Sorry this took so long to update, I don't have any real excuses, I wrote the first half back in September but I didn't I finish the rest of the chapter until a couple days ago. Don't think I waited until Christmas to update, I forced myself to finish last week, and then I was only able to read it over once, so I apologize if there are more mistakes than usual. Also, I'm sorry this is not a great chapter by any means, but it needed to be written as a breaker between arcs kinda.
Ganondorf sat behind the desk in the audience chamber. He was listening to the reports from his generals and leaders on how the invasion transgressed last night. He was pleased with it all. Almost everything that transpired happened without a flaw give or take a few instances. He planned this invasion for years and years and he expected it to take place with the fewest mistakes, which it did. He knew that hundreds of years from now, they'd teach his attack on the castle in battle schools. It was a master plan that worked precisely how it was suppose to. The only part of the plan that didn't quite come together was the slaying of the Princess. He had to admit he was slightly upset that she still lived. In fact, it could be considered his invasion failed because he did not kill off the entire royal family. However, he didn't quite view it that way. Indeed, it would've been prime for her to have died as well, but he could make it work. The true talent of a skilled leader wasn't preparing for years on a plan and having it work. Anyone given enough time and resources could sack a castle. It was the ability to think in a moment to correct a mistake. That's what he prided himself on and that's exactly what was needed in this moment.
He may have physically captured the Castle but he didn't capture the people's minds yet. That would take a little more work. Kings rose and fell with the tide of the sea throughout history, and history showed the people didn't hold feelings for their old rulers long. Sure, there was a sense of emotions that held onto their old ruler if they were just, which the last King was. Ganondorf had to admit that. However, as long as the new ruler doesn't raise taxes or have prejudice against the commoners, reality has shown it doesn't take much to convince the people to follow their new rulers. Why would a commoner risk his life by refusing the new rule? A baker wants to bake bread and sell it to afford necessities to live. They couldn't care less whom the king was, it had almost nothing to do with them. That's how Ganondorf would completely take over, he would win the hearts of the common man that often get ignored.
The only problem came when the Princess escaped. By definition Ganondorf invading placed him as the bad guy. This feeling would subside in time if all the royal family died so there was no other option left. However, since that annoyingly lucky (in Ganondorf's mind) Princess escaped…it left the common people with an estranged sense of allegiance to her. They wouldn't quite be able to move on knowing she was alive somewhere. It could be twenty years from now, but if she walked back in that gate demanding her throne, she could receive backing behind her. Ganondorf wasn't entirely sure what he was going to do about the situation yet, but he had a couple ideas swimming in the back of his mind.
He did regret allowing the Ordonian to escape but again…he was going to twist it and use that boy to his advantage. He misjudged his character. He believed that Link would rather be free and back home, or maybe even help sack the castle. He never believed he'd search the Princess out and rescue her. He did not realize the hold the Princess had over him. He mentally beat himself for overlooking that possibility. He doesn't over look possibilities; that's why he took the castle. It could not happen again.
However, before any of that, he had to take care of the internal struggles.
"-once we took the hallway-" The report stopped when Ganondorf waved his arm.
"Enough," He said. "Unless something transpired that wasn't supposed to happen or something I should be made aware of instantly, everyone get out."
He watched as the men and women filed out. They were somewhat glad to get out of there. Standing and listening to reports were just as boring to them as it was to Ganondorf. They all had things to do anyways, there was a lot of work to be done.
"The council members are here, my Lord," A Gerudo peaked his head through the door to inform him.
"Good, allow them in."
Ten men shuffled in with their heads down scared of what was about to happen. They were young and old. The youngest looked to only be in his thirties and was a handsome man with a clean shaven face. The oldest was hunched over barely shuffling his feet with the help of a cane. They stood in a line and faced Ganondorf. Two Gerudo soldiers stood behind the ten council members and nodded at their Lord.
"Council members," Ganondorf rose from his chair.
"Desert Lord." The oldest answered.
"I'll make this simple and quick because I'm sure many of you know how this will go." Ganondorf walked around the table to the front. He leaned against it and crossed his arms informally. "You will hold your positions still, I do not wish to replace you with my own men to better see my wishes. I want this city to run as it did before, maybe with a few changes but that will come in time. We want the people to get back to their lives as soon as possible to restore the usual routine and order."
The oldest member nodded, "Hm are you to make me believe you actually wish the best for the people?"
Ganondorf nodded sincerely. "I do, I know you don't like me and you don't have too. But you must respect my ability to rule. You will soon understand I don't mean to ruin Hyrule, I only wish to strengthen it and with you ten, I know I can accomplish this."
"You are far mightier than our old King!" the youngest council member shouted. It caught everyone off guard, including Ganondorf.
"Watch you tongue boy!" A different older council member exclaimed. "That old King did wonders for Hyrule."
"He was weak." Another young council member stated. "I will serve Lord Ganondorf to my fullest. He is far greater than anyone else in the world."
Ganondorf sighed, "I appreciate the compliments but I want trust worthy men, not those that will sway instantly as soon as a new ruler takes over."
He waved his hand casually to the side signaling the two Gerudo. In a flash they stepped forward, drew their weapons, and dug them into the back of the two council men. The swords pierced through to their stomach. They withdrew the weapons and shoved the two council men onto the floor, where they gasped for breath that would never come. The other council members looked sickened and gazed on in fear.
Ganondorf pinched the bridge of his nose. "What was that?"
"Sir?"
"That was a wave as in, 'take them to the dungeon' not 'kill them so my floor is covered in blood'."
"F-forgive us sir," The Gerudo stammered.
"Whatever, it's done, just get their bodies out of here."
The two soldiers quickly grabbed the two bodies and dragged them out of the room leaving a trail of blood smeared across the floor in their wake. Once outside the door the two soldiers passed the bodies off onto some other unfortunate soldiers. Then they stepped back inside and took their places behind the council once again.
"I apologize for that, soldiers these days," He shrugged.
"What do you want us to do?" A council member asked. "You've taken over the castle in a bloody battle and call us into this chamber preaching peace. Forgive me if I am confused."
"You know very well," Ganondorf remarked. "I am not trying to mislead you or go along with this pretentious confusion that you seem to be having. I want power, I have power, now I just need to maintain it. The best way to maintain it is to keep the system that works. You are a part of that system, therefore you stay. Do you understand now?"
"Is it wise to keep enemies on a council?"
Ganondorf smirked, "By all means, try and go against me, see what would happen. Besides, you don't want Hyrule to fall and I don't want Hyrule to fall. If you take me out of the equation, you will soon have a domino effect of falling rulers and with it, Hyrule will fall and regress back into separate villages. Believe me, it's in your best interest to help me."
The oldest council member, who seemed to be the leader, thought for a long drawn out couple seconds. After that he nodded slowly, "Very well, I believe for now it will be for the best for Hyrule."
"Excellent, now lower the taxes by half." Ganondorf ordered as he headed towards the door.
"Half?" This started the members.
He paused at the door and turned around. "I have more than enough resources coming from my home to help make up for what is needed for a long time. Besides, I won't live like that Queen who abused the money she could have. Wasting it on jewels and trivialities such as that."
"That's very noble of you to not spend the royal money." The old member commented.
Ganondorf exited the room without another word but with only one thought in mind. Why would I spend money on valuables? It's idiotic when war is costly.
Ganondorf stepped up to the door and waited as a Gerudo opened it to allow him entrance. He strolled into the small barren room. It only had a table, a bookshelf, a dresser, a closet, a chair, and a bed. He grabbed the chair and placed it at the side of the bed. He waited as the elder man slowly sat up. He was still dressed in his white sleepwear. He groaned as he straightened his back and leaned against the wall as he let his feet hang over the bed to touch the floor.
"Ah Lord Ganondorf, I wondered when you would come visit me."
"Lecote," Ganondorf addressed.
"Let me guess, you wish me to write for you," He chuckled in a low growl, an effect from old age.
"Correct."
"Funny how after a battle the first thing you ask for is a pen and not a sword."
"A conqueror must dismount the horse to rule from a throne," Ganondorf told him.
"Why should I do this?" Lecote mused. "The King was my friend, you killed him."
"Your job is public relations; I'm paying you to do your job."
"I'm an author."
Ganondorf gave him a knowing stare. "You're public relations, you write 'letters' that flatter whoever tells you to write them. I want you to write a letter to why you think I held this invasion and what I planned to do."
"I haven't the faintest idea why you invaded nor what your plans are."
"Make them up, I've read your work, you're quite good at that."
"Ah, now you flatter me."
Ganondorf leaned forward staring the old man in the eyes. "You realize you are the main reason why the world hates Ordon now. Your letter to the people for why that war must take place moved people, but in truth it twisted their mind into believing Ordon was a village of dangerous wrath filled barbarians. You changed how an entire population views a village…all with a letter. Yes, I believe you are the man I'm looking for. Now, I will make the rest of your life the most amazing experience if you do this for me. Be a wise old man and agree."
Lecote smiled causing his face to winkle to the point where his eyes disappeared. "Very well, I know a good deal when I see one."
Ganondorf stood up and walked out the door.
"Is it true you are having a speech later today?" Lecote called after him, "Isn't it too soon. Shouldn't you wait until the funerals are held and shops are rebuilt?"
Ganondorf turned around to face the elder in bed. "One must swim fast and swift to stay above the rising wave."
The Desert Lord stood patiently in the middle of the arena looking around him as thousands of people 'booed' him and shouted death threats. He expected this, he'd be disappointed if this wasn't the case. He knew the people wouldn't be able to resist coming to his speech he announced. They had to turn mobs away because the stands were already filled. He used the same stadium that Link fought in days before. It was big enough to handle enough of the general public to hear so they could spread what he was going to say. He needed to make the people understand him. He didn't expect them to like him, but he needed them to see another side than just a revolt. If he was able to convince them of anything else, then there was a slight success. If he implanted a new view into one mind, that one person will spread the idea. It would take like a plague until the city was divided in opinions, which only made the general public even weaker. There was no downside to this speech, he wouldn't mess it up and strengthen the people's anger towards him. If he couldn't dissipate it completely, then he'd redirect it.
He motioned to his soldiers off to the side and they rushed onto the arena. They held enormous bags of bread and at the nod of their Lord, they began walking around the stage. They tossed bread generally into the stands. Soon, the mob of angry taunts turned into a fight for food being thrown at them. In one way it was a bad tactic, since it raised more angry feelings to those that didn't receive bread. However, those that did already looked in favor towards Ganondorf…at least more than before when they didn't have bread. It also showed him if the people hated him beyond a point of fixing. If every person threw the bread back, he knew they had pure loyalty to their late King. However, they accepted the gifts because they needed them and they needed help. The people love whoever helped them, and that's what Ganondorf was going to do.
He waited until all the bread was distributed and then held up his hands. He was somewhat surprised that the crowd actually quieted down to listen to him.
"I am filled with sorrow to speak to you under such trying conditions." Ganondorf started. "I know the hardships I have cast upon you. I know you look at me with hate and frustration. I am not standing here to ask for your forgiveness nor to try and make friends with you. I merely want you to understand why such travesties have taken place. Why I have put such a burden on many of you and why so many loved ones have perished. If I can only explain why, then maybe you can understand. You are all so intelligent I know you will, I have no doubt you will be able to comprehend what has happened."
"You're a murderer!" A cry rang from the silent mob.
"Yes, I am!" Ganondorf instantly agreed to the random shout from the crowd. "I am not going to lie to you and pretend I did not plan to capture this castle. In doing so, I caused many deaths, but please, understand!" He shouted. "I did not wish it, but it was merely for the best."
"Best for who!"
"Not for me," Ganondorf shook his head violently. "I may look to be a King now but I wear no crown before you. Do you see a crown on my head? Do you see a crown?" He repeated the question looking around the stands. "I did it for you! Imagine, all the people in Hyrule united. Yes there is a treaty across the lands, and Hyrule was in charge but not everyone was equal. I know you care little for the Gerudo across the desert, but we were in trouble and Hyrule was not helping. It does not sound right, but Hyrule and Gerudo are supposed to be one, however in truth, we were not. I did evil to help my people have better lives. I invaded this castle to make everyone in Hyrule be on equal terms. This means you as well! I know you now think I ruined your life to better another's, but that is not the whole truth. I promise you, yours will improve greatly. Everyone is now equal, and I do mean everyone. I am aware of the higher standing families of great wealth here in Castle Town. They will no longer have a greater say than any baker, or blacksmith, or wet-nurse. This city has grown use to a system of levels and that is not right. In Gerudo there may be wealthy families, but their say in government means no more than anyone else. Believe in me, and you will see how much better your lives could be. I know I stand here before you speaking promising words that you have no reason to trust. After all, I feel like a foreigner to you. I've placed hardships upon you and am now asking for trust. I must be a fool to expect sympathy from such great people as you."
"My son is dead because of you!" A women yelled from the crowd. Shouts of similar accounts rang out as well. Husbands, sons, wives, and daughters dead.
"I know, I know!" Ganondorf shouted holding up his hands. "The battle was a terrible one and I know many people that have died in the fight as well."
"Innocent people died!" Someone yelled. "My daughter was killed! She wasn't a soldier."
"What!" Ganondorf screamed with fake anger that tricked many. "How did this happen? I told all the soldiers to not harm a single home or person that wasn't fighting. I know some fires grew out of control, but I am alarmed there were personal attacks."
"Yes, they came into my house and took advantage of me!" A woman cried.
"Horrible!" The Desert Lord screamed. "I did not give that order. I promise you with words you care not to hear, but I swear, I did not give that order. I did not want harm to befall any of you. I wanted to take the castle, yes, but I wanted the least amount of damage to happen. I am no naïve enough to believe every soldier would stay in formation, but at worst I expected small looting. I never imagined they would go so far."
The people were actually stunned by this. They didn't readily believe him, but he didn't seem to be lying. He wasn't out right lying to them on other issues either. He wasn't hiding he wanted to take over the castle. He was spreading some hard truths about equality for all, but they expected that. What they didn't expect was his unawareness of his soldiers committing terrible acts. It could be a lie, but everything he was saying so far seemed like he honestly meant it. He wasn't hiding the fact he knew people would die in battle and seemed sorry for that as well. If he was telling the truth for everything so far, then…there was a chance he didn't give the order for the ravaging the Gerudo soldiers committed.
"Let me say this!" Ganondorf committed. "Any charges raised against a person, I will make sure they are sent to court. I will not wave this off as spoils of war. I will see that any man that has committed terrible acts sees the rope or ax. This is unacceptable and I cannot beg for your forgiveness anymore."
"You caused it still!" Someone yelled. "You…caused everything."
"I was naïve!" Ganondorf held out his hand. "I did not think it would be this bad. Please believe me. I knew it may get out of hand but I did not know by how bad it would. I tried to control it but it was futile. The only thing I could do, was help see it over as fast as possible so we can begin reconstruction and moving on. I wished it was more peaceful, but this was the only way, and I know you cannot believe my words. I know you cannot…but I ask you try because they are the truth."
"You killed the King and the Queen!"
This sent the entire crowd into a huge uproar. Their taunts and jeers came back. They whipped up into a major frenzy, yelling ferociously. This may have put fear into most speakers trying to spin loyalty, but not the Gerudo. He was expecting this and was waiting for someone to shout it from the crowd. This is where he would truly implant ideas into their minds and point the blame on someone else.
"It was not my wish!" Ganondorf yelled above the roaring crowd. "It was not my wish!" He shouted again and the crowd slowly died down again waiting to hear what he was going to say now. "If there are any words you believe today, believe this. I did not want any harm to come to King Terrell or his wife."
"Liar!" A man shouted.
"Listen, listen!" Ganondorf held his hands quieting them. "He was a friend of mine since the Ordon war. He was like a brother, I didn't wish his death. I hoped he'd surrender instantly and this would be over but he didn't. Oh how he didn't. He fought and fought because he was a great King!" The Desert Lord roared and a cheer from the crowd agreed. "The late King was truly the greatest man I've ever known. When he looked at the odds he didn't care, he refused to give up because he was so courageous. I ordered my men long before the battle to ensure his safety.
"I was told they didn't have to worry because he slew all those that came near him. The King bested any foe that he came across. No one sought him out because they didn't want to fight him. But that didn't matter because King Terrell dove into the battle. He did everything he could to fight and fight he did. He was a great man!" Ganondorf screamed again. "Greater than me by far and that's why I wished he was still here. I wanted him to help me rule, I wanted to show him how things needed to be fixed. I know he would've worked with me but again…things got out of hand. My soldiers should've been trained better but once the battle began, they fought for their lives.
"I was told King Terrell fought at his wife's side. What a noble man I say! To his dying days protecting his love, I am touched. I am so moved in hearing upon this I wept, I couldn't control it. I am so sorrowed by hearing such a great man's spirit has moved on. Fighting for hours, protecting everything that was dear to him. Who else could do this? Not many I tell you, not many. For he was a great man!"
Ganondorf paused looking around and saw the crowd was listening to his every word. They seemed to lose most of their anger as they listened to the last tale of their late King.
"Even now it's hard to imagine this world without him and his wife! My dear Victoria, she was my sister in this world, and when I heard she passed, I wept more. I have spilled as many tears this day as any mother. They should not have died, it pains me so much. When she died he faced his enemy, even though he knew he would not win. But he faced him all the same and tried desperately to avenge his fallen love. He was a great man, truly, he was."
"Then why did you kill them!"
It was only a single voice, and no one shouted after it. Everyone was moved by the tale and listened to hear the answer. They wanted to know why their wonderful King was now dead.
Ganondorf placed a hand against his chest shocked. "I did not kill him."
Confused mummers could be heard throughout the stands.
"I-I loved him," Ganondorf seemed truly insulted by the accusation. "I had my men protect him when they could, it wasn't any Gerudo that slew him."
"Then who?" A person questioned, they didn't have to shout since the place was completely silent.
"I'll tell you who," The fire headed man nodded slowly. "I'll tell you who…The Ordonian!" He shouted.
The people looked confused by this since they completely forgot about him.
"He was lock in the dungeon I saw him there, I believe he bribed his way out."
"But why would he kill the King?"
"Did you not see his rage at the tournament?" Ganondorf questioned. "He threatened the King, he wanted him dead. This battle, it gave him his chance." Ganondorf could still see some confusion on their face so he knew he had to convince them more. "My men saw him charge the King. Tell me, a man as skilled as the King in swordplay, few could take him down. I don't want to admit, but the Ordonian has his skill. I've been told an accurate account of fight. The Ordonian didn't challenge him, he didn't fight him with honor. He's from Ordon, what do they know about honor. He charged him while his back was turned and took the first slash cheaply."
The crowd cried out in sorrow and rage hearing this.
"But King Terrell did not fall, no he did not fall! He fought a battle that was the most skilled this world has ever seen. Oh how the soldier described it to me. I gasped multiple times hearing the skills of the King. Not only after fighting countless enemies, he is able to fight the runner-up of the tournament, whilst injured! A greater man, there is not. King Terrell fought protecting his wife from the barbarian. He fought a wolf that was thirsty for his blood and it pains me to say…the boy succeeded. Imagine the fight of a young boy against an old man. It was unfair on many accounts and the King only fell after many blows. He only fell because of cheap tricks the Ordonian committed. For he was a great man!"
The crowd cheered and shouted angry threats again, but not at Ganondorf, at Ordon.
Ganondorf placed a hand on his chest. "I was moved by the story of King Terrell and I shall have a scribed write it into history so the bravest man I ever knew can be remembered accurately. Not only a perfect King, but a wonderful husband and father. He protected his wife to his dying breath. When she died, she was left unprotected and the Ordonian slew her instantly. Such brutality, it pains me to hear it. But a wolf is a wild animal and needs to be put down."
"Wait!" Someone shouted from the crowd and having everyone waiting for him to continue. "I saw the Ordonian riding with the Princess to safety."
"No," Ganondorf shook his head roughly. "No, I will tell you the truth. Did you see her riding on a separate horse? Did you see her on the back holding on? Or did you see her being held pressed to his chest against her will."
"…The last one!" The man shouted after thinking. "He captured her!" He yelled angrily.
Ganondorf nodded. "After killing the King he took the Master sword." Cries of anguish rang out and Ganondorf make a heart wrenching face. "I know, I know! He's a thief on top of a murderer. I sent my guards to protect her but he slew them, they were no match for his bloodlust. He took everything, and I tried to stop him. I am ashamed at how weak I am. He got the Princess…he stole her and he ran back to his home like a coward. The poor delicate lady she is, I fear for the horrors she has to endure. I cannot bare thinking about what she has to put up with." Ganondorf lowered his head and covered it with his hands.
"We have to get it back!"
"Chase after her!"
"Save the Princess!"
Ganondorf slowly raised his head looking out at the crowd. "You…you move me. I could weep hearing how loyal you all are to your Princess. It's breathtaking and she would be so proud to hear you all. And I swear…I will get the Princess back."
"Death to Ordon." A voice rang out.
That was the line that needed to be said. That opened the flood gates. Ganondorf stood there and watched as the crowd wound themselves up to the point of pure rage. Not directed at him, no, not at the man who just captured their city. Not at the person who caused it all and everything that transpired. Not at the man who was trying his hardest to contain his smile and laughter seeing the easily manipulated crowd. They didn't yell at the one person who deserved all their rage. No, they yelled and screamed pure hatred at the one who deserved none of it. They hated Link, the one person who saved Zelda, their Princess and their only hope at getting rid of Ganondorf. But they didn't know that, they were in too much of a rage and what did they really know? They cowered in their homes as this happened, they only heard rumors and now Ganondorf gave them a moving account of what happened. Who wouldn't believe it? After all, it was only a decade ago that Ordon repelled against the Kingdom. It was Link who threatened the King in front of them all. It made sense that Ordon would be the ones who truly wronged them by slaying the royal family and capturing the Princess. They didn't forgive Ganondorf for what he did, but the one who currently had the Princess was Link and therefore, he was the immediate threat and target for all of Hyrule to hate.
Zelda woke to the feeling of dampness upon her check. She wondered if she left a window open and the rain managed to reach her bed. She hated when that happened, it could ruin such a good dream, however she didn't mind this time since she was tormented with nightmares throughout her sleep. She realized she was lying on her stomach which didn't happen often, but it was only the beginning of the strange realizations that would soon hit her. Her bed wasn't nearly as soft as it should've been either. She finally opened her eyes to see a young blonde boy lying underneath her. Her eyes widened as she sat up keeping her knees spread on either side of Link straddling him. She looked around to see she was not in her room back at the castle. In a flash all the memories of what transpired last night hit her. She felt her breath leave her and she tried to keep her air flow normal but it was harder and harder to get air. Her eyes were already beginning to tear up. She shook her hands wildly trying to regain control, it was a nervous habit she had that was constantly corrected but none of that mattered now. She had to wake Link, he'd calm her down.
When she looked down at him she forgot all her other fears. Not because of a peacefully sleeping boy that had become her hero over night. Not because his handsome features caught her off guard and made her smile. No, neither of those silly things. Link was breathing deeply and looked to be in pain. He was covered in sweat which explained the dampness on Zelda's face, it wasn't her tears but Link's sweat. He was almost wincing on every exhale and when Zelda paid attention she could feel him shiver every couple of seconds. Zelda felt him turn and she lifted herself off him. She watched as he curled up into the feeble position. He was on his side with his knees drawn to his chest and hands wrapped around them.
Something was definitely wrong and Zelda needed to get help now. She stood up and made her way to the door. She flung it open and scaled down the ladder as fast as she could. She darted down the path towards the village. The path was still muddy from the hard rain last night and it covered her bare feet like clay. She slipped and fell into the mud. It covered her entire front and stuck to the clothes in wet layers, but she caught herself so she was able to keep her face clean. She pushed herself up not caring for her outward appearance at such a time. However, her hand slipped and she fell back down into the mud, this time her face plopped into it as well. She let out a string of curse words as she finally got back onto her feet. She began running again but made sure to keep her balance. It was hard to run in the mud since every step she could feel the mud give way and almost fall again. But she needed to get help.
She was scared for Link, it could've been anything. He had two cuts on his sides that never fully healed because of all the action last night. Then, he was riding shirtless in cold rain for hours, and add on the pure exhaustion of the tournament plus everything else. How could he not be feeling all the repercussions now? It was a miracle he simply didn't pass in his sleep last night.
Zelda entered what seemed to her was the main part of the village. She deduced that by all the people staring at her. It was a village, not a city, she was sure they all knew she was an outsider. Then, to add the fact she was covered in mud and running around like a lunatic…it probably stirred questions. Zelda didn't care about any of that right now, she only cared about finding the doctor that checked Link out last night. But she had no idea where anything was in the village. She couldn't even find the medical building and that was the only other building besides Link house that she went into. It was dark, rainy, and she just didn't care at all last night about anything. Now she really wished she did pay a little more attention last night. She wished she would see someone she recognized, maybe Rusl, or those two big guys, Bo and Vex.
She decided the only means of getting answers would be to ask someone. Now she just had to find a person that wouldn't freak out by an outsider covered in mud talking to them.
"Zelda?" She whipped her head to see a boy staring at her with wide eyes caring some wood. It was that redheaded boy from last night, she couldn't remember his name. "That is you right? I'm Blaine remember, Link's friend. Were you eaten by a mud monster or something?"
"Link's in trouble!" She exclaimed.
"What?" Blaine dropped the wood and closed the distance between them. "What's wrong?"
"He's sweating and breathing and looks in pain and I don't – its just – he looks feverish!"
"Okay, go back to his house and I'll grab Rosalind and meet you there." Blaine commanded.
"Okay, alright."
They turned and went their separate ways. Zelda waited back at Link's watching him from the couch. She wanted to move him to it but she'd never be able to lift him. She could only sit and watch, she had no idea what she could do to help him. Achilles lay next to Link trying anyway to comfort his friend but the wolf couldn't do anything either.
It wasn't long before Rosalind and Blaine entered into the house. Zelda stood up from the couch.
Rosalind quickly knelt down next to Link and felt his forehead. She shifted around him to check the wounds next. She stood back up and pointed to Blaine, Zelda, and then to herself. She pointed back to Link and then to the couch. Everyone understood she meant to move Link off the ground. Rosalind and Zelda both grabbed one of Link's legs and Blaine grabbed his body. They managed to lift him just enough to get him onto the ground. Rosalind grabbed the blanket from the ground that Zelda and Link used last night. She laid it gently on top of Link. She turned to Blaine and held her arms out forming a circle.
"Bucket," Blaine nodded understanding.
Rosalind tapped her lips.
"Bucket of water. Cloth too?" He asked.
Rosalind nodded.
Blaine dashed towards the sink, which Zelda wanted to question how a sink could be inside a tree but she'd save that for another time. She watched as he pumped the handle a few times before the water started pouring out. Zelda concluded it had to simply be an extended well underneath with a pipe leading all the way up to the faucet, it was quite impressive, but again…another time.
Blaine filled the bucket and grabbed a nearby cloth. He handed it to Rosalind who took it and knelt down at Link's side. She wiped the sweat off his forehead and face before soaking the cloth in the cold water. She lifted it out and squeezed it to have it remain damp and cool. She draped it across Link's forehead. She snapped her fingers at Blaine and pointed to a bag she brought with her. Blaine quickly retrieved the bag from besides the door and handed it to her. She reached into it and pulled out a small plant.
She looked at Blaine and shook the plant.
"Oh right," Blaine crossed his arms thinking. "That's uhh…."
Rosalind frowned and made the motion of drinking something.
"Ah right, make it into a tea."
The doctor smiled and nodded. She handed Blaine the plant. He went back to the kitchen and filled the tea pot with water. She moved to the fireplace and began preparing the fire.
Rosalind looked at Zelda who was covered in mud and could only smile sympathetically. She snapped and Blaine quickly turned to look at her to receive her next instructions. Rosalind nodded at Zelda. Blaine shrugged in response unsure of what she meant. Rosalind sighed and stood up making her way over to Blaine. She grabbed the wood from his hand and put it down. She pointed at Blaine, then to Zelda, then to the bucket of water, and then made motions of wiping herself.
"….you want me to dump the bucket on Zelda?"
Rosalind pinched the bridge of her nose in annoyance and shook her head.
"She wants me to get clean and she wants you to show me where?" Zelda translated.
Rosalind smiled brightly at the girl happy for once someone was able to think with common sense.
"Oh yeah sure, I'll take her to the baths."
Rosalind shook her head and pointed out the back window at the forest.
Zelda smiled meekly, "I don't think I'd be comfortable bathing with a bunch of other people." Zelda didn't mean any offense to the Ordonians, she didn't mean it in any type of insult. She just always bathed alone and she knew people did wash together, she just never did it before. So doing it now didn't seem all that appealing.
Rosalind nodded and pointed to the forest again.
"Alright I understand," Blaine smiled at Zelda. "Don't worry, there is a more private river that people use time to time. Since it can be some ways into the forest it's usually empty, that will be perfect."
"That'll be perfect then." Zelda smiled back being polite.
Truthfully, she didn't want to leave Link, not just because he was sick. It also had to do with the fact that he was the only person she knew. Sure, Blaine seemed nice but what if those Ordon rumors were true. What if he tried to take advantage of her in the forest? Could she really trust someone she just met? After all, she was an outsider in this village or warriors. Zelda quickly shook her head and cast those racist thoughts aside. None of that was true, Link proved it time and time again. She knew if Blaine was friends with Link he was good company and she didn't need to worry.
Blaine quickly scaled the ladders to the upper levels of the tree house. He came back down with a towel and some of Link's clothes. He smiled modestly, "Sorry, It'll have to do for now until we get you some others."
"It's perfect."
"Uhh let's go then," Blaine motioned to the door.
Rosalind snapped her fingers loudly which attracted all the attention in the room, including Achilles. It surprised Blaine when the snap was indeed directed at the wolf. Rosalind gave a short quick whistle and beckoned the animal towards her. The wolf did as told and strolled over to the doctor. He sat down and allowed himself to be petted lavishly on his head. Rosalind touched her head to the wolf's while stroking his neck. She straightened up and nodded towards the door. Achilles' eyes followed her nod to the door and without hesitation walked towards it. Since it was closed, he only stood there and looked at the handle. His eyes darted to Blaine quickly as if suggestion, well let's go already.
Blaine chuckled and opened the door for Achilles, "Alright alright, we're going." He looked back at Link who was still breathing hard and sweating. "Take care of him alright," He directed at Rosalind.
She nodded and smiled sweetly.
Blaine allowed Zelda to go out first and followed after. Zelda climbed down the ladder and Blaine let down the makeshift elevator that Achilles was waiting in. He slid down the ladder after Zelda and directed her towards the forest behind Link's house.
"Is this safe?" Zelda questioned. The forest seemed pretty thick and she heard countless stories of what was rumored to be in them. There did seem to be a small path, not in the sense where there was a dirt line that they could walk on. There just weren't enormous trees or hundreds of branches blocking the way. There was still tall grass and the occasional small tree or branch jutting out in the way.
"Absolutely," Blaine calmly responded. "It's not too far in and I've been there many times before, we won't get lost. Besides, we have our own guide." He motioned to the wolf who was casually strolling in front of the two. He didn't even sniff anything, he walked with his head tall proud to be back in the forest.
"How did he know to come with us?" Zelda inquired. "He must be really well trained."
Blaine held a branch aside for Zelda to pass by and laughed at her statement. "No, I can honestly say Achilles is not trained."
"Then how could he know?"
"Well, Rosalind has always seemed to be able to communicate with animals pretty well. Horses always listen to her, she's an amazing rider. Even babies can get this aura or sense from around her, it's partially what makes her such an amazing doctor. Achilles is no different, he is a big softy when it comes to girls, you'll see."
"He seems to like you well enough," Zelda ducked under a study branch that jutted out horizontally.
"Well…he doesn't hate me we'll say. He's a wolf, he has his loyalty but he has his wild side. The only person he truly listens to fully is Link. Probably because Link is the closest a person can be to being a wolf himself."
Zelda pictured in her mind Link and Achilles, both sitting on the couch docile. It was hard to imagine and it made her smile slightly.
"Hey you watched him in the tournament right?" Blaine suddenly asked. "Was it amazing?"
Hearing off the tournament saddened Zelda, it brought back all the memories of yesterday, but she didn't want to bring Blaine down. It wasn't his business and she had to remain secretive. She didn't want to go too far into what her story would be when people asked. She'd have to come up with one eventually. She'd have to collaborate with Link and make sure they both had it straight. After all, why did Link save her, they must've met before in the city. When Link felt better she'd talk with him about everything and what their next move was, but for now she was just going to get clean. Everything else could be dealt with later.
"Oh!" Blaine exclaimed causing Zelda to turn and look at him. "I'm so sorry, you just dealt with a tragedy, I can't believe I brought that up. That was stupid of me, I'm so sorry."
Zelda smiled over her shoulder, "It's okay, all is forgiven."
Blaine chuckled, "All is forgiven huh? That city talk I'm guessing."
Zelda mentally kicked herself, this stupid princess upbringing would be the end of her. She shrugged, figuring that would be the best way to not exactly answer the question but still satisfy Blaine.
"…he was incredible," Zelda answered the original question seemingly out of nowhere.
Blaine smiled although Zelda couldn't see it. "I heard a little details from Rusl, is it true he was going to win."
Zelda sighed, "The way the tournament ended is not something to talk about freely, Link did murder someone."
Blaine stopped walking caught off guard by the statement. Zelda heard the lack of footsteps and stopped as well. She turned to face the red haired boy's mouth agape.
"He what?"
"He threatened the King, guards tried to arrest him, and he killed one of them." Zelda normally would put it more gently, or even avoid a subject that could cause such a problem. After all, she was an outsider alone in the forest of an Ordonian who happened to be best friends that she just called a murderer.
"Well isn't that self defense?" Blaine offered.
"They weren't trying to hurt him, they were trying to protect people from him," Zelda met Blaine's strong gaze with her own sturdy eyes. "He was starting to go wild."
They stared in silence for a long time. The atmosphere changed to a dark mood and even Achilles noticed it. He stood to the side with his head low ready in case something unexpected happened. Zelda refused to look away, she stood strong with her hands in fists. She cared for Link, honestly she did, after everything he did for her. She would never be able to thank him enough, but that didn't mean she was going to pretend his earlier action was warranted. She firmly believed he did wrong and would not forgive him for such a wrong doing. Also adding in the fact of her total exhaustion, angst, depression, and anger at the world right now…she really didn't care how she seemed in first impressions to Blaine.
Blaine chuckled slowly before laughing more loudly. "I'm sorry, I cannot take you seriously when you have mud plastered all over your face. All I see is these really pissed off eyes staring at me out of a face caked with mud. Come on, let's get you cleaned up."
Zelda's eyes narrowed. "You don't care about how I just talked about your friend."
Blaine shrugged, "People die, it happens."
"I believe it's wrongful to display these certain depiction with such meaningful ideals in such a light and ill manner."
Blaine scratched his head. "Can you dumb down your speech just a little bit…for me? I can't even read."
Zelda paused and then reiterated. "You are not taking death meaningfully."
"Ahh, no I am, people die, you can't not die, and I know you think Link did wrong, because the way you say it, he did do something bad. But think about it from our view. You're in this weird new place right now. What if, a bunch of us tried to 'arrest' you…do you think we'd really be trying to arrest you or even give you a fair trail? You're scared and all alone with no friends. I'm sure Link didn't fully think to himself 'I am going to kill this man'…am I right"?"
Zelda's eyes softened reliving the moment. "I do believe it was a mistake. He was very on edge."
"See," Blaine smiled, "I'm not saying it was a good thing, please don't think this is some weird Ordonian belief that all Castle Town people should die. I just like to look at things from all angles."
Zelda smiled kindly at Blaine. "You say you can't even read and yet you speak with wisdom written in my books."
Blaine shrugged, "I talk with Link about a lot of things, it just tends to happen." He ushered Zelda onward. "Come on, let's keep moving it's not far away."
She did and began walking again, slowly making her way through the forest. It was slow goings for her since she was not adapt to any of this. Walking down a big hallway with perfectly placed marble tiles was her lifestyle she lived with. Not plunging head first through a forest and fighting through constant branches and whatever else was in her way. It was tough, and she could already feel muscles being put to use she didn't know existed before. In her case it was an extreme since she truly never had any physical labor, so this was a tremendous difference to her.
"Why didn't Link teach you to read?" Zelda inquired.
"He's tried, I have no mind for it. Don't get me wrong, I can read enough to understand what needs to be written. I'm an apprentice blacksmith so I need to read measurements and personal customs to whatever I'm making. However, when it comes to actual books, things get more complicated. Let me guess, everyone knows how to read back at the city."
Zelda tipped her head thinking. "Well, I've yet to meet a person without the capability to read, but I'm sure there are those that can't. It does make sense, you don't exactly need the skill here."
"That's true, many people in Ordon don't know how to read, but I guarantee everyone knows how to milk a goat."
Zelda glanced over her shoulder to see the redhead smiling brightly at her. She couldn't help smiling back. "I figured you'd say fighting."
Blaine's smile never faded. "There's that too, but I'm trying to give a first impression that isn't about violence, something I'm sure Link has managed to imprint in your mind forever."
"As a matter of fact the opposite," Zelda replied but hesitated when the path became less obvious since more trees were growing closer together. She glanced over her shoulder at Blaine who nodded forward but slightly to the left. She followed his gaze to see a gap in the sudden wall of trees. She watched as Achilles moved through the gap. She pressed her way forward before continuing her response. "He proved that although fighting is deeply imbedded into the Ordon ways, there are many technicalities about you Ordon folk that the rest of the world forgets about."
"Oh yeah? That's good to hear, though I don't believe a single word of it."
Zelda turned around opening he mouth in mock surprise. "You think I would lie?"
"It's not that," Blaine answered seriously, "I just don't think you fully understand. I could tell you all about the wonderful life in Ordon that doesn't involve fighting, but you wouldn't understand it."
"I'm not sure what you mean," Zelda frowned. She turned around and began walking once again. She felt Blaine's hands pressed onto her shoulders which caused her to stop in place. She was about to question his actions when he spoke.
"I could tell you about the beauty of the forest," He slowly put pressure on Zelda's shoulders turning her to the right, "but it's better if you witness it firsthand."
There, in front of Zelda, was the most beautiful sight she's ever laid eyes on. The closest thing to a forest she'd ever seen was the garden in the back of her palace. She loved it dearly, but that was incomparable to this. It was the perfect serene small open grassy area with wondrous pink and blue flowers blooming in patches. But there was more, and it only added to the perfection that she was seeing. The leaves of the taller trees didn't completely reach over all the grass allowing the sun to stream through in visible ways. The leaves' shadows danced gleefully with one another using the ground as the backdrop. The wind gently passed through the opening bending the grass easily. But to top it all off, the most spectacular part of the entire nature scenery was the adorable hare, sitting in the middle of it all. It seemed to be simply sunbathing and enjoying the ideal forest as much as the Princess. It was a beautiful creature of pure innocence oblivious to the world as it sat with its eyes closed enjoying the untainted pleasures of the world. Sunbathing in one of the most beautiful spots in all of Hyrule, could there be anything more perfect in the world.
A flash of fur darted passed Zelda's vision and before full thought was able to form she watched as Achilles dove on top of the unaware hare. Zelda gasped in horror throwing her hands to cover her mouth. She fell to her knees as she watched. Achilles was not gentle, he dug his teeth into the body and shook it ragged until the –once innocent of worldly troubles – hare met his sad end.
Blaine slapped her forehead, "Dear goddesses Achilles really…really?"
Achilles held the hare in his mouth and strolled back over to Zelda. He dropped the hare in front of her and sat down wagging his tail.
"Oh man Achilles," Blaine shook his head. "You are the most gruesome animal I've ever met." Blaine watched Zelda to see how she would react. He figured she'd yell at Achilles, but Blaine saw Zelda's shoulders started to shake. Blaine started to panic, she was crying, what was he supposed to do? "Hey…uh it'll be okay."
Zelda tipped her head back to allow her full laugh to erupt. She grabbed Achilles by his head and roughly petted him. "You big brute, is this a gift to me? I love it!"
Achilles, loving the warm atmosphere she gave up, stood back up and plowed his head into her chest. She wrapped her arms around the wolf and violently petted the rest of his body. He loved it and licked her face. Something was wrong, he pulled his head back staring at Zelda.
"Aww do you not like the taste of mud," Zelda was still laughing. "I'm sorry boy."
Zelda hugged Achilles allowing his large head to rest on her shoulder. Blaine could see in his eyes the equivalent of true bliss.
"Man you are such a softy for women," Blaine accused the wolf.
Achilles growled glaring at Blaine.
"Hey be nice," Zelda told the wolf leaning back to stare at his eyes. "He's just jealous of you."
Achilles snorted quickly as if saying, obviously.
"That wolf's attitude is worse than Links," Blaine sighed. "Come on, the river is just a minute away."
Zelda followed after Blaine and just as Blaine said, the river appeared seemingly out of nowhere. It held a slow steady pace so it was quiet and quite alluring to Zelda who was beginning to feel all the mud harden on her. It was about ten feet wide and cut directly through the ground, as straight as a sword with no bends that Zelda could see. It couldn't have been deeper than four feet and the water was crystal clear. The bottom was a mixture of rounded stones and mud but since it was rarely kicked up the water remained pure. She was use to water around the City, which grew murky from its surroundings. It wasn't even surprising to see people dump their waste into the water. But here…it was pristine and untouched. The beauty of the forest was constantly displaying itself for the Princess to view in its entirety.
"Well I'll leave you too it then," Blaine sheepishly announced. He hung her change of clothes and a towel over a nearby low branch. He pointed back where they came from, "I'll be behind that tree back there. Achilles stay."
The command was unnecessary because Achilles was alright finding a nice grassy area near the river bank to lay down.
"Very well, thank you for taking me here." Zelda nodded.
Blaine nodded awkwardly back, "And don't worry I won't peak."
"I should hope not."
Blaine laughed somewhat uncomfortably and then darted back behind the tree before saying anything else embarrassingly unnecessary. Zelda didn't move for a couple moments as she kept her eyes glued to the tree making sure he wasn't going to peak. After she was satisfied that he wouldn't – after all she had no idea who Blaine was she had to be careful – she slowly began to disrobe. She automatically scanned around as she stripped out of habit. Her eyes connected with Achilles' and she gave him as disapproving stare. He huffed and turned his head away. Zelda wasn't sure why the wolf bothered her, but she was self-conscious and it felt strange that anything was looking at her while she stripped. Ever since one servant boy back at the Castle tried peering into her bath she took better precautions. It took all her effort to stop her father from tying the boy between two horses and ripping him in half.
Her mood instantly dampened with the reminding of her father. She sighed deeply as she removed the rest of her mud-caked clothing. It landed in a heavy clump on the ground. She'd put those thoughts aside for now, it would be hard, but the last thing she wanted was to start crying in front of Blaine. She'd wait until Link was feeling better and then she could talk. She'll just have to wait until then. She could hide her problems, she was a princess and as cruel as it seems she was taught to mask any issues. After all, a princess shouldn't show bad emotions…and with that thought she cursed under her breath remembering her reaction when she finally escaped the City. Her eyes closed shut and the City of Hyrule in flames appeared in her mind.
"Goddess why! What have we done to wrong you, to upset you!"
"No." She hissed, "Not now, this will only lead down a saddened path." She took a couple deep breaths to get herself under control. "Just clean yourself, just one task at a time."
Her bare feet were silent as she walked through the grass. She slipped her big toe into the water and it was cooler than she was hoping for, but she was in no place to be picky. She stepped into the river and the freezing shiver ran up her body. Her skin tightened for a brief moment as she gridded her teeth waiting to get use to the temperature. She wondered if this is how death felt…cold and despairing.
Zelda chuckled sadly, "I'm so morbid now."
She kicked her feet out and dunked herself underneath the water. The thoughts instantly disappeared from her mind. She emerged from the water and watched as the murky mud could be seen floating down the river slowly. She began rubbing down her body to get all the mud off her, most of it was on the clothes but some still reached her skin. She plunged her face in and scrubbed it roughly to make sure all of the mud was off her face. She was startled by the amount of mud that she saw floating down the river.
"That was all from my face? I must've looked like a monster?" She smiled at the thought. "Glad Link didn't see me like that."
She paused briefly wondering why she cared at all how Link viewed her. She felt another shiver from the cold water and decided to get out before she caught a cold. She hated to admit it, but she was fairly influenced by the weather. She got sick often when she was younger and still got a simple cold now and again just because it was a cool rain.
She withdrew herself from the river and began drying herself off with a towel.
While Zelda was bathing, Blaine was sitting with his back to the tree having the utmost serious philosophical debate plaguing his mind, he was stuck in a position between enlightenment or darkest black.
Did he peak or not?
It was the hardest question he's ever asked himself. By all mean, he shouldn't because he has no right, obviously. Not to mention he wasn't sure Zelda's relation to Link, his best friend. Surely Link wouldn't save any person randomly, he must know Zelda, therefore, if he peaked, he would be betraying his friend in a way. Also, if he was caught, it would be hell, Link wouldn't let him live it down and Malon…what about Malon. He wasn't with her, but he wanted to be. If he was caught doing such terrible task…would he lose any chance with Malon? It made all the sense in the world to not peak and sit idly waiting.
However, there was a strong counter argument that overpowered all his intelligent thoughts.
She was naked.
How tough life can be! He shouldn't look but just behind him was a beautiful naked girl…what man can refuse? It was unfair to put him in such a position. Damn the fates of the world to test his will! Even strong men crumble under such circumstances.
With a growl Blaine could withstand the pressure no more. "I'll just take a small peak, I won't even be able to see that well from back here. No more than a second, it won't be bad." He leaned slowly and turned his head to sneak one eye passed the tree.
"I see you there." Blaine snapped back to behind the tree. He heard Zelda giggle calmly. "It's okay, I'm dressed, no harm done."
Blaine took a breath to get himself back in character…character of not being a pervert. He stepped out from behind the tree and froze once his eyes laid upon Zelda. Not because of her beauty, which was stunning enough. In truth, that may have staggered him since he's only seen her dirtied, bloody, muddy, and now that she was clean her true glamour showed. However, it was something else that truly did stun him. Zelda sat in the soft lush grass with her knees together and legs to the side lazily. On her shoulders were two birds and another small bluebird was perched on her left hand. In front of her laid an extremely peaceful Achilles while Zelda stroked his thick fur with her right hand in rhythm. The bluebird sang and Zelda whistled the melody back to the bird.
She smiled at Blaine, "The creatures here are so friendly."
Blaine placed a hand against the tree to support himself from falling over. "You actually have a bird singing on your hand?"
She frowned, "Is this not normal?"
"Are you serious?" Blaine exclaimed, "Not at all. I've never seen this before."
"Oh dear," Zelda looked a little fearful, "I hope this isn't a bad omen."
Blaine's shock wore off and his face softened. "There is no way this could be a bad omen. I think the opposite. Creatures of the forest can sense a person's spirit, they know instantly whether a person is good or not." Blaine smiled gently witnessing as another small bird landing on Zelda's arm. "There is something amazing about you, and these animals can feel it."
A beautiful smile graced Zelda's face catching Blaine off guard by how perfect it was. "Well that's wonderful to hear, I'm glad."
Blaine couldn't help but smile back at it. Then he chuckled, "You've made me smile so many times in this little trip, I feel you affect people as well."
"Oh hush," Zelda laughed, "You act as if I'm a sorceress."
"Well my sorceress, shall we go back and check on Link?" Blaine joked.
"I think that's wise, before my powers attract something not so cute," Zelda played along. Zelda stood up and the birds flew away to a nearby branch. Achilles jumped to his feet and circled around Zelda twice playfully before licking her fingers. "Is this really a furious wolf?"
Blaine looked at the wolf licking Zelda's hand. "He just is a pup for women, that's all."
"Well my dear wolf, lead the way," Zelda pointed at the forest but Achilles didn't move. She shrugged, "Guess my connection isn't perfect."
Blaine laughed, "Come on, this way."
They began walking through the forest the same way they came. Zelda found it much easier this time, and she was grateful she was much cleaner this time around. Although, she was slightly upset her feet were already getting dirty, but she could easily wash those with just a bucket.
Suddenly a growl was heard from seemingly nowhere.
Blaine instantly stopped and quickly back stepped a couple paces to stand in front of Zelda. Achilles' ears perked up as he also stepped backwards until he stood at Zelda's side.
"What is it?" Zelda asked worriedly.
"There," Blaine nodded in a direction. Zelda could see a two wolfs peering from behind a tree. Blaine whipped his head around, "Yup, were surrounded." Zelda looked as well to see at least three move wolves behind them.
"Oh no, can we just give them food to make them go away?" She suggested.
"Well…we don't have any, but that's not why they're here."
"What?" Zelda found that strange, "Aren't they hunting us?"
Blaine shook his head, "They smell you and they know you aren't from Ordon, you are an outsider, and they're protecting this forest."
"You jest?"
Blaine laughed which surprised Zelda, given the current situation. "Jest? Do people actually say that?"
Zelda scowled, "Now is not the time to worry about my words." It was true, but also, she was getting a little sick at seeming like a fool for the way she spoke. She was really going to have to work on her language.
"Just stay close to me," He held his hand back and she placed hers in it. They slowly began walking forward, with Achilles tight at their side. "Hopefully, they realize you aren't dangerous if you stay near me."
Zelda made sure to stay as close as possible to Blaine. They walked slow and steady through the trees. The wolves followed slowly, never letting the three get out of their circle. It was silent in the forest except for the growls that would sound every so often. Zelda couldn't even hear the wolves walk. She looked at one that was more visible to see it slowly put a paw down each step, one at a time. If there was a branch in the way, it would feel it with its paw and shift his leg slightly to get around it. They did this all without breaking eye-contact. She looked over Blaine's shoulder to see the ones in the front walked backwards; always with their eyes on the 'intruder'. It was alarming to realize this mimicked Link's style of circling opponents.
After the longest walk of Zelda's life she could see the forest growing thinner. The wolves in front slowly separated. Now they were only surrounded on three sides, and as they got closer to the end of the forest the wolves dropped back even more.
Once the two people and (somewhat) domesticated wolf stepped out of the tree lining they all let out a sigh. Even Achilles seemed to let out a quick huff, though it could be read as more of an annoyance.
"Let's see if Link's better," Blaine headed towards the ladder, pushing the matter of what just happened aside.
"Wait," Zelda responded quickly walking passed him.
"What?" Blaine turned to watch her. He was confused at first until he saw it walk into Epona's small stable.
Zelda knelt down to be more level with the tired horse lying down. She was awake and one eye watched the Princess.
Zelda petted Epona softly. "Thank you Epona, you are the bravest horse I know. Gratias tibi ago." Zelda said thank you one more time in the ancient language before rising back to her feet. "I'll make sure Link gets you a big bucket of whatever your favorite treat may be."
"She is an incredible horse," Blaine commented.
"Was she bred here? Are all Ordon horses like her?"
Blaine shook his head, "No, she was from a mysterious traveler actually. There is a person that roams the plains of Hyrule with wild horses and raises some to be domesticated. The best horses come from this person and it is almost impossible to find him."
"Then how'd Link get one?" Zelda knew Epona was amazing but she didn't think the horse was from mysterious backgrounds.
"Link's father rode out for months trying to find this person. He found the person eventually and made a deal to buy a horse."
"So he gave Epona as a gift to Link?
"Not personally," Blaine told her and she looked to him in confusion. "I learned this tale from Rusl, and he was told by Link's father that the horse breeder takes all the information on the would-be rider. Then, he will breed the perfect horse for that person, it's all specialized so every person has a horse perfect for them. But because of this, it takes time. Link was only five at the time, and the breeder told Link's father it could take many years to breed the proper horse, then train it. Link's father told the man he'd return to this exact place in five years to retrieve the horse. This was the agreement and they separated. However…"
"The war," Zelda's eyes grew dim.
"Exactly," Blaine nodded solemnly. "Link's father was killed in the war so he could not retrieve the horse when the time came. But," Blaine continued sensing the question Zelda was about to ask. "One day, when me and Link were about twelve, this stranger wrapped in layers of clothes walked into the village. With him, he had a horse and that horse was Epona. He asked for Link's father and when he learned of his death, he asked for his son. He gave Epona to Link and told him how to care for it, saying it was a gift from his father. Then he disappeared and no one seen the man again, but he's likely still out there riding among a herd somewhere."
"That's an incredible tale." Zelda remarked. "To think, Epona is so special and the love of Link's father to seek out such a horse just for his son."
"Link's father was an amazing person, I barely remember him. But there are so many stories told here. It seems as if the entire village looked up to him."
"All fathers are amazing in their own way," Zelda murmured.
"Come on, let's check on Link." Blaine suggested.
And they did.
They found Link in the same spot on the couch. Rosalind stood as the two entered. Achilles almost knocked Blaine over as he bowled through the doorway to get inside first.
"Any better?" Blaine asked.
Rosalind smiled and nodded.
It was visibly apparent that Link was already feeling better. His sweating stopped and he wasn't breathing heavy anymore.
"His fever broke already?" Zelda questioned.
Rosalind nodded, pressed her hands together, and then put them on the side of her head. She tipped her head slightly and closed her eyes.
Zelda understood instantly, "He must've had it worse last night as he slept. This morning was just the end of it, am I right?"
Rosalind nodded and handed Zelda a piece of paper. She then grabbed her stuff and shrugged, implicating she had to leave. Zelda and Blaine said their good-byes and thanked her. Not long after Blaine also informed Zelda he had work to do today. He assured her he'd drop by later to check on things. He disappeared through the door and left Zelda alone with Link.
Zelda sat down in the chair Rosalind pulled up to Link's side at the couch. She held up the note Rosalind wrote her and read it to herself. "He just needs sleep, he'll be fine. I woke him up for a moment and had him drink the tea I made. It'll help. There is more over the fire, when he wakes, make him drink more of it. Besides that, there isn't any worry, he's strong and he'll make it through this without a problem. He'll probably be his old self by tomorrow. I'm glad you care for him so Princess, it means a lot to know you don't take for granted what he has gone through for you."
Zelda dropped the note and shut her eyes. She was aware that Rosalind knew who she was. She was tending to Link as the boy recanted his story to the Bo, Vex, and Rusl. She heard everything and even if Rosalind wasn't mute, Zelda had the feeling she'd keep her secret safe.
Zelda opened her eyes and looked upon Link. She cupped his hand in-between hers. "I don't take what you did for granted Link. Know that. Truly, you are incredible. Fighting in a tournament where everyone demands your blood and succeeding. Being locked away and breaking out in the middle of an invasion. Saving me…getting me to safety. You looked out for me, I don't know why. I asked you last night and you gave me an answer that I can't accept. 'Because you're a Princess and that's what Hero's do.' What kind of answer is that Link? How can anyone be so righteous to risk their life for a person that represents everything they hate?"
Zelda watched the boy's chest rise and fall, wishing he was awake to answer her question. Yet, at the same time, glad he was asleep so she could voice her thoughts.
"Is it a strength thing? Did you do it because you simply had the ability to do it? It wasn't just you that tried to save me Link…I'm sure my knights and soldiers fought with the thought of me in their mind. How come they didn't save me? Why did they fall and you prevailed? Even if that was the case, that you have the skill to save me, you still consciously made the decision to save me. I heard your story in the infirmary, about my father's last words. Was that it? A man you hated asked for a favor and you accepted. I don't understand you Link. Why would someone do such a thing? I can understand a Hyrulian soldier, they have a duty, but an Ordonian…it confuses me."
Zelda collapsed her head onto her hands folded into Link's. "Goddesses I wish I understood. I wish I was stronger like you, then maybe I would understand why someone would risk their life for a person like me. What gives me the right to have thousands die in my name? I'm just a person with a title. I'm so weak and pathetic. I didn't fight, I didn't raise one weapon against the Gerudo. I couldn't even run away on my own! I needed help in being a coward as well. I disgust myself at how pathetic I am. Yet people die for me, and I cannot fathom why anyone would. Walking through the woods was tough for me, everything is tough for me and so easy to others. Why should I be allowed to lead a nation? I don't deserve the throne, i don't deserve any loyalty. I ran like the weakling I am from danger, and relied on you after the last conversation we had took place through iron bars. You shouldn't have risked your life, yet you did? It confuses me so, i can understand you may have done it for personal reasons, which I have yet to completely discover. But all the soldiers that fought and died, why anyone would do such a thing for someone as sad as me?"
"It's not for you." Zelda shot back in her chair to see Link's eyes still shut but he was definitely awake. "It's the idea of the throne, of Hyrule. That's why people fight and die. For ideas and beliefs, you may be one person, but what you represent is infinite and endless. Some people fight for freedom, others to gain power. It's all unattainable essences Zelda, and you are one of those. You now represent all of Hyrule, and anyone who believes in the Kingdom, must believe in you as well."
"How long have you been awake?" Zelda whispered, it was the first question on her mind.
"Long enough to know you kissed me."
"What? That never happened."
"Darn, so it was just a dream, well, let's make it a reality."
Zelda couldn't help but laugh. "Link, how can you joke at such a time?"
"Better to be happy then sad."
"You should be asleep."
"I was until someone grabbed my hand and began shouting next to me." His sarcasm was strong, even without inflexion of his voice. It was a trait Link was born with.
"Well get some sleep." Zelda smiled.
"As you wish, Princess, your wish is my command, I live to serve, my honor is to fulfill, my life is happy knowing your demands, I will do anything for your highness, I-"
Zelda pulled her hands back snorting, "Just go to sleep already, or die, that's a better idea."
Link chuckled and folded his hands on his stomach. "Zelda, you are not weak, you are the strongest girl I've ever met, and I know you don't believe me now, but you will."
"You're delusional." Zelda told him but there was a happy smile on her face hearing Link's kind words. She knew simply speaking with the boy would make her happier. She sat there watching as he drifted back to sleep, for the first time today, ill thoughts stayed away from her mind, even if only for a moment to give her a rest.
See what I mean, Link was barely in it, originally he wasn't at all, but I woke him up at the end because I felt he needed to at least speak once. I'm sure many of you were also mad that Blaine was in it a lot since he was an OC, and i really only created him to help give Link more friends. This isn't some self insert attempt at putting me in a story, just in Twilight Princess Link doesn't have anyone his age, thus the creation of Sheik and bringing Malon to this one as well. Still, I have no excuse for making everyone wait so long, I wish I could write it faster but there are no promises. I just ask you bear with me, even if my updates remain slow. Hopefully, it speeds up, I think this was just an extreme this time, over a year without updating is strange for me. Anyways, Merry Christmas, even though this chapter wasn't the great by any means, I hope it was at least a little gift. Have a wonderful Holiday.