Chapter 9: Don't Lose Hope
February 24, the 5th year in the reign of King Ganondorf I
Dear Diary,
I am so angry right now. Words cannot express my hatred toward Ganon. He's done the unthinkable and split my family apart, and what's worse, there is absolutely nothing I can do about it.
My Father has always been against Ganon. From the beginning, he's never supported Ganon's actions, though he's been smart enough not to challenge him. Only the Gerudo are truly loyal to him, all others who obey him do so only to keep their lives in tact. If I was ever to face Ganon, I wouldn't back down like those who don't have enough backbone to stand up for what they believe. They all make me so angry.
So this is what happened.
My father was making deliveries to those who live in the Hylian Countryside. While he was there, he was heard speaking "treason" (in other words, he was heard not agreeing with "his majesty") against the King. One of the spineless Hylians who live in the countryside reported on him (and was probably granted a sizable reward).
Early this morning, I awoke to my father shaking me, trying to wake me up.
"Dad, what is it?" I said, groggily.
He looked around the room nervously. "Malon, have you written anything bad about Ganon in your diary?"
"Well yeah (obviously)-"
He cut me off. "You have to hide it right now, you understand?"
"Why?" I said, definitely not comprehending what was going on.
"Just do as I say, alright? As soon as your done, come down to the kitchen." he then left my room and went downstairs.
I'd have to say I've never seen my dad like this before in my life. I didn't know what could possibly be bothering him. Despite all this, I did as he said, and put my diary under my bed (you can't find anything down there, trust me). I made sure everything looked like it was in it's place, then I went downstairs.
I was surprised to see two Gerudo guards coming inside the house. My father motioned for me to take a seat. Ingo was already sitting in a seat beside me.
My father studdered as he spoke. "H-how may I help you two?"
One of the Gerudo guards spoke up, her voice full of authority. "Talon Astiar, owner of Lon Lon Ranch, correct?
"Yes." My father said, trying to sound as if he had some courage in him.
"We have received a report which states that you have been heard speaking treason against the King."
"I have done no such thing!" My father said boldly.
The guard laughed. "Yes, well all the same, a report has been received. Also, we have received word that you have fallen behind on the amount of goods you are to sell." She looked at Ingo.
Ingo's eyes widened with surprise. "You only asked me if we had made our quota this month. I told you no, because two of our cows died last month-"
The guard spoke up. "You would do well not to speak. Talon Astiar, we have found you guilty of treason, and incapable to run this ranch. However, the King has decided to take mercy on you, and not have you executed." She paused. As long as you never come back to this ranch or speak any more words of treason against his excellence-"
"But-" my father tried to cut in.
One of the guards raised her sword and pointed it towards my face. "No harm will come to you or your family. And please do keep in mind, I would not expect the king to be so lenient next time."
I finally found the couarge to speak. "How will we make our living now? We don't have enough people to make our quota without dad..."
"The king will take this into account when deciding your quota next month." the guard said. "From now on, Ingo will be in charge of the ranch." Ingo's eyes grew wide again, I could tell he was trying not to start weeping.
"You have an twenty minutes to gather your things, Talon. I'd get going if I were you." the guard said.
My dad nodded, and feebly headed up the stairs. The guards waited for him to get everything. I tried to be strong, and not show the guards that I was about ready to start crying. It only took about ten minutes for Dad to get all his things.
"Alright, Talon, you may say goodbye to your famly, but then we must be leaving. Dad nodded, tears streaming down his cheeks. He went over to Ingo, said something to him, and gave him a hug. Then he came over to me.
"Listen Mal," he said to me. "You have to be strong, alright? Work hard, and help Ingo run the ranch." He smiled. "Don't lose hope, I'll be back alright?" I forced a smile, trying to hold back tears. "Promise, don't lose hope, alright?
"I promise." I said back. he gave me a hug and kissed me on the forehead.
"Come on Talon, time to go." The guards said.
Ingo and I watched in silence as they took dad away. We still couldn't believe what had happened. It was all so hard to take in, and I felt like I was about to throw up.
Ingo finally spoke up. "I'll take care of the animals today, Mal. You need to take the day off. You don't look very well." he said, still trying to be strong.
"Thank You Ingo." I whispered, as I made my way up the stairs. Once I got up to my room, I laid down on I bed and cried in my pillow. Ever since my mom died, I've always hated to cry, but I couldn't help it. It was all so hard. I don't know how long I laid there, but I finally fell asleep. When I woke up, the sun was beginning to set.
So that's what happened today. I don't know how Ingo and I will make it without dad, were just going to have to work twice as hard as we usually do, no matter what. And above all, I need to remember the promise I made dad...
Malon Astira
