Hello everyone! Here's my little Christmas present for 2005! This story, divided in two parts, is entitled Hyrule Times and it's my pride and joy. Okay, I'm exaggerating, but you get my point.
I worked for roughly five months, on and off. So I'm time for Christmas. I'll be working on more Zelink fiction, so you might want to keep an eye out.
Lil' notes: The dates are slightly unconventional. The month of Hexember is not a real month (you could have guessed) but it is the sixth month of a year of ten months (Primember, Biember, Triember, Tetraember, Quintember, Hexember, September, October, November and December). As for the year, I figured it was the 367th year of the 2nd age. And what does that mean? Nobody knows.
About Castleton: It's divided into four sections like Clock Town, only these sections are much bigger than those of Clock Town. I don't focus on East or South Castleton much. In West Castleton is Time Corp. and in North Castleton is the W.I.S.E. Building.
That's pretty much it.
Warning: Innuendos, I guess. Some language. Meh. Nothing major here either. I'm not strong on the cusses or vulgarity.
Anyway. Enjoy!
Hyrule Times
Part 1/2
By CM
Monday, Hexember 3rd, 367.
8:29 AM.
Subrosia Café, North Castleton.
"Hyrule Times," Malon London read, legs crossed under the table she shared with her two friends. Her elbows pinned the newspaper to the table and she was reading over the rim of her mug of coffee. Her thick red hair, tumbling in soft curls over her shoulders, accentuated her full lips and her bright, laughing, blue eyes. "In the headlines, two murders, a car pile-up, the opening of a theatre and—here's what interests us—a special feature: 'Top Ten Most Eligible Bachelors in Hyrule'."
Zelda Harkinian, highly amused, licked her lips and took a small bite of her muffin, which she'd dipped into her cappuccino grande. Her long blonde hair, undulating slightly, had been pulled up into a tight bun, to ward off any possible frizzy moments. Her heart shaped lips, only lightly coloured, stretched into a smile, to prove that the brightness in her light blue eyes was indeed due to good humour. She smothered a laugh and shot Anju Stoke a tiny grin. The latter smiled back gently, soft brown eyes focused on her morning pastry, even as she brushed aside her short, shoulder length brown hair. She took a soft sip of her latte, and waited for Malon to finish turning the newspaper pages.
Finally, Malon found the features section, and grinned. "Ooh, colour pictures included. All right. Let's start with number ten."
She brought a slender finger to the first column, on which the picture of a very young man, who had probably only recently turned eighteen, with cropped red hair, glared at the photographer, as though he was annoyed. Malon raised a thin brow, reading aloud.
" 'Mido Green. Nineteen. Has inherited only recently of the fortune of his grandparents, Mr. And Mrs. Koroks, owners of Hyrule's most successful wood industries. Currently finishing his studies, Mido Green says he intends to study economics and follow his parents' and grandparents' leads. Cute to bits, this fine young man awaits only a tree lover to complete the portrait of his ideal life.' "
"Too young," both Zelda and Anju commented. Then, Zelda furrowed a brow, craning her neck to see his picture a bit better.
"Well, he'd be sort of cute if I was his age, but I guess what makes him eligible is his money, right?"
"You know it. Alright, number nine is a bit more to our taste."
Indeed, the picture was that of a dark skinned, brooding, serious looking man, with long, dark hair and broad shoulders.
" 'Evan Keys. Twenty-seven. Genius pianist and talented composer, Evan Keys made a fortune selling his first CD, entitled 'Flow', which sold worldwide for a sum surpassing the million rupees. Subsequently, his single 'Deep', as well as the sequel to Flow, entitled 'Soaring High', in association with the group Indigo, both sold for six thousand and twelve thousand respectively. If his music doesn't catch you, his tall-dark-and-handsome looks will.' "
"I loved Soaring High," Anju gushed. "Keys and the Indigo did such a good job mixing it together!"
"The guy's handsome and loaded. I wouldn't mind hooking up with him," Malon smirked. "But just wait until you hear number eight." She cleared her throat, motioning to a picture of a large man, looking from below thick brows directly at the cameraman. His lips were barely pulled into a smile, but he looked like he found the whole thing very amusing. " 'Darmani Stonefist. Thirty-four. The name sounds familiar? No wonder. You saw him before, smashing people to the ground in the middle of a ring, then raising his arms in victory. And victory it is! At thirty-four years of age, Darmani Stonefist has already gathered a sum equal to 1.5 million rupees and has been in more romantic affairs than is safe to say. Could you be the first one to make him beg for mercy?' "
"I hope not," Zelda laughed.
Malon giggled and continued, now reading the text beside another picture. This one showed pale young man, with hair so long it fell well over his eyes, passed his chin. He wasn't dressed with class, sporting instead a white, sleeveless shirt. He was doing a 'peace' sign with a lazy smile. " 'Japas Marine,' " Malon read. " 'Twenty-six. Bassist of the group Indigo and worth a good two million, Japas Marine has written and played songs for the Indigo ever since its creation seven years ago. His lazy looks hide a passionate heart—or so his best-known solo, Won't Let You Down, declares. Perhaps the one to catch his heart will be awarded a winning song?' "
"Hm," Anju nodded, "That'd be nice. But don't they all seem somewhat unstable as romantic partners? Either with no experience, too much experience, or crazed careers?"
"Wait, you haven't seen this one." Malon showed them the picture of a huge man, with a wide grin and a good face, with wild hair and a thick tan. He sported a business suit that seemed too tight, but he didn't look too bothered by it. " 'Darunia Goroni. Thirty-seven. This strong looking man owns mines in the Death and Snowhead Mountains, which represent around 4 million rupees' worth, and a large mansion overlooking Hyrule Plain. Accomplished and good-natured, this tycoon's life still won't be complete without you by his side!' "
"He looks like a good guy, but he's too old for my taste," Zelda thoughtfully mumbled, before perking up. "Well, five down, five to go. What are you waiting for?"
Malon was smiling sarcastically at the next picture. "This one's really handsome. Too bad he's a jerk." The picture was that of a tall, olive skinned, red haired man, with sharp eyes and a large smirk. " 'Ganondorf Dragmire. Twenty-nine. This western tycoon has most certainly caught your eye, and with cause. His financial sense of intuition, his powerful corporation and his desire to expand have made him one of the most prominent figures in today's economy. Armed with good looks and the equivalent of seven million rupees, he'll need someone to keep him company in that huge palace of his!' Now that's someone I wouldn't mind getting with."
"Yeah," Anju agreed wryly, "He looks like a catch."
"Not my style," Zelda shrugged, avoiding the subject. "Who's next?"
But Malon didn't answer. Instead, her eyes were glued to number four's picture, awed. His longish blonde hair, brushed to the side and falling in his reddish brown eyes, coupled with square, if not broad, shoulders were enough to make her jaw drop. He also happened to sport a wide grin and a thumbs up sign. Finally, she said, "Oh my Din. This guy is so handsome."
"Read it! Read it!"
Gladly, she did. " 'Sheik Strike,' " she read excitedly. " 'Twenty-five. Silver screen star and stand-up comic, Sheik Strike has been on the scene for four years already, starting with his increasingly popular teen humour show, Somebody Forgot Their Pants, which was unknowingly the prelude to his next hilarious satirical cartoon series, Queasy & Cheesy, that reached a wider audience and won him a prize for humour show of the year. Worth seven million rupees, this cute and perseverant young man is sure to keep you entertained!' "
"Farore," Zelda laughed, "I loved Queasy and Cheesy. The one time he joked about royals… I was afraid I'd die of heart failure, I was laughing so hard."
"I hadn't seen him before. I didn't know he was this cute," Malon appreciatively commented. "Oooh, number three isn't bad either."
They looked at the picture of a tanned young man, with sharp features and long, blue-tipped bangs in a mess. He had a styled shark tattoo on his shoulder, which was visible from the ripped sleeves of his black shirt. He smirked at the camera, as though he was winning a game.
" 'Mikau Blue,' " Malon read. " 'Twenty-six. Lead singer and guitarist of Indigo. If Japas didn't get you, Mikau Blue will. Worth eight million rupees, he kept the Indigo rising on top of pop lists for as long as they've been around. His first solo–-which came out last month, entitled 'Killing Me'—has already sold ten thousand copies, a number added to the sales of Indigo's Long Run, There & Back and Panic Control, albums which had done well enough on their own. He's studly, he's up, he's rising, he's yours.' "
"Uh-huh. Well, who's left?"
Malon appreciatively showed them number two, a young, dark haired man, eyes a mix between red and brown. He stared intently at the camera, with only a trace of a smile on his features. His eyes didn't seem annoyed, however. Though he wasn't built, he was tall, with square shoulders. He wore a tight t-shirt and his hands looked like they'd been shoved into his pockets. Anju's eyes were fixed on him.
" 'Kafei Dotour,' " Malon read slowly. " 'Twenty-four. Worth nine million rupees and our current president's independent son, Kafei Dotour studied at the Hyrulian University in Termina before coming back to his homeland to help his father run his campaign. Yes, Kafei Dotour studied publicity and economics, and has started a blooming company near home. His friendship with our number one bachelor does help to place him high on our list. You know he's the one.' "
"He's cute," Anju longingly said. "It's really too bad he's every woman's dream date."
Zelda grinned, then sighed. "I guess there's no one there for me, huh?"
Malon shot her a reproachful look. "Pep up, ladies," she ordered. "We're down to number one, so don't get all disappointed. And Zellie, I know you have a thing for blue eyes."
"Show me," Zelda demanded, gazing at the final picture, which had been enlarged compared to the others. Her jaw dropped.
Smirking back at her, with dirty blonde hair cut in thick strands, a chaotic crop, and dark blue eyes twinkling amusedly, Hyrule's number one bachelor looked like candy. From the broad shoulders to the tight business shirt, the first buttons of which had been untied to show his collarbone, and tie loose enough to look casual, to the silver earring high on the side of his ear, he was apparently a free spirit. Even his smile was perfect, with a tiny dimple on his left cheek.
Her heart thumped. She knew him.
Malon grinned, ogling him as much as Anju and Zelda.
" 'Link Forester. Twenty-five. Our Number One selection by a long run, Link Forester has made his place in today's world through a clever set of affiliations and contracts, which led him to be the founder of Time Corporations four years ago. The name rings a bell? No wonder. Dealing with banal household objects or high-tech military technology, Time Corporations have a grip on Hyrule's world so important that Link Forester is calculated to be worth at the least twelve million rupees.
'But you've done the math, haven't you? At twenty-one he'd have created this company? Not so unbelievable. This tech mogul is both an accomplished businessman and genial software engineer: he graduated from Hyrule's University quicker than anyone in the past four generations. Upon being asked what he aimed to do now that he'd gotten more than most Hylians will ever get in their lifetimes, Link Forester answered that he'd continue holding benefits for the indigent and the children of war. His words being, 'I want to continue helping society. I'm not ready to retire, I'm not ready to sit back and watch, especially when I have the power to change things.' Could Link Forester be the perfect man? We'll let you decide.' "
"Zelda? You look like you ate something weird."
Malon looked up at Zelda. It was true, Zelda looked pale.
Her only answer was to take a long gulp of coffee. Tentatively, Anju said, "I'll say, this Link Forester person does sound like he's the ideal man."
"It's a lie," Zelda hoarsely said.
Stunned, Malon and Anju turned to look at her.
Monday, Hexember 3rd, 367.
9:47 AM.
Time Corporations Building, West Castleton.
Link Forester, lounging in his executive chair, swivelled from side to side, extremely amused. Sitting in a straight chair with his feet propped up on the desk, facing him though his eyes were closed, was Mikau Blue. Sitting on the desk, legs crossed, completely disregarding the paperwork he was crushing, Sheik Strike cocked his head to the side, furrowing a brow and looking at the article in the newspaper.
Leaning against the wall, Kafei Dotour gazed with a grin at Link, who still cackled from time to time, after his earlier hilarity.
"Happy, I guess?"
"You have no idea."
"So," Mikau mumbled, his voice smooth with training, "Would you mind explaining me why it was so important that I participate in this little publicity stunt?"
Link opened his mouth to speak, but then burst into wild, uncontrolled cackles again. Sheik, hardly looking up from the newspaper, muttered, "I never thought a guy could get so giddy with evil."
"That's because you never spoke with Ganondorf Dragmire," Kafei smirked, dragging a chair over to Mikau's side but addressing himself to Sheik.
Sheik turned to look at Kafei, ignoring Link who was still grinning widely. "Maybe, but he's beginning to scare me."
Kafei shrugged, slumping in the chair without care and said, to Mikau, "It's about a bet he made five years ago with this girl. He'd finished his studies early and all—you know the story—and was headed out into the world, and out of nowhere, this girl comes and tells him to take life easy. You know, not to take it by storm and everything. Anyway, so Link answers—Link, what did you tell her?"
Link looked up from the newspaper he'd taken from Sheik with a wide grin. In the large, high ceiling office, out the windows of which Castleton could be seen from up high, with its skyscrapers and rooftops and avenues, some of the four men looked a bit out of place. Link, with his polo shirt and slacks wasn't too alien to the place. Kafei, with his tie not even knotted, could still be acceptable, but Mikau, in chained, black leather pants, with a net shirt and a heavy metallic dog collar, was unusual. And Sheik, sporting a faded t-shirt that had once said 'Bite Me' and old, ripped and faded jeans, looked below the dress code, to say the least. Both of them had gotten away with it because of their friendship with the CEO, Link Forester.
But Link had forgotten he was CEO. To him, they were his old buddies, guys he'd become friends with after meeting in particular circumstances, and people he respected. Which was why he explained, with satisfaction, exactly why they had all made appearances in that day's Hyrule Times' Special Feature.
"I told her, 'If I can, I will, and I can, so what do you think I'll be doing?' "
Kafei grinned. "She had the nerve to roll her eyes, and say, 'You think you're all that, just because you've finished school before everyone else? I'm sure you're not getting any further than any of us.' So Link says, and this part is what concerns us today, gentlemen…"
" 'You don't have to believe me, princess, but I know for a fact that I will appear in the newspaper before you ever will. And not for the obituaries either.' "
"So they made a bet," Kafei concluded. "The many clauses of which were signed by Link and the girl. I haven't even seen the document, but they both have a copy. Basically, or so Link told me, they said that the one to lose would have to admit their defeat publicly, and then pay the other."
"How much?" Mikau asked lightly.
Link grinned. "Secret. That's the part I'd rather not define at this moment in time."
"Who was this girl?" Sheik asked. "And why haven't you told us more about her before? You know, on account of the life-altering contract and all."
Link smiled secretively. "She's what I would call an old acquaintance. What Kafei said, about her coming out of nowhere, is a bit exaggerated. I'd known her for a while. But enough about this." He stood from his executive chair, still smiling widely. "I can't go around revealing all my secrets to my audience. Where will the magic be?"
"I think," Sheik flatly said, though he looked highly amused, "that Kafei, Mikau and I know a whole lot more about audiences than you ever will."
"True, my friend," Link said, "But Kafei's ads always end with the name of the product he sells, your jokes don't last more than a few minutes each, and Mikau's songs are known by heart all over the world. I am the only one whose intrigue has no known ending, has lasted for five years, and is unpredictable. Which is why I am, without a doubt, the most interesting case you'll have ever observed."
"You're taking the chaos theory a bit too far."
"I like that," Mikau thoughtfully said. "Chaos theory. I could make songs about that or something. I need to talk to Japas about it."
"See? I even inspire those who know more about audiences than I do!" Link cheerfully exclaimed. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to find that contract in my folders, so I'll be retreating. What do you say we meet again later today? Say, right after my afternoon meetings and right before Mikau's concert and Sheik's stand-up show?"
"Which you have yet to see," Sheik added. Link waved a hand dismissingly, his grin still wide.
"Later, Sheik. First things first: we're off to conquer the world."
"Yeah. Sure. Keep your pants on."
Monday, Hexember 3rd, 367.
12:09 PM.
Forester family home, Castleton suburbs.
He dug through the file cabinet in his parents' attic, coughing at the dust he stirred up. Piled in disarray, corners damaged, his old books had gathered a visible layer of dust. He'd pulled open the first drawer of the file cabinet, rummaging from folder to folder, searching amidst the old university transfers and notifications, wondering why in the world he'd bothered keeping them in the first place.
Taking a breath, he paused, looking into the drawer speculatively. His heart was beating faster now, as doubts began filling his mind. Was it lost? Had he done a mistake in placing it?
Resolute, he dug into the drawer and folders again.
"Sweetie?" He'd forgotten his mother had been downstairs. He turned.
"Oh, hi, Mom."
She leaned against the doorway, peering at her adult son. "What are you looking for?"
He shrugged his broad shoulders, sneezing on the cloud of dust. "It's, um, well, it's a long story. But don't worry, I'm fine."
"You're not in trouble, are you?" She asked, and he expected her to waggle her finger at him. But she didn't. "I hope you didn't do something silly, now."
"I didn't," he smiled. "In fact, it's not even negative. It's positive." He grinned. "Extremely positive."
"Really?" She looked amused at her son's antics. "What? Have newspapers gotten a liking for you? How many articles were you asked for now?" She sighed, and looked hopeful. "Or perhaps you met a nice girl? Please tell me you're going to provide me with grandchildren soon."
He looked a bit out of place, pressing his lips together to avoid saying something she wouldn't like.
"Actually," he finally settled for saying, "It does relate to the article in the newspaper. And it does have something to do with a girl. But not in the way you're thinking."
"I read that article today. I'm so proud of you," she said. "But I'd also like it if you married a good girl before I die."
"Right now, Mom, it's not—"
"Your priority, I know. But will it ever be?"
He was getting a bit annoyed. "Mom, I'm out to settle something that started when I was still in school, alright?"
"That's old," she said. "But in what way does this have to do with a girl, hm? If you got her pregnant, young man, I'm warning you—"
"I didn't get anyone pregnant, Mom! And if it's so important to you, I'm talking about Zelda Harkinian! Zelda Harkinian, okay?"
"Zelda—Oh, Zelda! I remember her! Such a sweet girl… It always surprised me how the two of you never got together. You seemed so very alike. Why aren't you talking to her anymore? I liked her, she was a good girl."
"It's a long story, Mom, I told you."
"Well, if it's so complicated, then don't tell me. But do me a favour and don't hurt that poor girl. You know she's been going through a lot of trouble with that company of hers."
Link frowned. "What do you mean?"
"Oh, you don't know?" Mrs. Forester sighed. "Well, that man, Ganondorf Dragmire, I think—I never really liked him—, he offered her to buy the company for two billion rupees. And she refused, so now he's pressuring her into selling by cutting off all her suppliers. There's rumour of a nervous breakdown on the horizon for her. Or at least bankruptcy."
Link was silent for a long moment, then, in a soft voice, "I didn't know that."
"Anyway, if it's all the same to you, I'd appreciate it if you didn't make her life worse. I liked her; she was always so polite and giving… Oh, I know! Why don't you buy back all the companies that Dragmire bought, just to make her life easier?"
He snapped out of his pensive mood in time to say, "I can't do that, Mom. I'd need to run it by my admin board."
She sighed. "I see. Of course… Well then, what are you looking for?"
Monday, Hexember 3rd, 367.
8:12 PM.
Zelda Harkinian apartment, East Castleton.
"…That's when I realized…there wouldn't be any because the only way to get that key to work was if I had the right combination in the first place!"
The audience's laughter was distant. In her mind, Zelda wasn't listening to the show. Lounging on her couch in pyjamas, with the remote loosely hanging from her hand, she was like in a daze. Constantly in her line of sight, always on the corner of her eye, the newspaper clipping sneered at her. Link Forester's picture, its colours greyish in the artificial lights, was like a magnet, drawing her eyes back to it constantly.
When was the last time she'd looked at him? Really looked at him, and not at his ever-rising company graphs? When was the last time she'd heard his voice, unobstructed by static and clouded by specific terms?
Had she even bothered to make contact with him ever since he'd left University, ready to take on a world that had turned out to not only be accessible to him, but also fairly small in comparison?
Not really. The answer came to her accusingly, reminding her that she had no excuse, save for that argument they'd had upon parting ways.
It haunted her now, how his eyes had flashed as she spoke, how he had suddenly taken on a guarded attitude and put up a wall that had never come down again. And it stung, somehow, to think that she had caused the situation on her own, because of a petty wish, because he'd left her behind to face the world without her.
But what sort of friend did that to another anyway? Letting them down? It was the only question keeping her afloat, the only justification for her to stay above depression.
They'd both gone down their own paths, which had, for some reason, been parallel, if distanced. Both had moved to become heads of their corporations, and both had had rising competitors whom had been taken out—in similar fashions too. It was as though their actions were mirror images of the other's.
Except now…
"You don't have to say things like that, Zelda."
Now…
"I thought you'd be happy about it."
Now, things had changed.
"What do you mean, take life easy? Zel', my life hasn't even started yet. Besides, I have the ability to take it on. If I can, I will. And I can. What do you think I'm going to do?"
He'd taken a step forward.
"I don't think I'm all that. I think I'm Link, and I think I can do this. And it's too bad you don't think so, princess."
She, in turn, had taken a step backward.
"You don't have to believe me, princess, but I'm telling you. I'm going to make my life worthwhile. I'm pretty sure I'll appear in newspapers before you ever do. And not for the obituaries either, which might be an okay second for you, I suppose."
Hurt had slapped her hard in the face. And anger, then. He'd mirrored her, as always.
"I don't think you'd do the same, on the contrary. And your company doesn't count. Neither would mine, once I get one—and I will, believe me. What counts, Zelda, is that you and I, we're going to appear in the newspapers for us, not numbers, not contracts. Us. And I'm going to beat you to it."
His words had been laced with tension and venom, but even more so ire at her. It had made her slow down and realize.
"You know what? Let's make a bet. You'd like that? Yeah, I thought so. We'll make a bet. Meet me tomorrow at the Café. Once we're done settling it, we part ways. Five years from now, sweetheart: that's our delay to become famous. And then, screw clean methods. I'll have my face in the newspapers just so I can wipe that confident smile off yours."
They'd never be the same again.
"If—no. When. When I win, here's what we'll do…"
What they'd do.
Her doorbell rang.
The remote fell from her hand.
Monday, Hexember 3rd, 367.
8:14 PM.
Deku Palace, West Castleton.
"To our Sexy Bachelor Success," Sheik grinned, and his glass collided with his three companions'. "Hopefully, I won't be discriminated for being worth the less and coming in dead last of the four of us."
"We'll put up with you," Kafei said, faking generosity. "After all, we can't have all that spare money go to waste, right? I mean, it really annoys me when I go to the bathroom and find rupees all over the place."
"Jerk," Sheik sneered.
"I'm sure your shit is worth money," Mikau said, "but I'm not in the mood to know more than that."
"Guys, guys," Link easily said, leaning back in his chair, savouring his drink, "take it easy. This is my treat—Remember? So stop pissing Sheik off about money he doesn't have, will you?"
"I do have money, bastard!"
"Hey, relax, we don't look down on the little people, so don't worry."
Sheik glared at Kafei, who stared right back. Eventually, both of their faces stretched into grins. Sheik leaned back, taking a small sip of his champagne. "You're still a jerk," he mumbled onto the rim.
"That's okay, because at least I can pay people to forget about it."
"Okay, now you're an uber jerk."
Link sighed lazily, tuning them out and gazing around at the lavishly decorated restaurant. Reserved only for the elite of society, it served food and drinks that could be afforded, therefore, only by the elite of society. He didn't really like the place. The food was good, but served so impeccably that he always felt like it was a bad idea to eat it, like it wasn't meant to be eaten: only looked upon.
On the other hand, the view was impeccable. It overlooked the skyscrapers, and down below, he could see the busy avenues, windows brimming with money, expensive artists and designers, and the lights all winking on as the evening turned into night. For most strollers, the good time of day had only just started.
He caught himself staring at his reflection in the window, dark and silent in the middle of light and sound. His vision focused alternately between his own face and the buildings beyond, all illuminated and unnatural.
So he was here, celebrating a victory that had taken five years in coming. A victory he'd known was his the moment he'd bet on it.
Yet… Why couldn't he help but wonder at what she was doing that very instant? What his mother had told him, earlier that day, came back to murmur in his ear that he should feel ashamed for remembering something so unimportant. Something that dated back to five years...
Five years! How long had it been since he'd last seen her, heard her voice and looked into her eyes? How long since he'd wondered at her hair, or held her hand?
Five years.
"Hey, Link." He snapped out of it and grinned at Kafei, who was leaning onto the table carelessly, observing Sheik's fabric napkin origami. "Want to make a toast? Sheik got his turn, so now it's your honour. But make it short, I have a smart one already."
Forgetting about his sombre thoughts, Link rose his glass, and was joined by his friends. He furrowed a brow in thought, and finally said, "To victory."
"Short and to the point," Kafei nodded. "To victory!" He repeated.
"To victory," both Mikau and Sheik smirked.
"I'm having a thought here," Sheik said, ignoring Kafei's barb ("Wow, that's new!"). "Have you ever noticed how all four of our names contain the letter 'K'?"
"I have a bad feeling about this," Mikau mumbled lazily.
Deliberately ignoring the comment, Sheik grinned and wrote down on the tablecloth, disregarding the property damage, "We're the Four Ks."
"The forKs?" Kafei blinked, grinning. "Hey, look at me! I'm a fork!"
"Forget it," Sheik said, shooting Link a helpless look. "Just get on with your toast, Fork."
"That was possibly the weirdest interlude I ever witnessed. Yet, somehow, I cannot seem to find it completely random," Link said in mock wonder.
"To our greatness, our perfect-ness and just about everything else we incarnate," Kafei declared.
"Does that include your pathological disorder?" was Sheik's question.
"No."
"Oh. Okay, then."
Mikau rolled his eyes, and raised his glass as well. "To the love of our fans, without which we wouldn't even have made the list."
"Well, Link's money helped—"
"No."
"Okay."
"What am I doing here?" Link joked lightly. "Get me out of here!"
"That's it. Man overboard. Don't you feel ashamed, Kafei, for your actions?" Sheik said, the way a mother would scold a teenager.
"Drink up, gentlemen," was Kafei's laughing response.
But Link didn't part his lips when the champagne surged to meet them. He paused, and was struck with a thought. None of his companions realized that he didn't drink from his flute.
Monday, Hexember 3rd, 367.
8:18 PM.
Zelda Harkinian apartment, East Castleton.
"Oh my God," Zelda wheezed, "Malon, you scared the hell out of me. Don't do that again!"
Malon looking less concerned than annoyed, put down her purse on Zelda's table and asked, "What, you mean ring your doorbell? Zelda, don't tell me you've gone paranoid—wait, has that crazy window freak killer been released from prison?"
Zelda shook her head pathetically. "No."
"Well then what? Are you afraid that big guy Ganon will come by to molest you?"
Zelda's suddenly sullen look made Malon raise her hands, eyes a bit wider than usual. "I didn't mean it like that! I'm sorry I reminded you of that company thing—Sorry."
"It's alright," Zelda breathed. "I've got to face it anyway. My company's going down."
"No, Zellie, you'll be just fine." Malon paused, awkward. "So, if you're not depressed because of that, then why? Are you afraid Link My-Desk-Is-Bigger-Than-Your-Desk Forester is going to drop by, asking for money? He wouldn't be above it, but I'm sure he won't. He probably thinks you and I are too low for his presence or something. Urgh, just thinking about that guy pisses me—Zel?"
"Sorry, Malon, but I—I'm really not in the mood for talk right now."
Malon frowned a bit, gazing at Zelda with sympathy. She pressed her lips together, flopping down on the couch. "Alright, then, I won't talk. What the—?"
Malon tugged a wrinkled paper out from between Zelda's fingers. It was only exhaustion that kept Zelda from letting her see it. Her friend, upon finding out what the sheet was about, raised her gaze to Zelda. "Zellie—This is terrible! How could you?"
Biting her lip, Zelda unblinkingly stared at her carpet, willing herself not to begin crying. Malon's arm wrapped itself around her shoulders and squeezed. They stayed silent for the longest time.
Underlined, on the sheet of paper, Zelda's copy of the contract, a single phrase spelled her end, like an menacing death sentence: 'Upon defeat, the loser owes his/her company to the winner.'
And below, both their signatures, curving on the lines, side by side, sealing the penalty.
Tuesday, Hexember 4th, 367.
10:26 AM.
Time Corporations Building, West Castleton.
"Loophole," Link mumbled for the tenth time to his empty and silent office. His eyes gazed into nothingness, and he formed the word again. "Loophole."
He picked his phone up, dialled a familiar number, and commanded a few things. Amounts of money were discussed briefly, and when he threw the phone back onto his cradle, he was grinning.
"Let's make this fair," he breathed, gazing at his copy of the contract amusedly. "Loopholes, princess. Do you know what that means? Can you find me?"
"You speak to sheets of paper, now?" Kafei's voice rang out. Link looked up, and smiled.
"I didn't hear you come in. And no, I don't. Usually. But then, aren't I a fascinating specimen of the Hylian kind?"
"Don't ask me," Kafei muttered. "I love women, and male specimens don't particularly interest me."
Link chuckled. "Ah, but I'm not speaking about my being a man. I'm speaking about my fascinating ways."
"You think too highly of yourself. And what is this thing about fair play? I heard you mention Zelda Harkinian's name. She's the one? What are you planning now?"
"You'll see in due time. But to give you a hint: why should I take victory without difficulty? I want to match our wits and strength. She is a resilient opponent, I'm sure, and defeating her by default beats defeating her after a long and difficult tug-of-war."
"You're digging your own grave," Kafei smirked. Link shrugged.
"I'm only evening out our chances. Now, you'll have to excuse me. I have an appointment to schedule with our dearest princess."
"Why do you call her that?"
Link blinked. He looked at Kafei quizzically. "You mean 'princess'? I don't know."
Kafei sighed, shaking his head. "I'm leaving for lunch in half an hour. Just thought I'd give you a heads up."
"I'll be there," Link absently said, leafing through his address book. Kafei rolled his eyes and left him to his own devices.
Wednesday, Hexember 5th, 367.
9:51 AM.
W.I.S.E. Building, North Castleton.
The morning sunlight creeped into Zelda's office, peaceful. A whole day yesterday without news of Link was very ominous indeed.
She needn't have worried.
"Miss Harkinian," a young woman, her secretary, breathed, knocking cautiously on Zelda's office door, "good morning. A Mister Link Forester called yesterday, requesting an appointment with you Friday evening. He said he'd like to discuss…" The secretary looked down at her tiny notepad. "… To discuss 'the contract'. He did not specify which one. He said you'd know. He said, 'To discuss the contract and catch up. My treat. Meet me at Rito's. I hope you still like chicken and meat in general and didn't start eating only at Zora's Hall. You know how I feel about sushi. Also, make sure to dress up. You may hate me, but could you try to not dress in a dishrag? I'll dress up just for you, princess. So that's Rito's, on Friday, at seven. Be there.' And he hung up, Miss. He said he didn't feel the need to speak to you in person. But you were out anyway."
Zelda rolled her eyes, looking annoyed on the outside, but feeling her guts twist inside.
The secretary looked unsure. "Should I call back to tell him you'll be there?"
"I'll be there." If only to slap him. Hard. "No need to call him back; but thank you for offering."
Puzzled, the secretary nodded and exited the room. She was pushed aside when Malon came in, holding the day's newspaper. The redhead was seething.
"Malon?" Zelda blinked, puzzled, when Anju came in, equally upset. The latest issue was shoved in her face.
"Please let me call the bastard who wrote this nonsense just so I can kill him," Malon said in a low, murderous voice.
Worried, Zelda took the paper from her friend's hands.
Wednesday, Hexember 5th, 367.
11:39 AM.
Time Corporations Building, West Castleton.
"Hyrule's Top Ten Most Eligible Bachelorettes," Sheik said, both eyebrows raised high on his forehead. "Have you gone mad, my friend?" And his tone told Link that he actually thought the idea brilliant.
Link shrugged. Kafei took the paper from Sheik. The four men were, once again, lounging in Link's large office.
On the paper, a picture of number ten, in colour, showed a pale haired, severe looking woman with a genuine smile and a tailored business suit and tie. Her hair was short, tied in a tight bun, and her vivid reddish brown eyes stared the photographer through. Her shoulders were square, and her ample chest was well hidden.
"Number ten," Kafei read. " 'Impa Shades. Thirty-six. Successful and well-known broker, she began from scratch and taught herself to understand stock motions. In late Tetramber last year, she correctly predicted the fall and, most importantly, the subsequent raise of Petroil shares prices, buying many for herself and thus growing to be worth nine hundred thousand rupees in less than a month. Perhaps intelligence seekers will be fulfilled with this woman?' "
"Hand me that," Sheik said, laughing. "Number nine. 'Ruto Watters, twenty-five." The picture was that of a slinky model, deep purple eyes smoky, with bright red lips pouting, as the tall, skinny beauty, pale skinned and long limbed, smirked at the observer, blue dyed hair blowing, as though influenced by a fan placed before her. "Beginning in catalogues at the age of sixteen, this beauty quickly moved onto the runways, where her main designers are Spirit, DeZora, and Fountain. From lingerie to intricate dresses, she's been through it all. Her moody attitude hides a passionate spirit. Worth a million, she's broken hearts. She's played with our eyes. She's out for you.' "
Mikau took the newspaper, and smiled lazily. "Your sister is number eight, Forester."
"I know. I thought I'd give her a little surprise. She loves top ten lists."
" 'Aryll Forester. Eighteen.' " Mikau read slowly, coolly, smiling. On the paper, the picture of a sweet looking blonde with long pigtails smiled at the viewer. Looking strikingly like her brother, the girl's eyes were the same as her sibling's. She was dressed in a classy uniform, as though she had been dragged into the picture right after school. She was grinning happily, a row of perfect white teeth forming a smile that looked like her brother's. She was girly, but there was no doubt that she and Link were of the same family. " 'Younger sister of Link Forester, our number one bachelor, this girl has not only a rich brother, but also many shares of various successful companies to her name. Currently studying in marketing, she intends to start her own company someday. A travel lover, she'll go anywhere for a nice view. Keep an eye open: she'll turn into a beautiful tycoon!' "
"That's a nice thing to say," Kafei smiled. Link grinned.
"The reporter owes me," he said, right before his smile turned to a frown. "And Stal also happens to have a crush on my sister."
"Stal?" Sheik took the paper, looking at the writer's name. "Hey, you're a friend with this guy? I didn't know you knew Stal Child. He's that freelancer, right? What happened?"
"A long story," Link sighed. "Aryll and I were in Termina—she for fun, and I for work—and the guy was at the customs, unable to get back into the country for various administrative reasons. I pulled a few strings. And he and my sis' sympathized. I'm not too pleased."
"You wouldn't be," Kafei chuckled. "You value your sister too much to let her go. Even to a good guy like Stal Child."
Link said nothing, ignoring the good-hearted laughs of his friends with a scowl. Finally, Sheik, read, "Number seven. 'Saria Woods. Nineteen.' " The picture was that of a green haired, perky looking young woman, with light blue eyes and a sweet grin. She wore a bright green shirt, and looked fairly gentle. Sheik read, " 'This young lady isn't all sweet smiles and cute words. You probably heard of her on the news, militating against the careless cut of Kokiri trees (kokiris arbolus), which she has aimed at making a protected species, using a personal fund of 1.5 million. Her most well known feat was to challenge Korok Industries by chaining herself to a century old Deku tree, affectionately surnamed Great Deku. Her success as an activist is known worldwide. Watch her make sparks fly.' "
"Please don't tell me that's your neighbour," Kafei mumbled into his hand, shaking his head.
Link grinned. "Alright, I won't."
"But isn't Korok Industries the property of that number ten in our guy list? Mido Green?" Sheik laughed.
Link nodded, still smiling. "Yep. And let's just say that Mido was impressed when he saw her." He rose an eyebrow meaningfully, and his friends snickered.
"Number six," Kafei sighed, taking the newspaper from Sheik. The next picture was that of a quiet looking young woman, whose warm brown eyes shone. She had small, shiny pink lips, and long lashes, as well as long light brown curly hair.
" 'Medli Flight. Twenty-one. You may not know her face, but you have without a doubt made use of her company. Owner by inheritance of Hyrule's most widespread private aerial mail company, she allows your mail to get to anyone, anywhere, in a record time. While she still needs help from her family to get things going, she intends to run it independently by the time she turns twenty-five. Worth two million rupees, she awaits only a charming prince to ship her off to dreamland.' "
"Cute," Sheik mumbled. "I didn't know it was owned by a woman."
"You learn new things every day, don't you?" Link grinned.
Sheik rolled his eyes, turning to Kafei, who seemed absorbed by the newspaper. "Hey, Kafei, hand me that, will you? What—Hey, Hyrule to Kafei." He frowned when Kafei didn't answer, and snatched the newspaper from the young man's fingers.
"Hey, I was reading that!" Kafei said, and the three others blinked upon realizing he looked flushed. Sheik glanced suspiciously at the number five. And his eyes widened. He suddenly understood Kafei's interest.
The picture was that of a shoulder length haired brunette, with soft brown eyes and a gentle gaze. She was dressed in a classical suit, with her sleeves rolled. Her skin was pale, healthy, but the style wasn't like the others'. It seemed she had been taken from archives instead of photographed specifically for the extra. In fact, it looked she was sitting in a café, reading a book, and wasn't well framed, as though it had been a quick shot.
" 'Anju Stoke,' " Sheik read. " 'Twenty-four. You know about Stoke Inn. An international company CEO, Anju Stoke is part of all the social circles, and not just thanks to her money either. A truly gentle-hearted woman, she has donated to many fundraisers and foundations, digging right out of her purse—which is estimated to be worth approximately 3.5 million. You can be sure that her slogan, 'To make you feel at home anywhere' will apply to any of her boyfriends!' "
Mikau glanced at the picture. "She's not bad at all. But I think we better not aim at her."
Sheik furrowed a brow. "What? Why not?"
Mikau smirked the smirk that had seduced all his fans. "Well, two things. She's best friends with the girl Forester is warring—Don't look so shocked, man. Dotour told us—and number two, Dotour has got the urge to hit on her."
They all turned to look at Kafei, who scowled, unable to be rid of his embarrassed flush.
"I never said anything."
"You dig her, man," Mikau said, tone final. "Hand me that. I saw number four. She looks hot."
" 'Lulu Singer. Twenty-six,' " Sheik said with a grin, handing the paper to Mikau, who smirked at the picture appreciatively. "My, my, has a girl finally caught the great Mikau Blue's eye?"
"Not sure yet, Strike, but let's see. Lulu Singer? I know her." The picture was that of a sensual looking woman, with a silky skin, lush red lips, a slip of a dress, with her arms crossed protectively, provocatively over her torso. She was smiling at the camera, deep purple eyes piercing, and electric blue streaks contrasting with the ebony black curls that otherwise tumbled over her shoulders.
Mikau's eyes drank her in with appraisal. He read, " 'If her looks didn't already get under your skin, then her smooth voice and sensual mood will definitely make you a fan. Starting at the age of fifteen, this woman made her way from the runways over to the music industry as a singer, quickly crowned discovery of the year. Her first album, 'Your Echo', sold for 3 million rupees in the first release month, quickly followed by five million rupees' worth sale of her second album, 'Midnight Dive', contribute to her incredible charisma and make her amongst the most observed women out there. Get her before she finds the one, lover boys.' "
"Got that, Mikau?" Sheik grinned.
"Yeah." Mikau grinned. "I'll be her lover boy anytime."
Kafei grabbed the newspaper, smiling. "Number three. 'Nabooru Spirit. Twenty-seven.' " The photograph was that of a dark skinned, red-headed woman, with sharp features and golden eyes. She stared at the viewer with slight annoyance but also the hint of a smirk. Her skin was as flawless as Lulu's had been, but it was ornamented with many big pieces of jewellery. It didn't look overdone on her, however.
" 'She played the devil's wife in 'Darkest Realm'; she incarnated the deadly but charming Lolita in 'Seven Day Crew'; she co-starred as the lovely housekeeper in 'Willow Hall'; she starred as your average modern woman looking for love in 'Yours Truly'—to name but a few! This sexy and witty young woman can keep an argument up with anyone, but focuses her energy on her acting career, which already earned her 5 million rupees, with only nine years of work! She waits for a stubborn guy who can hold his own against her: be that man!' "
Sheik took the newspaper from him, and was about to read about number two, when suddenly he froze, gawking at the image of a beautiful redhead, which, like Anju, had also been taken in the heat of a moment. She seemed unaware that a picture had been taken, but she smiled prettily, pale blue eyes shining brightly, even as she walked down the street with the one he guessed was Anju Stoke again. Her perfectly shaped body he approved of, and her pink lips he wanted to see a bit better. She was, to say the least, striking.
" 'Malon London. Twenty-three,' " he read slowly, even as Mikau snickered because of his apparent shock. " 'Owner of a good number of race stallions, as well as Hyrule's biggest dairy company, Miss London owns a ranch in Fields, where she tends to her own horses and cattle whenever she can afford the time. Caring, intelligent and sassy, she is also known for her sense of humour. Having once hosted a teen talk show, she quit because of her company, which gives her an approximate worth of seven million. Rumours say she waits for her knight in shining armour to sweep her off her feet—could that knight be you?' "
"I think Sheik would like to become a knight, Link. Shall we discourage him now or wait a while until we've had a good laugh out of it?" Kafei asked, face serious but eyes laughing.
"Shut up, Kafei. Besides," Sheik looked self-righteous, "I would make a great knight."
"It's payback for the comments you made earlier, penniless moron."
"For the last time, I have money, you re—"
"Gentlemen," Link raised a hand, mumbling, "calm down."
"Yeah, peace out, guys. I'm hitting on Lulu Singer, so we're even."
Sheik and Kafei turned to look at Mikau, and all three turned their heads to Link, who was hardly paying attention, looking out the window pensively. They smirked.
"Not quite," Sheik muttered. "But I would put my hand to the fire that he's got someone in mind. Like—oh, lookie that." He took the newspaper from where it was, on the desk. " Number one. 'Zelda Harkinian. Twenty-three.' "
At that, Link's eyes snapped back to the real world, to find his three friends expectantly waiting for his reaction. When he realized how they'd gotten him, he scowled, and they laughed.
"I hate you all."
"No, you don't. You're just feeling awful because we caught you fantasying about Zelda Harkinian," Sheik snickered.
Link rolled his eyes. "That's pushing it, Sheik. I was just wondering why her secretary didn't return my call."
"Her secretary?" Mikau frowned, still lounging in his chair, though Kafei and Sheik had looked startled. "Since when do you dig her secretary, Forester? I thought you digged the CEO."
"I dig neither of them," Link said with exasperation. "I just asked the secretary to transmit a message to Zelda, and now I'm expecting an answer, but none is coming. And usually, she's right on the mark."
"It's been a couple of years, Forester. Maybe she changed."
"She didn't," Link said confidently. "I know her too well. It takes a lot for her to change."
"Whoa, deep back story, there."
"Well, check out this picture and tell me if she changed," Sheik said, handing the newspaper to Link. Slightly bigger than the others, her picture had been taken at some event, because she was obviously more dressed up than usual. Her dress fit her like a glove, and Link had to focus to remember to breathe. He wanted to tug at his collar—especially since, the way the picture had been taken, he had a good view of her low collar line—but didn't dare to. Her beautiful blonde hair shone like gold, and her vivid blue eyes were laughing. Her heart shaped pink lips were stretched into a smile. Her delicate hand held a champagne flute, and she was talking with a few people he couldn't see.
The picture, coupled with memories, made him feel warm and jealous of those who had deserved the smile.
"No," he said, his voice hoarse, though his eyes didn't leave the paper until Sheik snatched it from him, "she hasn't changed."
"Whoa, she must have been pretty damn annoying back then," Mikau whistled, "because let me tell you, that's not the sort of chick I'd split from. She's the bomb."
Link said nothing. Sheik smirked, and began to read out loud. " 'Our number one bachelorette for various excellent reasons, Zelda Harkinian is amongst the most famous women out there. Her worth estimated to be of 9.5 million rupees, she is also blessed with incredible good looks, uncommon intelligence, and a personality that many praise. In fact, rising four years ago upon creating her company, she has quickly come to compete with the old timers through a network of contacts and friends. Personally acquainted with most, if not all, of the bachelorettes in our list, she knows how to maintain a friendship.' "
"Oh, really?" Kafei smirked, glancing at Link, who was fixing his desk intently, showing no emotion.
" 'Graduate of Hyrule University, she has followed her father's footsteps and become a rich CEO. Her company, W.I.S.E.—Worldwide Interactions for Sector Enterprises—connects departments of associate companies, ensuring that efficiency is no longer an unknown. A series of reliable and fast links between projecting teams can be established simply and quickly thanks to W.I.S.E., no matter where they are, quickening the completion of programs, and attaining a greater result for a lesser cost.
'Building this empire of connections was no small task, but Zelda Harkinian not only managed: she also succeeded with flamboyant results. While we were unable to contact Miss Harkinian, we have no doubt that her main goal is simple: to go forward. Though various obstacles have risen in the past months for her, there is no concern in the common mind. Zelda Harkinian will make it, and we'll be there to see it. Perhaps you should think of snatching her while she is still single?' "
"Perhaps Link should let go of that pen now before it breaks?"
Sheik looked up. Indeed, Link was clutching his pen tightly. Mikau raised an eyebrow, but didn't move.
"Sorry," Link said, letting go of the pen. It fell back to his desk, and Link stood. "I… I'm going to get a drink."
He exited his office temporarily. Now, the three had raised eyebrows. Kafei picked the tortured pen up, and showed it to his companions.
The pen was bent. Not broken, but bent out of shape. Sheik smothered a grin, and Mikau sighed, shaking his head.
"Methinks our friend Link has a few things on his mind," Kafei declared sardonically, unable to hold back a smile.
Wednesday, Hexember 5th, 367.
1:34 PM.
W.I.S.E. Building, North Castleton.
"Calm down, Malon."
"Give me that phone," Malon commanded, fury still lacing in her voice. "Give me that effing phone!"
Zelda knew that if Malon still had enough constraint not to cuss, then she also could resist the urge to kill. She held the phone out of range anyway.
"Calm down," she ordered her friend. "We do or say nothing before we get a clear word from our boards. Give me a second." She looked through the list, frowning, before grabbing her phone book and dialling Lulu Singer's number.
Malon settled stubbornly into a chair, unwilling to leave before getting things straight.
"Lulu?"
Zelda put the phone in speaker mode.
"Oh, Zelda, how are you? It's been so long since we last saw each other!"
Zelda and Malon exchanged looks. Lulu's soft, caring voice was exactly like its owner. It was impossible to stay irritated with Lulu Singer.
"I'm fine, thank you. Lulu, I'm with Malon right now. She, Anju and I have been wondering what was going on with that newspaper article. You posed for it. You know about it."
There was a long, heavy silence on the line. Lulu's voice came through at last, but her answer was less than satisfactory.
"I'm sorry, Zel'. I… Can't tell you anything about why you three were put there."
"But—" A red light blinked on the telephone cradle. "Be right back, Lulu. I've got a call coming through." She shifted lines. "Zelda Harkinian, hello?"
"Zelda!" There was a wheezing voice that both Zelda and Malon recognized at once. Zelda buried her face in her hands, rubbing her frowning forehead. "What in Hyrule is going on?"
"Penthurst," she sighed, "Before you start—"
"I thought we agreed that you wouldn't ever make a move without concerting with us first!"
"I know—Pen, I'm working on figuring it out right now. I've got someone on the phone."
"You better find out what happened, Zelda, because if we figure that you did this stunt on your count, we could get you fired for misinformation."
"Shut up, Pen. That's bullshit and you know it." She clicked him out, refraining from screaming. "Lulu?"
"Sweetie, I'm really sorry but I can't tell you."
"Maybe I'd have more luck with the others on the list?" Zelda prodded.
Lulu's line went silent again. Then, slowly, she said faintly, "You could always try."
"Well then," Zelda said, sarcastically, "thank you for nothing."
"I'm sorry."
Lulu hung up. Zelda dialled again. Malon, eyes closed, had covered her face with her fingers, taking deep breaths.
"Nabooru Spirit. Who's it?"
"Nabs, it's Zelda."
"No shit!" Nabooru drawled, genuinely happy. "How're you, girl?"
"Not so great." Zelda had just finished penning down on a notepad the list of women on the addition. She made a small X beside Lulu Singer's name. "To cut to the chase, I want to know who paid for that top ten this morning. You posed for it, so you know more than you'll let on."
Nabooru audibly clicked her tongue. "Nayru, honey, I can't tell you."
"You can't tell me or you don't want to?"
Malon had just snapped a pencil in two. Zelda snatched the pieces from her, waiting for Nabooru's response. She did not disappoint.
"Try someone else, honey. I'm not allowed to tell you."
"What?" Zelda asked, stunned. "Not allowed—"
"Bullshit," Malon screamed, hitting the cradle button. "Try Medli Flight!"
Zelda, feeling dread creep into her gut, dialled as she commanded. Malon too looked anguished. Anju stepped into the office, holding two Rito carton take-out boxes, and she was pale.
She said, "A woman asked me to let her family into one of my hotels for free because she was homeless. She saw the newspapers and knew I was the CEO. I was on my way back here," she breathed. The speakerphone indicated that Medli Flight hadn't responded to the first two rings of her phone.
"Oh, Anju…" Malon seemed to calm down. "We're going to find out who the moron who did this was."
"Medli here, hello?"
"Oh," Zelda snapped to attention. "Medli. It's Zelda."
Suddenly, Medli's voice started to quiver. She seemed taken short, and she looked pressed to put the phone back. "Oh, um, um, Zelda, hi! Look, I know that you want explanations, but—"
"Let me guess. You don't want to tell me?"
Medli sounded genuinely sorry. "Zelda, you have to understand. I'd tell you. I swear I would. But… B-But I promised I wouldn't… Oh Din, you know I adore you. I mean, you're a great person."
Medli seemed truly apologetic. Zelda, Malon and Anju exchanged looks. Then, gaze softening, Zelda said, "It's okay, Medli. It's alright. Look, I've got to make a few more phone calls, so I'll hang up."
"Okay, but Zelda?"
"Yes, Medli?"
"If you want to call the others on the list… They won't tell you any different."
Zelda, patient, felt her anguish grow greater. "Are you sure? You mean that it was all orchestrated? That you're part of the scheme against Anju, Malon and I?"
"Oh!" Medli exclaimed, voice cracking. "No! No, Zelda! You know everyone on that list adores you girls!" There seemed to be a smile in her tone now. "We wouldn't have done it if we hadn't been sure that you'd be okay."
"…Medli…"
"Gotta hang."
"What—Wait! Medli! Damn..." Zelda rubbed her closed eyelids. "Hua… What do we do now?"
Anju slumped in her chair. Malon was perplexedly munching on Goron noodles. She poked at them with a grim look.
"What now? I say we call Aryll Forester. Last time, her brother got onto the list. Maybe she'll be more talkative."
Zelda sighed. "I lost the Foresters' number a long time ago. Well, actually, it was written on the contract—Oh my Din."
"What?" Both Anju and Malon looked up suddenly. Zelda turned to the drawers on the side of her desk, and pulled the first one out. She searched through a stack of papers before finally pulling out the dreaded scrap of a contract she and Link had signed.
"Here it is," she breathed. "It's all so simple!"
"Well, what?"
Zelda's gaze hardened. She looked up at Malon. "It's all his doing. I didn't think about it, but when you pause and put it together…" She slammed the paper hard on the desk, and now, she spoke rapidly, hardly taking a breath, voicing her thoughts as her brain put two and two together. "Link orchestrated this. He paid for the extra on Monday and for this extra today. The contract dealt with our personal reputation. He must have understood that promotion wouldn't come unpaid, so he had the newspapers write something up." She frowned then, sitting back and rubbing the bridge of her nose. "I don't understand why he had them put us even, though. Now he lost his advantage."
"Was there anyone else who knew?"
"I don't think so. Not on my side, at least. Well, until Monday, actually." She shot Malon a look. "But you didn't tell anyone, did you?"
"Not a soul," Malon swore.
"Then who would help you out like this?" Anju asked. "And why would Aryll Forester, who obviously would root for her brother, actually go along with it?"
"That's why I thought maybe Link himself financed all this."
The three women remained in silence for a long while. Then, Zelda said, slowly, "I guess I'll have to wait until Friday night to find out."
"I can't believe he had the nerve to schedule an appointment with you. Not with all the trouble you've been having lately, with Dragmire and that dumb contract. Let me come along with you!" Malon said, aggressively. "Just so I can beat his handsome face to a bloody pulp."
"I'll be going alone," Zelda said, gently but firmly. "I need to clear things up with him and settle a few conditions."
Thursday, Hexember 6th, 367.
11:23 AM.
Time Corporations Building, West Castleton.
"What you're suggesting, Forester," one of the administrators, a short and plump man, said, pushing his thick glasses up the bridge of his large nose, "is that we compete with the growing western force."
Around the executive table, Link saw all the men, in suits, all looking frighteningly alike, like clones. Meaty, pale, self-important, pinched, and wearing black and grey suits that had no specks of dust on them, they sat all around the table and faced him with no expression on their faces. Link felt like the only blob of colour, of life, in the room.
He scratched the tip of his nose, standing before them all. Slowly, deliberately, he said, "I'm only suggesting that we buy back the local companies."
"With what money?"
Link knew the administrator to be in charge of finances in Time Corp. While the man was brilliant, he was nothing short of unpleasant. Link pressed his lips together, nodding at him in acknowledgement, and, as ways of answer, told the whole assembly, with eyes clear of a man who had expected the question, "We have virtual funds put away in expectation of a catastrophe. With the inflation, the successful years and growth we've experienced so far, we have ten times the starting amount."
"And ten times the size of our company."
"But do we need that money? We're everywhere. Let's face it: the only way we could crumble would be through a popular boycott, and people don't need or want that. Let's say we add to that a couple mil' worth of local sub-companies, and we have a prominent—a more prominent—and successful corporation."
He waited for an objection, got none, and continued. "My point is, by buying those companies from Dragmire, and letting them strive, we would ensure that the national economy didn't choke. And we would get a nice percentage of their profits. If you ask me, the money is better off in Hyrule's pockets than in some western bloke's."
"Have you ever considered politics?" One of the men asked, his tone humourless. Link looked at him, and while his face was smiling, his tone was sharp.
"Are you saying you disagree with me," he struggled to recall the name, "Mr. Gilson?"
Another man leaned forward over the table, spreading his fingers out, palms up, rocking back and forth once, impatiently, like he had to go to the men's room, "Mr. Forester, as experienced administrators, we reserve the right to be… uncomfortable with such a bold move."
Link threw his hands out, grinning, "Men, men, where has your adventurous sense gone?" He sobered as he saw their unsettled faces. "I'm not asking for numbers. I just need your general opinion."
"I say," another suited man spoke up, "all those in favour of Mr. Forester's suggestion raise hands."
Link raised his hand without hesitation, looking around the room at his administrators. They were twelve. Nine of them raised their hands. Link smiled. He had the majority by three-fourths.
"All those in favour of a veto," he said, and two hands rose. One man had chosen not to pronounce himself.
"What do you suggest, Gilson?"
"I say we need to think it over."
"I say you have until tomorrow night to figure it out," Link answered back. "I'm not asking for unanimity. Nine out of twelve of us believe this is for the best and virtually risk-less."
"And I have no intention of changing their minds. But perhaps this all a bit hasty."
Link snuck a glance at the statistics he'd gathered early that morning. "I say we give you…" He pursed his lips, mentally calculating a delay, "Three weeks to make a final decision. On our part, we'll move ahead. In three weeks, you'll expose your point of view, and we'll respect it."
Gilson smiled. "Then go on right ahead, Mr. Forester."
"Thank you."
The meeting adjourned peacefully, and Link came out of the room last. Kafei accosted him. Link smirked. Kafei said, "Now you're being really nice."
Link, holding his folders under his arm, turned towards him as they walked together to his office, "What do you mean?"
"Don't kid me." Kafei nodded to the files. "Those are stats about Zelda Harkinian's W.I.S.E. You're planning on untying her noose, aren't you?"
"I have no clue what you're talking about," Link said, grinning. His eye belied him, but Kafei chose to let it go.
"Maybe you're becoming a mama's boy, aren't you?"
"I plead innocent until proven guilty."
They glanced at each other and laughed.
That was part 1! Stay tuned. The second part is coming right up!
Love,
CM