Chapter 6
Link sat, hours passing, resolutely carrying out his duty. He attempted to pass the time by reading the book of manners Shad had given him a while back, educating himself on royal practices like eating, speaking, and dancing. Surprisingly, some of the dances seemed like more refined versions of peasant dances that the townsfolk often danced, although there were some statelier waltz's in the book as well. It didn't take long for him to finish the miniscule book, but implementing it would be the real trick. So he sat until the morning came, reading and memorizing as much as he could, all while remaining vigilant.
Yet when morning did arrive, no soldier came when Link expected, and perhaps most shockingly, Malon and her group of maids did not come to wake her Highness up. Link estimated it to be around nine in the morning when he heard Zelda awaken within. He stood up, groaning slightly at his sore muscles stretching, and stood to attention in front of her door.
Not too long after, Zelda opened her door slightly and glanced around. "Link?" she asked, spying him standing in front of the door with his back facing her. "Where is everyone?"
Link smiled. "The castle must have been in great disarray after the attack yesterday. Either everyone took the day off, or more likely they still think you're in the infirmary and are just giving you more time to recover. They'll probably be here any moment now," Link theorized. "Good morning to you too, by the way."
"Oh…! Good morning to you as well, Link!"
"Strangely enough, I did not get your schedule for today, Zelda, so perhaps your Father has pulled some strings…" Link stifled a yawn before continuing. "He may just want you to relax today."
"What?! But I'm perfectly fine!" Even with his back turned, Link could see the indignation on Zelda's face.
Link laughed. "Well, we'll soon know the answer for sure." Link could see Malon coming down the hall towards him. "Ah, I believe Malon is here to get you ready for today, your Highness." Link stepped aside to allow them to pass.
"Princess! You're already awake…!" exclaimed Malon as she entered.
"Yes, so you will not have to go through the difficult process of waking me for today," said Zelda humorously.
"Difficult for the Lord Guardian, at least," Malon snickered as Link closed the door behind them. He could hear their laughter as they retreated further into the room. Shaking his head, but smiling all the same, he leaned against the wall and waited.
Finally, Zelda emerged, wearing a simple pink dress with a brown, belt-like sash across her waist, and a white shawl around her shoulders. Her sash ran through a square piece of fabric that hung on her left side, and had the seal of the Hyrule emblazoned on its front. She also seemed to be wearing riding boots.
Link raised his eyebrows slightly when he saw her. "Why so informal today, your Highness?"
Zelda shrugged and fiddled with the ends of her dress as they walked past servants on their way to the dining hall. "It seemed my Father ordered a dress like this for today… though I do not know why." She turned to Link, and studied his face. "You look… unwell today Lord Guardian. Did you get enough sleep?"
Link angled his face slightly so Zelda could not see the bags under his eyes. "I assure you, I am quite well today, your Highness. There's no need to worry about me."
"Hmm…" Zelda frowned, but let the matter drop as they arrived.
Link opened the door for her. As they walked in, Link was surprised to see the King sitting at the head of the table. Since Link and Zelda were so late to breakfast, Link assumed Daphnes would already be carrying out his kingly duties. Apparently, however, he had something he wanted to say to the two of them.
"Ah, Zelda, you're finally awake!" boomed the King. "And you look absolutely stunning! That dress looks quite beautiful on you, wouldn't you say, Link?"
Link froze for a moment, before sitting down besides the King. "I'm not sure there's a correct answer for that question," Link said wryly "One of you would kill me no matter what."
The King guffawed, and Zelda let out a small giggle as well. Some servants came out of the kitchen and began to fill their glasses as usual, but this time Link pulled one down towards him. "Stamina potion as well, please," he whispered quickly into the servant boy's ear, casting a glance at Zelda to see if she had noticed. She had not, occupied instead with the food being presented in front of her. It was becoming a bit more of a struggle to stay awake, and stamina potion would fortify Link's body longer than regular tea.
As soon as they were about to start, the King cleared his throat. "Zelda… Er, there's no easy way to say this, however…" The King seemed to be fishing for the right words. Zelda rested her head on her hand, staring at her Father suspiciously. "Yes, Father?"
The King stood, and clasped his hands behind his back. "I… have taken the liberty of emptying your workload for today and tomorrow. Now, now…" the King raised his hands defensively as Zelda opened her mouth in indignation. "I know, you are a grown woman who can take care of her own responsibilities and run this kingdom efficiently, as you so often tell me. However! You were quite unwell yesterday, and I believe after that incident these next few days should be yours to spend as you see fit."
"But Father!" Zelda protested, "that's too much work for just one person. You'll be inside all day! You have just as much of a right to enjoy this festival as I do!"
"Oh, I think you far overestimate how much work you truly have, and far underestimate my own time tested methods," the King smiled humorously. "Zelda, I'm not asking this as a King, but as a Father, who only wants to see his favorite daughter enjoy her life! The Festival only comes once a year, you know."
Zelda scoffed, but couldn't help a smile from overcoming her disapproving features. "Favorite daughter? I'm your only daughter!" She stood up. "Oh, fine, but under one condition," she said, walking to her Father's side.
"You wouldn't be Zelda unless you made a deal, dear."
"One day, it will be your turn to relax, and I'll take your work that day!"
The King laughed, and pulled his daughter into a smothering hug. "Oh fine, Zelda, fine!" They withdrew. "Now, I am FAR behind schedule today, so regretfully I will take my leave." He turned to Link, who had remained quiet through their talk. "And Link, I have heard from Rauru. He and your sister are quite safe, goddesses' be praised."
Link smiled in relief. He had tried to push that thought out of his head, but overnight he had grown more and more worried. To hear that his family was safe was truly heartening. "That is very good news indeed. Thank you."
Nodding, the King turned and left, leaving Link and Zelda alone in the hall to eat breakfast. Well, it was more of a brunch at this time of day, but all Link cared about was that food was being served. He and Zelda engaged in small talk as they ate.
"I was thinking we should head to the hospital and the Temple of Time today, Link, to visit the injured."
Link simply nodded. It was a noble gesture, and selfishly it would also give him time to visit Aryll and Rauru, if they were in the Temple that is. "Shall we head out when we finish eating? I can quickly arrange a carriage."
Zelda shook her head. "No, nothing as fancy as that. Why not just ride into town?"
Link paused, fork halfway to his mouth. "But you would be in greater danger riding on horseback. In a carriage, you'd be shielded from a lot of things."
Zelda huffed with impatience. "Link, I doubt anyone could even recognize me from a distance when I'm wearing this," she gestured to her outfit. "Furthermore, I wish to visit the citizens of Hyrule not as a monarch, but as one of them. Arriving by carriage would be too showy. No, we will go on horseback."
Link sighed, but grunted in agreement anyways. The Princess had her mind set on this, and it would be useless for Link to argue against her now. Their conversation was interrupted, however, by a servant entering and handing Link a bottle. Unfortunately, the bottle was glass, so Zelda could clearly see the liquid within. Her eyes widened in recognition.
"Stamina potion? Why on earth would you need stamina potion at this hour?!" she asked venomously, sensing something awry.
"Oh, I just didn't get much sleep last night," Link tried to wave it off. He downed the potion in one swig, but it seemed Zelda was not satisfied with that answer, for she continued.
"But you said you were fine and had enough sleep last night when we were walking down."
Link winced. "Well, technically I did not answer your sleep question, Zelda. I simply said I was fine, which is true!" She narrowed her eyes.
"You have dark bags under your eyes Link," she said sternly. "Just how much sleep did you get last night?"
"Erm… six hours…" she continued to glare at him. "…Minus six hours."
"YOU DIDN'T SLEEP AT ALL LAST NIGHT?!" she exploded. "WHAT ON EARTH WERE YOU DOING?!"
Link flinched and held a hand up to his head; he felt a headache coming on. "Well, whoever assigned the troops last night neglected to send any to your room. So, as Lord Guardian, I stood guard the entire time. Well," he raised a finger, "technically I sat guard most of the time. There was no way I was going to stand that long."
Zelda fumed. "And you think you can still function without sleeping for over twenty four hours?!"
Link tapped the side of the empty glass. "Hence, the stamina potion. That will definitely keep me up."
"Do you have any idea what could happen if you use them too often?! The side effects can be dangerous!"
Link held up his hand. "Trust me, Zelda, I won't develop an addiction to this. It's just a one time thing for a bad day." He knew very well the addicts that frequented the shady bars in Hyrule's… less prestigious areas.
Zelda leaned back and put a hand to her head. "In Hylia's name… I should assign someone who watches over you now. The famed Lord Guardian can't even take care of himself!" Link rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "Just… Just promise not to do something moronic like this again," asked Zelda. "I'll even come with you to fetch guards if that will set your mind at ease."
"That would be very inconvenient for you."
She waved that objection away. "Oh, I doubt a five minute detour would even affect me very much."
Link sighed. "Fine! I'll try to actually sleep next time a situation like this comes up."
Zelda nodded, apparently satisfied. She stood, and Link followed. As they exited, Link whistled and beckoned with his hands. Immediately, the two guards on duty came to his side. He glanced around, but couldn't find Shad. No doubt he was busy, what with the whole attack yesterday. Link turned to the guards. "Please escort her Highness to the stables, and saddle her horse," he ordered, switching to the more formal style of speech appropriate for public.
Zelda looked at him in surprise as the guards saluted. "And where are you going, Lord Guardian?"
"I shall join you soon enough, but I must head to my quarters first. It won't take long."
Not waiting for a reply, Link excused himself and made his way towards his room. Since Zelda was going to be dressed in civilian clothes, he would not wear his Lord Guardian uniform. After all, there was no use drawing undue attention to themselves.
Entering his room, Link searched his closet until he found what he was looking for. Placing his green cap aside, he put on green pants and a beige shirt. On his midriff, he placed a piece of red fabric emblazoned with the symbol of Ordon, before wrapping a brown belt around his body and the fabric, keeping it in place. He placed his sword's scabbard on his back and swung the strap over his shoulder. Then, reaching into a chest at the foot of his bed, he withdrew a small sack of Rupees and a burlap bag. He put the Rupees in his pocket, and swung the bag so it lay on top of the sword. In no time, he looked like an ordinary citizen ready to enjoy the Festival, apart from the sword on his back. He hurried down to the stables, where he saw Zelda already sitting astride her horse. His own mare, Epona, was waiting next to her.
"Well now, you look just like any other eager boy ready to attend the Festival!" Zelda commented, glancing over Link as he mounted Epona.
"And you look very happy to be leaving the Castle far behind today," Link retorted, laughing at Zelda's eager expression.
Zelda laughed as well. "I can't help it! It seems it's been ages since I last had time away from my duties. I suppose my father did have a point about me enjoying life…"
Link grinned, and nudged his horse forward. Together, he and Zelda made their way to Castle Town.
They arrived soon after, and Zelda headed straight for the Temple of Time. People on the streets walked and ran from stall to stall, buying and gazing at all the food, gifts, and other trinkets being sold on Din's Festival. It seemed the attack yesterday hadn't affected the hardy citizens of Hyrule, for the streets were crowded with people, though Link could see guards regularly dispersed between them. No one paid them any mind as they made their way forward; Zelda was nigh unrecognizable without her royal attire on her.
They arrived, and Link tied the horses to a stable nearby. He and Zelda made their way inside, where a dismal scene awaited them. Coffins lay near the back of the Temple with grieving family members around them, praying and coming to terms with their death. Rauru was with them, offering condolences and prayers for the deceased.
Suddenly, Link heard a gasp to his left. "Big Brother!"
He turned, and was promptly hit with a speedy ball of energy that clung to his leg. Smiling, he returned her embrace enthusiastically. "Hey Aryll, you little seagull!"
She released her deathgrip on Link's leg as he kneeled, giggling happily. "You ok after what happened yesterday?" Link asked. "I wish I could've come earlier, but my new job kept me away."
"Yeah, I'm fine Big Bro," Aryll replied solemnly. "But other people weren't with Rauru and me when the bad thing happened, so they have to stay here a little."
Link nodded, patting his sister's head in relief. In response, she extended her arms out, smiling mischievously to her brother. Sighing, Link placed his hands under his sister's arms and lifted her up. She wrapped her arms around his neck. "Ugh, have you gotten bigger since the last time I saw you?" Link groaned, bracing his arms.
Aryll giggled. "Well, you've been gone for so long, to that Knight school and then the Castle to do your work, so I guess I did get stronger." She gestured to her arms proudly. "I help Daddy carry stuff sometimes too, when he lets me!" she said, laughing.
Link laughed with her. He hadn't talked to Aryll seemingly for ages, and he missed her dearly. Rauru as well, he thought as he glanced around looking for him. Finally, he found him talking to a family on the far end of the Temple, right next to…
Oh Goddesses, I forgot about Zelda! Link jumped in shock, before hurrying over to her side.
"…have some injured, so you're welcome to go there, your Highness," said Rauru, replying to a question Zelda had had earlier.
"Please Rauru, just Zelda here. I don't want everyone knowing who I am today," she replied, glancing furtively around.
Rauru laughed, "Of course Zelda, of course."
"Apologies, Zelda, I completely forgot my place," Link said, bowing slightly.
"It's quite alright Link. Rauru says that the hospital could use some help with their patients, so we'll head there next," said Zelda, waving away Link's embarrassed apology. Then she turned to Aryll, who was looking away shyly. "And you must be Link's sister, Aryll!" Zelda smiled.
"Yes…" Aryll replied shyly.
Zelda laughed. "Well, I can already see you have Link wrapped around your finger, carrying you everywhere like that."
Link smiled at that too. "Yeah, I can't say no to her… and she knows it." He gave Aryll a quick, lighthearted jab on her side, causing her to yelp and squirm in laughter. "Let go of me Big Bro, hee hee," she laughed as Link tickled her, before Link obliged and placed her on the ground.
"Aryll, why don't you go with Link and Zelda today? It'll be fun!" Rauru chimed in.
"Yes, come with us Aryll! We could do so many things together," Zelda replied, her eyes twinkling. Aryll nodded happily, and before Zelda could do anything Aryll had grabbed her hand and began to drag her to the entrance.
Link turned to Rauru, who was smiling at him. "Link! Hasn't even been a week since I last saw you, but I missed you all the same." He embraced Link.
"It's good to see you again too, Rauru," Link replied, returning the embrace. "I've missed you both."
"Sorry for putting Aryll on you without notice, but I think she should be away from here for a little. There's too much death here," Rauru murmured to Link, withdrawing. "She could help at the hospital, and I know the people there would be happy to see her too!"
Link nodded. "It's no problem. I even have Rupees," he patted his pocket "to buy and play games. We'll be fine." He turned, spying both Zelda and Aryll near the exit. He sighed. "As much as I would love to stay and chat, I must leave now." Rauru nodded. "Your duties as Guardian must be very trying. Please, by all means, go. Hylia knows I have work here too, unfortunately," he muttered darkly.
Embracing for a final time, Link said farewell and hurried to the exit as fast as he could, where Zelda and Aryll waited. After Zelda mounted her horse, Link placed Aryll on Epona and seated himself behind her so he could make sure she wouldn't fall off. Together, they made their way to the hospital.
The hospital wasn't very large, but it had no trouble holding Hyrule's citizens when they needed treatment. It was composed of two buildings: one a building for patients, and the other for supplies. When they arrived, Zelda grabbed Aryll's hand and went inside the larger of the two buildings, which housed the patients, while Link tied the horses, much to his dismay. He'd prefer them to stay next to him in case something bad happened. When he entered, Zelda and Aryll were already walking around, talking and interacting with the patients.
"Ah, you must be Link?"
Link turned to the unfamiliar voice. A burly, elderly man with glasses and a stark white beard approached him. "Yes, I'm him…" he said cautiously.
The man smiled and extended his hand. "I am Doctor Kaepora Gaebora. I run this facility," he said cordially. Link shook the proffered hand. "Zelda said you were willing to help out as well. In that case, could you head outside to the supply building and help unload? The sudden influx of injuries from yesterday caused quite the chaos."
Link hesitated. He didn't feel comfortable leaving Zelda, and more importantly his sister, alone. But it's a hospital. No one would attack injured people without cause. Plus, he reasoned, no one even knows the Princess is here.
Link nodded to Dr. Gaebora, before heading outside. Ah, the supply building even has a clear view of the main hospital entrance, so I can tell if any unwanted individuals arrive, he thought triumphantly. He wandered over to the building, which was smaller in comparison to the main facility, but large enough to house any supplies the employees may need. A cart rested just outside, full of supplies, but it seemed no one had gotten around to unloading them just yet. In fact, they seemed to have grabbed what they needed from the cart itself, as some boxes were already opened.
Well, Link sighed, dusting his hands, time to get to work.
The boxes were surprisingly heavy, and there were quite a few inside, but Link steadily progressed. Frequently, he stopped and directed his gaze around the main facility to see if something was amiss, but nothing happened. Heh, it feels like I'm just a lowly recruit again, Link thought as he arranged the boxes inside the supply building.
He was heading to the cart for the last box when he saw Zelda and Aryll leave the other building. Smiling, he waved them over. "Big Brother! Can we go to the Festival now?" asked Aryll eagerly, practically bouncing up and down.
Link laughed. "Of cour-" he stopped. He couldn't just say yes like that, he was supposed to be following Zelda. "Well, that is, if Zelda wants to go," he corrected.
Aryll turned to Zelda and pulled out a weapon Link had always dreaded: puppy eyes. "Can we pleaaaaase go to the Festival Ms. Zelda?" she said, hands clasped.
Link didn't even need to hear the reply; he knew Aryll had already won. No one could resist that face. So, turning to the cart, he began to pick up the final box. Suddenly, his right shoulder flared to life, and he let out a yelp of pain and dropped the box back in the cart. Zelda and Aryll turned to him with questioning faces.
"It's all right, my finger just got caught," said Link sheepishly.
Zelda and Aryll continued to stare at him. "He's lying," Aryll said flatly to Zelda.
"I know," replied Zelda thoughtfully. "We just have to figure out what really happened."
"Hm, hm," said Aryll, scrunching up her face in thought.
"Hey! You guys can't team up on me, that's unfair!" Link protested, wincing slightly when he involuntarily pointed with his right arm.
Zelda gasped and covered her mouth. "Oh Goddesses Link! I completely forgot about your injury!"
Aryll looked at Zelda questioningly. "Big Brother got hurt? Was it from yesterday?"
"It's not a big deal guys," said Link hurriedly. "It didn't even hurt that much, Aryll. My arm's just a little sore from all those boxes."
Now both Zelda and Aryll were glowering at him. Aryll marched right up to Link and grabbed his shirt, dragging him towards the hospital. "We're going to check out that arm mister, or else!"
Link laughed at her attempts to pull him along. "And what can you do to me Aryll? I'm fine, I'm telling you!"
At that, Aryll stopped and turned to Link with an evil grin on her face. "Well, I might not be able to do anything, but she can." She pointed behind Link to Zelda, who had an unreadable expression on her face and was following behind them. Link gulped. It seemed she and Zelda had gotten along a little too well for his liking. He turned back to Aryll. "You're cruel, you know that?" Aryll only laughed mischievously, and Link had no choice but to follow.
The doctors checked his wound. Nothing was wrong with it, they said, but in order for it to heal properly Link needed to stop any trying physical activity. They gave him a bit of red potion, some final strict warnings, and let him go. The sun was still high in the sky, so there would be plenty of time for them to go to the Festival. This time, however, Aryll insisted on riding with Zelda, and the two of them chatted happily as Link followed behind.
Link grimaced and moved his arm in a circle. They'd given him new bandages, and he was feeling a bit stiff from that. Aryll hasn't changed at all he thought ruefully. Always finding some way to boss me around.
And so the rest of the day was spent roaming from stall to stall, checking out all the strange and unique trinkets found, and generally having fun. Link bought so many things for Aryll, and even Zelda had brought Rupees to spend, buying some beautiful amethyst bracelets, one for her and one for Aryll.
"Oh Big Brother! Can you win me that?" Aryll grabbed his arm and pointed to a giant, stuffed seagull on the wall of a game stand. It seemed one had to shoot toy arrows at a target and get a certain amount of points to win a prize.
Link gave her a mock smile. "Of course, Aryll. Oh, wait a second, but didn't the doctor say I needed to rest my arm?" At that Link gave a fake frown. "I don't think I can today."
Aryll pouted. "It's just a small bow, any kid could use it easily."
Link laughed. "Well still, having one of Hyrule's best shoot at targets would be unfair to everyone else. Sorry Aryll, but if you want it, you'll have to get it yourself." Link steeled himself before Aryll could pull any puppy eyes on him.
"I'll win it for you."
Link turned at the sound of Zelda's voice. Aryll opened her mouth in joy and ran to Zelda, giving her a hug. "Oh, thank you, thank you Ms. Zelda!" Then, turning with a frown on her face, she looked at Link. "You're way nicer than my brother…"
Link put a hand over his heart in mock pain. "Oh no! I guess I should just place the things I bought for you on the ground instead of carrying them everywhere…"
"No!" Aryll ran over to him and started beating her fists on him. "You can't!"
Link just laughed harder, and pulled out his sack of Rupees. "Well, this will be your last game, Aryll, and then we'll head to Town Center and listen to a few songs." Night had fallen, and bands all over the country were coming today to perform for Din's Festival. It was sure to be packed.
"It's fine, Link. I already paid for the game." Link looked up, and saw Zelda already poised with the bow in her hands. "You shouldn't have, Zelda," Link frowned.
"Well, I did. And I intend to win that seagull no matter what," she said, determined.
And win it she did. Her movements were fluid and natural, and she hit every target on or near the center. It really was mesmerizing, the way her hands moved and pulled a the bow, the way her eyes concentrated on the targets.
"Thank you again, Ms. Zelda," said Aryll gleefully, hugging the stuffed bird with delight. They were walking to the center of town now, and already they could hear music playing.
"You're very welcome Aryll. It was fun!" said Zelda happily.
"You handled that bow like a pro," said Link honestly. "You must have had some training, right?"
Zelda gave him a wink. "It was all natural skill."
Link scoffed. "If that's the case, you're the best archer the world has ever seen."
"I am the best archer the world has ever seen."
"Oh? Maybe one day we could have a competition," Link's eyes glimmered in the darkness.
"Well, it wouldn't be much of a competition. You would lose in a heartbeat," Zelda teased.
Link struggled to come up with a witty remark as his sister and Zelda laughed together. "You guys are insufferable…" he muttered.
Thankfully, they had arrived. Courageous couples were already dancing together in front of the stage, where music was played live. Link, Zelda, and Aryll set down their belongings on the side, before a new song suddenly began playing. Aryll and Link's eyes lit up; this was a simple song they had danced to as children. Link remembered it well; Aryll could feel its familiarity. "C'mon Big Brother, you have to dance with me right now!"
Link shook his head. "Sorry Aryll, but I have to stick next to Zelda now. It's so crowded here, anything could happen." Zelda turned to look at him, frowning.
Aryll pouted. "Big Brother, you haven't played with me forever. So you have to dance with me tonight." She stamped her feet.
Suddenly, Zelda gasped in surprise. "Nabooru! Aveil!" Turning, Link spied the two Gerudos coming towards them, pushing through the throngs of people.
"Zelda! It is so good to see you alive and well!" exclaimed Nabooru, embracing Zelda.
"We tried going to the infirmary this morning, but they said you had already been moved. Though, they couldn't really tell us where, just that the Lord Guardian took you to some other place," said Aveil, glancing at Link.
"Regardless, we are so happy to see you Zelda," said Nabooru again.
"Actually, we couldn't even tell at first glance, since you were dressed so casually," said Aveil. "It really suits you."
While the girls were talking, Aryll was still trying to drag Link away. "I can't Aryll," whispered Link patiently again. "My job is important."
Catching Link whispering, Aveil turned and spied Aryll, who had basically hidden herself behind Link. "And who might this be?" she asked, curious.
Link turned to her. "Princess Aveil, this is my sister, Aryll. Say hello, Aryll."
Shyly, Aryll peeked out behind Link and waved.
Link continued. "She would like to dance with me, but I cannot be separated from her Highness. There was, after all, an attack just yesterday."
"Oh, lighten up Link! Nothing could possibly happen. Commander Russell has stationed extra troops, and, like you said, he did an admirable job routing the rebels," Zelda scolded. "Have fun with your sister!"
Link looked at her in disbelief. "With all due respect, your Highness," he began slowly, measuring out each and every word since he was in the company of three nobles, "I do not believe that a wise course of action at all. Regardless of what you say, many things can occur, and I intend to be here if or when they happen."
Zelda seemed poised to retort when Nabooru stepped in. "Lord Guardian, do you think that we would be here without proper protection as well?" She pointed, prompting Link to turn. His gaze was directed on a group of Gerudo women dressed casually, leaning against a wall. "Do you see?" asked Nabooru. "Those are our escorts. They stay just far enough away to not draw undue attention to themselves or us, but close enough so they can reach us in an emergency." She then turned to Link. "Rest assured, if anything happens, we will protect Zelda."
Link stubbornly refused to give in. "Be that as it may, they cann-"
"Link! I am ordering you to go and dance with your sister," said Zelda smugly.
Shocked, Link turned to her, before spying Aryll holding her hand and grinning. Link opened his mouth to object, then closed it. He sighed. "Zel- Your Highness, you really shouldn't spoil Aryll like that," he smiled. "That kind of power'll get to her head." He turned to Aryll. "Fine, I'll dance one dance with you."
Aryll shook her head. "Two dances now. This song is almost over!"
Groaning, Link allowed her to take his hand and lead him away. He glanced back a final time before the crowd swallowed his view of the three princesses. He turned to Aryll. "Did I say you were cruel today, Aryll?"
"You're going to have fun whether you want to or not Big Bro," she stated. "And you're going to have fun with me today too. Who knows when I'll see you again?"
"That Aryll has both of you wrapped around her finger, Zelda," laughed Aveil.
"Did you see how cute she was?! Are you saying you could say 'no' to her?!" replied Zelda in mock indignation.
Aveil laughed. "No, you're right. She was too precious!"
After several dances (Aryll "persuaded" Link to stay for more; in reality he couldn't leave because she threatened to tell Zelda again and use her puppy eyes), Link finally returned with Aryll in tow. Zelda, Nabooru, and Aveil had moved to an open table near their spot, and were sitting and chatting together. Aryll rushed past Link and, with no qualms at all, grabbed Zelda's hand. "Now it's your turn to dance with me Ms. Zelda," she breathed, slightly out of breath and red faced.
"Aryll!" Link scolded, coming behind her. "You cannot just barge into conversation like that, it's-"
"It's fine, Link." Zelda interrupted. She smiled to Aryll. "I'd love to dance with you, Aryll."
"I'm next then!" Aveil piped up. "You can't keep her all to yourself, Zelda!"
Nabooru laughed. "I'm after Aveil then. You sure you will still have energy to dance with me after that, little one?" she asked Aryll.
Aryll started giggling uncontrollably, which caused all three ladies to start laughing as well. All three of them left the table and headed towards the dance area, leaving Link alone. Sighing, Link kneeled and grabbed the bag with all of their stuff, before melting into the crowd as well. He'd keep an eye on them from the shadows.
He watched as Aryll danced with Zelda, then Aveil, then Nabooru, then Zelda again. Though the Festival was continuing well into the night, many people were leaving now as they had no intention of staying awake through the night. Link worried about Aryll; she may have an enormous amount of energy, but even she needed to sleep. Fortunately, Zelda seemed attuned to Aryll's needs, as she said goodbye to Nabooru and Aveil soon after and began the walk back to the table.
Aryll seemed so sleepy, in fact, that Zelda had to carry her. Link fell into step easily behind Zelda, for there was no need for them to head all the way back to the table. He tapped on her shoulder. She jumped slightly and turned, holding Aryll tightly, before sighing in relief when she recognized Link. "Don't sneak up on me like that, Link. I thought you would be waiting for us!"
Link shook his head and smiled. "Sorry about that Zelda, but I'll always be close by, wherever you go." He gestured to Aryll. "I can carry her if you're tired," he offered.
She shook her head. "No, she doesn't weigh much at all, and plus she's too cute to let go."
And so they made their way to their horses. Zelda kept Aryll upright throughout the entire ride to the Temple. Rauru was still awake, waiting their return. "Sorry Rauru, we may have had too much fun today," said Link sheepishly, following both him and Zelda to Aryll's room.
Zelda placed Aryll gently on her bed, and Link pulled the blankets over her, giving her a kiss on her forehead. "Happy dreams," he murmured, smiling. He used to always say that when they slept together. Then, slowly and quietly, he placed all the items he had bought for her on her nightstand, though she was still wearing the amethyst bracelet Zelda had given her. Still smiling, he closed the door behind him.
He turned to Zelda. "The castle, then?" She nodded.
It didn't take them long to reach the castle either. Link made a quick stop at the main barracks to request troops to be stationed outside Zelda's room, and made a point to reprimand the officer in charge for not having done that the night before. "In the future," said Link coolly, "Always send troops to that area of the castle." The officer saluted. "Yes sir!" he squeaked.
Finally, Link and Zelda made it inside. It was deathly quiet, most of the castle having gone to sleep. Zelda turned to Link. "You know, I think today was the most fun I've had for a long time."
Link smiled. "I think I can agree with that. Aside from the fact that you and Aryll made me do things I didn't want to do."
Zelda giggled softly. "Your sister is quite the persuader. It's just because she's too cute!" Zelda nearly squealed.
Link groaned. "Oh great, now she has the future ruler of Hyrule under her spell." They laughed together.
"I hope you dance well, Link. The People's Ball is tomorrow. We wouldn't want the Lord Guardian making a fool of himself."
Link jolted. He had forgotten. On the Third Day of Din's Festival, the King always invited anyone to come to the Castle grounds, where music played throughout the night and people danced away. Noblemen, peasants, royals, all interacted with each other that night. It was supposed to be a way for the people of Hyrule to recognize that, even though the Royal family lived and lead the country within the walls of the castle, that castle was only created because of working people, and they should recognize their own power of approval they had over the Royal family.
Link laughed. "Trust me, Zelda, I am an excellent dancer. And, if you doubt my skills in more refined areas, I even studied some waltzes just last night! Shad gave me a book on royal manners, which I read as I guarded your room. But, if we're being quite honest, I will probably just stand and keep watch." Zelda frowned at that, which did not go unnoticed by Link. "The attackers may be looking for an opportunity like this, so I must remain ever vigilant."
"What if Aryll asks me to order you to dance?" questioned Zelda, laughing.
Link grinned. "Fortunately, Rauru never let us attend the dance here. 'Too grown up,' he said. So Aryll will probably just stay with him."
"And what if some other royal from another kingdom orders you to dance with them? The Zora's said they may come to attend, you know," asked Zelda.
"Fortunately, I am not a citizen in their country, so I have every right to refuse," said Link stubbornly. Zelda gasped. "That's dangerous, Link! Some of them can be very petty…"
Link shrugged. "I doubt anyone would attack the Lord Guardian. Besides, I have such a boring social life they wouldn't be able to come up with any scandalous deeds to frame me for. No, I think I'm safe there."
"…And if I order you to dance?" asked Zelda, glancing away.
Link glanced back at her. "Well, it depends. If you ordered me to dance with another royal, but you danced nearby, I may do it. The closer I am to you, the easier it is to protect you." Link thought a bit harder. "If you ordered me to dance with you, well…" Link smiled mischievously, "Well, that would be a bit sad for you, don't you think? The Princess of Hyrule, resorting to ordering her stalwart bodyguard to be her dance partner because no one else wants to!" He laughed.
Zelda slapped his arm, but smiled slightly all the same. "It was just a question, Link, no need to mock me!"
"Well, think of it as payback for your archery comment," said Link, laughing. "Although… I do not think it would be wise to dance with me. Won't your father arrange suitors for you soon?"
Zelda's face scrunched up in distaste. "Let's not go into that matter just yet… Although, I will dance with other princes and nobles tomorrow, most likely," she frowned, "so what would be unwise with dancing with you as well?"
"It's just… ech, nevermind. I don't really know what I was thinking," said Link, yawning. That's a lie, thought Link. I think I'm developing feelings for you Zelda. That's why it would be unwise to dance with you. Unwise for me, at least. His heart was beating a bit too fast for his liking whenever he spoke to Zelda alone.
Suddenly, Link stumbled and nearly collapsed. "Whelp, that'll be the stamina potion," he slurred, struggling to stand straight. A danger with stamina potion: your body always gives out at the most inopportune moments. "Thankfully, we're right here," he said, yawning again.
He opened her door for her. "Are you certain you don't need me to tuck you in, like you did with me yesterday?" Zelda teased mischievously.
That made Link more awake. "Oh, you remember that?" he said sheepishly. "Well, I figured putting you in bed would be better than waking you. That last time is still fresh in my mind."
Zelda laughed again. "Just teasing, Link. Good night."
"Happy dreams, Zelda," Link murmured sleepily, leaning against the wall as Zelda closed her door. He had not waited one minute when he heard footsteps rushing towards him. Opening one eye, he spied two soldiers heading his way. He ceded his spot to them, and then stumbled his way to his room. Closing the door, he threw down his stuff and belly flopped onto his bed, a smile making its way across his face.
A/N: Oh man it took forever to type this beast out. I kept adding stuff as more ideas flowed into my head, and it was also hard creating meaningful but natural sounding dialogue. Well, it's out now, so time to keep moving forward.
As always, thanks to everyone that followed and favorited! It's amazing motivation!
Now, for the reviews!
Matt Cyr: Yeah, FE is a great place to write and read one-liners. My FE story is already out, so I bet you now know what its about, haha. Thanks for reviewing!
Stylin 80: Thanks for the compliment! Yeah, I get what you're saying, about how in some stories they're basically together within a week. I'm trying to make mine more realistic, but at the same time keep it interesting. It's hard to keep that balance, but fun at the same time! Right now, Link knows he has some kind of infatuation/crush on Zelda, which isn't really uncommon. However, it'll take him even longer before figuring out if its real or not and doing something about it. As for Zelda... well, she did warm up quite quickly to Link, didn't she?
Oh, a reminder that I also have a Fire Emblem story I am working on, so updates will be slow... But they're coming, nevertheless!
See you all next time!