Inspirations: Aurora and Prince Philip from Sleeping Beauty, (the scene in the forest where they are dancing); "My Curse" by KillSwtich Engage. I absolutely love this song. I think the guitar rift in the beginning and end is the most beautiful sound in the universe. I highly recommend listening to it while reading the latter half of this chapter. Yes, I am that corny.

Author Note: Reedited 4/9/2012 ADDENDUM 1/26/2013 The beginning scene was added to show the growth of Link and Saria's friendship. This chapter was originally 4500 words, but with the additional scene, it is now 12,600 + words. Thanks, enjoy. ~ZR~.


Chapter 11

Three Weeks Later

The next three weeks became a haze of habit. I got up, went to investigate, came home, and then discussed my day with Saria. I wasn't finding out anything new, and the leads I had regarding the assassin's whereabouts were dry. Even still, I remained focused because the coronation was only a week away. I couldn't afford to get sidetracked with insignificant 'minusha.' However, ambiguity had a way of making itself manifest in my always prudent mind. I was glad to have a pretty secure place to hideout, but one thing was bothering me. It had been three weeks since I stayed at the laboratory, and I saw no sign of the old scientist. I knew Saria told me he had gone away on business, but his prolonged absence was starting to worry me. I wasn't suggesting the scientist couldn't go on vacation, it just seemed out of the ordinary for him.

I'll speak to Saria about it if it becomes a greater concern, I thought.

Besides that oddity, Saria tended to the house and went about her business as if everything were normal, and it did feel normal for the most part. I made it a point to stay out of her way, so I could be as small of an interference as possible. She never saw me as an interference, but I didn't want to take anything for granted. I felt comfortable with Saria, and when I slipped and said something silly or presumptuous, she didn't look at me like I was crazy, or make me feel inferior because I wasn't well bred. Saria would just laugh it off, or tell me 'don't worry so much,' and I wouldn't. It was nice to be around someone who was happy with things being simple and uncomplicated. Saria made it easy for me to be me, and I was grateful to her for that.

It feels just like when we were growing up in the forest, I thought.

I found that Saria was methodical in her daily routine. She got up in the morning, made breakfast to have it ready for me, then went for a swim in Lake Hylia to fish or exercise. I would sometimes have my Hylian cup of tea in hand and watch her from the window as she swam. The intensity of her swims almost seemed like an athlete, or a warrior conditioning for a competition. It puzzled me from time to time why she felt she needed to exert so much energy. However, it wasn't a matter I delved too deeply in, I respected the fact she liked to stay in shape, and that she enjoyed swimming so much. I was almost at times tempted to join her, but I wasn't sure how she would take it.

I better leave that time to herself, I thought, she may want to be alone to think. We all have our times where we just want to be alone.

Even still, I thought it was an admirable quality. Saria had a lot of qualities I admired actually: she was thrifty, she was studious, she knew how to make small things stretch, and she wasn't a complainer. She seemed to take everything in stride, even when the guards came and did their routine search looking for me. Saria was great about diverting the guards attention without arousing suspicion. She would offer the men something to eat, and see if their horse's needed watering while they searched the residence. However, even though she was extending such a courteous olive branch, the men always harassed her and gave her a hard time because of who she was. They would call her out of her name, and threaten her, but Saria never seemed to let it bother her. I hated having to sit in hiding and listen to that while they did that to her. Saria was putting herself at great risk for me, and when they'd leave, I'd constantly apologize and tell her I would make it up to her. She just smiled, and told me not to worry about it. However, that wasn't the case, I was worried about it. Their harassment could become a serious problem.

If they ever cross the line, I thought, I don't care if I do go back to jail, I won't let them hurt her.

Life at the laboratory wasn't always about me being in hiding, however. Saria and I were able to enjoy the afternoons together. That was my favorite part of the day to be quite honest. Dinner would be ready, we would both be relaxed, and we would talk about our day. Our conversations were pretty lighthearted and casual, focusing mainly on superficialities of the day. However, sometimes our discussions would go into areas where I knew we couldn't share anything with each other. She couldn't discuss her past, and I couldn't discuss the investigation. If she asked for specifics regarding my work, my replies would be vague, and I wouldn't elaborate on anything. Saria would just look at me and nod, I knew she was disappointed that I couldn't share more, but she understood. However, I had to admit, one topic I was tempted to divulge to her was who she really was. I knew it was something she was yearning to know. However, I stopped myself from doing so, realizing things would only get more complicated if I disclosed the matter prematurely.

I promise I will do it soon, I thought.

Even though things were going good for the most part, our housing situation wasn't without its awkward moments. There were times when I caught Saria staring at me, and when I asked her what was on her mind, she'd just blush and say 'nothing.' I had a feeling I knew what that 'nothing' was, because if it was the same 'nothing,' I felt the same exact way. We'd been tiptoeing around the issue of our attraction towards each other ever since that night in my bedroom. I wasn't going to lie, it was hard being near her and not letting my true feelings for her show, especially with us being alone most of the time. However, we never acted erroneously, we were we always cognizant of the giant lizalfos in the room, and Saria was quick to remind me of my recent relationship with the princess, and tell me how 'great' Zelda was for me. I knew Saria was still trying to protect herself, but I really wanted to have an unguarded conversation with her. It seemed ever since that misunderstanding between us, there was a change in her behavior. She was friendly, but not open the way I wanted her to be. I understood why, but I wanted us to be able to talk without the filter, and it was my hope to make that happen this evening.

I'll segue into it casually, I thought, that way she won't be so apt to change the discussion.

At present, I was walking down the shoreline back to the house. I just finished searching a cave that led to a secret passageway to the castle from the lake. It was a significant find, considering I could use it to travel to the square the day of the coronation. The guard would be pretty substantial that day, so I needed as many shortcuts as possible. I had no straight laced method of operation, or M.O., for this assassin. Most of the madmen I've dealt with were upfront about their madness, Daphnes included. This killer was a totally different breed of villain. He was unorthodox and unconventional, almost surreal-like in his approach to his... 'work.'

There's no telling when, or how this killer's going to strike, I thought, I have to be ready. I'll check those schematics tomorrow.

I continued down the shoreline, but stopped momentarily when I saw a black Gerudo stallion galloping to and fro across the grassy pastures. My eyes widened in surprise. It was the same horse Saria rode when we went to visit Lon Lon Ranch. Stating that I was surprised to see the animal was an understatement.

When in the world did she buy that, and when did she go to Lon Lon Ranch? I wondered, puzzled by the purchase. Having that animal just running around may bring undo attention to the guards checking the area.

I looked to the stallion, then back to the house, and continued on my way. Saria was in the house scaling another Hylian bass for hotpot. The hotpot she made for me the first time was so delicious, that I requested it six times in the last two weeks. I felt a little spoiled with her catering to me the way she was, but I loved her cooking. I decided I was going to surprise her for being so accommodating. I picked a few flowers growing by the shore bed and organized them in an arrangement. It wasn't the prettiest bouquet, but it was manageable.

I hope she likes it, I thought with a grin.

I went inside the laboratory and unhooded myself. Saria was in the kitchen cutting up some carrots and putting them in a ceramic casserole dish already filled with hot fish broth, leeks, and onions. The fish was cleaned and scaled, waiting to be submerged in the liquid. I removed my cloak and ran a hand through my hair to make sure I looked presentable. Afterwards, I walked into the kitchen, trying to hide the bouquet behind my back. Saria turned when she heard me enter and smiled.

"You're just in time," she said, wiping her hands on her apron, "dinner is almost ready."

I took a whiff of the air.

"It smells incredible," I complimented, "but since this is your sixth time making it, I'm not surprised."

She chuckled at me.

"I'm surprised you're not tired of it yet," she said.

I shook my head.

"I don't think I could get tired of your hot pot," I said honestly.

Saria wiped her hands again.

"You do have a pretty good appetite for it," she said, "your Saria must've been a mini goddess in the kitchen."

I looked into her eyes just then.

You were, I thought with a grin, and looked beyond her out the window.

"Where'd the horse come from?" I segued.

Saria turned and looked out the window at the stallion.

"Oh," she said, "I bought him today. I loved him so much I couldn't pass it up."

I raised an eyebrow at that.

With what money? I wondered.

"That must've been expensive," I said.

She nodded, but then shrugged.

"He was five thousand rupees," she said, "it wasn't too bad."

My eyes widened slightly.

"Five thousand rupees?" I repeated.

Saria grinned at my reaction.

"I told you my coronation contract was huge," she divulged, "I was paid seventy thousand rupees to make the princess's dress. Speaking of which, I start on that tomorrow. I already did several fittings over the past few weeks. I just need to do the final fitting and start sewing the dress."

Whoa, I thought, I guess Zelda was really serious about her not seeing me anymore.

Saria's eyes widened and she clasped her hands together.

"Hey, I want to show you something," she said all of a sudden, grabbing my arm and leading me back out the door.

I smirked at the excitement in her voice. I kept the flowers hidden behind my back.

"What's that?" I asked when we out on the grass.

Saria let my hand go, turned around, and gesticulated both hands up to stop me.

"Just watch," she said, then turned back around.

What's this? I thought with a grin.

She put her fingers to her lips and whistled loudly. After doing so, the stallion switched directions and started trotting in a circle. It was impressive.

"Nice," I said, raising my eyebrows.

Saria fanned that off.

"You haven't seen anything yet," she stated, then pulled out her ocarina she had hidden in the pocket of her apron.

How'd she hide that? I wondered, but then decided not to worry about it. Women are certainly resourceful.

She started playing, of all things, Saria's Song. I looked at her mildly stunned, but watched as the horse responded to it and came to her. Saria laughed and patted the stallion's snout when she ended the cadence. I couldn't believe it. She was able to communicate her song to the horse much the same way I communicated Epona's Song when I called Epona. It was unbelievable, and given that she was able to teach the song to her horse in such a short period of time was remarkable.

Malon is one hell of a horse domesticator, I thought in admiration.

Saria turned and looked at me enthusiastically.

"Isn't that amazing?" she inquired. "When Malon told me I could teach my horse a song to have it come to me, I was beyond shocked."

I smiled at her and nodded. I went up and patted the stallion myself. I did like the fact that she was able to teach the horse her melody, however, I was more interested in how she remembered the cadence.

"It is amazing," I complimented, stroking the horse's mane, then added, "where'd you learn that song?"

Saria stopped stroking the horse for a moment and looked down. A puzzled expression came across her face and she shrugged.

"I don't know really," she said honest, "it kind of just came to me, much like when we talked about it before."

I was pleased with hearing that. I knew it meant that she was getting some more of her memories back.

"Do you remember anything else?" I asked.

She shook her head and didn't answer right away.

"No," she replied and sighed, "unfortunately not."

I grinned at her and put my hand on her shoulder.

"Don't worry," I said, "you're getting better and better each day, before you know it, you'll know who you really are."

Saria seemed encouraged by that. She looked up at me and smiled.

"Thanks," she replied, "that means a lot."

I stared into her eyes.

"You're welcome," I said, dropping my voice a little.

It was my hope she'd read into it, but true to form, she ignored my inflection.

"Let's go back inside," she said, "I'll bet you're starving."

I stared at her for a moment and sighed. I nodded my reply, and she took off before I had a chance to protest. I watched after her and soon followed, not having the energy to debate right now. When we were back in the house, Saria was drying her hands on her apron from washing them in the basin in the kitchen. It was then she finally took notice of my dislodged arm behind my back.

"What have you got there?" she asked, raising an eyebrow. "You look like you're hiding something."

I grinned at her inquiry.

Perfect timing, I thought.

I took the bouquet from behind my back and presented it to her. Saria's eyes widened when she saw the flowers, and she looked from them to my face in surprise. She took a step back and bit her lower lip in slight nervousness.

"What's... this?" she asked carefully.

I shrugged and smiled at her question.

"I know it isn't much," I said, "but it's a small token of my appreciation. Once this whole fugitive thing subsides, I'll get you a proper gift."

Saria pursed her lips together, and stroked her hand anxiously over her bangs.

"That was very thoughtful of you," she said, coming up to me and taking the flowers, "thank you, they're beautiful."

I watched as she put the bouquet in a vase. I went and washed my hands and afterwards sat down at the table where my place was set.

"It was kind of a spur of the moment thing," I said, "you've been so gracious to me, it's the least I could do."

Saria arranged the flowers in the vase, and placed them on the table in front of me. She smiled at me and playfully nudged my shoulder.

"I love them," she said, "you'll have to remember to do this for the princess when things get back to normal."

I looked up at her when she said that and took in a deep sigh. She was avoiding my eyes, and hurried back over to the counter where she was cooking. I knew why she doing things like that, but honestly I was getting tired of it. Saria didn't have to mention Zelda in every conversation we had. I was aware of my relationship with the princess. I didn't need pointers on how to deal with her. It was getting to the point where I was becoming aggravated with her general segues, and her unwillingness to discuss the relationship between her and me.

I really need to get Saria to understand that, I thought.

Even still, I didn't say anything about what she said. I figured I'd let it slide, and if it became a continual issue, then I'd address it.

It's just a defense mechanism Link, I thought, she just wants to protect her heart.

Saria came back over to the table and set the hot ceramic casserole down. By now, the fish and vegetables were steeped enough that they were cooked. It smelled and looked delicious. I fanned the vapors in my direction.

My goddess, this little lady can cook, I thought.

"They don't make food like this at the castle," I divulged, serving myself an huge helping of fish and vegetables.

Saria laughed when she saw my portion, and encouraged me to get more.

"I'm glad you like it," she said, sitting down and placing a napkin in her lap, "I love cooking, so eat as much as you want."

I know you do, I thought, remembering when we were children in the forest.

"Don't worry," I assured, "I will."

Saria waited for me to finish getting my portion, which was pretty much a majority of the pan, before she served herself. We ate pretty much in silence before I decided to break it with some casual conversation.

"You know," I started, "I never asked you if you met any interesting people in Hyrule besides me."

She grinned at how I worded that.

"Besides you, huh?" she remarked with a raised brow.

I smiled at her and wiped my mouth.

"I know I'm pretty hard to beat, being the hero and everything," I joked, "but were you able to expand your capacities? Placate a new horizon?"

Saria chuckled at my reply and shook her head.

"It seems like our doting hero is eating less humble pie these days," she said, "Mr. Killjoy is taking a back saddle to the real Link."

I like how she put that and grinned.

I do feel like more myself these days, I thought.

"I would eat more, if you baked one," I replied.

Saria laughed at that.

"Oh wow Link," she said.

I wiped my mouth again and wanted to continue the good vibes.

"Seriously, I love pie," I started, "my favorite is-"

"-Kokiri apple pie," we said in unison suddenly.

I looked at her surprised, and she blushed and avoided my eyes for a moment. There was a brief silence between us.

"How did you know?" I asked finally.

She shrugged and tried to fan it off.

"Just a guess," she said, "you are from Kokiri Forest," she said.

I stared at her for a moment.

So are you, I thought.

"Your guesses have been spot on today," I said.

Saria stroked her hair behind her ear.

"Yeah..." she said, not really answering to what I said.

There was another brief silence between us, but I broke it.

"So... any scary ex-boyfriends I need to be aware of?" I asked, changing the subject.

Saria gave me an obvious stare and chuckled.

"Why?" she joked. "You want to beat them up like a good big brother?"

I raised an eyebrow at that.

Big brother? I thought, giving her a slight offhanded look.

"I hardly think you can call me that," I said, "otherwise... we've done some rather strange things."

She blushed again and cleared her throat.

"Yes, well..." she replied, choosing to ignore my statement and addressed my previous inquiry, "no, I've got no men chasing me, and the ones that did are all in Ordon."

I could only imagine how many men were possibly enamored with her. I wouldn't be surprised if she left several broken hearts in her wake. I grinned at her reply and sat back in my chair.

"I'm sure they're there Saria," I said, "they're probably too scared, or too stupid to approach you."

Saria laughed softly at my reply and shrugged.

"If it happens, it happens," she said simply, "if it doesn't, it doesn't. I don't spend too much time worrying about things I can't control."

I raised my eyebrows at her answer and nodded.

"That's a sensible way of looking at things," I replied.

Saria stroked her hair over to one shoulder, and a puzzled look came across her face just then.

"Speaking of scary, there is someone I'd like to ask you about," she divulged.

I nodded, showing she had my attention.

"Who's that?" I asked.

Saria sighed, and a troubled expression came across her face.

"What is the deal with the happy mask salesman?" she asked. "He is so strange."

I grinned when she revealed who it was and shook my head.

He scares me too Sar, I thought.

"I've been trying to figure that out for years," I said, "he's... interesting to say the least. Why? What did he say to you?"

Saria bit her lower lip and raised her eyebrows.

"I went to market in his shop a few months ago, and he gave me the strangest feeling," she said, "he showed me all these odd looking masks and asked me if I wanted to work for him."

I snickered.

"He actually hustled me into doing that for him," I said, "I made some good money off it, but you have to be careful. If you don't get him his full amount due he'll do something really unpleasant."

Saria shuddered slightly.

"You mean open his eyes?" she inquired. "Sweet Farore, when he opened his eyes he freaked me out!"

I laughed when she said that.

"Yeah," I said, shaking my head, "he is a creepy gentleman. I would say he's harmless, but almost having a moon crashing into the planet doesn't qualify him for that."

She looked at me puzzled.

"The moon what?" she asked, needing to hear that again.

I laughed again.

"Nothing," I said, "the good thing is, I stopped him before anything crazy happened."

Saria sat back in her seat and shook her head.

"I'm glad it wasn't just me," she said, then gave me a wayward look and asked, "did he ever show you a mask of a little girl?"

I contemplated what she said for a moment, and couldn't recall ever seeing such a mask.

"No," I said, "why?"

She avoided my eyes and pursed her lips together.

"Never mind," she said,"it's nothing, I think I already understand why he showed it to me anyway."

I found that last spout of dialogue from her strange.

"I'm sorry?" I asked.

Saria shook her head and forced a smile.

"It's nothing," she said.

Did he say something upsetting to her? I wondered.

I studied her expression for a moment, and decided to leave the matter alone. If she wanted to talk about the matter she would.

It's probably nothing, I thought.

We fell silent for a moment, and Saria got up to clear the table. She picked up the casserole dish and took it to the basin in the kitchen. I got up and picked up both our plates and placed them on the counter next to the basin. Saria was washing the pan, and I stood near her, wanting to help her if I could. There was really nothing I could do, it was one pan, and she knew how to clean it.

Why do I feel so... I don't know... nervous all of a sudden? I wondered.

I stroked a hand through my hair.

"Uh..." I trailed, "can I help you with anything?"

Saria looked at me from her periphery.

"I'm fine," she said, "thanks for offering though."

I nodded, but didn't budge from my spot. Saria returned her focus on what she was doing. I wanted to address the apparent tension in the room between us, but wasn't sure how I should approach it. I looked at the cabinets with a sudden idea.

"Maybe I can put the dry dishes away," I suggested.

Saria shrugged her shoulders and chuckled at that.

"It's okay Link," she said, "I already did."

I felt a little silly when I looked at the counter and saw that it was free of clean dishes.

"Right..." I replied, "well then, maybe I can sweep."

Saria looked over at me shaking her head.

"You are such a worry wart," she joked, "you've been out all day, I can take care of the house cleaning. Go relax."

I raised my eyebrows and sighed at her reasoning.

"I suppose," I said, and still didn't sit down.

Saria grinned at me.

"I'll bet you were a restless little boy, weren't you?" she inquired. "That's just the adventurer in you."

I smirked at her when she said that.

I was an adventurous little boy Saria, I thought, and I used to share some of those crazy adventures with you in the Sacred Forest Meadow.

"Yes," I stated, "you're right."

She laughed lightly, and turned back around to finish cleaning. I stared at her, wanting to tell her about some of those adventures she and I both used to have, but then another idea crossed my mind.

Let me show you how adventurous I can still be Sar, I thought, and I came up behind her and wrapped my arms around her waist.

The action completely caught Saria off guard. She was slightly startled by the invasion of personal space and turned her head to look at me and inquire of it.

"Hey..." she said, trying to be playful, but I could tell she was slightly uneasy, "what gives?"

What gives...? I repeated in my head. That's a good question, and I guess I could just answer it, I thought, and stared at her hair, or I could go with my first thought and just be presumptuous...

I let go of her waist and stroked my hands down her forearms until they covered her hands in the soiled water. I felt her stiffen at my touch.

"What in the-?" she said caught off guard again.

There was a brief silence between us.

"Link..." she trailed, breaking the silence, "what are you...?"

I stroked my cheek against her hair.

"I think you know what gives," I whispered honestly, "we need to talk."

She was quiet for a moment.

"About?" she asked.

That's a good question, I thought.

"What we've been avoiding for weeks," I said.

Saria got quiet again.

"I don't want to tiptoe around the issue anymore Sar," I went on, "I think we both need to be honest with each other and just say what we feel."

Saria swallowed hard and surprisingly... nodded. I wasn't expecting that.

Are we finally making progress? I wondered.

"I-I agree," she said, and let of my hands in the dirty water to turn around and face me.

I was only inches from her face, and I stared at her mouth. I took my hands out of the basin and rested them on both sides of her on the counter so she wouldn't escape.

"You agree?" I repeated, and stared in her eyes.

I saw her throat tighten, and she looked to the ground to avoid my eyes. She nodded.

"I think I should have said this to you a while ago," she said, not looking at me.

I raised my eyebrows surprised.

Really? I thought.

I couldn't believe it.

"And... what's that?" I asked.

She finally looked into my eyes.

"You... you owe me an ocarina session," she whispered.

I looked at her, caught unawares by the statement.

"What?" I asked.

Her face broke into a smile just then.

"You owe me a session with the ocarina," she repeated, then slipped past my barrier by ducking underneath my arm and slipping from my grasp.

I turned and looked at her bewildered and annoyed.

"Saria," I said, "you know that isn't-"

"I'll be right back!" she interrupted, and hurried up the stairs, not allowing me to finish.

I took in an irritated breath. I hated when Saria did things like this. All it did was make things more awkward between us.

Why does she insist that everything is okay the way it is? I demanded of myself. She knows there's something more than friendship growing between us.

A few moments later, Saria came back downstairs with my brown ocarina in hand. She was actually able to change in that short period of time as well. She was dressed in a green dress with a brown sash. It reminded me of the Kokiri clothes she used to wear when I was a child. She even had her head band on so her bangs were out of her face. She looked beautiful, but then again I always thought she looked beautiful.

Saria tossed me the ocarina. I caught it with one hand.

"I sang for you," she reasoned, putting her hands on her hips, "now, I want you to play for me!"

Her voice was filled with enthusiasm. Even though I was slightly upset she changed the subject the way she did, that smile, and those eyes softened my disgruntlement quick.

I don't think I could ever stay mad at her, I thought.

"Fair enough," I agreed, "but I have one stipulation, if I play, you have to dance."

Saria raised a brow and grinned.

"You want me to dance?" she repeated.

I raised a brow.

"If you don't, then I won't play," I stated.

Saria gripped her hips and scoffed playfully.

"Alright," she said, "you've got yourself a deal."

I smiled at her, but then sighed and sat down on one of the chairs at the table. Saria was in the center of the kitchen where the area was clear, waiting for me to begin. I put my hand up to cue her and she nodded, stating she understood its purpose. I did a gesticulated countdown to zero, and started to play. I started with a forest jig, then I segued into Saria's Song. She smiled at the cadence and began turning and pirouetting across the room. She was actually pretty good. I couldn't tell if she was serious or just being silly, but her footwork was wonderful. She had incredible calf strength as she turned on her tiptoes, and at the end she even did a graceful back flip. I was impressed and smiled at her when she bowed.

And she calls herself 'just a peasant girl,' I thought.

Saria was still in her curtsied position when I got up to stand in front of her. I applauded her with a clap and she smiled when she stood up.

"Did you like it?" she asked. "I know it was a little silly, but it was fun."

I stared into her eyes, and looked down at my ocarina for a moment.

"I didn't think you were silly at all," I said, "one of things I love about you is that you aren't afraid to be yourself."

Saria blushed at my words and her eyes inadvertently widened. She was quiet for a moment.

"Love about me...?" she inquired with a trail.

I raised my eyebrows and shrugged, not even realizing I said it. I didn't reply to that right away.

"Yes Sar, love about you," I repeated.

She looked to the ground and avoided my eyes again.

"Link..." she trailed, not finishing.

I stared at her downcasted eyes and took her hand in mine, but she didn't let me sustain the grip, she pulled back.

"Please don't," she said, and I knew she meant more.

I chose to ignore it, wanting to be honest with her.

Not this time Saria, I thought.

"Please don't what?" I asked. "Don't care about you? What do you want me to say?"

She crossed her arms over her chest and looked away. She didn't reply. I took a step towards her, deciding to go on anyway.

"There's something about you Sar," I said, and shook my head for no particular reason. "There's something about you that-"

She finally met my eyes.

"Stop it," she interrupted suddenly.

I looked at her mildly stunned.

What? I Thought.

"Saria-" I tried.

"I don't want to discuss this," she interrupted again.

I was really starting to get pissed off with the run around on this. I cared about her, and she knew that. Why she felt not saying so was going to change that was beyond me.

You obviously don't know me very well Sar, I thought, that is no longer a viable option for us.

"Maybe it's time we started discussing it!" I said with a slightly raised voice. "I'm tired of pretending Sar!"

She groaned and tried to walk past me to avoid the discussion, but I stepped in her way.

"Link-" she started.

"Where are you going?" I demanded.

She looked into my eyes defiantly.

"Upstairs," she replied, "this is a discussion I don't care to have."

I narrowed my eyes at her when she said that. I took a step towards her and she instantly backed away.

"Why?" I asked.

She didn't answer right away.

"Because," was all she said.

I shook my head at that.

"Because what?" I snapped.

She gave me a wayward look.

"Because... because..." she trailed, trying to find a reason, "because we can't!"

That answer wasn't good enough, not any longer.

"I-" I tried, but she tried to slip past me again, it was then I took hold of her shoulders, "what the hell is going on with you?" I demanded.

She pushed my hands away.

"I told you!" she shot back. "I don't want to talk about-"

I swallowed hard.

"Not this time!" I interrupted with resolve, and took hold of her shoulders again. "You're not walking away and avoiding this this time!"

She tried to free herself from my grip, but she was unable to. She looked up at me astonished.

"Let go of me!" she demanded. "Stop acting like this! This isn't like you Link!"

I stared into her eyes, and for some reason I felt a wave of boldness overcome me. It was impulsive, and I pulled her to me and pressed my mouth onto hers. She was shocked and tried to resist at first. She tried getting away from me by pushing off my chest and wriggling herself free. She probably would've been successful, however, after awhile she calmed down and stopped fighting me. She was hesitant with her affections at first, but a moment later she started kissing me back. I held her tight and gradually made her mouth open to mine. She moaned softly when I slipped my tongue inside. Saria trembled a little, but her hold on me suddenly tightened as her arms went around my neck. She kissed me deeper and harder as her true feelings for me began to show. She pulled back and stared into my eyes.

"I've been wanting to do this for so long," she whispered.

I nodded, knowing exactly what she meant.

"I know," I whispered back.

I kissed her again. The kiss was turning more and more sexual by the minute, and I found myself losing control. I backed her up against a nearby wall and lifted her in my arms when our breaths became in synch. Saria was running her fingers through my hair, and she was whimpering from my touch. I slid my mouth down her neck and that's when I knew things were starting to spiral in a direction of carnality. I was starting to give into my sexual impulses. I knew if one of us didn't stop soon, we would end up making love, possibly right there in the kitchen. I knew it wasn't going to be me, fortunately Saria had enough will power to pull away and stop herself.

"Link wait," she said, finally coming back to her senses.

I didn't want to wait. I was completely enamored with her and I wanted to show her. I pulled back and stared into her eyes.

"Saria-" I whispered.

"We're about to make a big mistake," she interrupted quietly.

I stared into her eyes, not wanting to hear that, because I didn't see this as a mistake. However, I knew she was right.

"Sar-" I tried again.

"Please Link!" she interrupted again. "You don't want to do this with me."

I was irritated with her saying that.

"Yes, I do," I whispered.

She shook her head.

"No," she said, "you don't."

"Saria-" I tried.

"Let me go!" she demanded.

I stared into her eyes for a moment and didn't say anything. Instead, I put her down and took a step back. As soon as she was free, she slipped by me and ran upstairs. I pursed my lips together in frustration, and listened as she scuttled and nearly tripped up to her room.

Go after her Link, I thought, don't leave things like this.

"Saria wait!" I called after her, aggravated with myself that I let things get so out of control. "Wait! I'm sorry!"

I heard her door slam on the third floor and closed my eyes.

"Damn it!" I muttered to myself, as I ran a hand through my blonde hair.

That was not how that was supposed to go! I thought, then hurried upstairs after her.

I paused for a moment and stared at her door before I knocked on it.

Approach this sensibly Link, I told myself, stop acting on your impulses.

That wasn't going to be easy for me, because I was a very impulsive man.

"Sar?" I called out finally. "Sar, please open up. I didn't mean for things to go so far."

There was a brief silence before she answered.

"Go away," she said finally from the other side.

Her reply reminded me of the Kokiri in the forest.

"Saria-" I tried.

"Go away Link!" she snapped. "It's over alright! It was a mistake!"

I closed my eyes and took in a deep breath, realizing I wasn't going to get through to her after what just happened.

Let it be Link, I told myself, she doesn't want to talk to you right now.

Frustrated, I went to my own room and fell on my bed.

So much for being casual, I thought.

~SSS~

The next day I woke up to find Saria already gone. I was confused by that at first, but then I realized she had a fitting scheduled at the castle. It was too bad, because I wanted to apologize for how I acted the other night. I knew the way I approached the situation was not ideal, but I got so heated I didn't use my rational judgment.

Not the smartest move Link, I thought, that's twice you screwed up with Saria.

I also had to think how she was going to be received when she went to the castle. I knew she was anticipating a cold greeting, and the added stress of last night was not going to help her. I ran a hand over my face, feeling ridiculous and stupid at the same time. I wasn't usually so imprudent, but over the last few months, I'd been acting like that was an inherent staple to my personality.

I hope Saria's ready for a cold greeting, I thought, hoping she didn't get harassed too much, it's going to be so awkward for her.

I sighed and groaned as I got up to get ready for the day. I made sure to be extremely quiet. It was a practice I kept into play every day since I'd been staying there. I had no idea when the scientist was going to return, and didn't want to start acting like he wouldn't. He'd been gone for three weeks now, and I had no idea when he would just pop up again. After all, it was his residence. He had no idea I was staying there.

Keep your senses, I told myself, tying my cloak and sliding my satchel over my shoulder.

I checked my appearance, then opened the door to the bedroom slowly and peered out. I saw no one. With the area clear, I hurried to and down the first staircase, pausing several times at the slightest sound.

What was that? I thought, hearing a strange creek.

My heart began to pound faster.

Is… is he back? I thought.

I pressed myself up against the wall until the sound subsided.

False alarm, I thought, when I saw no one come up the steps.

When my heart calmed, I sidled against the wall and looked around the corner. There was no one there. I then hurried through the secondary hall to, and down, the second staircase. I paused and looked into the living room prudently, but found nobody there either. I sighed in relief, but couldn't help but feel a strange sense of alarm and puzzlement.

Where is he? I thought suddenly.

I then decided to check the house openly.

The kitchen was empty.

The lab was empty.

Even the hydro chamber where I got the silver scale was empty.

The old man was not there.

Where could he be? I thought a little worried about him, but then remembered Saria's words. "He's out of town checking on some experiment he did on a Goron…"

I paused and pondered on that for a moment.

Experiment huh? I thought. I hope that Goron appreciates the follow up, because that's one hell of a house call.

The innate feeling of dread settled a little deeper.

If that's where he is, I thought with an abrupt sense of cynicism.

I tried to shake my head of my thought process, but couldn't. I didn't understand it, maybe it was just me.

People don't just up and leave for weeks at a time with no clear explanation, I thought.

But then... what was I saying about Saria? Was I calling her a liar? Saria specifically told me he took off and he would be gone for a while. Did I think she was hiding something from me? I wasn't there when the negotiations were made, so it could have very well been as she said. It just seemed odd to me that the owner of a house would leave a complete stranger to their own devices. Not that I didn't trust Saria, it was just... out of the ordinary, even for the eccentric old man. However, many things were out of the ordinary lately.

In any such case, I had to let it go and put my suspicions on the back saddle. I had more pressing things to worry about, like scoping out the area of a killer. I had a very small window of opportunity to investigate and intercept the assassin's plans. I just hoped it would be enough. I headed for Hyrule Castle Garden where the coronation was going to be held. I went via the passageway through the cave I found yesterday on the far right side of Lake Hylia. The tunnels led directly to the city. I arrived at Castle Town in roughly forty-five minutes using the underwater storm drain network.

I waited for a moment down the shaft as I saw a shadow cast over the grid that filtered the sunlight underground.

I can't get caught, I thought, realizing the danger I was putting myself under, if I do the princess will die.

I took in a deep, troubled breath when I seriously contemplated the outcome.

I can't be careless, I thought.

I climbed up the ladder and quickly removed the wrought iron screen from the storm drain. Once I got out, I quickly put it back in place.

Leave no traces, I told myself.

I looked around and regressed into some shadows when I saw someone approach the alley. Fortunately, it was just a child running after a ball. Once he retrieved it, he headed back to the town square. I looked behind me just then and grabbed onto the rose trellis adjacent to me. I climbed it and carefully crawled onto one of the rooftops. I quickly hid myself when I saw the shadow of a guard. I knew I was in the tekkite's den, and if I was caught, that was it. However, I had to figure out what the assassin's plan of attack would be. I couldn't let fear dispel me.

When the guard turned his back, I jumped to the next roof stealthily. When I landed, I rolled out of sight of another guard. I stood up behind the shadow of the chimney, and glanced at the clearing. There were two guards standing watch, but admittedly they weren't doing a very good job surveying the area.

No wonder that arrow came through my window a few weeks ago, I thought, shaking my head, these idiots aren't even paying attention to their posts.

I maneuvered every time they veered in opposing directions. I was finally able to jump when I saw the opposite rooftop was clear. I landed a little harder than I had anticipated, and caused a ground guard to look up. I hid by the chimney and crawled low to the shingled fixtures. When the guard halted his pursuit, I crawled towards the edge and stopped, realizing I was at the residence closest to Hyrule Castle.

Perfect, I thought.

I took out my eagle eye specs and immediately began scouring the terrain. I peered at the commodious green expanse adjacent to the moat next to the castle. The coronation was going to be held there. I looked around the perimeter and saw edges of rock awning off to the road, along with a few sparse trees that dotted the grounds. Nothing about the typography instigated an attack.

Open, I thought, everything is going to be wide open.

I then focused my attention on the castle and took note of the two towers. The towers were two direct vantage points for a back of the head or neck attack. I highly doubted the assassin would choose either place for the murder. One reason was because it was too obvious. This killer was a sick twisted individual, and I suspected the only way they wanted to kill was in a sick twisted way. The second reason was the escape route. Once an individual was up either one of the towers, there was only two ways down: the ladder, or an insane jump, and that was a seventy feet drop. I didn't care how acrobatic the assassin was, or thought he was, a seventy feet drop would incapacitate anyone. No, he would try something else.

If I were a crazed killer what would I want to see? I thought, trying to force insanity into my mind.

The assassin was bold, I gathered that from our last encounter.

I think the bastard will try a frontal assault, I reasoned.

The most dramatic death would be by a shot taken on horseback across the grassy expanse near the garden.

Right where everyone could see, I thought, narrowing my eyes.

The assassin would wait for Zelda to make her grand entrance in her Hylian garb, and right when she began playing the Ballad of the Goddess, the assassin would take the shot.

That has to be it, I thought, not seeing any other way, that has to be what the assassin wants to do.

I took in a deep breath, wishing I could relay these suspicions to the king, but as it stood, if I uttered one word to the king, other citizens lives would be in danger.

It's much easier to protect one person, I thought.

I continued surveying the area and veered my view to the gate. My eyes widened in surprise suddenly when I saw someone unexpected. Saria was being escorted by two guards past the gate keeper. Apparently her fitting with Zelda was over.

What time is it? I wondered, looking up at the sky.

It was high noon. I pulled my specs from my eyes and took in a deep thoughtful breath.

I wonder how that went, I thought of Saria's situation.

In a minute decision, I decided to put my specs away and head back to Lake Hylia.

When I get back, Saria can tell me all about it, I thought, she might tell me something useful. Besides, I need to apologize for yesterday.

With the decision made, I backtracked my course, went down into the waterway, and made my way back to Lake Hylia. It took me less than an hour, but longer than when I initially travelled to Castle Town.

I need to make a note of that, I thought.

I saw Saria had not arrived yet and stayed hidden in the cave.

It's a slow walk for her today, I thought, a little puzzled, or she may be making sure she's not being followed.

I finally saw Saria approach a few moments later, but I didn't advance farther until I was sure she was alone. When I saw the coast was clear, I went into the house. I must have startled Saria, because she whipped around quickly when she heard the door shut. Her breath lessened when she saw it was me.

"Oh, it's you," she said to me in relief.

I merely nodded, removing my cloak.

"I didn't mean to frighten you," I apologized.

Saria shook her head absently.

"It's alright," she replied.

I pursed my lips together.

"How did it go?" I asked.

Saria raised her eyebrows and shrugged.

"As to be expected," she replied, sitting down on a bench, trying to take off her shoes, "I was considered the filth of the land."

I took in a deep guilty sigh.

"I'm sorry," I said.

Saria shook her head.

"Don't worry about that," she said, "I've dealt with much worse." Saria tried pulling her boot off, but was having to struggle a little with taking it off her foot. "Like this boot here," she said to me, trying to yank at the boot tongue.

She sighed, looking down at her finicky knickers.

"Help me will you?" she asked me, feeling a little weary.

I raised my eyebrows and smirked at her.

"You're not going to kick me are you?" I joked, remembering when I examined her ankle before.

Saria stopped for a moment and grinned back at me.

"Not this time," she replied.

"Okay," I said, kneeling down and propping my hands on her heel, "pull back."

Saria did as I told her and her foot slipped out with ease. She let out a sigh of relief.

"Thank you," she said to me slightly exaggerated.

I then got up and watched her rub her sore foot.

"Ah," she moaned, rubbing her tarsals soothingly, "I am going to hate that walk over the next few days."

I rubbed the back of my neck and stared her feet sympathetically.

Maybe that's why Zelda commissioned her, I thought, she knew the walk would be hell.

I looked back at Saria's face and saw that her eyes looked a little tired.

She must have gotten up really early, I thought, then made a quick decision to comfort her.

"Here let me," I offered, taking her foot in my hands and gently massaging her metatarsals.

Saria looked at me surprised and blushed.

"No!" Saria said quickly, pulling her foot back from my reach. "It's okay, I've got it."

I looked at her for a moment and merely nodded. I understood all too well. I stood up and took in a deep breath. We were silent for a moment.

She probably doesn't want a repeat of yesterday, I thought.

I decided to break the silence by bringing up a neutral subject.

"So, what's the old man's estimated time of arrival?" I segued.

Saria looked thoughtfully at the wall across from where she was sitting.

"He said a few days when I first arrived," she replied, "but that's obviously turned into longer than he anticipated. He's been gone for quite a while now. When he'll be back I couldn't tell you for certain."

I nodded showing I understood.

"I'm not going to lie," I began, "I was a little worried about him."

Saria paused with her foot massage and looked up at me.

"Why?" she asked.

I shrugged.

"It's just odd that he'd leave a complete stranger in his house," I replied.

I guess I didn't realize how oblong my statement sounded.

Saria looked at me with slight indignation.

"I live here now," she said to me simply, "I've paid him his rent. What is so strange about that?"

I raised my eyebrows, surprised by the slight curt undertone.

Maybe I did insinuate a bit, I thought.

"I'm sorry," I apologized, "that was rude of me."

Saria cut her eyes at me and went back to her foot massage.

"Do you think I did something to him?" she asked me abruptly. "I'm not just the town slut, but a deceiver of old people too?"

I didn't let it show, but her words struck a chord in me. I didn't like her referring to herself as such, especially when I knew that wasn't true about her character. I had already unjustly presumed things in the past, and I didn't want her thinking I still saw her that way. It was the farthest thing from the truth.

I know that isn't who you are, I thought.

"That isn't funny," I said to her slightly upset.

She looked up at me.

"I wasn't saying it to be funny," she replied, "but that's what happens when you assume Link."

I bit my lower lip, understanding the point all too well. We were both quiet for a moment.

"What did you do this morning?" Saria asked me, breaking the brief silence, and changing the subject.

I paused for a moment having to think quickly.

"I went to Faron Woods," I replied in a casual manner.

Saria paused massaging her foot again and looked up at me.

"You went to Faron Woods?" she asked, there was a hint of distrust in her voice.

I sensed it immediately.

"I know I'm not a knight anymore, but these are still dangerous times we live in," I said carefully. "I had to check the woods to be sure there were no scouts."

Saria stared deeply into my eyes just then.

What is this all about? I thought, feeling a little apprehensive.

"Faron Woods huh?" Saria said, looking back down at her foot.

I rubbed the back of my neck anxiously at her suspicious tone.

What isn't she telling me? I wondered.

"What's so strange about that?" I asked her, not being to help myself.

Saria took in a deep thoughtful sigh.

"Has Faron Woods been reconfigured?" she asked me strangely.

I looked at her puzzled.

"No," I said, "why?"

Saria narrowed her eyes slightly, and looked back up at me again.

"Because I saw you when I left the castle," she divulged.

I looked at her mildly stunned. She just caught me in a lie.

Damn it! I thought.

I swallowed hard, not having a reply to that.

How in the world could she have seen me, when I snuck past the entire guard and they didn't even see me? I wondered. She's got extraordinary depth perception.

Saria continued to stare at me, waiting for my rebuttal.

"Well?" she asked with a raised brow.

I crossed my arms over my chest.

"I don't follow you," I said, trying to be evasive.

Saria let go of her foot and stood up, she looked at me warily.

"See if you follow this," she began, "I spied a blonde fellow cloaked in black atop a house of a resident. He peered through some specs looking for who knows what, until he saw me coming through the gate. He bore a striking resemblance to you."

I stared at Saria shocked.

How in the world did she know where I was? I thought.

"You want to run your morning by me again?" Saria asked me and narrowed her eyes once more.

Think quick man! I thought with a slight panic.

I looked away from her eyes for a moment.

"Okay," I said, still trying to be evade, "okay, I... went to the castle because I was worried about you."

Saria was quiet for a long moment and looked at me with indifference.

"What?" she asked surprised.

I'm going to hate myself for this, I thought.

"I wanted to be sure you were okay," I replied.

It wasn't a total lie, I was worried about her.

Saria stared at me for a moment. I was sure she was trying to determine if I was telling the truth.

"I'm a big girl Link," she said to me, "I know how to get to the castle."

I sighed a little in relief.

"I know, but considering what just happened I needed to reassure myself," I said to her.

Saria was quiet for a long moment again.

"Reassure yourself?" she repeated with cynicism.

I nodded, knowing it was a weak segue.

"Hmph," she grunted thoughtfully, "I guess I had that pegged wrong."

Saria went and sat back down.

I was a little uncomfortable with her last statement.

"What did you have it pegged as?" I asked, not being able to help myself.

Saria went back to massaging her foot.

"I thought you were going to see the princess," she replied.

What? I thought perplexed.

"No," I said quickly, I almost had an inflection of anger in my tone, "why would I do that?"

Saria looked up at me surprised.

"My mistake," she replied, finding my reply odd, "I just assumed. You were engaged to her at one time."

I wanted to kick myself for overreacting.

She's going to know something is up with me if I keep acting stupid, I thought.

Saria looked back up at me again.

"I guess that's what happens when you assume, huh?" she stated.

I took in a deep breath at her comeback.

Touche, I thought.

There was an awkward silence between us. I stood staring at Saria with minor disconcertion, then went to the basin next to the door to wash my hands.

Take this time to change the subject and apologize, I told myself, needing a detraction.

"I... um," I started, "I wanted to apologize for how I acted towards you last night. I was completely out of line."

Saria sighed and didn't reply right away.

"Don't worry about it," she said finally, "I know you aren't normally like that. It was just impulse."

It was more than impulse Saria, I thought.

There was a brief silence between us.

"I..." she trailed, "I really think you should go see the princess," she said all of a sudden.

I closed my eyes and took in a frustrated breath.

"Saria..." I trailed.

"She talked about you the entire time, you know," Saria divulged, going on anyway, "she said she wants all her children to look like you."

That must have been uncomfortable, I thought, feeling a little guilty Saria had to be subjected to that.

I paused for a moment and stopped the pump for the water system.

"Did she?" I asked, already knowing that was true.

Saria nodded and was quiet for a moment.

"She's head over heels in love with you Link," she said finally.

I picked up a towel next to the basin and wiped my hands.

"Yeah," I said absently, "I know."

There was another silence. I heard Saria sigh irritably behind me just then.

"Why don't you quit this foolish macho charade of yours and commence with your wedding?" Saria asked me abruptly.

I turned and looked at her surprised.

"What?" I replied.

"You heard what I said," she replied, "it would be foolish to let her go over something trivial."

I was getting a little upset with her meddling.

You have no idea how long I've had doubts, I thought, this isn't just a fly by night thing.

"Why don't you let me worry about Zelda, Saria?" I replied. "I know how to deal with that situation."

Saria narrowed her eyes at me upset.

"Zelda's not a 'situation' Link," she said to me, holding up her hands in quotes, "she's a person."

I was really starting to get angry with her rhetoric.

"Like I said," I began again, "I know how to deal with her."

Saria rolled her eyes and looked away from me.

"Apparently you don't," she replied.

I was beginning to lose my patience with this topic.

"Drop it Sar," I warned.

"It's obvious you don't know what you're about to throw away," she went on anyway.

I looked at her angrily.

"Don't know what I'm throwing away?" I repeated incredulously. "Did you not hear the king's decree? If I come within a thousand feet of her, I'll be beheaded!"

Saria shook her head irritably.

"You know that's a load of crap!" Saria shot back. "Zelda's a sage! She gets whatever she wants! No interdict from her father can stop that!"

There was something strange in the wording of that statement.

What? I thought.

"What the hell is your problem?" I said to her upset. "Why are you so concerned about it anyway?"

She swallowed hard and looked away.

"Nothing," Saria responded, trying to sound casual, "I'm just trying to help you see things for what they really are."

'What they really are?' I thought bewildered.

I looked at her with open peculiarity just then.

There has to be reason for all this, I thought, none of what she's saying, or doing makes any sense, unless... something happened at the castle.

"Were you threatened?" I asked her, detracting the subject. "Is that why you're speaking like this?"

Saria didn't reply.

That's a yes, I discerned.

"Who threatened you?" I demanded. "Daphnes, or Zelda?"

Saria still wouldn't look at me.

"No one threatened me," she said quietly, "I'm saying this of my own accord."

I folded my arms across my chest.

"You'll have to forgive me if I don't believe that," I replied to her.

She turned back to look at me.

"It's true!" she insisted.

"Saria-" I tried.

"Oh come on Link just marry her!" Saria interrupted exasperatedly. "You've been with her for eight years! She's been there for you in some of your loneliest times! You couldn't play Saria's Song and speak to your best friend the way you used to! Life had to move on! You had to move on! And she's given that to you. Don't let something like that go!"

I stared at her long and hard for a moment.

Wait a minute, I thought, catching her off guard, Saria just said something that didn't make sense, unless…

"How do you know that?" I demanded, detracting the subject.

Saria stiffened and looked at me in alarm.

"What do you mean?" she asked evasively.

I took a step towards her.

"How do you know that about Saria's Song?" I repeated with clarity. "I never told you I could speak to her using her song."

Saria's eyes widened in panic.

"I-I-I told you about the song the other night," she said to me quickly.

"You never told me I could communicate with Saria using her song," I replied, finding her mistake. "You just slipped up."

She didn't answer, and took a step back.

My eyes narrowed at her knowingly.

"You have your memory back completely, don't you?" I demanded angrily.

Saria took another step back and her breathing accelerated.

That's how she knew about how long Zelda and I were together, I thought, that's how she knew about... everything, her memories have returned.

"Y-yes," she stuttered, not knowing what else to do.

I felt my heart begin to pound forcefully.

"How?" I asked, not knowing what else to ask. "When?"

Saria shook her head.

"They just came to me," she said to me, "just suddenly, as if out of nowhere."

I took a step towards her, not being able to believe it.

"Is that why you wanted to see the Deku Tree?" I asked.

Saria looked away from me nervously and fidgeted with her hands. She merely nodded her reply.

"I wanted to know if it would tell me more," she said quietly, "some of the things I remember make no sense."

I waited for her to go on.

She didn't.

"Like?" I pressed.

Saria shook her head.

"I can't tell you," she replied.

I looked at her upset.

"You can't tell me?" I repeated in disbelief.

"No," she said.

There was another silence between us.

I can't believe this, I thought, I can't freaking believe this!

"So, I guess you know how I really feel about you then," I said abruptly.

Saria bit her lower lip and merely nodded.

"But you still want me to marry the princess?" I asked incredulous.

Saria looked away.

"It's the right thing to do," she replied.

The right thing to do? I thought dubiously.

"What about what's right for you and I?" I demanded. "What the hell Saria? What about that?"

Saria looked back at me angrily.

"There is no you and I!" she shot back. "I can't be with you Link!"

"Saria-" I tried.

As if on command Saria grabbed her forehead.

"Ahh!" Saria screamed out in agonizing pain.

What the…? I thought.

I quickly hurried over to her to help her. Saria tried to elbow herself out of my reach, but I didn't care I wasn't going to just sit back and watch again. Saria screamed continuously and her body began to convulse slightly. In between the convulsions, her body appeared translucent, as if flickering on and off like a lantern. The episode lasted for thirty seconds, but it felt like forever.

What the hell is causing this? I thought worried.

When it was over Saria immediately broke down and cried. She buried her head in my chest. I held onto her tightly, wanting her to feel safe. We were both quiet for a long moment.

She must be so terrified, I thought.

"I wanted to go with you to the Deku Tree to see if I could be cured," she sobbed with a trembling voice, "did it tell you anything about that?"

I shook my head and swallowed hard.

"No," I replied, "it wouldn't tell me anything about your condition. It even seemed a bit worried itself."

Her eyes widened in fear.

"Oh no," she whispered.

Great, I thought with sarcasm, not being able to believe I was being so stupid. Why say that to her now?

"I'll figure this out, I'll-" I tried to reassure.

However, Saria pushed herself away from me.

"You can't help me with this," she said to me all of a sudden.

I looked at her surprised.

"Saria I want to help you!" I stated upset. "I'm not going to let you deal with this on your own!"

"You can't help me with this Link!" she repeated. "I mean it! Just let it go!"

I didn't even understand how the hell she could say that to me.

Let it go? I thought in disbelief.

"Don't say that!" I replied. "I'll-"

"You can't Link!" she interrupted fiercely.

She stepped back and wrapped her arms around herself.

"Why?" I demanded back. "Why the hell are you being so damn stubborn?"

Saria's eyes immediately refilled with tears.

"Because... because if you keep helping me I'll disappear!" Saria divulged.

I felt my mouth drop in shock.

"What?" I asked.

Saria took another step back from me, and covered her mouth as if she was going to be sick.

I couldn't believe it. I didn't want to believe it.

"Saria-" I tried reaching for her.

"No," she said, pulling from my reach.

"You can't just-" I tried, but was halted when a thunderous march of hooves precluded the air.

Saria's eyes widened as she looked beyond me out the window. There was a royal brigade approaching.

"You have to get out of here!" Saria said to me in panic. "Go hide in the basement!"

I wasn't aware there was a basement, I usually hid in the attic. She grabbed my hand and ran with me down a short hall. We stopped at a bookcase where Saria quickly pulled a hidden lever and the bookcase subsided. When the door opened, she quickly pushed me inside and closed it back. I looked around in surprise at the small hiding place. I was breathing hard as I tried to calm down. Saria was putting herself at great risk to protect me. I put my ear up against the wall hoping to listen in. All I could pick up was muffled sounds.

"What can I do for you my lord?" I heard Saria ask.

"We're performing a surprise search for the fugitive Link," the guard said to her.

"You still haven't apprehended him?" Saria replied to him pretending ignorance. "Have you tried the mountains?"

"Details of our search is none of your concern!" the guard snapped rudely to her. "We have reason to believe he backtracked and came here."

I heard her pretend to be shocked.

"Why?" Saria asked.

"We're aware of your relationship with him seamstress," the guard said to her curtly.

"I have no relationship-" Saria tried.

"Shut up you dirty bitch!" the guard snapped. "Stand aside!"

I felt my eyes widen when I heard that.

That asshole! I thought upset, feeling my blood boil. If he hurts her I'll…

After that, I heard footsteps trample throughout the house, going up the stairs and throughout the rooms. The guards were breaking things and turning things over, because it sounded like chaos.

Just be okay Saria, I thought, trying to stay calm, just be okay.

"Sir!" one of the guards said abruptly to his lieutenant. "I found this."

I looked at the wall puzzled.

Found what? I thought.

"What the hell is this?" The guard demanded of Saria.

There was silence for a moment.

"I-I don't know," Saria replied hesitantly.

"It looks like a crossbow projectile if you ask me!" The guard stated with cynicism. "The same ones found in the assailant's cell!"

Damn it! I thought. They must have found the missile from my pocket. Saria had to have taken it out when she washed my tunic.

I abruptly heard a slap.

Oh goddess! I thought, angrily thinking I wouldn't be able to stay in hiding for much longer. If they're hurting her…

"You're under arrest for aiding a fugitive," the guard said suddenly, "and for assaulting a member of the royal army."

I felt my stomach turn when I heard Saria being placed under arrest, but couldn't help but smirk at her spunk.

Serves the bastard right, I thought.

"Watch where you touch you bastard!" I heard Saria snap.

With that the house was cleared. When everything was said and done, I had to admit I was not impressed with the level of search the guards performed on the residence. Not that I wanted them to catch me.

It's a wonder we got anything done when I was commanding the army, I thought. Those idiots do a haphazard job.

I shook my head of the silly thought and immediately focused my attention back to Saria.

She just got arrested helping me, I thought feeling guilty, I've got to get her out of custody, but how?

I left the basement when the area was clear. I went to the living room and looked out the window and saw Saria being escorted away. She looked stoic. I knew she was trying to keep a strong front, but I could tell she was terrified.

I'll get you out Sar, I thought, feeling the guilt swell, I'll get you out, and make sure you never go back.

The day of the coronation.

Yes.

Saria would be freed the day of the coronation.

Just be strong for me for a few days, I thought.

"I swear I'll get you out of there," I whispered to myself, "I swear."


Please write a review and tell me what you think. Chapter 12 will be up next week.