Inspiration: "Perfect Blue," by Satoshi Kon, "Black Swan," with Natalie Portman
Author Note: It's hard to keep your integrity when you let your guard down.
Word Count: 12,172
Chapter 20
One month later: Saria's POV
Today was the day I was going to meet Link in the Sacred Forest Meadow. I made arrangements for a nanny for hire to come and watch Elincia for a few hours. She would be here soon. My baby tended to sleep and eat a lot, as all babies did. So, I pumped enough milk for six full bottles. I knew she would never eat that much in my time away, but I wanted to be safe rather than sorry. I kept the bottles in the coolest area of the kitchen near a mound of ice in the basin. I had to go to the market daily for ice to keep our perishable foods laconic, especially Elinica's milk.
Even so, I considered this easy money for the nanny and a little break for me. I loved Elincia to no end, but it was tiring work to be sure. She may have been only six weeks old, but caring for a baby was a full time job, and I still had all the duties around the house to account for. At the end of the day, I was exhausted. But, for all my hard work, Ralph was continually grateful, and that was why I felt so guilty for that moment I had with Link when he came to visit me. I knew nothing like that could happen today. After we went over the information, I was leaving. No questions asked. There was no compromising that.
I cannot allow myself to let my guard down, I thought, not today.
I chose a nanny over Ralph's mother because Marin still practiced medicine on a part time basis. Today she was at her clinic so she couldn't watch Elinica. However, in a way I was grateful because I also wanted to account for my privacy. Marin had good intentions, but as I have stated before, she was very nosy. There were times she would ask a million questions about my shopping trips and my goings on about the day when I went to pick up my daughter. I didn't mind answering her questions most of the time, but sometimes I felt she was diving too deep. Her working today may have been a blessing in disguise for me.
I paused, always finding that saying funny.
If I were a blessing I would wear it proudly, I thought.
Idioms and allegories weren't my strong suit. Even so, I was currently brushing my hair in Ralph's and my bedroom. Little Elinica was watching me from the small play area I prepared for her. She was cooing over several toys that she simultaneously attempted to grab.
I smiled at her.
"What are you doing over there?" I asked softly. "Are you making a mess? Are you making a mess?"
Elincia laughed at my exaggerated voice and babbled her reply. Dear goddesses, she was so precious. I brushed my hair one last time when it finally laid the way I wanted it to. I planned to get a head band to keep my bangs out of my eyes, but as I reached into one of my drawers, a sudden sharp searing pain coursed at my forehead. I had to grab my skull with both my hands when the pain didn't abate and intensified.
I held in a scream and groaned instead.
What's going on? I wondered terrified.
"Grrrrrr!" I groaned through clench teeth.
The pain never went away, and my horror only swelled when abruptly a voice went throughout my head.
"Saria…" it taunted, "Saria…"
My body froze.
I knew that voice.
"What do you want?" I demanded.
The voice became evermore present.
"You've been keeping me at bay," it said, "I want to come out and play now."
My hold tightened.
I felt as though I were trying to cover my ears from a voice I couldn't escape from.
"Never!" I replied. "Go away!"
The voice laughed.
"You seemed to think there was a choice in this matter," the voice said, "there isn't. You know very well a great deal of the happiness you're experiencing is because of me."
I shook my head.
"You're insane!" I cried out.
Elincia was now staring at me wide eyed. My poor daughter had no idea what was going on.
"I think not," the voice said, "there is a reckoning Saria and I am here to claim it."
I raised my head up a little.
"You will not control me!" I said. "I won't let you!"
After my utterance my pain suddenly got worse, and I unintentionally shrieked.
"Ahhhhh!" I screamed.
Elincia looked startled now.
"You don't have a choice," the voice said, "soon the Moonlight Crucible will take place and you will cease to exist, but don't worry, I'll take good care of Elincia, Ralph… and Link."
I felt terrified at her sayings, and before I could say another thing, I screamed in pain once again.
"Ahhhh!" I shrieked, then fell to the floor.
This time Elincia wasn't just startled, she started crying. I writhed in pain for several minutes, unable to help my baby. I looked over at her, trying to will myself through the pain, but nothing helped. My eyes rolled to the back of my head as the crying continued in the foreground at my daughter's play pin. The last thing I saw was my baby's inconsolable face when everything suddenly went black.
I recalled nothing else.
~SSS~
A few moments later
I opened my eyes slowly and looked around. A crying baby looked terrified nearby. She was a pretty little thing and she was staring at me with a familiarity that was conversant to this motherly vessel.
Her daughter, I thought.
I shook my head momentarily so I wouldn't be so groggy. Afterwards, I got up carefully from the floor and looked down at my hands. I felt surreal, but this was real. I was controlling her body full on now. I was no longer a subject to her manipulation. This was a marvelous surprise. The little baby was still crying, and I looked down at her mildly confused. Didn't she recognize me? Wasn't this congruent for her? I then went to pick her up, and as I lifted her in the air, she slowly became less afraid. She gradually stopped crying, her tears seemed to subside, and she began cooing again. She looked comforted. It was fascinating. I even held her close to my chest so she could hear her mother's heart beat. Soon, she closed her eyes and nestled closely to me. Oddly enough, I found enjoyment in helping this little girl. This is what Hylians must have expressed as motherhood. Even so, I knew this little child was different. She had a profound lineage.
"You're special," I whispered to her, "because it's not just your mommy's blood running in your veins, but you have mine too."
She opened her eyes when I spoke. She was studying me like I was a historic figure or something, which ironically, I was. Her bright blue eyes stared into mine as if I were the only person in the world. She obviously had no idea what I was telling her.
So, I went on.
"One day you're going to grow up and be beautiful," I said to her, "just like your mother."
The pretty child continued to stare at me.
"Do you know you have the name of a queen?" I asked.
She looked at me mildly perplexed and I smiled.
"You are too precious," I whispered.
Afterwards, I put her back down in her play pin when I saw she was calm. She didn't react negatively at all.
"See, that wasn't so bad," I whispered, "mommy knows exactly how to help you."
The beautiful child continued to stare, but then found comfort in her toy right next to her. I smiled again, sensing she would be very important in the future… very important. With the baby safely attended to, I turned my attention to the vanity and the small mess that was made. I knelt down to pick up the sundries to replace them on the dresser, when I noticed my prude reflection as I stood up. I reacted in minor disgust when I turned to model in the mirror.
What in the world? I thought.
"She was going to wear this for the king?" I whispered. "A king she's in love with?"
My reflection showed a pretty maiden wearing a plain blue dress and a white shawl. I shook my head immediately and turned my attention to the closet.
"This just won't do," I said, "especially for what I have planned."
I opened the closet door and saw instantly that her wardrobe was small… smaller than I initially thought.
I groaned slightly.
"This is going to be a problem," I said.
I went to work immediately in searching for another more suitable garment, something more revealing and provocative. I was successful in finding one, but only after I looked through some of the urns she had hidden in the back. I fanned it out to look it over: it was black, skin tight, and absolutely perfect.
I smirked.
"We have a winner," I said and went back over to the vanity.
I took off the shawl and dress and placed the body suit against my skin. It would fit perfectly, but just to ensure that I had it where I wanted it, I removed the bustier and the undergarments. Afterwards, I slipped the suit over my naked body and it was flawless. Actually, it was a lot more revealing than I gave it credit for.
"This is better than I thought," I said when I turned to the side to eye myself, "he definitely won't be able to resist this."
Satisfied with my clothes, I made sure to grab a cloak so I wouldn't be noticeable while walking through the city. Afterwards, I brushed my hair, making sure to keep the bangs in my face and letting the tresses flow down to my waist.
Beautiful, I thought with a smirk.
"This body is perfect," I said, "a perfect vessel for the crucible."
A moment later, there was a knock that came from the door downstairs. I was puzzled for a moment, but then remembered her set up.
"The nanny," I whispered.
I checked my appearance one more time before I went over to Elincia and picked her up. The cloak was the perfect concealment.
"It's time," I said, smiling at the child.
The baby smiled back.
"Your mommy is about to make a very important man happy," I whispered, "very happy."
The baby cooed and smiled at me. I simply laughed, then afterwards I went out the bedroom to go downstairs to greet the visitor. There was a second knock where I scuttled a bit faster.
"Coming," I called to ensure there wouldn't be a third.
I reached for the doorknob and of no shock to anyone, the person on the other side was the nanny. She was a pleasant looking woman with a warm smile. She curtsied slightly before introducing herself.
"Good afternoon ma'am," she greeted, "my name is Matilda, I'm from the governess agency."
I smiled.
"Wonderful to meet you Matilda," I replied, "I'm Saria and this is Elincia, please come in."
I moved out of the way and the young woman stepped past the threshold of the abridging. She looked around and immediately complimented the home.
"This house is beautiful miss," she said.
I grinned.
"Thank you," I said, but got straight to the point because time was ticking, "I will be gone for several hours. There is plenty of milk for my daughter by the basin where I keep the ice. If her father returns home before me, you are free to go, and if it is sooner than the six hour allotment you can keep the entire till of fifty rupees."
Matilda looked at me surprised.
"That's very generous of you," she said.
I looked over at the child I had in tow.
"We try to be generous people," I said softly, and then handed her Elincia, the baby naturally cried, but I consoled her. "There, there darling mommy will be back soon; you be good."
Matilda grinned.
"Don't worry Mrs. Saria, I'm used to this," she said.
I returned her grin.
"I'm sure you are," I said, reaching over and caressing Elincia's cheek, "I'll see you soon."
The nanny nodded.
"Yes ma'am," she said.
With that, I took my leave and headed for the Sacred Forest Meadow. I hooded myself and couldn't have felt better. It was going to be a good day. After all, I had an eager king waiting.
~SSS~
The Sacred Forest Meadow, one hour later
I arrived finally.
It was a nice walk, taking in the sights of these terrestrial woodlands was comforting. I felt like I hadn't been to Hyrule in ages, which actually was the case, but the destination was more of what I was interested in. Several times, Saria tried to regain control of her body, but my will was too strong today. It was my turn to come out and play. It was my turn to be appeased. It was my turn to do what Saria couldn't. That seal kept me at bay long enough. I had a ritual to commence, and I wanted to thank my benefactor in person… the King of Hyrule. After all, if it weren't for him and the queen I wouldn't be here.
Such fitting irony, I thought.
There were times when I integrated with Saria's personality to will her on, but she was too stubborn and strong willed to give in. However, now that she had her baby, I think it satisfied the need for her to feel more Hylian. Her defenses weren't quite as high as they once were. She seemed more at ease. She even allowed her heart to slip up and be divided. She couldn't hide anything from me. I knew her thoughts. I knew her feelings. I knew her desires. I knew who she really wanted. Luckily for me he was just the person I needed with him being the propitiatory sun prince.
I wasn't currently at my full power, but I knew I couldn't be until I completed my task today and participated in the Moonlight Crucible soon to come. I had to maintain my cover until then, and I liked this attractive feminine vessel. Saria was very beautiful and she made it easy for me to get what I wanted. I even did her a favor by burning off all her pregnancy weight and keeping her bosom perfect and full, with a lean athletic body. I made her sex life more interesting too with her husband. He couldn't get enough of Saria when she acted so naughty. However, even with all that, it seemed her true desire was for another… a king to be quite frank.
That thought made me smile.
"What a dilemma," I whispered.
Just then, I heard a rustling of the trees behind me. My ears perked and I turned to see I was no longer alone. My guest had arrived. He was standing under the evergreens of the effacement of the temple. His head was cloaked, his countenance was regal, but he also appeared stunned. It probably was due to my appearance no doubt… just the reaction I wanted. I was going to take full advantage of this opportunity in order to make this work.
I smirked.
Your majesty… welcome to the spider's web, I thought.
I then took a step forward.
"Hello Link," I greeted.
~SSS~
Link's POV
I would be lying if I said I wasn't thrown for a loop just now. In fact, I was stopped in my tracks and didn't proceed forward for a few moments because I was so taken aback. My dear friend Saria was standing in the middle of the meadow with her hair flowing down her back and her bangs falling in her face. That was my favorite way for her to wear her hair. She was her most beautiful to me when she appeared like this. The sunlight was caught in her emerald green tresses and the iridescence made her appear angelic. She almost appeared like something out of a dream. However, that was where the innocence ended.
The rest of her attire was… questionable at best. She wasn't wearing a dress like she usually did. Instead, she was wearing this form fitting sleeveless black bodysuit. Much like the one she wore nearly two years when I took her to Kokiri Forest to recapture her memories. If I wasn't mistaken, I think it was the same one from two years ago… and it still left very little to the imagination. It etched and curved in all the places it should… or shouldn't if that made any sense. To be honest, I was actually quite surprised at how perfect her figure appeared considering she just had a baby nearly two months ago. There wasn't even a pouch at her belly, and her torso and legs appeared very firm with good muscle tone too.
She looked amazing and I couldn't help but admire it.
I gave her a quick once over.
So… that's what Ralph goes to bed to every night, I thought, no wonder he's such a happy looking fellow.
Apparently, she was getting plenty of exercise. I conceded the results of her physique to house work and running around looking after a baby. Such work was overlooked in how it provided strenuous activity for mothers who took care of their homes. Even so, there was something obvious going on here, something very deliberate and ostentatious on her end. She made it seem from the last time I saw her that she didn't want to behave in an erroneous type of way. It guess that rationale went right out the window. And when I studied her appearance more closely, I noticed she wasn't wearing a bustier either.
My brows raised at that.
What in Hylia's dear name…? I thought.
All maidens wore a bustier. It was simply a part of their grooming. Zelda wore one. Daphnes' nanny wore one. The maidens working in the kitchen wore one. Every maiden wore a bustier. However, I could tell from my vantage point that nothing was strapping those mammary glands back. Saria's nipples were puckering against the fabric from the breeze. Frankly, her breasts looked perfect: perky, very robust, and round. That outfit complimented them very well too… which I think was the point. Even so, I had to wonder how she was able to leave Castle Town without being noticed. Everyone would have noticed her leaving town dressed like this. Nevertheless, I then caught sight of a cloak she apparently wore and now had resting on the stump in the middle of the meadow.
I made a quick deduction of this situation.
This isn't the rendezvous I was expecting, I thought, I'm not complaining, but if her husband saw her dressed this way he would probably kill both of us. Though, he'd probably kill both of us anyway.
I finally took a couple steps forward and removed my hood. Saria smiled when she saw me and greeted me.
"Hello Link," she uttered softly.
I halted for a moment before I answered her.
"Hello there," I greeted back.
She then walked over to me after our brief reacquaintance and surprisingly took hold of my hand.
"I'm so glad you're here," she said softly.
I paused again and I looked into her beautiful eyes, studying her. I couldn't put my finger on it, but something was different about her today. Besides her apparel, she appeared more confident too, which was fine, and with the way she was looking, why shouldn't she be?
I returned her smile.
"I'm glad to see you too," I replied, and tried not to make my second once over noticeable, "by the way, you look amazing."
She smiled wider and bit her lower lip.
"Thank you, I've been working really hard," she said, "it's not easy when you have a little one at home."
I agreed with that and grinned.
"Very true," I said, "my son has me going nonstop. He's up all hours of the night."
She giggled when I said that.
"Are you up with your baby?" she asked.
I nodded.
"I know we have a governess and a nanny to look after him, but I enjoy being around him too much to leave him be," I admitted, "I've even been sleeping in the nursery some nights."
She clasped her hands together and audibly showed her approval.
"Awwwww, that's wonderful," she said, "I can imagine you holding your baby in your arms."
I raised my brows.
"He's kind of an amazing child," I said, "I never knew I would love him so much."
Saria gave me an endearing look.
"That's so sweet Link," she said, then she joked, "you big softy."
This time I chuckled, and for a brief moment afterwards we were both silent. This felt similar to the time when we first reconnected: a little awkward with a hint of unease. However, something was different about the tension here today. This subtle tension wasn't nervousness. It was, well, attraction really, at least on my end. I couldn't lie. Although, considering how she put herself together, something told me she put more thought into this rendezvous than she would readily admit to.
Saria then stared at the ground and took a step closer to me.
"I… I wanted to apologize," she started suddenly.
I thought that was a little odd.
"For what?" I asked.
She stroked her hair behind her ears.
"For the back and forth I was constantly giving you over the past few months," she explained, "that must have been very frustrating."
I shrugged.
"I figured you were just trying to do the right thing," I said, "I understood. Besides, you were pregnant."
She took another step towards me and looked into my eyes.
"Well, thank you for understanding," she said, "but that isn't surprising, that's just who you are."
I nodded.
"Thank you," I replied.
Afterwards, there was another silence between us and the tension was notably mounting. Frankly, I found it a little strange. It shouldn't have been this uncomfortable between us no matter how attracted we were towards each other. Something was amiss. Something was amiss and I couldn't put my finger on it. However, even with the apparent misgivings, I ignored it, especially when she spoke up again.
"Tell me more about your son," she said.
I raised my brows, finding no issue with the subject.
"What would you like to know?" I asked.
She shrugged and giggled, and I swear her smile right now could light up the heavens right now.
"Everything," she replied.
Somehow I knew that would be her answer.
I chuckled.
"Everything?" I repeated.
She nodded.
"Everything," she said once again.
I figured I'd start with the basics.
"Okay," I said, "well, he's small, with the brightest blue eyes you ever did see."
She giggled again.
"And probably with the blondest of blonde hair too right?" she asked.
I nodded.
"White blonde actually," I replied, "but I reckon it'll darken when he gets older."
She laughed more.
"You reckon huh?" she teased.
I nodded again.
"I do," I said.
She stroked her hair over to one shoulder and pressed me more.
"Tell me more," she said.
I grinned at her enthusiasm.
"Well, he's little, he cries a lot, and he has a great deal of flatulence," I joked, "other than that he's a normal child."
Saria giggled more.
"Besides the fact he's a prince," she teased.
I shrugged.
"Yes, besides that fact," I joked.
She shook her head playfully.
"And you're mean," she said, "babies are supposed to fart!"
This time I laughed.
"I was trying to be 'kingly' when I spoke about my son," I joked, "'farting' is not a kingly word."
Saria covered her mouth and laughed more.
"Link, you're silly," she said.
I raised a brow.
"I thought you said I was serious," I corrected.
She had no qualms.
"That too," she replied, "but I like the silliness more, you need to do it more often."
I nodded.
"I will try," I promised, then directed the question back to her, "what about you? Tell me about your daughter."
Her eyes widened slightly, but her face instantly lit up in a warm expression.
"Her name is Elincia," she started, "and she looks just like me, green hair and everything."
I looked at her surprised.
"Really?" I asked.
Saria nodded.
"She's my little twin," she said admirably, "she's pretty amazing."
I grinned at her countenance.
"I'll bet she's gorgeous," I said.
She nodded and blushed.
"She is… she really is," she said, "and I'm not just saying that because she's my daughter."
I chuckled.
"I wouldn't hold it against you if you were a little biased," I replied, "I certainly am with my son."
She giggled again.
"I sensed that," she teased.
There was a brief silence just then, where Saria avoided my eyes for a moment.
"Does… does Daphnes look like you?" she asked suddenly.
I took in a deep sigh and shook my head.
"Everyone says he does, but to me he looks like Zelda," I admitted, "he is his mother's twin."
She grinned.
"I garner they are right and you are just being stubborn," she said.
I shrugged.
"Maybe," I said.
She laughed again and afterwards we both got quiet once more. Saria redistributed her hair to her back, where she left me with a full frontal view of her bulbous cleavage. It was quite voluptuous. I saw myself shamelessly staring when I had to consciously tell myself to look away. I was certain she caught my gaze, but it was hard not to when her charms were so front and center. She didn't say anything on it though. It was then I made a decision.
Okay, I thought, let me address the giant lizalfos.
I gave her another once over and finally had to ask.
"If I say something to you, will you promise not to get offended?" I asked suddenly.
She raised a brow and gave me a knowing look.
"Starting a conversation like that is not very promising Link," she joked.
I gathered that and went on anyway.
"I know, but I needed a proper preface," I said, then asked, "no hard feelings?"
She shrugged.
"Sure, no hard feelings," she said, "what is it?"
I gave her another once over and asked, "Why are you wearing this?"
She looked at me surprised by the abrupt inquiry.
"What?" she asked.
I raised my brows.
"Why are you wearing this outfit?" I repeated.
She looked down at her clothes.
"What's wrong with it?" she asked.
I shook my head.
"I never said there was anything wrong with it," I replied.
She went on.
"You… you don't like it?" she inquired.
I took in a deep sigh. That wasn't the issue at all. It was quite the opposite.
"No…" I said honestly, "it's not that I don't like it. It's that I like it a little too much."
Saria blushed at my honesty, but she had to know it was coming.
"Oh…" she trailed, "well, I guess I didn't think about it."
I then gave her an offhanded look.
"Don't give me that, you've thought about it alright," I accused playfully, "you knew exactly what kind of reaction that outfit would get from me."
Saria giggled again and then shrugged, rescinding her initial innocence.
"Fine," she said, "you twisted my arm, I'll tell you the truth. I wore this because I was thinking about the first time you took me to Kokiri Forest. It was such an important day for me, I just wanted to recapture that."
I didn't altogether buy that explanation, but it was what she wanted me to believe. I reached over and stroked her hair gently. Nothing too obvious, just a simple touch.
"Is that the… only reason?" I pressed.
It was then a little more honesty filtered through her. Her cheeks blushed and she pursed her lips together when she suddenly got quiet.
"Well… well, no," she confessed quietly, "I also remember the reaction you had when you saw me in this the first time. It was subtle because you were always so hard to read, but I could tell you were impressed. I guess I wanted some of that today too… did it work?"
I paused for a minute, but then nodded.
"It did," I replied, trying to keep it simple, "it looked amazing on you then and it looks amazing on you now."
Saria blushed again and avoided my eyes.
"Thank you," she said, "I'm glad you like it."
She finally looked me in the eyes again and there was this look there that she tried to keep hidden, but it was a little too overt to be denied. It was desire. I grinned at her, hoping to dispel it, but then I had my own innocuous issue. I felt it fade when I started thinking some… some inappropriate thoughts. I stepped back and stepped away to give us more space. I decided then to create a little more distance between us to keep this civil. I thought it best if I changed the subject. I took off my gauntlets and went and sat down at the stump.
"It's a beautiful day," I said, looking around.
She turned and stared at me for a second before she agreed.
"It is," she replied, "it seems so perfect."
The sunlight in the canopy was giving that effect.
"I like the sound of that," I said, "perfection in paradise."
She spread her arms out and closed her eyes, letting the sunlight bathe her face.
"This is paradise, isn't it?" she asked.
I grinned at her peaceful expression.
"Yes… our paradise," I said.
She then opened her eyes and looked at me surprised. Maybe I shouldn't have said it quite like that, but she agreed anyway.
"That's even better," she said, then repeated, "our paradise."
There was another brief silence between us, where I sensed the tension was gaining more momentum and nothing seemed to dispel it. Nothing. I then went to change the subject again.
"What's new?" I asked.
She gave me an obvious look.
"What's new?" she repeated.
I knew it sounded trite.
"Yes," I said.
She stared at me for a moment.
"Besides my baby," she said, "nothing really."
I grinned at her inflection.
"I guess that wasn't the best question," I admitted.
She smiled at me.
"Not so much," she said.
She then walked over and sat down next to me on the stump. I had to admit with the way the sun was shining through the canopy it was making her hair look incredible. There was this soft glow about it, and even her eyes seemed to be shining like blue diamonds. It was so evident, I couldn't hide it.
"You look so beautiful today," I said absently.
Saria's eyes widened slightly and she characteristically blushed at my compliment.
"Oh, why thank you," she said sincerely.
I reached over and stroked her hair behind her ear when she turned to stare at me. There was so much unspoken candor in this moment, and admittedly I was starting to drop my guard. Not because of Saria herself, but because of what I was feeling towards her right now. I had to turn away and clear my throat to get my bearings together. My façade was falling and I think she could see that. Even so, she just gave me an offhanded stare.
"Are you alright?" she asked softly.
I nodded quickly, too quickly to be honest.
"Yes," I said and didn't add much else.
I could see her studying my face from my periphery.
"Don't give me that," she said, "you seem… nervous."
I shook my head immediately.
"No-no not at all," I stammered.
That wasn't much of a reassurance.
She grinned and raised a brow. This time she reached over and stroked my hair. Her fingers felt nice.
"Link you don't have to pretend with me," she replied.
Her voice was barely above a whisper. I turned and looked at her just then and had to will myself from going down the road this conversation seemed to be destined to go.
"I don't know why I'm acting the way I am," I detracted, "I apologize."
Her pretty face warmed up.
"You don't have to apologize," she said, "in fact, I think it's adorable that you are so nervous."
I paused for a moment.
"I'm hardly what you call 'adorable'," I corrected, "and I''m not nervous."
She grinned.
"Yes indeed you are adorable, and you are nervous," she said. "You can't see it, but your face is as red as a tomato."
My eyes widened slightly, not expecting that.
"Really?" I asked.
She giggled and nodded.
"Really," she said.
I turned away again, but Saria reached over and turned my face back in her direction with a gentle tilt.
"It's nothing to be embarrassed about," she whispered, "if anything… I'm nervous too."
My throat tightened.
"Oh," was all I said.
Saria giggled again.
"I think this is the best version of you," she whispered, "all tongue tied and not sure what to say."
I didn't necessarily agree with her on that, but I understood it was because she knew at this moment she had more of the power in this situation. She could see it. She could sense it. She knew I wanted to be with her in some way.
"You're silly," I replied.
She smiled at me.
"Am I?" she whispered.
I nodded.
"You are," I said.
Saria studied me again, but then playfully shrugged and let the matter go.
"If you say so," she said, then changed the subject. "So, why did you want to have this meeting so badly? What's going on?"
I raised a brow at her nonchalance and ease of shift.
"I'm surprised at this attitude," I said anyway, "you know we're here because of your safety right?"
She leaned back on the stump and stared up at the canopy. She seemed indifferent.
"I suppose so," she replied.
I went on anyway.
"Saria…the Moon Goddess is real," I reassured, "and she wants you for some odd reason. We have to be serious about this. Remember what you told me?"
She looked over at me and stared into my eyes.
"You're talking about the Hilda riddle I sent to you, right?" she replied.
I wouldn't have put it quite so cavalierly.
"Yes, 'the Hilda riddle,'" I mocked, "what you told me has merit Sar. As I've told you before, I've done a comparison analysis and I think it may have something to do with a lunar event coming up."
Saria looked at me puzzled.
"What lunar event?" she asked.
I was glad she was at least keen enough to ask me that.
"The lunar tetra," I explained, "it's the last of four full moons in a single calendar year that appear red. They are sometimes referred to as blood moons."
Her eyes widened slightly.
"Oh dear," she said, "when is this supposed to happen?"
"In about a month," I replied.
For the first time she looked a little concerned.
"You're certain of this?" she asked.
I nodded.
"Positive," I replied.
She took in a deep sigh and looked away. I studied her expression for a moment.
"What do you think about that?" I asked.
She shrugged, not sure what to say.
"You could be right," she said.
I gave her an offhanded look.
"I could be right?" I repeated.
She then looked over at me and grinned.
"Fine," she said, "you are right."
I was getting increasingly perplexed by her lack urgency regarding this matter.
"Saria… this is serious," I said, "Zelda even came to me with a premonition regarding this. I've informed you of that fact. She was the one who warned me about the lunar tetra."
Saria looked at me surprised.
"Really?" she asked.
I nodded.
"Really," I replied, "could you please act like you care a little more?"
Saria paused and let my words sink in, but then she reached over and caressed my cheek.
"I'm sorry," she whispered, "I… I just have other things on my mind right now."
I looked at her surprised.
Is she serious? I wondered.
My concern was growing.
"Saria-" I tried.
She then shushed me.
"I heard you loud and clear," she interrupted softly, "lunar tetra in a month, Moon Goddess, I need to be careful- I got it."
I stared at her in mild disbelief. This wasn't like her at all.
"Saria… what is going on with you?" I asked finally. "Why aren't you acting like yourself?"
She looked away at the accusation.
"I'm fine Link," she said.
I shook my head.
"No," I accused, "you aren't."
She rolled her eyes.
"Because I'm not unnecessarily stressing out due to what you just told me?" she countered.
"I-" I tried again.
She reached over again and put her finger to my lips.
"I promise you I'm fine and I heard everything you said," she interrupted, "I swear."
I wasn't reassured by her words, but it seemed she was going to side step me anyway.
"Saria-" I tried again.
"I swear Link," she interrupted once more.
I stared into her beautiful eyes wanting to believe her, but I just didn't. I looked away when my frustration mounted. I felt like I was talking to a wall. She wasn't listening and it seemed it was going to cost her her life if she didn't get serious. Even so, I said nothing. Saria saw my facial expression and came in a little closer to me when she saw I was cross.
"Don't be upset," she whispered, "I'm sorry."
I took in a deep sigh and cut my gaze back to her. She returned it with a smile.
"No hard feelings?" she asked.
I paused for a long time, then finally nodded.
"Sure," I said, "no hard feelings, but you need to be careful."
She nodded.
"Of course," she replied.
There was another silence between us afterwards. It was significantly more confusing than the last one, mainly because I was mildly irritated with her now too. However, I did my best to ignore it. Saria was staring up at the canopy again and then closed her eyes, letting the sun shine on her face. She looked serene. Someone could have mistaken her for Farore with how ethereal the surroundings were. I imagine the goddess of the life would be as beautiful as Saria was right now if she transmogrified. I was tempted to tell Saria such, but decided against it to not add to the latent tension already here. Instead, I changed the subject and broke the silence.
"Tell me a joke," I suddenly.
Saria looked at me surprised.
"What?" she replied. "A joke?"
I nodded.
"Yes, a joke," I said, "you've told them before."
Saria looked slightly confused before she turned away from looking at me.
I raised a brow.
"Do you have any new jokes?" I redirected.
At first I wasn't sure she heard me because she didn't respond right away, but a moment later she shrugged.
"Not really," she said.
I didn't believe her.
"You'll have to forgive me for thinking you're fibbing," I said, "you always have jokes."
She smirked.
"Calling me a liar is not very nice," she said.
I grinned.
"You not being very forthcoming isn't either, how else am I supposed to respond?" I asked rhetorically. "Come on, please, now tell me a joke."
She paused, with her eyes searching my face just then.
"Fine," she replied, "I have a joke, but I don't think you're going to find it funny."
I accepted her challenge.
"Try me," I said.
Her expression suddenly became nondescript.
"Are you sure?" she asked.
I nodded.
"Quite sure," I said, "I love your jokes."
Saria studied me once more before she answered again.
"Alright," she uttered finally, "here's the joke: your marriage and my marriage."
My eyes widened slightly at her utterance and I stared at her slightly taken aback. I waited for her to go on, but she said nothing else.
"And?" I pressed.
Her eyes narrowed in return.
"And what?" she asked innocently.
"Is that all?" I inquired anyway.
She raised a brow.
"Does anymore need to be said?" she countered. "That's the point of the joke."
This time I studied her face.
"Saria, that isn't funny," I said quietly.
She looked away.
"Sure it is," she replied with a hint of sarcasm, "it's very funny, the whole damn situation is funny."
After her utterance, there was another silence between us. It was long and reflective, and it didn't help what was already here.
"Saria…" I trailed finally, "why are you talking this way? You haven't been acting like yourself since we got here."
She didn't answer right away.
"You don't see the humor?" she whispered after a few moments, ignoring my last statement completely.
I stared at her profile.
What is this about? I wondered.
"Did… you and Ralph have another fight?" I deflected.
Saria forced a laugh, then looked back over at me.
"What?" she asked.
I looked at her with a hint of defiance.
"Did you and Ralph have another fight?" I repeated.
She scoffed slightly.
"Why would you think that?" she asked.
I shrugged.
"It's just a question," I replied.
She grunted softly and shook her head.
"No," she said simply, "no, we didn't have a fight. He's happier with me than ever. He can't seem to keep his hands off me."
That last statement was obvious bait. However, I wasn't going to take it. Instead, I deflected.
"Is he happy?" I asked.
However, she seemed annoyed with the questioning and reversed it back on me.
"Are you?" she asked. "Are you happy Link?"
I paused for a moment and took in a deep sigh. I looked away from her, feeling uncomfortable with where this was going. I didn't have a straight answer.
"I don't know, I think I am," I replied, trying to be honest, "at least I'm trying to be. My son makes me happy."
Her eyes searched my face.
"What about Zelda?" she asked.
I didn't want to talk about my wife.
"What about her?" I countered.
She paused at my tone.
"Are you happy with her?" she asked.
I didn't reply right away.
"She… she's a good queen," I replied, "she just loves in a different kind of way. We're trying to make it work."
She raised a brow.
"That's very noble of you," she said, "but you're not answering my question."
She was starting to get under my skin.
"What do you want me to say?" I demanded quietly. "I hate her? She's a terrible mother? She's a horrible lover? What do you want me to say?"
Saria looked at me very calmly.
"I just want you to be honest," she replied, "I just asked you if you were happy. You didn't have to get tangential. I just want to know what's behind those beautiful brooding sky blue eyes of yours."
I rolled those sky blue eyes and looked away.
"There's nothing brooding here," I muttered.
She nodded.
"Oh yes there is," she whispered, "and you're stalling to tell me."
I was getting tired of this.
"Well, maybe I don't want to!" I snapped. "Have you considered that?"
I turned and gave her a hard stare, while her expression remained docile. We locked eyes for a minute before she reached over and caressed my cheek again.
"I… I'm sorry," she whispered finally, "I didn't mean to make you angry. I was just teasing."
I cut my eyes from her and shook my head. I didn't reply. There was another brief silence between us. I was hard lining my position, when she suddenly got up from the stump and knelt down in front of me on the grass. She nestled herself against me so that she could take hold of my hands.
"I'm sorry," she whispered again, "I shouldn't have pressed the issue."
I suddenly felt my throat tighten in frustration because she knew the answers to her questions. She knew. Why was she trying to needle me like this? Why was she acting this way? Seeing her in front of me looking so beautiful and provocative was hard enough, and now she wanted to taunt me with it too? She wasn't being reasonable.
"Saria… I'm king because I have to be," I said, "it's not a choice I wanted for either of us."
Saria nodded.
"I know," she replied, "I was being irrational."
I stared into her eyes.
"I don't… I don't come here to talk about Zelda," I confessed, "I come here because I want to be with you. I just want to have my moment with you."
Her features softened at my words.
"I know," she said, "I guess I was just feeling a little jealous."
My eyes searched her face.
"Jealous of what?" I asked.
She avoided my gaze for a moment.
"She has so much of you," she said quietly, "so much of your life is with her now, and I just feel left out. I… I wanted that for us."
I paused before I replied.
"I hate that you feel that way," I whispered, "it wasn't supposed to be like this."
Her eyes stung suddenly, but she blinked her tears back.
"I know," she replied.
Her expression made me compelled to tell her what I knew she needed to hear.
"Saria… I love you," I whispered, "seriously, you have nothing to be jealous of."
She rolled her eyes and looked away. My words probably rang so hollow.
"You say that when she's the mother of your son," her voice broke slightly, "you say that when you're married to her. You say that so nonchalantly Link."
I wasn't going to let that slide.
"And you think this is any easier for me?" I countered. "You think I enjoy imagining you with Ralph? You think I like the idea of you being another man's wife? Elincia isn't mine when I wish to Hylia she was."
Her eyes widened a little and she looked back into my eyes just then. I caressed her cheek when her tears spilled over.
"I know Daphnes should be yours," I whispered, "I know that and I'm sorry Sar, I really am."
Her throat tightened at my words, but then she came in close and slid her way up into my arms. She wrapped her arms around my waist and rested her head against my chest.
"I love you so much Link," she whispered finally.
I hugged her back and stroked her hair. I felt her crying in my arms now. Her head was buried in my chest and she wouldn't let me go. I let her cry, until she finally calmed down. Afterwards, I pulled her back to look in her eyes.
"Are you alright?" I whispered.
Saria took in a deep sigh and nodded.
"I think so," she replied.
She was only inches from my face when I wiped her tears away. Saria stared into my eyes and that look that she had before returned. She reached up and caressed my cheek.
"Link…" she whispered.
I knew that tone.
Afterwards, she reached up and kissed me on the lips. Her mouth was soft and needy and her lips tasted so sweet. I wrapped my arms around her waist and held her tight as I kissed her back with equal ardency. She opened her mouth to mine and cradled my face when her tears started to flow again. She then wrapped her arms around my neck and drew herself in closer to me. I kissed her deeper when I felt her grabbing and tugging on my garments like she wanted to remove them. It soon became very intense, with my tongue coming in frequent contact with hers. There was very little restraint exhibited by either one of us now.
She pulled back briefly for a moment to look me in the eyes.
"This is our paradise, right?" she whispered.
I nodded.
"Yes," I whispered back, "yes, it is."
She caressed my cheek again.
"I want you to take me in our paradise," she said suddenly, "I want you to make love to me in our paradise Link."
I stared into her eyes knowing those words were coming, but before I could reply she reached in and kissed me again. She was more aggressive this time around, almost pushing me backwards because she was leaning in on me so hard, and soon her words matched her actions.
"I take it all back," she whispered between a kiss, "I do want that cottage here in the woods. I do want to be your mistress and have your babies. I just want to be with you Link."
My eyes widened at her confession.
"Saria you told me you didn't want that," I said, "you know that can't happen now, you have-" I tried.
She reached in and kissed me again to interrupt me. Her lips were like fire, and I couldn't lie, I couldn't get enough of her. It was so intense, I was starting to give into my selfish inclinations. I wanted to make love to her so badly. She had no idea how deeply embedded that desire was. I kissed her back, stroking my fingers through her perfect hair, and held her so tight her breasts were squeezed up against my chest. I started turning the tide as I leaned in on her with my superior weight and strength, momentarily forcing her to move backwards towards the grass beneath her. It was just so, until I was in the dominant position above her and she was in the submissive position underneath me. The grass was actually tall enough to partially conceal us. Not that it mattered, no one was here but us anyway. I wrapped her legs around my waist and kissed her deeper, thinking about all the things I wanted to do to her. I didn't have enough hours in a day to recount them all.
I am going to shag the cum out of her, I thought.
All those nights dreaming about her, desiring her, wanting her, and here she was in my arms begging me to take her, to love her. What the hell was I supposed to do? Say no? Walk the hell away? Pretend like I didn't want this to happen? Goddamn it, what the hell was I supposed to do when the woman I loved wanted me to love her? I pulled back and stared into her beautiful eyes, knowing this was wrong, knowing I shouldn't continue forward. I was trying so hard to work out my dilemma, but I knew there was really nothing to work out. Either I was going to stop or not. Saria reached up for me, but then I resisted. She knew I was starting to falter. She sat up slightly underneath me when she saw I was hesitating. She used both her hands to stroke my face and attempted to work her magic on me.
"I know you're conflicted," she whispered, inches away from my lips, "but you know this is what we both want."
She was more right than she knew, and I felt my body betraying me when I got an erection from her tone. I could tell she already knew everything was in her favor with our proximity. I was right up against her groin. The goddesses knew more than anything I wanted to be with her. Saria had to know at this point it was her call, because I was going to succumb. All she had to do was say the words and I was willing to put everything on the line for her. However, I was trying to make it less obvious than it was. I attempted to resist. Even so, she reached in and kissed me again, then like a pro guided my hands to her voluptuous breasts. She must have known how simple men were when it came to the beauty of a woman's anatomy. Zelda had no issues with me regarding that either.
We really are simple creatures, I thought.
Saria kissed me deeper when she felt me involuntarily squeeze at her mammaries. At that, a very unintended thing happened, the top of her suit suddenly got sodden at the chest from her… breast milk. I heard the pressure release and, I couldn't lie, that occurrence got me throttled. That shit was sexy as hell to me. That was when Saria started undressing herself. It didn't take her long before I fawned over her femininity. Her nipples were puckered and standing on end, but the real kicker was the flow of milk now coming from them. Both breasts were just seeping with white fluid… dear Farore, I had another white fluid I wanted to give her.
"Oh my goddess," I whispered as I stared at her.
There was open desire in her eyes now. She didn't bother to hide it.
"You like what you see, don't you?" she whispered.
I swallowed hard, and nodded like a docile child.
"Yes I do," I replied.
She interlaced my fingers with hers and bit her lower lip.
"Don't make me beg you," she ironically begged, "please."
My eyes panned back up to her face and I saw the resolve there. She was dead serious. I guided her back into the grass, but then paused for a moment when I took my cloak off and pulled my tunic over my head. Afterwards, I got close to her again and kissed her softly. However, I couldn't lie, I was more interested in what was happening south of her neck. So, I furtively trailed down her skin with my tongue, until I got to where I wanted to be. I let my tongue circle around one of her nipples while my free hand cupped the other. I sucked on it gently when she beckoned for it, and that was when I felt a surge of creamy fluid come into my mouth. It tasted sweet and delicious like I knew it would, but there was something particularly erotic about making love to a lactating woman. She had all this ability of life in her to feed and nourish her young, but she also had the ability to be this incredible fetish fantasy to man she was committed to. I would be lying if I didn't admit that I enjoyed this kind of love making with Zelda as well. The past couple weeks have been pretty incredible to say the least. Zelda informed me she had no idea I had such a unconventional sexual side. I like what I like, and I guess I didn't realize it until we were in bed together that night. But to be able to do this with the woman I truly loved, with my dear Saria, this was something special and provocative beyond belief. I squeezed gently again and let her milk run in my mouth. She moaned as she watched me, possibly because she knew this was not going to be enough for her, for either of us actually.
"Link…" she trailed, "please don't tease me anymore. I need you."
There was a hint of impatience in her voice and I knew it was because she wanted more than salacious foreplay. Incredibly enough, I was still battling with my indecision. I pulled back and went to kiss her again while I held her close to me.
"You are so beautiful," I whispered against her ear.
She stroked her fingers through my hair and turned her face towards mine and kissed me again. She was a lot more forceful than she initially intended to be. She slid herself out of the rest of her body suit completely underneath me and started fiddling with the belt on my pants. I undid them for her so she wouldn't have to wonder anymore. She then looked me in the eyes and let nature take its course. I guess the decision had been made. She reached up and kissed me when she braced herself. I didn't waste any time giving her what she wanted and it sent her eyes rolling to the back of her head.
"Oh my god!" she whimpered.
I thrusted inside her again and again and again, until I just got lost in it all in the tall grass of the meadow. I let my feelings for her take over, consequences be damned. Her closed eyes when I kissed her, when I held her, felt her loving embrace, her desire to be with me… her everything. I got lost in her everything and I didn't look back, not for one second.
I'm sorry Zelda, I thought, kissing the woman I loved, I'm sorry.
~SSS~
A few hours later: Saria's POV
The last few hours felt like a deep dark sleep when I finally came to. I blinked several times before I opened my eyes and looked around. I noticed the tall grass right away, the canopy, the sunlight looking like it was going into dusk, the fireflies- this was the Sacred Forest Meadow. The surroundings were the usual beautiful conversant evergreens. I just couldn't remember when I got here, and when I attempted to sit up I realized this had taken a much deeper turn than I could have ever surmised. I noticed immediately the head of gold resting at my bosom… Link's head. My confusion intensified when I looked on and saw that he didn't have a stitch on, and… neither did I.
Oh my goddess, we're naked, I thought.
My heart began to pound rapidly when I tried to sit up again. Panic instantly set in and that was when the hero finally stirred. He looked to be awaking from a restful sleep. He even yawned and stretched his neck against my cleavage before he lifted his head to look at me. There was a sleepy smile on his handsome face and he looked so happy. The happiest I had seen him in a long time.
He reached up to caress my cheek.
"Hey, sleepy head," he whispered.
My heart pounded faster.
"Hey," I replied.
His fingers lingered over my chin.
"You decided to join the living once more," he teased.
My panic never wavered.
"I-I guess so," I stammered.
He sensed my unease and commented on it.
"What's the matter?" he asked.
I didn't know how to respond to that, so I didn't.
"Wh-what happened?" I countered.
Link appeared slightly perplexed, then gave me a funny look and chuckled.
"You really are a jester," he whispered, "aren't you?"
I was dead serious, but didn't have a chance to say such when the hero reached up to kiss me on the lips. He was passionate and loving immediately, opening my mouth in a way that only he knew how as he kissed me deeply. However, while he closed his eyes I kept mine open. I was literally deku shell shocked and didn't know how to react, because I had no idea what transpired. My heart pounded faster.
We couldn't, I thought, we didn't…
It seems we could and we did, especially when he started kissing my neck after he trailed from my lips. His mouth found one of my breasts like it was the most natural move in the world, and he unabashedly started suckling the nipple.
"My goddess, you are so beautiful," he whispered against my skin, "everything about you excites me."
I was freaking out more without saying anything. When Link pulled away, he stroked my hair and stared into my eyes. He saw my now apparent panicked expression and smirked again.
"Don't tell me you're acting all embarrassed now," he said, "you were anything but embarrassed a little while ago."
My breathing accelerated and I thought I was going to faint.
"Really?" I asked.
His smile widened.
"Really," he replied, "your acrobatic skills are a major aphrodisiac."
My acrobatic skills? I thought. What in Farore's name is he talking about?
He reached in and kissed me again, this time with his hand at the base of my neck so he could run his fingers through my hair and massage my scalp. He guided me back into the grass and got on top of me when the kiss intensified. I never pushed him away. I never objected. I was just stunned with what was happening.
"Goddesses, I love you so much," he whispered between a kiss, "you're going to get me all aroused and have me make love to you again."
I swallowed hard when I heard that.
"So… so you-you mean we…" I trailed.
Link paused as he stared into my eyes. When he studied my expression again, he suddenly gave me another offhanded look.
"Did I mean we what Saria?" he asked.
I felt my throat tighten at my own reluctance to go on and I avoided his eyes. I didn't answer. However, Link seemed to find my reaction more charming than anything, so he went on.
"Yes Saria," he continued for me, "we made love, and you were amazing."
He was staring in my eyes as he was speaking, but suddenly everything became hazy on my end. I didn't remember a thing. The hero reached in, kissed me again, and suddenly I felt his huge member get hard against me. It was long and thick and he could barely keep the desire out of his voice when he spoke again. His breathing intensified.
"Sar," he whispered, "I need you baby."
He interlaced his hands with mine and placed them above my head. I should have been stopping this, but I inadvertently got aroused by his touches and kisses too. I had never seen him like this. He was like an intoxicating potion. I voluntarily spread my legs apart and reached up and kissed him when he beckoned for it. I whimpered hungrily when I felt him penetrate himself inside me and take me. There was no pain or pressure or anything, just pleasure. It went on like this for the next fifteen or twenty minutes. Link kissed me deeper as he went deeper, and he muffled my shrieks and moans at the climax by keeping his mouth pressed against mine. He kissed me deeper when the orgasm was over and all I could feel was him percolating inside me. It was warm and inviting, much like him. He then collapsed in my arms breathing hard and he was holding me tight. I couldn't lie, that was amazing.
Link kissed my cheek when he finally addressed me again.
"That makes five," he whispered.
I looked at him perplexed.
"Five what?" I whispered back.
The hero grinned.
"Keep this up you're going to make it six," he teased, "but I don't know how many more orgasms you can take."
I froze at the realization of what really took place here.
"We made love five times?" I whispered.
Link nodded.
"Give me about twenty minutes we'll make it six," he teased.
I looked at him surprised and blushed. I looked away when everything suddenly felt surreal.
"How… how long have we been here?" I asked.
Link shrugged.
"Maybe three hours," he replied.
I stared at him shocked.
"Three hours?" I repeated. "Aren't you going to be missed at the castle?"
It didn't seem to be an issue for him.
"Whatever duty is waiting for me it will be there when I get back," he replied, "don't worry."
My heart started to pound again.
"But Link I-" I tried.
"Shhhh," he interrupted, "don't worry, let's just enjoy this time we have."
This was not comforting and I immediately felt a guilt I couldn't describe when I thought about Ralph. There would be no way in hell he would ever forgive me for this, and he would be completely justified. In one fail swoop I clarified all of his mother's and sister's fears. I proved I was a charlatan and no good for him. I closed my eyes and rested my head in the grass.
"I can't believe this," I whispered.
Link stroked my hair.
"You can't believe what?" he asked.
My throat tightened and I closed my eyes.
"Ralph has no idea where I…" I whispered, talking more to myself than to Link.
The hero was slightly surprised that I mentioned my husband now.
"I… uh… suppose not," he replied.
There was a brief silence between us, and that was when the true ugly realization started to hit me. That was when I realized the gravity of what I had done. I covered my face when my eyes suddenly stung with tears, but once they got going they were impossible to stop. That was when I made a more concerted effort to push past Link and get up. However, the hero wouldn't let me just get by. He saw my disposition and looked at me concerned. I looked away from him feeling ashamed and that was when he truly saw how freaked out I was about what happened. But, he also seemed genuinely confused.
"Saria… what's wrong?" he asked.'
I shook my head and felt tears refill my eyes.
"Nothing," I said quickly, "I just want to get up."
Link didn't believe that for a second.
"Saria, come on," he said, "don't do this."
My lips started quivering and I felt my emotions overwhelm me.
"Please Link," I said with a cracked voice, "I don't want to talk about it."
He still didn't budge.
"Well, I'm afraid that isn't an option," he said, "I want you to talk to me."
I closed my eyes again in frustration.
"You know what's wrong Link," I said suddenly, "look at what we just did."
He was quiet for a moment.
"Saria… this is our time together," he reiterated.
I looked at him taken aback.
"We've just committed adultery," I whispered, "what we did was wrong."
Link rolled his eyes and looked away.
"You'll have to forgive me for not seeing things that way," he said.
I shook my head, and this time when I pushed past him to get up he let me. I started gathering my things to get dressed. My hands were trembling and I almost couldn't find me undergarments.
"Goddamn it!" I muttered. "Where are my under clothes?"
Link stood up and provided a little insight into that.
"That's simple," he said, "you can't find them because you weren't wearing any."
I turned around and looked at him surprised.
"What?" I asked.
Link didn't answer, but instead he handed me my body suit that was turned inside out nearby. I looked at it confused, but took it reluctantly and felt embarrassed.
"I… I don't know what to say," I whispered.
Link was getting dressed himself now and put on his knickers then buckled up his pants before he cut his eyes to me.
"Say you enjoyed yourself and stop freaking out," he snapped.
My eyes widened slightly at his tone.
"Excuse me?" I replied.
He had no qualms about his statement.
"Stop with the innocent act Sar," he warned, "from the moment we got here today we knew what was going to happen. Stop pretending like you're surprised!"
I was temporarily dumbstruck and I didn't answer until I put my body suit back on.
"I had no intention-" I tried.
He halted me right there.
"Stop it, you had every intention!" he interrupted. "Every intention! Cut the dragon shit! You wanted me as much as I wanted you! That's why you came in here dressed the way you were! That's why you were asking me the questions the way you were! That's why you were doing everything the way you were doing them because you fucking wanted me the way I wanted you!"
My heart started to pound again.
"Link I-" I tried, but then stopped myself.
He waited for me to challenge him with a hint of defiance. Tears quickly engulfed my eyes and I turned away from him. I didn't know how I was going to reconcile this. I cried in my hands and felt at a loss. However, it was no sooner than a moment later when I felt Link come up behind and take me in his arms. He turned me around to face him and I buried my head against his bare chest. I sobbed, but then I wrapped my arms around his lean muscular waist.
"Please don't cry," he whispered against my hair, "I'm sorry for raising my voice. I didn't mean to sound so angry."
I didn't reply, but hugged him tighter.
"I just can't believe we allowed ourselves to act this way," I sobbed.
Link took in a deep sigh.
"Truthfully," he started, "I'm not surprised and if we wanted nothing to come of this we should never have seen each other in such a fashion in the first place. It was bound to happen."
I knew he was right.
I didn't reply.
"This might bother you with what I'm about to say, but I have to say it," he started. "I'm not sorry, nor do I feel guilty for what happened between us today. You were the woman I should have married Saria, but fate has kept us apart. We were allowed this opportunity because frankly we should have expressed our love for each other sooner than this."
I pulled away and looked into his eyes, not knowing what to say, not knowing what to do.
"I-" I tried, but stopped myself.
Link waited for me to go on.
"You..." he continued for me.
I knew I had something more to say, but the words wouldn't come out. Instead, I pushed past him, got my cloak on the stump and hurried the hell out of there. Link looked after me shocked, and tried to reach for me, but I slipped past his grip.
"Saria wait!" he called.
However, I didn't and he didn't make much effort to follow after me considering the nature of our situation. I ran out of that meadow as fast as I could. I nearly tumbled down the stairwell, but used the railing for support. When I got to the bottom, I slid to the grass and sobbed into my hands. I felt enormously guilty. I couldn't believe this was happening. I couldn't believe this was my life right now.
What have I done? I thought. What have I done?
I know, I know, I do not condone such behavior just so you all know. The next chapter will be up soon.