Chapter 16
I was curled in bed, heavy with sleep, when I felt the mattress shift. Luigi got up, but I didn't think much of it. I dozed off again; I must have been out for a while, and Luigi lightly tapped my shoulder. "Hey, I need to go work with the generals."
"What time is it?" I looked out the window, noticing that the sun had just barely raised over the horizon.
"Early. You'll learn here they start when the sun rises…" I groaned, and he chuckled, kissing my forehead. "Your maid will probably be in here soon to get you ready. Just a heads up. Love you."
"Love you, too," I mumbled. I cuddled back in the blanket and fell asleep for a while. I heard a knock at the door and didn't respond. Maybe if I ignore it…she'll go away, I despondently thought. Seconds later, the maid entered the room, and pulled back my sheets in one smooth swipe.
"GAH!" I tried grabbing the blankets, but the maid held them out of reach.
"It's time to dress and become presentable. Her Majesty is expecting you soon." I rubbed the sleep from my eyes and sat up. "Master Waluigi shall be escorting you to breakfast. Am I correct that he chose your wardrobe for today?"
"Yes, he did. He said it was the dress in the front, no clue what it looks like. When is he coming by?"
"When we are finished. Please brush your teeth and rinse your face, and we'll get dressed and tend to your hair and makeup." I dragged myself into the bathroom in a daze. The maid knocked on the door. "I would also recommend attending to any other…needs…as the dress will take a while to get in and out of." Great. When I was done, I walked out and saw a small fire has been lit in the fireplace with a few rods placed on the mantle.
"What are those for?" The maid looked to where I pointed.
"Curling rods, for your hair." I moaned.
"Is all this really necessary?" The maid looked shocked.
"Why, of course! Queen Zelda will graciously be providing you with a tour of the castle and the town, and you will be introduced to high ranking officials and upper-class guests in court. You have been given a great honor! You must dress accordingly!" I already missed Peach's court, which consisted of toads that didn't care what I looked like, so long as I helped them reach cookies from the top shelf in the kitchen.
"Tomorrow, I'm wearing pants." The maid looked mildly scandalized at the thought. "By the way, where are the clothes that I had in my pack when I arrived?" She pointed to the closet.
"They are in the closet, tucked in the back of a drawer. Excuse me for speaking out of turn, but pants are not generally worn by women of your standing."
"Well, I plan on changing that." She walked towards the closet, motioning where I needed to stand. She began dressing me in layers of underclothing. I heard the maid gasp when she saw my scars but did not comment on them. When she was finished, she handed me a piece of cloth.
"I have been instructed to have you keep your eyes closed so you cannot see the dress. It might be easier to just wear this around your eyes. A rather odd request, if I do say so myself." I laughed.
"Well, Wally's an odd guy sometimes. But I can't say much, I'm odd, too." I wrapped the cloth around my face to act as a blindfold; I heard her rustling in the closet. "This really is a lovely gown. Master Waluigi has picked something flattering for you to wear. You'll be sure to impress everyone you meet, m'lady." I asked her how frilly it was but she refused to answer; she said she was not to give any information on its look. I began to zone out as she dressed me until it was time for the corset.
"I need you to slightly lean over and grab the back of this chair, m'lady." I held out my hands and she guided me to the chair.
"How tight…are you…making this…thing?" I gasped as she tightened the laces.
"I am sorry you find this uncomfortable, Lady Jelina. It is customary for corsets to be laced tightly." Definitely wearing pants and a shirt tomorrow, my inner voice snipped. I can barely breath! When she finished, she had me sit near the fireplace to do my hair and makeup. I guess the good news was I was sitting taller than I ever had before…it only was at the cost of comfortably breathing. I removed the blindfold; a blanket had been draped across my shoulders, preventing me from seeing anything, and to prevent powder from getting on my gown.
"I will try to cover your scar as much as I can. I am afraid I do not have anything that will completely erase the look of it." I shrugged, not really caring how people reacted to it. I kind of liked how it intimidated some people…maybe it'd make it so people wouldn't mess with me. "Aside from that, you do have lovely features."
"Thanks. I forgot to ask, what is your name?"
The maid blushed. "Annette."
"Thanks, Annette. So, besides serving as a maid, what do you do? Do you have a family? What is Hyrule like?" Annette looked down.
"It would be highly inappropriate for me to discuss personal matters, Lady Jelina." I frowned. She started braiding the hair around my forehead, and I sat there quietly as she worked. It took forever for her to pin up sections of my locks, especially my bangs, and I was a little frightened when she pulled out a long hot rod to curl my hair that fell along my back. If this is what it was like to get ready every morning, I was highly considering cutting off my hair.
When she was done, she gave me a large smile. "You look radiant. I daresay you may turn quite a few heads as you pass. Master Luigi is a lucky gentleman!" She walked to the vanity and closet. When she returned, she came back with some jewelry and a pair of white flats. I stuck out my feet and she slipped them on. She clasped a pair of golden earrings in my ears, nodding at her work. She walked to the door and peeked her head out. I didn't hear what she said, but I heard one of the guards walk away. "Master Waluigi shall be arriving momentarily. Is there anything else I may assist you with?" I shook my head and she bowed. "May I be relieved from service, m'lady?" I told her she could go, but to make sure tomorrow to have some pants ready. She scowled and removed the blanket from my shoulders, setting it on an armchair nearby.
There was a knock at the door, and the guard peeked his head in. "Master Waluigi is here, may I send him in?" I nodded.
I glanced at myself in the mirror and didn't recognize the woman who looked back. My bangs were pinned into a braid that wrapped around the top of my head, and the rest of my hair hung in long, loose curls across my back. My makeup was minimal, but I could see a pink tint to my cheeks and lips, and a shimmering golden powder was set across my eyes. The dress, however, was the most elegant dress I had ever seen! It was made of a heavy material, almost like tapestry, in a beautiful plum color with a golden demask design stitched throughout. The top of my dress had a square shape, and a golden cord accented my waist. My sleeves cut off right above my elbows, flaring at the ends. I was glad it wasn't full of ruffles…just really poufy. I felt very self-conscious and exposed in it, not liking how busty it made me appear. I awkwardly stood by the fireplace and lifted my head to look at Wally; he was beet red, staring at me with a glassy eyed expression on his face.
We stood there, staring at each other in silence. I finally approached him.
"Hey, thanks for, um…minimal ruffles. The dress is very extravagant…I feel a little silly in a dress like this...like it's too fancy for me…" He continued to stare open mouthed at me. "Earth to Wally!" I waved my hand in front of his face and snapped my fingers. He shook his head out of his silent stupor and he took my hand, kissing the back of it.
"Jels, you…you look…" he stammered, blushing. "You look absolutely breathtaking." I found myself blushing in reply; he bowed, then held out his arm. "Shall we?" I held on to him and he whispered in my ear. "Luigi is going to flip his shit when he sees you, toots." I gave a hearty laugh. "And if he doesn't, he's a complete idiot." We walked down the halls, passing various servants, guards, and a few court members. I heard people whispering as we passed; I glanced at Wally and he had a large grin on his face, probably the happiest I've seen him in quite some time. He seemed to give off a sense of pride walking beside me. I smiled, happy to be back with him. I didn't realize how much I missed him.
We arrived at the dining hall, and I saw Luigi sitting at a large table, talking to Zelda and Link. Wally coughed, and he turned around. Luigi stood up, eyes wide and completely speechless. Wally and I walked over, and Wally patted Luigi's back. "Told you I had fashion sense." He went to his chair, and Luigi blushed.
"You look gorgeous," Luigi complimented. He pulled back my chair and I sat down. Immediately kitchen maids came out, placing napkins on our laps and pouring us drinks. Another group came out, bringing each of us a bowl and plate of various breakfast foods. I wasn't used to this kind of treatment, even when I stayed with Peach in the castle. Luigi leaned over to me, whispering. "We won't be doing this every day. Most days are informal." I sighed; that thought made me feel better.
"Good morning, Jelina. I hope you slept well." Zelda smiled at me. "You look lovely today."
"Thank you, Your Majesty." Zelda laughed.
"Waluigi, did you really pick that out? You could give our fashion designer, Aster, a run for her rupees!" Link joked, and Wally just rolled his eyes.
Zelda ignored them. "Jelina, please, call me Zelda. You may save the formalities for court. I have heard much about you, I feel I already know you!" I looked at Luigi, nudging him.
"What have you been saying about me?" Luigi shook his head, looking puzzled. I was confused and glanced at Wally. He looked embarrassed, fidgeting with his fork, and Link was giving him a smirk. Oh great, I thought, hopefully Wally didn't say anything too embarrassing about me…
"Is there anything I can provide you with that you can think of?" Zelda was giving me a smile. "I want to make sure you are comfortable."
Without hesitation or thinking, I blurted out "Pants." Link let out a laugh, unable to hold back his amusement. Wally snorted on his juice. "I mean, if it's ok…I hate wearing dresses. Not that this dress isn't pretty, I think it's actually really gorgeous, but I would be more comfortable in pants, especially since I'm training a lot, and…" Luigi put his hand on my shoulder to stop me from rambling. I looked over at him and he was chuckling. I looked over at Link and Zelda. Zelda looked amused, laughing behind her hand. Link leaned over and whispered something to Wally, then lightly punching him on the arm. I gave him a curious look, but he just mouthed nothing. Link continued to laugh hysterically.
"That can easily be arranged. While in our culture not many noble women wear pants, I know yours is different. I do, however, request if we are meeting with my court or other nobles that you wear formal attire." I had no problem with that. "I think your unconventional style is refreshing! You may even, dare I say, start a trend that hasn't been seen for centuries! You are, after all, one of the biggest points of gossip."
I groaned at this news. "Great, just what I've always dreamed of." Everyone laughed and we started eating.
Breakfast was rather enjoyable. Zelda and Link were very easy to talk to. Link and Wally would make a lot of jokes and tease each other, which would often result in Zelda looking embarrassed, apologizing to me for their behavior. I told her I was used to it, and even found myself joining in. I couldn't help myself; I was used to bantering with Wally, and it came naturally. Luigi was smiling and laughing along. I was glad to see everyone in a lighthearted mood. When we were done, Link, Wally, and Luigi were going to do some training on the grounds with the troops.
"Have fun today! We'll see you later this afternoon." Link said, giving me a small bow. Wally waved goodbye, and I gave Luigi a small kiss. When they left, Zelda held out her arm.
"Shall we?" I linked arms with her. "We'll start by taking a small walk around Castle Town, and then we will begin training your magic. Link will be done with his training by midday. We will have a brief council meeting, and we will all head to the Great Hall to mingle with some of Hyrule's aristocrats before dinner." I was excited for the tour and training, but not as much for all the mingling.
"I'm looking forward to it." I gave her a smile, though it was a little forced. Zelda giggled.
"I know you are not one for social rendezvous…I understand. They do grow rather tiresome, but they are an unfortunate part of my position." She sighed. "Link, while friendly with the upper class, has always bonded better with the common folk. He is generally quiet during these engagements, as well. You will not be expected to be a social butterfly. After that, I anticipate that you would most likely want a private dinner in your chambers." I liked that idea and gave a genuine smile.
Before leaving, Zelda's guards handed each of us a hooded cape. "So people won't recognize us," she explained. "I want you to see the town for what it is, not everyone stopping to pay their respects to royalty. Guards will be stationed throughout, keeping an eye on us. We'll be safe." She pulled up her hood, and I did the same. "Plus, there is a chill in the air. We will not be out of place wearing hooded cloaks." She smiled as we walked out to the entrance of the castle.
Zelda was right; the weather outside was crisp, and I felt a chilly breeze nip at my face. Castle Town was pavedwith cobblestone, giving it a quaint charm. Right outside the castle's entrance was a beautiful fountain. A few kids were splashing the water, giggling as they got wet. Parents shooed them away, yelling that they were going to catch a cold if they kept that up. People were bustling and weaving through the crowds to tend to their daily tasks. An open market hosted a variety of stands, from fresh fruit to jewelry, and I gazed at all the handmade trinkets. Shops, inns, and bars lined the streets, and I could see residents running in and out of their homes.
Zelda and I were looking at the various carts in the market place, and I was drawn to a small jewelry cart. "Would you like to purchase something?" Zelda placed a hand on my shoulder. I was looking at the jewelry, gazing at the different earrings. I noticed a pair of earrings that changed colors, almost like a mood ring would. I was fascinated by them, and Zelda alerted the vendor. "How much for those beautiful earrings?"
The vendor was an older woman, and she gave us a toothless smile. "Those are rare gems that were mined deep within Death Mountain itself! They are rumored to be vessels for a person's magic. They seem to be responding to you, miss, like they were meant for you."
"How much?" Zelda had an inquisitive look on her face.
"Ah, a valuable item like that, I would ask for three hundred rupees."
"And are those the only ones you have?"
"Yes, miss. I've never seen another in existence." Zelda handed the woman three glistening silver gems and the old woman gave us the earrings. "Thank you so much! I do hope you find them useful," she chuckled. Zelda slipped them in her pouch for safe keeping.
"Was that a lot of money? I didn't need any-"
"Jelina, these gems are highly valuable, far more than what that woman was asking. She was right in saying they are able to hold an individual's magical properties. Either the woman knows something we do not, or she did not truly know the value of these earrings. I will have to do some research on them, but I feel they were meant for you." I thought of asking the woman where she got the earrings and turned around to look at the stand; the old woman was gone, replaced by a middle-aged man. Strange, I thought. Shrugging, I continued to walk along the market with Zelda.
We made our way to a more secluded part of the town where a large chapel was located. "This is the Temple of Time. It is an important place in Hyrule's past. Remind me to lend you Hyrule Historia, which gives the history of our realm." I gazed at the temple, hearing a hauntingly beautiful chant come from inside.
"Is there a service going on? I'd be interested in observing." Zelda shook her head no.
"This temple hasn't been used for services in years. It is primarily a historical landsite."
"Strange. I hear music." She tilted her head in thought, then looked at the temple.
"The temple holds ancient magic. I cannot hear anything, but maybe something within its walls is calling you. Why don't we have a look." I slowly approached, then with a great heave, pushed open the heavy wooden doors. Inside the stone temple was a large walkway; the back had a pedestal with three stones, and what looked like a door behind it. I slowly walked down the aisle, listening to the music, and stopped when I approached a pedestal. Zelda stood back, observing what I was doing but not wanting to interrupt.
I looked down to see an emerald, sapphire, and ruby, each artfully encased in gold. I traced my fingers along the jewels, and they began to glow. I felt a flow of magic trickle the tips of my fingers. I gasped, turning around to look at Zelda. A golden triangle was shimmering on the back of her left hand, and her head was bowed in what looked like prayer. I lifted my hand from the jewels, and a ribbon of glistening colors streamed from my fingertips. I closed my eyes, feeling the magic encase my being. I felt compelled to sing along with the music, and instinctively hummed along. I opened my eyes as a ray of light from the stained-glass window shone on me, and the song was etched in my memory. The stones dimmed, and all became quiet. I began to feel a little tired and swayed slightly where I stood.
Zelda approached me and guided me to a stone step directly behind me so I could sit down. I looked at her, and tears were glistening in her eyes. It took me a moment to collect my thoughts and find my voice.
"Zelda, what just happened? And…what was that glowing triangle on the back of your hand?"
"The Triforce of Wisdom was speaking to me…I will explain when we get back to the castle. The Three Goddesses have blessed us today! That song you were singing is an ancient hymn called the Song of Time. It is a powerful song, and few know of it."
"What does the song do?"
"In the past, the Hero of Time played that hymn on an enchanted ocarina to travel through time and save Hyrule. While I have not been shown what it means in regards to you, I believe it is some sort of sign."
She grinned, helping me stand up. "Jelina, I would like postpone our magical training today. You look a little fatigued, and I do not wish to push your magical boundaries." We walked back to the castle, Zelda positively beaming, and me still wondering what the heck just happened.
When we arrived back at the castle, I asked if she had any coffee or tea to help perk me up. "I will send a maid to get some coffee and bring it to our meeting. I could use a pick me up myself." She gave the guards our cloaks, and we went down a series of hallways to the room where the council meeting room was. "I think you'll recognize a few faces in the room." Zelda smiled as she opened the door. A large round table was in the middle of the room, and a variety of individuals were sitting around it. I immediately saw Link, who turned around and waved at us. To his left was a person that looked like a hybrid of a fish and a person, and next to the fish hybrid was…
"Elder Daruk!" He stood up and I ran to him, and he immediately grabbed me in a bone crushing hug.
"Sister Jelina! I am happy to see you up and moving!" He pulled back, and Link motioned for me to sit in the chair across from him. I looked around at the other individuals, and saw a woman with bright red eyes, a tanned woman with a rather large, pointed nose, and a giant bird. I heard the doors open; a maid with a serving cart came in, setting a small cup of coffee in front of everyone. Behind her, two of my favorite people walked in.
"Luigi! Wally!" I grinned, and they sat both sat beside me. "I didn't know you were coming to this!"
"We're temporary ambassadors from the Mushroom Kingdom." Luigi was opening up a notebook, getting ready to take notes.
"Luigi, today is primarily a meet and greet. No need to take notes for Mario." Link smiled, and Luigi put his notebook back in his bag.
"Nerd," Wally snickered, and I gave him a small shove while Luigi rolled his eyes.
"Now, Jelina, this is a special council. You can meet the regular group during Court assembly…these individuals," he waved his to display everyone, "are representatives from the different providences, and more importantly, keepers of magic blessed by the Golden Goddesses. They will be assisting me on my quest." I shyly smiled, feeling a plethora of emotions radiating from their essences. One mutual feeling that I observed from everyone was immense respect for Link. "Let's go around and introduce ourselves."
"I'll go first," Elder Daruk said, standing up. "Sister Jelina and I have met. My home is in Goron City, which is home to the mighty Gorons! We value strength, both on the outside and what's in here," he pointed to his chest. He smiled and sat down.
The women with blood red eyes stood up. She had grey hair pulled back in a tight bun, and she reflected a strict, disciplined presence. She looked strong, and her tight blue outfit bore the symbol of a white eye with a tear drop. "My name is Impa, a name that has been passed for generations amongst my people. I am one of the last of the Sheikah tribe, residing in Kakariko Village. We are also known as the Shadow Folk, gifted in magic of the shadows and unseen." She dipped her head, sitting back down.
The woman next to her stood up, giving a side grin. "I hear you are from the desert?" I nodded, and she laughed. She had a vibrant spirit. "Well, you and I will get along well. I am Cheftain Ivaisa of the Gerudo. My home is in Gerudo Town, which lies on the outskirts of the Gerudo Desert." She winked at Luigi, who blushed. "I have magic like your voe here, able to summon lighting with the clap of my hands." She laughed at Luigi's embarrassment, and sat down.
The fish creature rose from her seat, gently smiling at everyone. I felt calm in her presence. Her red scales glistened, and she put a webbed hand to her chest, bowing. "Greetings, I am honored to meet you. I am Princess Mimpha the Third of the Zora tribe. My home is in Zora's Domain, a city that is built amongst the waterfalls near the Lanayru Great Spring." She gave me another small bow.
I turned my attention to the last person, or rather, bird. I sensed some arrogance from him, mixed with pride. His feathers were a beautiful blue color that transition to green. "I am Chief Koth of the Rito. We dwell in the mountains and skies at Dragon Roost Island. We are a people gifted in flight, able to soar with ease. I have been gifted with the ability to summon the winds…an impressive feat that has been linked to the Great Revali." He sat down, and Link looked at me.
"Jelina, why don't you tell us a little bit about yourself?"
"Go ahead," Zelda encouraged. "Link and I have only shared a little about you."
"And Waluigi here won't shut up about you," teased Ivaisa. I glanced at Wally who put his hand on his face, blushing a little at being called out. I stood up, nervously glancing at everyone.
"Um, hi. I'm Jelina." I looked at Link, lowering my voice a little. "What all do I need to say?"
"Just tell us where you're from, about your magic…go on."
I took a deep breath. "Ok, so I am from Phoenix, Arizona, which is not near here at all. It's a developed city in the desert with several million people-"
"-Million?!" Koth seemed skeptical.
"Yes, millions. Metro Phoenix has I think four million, and Phoenix proper has probably one and a half million, give or take." Everyone's eyes were wide, trying to comprehend that many people living in the same city. "Phoenix isn't even the biggest city in my country…I don't think it's even in the top ten…" scratched the back of my head, feeling a little awkward. "I guess my world is just bigger."
"I'd say. How do so many people survive in your desert heat?" Ivaisa was leaning forward, curious.
"Air conditioning." She looked puzzled. "It's technology that cools homes. A lot of stuff that I don't understand, either." She looked intrigued at the idea.
"We have that in the Mushroom Kingdom," Wally piped in. "But…you'll lose all your magic." Ivaisa frowned at that.
Luigi knew my world, even if it had been decades since he had visited last. "Wouldn't you say your technology is similar to the Mushroom Kingdom, except there is more?"
I thought for a moment. "Yeah, and more advanced. But, yeah, that's my home."
"And what of your magic? Link has only said it is powerful, and is to save us all in the end?" Impa gave me a hard stare.
"I am still learning about my magic, and don't know much about it myself. I just know it has to do with people's essences."
"Hmph. That's reassuring," Koth scoffed.
"We need to have faith." Mimpha gave me a small smile. "We must be patient with the Goddesses' plans." Luigi took my hand, giving it a loving squeeze.
"Well, even if she hasn't fully developed it, she saved my life with her magic." I remembered the bokoblin incident, shuddering. Zelda gave everyone an excited look.
"Jelina's magic, while a mystery, is very powerful. In fact, I just witnessed the Goddesses bless her in the Temple of Time. They gave her with knowledge of the Song of Time." Everyone gasped, staring at me.
"Do you remember it?" Impa was practically on the edge of her seat. I hummed the melody, and noticed my hands began to glow a soft white. When I was done, everyone stared in awe.
"That's the song that the Hero of Time used on the Ocarina of Time. Do we even know where it is?" Link turned to Zelda.
"We do not, unfortunately it was lost with the Hero of Time." She stood up. "We know that Link will soon be departing to cleanse the sacred dungeons to learn the path to safely navigate through the Lost Woods, so he may acquire the Master Sword and defeat Ganondorf. I, too, will be embarking on a small journey. While Jelina was humming the Song of Time, I received visions of the Three Sacred Springs. I am going there to pray in hopes my vision of her role in all this will become clear."
"Is that safe?" Darunia spoke up, worried for his Queen. "There are some strange looking beasts popping up."
"Will Jelina be going with you?" Luigi looked a little frightened at the thought of me trekking across Hyrule.
"I have not formulated a plan yet." Zelda sat down, and Link looked around at the group.
"Right now, our land is still safe to travel through, but caution is highly advised, especially at night." Impa stood up.
"I will escort her. I will be able to protect her, as well as keep her hidden in the shadows. If Jelina joins, I will protect her as well." Link nodded. "You have my word."
Link smiled at everyone. "I am honored to be working beside each of you. Thank you for coming on such short notice. Does anyone have any other news to address?" Everyone shook their heads, then stood up. They all bowed. "Farewell, until our next meeting!" Each individual grabbed a small stone and disappeared in a flash of golden light.
"Ug, Koth is such a prick," Wally grumbled. "I seriously want to punch him in his big, fat beak." I was surprised when I looked at Luigi agreeing.
"If you did, I wouldn't stop you." I gave him a confused look. "He's pretty full of himself."
"But we need him, so save that energy for combat practice," Link said, putting his arm around his cousin. "Ready to suck up to rich people?" Wally rolled his eyes.
"Do I really need to be there?" Link nodded, and he groaned.
"Hey, if I have to go, so do you."
"Link, you're their King."
"And as your King cousin, I'm ordering you to go." Luigi looked like he didn't want to go, either. He leaned over to me.
"Let's get this over with…"
I moaned, walking towards the door where Zelda was waiting. "Anything I should or should not do?"
"With this group of people, it would be appropriate to call Link and I His and Her Majesty." She smiled gently at me. "You'll be fine.
"And save your jokes for later. Contain yourself." I thought Link was talking to me, but he was talking to Wally. Wally caught me looking at him and Link.
"That goes for you, too, toots!" Link, Wally, and Luigi met up with us, and we made our way to the Great Hall. When we arrived at the entry doors, a man opened the door, announcing Luigi, Wally, and I; the guards motioned for us to enter. We walked in, and I was greeted with a room of well-dressed men and women, bowing and curtseying at us. I awkwardly smiled and heard the announcer present Link and Zelda. Everyone bowed and curtseyed deeply, not moving until Zelda spoke up.
"You may rise." Everyone began chattering again, and several guests whispered and pointed to me. Two women approached Wally, pulling him away. He looked annoyed, and I tried not to snicker at his misfortune. Luigi was pulled away by a Lord wanting to talk about investments in something, and I just stood there, wondering what to do. I was thankful to see Link approached me with a rather stocky man. He had a dark beard and a bald head, and I noticed a few scars on his face. I sensed a loyal, honorable man. He held out his hand to me, and I shook it.
"Jelina, this is General Gustan. He will be helping you train if I am unavailable. He is my second in command."
"Pleased to meet you, Gustan."
"As I to you. I hope you are ready for your training. When will you be starting?"
I had no clue and looked at Link, who answered for me. "I'd like us to begin tomorrow, if that's alright. But," he looked at General Gustan, "remember not to go too hard on her. She still has to do magical training, and-"
"I know, you've informed me several times." He gave a pat on my back. "Don't worry, we'll toughen you up in no time." I thanked him. "Make sure you get plenty of rest. I sluggish mind will make you sloppy, and in combat, there is no room for error."
"I will."
"Well, then, if it is alright with you, may I be excused? I have some notes to look over before tomorrow's assignments." Link gave him a clap on the back.
"Of course! Thanks for stopping by." He leaned in, lowering his voice a little. "I'll let you know when I plan on leaving...I'm thinking it'll be in about a week." Gustan gave a small nod of his head in understanding and left.
"That was the only person I really wanted you to meet. Now I recommend to just smile and think of dinner."
The rest of the afternoon was tedious. I was introduced to about twenty Lords and Ladies and some advisors, many of which I found annoying or snobby. It was not easy keeping a smile plastered on my face when a Lord commented about a person's value was equal to the amount of money they had. I found myself biting my tongue so I wouldn't make a smart-ass remark. A few men flirted with me, which caused both Luigi and Wally to grow red in the face. Still, despite me not being from high class and having little to no wealth, they all wanted to acquainted with me. I didn't need my magic to know the reason; I was somebody important to the King and Queen. Not all were horrible, however. I mingled with a few scholars that were genuinely interested in my culture and getting to know who I was, not connections.
When it was time to go, a few people asked when I would be attending next. "I am unsure, I have a very busy schedule, and cannot make any promises." Some of Zelda's Ladies in waiting invited me to join them in needlework, which I declined. They look disappointed, and I felt relieved to be leaving. Maybe it was all the energy they put off, but I was overwhelmed; until I learned to shut off my magic, I didn't want to go through that again. Luigi, Wally, and I headed back to our wing of the castle, exhausted.
"I don't know how Link does it," Wally groaned. "I could barely stand talking to those kiss asses for the, what, hour or two we were there? He has to do that all the time!"
"I'm glad the Mushroom Kingdom isn't like that. All we have to deal with is Toadsworth," Luigi sighed. We made it to our rooms, and Wally gave a big stretch. He gave me a hug then went to his door.
"I'm going to crash before dinner even gets here! I'll see you two in the morning." He went in his room, and I practically bolted in ours.
"In a rush?" Luigi questioned.
"I want OUT of this thing! Now!" He looked at what I was wearing and shook his head.
"I'll call a maid…I have no idea how to get you out of that." He pulled on a small cord by the door. "Someone should be up here in a few minutes." Sure enough, Annette came to the door, bowing her head as I let her in.
"How may I be of service?"
"I need help getting out of this, please. And I want to wear the clothes I packed tonight, not the gown." Annette sighed, going to the closet to retrieve my personal clothes. She came out and stared at Luigi.
"And how may I help you, Master Luigi?" He looked confused, and Annette sighed. "Don't you think it would be inappropriate to watch Lady Jelina undress?"
"Um…" Luigi turned red, unsure what he should do. "I'll be over in Waluigi's room. Jelina, just come over when you are done." He left, and I gave Annette a frustrated look.
"This is his room, too, you know…" She started unlacing my corset and I felt relieved to be able to breath normally again. "It's not like he hasn't seen-"
"-until you two are properly wed, I'd like to maintain boundaries while I am tending to you." I was too tired to argue, and just let her focus on getting the layers of constrictive clothing off of me. When she was finished, she handed me my clothing. "I have been alerted that you will be wearing breeches and a tunic tomorrow. I will be by at dawn to bring a breakfast tray and your articles of clothing…will you require assistance getting dressed?" I pulled on the yoga pants, shaking my head.
"I don't think so…unless there are any fancy ties or special layers, I am a pro at putting on pants and a tshirt." I pulled my tee over my head and grabbed a sweatshirt that was in the pile. "Thank you, though, for all your help. I know my way of things is very…unconventional compared to yours. I don't mean any disrespect." She bowed her head.
"It is nothing, m'lady. I merely do not wish for you to be the subject of ill gossip."
"I don't really care about that. I have more important things to worry about, and if a bunch of stuffy men and women want to talk down to me, so be it." We walked to the door to leave; in front of Wally's door was a serving tray.
"I would anticipate your dinner has been delivered to Master Waluigi's room." She bowed her head in parting, "I will see you in the morning. Sleep well." I went to Wally's room, smelling the aroma of some sort of stew.
"Hey! I'm here, and ready for food! I hope you didn't eat it all." I walked in to see Luigi and Wally sitting at a small round table, fast asleep. Luigi had his head on the table, and Wally was leaning back in his chair, snoring. Three bowls of what looked like beef stew, a loaf of bread, and a pitcher of water sat in the center of the table. Wally's room looked the same as my room. On his desk was a stack of books pertaining to plants, and it looked like he was doing some research. By his bed was a small piranha plant; I went over to it, and it lightly nipped at my fingers. I stroked its head and it cooed. I noticed beside the piranha plant he had a picture of me and him. I smiled at the picture of us, missing how carefree things were. I gazed out his window; he had a perfect view of the royal gardens.
My stomach rumbled, and I decided to stop being nosy. I went to Luigi, kissing his cheek to wake him up. He didn't move, and I gently rubbed his shoulders, whispering that I was back. He started mumbling, opening his eyes. I shook Wally's shoulder, and he swatted his hand at me. "Wally, wake up." He groaned and opened his eyes. "Food's here."
Wally and Luigi were quiet as they ate, still half asleep. I had a little more energy, but they had been physically training, and I knew that wore them out. "Just wait until you start training tomorrow," Wally sneered. "Enjoy your energy now. You won't be so pleasant tomorrow night." I knew he was right. Luigi still wasn't too keen on the idea that I'd be physically training, but I needed to learn. When we were done with our soup and bread, Wally shooed us out of his room, mumbling that he needed his beauty sleep. Luigi didn't last much longer, changing and falling asleep almost as soon as he hit the pillows. I journaled to get everything off my mind. When I was done, I laid down, and found myself quickly succumbing to sleep.