Inspiration: Forensic science, and detective instinct.
New Shout Outs: PrincessZelda450, AnonReviewer3.0, LightningLydia, and RageInStages
Original Author Note: Thanks for reading; ADDENDUM 12/29/2012- I'm including Saria's POV in this chapter. Thanks for reading. ~ZR~.
Chapter 2
I sat there with my mouth agape after she answered me.
"Saria is that really you?" I asked, not being able to believe it.
Why is she a Hylian? I thought. Why isn't she a Kokiri?
Saria stayed back from the counter and didn't answer. I knew my reaction startled her. It would have startled anyone. I leaned forward a little more, staring desperately into her eyes.
Say something reassuring to her, I told myself.
"It's me," I said to her, thinking that would cue her, "it's Link!"
That probably wasn't the reassurance to give Link, I scolded myself.
She swallowed hard, and her catlike eyes widened slightly. She was looking at me a little disturbed.
"Are-are you drunk sir?" she asked, detracting the subject.
"No," I insisted shaking my head, then added, "don't you know me?"
Saria stared at me for a long moment before answering. Her inquisitive blue eyes searched my face. She looked like she was honestly trying to see if my face fit anyone's in her memory bank.
I probably put her so ill at ease just now, I thought with a slight pang of regret at my presumptuousness.
"I… I'm sorry sir," she said to me nervous, "but I don't know any Link."
There was a brief silence between us after she said that. I looked at her confused for a moment, but then my confusion turned to veracity, and I realized how ridiculous I sounded. She had no idea what I was talking about. How could she know? It was impossible.
Saria's a Kokiri Link, I told myself, a Kokiri who lives in the Sacred Realm. This poor girl probably thinks you're crazy.
I brought myself back from leaning so far on the counter, and sat down on the stool. The uncomfortable silence stretched from a moment to minutes, and was only made worse by my feelings of embarrassment. I looked away from her and sighed.
Say something to her, I told myself, don't leave the situation as it is.
"I… I um… I'm sorry," I said finally, "I didn't mean to alarm you. It was a case of mistaken identity."
Saria bit her lower lip, and hesitated for a moment. She didn't answer right away, and watched me with a slight unease.
"Are you okay?" she asked me quietly. "You seemed really worked up just then."
I took in a deep breath and turned back to look at her.
"It's nothing, I'm sorry, I just thought…" I trailed, trying to find the right words, "I just thought you were someone I once knew."
Saria took in a deep relieved breath herself just then, and warmed her pretty face with a smile.
"It's okay," she said to me, "it happens."
I sighed again wishing for the unimaginable, and forced a grin across my face.
Saria's gone Link, get a grip man, I thought, you're going to end up bunking in Hyrule asylum with Cujo.
There was another short silence, until Saria finally broke it.
"So… how can I help you?" she asked me politely.
I rubbed my hands together awkwardly, still discomfited at how I acted.
"Uh…" I trailed, having to remember why I was there, "I need to have some clothes made."
Her blue eyes vivified with elation.
"Well, you've certainly come to the right place," Saria smiled wider, showing perfect white teeth, "what's the occasion?"
"I…" I trailed again, it was purely unintentional, "I'm getting married."
Saria's face brightened.
"That's wonderful, congratulations!" she said enthusiastic. "And you're in luck, I specialize in wedding attire!"
I wanted to match her enthusiasm, but my pride was making that an issue. I was the first knight of Hyrule now. My reputation hinged on the seriousness of how I took my position. In the past, I didn't care what the people thought of me. My service back then as just the hero was not a direct reflection of the royal family. There was no added pressure. However, since my knighthood, I no longer had that option. My actions were no longer just a reflection of me, they were a reflection of the royal family as well. And since I was going to marry into that family, I needed to show the citizens that I took the position seriously.
I paused for a moment when I pondered over that.
When did I start taking myself so seriously? I wondered all of a sudden.
"Lucky me," I replied, trying to regain what little dignity I had left.
Saria grinned at my tone, and surprisingly reached over and touched my shoulder.
"Come on," she nudged in a playful manner, "get over it big guy. It was an honest mistake."
I raised my eyebrows at her returned friendly nature. I was still reeling from how foolish I sounded a moment ago, and she was already willing to forget it.
That's the sign of a consummate professional, I thought.
"So…" she started, coming from around the counter to get a general look at me, "when's the wedding?"
I didn't answer immediately. I was too busy giving her a once over as she made her way over to me. She was roughly five feet seven inches tall, with a slender athletic build, and a more than robust bust line. I looked away so she wouldn't catch me staring at her bosom. Taking vital statistics was a skill I acquired through my journeys. Memorizing and guessing people's height and build was second nature to me now. It was a survival tactic I found very useful and kept sharp, even in this time of peace. I panned my vision back to her incredible green hair, wondering where she could have possibly inherited it.
It's most unusual, I thought.
I knew all the families in the surrounding regions of Hyrule, and no one had hair that color. No one. I knew this woman had to a foreigner, but from what area was what was boggling me.
I've never known anyone outside of the Kokiri Saria to have that kind of hair, I thought, and glanced at her pretty face once more.
For some odd reason she put her hands on her hips and snickered at me. I found it odd.
Why is she laughing? I wondered.
"What?" I asked her.
She smiled.
"Do you know you grimace when you think?" she divulged.
I raised my eyebrows, caught unawares slightly that she was studying me.
She's more astute than I gave her credit for, I thought.
"Excuse me?" I inquired.
Saria's smile widened.
"You grimace," she repeated, "and you were thinking weren't you?" she asked, then added. "Or were you just awestruck at my amazing dress design and decided to give me the job?"
I glanced at the tailored bow neck line, triple tiered dress. I knew those clothes were native to the women of Gerudo Valley, but with Saria's Hylian features and obvious different hair color, I knew she wasn't originally from there.
It wasn't your dress I was looking at, I thought, and quickly reneged, don't become inappropriate with someone you don't know, I thought, checking myself, but then looked into her lovely blue eyes once more, but I would like to know more about her.
I smiled, slightly embarrassed.
"A little bit of both," I replied.
"Well," she started, "you should take into consideration your facial expression while you do that. You look like the most un-fun man in the world."
I pursed my lips together.
Un-fun? I wondered. Is that even a word?
"Do I?" I asked.
"Yes," she replied, "and it's a shame, because you have such a handsome face."
The compliment caught me by surprise. She certainly had no qualms regarding her disposition.
"Uh…" I trailed, not sure how to answer.
She grinned.
"That was supposed to be an ice breaker," she said and went on, "let me try this then," she said and cleared her throat, but then paused and added, "do you like jokes?"
Her quick speech and unorthodox charm left me off guard. So much so, it made me smile again.
"Um, yes I do like jokes," I replied.
Saria cleared her throat again.
"Great, because I think you're going to love this one," she started, "this will be a true ice breaker okay," she stood erect just then, "are you ready?"
No one's ever done this with me before, I thought, this is definitely an unusual business transaction.
I sat up on the stool and nodded.
"I'm ready," I replied.
Saria grinned and put her hands on her hips.
"Why do tekkites eat raw meat?" she asked.
I gave her an oddball stare.
I wasn't aware tekkites ate raw meat, I thought, well, I guess they do, but I never stuck around long enough to see what they did with the carcasses.
"…I have no idea," I replied.
A big smile spread across her face just then.
"Because they can't cook!" she exclaimed, then immediately broke into laughter.
My odd expression never wavered. I must have missed the punch line, because I didn't know what the actually joke was. I glanced over at the older gentleman who was shaking his head.
"I told her it was a terrible joke," he said to me sympathetically.
I looked back at Saria who was still laughing, until she finally got a hold of herself.
"You don't get it?" she accused.
I raised my hands in surrender.
"Should I?" I asked.
Saria huffed and put her hands on her hips again.
"It's not semantics," she stated, "it's practicality. Tekkites can't cook because they lack the physical ability within their natural internal structure, thus the pun of the joke."
I gave her an incredulous look.
That's the premise? I thought in disbelief.
"Saria honey, that's a stupid premise," the elderly man chimed in, "if you have to explain a joke, then you don't have a joke."
I looked away and chuckled. He took the words right out of my mouth.
I completely agree, I thought.
Saria looked over at the older man indignant.
"Gramps, whose side are you on?" she demanded.
"After that my dear," he said, going over his account books, "I'm on the lad's."
I grinned at what the old man said. However, it was also then that I picked up on a subtle accent foreign to the region of Hyrule from him. It was definitely a western accent, but the enunciates were slightly different.
I wonder where he's originally from, I thought, the country is expanding, so maybe he traveled from one of the new provinces.
Saria shrugged, seeing she was the minority in this, and begrudgingly regressed to our reasoning.
"Fine," she said, catching a little glint from his accent as well, "both of ye can be stick in the muds if ya want to. I give up trying to cheer ye up."
They must have traveled in from the same area, I thought, they sound similar.
The inflection in her tone made me chuckle. There was something about her personality that was bright and refreshing.
She doesn't seem to have a problem taking herself too serious, I thought, she must be the life of the party on a night on the town.
Saria grinned at me, and shook her head with daft sarcasm at my laughter.
"So, now you're laughing?" she said mordant, conforming her accent to the standard Hylian once more. "I can help you now? The grimace is gone?"
I chuckled again, seeing her point and nodded.
"It's gone madam," I replied.
If Saria were a Hylian, I think she would look just like this woman, I thought, but then shook my head, leave that alone Link.
Saria took note of my action with another smirk.
"Something else bothering you?" she asked.
I smiled at her concern.
"No," I replied.
"Great, so let's try this again," she replied, "we'll start the consultation over. How may I help you this afternoon?"
I shook my head, but went along with it.
"I need some clothes made," I said in tune with the role play.
"Wonderful," she went on, "what's the occasion?"
"I'm getting married," I replied.
"Congratulations," she continued, as if that were her first time saying that, "when are you getting married?"
That was when I paused and scratched my chin at the inquiry.
That's a good question, I thought.
"You know what," I said nonchalant with a shrug, thinking my next comment was completely normal, "I honestly don't know."
For some odd reason, Saria started chuckling at that.
"You are such a typical man aren't you?" she joked.
I gave a weak smile.
She probably thinks I'm a jerk, I thought.
"That I am," I replied.
She shook her head and rolled her eyes playfully.
"Do you have a date set at least?" Saria inquired further.
I sat back, remembering that Zelda and I spoke about that earlier in the day.
Women must be in tandem on this, I thought humorous, but no, we don't have a date yet.
Zelda and I didn't have much of anything figured out for the wedding. We were still in the beginning stages after all.
"No," I said finally, "I just asked her two days ago."
Saria looked at me puzzled just then.
"…And you're already getting clothes made?" she asked. "Don't you think you should have a date set first?"
Now that I thought about it, she did have a point.
I guess maybe this is premature, I thought.
"We're kind of new at this," I joked.
Saria covered her mouth and chuckled softly again. She then put her hand to her cheek and sighed.
"Men," she said, shaking her head once more.
I lifted my eyebrows and shrugged.
"I agree," I replied.
That garnered another laugh from her, and I couldn't help but admire how strikingly beautiful she was.
She really is a vision, isn't she? I thought, not being able to help myself.
She stroked a lock of hair from out of her eyes, but before she moved the strand, she stared at it for a moment. My eyes widened slightly at her doing that, and a flash of a memory came to my mind. Saria the Kokiri used to do that same nuance when she touched her hair.
Wait a minute, I thought all of a sudden.
"Who…?" I trailed, not knowing if I should ask or not. I didn't want a repeat of earlier.
Saria raised her eyebrows with expectance at my question.
"Who what?" Saria continued.
I hesitated, not knowing if I should continue.
Let it go Link, I told myself for what seemed like the one hundredth time.
"Who... uh," I was trying to think fast, "who told you about this vacancy in Kakariko?" I asked finding a weak segue.
Saria narrowed her eyes slightly, and gave me an odd expression. She obviously knew that wasn't my initial question.
"You want to know who told me about this shop?" she repeated incredulous.
"Yeah," I said forcing a smile.
Saria raised an eyebrow and shook her head just then.
"You've really got the pre-wedding jitters don't you?" she asked me.
I looked at her surprised and realized she was giving me a flawless way out.
Yes, that's the perfect excuse, I thought, I didn't even have to think of a scapegoat.
I sighed in a bit of relief.
"Actually, I do," I replied honest, "and her father is the scariest part."
Saria looked at me with empathy and crossed her arms over her chest.
"Aren't all in-laws scary when you first meet them?" she replied sensibly.
It's different when you've known the man for eight years and he still scares you, I thought humorous, it's amplified more when he's the king.
"One thing I always tell my male customers is this: think back to what made you fall in love with your girl in the first place," Saria went on, "after that, they're usually fine."
I nodded, going along with what she was saying, finding it sensible and practical.
She's probably given that advice a hundred times over, I thought.
"I suppose," I replied.
She smiled.
"Just give it some time," she said, "you'll see you've made the right choice."
I nodded again sagaciously at her reasoning.
"I'll go with your tailoring instinct and trust that you're right," I replied.
"Of course I'm right," Saria said to me.
Her reply got a smile out of me, and that seemed to satisfy her.
"Now that we've taken care of the psychological aspect of the fitting, let's see if we can get you tailored properly," Saria said. "What exactly did you have in mind?"
I shrugged.
"Well…" I said with a sigh, "I'm not exactly sure."
Saria looked unfazed by my reply.
"Okay," she replied, "what is your wedding theme?"
I raised my eyebrows at that.
Theme? I thought. Don't people generally say 'I do' and be done with it at these events?
"'Love' I suppose," I replied, saying the first thing that came to mind.
Saria looked at me with another crank expression.
"You don't know the theme of your own wedding?" she asked me in disbelief. "You really are new at this."
"Well..." I trailed, not having much of a reply.
"How about your color palate?" Saria asked, trying another approach. "What is the primary color?"
"White," I said quickly, "a whole lot of white."
I must have said it with a dry undertone, because my comment precipitated another laugh from her.
"You must not like white very much," Saria replied.
I shrugged again.
"It's kind of bland and traditional," I said, not caring one way or another, "but if it makes her happy, I'm all for it."
Saria nodded with approval.
"Smart man," she said to me.
All I knew was that was what Zelda wanted, and what the bride wanted, the bride got.
I will not argue with a woman about her wedding day, I thought, it's just best to just let her have what she wants.
"See," I said to Saria, flashing her a charismatic smile, "I'm not so bad at this."
She nodded.
"You're getting there," she replied smiling back.
"Yeah," I said, and stared a little too long in her pretty eyes.
Am I flirting with this woman about my soon to be wife? I thought incredulous. Zelda would kill me if she saw how I was acting right now.
Saria clapped her hands together and looked at me excited just then.
"You must have a divine providence over you, because I have just the thing for you," she went on, changing the subject.
I found that saying humorous.
"Divine providence huh?" I asked. "What did you have in mind?"
Saria bit her lower lip with enthusiasm.
"Wait here, I'll go get it," she said.
Saria then went back around the counter and disappeared into the back room. A moment later, she returned with this beautiful white metallic fabric. I looked surprised that such a humble place had such an expensive looking wear.
"Oh wow," I heard myself say inadvertently.
"You like it?" Saria asked.
"It's amazing," I said, taking hold of the fabric to get a good feel, "what is this made from."
"Crushed goddess plumes and Eldin ore," she replied, "it's been hand pressed into the satin to give it its unique look."
Saria fanned the material out so I could have a better look. When she said Eldin, it made me pause and look at her for a moment. Eldin Province was a reacquired land that expanded the boundaries of Hyrule. It was once part of the kingdom explicitly, but years ago during the Great War, it was taken over by enemies of the state. After negotiations and reparations recently, the province was repatriated to Hyrule.
"Is that where you're from?" I asked, trying to be furtive as she stepped towards me and pressed the fabric onto my shoulder. "Eldin?"
Saria shook her head no, and didn't answer any further.
"I hear that province is really opening up since the building of the new bridge," I went on.
Saria merely glanced up at me and smirked.
Nothing, I thought, I'm getting nothing.
"I think this could really work," she said absently, as if talking to herself, "but I think I'll just put this in your cloak; too much sequin can be a bad thing."
I had to give her credit, she was definitely perceptive. She knew I wanted to know more about her.
Let it go Link, I told myself yet again, it's not your place.
"Do you think your bride would like this?" Saria asked, directing the subject back to me.
I looked at the fabric, and then back to her.
"What do you think?" I asked. "You're a woman, you know what your sex likes better than I do."
For some odd reason, that made Saria blush. Her reaction caught me by surprise, because I wasn't intending anything from it. However, I had to admit, the color made her look even more beautiful.
Okay, I better lay off this, I perceived, I must be making her uneasy. She's just trying to do her job.
There was a brief silence between us.
"I… I think she'd like it," she replied finally, now avoiding my eyes, "I certainly would."
I knew I made her uncomfortable just then.
"Then... I think the decision is made," I replied, trying to lighten the mood.
Saria nodded and hurried, it seemed, to go back around the counter to put the fabric away. I turned around on the stool, and watched her carefully. Her actions seemed more guarded now. She didn't seem as carefree as our previous conversation allotted.
Great, I thought, wanting to avoid that.
The awkward blarney between us increased when neither one of us said anything for several minutes. It was only made worse with the elderly gentleman staring at the both of us in the background.
Let me diffuse this situation before it gets worse, I thought.
"Um…" I trailed, looking down at my hands, "I think I should apologize to you."
Saria looked up at me surprised when she heard that.
"What?" she asked.
I took in a deep breath.
"I want to apologize for the whole mistaken identity thing," I said, "I probably made you very uncomfortable."
Her eyes widened, but I saw the small bit of relief thereafter she heard me say that.
"It's okay," she said to me, "there are worse things that could happen."
I nodded.
"True," I said in agreement.
We were silent again, until Saria finally broke it.
"Well… I'm going to have to ask you to come back in a couple of days," she said all of a sudden, "all of my supplies are still packed away and it will take me half a day to get them out. I'll have to fit you then."
That was reasonable enough.
"Alright," I replied, finding it no problem, and was secretly happy I had a reason to come back so soon, "thank you for your time Mrs…"
She fanned off my titling her with a gesture of her hand.
"You can just call me Saria," she replied, "I'm not married."
I nodded at her reply.
"Right," I said, "well… thank you Ms. Saria, I'll see you later this week."
"Okay," she said with a smile, "have a good day."
"You as well," I replied, and got up from the stool to make my exit.
And that was my first acquaintance with the girl with the green hair.
~SSS~
Saria's POV
When the handsome gentleman left, I turned my attention to gramps in inquiry.
"Do you have any idea who that man is?" I asked him.
He shook his head, but then gave me an obvious stare.
"I don't know who he is," he replied, "but I do remember him saying something about him getting married."
I shot gramps a dirty look, slightly offended that he felt he needed to remind me of that.
"I'm well aware of that," I replied, "I just wanted to know who he was. He was bent on believing he knew me."
Gramps chuckled when I said that and continued with his accounting.
"If I was a young man and saw a woman as beautiful as you," he started, "I'd pretend I knew you too."
I put my hands on my hips when he said that.
"Come on gramps, be serious," I replied, "he wasn't just saying that to say that. I think he really thought he knew me. He said my name before I even introduced myself. Who does that? Maybe he did know me, the problem is, I have no idea who he is."
Gramps raised his eyebrows and smirked at me.
"Saria my dear, let me tell you something," he started, "you don't have as much experience as I in life, and you don't know all the whiles of impervious young men. However, I'm telling you that young man thought he knew you because he was attracted to you."
I took in a deep frustrated breath after hearing that. I knew gramps was trying to protect me, but sometimes I felt he was a little too over protective. I didn't know anyone in Hyrule, and I wanted to make as many friends as I possibly could. I had no intentions other than innocent ones about the stranger who just left. It was already hard for me to get acquainted with new people because of their natural distrusting disposition, and the inhabitants in Kakariko were obliging, but standoffish at best. That young man named Link was the first person to actively engage me on something other than business. I will admit he did make nervous with the way he was staring at me at first. However, there was a kindness about him that was apparent beneath all his seriousness… and he did seem very serious.
I wonder why, I thought.
I knew he was stationed as an officer, or some form of public service from the way he was dressed. He was carrying a sword, he wore gauntlets, but he kept the rest of his attire shrouded underneath his cloak. He also had a very subtle scar on his left hand.
Maybe he's in the military, I thought.
Even while sitting, he looked like he was about six feet two inches tall, weighed possibly about two hundred and ten pounds of lean muscle, and had the most striking blue eyes I had ever seen. I wasn't going to lie, he was extremely handsome.
His bride is very fortunate, whoever she is, I thought with a grin.
I sighed at my thoughts and let them come to fruition.
"Well, in any such case," I started after my introspection, "you needn't worry. He's just a customer, and once I'm done with his wears, I won't ever see him again."
Gramps raised an eyebrow at me saying that, and shook his head.
"We'll see, Saria my dear," he said, "we'll see."
I ignored the sarcasm in his voice as it was starting to irritate me.
You can't assume everyone's actions gramps, I thought.
"I'm actually going to close up shop early today so I can get things organized, then retire to bed," I divulged, changing the subject.
Gramps gave me a look of inquiry.
"Why so early?" he asked.
I raised my eyebrows and bit my lower lip.
"I need to get up by dawn," I said, "I have some business to attend to in the morning."
Gramps narrowed his eyes slightly.
"I wasn't aware you had any engagements tomorrow," he stated.
I know, I thought, I wanted to keep it that way.
"It's nothing too strenuous," I said, "besides, it'll be good for me to get out on my own."
Gramps hesitated at me saying that, but then digressed to my reasoning.
"Well," he said, "you are an adult and I can't stop you, just be careful."
I smiled at him.
He worries so much about me, I thought, it's actually very kind of him since we aren't related.
"I will," I said, and then headed to the back storage room.
I pulled a wicker basket from the top shelf that housed some traveling clothes. I only used these items for special occasions, and when I pulled out what I was looking for, I grinned.
"This is perfect," I whispered to myself, "tomorrow promises to be an interesting day."
~SSS~
Link's POV
The next day I woke up at dawn.
My residence was a villa at the heart of Castle Town. I stayed alone to warrant some privacy. The king initially wanted me to stay in the castle, but I wouldn't have it. It was bad enough I could hardly speak two words without having them industriously circulated throughout the region. It was another thing to live my life in a complete fish bowl. I knew that day would come soon enough.
I look forward to it, I thought with open sarcasm.
I dressed in my green tunic for the hunt, along with my leather gauntlets, and I commandeered my large quiver for extra arrows. Royal elk were tenacious, viable creatures that resembled forest deer. However, what made them different was the rare golden strip that ran down their backs. If they sensed they were in danger, they would run without hesitation. However, it was often to their disadvantage, because when they ran the strip left a golden iridescent trail on the wind making them easy to find. The irony was, what made them so rare, was what made them so easy find. Even still, they were not easy to kill.
Never underestimate backed up prey, I told myself.
I tested my bow to make sure my string was taut, but easy with its release. I'd been practicing with the bow for eight years now, I was easily the best marksman in the kingdom, but every marksman could have a bad day. I packed my hunting knife in my boot, and tied my cloak around my neck. I knew I had to be ready because Daphnes would be calling on me soon. I left my villa, and walked out to the drawbridge and called for Epona. I mounted her and looked upon the horizon and saw the first few evidences of sunrise. The light casted over the trees like a beacon from a lighthouse.
It's a beautiful day, I thought, with my breath evaporating against the dew frosted morning air, beautiful like Hyrule is everyday.
A moment later, I heard the trot and billow of another Hylian mare. I turned to see Daphnes accompanied by a small royal guard. I raised my brows when I saw the size of the party.
He wants to go hunting with a small platoon? I wondered in disbelief.
"Good morning Sir Link," Daphnes said to me in a low respectful voice.
"Good morning sire," I replied, bowing my head.
Daphnes trotted up next to me and took in a deep breath, then looked preponderantly at the horizon.
"You smell that Link?" Daphnes asked me suddenly.
I looked over at him with expectancy and didn't reply, but gave him my attention.
"That is the smell of destiny," Daphnes replied in his deep portentous voice.
I merely looked out at the skyline where he was looking.
Destiny huh? I thought, wondering what he meant. A hunt hardly seems like destiny.
"Today is the day you step from being merely a man to a king," Daphnes told me.
I remained silent, listening to his words soberly.
"Today is the day where I determine if Hyrule is in good hands or not," Daphnes said serious, then looked over at me, "will she be in good hands, son?"
I nodded seriously as my reply.
Daphnes smirked, signifying his approval of my answer.
"Then let's have at it!" the king said with sudden enthusiasm, then abruptly giddied his horse.
I grinned at him and quickly followed suit, as did the rest of his guard. We rode along for several miles, until we hit the outskirts of Hyrule field and entered the newly maneuvered territory of Faron woods.
Faron woods was a recent discovery.
Within the last few years, individuals of pretty significant importance traveled deep into the Lost Woods and disappeared. Many thought these officials died due to the curse said to happen there. The one that stated any Hylian would turn into a Stalfos if they got lost. It turned out, those same aristocrats reappeared again years later. Their explanation? There was a deeper, even more densely populated forest hidden away beyond the outskirts of the forest. With this news in tow, geologists and cartographers from all over Hyrule stumbled onto the place and had a field day with the discovery.
No one knew about it until recently.
Five years to be exact.
It was quite a mystery that such a forest existed and was only now being descended upon. Also too, within the new territory the royal elk made new homes to protect themselves from poachers. It was reported dozens were nesting there. King Daphnes made it a decree that it was considered treason to kill a royal elk. Most people thought it was a noble act to protect the endangered species. I couldn't help but think Daphnes wanted it as his own personal sport. The royal family did have a notorious bloody history for the love of the hunt.
Keep a favorable eye Link, I told myself, stop being such a cynic.
The brigade surrounded Daphnes as we looped around a deceitful looking precipice. The cliff forked over to a chasm that reflected light upward, causing the surroundings to look like a mirror image of itself. If a rider were not careful, they would find themselves at the bottom of the gorge. I looked around to make sure everyone was riding steady.
Having such a large party makes this more dangerous, I thought, all the added weight could cause the rocks underneath to give way.
I let my thoughts recede when we rode further into the forest. We eventually came across a cave that led to an alcove deep in the woods. Seeing that this was our destination, we all dismounted, ready to descend on the elks purported den. I went to the fore of the guard to take the lead in protecting the king, when suddenly the sound of another horse's hooves precluded the air.
What's that? I thought, and then quickly snapped my fingers.
The brigade quickly went to guard formation with the king in the back, and I readied my bow.
"Who would dare-?" Daphnes began to demand, but I put my finger to my lips to silence.
"Please sire," I whispered with respect, then turned back to the front.
Who could possibly...? I wondered myself.
The horse's hooves galloped closer and closer, then abated. When the brigade and I saw the long blonde flowing hair, we all sighed a collective sigh of relief.
"Zelda!" I said surprised, putting my bow down to and went to greet her.
Zelda smiled and quickly dismounted when she saw me. She was dressed in hunting pants and leather boots, she also had her bow in hand. It seemed she was going to join the hunt whether her father liked it or not, and Daphnes was not pleased.
This should be interesting, I thought.
"Zelda what are you doing here?" Daphnes demanded.
Zelda didn't answer right away. She looked between her father and me.
"As the soon to be wife of the future king," she began, "I think it necessary that I take part in this hunt father."
Daphnes was not amused.
"I already told you you can't, go home immediately," Daphnes commanded, "this is no place for a woman, let alone a princess. I told you this is a rite for princes and kings only."
I grinned at his words finding them a little out of place.
I guess Daphnes forgot about her Sheik stunt, I thought.
Zelda looked undeterred.
"Seeing that there are no princes here, since you have no sons," she divulged curt in a fashion, "and Link isn't king yet, I think I have every right to be here father."
I know she's trying to make a point, but ouch, I thought, that was a little harsh. No princes? I'm not the king? I almost feel like she thinks she's doing me a favor.
There was a definite tension in the air, the brigade stood down and I merely watched, knowing this battle was going to end in Zelda's favor. She was the princess and daddy's little girl after all. Daphnes grunted under his breath upset.
"Zelda I'm not going to tell you again," Daphnes warned.
Zelda didn't budge.
"Neither am I father," she said keeping her tone respectful.
I saw the discomfiture in Daphnes' face.
As a man, he didn't want to appear weak in front of his subordinates.
"Zelda!" Daphnes said loud and imposing, trying to intimidate her.
Zelda merely stared back, but before she could reply and argue her case further, a royal elk galloped past her. It happened so quickly we nearly missed it.
"That rascal is fast," I whispered to myself.
I quickly armed my bow and ran after it, Zelda hastily followed, and the conversation with her father quickly dropped.
"Zelda!" Daphnes called after her, but she ignored him and kept her pursuit behind me.
The royal elk trotted evasively through the trees, and I paced myself to stay on its tail. Daphnes grunted his frustration, but then quickly gestured for his men to follow. The brigade stayed at a distance allowing the king to come forward and join Zelda and me. I stationed myself behind a tree when the royal elk stopped and drank water from a spring. I signaled for Zelda to go behind another tree and ready her bow. Daphnes positioned himself low behind a log. The royal elk was still quenching its thirst, when Zelda peered from behind the tree and drew back her bow string. Her form was perfect, and she let the arrow fly. The royal elk alerted itself to the danger and dodged the arrow.
"Damn!" I heard Zelda mutter to herself.
That was the thing with hunting these animals, they were never as vulnerable as they seemed. Even still, I looked over at her and blew her a kiss, signifying she did a good job. She fanned off my good deed by running closer to the spring to have another shot at the animal. She pulled back and released, her form wasn't as good as it once was and she missed again.
I smirked, sensing her frustration and went down to meet her.
"Try it like this," I said, taking her hand in mine and pulling her arm back, "keep both eyes open and zero in on the target."
Zelda listened to me silently, then released the bow. A moment later, a sharp whine fills the air. She was an excellent markswoman by nature, but from time to time she'd let her form suffer.
"Bingo," I whispered into her ear.
Zelda turned and smiled at me; she kissed my nose sweetly.
"Thank you my love," she said, "you've been most instructive."
Zelda then turned her attention to her father.
"How about that father?" she taunted. "Not bad for not being a prince."
Daphnes initially didn't look pleased, but when he saw how well Zelda had done on her third shot he softened a little.
"Technically, you had help," he said, "I consider that Link's kill."
Zelda scoffed with indignanation.
"We'll see," she replied, she then turned to me, "no helping me this time, the next one is mine."
I smiled at her.
"Fair enough," I said.
We doubled back, and headed to the cave we were initially at. We headed in with the brigade behind us. The clearing led to a densely tree canopied woodland. A strange mist permeated the area. I'd never seen the mist in here before.
This is odd, I thought, feeling the hairs on the back of my neck stand suddenly, why do I feel a strange sense of danger?
I chose to ignore it, and signaled for Zelda to cover the eastern perimeter while I focused on the western perimeter. Daphnes, being the presumptuous man he was, headed down the center into the mist.
I sighed at the sight of him doing that.
Not the best idea, I thought of the king's action, we have no idea what this mist can doi.
The guards broke off into sets. A group followed the king and another followed the princess. I sidled along an edge and spotted a royal elk eating some grass. It must have heard me approach, because its ears perked. Its head rose and I signaled for Zelda to take the shot. She pulled back her bow, ready to release, when suddenly a sharp whistle zipped through the air. It took me a moment to realize it was an arrow from another bow.
What the...? I thought, lowering myself back behind the tree for cover.
I glanced up to see what direction it had come from. I then looked over at Zelda and realized the arrow was intended for her. I quickly abandoned my post and ran over to her. The guards were already protecting her, but I arrived in time to push her down to the ground to avoid another arrow.
"Look out!" I called as we fell to the ground.
Zelda eyes widened a little bit of fear, she stared into mine nervously.
"What was that?" she whispered in a shaky voice.
I shook my head and stayed low, not having an answer for her. I looked toward the direction it came from again. It was silent and dark, I tried to still my breath to listen with more clarity. Another terrifying whip buzzed through the air. This time it landed in one of the shoulders of the guards.
"Ah!" the poor man cried out.
That was enough for me to see. Whoever was out there was intent on killing the princess.
"Get the princess out of here now!" I ordered. "Take her back to castle along with the king."
I turned around to find king Daphnes whereabouts. He was heavily covered by his guards and heading for the cave exit. Another arrow whipped through the air, it missed my ear by a millimeter. I quickly hid behind a tree again and readied an arrow in my bow.
"Link what about you?" Zelda asked me worried, as the guards whisked her toward the exit.
"I'll be fine," I replied and turned to take a shot, "I'll cover you as you escape. Now go!"
Zelda apparently didn't believe me.
"I'm not leaving without you!" she called to me determined, but was already being pushed back towards the cave.
I knew she was worried about me, but I couldn't have her and Daphnes there, and try to protect them both. It was too much of a distraction. I really didn't even want to talk, as it was giving my position away.
Just go Zelda, I thought.
"I'll see you later at the castle!" I called back to her. "Just hurry and get out of here!"
Zelda bit her lower lip anxiously.
"I better see you again Link!" she called over to me still being forced towards the exit.
I set another bow and fired another shot.
"You will!" I called back, shooting another arrow into the darkness.
"I love you!" she called to me one last time before being forced back into the cave.
I set another bow as silence descended upon the area.
"I know," I whispered to myself.
I set myself behind the tree and waited for the archer to strike again. With everyone gone, I would be able to hear the individual's footsteps more clearly.
It's just you and me now you bastard, I thought.
Instead of an immediate zip, I heard the popping and cracking of twigs and foliage.
So, now you're on the move, I thought, silently maneuvering from the ground to climb the tree I was hiding behind.
I had a much better view of the typography from the above landing, but I also knew I was a sitting tekkite up there if my cover was blown. I dug into my satchel and put on a set of eagle eye goggles I made for sniper sight. I adjusted the setting and looked around. I saw a hooded individual with a projectile crossbow in hand. They were moving toward the western perimeter where I once was.
How the hell did they get over there so fast? I wondered.
I readied a bow, and pulled the string back for full recoil. I waited until the individual was stationary, then took my shot. I missed the head by an inch, but I was able to knock of the hood. The assassin was wearing a cowl and headdress to conceal their identity. The assassin quickly moved behind a tree.
"Damn," I muttered to myself, having to quickly get down from the tree and find another vantage point, "I had them with that too."
I dropped low to the ground and crawled in the center of the area underneath the mist. It was the best choice, it left me with an element of surprise.
I shouldn't have been so quick to chastise Daphnes, I thought, the cover here is exceptional.
I saw the assassin point the crossbow to the other side where I once was and fire. I paused, waiting to continue right when the shot was fired. I began to sweat a little from nervousness, and that wasn't like me.
Whoever this is, they're no amateur. I thought.
The assassin moved after the shot. They tried to darting for the cave Zelda and the king just escaped too; that was when I made my move. I quickly got up and sprinted after him. I tackled him down to the ground, and we both hit it hard with a resounding thud.
"Ah!" the assassin cried out.
I immediately pulled out my dagger from my boot and stationed it at his clothed neck.
"Who are you?" I demanded. "Why the hell are you trying to kill the royal family?"
The assassin didn't answer me, and to my surprise he wrapped his free legs around my neck and maneuvered himself from my hold. He was quite limber to pull that off. He then got up, and took off running into the mist.
I was shocked. It wasn't like me to lose my captors.
Oh no you don't! I thought, getting up and running after them.
The assassin was fast and nimble, but I was gaining on him. He stopped abruptly, turned, and tried to slice at me with a dagger, I side stepped and immediately countered with a strike of my own. The assassin back flipped twice away from my attack, and decided running was the better option for him. He ran deeper into the forest, jumping over thickets and swinging on vines.
Who is this acrobat? I thought, with a certain amount of misconstrued admiration. Their skills are exemplary.
However, I could tell he was tiring, and on his landing I heard a crack. I knew then he injured himself. I pulled out my bow, ready to end this senseless fight. I pulled back my string, setting my arrow, then released it. The arrow was bullseyed for the head, but it suddenly stopped in its mid-range pursuit, when an invisible barrier halted it.
What the...? I thought surprised.
The assassin was still running. He finally reached an incline that ended with a locked gate, but instead of unlocking it, he jumped over it.
It looks like they weren't that injured, I thought.
I quickened my pace to catch up, but nearly got a concussion when I hit the invisible barrier face first in front of me. The shock of the pain pulse through my forehead and made me fall onto the ground behind first.
"Ahhh!" I grunted, checking my face, and felt warm, sticky blood flow from my nose.
I tried to shake off my sudden onset of dizziness, and looked to where my pursuant had gone. To my surprise, he had stopped behind the locked gate. He was staring at me. My dizziness instantly went away when I replaced it with anger.
How the hell did this individual get away from me? I thought. Who the hell is he, and how does he know this forest so well?
I wasn't going to find out now, but I wouldn't stop until I did.
This is far from over, I thought.
The killer narrowed his eyes at me from the distance.
"You tell your king the encroachment has begun," the assassin said to me in a whispery voice. "He knows what I speak of. Ask him about the Interlopers he drove away from this land."
With that, the assassin turned and ran away behind the gate.
I stood up frustrated, banging on the invisible barrier, wanting to get through.
Damn it! I thought upset.
"Interlopers?" I inquired out loud to myself. "Who in the world are the Interlopers?"
~SSS~
I returned to Hyrule Castle by noon and was greeted by a worried Zelda in the counsel room.
She came up to me and hugged me immediately.
"Thank the goddess you're alright," she said to me in a trembling voice, "I was so scared for you Link, I thought you weren't going to return."
I held her tight to reassure her.
"I'm okay," I said softly to her, and stroked her hair, "I told you I was going to come back."
Zelda closed her eyes and rested her head on my chest.
"I'm so glad," she whispered.
She was really terrified she was going to lose me, I thought.
A moment later, Daphnes then entered the room. He looked at me with knowing concern.
"Are you alright Link?" he asked me.
I merely nodded still holding Zelda.
Daphnes sighed with relief and went to sit on his throne in the center of the room.
I looked at him watchfully, I knew he had serious issues on his mind.
"Sire..." I trailed, letting go of Zelda to approach the throne.
Before I could ask my question Daphnes spoke.
"Did you kill whoever that was?" Daphnes asked me, interrupting my train of thought.
I paused for a moment, already disappointed in myself that he got away.
"No," I reply, "I'm afraid he got away."
Daphnes closed his eyes at my answer.
Zelda then came up to me just then, with the worried look in her eyes never going away.
"He's still alive?" her voice had hints of fear.
I nodded feeling like a failure, but didn't let that deter me.
"Sire, I have some information," I said expectant.
Daphnes looked over at me with an odd expression of surprise on his face.
"Information?" he inquired.
"Yes," I said with a nod.
Not anticipating this, Daphnes leaned forward giving me his full attention.
"Before the intruder escaped I captured him," I said, "he said something about the encroachment would take place soon."
Daphnes tried to remain calm, but I saw the subtle shift in his manner and body language. His eyebrows rose ever so slightly, and I noticed he stiffened. I knew what I just told him meant something, but I had no idea what it was.
Zelda looked at me puzzled.
"Encroachment?" she inquired. "What is he talking about?"
I shook my head, not having an answer for her.
I'd like to know that myself, I thought.
"They also said something about you knowing about the 'Interlopers'," I went on.
Daphnes looked at me stoic, and remained silent for a few moments; his behavior was very odd.
He's hiding something, I thought, but when isn't he hiding something?
"Father..." Zelda trailed nervous, looking at the king, "who are the 'Interlopers'?"
Daphnes looked over at his daughter and didn't answer her.
"Did whoever he was use magic?" Daphnes asked me abruptly.
How did he know that? I wondered.
I nodded.
"Yes," I say, "they constructed a barrier that didn't allow me to pursue them further."
Daphnes absorbed my words with a troubled countenance, and I wanted to ease his concerns if I could.
"What are your orders my lord?" I preempted my inquiry, already knowing what to do.
Daphnes hesitated.
"I wish to convene on this further," he replied, "I will call for you on when I decide what steps need to be taken."
What? I thought.
I looked at Daphnes surprised.
It must have showed, because then he asked me, "Is there a problem Link?"
I bit my lower lip slightly annoyed.
Yes, I thought.
"No," I replied, "of course not."
"Good," Daphnes said to me, then stood up, "this audience is over."
He got up from his throne and headed for the door. As he walked by, Zelda and I both bowed. I sighed when the door closed and we were alone.
He's hiding something, I thought, I don't know what, but he's hiding something.
Zelda came up to me again and rested her head on my chest. She must've taken notice to the curt expression on my face.
"What's the matter?" she asked me.
Your father, I thought.
"Nothing," I lied.
Zelda looked up at me concerned.
"Please don't do that to me Link," she said gently, "I know something is bothering you. Please share it with me."
I sighed, knowing she wanted to be helpful, but before I could reply she added, "It must be so hard being all alone," she said to me, "you have only father and myself. Your parents are gone, and you're a hero with a heavy burden. I know my father can seem crass, but he means well with you... for the both of us actually."
I tried not to let it show, but her words aggravated me. At any given circumstance that I was displeased with her father, Zelda found it necessary to bring up my lack of familial support. I knew she didn't mean anything by it, but it was disconcerting just the same.
Is that suppose to comfort me? I thought slightly upset with her unintentional insolent words. Do I really need reminders of my ophaned childhood right now? We all can't have a silver spoon Zelda.
I pulled her back and looked into her eyes.
"I'm tired," I said softly, "I'm going to retire home. Call for me if you need me."
Zelda could see the strain in my face. She looked perplexed as to why I wanted to depart.
"Link..." she trailed, trying to grab my hand, but I pulled from her reach, "what did I say?"
I headed for the door, then turned and bowed before I left. Zelda looked after me with a slightly distressed look in her eyes.
"Link..." she trailed again, but I didn't allow her to finish.
I headed down the corridor and out the castle to my villa in Castle Town. I washed up, changed, and then head out to Hyrule Field. I called Epona and just rode around for a few hours contemplating the gravity of the kingship.
Daphnes has some serious explaining to do, I thought. How in the world can I protect Hyrule, if I don't know what she needs to be protected from? Who are the 'Interlopers'? Why am I just now finding out about other enemies to the kingdom?
I rode around for hours thinking about these things. I only realized how long I was out when I saw dusk approach. I was going to head back, but then glanced over to Death Mountain trail where Kakariko impasse was.
I wonder if... I thought, letting my mind trail and decided to just go to Kakiriko Village, maybe she's still open.
I rode over to the entrance and dismounted. I hurried into the village and to the shop where I was having my clothes made. I entered the shop breathing hard, precipitating a startled reaction from the bazaar owner and Saria. Both of them were in the middle of consultations when I disrupted the milieu. I was embarrassed.
Oops, I thought.
"Pardon me," I said apologetically, and stood off to the side.
Saria looked at me strange from the corner of her eye. I knew she wanted to know why I was there, and I did have a good explanation... at least I thought I did.
"So, I'll order the fabric and have it brought in to begin your dress," I heard Saria say to her customer, "I think the yellow daisy will compliment your skin tone well. Is there anything else I can assist you with?"
The woman she was helping smiled.
"No, no thank you," the female patron said, "you've been most helpful. It's about time we had a dress maker in Kakariko Village."
Saria smiled at the patron's compliment. "Thank you," she replied, "I appreciate all the business."
"Well... I must confess," the female patron said, "I wanted to see what all the buzz was regarding the beautiful young seamstress."
Saria's eyes grew wide slightly and her cheeks blushed. "Uh... is that what people are referring to me as?" she asked.
The lady nodded, and then gave a snide smile. "Come come now my dear," she said, "you needn't be modest, you have looked in a mirror haven't you? You're absolutely stunning. You were definitely blessed by the goddess."
The burn never went away from Saria's cheeks. "Uh... thank you," she replied gently.
"Sure, honey," she said plastering her fake smile further, "sure." The female patron then turned ready to exit, when she spotted me. "Is that you Sir Link?" the woman asked.
I inadvertently glanced over at Saria who was now looking at me puzzled.
She mouthed to me silently 'Sir Link?'
"Yes madam," I replied to the woman.
The woman's face brightened.
"I thought so!" she said enthusiastic. "Congratulations on your upcoming marriage to Princess Zelda. You will be an exemplary king!"
I smiled graciously at the woman's comment and nodded.
"Thank you," I said humbly.
With that the woman took her leave.
I glanced back over at Saria and her mouth was slightly ajar.
"You're engaged to the princess?" she asked incredulous. "And you're a knight?"
I swallowed hard and nodded.
Saria's face didn't hide her shock.
"I can't believe it!" she said coming from behind her counter to assist me immediately, bumping herself in the process. "I'll go dig out my materials right now! I can't believe I sent you away!"
Saria's words were coming out in a frenzy of panic. She then turned from my company and hurried to the back room, there was a slight limp in her step.
Oh no, I thought, this is what I didn't want.
Saria was only gone for a few moments, but I already heard things being pushed aside and falling from shelves. I got up from the counter and walked up to the back room. I stood in the doorway and watched as she frantically searched through her things.
"Oh goddesses, where did I put that damn needle bobbin?" Saria muttered to herself.
I looked down with my arms crossed and shook my head, but I couldn't help but smile.
"Saria," I said quietly, trying to get her attention.
She continued searching as if she didn't hear me.
"I know it's in here," she said to herself opening up a dark brown urn and checking it.
"Saria," I called to her a little louder, she still ignored me.
"I know!" she said to herself as if she had an 'ah ha' moment.
Saria got up and tried to reach the top shelf for a large wicker basket. I looked at her form and immediately prepared for the worse.
She's going to fall, I thought, readying myself by uncrossing my arms from over my chest.
And sure enough, when Saria tried to yank the hefty basket she lost her footing and fell backwards.
"Ah!" she screamed, but was relieved immediately when I caught her.
I looked into her eyes for a brief moment, and she blushed embarrassed.
"I'm so clumsy," she said, "I'm sorry."
I couldn't help but smile.
"It's okay," I replied, still holding her in my arms.
"Uh..." Saria said still red, "you can put me down now."
"Oh," I replied, feeling a little foolish, "I'm sorry."
I put her down and she immediately stroked her hands through her green hair.
There was silence between us for a moment.
"I was going to tell you," I began, breaking it finally, "I didn't come for a consultation."
Saria was looking to the ground as I said this. Her cheeks were crimson.
"Oh," she said quietly, "then why are you here?"
That was a good question.
Why am I here? I thought.
"I..." I trailed, not knowing any other way to say it, but just to say it, "I came here because I wanted to talk to you."
Saria looked up at me surprised.
"What?" she asked.
This is awkward, I thought.
"I don't know why, but I feel the need to get to know you better," I replied.
Saria looked at me nervous, and took a couple of steps back.
"Sir Link..." she trailed, "I... I don't think that would be appropriate."
I pursed my lips together at her saying that.
She's right, I thought, why am I acting so foolishly?
"But I-" I tried.
"You should share your thoughts with the princess," she interrupted me softly, "not with a woman you just met yesterday."
I knew she was right. The problem was I knew I didn't meet this young woman only yesterday. There was something toiling inside of me to know more about her, but I couldn't expect that to happen if she thought I was crazy.
I took a step back.
"I'm sorry," I said, "you must think I'm very strange."
She tried to smile at hearing me say that.
"No," she replied careful, "sometimes we meet someone that takes us back to our childhood. It happens."
I nodded thinking about what she said, and then bowed.
"I'll see you in two days," I said to her trying to resume some of my pride.
Saria bowed back.
"Yes Sir Link," she replied softly.
With that I took my leave.
What the hell are you doing? I demanded of myself as I mount Epona. All I need is for something like this to get out, and the entire kingdom will run that poor girl out of town.
I galloped back to Castle Town as evening set in.
I set Epona loose and headed to my villa.
No more idiotic pursuits, I thought as I dressed for bed.
With those thoughts I fell asleep.
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