The Covenant, The Keeper, & The Promise: Book I

by ZeldaRubix

After the events of 'The Girl with the Green Hair,' Link and Saria's friendship continue with some unexpected twists and turns. Life isn't always what it seems and now that Link is king, that notion is going to be continually challenged all his life.

24. Chapter 24

Inspiration: Deception and the song Codename Z from the XCX soundtrack.

Author Note: There is a scene in this chapter that is both disturbing and funny (at least I think so). You will all know it when you come across it. The italics are the cue, and just fyi you don't have to read it.

Word Count: 15,400

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Chapter 24

Ten days prior on Hyrule Field: The Happy Mask Salesman

Greetings.

I had a particular place I liked to sit when nightfall fell as I watched the heavens. Hyrule Field was a domestic wonderland of flowers and trees, but as I was watching, a shooting star caught my eye, two for that matter. Interestingly enough, this wasn't the season from astral showers. So, what was going on in the heavens above? A great deal I surmised. I was always ready to write it all down, to know the world in which Hylians really lived. So many Hylians had no idea of what or who enchanted them. I found that deception fascinating, and the goddesses were all in on it. Imagine such a ruse! It was interesting to me that the protectors of the world were also its greatest deceivers, but every creator had their reasons I suppose. At least, that was my conjecture anyway.

On this beautiful night, I was candidly and keenly watching those stars. One went in the direction of Hyrule Castle, while the other went in another direction entirely. Actually, the second stated star seemed to be coming in my direction. Suddenly, there was a gust of wind that hit the trees when the celestial body went by, but no crash into the earth below. Strange... why was that the case? I immediately got up to investigate. I read in a very important text that one day the heavens above would make contact with the earth dwellers below, and a mere mortal was to witness it all. I wondered if that instance was tonight. Even more so, I wondered in that mere mortal was me. The sheer coincidence of it all! I got up and walked over to the sighting, but was suddenly halted when a voice spoke out.

"Don't come any closer… Hylian," the voice warned.

I stopped in my tracks and recognized the vocal cadence to be feminine. However, I couldn't see her, but a moment later, a flash of light appeared before my eyes. I had to raise my hands to cover the blinding sight. When the light dissipated, an extraordinarily beautiful apparition appeared before me. I was in awe immediately. She had a perfect olive complexion, with crystal red eyes, and the reddest hair I had ever seen. She illuminated against the night sky like a beacon, and I realized right away she was not of this world. She was one of the triad goddesses, and her perfection was without comparison. At her presentation, I got down on one knee and bowed to her.

The goddess Din, I thought.

She smirked as if she heard me.

"You are quite right," she said, with a reverberation that was like fire as she walked up to me, "and you are a mischievous Hylian known as the Happy Mask Salesman."

I looked at her surprised when I stood back up, but was not really surprised if that made sense. She was a goddess after all. Of course she could read my thoughts. She probably knew everything about me. I couldn't wait for her to guess more.

"I am at your service my lady," I said.

She raised a brow at my utterance.

"Are you?" she asked.

I returned her smile.

"Indeed, for I am simply a person interested in the history and lore of Hyrule," I explained.

She then walked towards me, but stopped short of being right in front of me.

"You are a deceiver and a troublemaker," she said indiscriminately, "but... you are also resourceful."

I was flattered by the latter.

"My reputation precedes me," I said.

The goddess crossed her arms over her chest.

"It does indeed," she said, "for you must know I am aware of what you have done and what you truly seek."

I paused for a moment and stared into her illustrious glowing red eyes.

"I wouldn't expect otherwise," I said, "for you still need a wielder for the Triforce of Power. Why not let that be me?"

She shook her head and gave me a long once over.

"You think you are worthy of my Triforce?" she inquired.

I nodded.

"I am my lady," I said, "just look back at my past deeds."

Din grunted and gave me an unimpressed look.

"You think tricking children and being a manipulator makes you worthy of power?" she asked. "Don't make me laugh."

I saw her points.

"There are many roads to the same conclusion your imminence," I said, "I just choose the path of least resistance."

She scoffed.

"It's a pathway of cowardice and you know it," she said. "You are not worthy my good Hylian. You cannot wield my Triforce of Power. You only want to see what becomes of it. You don't want to have mastery over it."

I had no rebuttal to that and I digressed with a humble shrug.

"I simply wanted you to know there was a willing vessel to try," I explained.

She placed her hand on her hip.

"The Triforce of Power is not for those who want to 'try' simple Hylian, but for those who are worthy," she reiterated. "I have watched you and know that you do not seek power, but the results of it. You seek destruction. I find your viewpoint obscene."

That was telling.

"I apologize for my inquisitive mind," I said, "but life and death are symbiotic constructs, constructs you and your fellow goddesses are responsible for."

Din shook her head.

"And that was only to bring balance into the world," she said. "Do not think you can outsmart a goddess Hylian. You merely wanted to deflect from your true goal. Now answer me this: why are you trying to bring back the Moon Goddess?"

My eyes widened. I couldn't believe it. There was the confirmation I was looking for.

"So she is real!" I whispered in mild disbelief.

Din raised a brow.

"As you have read in your little book, and have believed for many years," she said. "Stop stalling with your theatrics."

I felt my excitement grow.

"That's just the thing my lady," I started, "I wanted to know for a certainty. I have been researching this for many years, and now I have finally learned the truth. I have even blessed to be in your presence as the book also spoke of a time when the divine would make contact with mortals. I have made that contact with you."

She still didn't seem impressed.

"Needless platitudes with obscurity are right once in a while," she replied, "how unsophisticated of a method of inquiry."

I smiled at her bluntness.

"I suppose from your point of view it is," I said.

There was a brief silence between us, where the goddess gave me a long once over. She finally broke it when she took a step forward.

"So when is Lady Bathory supposed to get it?" she asked suddenly.

I froze at the sudden shift in conversation and pretended ignorance.

"Get what your excellency?" I replied.

She gave me a knowing look.

"Stop playing games with me," she replied, "you know what I'm talking about. When is the mistress of Mount Hebra to get Majora's Mask? I know you sent it to her, just as I know you sent the Fierce Diety's Mask to his majesty King Link."

I grinned when the truth was revealed.

"I'm certain she either already has or will have it shortly," I said, "after all, she is the grand priestess for the Moon Goddesses coronation."

Din shook her head in mild disgust.

"And you wanted to wield my Triforce," she said, "this is nothing but a game for you."

I wasn't sure I could argue her down.

"More like an exposition," I said, "I just want to see the grander things of the world take place."

She ran a hand through her radiant red hair.

"At the expense of everyone else?" she inquired.

I shrugged sheepishly.

"One could say the same of Ganondorf your excellency," I replied.

Din then gave me a look of warning.

"Watch yourself with your next words mortal," she stated. "I am not supposed to get involved in Hylian affairs, but you are testing my patience. I cannot kill you because that would disturb the balance of this world, but you would be surprised what you can live through."

I knew that threat was a guarantee, so I backed off that subject.

"Of course my lady," I apologized, "please forgive my impertinence."

She rolled her eyes, and then stated her soon to be departure.

"I must go because I have business elsewhere," she said, "but just know, Happy Mask Salesman, that if people die, you are directly responsible."

I was aware of that too.

"Of course your grace," I replied, "it is with a heavy heart that I take on that responsibility."

She didn't seem to believe me.

"Right," she said with a hint of sarcasm and turned from my presence.

However, before she left, I took a couple steps towards her to stop her.

"Your grace," I called, "may I ask you one more question?"

Din halted, turned her head slightly, and stared at me from her periphery.

"Which is?" she asked.

I wasted no time.

"Does your business have to do with a certain princess from another realm?" I asked innocently. "A place called Lorule perhaps?"

The goddess narrowed her eyes at me.

"The same realm you placed and then retrieved Majora's Mask once more?" she countered.

I looked at her surprised, but then smiled.

"Oh…" I pretended ignorance, "so you know about that too?"

She gave me her undivided attention one last time.

"I know everything you've done Happy Mask Salesman," she replied. "As for your question, let's just say you are not far off."

That was a confirmation as far as I was concerned.

"Yes, yes, that's just fine," I said with a smile, "when, or if, you see Hilda, tell her I said hello if you could your excellency."

Din raised a brow, then turned from me once more.

"Hmph," she grunted, "I'll be sure to do that if she happens to mention you, farewell."

With that, the goddess walked away, and she was every bit as magnificent far away as she was up close. However, an instant later she suddenly disappeared. She was gone again like a bolt of lightening, and I was once again alone. What an event that was. What a goddess Din was, so much fire and grace. I could not wait for more otherworldly events. As far as I was concerned, the Moonlight Crucible could not come soon enough.

I stared up at the heavens again.

Just wait and see your excellency, I thought of the goddess of power, if I am successful, you might find that I am indeed a worthy vessel for your Triforce of Power.

All I needed was evidence, and like any good scholar, when the fallout happened I was going to be there to collect it.

~SSS~

Back to the present: Bathory's POV

An erotic fantasy of madness:

I am worthy, I thought.

I was outright panting like an animal now, and when I turned my head to look at him I was shocked at the king's appearance. His face and body had somehow showed differently. His eyes were whited out, with his hair appearing bluish blonde. He was hyper muscular with dual blue lines painted onto his cheeks. His forehead was marked with a red V, and he looked to have the visage of an ancient warrior. Was this the true lineage of the sun prince? Was this his real countenance? Even so, the most shocking thing wasn't his appearance. It was actually what was going on at my penetration site.

What does this mean? I thought.

Beyond the king's vigorous thrusting was this strange anomaly of bright green light. It wasn't just that the vestige was taking place in my rectum, it was where the light was coming from. The bright green beam of energy was coming from the sun prince's penis. The borders of my sphincter were allowing the rays to diffract back. I couldn't believe it. Was this a blessing from the Moon Goddess? Was she informing me I was worthy?

I returned back to my initial position and faced forward, letting his passions continue inside me. I didn't even care about the sex any longer. I realized now this was my moment. This was my initiation into something greater. He was giving me his power and I was going to receive it. All of it.

"Yes!" I whispered finally when he went faster. "Yes! Yes! Yeeeeees!"

I finally got my wish.

~SSS~

After awakening from my sleep I knew I needed to make the dream a reality. I looked around the room hoping to find his majesty and realized that he was nowhere to be found. That beautiful image was all in my head. I was despondent for a few moments at the acknowledgment of being alone, but then I got out of my bed to catch my breath. I walked over to my vanity across the room and stared at my reflection. I looked a mess, with my disheveled hair and wrinkled night gown. I rubbed my creamy pale cheek and closed my eyes, feeling an intense sexual arousal in that instant. I really wanted to be with the king, but I knew that would never happen in the current circumstances. I had to make a concession.

"I can't be alone tonight," I whispered to my reflection, "I need a companion."

With that, I rang the gong on my dresser and a few seconds later there was a knock at my door. I went over to answer it and saw my faithful steward standing on the opposite side.

"You called my lady?" he asked.

I nodded, but then gestured for him to come into my chamber. I closed the door behind him before I spoke.

"I need you to do me a favor," I said softly.

My steward nodded.

"Anything my lady," he replied.

I turned to look at him.

"I need a companion for tonight," I divulged, "I'm bored and lonely. I don't want to sleep alone."

He looked at me surprised.

"A companion?" he repeated.

I nodded.

"Yes," I said.

He was quiet for a moment.

"Are you… are you asking me?" he inquired.

I groaned, raised a brow, and shook my head. There once was an evening where I did share a night with him, but it was about five years ago before he had children, so I wasn't surprised when he assumed I was asking him.

"No," I said quickly, "no, I wouldn't put you in that position as a married man. However, I would like for you to find someone for me for tonight."

He paused for a moment and almost looked disappointed. I was surprised. It never occurred to me that he would willingly step out on his wife. He must have really enjoyed our impromptu encounter. Perhaps I had a tainted him a little too much with my copious disposition on morality. Even so, I couldn't let that dissuade me when I had needs that needed to be met.

"And… what would your preference be?" he asked.

I turned and walked back over to my vanity to brush my hair. Using my reflection, I spoke to him again.

"I want him to be tall, blonde, and strong," I said aptly, "preferably golden blonde hair if you can find such a man. His facial features matter very little if his physique is up to par. However, he must have the perfect color hair."

My steward gave me an odd look.

"Blonde my lady?" he repeated.

I nodded and placed my brush down when my hair was perfect.

"Golden blonde to exact," I replied.

My servant looked perplexed.

"May I ask why?" he inquired.

I cut my eyes to him from my reflection.

"No you may not," I replied.

He raised both his brows at the curtness of my tone.

"Very well," he replied, then asked, "what if I can't find that specific type person? What then?"

I stared at my visage again.

"Then I shall go to bed alone," I replied, "nothing will satisfy me tonight if he doesn't look like the man of my dreams."

My servant's confusion deepened.

"My lady…" he trailed, "the man you described looks nothing like Prince Leonhart."

I was silent for a long time before I cut my eyes back to him again in the mirror.

I'm not speaking of Prince Leonhart, I thought.

"I'm aware of that," I said softly, "now please do as I ask."

He hesitated for a moment, but then bowed and turned to leave the room. However, before he left he looked over at me once more.

"This may seem out of place for me to say," he started, "but I feel I must. If ever you are lonely in the future I wish you would ask me to comfort you instead of some stranger."

I looked at him surprised and slowly felt a smirk come across my face.

"Is that so?" I asked.

He nodded.

"That is so," he replied, "you must know... you must know I'm in love with you, but if you wish to have the comfort of another man I will get him for you."

That surprised me even more.

"I will remember that in the future, but thank you for your loyalty," I said.

He nodded before finally exiting. That was an odd conversation. Even so, I didn't have time to think about it now. When my steward left, I went over to my closet and pulled out a pink sheer robe. It was long and see through, hiding nothing. I placed the robe on my bed and then went over to my anteroom where my private hot spring was. The spring had natural minerals that were perfect for the skin. I generally added herbal tinctures to the water for an aromatic effect. Tonight I was going to choose rosemary and oregano oil. I undressed, got in the spring, and soaked for twenty minutes. It was heavenly. Afterward, I got out, oiled my skin down and put on the robe… just the robe and nothing else. I didn't want there to be any confusion from my guest when he walked in the room. With that, a couple hours had past, and it was well past midnight when the inevitable knock eventually came to my door.

Finally, I thought.

"Who is it?" I called anyway.

My steward's voice then answered.

"I have returned my lady with your… your guest," he tried to be discreet.

I looked at my reflection one more time. I had the robe wide open where a clear view of my breasts could be seen. My flat stomach and perfect legs and thighs looked incredible in the candlelight. I knew I was ready. I couldn't wait. I walked over to my bed and laid down facing the door. For a little added suspense, I placed a three panel divider, used as a dressing space in the corner of my room, as an obstruction in view of my bed so that my guest wouldn't see me immediately when he walked in. He was going to have to come around and peer under the canopy to me… and what a sight he would find.

"Send him in," I called back, and made sure to add, "just him, you may go."

There was a pause from my steward before an answer. He clearly wasn't expecting that response, but he should have known. Even so, he did as he was instructed. A moment later, the door opened and in walked a tall man. I could already tell from my vantage point that he was going to be just what I was looking for.

"Over here," I called to him softly.

As he walked around the divider, I saw that he did have the golden colored hair and his physique was very well maintained. When he peeked under the canopy, his eyes widened in surprise at my appearance. He looked astonished.

I just smirked.

"Hello there," I said softly.

The surprise never left his face.

"H-Hello," he stammered quietly.

I sat up and rested back against my pillows.

"What's your name?" I asked.

He was almost too taken aback to answer.

"Rhom," he said quietly, "Rhom Lam."

I smiled at his discomfiture.

"That's a nice name," I complimented.

His breathing quickened a little.

"Thank you," he said, almost at a loss for words.

I played with a tassel of one of my pillows.

"May I call you Rhom?" I asked.

He was eyeing me in complete disbelief.

"You may ma'am," he said.

He was polite. I liked that.

"My name is Elvira Bathory," I replied, "you may call me Elvira."

Rhom looked at me slightly confused.

"As in Lady Bathory?" he asked.

I nodded.

"Yes," I replied.

He seemed even more shocked.

"And you want me to call you by your first name?" he asked incredulously.

My grin widened.

"That's right," I said.

He still looked perplexed, but he nodded anyway.

"If... if that is what you wish," he trailed.

I giggled at his response, and afterwards, there was a brief silence. I sat up completely as it prolonged and rested my legs underneath my bottom.

"Do you know why you were brought here tonight?" I asked.

Rhom was still eyeing my naked body before he looked me back in the face.

"I think I have an idea, but to be honest, no," he replied, "I was only told there was a job for me here."

I grinned when I heard that.

"A job," I said with a hint of sarcasm, more to myself than to him, then added. "Well… truthfully there is, but first, tell me, what do you do by trade?"

He had no qualms.

"I'm a blacksmith," he replied.

I looked at him surprised. He was almost too perfect. I knew he was strong if he worked with metal all day.

"That's marvelous, blacksmiths are the backbone of any society," I complimented. "Anyway, you see, I asked my steward to find a companion for me tonight, and you match the exact specifications of what I wanted. You're perfect."

Rhom seemed a little nervous at what I was getting at.

"Specifications?" he repeated.

I nodded.

"Your looks," I said directly, "you resemble someone I really admire. Your face is different of course, but everything else is near identical."

He still didn't seem too sure of what I was telling him.

"This is the first time I've been in a situation like this ma'am," he said honestly.

His gentleness made smile.

"You're even considerate like him," I whispered more to myself than to him, "and please, it's Elvira."

Rhom looked me over again, still unsure.

"I don't know," he said, "this doesn't seem right."

I stared at him for a long time before I went on.

"Are you married?" I asked suddenly. "Is that why you're so hesitant?"

He shook his head.

"My wife died five years ago," he disclosed, "she got really sick and we couldn't afford her medicine so she passed away."

That was surprisingly tragic. My heart actually stirred with that added information. It was compellingly moving.

"I'm… I'm sorry to hear that," I said sincerely.

He looked away for a moment and nodded.

"It's not your fault," he said, "you couldn't have known. She was a good woman."

His decency only made me desire him more.

"Was your wife beautiful?" I went on.

He gave me an obvious look.

"She was perfect to me," he said, "of course she was beautiful."

What a noble thing to say.

"How old are you?" I asked quietly.

His sky blue eyes searched my face.

"Twenty-nine," he replied.

I really felt empathy for him.

Twenty-nine and already a widower, I thought.

"I'm twenty-five," I replied, then asked, "haven't you ever done anything exciting in your life?"

Rhom shrugged.

"I'm a blacksmith," he simply, "that's enough excitement for me."

There was another brief silence between us, where I shifted my position again and crawled a little closer to him near the edge of the bed.

"Would you like to do something exciting tonight... with me?" I whispered.

He looked me over again. He was silent for a long time before he answered.

"You really had your servant bring me here to sleep with you?" he inquired rhetorically.

This was starting to become circular, but I answered anyway.

"Yes," I said simply.

He looked at me with a hint of unease.

"My lady-" he said.

I raised a brow.

"It's Elvira," I interrupted in a whisper, then added, "it wouldn't be for free, I would pay you of course."

He was quiet for a moment, but then perked a little.

"How much?" he asked.

I smirked, a little surprised at his response with how chivalrous he seemed, but money was money. I knew he would come around sooner or later.

"Turn around and look at the table," I directed.

Rhom stared at me for a minute before he went and did as I suggested. On the table in the center of the room was a pouch. Rhom walked over, picked up the pouch and opened it, inside were five electrum rupees. When Rhom saw the amount of money, he turned back and looked at me stunned.

"Fifty thousand rupees?!" he whispered astonished. "Are you serious?"

I nodded confidently.

"Yes, fifty thousand rupees," I whispered. "The money is yours if you stay. If you decide otherwise, then it is forfeit."

Rhom was still staring at me in mild disbelief, but I tried to reason with him.

"It's a win win situation for you," I whispered, "why not have a little fun and have something to brag about to your friends?"

I could see his defenses falling. He was starting to see things my way. He walked back over to the bed and stared me deeply in the eyes. I stared right back.

"What do you say?" I whispered.

Rhom was quiet for a long time before he took in a deep breath. I could tell he was debating the issue in his head, but he held onto that pouch like it was his own.

"Alright… alright," he said finally, "I'll do it."

I smiled, knowing he would see the light eventually.

"Perfect," I said, "now, before we get started I have a few requests. I would first like for you to soak in my hot spring for twenty minutes, then drink the red potion I left for you there. It isn't spiked, but I want you to be at your best for tonight. Also, when you come back I ask that you ask no questions about what I want you to do."

He seemed a little surprised at my caveats, but complied with them.

"As you wish," he said.

Afterwards, he exited the canopy and I directed him to the hot spring.

"Just follow the short hall to the anteroom," I directed, "the hot spring is behind that door."

Rhom nodded, but before he left, I stopped him again.

"One more thing," I said, "make sure you're completely naked when you return."

He stared at me for a long moment before he smirked himself.

"Of course," was all he said in reply.

When Rhom left, I was more excited than ever. I took off the robe knowing it was useless now and went to check my skin. I wanted every inch to be oiled, especially at my rectum. I wanted that dream to be real, and twenty-five minutes later, the door to the anteroom opened and out emerged Rhom. A cloud of steam followed him, but I could already tell he was going to be magnificent. When he came back under the canopy, I was ready for him. His body was beyond perfect, being both muscular and taut.

"Dear goddesses, you're glorious," I whispered, then reached out to him, "come here."

Rhom came over to me and I reached up and caressed his cheek.

"You have the most beautiful eyes," I whispered to him.

He returned my touch.

"So do you," he whispered back.

With that, I leaned in and kissed him softly. The kisses were soft, but deep and soon grew hungry. He kissed me back with much more ardency when he saw I didn't need to be handled with childish gloves. He maneuvered me back on the pillows and got on top of me. I felt his penis get hard instantly when he brushed up against my groin. He kissed me deeper when he spread my legs apart and started rubbing my labia. His strong fingers felt incredible, and my body responded. I moaned softly when he inserted his forefinger gently. He obviously wasn't a novice.

"Ahhh," I moaned.

Rhom stared me in the eyes before he kissed me again. Afterwards, he trailed down my neck and started suckling me there until he was at my breasts. He enjoyed my nipples for a few moments before he continued his journey. I watched him eagerly, knowing what he was going to do. I spread my legs apart without hesitation when I felt his lips brush against my labia softly. I responded immediately. He kissed me again, letting his tongue linger between my feminine lips. I closed my eyes and bit my lower lip when his tongue probed deeper and deeper until it felt like his whole mouth was inside me. It felt incredible. He really seemed to be enjoying this as his strong hands held my legs apart. I didn't need to direct him, he knew exactly what to do with that long tongue of his. I opened my eyes again and watched him, surprised to find that he was looking up at me looking at him.

I smiled mischievously and stroked a hand through his golden hair.

"You're pretty good at this," I said, "you should teach a class so these other idiots can learn how to do cunnilingus right."

He smirked at me while I uttered this. His mouth was still clamped down on my labia. He pulled away only briefly.

"This is actually my favorite thing to do to a woman," he whispered.

I licked my lips.

"Lucky me," I whispered back, "don't let my speaking stop you."

He grinned again and went back to sucking on my labia. He did this a while longer until he slowly started making his way back up my belly. I laid back into the pillows behind me, enjoying this so much more than I thought I would. Rhom stroked his fingers between my wet legs making me more moist and stared into my eyes. Something told me this was how he made love to his deceased wife. He must have enjoyed looking at her when he was pleasuring her. I had such experiences in the past, but he seemed to relish seeing me aroused at what he was doing. I appeased him and let him know he was doing an incredible job by giving him the sounds and sensations he wanted. Rhom didn't have to try too hard. He was a natural. He was kissing my belly again and made his way back up to my breasts, when I stopped him for a second. I looked down and saw that he was ready penetrate me, but I had other ideas for that readied manhood.

"Not yet," I whispered.

Rhom reached in and kissed me again.

"What do you want me to do then?" he whispered. "Do you want me to love on you some more?"

I kissed him back, making sure my tongue tasted every surface of his mouth, then I pulled away and stared into his beautiful sky blue eyes.

"Frankly, you could do that to me all night and I would love it, but I was thinking about something else," I whispered.

Rhom stroked my hair.

"And what would that be?" he whispered.

I smiled at him as the devious thoughts went through my head. Afterwards, I pulled from his reach momentarily and turned on my belly underneath him.

"Have you ever performed anal sex before?" I asked quietly.

Rhom looked at me surprised.

"I... I can't say I have," he said, "mainly because, no one has ever asked me to."

I closed my eyes as I clutched a pillow now underneath me. I then looked over my shoulder at him.

"Well, I'm asking you to, I want you to put it in my anus," I whispered, "I want to be treated like an animal."

He raised a brow.

"Treated like an animal?" he repeated.

I didn't know how much more clear I could have been. I reached down and propped my butt up a little. I used my hands to spread my cheeks apart and rubbed my rectum with a couple fingers.

"I want you to fuck me in the ass," I said more bluntly, "and don't be nice about it either. I want it rough."

Rhom was caught off guard by the sudden change in my tone. I stared at him when I saw that he was still hesitating.

"Elvira-" he tried to reason.

"Do it," I interrupted.

He stared into my eyes and saw that I was dead serious. He did not respond right away. Even so, he once again complied with my request. I buried my face in the pillows beneath me and clutched them tighter. I waited in anticipation. I finally took in a deep breath when I felt his penile head at my button. He inserted and it stretched gently… then a little more… then a little more… and then it was in.

"Ahhhhh!" I gasped.

Rhom paused at my utterance.

"Are you okay?" he asked.

I was perfect.

"I'm fine," whispered and arched so he could go deeper, "please, don't stop."

I sensed a bit of confusion from him, because I think he wanted to stop, but he kept going anyway. Admittedly, the deeper he went, the more it hurt, but I didn't want him to stop. He could tell it was hurting me too by the look on my face. My facial expression was a very good deterrent.

"Elvira, are you sure you're alright?" he asked concerned.

I nodded and insisted that he keep going.

"I'm fine," I whispered, "you're doing great."

This pain represents all that I must suffer to bring about the Moon Goddess, I thought.

I gasped again when Rhom went deeper and at this point I think he drew blood. He even paused when he saw that I was bleeding.

"You're bleeding," he said.

I was aware of that.

"It's fine," I replied.

Rhom shook his head.

"No it isn't, I'm not doing this anymore," he insisted, then tried to pull out, but I stopped him.

I turned my head to look at him.

"What are you doing?" I demanded.

He looked at me like I was insane.

"This is not bringing you pleasure!" he said. "I don't want to hurt you!"

My eyes widened slightly.

"Who said I wanted pleasure?" I demanded. "I said I want to be treated like an animal!"

Rhom stared at me completely confused.

"You're not an animal!" he said. "You're a Hylian!"

I was starting to get upset.

"Just do it!" I demanded. "Pain is part of life!"

Rhom had had enough.

"You're-you're crazy!" he replied.

I stared down at our connection then back to his face.

"Yes! Yes! Yes! I am!" I said. "Don't stop until I tell you to!"

He looked at me at a loss.

"But why?" he asked.

He wasn't going to understand.

"Because I must," I replied, "because it is my destiny!"

Rhom's confusion never went away, but at this point he stopped listening to me and pulled himself out of me.

"This is madness," he said, "you're going to have to get yourself someone else. I can't do this."

My frustration was beginning to mount.

"I paying you to-" I tried.

He tossed the pouch on the bed.

"Keep the money," he interrupted, "I don't need it that badly."

With that, he got off the bed and left the canopy. I stared after him shocked. He actually defied me and didn't care. No peasant has ever defied me. Who did he think he was? However, I let my inquiries go and soon got off the bed and hurried after him. I didn't want him to leave. Before he reached the anteroom, where he apparently left his clothes, I got in front of him and wrapped my arms around him waist. I didn't know why, but I was scared he was going to leave without understanding my motives and I didn't want that.

"Please," I whispered against his skin, "please don't leave. I'm so lonely here. I need for you to stay with me tonight."

Rhom stared down at me surprised. It was a stark contrast from how I just acted.

"I'm not doing those things to you Elvira," he insisted, "that isn't the kind of man I am."

I shook my head and looked up at him. I understood, I would not make it mandatory.

"You don't have to," I whispered, "I'm sorry."

Rhom was looking at me so confused.

"I… I frankly don't understand you," he replied, "you're a very strange woman if you don't believe you should be respected."

I nodded.

"I know," I whispered, "I know. I'm just so used to everyone bending at my will, that when someone defies me it's strange."

He stood his ground.

"I defied you because I didn't want to hurt you," he said, "I was not raised that way. If you think that makes me a rube or whatever, that's not my issue my lady."

I was really surprised that he was lecturing me on respect when he could have so easily not cared. Again, it was just another reminder of Link.

He's so much like him... so much, I thought.

"I appreciate you actually acting like more of a gentleman than a noble," I said honestly, "it's quite sobering."

Rhom stared at me for a long time before his features softened with a little empathy.

"I know what it feels like to be lonely too," he whispered, "there are some days where I really miss my wife."

I nodded again.

"Was she kind and respectable?" I asked.

He didn't hesitate.

"Of course she was," he said, "but it was inside that made her so precious."

I was really surprised at how this all turned out. This was not what I was expecting, but he got stern with me once more.

"Even so, I'm not doing those things to you," he said firmly, "I'm not treating you like an animal."

At his utterance I stared into his eyes for a long time, imagining if the king were here, he might do or say something similar. I reached up and caressed his cheek.

Link... I thought.

"You're so much like him," I whispered.

Rhom stared at me again with a bit of pity.

"You have all the money in the world and you still don't have what you want in life," he discerned, "you should probably rethink about what really makes you happy."

He was a lot more insightful than I gave him credit for. So much so, I desired him even more now.

"Don't leave," I begged softly, ignoring his point for a moment, "I won't ask you to do those things anymore."

Rhom paused, but didn't look like he was going to cave this time. Even so, I reached up ever so slowly and pecked him on the lips. I waited to see how he would react. He allowed me to kiss him. Then I kissed him again and again and again, until finally he let his guard down once more. He started kissing me back.

"I'm sorry," I whispered between a kiss, "just don't leave me alone tonight."

This was so strange.

We stayed how we were for a few moments, until I pulled away.

"Let's go back to the bed," I whispered, "you can make love to me anyway you want, but you can't go like this."

Rhom seemed to be coming back to my side because he kissed me deeper after my utterance. I felt his hands run up and down my back over my buttocks. I stared into his eyes where he surprisingly lifted me up in his arms and never let his mouth depart from mine. He pulled back and stared into my eyes.

"Alright," he finally agreed.

Rhom reached in and kissed me again. Afterwards, instead of directly walking us back to my bed, he took me to the anteroom into the hot spring. I was slightly confused at first until I saw the blood washing away. Apparently, it was worse than I went. When we were both cleaned, he picked me up again and took me back to my bed. He placed me down on the mattress and I crawled back into the pillows waiting for him. I reached up for him and he surprised me by spreading my legs apart and inserting himself inside almost instantaneously. I jolted from the intense sensation, but he didn't let me go. He was amazing with those powerful thrusts. I came almost instantly, but still wanted more, and we spent the next several hours making love the old fashioned way.

I still got to have my fantasy with my Link.

~SSS~

Several hours later

Rhom left after our encounter, stating he would feel more comfortable in his own bed, but thanked me for the evening. It was the closest feeling I ever had to being a whore. I paid him, but I felt like the whore. The tables were certainly turned there. Admittedly, I felt a little jilted when he decided to leave and I was certain showing my vulnerable side had everything to do with it. Even so, I fell asleep and once again I had that erotic dream of the king. The second time was even more real than the first. I woke up feeling feverish and breathing hard. I looked around my empty room, hoping to find the king... hoping to find the Sun Prince, but saw that he was nowhere to be found. The experience wasn't real. It was only a dream. When I saw that I was truly alone, I felt frustrated tears fill my eyes. It was rare for me to show emotion, but it was apparent that my feelings for the king were much more than cavalier flirtation. I already admitted to it, but I needed to acknowledge it again. I was in love with him. I dreamt of him constantly, wishing he were here with me, talking to me, making me laugh, making me cry –something, anything.

Why is this happening? I wondered. Why? Why? Why? Goddamn it! Why?

"I must find a way to be with him," I whispered, "I must find a way to make him the king of my kingdom when it comes time for it."

I pulled the sheets back and got out of bed to try and get my mind on other things. Sleep was becoming more of a torture to me. The lunar tetra was soon upon us and I was in a frenzy of emotions: confusion, lust, power, anger. Tears stung my eyes again because what I just experienced in my sleep wasn't real. I walked over to my vanity after putting on my robe and stared at my reflection. The woman staring back at me was of noble blood, noble blood.

"Elvira," I whispered at my reflection, "get it together."

Was this what the apparition in the cave was warning me about? Was this the madness of Majora? Feeling things I should not feel? Desiring things that were consequential? Having sleep escape me? Before I could contemplate any further, there was a sudden knock on my chamber door. I turned slightly surprise.

"Rhom?" I whispered, then hurried over to the door.

When I opened it, I was greeted by disappointment. The man standing before me was not, but my steward. Already frustrated, the disturbance only frustrated me more.

My temperance was nil.

"What?!" I snapped.

He looked at me taken aback.

"Uh- forgive me my lady," my servant responded, "I know you have a visitor-"

"I don't have a visitor," I interrupted, "he left."

My steward's face perked a little in surprise.

"Really?" he asked.

I rolled my eyes, wishing he wasn't right.

"Really," I muttered.

He didn't make it too obvious, but he seemed pleased by that news.

"I'm sorry to hear that," he said, not sorry at all, "but you have a package that just arrived. I normally would not bother you with such things, but the purveyor literally was nowhere to be found and you gave us strict orders to-"

I shook my head.

"Enough!" I interrupted. "What is it?!"

My servant's eyes widened slightly at my tone, however, he bowed then pointed to the package in his hand.

"This package was in the snow with no return address," he stated, "you gave me strict orders to give such packages to you without fail. I am merely following that request."

I narrowed my eyes at my servant, then extended my hand.

"Give it to me," was all I said in reply.

My steward paused at my behavior, but at my behest handed me the package. I snatched it from him, and before he could say another word I slammed the door shut. I was tired of his meddling eyes. I was initially going to throw the package to the wayside, but something about the wrapping caught my eye. It was the color scheme. The wrapping was purple, red, yellow, and green with two large owl-like eyes painted on the paper. My eyes widened suddenly at the sight.

"What in Hylia's dear name-?" I started, but then stopped myself.

I went to tear the wrapping off and a moment later found myself staring face to face with a relic so powerful that I nearly dropped it: Majora's Mask. With it came a letter.

It read:

Greetings Lady of Hebra,

You are the priestess for the finale.

Here is your gift, for you have been

a faithful servant of the Moon Goddess.

The lunar tetra is nigh, and you will be

rewarded for your loyalty. The sun prince

will be there, and who knows, perhaps

fate will find a way to unite the two

of you in some way. I wish you good tidings.

~Sincerely, An Old Friend~

I stared at the signature at the end of the letter for a long time before saying it out loud.

"'An old friend…'" I whispered, "what does that mean? Who are you 'old friend'?"

I didn't take the time to contemplate it too much, as I was too enamored with the gift given to me. I could not believe it. I really had it. I really had Majora's Mask in my possession. The true servant of the Moon Goddess was here. I went back over to my mirror and held the mask over my face.

"It's beautiful," I whispered, "and it will be even more beautiful on the night on the lunar tetra."

My heart was beating faster as I was filled with happiness. I then looked heavenward and smirked.

Soon your excellency, I thought, soon.

~SSS~

One week later: Ralph's POV

There could be no prouder father in Hyrule than me. My green haired little girl was the prettiest baby in Castle Town, and I didn't care who thought otherwise. My bias was consistently justified when I took Elincia out for walks and she received a great deal of compliments from the passersby. I adored my daughter. Everything about her was enchanting and wonderful. When I picked her up to speak with her, I made sure to use clear diction. I didn't bother with 'baby babble' because 'baby babble' resulted in improper speech, and my daughter was not going to have improper speech. My daughter wasn't going to have an improper anything. I already knew what primary school I wanted her to attend. I knew how I wanted her diet managed. I knew what lessons would be important for her to take to get in at the Scholar's Academy. I knew what extracurricular activities I wanted her involved in for athletics. I knew it all as most know-it-all fathers assumed to know. It would also be important for her to learn from the masters when it came to art and music, but if she had an affinity for science that would be perfect.

There's so much to consider, I thought, I'll look into that later.

I made sure as soon as I got off work I went home and spent time with my family. Saria seemed to relish in her role of motherhood now more than ever. She was more attentive to both me and to Elincia. Seeing the both of them together brought a joy I could not begin to describe. Elincia looked so much like her mother with that head of green hair and those beautiful blue eyes. Now there was no doubt in my mind that Saria was a true 'green' head, not that I ever doubted such. I did wonder from time to time what the Deku Tree would think if he saw little Elincia. Would he be as proud of her as I was? I was certain he would be. My life felt so surreal right now with Elincia and Saria in it. I almost had to pinch myself because I was so happy.

Even so, not all was perfection. I noticed a change in Saria. There were times when I caught her just staring at me and looking sad. She never said anything, she just looked sad. She would even tear up and look away when I asked her what was going on. She constantly said nothing, but her behavior suggested otherwise. Frankly, she had been acting strange over the last couple weeks. I wasn't sure what to make of it, but I privately diagnosed her comportment as mild postpartum depression. She may have been overwhelmed with the new changes in her life. Many women were, so it was nothing for her to be ashamed of. Although, lately when I asked her for something she rarely said no, which wasn't consistent with the symptomology. There must have been something else bothering her, but she was unwilling to talk to me about it. A couple times in the past few days she looked like she was going to divulge her thoughts, but she decided to rescind them when she contemplated the issue more. I was getting more and more concerned with this apparent lack of confidence in me, but I tried not to outwardly let it show. However, I did want to speak with her on it later once she put Elincia to bed.

Currently, Saria was nursing our baby in Elincia's room, when I walked up to check on them. I grinned at the sight of them.

"How is she?" I asked.

Saria looked up at me and returned my smile.

"She's doing great," she said, "she calmed down once she started eating. She was restless for a little while."

Elincia's eyes were closed and she continued to nurse at Saria's breast, but soon she stopped when she fell asleep. My wife grinned at her and stroked her hair, then got ready to put her to bed in her cradle.

"That was quicker than I thought," she said more to herself than to me, "she must have been really tired."

I nodded and watched as Saria placed Elincia in her bassinette and started rocking her. Elincia's eyes opened momentarily and she whined before quickly going back to sleep after she heard her mother's voice. Saria started singing to her softly and I forgot how beautiful her voice was. She only sang once or twice when we were courting and it was a shame she did not do it more, because her voice was enchanting. We both stayed with Elnicia until she finally fell completely asleep and wasn't startled by our presence any longer.

I stared down at my daughter with such pride.

"She's going to make a great doctor one day," I whispered.

Saria then looked over at me and grinned.

"I was thinking a singer myself," she added.

I shrugged.

"It's not a bad vocation," I said, "but I don't like the idea of Elincia being a starving artist."

Saria giggled and glanced at Elincia once again.

"She could join an opera house," she suggested, "Hyrule has the best opera house in the country."

I wasn't so sure about that.

"Well, if you want me to be honest, I think that notion goes to Balaam," I replied, "or maybe even Dragon Roost. The dragon masters have the best opera house I have ever been to. The ceilings for the acoustics are amazing."

Saria looked at me impressed.

"I wasn't aware you were a fan of the opera," she said.

I shrugged.

"My mother forced me to go with her when I was little," I explained. "I have been to all three major opera houses: Balaam, Dragon Roost, and Hyrule Castle. I give the edge to Dragon Roost."

Saria raised a brow and gave me a knowing look.

"You're making my point for me," she half-joked.

I raised my brows.

"I suppose I am," I replied.

Saria giggled again and stared down at Elincia.

"Well, no matter what she decides to do, I will support her," she said.

I agreed with that up to a certain point.

"That works in an ideal world Sar, but we have to be practical," I replied, "and a starving artist is not practical."

Saria shook her head before giggling once more.

"If it were up to people like you Ralph, the arts would die," she joked.

I pretended to be offended.

"I'm just a realist my love," I said.

Saria laughed again, then turned to me and wrapped her arms around my neck. I in turn wrapped my arms around her waist.

"You are indeed a man of science good sir," she teased.

I nodded.

"Damn right," I said.

She giggled again and in that moment she looked so beautiful. That was when an idea came to my head. I gave her pretty face a once over.

"Why don't we go back to our room and start working on her brother or sister?" I asked suddenly.

Saria looked at me surprised by the abrupt request, and, for some odd reason, blushed. I thought her somewhat returned innocent nature was intriguing. She hadn't reacted this way since we were courting. She obviously wasn't a novice anymore, but it was usually me that initiated any intimacy between us lately. She seemed so shy in these past couple weeks when we made love: quiet, reserved, and at times emotional; crying a great deal. All this after that stent of her being this incredible sexual vixen only a few weeks prior. I just wanted to know why the change was so drastic. She couldn't have been embarrassed about her body again. Her body was perfect. Something else was going on, and she was keeping it to herself. I coupled her changes again to her just having Elincia. Some days were good, others not so much, but she was still that kind, caring woman I fell in love with. Even so, it was a little odd that she seemed uncomfortable by the request.

"Now?" she countered.

I raised my brows at her inquiry. I merely shrugged.

"I was hoping so, but if you don't want to-" I started.

She immediately went to reassure me.

"No!" she interrupted quickly. "Of-of course I want to, I just wasn't thinking."

I stared at her for a moment and sensed something else was amiss.

"Are you alright?" I asked.

She nodded and looked to give me a forced smile, then grabbed my hand.

"Sure I am," she said and headed for the door, "come on."

I wasn't convinced by her answer, but I let her lead me across the hall to our bedroom anyway. When the door closed behind us, she turned in my arms before we even got to the bed and kissed me without waiting for a cue. I kept my eyes open and studied her for a moment. Her movements almost seemed mechanical, like she was just going through the motions because she had to. I could tell she was forcing herself, because this wasn't how she usually acted at all.

I then pulled back and stared into her in the eyes concerned.

"Saria…" I whispered, "what's wrong?"

She shook her head at my question.

"Nothing," she whispered back.

I knew that wasn't the case.

"Darling, you aren't being honest with me," I said outright, "now I want you to tell me, what's going on?"

Saria stared back at me with a hint of panic before looking away. I wasn't understanding this behavior. Why did she look so stressed? Lately, she did seem a bit more paranoid about leaving the house or going out in public. The last few days she even waited for me to come home to go the market. By the time we got to the square, many of the vendors were closing up shop. So many of the sundries we needed were no longer available. I wondered why she just didn't go throughout the day without me, but I didn't bother to ask. She had been a little bit jumpy in response to the things I asked. I didn't want to cause her anymore stress.

However, she continued with her fib.

"It's nothing," she repeated.

I took in a deep sigh and placed my hands on her shoulders in an effort to comfort her.

"Sar, if you aren't in the mood tonight you can say no," I reassured, "you've been saying yes to me every time I ask you. I appreciate you wanting to please me, but if you're tired you can say so and you know I will understand."

After my utterance, she didn't meet my gaze for a minute, and as I expected like the last few nights, tears suddenly filled her eyes.

"I want to be with you," she whispered anyway.

I raised my brows. It didn't seem like that was the case.

"Then why are you crying?" I asked.

She looked up at me after my utterance and started breathing fast. She then wrapped her arms around my waist. Afterwards, she cried against my chest. She never answered my question.

"I love you so much," she sobbed softly.

I didn't understand her reaction.

"I love you too," I replied anyway.

She then pulled back and looked me in the eyes anyway.

"It's okay," she said, "I'm sorry for my behavior, but it's okay."

What's 'okay'? I wondered.

I didn't know what the 'it' was. It seemed like she was reasoning with her own circular logic.

"Saria…" I trailed, "what is it?"

More tears filled her eyes as she reached up and caressed my cheek. She still didn't answer my question as she reached up to kiss me again. This time it felt more natural, like she was actually into it. I was tempted to pull away and get an answer to my question, but she was holding onto me so tight now, and getting more fixated with what was happening. A few moments later, it was more visceral, with our feelings taking over and me leading her over to our bed. Once our clothes were off, nothing else mattered. The next hour was incredible, as it always was, but when it was over I noticed Saria staring off blankly across the room, lost in her thoughts. As she rested her head on my bare chest, she looked solemn. My concern never left me, it just alluded me for a moment, but her odd behavior seemed to return, especially when she spoke again.

"I'm pregnant," she whispered out of nowhere.

I looked at her surprised.

"What?" I replied.

She lifted her head so she could look at me.

"I'm pregnant," she repeated.

I stared into her eyes shocked. Now, suddenly all her behavior made sense.

"Really?" I asked.

She nodded.

"Really," she replied, then explained, "I was supposed to have my menses a couple weeks ago and I'm late. I even verified it with a test at Dr. Seaside's office."

My heart started beating faster.

"When did you find out?" I asked.

She paused for a moment.

"Last week," she replied.

My surprise never left.

"And you're just now telling me?" I inquired.

She stared into my eyes for a long time.

"I was surprised myself," she said, "that, and I didn't know how to tell you."

I found her last statement a little off kilter. Why wouldn't she know how to tell me? However, I chose to ignore it.

"That's wonderful news Saria," I said.

Even so, as I was looking at her, her eyes filled with tears again. She didn't look very pleased.

"I suppose it is," she whispered with a cracked voice.

It was then my concern returned.

"Aren't you happy?" I asked.

She used her arms to lift herself up so she was hovering over me to stare in my eyes. Her blue irises roved my face several times before she answered.

"Of course I'm happy," she said, "I want to have ten babies with you."

I reached up and wiped a tear from her eye.

"You hardly look happy," I stated.

She swallowed hard as her hair fell in her face, and I stroked her bangs off her forehead.

"I'm just scared," she whispered honestly.

I thought that was an odd thing to say.

"What are you scared of?" I asked. "You're a wonderful mother."

She was silent for a minute and all of a sudden a guilty expression came across her face as she stared at me. Afterwards, she lowered herself back down onto my chest and cried again. She wrapped her arms around me and held me tight.

She was full on sobbing now.

"Ralph…" she could barely say my name.

Her emotional response only made me more worried. I sat up to a sitting position with her arms still wrapped around my waist and propped her up to face me. Saria was avoiding my eyes now and had her face resting at my neck. However, when I attempted to speak again, she stopped me by reaching up and kissing me. It was a very deep, very personal kiss. She was sniffling through it and was barely letting herself take a breath as she kept going. I couldn't lie, she looked so sexy with her hair falling in her face and her body so close to mine, but she looked so forlorn. She was still holding me tight and I could sense she was trying to initiate intimacy again by grinding her moist groin against mine gently. Even so, I wasn't going to let her deflect the way she had been.

It was then I pulled away from her and stared into her eyes wanting an answer to my questions.

"Saria," I whispered, "what's going on?"

She shook her head.

"Nothing," she whispered.

She attempted to kiss me again, but this time I stopped her.

"No," I said firmly, "you need to answer my question."

She gazed at me surprised for a long time before breaking it and looking away. She rested her head on my shoulder once more.

"I just want you to make love to me again," she whispered, "why are asking me questions when I just want to be with you?"

I took in a deep sigh.

"Because you aren't acting like yourself," I replied, "and I will do whatever you want after you stop deflecting, so talk to me."

She was quiet for a long time before she left my shoulder and avoided my eyes again. A silence came between us that was reflective, but tense. Saria stroked her hair behind her ears and looked to be trying to think of an explanation, which was what I didn't want. I didn't want her lying to me. I wanted her to tell me the truth.

"Saria?" I pressed when she kept stalling.

She still wouldn't look at me.

"Lady Bathory has spoken to me a couple times," she divulged all of a sudden.

It was then I looked at her genuinely surprised. This was the last thing I was expecting to come out of her mouth.

"Lady Bathory?" I repeated.

She nodded and went on.

"She… she didn't say anything odd to me," she said, "but she scares me."

I wasn't sure what to make of this. I had no idea Lady Bathory even knew Saria outside of the festival.

"When did you speak with her?" I asked anyway.

Her voice was raspy all of a sudden.

"Months ago," she said.

Suddenly, my enthusiasm fell flat. I looked at her perplexed.

"And you're just now telling me?" I inquired.

Saria finally looked me in the eyes.

"I wasn't sure what to make of it back then," she whispered.

This was not making sense.

"But you're sure what to make of it now?" I demanded gently.

She bit her lower lip.

"I know it sounds crazy," was all she said in reply, "but I should have informed you sooner, that was my fault."

I shook my head. She completely missed my point.

"Has she contacted you again?" I asked.

She shook her head. Even so, something wasn't connecting for me.

"So… then why does she scare you?" I asked.

Saria swallowed hard, sensing the cynicism in my voice.

"Why would she want to talk to me?" she countered. "I'm nobody."

That wasn't altogether true and Saria knew that.

"Do you think she knows about your heritage?" I detracted. "You being a former Kokiri or anything?"

Saria paused for a moment and didn't answer right away.

"Possibly," she said.

Afterwards, there was another brief silence between us, one where I still wasn't sure what to make of this conversation. I felt that this was a deflection on her end, and what was truly going on she was withholding from me. It made no sense for her to be afraid, but not attempt to tell me for months on end.

"Saria… are you certain this is all?" I asked. "Are you sure there is nothing else bothering you?"

She didn't answer for a long time, but her expression was very telling.

"No…" she said finally, "no, that's it."

It was then I decided to be a little more direct.

"Are you sure?" I asked again.

She nodded very slowly.

"Yes," she said.

I paused for a moment and stared into her eyes. I shook my head.

"You're going to have to forgive me, but I don't believe you," I said suddenly.

Her eyes widened slightly and she stared at me surprised.

"What?" she replied.

I hated going about this this way, but she was leaving me no choice.

"I know you're lying," I said directly, "I know you're keeping secrets from me."

Tears refilled her eyes just then and she wasn't helping her own case with her answer.

"I… I don't know what else to tell you," she whispered with a broken voice.

I was growing tired of this runaround, but I hated that she felt she couldn't confide in me.

"How about the truth for starters?" I demanded. "You don't trust me. I know in the past I gave you reason for that, but haven't I done better? Don't I deserve another chance?"

Saria went to reassure me right away.

"Of course you've done better," she whispered, "Ralph… you're amazing, you're wonderful, and just so many great things. I… I don't deserve you if you want me to be quite honest."

I didn't like the sound of that. It sounded like the beginning of a sordid confession.

"What do you mean?" I asked.

Saria shook her head and looked away.

"I'm meant what I said," she replied, "I don't deserve you."

I was starting to lose my patience.

"Saria, what do you mean?" I repeated.

She wrapped her arms around me again, but I immediately unwrapped them and forced her to look at me.

"Ralph-" she tried.

"Answer my question Saria," I interrupted, "why did you say you don't deserve me? What's going on?"

She stared into my eyes, looking terrified before she cut them away.

"Nothing is going on!" she cried.

I shook my head.

"You're lying!" I snapped. "Don't do this to us! Don't lie to me!"

Tears were streaming down her cheeks and she shook her head.

"I'm nothing but trouble for you!" she shot back. "Look what you have to go through with your family because of me! Look what it took for you to know about my past! I'm no good for you!"

I shook my head.

"Stop deflecting!" I demanded.

She reached up and cradled my face with both her hands.

"I'm not!" she replied. "I'm not! Please Ralph! I'm not! I'm no good!"

She then buried her head at my chest and cried inconsolably. I watched as her shoulders heaved and another silence came between us. After a few moments of hearing my wife sob, I felt a little guilty for being so forceful with her. Admittedly, she could have been frustrated that my family wasn't fond of her. She could have been scared about being a mother again so soon when she just had Elincia. She could have been overwhelmed by everything that was going on in her life right now. Perhaps she was truly frightened of Lady Bathory. I didn't know. That noble was rumored to be into some strange things. Saria had seen a great deal in her life and she was once part of a destiny I could not begin to fathom. She once was a protector of this world and now she was here with me. So yes, maybe she was feeling a little overwhelmed with everything. The least I could do was let her be vulnerable when she wanted to be vulnerable. Not everything was a cut and dry answer.

I should have just let it be, I thought.

Saria was still crying when I went to stroke her hair. I pulled her shoulders back so she could look me in the eyes. I wiped her tears away before I spoke.

"My family is always going to be important to me Sar," I said, "but I love you, you are my wife, and I have no qualms about defending you to any of them. You're my family now too. You and Elincia. You are good enough. You've always been good enough. Stop putting yourself down."

She stared back at me with those magnificent, but pink tinged, blue eyes.

"Ralph…" she whispered.

I stroked my hand through her hair again and kissed her forehead tenderly.

"I'm sorry," I whispered finally, "I should have dropped the matter."

Saria in return wrapped her arms around me and hugged me tight.

"You have nothing to be sorry about," she whispered, "you're perfect Ralph, absolutely perfect."

She said that with so much conviction in her voice. Before I could quell it, she reached up and kissed me hungrily on the lips again. She was needy and expressive the way I expected her to be. However, it only took a moment to turn the tide in her favor, where she knew could have her way with me. She felt me get hard again at her efforts, and she wasted no time grinding her groin against my so I could penetrate her. Once I was inside her, she worked hard with me to orgasm again. She must have wanted it quickly. It was only a few moments when there was all this friction and suddenly it was over. I suppose that was the whole point. She just wanted to show me how much she loved me. Afterwards, she nestled in my arms.

"I love you," she whispered against my skin, "and… I'm sorry."

I closed my eyes and stroked her back.

"I love you too," I whispered, "and what are you sorry for?"

Saria paused for a moment.

"For making you worry," she replied, "I should have been more clear."

I twirled one of her green locks around my finger.

"I should have been more understanding," I replied, "I'll never doubt you again, never."

Saria was quiet for a long time after that, then lifted herself once more to hover over me. She stared into my eyes.

"Really?" she whispered.

I nodded.

"Really," I replied.

Afterwards, she reached down and kissed me. It was short and sweet.

"I promise you, you'll have no regrets," she whispered, "none Ralph."

I smirked at her.

"I already don't," I whispered back.

Saria came down on top of me and kissed me again, and I could feel she was ready for another go. I never saw a woman more sexually aroused than my wife. Every time we were in bed it was never just once. It was twice, three times, and sometimes even four, but never once. It looked like tonight was going to be four, and I was more than willing to have at it. I closed my eyes as her hair fell in my face.

I'll never doubt you again Saria, I thought kissing her, never ever gain, I promise.

~SSS~

The next day around dusk: Romani's reflection

I often look back and think about the times when I was a child. My mother was a homemaker, while my father was a steward in the royal court. He was an official of very low rank, only being the overseer of a noble, but he still had enough connections to get me to go to the very best schools in Hyrule. My father told me that the way out of any impoverished situation was a good education, especially for a young woman. I took that to heart, even writing it down several times in my personal journal when I was six years old. My family was not exactly impoverished, but we had to work hard to make ends meet. My mother made all my clothes, while my father worked long hours managing the accounts of his lord. We lived in a modest house in Kakiriko Village near the castle. My childhood was nothing fancy, but my friends lived near me, so I was happy, very happy.

I first met Ralph and Gertrude when I was two years old according to my mother. My mother and their mother were childhood friends who got reacquainted when we all moved to the village. The convergence was quite by accident, as Kakiriko Village was the place most middle class families lived who could not afford Castle Town. Marin and Mutoh were both physicians and had a very healthy practice, with Mutoh often working with the king's physician. Gertrude and Ralph never seemed to want to for anything materially, and to top it all off, they all very kind people. I couldn't remember a time when I wasn't welcome in their home. Gertrude, Ralph, and I all played together, studied together, and grew tight bonds together. At least, I thought we had. I was quite content up to that point.

Unfortunately, things got harder when my father suddenly passed away on a trip with his employer one fateful day. I was eight when I found out the news of my father dying by dragon fire. I wasn't aware of how terrible of a death it was until I studied burn victims at the Royal Physician's Academy. Life took a hard turn for us, and there was no real safety net for my mother. After burying my father, there was no real chance to mourn him, because my mother had to find work. I felt numb at that time because I really missed my father, but I didn't know how to express it, and with my mother holding in her feelings, I decided to do so too. That unfortunately, would be a hallmark of my life, not being completely truthful with myself. Even so, I never worried about having real friends because Gertrude and Ralph were always there for me. However, even with them I never told them how my father's death truly affected me.

I decided to remember my father's advice and get the best education I could. Marin and Mutoh were very generous to my mother and me, often helping us with our living expenses and cooking us supper when our funds were low. I worked hard in school to get top marks and was only second to Ralph in my class. Ralph was a truly gifted student and scholar, but more so than anything, he was very kind. I always remembered that about him. If ever I had a question about something, he was never too busy to answer it. He was always patient with me and with others who inquired questions of him. I realized he got those qualities from his father, Mutoh. Mutoh was probably the greatest man I knew or had known, besides my father of course. He was like a surrogate to me, and he really helped me get through some hard times. Gertrude had been my dearest friend since we were children, and when we grew up that never changed. Gertrude didn't realize it, but she was quite the beauty, she and Ralph both frankly. They were often called the golden children because they were so good looking and intelligent. They were both golden blonde with blues eyes and perfect facial features. I sometimes felt self-conscious around them with my red hair and freckled face, but I never forgot the day Mutoh told me that he thought I was one of the prettiest children he had ever seen. That surprised me, but it also greatly improved my self-esteem. While Ralph was kind and mild, Gertrude was outspoken and rambunctious. She was just like her mother.

As the years rolled on, I thought things would always be the same, but unfortunately that was not the case. I started developing feelings for Ralph when I turned twelve. I thought he was the most intelligent, beautiful boy I had ever laid eyes on. There were plenty of other girls who thought that way too, but he never seemed to flirt with anyone. He was only ever interested in swimming and studying. I on my end never told him how much I truly liked him, but I thought about him all the time. This was when I realized I was more like my mother than I thought. My mother was very quiet and stoic, not necessarily because she wanted to be, but I believe she felt she had to be for the sake of her family. Even when she and I sat down for dinner, we had very little conversation. She would tell me about her day, and I would tell her about mine, and that was it. I never talked to her about Ralph because I didn't know how to approach the subject. I wasn't sure if she would even understand what I was truly feeling for him back then.

Gertrude, being the perceptive person she was, figured out after a little while that I was infatuated with her brother. We were thirteen at the time and getting ready to go camping out at Lake Hylia with her parents. One afternoon Ralph came out of his tent in his swimming trunks. He dive bombed into the water, splashing everyone nearby. He was quite muscular at thirteen, and the sight of him in his trunks made me blush. Naturally, Gertrude teased her brother and called him a show off, but when she saw I wasn't joining her and I was flushed, she became puzzled. Her perplexity went away when later that night she interrogated me for an hour in her tent before I finally confessed. Gertrude was excited for me and told me I needed to tell Ralph how I felt. I repeatedly told her no. I would be so embarrassed if he didn't feel the same way. Even so, Gertrude told me I would be sorry if I didn't get a little courage, and… she was right… she was right.

The years past and I still didn't tell Ralph. In that time, we graduated from primary school and entered the Royal Physician's Academy. I decided after being around Ralph's family so much I wanted to be a doctor. I told my mother of my plans and she supported me one hundred percent. However, when I got into the academy, scholarships were only going to pay for the first four years, but not the last four, and it was expensive. I decided to change my field of study to a physician's assistant specializing in cardiac emergencies and pulmonology, so I could still work in medicine while not incurring the large amount of debt. It turned out to be the right decision. Though, I really wanted to be a doctor like Ralph and Gertrude. When I graduated, I remember Ralph hugging me tight and telling me how proud he was of me. I learned to be more outgoing over the years because of Gertrude, but I still didn't have the courage to tell Ralph I was in love with him. I wanted to so badly that day, but I couldn't. Also, at the time Gertrude informed me he was 'courting' several different maidens at once. It surprised me to hear that he was so impetuous when he never showed that side of himself before, but I guess every person had their virtues and vices. However, the surprises didn't end there. Last year, I decided to move to Castle Town to start a new life, when Gertrude had more news for me. She informed me that Ralph started a serious relationship with a girl named Saria, and that he kept saying that she was the 'one'. I didn't pay too much attention to that because he had said that before. Even so, several months later Gertrude told me Ralph asked her to marry him, and later they got married.

I couldn't lie, when I heard the news of his engagement I was crushed inside. I cried at home alone for a good while, wishing I had told him my feelings for him sooner. Unfortunately enough, he later revealed to me that he too at one time had feelings for me. He just never thought I was interested. I could have kicked myself for being so foolish. Stoicism is not always the best answer. The only thing I hoped against all hope was, was that the girl he married was unattractive. However, that wasn't the case either. In fact, Saria was stunning. Her face, complexion, and hair were just beyond compare. She was probably one of the prettiest women I had ever seen. To add to that, she was also very kind. I could see why Ralph fell in love with her. It was hard watching Ralph and Saria together, but I should have just accepted it and moved on.

The problem with my lack of acceptance was that I allowed my better judgment to eventually be compromised. Over time, Gertrude was liking Saria less and less, stating she was too simple for her brother and she didn't trust her. I thought Gertrude's notions were primarily from the viewpoint of an over protective sister, but soon, I too started to think Ralph was too good for Saria. I did think he was too smart for her. I did think he came from a good family and nothing was known of hers. I did think she had some shady underpinnings she wasn't willing to reveal. I did think it was odd that a man came and visited her before she was to get married to Ralph. I did think Ralph's behavior was a little strange at the festival with the prince when the king approached us. I did think that Saria wasn't the person she appeared to be. I had bought into all of Gertrude's logic. So much so, that when an opportunity presented itself to possibly free Ralph, I couldn't pass it up.

The day Lady Bathory walked into Hylia's Tavern was the day I made a deal with the devil. At first, when the noble stated she wanted information on Saria, I thought this was too good to be true. I also thought Gertrude was going to jump on this fleeting opportunity. In the days that followed, I assumed just that when I saw Gertrude was looking up information not related to her work, but on Saria, like her medical records. I was surprised she had gone that far, but I said nothing to stop her. I also saw she went and found a map to the place Saria said she was from, the Kokiri Forest. After those revelations, I fully expected Gertrude was going to go through the deal and accept Lady Bathory's offer to spy on Saria. However, she surprised me. When I asked Gertrude about the proposition again in private, she said she wouldn't spy on Saria for Lady Bathory. If she was going to spy on Saria, she would do it for herself. I was taken aback at her reasoning, thinking the best opportunity for extra resources was going to be through a noble like Lady Bathory. This was the breakthrough Gertrude was looking for since she seemed she couldn't stand the sight of Saria any longer. I guess I assumed wrong.

Even so, I pondered over the idea myself. All of this time if Gertrude wasn't speaking about her work, she was talking about Saria. When she went to her mother's, the both of them spoke about Saria in a general negative light. It made no sense to me to keep a family that was so united separated because of one girl. Due to those reasons, I made a minute decision and decided I would take Lady Bathory up on her offer. I planned everything on my own, and made sure I didn't let anyone know what I was up to. However, I knew I needed the findings Gertrude had to get the noble to trust me. My first course of action was to take the copy of the map Gertrude had and give it to Lady Bathory. I did so by taking it out of her work bag one morning when she was preoccupied. Later, I also took a copy of Saria's medical records, which was significantly harder because the binder was bigger. Some of the information had to do with crystal technology from ancient Sheikah waves. I had no idea what that technology had to do with Saria, but the scans on her brain were telling to say the least. From the medical reports, her lambda oscillations were twice that of a regular Hylian. Why wasn't something this noteworthy not published in a medical journal? It was downright unbelievable.

I made the deal with Lady Bathory, and gave her the map on the first drop off. On the second drop off, I gave her a copy of Saria's medical reports. However, with time I started having a change of heart. I began spending time with Ralph and Saria, because initially I wanted to get more information on her. However, it was through association with her that I realized how genuine and kind she was. She was funny and charming, and in many ways she reminded me of Ralph. The more I spent time with them, the guiltier I felt. So, on my latest drop off I had nothing of value, but I wrote a letter to Lady Bathory and asked if she could meet with me. I was going to put an end to our agreement and beg her to leave Saria alone for Ralph's sake.

Unfortunately, Lady Bathory probably already sensed my intentions and usurped me instead. Lady Bathory didn't show up and instead paid me off, gave me back the map, but kept the medical reports. From the tone of her last message, Lady Bathory obviously didn't want me contacting her again. However, I was now terrified with what I might have done to hurt Ralph, and more importantly Saria. I had sincerely grown close to her over these few short weeks. Seeing her with her daughter made me wish for a life like that someday for myself. I unwittingly may have caused her a great deal of harm. I had no idea what Lady Bathory wanted with Saria. I had no idea why she wanted me to spy on her, but I did it anyway for erroneous reasons, reasons that didn't rightly concern me. Ralph looked happier than he had ever been, and now I wish I could make the nightmare go away.

Why did I do it? I thought. Why?

Anyway, I was currently on my way to Ralph and Saria's house because they invited me over for dinner. I was still trying to devise a way of telling them what I had done, but I wasn't sure how this would go down without them both hating me. I could only hope for the best. I never in my life thought my actions would go so far because of jealousy. It was such a potent force. It really could ruin a person's life.

I was now at the porch and knocked on the door. A moment later, it was answered by Saria.

"Hello there," she greeted with a big smile, "come on in, dinner just got ready."

---

This one was for the Bathory fan lol. I hope you liked it.