When Borders Collide

by Shadowsheikah308

What comes after you've vanquished the age old foe? A new one apparently. Just as Link thought he was done with world saving, a dragon attack on Hyrule's borders sets him off on another long trek. Thankfully this time he's got the Resistance and a few new tag alongs with him to keep things a bit more interesting.

14. The castle visit

Ashei woke up early, a rare occurrence and one she blamed on her hangover. Standing and walking over to her window had almost made her fall over but she was slowly managing to get it under control now. She strapped on her gauntlets and breastplate, then started to put on her boots, being careful not end up with her face planted on the floor. Those chores completed she began sharpening her sword. 'Got to be sure to make a good impression on the king.' She reasoned. After a while she inspected its edge and found it satisfactory. Sheathing her sword she stood up and looked out the window, it was just past dawn and Ashei decided that if she was going to be awake she wasn't going to be the only one. A wicked smile donning her face she left the room and walked into the boys room.

Surprisingly, her less than quiet entrance didn't wake any of the three.

'Must be more tired than I thought.' She shrugged as she walked past Link's wolf form to Hugh. Crouching down so she was on level with his face she smirked then poked his forehead a couple of times. This received a slight groan and some movement but nothing further. Smiling widely she repeated the gesture again. Slightly more movement and a frown, but still not awake. Ashei chuckled evilly to herself she went to the rooms bathroom and soaked one of the small towels with just enough water to not be dripping as she walked but still hold as much water as possible.

Sauntering back to Hugh she gleefully squeezed the towel, allowing it to dump its water onto Hugh's head.

"WHA-HEY!" Hugh sputtered as he rose with a start.

Ashei doubled over with laughter. "Your face!" She laughed again. "Priceless!"

It was then that Link woke up, immediately on alert, growling and his hair standing up, his eyes darted around.

"Aww, did the poor puppy wake up?" Ashei cooed

Link rolled his eyes and growled under under his breath. Shaking his head he allowed the stone to slip off and transform back. Back in his human form he brought a hand to his head tiredly.

"Ashei...was it really necessary to barge into our room and wake us in such an obnoxious manner?" Link asked glaring up at her through his fingers.

"Why not? It's much more fun this way." She shrugged with a smile

"Well you're all about fun aren't you." Hugh commented as he managed to get to his feet. He looked down at himself for the first time.

"Goddesses! Seriously? My vest is completely soaked!" He said rather loudly with an accusatory glare at Ashei.

Shad then groggily lifted his head from the pillow. "My goodness, what time is it?" He asked slightly slurred. He looked around to look out the window and after determining the basic time of morning he turned back to the three.

"No. Absolutely not. There is no way I am getting up this early if I don't have to." He said angrily then abruptly turned over and fell back asleep.

Hugh started laughing which caused him to start to fall over only to be caught by Link who had quickly jumped to his aid.

"Wow you really did get soaked." Link said as he help Hugh stand straight again. "I'm going to have to get changed by the end of is as well."

Hugh muttered an apology which Link waved off. Hugh decided that it would best if he got himself dry before getting ready so he removed his wet vest and Link hung it next to the window while Hugh caught the towel that Ashei threw him and began drying himself off. Link also removed his shirt to hang next to Hugh's so is would be dry by the time they need to leave.

"Oh my gosh, being in the same room with two shirtless guys, whatever shall I do?" Ashei mocked as she pretended to be flustered.

"It would take much more than this to get you flustered." Link grinned. He then rubbed his face yawned. "I am still super tired, I'm going back to sleep." He said and walked over and flopped down on Hugh's bed. "Make sure that Hugh doesn't look hungover when we leave." He instructed, his voice dropping off until with was a quiet snore.

"Wow, he must be really tired, and that's saying something considering I've seen him go for days without sleeping." Ashei said slightly surprised

"Yeah, well he hasn't been sleeping well." Hugh answered as he pulled a simple grey shirt over his head and came to stand next to her.

"Oh?"

"Nightmares, as far as I can tell. Basically every night he wakes up with a start then just sits there staring at nothing before eventually falling back asleep again." He related as he made his way to the door.

Ashei hummed her acknowledgment but didn't have anything further to say. Moving out of the room the two walked down to the next to empty main floor. With unspoken agreement they left the inn and began to travel down the well worn roads.

"He's not the only one." Ashei said finally

"Sorry?" Hugh said confused

"Sheik's been having the same kind of nightmares." Ashei elaborated

"The princess?" He repeated surprised

"Shh!" Ashei admonished

They both glanced around but none of the other early risers seemed to paying them any attention.

"Yeah," Ashei confirmed. "I've seen her do the same thing; wake with a start, stare blankly. Never talks about it though."

"Seems odd, can't just be a coincidence." Hugh remarked thoughtfully

Hugh and Ashei continued to walk silently, each lost in their own thoughts.

"Think it could be Arnold?" Hugh asked

"What about him?"

"You think he could be causing them?" Hugh continued

"To what end?"

"I don't know, I was hoping you could tell me." Hugh shrugged

"No clue sorry, besides it's not like we can do much of anything about it right now anyway. I guess if it gets worse we'll take care of it then." Ashei said reasonably

"Sounds fair enough." Hugh responded. "Another subject, do you have any idea where we're going?"

Ashei laughed. "Nope, I'm just airing you out so you look presentable for the king."

"Gee thanks, it's so nice to know that I'm an errand that needs to get done." Hugh joked despondently

"You're not just an errand!" Ashei said punching him in the shoulder

"Oh? Then what am I?" Hugh asked with a smirk

"Well I'm pretty sure you're human... At least you were last time I checked." She said pretending to seriously consider the matter.

"Ha ha very funny, come on really; what am I to you?" Hugh pushed glancing over at her as they walked.

"Oh shove off." Ashei rolled her eyes

"Come on!" Hugh teased. "You've got to have some thought on the matter!"

"I honestly can't believe we're still talking about this." Ashei said throwing her hands in the air

"You might as well answer." Hugh called in a sing song voice

"Are you kidding me?" Ashei said crossing her arms

"Cuz I'm going to keep bugging you if you don't." He continued

"My god you're such a kid." Ashei shook her head flushing slightly.

"Yep! So come on you can't get out of this just by insulting me." He said putting his hands behind the back of his head with a huge smile.

"Want do you want me to say!?" Ashei said her voice getting louder

"Oh I don't know maybe something along the lines of 'you're the best thing that's ever happened to me, I can't ever live without you!'"Hugh said in a high pitched voice.

"Like that's ever going to happen!" Ashei snorted

"Yeah that would actually be a bit scary if you said that." Hugh said after a moment. "So say something else. I'm genuinely curious now."

"Fine! If I say your a friend will you get off my back?" Ashei said with a mixture of frustration a embarrassment.

Hugh made a show of considering it then said. "I guess it will do for now." He said with a grin.

"For now?" Ashei repeated incredulously

"Yep." Hugh agreed with a laugh

Ashei laughed as well. "Ok now I've got a question for you."

"Hmm?"

"How much do you remember about last night?" She said with a wide smile

"Oh come on!" Hugh groaned

"No seriously!" Ashei laughed

"Why did I do something really embarrassing like burst into song or dance on tables?"

"Though it would be really fun to say 'yes' just to see your reaction, no you didn't."

Hugh laughed and jokingly wiped his forehead in a 'that was close' gesture.

"So what did I do?" Hugh asked with a small smile

"You sure you don't remember? Not even just before you passed out?" Ashei insisted

Hugh paused and looked as if he was uncertain as to how to reply.

"Why?" He asked swallowing

"You do remember!" Ashei said triumphantly

"Well not everything!" He said defensively

"Tell me what you meant!" She said suddenly

"What? Man, Ashei I was drunk why does it matter?" Hugh asked rubbing the back of his neck trying to avoid blushing.

"It matters because I've never had anyone tell me that I 'had captivated' them before! I don't understand what that's supposed to mean! I don't know why it makes me feel so weird! I just don't like not knowing! So explain it to me!" Ashei declared desperately

Hugh stared at her wide eyed.

"Did it really make you that unhappy?" He asked keeping eye contact.

"Wha- how can I know how I feel about it if I don't understand what it means?" She shot back

Hugh looked away and was silent.

"What? Why aren't you saying anything?" Ashei asked, much quieter now

"I think... it would be best if you figure that out on your own." He said softly. "Or at least you should ask someone other than me."

Ashei opened her mouth to object but something about his face caused her to bite back her reply and simply nod.

"Good! So do think I'm aired out enough? Should we head back?" He said cheerfully

"Well you'll have to get checked over by Zelda but I guess you'll do for now." She responded, forcing herself to be just as upbeat

The two arrived back at the inn just in time to see Auru walking out to the horse stable.

"Ah, I was wondering when the two of you would get back." He said as they came over. "Still a bit tipsy from last night?"

"Getting better, at least now I'm not falling over my own feet." Hugh replied with a laugh

"Yep, you should know better than to compete with me." Ashei boasted

"Ha! I was just off my game last night." Hugh declared. "Any other time and there's no way I would lose."

"Bring it on! I'm always ready for a challenge!" Ashei answered grinning widely

"Alright, alright you two. You need to go check in with Zelda, she wanted to make sure that you were both presentable before we leave." Auru said smiling.

"Oh well then. We shall not keep the lady waiting." Hugh said with a mock bow

With Ashei in tow Hugh entered the inn and bounded up the stairs three at a time.

"Show off." Ashei muttered as she walked up one stair at a time.

"Am not!" Hugh retorted. "I'm just hyper, I've been awake for a long time." He explained grinning

"And what? You just get more and more hyper as the day goes on?" She asked

"Nah, I just go from low to high then low again as time passes." He said while drawing a curve in the air as he spoke.

"So does that mean your going to crash really early tonight then?" She continued slightly curious

Hugh made a 'I don't know' type sound. "It depends on the day because the peak time can change." As he finished this he knocked on the door of the room Auru and Zelda were staying in.

"Come in." Zelda's reply came.

Walking in the room then closing the door behind them Ashei and Hugh stared at Zelda who was at this time seated on her bed adjusting her crown to sit centered on her forehead. she had changed into a ornate red and sunset orange gown that draped lightly across her shoulders and continued down to the floor. The sleeves were a see-through red that subtly flared at the wrists while the dress itself had a fitted top that slimed to a point at the waist then separated into two outer panels of red with the centre panel of orange. The entire dress was threaded with fine needle work that trace intricate patterns.

"Wow, nice getup!" Ashei said in amazement

"Thank you." Zelda replied graciously as she stood and walked over to stand near them.

"I agree with Ashei, but... Aren't you supposed to be incognito? Unless I was mistaken?" Hugh questioned hesitantly

"No you're quite correct, I simply want to be ready for when we arrive." Zelda replied

"You're going to wear that under your sheikah outfit?" Ashei joked

Zelda laughed. "No, I'm going to do this." With a quick motion she instantly was standing before them in her Sheik form.

Hugh whistled. "Nice trick. How'd you do it?" He asked grinning like a little kid

"It's just an illusion, I still look the same, just to anyone else I'm Sheik." Zelda explained. "Now!" She said suddenly changing topics. "What are the two of you going to wear?"

"I'll just wear this; with my sword of course." Ashei responded with a gesture to her normal gray shirt and armor.

"I have a few options but I figured I should probably check with you which one you think would be best."Hugh answered shyly

"Alright, Ashei that looks good, Hugh let's take a look at our options." Zelda replied

About a half hour later Zelda stood next to Hugh in the boys room with Ashei laying on one of the beds lazily flipping through a book.

"I think that this is the best option. It's definitely presentable and it suits you well." Zelda voiced her opinion

"I still think that the cape is too much." Hugh grunted

Hugh had changed into a dark gray overcoat that was slightly baggy but ended in at his elbows. It also was done up at the front but opened to hang down after his belt. He wore his normal baggy pants underneath but had switched to a pair of boots instead of his sandals. The final part of his outfit was the aforementioned cape that was a on the outside a light gray blue and on the inside was black.

"It makes you look more distinguished." Zelda answered with a negligent wave of her hand.

"Yeah, you look like a nobleman now, just stick your nose in the air and you'll fit right in!" Ashei commented

"Ashei." Zelda said shooting her a warning glance.

"Well excuse me princess." She shot back. "I just don't understand why those ridiculous old men think so highly of themselves."

"Well it's not like we can change them much now can we?" Zelda sighed. "Just try to play nice while we're at the castle, I really don't want a war right now."

"Alright! Alright I'll behave!" Ashei said holding her hands in the air in surrender.

"Thank you, now Hugh you look fine, would you two go and round up the others I want to be on our way in the next few minutes if possible."

Link stared at the castle looming above them. They had managed to make good time and had arrived at the Norachre castle town in the early morning. Zelda was walking next to him and had changed back to her gown and crown, this had elicited many curious looks from the town folk.

"How do you know their going to let us in?" Link whispered to Zelda

"I think they kind of have to." Zelda whispered back. "It's considered very rude if a kingdom refuses to see other royalty. Besides he's sort of expecting us."

Link nodded but he still was uncertain. They approached the main gates and were greeted by two guards.

"Hello, what can we do for you?" They asked very kindly

'The guards at Zelda's castle could take lessons from these guys' Link thought to himself

Zelda stepped forward. "We are here to see your king." She told them with her best royal smile.

"Princess Zelda?" They murmured in surprise. "I-I mean, welcome your highness!" The first one stutter, quickly bowing. "Please, follow me!" As he was saying this the second one rushed over to open the gates.

The guard indicated for them to follow as he walked through towards the castle. Auru paused and dropped some coins into the second guard's hand.

"You're both doing a good job. Share this with your friend." He murmured with a smile.

The guard graciously accepted and thanked him.

As they walked the guard turned to look over his shoulder at them.

"I'm terribly sorry we weren't informed that you would be coming or we would have left the gates open." He said nervously

"Not at all, it is I who is sorry for arriving unannounced. We very much appreciate that the king is willing to see us." Zelda answered in an unhurried tone

"Yes of course." The guard murmured

They walked through a series of halls and doorways until they came to a set of large, decorated double doors. The guard carefully indicated for them to wait as he hurried up to the guard at the door. After whispering for a couple of seconds and sending quick glances at the group the other guard slipped through a side door and disappeared from sight.

"It will be just a moment." The guard said as he returned. "If there won't be anything else, I should be getting back to my post."

"Thank you very much for your aid," Zelda said gratefully. "May I learn your name?"

"Oh, James your majesty." He said bowing again.

"Thank you James, keep up the good work." Zelda said nodding kindly.

James grinned rather foolishly then bowed again and left.

After about another fifteen minutes the guard that James had spoken to returned and came up to them.

"The king will see you now." He said rather stiffly

Zelda nodded and walked forward. As they got closer the guards opened the large double does and the group entered. The throne room was enormous, very similar to Zelda's; the room was complete centered around the throne that had a large carpet running from it to the doors. The pillars, windows and paintings all were extraordinarily beautiful but Link was more focused on the people. There were a few nobles standing off to the sides deep in conversation, while a few servants rushed around accomplishing tasks with their heads down. But of most interest was the throne area itself; the king sat straight but still looked very relaxed., his hair was a sandy blond that looked as if it would fall in his eyes if it weren't for his crown holding it back. His eyes were a bright green and his mouth was curved into a permanent smile that surprisingly appeared to be completely genuine. He wore dark blue, long sleeved top with light pants and a heavy, thick looking cape. His crown wasn't overdone but it still was prominent enough to not be overlooked.

Next to him stood an older man who looked to be somewhere in his mid-sixties. His face was serious looking but his eyes showed signs of smile wrinkles. His hair was predominantly gray but still showed some of its original black color underneath. He stood tall with his hands clasped behind his back, he watched their group carefully but still didn't appear to be anxious. His outfit consisted of a dark uniform with the kingdom's symbol etched on the sleeve. He wore chain mail and carried a blade but otherwise wasn't particularly noteworthy. Link had a feeling this man was attempting to accomplish this unassuming position even though he seemed to be very capable.

Just then a loud trumpet sounded and another man stepped forward.

"Announcing the arrival of the glorious jewel of the Hyrulian kingdom- Princess Zelda." The man boomed.

The few nobles still in the room hesitantly bowed and Zelda moved forward toward the throne.

"Announcing the princess's companions - General Auru." The man continued. Auru confidently walked forward as well.

"Champion Link."

Link stood up straight and calmly as he could followed Auru.

"Scholar Shad."

Link couldn't see behind him but he assumed that the rest would follow as they were called.

"Warrior Ashei... And Mayor Hugh." The man concluded

The king stood as they stopped in front of the throne.

"Welcome to my kingdom Princess Zelda, your presence graces our halls." The king smiled happily

"King Kaori." Zelda inclined her head. "We are very grateful to you for meeting with us."

"Shall we continue this conversation in my study?" He asked somewhat quieter

"That would probably be best." Zelda murmured

"We will hold a feast for our guests this evening, all are welcome!" He announced to all those present.

The nobles all applauded then bowed as the king lead their group towards another room to the right of the throne. Link curiously looked around him as they entered the new room. It was grandly decorated but it was clear that the furniture was minimal on purpose. The large room had a black marble desk at the far end opposite the door; it was facing a window that overlooked a garden. The walls on either side were floor to ceiling bookshelves with small ornaments occasionally dressing up the shelves. There were three large couches facing a medium sized, knee high table that was made out of the same material as the desk. The room had two other doors leading to other parts of the castle but that was all that present.

"Please, have a seat." Kaori said in a much less formal tone and with a negligent wave at the couches

"Long day?" Zelda asked also dropping the formalities

"Most definitely." He replied with a short laugh. He removed his crown with a sigh and threw it across the room. Link looked over in surprise only to see that the older man from earlier had evidently followed them into the room and had caught the crown with apparent ease as if this were a regular occurrence.

"Oh yes, this is Renjiro, my second in command." The king told them almost as an afterthought. "He's the one who makes sure that the kingdom doesn't fall to pieces." He continued with a playful smirk.

Renjiro quirked an eyebrow and smiled slightly but otherwise remained silent.

"So how did the dragon chasing go?" Kaori asked with a grin after most of them had taken a seat or were standing nearby.

"Not as well as hoped, but you already know that." Zelda answered as she looked at her hand with a bored expression

He laughed. "Yes, well I was not expecting you to run into Arnold."

"You know Arnold?" Ashei asked surprised but still maintaining decorum.

"Oh yes, he was my castle's arcanist from before I was born." He responded

"Until he disappeared a few months ago." Renjiro added calmly as he was suddenly standing next to Kaori.

Kaori nodded and continued. "Exactly. He would usually come and go as he pleased so we didn't think anything of it for the first while."

"Pardon me, but why didn't you go after him?" Shad asked in a confused tone.

"Would have been pointless." Kaori said reclining even farther on the couch. "He was long gone and we had no idea even what direction he had left in. Plus even if we did catch up to him he can easily keep hidden from my men if he should choose."

"He was actually on his way to see me when we met up with him." Zelda told him

Kaori looked slightly more alert. "Did he say why?"

"Something about wanting to discuss magic, I paid him little attention seeing as there were more pressing matters at the time." Zelda answered

Kaori and Renjiro glanced uneasily at each other.

"What is it?" Zelda asked carefully

They looked at each other for a second longer before Renjiro answered.

"Before he disappeared he was looking into old forgotten magic. The spells he was researching were quite dangerous so I brought the matter to the king." He explained. "Kaori addressed the problem by asking Arnold to stop looking into the subject, and when he refused that part of the library was removed and put under lock and key."

"Arnold pouted over it of course, in his typical fashion but then seemed to get over it. After all it's not the first time that I've had to take things from him." Kaori added. "Honestly he's like a little kid at times. Anyway we quickly forgot about the incident."

"Until a few of the maids informed us that the locked rooms were in need cleaning and repair, as is the case every year. So I was put in charge of overseeing the maids to make sure nothing went missing." Renjiro picked up and continued where the king had left off. "As I was in there I began leafing through the books and found one page that was about the Triforce. This was around the time that we were receiving information about Hyrule's... Twilight problem." He said as if unsure what else to call it. "I was interested so I looked closer and realized that book was describing ways to remove the power from its bearers. And if remember correctly you are one of those bearer princess."

A shocked silence followed his statement.

"That is correct." Zelda confirmed after she found her voice.

"So you can understand our concern. It was around this time that we realized that Arnold was in fact missing." Kaori said next

Zelda nodded and looked deep in thought.

"He will need to be stopped." Link said quietly but with deep conviction.

Kaori and Renjiro looked to him as if for the first time.

"Yes, he will but it is not as easy as you may think it to be champion." Renjiro responded sternly but not unkindly.

"I never I expected it to be anything other than difficult, which is why we came to you." Link said with a humble nod to the two.

"We thought you might have some information on his weaknesses or traits that could be of use to us." Zelda added

Kaori was silent and looked down with a conflicted expression. "I know that I should help..." He said finally. "But Arnold has been a friend for a long time. He's like that weird uncle that you can't help loving." He chuckled. "I know he's gone too far this time so I'll help in any way I can."

Zelda nodded gratefully

"Unfortunately I don't much more than you do, Arnold was very secretive when it came to his work." Kaori said with a shrug. "However I do know someone who might be able to help."

Renjiro glanced at him with a slightly pained expression. "Must we involve him?" He asked

"It will be fine Renjiro," Kaori assured him.

"Him?" Link asked curiously

"Yes, the King of the Gerudo. He was quite good friends with Arnold and he may be able to tell you more than I can." Kaori answered

"Ganondorf!?" Zelda and Link both demanded at the same time.

"What? No! Shylock. No I thought Ganondorf was dead." the king corrected with a frown

"Can never be too sure." Zelda muttered under her breath

"I've never heard of this Shylock, who is he?" Auru inquired politely

"He's the King of the Gerudo as I mentioned earlier." Kaori said with a wave of his hand. "As I understand it every hundred years the Gerudo tribe has a boy born and that boy becomes the king, only problem was that when Ganondorf was king he didn't die. Then whenever a new boy was born he would kill them and continue ruling."

"With the exception of Shylock." Renjiro put in

"Yes I was getting to that. So this time when the kid was born they hid him and convinced Ganondorf that the boy died of an illness while Ganondorf was away. Long story short Shylock grew up in hiding most of his life so he wouldn't die, then, when you killed Ganondorf he took over." Kaori explained

"How did he come to meet Arnold?" Shad asked

"Well he had to hide somewhere didn't he? So the Gerudo approached us and asked… Well more or less demanded that we keep him here whenever Ganondorf returned to the fortress. And not wanting to get on their bad side we accepted." He said spreading his hands in front of him.

"And Arnold was here at the castle. That makes sense." Ashei completed the thought

"Yes, thankfully he wasn't here very often." Renjiro said

"Why? Was he problematic?" Zelda questioned

Renjiro and Kaori looked at each other with a wry expression

"He was a bit of a handful." Kaori admitted

"He's a thief." Renjiro shrugged

"Yeah ok, he is but he's a good kid." Kaori said then hesitated. "I think…"

Zelda chuckled faintly. "He sounds quite interesting."

"Yeah, him and Arnold got along really well so if anyone would know about his weaknesses it would be Shylock."

"So hold up... What does this mean? We have to go see him now?" Ashei asked

"Yes, we will travel to the Gerudo fortress tomorrow, then we can hopefully plan out what we will do next." Zelda told her

"Hear that Hugh? We're going back to the dessert! Isn't that so exciting?" Ashei teased

Hugh rolled his eyes but was smirking.

"Must you leave so soon?" Kaori asked somewhat sadly. "No one ever comes to visit me."

"Kaori-" Zelda chided with a smirk. "You know that we have to leave."

"Yeah I know, but you do have show up to that feast. If you don't people might assume that I threw you out."

"And we can't have that." Zelda teased. "Very well, we will be there." She promised

"Splendid! I will make sure that your rooms are arranged. Now if you'll excuse me I have to go and pretend to know what I'm doing in front of some dignitaries." He said after getting to his feet

"You should really take a vacation soon." Zelda smiled

"Sounds wonderful, if only there were less things to do." Kaori sighed wistfully

With that Kaori walked over to the door that they had come in.

"Oh Renjiro, would you be so kind as to show our guests to their rooms?" Kaori asked with flippant wave and a cheesy grin as he opened the door.

"As you wish your majesty." Renjiro rolled his eyes and threw the crown back to the king. Kaori smirked as he caught the crown, placed it on his head slightly crooked then waved as he left the room.

"If you'll follow me." Renjiro smiled and began toward one of the other doors. The group stood and walked with with him down a large hallway. It was a mixture of blue and silver decorations quite different from the hallway they been in on their way to the throne room.

Renjiro noticed their staring and said "The late queen was very fond of color so over the years she had all of the hallways painted and decorated in different colors from each other." He explained.

"She seems like she was a very happy person." Zelda commented

"Indeed she was, her passing left a unfortunate gloom over our kingdom that only recently has begun to lift." Renjiro said sadly

They walked in silence for a few seconds more when they came to the end of the hall and were about to turn the corner when a small blond boy came rushing towards them and ran right into Renjiro.

"Tobias! What are you doing?" Renjiro asked

The little boy looked up in surprise and clutched the book he was holding closer to his chest. Link noticed that he was wearing a blue and gray tunic with a small silver circlet on his head. He face was slightly flushed but he had astoundingly blue eyes that complemented his blond hair and freckles.

"Renjiro, I'm sorry I was in a hurry, I wasn't looking where I was going." Tobias apologized, bowing his head nervously

"That's alright but, why are you in such a hurry?" Renjiro asked curiously

"I didn't want to be late for my lesson." The boy explained

"But your lesson doesn't start for another half hour." Renjiro pointed out

Tobias looked down embarrassedly. "Yeah I know but I wanted to do some more research before the tutor arrived."

"Alright just be careful not to run into anyone else." Renjiro smiled and ruffled Tobias's hair.

"Ok." Tobias smiled shyly, then quickly walked off.

"That was Tobias." Renjiro smirked. "In case you missed that."

"I can see that he is like his father." Zelda commented

"At times yes, but most feel that he takes after his mother more. He loves learning while Kaori had to be forced to do any homework as he was growing up." He said with chuckling at the memory.

The walked for a few more minutes before they came to a yellow and beige hallway with many doors a few feet apart.

"These will be your rooms, as you can see this section is only for guests so if you need anything please just ring one of the bells and a servant will come to check on you." Renjiro said indicating to all the rooms. "And since we don't have any other visitors at the moment your all welcome to have your own rooms. There will be hot water brought to your rooms for a bath in the next few minutes. Also feel free to wander at your leisure, the feast won't be until after sundown."

"Thank you for all of your accommodations, we really appreciate your hospitality." Zelda told him

Renjiro bowed then left them to go the way that they had come. Zelda took the first room followed by Ashei, Link, Auru, Hugh and Shad.

Link opened the door to his room and carefully walked in, trying not to get the floor or walls dirty. The room was spectacular, it had a giant king sized bed with nightstand on either side holding beautifully crafted decorations all in a green theme. To the left there was a sitting area with two elegant fabric sofas with a shimmering leaf green. To the right was a desk with quill and paper as well as the door to what he later found to be the bathroom. A little ways away from the sitting area was a large wardrobe that had a small selection of sleepwear and men's and women's clothing. He placed a few of his clothes alongside them so as to keep them neat. The room had four floor to ceiling windows that overlooked a courtyard and orchard.

As he was looking out one of the windows there was a knock at the door. He walked over and opened the door. There was a small gray haired woman who looked like she was in her late sixties.

She looked at him expectantly and said. "I'm here to draw your bath sir."

Link quickly moved to allow her in the room then noticed that she had a large bucket of steaming water in her hands. He offered to carry it for her and she accepted gratefully.

"My old bones don't want to work as well as before." She said with a smile. "Most don't bother to help though, you must be nice kid." She commented with conviction as she began to fill the tub with water. "What are you visiting for? If you don't mind my asking."

Link smiled kindly. "I'm here with the princess." He explained

"Ah, a real beauty she is, although I'm sure you've already noticed that." She teased

He blushed and busied himself with helping to pour in the hot water. She didn't seem to notice and went on to talk about many of the different people who had come to visit the castle in the years past.

"And that count Ruegan, boy he was a nasty old sod, couldn't tell his left from his right but still ran everyone to the ground with his chatter, mind you he hasn't been around for many years now for which we're all grateful. I do wonder what became of his son though, prissy little thing but was sweet as pie when he wanted to be." She said half to herself and half to him. "There now that should be all ready for ya, be sure to enjoy, oh and if ya need anything else don't hesitate to ring."

Link promised he would and thanked her very much before walking her to the door. Not wanting to let the water get cold he went back to the bath and after removing his clothes sunk into the soapy water. After allowing himself to adjust to the temperature he started scrubbing at the dirt that had become almost like a second skin over their time outdoors.

Later after he had finished he dressed himself in one of the outfits that was in the wardrobe. It was similar to his normal outfit but instead of green it was a deep maroon offset by an almost black. He looked in the mirror and tried to make his hair take some sort of shape but quickly gave up and let it fall the way it wanted.

Feeling very refreshed he looked around the room trying to determine what to do next. There were still many hours until the feast and he was curious about the castle so he decided to go exploring. He looked to make sure that the room looked similar to when he had arrived then exited to the hallway. He turned to close the door when he heard on of the other doors opening. Looking to see who it was he saw Hugh coming down the hall towards him.

"Hey, where are you off to?" Hugh greeted

"I thought I would go explore a bit." Link answered

"Cool, you should invite Zelda, I'm sure she's not busy." Hugh commented

Link blinked. "I guess I could… I hadn't even thought of it."

"Well that's why you've got me around! To make sure you don't miss out on these opportunities!" He said lightly punching him in the shoulder.

Link rolled his eyes. "I don't know what you're thinking but this isn't an 'opportunity' as you so eloquently put it."

"Hey whatever you say." Hugh responded with a mock surrender. "Hope you guys have fun!" He teased then walked off to one of the other rooms.

Link signed and shook his head. He looked to his left and slowly walked to Zelda's door. His heartbeat sped up as he brought his hand close to the wood. He pulled away and saw that his hand was shaking slightly. 'Calm down' he told himself. 'Hugh's just got you all riled up, just relax it's just Zelda… Just the princess of your entire country who probably won't want to spend time with you anyway.' He shook his head. 'Ok that's not helping! it will be fine just knock and ask her if she wants to accompany you, it's not that hard, she can always say no' he steeled himself and quickly knocked on the door before he could talk himself out of it.

"Just a second." Zelda's voice came from inside the room. The door opened and revealed the princess

"Link! Is everything alright? You're looking a little pale." She said with slight concern in her voice

Link cleared his throat. "No, no everything is fine. I just was going to walk around and… I was wondering if you would like to come with me?" He said trying to keep the nervousness out of his voice.

"I would love to; just give me a second I just need to grab my crown." She smiled and quickly disappeared back into her room only to reappear a few seconds later with a happy smile still on her face.

Without another word the two began walking down the hall. A little after they lapsed into easy conversation and Link calmed considerably, now simply being content to be in the princesses company.

Ashei sank deeper into the luxurious bath she was currently enjoying. She felt the dirt drifting out of her pores as she rubbed her skin under the water. Once she had completed washing she somewhat reluctantly got out of the bath and pulled a towel around her. She dried off and changed into her comfortable gray shirt and black baggy pants. Giving her hair one last drying she tossed the towel on the counter and walked out into her main room. She was considering just going to sleep since she didn't have anything else to do when movement to her left caught her eye. Quickly looking to see what it was she grabbed one of her daggers.

"You've got to be kidding me." She muttered to herself.

Hugh was sleeping very comfortably on one of her silver and black couches. He had a book over his face but it was obvious that he was sleeping from his breathing. Rolling her eyes Ashei walked over to him and kicked him in the side. She didn't kick him too hard but it was enough to walk him with a start.

"Ow! Wha- oh hey you're finally finished." He said looking up at her with a smile.

"And you're here because?" She asked with a deadpan expression

"Well!" He said sitting up suddenly and putting his finger to his mouth in a thoughtful expression. "First, I had a bath, which was very nice by the way; then I came out into the hallway only to run into Link. Had to do some prodding but I managed to convince him to ask Zelda on a date." He paused. "Well close enough… Anyway! Then I was bored and I figured that there was nothing to do in my room so I came here!" He sat back and looked at her with an expectant smile.

"Did it occur to you that I might not want you here?" Ashei asked raising an eyebrow.

Hugh looked at her surprised. "You think that I would care? You never want me around, but that doesn't mean that I stop talking to you."

"Valid point." She shrugged. "Well I guess I didn't have anything to do anyway." She smirked as she ungracefully flopped on the other couch. "So Link finally manned up enough to ask her out?"

"With a little help from me of course." Hugh said looking very proud of himself

"Yeah yeah don't get a swelled head." Ashei said reaching over and tapping him on his head.

"Fine fine." Hugh smirked. "Your room is so much better than mine." He whined

"Why?"

"Because my room is pink." He said pouting

Ashei burst out laughing. "Seriously? That's awesome! I'm so glad I didn't get that room!" She laughed some more

"Shut up I didn't realize it was going to be pink!" He insisted

"Whatever." She teased

Hugh sighed "I wish we could go spy on Link and Zelda." He said wistfully

"Now that would be entertaining." Ashei agreed. "But since we can't why do we do something else for fun?"

"What do you suggest?"

"How about…" She said as she got up and went over to her bag. "I take all your money with poker." She grinned evilly while holding up a deck of cards.

Hugh grinned just as wide. "Well you're welcome to try." He taunted

Link and Zelda walked down a bright purple hallway talking about the different rooms they had seen and the people they had stopped to talk with. It was getting on into the afternoon but there was still plenty of time before they needed to head back.

"So where would you like to go next?" Link asked

"Well we've already gone to the kitchen, the throne room, twice, after getting lost." They both laughed at that. "And we've gone outside to the courtyard briefly so the last place I would love to see is the library." Zelda commented

"That sounds good and it would be a good way to pass the time as well." Link agreed

Zelda quickly went over to one of the nearby guards and inquired how to get to the library. After getting the instructions she hurried back over to Link and they began making their way through the different rooms and hallways.

Soon they reach a simple looking door with a small plaque to the left reading library. They entered without knocking the carefully closed the door behind them. Zelda gasped quietly.

"It's even bigger than mine!" She said with the biggest smile Link had ever seen.

"I take it you like it then?" He asked amused

"Oh yes." She said fervently. "Books are one of the things I get really excited about." She laughed nervously. "Sorry I know that's weird." She apologized

"No it's fine - it's nice to see you so happy." He said truthfully.

Zelda smiled gratefully then rushed over to one of the large bookshelves, eagerly looking at the selection. Soon she was out of sight, moving through many rows of books. Link chuckled to himself and began looking around as well but at a much slower pace. He skimmed through the history section for a few seconds before moving to the art books. He paused to look through a book on sketching before placing it back on the shelf and moving to the next section. Eventually he settled on a book about the Norachre myths and legends that promised to hold some interest. He wandered among the shelves until he came to a large sitting area with lots of windows and chairs. He immediately saw Zelda sitting in one of the chairs completely absorbed in a thick brown book as well as having a stack of other books sitting next to her chair. He walked over and sat in the chair opposite her. Link happily sat in silence and read along with the princess.

A servant quietly walked past the guest rooms. He had seen the princess and champion leave earlier but the others seemed to be staying in their rooms.

"HA! Take that!"

The servant almost jumped out of his skin as the yell came through the door. He looked at the second door in surprise.

"You little cheat!" Another voice yelled, causing him to jump again.

The servant quickly moved along, not wanting to get involved in any arguments between the guests.

Hugh stuck his tongue out at Ashei.

"What as that again about you taking all my money?" He taunted as he gloatingly took the pile of money from the middle of the table.

Ashei growled. "You just got lucky!"

"What-e-ver." He sang

"Shut up!"

Zelda finished her first book and looked up at Link. He was sitting peacefully with his head resting on his hand, his other hand holding the book up for him to read. His eyes half lidded and a small smile resting on his face he turned to the next page oblivious to the world. Zelda smiled to herself and began her next book.

Ashei and Hugh were locked in a stare down. Each waiting for the other to make the first move.

"Full house." She announced as she slammed the cards on the table.

Hugh groaned and put his cards on the table as well.

"Yes!" Ashei said joyfully as she thrust her hands in the air.

Hugh smirked. "Another round?" He asked

"Nah, I'm getting bored…" She said sitting back on the couch.

"I wonder what Shad and Auru are doing?" Hugh commented idly

"Something dull I bet." Ashei responded smugly

"Let's go find them then." Hugh said with a hint of excitement

"Well I did say I was bored didn't I?" Ashei drawled. Hugh took her hand and dragged her to the door.

"What are you doing?" Ashei asked startled at the sudden action.

"Uh…. Nothing sorry." Hugh responded a slight blush creeping up his neck "Let's go" he said dropping her hand the excitement replaced by embarrassment

Shad and Auru made their way down the hall towards the library.

"I am very pleased to have you come along Auru. I do appreciate the company." Shad said in an excited tone.

"It's not a problem Shad I would love to see it anyway….. But I would appreciate it if you could help me with something." Auru answered.

"Of course anything"

"You must help me spar." Auru paused at the pale expression that had appeared on Shad's face worried he continued. "I'm afraid I am terribly out of practice and require some assistance, you don't have to be on the receiving end, just count my hits."

The color started to return to Shad's face as he reluctantly agreed to Auru's offer. After a few silent minutes of walking they reached the simple oak door that stood at the end of an empty hallway. Excitedly Shad released the latch on the door and pushed it open. Inside was full of books all different sizes and colors and sitting amongst them was the princess and Link.

"Let's go do that thing you wanted to do." Shad said in a hurried and hushed tone.

"What? Why?" Auru said in the same hushed manner, he had yet to notice the scene being played out.

"I think the princess and Link would rather not be interrupted." Shad whispered back with a pointed glance toward the two.

Auru followed his gaze and smiled. "I think you're right, the training area should be this way." he said pulling the door shut behind them.

Ashei and Hugh made their way down the empty corridor towards Shad and Auru's rooms.

"Well I guess they're not here." Hugh said after knocking on the dark mahogany doors.

"Guess not" Ashei replied

"Let's go on an adventure!" Hugh exclaimed suddenly.

"Why are you hyper all of a sudden?" Ashei asked knitting her brow.

"I don't know why are you grouchy all of a sudden?"

"I'm not grouchy" she huffed.

They started walking down the hall again. After a few minutes of awkward silence they came across a servant

"We're looking for some of our companions, do you happen to know where we could find Auru or Shad?" Hugh asked her casually.

"I believe they were out on the training field last I saw them." She giggled and continued "the short one looked rather frightened."

Hugh and Ashei smirked at each other and after thanking the servant, rushed off toward the training yard.

The found of crashing metal echoed through the air accompanied by the occasional grunts and yells from the few pairs of soldiers scattered around the grounds.

"Keep that sword up Shad!" Auru instructed happily

Shad shakily lifted the sword higher. "What happened to just counting the hits?" He cried, then yelped as Auru brought another side swipe towards him which Shad managed to just barely block.

"Relax, it's not like I'm going to hurt you." Auru said over the sounds of the claiming steel. "Besides its good for you to learn!"

Auru swung the sword in a slowed downward curve. Shad quickly brought his sword up to block it.

"See? You're getting better!" Auru praised

Shad smiled shakily.

"Good now you try attacking me!" Auru instructed.

"I really don't think this is the best idea." Shad disagreed

"It will be fine, just do it like I did." Auru told him

Shad frowned but brought the sword up over his head and swung it down. Auru easily blocked it then smiled.

"Again!"

Shad took another swing, this time from another direction. Auru blocked then swung with an attack of his own. Shad jumped back and sloppily brought his sword up to block, only to fall over when the hit landed.

"Are you alright?" Auru asked as he bent down and gave his hand to help him up.

"Yeah I'm fine." Shad said placing his glasses back on his face.

As they got to their feet Hugh and Ashei arrived.

"Wow, I never thought I'd see the day!" Ashei laughed. "Shad sparing? How did you manage that?"

"He tricked me into it." Shad rolled his eyes but still was smirking

Auru chuckled. "Yes but he was a good sport about it."

"So, what are you doing out here?" Hugh asked curiously. "I thought we would find you in the library not be out here in the training yard."

"Well we were the library." Shad started

"But we didn't want to disturb Link and the princess." Auru finished

Hugh started to nod then frowned slightly. "Wait they're at the library?" He asked

"That's right." Shad confirmed.

Hugh smirked then looked to the sky. "What goes on in that head is beyond me." He muttered with a short laugh

"I thought it was a cute idea." Auru smiled with fatherly pride

"Not my first choice for a date, but to each his own I suppose." Ashei put in with a wide grin.

"No, no they're not 'dating' remember" Hugh mocked with a huge smile

"Well not officially maybe but they might as well be." Shad sighed and shrugged

Hugh looked at him in surprise. "Wow, I never thought you would be the one to say that." He commented

"I guess I'm not quite as naïve as I look." Shad said spreading his hands in front of him.

"Aww! He's growing up!" Ashei teased as she mussed with his hair. Shad quickly escaped her grasp and started patting his hair back into place, all the while half glaring at her.

"Yep it seems the only ones who haven't noticed yet are the princess and Link themselves." Auru sighed

"Yeah, I've been working over Link but it's taking forever!" Hugh whined. "I mean it's not that hard to tell a girl you like her."

"Riiiight. It's not hard at all." Shad drawled as he crossed his arms and looked pointedly at Hugh. Hugh quickly looked away.

"I'm sure they'll be fine." Auru told them. "Just give them time."

"I guess." Hugh said sullenly

"But it would be so much more fun to mess with them!" Ashei objected

"And a completely stupid idea." Shad mutter under his breath

"Says you." Ashei stuck out her tongue

"Enough you two." Auru reprimanded. "No one is going to mess around with Link and Zelda's relationship; they are perfectly capable of taking care of things in their own due time."

"Fine." Ashei relented

Link sneezed quite suddenly. Zelda looked up in surprise and Link gave her an embarrassed smile.

"You know, some people believe that when you sneeze it means that people are talking about you." Zelda commented

"Well I've never really been one for believing in things like that, but it is an interesting thought." He paused. "But if that were true, don't you think that you would never stop sneezing?" He asked thoughtfully

"I hadn't thought of that but I suppose that's a good point." She admitted.

"I see you're making good progress on your stack." Link said after a few moments with a small nod to the books at her side.

"Yes, a few of them didn't turn out as interesting as I had hoped, but this series had turned out to be very enjoyable." She said with a gesture to a group of five or six books that were similar in size. "What about you?"

He shrugged. "This book was pretty interesting, but I'm considering going to find something else because the rest of it mostly focuses the writers and how well educated they are."

"Here try this one." Zelda said as she quickly bent down and grabbed one of her books to hand to him.

"I really liked it, it's a bit silly but it's good to pass the time." She said as he flipped through the first few pages.

"Thank you." He said sincerely before beginning to read it.

"So how soon is supper?" Ashei asked curiously

"It should be in a few hours so we don't have to get ready just yet." Auru answered. "So that means Shad and I can continue sparring for a while longer."

Shad sighed heavily. "What fun." He said sarcastically

"Oh come on, don't be a wimp and get out there." Ashei teased then pushed him into the sparring circle

Shad rolled his eyes but did pick up the training sword.

"And you." She said suddenly turning her attention to Hugh. "I challenge you to a duel." She said as she sauntered to one of the other circles and picked up a sword.

Hugh's mouth twitched trying to contain a grin. "Challenge accepted." He told her as he picked up a sword of his own and dropped into stance.

Their eyes locked waiting for the other to make the first move. Hugh stood completely still, his sword held in a diagonal in front of him. Ashei held his gaze steadily, then without warning smirked and took the first swing, without so much as a sound. The swords single clang rang through the air as Hugh and Ashei both smirked at each other, their faces less than three inches apart. Ashei jumped back to her start position for a split second before attacking from another angle. Hugh spun and blocked again but this time shifted so that his sword pinned hers so the point was on the ground. Ashei yanked her sword free and moved to a defensive position to wait. Hugh chuckled and took his turn to attack. Ashei easily blocked but Hugh wasn't focused on a single attack instead he continued to reign down hits until the point that his sword became a blur. Ashei held her own and quick started counter attacking. Within a few minutes a small group of people had come to watch.

"Seems we've got an audience." Hugh remarked as he deftly avoided another slash.

"It would seem so." Ashei agreed sidestepping and blocking Hugh's sword. "Why don't we make things a bit more interesting?" She jumped out of the way and dashed over to the edge of the circle. Without a single pause she grabbed a second sword and resumed her onslaught of attacks.

"Oh so we're going freestyle are we?" Hugh smirked even wider. He dodged a side swipe and rolled to the outer ring of the circle. Jumping to his feet he clasped hold of three daggers that lay next to the other training weapons.

"Interesting choice but how are you going to hold all those?" Ashei scoffed as they circled each other.

"I guess you'll just have to wait and see." Hugh mocked as he twirled two of the daggers into his belt and held the last alongside his sword.

They ran at each other and clashed again, this time with an x formation, Hugh with his sword and dagger, Ashei with her double swords. Jumping back they attacked again with ending up with the same x lock. There was a murmur of appreciation from the crowd.

"Well this certainly makes things more interesting." Ashei commented idly as they held the locked position.

"I agree." Hugh drawled. "But I think that this sword needs to go."

Taking a step back he took a swing at her swords causing her to jump back as she blocked. Once she was out of range Hugh quickly slipped his secondary daggers between his fingers so it looked like he had claws. Running forward again he brought up his hand as Ashei brought her sword down. The sword clanged in between two of the daggers. Hugh smirked and twisted his hand, jerking the sword out of her hand and tossing it across the ring making a clanking sound as it skidded across the concrete. Eyes flashing Ashei slashed at his daggers and knocked them out of their positions to the ground below. Their swords blurred once again as they furiously attempted to gain the advantage. Within a short amount of time they found themselves once again in the same position of locked swords, they face inches apart. Ashei stared at Hugh with a look of deep concentration and determination while Hugh returned the look of one with cheerful lack of concern. Ashei pressed her sword harder and leaned forward in an attempt to throw off Hugh's defense but only managed to bring their faces closer together. Hugh's face turned to an unreadable expression and with lightning speed bent and kissed Ashei on the cheek.

Ashei jumped in surprise and fell backward. Hugh bright his sword up with its point at her neck.

"My win!" He said triumphantly his voice full of delight.

"What the in the name of Hyrule was that!?" Ashei screeched at him as he twirled around and bowed to the clapping soldiers around them.

"We were doing freestyle." He answered as if that explained everything

"That has nothing to do with what just happened." Ashei seethed

"Sure it does! In freestyle the competitors are allowed to do whatever they want to defeat their foe." Hugh stated trying to sound sophisticated but was unable to keep his teasing tone out of it.

"Hardy-har-har, so is that what you do to all your freestyle opponents?" she retorted as she got up and brushed herself off.

"Nah, the only other person I've done that to was my brother; most of my other opponents are forty year old men." He shivered. "That would be so weird." His face turned to one of slight nausea.

"Well-" she cut off suddenly. "Wait… you have a brother?" she asked in surprised.

"Yes?" he responded absentmindedly as he picked up the daggers.

"I thought you had a sister?" Ashei continued

"Yeah Aria, but I also have a brother. He just doesn't really like to admit that we're related." He shrugged

Ashei raised an eyebrow and waited. Hugh glanced over and sighed.

"He's going through a bit of phase right now;" He relented. "wanting to prove himself and what not, so we're not on the best of terms, but I'm sure he'll get over it."

"And is that why we didn't meet him at the village?" Ashei asked

"Well not exactly… he kinda ran away." Hugh admitted, rubbing the back of his neck.

"What!?" Ashei yelped. "How are you not more worried than that? What if he's hurt?"

"Oh he's fine." Hugh assured her.

Ashei glared at him.

"Ok! Ok!" he said throwing his hands in the air. "You know the group of bandits that we ran into earlier?" he asked

"What about them?" she asked suspiciously

"He's sort of involved with them." he said looking away

"Involved?"

"Alright fine! He's their leader." He acceded

Ashei stared at him stupefied.

"Like I said he's going through a phase. Said he was tired of being known as the younger brother or something silly like that." He rolled his eyes and made a 'what can you do' gesture.

Ashei was silent for a while before she nodded with a show of feigned sympathy. "That's rough buddy."

Hugh smirked and shook his head.

"Hey you never know, maybe we'll get to meet up with him sometime, those bandits are all over the place after all." She pointed out cheerfully

"True…" he agreed. "Plus he'd probably quite enjoy meeting you, being my brother and all." He said with a cheesy grin.

"That mouth of yours is going to get you into trouble one of these days." She retorted with a huff.

Before Hugh had a chance to respond a servant came rushing up.

"Excuse master Hugh but the King requested that I inform your party that the feast will be beginning in a less than a half hour." The servant said shyly.

"Thank you for telling us, if you want I can tell the others so you don't have to." He offered.

"Oh! That would be wonderful, thank you very much." The servant nervously bowed and rushed away.

Hugh turned back to Ashei. "I'll get Link you get Auru?" he proposed

"Meet back at the rooms?" she asked

"Sees who gets there first?"

"You're on!"

Grinning like little children they rushed off in opposite directions.

Hugh skidded to a stop outside the library doors. He stalked through the library looking for the two.

"Aha!" he exclaimed as he came around corner. "Found you!"

Link and Zelda looked up at him in surprise.

"Hugh, is everything alright?" Zelda asked concerned.

"Yup just came to get you guys since the feast is going to start soon!" he said enthusiastically.

"Oh it's that time already?" Zelda said as she got to her feet

"Yes now come on we've got to get back to the rooms." He said with impatience

"What's the big hurry?" Link asked also getting to his feet.

"Me and Ashei are racing to see who can get back to the rooms first." He explained with a self-satisfied smile.

"Do you two have to make everything a competition?" Link teased.

"No, but it makes things a lot more interesting." Hugh opened the door and let Zelda go ahead of them.

After walking for a few moments Hugh leaned over to Link.

"So how did things go?" he asked with a mild smirk and raised eyebrows

"How did what go?" Link returned

"Oh you know what." he joshed. "You seriously when to the library? Really, Link? For a first date it's hardly exciting."

"As I told you before, it was not a date. And besides so what if it's not exciting? She enjoyed it." He whispered calmly but with an edge.

"Yeah, yeah whatever." Hugh waved away his comment. "Please tell me you at least talked to each other at some point during the afternoon."

"If you must know we actually walked around most of the castle before going to the library, and yes we talked." He said in an 'are you happy now' tone of voice

"Ooooh, what'd you talk about?" he questioned

Zelda looked over her shoulder. "What are you two whispering about back there?"

"Nothing your highness!" Hugh told her cheerfully.

Zelda shook her head with a smile and kept walking.

"Come on man you've got to give me details!" he teased in a whisper.

"If you think that I'm going to tell you anything with you acting like an exasperating five year old then you are sadly mistaken." Link said with a triumphant sideward glance.

"That's harsh." Hugh pouted

Link just smiled and continued walking.

As they arrived back at the yellow hallway they caught sight of Ashei, Auru and Shad going into their rooms.

"You're late." Ashei stated as she sauntered over to Hugh

"Very funny, you totally had the advantage." He countered

"So?" Ashei countered

"So you don't win." Hugh said leaning closer to her.

"You're just jealous." She told him also leaning closer.

"Yeah yeah you're both super competitive we get it." Link interrupted as stood looking between the both of them. "Now may I please get in my room?"

Ashei and Hugh looked and realized that they were, in fact, standing directly in front of Link's room. Coughing embarrassedly they moved out of his way.

"Thank you." He quipped as he opened his door. "You may continue." He called to them as he shut the door.

Hugh smiled and turned back to Ashei. "I should also be going, try not to miss me too much." He said turning on his heel

Ashei gave a short laugh as she turned around as well. "You wish!"

Festive music floated out to meet them as the group arrived at the open doors of the feast. There were already many voices crowding over each other as they walked in. As people caught sight of them they began to applaud a few even coming up and greeting them personally. Link struggled to remember the names of all the different dignitaries as they were introduced.

"Relax, you won't have to speak to most of them again throughout the evening and if you do they'll be sure to remind you of their names." Auru whispered to him between greetings.

Renjiro and Tobias came over to meet them.

"Wonderful to see you all again, I trust everything was to your satisfaction?" Renjiro inquired politely

"Yes, thank you very much for the lovely accommodations, they were above and beyond our expectations." Auru returned eloquently

"How was your lesson?" Link asked Tobias after the two had finished

Tobias jumped slightly at being addressed but quickly composed himself and answered. "It was quite informative." He replied somewhat stiffly

Link smiled warmly and bent down to be at his level.

"Oh? What did you learn about?" He asked trying to bring the young prince out of his shell.

Tobias blushed slightly and tightly clasped his hands together in front of him. "We learned about the history of literature."

Link nodded thoughtfully. "And do you enjoy learning about that?"

Tobias nodded shyly. "I like poetry."

"Really? Well I know another person who likes poetry." Link said leaning forward in a confidential way.

Tobias leaned forward as well. "Who?" He asked curiously

"Princess Zelda."

"Really?" They both looked towards the princess who was at that time talking with a group of women, who Link assumed were wives of the dignitaries.

"How do you know?" Tobias questioned eagerly a smile growing.

"I saw her reading some earlier." Link answered, thinking about the afternoon in the library.

Tobias glanced towards the princess again, a grin now very present on his face.

"Tobias, Link perhaps you wouldn't mind shifting this conversation over nearer to the table," Renjiro tactfully said. "Your father should be arriving soon so the meal will be beginning."

They both nodded and followed him over to where much of the rest of their group had gathered. When Kaori did finally make his appearance he was quick rushed over to the head of he table to avoid the bombardment of questions. Renjiro clapped his hands to quiet the room.

"My friends and esteemed nobles I welcome you all to this wonderful event. I have the great pleasure of welcoming our guest of honor for the evening: Princess Zelda as well as her traveling companions." Kaori announced.

The other guest clapped tastefully at this before returning to their own conversations.

"Now if you all will be seated we may begin eating!" Kaori said, addressing them personally.

They each began moving to the end of the table to be seated. Tobias left the group and ran over to his father. Whispering something in his ear then returned to stand next to Link again. Kaori smiled and addressed Link.

"My son was asking if it would be alright for him to sit next to you this evening."

"Of course, That would be nice." Link responded as he looked at the beaming Tobias.

"And Zelda, I would be delighted to have you sit next to me tonight." The king said

"The pleasure would mine." Zelda responded

"Link I also would like to speak with you, why don't you have a seat next to the princess, then Tobias can sit next to you."

Link turned to him nervously. "Oh I don't want to impose."

"Nonsense, have a seat!" the king reassured him.

The king took his seat with Zelda on his right and Link beside her then Tobias and Auru. On Kaori's left were Renjiro then Shad and Ashei and Hugh.

"So I trust you were well cared for in my absence?" Kaori asked with a light smile

"Yes, very well, thank you." Zelda answered. "I hope your meeting wasn't too stressful."

"Not at all, in fact I almost fell asleep at one point." He commented with a chuckle

"And how did your council take that?" Zelda asked

"Needless to say they weren't impressed." Kaori responded. "But! I redeemed myself later by stopping a civil war over a fruit tray."

"Oh no, please don't tell me it was Duke Senguard and Olivn again?" Zelda groaned

"Yep!" Kaori quipped. "Said that Olivn was trying to poison him because he included strawberries, which of course everyone knows he's allergic to." He said in a tone that clearly showed that no one was aware of that fact.

Zelda sighed. "Honestly they never learn." She commented

Link smiled as he listened to the conversation, though he wasn't familiar with the people they were discussing he was simply pleased that the two were getting along so well. He felt a small tug on his sleeve and turn to face Tobias.

"Master Link is it true that you went to the twilight world?" He asked his eyes burning with curiosity

"Yes it is, and please just call me Link." Link said smiling.

Tobias smiled back. "What was it like?"

Link began to describe his adventures, stopping every few sentences to patiently answer the prince's endless supply of questions.

"I can totally see him as a father." Ashei commented to Hugh who in that moment was deeply engrossed in eating.

"Hmm? Who?" Hugh asked curiously

"Link obviously." Ashei responded with a roll of her eyes.

"Oh, yeah I guess." Hugh shrugged, not being particularly interested in the topic.

"Do you want to have kids?" Ashei asked suddenly

Hugh coughed trying not to choke on his food. "What? That's a very out of the blue question."

Ashei shrugged. "Just curious."

"Umm I guess, not for a little while but yeah," he paused think it over then smirked. "Just think wouldn't it be fun to have a bunch of mini Hughs running around?"

"More like horrifying."

"Ouch. That's kinda harsh." He said faking a hurt expression

"Oh don't be a wuss, you know I'm joking." Ashei teased

Hugh laughed. "And what about you, should we be expecting any mini Ashei's running around terrorizing the general populace?"

"Hey! I'll have you know that I was a very well behaved kid." Ashei objected

"Sure you were." Hugh said sarcastically

"I was! And besides if I were to have kids they would be little angels." Ashei said matter of factly.

"So I'll take that as a yes then?"

Ashei hesitated. "I don't know. I've never really wanted to settle down so I didn't think I would ever have kids."

Hugh looked at her carefully. "But?" He prompted

"But… Now I'm not so sure." She mumbled as she put another bite of food in her mouth.

Unsure what to say Hugh stayed silent for a moment longer. "Well, for what it's worth, I think you'd be a great mom."

Ashei glanced at him skeptically for a beat before responding.

"Thanks… And I guess I could return the compliment, I think you wouldn't be a horrible parent either." She smirked

"Aww, I'm touched, that might the nicest thing you've ever said to me." Hugh said holding a hand to his heart.

Across the table Renjiro, Zelda and Kaori were discussing the recent marriage of two nobles that they all felt were equally wretched when it came to personality.

"Would it be completely tactless for me to say that they deserve each other?" Kaori asked

"Yes." Zelda answered. "However that doesn't make it any less true." She added smirking.

They all had a laugh at that.

"Oh that's right, I meant to ask how long have you and Link known each other?"Kaori said waving a hand at the two.

"Hmm? Sorry were you talking to me?" Link asked when he heard his name.

"No, no I was just asking the princess here how long you have known each other." Kaori reassured him.

Link nodded and was about to turn back to Tobias when Zelda spoke up.

"Does the time while you were a wolf count?"

Link thought about it for a second. "I guess it would, although we didn't have too much time for lengthy introductions."

"True, so I would estimate about a year then; maybe a year and a half." Zelda said

"How nice," Kaori smiled. "And what do you two plan to do after this whole fiasco is finished with?"

"Back to ruling as usual I suppose why?" Zelda responded

"And what about you Link?" Kaori asked, ignoring the question.

Link shrugged somewhat uncomfortably. "I joined the Hyrulian group called the Resistance, the one that Auru, Shad and Ashei are all a part of, so I'll probably simply continue with that."

Kaori nodded but clearly wasn't really paying attention to what either of them had said.

"Just curious, but why isn't Link head of your army?" He asked placidly

Link and Zelda looked at each other for a moment.

"I don't want to." Link deadpanned.

"I did offer." Zelda continued after a second.

The king was mildly surprised by the response, and laughed awkwardly

"And why would that be? If you don't mind my asking."

Link thought about it before answering. "Because the Hyrulian Knights are pretty pathetic, and I'm not exactly interested in having to deal with them on a regular basis." He said with a mixture of disgust and exasperation.

"Oh." Was all Kaori responded with.

"Though I hate to admit it, Link is right." Zelda added.

Link scoffed but couldn't hold back a smile "Hate to admit it huh?"

"That's- I meant that I'm not happy that the army is pathetic, it had nothing to do with you." She said flustered

"Riiight." He said drawing out the word.

"I mean it, I'm not saying that you're never right!" She insisted getting even more flustered

Link covered his face as he laughed. "You're way too fun to tease."

"Would you be so kind as to moderate your voice?" She said trying to stop blushing

"Is that a really nice way of saying shut up?" Link smirked

"Yes."

"Okay okay, I'm sorry I'll stop." He said mildly

Kaori simply watched the whole exchange with a wide smile. Leaning over to Renjiro He whispered. "How long do you estimate?"

"I'm going with a little over six months." Renjiro responded his voice also a whisper.

"Really? I was going to say somewhere closer to four months." Kaori replied thoughtfully.

"They seem more the type to take things slow." He explained

"Good point." Kaori conceded

Neither Link nor Zelda had heard this exchange as they were too involved in discussing the new addition that had been renovated on the castle with Tobias.

"It's huge!" Tobias exclaimed excitedly, his earlier shyness all but disappeared. "Now there's a new room specificity for growing certain types of plants that can be used in spells!"

"Wow," Zelda exclaimed getting caught up with the young prince's enthusiasm. "And will you be using these in your spells?"

"Well… Not yet, but soon! My tutor said that I'm getting better so might and able to try some harder spells."

"That's exciting." Link added a little confused. "I'm sorry I don't not know much more about the topic"

Neither seemed to hear him as they continued to talk animatedly about various potions and spells that they had encountered. Link simply shrugged and turned his attention to Ashei and Hugh both of whom had long since finished their meals and were boredly pushing the scraps around their plates.

"You do know you don't have to stay at the table right?" He mentioned nonchalantly to get their attention.

"What else is there to do?" Hugh asked with mild curiously

"Dancing." He said gesturing to the multiple couples already on the dance floor, swaying in time to the music the orchestra was producing.

"Ok, you're dancing with me." Ashei said resolutely as she walked around the table and grabbed the back of Link's tunic and began pulling him after her.

"I am capable of walking by myself Ashei." He protested halfheartedly

Ashei didn't respond but did let him go once they reached the floor. The musicians began the next song. It was a lively faster-paced song. All the couples arranged themselves into two rows, women on the right and men on the left. Each side bowed and curtsied alternatively. Ashei choose to bow instead so Link good-naturedly curtsied in response causing Ashei to laugh quite loudly, drawing much attention to the two but Link smiled and didn't bother to think about what the others thought of him this evening.

As the music played on the group danced in a well-choreographed yet simple pattern that left them tired but still smiling.

"I'm surprised you're quite a good dancer Link." Hugh said as he lazily threw an arm around Link's shoulder.

Link nodded his thanks but was glancing around as he noticed Shad had also been invited to dance with a woman he had met earlier. Out of the corner of his eye he saw that Zelda, Kaori and Renjiro were still at the table but Tobias and Auru had clearly gone elsewhere.

"And what about me?" Ashei demanded, her hands on her hips.

"It was alright I guess." He replied boredly, clearly trying insight a reaction.

"Ha! And I guess you could do better?" She shot back

"Obviously."

"Prove it farm boy." She challenged

"Gladly." Hugh responded with great relish

Link watched happily as the two left. He turned his attention back to the table as he heard the first few notes beginning behind him. Kaori and Zelda were as before but Renjiro had gone off somewhere.

"Wonderful, I'll just have to tell Renjiro and things will be set up almost immediately." Kaori was saying as Link got closer.

"I'm glad that we can agree on this." Zelda replied lightly, clearly pleased.

"Yes I do apologize for the theatrics earlier, I simply wasn't sure what kind of a monarch you were, so I felt I shouldn't take any chances."

"I completely understand, and I'm actually quite pleased with how this all worked out. After all, it has given us a good chance to actually meet one another on friendly terms." Zelda pointed out.

"Ah, Link glad to have you back; how was Miss Ashei as a dancing partner?" Kaori greeted him as he sat back down at the table.

"Very pleasant." He said cheerfully.

"Glad to hear it, while you were away your princess and I came to an agreement, as it were, of a most pleasant kind." He said with a nod to Zelda to indicate that he wished for her to explain.

"Yes, we have decided to finally renew the alliance between Norachre and Hyrule." She said

Link was stunned for a moment but quickly snapped out of it. "That's amazing!"

"We're quite pleased with the development as well, however, I for one do not want business to overshadow this happy event some ought of this kind of talk." Kaori said resolutely.

As he finished speaking they heard the clapping that indicated that a song had finished. The musicians bowed and began to play a slow paced song which caused the coupled to take their places and drift in pairs around the dance floor.

"May I have this dance princess?" Link asked holding out a hand to Zelda.

"Only if you don't call me princess." She responded and took his hand.

As they made their way to the floor Link could help but notice Kaori giving him a thumbs up. Rolling his eyes with a chuckle Link purposely ignored him and focused back on Zelda.

The dance was simple just a few steps repeated over many times with an occasional added flourish. Both Link and Zelda gracefully took to the dance like a Zora to water. Others were slightly slower at adjusting to the slower pace.

"Having some difficulty there?" Hugh asked as Ashei once again stepped in his foot.

"Oh shut up." She retorted clearly irritated

"As you wish." Hugh said simply, he was not adverse to their situation in actually he was quite enjoying it.

"How are you so good at this?!" She exclaimed angrily

"We have festivals every year, great opportunity to practise." He answered then took the chance to twirl her before pulling her back into his arms.

Ashei went silent and Hugh thought he might have spotted a bit of red coating her cheeks. Smiling to himself he directed her across the dance floor keeping them in time with the music.

"You know… It might have been a bit easier for you if you had worn something other than the armor." Hugh pointed out with a glance at the offending garment

"What you mean like a dress?" She asked as if the idea left a bad taste in her mouth.

"It's just a suggestion." He said soothingly, not wanting to argue

Ashei hmphed but didn't seem upset.

Hugh twirled her again but this time carefully brought her back so that they were closer than before. Ashei clearly noticed the action but didn't comment instead she just looked to the side, the red now more profound.

As the music slowed to a stop Renjiro came to the floor and with a clap of his hands got the attention of the crowd.

"Ladies and gentlemen, the king and I would like to thank you all for participating in this wonderful evening, however like anything it must come to an end. Please return home safely and thank you again." He announced before turning and leaving, the king and Tobias close behind.

Link looked back at Zelda their hand still intertwined.

"Thank you for the dance, and for your wonderful company throughout the day." He said placing a small kiss on her hand.

Zelda smiled and blushed slightly. "The pleasure was all mine. Thank you Link."

Smiling Link moved to escort her back to the rooms.

"They are so cute together." Ashei commented to Hugh while they watched them leave.

"Yep." Hugh agreed

A beat of silence passed

"By the way… Why do you still have your arm over my shoulder?" Ashei asked her voice somewhat tight.

"Because it's comfortable." Hugh said nonchalantly. "Now, may I have the honor of escorting miss Ashei to her room?" He said with a playful extravagant bow.

"You mean the room that's literally two doors down from yours?" Ashei smirked

"That's the one!" Hugh responded happily

Ashei rolled her eyes with a smile. "I suppose I could allow it." She said linking her arm through his.