In the Hand of the Goddess
Disclaimer: Don't own LoZ
A/N: Yay! Thank you all so much for reviewing! I'm glad you all like this story so much, and reviews definitely encourages me to keep writing! To answer a question, yes, I did get the name for this fic from the second Lioness Quartet book. It just seemed to fit for what I had in mind. As for what happened between the Princess and the Hero in the past, I'm afraid I can't answer that question yet! I will eventually, but I want some things to be a surprise! So, please read and review!
Part Four: Assassins
You are quiet Zelda. Does something trouble you?
The Princess was started from her musings, turning from the dark carriage window to look at Impa, her attendant. No, nothing Impa.
A slight frown creased the smooth skin of Impa's face, her crimson eyes narrowing. Usually you chatter endlessly without pause. You have said hardly anything ever since we departed from Zora's Domain.
The golden haired young woman straightened in her seat with a sigh. Just worried Impa. You heard what King Zora said about the poison in the spring and the monsters that have become more numerous. It's troubling.
Impa nodded silently, casting a glance outside at the soldiers who rode beside the carriage, the Royal Guard who were escorting the Princess back from her business in the Zora's Realm. That it is Zelda. What do you plan to do about it?
She shrugged, her eyes seeming far away. I have already done something, haven't I? I cleaned the spring water of the poison, and I plan to send soldiers to deal with the monsters. There is little else I can do at this point.
Inwardly though, Zelda wasn't sure if she was doing all that she could. The Goddess's words still lingered in her mind, the tone whispering of urgency and need. Her eyes closed briefly, wishing she could have a bit of peace. She didn't want to go home, not wanting to have to deal with her Father's visitor again. He was an irritating man, but it was more than him simply annoying her. Zelda couldn't help but shiver at the memory of the way he had looked at her, with such hate in his gaze, though it had gone as quickly as it had come.
Suddenly the carriage swayed to a stop, causing the young Princess to start out of her reminiscing. What is it Impa?
The white haired woman was staring out into the darkness, her lean body suddenly going tense. Without warning, she pushed Zelda down onto the floor, shielding the Princess's body with her own. An arrow whistled through the window, striking the side of the carriage where Zelda had been sitting only moments before.
Impa spat in a low growl. Stay here Princess!
She did as she was told, feeling Impa vault out of the carriage and into the night. There were shouts and screams, the sounds of swords clashing and battle. Zelda pressed herself tighter against the floor, squeezing her eyes tightly shut, body curling into a ball. She hated feeling helpless, but on diplomatic dealings, she was not allowed to carry weapons of her own, being forced to rely on her guards for protection.
Her head snapped up though when the door opened, revealing a man wearing in dark clothing and a scarf tied over his face. Tapping into her powers, Zelda read his aura. It was gray, revealing one who changed sides constantly and was loyal to no one. There were faint traces of dark red, the color of heart's blood, revealing that he had killed. She knew at once that he was an assassin.
He reached for her, grabbing the girl by her wrist and dragging her from the carriage without any hesitation. Zelda struggled as he propelled her along, screaming frantically as she tried to kick at her captor. He grunted, but did not release her. Of all the times to be without my dagger! She raged inwardly, continuing to scream as loud as she could. Yet in all the chaos, no one seemed to realize that the very person they were trying to protect was being carried off.
Twisting, Zelda managed to kick the man hard in the shins. The assassin fell to his knees, his grip loosening on her. She shoved hard, causing him to fall over in the mud. The Princess didn't waste anytime; she picked up her skirts and ran.
She didn't have any idea where she was going, but did not dare to stop to get her bearings. The girl plunged through bushes and trees, feeling branches tearing at her hair and gown, slipping and sliding through the mud.
A hand gripped her arm, causing her to scream shrilly again. In an instant, she was yanked backwards into a bone-crushing grip, a hand clamped over her mouth and another wrapped around her waist.
Immediately the Princess began to fight, straining and squirming as hard as she could. It did nothing to free herself, the iron hold never wavering.
Hold still, I'm not going to hurt you, a low voice whispered gruffly in her ear. She wasn't convinced, however, still doing her best to escape. By the Goddesses! Calm down! the man exclaimed in a low mutter. I'm trying to help you, not hurt you!
Zelda stiffened, Nayru's words streaming through her mind once more. My Chosen, the one who can help you will come soon. You will know him because he will swear in the name of the Goddesses. Trust him child. Despite her misgivings and instincts that were screaming at her to use her magic on him, Zelda knew the Goddess would not lead her astray. Her body went limp, and she felt the one behind her loose his tension as well.
If you promise not to scream, I'll let you go. His voice was barely audible, though she could feel his lips brushing against her ear.
She managed a nod, and the large gloved hand over her mouth lowered, coming to rest on her shoulder. Did Nayru send you? she inquired in a trembling voice.
Shhh! Later! he hissed quietly. Can't you hear them?
Zelda strained her hearing, but did not hear anything out of the ordinary except for the sounds of battle far in the distance. She shook her head silently in response to the stranger's question.
Someone's still out here following you, he whispered softly. His grip about her waist loosened, until she could no longer feel the warmth of his body behind hers. Don't move.
Then came the faint sound of scraping metal, and silence. For several heartbeats, there was no stirring within the glade. Zelda jerked her head upright, hearing a twig snap. Her strange rescuer moved from behind her, as fluid and silent as a shadow, and just as deadly. Her sapphire eyes saw the black clothed figure a second before the mysterious man intercepted him. There was a cry of shock, but it was quickly muffled, followed by a flash of silver, then silence.
Zelda suppressed a gasp, stunned. She'd never seen anyone move so quickly! Are-are you hurt? she ventured timidly, taking a step toward the tall stranger who hadn't moved.
There was a low chuckle. Are you normally worried about strangers whose names you don't know?
She stiffened, offended by his mocking tone. You did just save my life, unless I am much mistaken, she responded coolly. And you won't be a stranger as soon as you give me your name.
He laughed once more, and she saw again a gleam of silver as he sheathed his sword. My name is Link.
A shiver of familiarity raced through her at the sound of his name, as though she had heard it somewhere before, but she cast it aside, focusing on what was important. Well now Link, you are no longer a stranger, the Princess replied, feeling slightly more at ease. I am Zelda-Princess of Hyrule, I know, he finished quietly.
Though she could not see him in the thick stifling blackness if the night, the Princess could see his aura as clearly as the sun. It was a clean, cream color, revealing a pure, good heart. Zelda could also see the same blood colored sparks she had seen in the assassin, revealing that he too had killed, but in relation to his pure heart, he was not one who enjoyed taking another's life. Delving deeper with her mind, there was also a crisp, emerald green, which she took to mean that he had journeyed from the Kokiri Forest. All in all, Zelda was certain that this man was not one who would hurt her.
The silence in the clearing had stretched on awkwardly, and she scrambled for something to say. Zelda swallowed, shivering slightly from the cold wind. Then the Goddesses did send you.So it would seem. Link seemed to glance around, then took her elbow, tugging her to follow him. Princess now isn't the time to discuss this. Your guards will be worried, unless I am much mistaken.
Instantly Zelda gasped. Oh yes! You're quite right! I need to get back!
He didn't respond, simply continued walking. She had no choice by to follow, relying on him to guide her. The girl wasn't sure how he knew which way he was going through the rain and inky night, but figured he had some way of telling.
Link glanced back at the Princess, making sure she was keeping up with him. When Farore had told him that it was Princess Zelda of Hyrule that he was expected to protect, Link had almost gone back on his word to help. Regular women were bad enough to deal with, but a Princess would be ten times worse he was certain. The young warrior was convinced she would be nothing but a spoiled brat who couldn't do anything for herself, one he would be stuck with for who knew how long.
The girl stumbled, and he took her hand, helping her stay upright. Up ahead, he could see fire and hear worried voices. Sighing inwardly, Link prepared himself for the worse as they moved nearer to the group of soldiers. Zelda's head came up, blinking rain from her eyes as she caught sight of a familiar figure.
Zelda ran forward eagerly, caught up in a hug from her strong attendant, breathing a sigh of relief that her old friend was safe. She saw the light of torches as the guards moved closer.
Seize him!
Zelda whirled from Impa with a gasp to see that the Royal Guard had circled the strange man, swords drawn. He too had his sword ready, bracing himself to fight. She gasped, certain that the Goddesses would not take it kindly if their messenger was killed. A poor way to thank him after he had saved her life.
Zelda threw herself in front of Link, shielding him from the soldiers. Put down your swords! The leader of the Royal Guard hesitated, looking at the slender girl doubtfully. What are you doing? Move aside.I will not! she snapped angrily. He isn't an assassin, he saved my life! Zelda looked around at the guards who had not budged an inch and began to bristle. Is this how you thank someone who has saved your Princess? Put those swords away!
None of the soldiers had moved, their blades still pointed at the silent young man who had not uttered a word. They looked to the Princess's attendant, waiting for Impa's word.
The Shiekah woman seemed at a loss for words, crimson eyes narrowed as she took in Link before looking uncertainly at her charge. Zelda- Are you certain?
The young woman's eyes blazed dangerously. Of course I am certain! Zelda whirled on the soldiers, her body taunt. I am your Princess, am I not? Put down your weapons!
As the soldiers reluctantly lowered their blades, Link couldn't help but raise an eyebrow in admiration at the Princess's authoritative behavior. Spoiled she might be, but she certainly knew how to take charge and make people pay attention to her.
In the brighter light, he could now see the famous Princess of Hyrule more clearly for the first time. Link blinked, feeling the breath catch surprisingly in his throat as she turned to look at him, tilting her face up to gaze at him. Though bedraggled and streaked with mud, Princess Zelda was surprisingly enchanting, the most beautiful woman he had ever seen in his life. She brushed a strand of wet gold hair back from her pale heart shaped face, sapphire eyes nervous and uncertain as she met his gaze. The tales of her beauty haven't been exaggerated, Link admitted grudgingly, unable to drag his eyes away from her. He shook himself mentally; attractive though she may be, she was still a spoiled Princess.
Zelda breathed a sigh of relief when the Royal Guard stood down at last, returning their weapons to their sheaths. Ignoring Impa's questioning look, she turned to her rescuer, seeing him properly for the first time. The girl found herself looking up, finding that he was taller her by a good five inches at least. Not only that, he was lean and fit, proving that he was someone who was used to taking care of himself. His dark green Kokiri tunic confirmed what she had discovered in his aura, that he was indeed from the Forest. His hair was blond, piercing eyes a bright sky blue as they met her own, causing her mouth to feel strangely dry.
She blushed, realizing she had been caught staring and quickly dropped her gaze. Aware of the uncomfortable silence, she turned to the Royal Guard once more. Is the carriage still in one piece?Yes your Highness, the head soldier answered, still eyeing Link warily. Shall we be going again?Yes of course. Zelda looked up at Link, asking silently if he was coming with her.
He gave her a slight nod, and kept close to her as they made their way back to the carriage. Impa seemed about to speak, but then seemed to think better of it, following behind her Princess silently. Link could feel her eyes on his back as he walked, and knew that she would not hesitate to kill him if she thought he was a danger to the Princess in anyway. The thought made him uneasy, not liking having to drop his guard and trust his life in the hands of a Princess, but he had sworn to Farore that he would do what she had asked, and do it he would.
Zelda gave a sigh of contentment when she was settled once more in the carriage, her body aching from her flight through the night. She looked down at her pale yellow gown and groaned softly, seeking the mud and tears that now marred it. At least it wasn't one of my favorites, the Princess reasoned. Her face burned, realizing what a sight she must be, trying to avoid glancing at the young man as she attempted to smooth her hair and wipe away some of the mud.
Link climbed in next, sitting across from her, looking a bit awkward. Impa was next, seating herself beside Zelda, and giving the order for them to be going again. An uncomfortable silence lingered around them, only Impa looking directly at anyone.
Shifting uneasily, Link was aware of the Sheikah woman staring at him. Though he was certain Farore and Zelda wouldn't approve of him challenging the caretaker of the Princess, he finally turned his head from the window, meeting her crimson eyes with his deep blue ones. For a moment, the two stared at each other, locked in a silent battle of wills.
Zelda glanced over, sensing what was going on. She glanced nervously from her attendant to the young warrior, biting her lip. The girl wasn't sure if she should interfere or not, but before she could say anything, both looked over at her at the same time. She blinked at them uncomfortably, glancing at Impa tentatively, then at Link. Quickly she looked away, deciding to leave them to sort out their differences in a nonviolent way.
It was safe to say that all three of them were quite glad when the carriage pulled in front of the Castle, the journey at an end finally. When Zelda accepted the footman's hand as he helped her out, she felt a smile flicker over her face at the familiar sight of home. Despite the unpleasant visitors that were staying here, she was filled with joy at being back.
It is good to see you home Princess, the footman said earnestly, and was ecstatic when she gave him a beaming smile in answer.
Link raised his eyebrows at the expression on the servant's face, puzzled. What is it about this woman that people seem to love? Don't they care that she's a spoiled girl who gets whatever her heart desires? Once more he felt the woman named Impa practically breathing down his neck, causing him to feel short tempered and irritable. On any normal occasion, Link wouldn't have hesitated to challenge her, but seeing as he was supposed to be behaving himself he could not.
Impa, will you please escort my guest to the room on the third floor, please? Zelda was saying, dragging Link's attention back to her.
Of course Milady, the attendant responded, turning to Link who was staring at the Princess with a frustrated look in his eyes.
He opened his mouth to protest, but at once she glanced at him, their eyes locking. Not now! Link took a step back, his mouth falling open as the girl's melodic voice sounded in the chambers of his mind. Please, you must understand that we are not safe to speak freely, not even here. I will come and speak with you later tonight, so please go with Impa. The young woman's eyes that gazed at him were pleading as she talked easily with some of the servants who were inquiring as to her health.
Though he could not comprehend how Zelda had managed to speak with him mentally, Link knew she was right. He bowed politely to her, before turning to the Sheikah woman who was looking impatient.
She pivoted without a word, walking through the great mahogany doors that lead into Hyrule Castle with Link on her heels. He was momentarily stunned, staring up at the magnificent gilded hall. Never before had he seen anything so fine in his entire life! The stonework and marble floor in this place alone would have cost enough rupees to feed five peasant families for two years! Shaking himself, Link hurried after Impa, aware of the eyes of the soldiers who stood beside the pillars watching him with some curiosity. The Sheikah woman never slowed or looked back to see if he was coming, heading up a large sweeping marble staircase. She lead him through so many halls and corridors that Link's head began to spin, certain he'd never be able to remember the way through this place.
At last Impa slowed, opening a door and entering. Link followed her, looking around the room a bit dazedly. It certainly wasn't anything like his house in the Kokiri Foest, more elegant than anything he'd ever seen. There was a large four-poster bed made up with silk bed sheets, a mahogany desk, and a bookshelf stuffed with leather-bound books. It made him feel instantly uncomfortable and out of place.
Impa finished lighting the lamps and turned to him, arms folded across her chest. Is there anything that you require?
Link shook his head wordlessly, still looking awkward. No, there's nothing, thank you anyway.
She nodded in silence, suddenly looking more grave and serious. I'll tell you something now boy, if you intend to harm her Highness in any way, I will not hesitate to kill you.
His eyes narrowed, glittering like ice at her threat. If I intended to kill her Royal Highness I would have done it in the forest where no one would have caught me.
Impa glared back at him coldly. Do not trifle with me boy or I just might forget the Princess's command to keep you from harm.
Link stared back at her with a calm intensity that would have unnerved anyone with less courage than Impa. I won't forget, but I warn you now, do not underestimate me.
She only gave him another icy look before turning and leaving the room, closing the door behind her. The young Hylian shook his head, collapsing in an armchair with a sigh. I don't know what I was thinking, he thought grumpily. I'm likely to get into more trouble here than I've ever gotten into before. Link stared broodingly into the fireplace, recalling Farore's words to him.
You expect me to protect the Princess of Hyrule? Link repeated incrediously with a laugh. Being a Goddess, you know how I feel about women.
She smiled slightly, shaking her head. Perhaps you are prejudice, but yes, I do know. Nevertheless, I need you to protect this girl. She has an important role to play in all of this, just as you do.
He sighed, shaking his head. What use could this girl be? The hours passed slowly, but he could not will himself to sleep in such an unfamiliar place. Sometime around midnight, he heard a soft scraping sound.
Link was on his feet at once, a dagger in his hand as he searched for the source of the sound. The bookcase in the corner of the room was sliding slowly to the side. His body as tense as a taunt bowstring, Link moved forward to get a better look at the opening.
Carrying a candle, clothed in a white nightdress with a light lavender robe over it, Princess Zelda stepped from the darkness, looking like an angel from the heavens. She started upon seeing him, azure eyes flickering to the dagger in his hand momentarily before returning to look into his eyes questioningly. Unless you intend to kill me, I don't think that's necessary, she said mildly.
Chagrined, he slipped the blade into its hidden sheath. You startled me your Highness, the warrior stated gruffly.
My apologies, Zelda responded quietly, stepping further into the room, shivering slightly. I wasn't sure if you were asleep or not, and I didn't want to disturb you if you were.How thoughtful of you Princess.
She glanced at him sharply, not sure if he was being sarcastic or not. Do you wish me to go? she demanded, bristling. If you do not wish to talk now, I will leave you.
Link gritted his teeth, but admitted to himself that he was being quite rude to her, and there was no reason for that. She hadn't done anything to him, yet. Forgive me, Your Highness, I'm merely tired and irritable. He bowed to her, therefore missing the frown that flickered briefly over her face.
You do not need to be so formal, Zelda said with a sigh, sitting gracefully in a chair opposite the one he had been seated in himself. Feel free to call me Zelda, unless it is in public.
He suppressed a scowl at her tone, returning to his seat. To what do I owe this late night visit?I should think it obvious, she answered, placing her candle on the table near her. We must speak about what it was that brought you here in time to save my life. Was it Lady Nayru?
Link watched her hold her pale hands near the fire to warm them, admiring the way the firelight illuminated her lovely features. Not directly. The request was brought to me by her sister, Lady Farore.
Zelda's bright eyes grew with excitement, leaning towards him. The Emerald Lady? It was she who came to you? When Link nodded, she became slightly more solemn. Then what Nayru told me is true; the Goddesses are walking among mortals again. She shifted her weight slightly in the chair, looking thoughtful. Pray, tell me why you have come to me.I should have thought that was obvious, Link said dryly. I came to save your life.But you have already done that, Zelda pointed out logically. Why then accompany me this far?
His cerulean eyes held her for a long moment. Because your life is in danger at this very moment milady, he stated with quiet certainty. I've been sent to keep you safe from the man of evil who dwells within your home.
A long silence pervaded between them for several long moments. Zelda stared back at him through the flickering light, her worst suspicions confirmed. It is as I feared, she said at last.
His brow furrowed. You know you're in danger, and you remain here? Link demanded incredulously, his eyes flashing. Do you enjoy taunting your enemy, or do you simply have a death wish?
Her sapphire eyes blazed as she glared at him. What would you have me do? she demanded heatedly. Challenge Ganondorf to a duel in the middle of the great hall? Or would you have me go into hiding like some frightened Princess of those countries outside Hyrule?
Link glared right back at her, disliking the way she demanded answers of him. As far as he was concerned, she was haughty and arrogant. If it were me, I would denounce him, then kill him and be done with it.But I'm not you, Zelda pointed out coldly. For one thing, I have no actual proof that he is dangerous, because he has not harmed me-
He laughed mockingly. Princess, what do you call tonight?
She scowled at him angrily for his interruption. He has not harmed me directly, she finished, putting an emphasis on the last word she uttered. And knowing him, he will be clever enough to have erased all signs of his involvement. And Secondly, I am no warrior. He would kill me easily if I were to have the audacity to challenge him to a duel.What? I thought the famed Princess of Hyrule was a sorceress! Link exclaimed it mock shock. Then I suppose the rumors of your powers are false, that you are just another helpless damsel in distress.
Zelda felt her temper boil over, despite the fact that she knew he was only trying to provoke her. How dare he taunt and mock her like this? The princess raised her right hand, palm facing up, and snapped her fingers. With a spark of light, a ball of purple fire appeared in her palm, illuminating her flashing blue eyes.
Link jerked back, unable to hide the startled look that crossed his face at the unexpected show of magic. Zelda continued to stare at him, the fire flickering within her cupped palm.
While I do possess powers, I'm afraid that they do not begin to rival Ganondorf's. She smiled, for once seeming amused by his reaction. Fear not Link, I'm not going to hurt you. The girl closed her slender fingers over the amethyst flame, extinguishing it. Sensing Link's discomfort and seeing a glint of fear in his eyes, she immediately regretted her actions. I'm sorry, that was uncalled for, she said softly.
He seemed to recover, shaking her head. Don't be. I deserved it. Deciding he'd had enough of verbal sparring, he returned to the original topic. I'm here to make sure nothing happens to you Zelda, and I take my orders from the Goddess seriously. But I hate to admit that I don't really have much of a plan. This is your home, not mine, so I will follow your lead.
She bit her lip, looking thoughtful. I suppose the best cover for you for right now would be that of either a servant, or a body guard in training. Zelda tapped a slim finger against her jaw. Of course, it would be considered improper for a woman to have a boy for a servant, not that I have ever been considered a proper Princess, but I believe that it would be better to lean towards the body guard disguise. We shall tell my father that you're Impa's apprentice, and that she has given you the task of watching over me.
Link cringed inwardly. Somehow I don't think that Impa will like that very much. What about Ganondorf?
Zelda hesitated for a brief moment, looking uncertain. He will be wary of you, she said at last, But I doubt he will think anything of it. I'm known to be odd in my decisions. She sighed, seeming suddenly weary. It is growing late. You will need your rest, as do I.
Zelda rose to her feet, picking her candle up once more. Link stood also, following her across the room to the opening that the bookcase had concealed.
Are there other secret passages like this in the Castle? he inquired, eying the dark corridor with interest.
She nodded, pulling her robe more closely about her to ward off the evening chill. Yes, but I'm the only one who knows where all of them are. My mother showed them to me before she died.Do you wish me to accompany you back to your room? Link asked reluctantly, realizing that he had to start worrying about her safety now that she was in his care.
Zelda shook her golden head, stepping into the opening. Thank you, but that's not necessary. This passage goes directly to my room, so there's no need to worry. She glanced at him over her shoulder, offering him a slight smile. Good night Link.
He bid the Princess good night in return, waiting until the bookcase had slid back into its proper place before deciding that it would be a good idea to attempt to get some sleep.