It has been wayyyy too long everyone. You can flame me as much as you want (actually don't but you get it).
I've been working constantly (so I'm not completely broke lol) and family issues are a pain in the ass, so constructing chapters is a doozy. I'm trying to be meticulous and make sure all these chapters are good quality as that matters the most to me. I like rounding out all the characters, but I'm almost always most eager to write Link and Zelda together. Should I make any cameos of characters, like Malon or any other iconic characters? I've been thinking about it without derailing the plot, but eh. Let me know.
Anyway, please enjoy this chapter. Follow, fav, let me know if you see anything off!
If any day had been a blur for the Empress of Hyrule, it'd undoubtedly been this one. She really had no greater desire than to collapse into bed and bury deep in the covers like a child, but ever since she'd returned to the palace she was sure she had not sat down once, not counting her meals.
Sheik was watching his sister with a raised brow as she yawned for the fourth time that evening, the Labrynnan prince looking up from his soup as she did. He naturally watched over their meal from the sidelines, careful to note any sounds outside the room, any behavioral tics that may be cause for alarm.
The Empress's behavior certainly wasn't alarming, but it was not normal. It was hardly eight in the evening, and she already looked ready to retire to her chambers - on a regular day, she would be burning the candle till at least midnight, if not later.
The prince laughed. "I'm not boring you, am I?"
Sheik watched his sister start a little, the spoon in her hand spasming slightly.
"N-no, not at all! I've just had a long day, I hope you understand."
"It's not uncommon for the day to catch up to people, don't worry about it." Teru's tone was casual and gave the impression of being a long-life friend. "I didn't do particularly much other than touring your palace grounds and visit the stables, so I don't think I have much space to criticize you."
Obviously, the prince didn't know of the empress's rampant workaholism and how suspicious this was to Sheik, but at least he wasn't an ass about it. Maybe spending time in Labrynna didn't seem like such a bad idea after all; it was safe, relaxing, and his sister could wander around and -
Sheik straightened a little, drilling a hole into the side of his sister's head with his gaze, brow furrowed. Of course, she must've done the reckless teenager thing and gone out...somewhere. Strict leader his ass, the woman probably used up all her energy in some romp around or near Castletown.
"...Thank you Teru, you're way too understanding."
"I'd hate to be a stressor on you, your majesty."
The clinking of silverware occupied the space for a few silent beats.
"I'm not sure if you'd want to discuss it tonight, but... have you considered what I offered you last night? I don't want to intrude!" The prince added his last statement as Zelda's gaze flickered upwards at him, yet she continued to swirl around the remnants of the light, brothy soup in its delicate bowl.
"I personally think it's an idea that I'd seriously consider, your highness."
Sheik spoke up from his spot next to the closest wall, the Labrynnan prince looking at him with slightly raised brows, his sister shooting a frosty glare at him.
"Forgive me for the interruption."
"Oh no! I appreciate your opinion Commander," Teru smiled, eyes crinkling as he did, "I was hesitant to even bring it up last night, but that was what we traveled all the way here for. As a precaution, of course."
"Though the commander seems enthusiastic, I personally need a little more time looking over the reports and on my personal thoughts."
Zelda's voice was flat and controlled, betraying nothing. Sheik didn't miss his sister's agitated expression, however, it being only visible in her eyes. She was as stubborn as a mule, and almost always needed to have the last say of confirmation in anything political. The whole affair Teru had introduced was much less a safety consideration than a political move to her.
The rest of the meal consisted of polite casualness with little mention of Teru's offer afterward. Sheik did consider that he had done something a bit out of line, but it mattered little to him. If his sister understood his interest in Labrynna's offer, she'd likely be more willing to uproot herself from Hyrule, no matter how prideful she was.
"I think I'll retire for the night. I hope you both don't mind."
"Not at all!" Teru stood quickly in contrast to the empress's slow stand, while Sheik straightened. "I can walk you to your quarters, or -"
Zelda gently laughed, shaking her head. "You don't need to bother, the Commander can escort me. I'd enjoy having breakfast with you, and maybe a walk afterward tomorrow."
"I couldn't say no to that, your majesty."
Teru's tone was, to a degree simpering, obviously trying to find more emotional favourability with the empress. Sheik couldn't blame him - his sister was a notorious brick wall, and if a future marriage, even if it was just political, seemed shallow constituents definitely would have a problem with it.
Zelda bowed, holding her heavy robes close to her body as the Labrynnan prince did the same. They were residing at opposite sides of the living quarters of the palace, so as they began to walk in opposite directions, Sheik immediately fixed his sister with a judgemental look.
"You could be a little nicer, you know."
His sister sniffed, pouting a little. "I thought it was nice."
"No, as in you could actually take his invitations. I wouldn't just snub him like that."
"I'm not snubbing him. It's just politeness, and after all, he's only been here for less than two days. It'll take some time to warm up entirely."
"Sure, but he's your future husband."
Zelda only sighed, before it morphed into a languid yawn.
"If I didn't know you any better, you went out. And not just to the gardens."
Sheik's sister's face was impassive, but he saw a slight rosiness in her cheeks at his accusation.
"That's absurd."
"You did nothing wrong mind, if not reckless. I'm pretty sure you had that organized crime report on your desk just last night."
Zelda made a small, impatient noise with her tongue, a 'click' that reverberated in the high-ceilinged hall.
"And, I'm sure Teru would like to hear your response regarding his offer to take you back to Labrynna. He is leaving again in just a few days, and though you wouldn't need to go right away, he, and probably every vassal and official, would like to have an official response in a timely manner."
"Are you my equerry? Just because I haven't said anything right away doesn't mean I won't say yes."
"So you will say yes?"
"I didn't say that directly, it was just an example."
It was now Sheik's turn to pout as he and his sister rounded a corner, the wood flooring turning to the rich red of carpet. Zelda's chamber doors, large and imposing, were being watched by two stiff guards, long cloaks draped over thin sheets of armor with their lower faces blocked by black thin fabric.
They silently raised their hands into a salute as the duo neared, one placing a hand on the door handle and opening it outwards.
Before Zelda entered her room, Sheik placed his hand on her shoulder, stopping her.
"I'll be at your room early, to prevent any…breaches. Alright?"
His sister smiled, but Sheik could tell that she was a little peeved at his insistence. "Of course, commander. Have a good evening." Though her words were a little clipped, there was a hint of affection in them.
Sheik began to make his way back to the barracks - he could easily take a bedchamber in the residence wing, but the protocol-following part of him (no matter how small) thought it would be most appropriate to stay near and around other Hyrulian guardsmen. If anything, he'd forfeited his princely title a long time ago and was no longer Prince Harkinian but Commander Harkinian. Sounded a little cooler too.
The cozy red carpet of the residence wing transitioned to the cold stone floors of the central castle, Sheik's heavy footsteps echoing in the halls. Few maids and castle workers passed him by, all bowing from their neck or pausing briefly in their steps to acknowledge him.
Sheik had never been a big fan of formalities. It was all stiff and unnatural, barely hiding hostility or any other emotion with tight-lipped smiles and unfeeling eyes. He'd rather spend time in the thrill of battle or working with his fellow officers without any fear of judgment for speaking (relatively) freely.
And with that, he could understand his sister's sudden desire to go beyond Hyrule Castle and what politics and the aristocracy had to offer. Some sort of bachelorette spree before becoming the definition of a royal marriage, but a dangerous one at that. All those crime groups, and the sudden uptick of activity flowing in and out of Hyrule, all to support the coming announcement of Hyrule and Labrynna's joining. Those criminals weren't stupid - they could see trade activity, and guess what was happening. The news could spread outside of the aristocracy as well.
Ugh, now Sheik had a headache. He hated how his paranoia had increased exponentially since becoming a higher-up in the Hyrulian military.
The moment he stepped out into the open-air grounds near the barracks, a lieutenant approached, holding out a small letter and bowing.
"What is it?" Sheik wanted nothing more than to sit down and have a cup of tea, the sleepy kind that would knock him out within 20 minutes instead of being approached with more work.
"I apologize for the late-night interruption, but the Admiral would like to see you, Commander. He called it urgent."
"He didn't provide details? I'm tired, Lieutenant. If the Admiral was truly desperate, wouldn't he provide some?"
"...Commander, he said little, but it's regarding a...Citrine, group of the sort. If that is anything alarming..."
"The Citrine Legion?"
"Well, yes Commander -"
Sheik hoped the lieutenant would forgive his impatience as he immediately whirled around, heading back into the palace at walking pace barely disguising urgency. What timing, what an unlucky situation. Of all times, that group was lurking around Hyrule again, fueled by the dislike, no, hatred of the Harkinian line.
Maybe it wasn't as bad as Sheik was expecting. Maybe he was just overreacting.
Maybe.
"Who was she?"
The flames of the small fire inside the tent had dissolved into embers, casting a weak glow flickering with shadow. Faces were barely visible in the low light, looking more like looming specters with glowering expressions.
Ganondorf's eyes all but glowed unnaturally in the light, the citrine wicked and cold.
"Who was she?"
His voice grated low, sending a shiver up Ghirahim's spine.
"I'm afraid I don't know, sir."
"So you show up with worthless information that only seems to imply that my son is fraternizing with Hyrulian whores?"
"...Well, she...I've seen her twice, with your son. I don't think -"
"A lover?"
"W-well, I...do not know. I've never seen her before in my entire life. I swear on that, sir."
The quill Ganondorf had been using to write various scribblings of money values and plans made a splintering noise. He opened his hand, letting the utensil fall to the ground with a severe fracture in the middle.
Ghirahim tested the silence for a few moments before speaking again. "She was a blonde woman, sir, in nondescript clothing. Her accent appeared to be one of upper-class Hylian, if not aristocratic."
"...So, a woman of royalty."
"I... wouldn't imply that, but she came from wealth. I could hardly say it seemed productive towards our business here in Hyrule."
"Hm."
Ghirahim hated the tension, afraid of the still figure that was Ganondorf. His frustration was something he could taste in the air, coming off the large man in waves. It left a bitter and paralyzing taste in Ghirahim's mouth that involuntarily made him shudder.
"I don't care. The next time we see her, we'll dispose of her. She's nothing but a distraction it seems."
"Yes sir."
At Ghirahim's words, Ganondorf's face grew smug.
"Are you ever angry, Ghirahim?"
The thin man paused, dark eyes flickering with something like apprehension.
"I'm sorry?"
"I mean, you were a galavanting vigilante before I came along. Do you long for your freedom?"
Silence filled the tent, the air feeling suddenly very delicate.
"I'm not sure how you mean."
"Don't play the fool Ghirahim."
Ganondorf's words were sharp, the shadows in his face growing deeper as he spoke. "You don't feel any resentment? Any agitation at being bound by my rules? All I've given to you is a puppy-guarding job on my son recently. Don't lie to me."
"If you're willing to listen to me, you are letting some strange paranoia overtake you."
It was a bold thing to say, and Ghirahim's voice dipped slightly out of nervousness.
"I'm only inquiring Ghirahim, you seem to be the paranoid one. Is it not customary for a boss to check in on their subordinates?"
Multiple emotions flashed across Ghirahim's face, ranging from disbelief to worry to offense. "Wha...of course, of course, it makes sense."
Ganondorf only smirked at Ghirahim's mild panic, before waving a hand in laziness.
"You're free to go."
Ghirahim hesitated for a few moments, hands twitching in apprehension before quickly bowing his head, slipping out of the tent with an exhale. Quickly his face contorted into a scowl.
"Fucking bastard."
The lithe man made his way to his own tent, whipping the flap open. "Of course I'm annoyed, what a pompous brute. I should've never agreed to that extra reward if it means me groveling..."
A growl of frustration squeezed past the man's lips as he began to pull off his tight black gloves, flexing his hands as they were released from the unyielding fabric. Ganondorf was an egotistical cold-blooded bastard who didn't deserve his presence, much less as someone who could help him.
"What a waste of space," Ghirahim sneered, the statement ending in a small, mirthless chuckle. "and a waste of time."
Ghirahim began to peel off the tight shirt he'd been wearing, pallid skin littered with scars revealing itself as he did. He'd only rounded back to Ganondorf for the protection; otherwise, the man gave him nothing in return.
And making him babysit the stupid boy...let the kid fail, make him learn a lesson. Didn't that make the most sense to growing a strong asset? Ghirahim had to fight off and maim other beggars in the streets as a child while that boy, Link, copycatted his way to being a ruthless killer. How boring. How easy.
"If it were up to me, I would've already thrown that stupid child out of the frying pan and into the fire," Ghirahim snarkily muttered, sitting down on his sleeping mat and pulling out a pack of cigarettes. "deserves it."
He pulled his lantern close, opening the glass case and waving the cigarette through the flame, watching the noxious smoke waft from the end before taking a long drag.
"Ridiculous," He muttered, smoke spilling from his mouth as he did.
Ganondorf watched Ghirahim leave with a knowing gaze, unable to keep the small smirk off his face. What a fool, a rat that upturned its nose at everything. Tactless and undeserving of Ganondorf's attention to the nth degree. Easily replaceable and easily forgotten, probably.
He'd requested for another ally to meet him, a job interview, so to speak. Something a little more promising than Ghirahim, and something that he could consider to be a future investment.
Maybe Ganondorf didn't look it, but he was meticulous. Planning and structuring had nearly always given way to his greatest successes and his plan of a Hyrulian assassination was no exception. This had been a plan that'd festered, grown from his greatest grudges and his greatest downfalls. It was his pride and joy, as long as he dear son didn't let it fall apart in his hands.
Ganondorf was facing away from the entrance to the tent when he heard the rustle of the flap, movement that wasn't just the wind. He paused in the action of removing his outer shirt, letting the fabric fall from his hands to rest back along his body.
"Is that who I think it is?"
"Yes."
A warm masculine voice responded, smooth and dangerous. It was the type of voice that could lull an infant to sleep, or an adult into a false sense of security; a gamble of a voice, one that would put a chill down most peoples' backs. Ganondorf only felt the thrill of relief and glee at the voice.
"You understand that I just want an observer? You watch, you report, you get paid." Ganondorf. turned back around, this time reaching for a leather-bound flask on a makeshift table. "You're an impatient young man, but I'm asking you to train that patience some more."
"What about that man?" The voice emphasized, contempt unable to be hidden. "The thin one."
"Just now? Wait for a little, my boy. I can't afford the mess."
"A little mess never hurt anyone."
Ganondorf chuckled at the eagerness.
"Shadow, step closer. You're in the poor light."
The man, Shadow, did as he was told. His tall, broad-shouldered figure was bathed in the flickering light of a lantern, body wrapped in a worn grey cloak. Angular features were drawn tightly from his flat facial expression, black hair falling down and across his face with a neat undercut. He was young, no older or younger than Link, but thin streaks of grey already decorated his hair. Hylian ears were undecorated, but one of them was scarred at the ends.
One of his eyes seemed permanently bloodshot, the whites of his eye stained an ugly red that bled into the iris.
"Zant is a poor boss. Your eye was better."
"I don't care."
Ganondorf chuckled at the snappy reply, shaking his head.
"You were always a lot of fun, boy. I'll give you a little treat - if they're not acting like they should, kill them."
Shadow didn't verbally respond, but his body tensed and a thin, thrilled smirk crept onto his face.
Ganondorf smiled back.
"Excellent."
All his plans, and he didn't even have to lift a finger.
I wanted a Dark Link-esque character, but a literal copy of Link just wouldn't work how I'd want it to work in this fanfic, so we get Dark Link but modified. I really enjoy writing his type of character, and I wanted to throw another wrench in the plot. Forgive me
I actually think I'll have another chapter sooner rather than later - my free time is opening up now that my school is close to starting, so more time to sit and write. I hope you guys enjoyed this chapter, even if it was just a lot of dialogue ;_; Next chapter will be more dynamic (I think I hope). Please leave a review/fav/etc, & see you all soon!