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Chapter 20:
Sunlight dappled the towers and turrets of the great castle of Hyrule, filtering through a thick layer of strata. The scent of spring hung heavy in the air. A cool southern breeze swept in, carrying upon it the distinctions of Faron. Link breathed it in as its soft caress lingered about his face, and was engulfed in the forest's bouquet of pine, spruce, oak and deku.
A hawk shrieked overhead. Link watched it wheeling about before it dove in a streak of brown. He lifted his arm and the bird cut back its descent and alighted, talons digging into his vambrace. Link stroked its head and the hawk nipped at his fingers playfully, before obediently holding out its leg where a small cylindrical canister was secured.
"Well done, my friend," he praised, knowing the hawk could understand him even if it could no longer contribute to the conversation. He pried open the canteen and pulled out the small missive within.
The hawk hopped onto his shoulder as Link opened the note then paused. He inclined his head back toward his companion.
"She wasn't too upset with me," he muttered in uneasy apprehension, "was she?"
A shriek in the face was all he received as a reply. His shoulders slouched.
"Yeah, I bet she was," she said, whipping out the letter to straighten it.
He began to read:
I really can't believe you!
It's been months, Link. Months! Honestly, Ashei writes to me more often than you do, and she's not even from the same village! You sneaky blighter! Stealing off in the middle of the night with no more than a note of farewell to my father. Inconsiderate! I shouldn't be at all surprised that you only contact me when you need me to do something for you. Fine, yes, I'll be at Faron's spring for the next few days waiting for you. I don't see why you can't just visit Ordon, the others would like to see you too, you fat head. But whatever. I'm trusting you on this.
You absolutely must tell me about your time at the castle. I heard from Rusl that you haven't been on a hunt since you arrived and that you've been teaching some new knights and going to parties with the queen. Is that true? I thought you didn't like those types of parties. Maybe you've finally grown up and realized how exciting they are.
You better return to Ordon for Din's feast day. If not Talo says he'll come drag you back himself. And the rest of us will help him.
I hope you're not in any kind of trouble. This all sounds too cloak and dagger to me.
I'll see you in a few days.
Ilia
Ah. Even from afar the resounding peal of Ilia's chastisement echoed in his head and made his ears ring. He really should start writing her proper letters to update her on his life.
He thought about it for the impressive span of ten seconds before promptly discarded the idea. His letters would probably mostly comprise of variations of 'Hello, I'm doing well. Still at the castle. See you next year,' followed by an untidy scrawl that might pass for his signature if one squinted and with their heads tilted.
Tucking the note in his pocket, he headed back inside to his desk to pen out a swift reply. The balcony doors were left open, the curtains fluttering in the soft gales and rustling the papers on his desk.
The hawk navigated from his shoulder to the flat surface of the desk and strutted along the length of it, inspecting the few knickknacks Link had collected and tossed here and there.
He flourished his pen and wrote out:
We leave an hour before dawn. There will be six of us.
Thank you for taking care of the horses.
Because where they were going for their first stop, horses couldn't access. Ilia acted slighted and grumpy in her letter, but he knew she was thrilled at the task. She positively adored horses. He should really see about getting her one of her own. Or perhaps a whole stable full of them. It would help stay in her good graces.
Rolling up the small note, he held his arm out for the hawk and stuck it in the canister then fastened the lid. He carried the bird back out to the balcony and lofted it into the air. The hawk soared upward in broad circles, pinion feathers spread as it wheeled off in the direction of Ordon.
Link removed the vambrace and smoothed out his tunic then left his quarters. Tonight was the masquerade and he wanted to check in with Captain Martin one last time before they left. The captain was the only person other than Lord Raleigh, Auru and Impaz who would know of their departure. He had little else to do until then.
Zelda was in solitude in the chapel, offering up religious prayers to Farore and protected by nine hand selected honour guards. Two of her five generals were part of those chosen, along with Sirs Justin - no shocker there, he'd always been one of Raleigh's favourites - and Thibault. Link wasn't quite as familiar with the rest of them, but with the assurance of Sir Justin and the daylight hours presiding, he felt confident in her safety.
He would see her later at the ball tonight.
Breezing down the hallways, Link didn't notice until too late, the cane thrust in his path. The length of it collided with his stomach. A gentle tap compared to the combative strikes of staves he was used to.
"Halt and bally well stop right there. La, but you, sah, have some bloody explaining to do."
Emerging from the alcove, cane still directed at Link's abdominals, Legault pitched a serious countenance. Besmirched solely by the witty gleam in his eyes.
"I bally well shant," Link retorted before Legault had a chance to clarify his stance.
"None of this diverting, sir," Legault tutted. And in one smooth maneuver of the wrist he arched the tip of his cane around Link's arm and lifted it well into the air.
Link didn't resist as Legault snatched his hand and observed the ring settled there.
"And what, pray tell, do we have here," Legault asked rhetorically all the while eyeing him slyly. "Why you wicked piece of work, you."
Link should think that he could tell exactly what the ring was and who it was from.
He snatched his hand back.
"This little scrap of metal?" He shrugged airily. "Found it down in the royal treasury. I thought it looked nice so decided to claim it for myself."
"Ahaha, how positively amusing you are," said Legault full of sarcasm. "If you'd done that, you'd have been killed on the spot. No, really, Link. By wearing this you know you're practically engaged to the queen."
"So she's said." He continued down the hall, Legault striding along at his side. "Isn't it supposed to be the other way around? In Ordon it's the man who buys the engagement ring."
Which was usually a plain band of iron or copper. What Link was wearing was pure silver. It would have cost him at least ten years of wages from his ranching job to afford something like it. Possibly more.
"Practically engaged, Link. Practically," exclaimed Legault, gesticulating wildly with his free hand. "It is still a courting ring. You yourself must go out and purchase the engagement ring. And then our dear monarch, as a woman of higher station than thyself, will supply the wedding bands."
Link frowned. "That seems like an excessive amount of rings."
Legault guffawed cheerily. "The aristocracy are an excessive lot. And didn't I tell you that our magnanimous leader of the state was head over heels for her gallant hero?" He pointed out at nothing with his cane, and said proudly, "I take full credit for this delightful outcome. I knew my charm would wear off on you. And aren't you thrilled to the core that we pressured you into practice flirting with those considerate maidens of the court? Yes, props to me. No need to thank me, sir. Your beatific visage says it all."
Oh please.
"For one," Link started, brushing aside Legault's arm as it waved in his face. "You've never outright told me that Zelda was 'head over heels' for me. Secondly I've hardly employed any of the gentlemanly charms you've attempted to teach me."
Indeed, Legault's variety of charm consisted of flattery and incessant coyness. What Link exercised was… Well, he wasn't sure. Not wholly gentlemanly, that was for certain.
"But I placed the idea in your head, didn't I?" said Legault self-satisfactorily. "I was the one who prompted your first move. Invoked your jealousy."
Alright, perhaps he deserved some credit. Not that Link was going to admit it aloud.
"Also, I'm curious to know, what was the gift you gave her majesty? You've been tight-lipped all week about it. I can only assume you bought something enormously egregious or you haven't yet purchased anything at all."
They were crossing an intersection where their small corridor met the main hallway. From there they descended a mezzanine and took a right toward the barracks.
"I haven't seen you at all this past week so there was no opportunity to be tight-lipped about anything," countered Link, before sighing. "You'll see it at the masquerade. She promised to wear it."
His face flamed as he pictured the dress, something he'd bought for her, and Zelda in it. Perhaps this is why men liked lavishing gifts upon women so much. Just knowing that it was appreciated, that she liked it and had been gobsmacked at the sight of it, was enough to make his heart palpitate. He couldn't wait to see her.
"My, you are smitten."
An understatement if there ever was one. Link eyed him shrewdly.
"Just wait until the others hear of this!" exclaimed Legault. "Splendid. I should think they'll be rather jealous that I was the first of us to know."
"Don't you have anywhere else to be?" pestered Link.
Legault chortled affably. "That's the thing about hiring good men and women to run your estates for you. One only needs to attend to business a few times a month and the rest is managed for us. The disadvantage of being both titled and enormously wealthy. You have all this free time to spend at your leisure and more often than not are filled with boredom."
"Arrogant capitalist," muttered Link under his breath.
This was why he hadn't wanted the mountainous trove he'd accumulated on his journeys. If he ever ended up useless to society like Legault and co evidently were he'd tear out his eyes and go off to live as a hermit.
"I believe this calls for our own private celebration," Legault went on. "Right after the masquerade. Come to my place and we'll have a real party. I'll bring the lads and ladies, and you bring your wonderful intended. Wine and whiskey all around!"
Oh Goddesses. If he did they'd be up the entire night well into dawn. The masquerade itself was set to last until at least 3 am. He and the others planned to be gone from the castle long before then.
"Ah, you see it's different with us actively productive members of society," said Link. "We can't afford to spend all night partying. There's work to be done come morning, y'know. Can't be lying about in bed all day trying to sleep off a hangover."
"So I take it that's a no," said Legault downtrodden. "Pity that. No matter. I suppose we can set it at a later date."
"One of my choosing."
Legault cocked his head at him. "You know, I do believe you've become quite obstinate over the past month or so."
Link smirked and carried on.
"I do believe I have."
As daytime progressed into evening and the shadows grew wan, the castle was lit by its numerous chandeliers and lamps. The bailey became more and more crowded as hundreds of elegant carriages bearing crests of Hyrule's most prominent families came trundling up to the castle. From these carriages emerged opulent figures, the nobility, of all shapes and sizes, and representing every distinct region of Hyrule. Zora, hylian, human, and even a couple of hefty gorons, all adorning full or partial face masks.
Link watched from one of the balconies in the presence chamber, alternatively known as the main hall, as they all filtered in after being announced, laughing and jostling about, reuniting with long-time friends and overall having a splendid time. For some it was one of the few times they left their localities and came to court. Others, like the gathering of zoras and the two gorons attended as representatives of their domain. Link was disappointed to find out that King Ralis was not coming this time. But then he rarely left Zora's Domain.
His ear twitched as someone encroached from behind. Ashei settled in the space beside him, leaning her forearms on the railing and peering over with a look full of profound boredom. Her mask concealed the area around her eyes and no more. She wore no dress. Instead donning her blue royal guard uniform, complete with golden braid and epaulettes.
Only once had he seen her decked out in full ball gown, hair coiffed and jewelry gracing neck and wrists. That had been one of their riskier hunts and had taken quite a fair bit of espionage. Otherwise she hated these gatherings, and derided the soft lifestyles of the hylian nobility. As a northerner she had been used to a brutal lifestyle growing up, the merciless conditions of the mountains forcing all who lived there to either adapt to its frigid cues or be overtaken by the frozen wasteland of ice and snow.
"Everything set?" asked Link, not bothering to whisper among the clamor of the hundreds of voice competing to be heard down in the hall.
"We're as ready as we'll ever be, yeah," she answered, nose crinkling at the appalling display of finery and overindulgence before them. She cast Link a wry glance. "You should join them." She nodded her head downward at the sprawl of nobles. "I'm certain your friend Legault is waiting for you to show up."
"Please no." Link slumped, his head dropping. "The better acquainted we become the more of a nuisance he gets."
Ashei nudged him roughly with her shoulder. "You say that, but I know he's become one of your nearest and dearest. You can no more erase him from your life than erase that mark on your hand."
Fidgeting, Link strove not to automatically take a peek at the Triforce, knowing that it shone there glaringly for all to see.
"Has Zelda returned from the chapel yet?"
Ashei gave him a look and muttered something unintelligible before saying, "Yeah. They herded her off to her rooms to get ready for the masque. Don't worry, she's not alone. All her personal bodyguards are on duty tonight, and she has a bunch of maids helping her with her get up."
Good. That was one less thing to worry about. Yet, it was nerve wracking.
"So, that a recent development?" she asked directly, crossing her arms.
Link knew of only one thing she'd bother asking about and at once was on guard.
"Don't you start," he hissed, clenching his right hand and hiding it away. "Legault's already pestered me enough about it today. I had to use the clawshot and run along the rooftops to escape him."
And even then he'd waited over an hour before coming down. He'd startled a fair few soldiers on sentry duty. Not too badly though. Apparently it was common for Link to pop in and out of places at a moment's notice.
Ashei held a hand up in surrender. "Fine fine, yeah. I'll back off." Although from her expression he anticipated being teased about it later.
A joyful cry rang out as yet another gaudy dressed courtier arrived and was greeted by old friends. He was completely decked in greens of different shades as tribute to Farore, with a long flowing cape that hung off one shoulder. It pained Link's eyes to look at him.
"Any one of them could be our hexer," said Ashei, sharp hawk-like eyes scanning the crowd below, then flicked upward to alight on the few other occupied balconies.
Link stared with equal deliberation. Assessing and keen. "They'll be flushed out soon enough. Once they realize that their focal point is under threat they will come to us."
And then he'd have them. Whoever it was would taste the end of his blade. He wouldn't give them a chance for the arbiter to have them. This serial killer, murderer of thousands, and tormenter of the queen. This monster was his.
A few of the nobles on the floor boasted out loud their magical abilities. Showing off miniature displays of fire or telekinesis to the delighted applause of their friends. Hyrule possessed hundreds of mages among their aristocracy, ranging from mediocre to exemplary, and a fair few powerful enough to be deemed a sorcerer. Anyone could be concealing hidden abilities not flaunted to the world.
A procession had formed as the nobles started making their way up to the throne room. Going very slowly for the need to stop every few seconds to declare a witty remark or for further magical entertainment.
Shad came bursting in.
"There you are, Ashei," he said, catching his breath. "Ah, Link. Good you're here too." He nodded to him.
Link appraised him absently. Dapper was the word to describe him. From his pristine white cuffs to his flamboyant cravat. Draped in plum and orchid, he was the spitting image of a hylian courtier. If anyone could meld in seamlessly with the nobility, it was Shad.
Ashei scrutinized him with distaste. "You know I can't take you seriously dressed like that."
Shad was affronted. "Well you look hardly any better. I thought you hated that uniform."
It was her general regalia, similar to Link's own attire. Ashei buffed one of her medals with her cuff and smirked.
"I don't know. It's sort of grown on me, yeah. Especially compared to everyone else's ridiculous garbs. Pfft!"
Shad observed the cavalcade of Hyrule's richest and finest. "Hmm, it reminds me of one of my voyages in the far west. They have the most magnificent coloured birds there."
"All a subspecies of peacocks, yeah."
"And songbirds, zeffas, and know-it-alls, and chirris."
Ashei gave him a bland look. "Was there a time you were a birdwatcher, by any chance?"
"Well, no," said Shad, blushing in slight embarrassment. He was rambling on again. "But during my studies of the Ooccas I happened to spend a few weeks in a Rito settlement, and that led to the interest of all things avian. For instance, did you know that each species has their own style of mating dance. Even the Rito-"
Ashei looked heavenward. "Good Goddesses, yeah. Let's just get to the masquerade. Then you can study the Hyrulian mating dance."
The throne room was on the topmost level of the main building and was a bit of a trek to get to. One thing Link could say about the nobility was they were pretty much all fit. But for the rare few who overindulged.
Link entered along with the rest and took in the scene where many a ball and stately affair had taken place. The room was enormous. Golden banners and garlands were suspended from the double flanks of pillars that held up the coffered ceiling. Moonlight streamed in through rows of open arches along the walls and the circle of windows directly above the impressive throne of Hyrule's ruler. Additional light was provided by the ten foot tall golden ornamented candelabras positioned throughout the room along the walls. The aristocracy crowded all around, from the steps of the throne to the numerous archways. All of them dwarfed by the majestic architecture around them.
A string quartet was playing a mellow tune to add to the pleasant atmosphere. A few of the nobles had gone outside to inquire about the fireworks being prepared for the midnight hour. The scent of lilacs, and roses, and jasmine hung heavy in the air, almost overwhelming to Link's sensitive nose.
Despite his reticence about these sorts of functions, Link couldn't help but feel affected by the collective excitement of everyone around them. He had been to a few other feast days, and each had been just as extravagant and overdone. Now though, he had a reason to enjoy it. He had a future fiance to publicly claim.
"There's Auru," said Ashei, pointing out an older man wearing a respectable deep blue suit.
"Yes," muttered Shad. "And there's the Crevans. Over the top, as usual. And there are the Hargraves. What a ghastly mask that one has. Lord Argyle and Lord Danvers, he looks none too happy. And… who do you suppose that fellow is, right over there?"
While Ashei was muttering complaints about the noise level and Shad continued identifying each and every person he'd made the acquaintance of over the years, Link was surveying the room for anything suspicious that caught his eye. Along with the nobles and the servants wading through the throngs and handing out refreshments, knights in their formal uniform stood guard at each point of entry.
Suddenly the trumpeting of fanfare heralded from the grand doors. Everyone swiftly moved off the blue carpet and gathered near to see. An honour guard marched in and spaced themselves in two rows on either side of the carpet, then turned to face the center of the aisle.
The announcer entered and took his position to the side of the doors.
He bellowed for all to hear. "Her royal majesty, The Queen, Zelda Harkinian de Hyrule!"
The trumpeters started up again, the honour guard drew their swords and held them up in salute. And Zelda stepped into her throne room.
Yet the person walking down the carpet was an entirely different Zelda than she was before. She bore a navy blue fur-rimmed mantle across her shoulders, which trailed upon the ground in her wake. The royal sash was slung across her chest, a velvet and gold crown positioned magnificently upon her head. This was Hyrule's supreme sovereign. The queen of one of the world's most influential nations. The most powerful woman he knew.
And beneath all the pomp and grandeur, she was wearing his dress for her. His heart beat frantically at that realization. He knew that she would, but it was entirely different seeing it. She brushed past him without once diverting her gaze from their trajectory straight ahead. Neither looking around nor acknowledging the masked faces surrounding her.
Behind her trailed two rows of white-robed priests and priestesses, and behind them a single man swinging a brass censer, from which incense burned and trailed smoke in its wake.
Zelda glided across the room and mounted the two sets of stairs. Once before her throne, she turned to them. A priest and a priestess helped gather her mantle and arranged it behind her. Then she spoke.
The words of the ancient language flowed smoothly from her tongue. Lyrical and beautiful. It was times like these that Link wished he'd studied other languages, if only to know exactly what she was saying.
Her final words crescendoed and were echoed by the rest of her court. No matter that he didn't understand, Link felt uplifted, his spirit inflamed by the motivation of her speech. If this were in preparation for battle, he'd no doubt they'd win on boosted morale alone.
With a final wave of her hand the music started again. This time an orchestra replaced the quartet and room was made for the dance floor.
The priest and priestess were appointed the task of removing Zelda's crown and mantle, the latter of which they carried carefully among six of them. All were born from the throne room by a passage in the back, escorted by no less than a dozen guards, to be returned to the vaults.
Zelda smoothed down her hair and sat upon her throne. At once a golden chalice of wine was offered to her and she reclined, sipping daintily while overseeing her court.
Link longed to go to her, but wasn't quite sure if he was permitted. He barely understood the ceremony involved in a simple soiree. He didn't want to accidentally commit a faux pas and cause more stress for Zelda.
"Ah, the man of the hour himself!"
Legault was upon him then, accompanied by the rest of his troop of stalwarts. Surprisingly, Link had to admit he was dressed with refined taste. Not overly garish, but still elegant and richly fashioned. His mask was held on a rod and was the brass image of a lynel.
Others among them were two ordinary hylian shaped masks, a wolfos, two hawks, and a dynalfos. Or was it an aeralfos?
"What is this Legault has been telling us? What have you there, Link?" asked Helena, looking him over.
"It must be exciting!" exclaimed Priscilla, bouncing on her feet.
"Oh yes, do tell us," inserted Adam. "What is this news?"
"Come come now, enough with the suspense."
He felt bombarded on all sides and was hardly able to get a word in. He'd thought that Legault would have been eager to spread the gossip himself. Evidently he wanted Link to bear that horrendous task.
"Shad and I are going to slip off to get some refreshments, yeah," said Ashei, and Link felt suddenly betrayed by her retreat. "We'll see about bringing something back to you." She left with a smirk, and vanished in the crows.
Coward and traitor. That's what she was. He'd see about ordering her demoted. Comrades in arms? Really!
With a heavy labored sigh, Link stuck out his right hand and spread his fingers. All eyes instantly alighted on the silver band, the only thing there of note, their eyes widening as they gleaned the emblem of the royal house.
"Great Goddesses!"
"That…is unexpected." Helena looked up from the ring and gave a nod of approval. "Good show, Link."
"It can't be real," said Richard, his jaw dropped. "I mean, her majesty has never given anyone a ring before."
Link snatched his hand back, full of affront. "Excuse me! Are you accusing me of creating a fake?!"
"It's too intricate to be a forgery," Priscilla appraised and lowered her mask. "I believe congratulations will soon be in order. Give us some warning when the time comes, won't you Link? I think I suffered a minor stroke just now." She winked at him.
"Didn't I tell you?" Legault declared importantly. "I knew it was only a matter of time. He just needed to correct guidance and a little forceful prod here and there. And now our boy is courting the queen!"
"What's that you say?" A nearby lord had overheard Legault's loud proclamation and eased himself in their circle. "Did you mention that the queen is now being courted?"
"Yes, who is this blighter you all are talking about?" another lord demanded, lowering his mask.
The ladies who accompanied the two lords chattered among themselves. "But her majesty never gives out her rings."
"Yes, where's the proof?"
Link experienced that same vindictiveness he'd felt the day before during his run in with Geraude. With secret delight, he stepped up, ready to lay it to the court.
"Right here, my lady," his voice was filled with sprightly glee as he bared his hand and savored their incredulous reactions. Oh how delicious! "It was entirely unexpected." He feigned a bashful demeanor. Rubbing the back of his neck and averting his gaze in false modesty. "She sprung it on me from out of the blue, and well, I couldn't say no. After all, I do love her."
One of the men staggered back at the sight and had to be braced by one of his companions.
"Yes, my good chum Geraude reacted in a similar fashion," Link went on, nodding his head pityingly. "Do you suppose that's why he's sulking in the corner over there? Still reeling from the shock, I wager."
He heard Helena's voice utter from behind him. "Goodness, what manner of beast have you created, Legault?"
Legault shrugged, still basking in the pride of his self-affirmed accomplishment. "He's the sort that creates himself."
From then on Link proceeded to flaunt the ring to all and sundry. Word of mouth spread, and soon everyone wanted a glimpse of the ring and the hero who wore it. And Link was all too eager to inform everyone about his new status as suitor to the queen. None would be left to question it. The news was the cause of great commotion. A mingle of excitement and dejected outrage. A good portion of the young males had been hoping to court Zelda themselves, while a number of the women had been striving to catch Link's attention. Many voiced their displeasure aloud or made snide remarks to his face, but most were sporting men and women of good character and congratulated him with equal fervor as Legault and his cohorts.
"Should have known it would take a hero to capture the queen's heart."
"Well done, Sir Link. Or shall we start calling you, your highness?"
"Yes, well, her majesty's always been a romantic. He was simply the lucky one who got to play hero. Chosen by the Goddess indeed."
"I wouldn't be surprised if he used some underhanded means to make her feel obliged to him."
"La, but her majesty certainly knows something good when she sees it."
"You bought her an entire gown, you say? Well, that will certainly do the trick. Don't know why I hadn't thought of it myself."
Link took it all in stride. Finding that for once he didn't mind the attention.
"Yes, quite stunning isn't it?" Link boasted, maybe a tad arrogantly. "I believe I outdid myself there."
By now the orchestra had played four dances and increasingly women approached him for a waltz. Link kindly declined each one, insisting that his first dance was for the queen herself. If he could ever get to her, now that he was being assaulted all fronts by inquisitive nobles. He should have waited a bit before showing off.
Eventually the music ended for the current dance and there was a bustle as everyone readied for the next.
A delicate touch fell on his arm. Link turned around, preparing to decline yet another soon to be disappointed woman, when he suddenly blinked and beamed a wide teeth revealing grin.
"Zelda, my darling!"
Her eyes were the sea at storm, the dawn and the twilight, the entirety of the universe, all in a molten swirling blue.
She smiled back at him, and to all it was the final proof they needed to affirm their courtship.
"Link," she greeted in return and clutched his arm lightly. "I believe I promised you as many dances as you wanted."
His heart flipped and his blood pumped erratically in his ears. He took her hand in a proper escort hold. "Then I shall have them all."
He had become a selfish cad. Yet he cared not one wit. And neither did Zelda, if the hitch in her breath and the sudden fluttering of her lashes was any indication.
It was with confidence that he led her out onto the dance floor and claimed a spot in the very center. Dancing was a sport that had come incredibly easy to him. For certain he'd been nervous and stumbling in the beginning, but as with swordplay the movements and steps gradually came to him until he could successfully perform each dance with ease. He was no expert by any means, but he was far from some of the bumbling fools he'd seen.
The music started and they danced. And then it was just him and Zelda. No one else existed and no one else mattered. She was no longer queen, and he was no longer a knight.
"You mustn't address me in such a manner," she murmured in his ear, regarding the 'my darling' comment. "I'm not used to it."
His grin was unrestrained. "Did I almost make you blush, dearest?"
"Link!" she hissed.
Of course he took it as an invitation to do so more often.
They waltzed around the room staring into the other's eyes. Link didn't see Geraude's glum expression, nor Raleigh's vehement one. He didn't notice Anne clasping her hands to her mouth in unbridled jubilation nor did he notice how Legault hadn't ceased his boasting to the others about the long grueling hours he'd plotted and devised ways to bring Link to his startling realization of his ardour for the queen. Ghosts and shadows may have appeared along the ceiling and pillars, whispering in his ear as they did to Zelda. But if they were about, Link paid them no heed. He acknowledge nothing else but for the woman in his arms and the music which guided their dance.
"I heard there's a fascinating bit of gossip circulating the room tonight," said Zelda. She had a certain proclivity to mischief about her. And Link was nothing but encouraging.
"Really now?" he mused with genuine interest. "You mustn't believe everything you learn from hearsay."
"I rather think this tidbit might hold some truth to it."
His brows rose. "You think so?"
She nodded. "Oh yes. It appears that some daring young man has claimed to be courting the queen."
"Incredible," he said with mock aghast.
"Isn't it?" she went on with their play. "I for one believe it's an empty boast. The queen is too sensible to fall for such a rogue."
His eyes darkened. "You'd think so?" Had it always been fascinating, the way she peered up at him through her lashes in that enticing fashion?
"Indeed," she snarked. "He's even commissioned a master forger to create a courting ring with a replica of the royal emblem."
"Has he now? He must be very dedicated in his boasts to go to such lengths."
There was a lapse in conversation as he spun her. And once they reconnected he held her closer, more intimately. Let the nobility gossip about that.
"And what do you think?" he asked, curious to gauge her reaction.
Zelda made a show of thinking about it. "I'm inclined to disbelieve it. The queen choosing a suitor?" She scoffed. "It's too good to be true."
"Oh?" he asked, enraptured by her hooded eyes, the soft curve of her cheeks. "Why is that?"
"Because it would mean she's finally found someone she cares for deeply and would be happy with for the rest of her life. And not too long ago she had considered that highly improbable."
She gasped cutely as he tugged her closer and leaned in.
"If I knew those ghosts wouldn't interfere, I'd kiss you right here in front of everybody."
Zelda averted her gaze, but from her glowing countenance he could tell she wasn't all opposed to it. "You say such things…"
At the end of the dance they parted from each other. Still holding her hand, Link bowed lowly while Zelda delivered an elegant curtsy.
He was ready to claim her for another dance when immediately they were swarmed by countless men and women demanding their turn. Zelda offered him a hopeless smile, while Link silently simmered. He didn't want to dance with anyone else. Nor did he want to share Zelda with other men.
Before he could protest they were both borne away from the other and readying for the next dance. Link spent the entire waltz sneaking glances at Zelda, languishing over the loss of her. He was irked that they'd been pulled away before they'd finished their conversation. He hadn't told her how beautiful she was, or how he adored the way her hair had been done up, swept to the side and slightly curled at the ends. Her dress was particularly flattering on her, and it even matched her spaulders. She was gorgeous.
At last that song ended and he bowed graciously to his partner, before being taken up by another, and another. Zelda too had been claimed more times than he cared, and was inaccessible to him. With mounting frustration he finally abandoned the dance floor after a particularly unmotivated minuet, and went to loiter in the shadow of one of the massive pillars.
A server came by and he snatched up a goblet of white wine. He spied Ashei and Shad dancing together, the latter fumbling with every other step while Ashei did most of the leading. Lord Raleigh was across the room looking none too happy as he conversed with his cohorts. Link didn't think he'd ever witnessed the man have any fun at all. Legault too was on the dance floor, spinning around a lady he recognized as Eleanor.
His attention flitted to Zelda who was partnered with one of the Zora delegates. He liked the Zora people well enough. He supposed he couldn't be irritated with this one for touching her.
Link supposed that when one actually participated, these balls weren't too bad. He'd attended a celebration in the city square before and it was similar in that there was a lot of dancing and socializing involved, along with food and drink. Although out of everything, he much preferred holidays in Ordon. There'd be a huge feast, with tons of games, puzzles, and competitions. They did dancing too, but it was a folk style and far less rehearsed than dances like the waltz, or the gavotte.
He'd have to take Zelda sometime, if she wanted to join him. She'd enjoy it.
His momentary peace was broken as Richard came stumbling up to him, expression wrought with concern.
"Ah, Link old boy. Have you seen Priscilla anywhere about? I'm afraid she's had a touch too much champagne. She can't hold her alcohol for the life of her."
Link shook his head and fixed his plain white mask as it slipped down his nose. "Not in the last half hour."
Richard sighed, placing his hands on hips. "That girl. She's liable to fall over someday and no one would pay her any mind and she'd soon be forgotten by the rest of us while she wastes away underfoot."
"A dreadful fate," Link responded with sympathetic pity. It was just like a noble to over-dramatize everything.
"Isn't it," Richard said, growing more worried by the second. "She'll be a nightmare come morning. She's never done well with hangovers. Agh, where could she be?"
Link coughed and directed the man's attention further along to the right. "You might want to try looking at where all the refreshments are being brought in."
With that Richard perked up. "Yes, yes, I see her now. There she is! Pardon me, Link. Thanks for the help. No Cilla! That's not juice!"
He ran off and Link returned once again to his spectating.
He frowned as Zelda had again been claimed for yet another dance. The men seemed to be flocking toward her more than usual. It was as if everyone had forgotten that only a few days ago they had been calling her insane behind her back. Now that she had given out a ring, it appeared that this only caused the multitude of men to enhance their efforts in their pursuit of her. Hoping that they still had a chance, despite Link bearing her silver ring. The one that implied she'd already made her choice! The blackguards! Didn't know when to let up.
Annoyed at the sight, Link pivoted on his heel and left through one of the archways to get some fresh air.
Outside the terrace was lit up by an assortment of lanterns. Over in one section a few of the servants were setting up and readying the fireworks. Couples strode hand in hand in the moonlight, while others lingered in small clusters drinking wine and spirits.
Link settled near a fountain and took in the night air. Nearly midnight. He hadn't realized how quickly the time had passed.
"Oh dear, I hope you weren't overwhelmed, Sir Link."
He was a popular one that evening. Well, it was his own fault. He'd made it so.
Lady Anne entered his field of vision and stood near him, looking back at the ongoing party inside the throne room. She removed her bird mask and gave a deep sigh.
"Perhaps a bit," he said in reply.
She smiled. "I'm sure you've been asked this countless times today… But may I see it?"
Ah, the ring again. He stretched out his arm and Anne nodded silently.
"Oh good. That's definitely it. Not that I had any doubts. I always knew she liked you."
His heart fluttered in response. Had she talked about him to her friends? Had she asked them for advice the same way he sought out Legault? His entire being was thrumming with pleasure at the thought.
"Where's your other friend?" he asked.
Anne looked stricken and gave a mournful sigh. "Sybil? Away, at the moment. Her uncle's getting worse. It may not be long until he passes and she wants to be there for him. But I suppose then she'll inherit his lands and title and she'll have a secure position in the court. He has no children, you know. Everything will go to her." She huffed. "Unlike me. Both my parents are healthy as ever, and even then I have two older siblings who inherit first."
"That's good, I suppose," he replied, uncertain. "That your parents are doing well."
Because really what sort of person looked forward to their inheritance if loved ones had to die for it? Lord Sebastien was such an example. He owned a horde of wealth but it had taken the death of all his brothers to acquire it.
"Yes, I suppose so," she muttered then eyed him up. "I hope you know that you've made Zelda very happy since you've come back. She had been quiet for a while. Withdrawn. I was really starting to worry about her."
"It's because I keep her sharp," he flashed her a wicked smirk. "She doesn't know what to expect with me around."
Anne laughed. "I daresay no one knows what to expect when it comes to you. That dress for instance. I hardly believed it when Zelda said it had been your courting present for her. I fear every woman of title will be setting their standards higher because of you. I know I'd be disappointed if I didn't receive such a gift of equal extravagance."
"Have you handed out any rings of your own?" he questioned curiously.
Anne smiled with delight. "Just two. You know, I believe it's quite unfair for the women. Having to decide between however many men of comparable desirability." She looked heavenward. "The men might complain about the competition, but they don't realize the agony of being the one to choose."
Thankfully he'd had no competition whatsoever. "I guess I lucked out."
Her gaze snapped toward him. "I daresay you have. If I ever hear you moaning and whining in the future I'll electrocute you within an inch of your life."
He cocked his head. "You're a sorceress?"
She smirked and flourished a hand, tiny sparks of blue electricity springing at her fingertips. "Only one of the best. Fine, I lie. Many a professor at the academy have declared me decent." The sparks died down and she replaced her mask over her face, fastening it in a bow at the back. "I'll be off to extricate Zelda for you. I imagine you'll want to watch the fireworks together. Ah, so romantic. Farewell, Link."
He watched as she went back inside, shaking his head at her buoyant personality. Sybil he wasn't so sure. But he liked Anne. He didn't even mind that she rambled sometimes.
From so high up he could peer over the outer battlements and discern the flickering lights of the town square celebration. He would have loved to drop by and visit Telma's, she would be serving some of her seasonal ales right now, but that would have to wait for the next feast day.
"There you are, Link," came the pristine voice of Zelda as she drew near. He couldn't help a smile from spreading across his face at the sight of her. "I hope you don't think I'm neglecting you."
He hummed an indistinct note. "You did say I could have as many dances as I wanted." This was intoned with a feigned inflection of sourness.
Her ringing laugh filled the air like dulcet musical notes. "That I did. But it's your prerogative to claim them."
Really, how could he when they snatched her up at a moment's notice. It wasn't a bad thing for her to be dancing with other men, but when he saw those men cozying up to her and flirting outrageously not according to 'the game', that was where he took issue.
More nobles were wandering outside or hovering beneath the arches as the hour tolled closer to midnight. The workers lit their torches preparing to ignite the fireworks.
Link wrapped his arms around Zelda when she leaned into him, resting her head against his shoulder to close her eyes for a moment. How heartless of him. He'd been so worked up at being left alone that he hadn't considered how she was doing.
He nuzzled his face into her hair, whispering, "How many ghosts have you seen?"
She shifted against him, looking up at the sky. "A few. Not the child."
"Are you alright?"
Zelda closed her eyes and made a hum.
The superintendent gave the signal and the wicks were lit. Then with a loud crackling sound the first of the fireworks zoomed upward and rent the air. Link and Zelda watched the spectacle in silence. The fireworks created all sorts of flowery shapes that hung in the air for long seconds before disintegrating. Most of them were magically imbued and spiraled or flew around in great massive shapes. One set of fireworks flitted throughout the terrace and within the throne room as small pestering fairies before they fell apart, much to the delight of the nobles.
This would go on for a good while yet. Many of nobles exclaimed in excitement at each new variation of lights and explosions. Most of them were quite used to the displays and so returned inside to continue on dancing.
Link was eager to join them. "May I claim one of those dances now?"
And Zelda bounced with excitement. "Yes, of course. Please."
He guided her by the arm and they ventured inside. As they were flowing through the masses of courtiers, all whom wisely split apart for them as they entered, Link leaned down to whisper to her.
"You look beautiful. Positively radiant."
A hand flew to her mouth in an attempt to tamp down her discomfiture. She didn't speak until they were once more out on the floor and in close intimate proximity.
"You mustn't say that. I'm still not used to it."
"That is a blatant lie," retorted Link, amused by her uncharacteristic coyness. "Everybody is simply bursting with compliments for you." Her people were full of flattery for their queen and were very liberal about telling her about it.
But she shook her head. "I'm not used to it from you," she whispered back.
That one shocked him a little, and he remained pleasantly flabbergasted for a good portion of the dance. Afterwards he wasn't at all surprised, yet still slightly annoyed, when another young man came to sweep her away.
Link generously stepped aside and allowed the man to begin leading her in another waltz.
The further along the night progressed the more boisterous the party became. The dance floor had extended its margins as nearly everyone participated, leaving poor sods like him to reside on the outer edges without partners. Priscilla it seemed had taken a tonic and was resting on a lounge that had been brought out, overseen by Richard and Adam who were keeping her well away from anymore alcohol. He spotted Helena and Beau in the midst of another dance together. Raucous laughter came from the entrance where a bunch of guests were joking with one another. Clear across the room from him Ashei stood ever alert and scrutinizing everything and everyone, while Shad appeared bored out of his wits.
Link suddenly sensed a raging presence approaching. Ah, he'd been expecting this confrontation. He quickly snatched a flute of champagne from a server's tray and looked over languidly as Lord Raleigh stormed up to him.
"Your hand, Link," he spat through clenched teeth, without so much of a simple 'hello'.
Link wasn't much bothered by his rudeness and was only to happy to oblige.
For the thousandth time that night he offered his hand and Raleigh glared at the galling sight.
It was a trial to suppress a smirk of satisfaction.
"I'll have to have a word with Zelda," Raleigh said at length, after much more glaring had been done. "A mistake. Obviously she acted with haste and will come to regret it."
"I think not," said Link, withdrawing his hand, greatly offended. Who did this bastard think he was? Telling Zelda what to do and how to feel?
The look Raleigh sent him was short of murderous. "Do you think Hyrule would profit with you as her consort? Be reasonable, Link. I understand that Zelda has had somewhat of a, what's the word…. crush on you since you rescued her during the Invasion, so she sees you through some rose tinted lens. But you have to at least understand the unfeasibility of it all."
Link's eyes blazed and he had to consciously loosen his grasp on the stem of his champagne lest he shatter it. "Because I'm a goat wrangler from Ordon?"
"Don't be a fool," Raleigh hissed. "It has nothing to do with that. It never has. It's your abrasive personality and reckless impulsiveness that I can't abide! Someone as foolhardy as you should not be influencing the queen."
Link took a purposeful swallow of his champagne, staring down at the lord.
Twirling his drink by the stem with his forefinger and thumb, he cast an annoyed look at Raleigh. "How insulting. To even consider for a moment that Zelda would allow herself to be influenced by anyone. To speak of her as a young girl with some infatuation instead of the grown woman in full charge of her emotions that she is."
Raleigh pursed his lips and drew himself up. "Now see here-"
"You've been dictating her entire life to her," Link interrupted forcefully. "Coddling her and ordering her what to do, under the pretext of keeping her safe, and protecting her from vermin like me."
The minister was filled with righteous rage as he erupted in silent whispering tones. "There is no pretext! Everything I have ever done for her is in her best interest. And I have no more control over her than you do. She's the queen, if she really wanted me to stand down she would say so!"
Link nodded, although still aggravated. "Good. If I were king we can both rest assured knowing she'd do the same to me."
Raleigh looked lost for a brief instant before scowling upon the realization that he'd been beaten. He calmly folded his hands behind his back, a hard glint entering his eyes.
"Don't be disappointed when you come to regret it someday. You are a simple warrior now. The mantle of kingship is a heavy one to bear, even as just a consort."
"And I shall bear it gladly," said Link without hesitation, and without revealing that the very thought of kingship was overwhelming. He hid his misgivings behind a wry smile. "Now I must run along, it seems like the future wife is beckoning me."
The last look of Raleigh he had was the flaring of his nostrils and the indignation spread over his face, before Link swept across the floor. That had felt immensely satisfying. Almost as good as having at the Crevan hag. He dodged and weaved through the masses, until he at last reached where Zelda had just concluded her dance with her current partner.
Sir Geraude turned to face him. Link felt his ire rising. It was just one unpleasant face after another was it.
Geraude, it seemed was in no mood for talk. He merely brushed his lips against the back of Zelda's gloved hand and left, sparring Link a single derisive look.
"Did you want to dance, Link?" Zelda offered, holding out her hand for him.
He winked at her. "It appears that dancing is all that you've been doing tonight."
"And rejecting one person after another," she pushed back a flyaway strand of hair in exasperation. "It appears now that I've given out a ring, everyone thinks I'll be handing out more. Regardless that yours is the silver."
"Hopeful lovers then?" suggested Link, already guiding her into the next song.
Zelda scrunched up her nose in a frown. "I don't think so. With so many men you can't tell where they've been, what they've done, or who they've slept with."
"That would be the vulgar gist of it." He spun her around, the movement made graceful by her excellent form. Link felt that he was just there providing support. "We should be heading out soon. Do you think you can slip away without anyone noticing?"
She gave him a bland stare. "Link, there's not one second that I'm not being watched by over a dozen pairs of eyes."
"Ah, right." He hadn't really thought of this part and he wracked his brain to come up with a solution.
Zelda rolled her eyes. "I could just leave out the front door," she suggested.
Link beamed at her. "Brilliant. Although I do prefer the sneaking off approach."
He glanced over to where he'd last seen Ashei and Shad. Justin and Hadrian were there too, all looking sharp decked in their uniforms, blades sheathed at the hip. Link was acutely aware of his own dagger. He would have preferred his baldric and Caritas strapped across his back, but felt it might not be taken well in present company and due to the whole party thing going on.
"I'll alert the troops then," he said, hand gliding along her waist, feeling the soft texture of her gown. It really did look stunning on her. Perhaps he could advise the rest of the aristocracy on what constituted as good fashion.
Her eyes shone as she leaned in. "Within the hour."
Heart thumping, he delivered a curt nod. "Within the hour."
And then their adventure would start. This was no longer just him and Midna, or him and Ashei. This was Link and Zelda, and reluctant co. It was fearful and exciting all at once. And maybe after it was over and done with… Maybe after he could show her the land she had been missing. The secret caverns he'd discovered, and the magnificence of the forest. They didn't need to return to the castle right away. They'd be able to take their time. And ditch the others while they were at it.
The music heightened in a crescendo. Laughter surrounded them as they spun and twirled, and then the song drawled to a smooth end and all assembled bowed.
A few strands of Zelda's hair had come undone over the course of their dancing. Link unthinkingly reached over to set them right. He trailed his fingertips along the contours of her cute heart-shaped face, her eyes glistening in the flickering light.
The lights flickered again. Then in one sweep of frigid gales, they all went out.
Cries were heard throughout the room, everyone bustling in confusion. Link acted immediately and gathered Zelda to him. He led her further into the room in the direction of the throne, and where the servant's entrance lay hidden behind it.
"Assassins?" Zelda asked loudly over the din of everyone talking.
"I don't think so," he replied. He should have known it was all too good to be true. Things had been going swimmingly, it had been about time disaster struck.
A huge gust of wind rushed through the room. Link was nearly knocked out by the stench that had accompanied it. It was the smell of rot, and it filled his nose causing him to reflexively gag. Zelda held onto him as he swiftly regained his bearings. He grabbed her by the wrist and shot his other arm over his nose to stem the stench.
He pushed and shoved past the nobles in his way. He could see better in the dark than most, but he was still grateful for the scant moonlight that guided him. They were all standing around uselessly, holding kerchiefs to their noses and complaining loudly.
"Oh for goodness sakes," shouted a lady's voice above all the others. "Keep your heads on."
There was a pulse of magic and the candles flamed to life. Reigniting the chamber it a sudden flash that left Link blinking for a moment.
He looked up and saw the first flight of steps to the throne. Link hurried them along to the passage, but then there was resistance and Link was pulled to a halt.
"Zelda," he said with urgency.
But she wasn't paying him any heed. She was staring across the room, over the heads of the crowd, eyes slowly widening, her face rapidly paling.
There was a loud wail of fear. Soon the screams were echoed around the room. Those who were not crying out were frozen with horror. Until everyone in the room saw the thing, the terror, standing in the shadow of the threshold. Link himself, who had seem many a redead and ghostly figure in his life, couldn't quite grasp the creature that had appeared there.
Seven feet tall, decayed flesh hanging about its form, the ivory bones of its hand gripping a rusted poleaxe and trailing it screeching on the floor, was a phantom corpse.