them, hands glided along fabric and skin, their eyes looking into the others nearly the entire time.
As the third song came to an end they drew their partner close. Link's hands resting on the Princess' hips, Midna's hands gripped the Hylian's shoulders. Their eyes closed and breath heavy, they stood so close their foreheads almost touched, their heartbeats nearly in sync hammered against their breast.
The two stood there still as statues as people began moving around them going back to their friends and associates or perhaps to find another dance partner, if they were aware of the activity around them they did not show any sign of it, to the Princess and the Knight the rest of the world simply did not exist, all that mattered was the person they currently held.
Link opened his mouth to speak but was cut off by Midna's own hushed voice. ''Thank you for dancing with me.'' She said.
Link opened his eyes as she pulled away from him, one of her hands trailing down his arm and briefly gliding across his own hand as she stepped away, Link reached out to her as her fingers escaped his own, his heart ached as he watched her vanish into the crowd of people. The hand that he still held outstretched towards where the woman had disappeared slowly closed into a fist before falling back to his side.
With a heavy sigh he made his way back to the table where Xanza still sat facing the crowd so he could watch the extended dance between the two youths, he took a sip from his drink as Link dropped into the seat beside him, and buried his face in his hands with his elbows propped against the polished stone table.
''You should have just gone for it.'' Xanza said matter-of-factly.
''I know!'' Link groaned into his hands.
Midna pushed her way through the crowd ignoring anyone who tried to gain her attention. She made her way to the refreshments table were her mother stood watching her approach with a smug grin on her face and a goblet of wine in her hand having been watching the dance her daughter partook in from the beginning, Midna took the goblet from the Queen and downed the entirety of its contents in one go
''You should have kissed him.'' Vezzna spoke barely containing her mirth.
''Shut up, Mother!'' Midna growled through her teeth as she refilled the now empty drink in her hand.
A few hours later Midna found herself walking down the hall towards her bedroom slightly leaning against Link for support in her lightly drunken state, she honestly didn't even remember leaving the ball in the first place.
''Did I make a scene?'' She asked somewhat drowsily.
''No,'' Her Knight was quick to answer. ''You just seemed a little tipsy to me and felt it best to get you out.''
A sigh escaped her as she leaned her head a bit more onto his shoulder. He was always looking out for her, she wondered when he took time to take care of himself, but then again if she really thought about it she took care of him most of the time. ''Thanks. Last thing I need right now is to hear about how I got sloshed at the royal ball and made a complete idiot of myself.''
''Honestly I was looking for an excuse to leave the second I walked in.'' Link joked.
Midna chuckled as they came to stop before her chamber doors, she moved away from the Hylian and turned to fully face him. ''This was fun. Not all of it mind, but I had a good time with you tonight.''
Link shifted his feet as he met her gaze. ''I...had a good time too.''
They watched each other for several moments. She did not know why she did it, perhaps it was the drink she had consumed, maybe it was the dance they shared or the way he looked in that outfit, but before she could second guess her actions Midna rested a hand on the young man's shoulder and placed a small kiss on his cheek. She pulled away slowly allowing her kiss to linger for a moment or two before meeting his gaze once again. ''Good night, Link.'' She all but whispered as she opened the door to her room.
The Hylian watched the young woman step into her room and begin to close the door. ''Midna!'' He suddenly called out taking a half step forward and pressing his hand against the door to keep it from closing any further. The two looked at one another with wide eyes. Midna shocked at the unexpected outburst and Link in a state of panic, all the things he had desired to say to her lodging themselves deep in his throat.
''I-I...wanted to say thank you.'' He stammered out. ''Thank you for letting me be your escort tonight, it...truly meant a lot to me.''
Midna gave no reply as she gently shut the door, Link pressed his eyes closed. ''You're a bloody coward.'' He whispered to himself just loudly enough for him to hear, he leant forward resting his head against the door and even quieter then his last words he spoke the words he had truly wanted to say to her. ''I...I love you.''
Next time. He thought to himself while making his way back down the hall. I'll tell her next time.
The Hylian walked out into the courtyard even though the hour was well past midnight the merriment had yet to dull in the slightest. He saw Xanza talking with Kul and Casdin, but the thing he witnessed that brought a wide grin to his face was seeing his mother and the General standing near an upturned barrel sharing a drink together. Venrik leaned forward and whispered something into the Woman's ear, which made her giggle and playfully shove him back while a blush appeared on her cheeks.
Link watched the two flirt, he was looking forward to teasing his mother for a change about this in the morning.
A low whistle caught his attention and directed it at the young woman approaching him. ''Well as much as I don't like waiting, seeing you all dressed up almost makes it worth while.'' Aran said. She watched as Link's eyes roamed over her dress. ''You like it?'' She did a slow turn as she walked up to him pressing her chest against his own.
Link's cheeks flushed at the her close proximity. ''You look great.''
''I had a feeling I would. Now are you going to ask me to dance or what?''
Link smiled, he could already tell she was a few pints of ale into the night without even needing to smell it on her breath. ''Would you like to dance, Aran?''
Aran pulled him by the arm into the crowd. ''I have literally been waiting all night to hear those words.'' She laughed merrily.
Within the Princess' chamber Midna still stood with her back pressed against the doors while her heart hammered in her chest. Link's actions had done far more then sober her, and now her head and body where a whirlwind of conflicting feelings. Part of her told herself to calm down, that what the annoying voice in her head was telling her was not true. While her body screamed at her to open the door, go find him and bring him back to her room so that he could satiate the burning desire she felt deep in her body that seemed to cry out for his touch and his alone.
For weeks her mind had been pushing her towards this one conclusion, that she felt more for the Hylian than a deep meaningful friendship.
She hit the back of her head against the door and pressed her eyes closed so tightly it hurt, her hands balled into white knuckled fists. ''I am not in love with him, I am not in love with him, I am not in love with him!'' These words would very soon become her mantra.
