Chapter three is alive!
Chapter 3:
The King of Hyrule was a man of great importance in the eyes of his subjects, every decision marking out the path of their lives. His word was right and true, courageous and fearless. Never had he made a mistake, Power flowed from his fingertips, and his strong hand had guided his soldiers into war against this strange new enemy that stalked the borders. For some time they had been settled not very far outside the forests that encircled their peaceful country.
The trees were a thick barrage of ancient woodland, making transport almost impossible even on foot. Their wide and healthy trunks spread across the earth, nearly touching one another and where the treetops were a tight mesh of branches and leaves, all weaving together, pressed against the great pillars. Even the birds and beasts of the lands dared not to inhabit such a compact and relentless area, leaving the great forests eerily quiet to the wandering traveller, giving birth to countless tales that had no doubt spread all over the world. The Haunted Woodland of Hyrule was still a favourite to Hylian infants, and characters such as the legendary, eternal Kokiri children would appear. Of course there were the variations, but nearly every story included the mythical boy that came from the forest and saved all of Hyrule from the monsters of the world. Many thought that these children were merely a tale of old passed down through the generations, while some held the adamant belief that they really did exist, hidden away in the depths of the forests where humans could never enter. But not a person in the land could admit that they had seen a real Kokiri.
Yet somehow, the King knew that the enemy was preparing for war. Rumours had spread like wildfire that the legend of the Kokiri was indeed true, - the King had been in secret alliance with them this entire time, and they really were the protectors of Hyrule that would come and save the people danger again - yet high in the windows of the palace the King scoffed at their gossip.
How easy it was to rely on myth and hope to carry the human spirit away from the pits of hell that were begging to swallow them whole. How easy it was to remain naïve, living in the realms where children sing and dance away their troubles. Pitiful, stupid creatures.
Looking down at the Market Square through the large panes of glass of Hyrule Castle, set back into the hillsides, the King brought a weary hand to his forehead and wiped away the beads of sweat in a slow, lethargic motion. His rough fingers drawled down his old, wrinkled skin, leaving a cold line running across his hollow cheeks. Sleep had been a privilege even at the best of times, for there were nearly matters to be attended to at all hours of the day, especially now. The days of dreaming seemed in aeons past, for the King had not returned to his chambers in nearly a week, possibly longer. Time was in another existence to the King, the only indicators being the fading light in the evenings and the rising sunlight at dawn. Hours melted into one seamless extract of his life, fatigue never far behind his shadow, tugging at his eyes.
For a morning so cold, the humidity in the air was certainly at record levels. The torches that lined the walls of the King's study were ablaze with heat hotter than the sun itself and he felt an ardent wish to be down into the chilling air as a peasant. That way, he wouldn't have to face the next few moments that would not only put him and his daughter at risk, but the entire nation at the mercy of another. Ever since the King's wife had died, he had been left alone to raise a daughter whose temper and passion would never be equalled by any raving child. When the chance to dream came, it would always be a happy one. His wife would still be alive, and maybe they might live together with their wonderful daughter in some far away land, with no responsibilities or orders to fulfil, no treaties to form and no laws to pass. The three of them would live in peace, and Zelda would marry happily like any other ordinary girl, and he and his wife would grow old and grey, together.
How he had managed to bring up Zelda at all was beyond his comprehension. However much he wanted to help and care for her, something in his approaches had always been unacceptable. But the King was not a man of much patience, and was very quick to anger, and for the most part of eighteen years, his beautiful daughter had been subject to lectures that were delivered more harshly than meant and advise given too strongly. Yet somehow she was sometimes the wisest being he had ever known, reminding him far too distinctly of her mother. The only difference was her brilliant blue eyes. They had not belonged to her mother, but to him, and sometimes it was the only barricade that separated Zelda from becoming entirely the woman her mother had once been.
Saying a silent prayer under his breath, the King prayed for the patience he had always lacked and slowly turned around to meet the expecting eyes of his visitor. Today had been a beautiful day for the glory of Hyrule, for the war had ceased, the battle won, and the man standing before him had been the source of it all. In the dead of night, he and his men had ridden from the fabled land far beyond the borders of Hyrule, a name that was easily forgotten. Brandishing a red flag adorned with a flurry of black and golden Guays they had charged into battle, wiping out the enemy, galloping over the splintered and blown away trunks of the ancient forest that had once stood tall and proud. Riding on a great dark horse of the blackest nights he slaughtered them with such god-like speed it seemed impossible. In less than a few hours the man's many thousands of men had destroyed their camps, families, supplies, and their warriors, the Hylians and themselves the only ones remaining.
At the mere sight of the huge double bladed swords he held in his armour plated gloves, the soldiers had dropped to their knees shouting praise and adoration, begging silently that they were not to be killed too. The man ordered them to stand and lead him to the King of Hyrule. They did so with the greatest respect and reverence, guiding him quickly so that they might not anger his brutal power. The battered remnants of the Hylian forces and the brilliant warriors of the man, dressed in beautiful armour and bearing awesome weapons rode through the Market, the night shadow still shrouding the villagers in sleep. No one saw their supposedly triumphant return, but as the morning had risen bearing an even colder wind, people had begun to gather at the castle gates, curious to know what so many soldiers and horses were doing in the front gardens.
Their leader now stood before the King as he had wanted, clothed in a long dark cape that swept across his broad shoulders and chest, rising high and covering the lower portion of his face. A high ranking battle helmet marked with the symbol of the Guay crowned his head, shadowing his forehead, leaving only his bright eyes visible. His black clothes looked strangely out of place against the pale colours of the walls and the bright sky painted across the windows, as did the narrow, piercing glare when compared with the King's wide, worried gaze. The King cleared his throat, and finally spoke.
"I am eternally grateful for your most generous services, for you have saved our nation not only from the war but also from possible famine and epidemic that may well have spread throughout Hyrule had it not been for your brave and courageous actions."
"I thank you, your majesty," the stranger replied. "My subjects led me to believe that Hyrule was in terrible danger, and I only felt that relief should be dealt justly. Consider it a favour from generations past." Something must have shown in the King's expression, for he continued, "Have I said something to offend you, your majesty?"
"No, no, I apologise," he muttered. "How is it possible that your country, one so far from Hyrule, heard that we were in need of help?"
"Ah, forgive me, your highness. I must have forgotten to mention a small detail about my history. Many generations ago, my ancestors dwelled in this prosperous land but since then we have travelled to the farthest outskirts of the lands, many families falling behind along the way. Ever since, there have been very frequent messengers travelling between our vast family, bringing with them news from their own land. Each generation has remained faithful to the traditions laid out so very long ago and was the news that Hyrule had undertaken the taxing strain of war with foreign enemies that came to me from my brother.
"He rode for an entire month, knowing that I was the only member of our diminishing clan that had both the power and wealth to be able to put things right. When the news reached me, I felt that it was my duty to protect the land of my ancestors, and immediately gathered me men and set out for our homeland. I feared I would be too late, and that our efforts may be wasted as my brother brought the horrific news that our forces were being defeated very quickly. However, it seems that we arrived at a very opportune moment."
"Yes, indeed you did arrive at the most miraculous time, and may the goddesses bless you and make your own land prosperous and yield a good harvest for eternity. I bless your dear ancestors, who without them, our victory would not have been possible today. But please, speak. You came here to speak with me for a reason. It is only your right to ask. I have spoken far too much. Please, go on."
"Your majesty, I thank you again and I shall indeed now explain my reason for being here. I must tell you, the news my brother brought me was not only of your going to war, but also of the financial problems that Hyrule now has. I believe that there is a hefty sum of debt to be paid; yet you do not have sufficient funds. Am I correct in saying so?"
The King sighed heavily. "Yes, you are, sir. I am afraid of what Hyrule shall become in the years to come. If the war had persisted for much longer, we would indeed suffer a severe famine, and we may have not even recovered from such a harsh blow. But alas, had the heir to the throne not have died in battle, there may have been a hope for the people. He was a strong man, good and righteous. He led my men out into battle and fought with them till his unfortunate and untimely demise. My daughter, she is far too pure to rule a country in such a state of affairs. Her mind isn't ready to undertake such ridiculous responsibilities, and I fear that if she were to take the throne after me without a suitable husband, Hyrule would most certainly fall into the most deplorable state of anarchy."
Behind his cloak, the stranger grinned to himself. "I am most grieved, your majesty, to learn of this news." His smile disappeared into the sincerest gravity that one could believe. "I only wish I had ridden faster to prevent such a terrible loss. He must have affected everyone so very deeply, but, if I may your majesty," the stranger's eyes looked forward, catching the King's, "I would like to rectify your dilemma."
He was taken aback. " I-I am afraid I misunderstand you. How would you plan to rectify it, dear sir? Please tell me, how is it that you can help us?"
The grin reappeared on the dark man's face. "Your majesty, have I told you much of my country?" The King shook his head and the stranger's eyes went oddly distant. "My country is a fine land. Fertile, healthy soil for the farmers, surrounded by a network of sweeping hills that ease the morning light onto our fields and homes. The sea is at our feet, bringing a fresh breeze from across the horizons. The sun shines pleasantly on our lands too, warming the faces of the children as they play on the beaches and fields. And set against the mountains is our proud and beautiful fortress, looking out over the green farmlands. It is a pleasant land, is it not, your highness?"
"Indeed it is, sir. It reminds me of a Hyrule long past."
"Yes, I remember my father telling me tales of the ancient land of Hyrule when I was a child. In its honour we travelled and searched far and wide, until finally we found a site in which we could build our own Hyrule in its likeness. It is a beautiful land, but not nearly as beautiful as the original lands of legend. I must say, I would very much like to experience it other than from the windows of the fortress. For you see, I am the Lord of my nation, much like yourself. Everyday I see ships coming and going out on the ocean. Our port is very well established, and we make a very considerable income as well as engaging in trade with towns and countries out on the far seas. While inside my fortress, I have an army of the finest soldiers in the entire land, all born and raised as true men of their country. They have fought valiantly by my side at a moment's call, dying an honourable death in the call of duty. I treat my men well, as I believe it is of the most importance to be just when ruling, making those decisions that will alter one's life for eternity."
"You situation is of a most agreeable nature, sir, but I am still at a loss as to how this will help Hyrule."
"Allow me to explain, your highness. I apologise deeply for my lack of explanation as of yet. But let me go directly to the heart of my concern. If I may be so bold, I propose to engage your daughter's trust and become her suitor."
The King's mouth dropped ajar. "D-Did I hear you correctly, sir? T-That you intend to become…my daughter's suitor?"
"Indeed so. If your majesty will allow me to, I will proceed to clarify my proposition. In return for your daughter, I will fund this country and not only will Hyrule be able to find its feet once more, but my own country will once again to bound to Hyrule in an unbreakable connection, bringing them back to their true homeland. It will be a glorious celebration of our union, and what better gesture to join our two countries as one, than to take your daughter's hand. Do we have an accord, your majesty?"
The King stood silent for a moment, running his hand down his face again. The offer was all too agreeable. Zelda would be happily married with a strong husband to lead her in her actions, and Hyrule would be a wealthy country again. Nothing in the world could please him more than to see his own daughter take the throne and lead Hyrule into a new golden age of prosperity. Yet the man's cold, bright eyes worried him.
He remembered the day that Link had first been accepted into the castle and the look of Zelda's happy smile. Then he thought of the day he announced their engagement and smiled inwardly as he felt ghostly arms wrap themselves tightly around his large waist. They had been the arms of his daughter, embracing the old man for the first time he could remember. She had been smiling, her happy tears rolling down her cheeks, catching on her lips as she spoke to him with such gentility he could have sworn it was really her mother sobbing against his chest. Zelda had never managed to master the art of concealment like her mother had so expertly executed at even the most straining moments. She had been born a stubborn and free-spirited child, and had shouted at her father so many times he had forgotten, one argument blurring into the next. He never had heard her speak normally when in his presence, but now Zelda spoke to him as she were speaking to Link. Soft and sweetly, as if she weren't crying at all. That moment had made him proud.
The King then looked back at the heroic stranger, and imagined Zelda's reaction. He was almost certain that she wouldn't be happily crying in his arms, but that she would be crying tears of sorrow, not in his arms but shouting at him again for making such a cruel and heartless decision. He wouldn't be proud then, and the King could almost feel the guilt and shame already. All he wanted was for Zelda to be happy, to try and make up for not taking care of her properly as a child. Her attachment to Link had been a godsend, and he could still see the love in her eyes when he had watched the two in the gardens.
But now, as his role as a father, it was so close after Link's death it would be far too soon to force another marriage upon her. Zelda was still grieving, sometimes not coming out of her room for days on end. During his busy schedule Impa had consulted him in the appropriate course of action to take, for he too had suffered the loss of a loved one. She had told him that Zelda was refusing to come out of her room, even casting away meals that were brought up especially to her chambers.
Yet his role as King should be to agree for the benefit of the people. One sacrifice would mean the well being of hundreds of people, and the greater good was far more important than the one person's needs. Money would mean a wealthier kingdom; money would mean being able to rebuild and replenish; money would mean an advance their poor weaponry; money would ensure a good reign for his daughter and future generations…
Surely the latter would be the best solution? If he declined, what possible future could Hyrule aim for?
The King sighed heavily and met the bright eyes of the dark man. "We have an accord," he said dully.
The stranger smiled happily and clapped his hands together. "Your majesty, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. This will be a celebration of the ages, a New Hope for Hyrule's people and for my own!"
"It shall indeed," he said, hating every word that crept out of his mouth, "however, I must express that a hasty wedding would not be at all suitable. Zelda has not yet recovered from her loss, and it would be a terrible thing if her spirits were not raised on the day of her wedding. Please allow me to arrange the date. It is the least I can do, Lord…"
"Lord Dragmire," the stranger ended. "It was the name of my father's clan. A common name, but one with a great and powerful meaning."
The King smiled sadly, extending his hand. "Are we agreed then, Lord Dragmire?"
Zelda Dragmire. What a horrible name. What a wonderful thing it would have been if his child had been born a boy.
"Indeed we are, your highness." And they shook hands.
The Lord was dismissed, assigned his own temporary chambers before he would leave to make the announcement of marriage to his country. The King walked briskly through the castle, his feet taking him on a strange but familiar journey, one that he had not walked for days, weeks, and possibly even months. They stopped in front of a door after a winding passage of steps. He looked at it and his hand pushed it open, squeaking as it always had done in the past. The King stepped into his empty, uninhabited chambers, closed the door, and wept.
What in Din's name could have possessed him to agree to such a horrible demise for Zelda? He might as well kill her himself to save her the living torture of being married to a man she didn't love. He had to do something, but what? Hyrule needed this money that Lord Dragmire was going to provide, but he also wanted Zelda to have be happy. Was there any way to get both?
Still in his royal attire, and the sunshine pouring in through the tower windows, the King lay down on his soft bed and slept, his dreams filling ancient stories of fairytale escapes and heroic warriors that saved the day and defeated the evil lord of darkness. But his dreams moved on and the King dreamt of a boy and a girl, torn apart by war, and that the boy came back as a ghost. Evil was coming to the land but the girl was kidnapped before the monster could capture her.
A knock on the door awoke him from his brief sleep, and Zelda's voice drifted through the wooden barrier.
"Father, it is your daughter. You wished to speak with me."
AN: Whoop! A longer chapter! Yay :D Sorry about the long wait. The workload is beginning to increase with essays of various things and art…sigh But it's here, and I hope you enjoyed it. A little on the boring side, I know, but it needed to happen somewhere. Criticism is welcome XD It will get more exciting, I promise! Now review!!! :D
Hououza: Ah, you know they will. I'm a hopeless romantic too, and I can't stand sad endings. They make me cry ;; But we don't want that to be happening now, do we? Happy endings all the way! :D
zeldaisthebest: Thank you! I'm glad this has caught your attention so early on! Please keep reviewing :D
Lady Kumiko: Thank you for pointing that out XD. Old habits die hard, I guess. Hehe, if I do that again, be sure to tell me. I have another old habit of not checking what I post either XD
Lenipez sideshow: Glad you, er..., like your Zelda techno! :D Yep, there's a good reason why Impa can see him, and that will become clearer much later on.