The sun disappeared beyond the evening sky, and Zelda found herself sitting
on a very uncomfortable wooden chair at Link's bedside. The princess was
patiently reading a book on the History of Hyrule, while her beloved lay
still in the middle of the bed, unmoving.
Carefully she flipped though her book, reading silently the scrolled black inked writing on its yellowing pages. A lone candle burned on the nightstand next to the bed, giving her enough light to see. The large windows on the opposite side of the room let in the dimming golden light cascading from the setting sun, as the sky turned a dark blue color while owls hooted faintly in the distance.
Though Link's sudden unconscious spell trifled her, she managed to get him back to the castle and under the careful care of the castle doctors and nursemaids. It was not an easy task either, as her pounding heart and anxious fear nearly cost her more than she would ever wish to know. Fortunately Link snapped out of unconsciousness before it could prove fatal, however he was now within a deep sleep and not once woke since he fell from Epona in Hyrule Field.
Zelda brushed away a few of her blonde locks that fell as she examined her book closer, her dim blue eyes running wearily over the words. It would appear to anyone passing by that she was absorbed in her book, but for Zelda it was quite the contrary. Although she was looking at the pages and the words, she didn't focus enough to actually understand and know to her full extent what she was reading. The princess's mind was elsewhere, on none other than Link, and she merely grabbed a book in order to attempt to occupy her grim thoughts and feelings.
Her eyes looked up from her failed distraction of literature, and instantly fell upon the soundly sleeping figure in the bed before her. Zelda felt her thoughts completely drift as she gazed with faint warmth at Link, lying so softly and calmly asleep. The hero of time's eyes were gently closed, and though the plush covers were pulled far up his body, she could see his chest move up in down in sound breathing. As long as he breathed and was well, that was all that mattered to her.
The room was dark and quiet, and the nursemaids and doctors were due to return within an hour to check on Link's condition. As far as it was known, he was stable and would recover within a day or two. Zelda was unsure if that was ultimately correct, since seeing Link collapse so suddenly frightened her beyond imagination. What else could occur, even if he recovered and showed no signs of further illness? She felt he throat tighten at the thought, and swallowed hard to not become so pessimistic.
Minutes passed, and Zelda watched him lie there almost non-blinkingly, and felt almost at peace that he was safe and alive. Her feelings did not last long, and when she was about to resume staring at her book once more, she noticed Link's head shift restlessly. In surprise she abruptly closed her book and watched tensely as Link began to stir in his sleep, his brow furrowing and face expressing unspeakable anguish and torment. She could hear his voice fill the air, his words held back while his lips moved in mumbling something she could barely hear nor comprehend. Dreading it was something serious; Zelda rose from her chair and was quickly leaning over his bed, looking at him worriedly with her shining blue eyes. Link continued to toss and turn, mumbling words that were too inarticulate to understand, and the longer he continued Zelda's surprise and distain grew. Moments passed, and finally Link said something she could understand, though it was not what she was expecting to hear.
"...Zelda..."
Cautiously she waited, he eyes wide and still until Link once again spoke her name, as if calling her in desperate need.
"...Zelda...don't leave me...please..."
Zelda moved slightly closer to him, trying to calm his restlessness, and shocked by how sudden it occurred. What was its cause? Why was he calling her name? She was unsure how to handle the situation, but had to try. In her soft tranquil voice, she said to him gently.
"Link I am here, you must rest. I will not leave you. I will remain with you...always..."
Despite her calm soothing voice, he continued to turn his head from side to side, and each time it seemed he was becoming all the more uneasy and troubled in his sleep. Finally Zelda could think of no other alternative to let him know she was present in the room in the only way possible. Gently she reached out to him and laid a hand on his forehead, brushing away his golden bangs softly with her fingers. By merely touching him, she could feel his perspiration dampen her palm, though he felt very cool.
Did he have a fever? Zelda's lips pursed briefly in wonderment, but he didn't seem to have any other direct symptoms of a fever, and if he did have one the doctors would have discovered it when they checked on him. Reassuringly she stroked his forehead and lifted the covers slightly before taking hold of one of his hands in hers, and clasping it tenderly. Although trying to get though to him she was with him and had been since he became unconscious, he spoke her name blindly once more and shifted restlessly.
"...I...need to know you are here...Zelda..."
Zelda guessed that subconsciously Link was speaking, but he didn't actually know what he was saying or that he was saying anything at all. The princess held his hand tightly, her eyes locking onto his face and never straying. Link continued to turn his head uneasily, and she feared if he continued he would become too weak to recover. Anxiously she wondered whether or not to call the doctors, but for some reason she knew there was another way to express she was there – but it would test her courage and desire.
There was no other option now, and even if it made her uncomfortable and regretful she would do it if it could help him relax. Slowly the princess lowered her face to his, and though she hesitated for but a moment, to see him so desperate for her and in such turmoil fueled her final decision. Delicately she pressed her lips to his, feeling the warmth of his lips brushing against hers. In one kiss, she sealed away all his fears, his frustrations, the tears he felt inside...as well as her own. No matter how many times he denied his thoughts of her, thoughts that hinted the love he had for her before his memory loss, he needed her and thirsted for her presence and touch. Whether he knew it or not did not matter to her, as long as he still felt something for her deep inside.
The gesture lasted too short to almost be real, and Zelda slowly pulled away and distanced herself from him slightly. Link immediately stopped moving and breathed deeply, relaxing fully into a peaceful slumber. Exhausted, she fell back into her chair and took in shaky breaths, almost asking herself why she did such a thing. In truth she did not know the full answer, because if Link was aware of her actions he could hold it against her when he awoke. If he wanted her to not kiss him, he could have refused her touch in some sort of way.
Perhaps...he was beginning to remember a few things about her? Did she waken some distant memories he had hidden inside but did not believe in? The princess tried to keep her eyes open, to stay awake and ponder those thoughts, but eventually her lids became heavy with sleep and she leaned back in her chair. Resting her hands on her lap, her head slid to the crook of her shoulder. Zelda's breathing became slow and steady, and before long she drifted into a dreamless sleep.
It was dawn, and the sunlight streamed through the windows in the room. Zelda remained seated in the chair all night at Link's side, sleeping soundly. The princess felt chills during the night from the cold castle, but she did not get up to go to bed. As she slept soundly, a soft rustling filled the air until she felt something slowly and gently being placed over her. Zelda was too exhausted to open her eyes or stir, but the rustling soon died off into faint footsteps that disappeared down the hall.
By the time she opened her eyes, the sunlight was brighter and shone warmly on her pale form. Zelda looked out the window and saw the bright blue sky for the first time in days, and heard the birds twittering merrily as they flew in the air in small flocks. When she looked upon Link's bed, the covers had been disturbed and he was gone. In surprise she bolted upright, only to find someone had placed a blanket around her while she slept. Carefully she pulled the blanket off of her and got up, knowing exactly who was responsible for it.
Zelda wandered through the castle corridors, searching for Link but finding no sight of him until she arrived in the breakfast room where he was sitting at the far end of the table. A crackling fire blazed in a large fireplace at the Link's side of the room, giving the room a warm glow. The hero of time looked as if nothing had happened to him, and he was calmly picking at the food on his plate. Zelda stood aghast in the doorway, watching him with wide eyes until it became apparent her presence was noticed. Link looked up as though expecting her, his observant gaze sweeping over her form as she stood watching him with equal interest.
"Good morning my lady."
He said simply, remaining still as though waiting for an answer. Zelda dare not move from her position in the doorway, and felt a rush of irritation and distain fill her. Not only had he completely disregarded all she did for him in the most arrogant way possible, but he also addressed her once more in the same formal icy tone. She felt her lips tighten shut and her eyes turn to steel as she looked at him coldly, until the words forced from her mouth.
"You should be resting. I'm afraid if you had not been brought back here, you would have died. It is vital that you give yourself time to recover-"
"I am well, thank you."
He interrupted smoothly, as a small smirk crossed his lips. Zelda had to try her best not to let her anger show on her face, and even though it did not it was evident by Link's casual demeanor he had noticed and was ignoring it. Without speaking to her further, he resumed fiddling with his breakfast and took a sip of red wine from the glass next to his plate. To see him so distant and cold made Zelda's mouth twitch downward in hinted rage, but as custom for a princess she kept her fiery temper reserved – for the moment.
Not wanting him to get the better of the situation, she left her area in the doorway and sat down in the chair opposite of his at the table. Before Link lost his memories, he had angered her a few times because he was known for being quite cold and somewhat rude, and she had grown to accept it. Why now did she feel so offended by what came naturally to him? During all the times he upset her, which was rarely, she always stood her ground and never let him walk all over her.
Zelda could not help but continue to eye Link from where she sat, until a maid appeared from the door at the back and placed her steaming hot breakfast in front of her, as well as a vase of red roses near the middle of the table. Zelda quickly sat back before placing a napkin daintily on her lap, her wary eyes continuing to look at Link resentfully.
The fragrance emanating from the roses filled the room, and with a single swipe of his hand Link grabbed a single rose and twiddled it in his fingers, still not bothering to say anything further to her. The thorns of the rose poked at his hand, but his cold actions gave little evidence he was bothered by it in the least. When the icy tension in the room began to reach its limit, Link finally looked at her once more and said with a resumed smirk.
"I felt that kiss you gave me last night, and I must admit it was rather...uplifting to say the least. I was hoping to experience more than a mere kiss, but you fell asleep."
The second his words filled her ears, she felt her face turn a shade of crimson. Link's eyes locked onto her like a hawk, and he appeared to be holding back a chuckle as she shifted in embarrassment and returned the remark spitefully.
"So you knew what was happening all along, and you never bothered to say anything! I was worried about you; I thought you were going to die! You are so inconsiderate it makes me ill!"
Abruptly she slammed her hands down on the surface of the table, before pushing her chair back and rising in bitter rage. Link did not flinch in the least from her actions, though his eyes turned stern when he spoke quietly.
"Calm down. I did not exactly use the appropriate tone for addressing you about that, and I apologize. If you would be so kind as to listen to me before exploding in rage, I will explain a few things."
Zelda clamped her jaw firmly shut and stared at him as if he had no excuse, but instead of stomping off she pulled her chair back toward the table and fell into it in exasperation. In her mind she wondered why she was showing him such patience, but she knew to remember he had gone through far worse than her. Patiently she listened as Link spoke articulately, his cold calm voice filling the length of the room while he set his plate aside and leaned forward slightly in his chair.
"I know I frightened you greatly when I fell from Epona, and although I remember very few of the thoughts that ran though my mind, I can recall some...memories as you would call them. When we entered Hyrule Field, a powerful feeling overwhelmed me that I could not ignore. I remember...riding Epona...until I felt a burst of nothing other than pain and then blackness, as if falling into a deep abyss."
The princess contemplated his words silently within her mind, surprised to find he uncovered so much in such a short amount of time. Her spite over his previous comment still ran strong however, which caused her to remark harshly.
"That still does not explain enticing me to kiss you. Last night you kept calling my name and even when I touched you to let you know of my presence, you still thought I was absent..."
Link raised an eyebrow, showing obvious surprise by what she said, especially when he responded curiously.
"I called your name? I do not recall doing that...the only thing I remember since I fell unconscious was the warm feeling that entered the blackness of my mind when I felt your lips touch mine. It is difficult for me to explain, but that feeling is so strong and unmistakable that it is as if I have felt it before. That is impossible though, you are a princess and I...I don't know who I am anymore."
He took in a deep breath and sighed softly, his expression uncertain. Zelda felt her cheek color fade in relief to know he wasn't exactly fully aware of everything that happened, and the anger was replaced by a feeling of hope. Link remembered her kiss, the way she showed her affection for him. If there was nothing else, to her that was one of the most important things. She felt mournful he continued to deny his past, or what he remembered of it, and she knew she could wait no longer to tell him once and for all.
"Link...there is something you must know. I wanted to tell you earlier, but circumstances changed my plans. I cannot afford to continue holding back from you what you are rightfully entitled to know. Before...you experienced your memory loss...you and I...well...we were lovers."
Her words caused his eyes to widen, and she saw him swallow hard and clench his hands into shocked fists. Immediately his eyes strayed from her when he turned his head away, his golden bangs falling in front of his face so she could not see the tears welling up in his eyes. Zelda left her chair and went to him swiftly, before setting her hands on his back in comfort only to feel him shrink away from her touch.
Link staggered from his chair and stood a distance away from her, looking around the room in frenzied confusion. No matter how much Zelda wished to go to him, he appeared too lost even for her affection. Finally Link gained his composure, holding the tears fully back so she wouldn't notice, and said in a semi choked voice while trying to keep his strong icy image that was beginning to crack.
"I have lost everything in my life! I don't remember you, and I want with all my soul to know who you were before this happened! I don't even understand who I am anymore, or what I am supposed to do with my life now. I do not remember what it feels like to be loved, to feel love...or how to give love. I knew there was something about you I did not understand except in my subconscious, and as much as I did not want it to be real it is..."
He looked as if he was about to break fully, and it was obvious he was fighting with all his strength inside to maintain complete rational thoughts. In desperation to help him, Zelda cried out in distain.
"Link! Its not too late, we can start over, I can help you remember me! I can't if you won't tell me what is going though your mind because it makes it impossible for me to piece together the shards of your memories. Memories are just that though - things that have already happened. There is still so much that we have not experienced together, and if you could see nothing is beyond our reach we can work toward the future!"
The hero of time shook his head, before folding his arms across his chest. Link's eyes returned to hers once more, his breathing deep and rapid with shock though his voice was calm and icy when he spoke. It was clear the rejection in his mind was consuming him to no end.
"Zelda...I may have loved you before...but I do not think I can love you again. I don't know you; I barely even remember your name. My mind is blank about anything we may have done together, about anything other than that kiss. I can't...feel love for you."
The words he spoke sent Zelda's world crashing down on her, like a fragile crystal dropped on a hard floor and shattering into a thousand glittering pieces. Only it was not merely a crystal breaking, but her heart. Everything inside her let go, her spirit broken finally while the color she had left in her cheeks drained away. Her mind whirled and the room seemed tom spin, until she lost the firm support in her legs and collapsed to her knees on the carpet, her hands held out to break her fall.
The princess's golden locks fell in front of her face, and she could no longer contain the feelings of loss and abandonment within her. Tears rolled down her fair cheeks as she took in shaky tearful gasps, her composure lost within her sadness. The light from the sun shining through the room's large windows illuminated her form in its blinding light.
Slowly her eyes glanced upward and fell upon Link once more, who was looking down on her with a sparkle of guilt reflecting in his deep blue eyes. Seemingly unable to handle her any longer, he turned swiftly and dropped the rose on the carpet in front of her without really realizing it, before moving to leave the room. His thick brown boots made muffled thumping noises on the extravagant carpet, which slowly died off into silence.
Zelda remained there on her knees for some time, her eyes wandering to the rose in front of her. Hesitantly she picked it up off the floor and held it in her hands, feeling its thorns pierce into her skin and causing small spots of blood to flow. She did not care anymore; she felt nothing now – except pain, frustration and sorrow. Her thoughts drifted back to how many loving moments she spent with Link, to remember him holding her hand in his and kissing her neck and holding her close...
Then, in sheer grief, she tossed the rose into the fire. The flames rapidly engulfed the flower, its petals wilting and becoming charred until the entire flower was turned into nothing but a black powdery dust that was barely recognizable.
Her heart no longer burned like fire, it had been put out. There was no warmth in her feelings toward him, only a desolate emptiness. Zelda would always love him, but she was not sure how long she would last since he did not love her in return...
Author's Note: Well this is my latest chapter I hope you enjoyed it. Zelda finally told Link about their relationship Yay! Too bad Link's reaction didn't go better...will Link love Zelda again? Telling by how things are know, the odds may be unlikely but wait for the next chapter and you'll see what will happen...
If you review this story, you will always be thanked for showing the courtesy! New reviewers welcome, as well as those who have reviewed thus far!
Special Thanks:
Fanged Wolf: Used to being thrown off things? Well I don't exactly know what you mean by that, if you are hinting how many times he got knocked around in LoZ OoT but thanks for reviewing! Berlin'sBrownEyes: Well I hope you liked the fluffy stuff at the beginning of the chapter, but the end well...yeah hehe...no romance is perfectly stable though. If everything was fluffy, there would be no story and I like lots of tension! Well it sucks when you don't get a lot of reviews on your stories, because you work hard and when you see other stories get a lot of reviews and they are much simpler and shorter its discouraging. There are many other Zelda stories that have not gone well, and I think that people should try to branch off beyond the romance genre...but if its what you like to read then there's nothing to be done about it.
Lemons4sale: Thanks a lot! Glad to see you think its mysterious, and I hope to keep it that way, as well as add some in depth stuff between Link and Zelda!
Aslan-chic: Kill off Link? Ahh! Nooooo! I could never do that! That would just be mean! (cries) Link is way too good looking and cool to kill off, and there would be no more storyline, and that wouldn't be good. I'm glad the suspense I've added has really made this story enjoyable for you, and I hope you enjoy this next added suspense thing...yeah...lol
LainieG304: Yay! Sorry about the cliffhanger, but if I kept writing and writing not only would it take forever to update, but the chapters would be IMMENSELY long lol. I really sincerely hope you like this chapter, because it was hard to write, especially the second half between Link and Zelda. I wasn't sure how Link could really react to that, whether or not he should make a huge deal out of it and how much he should get upset. I don't want my story to turn into some corny soap opera...but it is under drama...so...? Hehe
Pen-gurl: Stroke of pure genius? Whoa! That's awesome! Gad you think so; I try to make my ideas different – no more predictable romance! Conformity is bad in my opinion, and the more unique the better (as long as it is in moderation) Thanks for reviewing!
Silver Sword: Well I hope this update is fast enough, and don't worry there is definitely more stuff coming as soon as I write it. Normally I try to get one chapter out every week or so, so keep checking for updates! If you're a member of this site, you can add me to author alert if you want to be notified right away when I add a new chapter.
Jewel of the Wolves: Well now you know Link's reaction, and it isn't exactly positive either...can't blame him really, considering the stuff he's been though. I feel sorry for Zelda too, but don't worry I think things could get better...maybe. Wouldn't want her to turn into a cry baby, but since she feels so strongly for Link its understandable. Wonderful that you enjoy my story enough to become a regular reviewer, and I really appreciate that!
Midnight Starfire: lol ok here's the update! What do you think? Is there anything I should improve on? Hehe I have no experience writing a pure romance genre, and I'm so overly concerned about turning it into a stupid mellow drama...even if it is under the drama category also. If you have any suggestions for future chapters too, I would really like to hear them because you have lots of great ideas! I really hope you like the rose symbolism thing I used here, especially if you reflect on previous chapters because the rose symbolizes a lot in this story, and I will go more into that in the next chapter or so.
Ayachan21: lol thanks for the review! Glad you think my fic is great, and that word is good enough for me. Nice to see you've returned for another review, I was beginning to wonder when you'd come back!
Carefully she flipped though her book, reading silently the scrolled black inked writing on its yellowing pages. A lone candle burned on the nightstand next to the bed, giving her enough light to see. The large windows on the opposite side of the room let in the dimming golden light cascading from the setting sun, as the sky turned a dark blue color while owls hooted faintly in the distance.
Though Link's sudden unconscious spell trifled her, she managed to get him back to the castle and under the careful care of the castle doctors and nursemaids. It was not an easy task either, as her pounding heart and anxious fear nearly cost her more than she would ever wish to know. Fortunately Link snapped out of unconsciousness before it could prove fatal, however he was now within a deep sleep and not once woke since he fell from Epona in Hyrule Field.
Zelda brushed away a few of her blonde locks that fell as she examined her book closer, her dim blue eyes running wearily over the words. It would appear to anyone passing by that she was absorbed in her book, but for Zelda it was quite the contrary. Although she was looking at the pages and the words, she didn't focus enough to actually understand and know to her full extent what she was reading. The princess's mind was elsewhere, on none other than Link, and she merely grabbed a book in order to attempt to occupy her grim thoughts and feelings.
Her eyes looked up from her failed distraction of literature, and instantly fell upon the soundly sleeping figure in the bed before her. Zelda felt her thoughts completely drift as she gazed with faint warmth at Link, lying so softly and calmly asleep. The hero of time's eyes were gently closed, and though the plush covers were pulled far up his body, she could see his chest move up in down in sound breathing. As long as he breathed and was well, that was all that mattered to her.
The room was dark and quiet, and the nursemaids and doctors were due to return within an hour to check on Link's condition. As far as it was known, he was stable and would recover within a day or two. Zelda was unsure if that was ultimately correct, since seeing Link collapse so suddenly frightened her beyond imagination. What else could occur, even if he recovered and showed no signs of further illness? She felt he throat tighten at the thought, and swallowed hard to not become so pessimistic.
Minutes passed, and Zelda watched him lie there almost non-blinkingly, and felt almost at peace that he was safe and alive. Her feelings did not last long, and when she was about to resume staring at her book once more, she noticed Link's head shift restlessly. In surprise she abruptly closed her book and watched tensely as Link began to stir in his sleep, his brow furrowing and face expressing unspeakable anguish and torment. She could hear his voice fill the air, his words held back while his lips moved in mumbling something she could barely hear nor comprehend. Dreading it was something serious; Zelda rose from her chair and was quickly leaning over his bed, looking at him worriedly with her shining blue eyes. Link continued to toss and turn, mumbling words that were too inarticulate to understand, and the longer he continued Zelda's surprise and distain grew. Moments passed, and finally Link said something she could understand, though it was not what she was expecting to hear.
"...Zelda..."
Cautiously she waited, he eyes wide and still until Link once again spoke her name, as if calling her in desperate need.
"...Zelda...don't leave me...please..."
Zelda moved slightly closer to him, trying to calm his restlessness, and shocked by how sudden it occurred. What was its cause? Why was he calling her name? She was unsure how to handle the situation, but had to try. In her soft tranquil voice, she said to him gently.
"Link I am here, you must rest. I will not leave you. I will remain with you...always..."
Despite her calm soothing voice, he continued to turn his head from side to side, and each time it seemed he was becoming all the more uneasy and troubled in his sleep. Finally Zelda could think of no other alternative to let him know she was present in the room in the only way possible. Gently she reached out to him and laid a hand on his forehead, brushing away his golden bangs softly with her fingers. By merely touching him, she could feel his perspiration dampen her palm, though he felt very cool.
Did he have a fever? Zelda's lips pursed briefly in wonderment, but he didn't seem to have any other direct symptoms of a fever, and if he did have one the doctors would have discovered it when they checked on him. Reassuringly she stroked his forehead and lifted the covers slightly before taking hold of one of his hands in hers, and clasping it tenderly. Although trying to get though to him she was with him and had been since he became unconscious, he spoke her name blindly once more and shifted restlessly.
"...I...need to know you are here...Zelda..."
Zelda guessed that subconsciously Link was speaking, but he didn't actually know what he was saying or that he was saying anything at all. The princess held his hand tightly, her eyes locking onto his face and never straying. Link continued to turn his head uneasily, and she feared if he continued he would become too weak to recover. Anxiously she wondered whether or not to call the doctors, but for some reason she knew there was another way to express she was there – but it would test her courage and desire.
There was no other option now, and even if it made her uncomfortable and regretful she would do it if it could help him relax. Slowly the princess lowered her face to his, and though she hesitated for but a moment, to see him so desperate for her and in such turmoil fueled her final decision. Delicately she pressed her lips to his, feeling the warmth of his lips brushing against hers. In one kiss, she sealed away all his fears, his frustrations, the tears he felt inside...as well as her own. No matter how many times he denied his thoughts of her, thoughts that hinted the love he had for her before his memory loss, he needed her and thirsted for her presence and touch. Whether he knew it or not did not matter to her, as long as he still felt something for her deep inside.
The gesture lasted too short to almost be real, and Zelda slowly pulled away and distanced herself from him slightly. Link immediately stopped moving and breathed deeply, relaxing fully into a peaceful slumber. Exhausted, she fell back into her chair and took in shaky breaths, almost asking herself why she did such a thing. In truth she did not know the full answer, because if Link was aware of her actions he could hold it against her when he awoke. If he wanted her to not kiss him, he could have refused her touch in some sort of way.
Perhaps...he was beginning to remember a few things about her? Did she waken some distant memories he had hidden inside but did not believe in? The princess tried to keep her eyes open, to stay awake and ponder those thoughts, but eventually her lids became heavy with sleep and she leaned back in her chair. Resting her hands on her lap, her head slid to the crook of her shoulder. Zelda's breathing became slow and steady, and before long she drifted into a dreamless sleep.
It was dawn, and the sunlight streamed through the windows in the room. Zelda remained seated in the chair all night at Link's side, sleeping soundly. The princess felt chills during the night from the cold castle, but she did not get up to go to bed. As she slept soundly, a soft rustling filled the air until she felt something slowly and gently being placed over her. Zelda was too exhausted to open her eyes or stir, but the rustling soon died off into faint footsteps that disappeared down the hall.
By the time she opened her eyes, the sunlight was brighter and shone warmly on her pale form. Zelda looked out the window and saw the bright blue sky for the first time in days, and heard the birds twittering merrily as they flew in the air in small flocks. When she looked upon Link's bed, the covers had been disturbed and he was gone. In surprise she bolted upright, only to find someone had placed a blanket around her while she slept. Carefully she pulled the blanket off of her and got up, knowing exactly who was responsible for it.
Zelda wandered through the castle corridors, searching for Link but finding no sight of him until she arrived in the breakfast room where he was sitting at the far end of the table. A crackling fire blazed in a large fireplace at the Link's side of the room, giving the room a warm glow. The hero of time looked as if nothing had happened to him, and he was calmly picking at the food on his plate. Zelda stood aghast in the doorway, watching him with wide eyes until it became apparent her presence was noticed. Link looked up as though expecting her, his observant gaze sweeping over her form as she stood watching him with equal interest.
"Good morning my lady."
He said simply, remaining still as though waiting for an answer. Zelda dare not move from her position in the doorway, and felt a rush of irritation and distain fill her. Not only had he completely disregarded all she did for him in the most arrogant way possible, but he also addressed her once more in the same formal icy tone. She felt her lips tighten shut and her eyes turn to steel as she looked at him coldly, until the words forced from her mouth.
"You should be resting. I'm afraid if you had not been brought back here, you would have died. It is vital that you give yourself time to recover-"
"I am well, thank you."
He interrupted smoothly, as a small smirk crossed his lips. Zelda had to try her best not to let her anger show on her face, and even though it did not it was evident by Link's casual demeanor he had noticed and was ignoring it. Without speaking to her further, he resumed fiddling with his breakfast and took a sip of red wine from the glass next to his plate. To see him so distant and cold made Zelda's mouth twitch downward in hinted rage, but as custom for a princess she kept her fiery temper reserved – for the moment.
Not wanting him to get the better of the situation, she left her area in the doorway and sat down in the chair opposite of his at the table. Before Link lost his memories, he had angered her a few times because he was known for being quite cold and somewhat rude, and she had grown to accept it. Why now did she feel so offended by what came naturally to him? During all the times he upset her, which was rarely, she always stood her ground and never let him walk all over her.
Zelda could not help but continue to eye Link from where she sat, until a maid appeared from the door at the back and placed her steaming hot breakfast in front of her, as well as a vase of red roses near the middle of the table. Zelda quickly sat back before placing a napkin daintily on her lap, her wary eyes continuing to look at Link resentfully.
The fragrance emanating from the roses filled the room, and with a single swipe of his hand Link grabbed a single rose and twiddled it in his fingers, still not bothering to say anything further to her. The thorns of the rose poked at his hand, but his cold actions gave little evidence he was bothered by it in the least. When the icy tension in the room began to reach its limit, Link finally looked at her once more and said with a resumed smirk.
"I felt that kiss you gave me last night, and I must admit it was rather...uplifting to say the least. I was hoping to experience more than a mere kiss, but you fell asleep."
The second his words filled her ears, she felt her face turn a shade of crimson. Link's eyes locked onto her like a hawk, and he appeared to be holding back a chuckle as she shifted in embarrassment and returned the remark spitefully.
"So you knew what was happening all along, and you never bothered to say anything! I was worried about you; I thought you were going to die! You are so inconsiderate it makes me ill!"
Abruptly she slammed her hands down on the surface of the table, before pushing her chair back and rising in bitter rage. Link did not flinch in the least from her actions, though his eyes turned stern when he spoke quietly.
"Calm down. I did not exactly use the appropriate tone for addressing you about that, and I apologize. If you would be so kind as to listen to me before exploding in rage, I will explain a few things."
Zelda clamped her jaw firmly shut and stared at him as if he had no excuse, but instead of stomping off she pulled her chair back toward the table and fell into it in exasperation. In her mind she wondered why she was showing him such patience, but she knew to remember he had gone through far worse than her. Patiently she listened as Link spoke articulately, his cold calm voice filling the length of the room while he set his plate aside and leaned forward slightly in his chair.
"I know I frightened you greatly when I fell from Epona, and although I remember very few of the thoughts that ran though my mind, I can recall some...memories as you would call them. When we entered Hyrule Field, a powerful feeling overwhelmed me that I could not ignore. I remember...riding Epona...until I felt a burst of nothing other than pain and then blackness, as if falling into a deep abyss."
The princess contemplated his words silently within her mind, surprised to find he uncovered so much in such a short amount of time. Her spite over his previous comment still ran strong however, which caused her to remark harshly.
"That still does not explain enticing me to kiss you. Last night you kept calling my name and even when I touched you to let you know of my presence, you still thought I was absent..."
Link raised an eyebrow, showing obvious surprise by what she said, especially when he responded curiously.
"I called your name? I do not recall doing that...the only thing I remember since I fell unconscious was the warm feeling that entered the blackness of my mind when I felt your lips touch mine. It is difficult for me to explain, but that feeling is so strong and unmistakable that it is as if I have felt it before. That is impossible though, you are a princess and I...I don't know who I am anymore."
He took in a deep breath and sighed softly, his expression uncertain. Zelda felt her cheek color fade in relief to know he wasn't exactly fully aware of everything that happened, and the anger was replaced by a feeling of hope. Link remembered her kiss, the way she showed her affection for him. If there was nothing else, to her that was one of the most important things. She felt mournful he continued to deny his past, or what he remembered of it, and she knew she could wait no longer to tell him once and for all.
"Link...there is something you must know. I wanted to tell you earlier, but circumstances changed my plans. I cannot afford to continue holding back from you what you are rightfully entitled to know. Before...you experienced your memory loss...you and I...well...we were lovers."
Her words caused his eyes to widen, and she saw him swallow hard and clench his hands into shocked fists. Immediately his eyes strayed from her when he turned his head away, his golden bangs falling in front of his face so she could not see the tears welling up in his eyes. Zelda left her chair and went to him swiftly, before setting her hands on his back in comfort only to feel him shrink away from her touch.
Link staggered from his chair and stood a distance away from her, looking around the room in frenzied confusion. No matter how much Zelda wished to go to him, he appeared too lost even for her affection. Finally Link gained his composure, holding the tears fully back so she wouldn't notice, and said in a semi choked voice while trying to keep his strong icy image that was beginning to crack.
"I have lost everything in my life! I don't remember you, and I want with all my soul to know who you were before this happened! I don't even understand who I am anymore, or what I am supposed to do with my life now. I do not remember what it feels like to be loved, to feel love...or how to give love. I knew there was something about you I did not understand except in my subconscious, and as much as I did not want it to be real it is..."
He looked as if he was about to break fully, and it was obvious he was fighting with all his strength inside to maintain complete rational thoughts. In desperation to help him, Zelda cried out in distain.
"Link! Its not too late, we can start over, I can help you remember me! I can't if you won't tell me what is going though your mind because it makes it impossible for me to piece together the shards of your memories. Memories are just that though - things that have already happened. There is still so much that we have not experienced together, and if you could see nothing is beyond our reach we can work toward the future!"
The hero of time shook his head, before folding his arms across his chest. Link's eyes returned to hers once more, his breathing deep and rapid with shock though his voice was calm and icy when he spoke. It was clear the rejection in his mind was consuming him to no end.
"Zelda...I may have loved you before...but I do not think I can love you again. I don't know you; I barely even remember your name. My mind is blank about anything we may have done together, about anything other than that kiss. I can't...feel love for you."
The words he spoke sent Zelda's world crashing down on her, like a fragile crystal dropped on a hard floor and shattering into a thousand glittering pieces. Only it was not merely a crystal breaking, but her heart. Everything inside her let go, her spirit broken finally while the color she had left in her cheeks drained away. Her mind whirled and the room seemed tom spin, until she lost the firm support in her legs and collapsed to her knees on the carpet, her hands held out to break her fall.
The princess's golden locks fell in front of her face, and she could no longer contain the feelings of loss and abandonment within her. Tears rolled down her fair cheeks as she took in shaky tearful gasps, her composure lost within her sadness. The light from the sun shining through the room's large windows illuminated her form in its blinding light.
Slowly her eyes glanced upward and fell upon Link once more, who was looking down on her with a sparkle of guilt reflecting in his deep blue eyes. Seemingly unable to handle her any longer, he turned swiftly and dropped the rose on the carpet in front of her without really realizing it, before moving to leave the room. His thick brown boots made muffled thumping noises on the extravagant carpet, which slowly died off into silence.
Zelda remained there on her knees for some time, her eyes wandering to the rose in front of her. Hesitantly she picked it up off the floor and held it in her hands, feeling its thorns pierce into her skin and causing small spots of blood to flow. She did not care anymore; she felt nothing now – except pain, frustration and sorrow. Her thoughts drifted back to how many loving moments she spent with Link, to remember him holding her hand in his and kissing her neck and holding her close...
Then, in sheer grief, she tossed the rose into the fire. The flames rapidly engulfed the flower, its petals wilting and becoming charred until the entire flower was turned into nothing but a black powdery dust that was barely recognizable.
Her heart no longer burned like fire, it had been put out. There was no warmth in her feelings toward him, only a desolate emptiness. Zelda would always love him, but she was not sure how long she would last since he did not love her in return...
Author's Note: Well this is my latest chapter I hope you enjoyed it. Zelda finally told Link about their relationship Yay! Too bad Link's reaction didn't go better...will Link love Zelda again? Telling by how things are know, the odds may be unlikely but wait for the next chapter and you'll see what will happen...
If you review this story, you will always be thanked for showing the courtesy! New reviewers welcome, as well as those who have reviewed thus far!
Special Thanks:
Fanged Wolf: Used to being thrown off things? Well I don't exactly know what you mean by that, if you are hinting how many times he got knocked around in LoZ OoT but thanks for reviewing! Berlin'sBrownEyes: Well I hope you liked the fluffy stuff at the beginning of the chapter, but the end well...yeah hehe...no romance is perfectly stable though. If everything was fluffy, there would be no story and I like lots of tension! Well it sucks when you don't get a lot of reviews on your stories, because you work hard and when you see other stories get a lot of reviews and they are much simpler and shorter its discouraging. There are many other Zelda stories that have not gone well, and I think that people should try to branch off beyond the romance genre...but if its what you like to read then there's nothing to be done about it.
Lemons4sale: Thanks a lot! Glad to see you think its mysterious, and I hope to keep it that way, as well as add some in depth stuff between Link and Zelda!
Aslan-chic: Kill off Link? Ahh! Nooooo! I could never do that! That would just be mean! (cries) Link is way too good looking and cool to kill off, and there would be no more storyline, and that wouldn't be good. I'm glad the suspense I've added has really made this story enjoyable for you, and I hope you enjoy this next added suspense thing...yeah...lol
LainieG304: Yay! Sorry about the cliffhanger, but if I kept writing and writing not only would it take forever to update, but the chapters would be IMMENSELY long lol. I really sincerely hope you like this chapter, because it was hard to write, especially the second half between Link and Zelda. I wasn't sure how Link could really react to that, whether or not he should make a huge deal out of it and how much he should get upset. I don't want my story to turn into some corny soap opera...but it is under drama...so...? Hehe
Pen-gurl: Stroke of pure genius? Whoa! That's awesome! Gad you think so; I try to make my ideas different – no more predictable romance! Conformity is bad in my opinion, and the more unique the better (as long as it is in moderation) Thanks for reviewing!
Silver Sword: Well I hope this update is fast enough, and don't worry there is definitely more stuff coming as soon as I write it. Normally I try to get one chapter out every week or so, so keep checking for updates! If you're a member of this site, you can add me to author alert if you want to be notified right away when I add a new chapter.
Jewel of the Wolves: Well now you know Link's reaction, and it isn't exactly positive either...can't blame him really, considering the stuff he's been though. I feel sorry for Zelda too, but don't worry I think things could get better...maybe. Wouldn't want her to turn into a cry baby, but since she feels so strongly for Link its understandable. Wonderful that you enjoy my story enough to become a regular reviewer, and I really appreciate that!
Midnight Starfire: lol ok here's the update! What do you think? Is there anything I should improve on? Hehe I have no experience writing a pure romance genre, and I'm so overly concerned about turning it into a stupid mellow drama...even if it is under the drama category also. If you have any suggestions for future chapters too, I would really like to hear them because you have lots of great ideas! I really hope you like the rose symbolism thing I used here, especially if you reflect on previous chapters because the rose symbolizes a lot in this story, and I will go more into that in the next chapter or so.
Ayachan21: lol thanks for the review! Glad you think my fic is great, and that word is good enough for me. Nice to see you've returned for another review, I was beginning to wonder when you'd come back!