Hylian Nights
Chapter 2
Disclaimer: Zelda is not mine, though I wish it was. Neither is Aladdin, so stop waving those handcuffs at me! pokes police man in the belly Hahaha!
A/N: Wow! I've gotten so many responses! I'm glad this idea is so popular! Thanks a million to all of you out there! Go to my bio for my responses, and please continue to read and review! And for those of you who are reading my other fic, Light of Hope, don't worry, another chapter will be coming on that one too. I promise, I haven't forgotten!
I've never been so insulted!
Bram, the king of Hyrule, winced at the sound of an angry voice as an over dressed noble strode into the room, his sapphire eyes flashing with rage. Prince Rolland, you're leaving?
The Prince glared, wiping mud off of his cheek. His fine cloths were covered in the muck, dulling the shine of his jewelry. Good luck finding someone to marry her! he snarled and stormed from the room. I certainly won't! I pity the man that does!
the king sighed, then rose, heading for the palace gardens.
He hesitated in the entrance, gazing out as he wondered how he was going to address her. His wife's death had been hard, leaving him with a tiny daughter to care for. He regretted that she had never known her mother, but little could be done about that.
A young seventeen year old woman was on her hands and knees , planting some new rose bushes along the side of the towering wall that wrapped around the garden. She sat back briefly on her heels, bright sapphire eyes smiling down at the lovely scarlet blooms. The girl was stunning, her face lovely and intelligent, but her beauty masked her mischievous side.
Bram began crossing to his daughter. You have got to stop playing these games.
The Princess scowled, wiping her muddy hands off on a rag that was beside her. She rose to her feet, drawing in a breath to steady herself. Father, Prince Rolland is a stuffy arrogant man, and I don't love him.
That was no reason to cover the poor man in mud, the king reprimanded angrily. You have to be married soon, you know that Zelda. Why do you insist on making things difficult.
Please, try to understand, Zelda began plucking a roes from the bush, raising it to her face. If I marry, I want it to be for love.
Her father sighed, running a hand through his gray hair. He understood all too well the romantic imaginings of youth. He himself had once been filled with such fancies. he said in a kind tone, please don't think I'm trying to make you unhappy, far from it. I want you to be happy more than anything. But you know I'm not going to be around forever, and I want to make sure you are taken care of.
She sighed, looking frustrated. Father, I've never done a thing on my own, I've never even left the Castle. How can I be a ruler if I don't even know what the outside world is like? Maybe there is someone out there who would be better for me than some stuffed shirt Prince.
The law says you must marry a Prince, Bram began in a tired voice, having repeated this many times. Zelda, you are a Princess.
Then maybe I don't want to be a Princess anymore! she cried, turning her back on her father, throwing the crimson rose to the ground.
Her father growled in frustration, then spun on his heel, leaving the gardens. Zelda stood still, waiting until she was certain that the king was gone, then spoke. You can come out Impa.
The tall white haired woman seemed to materialize from the shadows of the wall, moving to sit on a bench not far from the young woman. Princess, your father is right about somethings. You need to get married.
Zelda made a face, dropping to the ground beside her attendant as she had done as a small child. Impa, I hate seeing my life set out before me. There will be no surprises, no choices, nothing unexpected. I can't live my life like that. She laid her head in Impa's lap, feeling tears rise.
Impa gently stroked the girl's head, and the two set in silence for a long moment. Zelda, you do have choices, Impa finally murmured, her brown eyes thoughtful. No one can force you to do anything you so not wish to. Remember that milady.
Zelda sat up, smiling softly at the older woman. Then an idea slowly began to take form within her mind, and she realized that Impa was right. She had one card left to play, she only wondered if she had the courage to do it.
Bless you Link, Saria whispered, tears filling her large azure eyes. You take too many risks for me. She stared down at the purses that the young man had given her, raising her head to look up at him.
There's no risk too great for you, he assured her from his seat at the kitchen table. After all, you took care of me when no one else could or would. I owe you my life.
Saria smiled, but was momentarily distracted by two children who were scuffling over a toy. She hurried to settle the argument, whole Link looked on in amusement. Finally after sending both children out to play, she returned to her seat across from him.
Tell me, how is Malon? Link inquired, taking a drink of milk that Saria had given him. His memories of her were of an annoying girl with a temper to match her fiery hair, but a good friend nonetheless.
Her eyes lit up. Well enough. That little red haired girl is quite the farmer. I took the children to see her at Lon Lon Ranch, and I couldn't believe how grown up she has become. Saria paused, then continued. You know Link, she's only two years younger than you. . .
Trying to play matchmaker? he teased, an amused look on his face. Seeing her guilty grin, he laughed. Sorry Saria. I think of Malon as my little sister, and besides, what do I have to offer her? I'm a thief, wanted by the Hylian guards.
You could give it up, the forest girl suggested, her eyes pleading. Please, Link, settle down and start a life.
He shook his head regretfully. Saria, this is who I am. I can't change that, no matter how much I wish I could.
Then promise me you won't return to the Castle town to steal, Saria begged, trying a different tactic. Try someplace else, Link I'm begging you. You're like a son to me, I couldn't bear it if something where to happen to you. . .
He knelt down so that he was at her level, taking her small hands in his own. And I think of you as a mother Saria, which is why I'm doing this. Link's blue eyes held hers, calm and steady. Besides, Nabooru will have my back, you know that. The Gerudo never leave a woman-or man-behind. He kissed her gently on the forehead before rising to his feet. I have to get going Saria. Nabooru needs me for tomorrow.
The green haired girl followed him outside, past groups of children chasing and romping happily through the meadow. Link mounted Epona, giving her a last smile.
Don't worry Saria, I'll be fine.
She sighed and nodded. I worry too much Link. But I pray to the Goddesses that they may protect you. Be safe.
He nodded, then turned Epona towards the exit of the forest, and with a mighty cry, he sent her into a gallop. Saria and the children watched him go, waving and calling good byes as he vanished into the darkness of the tall trees.
It was a dark moon-less night, perfect for people to sneak about. A slim figure crossed the gardens, heading for a large oak tree that grew close to the wall. The figure hesitated, glancing around then reached up for a branch, beginning to pull herself up when a hand on her shoulder made her gasp.
Zelda whipped around, coming face to face with Impa. You scared me! she hissed, relief flooding through her. She let go of the branch, pulling up the hood of her cloak that had fallen back to reveal her face. What are you doing here?
I should ask you the same question, the attendant shot back, her brown eyes narrowing. I should have known you'd do something this reckless. I should have told your father.
No Impa! Zelda cried softly, gripping the woman's hands. You were the one who gave me the idea anyway, so you only have yourself to blame!
I did no such thing, Impa retorted, looking shocked. Me, tell you to leave the safety of the Castle and go out amongst commoners and thieves who would slit your throat if they found out who you were?
The Princess sighed softly, closing her sapphire eyes. Impa, please. I need freedom, I can't stay here and have my own choices made for me. You have to understand! You're the only person who's even close to a friend! She tightened her grip on Impa, staring up at her pleadingly. I will come back, I just don't know when. You have my word Impa.
Impa blew out her breath hard, then wrapped the princess in a tight embrace. Let me come with you milady, she whispered into the girl's ear, her almost daughter.
Zelda shook her head, pulling back. Too dangerous. It is better for you to stay here. If you follow me around, people will know at once that I'm a royal, or at least a noble.
The Sheikah woman nodded resignedly. Be safe Princess, she sighed, helping the girl up the tree. She watched as Zelda slipped over the wall and out of her sight. Impa clenched her fists, fighting her instincts to run after the girl, to shadow her despite the girl's orders. Yet she did not, knowing that the Princess needed a bit of freedom.
Link sat on the rooftop, watching the crowds go by. He had come to the market himself this day, as Nabooru wasn't feeling very well. Yet, he was not entirely alone. Navi buzzed above his head like a fly, exclaiming over the sights. Link listened with half an ear, not really in the mood for gossip.
Suddenly, a young woman walking through the market caught his eye. She was slender, blond and pale, unusual looking. She was out of place among the others who shuffled along, and Link was positive he had never seen her here before. He practically knew of every person who wandered the markets, and she was not a regular. Another woman dressed in drab rags ran into her, almost knocking the lovely girl down.
Watch ya lookin' at? the fairy suddenly asked suspiciously, causing the young thief to start.
he said quickly, glaring up at her.. Just looking at that girl over there.
Oh? The girl who's being yelled at by that vendor? Navi inquired innocently.
Link whipped his head around, gasping as he saw the man grab the startled looking girl by the wrist.
Zelda sighed, smiling as she wandered through the market. So this is what it's like outside the castle! she marveled, feeling rather small and unprotected in such wide open spaces. Deciding against leaving, she opted to stay within the walls of the castle town for a time, and began to browse among the stalls.
She paused to admire a merchants jewelry, a bright sapphire ring catching her eye. It was unusual, a brilliant blue stone cut in the shape of a star, glittering in a silver band. Zelda inquired politely as to its price, and then decided to purchase it, giving the delighted vendor the money he'd asked for.
Stopping briefly, she slipped the ring on her finger, then continued on her way. A young woman suddenly barreled into her, almost knocking the Princess off her feet. Without even pausing or apologizing, the woman slipped around Zelda and hurried on her way. How rude,the girl thought irritatedly, pulling her hood back up.
But before she could move, a rough voice spoke up, startling her. All right missy, lets have it.Have what? she asked bewildered, lifting her eyes to a large angry looking man.
Don't play games with me girl! the vendor shouted, grabbing her by the wrist. That bracelet you just stole from my booth! Didn't think I'd catch up to you, did you? he snarled.
Her mind flittered back to the woman who had just ran into her, and Zelda began attempting to explain. Sir, I think you're mistaken. Another woman just ran into me-You're lying! Do you know what the penalty is for stealing? the man's hand went to his belt, where a dagger glittered.
Zelda gasped, giving a startled cry when she was suddenly jerked from the man's grasp. A young man about her age with flashing sapphire eyes stood between her and the vendor, glaring up at the heavyset man.
Out of my way boy, the merchant growled angrily. The girl and I have a little business to take care of.
The young man didn't move, smiling slightly. I can assure you that this girl is no thief. I saw what occurred, and she is telling the truth.Oh she is is she? the merchant said in a suspicious voice. And I'm supposed to believe you?Considering I stopped the real thief and got the bracelet back, yes, the young man returned, holding out a beautifully crafted piece of silver studded with tiny emeralds. If I'm not mistaken, then this is yours?
Zelda was listening to this exchange with both fear and wonder. The young man's courage took her breath away, and she felt an odd jerk, staring into his cerulean eyes that locked briefly with hers before he winked slightly. Her startled gaze noted how his left hand shot out quickly, relieving the merchant of his purse. She opened her mouth to say something, but decided it would be better to remain silent.
Yes, it is, the man admitted gruffly, taking back the offered bracelet. I suppose I owe you an apology miss.No need, Zelda managed to say, and felt the young man grip her arm gently but firmly.
Sister, I think it's time we got home, don't you?Oh, yes, of course, Zelda answered quickly, seeing that this was the proper response, allowing him to hurriedly lead her away. For some reason, she trusted this young man, even though she had only known him for five minutes.
They had gotten a good distance away when a man's roar of rage suddenly echoed through the market. The young man grinned roguishly, yanking her towards the alley.
I hope you're a fast runner.
Together they raced through the alley, dodging crates and ducking behind objects. After sometime, the young man yanked Zelda down behind a large crate of bananas, and they waited there in silence. About five minutes later a small blue ball of light popped behind the crate, startling the Princess.
Where is he Navi? the young man asked.
He went off to complain to the guards, the fairy returned cheerfully.
Nice work partner, he returned, grinning at the fairy. Then he turned his attention to Zelda. That was a close one, he remarked, studying her with a slight smile curving his mouth. You ought to be more careful in the market.Thank you for helping me, Zelda offered lamely. But, may I ask you why you gave back the bracelet, yet stole his purse?
The young man laughed. When you've hung around the market as long as I have, you get to know things. For instance, that particular merchant is always overpricing his merchandise. Stealing his purse won't hurt him badly, he's got thousands more where that came from.
Zelda hesitated, admitting to herself that this young thief did have a point, still she couldn't help but think that it was wrong.
I know what your thinking, he said, looking at her knowingly. But sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do to survive. If it makes you feel any better, I only steal from those who can afford it.
She offered him a hesitant smile. Forgive me, I just was thinking how sad it is that there are people who have all that money, and then there are those who have none.
Link felt himself liking this young woman. Her way of talking was different, and he assumed that she was a noble or of higher birth. Perhaps a run away who was being forced to marry. He shrugged off the matter.
Do you have a place to stay for the night? If not, I have a place here that we can go to.
The girl hesitated, holding his gaze with her own. For a moment, Link was lost in those brilliant sapphire eyes, more beautiful than the ring she wore on her finger. Then she gave him a beaming smile and nodded.
I would love to.How is this going to help us find the person we need? Guay croaked, hopping over the bowl of dark water. It looks like ordinary water to me.Ah, yes, but not in a few minutes, Ganondorf answered, throwing a handful of herbs into the water, then adding a few drops of black liquid that immediately dyed the water.
Instantly the waters began to churn, and Guay squawked, fluttering to a safer perch on his master's shoulder. Then, in a swift motion, the liquid spewed out of the bowl, turning into a dark floating mirror in the air.
Mirror of Darkness, Ganondorf intoned, holding out a beseeching hand to the mirror. Reveal to me the one who can enter the cavern, one who is pure of heart and strong of courage, the diamond in the rough!
The mirror gleamed in answer, its surface rippling as it twisted and turned. Then its movements began to slow, showing a young man in a green tunic climbing a ladder. He reached down, offering his hand to a girl that Ganondorf knew well. The image moved up sop that only the boy was shown, then the image faded, and the water hit the ground , splashing everywhere.
Guay paced along Ganondorf's shoulder, muttering to himself. Fat lot of help that was! How are you ever going to take over the throne with nothing more than a face? Ganondorf hissed, tapping the crow on the head. More was revealed than you think. My plan is in motion, and I know where that boy is, who is as well. Surely you saw who was with him.Of course I did, the bird retorted crabbily. It was Princess- the crow broke off, beady eyes filling with understanding as he gazed at Ganondorf.
The tall man chuckled, his hands tightening. Soon, I shall rule all of Hyrule!
And to think, I am the King's most trusted advisor!He smirked, golden eyes glittering like a cats that has just seen a canary. I shall rule all!