Disclaimer: Most characters and settings belong to Nintendo, except a few original characters that I created. No copyright infringement intended. Enjoy the story!
Chapter 11 Wedding Bells
"I don't want to do this," I whined as my friend finished lacing me into my new ghawazee coat. I had to admit it was beautiful. I loved the way the tails fluttered about me and the intricate embroidery along the hem. It was the skirt I hated.
"You will get used to it soon enough," she assured me. I replied with a disbelieving snort. My friend twirled me around to finish checking the fit.
"How do Hylian women get anything done? These skirts are so burdensome?" I asked, not used to the restricting weight of the fabric.
"They wear them all the time," she reminded me. "It is normal to them." She fussed over me for a bit longer before standing back to admire her work. "You look great, Nabooru."
"Are you ready yet?" Ganondorf impatiently called from outside the dorm room. I heaved a self mournful sigh and exited the fortress. I felt a sense of smug satisfaction at Ganondorf's astounded expression when he saw me. I quickly performed a sassy little shimmy before marching past him to the awaiting horses. I struggled with my skirt and finally Ganondorf picked me up and placed me on the saddle with a chuckle. I turned away indignantly as he mounded his dark steed.
"Take care of our sisters," Ganondorf called to Yeresft as we steered our horses down to the valley. I turned to wave briefly. It wasn't long before we were out into the field. I fidgeted relentlessly in my saddle. "What is wrong, Nabs?" Ganondorf asked. I gave an irritated huff.
"This dumb dress is uncomfortable," I complained. "I don't know what I am supposed to do when we get to Hyrule. I don't know how to act or how to get around. This is actually the first time I'll have been to Castletown. I've never actually been there before."
"You will be fine," he assured me. "Just follow my lead." I grunted again. We rode in silence for a bit as I let the steady pace calm my nerves. "Are you still upset I made you leave your scimitars behind?" There went my calm.
"We are going into a foreign territory completely unarmed," I snapped. "It is ludicrous! What are we supposed to do in event of attack?" Ganondorf just laughed at my outburst.
"We are going to be fine, precious," he responded. "I can fend off any random attacker. Besides, proper Hylian ladies don't carry weapons. They rely on their men to defend them."
"I'm not Hylian," I sulked. "I could fit five swords under this stupid dress and no one would know. I feel naked without something." Ganondorf leered at me with my last comment. I shot him an exasperated look and he chuckled softly.
"Nabs, you are going to do fine," he assured me again. "Just be nice to the ladies and courteous to the men and all will go well."
"But what if they want to talk about women stuff?" I pressed. "You know, courtship and poetry and gardening."
"Just say 'fascinating' and nod your head. Quit worrying,"
"I'll be glad when this day is over."
"You'll be fine."
"Ganondorf, really?"
"Yes?"
"Sideburns?"
Ganondorf smiled at me and stroked his new facial hair. I was still nervous as we neared the drawbridge of castle town.
I was immediately impressed with the village. Centerfield was quite primitive in comparison. The streets were paved and the stone buildings lined the marketplace and twisted into labyrinthine alleyways. We had been ecstatic at our little water pipe, but here there was a fountain of water just for show. I could see why Ganondorf was so attracted to this place, but it still wasn't home. I kept my expression carefully guarded as we silently picked our way through the village to the castle. I was painfully aware of the stares and whispers as we passed by villagers. Ganondorf didn't seem to pay them any mind as he led the way. We neared the gates close to sundown.
Ganondorf dismounted and came to help me off my own horse. I would have refused his help if I wasn't sure I would fall over my skirt if left to my own devices. He grinned at me as he held me around the waist.
"Are you ready?" he asked me softly. I silently shook my head, but he led me to the guarded gate anyway. He exchanged some brief words with the guardsman before being let in. I followed closely behind as we neared the castle. It was larger than the fortress. The size was unfathomable considering it was designed for a single family. I told Ganondorf about my thoughts in Gerudo so the guards wouldn't understand. Ganondorf just chuckled and explained how there were many servants who lived in the castle, along with quarters for the guards on duty and at any time there could be a number of ambassadors. The guard looked at us suspiciously so Ganondorf mentioned I had commented on the size of the castle.
"Doesn't she speak Hylian?" He asked ignorantly. "Can your women really not read?" I lost my temper at his stupidity.
"Of course I speak Hylian!" I spat. "We are all literate in Hylian and Gerudo, both modern and ancient." The guard blushed and averted his gaze and led us in silence. We entered the great doors into an opulent, and in my opinion gaudy, antechamber. We were greeted cordially by a courtier who explained that dinner had already been served, but there was room for us if we wished to join. I wished to hide in whatever room had been prepared for me, but Ganondorf accepted the invitation.
We were led through large and strait hallways to a massive dining room. "You could fit all of Gerudo in here!" I exclaimed upon seeing the size. Ganondorf chuckled and once again translated for the courtier,
"Oh, do Gerudo women really not speak…" he didn't get to finish as Ganondorf urgently cut him off with a gesture. I took a deep breath and smiled flakily at our escort.
"Would you be so kind as to show us to our seat?" I simpered, mimicking the flighty intonation of some silly girls we had passed on our way through the town. Ganondorf suppressed a laugh as the courtier blushed and turned to announce us to the room.
"What is your name and title, madam?" he asked addressing me in a whisper.
"I'm on the council," I whispered back. "No title had been given and my name is Nabooru." Apparently my Hylian was heavier accented that I had though because he smiled and turned to the dining hall.
"King Ganondorf Dragmire and Queen Naboria of the Gerudo," He nodded with satisfaction at us. Many faces turned around to stare at us as we were taken to briefly speak with the Hylian king before being seated.
"No, I'm not a queen," I tried to explain. Ganondorf nudged me to silence me and hissed under his breath.
"Just go with it for now," he cautioned. He exchanged some pleasantries and we finally sat down to eat. I picked at my food in silence. I wished could just sleep at this point. Ganondorf finally leaned over to me. "They are about to dismiss everyone. It is customary for the gentlemen to adjourn to one room and the ladies to another." I dropped my fork.
"I have to go with them alone?" I gasped. He nodded, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "This is why you should have let me bring my scimitars," I hissed.
Ganondorf smiled in earnest. "I hardly think they are even capable of harming you. Just play nice with them. After a while claim exhaustion and asked to be shown to your chambers. You can even faint if you like."
"No thank you," I muttered, steeling myself for the ordeal to come.
"Nabooru?"
"Yes?"
"Put the table knife back."
I huffed as I covertly pulled the small knife out of my dress and placed it back onto the table. The end of the meal was announced and I threw Ganondorf a panicked look as I was shuttled away to the withdrawing room with the other ladies. I immediately put my back into a corner and stood still as I observed the conversation around me. The ladies busied themselves with small, useless craft projects or board games I did not know the rules of. Illiana suddenly appeared and greeted me warmly.
"I'm so glad you were able to make it," she spoke earnestly. I forced a small smile. At least she was familiar.
"You'll have to forgive me my manners," I forced out, copying the protocol I heard from others. "It has been a long day and I have never been to Castletown before. It is a little overwhelming just now." Illiana's eyes widened.
"Oh," she whispered softly. "I never thought you would mind. You always are so composed. It takes some getting used to. I am still overwhelmed by the size of this place. I still get lost occasionally and I have been living here for at least a month."
"Illiana, dear," a pompous and elderly voice called. "Are you speaking with that Gerudo? Does she speak Hylian?" Illiana threw me an apologetic glance and turned to reveal a wealthy lady staring pointedly at me.
"Of course I speak Hylian, Madam." I curtly replied, chocking back my indignation. The ignorance was becoming infuriating.
"My apologies, Naboria," the lady dismissed with a wave of her hand. "Did I hear you were queen? I wasn't aware there was a Gerudo queen."
"My name is Nabooru, actually," I corrected. "I am not queen. Gerudo do not have queens as we don't marry. I am however, on the council."
The lady stared blankly at me as if she didn't comprehend. Illiana stepped nervously between us. "Forgive my rudeness. Nabooru, this is Countess Doca. Countess, this is Councilwoman Nabooru." The countess blinked a few times.
"Councilwoman?" she sneered. "Who ever heard of a councilwoman?"
"We are all women, save King Ganondorf," I replied flatly. "To have a council we must have councilwomen."
"Indeed," Countess Doca sniffed. She waved her hand and motioned for a servant to bring her a tin of sweets. "You are an unmarried woman yet you live alone with your king? How extraordinary."
"Forgive me," I replied irritably, "but doesn't Illiana reside here at the palace though she is not yet married to the Hylian king?" Illiana blushed slightly but gave me a small smile to indicate she wasn't offended.
"That is different," the countess countered. "The palace is large, and there is always a chaperone with her when there are males about."
"I assure you there is little privacy in the fortress," I stated ironically. "It may be smaller than this palace, but all Gerudo lives in it. We don't even have doors."
"No doors!" she gasped scandalized. "How do you maintain your virtue?" I gritted my teeth.
"The only male to ever set foot in the fortress is the king himself," I hissed. "He is respectful of his sisters and does not take advantage of his position." Countess Doca sniffed rudely once again. I pinched the bridge of my nose to try and suppress my increasing frustration with this self important Hylian. Blessedly, it was Illiana who stepped in diplomatically.
"Countess Doca," she directed to the older woman. "You will have to forgive me. It has been a long day and I would like to show dear Nabooru around before I retire." The old woman merely waved her hand around and helped herself to another sweet.
"Be careful of that Naboria," she called as Illiana led me from the room. "She doesn't seem trustworthy."
I let out a frustrated sigh as the door shut behind me. "I am sorry," Illiana whispered. "The countess is not a tactful person, and is quite cruel to those not within her circle."
"She is a bigoted and judgmental lizalfos," I hissed, memorizing the hallways we passed. I suddenly turned to Illiana, hoping I hadn't offended the one person who was kind to me. She was smiling slyly.
"You forgot wretched and bitter," she offered. We exchanged smiled. Illiana got turned around in the hallways and had to ask a guard for directions. At last we stood before an ornately painted door.
"Here are your chambers," Illiana smiled, pushing the door open for me. The room itself was large and there were two small doorways leading off.
"There is no bed," I pointed out confused. The room was lovely, with low couches and a beautiful woven rung. Paintings hung on the wall. It was rather calming.
"Oh," Illiana chuckled softly. Her laughter was barely audible, like a silver bell. "This is just a sitting room. You can breakfast in here if you like instead of dining in the hall. You just pull the cord by the small table and someone will deliver your food. The first door is the bedroom and the other is the bath."
"Oh," I whispered softly. "Thank you."
"I will see you tomorrow?" she asked hopefully. I nodded and gave her my first genuine smile of the day. She departed and I immediately headed for the second door. It opened into a private bath, with a large marble tub. I immediately forgot my fatigue and began to fill the tub. The water that ran out of the faucet was warm to my delight. I divested myself and sank into the water. How primitive Gerudo was in comparison to Hyrule began to sink into me. I floated in the water, relishing the feeling of weightlessness.
"How are you enjoying Hyrule?" a familiar voice asked as I surfaced. I gasped and hurriedly grabbed a towel off the stand beside the tub. I pulled in into the water, thrashing wildly in my attempts to cover myself. Ganondorf laughed in the corner as he watched my attempts at modesty. "Aren't we past all this, dearest?" he chuckled.
"I thought I locked the door," I mumbled crossly, trying to maintain a somewhat dignified composure.
"You did," he replied casually. "I'm still king of thieves, Nabs. I can break into your room if I so wish. Do you want me to wash your hair?" I opened my mouth to shoot back a caustic reply, but thought better of it. I was more frustrated at the Hylians than I was at Ganondorf. In sooth I longed for his familiar company right now.
"Sure," I finally replied and settled back into the tub. Ganondorf massaged my scalp as he worked the soap into lather.
"Are you going to tell me about what is bothering you?" he asked gently while rinsing my tresses.
"I don't like it here," I firmly stated. "The people are ignorant and petty. Illiana is the only one who is nice to me. You heard them earlier. They have this insane idea I don't even speak Hylian!" Ganondorf chuckled sympathetically.
"You have to understand most Hylians only speak Hylian," he explained. "Most of them never set foot out of their villages. To be able to speak multiple languages and to travel is remote for them. It doesn't occur to them that even though Gerudo live outside Hyrule, they all speak Hylian."
"So why are you exempt from assumed ignorance?" I asked bitterly.
"Well," Ganondorf replied carefully. He made some airy gestures as if he was trying to find a way to word his thoughts, "because I am a man. This is a patriarchal society. Women do not hold the same position as men. It isn't as common among the peasants where everyone is needed for survival. The noble women here don't really have any more use than a pretty statue. Most don't think for themselves beyond who the best dance partner is."
"It's disgusting." I spat. "I don't get along with them. This countess kept insinuating I was a tramp."
"They have a strict sense of morals," Ganondorf agreed. "I'm sorry; there is nothing I can do about that. How about tomorrow I show you the grounds and library and places you can be alone so you don't have to spend all your time with the court ladies?"
"Why?" I asked. "How late is the wedding going to be tomorrow?"
"Nabs," Ganondorf stated gently, "the wedding isn't tomorrow."
"What? How long are we going to be here?"
"A fortnight."
"Two weeks!" I screamed. "Why are going to be here for a fortnight? How long do weddings take?"
"Calm down, precious," he muttered, trying to shield himself from the water splashing about. "The wedding lasts only one day, but royal wedding are a big event and is just as much about diplomacy as it is about the union of two people." I rolled my eyes and groaned.
"This is going to be a long two weeks," I complained. "Go away now. I'm getting out and going to bed."
"Do you mind if I stay here with you tonight?" Ganondorf asked with a wolfosish grin.
"Don't you have your own chambers?" I glared at him. He gave me a hopeful smile in return.
"Yes, but you've seen how big they are. There is plenty of room for two."
"Very well."
"Great!" Ganondorf exclaimed and pulled me towel and all from the marble tub. He set me down on floor and started to make an exit, but slipped on the puddle water and slipped with a loud and undignified crash. I started to laugh at him, but quickly lost my footing on the slick floor. Luckily Ganondorf broke my fall. We laughed together as we tried to disentangle ourselves unsuccessfully. We giggled until a banging on the outer door was heard. Before I could make an answer the outer door was slammed open.
"Lady Naboria?" a rough Hylian voice called. I tried to hold back my laughter.
"I'm in the bath," I replied, trying to sound concerned. "Please don't come in."
"We heard a noise," the voice answered. "Is everything alright?"
"Yes," I replied, biting my lip between words. "I slipped coming out of the tub is all. I'm afraid I knocked over the table." Ganondorf snickered silently as the footsteps crossed to the bath door.
"Do you require assistance?" the Hylian asked timidly.
"No!" I cried in alarm. "No, I am fine. Do not come in. I, I am immodest." 'And perched unbecomingly atop my Ganny, who shouldn't even be in here,' I though. Ganondorf's face contorted with his suppressed laughter.
"Very well," the guard sounded relieved. "Should we have King Ganondorf check on you? We could escort him to your chambers." Ganondorf suddenly stopped laughing and made wild negating gestures.
"No, please," I struggled to say levelly. "You would not be so ungallant as to speak of my undignified collapse, would you?"
"No, lady, of course not," the guard quickly assured me. "I'll just send someone to straighten the bath." Seriously, would the guard never leave?
"No, please," I begged. "I am fine for this evening. I wish to retire and do not want to be disturbed. Send someone tomorrow. I do not require anything else tonight. Thank you."
"Of course, Lady Naboria," The guard replied and his footsteps finally retreated to the door. As soon as the door closed we both collapsed into a fit of giggles.
"How did I become Lady Naboria?" I asked later when I had managed to get dressed and we lay beside each other on the giant bed.
"It comes with only speaking one language," Ganondorf replied. "Your name is unfamiliar, so they pronounce it in a way that sounds more Hylian."
"Great," I replied sarcastically. "I really wanted for people to mistake me for a Hylian."
"You don't have to worry about that, dearest," Ganondorf whispered. He wrapped his arms around me and nuzzled into my neck. "You have far too much personality for that."
Quiet knocking woke me the next morning. Silent feet crept in and headed towards the bath. I guessed it to be maids. I mumbled sleepily and turned towards Ganondorf to warn him, but he was no longer there. I rolled over and tumbled out of bed. I began to slowly dress and fix my hair.
"I'm sorry if I woke you, Lady," a timid voice apologized as I entered the sitting room.
"No, its fine," I retorted and pulled the cord above a small table. I wandered around looking at the paintings until a small tray of food was delivered. I thanked the server and quietly ate my bland, grainy breakfast. I waited for Ganondorf to show but he didn't come. Finally a small rasp was on the door. I didn't care who it was at this point I just wanted to do something. Illiana was standing outside the door with a small contingent of young ladies huddled behind her. Immediately they began to whisper.
"Is this the Gerudo?"
"Does she speak Hylian?'
"OF COURSE I SPEAK HYLIAN!" I screamed at the poor cowering girls. I clenched my fists in anger. I swore silently to the Goddess I would deck the next person who assumed I couldn't speak Hylian.
"Please forgive them," Illiana spoke quietly. I unclenched my fists. "They have just been introduced and sometimes forget their manners."
"They don't know each other?" I asked confused. "What has that to do with anything?" Illiana smiled.
"They have just been introduced into society," she attempted to explain. "They haven't had much contact with people outside of their small circle, so they forget their manners around strangers." I stared silently at Illiana as I tried to understand what she meant.
"Oh," I spoke, realization dawning on me. "They recently came of age."
"Yes," Illiana smiled, lighting up her bright eyes. We blinked at each other for a minute. "I hadn't seen you all morning so I came to see if anything was the matter."
"Gan... King Ganondorf was supposed to show me the library and grounds, but he hasn't come yet," I explained, shifting my weight as the girls continued to gawk.
"I believe he has been in audience with King Hyrule all morning," Illiana replied. My countenance fell when I realized I would be stuck alone in my room or with the Hylians. "I could show you the grounds," Illiana offered. "I could also show you the library, that way you could go back by yourself if you have no company."
"By herself?" one of the girls whispered. "Without an escort?"
"Councilwoman Nabooru doesn't need an escort." Illiana informed her and then turned to me. "Would you like for me to show you around?"
"Yes, please," I answered without hesitation desperate to get out of the room. Illiana began to lead the way, her full skirts swishing about her. The three girls formed a tight cluster behind us.
"Am I that scary?" I whispered to Illiana. She looked quickly at the girls before returning her gaze forward.
"You are intimidating to them," she responded kindly. "You are just so exotic. Women of strong character are only read about here."
"Do you read many books then?" I asked suddenly interested.
"I do," she replied sadly. "Not many women do. I enjoy reading of adventures because I lack the courage to have them on my own. It is kind of a cruel conundrum. Most women lack the desire, not the ability. I want to explore, but am too afraid. It is why I begged His Majesty to take me to the King Dragmire's coronation. It was the most exciting thing I have ever been to. It is why I am so fond of you. You are strong and brave where I am weak and timid."
"I think you have more courage than you realize," I told her truthfully. "You asked to come to the treacherous Gerudo coronation after all."
"I was so afraid though," she expounded. "I was afraid of the trip there. I was afraid of being with the Gerudo. I was afraid of the return trip."
"You still did it." I pointed out. We exchanged small smiles. "Are you still afraid of me?"
"No, not you," Illiana smiled. "King Dragmire frightens me, though. Even Hylian nobility makes me nervous. I am uneasy at any state function."
"Why are you marrying the king then?" I asked bluntly. She was taken aback and stopped walking for a moment.
"Why?" she repeated. "Well, because we love each other, of course." She stared at me intently. "Forgive if I am mistaken, but don't you and King Dragmire love each other? I was actually surprised when I found out you weren't truly queen."
"Yes, I love him," I replied defensively. I did, didn't I? Didn't he love me? We slipped out of the castle and Illiana brought me and the giggling girls to a small sheltered courtyard. Water ran in a channel around the courtyard and small flowers grew.
"This is my favorite place," Illiana told me. "It is quiet here, most of the time." She threw a look at the girls, still clustered together whispering.
"Are they going to follow you all day?" I asked. She nodded morosely.
"They are going to be my bridesmaids," she explained. "Until then they are to wait on me."
"Wait for what?" I tried to clarify. "Can't they wait somewhere else?"
"Not wait in the sense of anticipating, more like attending me." She explained. I blinked in confusion. "They are supposed to stay near me in the event I need something."
"And you Hylians think we have an odd culture," I muttered, not unkindly. We strolled slowly through the gardens before reentering the castle for the noon meal. Illiana graciously invited me to dine with her and her ladies in her private chamber. It was bland, but better than breakfast. After we finished she took me to the library while her ladies excused themselves for a nap.
"How can they possibly be tired?" I asked incredulously as we walked down the long hallways.
She shook her head. "I think some of the ladies get so bored they sleep." She pushed the door open to the library. I was amazed by the sheer number of volumes in the room. It was silent and well light. I breathed in the scent of paper and dust.
"This is wonderful," I whispered. Illiana smiled brightly.
"This side of the room holds novels and poetry," she mentioned. "The far side has the nonfiction books. This little shelf here has the books in foreign languages. Mostly it is Sheikan, but I think we have a few Gerudo texts." I knelt down and reviewed the small selection. I couldn't decipher the Sheikan texts, but I recognized the Gerudo volumes as books I had read before. They were all children's stories and poetry. I pulled out another book.
"You have an Acriminite tome?" I asked, surprised. Illiana gazed at the book in my hand.
"No one knew what that was," she informed me. "It wasn't from any of the races around Hyrule, but we didn't want to get rid of it. Can you read Acree…Acruh…?"
"Acriminite," I corrected. "I can read it a little. It is similar to Ancient Gerudo, but the syntax and verb conjugation is different."
"I didn't realize you were such a linguist." Illiana commented, impressed.
"Not so much myself," I admitted. "I pay attention to what I must and can figure things out if needed, but Ganondorf is the real linguist."
"You are on such familiar terms with King Dragmire," she pointed out.
"We're good friends," I replied, flipping through the pages of the book. "It actually feels weird to call him 'Your Majesty' or 'King Ganondorf'."
"That must be nice," Illiana whispered. "I have a habit of calling my fiancé 'Your Majesty' or 'King Hyrule' even in a more private setting."
"I thought you said you loved each other."
"You mustn't mistake formality for antipathy. Our protocol is a sign of respect. For instance, His Majesty would never have left me alone in foreign country after promising to accompany me without first sending me word." My eyes grew dark at her words.
"What are you insinuating?" I demanded. Illiana became apologetic at once.
"Forgive me," she begged. "I didn't mean to offend you. I was simply trying to point out the difference between familiarity and fondness. Oh, dear, that didn't come out good either."
"Don't worry about it," I assured her. "I'm not upset at you. I'm upset at Gan… King Ganondorf for abandoning me in the first place." I stared darkly at the book in my hands as if it were the offender. Illiana smiled softly and excused herself to go to a dress fitting. She offered to let me come too, but I declined and began to try and decipher the Acriminite book. As far as I could tell it was a book on the history of Hyrule. It was strange that an Acriminite would have written such a thing, and that it would actually be in Hyrule. Half an hour later a few guards came into the library, looking for Illiana. She was missing again. They stared at me suspiciously when I told them she had departed earlier. I sat reading and mulling over our conversation until the dinner bell rang. I left the book on the table and walked slowly into the dining hall.
Ganondorf was nowhere to be seen, so I was seated between two people I didn't know. One was a young lord who stared lecherously the entire time , and the other was a deaf old woman who kept nodding off. The meal passed on in silence. I ducked out of the room when the meal was over instead of joining the ladies in the withdrawing room. I snatched the book I was reading from the library and adjourned to my chambers. I passed more quiet lonely hours before I heard a noise rustling through the window of the bedroom.
"Welcome back, Ganny." I called as the window snapped shut.
"Good evening, Nabs." He replied, giving me a little peck on my cheek before sinking down beside me. "They are guarding the hallway more carefully tonight. I had to come through the window."
"So I could tell," I muttered, not looking up from the book, even though I had ceased to translate when Ganondorf entered.
"What are you reading?"
"A book."
"Can we skip to the part where you tell me why you are upset?"
"Where were you today?"
"I was with the Hylian king. I had kingly things to do today."
"I thought you said you were going to spend time with me."
"I thought you would be fine by yourself. I'll show you the grounds and library tomorrow."
"Don't bother. Illiana showed them to me today."
"Why are you so upset? You know I have diplomatic duties."
"You could have at least given me the courtesy of letting me know you weren't coming." I spat. Illiana's remarks earlier had burned my conscious all evening.
"Look, I'm sorry, okay?" Ganondorf apologized half-heartedly. "Is it really so bad here?"
"For me, yes!" I cried. "The women are weak, silly, and everyone still acts like I'm an ignoramus. Hyrule may be full of pretty buildings and art but the people are empty!" Ganondorf wrapped me in a hug.
"I'm sorry," he whispered into my hair. "I was hoping you would enjoy yourself more." He began to plant little kisses behind my ear.
"I'll be okay now that I found the library," I replied. "Have you seen how huge the collection is?" Ganondorf pulled back to smile at me and glanced down at the volume I was still clutching.
"Where did you find this?" he asked, pulling the book from my hands.
"The library, like I said," I responded. "As far as I can tell, it is a Hylian history written by the Acriminites." Ganondorf was flipping through the pages.
"Not just history," he expounded. "It is creation myths and old legends. It seems like it holds the stories of how Hyrule came to power." Ganondorf flipped to the beginning and began to read quickly. He was fluent in the Acriminite language already.
"I'm going to bed," I stated, giving him a quick kiss on the head. He merely grunted and returned to his reading. I rolled my eyes and continued to bed. I slept fitfully for a while before returning to the still lit sitting room. "Either go to your own room or come to bed," I snapped at Ganondorf, who was still wearily reading. He looked at me with bleary eyes. I sighed and took the book from his grasp and directed him to the bed where he immediately fell asleep.
The next morning I was woken by a knocking at the outer door. I stumbled out of bed and yanked open the door. There stood Ganondorf with a Hylian guard escort. I blinked at him as he stood grinning.
"I came to ask if you would like to join His Majesty, King Hyrule, and Lady Illiana for a private breakfast in the king's chambers," Ganondorf grinned. I could still see the exhaustion in his eyes.
"I'd be delighted," I muttered and slammed the door in his face.
"I'll wait for you here then, shall I?" his muffled voice fluttered through the door. He made a comment about not being an early riser to the stunned guard as I dressed and fixed my hair. I emerged in a somewhat better mood.
We were escorted through more hallways until we were ushered into another set of larger and more ornate rooms. A guard and an elderly woman sat silently in the corner while King Hyrule and Illiana sat talking quietly in the center. The king stood when we entered.
"It is good to see you again, King Dragmire," King Hyrule said with a little bow, which Ganondorf returned. "Lady Naboria," he directed to me. I gave a small bow to him which caused him to smile mirthfully as he returned it.
"It is Nabooru, You Majesty," Illiana corrected, smiling up at her fiancé.
"Pardon me?" he asked her.
"Her name is pronounced Nabooru, Your Majesty," she repeated with a gentle smile on her face.
"Nah-boo-roo," he tried out. Illiana gave him a little nod. "It is a pleasure to have you here Lady Nahbooru." The Hylian king and Illiana exchanged pleasant smiles. Once again I detected something in their eyes I was unfamiliar with. I shrugged it off and took a seat offered me. I was fed the same bland grainy stuff from the previous morning, but ate it to be polite.
"Lady Illiana has told me you have been feeling lonely," King Hyrule directed at me.
"Yes, Your Majesty," I replied truthfully. "Illiana was so kind as to show me the library, though. The books will help to pass the time."
"King Hyrule," Illiana continued in excitement, "did you know Councilwoman Nabooru can read that old book that no one knew the language?"
"Can you now, Lady Nahbooru?" the king asked in excitement. "That book has been puzzling us for generations. We would be loath to be rid of it, though. You never know when information is useful."
"I can translate bits and pieces," I explained. "It is from Acrimin. We raid them across the desert."
Ganondorf interrupted, trying to avoid the subject of raiding, "it appears to be a history book of sorts, Your Majesty. Nabooru showed it to me last night."
"Quite the literary couple, aren't you?" King Hyrule smiled approvingly. "How are you enjoying Hyrule, Lady Nahbooru?"
"I'll admit I don't understand Hylian customs," I confessed. "The architecture is nice, though." King Hyrule chuckled and gave Illiana another one of those mysterious looks.
"Well then," he said warmly, "how about I give you a proper tour of the castle in repentance for steeling your companion yesterday. You must forgive me for that. I never would have kept him if I had known it left you alone."
"I would like that, Your Majesty," I replied, "and there are no ill feelings from yesterday." We finished up breakfast and began our tour. The castle was immense. There were many rooms and niches that held works of art or had random uses. We made small talk, but I noticed Illiana made a point of not speaking directly to Ganondorf. Ganondorf kept asking questions of the recurring triple triangle symbol. I learned it was called a Triforce. We were up in one of the towers when Ganondorf's eyes glazed over with a look of unabashed lust. There, on the other side of the room lit with many stained glass windows, was a pipe organ.
"Do you play?" King Hyrule asked Ganondorf as he followed his gaze.
"No," Ganondorf replied absentmindedly. "I've read about them, and seen drawings, but I've never seen one in person. It is fascinating." He continued to stare at the large instrument in amazement. King Hyrule whispered to Illiana and she made a quick curtsey before crossing to the organ. She took a seat and caressed the keys with her slender fingers before gracefully coaxing a song from the instrument. Ganondorf watched in absolute amazement as she expertly used both rows of keys and her feet to play the tune. Without thinking he slowly crossed the room and was standing by Illiana. She smiled up at him when she was finished.
"Beautiful," was all he could mutter.
"Sit here, Your Majesty," Illiana invited, "and I will teach you to play." Ganondorf eagerly took a seat beside her on the bench and she began to explain the basic principles of playing. He became engrossed in learning that I was once again forgotten.
"They make an odd pair, don't they Lady Nahbooru?" King Hyrule asked me, nodding towards the two sitting on the bench. It was almost comical to see the petite and frail Illiana guiding the much larger and bulky Ganondorf. Her gentleness moved his strength with ease.
"I'm pleasantly surprised," I replied. "Just yesterday Ill... Lady Illiana was telling me how she was frightened by King Ganondorf." The king nodded his head knowingly.
"She is easily intimidated," he agreed, "but she can influence people without realizing it." I nodded my head and we stood in silence as Ganondorf started to play notes on the organ. He nodded at Illiana and took over the organ and started to play a traditional Gerudo song, adding his own harmony. Illiana was so impressed she was on the verge of tears. Ganondorf turned around and gave me a boyish grin. I smiled and nodded and he returned to the organ and began to play another song. Illiana slipped in beside him once again and added an intricate harmony to the powerful melody played by Ganondorf. The effect was simply stunning. I was stunned into silence. When the song was finished the two stopped and grinned at each other. I had not seen Illiana so enthusiastic about something before.
"It is amazing," King Hyrule whispered. Illiana snapped out of her trance and obtained an almost panicked look on her face. She looked back to the Hylian king and then to Ganondorf. Ganondorf looked down warmly at her and mouthed a simple 'thank you'. Illiana blushed but returned the smile before standing and walking with dignity back towards us. She practically clung to King Hyrule's arm while Ganondorf stared longingly at the organ. He begrudgingly left the seat and rejoined our party. We continued the tour.
The two weeks slowly went on in the same manner. I spent long hours in the library reading or in the gardens meditating. Illiana sought me out when she didn't have other things to attend to and occasionally the Hylian King would arrange for things for me to do that did not include time with Hylian women. I forced myself to sit with them after dinner and even learned to play some of their games. I mastered them quickly much to the chagrin of the other ladies. The only time I spent with Ganondorf was after he snuck into my room each night.
The morning of the wedding finally dawned. I dressed carefully and put on the new jewels Ganondorf had gifted me. I was escorted through the castle to meet Ganondorf. There were more people in the castle today than I had seen. I would have been crushed in the throng if they weren't predisposed to part whenever I came near. I finally spotted Ganondorf near the entrance to the castle. He wasn't hard to find as he stood a good head taller than any Hylian. He must have looked particularly intimidating to the Hylians because they were giving him as wide a berth as possible given the sheer number. He was wearing new armor that sported spikes. The guard finally bowed and departed when I was standing beside Ganondorf.
"Is there a reason I'm still shadowed by guards all the time? I know my way around." I whispered as he led me to a sheltered niche. Ganondorf smirked and gave me a wink.
"It is for your own protection, my dear," he answered suppressing a giggle, "to protect your virtue."
"Wow, Hylian guards really are useless," I replied ironically. "Are you purposely trying to scare the Hylians?" I reached out and touched one of the new spikes.
"Do you know how trying it is to have people cringe when you haven't done anything?" he replied wearily. "If I'm going to be labeled as formidable I may as well look the part. Besides, I rather like them." We exchanged smiles before the crowd of people milling began to make a procession to temple where the wedding was to take place. The temple was ancient and silent. The crowd hushed as soon as they entered the doors. Ganondorf and I were ushered into pews in the silent sanctuary. The wait was stifling. Ganondorf's sharp eyes absorbed the room. He took in every detail. I could see a puzzle being put together in his mind, but I couldn't tell what the pieces were. I was acutely aware of the unusual number of Sheikah lurking in the shadows of the room.
The wedding finally began. I made a point to remember the details of Illiana's voluminous dress, as my friend was sure to hound me the moment we returned. I didn't understand the need for the long ceremony. Sit, stand, sit, kneel, stand, kneel, sit, stand. The constant change in position confused me. Hylians must have been antsy by nature. The Hylian king and Illiana gazed at each other with that odd look as they were finally united. A polite applause went through the crowd as they departed the temple and led everyone back up to the castle.
We were introduced to the crowd as 'King Ganondorf Dragmire and Lady Naboria' much to my annoyance. I sat through another loud meal I which I barely spoke. After the meal we all adjourned to a large ballroom where I melded into the background and watched as Ganondorf mingled while couples danced practiced steps. The steps were predictable and evenly metered. Ganondorf came to check on me as the party wore on.
"Are you enjoying yourself?" he asked sincerely. He wanted me to enjoy my time. I wasn't having the best time of my life, but at least today was more interesting than the others had been.
"I'm watching the dances," I replied. "They do the same steps over and over, always to the same pattern. There is no variation." Ganondorf followed my gaze. "See? Large step, step step, slight turn and large step step, step." Ganondorf smiled at me.
"It is called a waltz," Ganondorf explained. We sat a moment and watched the figures parading by. The band played a different song, but the dance remained the same. "Dance with me."
"What?"
"I didn't ask you punch Illiana. I want you to dance with me. Do you think you can do it?"
"The moves are simple," I replied. "I can figure it out."
Ganondorf pulled me up from my seat and led me into the throng of dancers. He held me briefly before gently leading me into motion. We swayed together for a few beats before beginning the metered circle. "Just let me lead, there you go," he whispered softly as we twirled around the floor. "Loosen up some, you are too tense." I relaxed a bit and felt my body sway with the rhythm. Once I had the steps engrained in my memory I braved a look around. Couples were staring at us in astonishment. I saw Illiana grinning widely as Ganondorf led me around. He gently pulled my chin to face him again without missing a beat. "Don't worry about anybody else right now. Just dance with me." I kept my gaze on him until the song ended. Ganondorf gave a little bow when we stopped and I made an awkward little bob. Illiana approached us excitedly.
"Councilwoman Nabooru!" she exclaimed. "I had no idea you danced so beautifully."
"I've never waltzed before," I informed her. Illiana gave me a genuine smile and began to withdraw as the band struck up yet another song.
"May I have this dance, Your Majesty?" Ganondorf asked her before she could make her retreat, making a flourishing bow. Illiana turned red and looked like she was about to faint, but she composed herself and allowed Ganondorf to lead her into dancers. More stares were elicited from the observers. They did make an odd scene. Ganondorf practically had to stoop to accommodate Illiana, who was on her toes as it was. I was so absorbed with watching the two I forgot to leave the dance floor.
"Since you are here and my wife is occupied," the kind voice of King Hyrule intoned behind me. "Would you care to dance, Lady Nahbooru?" It was my turn to near panic, but I managed to smile awkwardly as he led me into the dance. I was nervous but managed to remain calm. Ganondorf gave me a grin as he spotted me twirling with the king.
"Have you enjoyed your stay in Hyrule?" King Hyrule asked as we swept along the floor.
"It has been different," I replied, unsure of what to say. "Hyrule is beautiful, it just…"
"It isn't home." He finished for me. I nodded in ascent. "I understand all to well. I am often gone on diplomatic missions, but no matter how splendid, nothing compares to home." I smiled; glad he understood what Ganondorf had failed to. The dance ended and I bowed out to make a hasty retreat to my corner. I watched in amusement as Ganondorf now had no lack of dance partners. I nearly laughed when I heard a passing group of young ladies whisper 'Gerudo king' and 'unmarried' in the same sentence. I wasn't sure I would understand these silly games the Hylians played. After enough time had passed I bid Illiana and the Hylian king farewell and had a guard escort me back to my room. I enjoyed a long soak in the tub, the one thing I would miss when I returned home the next day.
The next morning I decided to forgo the skirt, deeming it too awkward given that I would be on horseback most of the day. I was leaving that day so I didn't really mind what the Hylians would say. I was about to call for a breakfast to be delivered when a message was sent that Illiana requested my presence in the main dining hall. I couldn't deny her request after all her kindness so I followed the messenger to the dining hall. I was seated a table composed entirely of younger ladies and Illiana herself.
"Good morning, Councilwoman Nabooru," she said brightly as I took a seat. She rattled off the names of the ladies present and we exchanged slight nods. The girl next to me leaned over to me.
"Forgive me, Lady Naboria," she whispered, "but you forgot to wear a skirt." The conversation at the table stopped immediately. I smiled at her blush,
"No, I am not wearing one today," I replied casually. "I will be on horseback and the skirt is too cumbersome. Gerudo do not typically wear skirts, it was a formality for while I was guest of the palace." The girls blushed.
"No skirt on horseback?" the girl replied, shocked.
"How clever," Another declared. "I would be very glad to not have to wear a skirt while riding. That way I wouldn't require help to get on the horse." She nodded in approval. The conversation turned pleasant and the girls were interested in asking about Gerudo life. I was happy to share bits of our culture, glad that I wasn't being judged for being different. I wished briefly I could have met these girls earlier. The meal was finally finished and Ganondorf appeared to collect me.
"You must excuse me, Your Majesty," Ganondorf graciously bowed to Illiana amid giggles from the younger girls. "We have a long journey ahead of us and I must steal my Nabooru away from you. Congratulations on your nuptials and thank you for your hospitality." Illiana returned a generous smile and bid us farewell. She gave me a brief hug before I departed.
We were finally on the road home, riding at a leisurely pace. Ganondorf was lost in thought as we rode along. He finally turned to me and asked sincerely, "would you marry me?"
"What?" I gasped, whipping around to face him.
"I asked if you would marry me," he repeated with a piercing gaze.
"Gerudo don't marry," I reminded him, completely befuddled.
"I know," he said so softly it was almost a whisper. "I know we could never actually marry. I just wanted to know that, if our traditions allowed it, you would marry me." I gazed at him, searching his hungry eyes with my own. The lure of the comfort Illiana and King Hyrule found in each other was strong. I wished Ganondorf would hold the same look in his eyes that I had seen in the Hylian king's. The tenderness, I decided, it was tenderness that was reflected when he looked upon Illiana.
"Yes, Ganondorf," I replied carefully at last. "If our laws allowed it, I would marry you." Ganondorf's face erupted into the largest grin I had ever seen to that day. He leaned over from his saddle to plant a sloppy kiss on my lips.
"I think," he continued, "that it is customary to give a ring on such an occasion." Ganondorf pulled out a large ostentatious ring and handed it to me. I slipped in on a finger and admired the shine.
"Where did you get this?" I asked gazing at the light reflected off the jewels encrusted in the polished gold. Ganondorf gave me one of his sly grins.
"There was a certain countess with too much conceit for her own good. I simply relieved her of some." We both laughed at the implication. Some habits were hard to break.